Bible Literacy Series

Paula White Exposed [video]

THAT’s My King! Pastor Lockridge [video]

Powerful Prayers from Children-This Will Shake You [video]

The Fear of the LORD is to Hate Evil: Pride, and Arrogancy #shorts [video]

BIBLE LITERACY SERIES

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” James 1:22

Overall Bible knowledge is extremely important and yet obedience to the simple truths of our LORD is even more important (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15, 21; 15:14; 17:3; James 1:22; 1 John 2:4-6; 3:18, etc.). Most of us have seen many people who were very knowledgeable in the Word who later fall away because they left their “first love”, (Revelation 2:4-5) They ceased from doing the basic things consistent with staying in close fellowship with Jesus that are required of us to remain in an biting relationship with our LORD Jesus (John 15).

“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

Becoming “Mighty in the Scriptures” Acts 18:24

– For Individual and/or Group Use –
(Copy and paste and print as needed. Some people are printing these out and using them to direct some of their individual and group Bible studies.)

“Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.” Psalms 119:111

Jesus willing, this Bible Literacy Series is going to help facilitate what Acts 2 cites as the first and foundational component of authentic, Christ-elevating, New Testament fellowship – the continuing “steadfastly in the apostle’s doctrine.” (Acts 2:42-47). Jesus is coming soon. In this day of great apostasy, the LORD is speaking to the hearts of His true remnant to get back to true, New Testament fellowship and Christianity. All who truly know Him are hearing His voice and searching out genuine New Testament fellowship and, in many cases, forsaking that which is not (Prov. 19:27; Acts 19:9; Heb. 4:7). They seek to please God fully, the way He gave us in His Holy Word, and “escape all these things that shall come to pass.” (Lk. 21:34-36)

The term “apostle’s doctrine” appears here in Acts 2, just after the day of Pentecost (birth of the NT Church) when the early Church was still pure (before deceivers began to ravage). This term speaks of the doctrines of Jesus Christ given to His twelve original and holy apostles in His earthly life, and to that great apostle Paul, the “one born out of due time.” (1 Cor. 15:8)

Let us view Bible learning as a life long adventure you engage in, daily.

The Word of God is the only foundation and Textbook for the life of true believers and the true Church for which Jesus will return. All other ground truly is sinking sand (Matt. 7:21-29; Lk. 6:46-49). Only His pure Word, which we are to desire, can wash and prepare those who drink it in for His soon return (Eph. 5:25-27; 1 Pet. 2:2). God’s Word is just that – GOD’s WORD, and not the vain words and philosophies of mere men. We are warned to “Beware” of such men and instructed to let His Word dwell richly in our midst (Col. 2:8; 3:16).

Whenever a local church institutes the use of a mere man’s book for a Sunday school or small cell group type meeting, red flags should immediately fly in our minds, and we should speak up in wisdom. Did the LORD not give us 66 glorious, perfect, and divinely-breathed books in the Bible? May God bless us to be Word and Holy Spirit driven and not driven for and according to a mere man’s purpose. When true Christians assemble (2 or more), it is to gather around the holy throne of the glorious LORD of all lords and glorify our victorious nail-scarred risen Savior. Such is accomplished by honoring HIS Word/message and no one else’s.

God conveyed to us the very “thoughts of his heart” in His Word and how dare we look to mere men when we have the divine oracles of the One who made all that is, the only true God! (Ps. 33:11; Rom. 3:2; 1 Pet. 4:11) These brief and yet potentially prolific outlines should make for a spiritual feast in individual and small group settings. With great joy and expectation to become more fully conformed to the image of Jesus, let us embark upon the diligent searching of His Holy Scriptures to know Him more intimately! (Jn. 5:39; Rom. 8:29) Truly He has graciously transmitted to us the very “thoughts of his heart.”

“The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.” Psalms 33:11

Saints, this “Bible Literacy” series is exciting and another way to intrigue one’s heart and tantalize the curiosity, learning the Word from different perspective/angles via thought-provoking questions. One at a time, allow the question to delight your curiosity and inspire your heart to uncover the answer to that question by going into God’s Word for yourself to find the answer. This is the earnest and practical exercising of ourselves in the Word (which is the mark of Christian maturity – Heb. 5:11-14) and will result in a more thorough and working knowledge and understanding of the heart and precepts of our LORD. Let’s escape what the Bible says is immaturity and “go on to perfection (maturity)” in Jesus and the knowledge of His will/Word. See Hebrews 5:11-6:3.

Let’s let our love for God, the fear of the LORD, and desire to escape the dilemma of ignorance, drive us to learn His Word for ourselves and no longer depend upon some other man’s supposed knowledge of Him who is “holy, holy, holy.” (Prov. 9:10; Isa. 6:3; Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29; Heb. 5:11-6:3; Rev. 4:4)

“And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and MIGHTY IN THE SCRIPTURES, came to Ephesus.”Acts 18:24

Let’s not be destroyed or embarrassed by a lack of knowledge of the Word of the very One we call “LORD.” No, instead, let us joyfully discover His truth, filling our own hearts with His Word and filling the hearts of other searching souls! God’s Word never returns to Him void, but always accomplishes that for which He sends it (Isa. 55:11).

Discover the Bible’s answers to numerous miscellaneous topics and become abundantly learned in the riches of Holy Scriptures! Like David, the man after God’s own heart, take the Scriptures as “an heritage for ever.” He said that the words of truth were “the rejoicing of my heart.” (Psalms 119:111)

Need direction in your personal Bible study or small group study? You may wish to print out these individual quizzes and open your Bible to find the answers (alone or in a group).

