NAR Delusion – Exposing the Whole False Prophetic and Apostolic Movements
Bumbling Buffoons
(photo at left) Take close note to just exactly WHO was on this stage in the picture to the left. These bumbling buffoons are seen falling all over each other to ordain and endorse this unrepentant demonic mad man named Todd Bentley. And WHY? – It’s simple, Todd Bentley had become so popular among the gullible, that these false prophets, being the opportunists they are, jumped in there to try to garner fame for themselves. They are running a business folks, wake up!
If you will watch this movement and its wolves, the so-called apostolic/prophetic movement is nothing but Luciferic, self-actualization and self-promotion… just like their father the devil (John 8:44). See Isaiah 14:12-15 and circle the 5 “I”‘s of Lucifer.
Are YOU so gullible as to think these wolves are true apostles and prophets of the LORD? Think about it: If they were truly prophets, would they not have known that Todd Bentley was an unrepentant drunkard and adulterer????? Bentley admitted to staying drunk during that whole so-called Lakeland “revival.” He also left his wife to marry the secretary, violating the marriage covenant. Isn’t that adultery friends?
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. 26 How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart.” Jeremiah 23:25-26 (KJV)
(In case anyone is wondering from whence we come: Though less than the least of all saints, this writer believes and seeks to walk in the full Gospel of Christ including the baptism in the Holy Ghost with the fruit and gifts of the Holy Spirit. So, I do not write from the perspective of one who denies the work of the Holy Spirit. All the gifts and callings of God are to be operated by His grace and to glorify Jesus Christ alone, and not mere men. The LORD will never contradict His own Word and all gifts properly used will be in full accordance with Holy Writ (1 Pet. 4:10-11; 2 Pet. 1:16-21). Please proceed prayerfully and from a biblical mindset like the “noble” Berean believers of Acts17:11. As true disciples of Jesus, and in light of the numerous warnings of false prophets in the last days, our goal should be to glorify Him fully, which would include discerning what is authentic and what is not (Ezek. 44:23; Matt. 7:15-23; 1 Jn. 4:1).
It is utterly heartbreaking to see just how ungrounded so many of these people are who flock to see and support these scam wolves. To start a “revival,” all you need to do is get a slick-sounding guy who sounds like he knows what he’s talking about, play some good music in the background, and WHAM you’ve got a “revival.”
Most people who claim to be Christians don’t even know Acts 17:11 much less use it to discern. Do YOU know what that truth says? Have you memorized and put it into use daily, or, will you be deceived and damned also?
IHOW – International House of WOLVES
Most of what comes out of IHOP and Kansas City etc. is totally counterfeit. First off, there is no term “the prophetic” found in God’s Word. This is the invention of wolves and devils who are misleading millions who refuse to diligently study God’s Word for themselves.
God’s Word says that even “a LITTLE leaven (mixture) leavens (ruins) the whole lump.” (Galatians 5:6) IHOP and all the other false prophetic foolishness is more than just “a little” leaven,” it is witchcraft and has no reconciliation with biblical, New Testament Christianity. “Ye cannot drink of the cup of the Lord and of the cup of devils.” (1 Corinthians. 10:21)
“Beloved, BELIEVE NOT every spirit, but try (test) the spirits whether they are of God: because MANY false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1
C. Peter Wagner and Chuck Pierce make up Global Harvest Ministries which regrettably has worldwide connections and influence among many leaders. Other leaders involved include Mary Glazier, Pat Francis, Dutch Sheets, Patricia King, and Lance Wallnau.
Believers in Jesus are commanded not to just accept everyone who comes in Christ’s name but to rather “try (test) the spirits” – that is, put to the biblical acid test all who come in the LORD’s name. The Ephesian Christians did so and Jesus was glorified:
“…thou canst not bear them which are EVIL and thou hast tried (tested) them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars.” Revelation 2:2
The first thing one can recognize, is that these men do not preach the Word of God but rather their own visions like the false prophets of old identified as counterfeit by the prophets of God (read Jer. 23; Ezek. 34).
These men emphasize what they call “The Seven Spheres of Influence,” etc.
“He (Lance Wallnau) calls them the seven mountains. The warfare strategy is that ‘if the world is to be won, these are the mountains that mold the culture and the minds of men. Whoever controls these mountains controls the direction of the world and the harvest therein.’” (p. 114) [emphasis added]
They speak of taking these 7 mountains of society but never with the Gospel, but with social programs. Such is not the work of the true Church of Jesus which tells us these men are beguilers because they are misguiding others while not holding to “the doctrine of Christ” and by this we know that they do not have God (2 Jn. 7-11). Their approach and methodologies only include reform without repentance, and transformation without truth.
No mandate in Holy Scripture calls for such presumptuous activities from these or any other self-appointed wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matt. 7:15). This brazen arrogance underscores the presumptuous, self-directed spirit of these evil and deceptive beguilers (Jer. 23; Ezek. 34).
Isn’t it Jesus Himself who is going to destroy those 7 mountains and the evil doers of the Babylonian religious and political system? Read Revelation 17-19.
Lucifer sought to elevate himself and was brought irreversibly low (Isa. 14:12-15). He wanted his independence from God and so now he lost it for good. Jesus is coming and may God bless each of us with the oil of His enabling grace and Spirit to be put under deep into His death and burial, raised as and when and how He sees fit and ultimately raised to glory with Him in the New Jerusalem (Isa. 37:31; Jn. 12:24-26; Rev. 3:5; 21:1-7).
One disciple notes:
“The LORD first makes us realize humility (beggars at the dunghill), then raises us to sit with princes.”
Pride-filled people are imitating their father the devil who is “king over all the children of pride.”
“He beholdeth all high things: he (Satan) is a king over all the children of pride.” Job 41:34
Of Wagner and Pierce, Mike Oppenheimer of LetUsReason.org states:
“These men are architects of the new paradigm who have promised a river but they have sold to the church an empty well. Wagner has written several books, one is called The New Apostolic Churches that explains the new apostolic spirit that is raising international leaders. Contrary to their claims of restoring apostles and prophets to the Church to complete a five-fold ministry mentioned by Paul in Ephesians, this movement can be more identified as Nicolaitans warned of in Rev. 2:15-16. But it is taking many churches by hook or by crook. The prophetic movement has for all intents and purposes proven to be a repackaged discipleship/shepherding movement under the title of church growth.
The stories of lives being ripped apart by people prophesying over them have become an in-house disaster that is often swept under the rug. Yet it daily continues with some new faces (and old) and a repaired program with a barrel full of excuses waiting to be used.
I have watched, studied, and spoken out on this movement since it was known to me in the late 80’s (as have numerous others). What we see today is the iceberg rising; no longer is 75% of it hidden but it is becoming more known all the time. A new Priesthood government is being set up that can only be comparable to what has been practiced in the Roman Catholic church hierarchy throughout its history. They are called ‘the anointed,’ ‘apostles and prophets’ and the Church must listen to them, allow them to minister and lead to be healthy and fulfill her commission. Without them we will be unable to complete our commission by Jesus; so they tell us.
