So we now mark the 2000th. No, I am not referring to the number of books I have bought in the past few years (although the figure would not be far off). No I am not referring to all the hate mail I have received in the past few years (although the figure would not be far off).
I refer to this article being the 2000th to appear on this website. CultureWatch began in early April 2006, but I have backdated some earlier articles as well, so not all the 2000 articles have been written since 2006. But as an indication of progress, on February 2, 2009 I posted my 1000th article on my website.
So a thousand articles have been penned in just over three years – or around 330 a year. If each article averages around 1300 words (just a guesstimate), then we have 2.6 million words on my website. And that is just the articles. With just about 30,000 comments, which may average 100 words each, that’s another 3 million words!
Thus we are talking nearly 6 million words just on one website. That is a lot of words! But I am not just involved in writing. I do plenty of speaking, teaching and preaching, and have done plenty of interviews with the media. For example, since around 1992 I have done over 600 radio interviews.
Also in the same period I have done some 125 television interviews; had nearly 700 comments printed in the press; had around 900 articles published in various magazines and periodicals; had around 250 letters to the editor in newspapers published; and done around 450 speaking engagements. And those are just the ones I know about!
That is well over 3000 media hits in the past two decades, or around 150 a year. So every second day the media at large is getting some commentary or information from me. And most of it is unsolicited. For example the over 700 radio and TV interviews were almost all initiated by the media, not me.
Oh, and a few books have been written over these years as well, along with a number of chapters in other people’s books. So I have been a bit busy, and have managed to keep myself off the streets. Of course hardly any of this earns me any money, but it does result in the inevitable avalanche of hate mail and the occasional death threat.
So why spend so much time writing so many articles and doing so much related activity when the main thing it earns is lots of opposition, hatred and abuse? Why bother with such an unrewarding (at least financially speaking) ministry? Why spend all this time and effort on something that many consider to be a waste of time, or not something Christians should even be engaged in?
Well, I suppose one could ask similar sorts of questions of an Isaiah, or a Jeremiah, or an Ezekiel. Or a Wilberforce, or a Bonhoeffer. Or a Tozer, or a Schaeffer. Not that I believe I am in any way even near their league, but all these men and many others like them were engaged in similar sorts of prophetic ministries and watchmen on the wall type activities. People could have asked them the same sort of question: Why bother?
For most of them it also was a very thankless task, one which only got them a lot of disapprobation, contempt and opposition. Many of them were hounded, persecuted and savagely rebuked for their efforts. Some in fact had to pay with their life.
Consider just one example: the prophet Jeremiah. What an incredible assignment he was given. Yahweh told him from day one that he would be preaching an unpopular message to a stiff-necked people for a considerable amount of time. Indeed, he gave the same message of impending judgment for some 40 years.
Now all that is bad enough, but Yahweh even told him ahead of time that his people would not listen to him, would reject his message, and would in fact turn against him. Can you imagine that? Imagine being told to go preach a message from God to a people who you know will not receive it, and will instead make your life real miserable.
And miserable he was, with plenty of persecution and stints in the local slammer. Yet he kept faithfully proclaiming the word God had given him. We need many more people like that today: those who will fearlessly and faithfully proclaim the word of God to both church and nation.
But I am aware of why so few people actually do it. It is a very costly calling. It is not the sort of life one takes up if one simply wants to get along, have lots of friends, not rock the boat, and be liked by all men. It is a lonely and often discouraging task. No wonder Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet.
But it is a task which must be done. And thankfully there are many Christians around the world who are getting on with the job. There are countless pastors, church leaders, missionaries, and Christian workers who are fighting the good fight, taking all the flak, and seeking to present Christ and his Kingdom to a very needy world.
As I keep saying, it is vital that we get truth out into the public arena. If the mainstream media were doing its job here, much of my work would not be needed. And if much more of the church was doing its job, my work also would be much less needed.
But the MSM in the West is largely pushing a secular left agenda, while many of our Western churches are promoting a watered-down, man-pleasing gospel. As long as that is occurring, we will always need those who will not go with the flow, but will take a stand, go against the grain, and seek to make a difference.
That will always be a difficult calling of course. The truth is, any dead fish can simply float downstream. But it takes a strong, living fish to swim upstream, facing all the obstacles and hardships along the way. Such folks will never be popular, will never receive the praise of men, will often be kicked out of churches, and will often lead difficult lives.
