Will Everyone Jesus has Saved be in Heaven? [podcast]
Heaven Guaranteed to all who have Received Jesus?
When Jesus said “It is finished,” He was speaking of HIS perfect sacrificial payment for the sins of mankind (John 19:30). The fact that Jesus offered the perfect sacrifice, in no way negates HIS instructions to those who would enter His eternal kingdom. The answer is clearly given to us in Scripture as to what God’s initial and ongoing conditions are for men to appropriate Christ’s salvation. The answer is 1.) repentance and genuine faith and 2.) faith to the end of that recipient’s life on this earth (Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Acts 14:22; 20:21; Col. 1:23; Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39; Rev. 2:26, etc.).
“And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 10:22
So, if we whom He has “saved” don’t “endure to the end,” is Jesus still going to save us?
“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13
Jesus taught His own that they must “endure to the end” to be ultimately saved into Heaven (Matthew 10:22; 24:13). Any man teaching that Heaven is automatic for all who were initially, truly saved, is a false teacher.
Whoever by their false doctrine says that enduring to the end is not an essential condition for final salvation, calls the Son of God a lunatic. But we know He’s not. He’s the truth.
Why would Jesus have told His own 12 that they had to “endure to the end” to be “saved” if the cliche’ doctrines of the “PERSEVERANCE of the saints,” “once saved always saved,” and “eternal security” were so? (Matthew 10:22; 24:13) If enduring to the end were automatic for these 12 “elect” men, why did the Son of God bother telling them that it was essential for them to endure to the end (not deny Him)?
IF you don’t seek Him, putting Him first, it’s because you don’t love Him.
The poisoned mind of the Calvinist and eternal securist believes that God’s perfect work through His only begotten Son was so complete that man no longer has any responsibility and yet, the New Testament teaches that because of Christ’s perfect sacrifice we are actually MORE accountable than were those under the Old Covenant. – “He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer (more severe) punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” (Heb. 10:28-29)
Jesus taught that only those who obey Him prove their saving faith in Him – “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.” (Matthew 7:21) If saving faith which always includes practical obedience is not required, why did the Son of God utter these words?
One sister writes: “John 14:15-21 If ye love me, keep my commandments. Jesus was saying, ‘Sure….If you REALLY love me as you say, then DO what I command.’ He knew what was in man. He knew how we say one thing and do another. But, the deciding factor as to whether we TRULY love Him or not, will be realized in our OBEDIENCE.”
WHO’S GOING TO BE ULTIMATELY “CLOTHED IN WHITE”???? JESUS SAYS:
“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” Revelation 3:5
OSAS (once saved always saved) is a lie from hell. It’s time to kick this addiction in the rear – to kick this evil habit out of your life. You must get far away from any devil who is a demonic operative of Satan himself that tells you that every person who has ever been saved WILL be in Heaven. God’s Word tells us that such a man is an “ungodly” man and a wolf (Jeremiah 23:17; Jude 3-4, etc.).
Only a deceiver attempts to divorce Jesus Christ from what Christ stated. The end will not be good for the dishonest (Luke 8:15; John 8:47).
Those who don’t believe someone can “fall away” defy Christ Himself who invented this term “fall away.” (Lk. 8:13) May that person be rebuked by the LORD Himself and beckoned to read the raw truth of God’s Holy Word – the Bible – and cast off all preconceived man-taught, devil-inspired heresies (like the ‘once saved, always saved’ myth and all of Calvinism). Only those who are presently denying self and taking up their daily cross are following Him and will be with Him where He is (Lk. 9:23-24; Jn. 12:24-26). This is what saving faith always does – obey. Jesus is coming for His true Church which is being washed by obeying His Word (John 15:3; Eph. 5:25-27; 1 Jn. 3:3). No honest-hearted person who truly loves the LORD could possibly get unconditional eternal security out of His Word – because it’s not there. Abide/remain in Him or you will be cast forth as a branch and burned in fires of hell forever (Jn. 15:6).
If Jesus is truly “the” only “way” to God, no one who dies outside of this one Savior – “THE way” – could possibly spend eternity with Him (John 14:6).
