"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." -See Matthew 4:4, Luke 4:4, Deuteronomy 8:3; bold italics added for emphasis.
It seemed really simple, to me; God had given to us His Word, which ought to be our handbook and guide into living the Christian life. How surprised, shocked, saddened, angered, and frustrated I have been over the years when meeting with mouth-professing Christians who seem to not care at all what the Word has to say- nor do they even attempt to consult the Bible for direction in any matter.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." -II Timothy 3:16,17.
In the late 15th, early 16th centuries, the Protestant Reformation began sweeping Europe. It was a full, public break from the state-demanded religion of Catholicism. Why did this happen so earnestly? Because people began to have access to the holy scriptures for themselves, and could see that the Roman Catholic institution is a false faith; one that plainly contradicted God's words, and kept the people in a hopeless spiritual, and even material bondage. Godly men & women loved the actual words of God, and the inner freedom that it brought to them (John 8:31,32). They readily broke away from the Catholic Church, and a great many were openly murdered for their defiance.
Today, the ecumenical movement is in full swing, with the great majority of protestant churches returning to an unholy union with Rome. How could this happen? It is because the Bible is treated as being irrelevant in the lives of mankind today, whether or not they claim to be Christian. Since the Catholic Church could not bring the protestants back to them by force, they then through subtlty undermined faith through Bible revision. Now, just 140 years after these efforts were begun in earnest, their goal is within reach.
Certainly, I cannot describe what I see today as an indifference to the Bible. Frankly, they are BIG BUSINESS! New versions continue to flood the market every few years, and help keep evil men like Rupert Murdoch, who now owns Zondervan, very rich. Lost among all of these versions and commentaries, in addition to each pastor's own version, seems to be a standard of the words which the Lord actually preserved for us. That true standard is the King James Bible, though at this point in history even many which are steadfast for the KJV have declared it irrelevant by their handling of it. We need to "try the spirits", holding up the teachings of respected leaders to the scrutiny of scripture.
We need to regard the Bible as God's very words, given to us. We need to LOOK to those words for guidance, and reverently not add to or diminsh from them (Deut. 4:2). Professing Christians are really not doing that today. Of those that actually do search the scriptures, many disregard its instructions if it differs with their own "common sense." They then rationalize that things are "different" today, and that we cannot follow God's instructions because they simply can't apply to us. They forget when the Word of God tells us;
"The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun." -Eccl. 1:9.
Examples of this Biblical irrelevance in the lives of supposed believers are legion, but I will attempt to keep it short for time's sake. I'll start with some personal encounters, and go from there.
Many of you know that I am divorced, my first wife having left me. This was a devastating time for me, and I twice nearly took my own life. Yet I had begun attending a church, where the pastor was kind enough to give me some time and counsel. He was the first one that opened my eyes to I Corinthians 7, where the Bible addresses the situation I was in (abandonment of the believer by the spouse). This scripture relieved me greatly, for I was at least seeing that divorce can happen to a follower of Christ.
The verbal instructions from the pastor, however, differed somewnat from the scriptures. As we spoke the one night, I commented, "It sounds like you're saying that the marriage should be saved at all cost." He agreed that this was in fact what he was saying. I responded with, "But the Bible doesn't tell us that." The
Bible in no place provides such an instruction, and in I Cor. 7:15 (which the pastor had brought to my attention) the directive to "let them leave" is given to the believer! The pastor was not only adding to, and contradicting the Bible, but he was even contradicting his own counsel. A good while later this man actually told me that he doesn't believe that we even have God's words today, except "in spirit."
A couple years ago, my wife began to associate with another woman from our park, who initially seemed to be a good Christian. We were delighted at the prospect of sharing and fellowship. The problems that we ran into later, however, revealed that something was deeply wrong. I will not go into any of those things, and indeed, this point of sharing is more about an associate of Jane (not real name).
At this time, we were struggling financially, and had no car. Many things we could still get by walking, or on bike, but spring water wasn't one of them! The distance was too far, and the objects too heavy for anything but a car. Being encouraged that Jane was a believer, we decided to ask if she would be willing to take us for water sometimes (about every 2-3 weeks, and we would pay gas $).
Instead of just agreeing, Jane sought "counsel" from her sister-in-law, who was the wife of an associate pastor (Jane's brother)! That sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Well, Jane's sister-in-law more or less said, "No way!" She said that Jane needed to take care of herself, and she shouldn't be wasting wear & tear on her car for us. Was this response of Christ? What about giving to everyone that asks of you, and doing to others as you would have them do to you (Luke 6:30-36)? What about doing good to all, especially those that are of the household of faith (Gal. 6:9,10)? So Jane sought not the counsel of the Bible, but rather of a "respected" believer, who then shunned Biblical directives in response.
We later came to see, as we were growing in faith, that we shouldn't have asked Jane for help. The Lord has said that He would hear the prayers we offer in secret, and reward us (Matt. 6:6). Later on, the Lord prompted a neighbor to offer the use of her car any time that we needed it, praise His name!
Then there was also John (false name), who we saw occasionally as he fixed up homes for re-sale. He lamented over the fact that he was having relational difficulties with his 17 year old son, and promptly declared that he wouldn't shave or get a haircut until the relationship was restored! Yes, John is a professed Christian.
It is certainly normal to love your children, and desire a good relationship with them. But differences with your children will also surely arise, especially with teenagers. Jesus told us that a man's enemies would be they of his own house, and that those that love their children more than Him are not worthy of Him (Matt. 10:34-39; Luke 14:26). Nowhere, but nowhere in the scriptures are we told to put such great emphasis on inner family relations, but only to serve the Lord with our all. This is the 1st problem I see.
Secondly, if you were actually to search God's Word for a solution, you would encounter Micah 1:16, which instructs the parent to shave his head! The Bible discourages long hair in men (I Cor. 11:14), so John was definitely "headed" in the wrong direction.
Finally, John was also drawing attention to himself by his actions. A repeated message of Matthew chapter 6:1-16 is the secrecy with which we bring our requests to God: "don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing." In short, John calls himself a Christian, but Biblical instruction showed itself to be irrelevant in his handling of this situation. Even for such individuals to obey Bible directives in some areas, usually is just more by chance, than deliberate.
Godly chastening is another "sore" area of Biblical disregard today. Jesus plainly stated, "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten." from Rev. 3:19. We are also told in Hebrews 11:5-11 that the Lord scourges every son He receives; and that this is done for our good.
In scripture, EVERYTHING was seen as coming from God. Today, when people get ill, they rush to the doctor, or buy medicine; as if their illness exists completely apart from God! When confronting people with the idea that God may be chastening or refining them in some way, several have said, "God wouldn't do that to me." Others listen, but take no humbling action before God to seek His face. The fact is, they do not want a God that would deal with them so roughly (as they see it), or take away their own right of determination for the future. This is a dangerous place to be in!
And where does Christmas fit into the Bible? You can view more on that through the link, if desired. So many things about Christmas are lies, and direct contradictions to Bible directives.
Speaking of lying, this is a major Christian affliction! God hates lying, for the SIN that it is. We lie so many times, to so many people, over so many issues. Our children, spouses, co-workers, etc., are all recipients of this treatment. These lies are often considered to be "necessary", so we don't even regard them that way. Make no mistake about it; Jesus said that all liars will have their part in the lake of fire. -Rev. 21:8.
Other short mentions are;
- The Green Bible, or "save the earth" environmentalism. Not to be found in scripture.
- Women leaders in the church have no leeway to do so, Biblically.
- Homosexual behavior. Recently we saw an article headline where 100 ordained ministers in a Nebraska city had declared that homosexual marriage wasn't a sin! Granted, these ministers may not all have been of professing Christian faith, and there may have been more than one per institution. Obviously, none of them believe what the Bible has to say on the matter.
- Some church leaders have embraced evolution teaching over and above God's account of creation. This is foolish behavior in the highest degree, and really shows that they haven't taken an in-depth look at the subject at all! But the fact is, when you begin declaring that one part of the Bible is untrue, you have no right to believe any of it.
- Why are we trusting educated leaders of man-made systems, rather than Holy Ghost-filled leaders that walk by faith? Check out Acts 4:13, and I Cor. 1:26-29 for God's sentiments on the issue!
- Are any believers really practicing self-denial, as shown in places like Matt. 16:24?
- How can someone who claims to be of Christ-like nature be so worldly (James 4:4; I John 2:15-17)? Don't they realize that we are not to be yoked with unbelief; but rather, are to "come out from among them and be separate (II Cor. 6:14-18)?
Unfortunately, though the scriptures are exceedingly clear on most subjects, church leaders tend to treat the Bible's instructions as if they could be subjective to each person's determination. Seldom are congregations challenged to ammend sinful, worldly behavior. When we see the desperate spiritual condition of our world today, and the growing judgments of God coming upon us, we should see the direct relationship of hard reality to the IRRELEVANT place that we now hold the Bible in.
Without faith, we cannot please God (Heb. 11:6). Yet that faith needs to be childlike (Matt. 18:4; Luke 18:17): we are believing God at His Word for what He has given us; without adding to it, or taking away from it through our own rationale. Don't allow the Bible to remain, or to become irrelevant in your life.
"Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord; but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word." -Is. 66:1,2; emphasis mine in bold italics.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Holiness unto the Lord; our way of escape
"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." -Matt. 5:48.
While researching for our other blog, http://watchmanswarnings.blogspot.com/, I am continually exposed to the depths of evil that our world, and our nation have sunk into. These contaminations have become so ingrained within us that most are unaware that anything is even wrong. If some of the evils are eventually acknowledged, they never seem to apply to us, or to our immediate circumstances. After all, every way of a man is right in his own eyes (Prov. 21:2).
This infection is rampant among the professing body of Christ, as well. We are seldom offended by that which should be offensive to adopted children of God, but instead are offended by far lesser matters; issues that really bear no relevance to a Christian life. We are falling into the trap of "calling evil good, and good evil" as warned of in Isaiah 5:20.