But thank God for them. Thank God for Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Wilberforce, Bonhoeffer, Tozer, Schaeffer, and so many more like them. We sure need them. They are the sorts of men we so very desperately need in these dark times. Indeed, as I so often tell my students, my prayer is really that of Moses as found in Numbers 11:29:
“But Moses replied, ‘Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD’S people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!’”
So hopefully that may explain a bit about what I do and why I do it. It explains a bit about what drives me. It explains in part why I get up each morning and keep going to this ministry. At the end of the day it really is about just one thing: Jesus gave his all for me 2000 years ago, so how can I do anything less in response?
Christ rescued me from the miry pit when I was a completely lost, screwed-up, no-hope hippy at the age of 18. He turned my life around and set me free. He has accepted me in the beloved, adopted me as his own son, cleansed me and forgiven my sins, given me his Holy Spirit, and called me to live with him forever. That is mind-boggling stuff.
He gave his all for us. How can we not give our all in return?
To conclude, can I simply say a million thanks to all of you who have stood by me and this ministry over the years. Your assistance, encouragement, words of comfort and advice, financial support, and most especially your prayers, all make it possible for me to continue doing this work. Thank you all so very much. May God bless you heaps.
Congratulations Bill, on a fantastic achievement and a wonderful milestone. Your courage under fire and your insightful articles are an inspiration to me and, it would seem, many others. Just want to know that you are very much appreciated and I pray for Almighty God’s protection and blessing on you and your family.
Garth Penglase
Many thanks Garth
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
I thought I should express this publicly on your blog:
As a young Christian still without a proper grounding in theology & still seeking for Truth, I am grateful for your writings.
When I first started reading your material, I thought the tone was harsh and unloving. But over 6 months, I think I am slowly seeing where your indignation and frustration with the opposition is coming from.
I have not had a proper grasp at all of the evil and deception befalling our world.
So thank you, once again Bill, and may God protect and continue to use you.
Jasmine Yow
Bill,
You work today will be fully recognised when you meet your Maker. The hate mail, the rejection, the abuse will count for nothing.
Well done good and faithful servant.
Madge Fahy
Thanks Jasmine
Yes getting the responses right is always a challenge, which is why I so covet the prayers of those coming to this site.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks Madge.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks Bill,
Yahweh will bless and maintain you in this. What that means is not always comfortable. Whatever happens, where else can we go?
Peter Newland
Quite right Peter
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks so much for your faithfulness. I hope that I have the courage to stop saying that others really need to hear this and instead go before God and ask Him what He wants me to do. I am beginning to get a picture of the calling you have and wonder if I am missing God’s mark for me because I am fearful or worse – just comfortable. Thank you for making me uncomfortable as I sit at my computer and read the things you write. I need this! Blessings on you and your family.
Theresa Moyes
You are like a General-Bill. One chosen to implement the strategy of the King. Besides your work, you have inspired, informed and strengthened the hands of many more of us to use the weapons given us – who can count all that! You know you have been forgiven much and are working love’s works for the good of the lambs and sheep of Christ. In shepherdly you have fitted others for battle as well (Zech 10.3) ministry you have. Press on.
Ian Clarkson
Many thanks Theresa. Of course I know that everyone is not called to ministries such as this. But we are all called to be salt and light as God directs us. We are all called to care, and to seek to be a dynamic witness for Christ. So if I can inspire some to be even more dedicated to the work of the Kingdom, I will be thankful indeed.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks Ian. I feel more like a private, and am happy to remain that way. If I can encourage more people to get behind the real general – Jesus, and get them even more involved, then I believe I will be doing some good.
Thanks again for the kind words.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill I always had the thought that you will play a central part in the joining of true hearted believers from all denominations, as you use your gift of making muddy water clear through God’s word.
I pray you are able to stand against daily temptation and remain clear in your calling in the knowledge of Eph 6:12.
No 2000 – Congratulations Bill.
I think Ian C (above) speaks for us all with his final words. Press on!
John Shenton
Well done Bill! Keep it up! We need you!
Peter Scott
Many thanks John and Peter.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Hats off Bill. Keep up the fight. There is a lot of evil out there for us to battle.