THERE SIMPLY ARE NO PROMISES OF ETERNAL SECURITY to any person whom the LORD saves and then they do not continue with Him. The term “eternal security” never appears in God’s Word. Did He forget to tell us something OR are we deceived by a doctrine of devils? God is going to eternally and indescribably reward all of His children who remain/abide to the end with Him, for continuing to search out, believe, and obey His truth (Matthew 7:21; 1 Corinthians 2:9). Those whom He saves but then they don’t continue to choose to have Him as their “first love” will “fall away” and be “cut off.” (Revelation 2:4-5; Luke 8:13; Romans 11:22) They will be as the 5 foolish virgins in Jesus’ parable upon whom the door of eternal glory will be closed, sealing their damnation in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:1-13). Speaking of “Every branch IN ME,” Christ told us that “If a man abide (remain) not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them INTO THE FIRE, and THEY ARE BURNED.” (John 15:6)
Jesus Christ, who is the Truth, is our only escape and safeguard (Prov. 30:5-6; Acts 20:20, 27-32, etc.). No person whom He has saved can “depart from the faith” that saved him while believing a “doctrine of devils” (OSAS), and still be secure. No person who does not remain (abide) in Christ after being saved is heading for Heaven. The LORD and His holy apostles say something completely contrary to modern deceivers who say to all who have ever been saved that they are “as sure for heaven as if you were already there.” (1 Timothy 4:1) Such is never taught in Holy Scripture.
IF you are teaching SATAN’S first lie/doctrine OSAS it’s because you are his! (Genesis 2:17; 3:4) ONLY a child of the devil would teach his lies (John 8:44). GO SEE exactly who originated OSAS: Genesis 2:17; 3:4.
OSAS Death Nail
The “apostle’s doctrine,” followed strictly by every true Heaven-bound disciple of Jesus, never included a promise of “eternal security” without ongoing personal responsibility to endure to the end (which is a willful daily choice). The apostles never taught such (Acts 2:42).
When the great apostle went back around to the cities where he had preached Christ and churches had been formed, his message was completely different from the grace-perverting beguilers today who teach “once saved always saved.” Notice closely the words of Christ’s apostle who had ALL the opportunity in the world to tell these new believers that they are “eternally secure” but told them no such thing! Acts 13:43….
“Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to CONTINUE in the grace of God.” Acts 13:43
“Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to CONTINUE in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22
If continuing in the faith were automatic or according to the “p” of Calvinism, “the perseverance of the saints,” WHY O WHY would Paul exhort these “disciples” of Jesus to do such?
WHY O WHY did the apostle not tell these “disciples” that they were “eternally secure” if such were part of New Testament Christianity?
So, who’s lying? Is Paul the apostle lying or are modern leaders who teach contrary to what he taught lying?
Who shall you follow?
So, we must ask: If in fact the so-called “eternal security” teaching was a part of “the apostle’s doctrine,” WHY O WHY is it never seen coming out of the mouths of Christ or His holy apostles? Did they forget to tell us something we needed to know?
Did the Holy Spirit not clearly warn us through Jude of these grace-perverters whom he said are “ungodly men”?
“For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jude 4
Just WHAT kind of men does God’s Word tell us are “turning the grace of our God into” a license for sin? – “Ungodly men”!
In stark contrast with this diabolical notion that once saved the believer can do anything he wishes, Titus 2 gives us insight into who truly is saved by the grace of God. This is a passage that is purposely ignored by grace-perverting wolves. Just what does Titus 2:11-14 tell us that the true grace of God is teaching ALL those who are truly saved by it?
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to ALL men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from ALL iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar (special) people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:11-14
ALL who are saved by divine grace (the only way one can be saved) are “denying ungodliness and worldly lusts,” and living “soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”
Isn’t it quite interesting that the so-called “doctrines of grace” intentionally evade this Bible passage? If that’s not a red flag what is?
“BUT WAIT! What about John 10:28-29????”
John 10:27 is a truth deceivers love to ignore. Jesus qualified – gave the condition – for being secure. You cannot divorce the words of Jesus recorded in v27 from His words in v28-29. According to Jesus, it’s only those who hear His voice, continue to hear it, and follow (present tense) Him that have security. This also coincides with all else Christ and His apostles taught. Like just 5 chapters forward in chapter 15 where He taught the essential of abiding or remaining in Him or being cut off and burned in the fire if not (John 15:6). “Cut off” is a term Paul uses concerning the Jews and warning the Gentile believers – (Rom 11:20-22).
A clean, clear, and assured conscience comes only by way of saving faith and literal, practical obedience to God’s Word which is always the fruit of saving faith (1 Timothy 1:5). If a person wants a clear conscience, assurance, and eternal security, he must hear the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow Him. It’s only then – as he is presently worshipping Jesus with no idols or unrepentant sin, that he is assured of eternal life.
WHAT do His sheep do? HOW are they identified?
