All posts by Sola Scriptura

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About Sola Scriptura

Readers have asked about the author of this blog so...I am an attorney, married for 32 years(1993)with three kids who, in April of 2014, ceased laboring to enhance my legal career in order to study the scriptures intensely. In April of 2015, after exactly one year of exhaustive Bible study, I felt an urgency in my heart to obey Paul's exhortation to preach the word of God boldly,so I began sharing the pure gospel message of Jesus Christ on the streets of Florida every week day in English and Spanish. I look each person I meet in the eye, and with a smile I share the message of sin, repentance and mercy through the blood of Jesus Christ; give out gospel tracts (and offer my email and cell # for follow up if anyone wants it); and I hand out as many KJV/Reina Valera Gomez Bibles as I can...since they, unlike men, do not lie. Some sow, some water, but it is God who gives the increase. Time is short...preach the simple gospel of Jesus Christ in gentleness, in truth and in the power of the Holy Spirit, for it alone is the power of God unto salvation. Romans 1:16 I don't explain what I do because I think I'm great. I share it because I know what a wretched, selfish sinner I was and am, yet I have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, and I will spend my remaining days sharing that priceless message to all who will hear. "And from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten from among the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." Revelation 1:5-6 KJV **I make no money from the adds on this site and I have no control over them either. PS - I enjoy surfing and spear fishing in my free time.

Favorite Scriptures #1 – The Purpose of Life: Paul’s attitude towards life in light of what Jesus Christ did for him (Philippians 3: 7-14)

Favorite Scriptures, The Word, Wealth and the Kingdom of God, ,

When I was I was in my late teens, myself and a few of my friends were given Philippians 3:7-14, to memorize by one of our mentors. As soon as I read that passage, even in my youthful ignorance, I knew that I had been given piercing and life-altering truths that would change the way I approached both Jesus Christ and this world, forever. he sharp double-edged sword of truth had been thrust deeply into my selfishness, pride, greed, and lust…and it hurt. For the past 25 years there has rarely been a day when I haven’t quoted at least a part of that passage to myself. I still don’t live these verses as much as I’d like to…but I am praying that the spirit will continue to work them into my heart as I meditate on them day and night:

7 “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.12 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.13 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,14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

The thought that every single thing on this earth that profits the flesh…everything – whether wealth, temporal power and success, athletic ability, good looks, perfect families, etc. – or something that even for a second allows me to put my hope and confidence in anything other than the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ to pay for my sins…is a loss, resonated deep within me. Yet at the same time I knew that I did not -and cannot- think as Paul thinks, absent a massive work by the Holy Spirit. I don’t have Paul’s heart towards this life or towards God – but I long too because what Paul says so eloquently and powerfully is true. I can feel the strength, peace, and truth that rest in those words of surrender and yearning for a life completely hidden in God, every single time I read or recite them. Yet I know that my flesh doesn’t really want to share in the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings, becoming like him in his death. But I want to want to…desperately, and the more broken I become as a result of my failures in striving to grasp at the lies of this world instead of Jesus, the more I am able to understand how Paul can really mean what he says. Yet Paul knows that not even he “has already been made perfect” or has fully taken hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of him. In that…I can take comfort.

This passage ends beautifully and hopefully, reminding me that I am forgiven each day as I walk in the Spirit, and that I can continually put my failures behind me as I live…earnestly seeking the face of Jesus…. “Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

The Beauty and Power of the Scriptures

The Deceitfulness of Wealth: Your Best Life…Later Part 1

Heaven: Your Best Life…Later Part 2

Sin, Repentance and the Cross of Christ

From Allah to Jesus Christ….a video testimony from Dr. Nabeel Qureshi

Testimonies of Salvation: From Islam and Judaism to Jesus Christ

***** The subject of the below video, Dr. Nabeel Quereshi, has joined the apostate ecumenical movement, and is even uniting with pope francis at a conference in Washington DC this fall…so PLEASE disregard his theology and associations. This video is ONLY to show how a devout muslim saw the flaws in his religion, and saw the truth in salvation through Jesus Christ.******

37“Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” Matthew 10:37-38

The video below is an outstanding testimony from Dr. Nabeel Qureshi, an American muslim with a proud family history of devotion to Islam. Both of his grandfathers were Islamic missionaries in foreign countries. Dr. Qureshi himself prosthelytized christians who crossed his path. Until one night, he began an intellectual journey to find the truth….

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3lHueRXvh0

See, also a scriptural writing on ecumenicism and why Jesus Christ is the only way to God:

https://followingjesuschrist3.com/2014/09/18/praying-with-people-of-other-religions/

Catholicism and the Veneration of Mary

Catholicism, Ecumenicism

                             

“For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.”     1 Timothy 2:5

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

“And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven.”  Matthew 23:9

“And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.”       Acts 10:25-26

12 “But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God…14 For by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified.” Hebrews 10:12,14 (these two verses destroy the doctrine of transubstantiation and salvation by works. Jesus suffered ONCE, forever and that ONE offering sanctifies believers in his sight…forever)

 

It is interesting to see that many of the idolatrous doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church, including inordinate respect for Mary, extra-biblical mysticism, and veneration for the Pope, are leaching into the hearts of Protestants, especially those in charismatic and non-denominational congregations. I am surprised to see that these teachings, doctrines and practices are taking root with little to no scrutiny. Few seem to have even a minimal level of discernment regarding Satan’s brilliant plan to deceive the church by, among other things, weaving darkness and light together in a way that pleases the flesh and enriches and empowers those who lead.

For more than a millennium the Catholic Church has done everything in its power to obscure the knowledge of the real, biblical God from mankind. Not only did they nullify the saving biblical doctrine of justification by grace through faith (no works required), via their catechism and pronouncements(Council of Trent, Vatican 2), but for many centuries the church successfully kept the scriptures out of the hands of the commoner, and instead held the Bible, as translated by their biased scholars, hostage.Catholic Changes to the Bible

These “scriptures” were kept solely in the hands of the priests, who read and interpreted them as they pleased, subject only to Bishops and Popes. The Bibles used by the RCC were translated and interpreted in a way that supported traditional Catholic doctrine (which Erasmus exposed by showing the intentional mistranslations, favoring man-made catholic doctrine, that were contained in Jerome’s popular Latin vulgate) in order to allow the excesses (and deceptions) of the church to go unchallenged. These excesses, of course, centered primarily around maintaining their vise-like grip on power…and their desire to amass and horde riches..,as they preach wealth redistribution to the rest of us. The catholic church should start by disgorging their own outrageous wealth, and distributing it to the poor and to the victims of sexual abuse at the hands of it’s priests.

The Catholic Church was also highly successful in usurping the role of Jesus Christ, the Creator God, who was in the beginning and through whom all things were made, by replacing the One and Only, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End….with Popes, Bishops, and Priests, most of whom surround themselves with the same type of self-aggrandizing pomp that Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees for having. Jesus called such men whitewashed tombs. Even prayer has been funneled away from God the Father and Jesus Christ, as the precious catholic flock is encouraged to pray to mother Mary and to many others whom they call “saints.”

The Church, in its desire for wealth and control, replaced the reality of a personal, intimate relationship with the Living God…with a Priest, a confessional booth, and a crucifix. While some certainly could stumble into communion with God despite the church, the catholic masses abdicated their role in establishing a close, personal relationship with God, and instead blindly accepted the church’s teaching, and chose to relate to God through many of the same lifeless formalities established by the Old Testament’s ecclesiastical leadership…which Jesus destroyed by his life of love, power, humility and truth.  I suggest that it is impossible to plausibly deny the hand of Satan in the many church practices, which take the minds, eyes and hearts of the people off of Jesus Christ, and instead turn them to idols.

The non-biblical Catholic doctrine forbidding priests from marrying has led to the rape and abuse of hundreds of thousands of women and children across the planet, embittering them to, and alienating them, from anything connected to religion or God, often forever. I have met some of those people. The primary purpose of this rule was almost certainly to avoid contentions over inheritance rights, which could of course, diminish the Churches precious real estate holdings and bank account balance. Clearly, the goals of the catholic Church have always centered around growing it’s wealth and extending it’s power rather than spreading the message of the love of Jesus Christ like a good shepherd to his precious flock.

Now more than ever, an inordinate focus on Mary, the mother of Jesus, is creeping into the Protestant Church. Non-Catholics are praying and lighting candles to her, and even look to her for help in times of trouble. There is only one mediator between man and God, and His name is Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5). He was in the beginning with God, through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him is life and that life is the light of men (John 1:1-5). This great God chose to step off of His throne, and become flesh. In His sovereignty and mercy, in union with the Father and Spirit, He became flesh, and lived 33 years on this Earth. Then, in obedience to His Father, and of His own volition, he chose to suffer a brutal death as atonement for the sins of mankind once and for all. It. Is. Finished!

It is abundantly clear that Satan is doing everything he can in these last days to get the eyes of humanity, and especially believers, on anything other than Jesus Christ. Whether it is material possessions, signs and wonders, temporal power, relationships, or even veneration for previous generations of believers, Satan wants our hearts, our eyes, and our minds off of Jesus Christ. It seems clear that one of his newest tactics is to slowly move the catholic tradition of Mary worship, along with other Catholic mystic traditions, into Protestant circles.

Fortunately, for those who love and trust the word of God, and know that it alone is objective truth, there are answers from Jesus himself as to how his mother is to be viewed. Jesus addresses this issue directly in Luke 11:27-28, when a woman in a crowd said to Jesus, “Blessed is the woman who gave you birth and nursed you.” Jesus, rather than affirming her statement, or even in a small way agreeing with the blessedness of the human vessel that birthed Him, corrected her, because He knew that her heart was focused on the created rather than the Creator, who is forever to be praised. In response, Jesus said to the woman, not blessed is the virgin Mary, but rather, “blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Another incident similar to the one mentioned above, occurred in Luke 8:20-21, when Jesus was told that His mother and brothers were looking for him outside the building where Jesus was ministering. In response to that statement, Jesus responded that his mother and brothers are those that hear the Word of God and obey it. There is not even a hint of special respect or honor for any member of His family in these two passages, because, like all men and women, his family members returned to dust. Jesus alone is the maker of all things(John 1:1-18), and He wants us to worship the eternal Creator rather than temporary created things which fade away like flowers in the sun (1 Peter 1:24-25). But…If we are going to worship a human, shouldn’t it be John the Baptist, since Jesus Himself says in Luke 7:28 that he is the greatest man born of woman? Yet, how silly would it be to light candles and pray to John the Baptist, a mere man – and a hairy one at that, rather than the everlasting God Himself, who is forever to be praised?

Clearly, Jesus loved His mother. He loved her so much, that even as He was dying, He made sure that she had someone to care for her all the days of her life. That person was the apostle John, the disciple whom Jesus loved. It is truly a beautiful portrait of Jesus’ heart to see Him reach out and care for His mother in the midst of His agony. There can be no doubt that she was precious to Him. The problem however, is not that Jesus loves his mother. Problems, in the eyes of the Living God, come when Mary is elevated to a demigod (co-redemtrix) and is worshiped and praised instead of or in conjunction with the one and only God.

Interestingly, pagan religions throughout history have often worshiped a “mother” god. Even in the Old testament, the Jews were warned by the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 44), not to worship the so-called “queen of the universe” rather than the one and only God. In Catholic circles (and in catholic literature), Mary is commonly referred to as “queen of the universe.” There is even a Catholic Church in my home town called “Mary, Queen of the Universe”. The Egyptians worshiped Isis, as mother and “queen of the universe” and the Babylonians before them worshiped a universal “mother” god (Semiramis, wife of Nimrod) as well. Catholic symbols also replicate the symbols of the pagan god Dagon (the pope’s mitre hat), baal/ashteroth (the obelisk in St. Peter’s square), and Mithrian/Egyptian sun-worship symbology is featured prominently in the monstrance, church architecture, and on the formal dress of catholic clergy. These my friends, are not coincidences. Catholicism, sadly, with it’s required rituals, false teachings on salvation, and overt paen to paganism, is nothing more than the babylonian mystery religions renamed and repackaged.