Illegitimate Authority and Unwarranted Control
C. Peter Wagner and Chuck Pierce are the inventors and propagators of what they call “The New Apostolic Reformation Movement.” (NAR) Typically, those who invent some new movement conveniently happen to be the ones “God” supposedly places to lead. In this case these “apostles” are supposed to have the authority to rule over others. They position themselves as the “men of the hour” whom God supposedly speaks through. They convince people that they are God’s special spokesmen. In order to do this – to beguile gullible, biblically illiterate people – they downplay, ignore, and even disparage the true super apostles of our LORD – Paul, Peter, John, etc. These men were Christ’s authentic apostles of a surety and they truly honored “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.” (Heb. 3:1)
It is interesting that they themselves just happen to be the “super apostles” heading up the show in this case. A review of their teachings will reveal that these men, like all similar ministries, believe that modern apostles have an extraordinary amount of authority that Christians must submit to or be outside of the will of God. Such a teaching, spoken or insinuated, is cultish. It should be noted that the apostle Paul – a genuine apostle of Jesus Christ – never claimed to possess such an authority over God’s people. He also never taught or sought to exercise such dominion/authority over the people for which Jesus bled to purchase. In fact, the apostle Paul said:
“Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.” 2 Corinthians 1:24
True servants of Christ are submitted to Him and live to help the joy of those they come to serve. Compare this with the ‘lording it over’ mentality of the false prophets being exposed in this article. It is “by faith” in Christ that saints are saved and “stand” in their relationship with God and that is first and foremost and has nothing to do with mere men. Paul claimed no authority over those he led, instead, he postured himself as one who helped them experience the joy of Christ’s salvation.
Jesus gave His disciples authority over demons and sickness but never over people (Matt. 10:1-8; Lk. 10:18). The LORD Jesus has “all power” in heaven and in earth, and has sent all who know Him to teach His sayings (Matthew 28:18-20). We are called to preach His Gospel to others and to all nations and yet never to try to control another human being. That’s reserved for the LORD alone.
The LORD told us that His name is “Jealous,” that He is “a jealous God,” and commanded: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” (Exod. 20:3; 34:14)
The believer’s loyalty to mere men must be based upon that higher and prioritized loyalty to God (Matt. 22:37-40; 2 Cor. 8:5; Col. 3:17).
In their misguided desire to reign over others, these men are like Moses, who before his time, went forth and tried to do the will of God and wound up killing a man. These men are killing (bringing spiritual death) to many others in their rebellion against the LORD. Unlike Moses, these men have yet to repent and surrender their lives and futures to the coming King of all kings. These self-appointed men and women want so badly to be in control that they will stop at nothing to put themselves in authority over others (sound like Lucifer?) This is the exact opposite of what the Son of God taught. He taught that if we would humble ourselves, in His coming kingdom He would exalt us to rule with him.
Those who lift themselves up before they are prepared by the LORD through long hard seasons of testings and purging, will be “lifted up with pride” and “fall into the condemnation of the devil.”
“Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.” 1 Timothy 3:6
Those who are like their “father the devil,” lust after power in this life, and will be brought low – into the pit of hell for eternity (Jn. 8:44). 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that love “seeketh not her own.” Love is humble, it “vaunteth not itself,” and is like Christ – “lowly.” (Matt. 11:28-30) It’s “the meek” that “shall inherit the earth,” and the LORD is going to “stain the pride of all (fleshly) glory.” (Ps. 37:11; Isa. 23:9) Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matt. 5:5)
These men are like David’s two sons, Adonijah and Absalom, who tried to usurp the authority of the king and “stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Sam. 15:6) Satan is using these men, along with all false prophets, to steal the heart affections that are due only to the “only Potentate,” Jesus Christ (1 Tim. 6:15).
These self-appointed, so-called apostles, are usurping Christ’s authority to reign over His earth, the peoples of the earth, and His own saints that He personally purchased with His own precious blood (Ps. 24:1; Heb. 1:1-3; 1 Pet. 1:18-19). Jesus Christ made all things, sustains all things, and alone is “Head” of the people He purchased with His blood and won back to the Father (Col. 1:12-18).
The Son of God made clear that the only legitimate authority (that which He authorizes) is servant-authority – authority from Heaven, invested in us in order to serve others, not dominate them. The true leader in the kingdom of God serves as a slave and not as a ruler. Those who rule over people will be humbled to hell (Matt. 23:11-12).
Christ says and demonstrates that in His kingdom, greatness is not measured by dominion over other people but it’s measured by how we give ourselves in service to other people.
Jesus has been given “all power” and sent His people with His delegated authority to do His work, which never included power over other people – lost or saved. That’s witchcraft! He’s LORD over His people, not us! (Matt. 28:18-20) Jesus’ power and authority definitely did include power over devils and sicknesses but not other people (Matt. 10:1-8; Lk. 10:17-19).
The element of an evil control seems to undergird and pervade this “Apostolic Reformation” movement. Paul also asked the following rhetorical question: “was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Cor. 1:13) If Paul wasn’t crucified for us, certainly no modern day leader was. Right? When we give undue loyalty or adoration to mere human leaders, we enter into idolatry and spiritual adultery. Only the One who has nail-scarred hands and feet and is risen from the dead is worthy of our worship. Also, only those who “watch for your souls” by honoring and diligently speaking into your heart the full counsel of the oracles of God are to be submitted to (Acts 20-:20-32; Heb. 13:7, 17). The leader who doesn’t honor God by living and teaching by His Word alone, is never to be submitted to by the LORD’s people.
When any leader assumes undue control, it is the “deeds” and “doctrine of the Nicolaitans” which Christ said He hated and “will fight against.” (Rev. 2:6, 15-16) “Nicolaitans” means conquer the laity. Nico = conquer and laitans = the laity.
In typical Nicolaitan opportunist fashion, recently, after that pastor in Illinois was shot dead in the pulpit, one of the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) so-called apostles said that if this man had had proper “covering” he would not have been shot. That’s actually true, but not as this deceiver sees it. The “covering” we need is the LORD and not these self-exalting wolves who are so full of themselves that they vainly believe that everyone needs them to be “covering” them. Whose sins did they hang on the cross and die for? Were they raised from the dead after shedding their innocent and sinless blood?
“Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!” Isaiah 30:1-2
Any person in ministry who even insinuates that another Christian needs their sham of a covering, reveals openly just how delusional and arrogant he is.
The Great Shepherd of His sheep never authorized such authority to mere men. In fact, Jesus taught: “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” (Matt. 23:11-12) The measure of leadership is in serving others as unto the LORD. The true apostle will be found to have a heart that is broken and bowed before the LORD Almighty and a disposition to serve and not reign over God’s people. In light of what Christ, “the apostle and high priest of our profession,” taught, the next time someone comes around claiming to be an apostle, I think it may be good to say something like; “Well good brother, in that case you are to be the greatest servant among us so grab that broom in the corner and please sweep this dirty floor!” (Heb. 3:1) A man who is not postured to serve God’s people manifests his own desire to wrongly position himself and be served by God’s people which is contrary to Christ’s teaching concerning His leaders (Matt. 20:20-28; Phil. 2:3-5).
When giving instructions to “elders,” the apostle Peter wrote: “Neither as being lords (rulers) over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” (1 Pet. 5:3) The body of Christ was purchased by His very own blood and is “God’s heritage” and not man’s. Lording it over “God’s heritage” is the work of those men whom Zechariah said reign as “idol shepherds” amidst God’s people (Zech. 11:17).