An example that I've cited before is of one evangelist who contacted me by e-mail about ABC television network. Apparently, they were no longer allowing their news reporters to wear "American flag" pins on their clothing. To him, this was an outrage, and we needed to boycott ABC television because of it. This evangelist is somewhat SCREWED UP in his reasoning! Really, there were already plenty of good reasons to not only boycott ABC, but virtually all television networks. How could this supposedly Christian man be so offended over something so unscriptural, and unspiritual? How could you take such actions over the wearing of a pin, yet never have been offended by the show, Desperate Housewives? Really, I personally think that in saying you can find something good on TV is like straining at a gnat, and swallowing a camel (Matt. 23:24). Why endorse so much evil, for a minute amount of good?
It is discouraging to consider all the evils of this time, but God has given us a way of escape (I Cor. 10:13). That way of escape applies to the eternal condition of our souls, rather than anything temporal. God shows us this time-honored way of escape plainly in His Word.
"And the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, saying, We have sinned against thee, both because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim. And the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Did not I deliver you from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines? The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand. Yet ye have forsaken me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation. And the children of Israel said unto the Lord, We have sinned: do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, this day. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the Lord: and his soul was grieved for the misery of Israel." -Judges 10:10-16, bold type added.
The way of escape that God provides us is through repentance. The Israelites here acknowledged not only a general sinfulness, but also their specific sins (forsaking God, serving Baalim). Today, many who profess Christ really have not acknowledged that their specific actions have been sinful; but only that they are in general need of a savior.
This will never do, and it was not even enough for the Israelites to make this confession. God initially rejected their cries. What then happened to finally move God on their behalf? Not only did the Israelites again confess their sins, but (1) they accepted the punishment that the Lord had given them, and whatever more punishment He would bring; (2) they put away the strange gods from among them, and then finally,
(3) they SERVED THE LORD. All of this seems reminiscent of the Lord's instruction to, "Deny yourself, take up your cross (daily), and follow me." -Matt. 16:24, Luke 9:23.
So many see a need for the Lord's intervention, or a need for revival, yet they never look first within themselves to find what is wrong. Only by acknowledging our own sin first, and accepting God's chastening, will we then be ready to be re-built in the likeness of Christ and used for His glory. It is the inside of the cup that first must be clean, but most today focus on the outside (Matt. 23:25,26).
We have come to this dark point in history because we have turned away from following the Lord;
"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water." -Jer. 2:13.
The accelerated spiritual falling of our world really began with the advent of Bible revisions. Far from being an improvement by "updated" language, it served only to instill doubt and confusion within the professing church. In short, it took away the sure foundation (Ps. 11:3) which we relied upon. In every Bible school and seminary, all of the scholarly christian academics are taught to disbelieve the authenticity of God's Word.
"Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the Lord. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Also I set watchmen over you, saying, hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken...Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it." -Jer. 6:15,16, & 18.
Our spiritual way out of this is 100% true holiness. There can be no compromise! Yes, while in the flesh, our best efforts will continue to fall short; our eternal justification is in Jesus Christ alone.
Yet only far too many are yielding to worldliness (I John 2:15), and deliberately making provision to fulfill the lusts of the flesh (Rom. 13:13,14), rather than yielding themselves to be servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:19). Our flesh is too prone toward sin, so we dare not try to "straddle the fence" when it comes to serving Christ; we need to serve Him with all of our being. Jesus said He would that we were cold or hot, and not lukewarm (Rev. 3:15,16). No matter what the issue might be, no matter how seemingly small or great, strive to bring everything under the Lordship of Christ!
"If so be that ye have heard of him, and have been taught by him, as the truth in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." -Eph. 4:21-24.
This world is dying, but let us not die spiritually with it. We who proclaim Jesus Christ need to start living like it, because time is almost up.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." -II Chron. 7:14.
While researching for our other blog, http://watchmanswarnings.blogspot.com/, I am continually exposed to the depths of evil that our world, and our nation have sunk into. These contaminations have become so ingrained within us that most are unaware that anything is even wrong. If some of the evils are eventually acknowledged, they never seem to apply to us, or to our immediate circumstances. After all, every way of a man is right in his own eyes (Prov. 21:2).
This infection is rampant among the professing body of Christ, as well. We are seldom offended by that which should be offensive to adopted children of God, but instead are offended by far lesser matters; issues that really bear no relevance to a Christian life. We are falling into the trap of "calling evil good, and good evil" as warned of in Isaiah 5:20.
An example that I've cited before is of one evangelist who contacted me by e-mail about ABC television network. Apparently, they were no longer allowing their news reporters to wear "American flag" pins on their clothing. To him, this was an outrage, and we needed to boycott ABC television because of it. This evangelist is somewhat SCREWED UP in his reasoning! Really, there were already plenty of good reasons to not only boycott ABC, but virtually all television networks. How could this supposedly Christian man be so offended over something so unscriptural, and unspiritual? How could you take such actions over the wearing of a pin, yet never have been offended by the show, Desperate Housewives? Really, I personally think that in saying you can find something good on TV is like straining at a gnat, and swallowing a camel (Matt. 23:24). Why endorse so much evil, for a minute amount of good?
It is discouraging to consider all the evils of this time, but God has given us a way of escape (I Cor. 10:13). That way of escape applies to the eternal condition of our souls, rather than anything temporal. God shows us this time-honored way of escape plainly in His Word.
"And the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, saying, We have sinned against thee, both because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim. And the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Did not I deliver you from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines? The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand. Yet ye have forsaken me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation. And the children of Israel said unto the Lord, We have sinned: do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, this day. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the Lord: and his soul was grieved for the misery of Israel." -Judges 10:10-16, bold type added.
The way of escape that God provides us is through repentance. The Israelites here acknowledged not only a general sinfulness, but also their specific sins (forsaking God, serving Baalim). Today, many who profess Christ really have not acknowledged that their specific actions have been sinful; but only that they are in general need of a savior.
This will never do, and it was not even enough for the Israelites to make this confession. God initially rejected their cries. What then happened to finally move God on their behalf? Not only did the Israelites again confess their sins, but (1) they accepted the punishment that the Lord had given them, and whatever more punishment He would bring; (2) they put away the strange gods from among them, and then finally,
(3) they SERVED THE LORD. All of this seems reminiscent of the Lord's instruction to, "Deny yourself, take up your cross (daily), and follow me." -Matt. 16:24, Luke 9:23.
So many see a need for the Lord's intervention, or a need for revival, yet they never look first within themselves to find what is wrong. Only by acknowledging our own sin first, and accepting God's chastening, will we then be ready to be re-built in the likeness of Christ and used for His glory. It is the inside of the cup that first must be clean, but most today focus on the outside (Matt. 23:25,26).
We have come to this dark point in history because we have turned away from following the Lord;
"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water." -Jer. 2:13.
The accelerated spiritual falling of our world really began with the advent of Bible revisions. Far from being an improvement by "updated" language, it served only to instill doubt and confusion within the professing church. In short, it took away the sure foundation (Ps. 11:3) which we relied upon. In every Bible school and seminary, all of the scholarly christian academics are taught to disbelieve the authenticity of God's Word.
"Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the Lord. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Also I set watchmen over you, saying, hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken...Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it." -Jer. 6:15,16, & 18.
Our spiritual way out of this is 100% true holiness. There can be no compromise! Yes, while in the flesh, our best efforts will continue to fall short; our eternal justification is in Jesus Christ alone.
Yet only far too many are yielding to worldliness (I John 2:15), and deliberately making provision to fulfill the lusts of the flesh (Rom. 13:13,14), rather than yielding themselves to be servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:19). Our flesh is too prone toward sin, so we dare not try to "straddle the fence" when it comes to serving Christ; we need to serve Him with all of our being. Jesus said He would that we were cold or hot, and not lukewarm (Rev. 3:15,16). No matter what the issue might be, no matter how seemingly small or great, strive to bring everything under the Lordship of Christ!
"If so be that ye have heard of him, and have been taught by him, as the truth in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." -Eph. 4:21-24.
This world is dying, but let us not die spiritually with it. We who proclaim Jesus Christ need to start living like it, because time is almost up.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." -II Chron. 7:14.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Beware the 2nd coming of "Christ"
We live in perilous times. Satan's power, and his ability to deceive are at an all-time high. His deceptions have swallowed up nearly all organized churches, and the mouth-professing Christians that sponsor them.
One of the greatest deceptions that the enemy has pulled off is in convincing God's people of a pre-tribulation rapture scenario. I had also been carried away by this myth; but God, because of His mercy alone, has opened my eyes to the plain truth of scripture.
This false doctrine of a pre-trib rapture really only began in the 1830's through a preacher named Darby. It was later greatly advanced throuth the Scofield Reference Bible, first published in 1909. Since that time, many have taken Scofield's notes as Bible interpretation, when in fact they are nothing more than commentary. A full 3 generations have now been indoctrinated into the Scofield "dogma"; so that it is impossible, without the Lord's intervention, for them to understand scripture in any way other than what they have been taught.
A pre-trib rapture is a popular concept: but it fits well within the warning God gave us in II Tim. 4:3,4;
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."
God's Word plainly tells us that no prophecy of the scriptures is of any private interpretation (II Pet. 1:19,20). Yet that is precisely what has happened with the pre-trib rapture theory! Prior to the advancement of this idea, it was commonly accepted that the Lord would call His people home at the end of said "tribulation" period, shortly before the 2nd coming at the battle of Armageddon. This is indicated plainly in passages like Luke 17:26-37.
WHY does it matter? Certainly, the belief in what point at which Christ returns will not effect our salvation; or will it?For those that I am bringing this warning message to, most of you have already been saved by grace, through faith in the atoning work of Jesus' precious blood on Calvary. That is a great beginning, but there will be a vast difference for all concerned by the timing of these events.
Believe me; I would truly, deeply, sincerely appreciate a pre-trib rapture! But though I take my stand according to the Bible, it is also the more logical approach. If I believe that this event will come at the end, then I am preparing for the worst, through Jesus Christ. If it turns out that I am wrong, the Lord takes me home earlier: that is gain for me!
Yet if one believes in the early rapture, and they are wrong, then they will not be prepared for resisting the Antichrist, with all of his lying signs and wonders (II Thess. 2:9,10).
In spite of this big introduction, I am not purposed to convincing anyone against the pre-trib rapture idea. As one of God's watchmen, it is my duty to WARN. I trust that God the Holy Spirit will continue to work in you to ultimately show you the truth of the scriptures. No future prophecy can ever be known accurately in advance, but only after the event has taken place (John 16:4a, one small example). That is why Jesus so emphasized our need to watch (Mark 13:33-37). Links will be provided at the end for further study.