Damien Spillane
I whole heartedly believe that I might not be fighting the good fight today if it wasn’t for that day around 3 years ago. The day my church had a guest speaker, Bill Muehlenberg. I was totally disillusioned with the church and desperately seeking just one person in a church, who hasn’t sold out to secularism. I remember hearing Bill speak and thinking, hello hello hello what’s this then, a real person?
I’m still disillusioned with the church, but now I know why and what I can do about it.
Daniel Kempton
2,000 pieces! Well done!
I really don’t know how you do it but I am very glad you do.
There are very dark days ahead for all of us and we will need the light of your column.
Alan Williams
2000 pieces of ‘hate speech’, ‘intolerance’, ‘bigotry’ and ‘discrimination’. Bill, honestly, keep it up! We need more people like you – and quickly, before people like you get locked up for your ‘hate crimes’.
Justin Nowland
Congratulations on 2000 articles. May you have 2000 more. Even though you are going to get hatred, that is the price we pay for following Christ.
2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
John 15:18-25 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.
If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.
He that hateth me hateth my Father also.
If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.
But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
Romans 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
But thankfully we have a promise of what is to come.
2 Timothy 2:11-13 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
Ian Nairn
Dear Bill,
Reading the data of your work over the last two decades does make one feel humble and question what am I doing to further the Kingdom. We all have different gifts and any one that professes to be a Christian will no doubt utilize what ever he or she can do. There is something that I would like to do, and that is to encourage you to place a Donation button on you website somewhere obvious. Let me tell you that in the State people that work like you, have these provisions on their website unashamedly. I would like you to make a provision for donations on your site, please do it.
Bill Heggers Perth
Thanks Bill. Actually my home page does have this – bottom left. Perhaps it is not unashamedly obvious enough! But it is there. And many thanks for your kind intent.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill, You’re doing a great job. Congrats on your 2000th article. May our great God, the Giver and Sustainer of life shower his grace upon you to enable you continue the remarkable job of enlightening the world about the rise of evil against God’s established order of male and female distinctiveness.
Kwasi Boateng, Accra, Ghana
God Bless you, Bill. As a relative newcomer to your website and writings, I have become even more aware of what a fallen world we live in. Prayer is still the mightiest sword we have been given by God.
My prayers are with you and your family as you continue to speak the truth in God, without fear of man. Take care.
Monica Craver
I for one appreciate your ministry. It is very helpful to know what is really going on in the world. Being fore-warned about these things is a blessing so we are not caught off guard and we do not need to be fearful. And it reminds me to pray for yourself and others being persecuted for speaking the truth. Keep up the good work, run the race to win the prize and you will hear those words “well done good and faithful servant…”
Alison Stanley
G’day Bill,
As a minister of the gospel of our Lord, Jesus, I go on your website daily. One of my responsibilities is to keep watch over my flock and the pressures on them from our culture. Your work helps me to do this, and I appreciate it immensely. You stimulate my thinking and action, see things I don’t with your contacts and clear thinking, … and you save me a lot of research time. God bless you, Bill, for helping me in my ministry.
Andrew Campbell
Love you, Bill – love your stuff, and I thank God for you. I first discovered your work when I was working as a volunteer for Australian Christian Lobby here in Canberra back in 2000. I would read some of your stuff in the Australian Family Association publications, and I would ask my betters “who is Bill Muehlenberg?”. Most didn’t seem to know much about you. I could see that your work was first-rate, and I drew their attention to it and pointed this out. They agreed. Cream will always ride to the top. Those willing to operate in excellence will be noticed.
Long live the King!
Ian Brearley
If you ever make it to Alice Springs, I would be honoured to have you visit me and my wife at our home, and there are a number of other Christian men and women who would be likewise honoured to welcome a prophet in the name of a prophet. May God continue to hold you where you are–standing in the gap.
Steve Swartz
We value your blog and your stand for the truth, Bill.
Greg Cadman
Hello Bill,
At 72, and having been born again in 1986, my real Christian education started the first day I logged onto your blog.
I really cannot put into words how you have helped me to learn about subjects I have never been told about during all the years attending church – and I have had many great Christian teachers during that time.
Your site is an excellent one for obtaining lobbying material – and how to use it!
Never ever forget that there are many, many fellow Christians out there who feel the same way that you do about the evil in the world today – and do, and will, support you in this battle.
May God bless you and your ministry and give you the wisdom, strength and courage to keep fighting the good fight.