Break out your King James Bible and go through each question, referencing each Scripture given to answer the question. Your understanding of His precious precepts will increase and your knowledge of God will be enriched with the divine truth discovered within the contents of each Scripture. There are 10 miscellaneous questions presented per quiz:

(Duplication encouraged. An open Bible should accompany your study of this topic. Study each verse given in order to answer each question correctly. Print this document out and pencil in the answers in the blanks provided. It may be best to cut and paste it to your word processing software and then print it out. Your life in Christ will be enriched forever as you embrace and put into practice His Word.)

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ A:

1. What withholds “good things” from our lives? Jeremiah 5:25

_______________________________________________________

2. Who “knoweth not God”? 1 John 4:8

_______________________________________________________

3. According to Christ, do earthly riches make the man/woman? Do they have anything to do with his significance/value? Luke 12:15

_____________________________________________________________________

4. Who did Jesus tell us He was sending after He rose again from the dead? John 14:26; 15:26; 16:7

_______________________________________________________

5. What are believers to purposely allow to “dwell” in them as individuals and when fellowshipping with other saints? Colossians 3:16

_______________________________________________________

6. What and who was the apostle Paul attempting to keep the believers “safe” from as seen in Philippians 3:1-2?

_____________________________________________________________________

7. Who did Paul tell us he “evidently” (clearly) set forth in the midst of God’s people? Galatians 3:1

_______________________________________________________

8. Did Paul use his ministry position to elevate self or someone else? And if someone else, who was that someone else? 2 Corinthians 4:5

_______________________________________________________

9. Who did Jesus tell us would be “blessed” in Revelation 1:3?

_______________________________________________________

10. Who knows he has a short time to do his work and has therefore picked up the pace and now feverishly seeks to impose his will? Revelation 12:12

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ B:

1. On what basis did David approach God as witnessed in Psalms 5:7? There’s a twofold answer.

_______________________________________________________

2. What does God give “to a man that is good in his sight”? Ecc. 2:26

_______________________________________________________

3. According to 1 John 3:15, who does the LORD define as a “murderer”?

_______________________________________________________

4. According Psalms 16:11 where do “fullness of joy” and “pleasures forevermore” abide?

_______________________________________________________

5. What will be withheld from those who “walk uprightly” with the LORD? Psalms 84:11

_______________________________________________________

6. Who will be kept from the evil woman? Eccl. 7:26

_______________________________________________________

7. Do those who do not love the brethren have eternal life abiding (remaining) in them?
1 John 3:15

_______________________________________________________

8. When did the psalmist tell the LORD that He would hear his “voice” and “prayer”? Psalms 5:3

_______________________________________________________

9. Finish 1 John 4:8: “He that loveth not ____________________________________________.”

10. According to Revelation 22:18-19, whose names are promised to be taken out of the “book of life, and out of the holy city”?

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ C:

1. Is the fear of the LORD a choice? Proverbs 1:29

_______________________________________________________

2. Who are we instructed to “rebuke…sharply”? Titus 1:10-13

_______________________________________________________

3. What is “the conclusion of the whole matter” of this life? Ecclesiastes 12:13

_______________________________________________________

4. To whom did the LORD give the promise of becoming “sons of God”? John 1:12

_______________________________________________________

5. What happens when a person once truly saved begins to live after “the flesh” or sinful nature? Romans 8:13

_______________________________________________________

6. In the eyes of the One who is “holy, holy, holy”, does wrongdoing actually require the literal act or just the consummated lust in the heart? Matthew 5:28

_______________________________________________________

7. What is the very last divine promise given in the Bible? Revelation 22:20

_______________________________________________________

8. Write out Genesis 1:1 below:

_______________________________________________________

9. What does the LORD God see when He looks upon unredeemed mankind? Genesis 6:5

_______________________________________________________

10. What is every currently saved person doing in light of Christ’s soon return? 1 John 3:3

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ D:

1. What makes a man’s face to shine? Ecclesiastes 8:1

_______________________________________________________

2. What 2 things does the LORD do when one of His children repents and confess their sins to Him? 1 John 1:9

_______________________________________________________

3. As God’s sons and daughters, who is our fellowship with? 1 John 1:3; 2 Corinthians 13:14

_______________________________________________________

4. What 3 things are we instructed to do in Ephesians 4:32?

_______________________________________________________

5. Who did Jesus promise would be filled? Matthew 5:6

_______________________________________________________

6. How did Jesus instruct us to “preserve” our lives? Luke 17:33

_______________________________________________________

7. Who is “worthy of his hire”? 1 Timothy 5:18

_______________________________________________________

8. Whom are we instructed to “bestow more abundant honour” upon? 1 Corinthians 12:23

_______________________________________________________

9. Why are believers instructed to “examine” themselves (their current spiritual state)? 2 Corinthians 13:5

_______________________________________________________

10. What did Jacob say he was not worthy of? Genesis 32:10

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ E:

1.What did the LORD tell us here is “the conclusion of the whole matter” and “the whole duty of man”? Eccl. 12:13

_______________________________________________________

2. Who did Jesus promise to give His “hidden manna” to? Rev. 2:17

_______________________________________________________

3. What should a believer expect to receive from his giving? Luke 6:35

_______________________________________________________

4. According to Joel 2:13, what does the LORD require that we render to Him?

_______________________________________________________

5. According to Micah 6:8, “what doth the LORD require of thee”?

_______________________________________________________

6. Who did the LORD tell us is worthy of “double honour”? 1 Timothy 5:17

_______________________________________________________

7. What did Jesus tell us to do when we see the signs of His soon return? Luke 21:28

_______________________________________________________

8. Who did Jesus promise would “see God”? Matthew 5:8

_______________________________________________________

9. Who did the LORD tell us His ears are opened to? 1 Peter 3:12

_______________________________________________________

10. According to 1 John 2:11, who is living in spiritual darkness?

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ F:

1. What is “unsearchable”? Psalms 145:3

_______________________________________________________

2. Who does the LORD reserve His “secret” for? Psalms 25:14

_______________________________________________________

3. According to John 5:39, who is the central theme of all of God’s Word?

_______________________________________________________

4. According to 1 Timothy 6:6, what two components of the Christian life make for “great gain”?

_______________________________________________________

5. Who are older women instructed to teach? Titus 2:3

_______________________________________________________

6. Complete Philemon 1:7: “For we have great joy and consolation in thy love

_______________________________________________________.”

7. Whose words did God instruct the prophet Ezekiel to use when He spoke to His people? Ezekiel 3:4

_______________________________________________________

8. Complete Matthew 10:28: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul:

but rather ______________________________________________________.”

9. What does the Word tell us is “the root of all evil”? 1 Timothy 6:10

_______________________________________________________

10. What were we “not” saved by? Titus 3:5

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ G:

1. Why are we not “consumed”? Lamentations 3:22

_______________________________________________________

2. What did we bring into the earth? 1 Timothy 6:7

_______________________________________________________

3. Complete Romans 4:4-5: “Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of

debt. But _____________________________________________________, but believeth

on him that justifieth __________________________________, his faith is counted for righteousness.”

4. What materials will we carry out of this earth with us when we die? 1 Timothy 6:7

_______________________________________________________

5. What are believers in Jesus to be “careful to maintain”? Titus 3:8

_______________________________________________________

6. Complete Romans 5:17: “For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much

more they which receive ______________________________________________ and of

_________________________________________ shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)”

7. According to 1 Timothy 5:12, what can be “cast off”?

_______________________________________________________

8. What are we told to “lay hold on”? 1 Timothy 6:12

_______________________________________________________

9. How many things “are possible to him that believeth”? Mark 9:23

_______________________________________________________

10. What is concluded in Romans 3:28?

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ H:

1. Why did God reject king Saul and replace him with a more noble man? 1 Samuel 15:26-28

_______________________________________________________

2. What are the names of the two sons of Adam and Eve listed in Genesis 4:1-2

_______________________________________________________

3. What two types of locations did the early church meet in? Acts 2:46

_______________________________________________________

4. What 4 things were going on in the early believer’s meetings? Acts 2:42

_______________________________________________________

5. Why did Jesus die to purchase His people? Ephesians 5:25-27

_______________________________________________________

6. Complete Romans 4:7-8: “Saying, Blessed are they

___________________________________

___________________________________________, and whose sins are covered.

___________________________________to whom the Lord will not impute sin.”

7. What chapter of the Bible lists the Ten Commandments?

_______________________________________________________

8. Who was Esau’s brother? Genesis 25:25-26

_______________________________________________________

9. According to 1 Timothy 5:12, what will all those have who “cast off their first faith” experience?

_______________________________________________________

10. Who is the “only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords”? 1 Timothy 6:14-15

_______________________________________________________

BIBLE LITERACY QUIZ I:

1. How do we “break off” sin in our lives? Daniel 4:27

_______________________________________________________

2. What “things belong unto the LORD”? Deuteronomy 29:29

_______________________________________________________

3. When are men to “seek ye the LORD”? Isaiah 55:6

_______________________________________________________

4. Complete Proverbs 4:4: “He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine

_________________________: keep my commandments, and _______.

5. How shall one “abide satisfied”? Proverbs 19:23

_______________________________________________________

6. Why did Jesus come to the world? Matthew 1:21

_______________________________________________________

7. How many times did Jesus tell us to forgive our brothers? Matthew 18:21-22

________________________________________________________________

8. How are God’s children to “love one another”? 1 Peter 1:22

_______________________________________________________

9. Who did the LORD tell us will “abide (have life) forever”? 1 John 2:17

_______________________________________________________

10. Complete the following from 2 Peter 1:3: “According as his divine

power hath given unto us __________________________________

______________________________, through the knowledge of him that hath
called us to glory and virtue.”

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Teach the Bible [podcast]

Articles

Addiction’s Only Solution [podcast]

The Victory is in Jesus

There’s no problem God can’t solve.

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32

Jesus only makes free those who hear and obey Him. Every other “solution” is a cheap counterfeit, yet another trap of the enemy of all souls.

ADDICTION…. good or bad. Sin is the root of evil addictions. Those not doing God’s Word will inevitably be caught up in sinful addictions. Repentance is a must for deliverance.

Firstly, the cross – the crucified life – must be front and center in our daily personal lives. There will be no resurrection victory until there is a definite door nail dead dying and burial. Pour over 2 Corinthians 4:10-12. Attempting to serve God any other way will result is defeat 100%!

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24

“This, right here, is your call to obedience. Anyone who claims you can follow Jesus on your own terms, by your own rules, and according to your own desires, is ultimately leading you to a false gospel.” unknown

Good addiction:

“I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that THEY HAVE ADDICTED THEMSELVES (a choice) TO THE MINISTRY OF THE SAINTS,).” 1 Corinthians 16:15

Those not given over to the LORD and therefore ministering His grace to others, WILL be caught up in sin, evil addiction.

Choosing to be addicted to Jesus

and therefore His work

cures all other addictions.

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. … 15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have ADDICTED themselves to the ministry of the saints,)”1 Corinthians 15:57-58; 16:15

With no exception, those whom Jesus saved in the past and yet today, those people are not busy about the “Father’s business” of the Great Commission, are living in sin.