Whether or not you believe in the pre-trib rapture, by itself, is not the issue at hand. Being prepared, through diligent watching and prayer is what is of the utmost importance. I want to take this opportunity to warn my brethren in Christ of what I see potentially happening in the very near future...
My studies have brought me to focus primarily on one specific event, which is World War III. This war has been planned for at least 140 years, and we are in the beginning phases of this war right now The nuclear aspect, which we all rightly dread, will soon be forthcoming. It is my opinion that the Bible speaks of this war in Revelation 9:13-19.
It is the stated goal of the Illuminati and Freemasons (groups working for global government) that three world wars can be used to bring about a New World Order (Letter from Albert Pike to Mazzini, 1871). The first 2 world wars have already played out as prescribed, and now the 3rd one is set for launch. This event is meant to utterly destroy the system of sovereign national governments currently in place, and to finally convince a devastated world population to accept global governance as the needed remedy to bring about peace: never realizing that those same powers stepping in to offer us peace were the same ones which previously brought about their destruction!
It will be at this time, through this system that antichrist will arise. He will "return" in spectacular fashion, posing as the universal messiah for all religions. Uniting the world's religions is another necessary step that the globalists have foreseen. Without the common religious base, all other efforts would be in vain.
Through the use of a variety of advanced technologies, such as HAARP, we will know great earthquakes, have a false 2nd coming of "Christ" according to the various major religions, and even have the "voice of God" resounding in our minds, as if by telepathy. Are you sure that you will be ready for such a powerful deception? Do not continue to underestimate our adversary the devil!
The desperate condition of the world will easily make mankind receptive to a returning messiah, one that promises peace. Yet even the great majority of professing Christian churches will accept him as real. The ongoing destruction of God's Word by the esteemed professors at our Bible colleges, as well as by most every church pastor, will remove the solid ground upon which believers need to build their spiritual houses (Matt. 7:24-27). This is why I push so hard for the King James Bible; it is for our welfare that God has preserved His words (Ps. 12:6,7), and it is this solid ground that will ultimately redeem us.
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." -Rom. 10:17.
There is actually an antichrist candidate among us, moving stealthily about under the name of the new-age Christ, MAITREYA. He is here on Earth right now, soon to be revealed in the more grandiose manner that we all expect (one that Satan will thrill to!). Remember this about the real Christ's return, from Revelation 1:7; every eye shall see Him, and the people will wail (mourn). When the false christ comes, him they will welcome.
All of these drastic events/deceptions will swing into full gear with World War III. I expect that we are very close to the full outbreak of this war, and the reign of antichrist. Really, it could come at any given time now, but I personally expect that within 6 months we will have the reign of antichrist. Any time delayed from that is only by the merciful longsuffering of our God (II Peter 3:9); yet these events, or near approximations of them, will certainly come to pass in the very near future. Are you ready to suffer for your Lord?
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." -Rev. 12:11.
The buildup to WWIII is being followed, somewhat primitively, on our blog; http://watchmanswarnings.blogspot.com/. The beginning blogs, starting with the stated Mission and proceeding through, How Real is the Threat of WWIII?, lay a good groundwork.
Other helpful articles can be found on our website, http://www.heedthewatchmen.com//. I also highly recommend the book in pdf, Reinventing Jesus Christ: the New Gospel.; authored by Warren Smith.
Several videos also worth watching are;
- Project Blue Beam
- The Enemy Within
- The Fall of the Republic
Satan is a serious foe, and we are about to be subjected to the wildest, most destructive time that the Earth has ever known. In spite of that, this also means that the SALVATION we hope and long for is very near to completion. Hold fast, brethren; prove all things. The remaining time is far shorter than we had imagined.
One of the greatest deceptions that the enemy has pulled off is in convincing God's people of a pre-tribulation rapture scenario. I had also been carried away by this myth; but God, because of His mercy alone, has opened my eyes to the plain truth of scripture.
This false doctrine of a pre-trib rapture really only began in the 1830's through a preacher named Darby. It was later greatly advanced throuth the Scofield Reference Bible, first published in 1909. Since that time, many have taken Scofield's notes as Bible interpretation, when in fact they are nothing more than commentary. A full 3 generations have now been indoctrinated into the Scofield "dogma"; so that it is impossible, without the Lord's intervention, for them to understand scripture in any way other than what they have been taught.
A pre-trib rapture is a popular concept: but it fits well within the warning God gave us in II Tim. 4:3,4;
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."
God's Word plainly tells us that no prophecy of the scriptures is of any private interpretation (II Pet. 1:19,20). Yet that is precisely what has happened with the pre-trib rapture theory! Prior to the advancement of this idea, it was commonly accepted that the Lord would call His people home at the end of said "tribulation" period, shortly before the 2nd coming at the battle of Armageddon. This is indicated plainly in passages like Luke 17:26-37.
WHY does it matter? Certainly, the belief in what point at which Christ returns will not effect our salvation; or will it?For those that I am bringing this warning message to, most of you have already been saved by grace, through faith in the atoning work of Jesus' precious blood on Calvary. That is a great beginning, but there will be a vast difference for all concerned by the timing of these events.
Believe me; I would truly, deeply, sincerely appreciate a pre-trib rapture! But though I take my stand according to the Bible, it is also the more logical approach. If I believe that this event will come at the end, then I am preparing for the worst, through Jesus Christ. If it turns out that I am wrong, the Lord takes me home earlier: that is gain for me!
Yet if one believes in the early rapture, and they are wrong, then they will not be prepared for resisting the Antichrist, with all of his lying signs and wonders (II Thess. 2:9,10).
In spite of this big introduction, I am not purposed to convincing anyone against the pre-trib rapture idea. As one of God's watchmen, it is my duty to WARN. I trust that God the Holy Spirit will continue to work in you to ultimately show you the truth of the scriptures. No future prophecy can ever be known accurately in advance, but only after the event has taken place (John 16:4a, one small example). That is why Jesus so emphasized our need to watch (Mark 13:33-37). Links will be provided at the end for further study.
Whether or not you believe in the pre-trib rapture, by itself, is not the issue at hand. Being prepared, through diligent watching and prayer is what is of the utmost importance. I want to take this opportunity to warn my brethren in Christ of what I see potentially happening in the very near future...
My studies have brought me to focus primarily on one specific event, which is World War III. This war has been planned for at least 140 years, and we are in the beginning phases of this war right now The nuclear aspect, which we all rightly dread, will soon be forthcoming. It is my opinion that the Bible speaks of this war in Revelation 9:13-19.
It is the stated goal of the Illuminati and Freemasons (groups working for global government) that three world wars can be used to bring about a New World Order (Letter from Albert Pike to Mazzini, 1871). The first 2 world wars have already played out as prescribed, and now the 3rd one is set for launch. This event is meant to utterly destroy the system of sovereign national governments currently in place, and to finally convince a devastated world population to accept global governance as the needed remedy to bring about peace: never realizing that those same powers stepping in to offer us peace were the same ones which previously brought about their destruction!
It will be at this time, through this system that antichrist will arise. He will "return" in spectacular fashion, posing as the universal messiah for all religions. Uniting the world's religions is another necessary step that the globalists have foreseen. Without the common religious base, all other efforts would be in vain.
Through the use of a variety of advanced technologies, such as HAARP, we will know great earthquakes, have a false 2nd coming of "Christ" according to the various major religions, and even have the "voice of God" resounding in our minds, as if by telepathy. Are you sure that you will be ready for such a powerful deception? Do not continue to underestimate our adversary the devil!
The desperate condition of the world will easily make mankind receptive to a returning messiah, one that promises peace. Yet even the great majority of professing Christian churches will accept him as real. The ongoing destruction of God's Word by the esteemed professors at our Bible colleges, as well as by most every church pastor, will remove the solid ground upon which believers need to build their spiritual houses (Matt. 7:24-27). This is why I push so hard for the King James Bible; it is for our welfare that God has preserved His words (Ps. 12:6,7), and it is this solid ground that will ultimately redeem us.
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." -Rom. 10:17.
There is actually an antichrist candidate among us, moving stealthily about under the name of the new-age Christ, MAITREYA. He is here on Earth right now, soon to be revealed in the more grandiose manner that we all expect (one that Satan will thrill to!). Remember this about the real Christ's return, from Revelation 1:7; every eye shall see Him, and the people will wail (mourn). When the false christ comes, him they will welcome.
All of these drastic events/deceptions will swing into full gear with World War III. I expect that we are very close to the full outbreak of this war, and the reign of antichrist. Really, it could come at any given time now, but I personally expect that within 6 months we will have the reign of antichrist. Any time delayed from that is only by the merciful longsuffering of our God (II Peter 3:9); yet these events, or near approximations of them, will certainly come to pass in the very near future. Are you ready to suffer for your Lord?
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." -Rev. 12:11.
The buildup to WWIII is being followed, somewhat primitively, on our blog; http://watchmanswarnings.blogspot.com/. The beginning blogs, starting with the stated Mission and proceeding through, How Real is the Threat of WWIII?, lay a good groundwork.
Other helpful articles can be found on our website, http://www.heedthewatchmen.com//. I also highly recommend the book in pdf, Reinventing Jesus Christ: the New Gospel.; authored by Warren Smith.
Several videos also worth watching are;
- Project Blue Beam
- The Enemy Within
- The Fall of the Republic
Satan is a serious foe, and we are about to be subjected to the wildest, most destructive time that the Earth has ever known. In spite of that, this also means that the SALVATION we hope and long for is very near to completion. Hold fast, brethren; prove all things. The remaining time is far shorter than we had imagined.
Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Revelation 3:2
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Revelation 2:10
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Sunday sports in America
By God's grace, my wife & I gave up television at the digital transition deadline in June, 2009. Our abandonment of TV had been growing for years; but for various reasons this circumstance, instigated by the gov't, crystalized our commitment.
Of the TV viewing that had remained until the end, professional sports was a big part of it. The Lord has also had to deal greatly with His servant over this issue extensively: I thank God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and His precious Holy Spirit for His (their) patience, longsuffering and mercy toward me- I am indeed a slow learner!