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and THEY FOLLOW ME: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:27-29
Jesus clearly defined exactly who that promise of being kept is for (v27). He was not just throwing that promise out to everyone. It was reserved for a special remnant of those whom He calls and who answer and obey. – Those who continue to hear His voice and continue to follow Him are those who receive the blessing of being kept. Those who seek to spread the “once saved always saved” heresy use John 10:28-29 to their advantage and conveniently ignore the preceding words of Christ in verse 27 which clearly qualify and condition His promise. According to Jesus, the promise of verses 28-29 is a promise of security reserved specifically and exclusively for those who are currently hearing Jesus’ voice and following Him. Many ignore the previous qualifying words (v27) of Jesus where Christ tells us that only those who are hearing His voice and following Him are promised that they are secure and will never perish. There is a condition to being secure in Christ – knowing Him – which requires continuing to “abide” in Him (remain), to hear His voice, and follow Him (see also John 15). In this John 10 passage used by the unconditional eternal security crew to peddle their wares, some neglect to look closely at verse 27 to see just WHO Jesus was specifically speaking to when He promised “they shall never perish.” Jesus was promising that the “They” who “hear my voice” and “follow me” are safe and secure in Me as long as they “endure to the end” in hearing my voice and following Me. According to verse 27 the promise of eternal security is conditional. Assurance of salvation is only to those who are presently following Christ. In verse 27 we learn that protection from judgment to come is only to those who are currently 1) hearing His voice, 2) known by Him, and 3) following Him. This is consistent with the message seen in the whole of Holy Writ. Become familiar with this verse beloved so that you are not “destroyed for lack of knowledge” and “led away with the error of the wicked.” (Hosea 4:6; 2 Peter 3:17)
“My sheep hear my voice (present tense), and I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27
Note that Jesus says of those who are secure in Him that “they follow me” and not that “they used to follow me.”
Only those who are presently hearing His voice as they walk with Him and are following Him are kept and secure. One simply cannot divorce the words of Christ in v27 and apprehend what He is saying.
Furthermore, elsewhere, WHAT did Jesus say is a must for following Him?
“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
So, according to Jesus, is a person who is not denying himself and taking up his cross DAILY actually following Jesus? HOW then can that person vainly believe he is saved?
If Paul believed he was unconditionally, eternally secure, why then did he say:
“But I keep under (present tense) my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” 1 Corinthians 9:27
Defending the Faith Once Delivered to the Saints
“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. 4For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jude 3-4
“They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.” 1 John 2:19
Donald Stamps responds to this verse this way:
“THEY WENT OUT FROM US. When the antichrists departed from their fellowship with true believers, they were not in a saving relationship with Christ. This allows for two possibilities: (1) They were never true believers to begin with, or (2) they had once been in a saving relationship with Christ but afterward abandoned their faith in Christ.” Donald Stamps, Life in the Spirit Study Bible, p. 2003
John 10:27-29 teaches us that only those presently abiding in a vital, obedient relationship with Jesus, are being kept by God. All who have been previously born again and yet are not presently remaining intimate in Christ, have been and will be cast away from Him burned in the fires of eternal damnation if they don’t repent before it’s too late (John 15:1-6; Ezekiel 33:12-13; 2 Peter 2:20-21; Hebrews. 10:26-39, etc.).
“For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.” 2 Peter 2:20-21
Keeping Clean the Garments of His Righteousness
Jesus says “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and KEEPETH his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” and also “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord (not in sin) from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” (Revelation 14:13; 16:15) Revelation 1:3 tells us: “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and KEEP those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” But the “lukewarm” counterfeit, who is “at ease in Zion” is a moral coward and wants nothing of personal responsibility (Amos 6:1) . He refuses the fear of the LORD in order to please himself because that’s exactly who he is serving and wants no part of personal holiness through the daily cross Jesus commanded. Hell awaits.
The Son of God warned:
“And take heed to yourselves (personal responsibility commanded and required), lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting (over indulgence), and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. 35 For as a snare (trap) shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:34-36
After initial salvation, each believer is personally responsible to abide in, to remain with, to continue in Christ. This requires obeying His cross command or they will “fall away” and be shut out of the eternal kingdom of Christ just as the 5 foolish virgins were (Matthew 25:1-13; Luke 8:13; 9:23-24).
Father, in the name of my LORD Jesus Christ, please grant full repentance to my heart, break me to the core of this being. Please make this vessel one that is prepared to honor YOU dear LORD. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If Heaven were automatic to all those who have been born again, no matter what they do with Christ after He saves them, WHY did Jesus give so many warnings like this above? WHY O WHY the parable of the talents? (Matthew 25:1-13) If unconditional eternal security is true, the Son of God sure is being indicted as a liar by those who believe such a fairytale. We call Him a deceiver for warning us not to “fall away,” and for commanding that we “endure to the end,” and to “keepeth (our) garments (clean from sin),” and many other warnings if there is no possibility of losing out eternally (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Luke 8:13; Revelation 16:15).