Why is it so difficult for all of us to fix our eyes solely on Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith who, for the joy set before him, bore our sins in his broken body on a cold hard cross, scorning it’s shame and ultimately, sat down in glory at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:3)? Perhaps it is the warm feeling we get by opening ourselves up to the angel of light through the quiet, deceptive stillness of the contemplative, or the deep emotional needs filled by the sweet and clever sounding lies of false religious practices and false “christian” teachings, which rely on the wisdom of men rather than the wisdom of God. The enemy is delighted to see how we so easily replace the one and only God with  created things that, like Satan himself, will soon burn away. Jesus Christ will never leave us or forsake us…and most importantly as we walk on this earth, His eternal word will never, ever lead us away from what is true and right. So let us all use the word and only the word to test and approve what God’s will is; His good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2b). If we use the sharp double-edged sword of the scriptures to divide truth from lies and to “test the spirits” of the practices and doctrines that are creeping into the church (and into our lives), then we, with the help of the Holy Spirit, will never, ever be led astray (Hebrews 4:12-13; 1 John 4:1).

 

10 Important differences between Christianity and Catholicism

Doctrinal Differences Between Catholics and Christians

Additional Doctrinal Problems, With Many Helpful Sub-Links

See, also Ecumenicism: Praying With People from Other Religions

The Written Word of God: What Did Jesus and the Apostles Say About it?

The Bible Version Controversy: a Brief History of the War for God’s Word

Ecumenism Part I: Jesus Christ, as He is in the word, is the only way to God

Catholicism, Ecumenicism, Evangelism: Do not Fear and do not be ashamed, The Word,

                                          ECUMENICISM: False Unity

22 “Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.” 1 John 2:22

22″ …Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.”

Romans 14:22

15 “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” Luke 16:15

4 “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

 

I have been troubled over the last few years as I have pondered the fact that many Christians are now praying with Jews and Muslims, tacitly implying that we are praying, to the same Father god. The more I read the New Testament and see how Paul and the Apostles preached Jesus Christ fearlessly, never watering down or compromising the truth to please man, the more this practice has grieved me. Would Elijah have prayed with the prophets of Baal or Paul with Pagan priests? No chance. As I have been scouring the New Testament for verses on love, holiness and obedience, I have stumbled across a few verses which address this issue directly. While on the surface it appears that we share the same Father God as the jews, John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, and the one to whom he entrusted his mother at death, disagrees…and in the strongest of terms. By rejecting the son, Jews are fully and completely rejecting the Father as well.

1 John 2:23, says that we, as believers have an anointing from the Holy One and know the truth – and that no lie comes from the truth. He then goes on to state,22 “Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.” (see also, John 3:17-19, 35-36; 1 John 4:2-3; and 1 John 5, listed below).

Clearly, John is saying that non-messianic Jews, who strongly reject the message that Jesus is the Christ, are the antichrist (not the actual guy, but they have his spirit). Even on the surface our views of God the Father are vastly different. Our Father sent his precious son to preach love, holiness and obedience and then to die humbly and painfully on a cross as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Jews believe that their God will send a powerful political leader to rescue them from persecution and to then rule world by force. They see the coming of the messiah as a temporal, political matter – not a matter of heart, thereby missing the entire message of both testaments. As Paul says, their minds were blinded…veiled to the truth, and that veil remains even today. (2 Corinthians 3:12-16).

So we, as believers, have to determine whether Peter and Paul, whom we are called to imitate, would pray with Jews on equal ground, pretending they are praying to the same God. My review of scripture tells me there is no chance. Instead, they would preach Jesus Christ to them with great strength and courage – unashamed and untempered by the fear of rejection or looking foolish. Paul was not ashamed of the gospel for he knew its saving power and he did not want men to go to hell. That was his only concern – eternity in the unquenchable fire of hell. He wasn’t worried at all about being accepted by men. He simply wanted to please the God who saved him and who loved him. He spent his post-conversion life spreading the good news of Jesus across the near-east, whether it meant imprisonment, floggings, starving, stoning or death. For he was looking to another kingdom – one which can never, ever be shaken.

At Mars Hill in Athens (Acts 17:16-34), Paul approached those who believed in other Gods – many of whom were highly respected philosophers – and boldly proclaimed Jesus Christ, with no concern about how he came across. He debated Jews across the Middle East – trying with great passion to show them that Jesus was the one spoken about by David and the prophets as the promised messiah. Peter did the same thing, and when the Jewish leaders arrested him for disobeying them he told them that he had to obey God rather than man, even though he knew his disobedience would lead to a brutal beating and eventually death as a martyr. He chose to please the one and only God rather than make friends with a world that will soon pass away.

Yet it seems that we all get caught in Satan’s trap of trying to gain the approval of those who are perishing, with no concern for their eternal destiny, while also tacitly denying or minimizing the truth of the One and Only God and his wonderful son Jesus Christ. In behaving this way, our hope seems to be that Jesus will be seen in our lives over time. But that is not the model Peter and Paul gave us, as they preached boldly and powerfully in the face of overwhelming opposition every where they went.

When I think about Christians praying with Muslims, it grieves my spirit even more. Not only do Muslims deny that Jesus is the Christ, thus making them antichrists per 1 John 2, but their holy book was inspired by Satan himself, which is obvious by it’s deeply heretical content, as well as it’s explicit denial that Jesus is God. How can we, as sons and daughters of the Living God, purchased by the blood of Jesus Christ, pray with them as if we are all talking to the same Father? 1 John 2 makes it clear that we cannot do so and honor God, and 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, emphasizes the same point as well. In that passage Paul says:“…for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?16 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.17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” (See also, 1 Corinthians 10:21-22).

All of us should examine our actions, not by what the men before us have done, but by the unchanging scriptures which speak eternal words of truth from the One and Only God who doesn’t change like shifting shadows (James 1:17). These scriptures tell us that friendship with the world makes us enemies of God, and that if the world hated Jesus it will hate and reject us as well.(John 15:18-25; James 4:4-5, and 1 John 2:15-17). It says that all of us will suffer persecutions and trials for our faith. Paul embraced those trials and never ever watered down or minimized the gospel for the sake of relationships. He never put peace, friendships, comfort and worldly acceptance over the eternal truths of the gospel…and it cost him dearly. But he was willing to pay any price because he considered his present sufferings not worth comparing to the glory that he would receive in heaven when he comes face to face with the one and only God. May we also fight that good fight. May we finish the race – and most importantly may we all keep the faith.

****A few additional, excellent verses which specifically address this topic****

John 3:17-19  17 “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”

John 3:35-36 35 “The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

John 5:21-23  21 “For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.”

John 8:24 24 “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.”

John 10:9 “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.”

John 12:48  48 “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 14:6  “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

John 17:3 “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”

Acts 4:10-12  10 “Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

1 Timothy 4:16 “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.”

1 John 3:23  23 “And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.”

1 John 4: 2-3  2 “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”

1 John 4:15   15 “Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.”

1 John 5:1;5-7; 9-12  “Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him…5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one…9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

2 John 1:7-11 7 “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”

See, also Catholicism and the Worship of Mary and Ecumenism Part 2: Treason Against God

Portraits of Jesus: Passages to memorize and meditate upon

Favorite Scriptures, Knowing God, The Word, ,

With all of the false teachings about Jesus Christ being preached in mainstream churches, It is extremely important that those who profess him as Lord and saviour, know exactly who he is. Fortunately, the Bible has painted many portraits of Him, so that we may know, with certainty, who our God is, even to the point that we have some idea of what he looks like (Ezekiel 1, Daniel 9: 5-6, Revelation 1:12-18).

Jesus Christ is love, grace and mercy…..but He is also wrath and unmitigated vengeance in His perfect timing. Rather than piece together all of the Old Testament prophecies of Jesus which describe him, often times with great detail  (Isaiah 53 and Ezekiel 1), I will limit this to the New Testament. In my view, the verses below are critical to understanding who Jesus was before the world was created, who he was while He was on the earth, and who He is now and forever….

1)John 1:1-18  1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.18 No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

2) Philippians 2:5-11 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

3) Colossians 1:13-20  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

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4) Hebrews 1:1-3  1God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:

***5) 1 Peter 2:22-24*** 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

6) Revelation 1:8-11  8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last….

 7) Revelation 1:12-18  12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

The passage below shows us exactly how it is going to go down at the end of time, when Jesus and His army march through the heavens…and finish what Satan started, with unfettered vengeance, and the rebellion…will be over.

8) Revelation 19:11-16  11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords.

Favorite Scriptures #4: God Chose the Weak and Foolish Things of the World (1 Corinthians 1:17-25) Catholicism and the Worship of MaryEcumenicism: Praying With People from Other ReligionsPrayer: How to Approach God and What to Expect From Him

What instructions for life are emphasized by the Apostles ?

Grace and Obedience

                     

                               LIFE AS A BELIEVER: The Apostles’ Instructions To the Church

 

I have been reviewing New Testament scriptures following the ascension of Jesus, slowly and deliberately, seeking passages that teach believers (myself, especially) how to live a life that glorifies Jesus Christ. More specifically, I have been seeking to determine what things were most important to the Apostles, as indicated by the instructions they emphasized in their teachings to the churches. The themes that I am finding are: we are to flee sin, cast down our idols, and live, through Christ, lives of love, obedience, self-control, and holiness. Love is clearly the most important of all of those commands because it epitomizes what Jesus and the Father have done for us…while we were yet sinners, they loved us.

While there were a episodes of healing and the casting out of demons in Acts, and in the Epistles, Paul, James, Peter, John and Titus almost never mention those things. Instead, they focus their exhortations and instructions on avoiding sin and loving our brothers and sisters. They warn their flock repeatedly to watch out for false prophets and teachers masquerading as angels of light, and they instruct all of us to preach the word of God in humility and confidence. This writing will focuses on the commands given to us by them, which relate to daily life as believers.

1 John 2:3-6 summarizes what it means to truly be a follower of Christ in very clear terms. In that passage, John says that we know that we have come to know Jesus if we obey his commands. The man who says he knows Jesus but does not do what He commands is a liar and the truth is not in him. If anyone does obey His word, then God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know that we are in Him. Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did.

The above scripture embodies everything contained in the verses I am going to summarize below… we are to walk as Jesus did. Jesus walked in gentleness, peace, love, confidence, and strength, through His Father. He was holy, He was pure, He was bold and He was righteous. As the scriptures below indicate, we are all called loudly and clearly to do the same – not as works, but because we truly know and love the Living God.

In Acts 5:29-32, the apostles were brought before the high priests for disobeying their command not to preach in the name of Jesus. The apostles told the high priests that they must obey God rather than men, even though it would result in a severe beating. In verse 32, this passage states that the Holy Spirit comes to those who obey God. The implication is that, if you do truly receive the Holy Spirit, then you will obey God. If you do not have a growing interest in obeying God, then it is quite possible that the Holy Spirit does not dwell in you.

In Acts 26:20, Paul emphasized that our good deeds are evidence that true repentance has taken place in our hearts.

In Romans 1:3-6, Paul received grace and apostleship to call the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. This scripture corresponds with the great commission in Matthew 28:18-20, when Jesus tells the disciples to go and make more disciples baptizing them and teaching them to obey everything that He has commanded us. We are all called loudly and clearly to teach – and practice – obedience.

In Romans 2:5-16, Paul states that if we persist in doing good for the sake of God, we will receive eternal life. If we are self-seeking and reject the truth and follow evil, then there will be wrath and anger. It is not those who hear the word that are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the word who will be found blameless, according to Paul.

In Romans 6:11-16, Paul teaches us not to let sin reign in our mortal bodies so that we obey its evil desires. Also, we do not offer parts of our bodies to sin but instead we offer the parts of our bodies to God as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be our master.

In Romans 6:1-6, Paul asks, shall we continue sinning because of grace? No. Jesus died for sin so how can we live in it any longer? We were buried with Christ by baptism into His death so that we might live a new life. Our old self was crucified with Him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.

In Romans 7:4-6, Paul says that we died to the law for the body of Christ that we might belong to Jesus in order that we might bear fruit to God.

In Romans 15:17, Paul states that he glories in his service to God and will not speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished in him in leading the Gentiles to obey God by both what he has said and done.

In 1 Corinthians 3:10-17, Paul says that our foundation is Jesus Christ, and we should not build on that foundation with earthly things for they will be burned up in the fire. We are God’s temple and if we destroy that temple, God will destroy us.

