TODAY’S GUEST: Dr. Bruce Baker is president of BecomingMature.org, and also the former pastor of Washington County Bible Church in Brenham, TX. Prior to this, he was Assistant Professor of Bible and Theology at Grace School of Theology, in Houston, TX.
Receiving a diagnosis of a terminal illness causes many people to go into a tailspin of despair and depression. This is rarely considered a gift, but that is exactly how Baker sees it. He has ALS. We discuss the universal questions of pain: why me, and why this? We also discuss the need for Christians to keep an eternal perspective in a world getting more dark and a country filled with corruption and Corona. At what point do believers refuse to obey governing authorities?
For Thou Art With Me: Biblical Help for the Terminally Ill and Those Who Love Them – Two reasons a terminal disease is a gift: first, it leaves you no choice but to face the inevitable; and second, you’ve been given time to get ready. Now, obviously, all people, regardless of their health, have time to get ready. Everyone knows death is coming, and everyone should prepare for it.
Why people fear death: All people know that 1) God exists, 2) that there is life after death, 3) that what one does in this life has a direct bearing on one s life after death, and 4) that between themselves and God something is wrong. This is why people fear death!
What death means for the believer: It is a key in a door. It is a change in location. It is an answer to prayer. These are evidenced by the psalmist who says, Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:4
). This book is a practical resource for someone facing the end of life. In contrast to more stuff, hope and help for the person who is dying as well as loved ones and care givers is the best gift that can be given.
Also available from Dr. Bruce Baker: Spiritual Maturity