Beloved, you must run for your life from any vile, false prophet wolf who even hints that you are “eternally secure” while not doing what the LORD told you to do – regardless if you were truly saved in the past.
God would actually contradict Himself and be a liar if He didn’t damn the souls of all who die in sin – regardless of whether or not they were saved in the past. The Almighty is holy, just, to be feared, and unchanging. The counterfeit Calvinist says that God would cease to be God if He didn’t save and keep all those He saves. Is that what God’s own Word reveals?
Speaking to God’s own people, Christ’s apostle Paul says:
“If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: IF we deny him, he also will deny us.” 2 Timothy 2:12
Excuse me… “IF we deny him, he also will deny us.” 2 Timothy 2:12
What Happened When the LORD Found and Saved You?
Jesus told us that “many” go down that BROAD road that leads to destruction and only a “few” will enter in through the narrow gate that leads to eternal life in Heaven. Jesus says:
“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.” Matthew 7:13-14
We were “dead in trespasses and sins” before He found and saved us from our sins and from certain damnation. We must first realize where we were as fallen mankind, in order to appreciate the salvation our LORD has wrought for us.
“And you hath he quickened (made alive), who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:1-6
God brought us OUT of something in order to bring us INTO something else. When Jesus was dying for our sins on that cross, He cried “It is finished” which means that the price for mankind’s sins is “Paid in full!” (John 19:30) The blood of His only begotten Son satisfied the claims of the Father’s justice to redeem mankind. Nothing else is sufficient.
“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
He brought us out of darkness and sin and into His kingdom of light by the washing away of our sins by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
“And he brought us OUT from thence, that he might bring us IN, to give us the land which he sware unto our fathers.” Deuteronomy 6:23
We have been brought out of Egypt (sin/the world system) and into the promised land which is the picture of God translating us into the kingdom of His dear, blessed Son out from the darkness that once held us captive.
“Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us FROM the power of darkness, and hath translated us INTO the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” Colossians 1:12-14
When Jesus finds us and we agree with Him that we are sinners and need His saving grace, He saves us, opening our eyes, turning us from spiritual darkness to His light and out from under the power of Satan.
“To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.” Acts 26:18
It’s only Jesus Christ who can save a lost soul and it’s only Jesus who can keep that person to the end. He requires the participation of the individual disciple whom He has found and saved (John 8:30-32, 36; Hebrews 2:1-3; 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39, etc.). Read John 15 to learn more about abiding or remaining in Christ.
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ … Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Philippians 1:6; 2:12-13
The LORD commands those whom He has rescued out of the darkness of sin and this wicked world system to “work out” their own salvation “with fear and trembling” and as they do, He will continue to keep and to work in them “both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
God instructs us to “keep” ourselves in His love so that we can be ready to meet Him at all times.
“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. … Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” Jude 21, 24-25
At all times we are to look for the soon return of the King of all kings:
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:11-14
Jesus told us that He is going to return for a people who are abiding in Him, “holy and without blemish.”
“Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27
Do not be deceived by the many false teachers who teach “once saved always saved.” Get into God’s Word every morning and avoid the false teachers who are leading many to hell. Fellowship with true Bible believers who search out and cling to “every word of God.” (Proverbs 30:5-6; Matthew 4:4)
“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
Does Eternal Salvation Equal a License to Sin? | Present Salvation | The Idiocy of Calvinism| Will Everyone Jesus has Saved be in Heaven?
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Does Eternal Salvation Equal a License to Sin?
FEEDBACK:
Message Received:
It is true, once saved always saved, and it is not a license to sin, because when you are truly saved the nature of Jesus Christ will not and cannot sin.
Reply:
Not so. Peter sinned long after he was born again. That’s why Paul rebuked him (Gal 2).
Lucifer was in perfect standing with God until he chose to sin and so were Adam and Eve….. that’s the first 3 of many apostates seen in Holy Scripture.
“But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.” Gal. 2:11 Peter was involved in causing many to stumble – to “fall from grace.” (Gal. 5:4)
If that isn’t sin, what is?
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Eternal Security/OSAS | Accounted Worthy to Escape [podcast] |Sealed? | The Return of Christ | Support | Lie of the Ages [podcast] | 10 Questions about Eternal Security | Is Salvation Eternal? | The Damning Myth of Unconditional Eternal Security [podcast] | The Essential of Fearing God | The KING is Coming [podcast] | Lie of the Ages (Blockbuster book exposing OSAS and calvinism)



Articles
Mexico Mission Update Part 28
SATURDAY
ONLY GOD can do stuff like this!
SMH for His goodness.
