Covetous Reciprocation between Preachers and Prey [podcast]

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]

Covetous Reciprocation

Today so many think they are hearing the Word of God in their local church. They are hearing very little of it and mountains of divine truth is being intentionally hidden from them – by the ear-tickling wolves they have chosen to sit under. These are those who $cratch the backs of those who tickle their ears.

Because they haven’t chosen to love God enough to hear from Him firsthand, for themselves, by studying His Word diligently, counterfeits will spend eternity in Hell (Hosea 4:6; 2 Timothy 2:15). Those who love God seek Him in His Word for themselves, otherwise they prove not to love Him (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). Their worship is shallow at best ….. and fake because they serve their own bellies/carnal appetites (Philippians 3:18-19; Titus 1:16).

“Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. 9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:6-9

IF a person isn’t intently reading God’s Word and obeying Him, such a person has demonstrated their contempt for Christ and will not be with Him. Such a person simply does not love Jesus. “Going to church” has little or nothing to do with ones walk with LORD. True fellowship as defined by Scripture, yes but not what we call “church” today. We’ve been mislead and it’s time to return humbly in authentic repentance to Christ, yes Christ! Remember Him? You know, the ONE the modern frauds we call “pastors” won’t spend any time preaching about? No, they’re too busy tickling your ears, coddling you in your sins, withholding the truth, etc., so they can take your money to build their own kingdom. You won’t hear the essential doctrines of the original Gospel such as repentance, holiness, the cross-crucified life, judgment, Hell, or the return of Jesus for His spotless Bride!

“They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity. 9 And there shall be, like people, like priest: and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them their doings.” Hosea 4:8-9

This is plainly seen in how many today seek to emulate the vain, vile wolves they support – in hopes of being able to live lavishly in this fleeting world as their wolves do.

The chief reason that wicked, smiling beguilers have been so successful is the self-serving, greedy hearted, Christ-denying people who fund them. You see, the Bible teaches that this is age old. These two parties reciprocate one another – “Like people, like priest” (Hosea 4:9).

Here we see the reciprocation of the beguiler and those they beguile. The willingly beguiled are giving to those deceiving them in hopes of becoming rich in this world as these charlatans demonstrate in their own personal lives.

God is Watching

“I marvel to think of all the things we do in vain, for no purpose or gain for Christ and His Kingdom!” Charles Pray

JESUS plainly taught that the way you are treating others in your stewardship reveals exactly how you are treating Jesus and exactly where you will spend eternity (Matthew 25:40-41, 46). Judgment Day! Are you going to run from His truth and thereby sprint into eternal damnation? Or, are you going to stop your life, get before God in true repentance, crying out for Him to break you before it’s too late? “Seek ye the LORD while he may be found…” (Isaiah 55:6).

Riches

Could it be that some people could care less that the work of the God they claim to know is being done? Some who claim to be saved seem to care only for their own little trinkets in this fleeting world. Their earthly treasures will perish with them (Luke 12, 16, etc.).

WE must become so deeply dead and buried with Christ that we are truly “hid with Christ in God” from the snare, the lure of lusting after this world’s treasures and trinkets (Colossians 3:1-4). It’s for our souls! Read Luke 12 and 16.

THE real Gospel includes truly laying down our life, and when we do, ALL will be God’s, not ours. We will finally be set free (1 Chronicles 29:14).

“But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” 1 Chronicles 29:14

INSTEAD of prayerfully, obediently looking where to support Christ’s Gospel work, the counterfeit looks to further embellish his flesh, his own reputation, and entrench himself in this fleeting world – Read Luke 12:15-21.

If you have money tied up in the bank, in any account or possession that could be used to help God’s people and work, He’s going to hold your eternal soul accountable for it and Hell awaits! (Luke 12, 16; Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35)

Jesus is watching and will judge us for how we are using the wealth He has placed in our hands.

WE can know we are backslidden when we whip out our wallets for some new gadget yet hold it tight when the opportunity to help the Gospel sits at our feet.

When we neglect to help His people and His work, what did Jesus say that means?

“Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Matthew 25:45-46

Wealth Wasted on the Worship of Self!

Christ’s work does not include paying for physical buildings to be built under the feigned notion that a physical building is the way to advance His kingdom. Nonsense! Jesus and His holy apostles never erected or built or expanded even one physical building. What does that tell us concerning the modern church? It tells us that they are not following Christ. Rather, they are perpetuating their own names, building their own edifices to their self-serving purposes, and wasting the resources of people for their own glory.

Many today give out of self-love in order to:

1) Make themselves rich in this world, thinking they are going to receive money back because they gave.

2) Make their self and families more comfortably entertained on Sunday mornings when they go to the church building they are giving to.

So, due to the self-serving disposition that possesses many of those who claim to be serving the One who gave all, the greedy beguiler need only say “Give here and God will bless you” and/or “Give here and we will make you more comfortable and be able to entertain you better with our little sermonette props, fancy coffees, fad programs, big screen TV’s and smoke rolling off the stage.

People who deny Christ instead of self are easy and gullible prey and dupes for the myriad of charlatans operating in the modern church world. Neither of these are done in honor of the LORD. No, both are done out of the worship of self – to bless self and not the Savior. Is this not at least partially why Jesus did not honor the giving of the religionists of His day, even though He saw that they cast in much monetarily? (Mark 12:41-44)

The Bible says that “The LORD loveth a cheerful giver,” or one who gives of his substance in a worshipful manner and not for a self-serving purpose (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Does God give back to those who give out of a worshipful, thankful, and obedient heart? Yes. Yet, giving that honors God and not the god of self, is given from a joyful heart in gratitude to the One from whom all blessings flow (James 1:17).

The LORD is most interested in us giving ourselves to Him and not our money (Matthew 6:21). Our giving or lack thereof, is a direct reflection of how much we have or have not given ourselves to Christ.

People who give to further the cause of any local church that is not fully engaged in the Great Commission, are wasting God’s money and furthering the cause of apostasy. When Jesus said “I will build my church,” He obviously meant nothing about going out and building physical buildings but rather, building His kingdom in the hearts of men the world over (Matthew 16:18). Read Christ’s words again – “I will build my church.” What is His“church”? The Greek word for “church” is ekklesia and simply means the called out ones – people!

“Study!”

Read your Bible friend. Cease blindly following mere men (Acts 17:11). Get into God’s Word and challenge everything you are seeing in the modern church world and that which you currently hold on to in your mind and heart.

“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

As you daily and diligently study God’s Word, one truth at a time, you will begin to see just how far off the apostate modern church system really is. Doing things God’s way requires reading and following Christ via His blessed Word. Study the early church and ask who, what, where, why, and when.

What did the early believers do with their money in their worship of the LORD? Did they give to build or sustain a physical building in order to follow a mere man or to make themselves and their families comfortable on Sunday mornings? No! Never! Not once! So, to do so is to waste God’s money and to have to answer for it.

Cross-Less Worship is the Worship of Self and the Open Denial of the Savior

It’s amazing how many who claim to love Jesus spend/waste more money on trash like this than they do funding the Gospel and helping the poor. Why? They are serving the god of self – “Whose god is their belly (carnal appetites)” (Phil. 3:18-19). God is watching EVERY penny we have and how we are spending/stewarding it (Mark 12:41-44). We shall all give account to Him for this (Romans 14:10).

Yes the problem is that so many don’t give God the first portion and yet spend all their money on the god of self. The LORD tells us in Proverbs 3:9-10:

“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”

Every person reading these words is going to choose and prove, the very next time they get paid – who they worship. What did Jesus teach on this?

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. … 24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:19-24

Want to see where someone’s heart is? – simple: watch where they spend their monies.

Want to see where our own heart is? – simple: watch where we are spending our monies.

IF you can’t give up, give out a small portion of the money GOD GOD GOD gave you, money is your god and it cannot save (Matthew 6:19-24).

Praise God for restaurants, etc……. Yet I must ask myself if it’s necessary to eat out 5-7 times weekly. Not here. Maybe once monthly. Consider this for lunch: 2-3 hard boiled eggs and some fresh, raw fruit and /or vegetables in a tupperware costs less than .50cents daily. And it’s perfect nutrition and stewardship.