One of the ways these men gain the positioning to control people is by making the people believe that they are the elite priesthood the LORD speaks through to His Church. Nonsense! Ever notice how they always have a new word? -A fresh word “from God”? Perhaps they have to perpetually conjure up new “words” to keep the circus wheel of their movement and ministries spinning and the money rolling in.
The flippant use among “Apostolic Reformation” leaders of phrases like “God is saying to His Church” is presumptuous at best. These self-appointed leaders pretend to have some special inroad to the LORD and use it to wield a false authority over His people. Of those who would control or be controlled in an undue fashion, the Son of God commanded: “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” (see Rev. 2:6, 15-16)
Self-Appointed and Self-Elevating “False Apostles”
It seems that sinful men will always invent some new way to elevate themselves above others. This is no exception. Isn’t it interesting that these men who claim the LORD is restoring apostolic leadership just happen to be those “apostles” He is elevating to rule over His people (as they vainly suppose). Quite convenient isn’t it?
Isn’t it interesting that they named their movement using the term “apostle” instead of servant? Why not “New Servant Reformation Movement”? Would that not be more biblical in nature? – in humility? Make no mistake, these men are self-appointed and self-elevating. It’s all about them and not Jesus Christ, who is “THE Apostle and high priest of our profession.” (Heb. 3:1)
“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.” Hebrews 3:1
Here the Holy Spirit tells us to “consider … Christ Jesus” whom He tells us is “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession.” The divine Person of the Holy Ghost here points us to Jesus Christ, the only Apostle that really matters. He never, not once, directs men who have been saved by the precious blood of “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession,” to look to human apostles. And we know by this that any person who even suggests such a thing is a “false apostle.”
Only people who don’t read and heed their Bible can be hoodwinked by such rank charlatans.
“Let me not, I pray you, accept any man’s person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man. For I know not to give flattering titles; in so doing my maker would soon take me away.” Job 32:21-22
Paul, the most authentic and powerful (human) kingdom apostle said this when dealing with self-appointed leaders at Galatia:
“But of these (some other supposed apostles) who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me.” Galatians 2:6
This is no new thing friends. As long as sinful men have been on earth, there have been those who emulate their father the devil in seeking to exalt themselves to rule over other men oppressively and to gain power and advantage and the rush of superiority over them (Isa. 14:12-15; 2 Peter 2:19). This is exactly what these modern day “false apostles” are doing as they operate among the professing church.
The idea that the LORD speaks through some special group of elite leaders is bogus and violates Scripture. God has chosen to speak through His Son and through His Word to bring men to Him and to bring about His desired end (Isa. 46:9-10; Luke 24:47; John 20:31; Hebrews 1:2). The Good Shepherd of the sheep told us “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John10:27) Any leader that makes it look like he has special access to the LORD should be departed from immediately, marked and openly exposed for the antichrist wolf that he is (Romans 16:17-18; Ephesians 5:11). The notion that God speaks from the top down among men is heretical. Think about this: Does Jesus need a so-called apostle’s permission to speak to an individual sheep He bled on the cross to save?
Jesus taught us not to be called by titles that elevate one brother above another because He said “one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.” (Matthew 23:8) The LORD Jesus said: “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” (Matthew 11:25) From this statement we know that God actually hides His truth from those who are wise in their own eyes and reveals it to those who are humble and broken before Him. Those who elevate self through man-instituted religious hierarchy are doomed to destruction (Matthew 16:18; 23).
The apostle Paul said “that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.” (1 Corinthians 4:6) Under the direct inspiration of the Holy Ghost, Paul also stated: “charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.” (1 Corinthians 13:4) “Emulations” is one of the 17 “works of the flesh” listed in Galatians 5. By definition, “emulations” means striving to excel at the expense of another. This is in contrast with what Christ taught and demonstrated in seeking to serve others and to prefer them above ourselves (Matthew 18:3-4; 20:20-28; Philippians 2:2-5). Of this sin this passage promises “that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:21) At the expense of the masses, these men are willing to reign as kings, to be honored above that which is correct for mere men who are in their very best state “altogether vanity.” (Psalms 39:5). What did Jesus do when the people attempted to make Him king? To elevate oneself and office is to strive to excel at the expense of others whom they lure in to partake of their strange fire.
“When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.” John 6:15
The LORD Jesus hid Himself when men sought to lift Him up. Today we have men in leadership who do just the opposite. They seek out and draw to themselves the praises and accolades of men instead of retreating from undue elevation and instead of seeking the praise that comes from God alone.
Speaking of religious leaders of His day, Jesus said: “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43)
Paul said that those who seek to please men more than God are not Christ’s servants (Galatians 1:10).
When Peter sought to circumvent the cross of Christ, Jesus “turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” (Matthew 16:23)
When the LORD Jesus died on the cross “the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom” and God came out to meet on a personal level every man who would believe and come unto Him (Mark 15:38; Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22). In contrast to the revelation of Holy Scripture, the goal of the counterfeit leader is to position himself as a true “prophet” or “apostle” of the LORD so as to gain the preeminence over and allegiance of as many as he can lure in. The wise saint will learn the Word and walk in the Spirit and not be snared by such a wolf. The Bible teaches us that Jesus Christ is the only true “Head” of His one Church (Ephesians 5:23; Colossians 1:16-18; 2:18-19). According to Jesus Christ there is only “one shepherd.” Only One bled to redeem and He alone is King of all kings and LORD of all lords (Revelation 19:16).
“And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” John 10:16
To pose as a Christian leader and posture oneself as one who wields extraordinary authority over God’s people is the height of evil arrogance. To do such is to not operate according to Christ’s Word and to use the name of the LORD in vain for one’s own selfish end (Exodus 20:7). False prophets come in His name but without the earmark fruits we are to “know them” by (Matthew 7:15-23; 24:3-4, 11, 24). Humility is one such earmark fruit, and not seen in the arrogant, power hungry deceivers who have headed up the charismatic movement over the last few decades (Matthew 18:3-4; 20:20-28). Jesus foretold us that these deluded leaders would have gifts, miracles, and prophetic words. Christ told us that “many” (not a few) deceived men who presently hold positions of influence over multitudes, would call Him “Lord, Lord” in their earthly lives and at the Judgment Throne and yet He said He will “profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:22-23) Why? – Because they do not the will of His Father (Matthew 7:21). The leader who does the will of God is obeying Christ’s command to be humble and serve others and never to seek to be served by others (Mat. 20:20-28; Philippians 2:3-5).
Concerning the false prophets in Israel, Jeremiah wrote:
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart; Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal.” Jeremiah 23:25-27
The false prophets of the “Apostolic Reformation” movement are like those of Jeremiah’s day. Of these false prophets, the Holy Spirit tells us:
- They “prophesy lies in my name”
- They are “saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed”
- “they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart”
- They “think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour”
In this movement one will discover gross and undue emphasis upon miracles, physical healing, signs, wonders, and “words” from God. This is their lure as Jesus foretold it would be (Matthew 7:22-23). 2 Thessalonians 2 speaks of “the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12) By this and other Scriptures, we understand that Satan can do miracles and yet he cannot counterfeit or produce good fruit as only the Holy Spirit can in the obedient, abiding, born again believers who “have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Matthew 7:15-23; Galatians 5:22-24). In this “Apostolic Reformation” movement one will discover the gross lack of sobriety and simple, plain, clear, forthright Bible teaching and learning. Walking in faith through God-guaranteed sufferings, persecutions, hatred, and trials will never be mentioned in their conferences or messages. These hard truths of Holy Scripture are intentionally avoided. Sound doctrine, which produces sound hearts and sound minds, will be absent. The biblical emphasis upon the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit in those who abide in daily communion with Christ will not be tended to in this camp (John 15; Galatians 5:22-24). The denial of the self-life as demanded by Jesus, will conveniently be ignored (Luke 9:23-24). The truth of the preeminent LORD and Savior and “Head” of His true Church will not be emphasized (Colossians 1:16-18; 2:18-19). When Christ is truly exalted as the only LORD and “Head” over His Church, it leaves no room for men to be exalted. The final authority, divine inspiration, and inerrancy of Holy Scripture will not be upheld in this camp of convoluted confusion and deception.