In 1 Corinthians 4:16-17, Paul urges us to imitate him. He emphasizes the fact that his way of life agrees with what he teaches.

In 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, Paul tells believers expel the immoral brother from their church. Hand him over to Satan so that his sinful nature may be destroyed. Paul says that we must not associate with someone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral, greedy, an idolater, a drunkard, or a slanderer.

In 1 Corinthians 7:19, circumcision and un-circumcision mean nothing. Obeying God’s commands is what counts.

In 1 Corinthians 7:35, we are exhorted to live a life of undivided devotion to the Lord.

In 1 Corinthians 8:9-13, Paul teaches us not to let the exercise of our freedom cause a weak brother to stumble. If anything that we do causes a weak brother to stumble, then we are sinning against Christ. Give up anything that could cause others to sin out of a sincere love for God and for others.

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul says that we are to run a disciplined race like someone who competes in the games. He exhorts us to discipline our bodies and make it a slave so that after we have preached to others, we ourselves might not be disqualified for the prize.

In 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, we are told not to set our hearts on evil things as those in the desert with Moses did, and suffered for it. Do not commit sexual immorality or test the Lord. Do not fall away and flee every kind idol.

In 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, we learn that everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. No one should seek their own good, but instead should seek the good of others.

In 1 Corinthians 10:31-32, whatever we do, do it for the glory of God and not for ourselves. Do not cause anyone to stumble.

In 1 Corinthians 10:33, we are again told not to seek our own good, but the good of many so that they might be saved. Follow Paul’s example as he follows the example of Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 15:1-2, we take our stand on the Gospel, and hold firmly to it. Otherwise we have believed in vain.

In 1 Corinthians 15:33-34, Paul teaches that bad company corrupts good character. Stay away from those who love sin and we ourselves must stop sinning.

In 1 Corinthians 15:57-58, Paul states that we have victory through Jesus, therefore we are to stand firm and let nothing move us – always giving ourselves fully to the work of the Lord.

In 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, we are told to be on guard and to stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong and do everything in love.

In 2 Corinthians 1:12, Paul emphasizes that him and his followers have conducted themselves in the world with holiness and sincerity.

In 2 Corinthians 1:21-24, Paul says that we are to stand firm in Christ with the help of God.

In 2 Corinthians 2:9b, Paul says that we are to be obedient in everything.

In 2 Corinthians 4:2, Paul tells us to renounce all secret and shameful ways.

In 2 Corinthians 4:10, Paul encourages the believers to desire the life of Jesus to be revealed in their bodies.

In 2 Corinthians 4:18, we told to fix our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen, for what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal.

In 2 Corinthians 5:9-10, Paul says that we are to make it our goal to please God rather than man or ourselves. We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ so that each one of us may receive what is due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.

In 2 Corinthians 5:15, we are reminded that Jesus died for us, so that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us.

In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul says that we are Christ’s ambassadors, so we must live accordingly.

In 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, we are told to separate from the world and to not be unclean because we are temples of the living God. We are to come out from the world and be separate. We are told not touch what is unclean.

In 2 Corinthians 7:1, Paul exhorts us to purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

In 2 Corinthians 9:13b, Paul tells the people that men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies their confession of the Gospel of Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 10:5, we are told to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 13:11, Paul says that when we were children we thought and reasoned like children. As we grow up in Christ, we are to put childish ways behind us and must lay aside our selfish and immature ways.

In Galatians 5:13, we are called to be free, but we are not to use our freedom to indulge in the sinful nature.

In Galatians 5:16, we told are to live by the Spirit so that we will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

In Galatians 5:19-24, Paul says that the acts of the sinful nature are sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, selfish ambition, envy, and drunkenness. Paul warns the church that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. Those who belong to Christ have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires therefore, let us walk in the Spirit.

In Galatians 6:7-9, we told not to be deceived. God will not be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. If we sow to please the sinful nature, we will, by that nature reap destruction.

In Galatians 6:14-15, Paul says that he will never boast of anything except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ through which the world has been crucified to him and him to the world. Nothing in the flesh matters -what counts is a new creation.

In Ephesians 2:1-3, Paul states that we were dead in our transgressions when we followed the ways of the world – the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.

In Ephesians 2:10, Paul says that we are God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works.

In Ephesians 4:1-2, we are told to live a life worthy of the calling we received. Be completely humble, gentle, and patient.

In Ephesians 4:17-32, Paul states that we should not live in sin, which separates us from the life of God. Instead, we are to put off our old selves, which are corrupted by deceitful desires and put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. We should not ever let unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only that which is helpful for building others up. We do not grieve the Holy Spirit. Finally, we are to get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, slander, and every form of malice.

In Ephesians 5:1-18, Paul says that we are to be imitators of God, with no hint of sexual immorality nor any kind of impurity or greed. We should not indulge in any type of obscenity, foolish talk, or course joking, but rather thanksgiving. No immoral, impure or greedy person – such man is an idolater – has any inheritance in the kingdom of God. We are to let no one deceive us with empty words for it is because of these things that God’s wrath is coming on the disobedient. Therefore, we should not be partners with them. We were once darkness, but now we are light – live as children of the light. We are to find out what pleases the Lord and have nothing to do with fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. We must be careful how we live, not as unwise, but as wise. We must not get drunk, which leads to debauchery, but instead be filled with the Holy Spirit.

In Ephesians 6:6b, Paul says that like servants of God, we should do the will of God from our heart.

In Ephesians 6:10-13, we are told to be strong in the Lord and to put on the full armor of God so that on the day of evil we will be able to stand our ground.

In Philippians 1:9-11, Paul’s prayer for us is that our love may abound more in knowledge, and depth of insight so that we might be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ.

In Philippians 1:27, we are advised to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ.

In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul says that if we have any encouragement from being united with Christ, then we will be like minded with each other, being one in Spirit and purpose. Our attitude should be the same as that of Jesus, who being God, gave up that glory to be a servant of man – and he became obedient to His Father even to the point of death, and death on a cross.

In Philippians 2:12-16, we are told to continue obeying Jesus and to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. We should do everything without complaining so that we may be blameless and pure before God.

In Philippians 3:7-15, Paul says powerfully and poetically that everything should be considered a loss to us compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus Christ. Paul wanted to know the fellowship of sharing in the sufferings of Christ so that he might become like Jesus in his death. He put his past behind him, setting his mind and heart on his future with Jesus. Everyone who is mature should take such a view of things.

In Philippians 3:17-20, Paul said that we should follow his example and take note of those who live as he instructed. We are told not live like those whose mind is on earthly things.

In Philippians 4:9, Paul says that whatever we have learned or received or heard from him, we need to put into practice.

In Colossians 1:10-12, we are advised to live a life worthy of the Lord, pleasing him in every way, bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God that we may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father.

In Colossians 1:21-23, Paul tells us that once we were alienated from God because of our evil behavior. But now we are holy through Christ’s death…if we continue in our faith, not moved from the hope held out in the Gospel.

In Colossians 2:6-8, Paul proclaims that, just as we received Christ Jesus as Lord, we are to continue in Him, rooted and built up in Christ. We are not to be taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophies, which depend on human tradition and the basic principles of this world, rather than on Christ.

In Colossians 3:1-3, we told to set our hearts and minds on things above and not on earthly things. We are to focus on things above since Christ is seated in heaven at the right hand of God.

In Colossians 3:5-10, we are told to put to death whatever belongs to our earthly nature – sexual immorality, impurity, greed, etc., for God’s wrath is coming because of these things. We used to walk in these ways in our old lives, but now we must rid ourselves of anger, rage, slander, malice, and filthy language since we have put on our new self which is to be renewed in the image of God.

In Colossians 3:12-15, we are advised to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, and gentleness, and to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.

In Colossians 3:17, Paul says that whatever we do in word or deed, do it all in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to the Father – and whatever we do, work at it with all of our hearts as working for the Lord, not man.

In Colossians 4:2, we are told to devote ourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

In Colossians 4:6, Paul says that our conversations should always be seasoned with grace.

In Colossians 4:12b, we encouraged to stand firm in the will of God, mature and fully assured.

In 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7, Paul commends the Thessalonian church for being imitators of him and of Christ, despite their severe suffering. This was a model for all believers.

In 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Paul says that we are to turn to God and away from all idols, in order to serve the living and true God. We are also encouraged to live waiting for God’s Son in heaven to return.

In 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12, Paul stated that he and his followers were righteous, holy, and blameless among the Thessalonians. They dealt with the people as a father deals with his children, encouraging them and comforting them and urging them to live lives worthy of God who calls us into his kingdom and glory.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, we are to instructed to live our lives in order to please God. It is God’s will that we be sanctified, avoiding sexual immorality, and controlling our bodies in a way that is holy. For God does not call us to be impure but to live a holy life. He who rejects this instruction does not reject man, but God who gives us His Holy Spirit.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:4-9, Paul reminds believers that we do not live like the world but are to be are self-controlled, for God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through Jesus Christ.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, we are told to test everything and avoid every kind of evil.

In 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5, we are encouraged to have patience and faith through trials. By doing this, it will be evident that we are worthy of the kingdom of God. When the Lord Jesus is revealed, He will pay back those who do not obey the Gospel.

In 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, Paul prayed for the people so that God would fulfill every good purpose and act done by faith so that the name of the Lord might be glorified in the people and in him.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:10 and 12, Paul says that counterfeit miracles deceive those who are perishing – who don’t really love the truth. Those who do not believe the truth but have delighted in wickedness will be condemned.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:15, Paul encourages believers to stand firm and to hold fast to the teachings he passed on to us.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:6b, we are advised to keep away from every brother who does not live according to the teachings received from Paul.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:13-15, we are told to never tire of doing what is right, and to not associate with those who do not obey Paul’s teachings.

In 1 Timothy 2:1-6, we are instructed to live quiet and peaceful lives in all godliness and holiness. This pleases God.

In 1 Timothy 4:12, we are encouraged to set an example for believers in speech, in life, in love, and in purity.

In 1 Timothy 4:16, we are warned to watch our lives and doctrine closely. We are to persevere in them, because if we do, we will save both our hearers and ourselves.

In 1 Timothy 5:22, we are told to keep ourselves pure.

In 1 Timothy 6:6, Paul tells Timothy that Godliness with contentment is great gain.

In 1 Timothy 6:11, we are told to flee from the pursuit of riches and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, and gentleness. We are to take hold of the eternal life to which we are called.

In 1 Timothy 6:17-21, Paul instructs the rich to put their hope in God, not wealth – and to be rich in good deeds and to be generous and willing to share – laying up treasure in Heaven – so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. We are to guard what has been entrusted to us and are to turn away from godless chatter and opposing ideas that have caused some to wander from the faith.

In 2 Timothy 1:8-9, Paul says that we are not to be ashamed to testify about our Lord but are to join him in suffering for the Gospel by the power of God who has called us to a holy life.

In 2 Timothy 1:13-14, we are encouraged to hold fast to the pattern of sound teaching in faith and in love. We are to guard the good deposit in us with the help of the Holy Spirit.

In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul says that we should do our best to present ourselves as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed – correctly handling the word of truth.

In 2 Timothy 2:19b, we are taught that everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.

In 2 Timothy 2:22, we are exhorted to flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.

In 2 Timothy 3:14, Paul tells us to continue in what we have learned about Christ.

In 2 Timothy 3:19, we are encouraged to know the scriptures, which fully equip us for every good work.

In 2 Timothy 4:2-5, we are commanded to preach the Word, and to correct, rebuke, and instruct the brethren. We are to continue in sound doctrine and endure hardship. We are to do the work of an evangelist.

In 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul says that we should not live longing for the pleasures of this world but instead we should live for His appearing.

In Titus 1:1, we are taught that knowledge of the truth is designed to lead us to godliness.

In Titus 1:16, Titus states that some who claim to know God deny Him by their actions.

In Titus 2:1-8, we are instructed to teach sound doctrine and are to be temperate and self-controlled in all things.

In Titus 2:11-12, we are taught that the grace of God, which brings salvation, teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions. We are to live self-controlled and Godly lives.

In Titus 3:1-6, we are advised to do what is good. At one time, we were deceived and were enslaved by every kind of passion and pleasure, but God saved from those things us through the washing and rebirth of His Spirit.