After asking Luis (pictured below) where a certain food item was, he showed me and a lengthy conversation ensued. Luis was asking me questions about the USA after he found out that is where I originally from. At some point in the conversation, Luis said “make another statement in Spanish.” I guess he was seeking to measure how much Spanish I had learned. This caught me off guard yet I said “Jesus Christ reigns” in Spanish. AS SOON as I began saying those words, a dear man and his wife (Manuel) were turning the corner into that isle and so as I spoke those words I looked Manuel (whom I’d never before laid eyes on) straight into his face in order not to waste or limit who God’s Word was being spoken to. Manuel immediately lit up and rejoiced to hear God’s Word because he and his lovely wife are on-fire disciples of Jesus! Manuel then began ministering to beloved Luis who is not yet saved. The timing and arrangement of this event was nothing less than a divine miracle. We were all quite stunned at how this unfolded. Everyone exchanged contact info and Luis is going to continue to minister to and lead Luis to Jesus.
JESUS CHRIST IS MINISTERING TO AND SAVING SOULS!!!!
RECENTLY: Another 1,500 more JESUS tracts in Spanish picked up from the printer.
LAST NIGHT: Just got back in. Was able to pass out dozens upon dozens of JESUS tracts and speak God’s Word to each person…. ran out of tracts and loving it. Home restocking the pouch now.
The amazing people of Mexico are receiving the Gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16). Your prayers coveted.
The only spirit I have ever been in with ministering to Mexican people is “compassion.” Jude 22-23
The amazing people of Mexico are receiving the Gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16). Your prayers coveted.
LAST NIGHT: AFTER sending out the weekly Bible teaching tonight, a young man named Julio here in Mexico replied with this:
“I want to learn the word of God, thank you for sharing the word of God with me.” Julio
He’s not yet saved (that I know of) and he’s reading the Word he’s being sent and now has the 4 ministry books in Spanish, including the Born Again book and the JESUS tract, etc.
Thank you for praying for our brother in Christ, Justin.
“About two weeks ago I would wake up spontaneously praising and thanking God. Normally, I am too groggy. But it just happened so naturally. It blesses my day and I give thanks for the challenges. Love you too bother.” Justin
When Alfredo (above) was given a JESUS tract and had God’s Word spoken to him, he was on the phone. He hung up and came and grabbed me as I was walking away. We spent ample time together and he was excited that you would be lifting him in prayer. He was very open and honest and asked me how he would be able to stop drinking many beers daily. In return I preached Jesus to him and that when he repents and receives Jesus, he is going to be forgiven of his sins and born again, a new creature in Christ and that all old things will pass away. He was instructed to repent and receive Jesus as I pointed to the prayer on the back of the JESUS tract (oracion). He was also shown the Reina Valera Bible 1960 to download onto his phone. He has my number and as soon as he texts me back he will be sent the Born Again book in Spanish and receive biblical ministry. Thank you for lifting this dear man in prayer. The honesty of the people of Mexico is so very refreshing!
God loves the Mexican people. Jesus died for them.
Thank you for pausing to pray for the people of Mexico.
Here’s beloved Martha who recently received ministry – as a direct result of your prayer and support.
Spanish
Is your life fruitful for Christ?
Or is it being wasted? John 15
Bibles and ministry books going out weekly across the nation. Lives being changed. Prayers coveted.
Now supporting a missionary in the Philippines….. Jesus tract in Tagolog etc.
You’re working to pay bills but are you fruitful for Jesus? John 15
Below are message from 2 men here in Mexico who have been ministered to and are continuing to receive God’s Word weekly:
“I am interested in knowing God and reading the Bible.” Julio
“Hi Todd. Greetings. Thanks for the Bible messages.” Carlos
IF you want to have a ‘field day’ adventure of evangelising lost souls, 90% of which are just waiting to be told about Jesus….. perhaps you may wish to pray and ask God if He’d have you move south to Mexico. A blessing. Psalms 37:23, right?
God be praised for your prayers and support. HE is doing a work in the hearts of the people of Mexico.
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Articles
The Purpose of Elders in Christ’s Body [podcast]
There is no more important work transpiring in the earth today than the work of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Matthew 9:35-38; 28:18-20; Ephesians 4:11-15; 1 Peter 5:1-6, etc.).
“Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21
In short, the authentic under-shepherd ordained of Jesus Himself (John 15:16), will give up his life in this fleeting world for the sheep of Christ – just as the Great Shepherd of the sheep did on the cross. Such a divinely called-out man, will teach only God’s pure Word and watch for the souls of the LORD’s people (Hebrews 13:7, 17). He will take up the cross – live the crucified life – and therefore ministry will not be about them but rather about Jesus and His beloved sheep for whom He shed His blood and is soon returning (Philippians 3:17-21).