The daily cross Christ commanded is neglected and refused in nearly all local church gatherings today. This is why the Savior is not being truly elevated and worshiped among those who say they know Him. Without fail, self will always be on the altar of worship when Christ is not forcefully and deliberated worshiped as the only “Head” of His body (Ephesians 5:23; Colossians 2:18-19).

Without exception, all true, Heaven-bound followers of Christ cry out that “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

Biblical Ignorance Exploited

Beguilers have enough confidence in the ignorance of those they lead that they need not fear ever being questioned about whatever they (the leadership) choose to do – no matter how unbiblical it may be. Their treatment of the monies and how and where they are being spent is never questioned by their prey. Many a ministry attracts people who still love this world and therefore we know that “the love of the Father is not in” them (1 John 2:15-18). Their own refusal learn God’s Word and to obey it has rendered these captives unable to discern and flee from their greedy and covetous captors. These people who make up the audiences have not dealt with heart issues such as greed, covetousness, and being broken before the LORD (Luke 12; 16; 2 Timothy 4:3).

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If ANY man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.” 1 John 2:15-18

The money-mongers gospel lures in those who are not dead to the flesh and the world because the daily cross Jesus commanded is absent from their personal lives (Matthew 16:24-25; Luke 9:23-24). Paul taught:

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14

Ezekiel 14 deals with heart idols and how Christ-denying leaders with idols of the heart actually serve a divine purpose per se’. Since these men remain covetous, having rejected the truth in their own personal lives, though holding positions of leadership, they are turned over to be deceived and to deceive others who name Christ as Savior but are not given over to Him (Luke 19:27; 1 Corinthians 11:19; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; 2 Timothy 3:13).

Ezekiel 14

1 Then came certain of the elders of Israel unto me, and sat before me. 2 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, 3 Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be enquired of at all by them? 4 Therefore speak unto them, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Every man of the house of Israel that setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet; I the Lord will answer him that cometh according to the multitude of his idols; 5 That I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are all estranged from me through their idols. 6 Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn away your faces from all your abominations. 7 For every one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth in Israel, which separateth himself from me, and setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to a prophet to enquire of him concerning me; I the Lord will answer him by myself: 8 And I will set my face against that man, and will make him a sign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of my people; and ye shall know that I am the Lord. 9 And if the prophet be deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the Lord have deceived that prophet, and I will stretch out my hand upon him, and will destroy him from the midst of my people Israel. 10 And they shall bear the punishment of their iniquity: the punishment of the prophet shall be even as the punishment of him that seeketh unto him; Ezekiel 14:1-10

Peter writes that it’s “through covetousness” that these “false prophets” and “false teachers” operate. Instead of instructing their audiences the biblical way – to deny self – these men utilize “feigned words” to “make merchandise of you.”

“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” 2 Peter 2:1-3

This whole mega church movement (its leaders and teachings) operates through the covetousness in the hearts of the supporters and those who lead them – astray. This business model works off of the “What’s in it for me” principle. The people are enticed to give in order to continue to build the circus house they meet in. Have you seen and been in some of these houses of self-worship? Wow, some of them are lavishly enormous. Yet, the smaller ones are no less deadly.

Many people who attend seeker-friendly or Word of faith type churches are not living the Christian life – they are not dead to self and crying out for Jesus to increase and reign in their personal lives (John 3:30). Like the kind of people who get into a greed-driven business opportunity in hopes of attaining to the level of success of that big money earner who is being paraded, many today aspire to enjoy the posh lifestyle they see their “Christian” leader(s) living. So, they continue to give their monies and support into those false ministries in hopes that they might one day achieve such a lifestyle themselves. God promises to equally judge both parties for this sin – the leaders and their enablers.