God bless,
Paul de la Garde, Sydney
P.S. I pray protection for you and your family every day.
Many thanks indeed guys for all the kind and encouraging words of support. They help me to want to keep on keeping on! And thanks especially for all the prayer support. We will probably never know – in this life at least – just how invaluable they really are. Bless you,
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks to you Bill on building such a valuable archive for the cause of Christ.
I have recently been in discussions with a member of the Gay lobby via the internet. He is a leader of PETA in Australia and a Greens supporter. Many tangential issues arise in talking to such people – along with the accusations of bigotry et al; this resource (along with your two books) have been invaluable, nay, essential to me being able to effectively interact with him.
William F Buckley’s words are true:
“Liberals claim to want to give a hearing to other views, but then are shocked and offended to discover that there are other views.”
However, you have encouraged and emboldened me and, I suspect many others, to articulately share the ‘other views’.
Many blessings to you and your family.
Matt Harris
Many thanks Matt.
And great Buckley quote!
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks for your commitment and dedication Bill.
I felt to share a story from E Michael and Sharon Rusten’s ‘The One Year Christian History – A Daily Glimpse into God’s Powerful Work.’ About one in twelve of the daily readings deal with the story of a Christian martyr. The martyrs I find deeply moving. In a small way reflect our Lord’s passion for us and seem to bring home wonderful new insights into its reality. Let me share with you the story of James Renwick (a quote from the above book).
‘Born in 1662 in Moniaive in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, James Renwick was the only surviving son of Christian parents. He graduated from Edinburgh University in 1681, and that same year witnessed the execution of Donald Cargill, a field preacher of the Covenanters, the persecuted Scottish Presbyterians who had covenanted together to maintain the Reformed faith in Scotland. Their struggle was against the imposition of the Church of England with its bishops on a land of Presbyterians.
The martyrdom of Cargill caused Renwick to align wholeheartedly with the Covenanters. With their assistance he studies theology in Holland at the University of Groningen and was ordained in 1683. He returned to Scotland where he was called to be the minister of the United Societies, a Covenanter gathering in the southwest Scotland.
The period from 1684 to 1688, known as the “Killing Time,” was the height of Covenanter persecution. This coincided with Renwick’s ministry. More than any other, he was responsible for guiding the resistance of the Covenanters.
James VII, a Roman Catholic, became king of Scotland in 1685. He issued indulgences guaranteeing freedom of worship if meetings were held in private homes, chapels, or places dedicated for this purpose. Conventicles – all other worship services, especially in secret and in open fields – were against the law and considered organised rebellion. Many ministers, tired of the struggle, accepted the conditions of the indulgences, but Renwick and a few others refused to be told where they could preach. Renwick continued to preach in the fields and the villages, often to men, women and children who were in hiding and wandering in the mountain to survive. In one year, Renwick baptised six hundred children. Soon the government identified him as a traitor and issued an order for his arrest. But protected by so many friends, he was able to continue preaching without capture for three more years.
Finally, one winter night he was seized at the Edinburgh home of a friend. The Privy Council condemned him to death for refusing to acknowledge the king’s authority and for telling his followers to come armed to meetings. He agreed with the council that he was guilty of these charges. The council, attempting to entice him to change his allegiance, gave him a week’s reprieve.
During his reprieve his mother asked him how he was doing. His reply, “I am well; but since my last examination, I can hardly pray, being so much taken up with praising, and so ravished with the joy of the Lord.”
The night before his execution he obtained pen, ink, and paper and wrote to his Christian friends: “He has strengthened me to brave man and face death, and I am now longing for the joyful hour of my dissolution, and there is nothing in this world that I am sorry to leave but you.”
The morning of his death he said to his mother and young sisters, “Death is the king of terrors but not to me now, as it was some time in my hidings; but now let us be glad and rejoice. . . . Would ever I have thought that the fear of suffering and of death could be so taken from me?”
A huge crowd gathered in Grassmarket in Edinburgh of February 17, 1688, to witness the final minutes of James Renwick’s life. From the gallows he sang Psalm 103, read Revelation 19, and prayed, “Lord, I die in the faith that Thou wilt not leave Scotland, but that you wilt make the blood of your witnesses the seed of Thy church, and return again and be glorious in our land. And now, Lord, I am ready.”
James Renwick, just twenty-six years old, was the last Covenanter to be hanged in public. One year later the Catholic King James VII was in exile; the persecution was over.’