Also in Hebrews 13 …. The true elder of Christ will, according to Hebrews 13, do two things:
- Speak the pure Word of God to you and get you into it:
“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 (their way of life).” Hebrews 13:7
2. Will in the fear of God pray for and “watch for your soul.”
“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 13:17
In review, just WHAT are the earmark fruits of true under-shepherds as opposed to the many wolves among us?
- True under shepherds relentlessly teach God’s Word – “who have spoken unto you the word of God.” (Hebrews 13:7)
- They are there for you! – “they watch for your souls.” (Hebrews 13:7)
IF they aren’t preaching God’s pure Word to you, fearing God, not you…. and watching for your eternal soul, they are wolves in sheep’s clothing. Repent and run to Jesus beloved.
Let me add that if they are using a fake “bible” instead of the King James Bible, that should be a clue to the darkness they walk in (Matthew 7:16, 20).
Elders are ordained of God and yet never to take His place nor to negate our own personal responsibility to seek God daily for ourselves. Yet, we do not need a preacher. Why? – because we each have a Bible. Read it. We don’t need a preacher to tell us what the Bible says! Read it for yourself, learning of the LORD yourself. Today is your day to take personal responsibility to seek God for yourself! Stop depending on a preacher or preachers. Devour God’s Word daily. Jesus taught personal responsibility and the essential nature of it when He said “Take heed to yourselves” (Luke 21:34-36) …… Paul instructed Timothy to “Study” the Word (2 Timothy 2:15).
Today we have all around us church-goers who are not possessed with a heart after God, do not diligently study and read and live out Christ’s Word. This lukewarm, world-loving fruit clearly reveals the prophesied priesthood of wolves (1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalms 27:4, 8; Matthew 24:11; Acts 13:22; 2 Timothy 3:13; 1 John 4:1, etc.). Until a pastor has provoke you to get into God’s Word for yourself, to seeking His holy face daily in prayer, he has failed. If has has diligently, biblically sought to do these essentials, and people have refused God’s Word, refused to seek His holy face continually, the blood is off of his hands (Ezekiel 3:18-20).
“When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. 20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.” Ezekiel 3:18-20
When you check the fruit of a fellowship, check, discern if the individual saints are vibrant in Christ, diligently seeking His holy face, in His Word, living a life of prayer, denying self, taking up the cross daily, and following Jesus. This sounds like what we see of the earliest saints in the book of Acts, right? Boom. Remember how Peter preached and 8,000 were saved and how the Berean believers put Paul’s teaching to the Scriptural test? (Acts 2-4; 17:10-11, etc.).
Sadly, usually you see a bunch of people who are proud to be a member of a church with none of the biblical fruit list above.
The apostle Paul kept a close watch on those he oversaw.
“For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.” 1 Thessalonians 3:5
Having a physical “church” building makes no mere man, no supposed elder, an official representative of Heaven. Feeding the sheep of Christ with His pure Word and equipping them “for the work of the ministry” is the mark of a true under-shepherd of Christ (John 21:15-17; Ephesians 4:11-12, etc.). Discern. Beware. Inspect the fruit. Jesus nor any of His holy apostles collected a penny to build a building called “church.” No, they went to the people – to serve them instead of having the people come to them.
Let’s test that…. How many people do you personally know who are good church members, Sunday morning church attenders, and ALSO true, daily disciples whom God is using everywhere they go? Think about that…. How many true disciples of Jesus do you know who are involved in a Sunday morning church program? If you personally know even one true disciple, that’s a miracle and in spite of his attendance at the Sunday morning circus called “church.”
Unlike Christ’s apostle Paul, most in leadership today foster in their prey a dependence on THEM and their church business instead of prayerfully, biblically exhorting people to depend on Jesus (1 Corinthians 1:29-2:5).
Like Christ’s apostle Paul, the true elder labors relentlessly to see you grounded in Christ – not in him or his ministry or church, but in CHRIST! Listen closely:
“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” Colossians 2:6-7
It simply doesn’t matter what else he’s doing, if any minister is not prayerfully, biblically, perpetually rooting and grounding you in Christ, he’s a fraud. Run.
Like Jesus and His holy apostle Paul, part of grounding you ever more deeper in Christ, is warning you to “beware” of the “many false prophets.” (Matthew 24:11)
“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:” Colossians 2:8-10
SO, he’s not exhorting and admonishing you to seek and know the LORD in an ever deepening fashion? He’s not equipping, maturing you “for the work of the ministry” and yet you still consider him one of the LORD’s under-shepherds? He’s not getting YOU into the Word (2 Timothy 2:15) for yourself? That’s a false leader who is entertaining the goats instead of feeding and equipping the saints! Run! (See Ephesians 4:11-15; 1 Peter 5:1-6, etc.)
