Have You Ever Been Duped?
False prophets seek out and prey on gullible, ungrounded dupes – who are enamored by their title or supposed prophecies, words. Beware! The authentic disciple is enamored with the Son of God and grounded in God’s Word – “the more sure word of prophecy” – and therefore not impressed with false prophets with “words.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)
In this late hour, the importance of discerning correctly and keenly cannot be over emphasized. Discerning has never been more essential for the disciple of Christ as is it in this late hour where “evil men and seducers” are waxing “worse and worse.” (2 Timothy 3:13) We must “rightly” divide the “word of truth” and that can only be done by studying to show ourselves “approved unto God” as workmen who “needeth not to be ashamed” in the end (2 Timothy 2:15). Like the God-given “noble” disciples at Berea, we must test all things against Holy Scripture (Acts 17:11).
HAVE you noticed how people will state their conclusion with little or no Scripture and then when you bring correction by stating the biblical truth using numerous Scriptures, because Scripture disagrees with their error, they will say “Well, you’re not rightly dividing the word of truth”?
The primary way to discern is testing everything and everyone against God’s written Word (Acts 17:10-11).
Good “FRUITS” can only come from a born again abiding relationship with Christ in the truth and that’s why Jesus never told us to know (Gr. discern) people by their gifts. Wake up.
“Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know (Gr. discern) them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:20-23
Jesus did not say we’d know (discern) people but their gifts but rather “by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16, 20) The FRUIT of the Spirit is more important than the GIFTS of the Spirit because it proves relationship (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:7-10). Good fruit can only be produced through relationship. The gifts of the Spirit ARE important and yet, some who presently operating in them will be hearing “depart from me” from Jesus (Matthew 7:15-23). This proves that someone can move in the gifts of the Spirit without walking in an intimate relationship with Jesus.
The key to seeing or discerning is to be full of Christ’s light. Those who are unable to discern these obvious false prophets for who they are, have no one to blame but themselves. They are full of darkness, which makes them blind, and therefore unable to discern the holy from the profane (Ezekiel 44:23). There is a “difference between the holy and the profane” and we must “discern” such.
“And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane (unholy, common), and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23
Are you simply going to read that verse above and say in your heart “Oh, nice verse” and then move forward without it? Does it not occur to you to capture that divine treasure for your own life and use it to help others? Write it on an index card with reference from the King James Bible and capture it.
Discernment Comes from God
THERE ARE SOME WHO PRIDE THEMSELVES ON THEIR SUPPOSED ABILITY TO DISCERN. YET, “GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD BUT GIVETH GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” (JAMES 4:6) WE ARE ONLY SECURE IN OUR DISCERNING TO THE DEGREE THAT WE ARE TRULY ABIDING IN CHRIST – IN THE HOLY FEAR OF GOD AND BY DAILY DENIAL OF SELF AND GIVING OURSELVES WITHOUT RESERVE TO OUR LORD WHO BLED TO SAVE US (PSALMS 86:11; LUKE 9:23-24, ETC.). I HAVE MET SOME WHO CLAIM TO HEAR WORDS FROM GOD OR SEE VISIONS OR BE ABLE TO DISCERN. THESE SAME PEOPLE ARE NOT RICH IN THE WRITTEN WORD AND ARE THEREFORE DECEIVED. ANY PERSON WHO MAKES THE CLAIM OF BEING USED OF GOD WHILE NOT RICH IN HIS WORD IS OPERATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A SPIRIT OF DIVINATION AND IS TO BE REBUKED AND/OR AVOIDED IF THEY DON’T REPENT AND BECOME “SOUND IN THE FAITH,” ROOTED AND GROUNDED IN THE WORD (TITUS 1:13; 2:2). “RIGHTLY DIVIDING” AND ACCURATE DISCERNMENT CAN ONLY COME FROM THE ONLY ONE WHO IS PERFECT AND THAT’S NOT US – IT’S THE LORD (2 TIMOTHY 2:15). IF WE ARE WALKING IN GENUINE, GODLY DISCERNMENT, IT’S DUE TO NO GOOD OF OUR OWN BUT IS RATHER THE GOOD AND PERFECT GIFT OF OUR HEAVENLY FATHER (JAMES 1:17).