In Hebrews 1:9, it says that Jesus was exalted by God because He loved righteousness and hated wickedness.

In Hebrews 2:1-3, we are taught to pay careful attention to what we have heard so that we do not drift away from God. How will we escape God’s just punishment if we ignore such a great salvation?

In Hebrews 3:1, we are encouraged to fix our thoughts on Jesus.

In Hebrews 3:6, Paul says that we are God’s house …if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.

In Hebrews 3:12-19, we are taught not to turn away from the living God and become hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end. (If we are truly His, Jesus will hold us firmly to the end as we trust Him.) Our distrust of God leads to disobedience. Those who don’t trust and obey God will never enter His rest.

In Hebrews 5:8, Paul preaches that although Jesus was God’s son, He learned obedience from what He suffered and became a source of salvation for all who obey Him.

In Hebrews 5:11-14, we are told not to be slow to learn, needing to be taught the elementary truths again. We must be acquainted with the teachings on righteousness. By constant use, we train ourselves to distinguish good from evil.

In Hebrews 6:1-8, Paul states that we are to leave the elementary teachings about Christ and move toward maturity. It is impossible for those who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the Word of God, if they fall away to be brought back to repentance. Land that produces thorns is worthless and will be burned in the end.

In Hebrews 6:11-12, we are instructed to show diligence to the end and to make our hope sure.

In Hebrews 9:28, we are encouraged of the fact that Christ will appear again to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.

In Hebrews 10:23-31, Paul says that if we deliberately keep on sinning after we receive knowledge of the truth, then no sacrifice for sins is left – only the fearful expectation of judgment that consumes the enemies of God.

In Hebrews 10:32-39, we are taught to remember when we first met Christ and were confident even in times of great persecution. We should remain confident and wait for our reward. We should not shrink back and be destroyed, but believe and be saved.

In Hebrews 11:6, Paul says that without faith it is impossible to please God, and God rewards those who earnestly seek him.

In Hebrews 11:25, we are reminded that Moses chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin with the Egyptians.

In Hebrews 12: 1-4, we encouraged to throw off everything that hinders and every sin that entangles, and to run the race of faith with perseverance. Let us live, fixing our eyes on Jesus, not on the world or on ourselves. We are to continue the fight against sin, resisting it with all of our might.

In Hebrews 12:12-13, Paul teaches that the Word of the Lord is living and active, and sharper than a double-edged sword. It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.

In Hebrews 12:14, we are commanded to be holy, for without holiness no one will see God.

In Hebrews 12:16-17, we are taught not to be sexually immoral or godless like Esau who sold his blessing for one meal.

In Hebrews 12:28-29, we are reminded that we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, so let us worship God acceptably with reverence and awe for our God is a consuming fire.

In Hebrews 13:4, we told avoid sexual immorality, for God will judge the sexually immoral.

In Hebrews 13:7, we are instructed to imitate the faith of our leaders who spoke the Word of God to us.

In Hebrews 13:16-17 we are encouraged to praise God continually and to do good – for such sacrifices please God.

In Hebrews 13:18, we are told to live honorably in every way.

In James 1:21-22, we are instructed to get rid of all moral filth and to not merely listen to the Word and so deceive ourselves. Instead, we are to do what it says.

In James 1:26, we told to keep a tight rein on our tongue.

In James 2:14-26, we are taught that faith without deeds is meaningless.

In James 3:13, we are commanded to show our wisdom and understanding by living a good life, with deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

In James 3:16-18, we are taught that envy and selfish ambition lead to disorder and every evil practice. But wisdom from Heaven is pure, peace loving, considerate, full of good fruit, submissive, and is full of mercy.

In James 4:4, we are told in no uncertain terms that friendship with the world is hatred towards God. Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.

In 1 Peter 1:1-2, we are reminded of the fact that we have been chosen for obedience to Jesus Christ.

In 1 Peter 1:13-16, we are instructed to be self-controlled; setting our hope fully on Jesus. As obedient children, we do not conform to the evil desires that we had when we were ignorant. We are to be holy in all we do just as God is holy.

In 1 Peter 1:18-19, we are reminded that we have been redeemed from the empty way of life passed down to us by our forefathers, by the precious blood of the Lamb.

In 1 Peter 1:22, we are taught that we purify ourselves by obeying the truth.

In 1 Peter 2:1-3, we are told to rid ourselves of malice, envy, deceit, and slander. We are to crave pure spiritual milk so that we may grow in our salvation.

In 1 Peter 2:11-12, we are instructed to live as aliens and strangers in the world. We are to abstain from the sinful desires which war against our soul. Instead, we are to live good lives so that pagans may see our deeds.

In 1 Peter 2:16, we are commanded not to use our freedom as a cover for evil, but to live as servants of God.

In 1 Peter 3:9-12, we are instructed not repay evil with evil, but with blessing. We are to turn from evil and do good.

In 1 Peter 4:1-9, we are taught that we should be willing to suffer in our body because those who suffer in the body are done with sin. We do not live our lives for evil human desires, but for God. People will heap abuse on us for not living in debauchery and drunkenness, but they will have to give an account to Him who judges all. We are to be clear minded and self-controlled so that we can pray. Above all things, have unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.

In 1 Peter 4:10-11, whatever we do, we are to do it for the Lord so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.

In 1 Peter 4:19, we are encouraged that, even as we suffer for God, we should commit ourselves to our faithful creator and do good.

In 1 Peter 5:1-4, we are taught to serve others eagerly, not being greedy for money, but humbly waiting for the chief shepherd to appear at which time we receive a crown of glory that will never fade away.

In 1 Peter 5:6-11, we encouraged to humble ourselves and cast our anxiety on Jesus. We are to be self-controlled and alert. To Jesus be the power for ever and ever.

In 2 Peter 1:3-4, Peter teaches that God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness. Through His great and precious promises we may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption of the world caused by evil desires.

In 2 Peter 1:5-11, we are instructed to make every effort to add to our faith goodness, knowledge, self-control, godliness, and kindness. If we possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep us from being ineffective. Therefore, we are to be eager to make our call and election sure, and we will receive a rich welcome into Heaven.

In 2 Peter 2:15 and 19-22, we are told that if we escape the corruption of sin by knowing Jesus and are again entangled in it and are overcome, it would have been better for us to have never known the way of righteousness.

In 2 Peter 3:11-12, peter says that we are to live holy and godly lives as we look forward to the day of God.

In 2 Peter 3:14, we are instructed to make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with God.

In 2 Peter 3:17-18, we warned not to be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall away from our secure position.

In 1 John 1:5-7, John proclaims that God is light and that in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with God, yet walk in the darkness, we lie and the truth is not in us. But if we walk in the light, then the blood of Jesus purifies us from sin.

In 1 John 2:3-4, John teaches that we know that we have truly come to know Jesus if we obey His commands. The man who says I know Him but does not do what He commands is a liar and the truth is not in him.

In 1 John 2:6, John says that whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did.

In 1 John 2:9, we are taught that anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in darkness.

In 1 John 2:15-17, we are instructed not to love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world then the love the Father is not in him. For everything in the world – the lust of the eyes, the cravings of sinful man, the boasting of what he has and does- comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires will pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

In 1 John 2:24-25, we are instructed that we must see to it that what we have heard from the beginning remains in us. If it does, we will also remain in the Son. And this is what He promised… eternal life.

In 1 John 2:28-29, we are told to continue in Him so that when He appears we may be confident and unashamed before Him. He is righteous and everyone who does what is right is born of Him.

In 1 John 3:6-10, John teaches that no one who continues to sin has ever seen or known Jesus. He who does what is right is righteous, and he who does what is sinful is of the devil. No one who is born of God will continue to sin. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: anyone who does not do what is right is not a child a God.

In 1 John 3:17-18, John says: let us not love with words but with actions and in truth.

In 1 John 3:23-24, we are told that this is God’s command: to believe in the name of Jesus and to love one another. Those who obey His commands live in Him.

In 1 John 4:7-8, we are instructed to love one another because love comes from God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.

In 1 John 4:20-21, we are taught that anyone who says I love God yet hates his brother is a liar. If we don’t love men we can see, how can we love God whom we can’t see? Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

In 1 John 5:3-5, we are taught that we love God by obeying His commands and everyone born of God overcomes the world.

In 1 John 5:18, John teaches us that anyone born of God does not continue to sin, and reminds us that Jesus will keep us safe.

In 2 John 1:4-6, we are taught to walk in obedience to His commands. His command is to walk in love.

In 2 John 1:8-9, we are encouraged not lose what we have worked for. If we do not continue in the teachings of Christ we do not have God.

In 3 John 1:3-4, John states that it gave him great joy to hear that his friends were walking in the truth.

In 3 John 1:11, John teaches us not imitate what is evil, but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does evil has not seen God.

In Jude 1:4, we are told that men should not change the grace of God into a license for immorality.

In Jude 1:7, we are reminded that Sodom and Gomorrah gave themselves to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer punishment of eternal fire.

In Jude 1:18-20, Jude teaches us that in the last days there will be scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires. They divide us and do not have the Spirit (Acts 5:32, states that only those who obey the commands of Jesus have the Spirit). Remain in God’s love, and hate even the clothing stained by corrupt flesh.

In Revelation 1:5-6, we are taught that Jesus loves us and has freed us by His blood. He has made us a kingdom and a priesthood to serve His God and Father. In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, Jesus commands His churches to repent, to overcome, and to obey.

In Revelation 14:12, we instructed to have patient endurance as we continue to obey God’s commands and to be faithful to Him.

In Revelation 17:7-8, we are promised that he who overcomes will inherit the dwelling of God and will be His son. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the sexually immoral, the liar, and those who practice the magic arts will be thrown into the fire.

The above scriptures are convicting and at the same time comforting. We are blessed to have clear directions for how to walk out our faith, and we have been given excellent role models in the apostles, and a precious Holy Spirit to teach us all things (John 14:26). As I wrote these verses out, I had to stop and repent many times as careless thoughts, words , and deeds came to mind. I prayed for endurance, patience, and love through the Spirit, as I continue to cast down my idols, and press on toward the goal of living in and through Jesus Christ every single day.

Preach the Word: As Ambassadors for Christ, We Are All Called to Preach the Word Boldly

Evangelism: Do not Fear and do not be ashamed, Knowing God, The Word, ,

*****THIS ARTICLE IS UPDATED AT THE LINK BELOW*******

UPDATED: Preach the Word Boldly…and do Not be Ashamed of the Gospel

          PREACH THE WORD AND DO NOT BE ASHAMED OF THE REAL, BIBLICAL JESUS CHRIST

42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

John 12:42-43

14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

Romans 10:14

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.

2 Corinthians 5:20

How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

Romans 10:15b

5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5

Saint Francis of Assisi said something to the effect of, preach the Gospel…but rarely use words. While this sounds wise, it directly contradicts what the Bible commands regarding teaching and preaching. The Bible tells us to, boldly and humbly, and without fear or shame, proclaim the Word of Truth. The unchanging Word of God always overrules anything any man has ever said which contradicts it – no matter how brilliant it may sound. As 1 Peter 1:24-25 says, all men are like grass and their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and flowers fade…but the Word of the Lord endures forever. Every book we read, every sermon we hear, and every piece of advice we both give and receive must line up clearly and perfectly with the everlasting Word of God.

Are we, perhaps, embarrassed to say the name of Jesus Christ to non-believers? Are we afraid of giving advice that is in accord with the scriptures because it may not be socially acceptable or culturally sensitive? Are we more concerned with the approval of men than the approval of the one and only God (John 5:44; 12:42-43)? As Jesus says in John 15:18-23, if we love Him and truly are His disciples, then the world will hate us. James, the brother of Jesus, tells us in very clear language that friendship with the world is hatred towards God, and that friendship with the world makes us enemies of God (James 4:4). Peter and Paul both state that if we are going to follow Christ, we are going to be persecuted severely. Paul was persecuted so intensely that at one point that he even despaired of life itself (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).