“…at the time when kings go forth to battle, … David tarried (stayed behind) still at Jerusalem.” 2 Samuel 11:1

When David was experiencing great victory, he laid back, he ceased being diligent to obey God (2 Samuel 11:1). That’s when the temptation came and he entered into it. The fall out, the reaping was horrendous. Read 2 Samuel 11-12.

“And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem.” 2 Samuel 11:1

What transpired when David hung back instead of engaging in war?

What happens when you and I hang back, do not forge forth in diligent obedience and abiding in Christ. The 2 Samuel 11 text continues, showing David’s descension into temptation and sin ….

“2 And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king’s house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. 3 And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? 4 And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house. 5 And the woman conceived, and sent and told David, and said, I am with child.” 2 Samuel 11:2-5

Remember, EVERY disciple will be tempted in this world. Temptation is not sin. Yet only those who diligently seek, worship, and obey Christ, will be overcomers – which is essential to eternal glory (Revelation 2-3).

“Cursed be he that doeth the work of the LORD deceitfully, and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood.” Jeremiah 48:10

Doing “the work of the LORD deceitfully” includes doing it half-heartedly, ceasing to engage in fighting “the good fight of faith” which includes diligently loving and obeying God, fervently putting forth the “sword” of God’s Word, engaging it against the enemies of God (1 Timothy 6:12; Ephesians 6:17).

“The idea here seems to be that those called to be God’s instrument of chastening upon Moab (God’s enemies) were to be blessed in their work if they did it honestly and boldly; but if they did it half-heartedly and cowardly they would be cursed.” Dake

“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:11-12

Do we recall what James 1 tells us?

“Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:13-15

Memory Verse

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” 1 Peter 5:8

When the 12 Slept instead of Seeking the LORD

When Jesus’ 12 fell asleep while they were to be praying, Jesus warns them and us …

“And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:40-41

As Christ’s disciple watches and prays, remains ever vigilant, he will not “enter … into temptation”, sin. Memorizing the above words of Jesus (v41) will be a blessing to your life.

Satan offers Band Aids

“They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace.” Jeremiah 6:14

God is holy, unchanging and gives no peace between Himself and any mere man who is not obeying Him – beginning with genuine repentance, and faith (Acts 20:21, etc.).

“They have – This refers peculiarly to the prophets; making light of these threatenings, daubing over the misery and danger that was coming on the people, by persuading them, that it should not come, or if it did, it would be easily cured.” John Wesley

Giving false hope and false solutions is the work of wolves. Men who pretend to represent the LORD and don’t preach that He is “Holy, holy, holy” and requires absolute repentance, faith, worship, and the cross life (crucified life), are clearly false prophets (Isaiah 6:3; Luke 9:23-24; 13:3; .Matthew 22:37-39; Revelation 4:8, etc.).

Many today listen to the prophesied “MANY false prophets” of this last hour and are reaping the harvest of separation from God and a gross lack of wholeness (Matthew 24:11; Romans 6:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:23).

As long as one panders to and submits to the lies of the world, the false prophets, and their band aid “solutions,” that person will never experience victory. Pills and potions are fake solutions and will only perpetuate the pain and shame.

“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36

Jesus died on that cross, conquering Satan, and He alone holds your victory over all sin – which is what grants Satan legal right into your life.

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 12:11

Only Jesus can make you free and He desires to deliver you and will if and only if you truly repent and submit your life to Him. Jesus says:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

You are either caught up with Jesus or you are caught up in the dismal bondage of sin.

The root sin of all sinful addiction is self-idolatry which can and will only be broken off your life by true repentance, sincerely submitting yourself to the LORD.

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

It’s only if you submit your life to the LORD that He will grant you His power to resist, oust the devil. Then he must “flee from you.” He has no choice at that point.

Satan gains and possesses the right to keep one in bondage as long as that person refuses to truly repent – to truly submit oneself to God. Such a person is caught up in the snare of the devil and therefore unable to resist or stand against and oust the devil.

Charles Pray writes: “So many want to hide their sins, especially those who like to appear Holy on the outside while inside they are dark, unholy ministers of the flesh. They have become a product of their own desires. Dear Lord, please bring them back to their first Love–Jesus! Amen.”

You’re never stuck as long as you have Jesus!

There’s nothing at all that Jesus can’t fix. He promised you this …

“And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27

Prayer: Father in Heaven, I come to You in full admission of my sin of neglecting You, of disobeying You, of putting myself before You. I am absolutely in sin and need You to deliver me now Jesus. Please break and make me LORD. This very instant, I now lay my life in Your holy hands. I’m crucified with Christ and I’m all Yours Jesus, from this moment forth. I love You LORD Jesus. Please now fill and use me for Your eternal glory as I look expectantly for Your soon return. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Jesus is Coming, just as He Promised [podcast]

The Coming of the Son of Man NOTHING, NO ONE can stop the Almighty who is coming back to crush all of HIS enemies! “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven WITH POWER AND […]

"Having No Part Dark" Luke 11:36

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Apostasy

SINLESS PERFECTIONISM: WHOSE Righteousness are You Trusting? [podcast]

Salvation, justification, overcoming sin all come by way of the mercy of God, the divinely enabling grace of God, and the cross, the daily crucified life (Luke 9:23-24; Romans 3:24-26; 4:4-5; 6:14; 2 Corinthians 4:10-12; Galatians 2:20; 3:1-3; Titus 3:5-7, etc.). It does not come by mere self-determination or self-will.

Don’t strive. Surrender.

Beware of the sinless perfectionism mob.

Beloved, God found us, in our sins, and saved us into His eternal kingdom! (Romans 5:6-9; 1 John 4:19). We didn’t find Him. He found us!