When we turn our hearts to the LORD, the light of Christ shines in our hearts and the veil of darkness is dispelled. Watch this closely:
“But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.” 2 Corinthians 3:14-16
That “vail,” or that which blocks one from seeing/discerning correctly, “is done away in Christ.” Yet, after Jesus saves us, we are commanded to love and to worship Him alone with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Matthew 22:37-39). We are commanded to possess a single or clear, unbroken affection and focus upon our Savior. That’s what Jesus said. (Notice that I inserted the Greek definitions in parentheses):
“The light (Gr. Illumination) of the body is the eye (sight): if therefore thine eye be single (purely focused on Christ), thy whole body shall be full of light (bright, well illuminated). 23 But if thine eye be evil (set on anything except Christ), thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” Matthew 6:22-23
Where is your focus today friend? It’s a moment by moment battle isn’t it? Are you fighting the good fight of faith, keeping your heart’s affections upon our soon returning LORD? Jesus says “Come … and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28-30) Yet, we are instructed to “labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” (Hebrews 4:11) Laboring to enter into rest seems paradoxical doesn’t it? Well, meditate upon this truth and may Christ give thee light! He sure will. We have personal responsibility beloved – to watch, to wait upon, to seek, and to pray without ceasing in light of our LORD’s soon return.
Are you ready to turn it all around? Don’t be shamed; just hasten to His beautiful feet and throne of grace precious saint! Here you go:
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3
Reading, meditating, and studying the Word daily is essential to growth and to remaining in the light of Christ. No man can discern outside of His senses being exercised daily in and by God’s Word.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105
His Word is His light and that light is to be shining into our hearts daily and dispelling all darkness that would cloud and skew our ability to discern.
“The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalms 119:130
Christian Maturity Defined
“Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” Hebrews 5:11-14
Discernment is a gift from God that comes to those who walk with Him closely. That is, His view and perspective abides in those who love, adore, and seek Him, pouring prayerfully over His words as they perpetually hunger and thirst for more of Him. They “search the scriptures” because they contain the very “thoughts” and “truth” of their glorious LORD (Psalms 33:11; John 5:39; 17:17).
Example Discernment Component
See if this becomes self-apparent.
THINK ABOUT THIS: THE FACT THAT PAULA WHITE, T.D. JAKES, KENNETH COPELAND, JOEL OSTEEN, CREFLO DOLLAR, JOYCE MEYER, RICK WARREN, AND A HOST OF OTHER MODERN BEGUILERS HAVE MODELING PICTURES GALORE OF THEMSELVES CLEARLY REVEALS THAT THEY ARE SEEKING THEIR OWN GLORY (JOHN 7:18). THEY HAVE PROJECTED, PROMOTED, AND STAGED THEMSELVES AS CHRIST’S/CHRISTIAN LEADERS WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY AND SEVERELY VIOLATING CHRIST’S LIFE EXAMPLE AND TEACHINGS CONCERNING THE IMPERATIVE OF HUMILITY (MATTHEW 5:3; 18:3-4; 20:20-28; 23:8-12, ETC.). THESE WOLVES HAVE HIRED MAJOR MARKETING FIRMS TO PROMOTE THEMSELVES. IT’S ALL ABOUT THEM. THIS THEY HAVE DONE IN DIAMETRICAL OPPOSITION TO THE LIFE, CHARACTER, AND TEACHINGS OF THE ONE THEY CLAIM TO BE REPRESENTING. IT’S CLEAR THAT THEY ARE NOT REPRESENTING THE SON OF GOD AT ALL BUT ARE RATHER MISREPRESENTING HIM. WE KNOW BY THIS THAT THEY ARE SIMPLY USING JESUS – USING HIS NAME IN VAIN – TO PROMOTE THEMSELVES. THEY ARE MAKING “MERCHANDISE” OF THE GULLIBLE BY MAKING AN INDUSTRY OF THEMSELVES (IDOLATRY) AS THEY “ALLURE THROUGH THE LUSTS OF THE FLESH” IN THEIR GREED-DRIVEN TEACHINGS (2 PETER 2:1-3, 18). WERE WE NOT WARNED REPEATEDLY TO “LET NO MANY DECEIVE YOU BY ANY MEANS” AND “BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS WHICH COME TO YOU IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING”? (MATTHEW 7:15; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:3)
Feedback:
“Do you think the only pictures of preachers should be with their families, at their church or events? Or unprofessional photos of themselves?” David D.