There are those who say that men can disciple others in Christ without ever talking to them about Jesus. Instead, by discussing family, work, leadership principles, and relationships, the Spirit can move to communicate Christ. There is nothing in scripture that supports this position. Instead, it appears to be more in tune with the basic philosophies and principals of this fading world as mentioned by Paul in Colossians 2:8. As Matthew 5:19-20 says, to be great in the kingdom of heaven, we must both practice and teach His commands. As I will discuss in a subsequent portion of this document, Paul makes it clear that the world cannot know about Jesus unless we proclaim him.

When Jesus is about to ascend into heaven in Matthew 28:18-20, he specifically tells his followers to go and make new disciples throughout the world – and he goes on to tell them exactly how to do it. He commands them to “teach” these disciples “to obey everything” Jesus has commanded them to do. There was nothing in that charge that states or implies that they (or we) are to avoid or slow-play the words of Jesus and build strong and trusting relationships based on mutual temporal interests and leisure before we begin to share the things of Christ. There is nothing in the final words of Jesus that say that we are to teach others to build better relationships with friends and family or instruct them how to become leaders in the business or political world. On the contrary, as previously noted, Jesus instructed his followers to teach their new disciples to obey… everything that He has taught, knowing that if they do that, everything else will fall into place.

Our job as disciples of Christ is to lift up Jesus, and if we obey that command then Jesus will draw all men to Himself. While it may not make sense to our temporal minds to focus so intently on what Jesus told us to do in his final instructions to his disciples, and while it will cost us relationships, the Holy Spirit will use our obedience to draw hearts that are truly interested in Jesus to Jesus. By our obedience the spirit will reveal who really wants to know Jesus Christ and the power of His death and resurrection. That will allow us to avoid expending unnecessary time and effort on those who aren’t really interested in knowing Christ, but are more interested in relationships with the wealthy, the influential, and the powerful.

John 15:26-27 is another example of Jesus specifically instructing his disciples to proclaim him. He tells them that, once they receive the Spirit, they must testify about Him, just as the Holy Spirit will testify about Him. More specifically, Jesus says: “When the Counselor comes, whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of Truth, who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me. You also must testify for you have been with me from the beginning.”

I greatly admire how Paul took the commands of Jesus to heart and boldly and unashamedly proclaimed the Word of Truth across the known world – despite the most extreme resistance and severe suffering. In Romans 1:16-17, Paul stated that he was not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ because he knew it was the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes, for in the Gospel of Christ, the righteousness from God that comes through faith is revealed. Paul bravely lived his post-conversion life looking to a better country…a heavenly one… that God has prepared for his people, for we truly are strangers and pilgrims on this earth (Hebrews 11:13-17).

Based on Paul’s words and actions, simply talking about principles of leadership, while enjoying sports and leisure time together, with a measure of Christian principals and relational dialogue mixed in, does not reveal the righteousness of the everlasting God. Instead, Paul clearly emphasizes a desperate need to actually preach the Gospel – and to be careful about our way of life, our doctrine – and even about the things of which we approve (1 Timothy 4:16, Romans 14:22b). In Romans 10:14 and 17, Paul states exactly why unbelievers need to hear the gospel. He asks, how can they (unbelievers) call on the one they haven’t believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they haven’t heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? In verse 17, he reaffirms the above by proclaiming that faith comes from hearing the message and the message comes from the word of Christ. In Titus 1:3 Paul also states that knowledge of the word is manifested through preaching.

We are all, in no uncertain terms, called to preach the word to those around us. With boldness and great humility, we are to preach Jesus Christ and Him crucified – in weakness, in fear, and in the confidence that comes from knowing what we are before the living God (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). A powerful example of preaching Jesus, even under great stress is in Acts 8:1-4, when, even after the church was scattered due to Paul’s violent persecutions, those who were scattered went “everywhere preaching the word.” I have come to deeply appreciate the fact that Paul and the early church were never ashamed of the name of Jesus and His words. I pray that one day I may have the same boldness and Jesus-centered confidence.

While our culture has painted Jesus as a passive, social justice-seeking hippie, with long hair and sandals, Paul is not concerned at all about who men think Jesus is. He preaches what he knows for a fact – and he proclaims it without hesitation, in even the most dangerous and godless places. Paul was flogged and imprisoned multiple times, he was stoned, and was even dragged outside of a city and left for dead. But, after regaining consciousness, he got back up, and walked right back into that city where he continued preaching. He knew exactly who it was he was preaching – the Jesus who rescued him from the dominion of darkness, and the one who is before all things and in whom all things hold together.(Colossians 1:13-20). The Jesus who did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing. The Jesus who did not retaliate when insults were hurled at him as he hung cold, naked and alone on a hard wooden cross…and the only God who has a kingdom that can never, ever be shaken.

In Matthew 10:32-33, Jesus says that whoever acknowledges Him before men will also be acknowledged before His Father in heaven. This message is also contained in Luke 12:8-9. Jesus knows who He is and he wants us to know it and bravely proclaim it as well. John 1:1-18, Colossians 1:13-20, Philippians 2:5-11, 1 Peter 2:23-24, Revelation 1:12-18 and Revelation 19:11-16, are all excellent scriptures which paint accurate and powerful portraits of Jesus as He was, is…and is to come. I strongly suggest learning those scriptures and teaching them to others. As Philippians 2:5-11 indicates, Jesus is God, and He stepped off his throne willingly in obedience to the Father – and for our eternal benefit. Because he did this, God the Father exalted His Name above every name, and one way or another, every knee will bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. I suggest that we encourage those whose lives we touch to do that acknowledging now, rather than later when it is too late.

Psalms 91:14 has always spoken deeply to my heart about the power of acknowledging the name of God. In Psalm 91:14 David writes, “…because He loves me, says the Lord, I will rescue him. I will protect him for he acknowledges my name.” This verse speaks powerfully to me as to why the Lord has so often protected me from my own foolishness – and from the lies of the world. In His mercy, and by His grace, I do love to speak His name to people I encounter – and I constantly ask Jesus to create a context where I can bring up His name naturally and peacefully. And He always does. There is no need to be obnoxious about it or to bring it up in a way that doesn’t fit the moment. For the God of peace will, if we ask Him, give us opportunities to proclaim exactly who this King of Kings and Lord of Lords is and what He has done for us. I pray that I will always have a heart to share the name of Jesus Christ. It is infinitely easier to do so in America today than it was for Paul in the violent, idol worshipping near east, in ancient times.

In Mark 3:13-14 and Mark 6:7-12, Jesus makes it clear that he called the twelve (12) apostles so that He might send them out to preach. In Acts 10:42-43, when Peter is talking to Cornelius about the Gospel and the life of Christ, he says that Jesus commanded ALL of his disciples to preach to the people and to testify that He is the one whom God appointed to judge the living and the dead. In Acts 5:18-20, 29, 41-42, the text states that the apostles “never stopped teaching and preaching the good news.” In Acts 3:11-26 and in Acts 4, Peter preaches the Word boldly and he is not ashamed or afraid to preach Jesus even when the Jewish leaders specifically forbade him from doing so. In Acts 9:27-29, Paul preached fearlessly, even in the face of death. In Acts 14, Paul preached boldly despite great opposition, and even after being stoned (with rocks) and left for dead. Paul constantly preached the Gospel of Jesus, and he was never ashamed and never let fear control his message despite the intensity of the violence he suffered. For he truly considered everything that was of personal benefit to him a loss for the sake of Christ (Philippians 3:7-14).

I believe that one of the greatest passages of scripture setting forth the differences between the ways of Jesus Christ and the ways of the world is 1 Corinthians 1:17 through 1 Corinthians 2:5. In this passage, Paul boldly proclaims that Jesus Christ sent him to preach the Gospel – but not with words of with human wisdom lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. He knew that this message was foolishness to those who were perishing, but to those who were being saved it was the very power of God. He pointed out how God uses the weak and foolish things of the world to shame the wise so that no one can boast before him. Paul also powerfully affirmed that the only thing he wanted to make certain that he communicated to the people under his charge was the core message of the gospel – that Jesus Christ was crucified for their sins (1 Corinthians 2:2).

Paul didn’t teach principles of leadership or brotherhood. As the 1 Corinthians passage referenced earlier indicates, he taught the cross of Christ – a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles – and he did it in weakness, and fear, and with much trembling so that his message would not rely on men’s wisdom but on God’s power. I believe that we are all called do the same. In Acts 20:24, Paul stated that he counted his life worth nothing, if only he might finish the race and complete the task of testifying to the Gospel of God’s grace. In 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, Paul says, “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel,” and when he does preach, he states that he does it free of charge so that he is not tempted to abuse his authority.

There are many additional passages that encourage us to proclaim the gospel boldly. In 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 Paul reminds the church of the gospel that he originally delivered to them, and that in that gospel they must  stand. In 2 Corinthians 5:20-21, we are told that we are Christ’s ambassadors to the world, and that God is making His appeal through us, imploring all men that He wants them reconciled to Him. In Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul asks for prayer so that whenever he opens his mouth, the gospel may be proclaimed fearlessly. In 2 Timothy 1:8-9, Paul says that we should not to be ashamed to testify about our Lord but should join with him in suffering for the Gospel. In 2 Timothy 1:12, Paul says that he is suffering, yet he is not ashamed because he knows whom it is he believes. In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul tells us to preach the Word and to be prepared in season and out of season to correct, encourage, and rebuke with great patience and careful instruction.

In 2 Timothy 4:10-16, Paul makes it clear that both his teaching and his way of life were consistent. His words and his actions worked together to make his message powerful. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:19-20, to be great in the kingdom of heaven we must practice AND teach his commands. In Romans 15:18, Paul says that he leads the Gentiles to obedience by both what he has said and by what he has done. Clearly, as disciples of Christ and spokesmen for the gospel, our words and our actions must be consistent and must not be based on our flesh our supposed gifts. In 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, Paul made it clear that the message he was preaching had nothing to do with his natural affinities, and he wasn’t worried at all about coming across as eloquent, powerful, or wise. In fact, he knew that eloquence might actually quench the power of the message of Jesus. He simply wanted to preach Christ crucified, in weakness and in fear of the Lord, in order that the Holy Spirit might do the talking.

In Philippians 2:14-16, Paul states that we as believers are to shine like stars in the universe as we hold out the Word of life. In Colossians 1:28-29 and 2:1-3, Paul says that we proclaim Jesus, teaching everyone with all wisdom so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. This act of teaching the gospel is our labor, our vocation as followers of Jesus. Paul’s stated purpose was that, through his teaching, everyone might have the full riches of complete understanding in order that we all may truly know Jesus Christ. Paul makes it eminently clear that the commands of Jesus must be taught in order for men and women of this earth to understand the truth and to be freed from the bondage of sin.

In Colossians 4:3-5, Paul prays that God will open a door so that he may proclaim the mystery of Christ to all people, and he encourages the church in Colossae to make the most of every opportunity to share Jesus with others. In Philemon 1:6, we are instructed to be active in sharing our faith so that we will have the full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:9- 10, we are told that, as chosen people we are to declare the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light.

I believe that the more we understand exactly who Jesus is and what it is he has done for us free of charge, the bolder and less ashamed we become in proclaiming Him, as He is in scripture. That is why I believe that knowing, teaching, and even memorizing John 1:1-18, Colossians 1:13-20, Philippians 2:5-11, 1 Peter 1:23-24, Revelation 1:12-18, and Revelation 19:11-16, is of the utmost importance as a follower of Christ. What could be more important to a believer than having powerful and accurate portraits of our living God from his eternal word, burned into our hearts and minds? There are very few things that I would want someone whose life I am somehow touching, to know more than these passages.

EPILOGUE

Someday every knee in heaven and on earth and under the earth, will bow down to Jesus Christ and every tongue will indeed confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Let us encourage those we know and love to do this confessing before death … instead of after. And let us do it boldly, and powerfully, and without fear, through the power of the Holy Spirit, knowing that we truly are heirs of an eternal kingdom that can never, ever be shaken.

1 Corinthians 1:17- 24

17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

The Written Word: What Did Jesus, The Apostles, and the Psalmists say about the Eternal Written word of God?

Confronting Sin: Snatching Those we love From the Flames

Grace and Obedience, Persecution and the Power of God, Sin,

           CONFRONTING SIN WITH THE SHARP SWORD OF TRUTH, WHICH IS THE WORD

“That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the Lord: Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭30:9-10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

    ***This was in response to a friend who once had a powerful ministry that dealt with intense sin through the love, mercy and truth of Jesus Christ….but he was ultimately shamed and bullied into denying the eternal word and placing worldly friendships and short-term acceptance by this sick and dying planet, over the everlasting truth of the Living God.