Defusing the iniquity of self-righteousness increases exponentially when we begin learning the biblical doctrine of fallen mankind (Genesis 6:5, 12; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:18; Psalms 39:4-5).

“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. … 24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:18, 24

“It’s actually freedom when we embrace the Bible truth of how wretched we are! We don’t have to hide it or try to be better than we are! Jesus can now reign on the throne of our hearts and not self!” Karen Cochran

Realizing our own utter helplessness, hopelessness, and depravity and taking up the cross is the only the safe place with God right, the cross, the bowing to Him to take full control…. See Matthew 5:3; John 3:30.

All self-righteous religious hypocrites are going to hell (Matthew 21:31). May God save, forgive, and cause us, to bless us to be His authentic disciples. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Paul’s flesh was and our flesh is a constant reminder of the ever momentary need for the cross, burial, and resurrection grace of Jesus (Romans 6:3-10; 8:11; 2 Corinthians 4:10-12; Galatians 2:20, etc.). Read Romans chapters 6-7 each morning this week.

The cross reveals your sin, and God’s love, not how wonderful you are! Repent!

Saints, we cannot possibly begin to appreciate this “so great salvation” that is Christ until we understand how lost, helpless, and alienated we were in our sin (Ephesians 2:1-10; Hebrews 2:3). We must study to understand the biblical doctrine of inherent sin, fallen mankind, and the holiness of God …. in order to begin to be able to appreciate the redemption that is in Jesus Christ.

Touting our own supposed righteousness is a dangerous undertaking. Lifting ourselves up will result in being brought down low, with no exception.

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18

All I have to do to find the man most in need of God’s saving grace and mercy, is to look in the mirror (Romans 7:18, 24; James 1:23-24). As long as we neglect to look in the mirror, honestly, we will continue to be self-righteous as were Jesus’ most evil enemies, the religious frauds, the pharisees of His day (Matthew 23). Are we pharisees or humble, broken, honest disciples of Christ? (Matthew 18:3-4)

“If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.” Job 9:20

“Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?” Proverbs 20:9

There is NO righteousness outside of Christ (Romans 7:18, 24).

Every single day is the opportunity to overcome – yet this will only happen as we choose to do things God’s way – the cross. Romans 6-8; 2 Corinthians 4:10-12; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3, etc. Sinless Perfectionism Exposed

The no sin nature people are missing the cross. The Mike Desario’s, the Charles Finney’s, and the Jesse Morrell’s of the world peddle the no-sin-nature heresy and also do not preach the cross, the crucified life. They rag on endlessly about “stopping all sin” but never mention the crucified life which is the only divine prescription for overcoming sin (Romans 6, etc.). That alone makes them false, peddlers of “another gospel.” (Galatians 1:6-9) This is why they can’t understand this. They do not realize that God gave us the solution to this sin bent (iniquity), this inherent in fallen man sin – and that answer is the crucified life which is at the heart of the original Gospel.

“True holiness” comes exclusively from the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Yet this is not just our position in Christ, it must also be the practical reality of our lives lived (Ephesians 4:24). The holiness of God, “true holiness,” requires the “daily” cross Jesus commanded which separates us from self and sin (Luke 9:23-24; 1 Corinthians 9:27, etc.). Sin is overcome exclusively via oneness with Christ in an abiding relationship (John 15, 17) and not by mere self-effort alone – which is antichrist. The point established in the whole of Holy Scripture is that we are beholden to the Savior, the LORD Jesus, and must be honest about our wretchedness outside of a present abiding relationship with Him (Romans 7:18, 24) whereby the fruit of holiness is produced. There’s a slew of self-righteousness being promoted as “holiness” today through wolves who’ve digested the false teaching of devils like Mike Desario and Charles Finney and those who peddle these doctrines.

“But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (not self): 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (atoning sacrifice) through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” Romans 3:21-26

After being attacked and accused of being a Roman catholic, Baptist heretic…. the response to the accuser was as follows:

Thanks for the attack, the persecution. I do rejoice (Matthew 5:10-12). I am certainly anything but Catholic or Baptist. Now, to examine what you wrote ….No one is a more staunch exposer of Rome, nor a more critical exposer of the eternal security Baptist, protestant lie (the ministry has 3 landmark books exposing OSAS – over 1,000 pages total) ….. So what you are saying here is a lie, bearing false witness, instead of dealing with the Scripture truth of these things. There is no cross in this sinless perfectionism movement, and the cross is the only way to overcome all sin – by the resurrection power of Christ (Gal 2:20; 2 Cor 4:10-12). Also, there is no grace (divine enablement) or faith in your message, but rather only rote mechanical obedience as if people are earning their own way. This alone makes your message errant, not according to the whole counsel of Scripture. | Eternal Security Exposed | Catholic Church Exposed

You offer some truth here and yet this sounds like Mike Desario, Charles Finney falsehoods, the no-sin-nature, sinless perfectionism heresy.

Sinlessly Perfect? You Sure? [podcast]

Beware of the sinful self-righteousness masquerading behind feigned perfect obedience. This Sinless perfectionism they are pushing is pure self-righteousness.

I am not your enemy ….. attack if you see fit. Yes, the LORD does say that obedience is essential, it proves that one knows the LORD or is known of Him (Matt 7:21). Good works do not save us – Christ alone saves us. This is a real subtle deception. There is the need to synthesize “ALL scripture” which teaches, that faith, obedience and good fruit do not save us, God does, by HIS sheer mercy.

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:5-7

Sinful self-righteousness has no place in the life of a disciple of Jesus. Matthew 21:31

Self-righteousness was one of the sins of the pharisees and is soul damning (Matthew 23, etc.). Even the publicans and harlots will be in Heaven before the self-righteous religionists (Matthew 21:31).