Personally, I get emotional, every time I read this story. I am reminded of Hebrews 12 v 4. As far as I am aware, none of us in Australia has yet come near this level of resistance. However let’s be real. The opposition we face still appears to be on the increase. If, in the coming days, my commitment to the Lord, on these issues, cost’s me something, so be it. If it costs me something to stand with brothers and sisters like you, so be it.
May Philippians 1 v 27 – 29 come alive to the church.
Your brother
Chris McNicol
Congratulations, Bill. I commend you for being a wonderful example of salt and light in what is sometimes a tasteless and dark culture. May the Lord bless and encourage you amidst the persecution.
I’m reminded of the challenge to all of us from 1 Peter 3:14, “But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t be afraid and don’t worry” (NLT).
In Christ,
Spencer Gear
Many thanks for that story Chris.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Hi Bill,
Like so many of the bloggers above, I am so grateful for the work that you do. Until only a couple of years ago, I too was pretty comfortable, inactive and mostly ignorant of what was really happening in the world and our own country.
Like Daniel above, I too have been overwhelmed by discouragement about the state of most churches. Your articles, convictions and passion for truth really does spur me on.
Congratulations on this milestone – you truly are a good and faithful servant.
Annette Williams
Congratulations on 2000 excellent articles. Not only that, but you are sticking to the word of God. I read your articles daily, and print many of them to share with other people in an attempt to help other Christian friends understand that we must stand up and be counted without fear. Actually, the Bible tells us “Fear not” 368 times – surely that should be enough for us to believe it!
Many thanks.
Joan Davidson
Bill
Thanks for your clarity of thought. You are greatly appreciated. Helps us to think Christ’s thoughts after Him. Would love to have you visit Alice Springs.
Lance Box
Much is made in our times of the gift of prophecy. Biblical prophesy is often a voice in the wilderness – telling people those awful truths they don’t want to hear. Courting danger for danger’s sake is tempting God. However, it is a privilege to choose the reproach of the Messiah over the wealth and pleasures of Egypt – remember Lot’s wife… and Jeremiah’s tears.
John Wigg
Hi Bill,
I’m really touched by the great sacrifice of your life for Christ’s sake. Not so many men and women of God would like to sacrifice their position, fame and name to confront the forces of darkness raging against heterosexual marriage.I thank God that you are one of the few in the Western world who have taken it upon yourself to stand up for the truth. It is my prayer that God would give Christian leaders the spirit of boldness and wisdom to stand up for Christ instead of seeking to protect their personal interests. Bill, be encouraged, for there are people all over the world who support and pray for you.
Kwasi Boateng, Accra, Ghana
Many thanks indeed Kwasi. And we of course support what you are doing and pray for you as well.
Blessings,
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Congratulations.
I have decided you should have a small earthly reward. I have just deposited $100.00 into your account, to be used to take your wife somewhere nice (romantic!!) for dinner.
Not to be used for any other purpose, upon your honour as a Christian.
David Williams
You mean I can’t buy another $100 worth of books!? Hey, just kidding. Many thanks indeed David. My wife will be as pleased as I. Bless you.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill,
Just adding my deep appreciation for the teaching you freely give. This site has been such a valuable resource through years of discussing difficult questions with fellow uni students. It’s great not being overwhelmed by a huge book, but simply being able to search topics and read an up-to-date, biblical and well-informed summary of the issue.
Thanks for your perseverance,
Anna Parsons
God Bless you Bill,
Keep up the good work, you area great source of information and comment. I value your work highly – more that anything you walk with God.
Charles Northcote
I pray there will be many more milestones for you and for us as a result. Thanks bill.
I just noticed something in Eph 3:16 to 17. There is a connection between the 2 verses that I thought was very significant. Paul prays for the Ephesians that they would be strengthened in the inner man and then he says “so that..” so that Christ can live in your hearts by faith. It is almost like we have to be strong, made strong by God before Christ can fully live in our hearts. To me it just proves again that Christianity is not for weak people or at least not for those who stay weak and not become people who have first been made strong by the Lord.
Many blessings,
Ursula Bennett
Yes quite right Ursula.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Good work, mate. Keep on upsetting the world until they finally click that they are lost and need Jesus!