Reply:
Hi David. Good question brother. Pictures of us/mere men should always be humble or lacking self-promotion. That would be following what Jesus taught us about humility and preferring OTHERS above ourselves. In other words, we would not be elevating ourselves in any way (Phil. 2:3-5).
“This is a great post. One must learn to discern or surround oneself with those who can. As you said, there is no greater time to learn this, especially when we recognize that Satan has become more active than ever. He is a LIAR AND GOD SAYS SATAN IS THE FATHER OF ALL LIES. We must be able to discern when he is dealing with us through trickery, lies and the twisting GOD’S WORD. He knows he has very little time to win souls unto himself. Stay alert, be ready and study GOD’S word. Pray, asking GOD to teach or enlighten you with this ability. Also, keep your eyes on JESUS and he will do the discerning for you. Praise his holy name. AMEN.” Gary R.
Ever hear this one when a false prophet is being exposed?: “But God knows their heart.”
LAME. Jesus commands us to know/discern them by their fruits (Matthew 7:15-20). Read God’s Word. King James Bible.
When Paul preached, did the Bereans say “well God knows his heart”? NO! They went to the written Word to see if he was true or false.
“And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:10-11
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
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DOES THE BIBLE SAY TO PRAY FOR FALSE TEACHERS? The Answer May Surprise You.
Audios
The Power of His Might Ephesians 6 [podcast]
Ephesians 6:1-2
CHILDREN AND PARENTS; SERVANTS AND MASTERS by FB Meyer
“Where our religion is true, it will affect every relationship in life. The love of Christ must find its manifestation in nursery and in kitchen, in workshop and in municipal chamber. But notice that its duties are reciprocal. We must give on our side, just as we expect others to give on theirs.
The first duty of children is obedience. They must be taught to obey because it is right, and their conscience bears witness to the rightness. Never plead with a child to do what is right, nor bribe it by a reward. Take your stand on that primeval sense of right and wrong, which is the foundation of morals and will be the stay of the child’s whole after-life, when once its supremacy is established. But parents should help their children by removing irritation or passion from their own speech. Slaves formed a large proportion of the early Church. Their obedience must be explicit, and they were taught to believe that Christ took their faithful service to their earthly owner as service to Himself. But masters must ever deal with their servants as liable to be called to account by the great Master of all. The center of all authority is Christ, and He will demand an account of our treatment of every servant He has sent into our homes.”
Charles Pray writes:
“This is the main thing God wants to teach us-that this is a spiritual battle that we fight. You can read in the King James Bible, in 2 Chronicles 20:1-29: “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” Sometimes if we are to succeed and win victory, the Lord has to be the one to fight the battle. This is the way it must be to win the victory over sins. Only through what God has done can we win the victory. We cannot redeem ourselves from our sins. We have no price we can offer. Amen!”
Biblical Duties for Employees/Bosses
The word “purloining” is a King James Bible word that comes to mind….
“Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; 10 Not purloining (stealing), but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.” Titus 2:9-10
Greek for “purloining”
G3557
νοσφίζομαι
nosphizomai
nos-fid’-som-ahee
Middle voice from νοσφί nosphi (apart or clandestinely); to sequestrate for oneself, that is, embezzle: – keep back, purloin.
Total KJV occurrences: 3
Purloin
PURLOIN, verb transitive
1. Literally, to take or carry away for one’s self; hence, to steal; to take by theft.
eg: Your butler purloins your liquor.
2. To take by plagiarism; to steal from books or manuscripts.
Where the Real Battle Rages, Ephesians 6:12
The Whole Armor of God
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” Ephesians 6:10-18
In our country, it’s Satan who wants us defenseless – unable to defend ourselves. In spiritual battle, it’s also Satan who wants nothing more than for believers to leave the house every morning without suiting up with the armor of God!
Defensive and Offensive Weaponry
Our military can defensively strike down missiles etc. There are also many offensive weapons which can blow up enemies as is witnessed by the footage of American fighter pilots targeting terrorist operations by strategically firing and perfectly guiding heavy bombs into enemy targets…buildings. etc.