Obedience is the fruit of saving faith and yet our obedience doesn’t save us. According to this passage, you are under a spirit of witchcraft – to think your own works-righteousness, law-keeping saves you:

“O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” Galatians 3:1-3

Think about this that Jesus says from perhaps a new perspective … “IF you love me, keep my commandments” …. perhaps He is saying “If you don’t love me, don’t bother obeying Me, because that is futility.” Good works/obedience, fruit are borne out of an abiding relationship. It’s about relationship, not earning our own way I know this well as I was out of balance for many years. I am not seeing this as an argument … just discussing, okay?

There is no cross, no crucified life in the message of the sinless perfectionist heretics and therefore they are preaching “another gospel.” (Gal 1:6-9) The cross is the divine solution to sin and is at the center of the original Gospel and that’s the only way to be raised up out of the flesh and victorious over sin, not be mere self-effort. You are kidding no one but yourself if you believe your own good works are at the ground level of your justification before a holy God who sent His only begotten Son to do what we cannot do. – If righteousness comes out of just sheer obedience, law-keeping, then Christ is dead in vain.

“I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” Galatians 2:21

God is holy and holiness is essential for eternal glory (Hebrews 12:14, etc.). Yet such comes about by the crucified life Jesus prescribed, the cross and the resurrection (raising up) grace of God – not by seeking to be perfect on our own, not after beginning in the Spirit and then vainly attempting to be made perfect in the flesh (Galatians 3:1-3).

“For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under GRACE.” Romans 6:14

There’s no cross and no grace (divine enablement) in the message of the sinless perfectionists and therefore their message is false. Heretical.

It’s like they seek and are boasting about their own obedience and their own self-willed sinless perfection. Nonsense. Laughable.

Overcoming must be done in and through Christ – in a real, abiding relationship with Him which sinless perfectionist frauds never mention.

Recognizing our own need to be humble, contrite, broken, and fully dependent on the LORD is what we learn in Scripture, not hiding behind sinless perfectionism but rather being authentic, honest, and realizing that without JESUS and being one with Him in an abiding relationship, we can do nothing to please God (John 15:5).

“For without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5

It’s better to cease pretending in my opinion, in light of the whole counsel of Scripture. I am not a good person, neither are you. “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). Admit it. The sooner we become HONEST with that which is more than obvious, announcing freely and transparently – that there is “NOOOO good thing” in us except CHRIST, the sooner God will begin a new, deeper work in us! (See Romans 7:18, 24.) The Cross!

We are all very imperfect and in present and perpetual need of the LORD’s saving grace which requires a born again and abiding relationship with Christ.

Those who truly follow Christ are to be fully dependent upon Him, not self, or self’s supposed perfect obedience – which is a farce. See Posture of Dependency

Lest someone should erroneously believe there is any justification for any sin, let me say this: Jesus is coming back for “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), And “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged.”

“By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.” Proverbs 16:6

This is how we can observe the ministry of Jesus and His apostles. The only people they were harsh with were the rich and the religious. They were not harsh with people who sinned and were convicted and contrite, humbled before God, seeking His mercy, repentant. The woman taken in adultery is one such example…..

Stone Casting Qualifications

Jesus never called the woman taken in adultery (John 8) or the woman who had had five husbands and was now living with another man, a whore (John 4). Jesus was not harsh with either of them. What does this say for some of these self-righteous, hate-mongering, arrogant, pharisaical, enraged, embattled, need-to-get-saved street preachers so prevalent today who openly call scantily clad women whores instead of winning them as Jesus did? Perhaps it’s the lust in their own hearts driving them? (See Romans 2:1-3.) We never see Christ needlessly provoking, condemning, screaming at, or yelling at lost sinners. WHERE did Jesus or any of His apostles possess such a hate-filled attitude other than when Jesus rebuked them in their younger years for seeking to call down fire from Heaven? Christ rebuked them with “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of” (Luke 9:54-55).

DID Cain murder his brother Abel because of Abel’s sins or his own?

“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.” 1 John 3:12

Those who slander others do so because of the wickedness that exists in their own hearts.

No Sin to Deal with?

1 John 1:8-10 should be kept in mind…. synthesized, right? Yes…… 1 Corinthians 2:13

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:8-10

If we are saved by our supposed obedience, we all fall short, right? Should we not rather trust in the perfect obedience of CHRIST? Memorize Romans 4:4-5. This is in no way to excuse any sin, period (Romans 6:1-2).

“Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:4-5

WHO earned our salvation? Jesus.

“For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.” Ecclesiastes 7:20

FROM A SINLESS PERFECTIONIST:

“IF NONE IS RIGHTEOUS, TRY AND EXPLAIN THESE VERSES: (PSALMS 37:30) (PROV 18:10) (PSALMS 37:25) (PSALMS 55:22) (JOHN 9:31) (PROV 11:30) (PROVERBS 15:29) (PSALMS 34:19) (PROVERBS 3:32)”

REPLY:

May God find us with Christ’s righteousness, not our own …. The righteousness Jesus Christ accomplished at the cross is the only righteousness God honors, all else is “as filthy rags.”

“But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” Isaiah 64:6

What righteousness does God see us in right now? Is it our own, or Christ’s?

“And be found IN HIM, NOT HAVING MINE OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:” Philippians 3:9

Without Christ’s present saving mercy, this disciple is absolutely hopeless, sinful, and doomed. I will trust Christ’s righteousness and not my own!

“Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?” Proverbs 20:9

None is righteous by himself, on his own merit and that what sinless perfectionism teaches….. you are being fed by wolves like Finney and Desario…. you didn’t get this in the Bible, by organic personal study… that’s why there’s an imbalance…..