Mario Del Giudice
Congratulations Bill, on a fantastic achievement and a wonderful milestone. Your courage under fire and your insightful articles are an inspiration to me and, it would seem, many others. Just want to know that you are very much appreciated and I pray for Almighty God’s protection and blessing on you and your family.
Garth Penglase
Many thanks Garth
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
I thought I should express this publicly on your blog:
As a young Christian still without a proper grounding in theology & still seeking for Truth, I am grateful for your writings.
When I first started reading your material, I thought the tone was harsh and unloving. But over 6 months, I think I am slowly seeing where your indignation and frustration with the opposition is coming from.
I have not had a proper grasp at all of the evil and deception befalling our world.
So thank you, once again Bill, and may God protect and continue to use you.
Jasmine Yow
Bill,
You work today will be fully recognised when you meet your Maker. The hate mail, the rejection, the abuse will count for nothing.
Well done good and faithful servant.
Madge Fahy
Thanks Jasmine
Yes getting the responses right is always a challenge, which is why I so covet the prayers of those coming to this site.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks Madge.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks Bill,
Yahweh will bless and maintain you in this. What that means is not always comfortable. Whatever happens, where else can we go?
Peter Newland
Quite right Peter
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks so much for your faithfulness. I hope that I have the courage to stop saying that others really need to hear this and instead go before God and ask Him what He wants me to do. I am beginning to get a picture of the calling you have and wonder if I am missing God’s mark for me because I am fearful or worse – just comfortable. Thank you for making me uncomfortable as I sit at my computer and read the things you write. I need this! Blessings on you and your family.
Theresa Moyes
You are like a General-Bill. One chosen to implement the strategy of the King. Besides your work, you have inspired, informed and strengthened the hands of many more of us to use the weapons given us – who can count all that! You know you have been forgiven much and are working love’s works for the good of the lambs and sheep of Christ. In shepherdly you have fitted others for battle as well (Zech 10.3) ministry you have. Press on.
Ian Clarkson
Many thanks Theresa. Of course I know that everyone is not called to ministries such as this. But we are all called to be salt and light as God directs us. We are all called to care, and to seek to be a dynamic witness for Christ. So if I can inspire some to be even more dedicated to the work of the Kingdom, I will be thankful indeed.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks Ian. I feel more like a private, and am happy to remain that way. If I can encourage more people to get behind the real general – Jesus, and get them even more involved, then I believe I will be doing some good.
Thanks again for the kind words.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill I always had the thought that you will play a central part in the joining of true hearted believers from all denominations, as you use your gift of making muddy water clear through God’s word.
I pray you are able to stand against daily temptation and remain clear in your calling in the knowledge of Eph 6:12.
No 2000 – Congratulations Bill.
I think Ian C (above) speaks for us all with his final words. Press on!
John Shenton
Well done Bill! Keep it up! We need you!
Peter Scott
Many thanks John and Peter.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Hats off Bill. Keep up the fight. There is a lot of evil out there for us to battle.
Damien Spillane
I whole heartedly believe that I might not be fighting the good fight today if it wasn’t for that day around 3 years ago. The day my church had a guest speaker, Bill Muehlenberg. I was totally disillusioned with the church and desperately seeking just one person in a church, who hasn’t sold out to secularism. I remember hearing Bill speak and thinking, hello hello hello what’s this then, a real person?
I’m still disillusioned with the church, but now I know why and what I can do about it.
Daniel Kempton
2,000 pieces! Well done!
I really don’t know how you do it but I am very glad you do.
There are very dark days ahead for all of us and we will need the light of your column.
Alan Williams
2000 pieces of ‘hate speech’, ‘intolerance’, ‘bigotry’ and ‘discrimination’. Bill, honestly, keep it up! We need more people like you – and quickly, before people like you get locked up for your ‘hate crimes’.
Justin Nowland
Congratulations on 2000 articles. May you have 2000 more. Even though you are going to get hatred, that is the price we pay for following Christ.
2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
John 15:18-25 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.
If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.
He that hateth me hateth my Father also.
If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.
But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
Romans 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
But thankfully we have a promise of what is to come.
2 Timothy 2:11-13 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
Ian Nairn
Dear Bill,
Reading the data of your work over the last two decades does make one feel humble and question what am I doing to further the Kingdom. We all have different gifts and any one that professes to be a Christian will no doubt utilize what ever he or she can do. There is something that I would like to do, and that is to encourage you to place a Donation button on you website somewhere obvious. Let me tell you that in the State people that work like you, have these provisions on their website unashamedly. I would like you to make a provision for donations on your site, please do it.