“And they shall bear the punishment of their iniquity: the punishment of the prophet shall be even as the punishment of him that seeketh unto him.” Ezekiel 14:10

“And there shall be, like people, like priest: and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them their doings.” Hosea 4:9

The apostle Paul reveals this same phenomenon:

“But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. … For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.” 2 Timothy 3:13; 4:3

This prophesied proliferation of “evil men and seducers” is upon us and made possible by those who “after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”

In 2006, churches spent $8.1 billion on audio and projection equipment, according to TFCinfo, an audiovisual market research firm, as reported by The Christian Post.

That’s right, in just one year that’s 8.1 BILLION dollars spent on audio projection equipment alone! That money was spent by financially supported CEO’s who run today’s churches. And where did that money come from? – Largely by people who are being misled by these leaders. This tells us plainly that leaders are using the monies they collect to enhance their physical buildings and make people feel good and comfortable when they come to be entertained on Sunday mornings. So, the motivation for giving is to serve themselves. This is hardly a godly and biblical motive for giving. Compare this with that special offering taken up among the believers at Corinth and sent to Jerusalem. There was no promise or possibility that any of that money was going to serve to flatter their own flesh – those disciples gave to bless their fellow saints in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-3).

So, 8.1 billion dollars was spent in one year in America to even further pamper religious, church members who are apostate and prove their lost state by their support of covetous, disobedient, apostate leaders.

So, every year, not 8 million but rather 8 BILLION dollars is given by so-called Christians in America to help them enjoy better sound quality on Sunday morning in the entertainment centers we call “churches.”

Where do you give and why? Are people going un-discipled and unsaved due to your neglect in stewardship?

According to God’s Word, is this 8.1 billion dollars being spent by Christ-centered, Holy Spirit-led stewards, or charlatans? The answer is obvious to the Bible student who is a truth-seeking disciple of only One, Jesus Christ.

Beloved, let us pray sincerely and daily for the fear of the LORD to abide in our hearts and that His divine wisdom will also guide us in the stewardship He requires of us, for which we will each give account (Psalms 86:11; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

Did you realize that any person enabling (by funding, etc.) false ministries will be partaker of (reap) the same certain judgment that is coming upon all “evil workers”? See Ezekiel 14:9-10; Philippians 3:2; Revelation 18:4. John the apostle wrote:

“If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” 2 John 10-11

To help a wolf in any manner, is to be an accessory to the fact or an enabler of that evil beguiler. This places the supporter under the exact same divine condemnation. The phrase “bid him God speed” here refers to supporting the person who conveys a false message or lifestyle inconsistent with what Christ and His holy apostles taught and modeled which we have on record in the Holy Scriptures.

Prayer: Holy Father, I come to You afresh this hour, rending my heart and submitting it to You right this moment. I love You Jesus and return to You right now. Please forgive me for any and all sins I have committed in mis-stewarding Your money. The money in my possession now and that which is to come, is not mine but Yours. Into Your hands I commend and release my spirit, in Jesus holy name. Amen.

Capture Points

1. Read, meditate upon, and discuss Ezekiel 14:9-10.

2. Write out 2 Timothy 4:3-4 on an index card and read it aloud three times and begin to memorize this passage.

3. Discuss and mull over how you might begin to better steward your own personal life and resources as to prepare to be judged for how you did such.

Fruit Abounding To Your Account: Divine Incentive [video]

“Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.” Philippians 4:17 Jesus told us that He has gone to prepare a place for His people. If you are born again and abiding presently in Christ, you have “mansion” in glory awaiting you! (John 14:1-6) Did you know that you also have an “account” in Heaven? Now, what’s in that “account”? Is it empty or full? Every single child of God has an “account” in Heaven. Paul the apostle of Jesus, cared deeply about the heavenly “account” of Christ’s saints! YOU have an “account” […]

Dollar Dialogue [podcast]

Holes in Your Money Bags? [podcast] Curing the Dilemma of Diminishing Returns. If we want to see Heaven’s floodgates opened, we must examine what compliance, what agreement, what obedience the LORD may be leading us to render. The Reason Your Bag has Holes in it [podcast] (below) YOUR own bank statement tells you exactly who you are. Matt 6:21 A financial investor takes your money and multiplies it for your last few years in this temporal life, right? In contrast, laborers for Christ take your support and multiply it for Christ and themselves for all eternity. In Christ’s eternal kingdom […]

10 Clues Your Love for God has Waxed Cold [podcast]

The wise virgin saints are keeping their lamps full of divine oil, they are taking personal responsibility for their own spiritual state with Christ the great and soon coming Bridegroom. Read Matthew 25:1-13. “The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold” “And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the […]

Apostasy

Racism: Nation Rising Against Nation [radio]

Nation Shall Rise Against Nation

Laboring in the Spirit, not the Flesh

“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude 21

It’s not about the color or your skin, it’s about what kingdom you’re in!