“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.”   John 3:19-21

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”    Isaiah 5:20

“…And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.”  Jude 1:23

 

When I read some of your thoughts on grace and accepting everyone as they are, they do, for a moment, sound good. But as I ponder them in light of scripture, they sound more to me like the basic philosophies and principals of this PC world rather than the principles of our glorious and eternal God, Jesus Christ(Colossians 2,8). Jesus didn’t come to make sinners happy, content and affirmed in their sin. He came instead to set his precious children free – free from the eternal fire of hell which he says, very clearly, is the consequence of sin.  Jesus told the adulteress, whom he saved from a brutal death, to “go and sin no more.” He told the man he healed by the pool in John 5 to “stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.” He told others that if their right arm causes them to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better to go into heaven maimed than to be cast into hell. Hell, according to Jesus, is very, very real.(See, “Hell and the Wrath of God,” Linked at the bottom of this article).

So, while accepting everyone as they are, without addressing sin with the sharp double-edged sword of the word, and the idea of “non-judgment” sounds good to the world’s itching ears…it is not real love in the eyes of our God, who is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29). Jesus and Paul tell us to make “right judgments” based on the spirit (John 7:24; 1 Cor. 2:14-15), not to ignore the obvious. It is not love according to our God, if we who are called to love, refuse to address the sin of those we are instructed to love – especially when we know that such sins will lead to hell…if we even believe in sin and hell anymore.

In 1 Thessalonians4:2-8 (one of the many scriptures addressing sexual sin) Paul states that anyone who rejects his teaching on sexual immorality rejects God himself. Thus, we can deduce that there is something very important to both God and Satan about sexuality. One created it and wants to preserve the beauty and holiness of it – while the other wants to destroy it, and us along with it.

What hurts a person who is living in open sin worse – being confronted with that sin directly by someone who loves them, with a heart focused on getting them to heaven with Jesus forever – or simply allowing them live in false love and acceptance for the next 40 or so years, which will ultimately lead to an eternity in hell, where the worm never dies and the fire is never quenched?  Most people who are living an openly sinful lifestyle both love and hate their sin, so of course it is going to hurt – and badly – when they are confronted with the fact that the sin they indulge in daily, and often with great delight, and which actually has become integral to their identity, is presented as a grievous error in the sight of living God. The humiliation of seeing these acts for what they are – along with the fear of rejection by clueless Christians are very, very real – but also very short term when eternity is at stake.  Real love through Jesus is caring more about their eternal destiny then it is about being comfortable, happy and accepted on this planet.
Paul cared about one thing as he carried the gospel across the known world – the souls of men. He didn’t seek to be liked or affirmed or to make people happy. He preached, with great passion, the true gospel of repentance and grace plainly and clearly, whatever the personal cost was to him…so that by all means some, even one, might be saved.

Attaining eternity with God in unimaginable glory, beauty and peace is the true purpose of our lives.  We are all called, loudly and clearly, to throw off every sin that entangles us, and to forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead..pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:7-14).

EPILOGUE

As James (and John) said, friendship with the world is hatred towards God and becoming a friend of the world makes us an enemy of God. So why is it that we seek acceptance by this world instead of acceptance from the one and only God? See scriptures below:

How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God “John 5:44 (NIV84)

“Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.”  John 12:42-43

Are we afraid of being rejected by the world – being thrown out of the PC synagogue – if we stand for truth? Jesus was hated by the world (John 15) and he told us that we would be hated as well if we really are his disciples. So why – why do we so hunger for the approval of a sick, sinful world that is going burn in the end? Paul lived for the eternal kingdom of God – one which can never be shaken – for he truly understood the words of Jesus…”For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world but forfeits his soul?”

A few other key verses, which push me to take a very close look at all that I speak, write and approve, are….

Romans 14:22b “Blessed is the man who is not condemned by what he approves.”

And

1 Timothy 4:16 “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them for in doing so you may save both yourself and your hearers.”

I do not want my worst enemy to burn in hell for eternity. How much more do I want to protect those I know and love from the flames – the flames which Jesus himself refers to on many occasions as being very real? Let is put aside the fear of appearing legalistic or judgmental, and with love, address the sin of those we care about and hope that they will do the same for us. Perhaps, as Jude says, we can snatch them from the flames…for in hell, the fire is never quenched.

Isaiah 1:18

18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Hell and the Wrath of God-Almighty

False Prophets and Teachers: Wolves Among Us

False Prophets and Teachers, Knowing God

 

“…God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” (1John 1:5b)

“Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.”(Luke 11:35)

“An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign…. “ (Matthew 12:39)

“…I hate every false way.” (Psalm 119:128b)

“A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.” (Galatians 5:9)

 “…Rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)     

“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” (Ephesians 5:11)

“Casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God….” (2 Cor. 10:5a)

“Prove all things….” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

“For…the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they comfort in vain…. “( Zechariah 10:2b)

“Then the LORD said to me, “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds.”  (Jeremiah 14:14)

In Acts 20:29-35, Paul warned the Ephesians elders, as he was preparing to leave them for what he knew would be the last time, that, after his departure, ravenous wolves would come in among them, not sparing the flock. Even from amongst the brethren, evil men would arise speaking perverse things in order to draw disciples away from the truth of Jesus Christ, and toward themselves.  Paul was so concerned about these false teachers that he reminded them that he had been warning them, with tears, about these deceivers for 3 years. He then commended the elders to God and to the word, and pointed out that he was not greedy and coveted no man’s possessions …but simply labored to teach them all things about Jesus. And here we are 2,000 years later, and the ravenous wolves…are here.

It seems that only a few believers have taken the time to truly, deeply, exhaustively study the scriptures for themselves. Most believers only know a few familiar passages, such as those focused on by their pastor, their mentor, or their family. All of us need to know for ourselves exactly what the unchanging, everlasting word of God says in full. The scriptures truly are the voice of God to his people, and, as Paul says, they are living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, judging the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). Heaven and earth will pass away – as will men – but the words of God will never, ever pass away (Matthew 24:35, 1 Peter 1:23-25). If we devote our time and energy to the scriptures, Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will teach us all things, will guide us into all truth and will remind us of everything that Jesus said (John 14:26, John 16:13, 1 John 2:27). Each of us should ask the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts each time we pick up the Bible so that when we read it and meditate on it, the word of truth will become more than just wise sayings or stories about men  – but instead will be a sharp two-edged sword that pierces our hearts, minds, souls and spirits.The word is truth

One of the most important reasons for learning the scriptures for ourselves is so that we are not blown “to and fro by every wind of teaching”, or by every new evangelical trend (Ephesians 4:14-15). Once we know the scriptures, Paul says that we will have the ability to test and approve God’s perfect will (Romans 12:2) and thus, we will know if what we are being taught actually lines up with the word, or instead are simply wise principles or traditions and philosophies invented by men to deceive(Colossians 2:8). So much of what is being taught these days seems to be motivated by greed, a desire for power/control, or for the love of fame and celebrity. Because of this, we must all demand that every single word being taught to us lines up perfectly with scripture. Jesus Himself warns us several times to watch out for false prophets. He specifically points out that such men(and women) might not be obvious to most people. Instead, they are ferocious wolves…hiding in sheep’s clothing. By their fruit we will recognize them (Matthew 7:15-16)…..IF we know the scriptures ourselves, and exercise discernment by carefully testing every spirit( 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, and 1 John 4:1). Judging Righteously

Jesus goes on to tell his disciples that not everyone who uses His name will be saved, but only those who obey Him…not as works, but as evidence of salvation. Many will say to Jesus when he comes to take His children home that they prophesied, drove out demons, and performed miracles in His name. But He will say, “Away from me you evil doers! I never knew you.” (Mathew 7:21-23). Therefore, we must test the teachings and spirits we receive against the eternal written word of God, no matter how much we love the teachers we hear or the churches we attend. If they don’t line up with the Bible, we must address it directly, and if the elders do not listen, then we must turn and walk away from them…and never, ever go back – for what do temples of idols have in common with the temple of God? Come out from them and be separate saith the Lord. (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).Biblical separation

For me to trust a teacher or self-proclaimed prophet or apostle, I need to see clear obedience to the words of Jesus Christ along with true Christ centered humility. If anyone calls themself a prophet, an apostle, a Seer or any other such name, I would argue that they have already failed the humility test.  Why the title? Simply be what Christ called you to be. Most importantly, every single teacher or leader in Christ needs to preach the pure Gospel message. This message says: believe that Jesus is who he said he was, repent, accept the mercy he has freely offered us through his death and resurrection for our sins, forgive everyone from your heart, obey the commands of Jesus and the Apostles, love, exercise self control, and seek holiness – for without holiness no one can see God (Hebrews 12:14). Every message that is not centered on scripture and the clear messages contained therein, must be ignored.Sin, Repentance and the Cross of Christ

Anyone who comes in the name of Christ, but has a spirit that is not in accord with the teachings of Christ and the Apostles, must be rejected. Even the great Paul did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom. He resolved to know nothing while he was with the people of God, but Jesus Christ and him crucified(1 Corinthians 2:2). He came in weakness and fear and with much trembling. His message and preaching were not with wise and persuasive words so that the faith of his flock would not rest on men’s wisdom (his own) but on God’s power (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)…and in Galatians 2, when he saw that Peter was teaching legalism, he did not hesitate to confront him publicly. Why? Because the truth of God is all that matters, and not the reputations of men. What is righteous judgement?

Why aren’t more teachers and preachers like that today given the fact that they have Paul’s words to instruct them? Shouldn’t we expect our teachers to have that same spirit as Paul? Shouldn’t those truly clothed in Christ understand that the message of Jesus isn’t about personality, appearance, temporal power, wealth, education or wisdom? So few seem to understand this – be it teachers or the flock. As a result we are all led astray by men, and are enraptured by the temporal. Paul made certain that no one made that mistake with him.

In Christ’s kingdom, external appearances count for nothing. Love, obedience, and humility through Jesus Christ are everything. When Jesus talks about the end times in Mathew 24, he states that many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other. Many false prophets will also appear and will deceive many people (Mathew 24:10-13). The statements of Jesus in both Matthew 7 and Matthew 24 regarding the fact that many who think that they know Him (and are allegedly performing all kinds of miraculous signs on his behalf) don’t actually know Him at all, and that many false prophets will appear deceiving many, is frightening really, and makes it even more clear that we need to stay away from the loud, charismatic, signs and wonder oriented teachers and churches. Instead, we need to allow the gentle and powerful Holy Spirit to teach us all things as we diligently study the scriptures and live in the world (John 14:26).

As we seek fellowship in Christ, we need to find a church or body that strictly conforms to the teachings of Jesus, Paul, John, Peter, and James. That is the only way we can be sure that it is of God, since, as Peter said, “All men are like grass and their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fade…but the word of the Lord endures forever.” 1 Peter 1:24-25. Jesus also said…“Heaven and earth shall pass away but my words will never pass away.” Matthew 24:35.

In Romans 1:5, Paul teaches us that he received grace and apostleship, not to make everyone rich and happy through Christ, and not to perform healings or signs & wonders but… to call people from among the gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. That is the message that we all desperately need to hear. It doesn’t tickle our ears, but it speaks a deep truth from God to our hearts. Paul constantly preached the Gospel of Christ and emphasized love, holiness, obedience, and self-control. He told us to flee sin and he encouraged us to live – not for the things of this world – but for the unseen, everlasting kingdom of God. Money and Ministry: What does the Bible say?

Paul encouraged the church by stating that the One who called us, God Himself, is faithful and will help us make it to the very end. As he finishes this letter,  Paul, in Romans 16:17-20, warns the church in Rome to watch out for those who cause divisions and act in a manner that is not in agreement with Paul’s teaching. Such people are flatterers and smooth talkers who feed their own appetites and deceive the minds of the unsuspecting. This was a constant theme in Paul’s preaching. In 1 Corinthians 10:14 and 21-22, Paul exhorts the church to flee idolatry, and he reminds them that they cannot drink from the Lord’s cup and from the cup of demons. They  cannot be partakers at the Lord’s table and at the table of demons…lest they provoke His jealousy.