Few things are as clearly CORRUPT as professional sports; they contribute nothing of lasting value to the world or its people, and indeed steal much away from those who might otherwise be helped, either spiritually or materially. A lengthier article on this topic entitled, Sports Deception, is available on our website for further reading.
Recent news articles have again somewhat drawn my attention to this deceptive phenomenon. Albert Pujols, argueably the best player in pro baseball today, just signed with the Los Angelos Angels' franchise for 10 years, 250 million dollars! How do they afford to pay this? Really, I don't know all of the ways that merchandising ultimately translates into salary, but one method was brought forward in this particular case that was new to my awareness.FOX TV, doubtless in the L.A. area, had signed a deal with the Angels for I believe 20 years, and some $3 Billion!!! Pujols' entire salary is covered 12 times over by that amount! People try to tout the "nobility" of sports, but professional sports are merely another form of that same old root evil (I Tim. 6:10), the love of money. Unfortuneatly, the lesser sports promoted in school have been greatly tainted by the pros, whether in emulation, or in coveting their position- that is, seeking to be like them! Let us listen to Christ saying, "Beware of covetousness." -Luke 12:15.
For the sports' fans, the primary loss is in that of TIME: what could you be doing with the time that you waste in watching sports, or following them in some way? Do you take time "preparing" to watch a game? Do you purchase licensed sports apparel, and go out of your way to do it? This involves not only time, but money. The Bible says that we are to redeem the time (Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5), and be faithful stewards (Luke 16:1-13) with what God has graciously provided for us (James 1:17). If Jesus said that we would give an account of every idle word (Matt. 12:36), how much more will that apply to the multitude of idle words that we speak and listen to surrounding a meaningless sports' game?
On top of all this, pro sports are a big part of the agenda for the coming World Government. Does this surprise you? It shouldn't. If you are content, and distracted, this provides a good cover for the "times and laws" that are in the process of being changed! If your time, money, and energy goes toward work, and seeking leisure pastimes, you will not be likely to spend effort corraling in corrupt gov't and their programs. Why do you think that it is commonplace for new sports' stadiums to be funded by the gov't (all, or in part)? The sports' teams are private businesses, and very lucrative! They require financial assistance in no way; but instead, our tax dollars will be squandered to finance their endeavors- hundreds of millions of dollars per stadium. This keeps the general population entertained, and INACTIVE toward any meaningful opposition to The New World Order.
Please take the time to read our linked article. Take this matter before the Lord in both prayer and scripture study. Plainly, we are called a "peculiar" people unto the Lord, and are not to be yoked together with unbelief; but instead, we are to come out from among them and be separate (II Cor. 6:14-17)! Brethren, it is high time to be "walk the walk" Christians: in that true spirit, let us deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily, and follow the Lord.
"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof." -Rom. 13:11-14.
Of the TV viewing that had remained until the end, professional sports was a big part of it. The Lord has also had to deal greatly with His servant over this issue extensively: I thank God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and His precious Holy Spirit for His (their) patience, longsuffering and mercy toward me- I am indeed a slow learner!
Few things are as clearly CORRUPT as professional sports; they contribute nothing of lasting value to the world or its people, and indeed steal much away from those who might otherwise be helped, either spiritually or materially. A lengthier article on this topic entitled, Sports Deception, is available on our website for further reading.
Recent news articles have again somewhat drawn my attention to this deceptive phenomenon. Albert Pujols, argueably the best player in pro baseball today, just signed with the Los Angelos Angels' franchise for 10 years, 250 million dollars! How do they afford to pay this? Really, I don't know all of the ways that merchandising ultimately translates into salary, but one method was brought forward in this particular case that was new to my awareness.FOX TV, doubtless in the L.A. area, had signed a deal with the Angels for I believe 20 years, and some $3 Billion!!! Pujols' entire salary is covered 12 times over by that amount! People try to tout the "nobility" of sports, but professional sports are merely another form of that same old root evil (I Tim. 6:10), the love of money. Unfortuneatly, the lesser sports promoted in school have been greatly tainted by the pros, whether in emulation, or in coveting their position- that is, seeking to be like them! Let us listen to Christ saying, "Beware of covetousness." -Luke 12:15.
For the sports' fans, the primary loss is in that of TIME: what could you be doing with the time that you waste in watching sports, or following them in some way? Do you take time "preparing" to watch a game? Do you purchase licensed sports apparel, and go out of your way to do it? This involves not only time, but money. The Bible says that we are to redeem the time (Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5), and be faithful stewards (Luke 16:1-13) with what God has graciously provided for us (James 1:17). If Jesus said that we would give an account of every idle word (Matt. 12:36), how much more will that apply to the multitude of idle words that we speak and listen to surrounding a meaningless sports' game?
On top of all this, pro sports are a big part of the agenda for the coming World Government. Does this surprise you? It shouldn't. If you are content, and distracted, this provides a good cover for the "times and laws" that are in the process of being changed! If your time, money, and energy goes toward work, and seeking leisure pastimes, you will not be likely to spend effort corraling in corrupt gov't and their programs. Why do you think that it is commonplace for new sports' stadiums to be funded by the gov't (all, or in part)? The sports' teams are private businesses, and very lucrative! They require financial assistance in no way; but instead, our tax dollars will be squandered to finance their endeavors- hundreds of millions of dollars per stadium. This keeps the general population entertained, and INACTIVE toward any meaningful opposition to The New World Order.
Please take the time to read our linked article. Take this matter before the Lord in both prayer and scripture study. Plainly, we are called a "peculiar" people unto the Lord, and are not to be yoked together with unbelief; but instead, we are to come out from among them and be separate (II Cor. 6:14-17)! Brethren, it is high time to be "walk the walk" Christians: in that true spirit, let us deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily, and follow the Lord.
"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof." -Rom. 13:11-14.
Friday, December 9, 2011
True repentance and the "microwave" christian
Matthew 7:21-23 can be some of the Bible's most disturbing verses. Jesus is telling us of those who will die confidently believing that they will receive eternal life with Christ, and yet never really knew Him! How can such a thing be? Hopefully it is enough to bring some to the point of FEAR (Matt. 10:28): and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Ps. 111:10).
How have we come to these last days? How can the churches be full, and yet this falling away has still happened? The time of delusion spoken of (Is. 66:4; II Thess. 2:11) has come- but where have we gone wrong, to bring this about?
We live in the age of the microwave, and all the reasoning behind it. No, I'm not really talking about the device used for cooking/heating food. We want what we want right now, fast and without delay. To an extent, mankind has always been this way. "Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready." -John 7:6. Yet today, technology has given us many devices that can provide us with the "quick fix" for many tasks.
This type of thinking has invaded the organized churches; we have been polluted by the fallen world around us. Today, many individuals could boast of a general repentance for sin, without a specific confession of sins. This is where the problem really shows up! Of course, I need to explain...
It is possible to cry out, "Lord, forgive me- I am a sinner." without actually being sorry for our sins, or at least certain sins. Like if you get caught for speeding. It is a law, and you knew that it was wrong, but you did it anyway! You give the officer a sob story about why you needed to break this law right then, or how you weren't paying attention, etc. Chances are, no matter what happens in this instance, in the future you will continue to violate the posted speed limit whenever you feel justified in doing so.
When each person stands before God in judgment, I can pretty much guarantee that everyone will readily admit to sinning, or being a sinner! It just didn't matter to them when they were alive. Have you ever been acquainted with someone who is chronically late? Maybe they show up and say, "Sorry that I'm late!" Yet it never changes, does it? Perhaps others close to them have even sunk into the sin of lying to accomodate them. Like in giving them a time to be ready by which is far earlier than really necessary. Such lies are a rotten spiritual fruit, and do not reflect a true Christian life. Jesus tells us to rebuke a brother that has sinned against us, not coddle him and counter-act it with our own sin!
Have you ever told a lie, and then only acknowledged it in kind of a pseudo-repentance? In other words, you admit that it was wrong and sinful, but you still believe that it was the "right thing" to do in a given situation. All the while within youself, you know that you would readily do it again under similar circumstances. This is when saying, "I'm sorry", or "Lord, forgive me" are not real repentance.
The Lord has shown me that I have often been guilty of FALSE repentance. I thought that I was sincere. He showed me directly that I should not be so quick to repent! I was repenting out of fear, but the genuine acknowledgement and understanding of the specific sin were far from me.
You see, God Hates Sin- He hates all sin; and as His children, we ought to hate sin, too. When we sin in ignorance, the Lord won't hold us accountable; UNTIL the thing is brought to our attention! At that point, it is the same as any other sin. We should be grieved to have hurt God by sinning, and repentance should be accompanied by sorrow (II Cor. 7:10); with a resolve not to sin so again.
Sometimes, I think we cut ourselves some slack. Our inward feeling is, "Well, I didn't know that it was wrong. I know that God loves me, and forgives me." We think that it isn't really a "big deal" in God's eyes, and that since we didn't really know any better, He just sort of winks at the episode. God does love us, but this doesn't take away from His hatred over sin.
We are all most likely familiar with the parable of the sower, found in Matt. 13:18-23, Mark 4:14-20, and Luke 8:11-15. We see the different types of "soil" that the seed of the Word gets sown into. What we need to recognize, however, is that soil can be prepared. This is alluded to strongly in scriptures like Luke 8:18, 11:35, 13:6-9, I Cor. 3:10,11. Renowned saints like David Brainerd knew the importance of spiritual soil preparation, and he was in no hurry to seek a "quick" decision for Christ!
Brethren, these things take time; will you give to them the time they require? It could take days. Write things down! How do you react to the sins you are exposed to in others? Are they "no big deal", or are they offensive? Do you ever think, "That's OK; I used to do that, too!" Perhaps you have never fully acknowledged such behavior in your own life as actual SIN. Ask the Lord to show you the inconsistencies in your testimony, and your inner attitudes. We all need the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in order to gain the "mind of Christ." This takes more & more prayer, hungering and thirsting after righteousness, as shown in Matt. 5:6.