What do you think the motive would be of the man who hides the whole and naked truth from those he speaks to? Is he afraid that openly communicating the hard truths of God’s Word will not feed into his own personal agenda, image, and reputation? Is such a man truly serving Christ or himself? (Matthew 10:28; Luke 12:5; Galatians 1:10)
“Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:26
In order to become popular in today’s modern ministry world industry, one must say the right things and purposely leave out the things that would offend others. The Son of God guaranteed that any person who is popular among the masses of “Christians” who “heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears” is a false prophet. This is another truth to discern by – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-16)
Christ promised His twelve and all who would follow Him faithfully – “Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.” (Matthew 10:22) Ever hear these modern day “prophetic” or “apostolic” leaders teach this Scripture and the many Bible verses like it? Have you ever heard them mention these words which proceeded from the mouth of the One they claim to be serving?
Concerning the replacement of God’s Word for a feeling and experience-based “Christianity,” one expose’ says:
“This kind of disdain for the word of God is common among (charismatics)…and we have several documented examples of such. All emphasis is on feelings while doctrine and Bible study are looked down and frowned upon. The Devil is pleased when people follow their feelings over the Bible!”
With the unscriptural overemphasis on words, signs, and wonders, this movement continues to produce experience or feeling-based “Christians” who live lives of hyped flakery because they are not rooted and grounded in a relationship of God’s love and Word and therefore do not possess sound hearts and minds as the LORD intended. These precious misled souls are therefore not prepared for the LORD’s return for His true Church, each member who is “subject to Christ,” sanctified, being cleansed, laying down his personal life, being washed by His Word, and purified of their iniquities (Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 John 2:28-3:3). These are those whose hearts are not “established with grace” and they are therefore “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.” (Ephesians 4:14; Hebrews 13:9) Mature believers who are deep into God’s Word “have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (see Hebrews 5:11-14) These who aggrandize God’s holy words far above those of mere men, will not be tossed about with the manipulations of these modern leaders who prey on weak, ignorant, and gullible souls.
“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 (beguilers) lie in wait to deceive.” Ephesians 4:14
“Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.” Hebrews 13:9
Is there a conspiracy?
“There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they showed difference between the unclean and the clean,…” Ezekiel 22:25-26
Is there a cause?
“For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.” Isaiah 9:16
Is there a threat?
“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:29-32
Are there blind leaders?
“Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?” Luke 6:39
The threat of deceivers and losing out due to being led astray by false prophets is a severe and present danger (Colossians 2:4, 8; 2 Peter 3:17).
When we study the Scriptures we gain an historical view of the beguilers and how they operate. These men are the emissaries of the father of lies and war against the Almighty by seeking to draw away His precious sheep and devour them (Matthew 7:15; John 8:44; Acts 20:27-32; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Jude). They selectively design their ministries by picking and choosing what Scripture they wish to utilize to tailor make their ministries to draw people. Deceivers refuse to communicate a balance of the full counsel of God’s Word (Acts 20:20, 27). The modern day false prophets are no new thing. They operate just as those in Jeremiah’s day. These leaders use the LORD’s holy name for their own advantage with their dreams, words, signs, and wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Jude 16). Their goal is the listening ear of the “simple” (unlearned; those who do not correctly discern via known truth – the revealed truth of God’s Word).
“The simple (naive; undiscerning) believeth every word: but the prudent (wise) man looketh well to his going.” Proverbs 14:15
The New Testament Scriptures tell us there are “false apostles” which seems to underscore that there are true apostles being counterfeited. See 2 Corinthians 11:13 and Revelation 2:2. Like the Ephesians (Revelation 2:2), Jesus’ true disciples will discern and not be swept away in the deception of these beguiling and “ungodly men.” (Jude 3-4)–“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:13) The fact that there are “the apostles of Christ” in the above verse seems to underscore that these “deceitful workers” who are “transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ” do so in order to gain a position of strategic advantage as they counterfeit that place of serving to set themselves up unduly. Satan is the master counterfeiter. Satan and his emissaries’ goal is to rule over and mislead–to usurp, destroy and devour (Isa. 14:12-15; John 10:10; 1 Pet. 5:8). This is why they are so audacious in their self-appointment for the purposes of deceiving and harming others.
We should be becoming intimately familiar with and remember as a basis for our understanding that in eternity past Lucifer sought to usurp a position or place outside of what sphere God ordained him to function in. Listen closely to this enlightening insight from the prophet Isaiah:
“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” Isaiah 14:12-15
Now, with this freshly in our minds, let’s peer into the Holy Spirit-inspired words of the apostle Paul who was a true and validated apostle of Christ:
“But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” 2 Corinthians 11:12-15
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Bill Johnson, C Peter Wagner, Chuck Pierce, Rick Joyner, Patricia King, and any other person associated with these animal wolves is straight from Satan. Flee the false churches whose wolf pastors bring in these vile deceivers.
https://youtu.be/eaNiuRWHZrY
https://youtu.be/lhrL233Ilsk
***ANY person or “ministry” pictured on these videos is completely false. EVERY local church that is in contact with false prophets like Bill Johnson and the Kansas City wolves is not a New Testament assembly but rather a house of flakes that are exploiting the unsanctified desire and wicked imaginations of unregenerate and self-seeking souls to feel or experience spirits outside the bounds of Holy Scripture. Devils abound in these environment and yet they use the LORD’s name in vain by saying these things are from Him (Exodus 20:7; 1 Timothy 4:1-3). No such bazaar spiritual manifestations are seen among the earliest believers whose doctrines, methods, ministries, and lives are witnessed on the pages of the New Testament Scriptures which have been forsaken in the aforementioned movements and assemblies. The Scriptures they do divisively use are for their own justification as they siphon a few select verses out of context and use them to exploit the unlearned, gullible, self-serving masses they have beguiled (2 Timothy 4:3-4). These wolves, movements, and false pastors who perpetrate and follow such atrocious falsehoods, do not represent New Testament Christianity and are in total disregard of the LORD who gave us His Holy Word as His instructions to His body and to keep His remnant safe (Proverbs 30:5; Acts 20:20, 27-32; Philippians 3:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Jude 3-4). In these houses of error there is no valiance for the truth and no emphasis on “sound doctrine” which is what is emphasized by our LORD and His holy apostles and for which we shall all give account to God (Jeremiah 9:3; 2 Timothy 2:14-16; 3:15-17; 4:1-4; Titus 2:1, etc.).