False leaders divert the attention, the heart affections, the resources, and the energy of God’s people away from Christ and simple obedience to His Great Commission mandate. YOU are personally responsible! Waste is rampant! If you support, “bid God speed” (2 John 7-11) to a false leader, false ministry, then you will perish with them!
The divine purpose for elders is not to dominate nor entertain the LORD’s sheep but rather to help their joy in Christ! Get to know this verse saints:
“Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.” 2 Corinthians 1:24
There is the citing of elders in the Word and their divine purpose – to humbly serve God by helping His sheep grow in the knowledge and grace of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-15; 1 Peter 5:1-6).
Christ’s apostle Paul desired the “perfection” (maturity in Christ) of the people of God (Ephesians 4:11-15).
“For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.” 2 Corinthians 13:9
Like Apollos, Elders among God’s people must remain teachable to God’s Word and simply and only teach and preach his word (Proverbs 9:9; Acts 18:26). Elders true to the LORD act on his behalf and never out of a personal agenda for self gain (2 Corinthians 3:5; 4:5, etc.). They live the crucified life (Galatians 2:20).
We are to humble ourselves like Apollos did and learn the way of our God more perfectly from each other, via God’s Word – as Apollos learned it more fully from Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:24-28).
Beloved Apollos was a very effective, anointed communicator of God’s Word and yet, was in need of maturing, of being perfected. So, God sent to him an elder and his wife, Aquila and Priscilla. Apollos humbly received the LORD’s elders and His grace to grow in Christ:
“And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” Acts 18:24-26
The vast majority of “churches” that meet in “church buildings” are simply and merely conducting “church services” where they entertain their prey. They are not equipping the saints for the work of the ministry and therefore discerned as being counterfeit (Ephesians 4:11-13). If they were, there would be salty disciples in their midst who go forth to minister Christ’s kingdom blessings wherever they go. Not even a trace of this transpiring in the apostate modern church world. Run. Run. Run.
The Purpose of Kingdom Elders:
“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:” Ephesians 4:11-12
Philip Lye writes: “Paul says in Ephesians 4, that he gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. He expressly says these people are given to mature the saints, to equip them for their ministry and growth in Jesus Christ. Jesus tells us in Matthew 24 that many false prophets and messiahs will arise deceiving many. They are simply functions that God has given and not titles which the proud use to strut about like a peacock. Most of these people that I have met (and I have seen a lot of famous ones) are false, proud and arrogant and not servants of the the Lord Jesus Christ. I have seen humble genuine ones who move mightily in truth, calling people to repentance and right relationship with Jesus and a demonstration of genuine miracles and wonders. They are to be genuine servants to God’s people.”
VIEW this following verse from Solomon’s day in light of our calling and work till Christ returns:
“Now all the work of Solomon was prepared unto the day of the foundation of the house of the LORD, and until it was finished. So the house of the LORD was perfected.” 2 Chronicles 8:16
Let’s read a larger portion of this important passage in Ephesians 4. God fearing under-shepherds must prayerfully labor for and be intent upon seeing God’s people grow in the grace of Christ to the full stature of maturity He has ordained!
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting 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:” Ephesians 4:11-15
The Error of Using Titles in the Modern Church World
God sovereignly and exclusively ordained MEN to feed, lead, and equip His saints (Ephesians 4:8-11). Women are called to and seen doing many ministry functions in the New Testament but never as a leader in a position specifically designated in Scripture for men.
Repent. The American “church” is a catastrophe of spineless moral-coward Ahabs who’ve allowed, suffered women to lead, and the fall out is incalculable (Revelation 2:20-24).
GOD’s men must never allow women to lead where they (men) are called to lead (1 Timothy 2:12; 3:2; Revelation 2:20-24).
To put yourself under the ministry of a woman who is acting as an elder among God’s people, is to defy Christ, and to agree with Christ’s arch enemy and his Jezebels and to bring severe destruction on the people of God (1 Timothy 2:12; 3:2; Revelation 2:20-24).
JUST because a woman can run her mouth and even genuinely have a gift of the Spirit DOES NOT mean she’s an elder in the body of Christ – which is divinely reserved non-negotiably for men, male elders (1 Timothy 2:11-12; 3:2). | Beware of Scripture-Twisting Jezebels
We must humbly confess before our LORD and God that we have nothing and are nothing without Him!