You may well have to go back over sins that you were sure had been forgiven. Don't try to rationalize your behavior, or justify it before men! God wants to give you the right attitude toward sin, so that you will cry out in that way which pleases Him, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Unfortuneately, you will seldom find specific kinds of sin spoken of in churches today. Pastors dance around those matters which they feel might be offensive to someone, and I know that this happens! The result of this is that sinful behavior seldom changes, because it hasn't been pointed out as such from the spiritual "shepherd" within your church!We wind up getting general repentances, without specific confessions (confess sin to God).
Take the time to give your life fully to Christ; in the end, nothing else will matter. For more info along these lines, read the article Dear John, from our website.
"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." -Prov. 14:12.
"Therfore to him that knoweth to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin." -James 4:17.
How have we come to these last days? How can the churches be full, and yet this falling away has still happened? The time of delusion spoken of (Is. 66:4; II Thess. 2:11) has come- but where have we gone wrong, to bring this about?
We live in the age of the microwave, and all the reasoning behind it. No, I'm not really talking about the device used for cooking/heating food. We want what we want right now, fast and without delay. To an extent, mankind has always been this way. "Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready." -John 7:6. Yet today, technology has given us many devices that can provide us with the "quick fix" for many tasks.
This type of thinking has invaded the organized churches; we have been polluted by the fallen world around us. Today, many individuals could boast of a general repentance for sin, without a specific confession of sins. This is where the problem really shows up! Of course, I need to explain...
It is possible to cry out, "Lord, forgive me- I am a sinner." without actually being sorry for our sins, or at least certain sins. Like if you get caught for speeding. It is a law, and you knew that it was wrong, but you did it anyway! You give the officer a sob story about why you needed to break this law right then, or how you weren't paying attention, etc. Chances are, no matter what happens in this instance, in the future you will continue to violate the posted speed limit whenever you feel justified in doing so.
When each person stands before God in judgment, I can pretty much guarantee that everyone will readily admit to sinning, or being a sinner! It just didn't matter to them when they were alive. Have you ever been acquainted with someone who is chronically late? Maybe they show up and say, "Sorry that I'm late!" Yet it never changes, does it? Perhaps others close to them have even sunk into the sin of lying to accomodate them. Like in giving them a time to be ready by which is far earlier than really necessary. Such lies are a rotten spiritual fruit, and do not reflect a true Christian life. Jesus tells us to rebuke a brother that has sinned against us, not coddle him and counter-act it with our own sin!
Have you ever told a lie, and then only acknowledged it in kind of a pseudo-repentance? In other words, you admit that it was wrong and sinful, but you still believe that it was the "right thing" to do in a given situation. All the while within youself, you know that you would readily do it again under similar circumstances. This is when saying, "I'm sorry", or "Lord, forgive me" are not real repentance.
The Lord has shown me that I have often been guilty of FALSE repentance. I thought that I was sincere. He showed me directly that I should not be so quick to repent! I was repenting out of fear, but the genuine acknowledgement and understanding of the specific sin were far from me.
You see, God Hates Sin- He hates all sin; and as His children, we ought to hate sin, too. When we sin in ignorance, the Lord won't hold us accountable; UNTIL the thing is brought to our attention! At that point, it is the same as any other sin. We should be grieved to have hurt God by sinning, and repentance should be accompanied by sorrow (II Cor. 7:10); with a resolve not to sin so again.
Sometimes, I think we cut ourselves some slack. Our inward feeling is, "Well, I didn't know that it was wrong. I know that God loves me, and forgives me." We think that it isn't really a "big deal" in God's eyes, and that since we didn't really know any better, He just sort of winks at the episode. God does love us, but this doesn't take away from His hatred over sin.
We are all most likely familiar with the parable of the sower, found in Matt. 13:18-23, Mark 4:14-20, and Luke 8:11-15. We see the different types of "soil" that the seed of the Word gets sown into. What we need to recognize, however, is that soil can be prepared. This is alluded to strongly in scriptures like Luke 8:18, 11:35, 13:6-9, I Cor. 3:10,11. Renowned saints like David Brainerd knew the importance of spiritual soil preparation, and he was in no hurry to seek a "quick" decision for Christ!
Brethren, these things take time; will you give to them the time they require? It could take days. Write things down! How do you react to the sins you are exposed to in others? Are they "no big deal", or are they offensive? Do you ever think, "That's OK; I used to do that, too!" Perhaps you have never fully acknowledged such behavior in your own life as actual SIN. Ask the Lord to show you the inconsistencies in your testimony, and your inner attitudes. We all need the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in order to gain the "mind of Christ." This takes more & more prayer, hungering and thirsting after righteousness, as shown in Matt. 5:6.
You may well have to go back over sins that you were sure had been forgiven. Don't try to rationalize your behavior, or justify it before men! God wants to give you the right attitude toward sin, so that you will cry out in that way which pleases Him, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Unfortuneately, you will seldom find specific kinds of sin spoken of in churches today. Pastors dance around those matters which they feel might be offensive to someone, and I know that this happens! The result of this is that sinful behavior seldom changes, because it hasn't been pointed out as such from the spiritual "shepherd" within your church!We wind up getting general repentances, without specific confessions (confess sin to God).
Take the time to give your life fully to Christ; in the end, nothing else will matter. For more info along these lines, read the article Dear John, from our website.
"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." -Prov. 14:12.
"Therfore to him that knoweth to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin." -James 4:17.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Trust in the Lord: letting God be God
"Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." -Psalm 37:5.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." -Is. 55:9.
"Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with my own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?" -Matt. 20:15.
We need FAITH; without real faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6). We must believe that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, and believe beyond our sight (Heb. 11:1).
"Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." -John 20:29.
The gospel of John is probably my favorite book of the Bible, and chapter 11, the resurrection of Lazarus, one of my favorite stories. It was in my regular reading for today, and what tears of joy it does bring! This story is rich.
We have lost faith in our day. Often we work things out on our own, and falsely claim that it is God answering (Jer. 17:5-8). We are in way too much of a hurry to wait upon God, and too interested in controlling the process and outcome. Yes, our prayer requests may be dire and valid; but did you also know that Jesus promised that they would be answered?
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." -Matt. 7:7,8. Bold italics added for emphasis.
So, yes! God will answer your prayer! He will answer it in His time, and in His way. There indeed may be things which hinder your prayers' answers, but the Lord will address them with you along the way, in order that the answer you seek may be given. Please see The Conditions of Prevailing Prayer for more info along this line.
One of the biggest problems, however, is simply trusting in God to be God. We want or expect Him to answer according to our own way of thinking: we want comfort, and quick answers. Real faith is tested and refined by the trials that we endure, and that implies "bad feelings."
Take this example of Lazarus in John chapter 11, and let it sink in. We today have the privelege of knowing the whole story and its outcome; God has enabled us to greatly benefit from the trials of faith endured in this circumstance. Will you allow it to help you, or will you continue on faithlessly?
Sometimes (most times) we don't even know what God could be thinking. He has a habit of acting in unique ways, whereby He gains all of the glory! Jesus shows us this type of reasoning here with Lazarus;
"Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where He was." John 11:5,6; bold italics added to emphasize.
Did you get that? This sick, dying, beloved friend would seemingly be in need of immediate attention; but Jesus was in no hurry! Do we not question as did some of the Jews, "Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?" Perhaps we have seen the Lord do marvelous things at times, but then comes a time when it seems that our pleas fall upon deaf ears. No way! Time and distance are meaningless to our infinite God, so please don't let discouragement overwhelm you when it may seem too late for an answer to prayer. To the human eye, Jesus' inactions were baffling. But in His mind, which is God's mind, it was the plan that He intended. Rather than being too late, it was perfectly timed.
Think of the distress being experienced by Mary, and Martha, or the affliction felt by Lazarus. What anguish! But what a heart our savior has; He was troubled, groaning in His spirit, and readily wept with those in mourning (John 11:33-38), even though He knew of the great outcome that would follow. This was an outcome not only of one man's life being extended, but of many coming to faith in Christ (John 11:45). The initial need was very real, but God brought from this circumstance something far greater than anyone could have foreseen.
No matter what you may be facing, our God already knows all about it. Wait for Him; trust in Him; humble yourself before Him, that He may exalt you in due time (I Peter 5:6). Take seriously the words which God has faithfully preserved for you, and learn not only from your own trials, but from the trials of them that have gone before us. Even when all seems lost, share in this faithful confession of Martha;
"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee." -John 11:21,22.
"If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it." -John 14:14.
Oh, brethren, TRUST the Lord today! He so wants to comfort you along the way, until the time of His perfect answer has come. Death has no power where our Lord is concerned; He is the resurrection, and the life (John 11:25).
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." -Is. 55:9.
"Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with my own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?" -Matt. 20:15.
We need FAITH; without real faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6). We must believe that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, and believe beyond our sight (Heb. 11:1).
"Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." -John 20:29.
The gospel of John is probably my favorite book of the Bible, and chapter 11, the resurrection of Lazarus, one of my favorite stories. It was in my regular reading for today, and what tears of joy it does bring! This story is rich.
We have lost faith in our day. Often we work things out on our own, and falsely claim that it is God answering (Jer. 17:5-8). We are in way too much of a hurry to wait upon God, and too interested in controlling the process and outcome. Yes, our prayer requests may be dire and valid; but did you also know that Jesus promised that they would be answered?
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." -Matt. 7:7,8. Bold italics added for emphasis.
So, yes! God will answer your prayer! He will answer it in His time, and in His way. There indeed may be things which hinder your prayers' answers, but the Lord will address them with you along the way, in order that the answer you seek may be given. Please see The Conditions of Prevailing Prayer for more info along this line.
One of the biggest problems, however, is simply trusting in God to be God. We want or expect Him to answer according to our own way of thinking: we want comfort, and quick answers. Real faith is tested and refined by the trials that we endure, and that implies "bad feelings."
Take this example of Lazarus in John chapter 11, and let it sink in. We today have the privelege of knowing the whole story and its outcome; God has enabled us to greatly benefit from the trials of faith endured in this circumstance. Will you allow it to help you, or will you continue on faithlessly?
Sometimes (most times) we don't even know what God could be thinking. He has a habit of acting in unique ways, whereby He gains all of the glory! Jesus shows us this type of reasoning here with Lazarus;
"Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where He was." John 11:5,6; bold italics added to emphasize.