Clearly, every activity we participate in at church or anywhere related to spiritual activity MUST line up with the word of God, lest we foolishly, and dangerously provoke the Lord. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul states that we must demolish every argument and pretention that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we are to take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ. Paul is demanding that we take an offensive approach in testing each and every message that we hear and every action we undertake, to make sure that it clearly aligns with the eternal scriptures given to us by God.

Paul, James, Peter, and John all warn us about false prophets and, like Jesus, Paul taught us that such men will be deceitful, hiding their true intentions. Just as Satan does, they will masquerade as angels of light, pretending to be pastors and teachers…bearing new and clever spiritual “truths”. 2 Corinthians 11:3-15, states that, just as Eve was deceived by the serpents cunning, our minds too may be led astray from our sincere devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus that we preach, or if you receive a different Spirit than the one you received, or a different Gospel …be wary. Paul also noted in this passage that he preaches the Gospel free of charge, clearly implying that those who seem money centered (whether by coming out with a constant parade of books/dvd’s or by preaching give-to-prosper) almost certainly have bad motives – very bad motives. (**see link 4 paragraphs up re money and the ministry).

As 2 Corinthians says, false apostles are deceitful workmen pretending to be apostles of Christ, and no wonder for Satan himself pretends to be an Angel of Light. It is not surprising that his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness and their end will be what their actions deserve. 1 John 4:1 makes it clear that we are to always test the spirits. If the spirit is not clearly of Jesus Christ, then flee from it…. with no turning back, no matter what any man says.

In Galatians 1:3-10, Paul begins his address to the Galatians by reminding them of the true Gospel – that Jesus gave Himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of God the Father, to whom be glory forever and ever. He then states that the Galatians are so quickly abandoning the One who called them and instead are turning to a different gospel – which is not really a gospel at all. Some imposters were throwing them into confusion and were trying to pervert the true message of the Gospel. Paul then says that, if he or even an Angel from Heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached (meaning the initial, pure Gospel Paul preached) let him be eternally condemned. He then makes the same statement again, emphasizing that anyone who preaches a false gospel, be it human or an angel, should be condemned to hell forever. Paul then says that he is not trying to win the approval of men by bringing this message. Instead, as a servant of Christ, he is trying to please God and God alone.

Clearly, Paul knew, even back then, that the simple gospel message was not popular and would offend many, especially those who profit from their preaching. This certainly seems to be the case today as well, where the church, in large part, seems to be chasing unbiblical spiritual experiences along with material prosperity, rather than seeking the glorious face of the living God as perfectly and beautifully revealed in his everlasting word.

In Ephesians 4:11-15, Paul states that God made some to be apostles, some to be prophets, and some to be evangelists in order to prepare God’s people for works of service so that the body of Christ might be built up until we all reach unity and maturity, obtaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men and their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love we will, in all things, grow up into Him who is the head, which is Christ.

The aforementioned passage  indicates that God raises up leaders to prepare us for good works in Christ so that we might be encouraged until we reach maturity. Unfortunately, this is not what I am seeing in most of our churches today. Instead, our church leaders seem to be ignoring the Gospel message of love and repentance through Jesus Christ, and instead are drawing people in with signs and wonders, trendy worship bands, a charismatic pastor, a false message of inclusiveness, prosperity preaching, bestselling self-help books or with a large, fancy building with great amenities. All of these things will burn to ashes when Jesus comes. But the word of the Lord endures forever….

Colossians 2:6-8 tells us that, just as we received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue in him, built up in strength and overflowing with thankfulness. Verse 8 tells us that we need to see to it that no one takes us captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy which depends on human traditions and the basic principles of this world rather than Christ. Our teachers should be building us up in Jesus Christ, teaching us to continue in what we received: mercy, love, repentance, and peace. Is that what we are hearing from the teachers we respect or are we simply hearing the worldly principles and philosophies of success, happiness and wealth cloaked in Christian language, while actual scripture and the gospel message of the cross of Jesus Christ, is minimized, manipulated, or ignored?

Colossians 2:18 warns us not to let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels, to disqualify us from the prize. Paul says that such a person goes into much detail about what he has seen and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. That is a highly relevant scripture, because today many “teachers/prophets/apostles” are bragging about their unverifiable and highly unbiblical encounters with angels and spirits despite the fact that Jesus specifically commands his disciples not to rejoice in the fact that spirits are subject to them. Instead Jesus wants them to simply and humbly rejoice in the fact that their names are written in the book of life (Luke 10:20).

Countless verses  warn us to avoid all communication and contact with “familiar spirits” aka demons disguised as angels or spirit guides. Anyone who brags about encounters with angels or the bizarre miracles they have witnessed should be ignored and discredited as teachers. Teachers are held to a very high standard according to Paul and James. It is a high yet humble calling. Paul himself said that the only thing he bragged about was the cross of Christ, through which he was crucified to the world and the world to him. Unfortunately, people – leaders – who are doing exactly what Paul warned against in Colossians 2 – are taking root and are flourishing all over America, and America is drinking in and spreading this sickness throughout the world. People are hurting and hungry, but they are eating the wrong food. Instead, we must lift up the true, pure message of Jesus Christ as illustrated in the gospels, along with the teachings set forth in the epistles…and from everything else we must flee.

2 Thessalonians 2:7-12, states that the secret power of lawlessness is already at work in the world. The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the works of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs, and wonders and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refuse to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but who have delighted in wickedness.

I strongly believe that, in this present age, many, many “Christians” are delighting in the wickedness of these false and demonic teachers and the feelings they get from the false signs and wonders…rather than loving the simple truth of the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. I believe that counterfeit miracles are allowed by God to test our hearts. Are we in love with the supernatural phenomenon that we are seeing and experiencing, or are we in love with the one who was from the beginning, Jesus Christ, and his commands to repent, forgive, love, obey, flee from sin, suffer for truth, persevere, and be holy?

2 Thessalonians 2 goes on to encourage the body of believers to stand firm in the faith, to continue to believe in the truth and to hold on to the teachings that Paul gave us. In 1 Timothy 1:3-7, Paul commanded certain men not to teach false doctrines, nor to dedicate themselves to myths or genealogies, which promote controversies rather than God’s work, which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart, a good conscience and a sincere faith. Paul then states that some have wandered away from the faith and have turned to meaningless talk. They want to be teachers but don’t know what they talk about or what they so confidently affirm. 1 Timothy 4:6-10 says essentially the same thing. I see many, many teachers these days who do exactly what this passage warns against. They don’t know the word at all, but simply pull verses out of context to fit their corrupt theology which brings in the masses(who also don’t know the word) and builds their bank accounts.

I greatly appreciate the fact that Paul states that the goal of stopping false doctrine is love. It is not love to allow destructive lies to flourish in the body and possibly drag the ignorant or foolish to an eternity in hell where the worm never dies and the fire is never, ever quenched (Mark 9:48). As 1 Timothy 4:16 says, watch your life doctrine closely. Persevere in them, for doing so you may save both yourself and your hearers. Also, Romans 14:22b states that we should be careful about the things which we approve, lest they condemn us. We are all called to watch our lives and doctrines closely. We are told to be careful about what we approve so that we don’t lead other people astray. We are instructed to do these things not only for our own salvation, but also for the salvation of those who hear us and trust us.

2 Timothy 4:2-8, instructs us to preach the word, and to be prepared to correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. For a time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead to suit their own desires they will gather around themselves a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn away from truth and turn aside to myths. But we are to keep our heads clear and are to discharge all the duties of an evangelist. This passage then goes on to say that, at the end, when Jesus comes to judge the world, we, like Paul, should all be able to say…I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Peter 2:1-10, affirms what Paul said in Acts 20,  that there will be false prophets among the believers. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, with some even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them. Many will be deceived by them and will follow their shameful ways bringing the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit us with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has been hanging over them and their destruction has not been sleeping. If God did not spare the angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, then the Lord also knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the Day of Judgment.

I believe that the above scripture captures what is going on today in many popular churches. So many of these false apostles, prophets and teachers are making hundreds of thousands and even millions of dollars through offerings, conferences, creating prophetic teaching centers, by claiming false revelations allegedly coming directly from God, and by selling book after book after book. They are, without a doubt, bringing the way of truth into disrepute by ignoring the Gospel of Christ and the teachings of the apostles, and instead are focusing on their “power” as manifested in unbiblical signs, revelations and wonders (where is insane laughter, barking like a dog, flailing on the ground when not possessed by a demon, fortune telling, shaking uncontrollably, calling the Holy Spirit sneaky and silly(Jen Johnson, Bethel),receiving gold fillings, having out of body experiences, being caught up in a glory cloud, etc. etc. etc. in the Bible?? Nowhere, but it is in Hindu India, and at many of your favorite “churches”. Watch Youtube videos on the Kundalini Spirit and you will see exactly what is going on in the American charismatic movement). These wicked men and women, unlike Paul, do not preach Jesus Christ, but instead preach themselves and for dishonest gain( 2 Corinthians 4:5).

In 1 John 4:1, we are told not to believe every spirit, but to test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 John 1:7-11, also states that many deceivers have gone out into the world, many of whom do not acknowledge Jesus’ coming in the flesh. We are then instructed to watch out that we do not lose what we have worked for by following such people. John states that anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God. But whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to us and does not have the true teaching of Christ, we should not take him into our house. Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work.

I  love how, in 2 John 1:4, the apostle states that it gives him great joy to find that some of his children are walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. Apparently, the number of those who were seeking the truth, even back then, was not very large, so he expressed great joy when he found some who did remain faithful.

In Jude 1:3-4 we are commanded to contend for the faith. Jude then specifically states that certain men, whose condemnation was written about long ago, have secretly slipped in among the believers. They are godless men who have changed the grace of our God into a license for immorality. In verses 18-21, Jude states that, in the last days, there will be scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires. They are men who divide us, who follow mere natural instincts and who do not have the Spirit. But we are told to build ourselves up in a most holy faith and to pray in the Holy Spirit and to keep ourselves in God’s love as we wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring us eternal life. We are told to be merciful to those who doubt and to snatch others from the fire and save them. We are instructed to avoid even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

How do we do all of this? How do we keep the faith? How do we test the spirits? How do we keep from getting manipulated? We learn the eternal word of God for ourselves, without relying upon men to teach us. We pray that, through the Holy Spirit, the eternal truths of the scriptures will burn into our hearts, minds, and souls so that false teaching will never, ever pull us away from God. Jesus promises, in John 14:26, that the Spirit will teach us all things and will remind us of everything Jesus said.

The teachings of Jesus Christ, Paul, John, Peter, Jude and James are more than adequate to instruct us forever. Anything that does not clearly align with the teachings contained in the Holy Scriptures must be ignored. And by the grace of God, we will have the confidence and love to walk in humility, peace, and strength, pulling those we know and love out of the flames, so that perhaps we can help set them on the path to eternity with the one and only God. “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning it’s shame and sat down at the right hand of God the Father.” Hebrews 12:1

Revelation 2:2 This…is what God loves, and it is why he commended the church of Ephesus:

2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars….

 

Kenneth Hagin possessed? You decide

Excellent “holy” laughter article and videos

IHOP’s cultish and demonic activities

Bill Johnson: False Teacher

More Heidi Baker Wickedness

 

***Additional verses defining what prophecy actually is, and on false prophets and teachers:***

*Please watch this video thru the 3 minute mark. It shows what can only be reasonably described as a demon, being imparted into a young man who is quietly praying at Bethel: An Impartation of darkness

21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.  1 Corinthians 10:21

Deuteronomy 18:9-22 , states that if a prophecy is truly from God, then it is true 100% of the time. The Holy Spirit doesn’t make mistakes. It also says that, in Old Testament times, death was the punishment for false prophecies. I bet prophecy was taken a lot more seriously back then! This long passage also forbids all kinds of wicked spiritual practices which are seen in the occult, and in a few very influential churches today.

Who did “readings” in the Bible? Not the Apostles. Demons, however, gladly did. In Acts 16 the slave girl “sees” who and what Paul is by an evil spirit, and it so disturbed Paul, that he cast the demon out of her. Also, demons continually told Jesus that He was the son of the Most High God, when one else knew it. So…if you are getting “read” or are getting your future told, just realize what kind of spirit you are likely dealing with.