Wolf Exposé | Kingdom Now/Dominionism Delusions
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Abiding
Knowing the Word of God and also the God of the Word [podcast]
The highest priority of the true disciple is knowing God.
So many strive to know God’s will.
It’s only when you know God that you will know His will.
We all know people who are now away from God. They backslid. They no longer serve Him as they once did. Well, were they truly serving Him, or the church? They had some kind of a departure from the local church they were so fond of and consequently have no semblance of a life with Christ presently. Could this be due to them putting their energy and affections into the local church friends they met and the festivities? Yes. They were in love with the externals and not Christ.
“Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” Revelation 4:11
“God’s greatest desire is for us to have a relationship with Him. We were created for His great pleasure. Revelation 4:11” Karen Cochran
“That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.” Philippians 3:10
Kingdom Priority
KNOWING and LOVING, WORSHIPPING God. Read Matthew 4:10; 22:37-39; John 17:3.
Pinnacle Revelation
Knowing God is the paramount divine purpose for which He sent His only begotten ….. and for which He created, made us.
“And this is life eternal (the whole reason, purpose), that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” John 17:3
Knowing God is the reason He sent His only begotten Son—to bring us to Himself in a present and eternal relationship (Exodus 25:8;Psalms 27:4, 8; Philippians 3:10, etc). One of Satan’s tricks is to get the elders to intercept that heart affection worship.
“It has always been about Jesus. Before Christ came to save us from our sins, the Bible was pointing to Jesus. Now after Christ came, we still look to Jesus. It has always been about knowing and trusting in Jesus. Before He came people just did not know His name, but now we do!” Serena Wagner
It’s not about elders, bishops. or pastors—Christ’s eternal kingdom is all about Jesus and no other. Read John 1; Colossians 1-2; Hebrews 1; Revelation 1.
WHAT will you say to the nail scarred risen LORD on Judgment Day when you made it about something else other than Him?
“Christianity can quickly become ‘Do this and Don’t do that.’ Jesus is quickly forgotten. Instead, repent and fall in love with JESUS, and through the power of the Holy Spirit you will live a life that pleases Him. When You are filled with the Holy Spirit You will hate the sin you once loved.” Alan Brayshaw
WHO is “known of” God as opposed to those He will tell “I never knew you”? (Matthew 7:21)
“But if any man love God, the same is known of him.” 1 Corinthians 8:3
“Those are the most frightening and terrifying words anyone could ever hear! That is why I always ask Jesus, ‘Do you know me?’ I want to be with my Lord and Savior for eternity! But I do not want to be so arrogant and prideful as to believe that God doesn’t have every right to spue me out. Or I that I am safe! I deserve hell. The only reason I have been spared is because of Jesus’ saving work for me on the cross! He redeemed me! But there are many conditions to be eternally with Jesus. We are to have a healthy fear of God knowing He has the power to determine the fate of our very soul! Matthew 10:28 It means nothing to Jesus if all we have is head knowledge of the Bible without any heart. He told the Pharisees they knew scriptures but they didn’t know Him in their heart (John 5: 38-47). It’s not based on what we know it’s based on knowing Him in an abiding relationship (John 15). The cross is the way to a real intimate relationship with Jesus. Through the dying of self He becomes your first love. And you begin to love Him with your whole soul, heart and mind (Matthew 22:37). I ask God daily ‘increase my hunger for Your Word.’ I want the hunger and love for God’s Word that David had! Just read and study Psalm 119. He cried out for more understanding even in the midst of persecution! That was his whole priority in life! David loved God, therefore he loved God’s Word as evidenced in Psalm 119. Every word is filled with love, devotion, respect, rejoicing and delighting in God’s words, pleading with the Lord that He might learn His statues and he might not err from God’s judgements. Psalm 119 is a treasure chest of David’s love for God’s word! If you want to truly fall in love with all of God’s word read, study and memorize Psalm 119!” Karen Cochran
Knowing the Facts and the Father
Recently, in order “to provoke unto love and to good works” I posted the meme above this paragraph and as has happened before, was confronted about how the Pharisees knew God’s Word but rebelled against Jesus (Hebrews 10:24). Let’s cross examine this position against the counsel of Scripture.
While it’s clear that we must know not only the Word of God but the God of the Word, the God revealed in His Word, how does that negate the need for Bible knowledge? It simply doesn’t.
Just because the Pharisees of Christ’s day knew His Word but didn’t choose to turn their hearts to Him, how does that mean that believers today should neglect knowing His Word? Such logic is not only bad, it’s un-scriptural and evil.
“When you fall in love don’t you want to shout it from the rooftops? He, the man you are in love with, is all you talk about! Should be the same with Jesus! You want to tell everyone about this man, the Savior who saved your life! Just as the woman at the well did. She told the whole city ‘Come, and see a man, which told me all the things that ever I did: is this not the Christ’ John 4: 28-29.” Karen Cochran
Beware of anyone who discourages learning God’s Word in any form, including memorizing Scripture. This is a novice error and it could only be coming from the evil one. Because the Jews knew the Bible and rejected Jesus, novices reason that this means that New Testament saints, saved by grace, are not to intimately know or memorize God’s Word. Nonsense!
Is the primary responsibility of the disciple of Jesus to:
A. Follow the instructions of God’s Word? or
B. Don’t be like the Pharisees (false leaders)?
A. is the correct answer.
The fact that the LORD cited the false religionists of His day for not coming to Him, for not opening their hearts to Him, in no way communicates that those who are His should not learn His Word too well. That would be like saying that just because the false leaders of Jesus’ day knew His Word and yet didn’t turn their hearts to Jesus, anyone who learns His Word too well (as if that’s even possible) will automatically not turn their hearts to Jesus.
Let’s look at the passage that is being taken out of context:
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:39-40
“And isn’t that just what Jesus told the Pharisees? You know scriptures but you don’t know me in your heart! John 5: 38-47. It means nothing to Jesus if we only know of Him. We must know Him in Spirit and in truth! John 4:24.” Karen Cochran
Did Jesus rebuke them for knowing His Word? No.
Notice, Jesus says that His people are to “Search the scriptures” and the Scriptures “are they which testify of” (reveal) Him.
“Even the Pharisees knew the scriptures and knew of Jesus, but they did not know Him. Jesus told them they did not have Him in their hearts and therefore did not have eternal life . John 5: 38-47. Head knowledge means nothing to Jesus. We need to know Him in our hearts in a relationship with Him. Digesting His words! Getting to know Him. We should be emulating the sweet savour of Christ. 2 Corinthians 2: 15. How can you be like someone that you don’t know?” Karen Cochran
The Gospel message is “the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16).
In fact, it’s the seed of God’s “incorruptible” Word that is the instrument of His regeneration in our lives.
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: 25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” 1 Peter 1:23-25
The very way God ordained and orchestrated that we learn about and know Him, repent and believe upon Christ, is through the knowledge we get from “the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Listen to the apostle Paul instruct Timothy:
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The man of God cannot be perfected, matured, “throughly furnished unto all good works” without a deep knowledge of the Scriptures which the apostle reveals here is “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
So the first of the 4 stated reasons God gave us His Word, the Bible, are for…
“doctrine”
Must know the facts and the Father!
Must know the Word and the God of the Word.