Did you get that? This sick, dying, beloved friend would seemingly be in need of immediate attention; but Jesus was in no hurry! Do we not question as did some of the Jews, "Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?" Perhaps we have seen the Lord do marvelous things at times, but then comes a time when it seems that our pleas fall upon deaf ears. No way! Time and distance are meaningless to our infinite God, so please don't let discouragement overwhelm you when it may seem too late for an answer to prayer. To the human eye, Jesus' inactions were baffling. But in His mind, which is God's mind, it was the plan that He intended. Rather than being too late, it was perfectly timed.
Think of the distress being experienced by Mary, and Martha, or the affliction felt by Lazarus. What anguish! But what a heart our savior has; He was troubled, groaning in His spirit, and readily wept with those in mourning (John 11:33-38), even though He knew of the great outcome that would follow. This was an outcome not only of one man's life being extended, but of many coming to faith in Christ (John 11:45). The initial need was very real, but God brought from this circumstance something far greater than anyone could have foreseen.
No matter what you may be facing, our God already knows all about it. Wait for Him; trust in Him; humble yourself before Him, that He may exalt you in due time (I Peter 5:6). Take seriously the words which God has faithfully preserved for you, and learn not only from your own trials, but from the trials of them that have gone before us. Even when all seems lost, share in this faithful confession of Martha;
"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee." -John 11:21,22.
"If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it." -John 14:14.
Oh, brethren, TRUST the Lord today! He so wants to comfort you along the way, until the time of His perfect answer has come. Death has no power where our Lord is concerned; He is the resurrection, and the life (John 11:25).
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Redeeming the time: a need for Prayer
"...let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks...Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." -from Ephesians 5:3,4, & 16.
"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." -Colossians 4:2.
If there was ever a time for prayer, it is now. Keeping busy is easy to do, and is in no way a redemption of time by itself. We need to re-evaluate, re-prioritize our time management in ways that are pleasing to God.
"The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath." -Proverbs 15:24.
How is your prayer life? What do you commit to Him who is supposedly the LORD of your life? We can, of our own strength do nothing, and desperately need the Holy Spirit to do with us what we cannot (John 15:5)- that is why He was sent!
John Welch was a christian minister who lived at the end of the 16th, and early 17th century. He believed that any day was wasted, had he not spent 7-8 hours in prayer and scripture study! After his death it was said of him, "He was a type of Christ." Satan has made sure that we never have such time to give today, but really- where are you at? What priorities of time do you place above Christ? Why will you call Him Lord, if you do not the things that He says? See Luke 6:46.
"And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." -Luke 6:12.
"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
-Luke 18:1.
"Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him." -Acts 12:5.
"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord...continuing instant in prayer;"
-Romans 12:11,12.
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverence and supplication for all saints;" -Ephesians 6:18.
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." -Philippians 4:6.
"...The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." -from James 5:16.
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." -I Peter 4:7.
Our God is the provider of all our need (Philip. 4:19), the giver of every good gift, and every perfect gift (James 1:17); He has promised to "add all things" unto us, when we "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." - from Matt. 6:33; please read whole passage, 6:24-34. By the way; the bold, underlined, and italicized type in the listed scriptures has been added for emphasis.
Only too many today live by the heretical maxim, "God helps those that help themselves." Nothing could be further from Biblical truth! God wants us to obey Him, yes- but that is not the same as "helping ourselves." If your professed "dependance" on God only goes so far as your own, or others' abilities, you have no faith! See Hebrews 11:1 for confirmation.
"He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy." -Psalms 147:10,11.
Many sterling efforts have been made by mankind, both the saved and the unsaved, but unless those works are truly founded upon Christ, those labors are vain (I Cor. 3:11).
Recently a woman named Diane Nyad, 61 years of age, attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida; a distance of 103 miles. She actually made 2 attempts, about a month or so apart. I pick on this only for an example, and not a particular bashing of her person. We live in a sports-obsessed society which values athletic prowess to an unholy degree.
What would she gain, had she succeeded? Worldly esteem? Self-satisfaction? Her name in a record book? The world, and all of its libraries will be burnt up (II Peter 3:10).
She said that this venture cost $650,000!! At the time I read this, she was still seeking funding for the last $500,000; she said that if she wound up with a $500,000 debt, it would be "worth it." Where are her priorities? Does she know that people are going hungry, and losing homes? Really, she was only feeding her own ego- her self-love (II Tim. 3:2). What does Jesus say to this?
"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat...naked, and ye clothed me not...Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred,...or naked... and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment..." -from Matt. 25:41-46.
What we need to do, first and foremost, is to PRAY. Deny yourself, and your worldly priorities, and come apart to the Lord in fervent prayer. I honestly hope that your wake-up routine doesn't involve just barely getting out the door without devotions- really, if that is you, your eternal soul is in serious jeopardy!
Try commiting one hour per day to the Lord in prayer, for starters. Bible study should be in addition to this, and be certain to always begin your day with devotions. Take the brief Bible examples of 3X per day to pray, as found in Ps. 55:16,17 & Dan. 6:10. Remember that you are in the Lord's presence throughout the entire day! Is your behavior pleasing to God? Do you spend more time in front of the television, than before God in prayer? If you are loving your life too much here in this world, you will not be going to Heaven (John 12:25; Luke 14:26).
Remember also that GOD must be leading you, and not vice-versa. Our society values "keeping busy" above almost all else. God says that all of our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Is. 64:6)! We need to ask the Lord to search our hearts (Ps. 139:23,24), that we may be continually renewed in sanctification. After this, we must wait for His lead (Is. 40:28-31); not moving forward until we are sure it is God's time. Much like the Israelites obeyed God through journeying only when the cloud had lifted from the tabernacle. Whether it would be 2 days, a month, or a year, they waited for Him (see Numbers 9:17-23).
Finish by joining with me in reciting part of a prayer by Moses, found in Exodus 33:15,16;
"And he (Moses) said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us?"
"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." -Colossians 4:2.
If there was ever a time for prayer, it is now. Keeping busy is easy to do, and is in no way a redemption of time by itself. We need to re-evaluate, re-prioritize our time management in ways that are pleasing to God.
"The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath." -Proverbs 15:24.
How is your prayer life? What do you commit to Him who is supposedly the LORD of your life? We can, of our own strength do nothing, and desperately need the Holy Spirit to do with us what we cannot (John 15:5)- that is why He was sent!
John Welch was a christian minister who lived at the end of the 16th, and early 17th century. He believed that any day was wasted, had he not spent 7-8 hours in prayer and scripture study! After his death it was said of him, "He was a type of Christ." Satan has made sure that we never have such time to give today, but really- where are you at? What priorities of time do you place above Christ? Why will you call Him Lord, if you do not the things that He says? See Luke 6:46.
"And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." -Luke 6:12.
"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
-Luke 18:1.
"Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him." -Acts 12:5.
"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord...continuing instant in prayer;"
-Romans 12:11,12.
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverence and supplication for all saints;" -Ephesians 6:18.
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." -Philippians 4:6.
"...The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." -from James 5:16.
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." -I Peter 4:7.
Our God is the provider of all our need (Philip. 4:19), the giver of every good gift, and every perfect gift (James 1:17); He has promised to "add all things" unto us, when we "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." - from Matt. 6:33; please read whole passage, 6:24-34. By the way; the bold, underlined, and italicized type in the listed scriptures has been added for emphasis.
Only too many today live by the heretical maxim, "God helps those that help themselves." Nothing could be further from Biblical truth! God wants us to obey Him, yes- but that is not the same as "helping ourselves." If your professed "dependance" on God only goes so far as your own, or others' abilities, you have no faith! See Hebrews 11:1 for confirmation.
"He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy." -Psalms 147:10,11.
Many sterling efforts have been made by mankind, both the saved and the unsaved, but unless those works are truly founded upon Christ, those labors are vain (I Cor. 3:11).
Recently a woman named Diane Nyad, 61 years of age, attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida; a distance of 103 miles. She actually made 2 attempts, about a month or so apart. I pick on this only for an example, and not a particular bashing of her person. We live in a sports-obsessed society which values athletic prowess to an unholy degree.
What would she gain, had she succeeded? Worldly esteem? Self-satisfaction? Her name in a record book? The world, and all of its libraries will be burnt up (II Peter 3:10).
She said that this venture cost $650,000!! At the time I read this, she was still seeking funding for the last $500,000; she said that if she wound up with a $500,000 debt, it would be "worth it." Where are her priorities? Does she know that people are going hungry, and losing homes? Really, she was only feeding her own ego- her self-love (II Tim. 3:2). What does Jesus say to this?
"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat...naked, and ye clothed me not...Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred,...or naked... and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment..." -from Matt. 25:41-46.
What we need to do, first and foremost, is to PRAY. Deny yourself, and your worldly priorities, and come apart to the Lord in fervent prayer. I honestly hope that your wake-up routine doesn't involve just barely getting out the door without devotions- really, if that is you, your eternal soul is in serious jeopardy!
Try commiting one hour per day to the Lord in prayer, for starters. Bible study should be in addition to this, and be certain to always begin your day with devotions. Take the brief Bible examples of 3X per day to pray, as found in Ps. 55:16,17 & Dan. 6:10. Remember that you are in the Lord's presence throughout the entire day! Is your behavior pleasing to God? Do you spend more time in front of the television, than before God in prayer? If you are loving your life too much here in this world, you will not be going to Heaven (John 12:25; Luke 14:26).
Remember also that GOD must be leading you, and not vice-versa. Our society values "keeping busy" above almost all else. God says that all of our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Is. 64:6)! We need to ask the Lord to search our hearts (Ps. 139:23,24), that we may be continually renewed in sanctification. After this, we must wait for His lead (Is. 40:28-31); not moving forward until we are sure it is God's time. Much like the Israelites obeyed God through journeying only when the cloud had lifted from the tabernacle. Whether it would be 2 days, a month, or a year, they waited for Him (see Numbers 9:17-23).
Finish by joining with me in reciting part of a prayer by Moses, found in Exodus 33:15,16;
"And he (Moses) said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us?"
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Beware of "Another Gospel"
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you unto the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." -Galatians 1:6-8; bold, italics, and underlining added for emphasis.