Grounded in Grace [podcast]

“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;) : And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, […]

Grace Abounding

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 The divine tapestry, the assimilation of grace, works, assurance, and faith. WHEREVER you see sin in the world, or in your own life, remember that there is a way out – God made that way through His only begotten Son. All sin can be overcome and so repent and be refreshed and REJOICE because where sin is, God’s grace can abound much more: “Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where […]

Godly Integrity [podcast]

INTEGRITY in·teg·ri·ty inˈteɡrədē/Submit noun 1. the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. “he is known to be a man of integrity” synonyms: honesty, probity, rectitude, honor, good character, principle(s), ethics, morals, righteousness, morality, virtue, decency, fairness, scrupulousness, sincerity, truthfulness, trustworthiness “I never doubted his integrity” the state of being whole and undivided. “upholding territorial integrity and national sovereignty” synonyms: unity, unification, coherence, cohesion, togetherness, solidarity “the integrity of the federation” Being circumspect, having a heart and life of godly integrity, should be the prayer and goal of every person who names the name of […]

Apostasy

Jesus Answered Questions with Questions [podcast]

“AVOID FOOLISH QUESTIONS”

Could it be that one way to “avoid foolish questions” is to ask questions when questioned?

“But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition REJECT; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.” Titus 3:9-11

One of the best ways to “avoid foolish questions” is to answer them with questions. Read that again.

All questions that come to us are not evil and yet, as we see with Jesus’ religious enemies, some questions do come from evil hearts with ungodly motives.

“For we are not as many, which corrupt (twist, adulterate) the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:17

Jesus used the art of asking questions and so should you. This will revolutionize the way you interact with others, if done correctly. And, this should never be used from a heart that is not pure in the eyes of God. The disciple must beware of the evil that lurks within his own heart (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:18, 24, etc.).

“Asking questions was central to Jesus’ life and teachings.”

Jesus used this method of answering questions with questions in order to shift the burden of proof, expose the motives of his critics, and force his listeners to think deeply.

One commentator notes:

“How many times did Jesus ask questions?

In the Gospels Jesus asks many more questions than he answers. To be precise, Jesus asks 307 questions. He is asked 183 of which he only answers three. Asking questions was central to Jesus‘ life and teachings.”

The Big Question is … What’s behind the question?

WHERE is the questioner seeking to lead this conversation?

We should pray for discernment to know whether there is evil intent or the noble desire for answers behind the questions asked of us.

Questioners with evil hearts ask questions in order to get themselves off the hook or deny what the Bible plainly states. This some do to distance themselves from the conviction of conscience the truth is causing them. And if you buy the package, if you take the bait, they will suck you in and devour you.

Beware of the enemy’s tactics.

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices (schemes, tactics).” 2 Corinthians 2:11

“Jesus frequently asked the Pharisees questions. He challenged them. Most of the time He answered questions with questions! He called them out! Which angered them greatly. Jesus was skilled in the art of asking questions! I could learn much from a study of questions Jesus asked.” Karen Cochran

ALWAYS GIVE GOD’S ANSWER AND NO OTHER (1 Peter 3:15): Beware that when God’s Word is spoken, those who love darkness rather than light, those who are unrepentant will divert from the Word by asking you questions off of the WORD itself in order to divert the conviction from their unrepentant hearts (John 3:19-21). STAY with the Word – whether they like it or not (Isaiah 55:11). You owe no man an answer other than to give them what God says – what the LORD stated in His unchanging Word (Mark 13:31). Jesus tells us that such men as will not hear His Word, are “NOT of God.” And, that if they were “OF GOD” they’d be humbly, astutely looking for and hearing HIS Word (John 8:47). Memorizing the words of Jesus recorded in John 8:47 will put your discernment miles ahead. I underlined the key words:

“He that is OF GOD heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are NOT OF GOD.” John 8:47

When you give rebels the answer of GOD from HIS WORD, they will attack you – the mere messenger. They are not there to learn. They’ve made up their minds and are sticking with their rebellion. Always remember, their issue is with the LORD and not with you.

You see, unrepentant men do not like the answer God gives to their questions. They are looking only to justify sin, not repent and confess it as the LORD requires. So their questions are aimed at finding a way to justify their sin – to justify their refusal to truly repent, lay down their lives in this fleeting world, and follow Jesus for real. That’s the crux of the matter.

Isn’t that exactly what the pharisees (false teachers/religionists) did to Jesus?

“Let GOD be true and EVERY man a liar.” Romans 3:4

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105

Give God’s answer and no other. You owe no one an answer to anything else, except what God says about it. Refuse to allow rebels to lead you around by the nose with their deflections and questions.

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” 1 Peter 3:15

JESUS ANSWERS QUESTIONS WITH QUESTIONS

Getting a taste of how Jesus dealt with evil hearted religious folks is going to greatly develop your ability to navigate the hate-filled attacks against Christ and you by truth-haters. This will help you as you earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints in the original Gospel recorded on the pages of Holy Scripture (Jude 3-4).

Jesus questioned His questioners and so should you! You serve the LORD Jesus and are not obligated to answer every question that comes your way. Sometimes, you have to stay in control in these situations. I say this specifically referring to conversations you will have with rebels. They have nothing good in their hearts and in many cases, have no heart for the truth, just like the religious frauds of Christ’s day.

Personally, I’ve seldom seen so much evil as when I refuse to answer questions from those who seek to misdirect the conversation away from the Word of God. Often detractors use mere human reasoning, or anything to manipulate and twist and get the emphasis off of what the Word itself clearly states (Mark 7:6-9). This is a tactic they use in order to promulgate their false belief, justifies their sin, and that contradicts Holy Scripture. Such was the case in this recent attack and conversation – Preacher Viciously Attacked for Speaking the Truth! [podcast]

Jesus is THE BOSS and He’s Your Boss! Follow Your Boss. Follow the Example of Your Boss! We learn from our Boss by beholding what He did. And, our Boss, the KING of all kings, asked questions to questioners.