Hebrews 4:12:
The Word of God, “the sword of the Spirit” is divinely powerful, bringing great destruction (Jer 23:29; 2 Cor 10:3-5); bringing offensive weapons for the inner man (John 15:3; Eph 5:26); and for evangelism) Lk 8:11; 1 Pet 1:23; Is 55:11).
Ephesians Narrated | Bible Books Narrated | Hundreds of Scripture-Rich edifying audios here.
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Articles
Prepared and Powerful [podcast]
“See, I have this day set thee over the nations and
over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down,
and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to
plant.” Jeremiah 1:10
God has a plan to remove that which does not belong in you
and to establish what does.
- “to root out” (destructive)
- “to pull down” (destructive)
- “to destroy” (destructive)
- “to throw down” (destructive)
- “to build” (constructive)
- “to plant” (constructive)
When Jesus cleansed the temple, after rooting out the evil, He then installed the purity, prayer, praise, and power (Matthew 21; John 2).
God has His order. One thing comes before the other.
Those who submit to death and burial, stripping, will be blessed to be prepared, raised up…..
Root out, pull down – high and low, God’s wants to rid us of the things that do not glorify Him.
2/3rds – Death, burial, then resurrection. As is the case throughout Holy Scripture, the cross is represented here… and then the resurrection. The divine cross economy is represented here. First we must be dead and buried and then the resurrection. Romans 6 He breaks us down before building us up.
I must be dead and buried with Christ in order to then be raised up by Christ.
“Our old man needs demolished! It cannot be reformed! Its whole foundation is rotten! God says it must be plucked up by the roots. Pulled down, destroyed, thrown out! Then He comes in and builds a new foundation. (1 Corinthians 3:11, Col 2:7). Otherwise our foundation is made of only sinking sand! And great will be the fall (Matthew 7:24-27).” Karen Cochran
The Cross Economy Pattern Seen throughout Holy Scripture
“But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10
“Tried” – death and burial
“come forth as gold” – resurrection
God has to do a work in us before He can do a work through us.
Joseph
David
Isaiah
Peter
Paul
John
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. 21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:19-22
Jesus had to first be crucified on the cross and buried before the Father raised Him up in resurrection victory. The resurrection is God’s answer to death and burial. The must be a death and burial before there can be a resurrection.
“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:6-10
Read Psalms 51 prayerfully.
WHEN the Word is flowing in and through your life like a river, it will cleanse like a river! A full-scale embarking on studying and walking in God’s Word will cleanse you and establish you in divine truth!
“But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Psalms 1:2-3
Dabbling in the Word is like a mere trickle in contrast to devouring His Word daily and having His fountain of living waters flowing into your vessel, your life.
“Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalms 92:13
God is working in the hearts and lives of each of His people and He requires and expects our personal participation. He has to root things out of us, every one of us, before He begins building and planting in us. Get to know Jeremiah 1:10 closely. “LORD change me” is a great daily prayer.
We didn’t make up the terms. GOD did. We repent and obey or perish. Be engaged in His plan to cleanse you.
Those who are submitted to God truly are bowing down in death and burial and about the Father’s business.
“All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:8-14
If you are not about the Father’s business of the Great Commission, it’s because you are not choosing to be truly submitted to the LORD.
Prayer: Holy Father, I ask You to change me. Do Your deeper work in my life. Here this moment I lay my life in Your hands. Have Your way dear LORD. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Abiding
IS SUNDAY MORNING “CHURCH” ATTENDANCE ESSENTIAL? [podcast]
“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5
Being Connected to others due to the common bond, the “common salvation” one has in Christ is not the same as being connected because one shows up at a designated “church” building on Sunday mornings (Jude 3).
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” 1 Peter 2:9
Each and every true born again, Heaven-bound, blood-bought saint of Christ, WILL regularly fellowship with other of Christ’s people. And, adherence to the written Word will be the non-negotiable foundation of that fellowship (Isaiah 8:16, 20; 40:8; Mark 13:31; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:3-4, 19-21, etc.).
WHAT’S GOD BUILDING?
WHO IS “GOD’S BUILDING”?
Jesus is NOT building your “church” – He’s building HIS “CHURCH.” You’d better find out what that means.