Recently I was reminded of this "another gospel" (a.g.) principle while reading through Numbers chapters 13 & 14. Upon arriving at the promised land, 12 men were sent to spy out what God had sent them to; this included assessing the inhabitants of the land already there, which they would have to fight. 10 of these men brought back an evil report to the children of Israel, overcome with fear by the apparent strength of the land's inhabitants. Israel listened to these 10, rather than to the faithful Joshua and Caleb, murmuring then against Moses, Aaron, and the Lord. The end result of this rebellion was that the 10 men died, and God determined that all of the rest (except Joshua & Caleb) from 20 years old and up would wander in the wilderness 40 years, and die there- never seeing the good land God had intended to give.
In response to this terrible pronouncement against them, the Israelites then decide that they will go up and fight, after all! But it was too late. For them now to go and assay to take the promised land was going against God's will.
Today we find mouth-professing believers everywhere serving a.g. They keep trying to please the Lord in their own strength and wisdom, rather than following what He has said. By adding or taking away from the words God has given us, they risk having their names blotted out of the Book of Life (Rev. 22:18,19).
The Christmas holiday is part of a.g. Even when a professed Christian finds out that 12/25 is from the pagan worship of the sun god, AND that nowhere in God's Word are we told to observe the arrival of Christ, and even that any "observance of days" (Gal. 4:9-11) is a sign of a.g., a spiritual corruption to be avoided, they still insist on observing lies and idolatry in xmas; rationalizing that they are "sincere", and God accepts them, and is blessed by their behavior.
Brethren, God does not lie, nor is He the author of confusion! God is honored by our obedience to Him, and nothing else. If God is really God to you, OBEY HIM!!! Do not trust any "warm feelings" that you might have, for the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. All our righteousnesses are but filthy rags! This is why it is so important to have the standard of God's Word in the King James Bible and believe it. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? Apart from the solid testimony of God's written Word, all that we could go by are feelings, and the teachings of "learned" men.
Please take time to read I Cor. 1:18-31 right now in relation to this subject.
God's wisdom is foolishness to the learned of this world, and even to our own "natural man" of the flesh. At the time of His passion, Christ said that all would be offended because of Him that night, for it is written, 'I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But Peter denied this, saying that he himself would never deny his Lord! Peter's verbal response may seem to be a desireable one, but he was contradicting the written word of prophecy! See Mark 14:27-29 for the account.
On our website, I was fairly recently inspired to do an article, Green Bible Comments. The Green Bible was written in an attempt to reveal God's "true concern" for taking care of the Earth, and preserving it. Sounds like a noble goal, doesn't it? We should all have a certain concern for taking care of our natural resources, beyond doubt. But does God really tell us to save the Earth? No! We are told to preach the gospel to every creature, for God would that all men be saved, spiritually.
In the Bible, we find that God routinely destroys parts of the Earth and its environment when dealing with mankind. We also find well- accounted for that God will eventually destroy the Earth, and create a new one! The preaching of environmental care, as a Biblical mandate, is plainly a LIE! It is also a great example of what is another gospel.
Brethren, we need to wait for the Lord, and seek His direction- much like the Israelites were doing in Numbers 9:16-23. WAIT-WAIT-WAIT. See the difference God's timing makes by the example of the disciples' fishing in Luke 5:4-6, and John 21:3-6! Take the time, also, to search the Word for support in all of your actions. Without this as authority in your life, you are lost (John 12:48, Rom. 10:17, II Tim. 3:16,17). The differences between the real gospel and a.g.can be subtle, but the Lord will make your steps sure.
Take the time in prayer to examine your life- are you serving another gospel?
Recently I was reminded of this "another gospel" (a.g.) principle while reading through Numbers chapters 13 & 14. Upon arriving at the promised land, 12 men were sent to spy out what God had sent them to; this included assessing the inhabitants of the land already there, which they would have to fight. 10 of these men brought back an evil report to the children of Israel, overcome with fear by the apparent strength of the land's inhabitants. Israel listened to these 10, rather than to the faithful Joshua and Caleb, murmuring then against Moses, Aaron, and the Lord. The end result of this rebellion was that the 10 men died, and God determined that all of the rest (except Joshua & Caleb) from 20 years old and up would wander in the wilderness 40 years, and die there- never seeing the good land God had intended to give.
In response to this terrible pronouncement against them, the Israelites then decide that they will go up and fight, after all! But it was too late. For them now to go and assay to take the promised land was going against God's will.
Today we find mouth-professing believers everywhere serving a.g. They keep trying to please the Lord in their own strength and wisdom, rather than following what He has said. By adding or taking away from the words God has given us, they risk having their names blotted out of the Book of Life (Rev. 22:18,19).
The Christmas holiday is part of a.g. Even when a professed Christian finds out that 12/25 is from the pagan worship of the sun god, AND that nowhere in God's Word are we told to observe the arrival of Christ, and even that any "observance of days" (Gal. 4:9-11) is a sign of a.g., a spiritual corruption to be avoided, they still insist on observing lies and idolatry in xmas; rationalizing that they are "sincere", and God accepts them, and is blessed by their behavior.
Brethren, God does not lie, nor is He the author of confusion! God is honored by our obedience to Him, and nothing else. If God is really God to you, OBEY HIM!!! Do not trust any "warm feelings" that you might have, for the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. All our righteousnesses are but filthy rags! This is why it is so important to have the standard of God's Word in the King James Bible and believe it. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? Apart from the solid testimony of God's written Word, all that we could go by are feelings, and the teachings of "learned" men.
Please take time to read I Cor. 1:18-31 right now in relation to this subject.
God's wisdom is foolishness to the learned of this world, and even to our own "natural man" of the flesh. At the time of His passion, Christ said that all would be offended because of Him that night, for it is written, 'I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But Peter denied this, saying that he himself would never deny his Lord! Peter's verbal response may seem to be a desireable one, but he was contradicting the written word of prophecy! See Mark 14:27-29 for the account.
On our website, I was fairly recently inspired to do an article, Green Bible Comments. The Green Bible was written in an attempt to reveal God's "true concern" for taking care of the Earth, and preserving it. Sounds like a noble goal, doesn't it? We should all have a certain concern for taking care of our natural resources, beyond doubt. But does God really tell us to save the Earth? No! We are told to preach the gospel to every creature, for God would that all men be saved, spiritually.
In the Bible, we find that God routinely destroys parts of the Earth and its environment when dealing with mankind. We also find well- accounted for that God will eventually destroy the Earth, and create a new one! The preaching of environmental care, as a Biblical mandate, is plainly a LIE! It is also a great example of what is another gospel.
Brethren, we need to wait for the Lord, and seek His direction- much like the Israelites were doing in Numbers 9:16-23. WAIT-WAIT-WAIT. See the difference God's timing makes by the example of the disciples' fishing in Luke 5:4-6, and John 21:3-6! Take the time, also, to search the Word for support in all of your actions. Without this as authority in your life, you are lost (John 12:48, Rom. 10:17, II Tim. 3:16,17). The differences between the real gospel and a.g.can be subtle, but the Lord will make your steps sure.
Take the time in prayer to examine your life- are you serving another gospel?
Monday, November 14, 2011
Challenging Christmas
In I Samuel chapter 15, King Saul of Israel was given direction from the Lord to attack Amalek; to attack and destroy every person that pertained to them, as well as all of their livestock. By doing so, Saul would be fulfilling the Lord’s prophetic desire, as He had revealed hundreds of years before (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt. Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass. I Samuel 15:1-3
Saul had a record of being a rebellious king, and this occasion became further evidence of that character flaw. As Saul begins to move forward with these plans, in apparent Godly obedience, he sees fit to somewhat alter the Lord’s directed course of action; thereby falling short of God’s perfect will. Because Saul had full knowledge of what God’s will actually was, he therefore sinned by not following God’s instructions to the letter.
And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah until thou comest to Shur, that is over against Egypt. And he took Agag the king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword. But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they destroyed utterly. I Samuel 15:7-9
To those of us reading the account, we can plainly see what God’s instructions to Saul are, and his course of disobedience. Yet Saul was still fully aware of what the Lord had said! So why was it then, that he did not follow through as instructed? God’s Word will also show us how this disobedience transpired. Saul had rationalized that the lord would be even more honored by doing a religious sacrifice with the best of these animals. Wouldn’t merely destroying them be an incredible waste? Why not dedicate a religious sacrifice and feast to the Lord instead? In the end, the king also somewhat shifted blame to the people; he ended up cooperating with them in what they had desired, perhaps feeling that their “sincere intent” would bring an even greater blessing from the Lord, than by following his original instructions.
And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed…But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. I Samuel 15:15…21
The type of sin which Saul had committed is running rampant among the professing church of Christ today. It is the rebellion of disobedience (I Samuel 15:23), being performed in the name of Godly service. God has called us to be a peculiar people (Deuteronomy 14:2; Titus 2:14); separated from the world (II Corinthians 6:17) and its evil ways- esteeming friendship with God far above any worldly relationships, and gladly bearing reproach for His name.
Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. Hebrews 11:24-26
Thus we arrive at our first stumbling block in regard to Christmas; it is a powerful bond of agreement with an unsaved world. Why should such a supposedly “Christian” holiday be cherished among non-believers? This bond to a celebration of such great earthly affection should cause believers to reflect upon it soberly, and with prayer; earnestly seeking our Lord’s guidance for further discernment in this matter. Yet I am afraid that it is far more common to remain set in our own ways (I Corinthians 11:31), rationalizing that “We (believers) don’t celebrate Christmas like the world does.” So why does it then appear to be so similar (I Thessalonians 5:22)?
As followers of Christ, the Bible (KJV) is to be our final authority in all matters of faith and practice (II Timothy 3:16,17). The Bible has very much to say in regard to the Christmas holiday, and “how we hear” (Luke 8:18) is quite a testimony about the real condition of our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). Jesus Christ is that Word incarnated (John 1:14), therefore He is truth (John14:6). Being truthful is an inseparable part of a believer’s life. We cannot, must not espouse lies in attempting to promote truth. God may save us in spite of our sins, but He never endorses sinful behavior to bring about His righteousness. A bad tree simply will not bring forth good fruit (Matthew 7:16-18).
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. John 4:23,24
Therefore even a casual observation of Christmas traditions ought to set off many internal warning alarms for God’s people. Are you worshipping God in truth?