Revelation 9:10b also says that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Are the prophecies you are hearing the testimony of Jesus…or are they more like what was going on in the passages from Jeremiah and Ezekiel below:

Jeremiah 23:9-45 and Ezekiel 13 speak of lying prophets who only speak vain, happy things that they make up because the people want to hear them. That sounds like what is going on today. Revelation 19:10b says, very clearly, that the spirit of prophecy is the “testimony of Jesus,” not silly, happy positive thoughts made up by our own vanity to please ourselves and the flesh of others.

Acts 2:1-15, is one of the most misrepresented scriptures in the Bible by false. In this passage, the Holy Spirit comes upon the Apostles, causing them to speak in actual foreign languages that men from other countries understood. This lead many to think they had been drinking, despite the fact that there is no reference of any kind to them falling on the ground or staggering like drunks. Many assume that they were falling on the ground like drunk fools because it corresponds with the demonic manifestations they have seen and taken part in, and which they love and attribute to the Holy Spirit.     …And what did the Apostles say in these foreign languages? They did not foretell the future or speak false positive messages over people. No. They spoke about….”The mighty works of God.” That, my dear brothers and sisters, is the spirit of prophecy per Revelation 19:10b. Uneducated fisherman, boldly proclaiming the mighty works of God, early in the morning…and in foreign languages certainly could give rise to thoughts of drunkenness.

Acts 4:31 is very similar to the above passage. In this verse, the apostles are gathered together praying when the place where they were meeting was shaken by the power of God…and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Did they writhe around on the floor, bark like a dog, see a glory cloud or gold dust, or receive gold fillings? No. They “spoke the word of God with boldness.” It was all about the word of God and not the “power” of men.

2 Corinthians 4:5 states, For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and us as your servants for Jesus’ sake…..This is quite the opposite of the current move amongst many evangelical teachers to label themselves apostles, prophets and healers. They preach themselves…with just a little hint of Jesus Christ, and then write best-selling books and jet across the world. As 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 says, Paul preached in weakness and fear, and with much trembling, so that the message would not depend on his gifts…but on God’s power.

1 Timothy 5:22 states that we are not to lay hands on anyone suddenly…. I believe the point of this verse is, that men, in their pride, often think they have a great gift to impart to everyone by the laying on of their hands. No one should touch you unless YOU know that they are men of enduring Godly character, lest they put something in you that is not of God. I have seen video of a woman lay hands on someone at Bethel church, and that person, who was praying quietly, immediately fell to the floor writhing, in what looked like demonic bondage and physical pain. Jesus didn’t put those things in to people…he cast them out and sent them to hell!!

1 Timothy 6:1-6 states that we should not listen to corrupt men who teach that financial success equals godliness.  Contentment in all things, as we love and quietly await our eternal reward, is true godliness.

Titus 1:10-11,16 talks about how men will teach false doctrines intentionally knowing that it will lead to riches. They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny him.

2 Peter 1:21 says that all true prophecies come not from the will of man, but from the Holy Spirit….Therefore,  prophecy can’t be taught and it isn’t just some positive or encouraging thoughts that we speak to someone. It is a lie unless the Holy Spirit speaks God’s words through you – not your positive thoughts or my positive thoughts with prophetic lingo surrounding it. I don’t want to stand before the glory of the living God and have him ask me why I said i was speaking for him…….do you?

2 Peter 3:17-18 says that we should not be led astray by the deception of the wicked but should grow in the grace of the Lord.

Jude 1:3-4 says that we are to contend for the faith against liars who preach that God’s grace is a license for immorality….Any one who preaches that we are free to sin because of God’s grace needs to read the verses set forth in my Grace, Obedience and Salvation: The Narrow Road writing.

Piercing the Darkness: Preaching the Gospel in Key West, Florida

What Did Jesus Mean When He Told Us That We Would Do Greater Works…?

Ecumenism Part 2: High Treason Against The Living God

The Beauty and Power of the Witten Word of God

What Exactly, is the Gospel?

Jesus and the Father will help us make It to the end….

Knowing God, Persecution and the Power of God

             PERSECUTION: GOD WILL HELP US MAKE IT TO THE END

6 “(We believers are)… waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.9 God is faithful…. ” 1 Corinthians 1:6-9

6 “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ….” Philippians 1:6

In Matthew 24:9-13 Jesus says, …”Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other…. Because of the increasing wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” In John 15:18-21 Jesus tells us in very clear and very strong language that if the world hated him it will hate us as well. In 2 Timothy 3:12 Paul states that everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted. In fact, in 2 Corinthians 1:8-9, Paul says that he was persecuted so severely while in the Asia that he did not even want to live. These are just a few of the many, many scriptures on the hatred and persecutions that we, as true believers in Jesus Christ, will suffer, especially as the end draws near. If we don’t ever experience opposition because of our faith, perhaps it is because in our hearts, we really love and belong to the world.

15 “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” 1 John 2:15-17

The fact that there are so many scriptures on persecution and being hated for the sake of Jesus is sometimes overwhelming, and frankly are a bit frightening. How can I, a weak, selfish and simple human, possibly make it through that? I cannot stand being rejected or hated at all, so how can I possibly survive and make it to heaven to be with my Lord forever in light of what I will face? The example of Paul’s life is both helpful and daunting. He was constantly being imprisoned, flogged, or stoned, and was even shipwrecked multiple times on his journey together with God – yet he counted everything that was to his benefit as a loss for the sake of Christ because he understood exactly who he was serving. (Philippians 3:7-14). May I, by the grace of God, have the same heart.

25 ““The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” Proverbs 29:25

“…I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Hebrews‬ ‭13:5-6‬ ‭

The only possible way to make it through intense persecution, remaining steadfastly in Christ Jesus, is through faith – trusting in the one who made us, who saved us…and who loves us. He is our helper and our strength. In John 14:1 Jesus says, trust in God(the Father) and trust also in him. We have to believe in our hearts that the God of all creation, who began a good work in us, will indeed carry it on to completion, to the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).

Fortunately, there are many scriptures which say essentially the same thing as Philippians 1:6 and Hebrews 13:5-6. Those kinds of scriptures are very helpful to me because they remind me that, as I continue to fix my eyes on Jesus rather than myself (Hebrews 12:1-3), I can be confident that God himself will carry me home…by his power and by his strength, and not by my own feeble human efforts.

In John 6:37-40, Jesus says that it is the Father’s will that he should not lose any of those whom He has given to Jesus, and that Jesus will never drive us away. In John 10:27-30, Jesus states that His sheep listen to His voice and He knows them and that we will follow Him. He teaches that he gives eternal life to us, and that we shall never perish. Jesus then goes on to state that no one can snatch us out of His hands, and that His Father who has given us to Him is greater than all, and that no one can snatch us out of the Father’s hand either. That…is deeply comforting. The Father Himself has given us to Jesus – and no one can pull us out of either of their hands!

In Romans 8:28-39, Paul states that God, according to his foreknowledge, predestined us to conform to the likeness of his Son, and states that if God is for us, who can be against us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble, or hardship, or persecution? Nope. No person and no demonic force can divide us from Jesus, the one who is constantly interceding for us at the right hand of the Father. There is truly nothing that will ever be able to separate us from the love of Christ. Paul believed these promises and exhibited this trust by his actions, as 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 illustrates. Even in his most extreme moments of suffering, Paul knew that God was with him and had a purpose in that pain. Paul knew that God’s purpose was to teach him not to rely on himself, but instead to trust, moment by moment, in the living God who made all things and who has an indescribably glorious reward prepared for him in heaven.

Paul viewed all of life in light of God’s purpose for him, with no consideration for his own wants or needs. His statement in Philippians 3:7-14, that whatever was to his gain is a loss for the sake of Christ… is one of the most beautiful and powerful sections in all of scripture. It defines the purpose life as it should be defined, by one who truly understands what both the Father and the son have done for to redeem us from the eternal consequences of our rebellion and sin. Everything in life was a loss to Paul if it didn’t involve growing in the knowledge of the power of Christ’s death and resurrection. Job had that same attitude when he was going through unparalleled suffering. In Job 1:20-22, he proclaimed, just after his entire family was killed and his wealth destroyed, that, wether the Lord gives or takes away…blessed be His name! Only the Holy Spirit can give us that attitude of complete trust and surrender. May we all pray that the Lord will help us to trust him and submit to his will as Job and Paul so beautifully did.

In 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 Paul states that Jesus himself will make us strong to the end as we eagerly await His return. Jesus will do this so that we will be blameless on that day. Paul goes on to assure us that God, who has called us into fellowship with the son, is faithful. In 2 Corinthians 1:21-24 Paul states that it is God who makes us stand firm in Christ. He has set His seal of ownership on us, and has put His Spirit in our hearts. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, Paul prays that God Himself will sanctify us and keep us blameless until the coming of Jesus, for the one who calls us is faithful, and He will do it. In 2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 Paul says that the Lord is faithful, and will strengthen and protect us from the evil one.

It is deeply encouraging to see that Paul maintains, and even grows in faith and hope in the midst of the most severe suffering. As previously stated, he was beaten multiple times, was stoned (and dragged outside of a city and left for dead), was imprisoned, and was even suffering to the point where he despaired of life. Yet in 2 Timothy 1:11-12, Paul states that, despite all of this, he was not ashamed because he knew in whom he believed, and was fully convinced that Jesus was able to guard what Paul has entrusted to him for the day of judgement. In 2 Timothy 4:18 Paul confidently states that the Lord will rescue him from every evil attack and will bring him safely into His heavenly kingdom.

The greatest example of trusting God in the midst of tremendous suffering is of course the life of Jesus. Philippians 2:5-11 lays out Jesus’ life in that regard clearly and perfectly. That passage sets forth how Jesus chose to step down from His heavenly throne and walk in the skin of man, obeying His Father perfectly, even to the point of a brutal death. Bec ause He trusted His Father fully and obeyed him to the very end, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name and that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow in Heaven and on Earth and under the Earth and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…to the glory of God the Father.

Another beautifully articulated picture of Jesus’ trust in His Father is in 1 Peter 2:23-24. In that scripture, Peter points out that, while Jesus was hanging cold and naked on a cross, enduring insults from his enemies, and bearing our sins in his body, he did not retaliate. He could have called down 10 legions of angels to avenge him…but instead He entrusted Himself to the one who judges justly, His Father. For He knew that after suffering for a little while, God, in his perfect justice, would  restore everything and the power of sin would be broken forever. That is the same attitude I should have. I need to ask the Holy Spirit to build that kind of love and trust in me.

In 1 Peter 1:3-9, Paul makes it clear that, although we are shielded by God’s power, we do still suffer as Christians, so that our faith may prove to be genuine. In 1 Peter 5:10-11, Paul states that the God of all grace, after we have suffered a little while, will Himself restore us and make us strong, firm, and steadfast. In 2 Peter 2:4-9 Paul states that the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials, and he points to Lot and Noah as examples. Thus, we do have excellent illustrations of God’s saving power in the midst of deep earthly darkness.

In Hebrews 10:22-23, Paul states that we should hold unswervingly to the hope in Jesus which we have professed, because the one who promised is faithful. In Hebrews 13:5-6, Paul reminds us that God has said, never will I leave you or forsake you. The Lord is my helper I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? In 1 John 5:18 the apostle states that Jesus will keep us safe, and that the evil one cannot harm us. In Jude 1:24, we are taught that God is able to keep us from falling and will present us before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy.

The bottom line to all these scriptures seems to be that we will both suffer, and, in God’s timing, be delivered from into eternal glory. The key is for us to know the scriptures and more specifically, to study the lives of Jesus and Paul. In doing so we will understand that God will deliver us in His time, and in His way. We are not living for this fading earthly kingdom. Instead we live for a glorious, eternal kingdom – one which can never be shaken. I know that I need to pray daily that the Holy Spirit will help me fix my eyes on Jesus and on eternity rather than on myself. Then I will be able to run the race with perseverance and faith. I certainly cannot do it in my own strength. But as Paul’s life illustrates, I truly can do all things through Jesus Christ, who strengthens me.

12 “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” 1 Peter 4:12-14

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Ecumenism, Part 1: The Jesus of the Bible is the only way to God