Our Lord was skilled at asking precise questions that drove to the heart of a situation, centering everything on HIS kingdom and never acquiescing to the sinful whims and manipulations of unrepentant men.

Some of Christ’s most profound questions came as a response to those who were questioning Jesus. The following is a list of some of the questions Jesus used in questioning His questioners. This is not an exhaustive list of every question Jesus ever asked and is on record in the Bible. In order to help the reader, I’ve underlined and hi-lighted the words which indicate questions for the reader to capture the essence of how our LORD answered questions with questions. I’ve included also the questions Jesus asked His own disciples. Some of these questions are noble and most (from His enemies) are hostile. As you will see, those questions from Christ’s enemies are obviously inherently evil. I’ve highlighted with yellow where the LORD specifically cites them for such, calling to the reader’s attention the heart motives of those asking the questions. Jesus interrupted their attempted deflections, cover-ups. He called them out on it. Here’s the interaction:

Matthew 9:14-15 – 14 Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? 15 And Jesus said unto them (a question), Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.
Matthew 15:1-3 – 1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, 2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. 3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?
Matthew 15:33-34 33 – 33 And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude? 34 And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes.
Matthew 17:24-26 – 24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? 25 He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? 26 Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
Matthew 21:16 – And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?
Matthew 26:6-10 – 6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, 7 There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. 8 But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? 9 For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. 10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.
Mark 2:5-11 – 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. 6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? 8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? 9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? 10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.
Mark 4:10,13 – 10 And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. .. 13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?
Mark 4:38,40 – And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? … 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
Mark 7:17-18 – 17 And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. 18 And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also?Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him;
Mark 10:2-3 – And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him. 3 And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you?
Notice in this exchange below how Jesus is, as always, in charge, in control and therefore answers the questions of these hypocrites with questions and puts them to work – because He knew the hypocrisy of their hearts and what was behind their foolish questions.
Mark 12:14-17 – And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny (Jesus puts them to work), that I may see it. 16 And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar’s. 17 And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. And they marvelled at him.
By Jesus telling these men that they did err, were in error, because they didn’t know the “scriptures, neither the power of God” which comes from proper relationship with Him, He was in part directing them to get into the Word where the answers are found. Mark 12:18, 20-24 – Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him, saying, … 20 Now there were seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and dying left no seed. 21 And the second took her, and died, neither left he any seed: and the third likewise. 22 And the seven had her, and left no seed: last of all the woman died also. 23 In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? for the seven had her to wife. 24 And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?
Luke 2:48-49 – And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. 49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist (knew) ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?
Luke 6:1-3 – And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. 2 And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days? 3 And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him; 4 How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?
Luke 10:25-26 – And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? 26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?
Luke 10:29,36 – But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? … 36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
Luke 12:41-43 – Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all? 42 And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? 43 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
Luke 18:18-19 – And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? 19 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.
As Jesus “taught the people … and preached the gospel”…. wicked religionists hurled questions with evil intent, questioning Christ’s authority. As His custom was, Jesus answered them with a question.
Luke 20:1-4 – And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders, 2 And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority? 3 And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me: 4 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?
John 8:3-10 – And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, 4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? 6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. (notice Jesus’ response to their question here – He didn’t answer it verbally but with this action) But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. 9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?“

"Avoid Foolish Questions" [podcast]

God’s Word does not instruct us to “avoid questions” but rather “avoid foolish questions.” “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” 1 Peter 3:15 What Does Christ’s Great Commission Call Us to do? “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” Psalms 90:12 The dire need of the salvation of eternal souls necessitates that we walk in God’s wisdom in these final of days before our […]

Preacher Viciously Attacked for Speaking the Truth! [podcast]

There’s no doubt that every Christian sins and yet, does that mean we have the approval of God to continue in that sin? Does the LORD require that we confess all sin to Him in repentance? IMAGINE people who claim to be following Jesus attacking you for exhorting them USING Scripture to rid their lives of all sin (2 Corinthians 7:1; 2 Timothy 4:2-4; Titus 2:14; 2 Peter 3:10-14; Revelation 19:7-8; Titus 1:16; 1 John 2:4; Ephesians 5:25-27; Ezekiel 18:30; Isaiah 30:9-10, etc.). “Looking unto Jesus”, “striving against sin”, seeking to “Be ye holy” is not works salvation, it’s the […]

Hypocrisy, Persecutions, and Afflictions [podcast]

Ministry work always comes with “much contention.” There is a devil and he has human agents. Jesus will settle every score, will balance every scale. He’s coming soon. “But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God WITH MUCH CONTENTION.” 1 Thessalonians 2:2 ATTN REBEL: Attacking the mere human messenger of God’s Word does nothing to remove your personal responsibility to your Maker! All you’re doing is bringing eternal rewards and rejoicing to that blessed messenger you […]

The Persecution Podcast [podcast]

“Think it not strange” in 1 Peter 4 simply means to not be surprised. If you love the LORD you will want to hear all He says in His Word, including the reality of persecutions for Christ’s sake (John 8:47). Any man posing as a leader among God’s people and isn’t preaching regularly on the reality of Christian persecution, is absolutely an ear-tickling wolf! Run! Part 1 Below Part 2 Below Part 3 Below Part 4 Below Sounds like our LORD is saying that WHATEVER, WHOEVER we lose in this life due to following Jesus, God […]