How are God’s people going to learn His Word if they don’t study and memorize and meditate upon it? How are God’s people going to be sanctified by the truth and washed by the water of the Word if they’re not in that Word daily and engaged in learning and obeying God’s Word?
So if the Pharisees did not know God’s Word would they not have also rejected him? How can knowing God’s Word be negative in any way? It’s simply can’t.
Is trying not to be like a Pharisee more important than actually following Christ?
In John 5:39-40 Jesus said nothing negative about the Pharisees knowing His Word but rather about them refusing to come to Him. Let us rightly divide saints and correct those who bear false witness (2 Timothy 2:15). In fact, in another place Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for not knowing His Word: “Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God“ (Matthew 22:29). God’s people need to know “the scriptures” and walk in “the power of God.” Only Satan could be behind the attempt to hinder either!
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:39-40
There will be those who come and go who know the words of God but not the God of the Word. Beware saints. Many times they know all the right things to say and yet have not truly repented and are living in sin, darkness, pride, and deep-seated rebellion.
On this note, sister Karen Cochran writes:
“Modern Pharisees know the Scriptures but like the Pharisees of old they don’t know Jesus. Just like Jesus told them in John 5:38- 42. They knew the Scriptures but they didn’t know Him. What good is it if we don’t know Jesus? We can know of Him but not know Him. We must love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Matthew 22:37- 38”
These counterfeits are saying that God’s people shouldn’t know God’s Word too well, we shouldn’t memorize it, because then we may become like the Pharisees and not come to Jesus. Foolishness at best.
To the contrary, the Bible teaches us to read, to “study,” to “retain,” and “meditate upon God’s Word ….
Did the apostle Paul correct the biblically astute Bereans for diligently, meticulously searching the scriptures to see if he was telling the truth? No! (Acts 17:10-11)
They are saying that knowing God’s Word in your God-given mind will keep you from knowing Him in your heart. Nonsense. By divine design, information is contacted, first enters our minds before it can be processed and received in our heart.
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17
“Most people in the churches of today prefer to follow and believe the men/pastors and their words over the Word of God at their peril. This is because they are too lazy to study and read the Bible for themselves, sadly. Biblical illiteracy is the norm and not the exception today.” B.
Concerning ruling over the masses that have been kept ignorant of God’s Word, one disciple writes:
“Lacking of knowing God’s Word, memorizing it, is the direct reason the catholic church grew to so much power in the middle ages, and others down the ages. It was only the ‘priest’ that could read the Bible. So it meant what they said it meant and not what God meant. RUN!”
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” Hosea 4:6
Checking your ignorance at the door!
Those who are ignorant of truth are so willingly (Hosea 4:6). They “willingly are ignorant” (2 Peter 3:5).
He gave us His truth, and those who reject His knowledge, His Word, will be “destroyed.”
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because THOU HAS REJECTED KNOWLEDGE, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law (Word) of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” Hosea 4:6
“There was a time when churches were teaching the whole counsel of God and most Bible believers in Bible teaching churches could carry on intelligent biblical conversations if they had been saved for five years or so. In the last ten years, I have found that most Christians today have become biblical illiterates. Due to the constant tendency toward all kinds of new experiences ( 2 Timothy 4:3-4), many are influenced to the extreme, and they settle for simply repeating various phrases that they hear without true, biblical understanding. That, then, becomes the focal point of their Christian life rather than conforming to the teachings of Scripture which they are not taught. It is getting harder and harder to find people in a local church who have even a very basic knowledge of Scripture, let alone any in-depth knowledge. The false teachers are going to have a lot to answer for in this area, but so will pastors who have encouraged this in their people rather than taking on the discipline of learning how to do a proper exegesis and expository teaching.” 1980 Dr. Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum
To a man who recently sought to discourage God’s people from memorizing His Word due to the fact that the Pharisees knew His Word and yet crucified Him.
I asked him if what the Pharisees did cancelled and negated the need for God’s people to know His Word in their minds and trust and love Him in their hearts? To this man I also wrote:
“Perhaps you should cease discouraging God’s people from learning and submitting to His Word…. there’s NO sense in which learning God’s Word is anything but a good thing…. and of course coming to Him in our hearts via His Word and Holy Spirit ….”
Our GOD-given brain is the passage way to the heart…. is it not? “Come now, and let us reason together…” (Isaiah 1:18).
God gave us a brain to “reason” with and a heart to believe upon Christ with (Romans 10:9-10). “COME now, and let us reason together” He said to His people (Isaiah 1:18).
Did Jesus memorize Scripture? Yes, beginning as a young boy. And this is how He grew in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52). In fact, He knew where things were in the Bible—“He FOUND the place” in the Word He wanted to read—“And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written” (Luke 4:17).
ARE YOU “BLESSED”?
If you aren’t reading God’s Word daily, you are not “blessed.” Read Psalm 1.
“Blessed is he that readeth…” (Revelation 1:3).
See also Psalms 1:1-3.
Set it in your mind today that tomorrow, upon waking, you are diligently devouring God’s Word. Memorize and meditate upon 1 Chronicles 22:19. The message from Heaven is simple: FOLLOW JESUS via HIS WORD. The Bible is God’s truth and our safety. “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield (protection) unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
No way to know the Word Himself outside of His own Word. “They are they (His words) which testify of me” (John 5:39-40).
The written Word is like the tangible standard whereas at times, each of us as humans, can think we are being led by the Spirit but actually not being led by the LORD…. and so the standard is always the written Word, right?… To rightly divide His Word of truth. Right and amen Jesus (2 Timothy 2:15).
The only way we can “rightly” divide the truth from error is by personally, diligently studying God’s Word. Memorize 2 Timothy 2:15.
ALL ministries not getting you into God’s Word are fostering your faith in them!
Stacy Strother writes:
“The true Spirit of God will NEVER discard truth or lead people outside the parameter of the written word of God. The Spirit of God will search out ALL things and even the deep things, and if we are born again, have patience, we can be taught and be led to stay within harmony of His word. Read 1 Corinthians 2:6-16.”
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Abiding
“Thou hast been in Eden the Garden of God.” ~ Ezekiel 28:13 [podcast]
Excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages
THE INTRUDERS—THE RESTORATION
“Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God.” ~ Ezekiel 28:13
The evil one had been thrust down from Heaven to the earth for the iniquity found in him (Ezek. 28:15; Lk. 10:18). This evil foe, who had been ejected by God from Heaven’s pristine and perfect premises, was cast down to the earth and allowed in the sanctuary of the Garden of Eden, because God gives men a choice to serve—or to not serve Him. He created in mankind the gift of free will. Temptation is ultimately the test as to whom the individual will love and serve. “For the LORD your God proveth (tests) you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deut. 13:3).
The serpent slithered among the lush embellishments of the Garden of Eden. His goal was the fall of the first man and woman who were created in the image of the One who made all things. Satan obviously schemed and strategized as to what weapon to employ in order to accomplish his main objective—to cause the first man and woman to fall from grace by sinning, and consequently, be alienated from the LORD. This enemy of souls knew from personal experience that the Almighty keeps His Word and casts down those who disobey Him. To this point, Adam and Eve knew only righteousness. They did not yet realize what the evil one knew and had already been the recipient of – that is, the judgment of God for his sin. A hard lesson lay ahead of Adam and Eve, and a fallen creation would be left in the wake of their defiance of the holy LORD and His righteous command – not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Gen. 2:17).