With regard to Christ’s earthly life, we have no Biblical directive for commemorating Jesus’ “birth.” We are also not directed to observe His resurrection (Easter)! Only Jesus’ death, the atoning work He did on the cross, is all that we are to commemorate; even this observance was not assigned to a particular day, but we were told to perform it, “As oft as ye will.” This is of course referring to the sacrament of communion.
People mostly reject that first point. They “feel” that they are being sincere, and honoring the Lord they profess to love. Didn’t Saul do that? Wasn’t his good intent in doing sacrifice to the Lord exactly the same thing? Yes, it is the same! Not only is the directive to observe Christmas not found in the Bible, but in the observance of it there is actually disobedience to other parts of God’s Word.
To bring the Christmas holiday under Christian guidelines, the thoughts of men must be added to God’s Word; which is strictly prohibited!
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. Proverbs 30:5,6
Did you remember that God’s people need to serve Him in truth? How is it then, that you would choose to become a liar, in danger of eternal damnation?
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8
The observance of days is also spoken against throughout the New Testament. The book of Galatians was written to an early Christian church that was backsliding into a works and traditions based salvation. Commemorating specific days was a part of their corruption.
But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Galatians 4:9-11
As followers of Christ, we are compelled to obey every bit of His instructions. Our Lord has a word to speak regarding those who will continue to observe Christmas, in spite of His given instructions;
And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. Mark 7:9
He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. John 12:48
There are yet more lies that Christmas tradition espouses, point by point, year after year. One of the most common revolves around the presence of the wise men, which is recorded in Matthew chapter 2. These wise men were not present at the time of Christ’s “birth”, but rather had been following His star (Matthew 2:2) since Jesus was born. When the wise men finally arrived at Jerusalem, they had been travelling for almost 2 years. The exact time is speculated to have been approximately 18 months, based upon Herod’s edict to slay all the children in Bethlehem of age 2 years or younger.
Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. Matthew 2:16
The Bible never says that there were only 3 wise men, but rather implies that they came in a large caravan. We find in Matthew 2:3 that all Jerusalem was troubled by them. Three mere men would not disturb so large a city, just by showing up!
Gift exchange is another lie; the wise men brought gifts for Jesus, as it was the Eastern custom to bring gifts to a new king (Matthew 2:11). These wise men did not exchange gifts with Joseph and Mary, or with each other; this tradition is not Biblical.
The time of year for celebrating Christ’s arrival on earth (Dec. 25th) is a HUGE lie. It is very well accounted for that Jesus came to earth in the beginning of October, and certainly within the first 2 weeks of that month. How is it so well known? 1) Shepherds were abiding in the fields (Luke 2:8). In Israel, the rainy season starts in late October, and the sheep are brought in from the fields not later than October 15th. 2) Caesar Augustus had called for a tax (Luke 2:1), which he would not have done in the winter. Travelling at that time was far too hazardous, and many would not have been able to comply with this decree. 3) The inn was full (Luke 2:7). This would not be likely at most ordinary times of the year, but near the beginning of October there are 2 Jewish holidays; Rosh Hashanah at the end of September, and Yom Kippur at about 1 week into October. The festivities accompanying these days would account for the extra visitors. 4) Christ’s death came on April 13th, after 3.5 years of earthly ministry. By tracing back 3.5 years brings us to the first half of October. 5) We know that John the Baptist preceded Jesus by 6 months (Luke 1:35,36). By tracing his time of conception, based upon his father Zacharias’ temple service (Luke 1:5,8,9), John would have been conceived in early July, and born in April; this would place Jesus’ birth in early October.
With all of this evidence concerning Jesus’ actual time of birth, shouldn’t we be asking, “Why then December 25th?” This brings us then to the core of the Christmas corruption; with yet more deceit, and disregard for scripture.
The December 25th holiday was initiated more than 2,000 years before Christ came to earth. Semiramis, the queen of Babylon, ordered the world to celebrate the birth of her son, Tammuz; he of course was the sun god Baal. She set December 25th for Baal’s birthday. She and her astrologers then told that people that on December 21st, Baal (the sun) dies. Then on the 24th of December (3 days; resurrected) he starts coming back to life, and the 25th is his birthday. Does this revelation shock you? We all should well know how God feels about Baal worship! My thanks to Chick Publications for this information, supplied in the comic, The Force; page 26.
Over the centuries, this pagan worship continued with only slight differences in the names of the sun god, and the holiday which is said to be his birthday. By the time it came to 4th century Rome, the holiday was called Saturnalia. It was late in this 4th century that the Catholic Church adopted Saturnalia, and it became the Christ-mass; also known as Christmas. Christ’s earthly mother Mary filled the role as the queen of heaven, and Jesus took the part traditionally held by the sun god. In this way, through this holiday, the Catholic Church has established another ecumenical foothold within the Protestant churches.
No matter how many years have passed since that first-founded December 25th holiday, and no matter your intended devotion to Christ, it is not possible to “convert” a pagan celebration into something holy. All of the lies, along with much more rotten spiritual fruit reveal the corruption that still thrives within the Christmas observance. We cannot “put Christ back into Christmas” when the day itself was established by Satan!
Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. I Corinthians 10:21
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. II Corinthians 6:14-17
How did things get to this point of deception? In early America, right up into the 19th century, celebrating Christmas was actually illegal in parts of our country. Many well known pastors and teachers of the 19th century were still steadfastly opposed to the Christmas holiday; men like Charles Finney, and C. H. Spurgeon. Today however, it is safe to say that the great majority of the professing Christian laymen do not know the truth about Christmas, or have only the slightest exposure to it.
This corruption in the organized churches (nearly all of them) regarding Christmas begins and ends with the pastoral leadership. Nearly every pastor would certainly have been exposed to the pagan origins of this holiday. Yet as we have tried to show you, that even without an awareness of the Christmas origins, the Bible has plenty to say about it! Shouldn’t “Christian” pastors be leading their flocks into the knowledge of God’s Word, and obedience to it?
A young man that I worked with (age 23) is the son of a pastor, from a family line of pastors. We ended up speaking about Christmas one day, and he had no knowledge of these truths which I have presented in this article. I printed up something for him that night, giving it to him at our next meeting. Days later he came back to me, telling me that he had shown those papers to his father; his father declared to him that everything in the article was true! This 23 year old “preacher’s kid” had never been told the truth about Christmas! I’m sure that the pastor’s congregation fared no better.
So many pastors, corrupted by greed and the respect of men, have hidden away the truth about Christmas; therefore leading their congregations into apostasy from God! They have been deceived by Satan through the organizations they are subject to; having rationalized (like King Saul) that they don’t want to cause their “weak” congregation to stumble. They are doing the work of the Lord deceitfully (Jeremiah 48:10), and are cursed. They have become “blind leaders of the blind”, leading even God’s precious children into the ditch.
Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Matthew 15:12-14
It takes real courage to stand up for Christ, and to go against “the flow.” Pastors will be continually influenced by the directives of their man-made organization; their jobs could be at stake! Sunday offerings would also suffer, due to the initially reduced congregation; many having left, offended over the rejection of Christmas. They would actually begin to suffer reproach for the name of Christ, as the Word declares; but would they “leap for joy” because of it?
Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. Luke 6:22-24
Pastors have been taught, trained not to believe in God’s Word. Their institutes of “higher learning” have forthrightly declared to them that God’s true words have been lost! This they declare, despite the Lord’s declarations to the contrary.
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. Psalm 12:6,7
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:35
Without this faith in God’s Word, these “Christian” leaders have lost their authority to take a stand, and the conviction of conscience to carry it through. What will you do?
If you have sincerely given your life to Christ, and have devotedly observed Christmas in ignorance (John 9:41), rest assured that God is ready to accept your repentance and forgive you. Ours are lives of spiritual growth; no one shall achieve perfection while existing in the sinful flesh. Yet we must submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and not the lusts of the flesh.
So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8:13,14
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. I Corinthians 13:9-11
Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Hebrews 6:1
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. James 4:17
No matter what anyone else will do or say, and no matter the esteem they may have among men, God will hold each one of us accountable for the truth He has revealed in His Word. Is Jesus Christ actually the LORD of every area in your life? Do you deeply, truly love Him? Have you counted the cost of being His disciple?
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Luke 6:46
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. John 14:21-24
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. Luke 9:23-26
God cannot be both for Christmas, and against it. The Lord tolerates many things from us in our ignorance, but He expects us to hunger and thirst after righteousness, that we may be filled (Matthew 5:6). We need to separate from the observance of Christmas; those who continue to do so, proclaiming it to be good and holy, are wickedly serving another gospel (Galatians 1:8,9). Instructions for proper spiritual handling of this issue are readily found in Ephesians 5:11;
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Ephesians 5:11
Your own accountability in this matter ought now to be clear. Handling a potential confrontation with your pastor, however, deserves special attention. Upon discovering the truth behind the Christmas celebration, the lies that go with it, and the scriptures it violates, you may become very angry. Please try to remember that a man’s anger will not bring about God’s righteousness (James 1:20). The anger/frustration may have a scriptural basis to rest upon, but yielding to that anger is submitting to a work of the flesh (Galatians 5:20). If we know the truth, it is because God has mercifully opened our eyes; not because of any particular righteousness on our part. If you truly want to live a life pleasing to God, you must follow Him in everything; not merely in regard to Christmas. The Lord gives us guidelines for handling these types of circumstances which are sure to come about.
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Matthew 18:15-17
Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. I Timothy 5:19-21
You are also admonished to undertake the preceding instructions only after considerable prayer and soul-searching (Psalm 139:23,24; Matthew 7:3-5). Only too often are we straining at a “gnat” in others, while we ourselves are swallowing a camel (Matthew 23:24)! Confrontation over the Christmas issue is deserved and necessary, but we need to proceed as the Lord Jesus would have us to in everything.
Determine within yourselves that you will follow the Lord at all costs, fully relying on His strength daily. In this day and age, the number of true believers is greatly dwindling; you may have to proceed with little or no visible support from men. Our path to follow is one of obedience to our Lord; these decisions will have an impact on us that will last eternally.
Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes. Deuteronomy 12:8
These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Psalm 50:21,22
Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James 1:21-25
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