Bill Heggers Perth
Thanks Bill. Actually my home page does have this – bottom left. Perhaps it is not unashamedly obvious enough! But it is there. And many thanks for your kind intent.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill, You’re doing a great job. Congrats on your 2000th article. May our great God, the Giver and Sustainer of life shower his grace upon you to enable you continue the remarkable job of enlightening the world about the rise of evil against God’s established order of male and female distinctiveness.
Kwasi Boateng, Accra, Ghana
God Bless you, Bill. As a relative newcomer to your website and writings, I have become even more aware of what a fallen world we live in. Prayer is still the mightiest sword we have been given by God.
My prayers are with you and your family as you continue to speak the truth in God, without fear of man. Take care.
Monica Craver
I for one appreciate your ministry. It is very helpful to know what is really going on in the world. Being fore-warned about these things is a blessing so we are not caught off guard and we do not need to be fearful. And it reminds me to pray for yourself and others being persecuted for speaking the truth. Keep up the good work, run the race to win the prize and you will hear those words “well done good and faithful servant…”
Alison Stanley
G’day Bill,
As a minister of the gospel of our Lord, Jesus, I go on your website daily. One of my responsibilities is to keep watch over my flock and the pressures on them from our culture. Your work helps me to do this, and I appreciate it immensely. You stimulate my thinking and action, see things I don’t with your contacts and clear thinking, … and you save me a lot of research time. God bless you, Bill, for helping me in my ministry.
Andrew Campbell
Love you, Bill – love your stuff, and I thank God for you. I first discovered your work when I was working as a volunteer for Australian Christian Lobby here in Canberra back in 2000. I would read some of your stuff in the Australian Family Association publications, and I would ask my betters “who is Bill Muehlenberg?”. Most didn’t seem to know much about you. I could see that your work was first-rate, and I drew their attention to it and pointed this out. They agreed. Cream will always ride to the top. Those willing to operate in excellence will be noticed.
Long live the King!
Ian Brearley
If you ever make it to Alice Springs, I would be honoured to have you visit me and my wife at our home, and there are a number of other Christian men and women who would be likewise honoured to welcome a prophet in the name of a prophet. May God continue to hold you where you are–standing in the gap.
Steve Swartz
We value your blog and your stand for the truth, Bill.
Greg Cadman
Hello Bill,
At 72, and having been born again in 1986, my real Christian education started the first day I logged onto your blog.
I really cannot put into words how you have helped me to learn about subjects I have never been told about during all the years attending church – and I have had many great Christian teachers during that time.
Your site is an excellent one for obtaining lobbying material – and how to use it!
Never ever forget that there are many, many fellow Christians out there who feel the same way that you do about the evil in the world today – and do, and will, support you in this battle.
May God bless you and your ministry and give you the wisdom, strength and courage to keep fighting the good fight.
God bless,
Paul de la Garde, Sydney
P.S. I pray protection for you and your family every day.
Many thanks indeed guys for all the kind and encouraging words of support. They help me to want to keep on keeping on! And thanks especially for all the prayer support. We will probably never know – in this life at least – just how invaluable they really are. Bless you,
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Many thanks to you Bill on building such a valuable archive for the cause of Christ.
I have recently been in discussions with a member of the Gay lobby via the internet. He is a leader of PETA in Australia and a Greens supporter. Many tangential issues arise in talking to such people – along with the accusations of bigotry et al; this resource (along with your two books) have been invaluable, nay, essential to me being able to effectively interact with him.
William F Buckley’s words are true:
“Liberals claim to want to give a hearing to other views, but then are shocked and offended to discover that there are other views.”
However, you have encouraged and emboldened me and, I suspect many others, to articulately share the ‘other views’.
Many blessings to you and your family.
Matt Harris
Many thanks Matt.
And great Buckley quote!
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Thanks for your commitment and dedication Bill.
I felt to share a story from E Michael and Sharon Rusten’s ‘The One Year Christian History – A Daily Glimpse into God’s Powerful Work.’ About one in twelve of the daily readings deal with the story of a Christian martyr. The martyrs I find deeply moving. In a small way reflect our Lord’s passion for us and seem to bring home wonderful new insights into its reality. Let me share with you the story of James Renwick (a quote from the above book).