The enemy of all souls has not changed. His temptations are “common to man” (1 Cor. 10:13). Satan’s goal was, and is, to interrupt and destroy the relationship between his enemy, God, and His special creation—man. Jesus informed us that the ultimate “thief” has come to “steal, to kill and to destroy” (Jn. 10:10). This same goal—the fall of man—is still his aim and will be until the LORD Himself puts him away for good (Rev. 20:10).
From the Garden to the modern pulpit, the enemy has lied to mankind. Satan and his false teachers are the intruders—the very enemies of the Almighty. The serpent has slithered through the garden path of history, seductively spreading his poisonous seed, causing the fall of many and now possesses the thoughts and doctrines of an army of deceived men in ministry.
Ever since the Garden, the lie of the ages dwells among men, especially in the sanctuary where the LORD is supposed to be reigning—the Church world. As in the Garden of creation, so the enemy specifically concentrates on the sanctuary of his enemy’s people. He seeks to molest purity, beguiling those who are unlearned. Many times, he uses the body of Christ’s own leaders.
Today, the pulpits and platforms of modern media are the places that most people simply do not suspect to be the mediums where falsehoods thrive, reside, and flow. They do not see the serpent lurking among the trees in the garden of modern “Christian” pulpits, organizations, and media. Most are not aware of the wolves in sheep’s clothing who, like the lurking serpent in the garden, “lie in wait to deceive” (Eph. 4:14).
As foretold by the prophet Amos, the enemy of souls seeks to alter and remove the Word of God from the hearing of God’s people (Amos 8:11). This is what he did in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:17; 3:4). Today this same enemy uses the most subtle messengers—the ones many people look to for truth. The Holy Spirit forewarned us that in these last of days men would not remain in the truth but rather that “some shall depart from the faith” and that “many” would “corrupt the word of God” (1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Cor. 2:17): “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.”
It simply doesn’t matter if a leader realizes he is teaching heresy or not. If he is teaching anything other than the Word, he is a detractor from the glory of God and leading others astray. Men of God are to “preach the word” and speak only “as the oracles (words) of God” (2 Tim. 4:2; 1 Pet. 4:11). This is a non-negotiable command to all who would accurately represent the LORD. No matter the reasoning, one will be found a deceiver on Judgment Day if he preaches any other message than the Word of God (Isa. 8:20). One can be sincere and sincerely wrong at the same time (Prov. 14:12). “Let God be true, but every man a liar” (Rom. 3:4).
The holy and almighty God told us that He is going to judge all men according to His Word (Jn. 12:48; Rom. 2:16; Rev. 20:11-15).
From the very beginning (Garden of Creation), the beguiler’s target has been God’s people. Nothing has changed. His message to men is simple— “You don’t have to worry about obedience, it’s optional, you can live the way you choose and still remain in the grace of God.”
Through those men he uses today, the enemy mixes in some truth with this deadly lie of lasciviousness and poisons the whole pond, leading many astray into a false gospel and false security. Perhaps it has been wisely stated that “Satan will give you a million pounds of truth to blind you with that one ounce of a deadly lie which will kill you.” In order to bring in a lie among God’s people, the enemy likes to lead with truth as his smokescreen in order to bring in that deadly distortion behind the cover of truth. See Matthew 16:6-12 and 1 Corinthians 5:6. “A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump” (Gal. 5:9).
Why should we be surprised that this ultimate enemy still uses the most “subtle” and unsuspected methods and personalities to communicate his deadly message to God’s people? After all, his message still works to cause unsuspecting men to fall out of fellowship with God. Why should we wonder why the evil one still utilizes the same lie that claimed the first man and woman? Has this message not captured untold scores of souls since then? Are we so blindly naïve as to believe that there is no evil or devil? Why should we be surprised to realize that this same evil enemy of souls is ceaselessly in the midst of our garden today, telling this same lie by adding to the Word of the Maker?
God said “Thou shalt surely die,” and Satan countered with “Ye shall not surely die.”
Are pulpits more sacred than the very Garden of Eden? Obviously not. There was no sin in the Garden until Satan introduced the lie of the ages, and the man and woman bought it. In the very cradle of creation, the enemy of God initiated and launched the lie that would fatally wound mankind, claiming the souls of millions throughout the centuries. This exact same deadly lie was picked up, incorporated, and perpetuated by early century church fathers, so-called theologians, whose heresy-laced writings and commentaries regrettably hold great prominence among many evangelicals today—even though they have no reconciliation with the Counsel of God, which will be demonstrated throughout this book.
The Bible enlightens us to the reality that Satan is a strategist and has schemes of which believers are instructed not to be ignorant (2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 5:8). We are in a war, and like any good war general and his staff, we are to study and know the nature, weapons, and ways of our enemy.
The apostle Paul informed us that Satan’s methods are the same today as they were from the start—in the Garden.
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13
In this same text, the LORD told us that He makes a way to escape the re-used lies of the enemy and his temptations.
As can be clearly seen in Genesis, “once saved always saved” is not a new doctrine, and it’s also not the LORD’s doctrine. “Once saved always saved” is clearly the lie that caused the fall of man. This is the doctrine of the arch enemy of the Almighty. As in the very beginning, the unholy serpent himself is still creeping into the homes and gathering places of believers today and utilizing the same lie to mislead people and cause their fall from grace. The chief wolf who has come “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy” seeks to devour souls for his kingdom and from the Chief Shepherd, who is “come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (Jn. 10:10; Heb. 13:20). Beware! “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8).
The first lie led to the fall of the first man and woman and is leading to the fall of masses of people today. Millions in our day are being taught that they are unconditionally eternally secure—in the absence of the truth about the holiness of the God they will stand before in judgment, and His demand that we be made holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:16).
The pulpits of America have been hi-jacked by men who have “crept in unawares” who are teaching a doctrine originated by the enemy of all souls and calling it “Christian.” This is paramount to using the name of the LORD in vain, by attaching His holy name to a teaching of his arch enemy.
Tracing the Lie
The adversary attacked God through His own creation—the Garden, the fruit, the serpent, the woman, and the man.
Does it intrigue you to uncover the very first lie told by the one Christ warned us of who is the father of all lies? Of Satan, Jesus said: “for he is a liar, and the father of it” (Jn. 8:44).
One three-letter word— “not”—changed the course of history! Satan told the woman “Ye shall not surely die,” after their Maker had told them that they would “surely die” in the day they disobeyed Him (Gen. 2:17; 3:4).
“And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall NOT surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” ~ Genesis 3:4-5
This first and poisonous falsehood, the lie of the ages, is still today the same deadly venom being injected by the evil one in the battle that rages for the eternal souls of men. The serpent infused the first man and woman with this venomous and paralyzing deception, robbing from their hearts the fear of the LORD, which led to their fall from grace. Consequently, a separation was incurred between a holy Maker and His creation with a catastrophic curse which fell.
This unconditional eternal security—without condition to the recipient—is the very FIRST LIE the devil ever told to mankind. “Once saved always saved” (OSAS) is one of the modern labels of the renamed, or repackaged, lie of the ages. In this deception in the Garden, as well as in our day, Satan craftily convinces people that they have irrevocable “security” and “assurance,” no matter what their actions against the clear command/Word of God.