“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
God can use us in spite of having a seminary or Bible college background…. If we will truly denounce it, lay it all down, and truly submit to Him – just like Paul did (Philippians 3). Otherwise we will join the epidemic of false prophets who build their own kingdoms in this fleeting life and spend eternity in hell (2 Peter 2:1-3). Paul counted his “higher education” as “dung” to know and serve Christ (Philippians 3).
BIBLICALLY SPEAKING, BY DEFINITION, ELDERS ARE NOT SEMINARIANS (UNLESS THEY’VE DENOUNCED SUCH) BUT RATHER PROVEN MEN OF GOD WHO HAVE WALKED WITH CHRIST FOR SOME TIME AND ARE SEASONED IN DOCTRINE AND GODLY CHARACTER AND ABLE TO HELP ASSIST OTHER BELIEVERS GROW IN GRACE (Philippians 3).
In part, we can be transformed in our thinking/perspective of what leaders are seen to be in the apostate modern church vs the biblical definition of an elder which is a humble servant with sound doctrine and a godly life (1 Timothy 3; 2 Timothy 3:10; Titus 1-2, etc.).
Christ’s kingdom ordination is not like the ordinations of many denominations….. To ordain seems to mean to recognize the work of GOD in a man’s life and to set him forth into ministry as by the leading of the Spirit of God.
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” John 15:16
ORDAIN
G5087
τίθημι
tithēmi
tith’-ay-mee
A prolonged form of a primary word θέω theō (which is used only as an alternate in certain tenses); to place (in the widest application, literally and figuratively; properly in a passive or horizontal posture, and thus different from G2476, which properly denotes an upright and active position, while G2749 is properly reflexive and utterly prostrate): – + advise, appoint, bow, commit, conceive, give, X kneel down, lay (aside, down, up), make, ordain, purpose, put, set (forth), settle, sink down.
Total KJV occurrences: 96
“Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:1-3
Denominations of mere men set their elders forth to do THEIR bidding, to perpetuate their own cause and existence, to build their false church businesse$. God fearing assemblies of the saints simply recognize Christ’s work in a man and prayerfully send him forth to do GOD’s work. They worship and exalt Christ whole heartedly!
MINISTRY is about feeding sheep, not entertaining goats (John 21:15-17). So, when you see a “minister” entertaining, you know he himself is a goat (1 Corinthians 1:29-2:5).
What True Elders Teach
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.” 2 Corinthians 4:5
THERE is nothing good in us except Christ. We are not featured but JESUS is. “We preach CHRIST crucified” (1 Cor 1:23). All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags and HE is the One and only righteous Redeemer whom we communicate to others (1 Cor 9:16; Rom 7:18 etc.).
Jesus’ true disciples are crucified vessels who preach with His authority, unlike the lame leaders we have today (Matthew 7:28-29). True Gospel preaching rocks the world of those who hear it – it never coddles people in their sin. That’s the work of wolves! Beware!
Godly Elders Teach God’s People to Discern
“And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23
Why don’t some leaders teach discernment?
“Anyone that profits off of you being blind, will never teach you or inspire you to see.” unknown
Any man in leadership who doesn’t warn you of false prophets as did Christ and His apostles, is a wolf who does not want you to see who he truly is.
God’s people are to continue to learn to discern – to test, to weigh all things against Holy Scripture. Ungodly elders have the “I said it so it’s true” notion. Or the “We’ve always taught that” or “That’s what we believe” philosophy. Not. What saith the Scriptures is what every true follower of Jesus asks, as he searches God’s Word to ascertain truth. Every student of Christ should become extremely familiar with Acts 17:10-11.
QUESTION RECEIVED:
“I am curious as to how one man is considered the other’s elder? Do they attend the same church gathering thus, he is a church elder or is it through willful submission of the younger as an understudy or simply due to the fact that one man is older?”
REPLY:
Great question brother. Elder, biblically seems to mean older and more seasoned in God’s Word, having walked with the LORD longer. Two views come to mind: 1. The organic body of Christ, the kingdom relationships we have, where there appear men in our lives who are seasoned and there’s an automatic elder/young relationship (that’s how it is here)… and 2. Where a person attends a church group and they have their elder in a more organized fashion as you mentioned…. that help?
Nothing brings definition to this like God’s Word as you know…. and notice how it begins with “The elders which are AMONG you”….
“The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” 1 Peter 5:1-6
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Articles
NLT New Living Translation EXPOSED
CALLING OUT THE GUTLESS COWARDS WHO ARE NOT BOTHERED THAT SATAN HAS CORRUPTED THE WORDS AND DOCTRINES OF THE LORD THEY FALSELY CLAIM TO SERVE.
“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: 19 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.” Revelation 22:18-19
Much more on Bible Versions Here
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