Personally, I get emotional, every time I read this story. I am reminded of Hebrews 12 v 4. As far as I am aware, none of us in Australia has yet come near this level of resistance. However let’s be real. The opposition we face still appears to be on the increase. If, in the coming days, my commitment to the Lord, on these issues, cost’s me something, so be it. If it costs me something to stand with brothers and sisters like you, so be it.
May Philippians 1 v 27 – 29 come alive to the church.
Your brother
Chris McNicol
Congratulations, Bill. I commend you for being a wonderful example of salt and light in what is sometimes a tasteless and dark culture. May the Lord bless and encourage you amidst the persecution.
I’m reminded of the challenge to all of us from 1 Peter 3:14, “But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t be afraid and don’t worry” (NLT).
In Christ,
Spencer Gear
Many thanks for that story Chris.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Hi Bill,
Like so many of the bloggers above, I am so grateful for the work that you do. Until only a couple of years ago, I too was pretty comfortable, inactive and mostly ignorant of what was really happening in the world and our own country.
Like Daniel above, I too have been overwhelmed by discouragement about the state of most churches. Your articles, convictions and passion for truth really does spur me on.
Congratulations on this milestone – you truly are a good and faithful servant.
Annette Williams
Congratulations on 2000 excellent articles. Not only that, but you are sticking to the word of God. I read your articles daily, and print many of them to share with other people in an attempt to help other Christian friends understand that we must stand up and be counted without fear. Actually, the Bible tells us “Fear not” 368 times – surely that should be enough for us to believe it!
Many thanks.
Joan Davidson
Bill
Thanks for your clarity of thought. You are greatly appreciated. Helps us to think Christ’s thoughts after Him. Would love to have you visit Alice Springs.
Lance Box
Much is made in our times of the gift of prophecy. Biblical prophesy is often a voice in the wilderness – telling people those awful truths they don’t want to hear. Courting danger for danger’s sake is tempting God. However, it is a privilege to choose the reproach of the Messiah over the wealth and pleasures of Egypt – remember Lot’s wife… and Jeremiah’s tears.
John Wigg
Hi Bill,
I’m really touched by the great sacrifice of your life for Christ’s sake. Not so many men and women of God would like to sacrifice their position, fame and name to confront the forces of darkness raging against heterosexual marriage.I thank God that you are one of the few in the Western world who have taken it upon yourself to stand up for the truth. It is my prayer that God would give Christian leaders the spirit of boldness and wisdom to stand up for Christ instead of seeking to protect their personal interests. Bill, be encouraged, for there are people all over the world who support and pray for you.
Kwasi Boateng, Accra, Ghana
Many thanks indeed Kwasi. And we of course support what you are doing and pray for you as well.
Blessings,
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Congratulations.
I have decided you should have a small earthly reward. I have just deposited $100.00 into your account, to be used to take your wife somewhere nice (romantic!!) for dinner.
Not to be used for any other purpose, upon your honour as a Christian.
David Williams
You mean I can’t buy another $100 worth of books!? Hey, just kidding. Many thanks indeed David. My wife will be as pleased as I. Bless you.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Bill,
Just adding my deep appreciation for the teaching you freely give. This site has been such a valuable resource through years of discussing difficult questions with fellow uni students. It’s great not being overwhelmed by a huge book, but simply being able to search topics and read an up-to-date, biblical and well-informed summary of the issue.
Thanks for your perseverance,
Anna Parsons
God Bless you Bill,
Keep up the good work, you area great source of information and comment. I value your work highly – more that anything you walk with God.
Charles Northcote
I pray there will be many more milestones for you and for us as a result. Thanks bill.
I just noticed something in Eph 3:16 to 17. There is a connection between the 2 verses that I thought was very significant. Paul prays for the Ephesians that they would be strengthened in the inner man and then he says “so that..” so that Christ can live in your hearts by faith. It is almost like we have to be strong, made strong by God before Christ can fully live in our hearts. To me it just proves again that Christianity is not for weak people or at least not for those who stay weak and not become people who have first been made strong by the Lord.
Many blessings,
Ursula Bennett
Yes quite right Ursula.
Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch
Good work, mate. Keep on upsetting the world until they finally click that they are lost and need Jesus!
Mario Del Giudice