“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18
The word “church” here comes from the Greek word Ekklesia which means “the called out ones” – that is, His called out people. Jesus came to die for PEOPLE, not for religious organizations of mere sinful men or for the devouring wolves He often warned us about to build their church businesses, enterprises (Matthew 7:15; 24:11, 24, etc.). There’s no such thing as an organized church that isn’t in deception. Isn’t it time we “come out of her” (religious babylon) and live the life of an authentic disciple alongside the organic Jesus worshipping body of Christ?
“And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” Revelation 18:4-5
Do the words “God’s building” appear in Scripture? If so, WHO, WHAT is He referring to?
Walking with God and going to a certain local “church” building on Sunday mornings are not synonymous. An official “church” building makes nothing official. Christ’s church, the members of His body are “God’s building” – He’s building His kingdom in the hearts of His blood-bought, beloved children! When Jesus declared that “I will build my church”, HE WAS SPEAKING ABOUT HIS TEMPLES – HIS PEOPLE! (MATTHEW 16:18; 1 CORINTHIANS 3:9; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16).
Jesus is KING and kingdom living is all about exalting KING Jesus – not mere men or organizations or ministries! It’s only then that His divine “nourishment” is going to flow down into His beloved body!
“Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:18-19
Modern church pawns want you to become enamored with THEM, not CHRIST. It’s a sales, a con job! Beware. Read Colossians 2:18-19 closely.
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4
The Clues are Everywhere
Any person claiming to be a Christian who is just now seeing that the visible “church” is apostate, is clearly not reading God’s Word and obeying it. KJB “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1 …. the fact that 99% of the “church” uses one of the many fake “bibles” instead of the King James Bible, is apostasy in our faces. | 4 Verse KJV Comparison [podcast]
“A resounding no to is church essential!! It is essential if you want to feed your flesh, candy costed messages laced with poison! But if you desire a relationship with the one who saved your very soul, you better come out! The very reason we came out. How can anyone who truly loves the Lord stay in a church that is spitting in His face with lies and apostasy? And worshipping the one who hates God the most! Satan!! I can remember coming to this realization and sitting in our last church crying and saying God they don’t love You here? How can I stay? I could not!” Karen Cochran
The Unity God Ordains and Desires
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Psalms 133:1
The unity of the brethren spoken of in God’s Word has nothing to do with showing up to a Sunday morning meeting. Any lost soul could do that. No, true unity is in Christ and enjoyed uniquely by those who are born again and grounded in the sound doctrine of His written Word. This true Christ-centered unity is in part brought about by Christ’s true servant-elders, most of whom do not operate out of a physical “official” church building. No, instead, like Jesus and His apostles, Christ’s true servants today go about doing good, building up the body of Christ, giving biblical wisdom, praying for, and fellowshipping with the members of the body of Christ. They do not hide in buildings like the greedy cowards of today’s modern church world.
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting (equipping, maturing) of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:11-16
Serving God, in the minds of so many simply means nothing more than engaging in some of the numerous forms of modern church activities. Truth: Serving God is not serving in your apostate modern local church. Repent now. Follow Jesus (Luke 9:23-24).
AFFIRMATION without REGENERATION is rampant in the apostate modern church world.
If the overseers in a certain Sunday morning church group aren’t biblically watching for the souls of the people, teaching them the pure Word of God, equipping them to do the work of Christ’s ministry, and instructing them of the absolute essential of daily seeking God for themselves, would that be to God considered a place to assemble? No. See Ephesians 4:11-12; 2 Timothy 2:15; Hebrews 13:7, 17, etc..
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. … Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. … Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” Hebrews 10:25; 13:7, 17
In the context of the book of Hebrews, New Testament saints are to fellowship, to assemble with other of God’s true people. And, they are only to do so where there are true elders – elders who speak “the word of God” and “watch for your souls.”
There is no record of the earliest followers of Jesus and the apostles collecting money to build a physical building. When they collected money, what was it for? Where did it go?
“And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.” Acts 2:44-45
Notice in the above passage that “EVERY MAN” mattered and not just some group of thieving wolves who were collecting and squandering the money on their own self-serving lusts! Beware (Philippians 3:18-19; 2 Peter 2:1-3).