The message of eternal security without condition to the recipient is that once one has been born again, he has no responsibility to continue to faithfully obey the Almighty—the One who saved him. Those who sit under this teaching are told that once they have been brought into fellowship with Him in His garden of salvation through Christ, they can never “die” or be separated from Him again, even if they blatantly rebel. This lie teaches that the person who Christ has saved can then choose to live as he wishes with no fear of consequence or righteous retribution from the One who is “Holy, holy, holy” (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8). This is the very lie that Satan gave Adam and Eve which led to their fall into sin and separation from the LORD.
Can you see why it is a big score for the enemy of souls when people are told by their misled leaders that they are “once saved always saved”—no matter what they choose to do, including revolt completely against the Most High and go back to the life of sin?
In the sanctity of the Garden, where there was no suspicion, Satan intruded. Today, in the sanctuary of the pulpits and various Christian media, his emissaries are intruding where few suspect. He prospers because so many believe that their leaders are guiding them correctly, and yet do not know and obey the Word of God for themselves. Only those who learn the way of the LORD through His Word can know and see the enemy’s work. Those who do not have a life in the Word will fall prey to deception and ultimately be destroyed (Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29). Discernment comes from being personally exercised in the Word of God (Heb. 5:11-14).
The New Garden—Restored Holy Bliss
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” ~ Isaiah 9:6-7
The Genesis account of creation and the relationship between the LORD and the first man and woman, is an ongoing saga to continue until the hour of Christ’s return, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. We are given this record (the Bible) in order to know the LORD and how He deals with men, and who He blesses and who He curses.
From the Garden to the Holy City—Genesis to Revelation, the war over the souls of men rages. The enemy seeks to reclaim those redeemed by the blood of the One who is the seed of woman (Gen. 3:15). What better way to undertake such an evil mission than to use those shepherds at the very helm of the visible church?
God’s account of man’s creation and fall is not left without a solution from the only One who can remedy his alienation. Holy Writ opens with the creation and fall of mankind and the promised prophetic restoration through the Messiah of all who will come to Him, as He justly prescribed (Gen. 3:15). The book of all Books ends with a warning to all of us concerning making the very same error Adam and Eve made when they bought into the distortion of His holy words, and thereby fell, joining forces with His archenemy.
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” ~ Revelation 22:12-21
In these final words of Holy Scripture, Jesus Christ tells us that He is coming quickly to reward all according to each person’s works. He says to us that those who keep and do His Word will receive blessings and “have right to the tree of life” in the restored “holy city” of God. Outside this blessedness will be all who have lived in and justified their sins—no matter what their previous relationship with Him might have been. Then, in the very final words of Holy Writ, there is the warning of adding to or taking from His words. This adding to or removing of truth is done first internally, in the hearts of those who do not genuinely love the LORD with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. Those who love darkness rather than His holy light do not wish to come clean under the light of divine truth (Jn. 3:18-21; 2 Tim. 4:3-4).
This war for the souls of men spans from Genesis to Revelation, and the words of God are pivotal in this most crucial and consequential of battles. Those who play into the enemy’s scheme to “add unto” or “take away” from God’s words of instruction will be removed from the book of life, cut out of the holy city, and from all eternal blessings. The lake of fire waits.
PRAYER: LORD Jesus, please purify my heart and remove all dissimulation and mixture from me. Rid my life of all secret faults and presumptuous sins! Father, please grant me the blessing of knowing You in truth and living in Your holy light and will. Jesus, please preserve my eternal soul until the day of Your soon return. Amen.
Excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages
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Abiding
Testing the Mettle of our Profession [podcast]
In this example, the phrase “testing the mettle” speaks of examining the authenticity of a person’s profession, putting to the test their claim of knowing Christ.
“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” Titus 1:16
1 John 3:5-23
“And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12 Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous. 13 Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. 16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 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.
Mark 4
“And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And HAVE NO ROOT IN THEMSELVES, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.” Mark 4:16-17
“Have no root in themselves” would be a good phrase to search out. When we choose to have impure motives, when we refuse to rid our lives of that sin which defiles us in His holy eyes, we still have a poisoned instead of a pure root.
IF one who has been saved and yet is not diligently seeking the face of the LORD for the REAL foundation that HE alone can build in our lives—the wheels are going to fall off before eternity. God told us He is going to shake all things, every life. There are no shortcuts. The divine kingdom system cannot be falsified.
“See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: 26 Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. 27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29 For our God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:25-29
ASSIGNMENT FOR THE HONEST: WANT to see, want to test if you are real, genuine, authentic? Read the book of 1 John. 5 chapters. Read 1 chapter per morning for the next 5 days. Pray as you begin and be ready, fervent, to repent—to cry out to the LORD to purge, to strip you of every trace of evil, of deceit, of pride, to the core of your being—as He alone can do. Psalms 51. You will do well to prayerfully camp in 1 John 3.
Never cover your sins. Confess them for what they are before the LORD (Hebrews 4:14-16).
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13
Any saved person who does not deliberately choose to have a heart after God, a heart and life that is seeking God “continually” is not enduring to the end and will not make it. Such a person is clearly a foolish virgin (Matthew 25:1-13).
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” 1 Chronicles 16:11
“This should be a way of life! Actively seeking a deep and intimate relationship with Him. Not just an occasional prayer but an active pursuit. ‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart’ (Jeremiah 29:13). This verse describes exactly how we are to seek Him. With all our hearts! Not half hearted! Jesus wants our total and complete devotion and commitment to Him. If we seek Him with our whole entire being He promises we will find Him!” Karen Cochran
The ONLY foundation standing in the end will be obedience to HIS Word (Matthew 7:19-29). Only those who chose to have their feet firmly planted on that one foundation will be with King Jesus (Matthew 7:21).
IN HIS MERCY, God is shaking EVERY foundation. Read Hebrews 12.
DO execute the calling of God on your life militantly (1 Timothy 2:1-5).
Heaven bound WISE virgins saints are staying full of God’s Word today. Matthew 25:1-13
Get militant or get mauled, mutilated by the flesh.
Your simple prayer: LORD, please help me love You more. In Jesus’ name.
Jesus Speaks…….. watch exactly WHO the the Son of God/Bible says are really saved…. which means the vast majority of professing “Christians” are hell bound….
“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” Luke 12:8-9
ALL who do not confess Jesus to others prove they are ashamed of Him and will perish in the flames of hell. Counterfeits—“trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots.”
“These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots.” Jude 12
SO you claim Christ as Savior and yet you aren’t putting forth, preaching His Word? I doubt He knows you!
“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” Luke 12:8-9
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Knowing the Word of God and also the God of the Word [podcast]
“Thou hast been in Eden the Garden of God.” ~ Ezekiel 28:13 [podcast]
Testing the Mettle of our Profession [podcast]
Mexico Mission Part 22
Conspiracy Among the False Prophets [podcast]
Man’s Problem – God’s Redemptive Solution [podcast]
Evangelism Adventures: Stories, Reports, and Testimonies of God’s Amazing Love [podcast]
The Way We Spend Our Money is a Direct Reflection of the Priorities of Our Heart [podcast]
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The Only Solution to Man’s Sin [podcast]
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The Seed of Salvation [podcast]
“In Due Season We Shall Reap, If We Faint Not” [podcast]
There’s Only One Savior [video]
Biblical Case Against Naivety
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