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own (they understood that God owns all and they were just stewards); but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” Acts 4:32-35
IS SUNDAY MORNING “CHURCH” ATTENDANCE ESSENTIAL?
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:13-20
Jesus never said “Follow me by going to, by attending church weekly.” Never. Nor did Christ ever say “Follow me by finding a good local church to join.”
“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross DAILY, and follow me. 24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” Luke 9:23-24
There is no connection between the cross Jesus mandated for any person who would truly follow Him on His stated terms, and the local churches. In fact, the passage above and a myriad of others will never be heard taught in the modern churches.
No, yet fellowship is essential. Many today who do not “attend” a certain circus called the “church” have not at all backslidden. No, instead, they left in order to preserve their faith and not because they were leaving the faith. Fellowship is a necessity – yet little that goes on in most Sunday morning church busine$$es has to do with what God’s Word defines as fellowship. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” does not speak of a Sunday morning gathering in a certain building run by wolves, of course (Hebrews 10:25). Jesus says He’s in the midst of the gathering of His people, even if just 2 – “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20) Also, there are elders among God’s people – yet such operation of His elders does not require operating out of a certain designated, official “church” building. If so, Christ and His apostles weren’t legit …. they had no “church” building. They went to the people – they didn’t raise money and build buildings and invite people to the building. See Acts 8:4 and Mark 16:15.
“And they, continuing DAILY with one accord in the TEMPLE (Jewish, not built by New Testament Christians), and breaking bread from HOUSE TO HOUSE, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,” Acts 2:46
“And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you PUBICKLY, and FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE,” Acts 20:20
“The Word says God doesn’t dwell in temples made with hands. I want what God’s Word says about fellowship, not what man has done.” Papaw Cline
Authenticity is a high priority to God. 1 John 3:18 and such does not come about by being a church member but rather by facing God daily with a sincere, honest heart, denying the self-life, taking up the cross, and following Jesus (Proverbs 28:13; Luke 8:15; 9:23-24, etc.). Separating oneself from all the religious noise, clutter, bureaucracy…. is a blessing in many ways.
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“Show me a person who does not go to church & I’ll see a weak believer at best ! When the apostles went door to door & preached to groups in & out of town the rest of the time they spent in the temple! Look at the last verse in Luke after Jesus ascended!”
REPLY:
I don’t think so. Show us all these verses where people are in a “church building” please. Waiting. I stopped “going to church” over a year ago…. much fruit, due to an abiding relationship with CHRIST, has been transpiring…. so your statement, “Show me a person who does not go to church & I’ll see a weak believer at best!” rings hollow to me friend. … friendly discussion here….. Could it be that those who are weak and are not taking personal responsibility daily to seek the face of the LORD are in need of the Sunday morning gatherings? …. some fellowships which are good, many which are not New Testament at all. There’s room for both according to Scripture….
Honestly speaking, …. how many regular church-attending Christians do you know who are ready for Jesus’ soon return, actually bearing the daily cross, feeding Christ’s sheep daily, earnestly contending for the faith, Gospel workers who labor continually, and winning souls to Christ?
Until I came out from among them, I didn’t realize just how burdensome the entanglement of the local church bureaucracies were. Whew, it’s a weight lifted and yet, if an individual is immature and not ready to be diligent in getting up each morning seeking the face of the LORD, pouring over His Word and in prayer, they may wish to remain in the church system.
The Fellowship of the Believers
Act 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Act 2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
Act 2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
Act 2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
Act 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Act 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
What 4 Elements were involved in the fellowship of the earliest followers of Jesus?
“And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” Acts 2:42
“And they continued stedfastly in …
- the apostles’ doctrine (the Word),
- and fellowship,
- and in breaking of bread,
- and in prayers.”
Sister Tina writes:
“If you think for one second that being in a building for one hour on Sunday morning justifies a relationship with Christ, you’re absolutely wrong. Take a look at the visible church today and all the warnings of apostasy because of it. Jesus said ‘go out and teach my Word to all nations and signs will follow. That’s not limited to a visible church in a physical building, one day weekly. No, we are the church (the called out PEOPLE of God). When we walk in the street and see a homeless person God gives us the opportunity as we go to share the gospel and be the gospel. This can happen everyday in all areas of our life. It’s up to us to be obedient to the call.”
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