What Should be the Response of the Body of Christ? – LOVE!

Reading 1 Corinthians 13 each morning this week is a life changer. Nothing in our lives is going to work out right if we don’t prayerfully endeavor to walk in God’s love – loving God and our neighbor, above ourselves. I love pouring prayerfully over 1 Corinthians 13 and Philippians 2:3-5. Life changing is an understatement!

Racism is hatred and is not a skin color. It is a heart condition – coming from a sinful heart. Memorize Romans 2:11.

In the time of tribulation for the believers at Thessalonica, the Holy Spirit spoke through Paul and said this:

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5

By this we know of a certainty that the Holy Spirit is leading, directing our “hearts into the LOVE of God” and not the flesh, not a fleshly response. We now face tribulation and can be assured by this truth that our unchanging God is directing our hearts into His love and not hatred.

This is a divine truth for every era, every hour…. and we sure know that sin is exponentially abounding in this late hour…. which means divine grace is even greater – to save, heal, bless, deliver, and make whole!!!!

“But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:” Romans 5:20

Here’s more evidence of God’s leading His people into the love walk in trying times:

“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:7-8

Any person who does not walk in God’s love is not saved and we know that from many Scriptures. No hate, no hater shall enter Christ’s kingdom, no matter what justification that sinner thinks he has to warrant hating anyone. “He that loveth not knoweth not God.” (1 John 4:8) “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15)

When His disciples ask Him “what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?”, Jesus gave them this answer:

“And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation (ethnic group) shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:4-13

“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:3-5

The Church began, will end as containing precious souls from every nation, kindred, and tongue (Acts 2; Revelation 5:9; 14:6).

The New Testament church began with men from every nation under Heaven and will be the same throughout eternity in glory.

Acts 2:1-13

“And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;” Revelation 5:9

Nation/ethnos, ethnic yes…groups at odds was foretold by Jesus – Matthew 24:7

Yes we can be at peace, Jesus told us to fear not and to be at peace …..

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Compassion in Light of Christ's Soon Return [video]

PRAYER: Holy Father, please change us to the very core of our being…. that we might see the lost souls around us as precious to You! In Jesus’ name, amen. “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.” James […]

Articles

LESS than the Least! Filthy Rags Fellowship! [podcast]

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

FACT: NO ONE, not one person on this earth needs Jesus more than this fool, this pauper who is nothing without Christ! (Romans 7:18; Ephesians 3:8; 1 Timothy 1:15)

Jesus died, was buried, and raised again from the dead to forgive, regenerate, redeem, and grant complete victory in this life to every one of His people. Yet, we must do things God’s way and no other way.

JESUS JUDGED SIN ON THE CROSS SO WE DON’T HAVE TO BE JUDGED FOR OUR SIN AND SO WE CAN EXPERIENCE “THE EXCEEDING RICHES OF HIS GRACE” BOTH NOW AND FOREVER (JOHN 12:31-32; EPHESIANS 1:7; 2:7).

What do we truly deserve in and of ourselves, being that “all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags”? (Isaiah 64:6) The term “filthy rags” expresses the image, the reality of utter impurity, putridity.

“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

No. No. No. Born again believers into Christ are no longer walking in their own righteousness which is as “filthy rags” and yet, they are ever aware of the fact that outside of Christ, if they dare tread, means they are again as “filthy rags” in the sight of a Holy God (Isaiah 64:6; Ezekiel 33:12-13; 2 Peter 2:20-22)..

“And be found in him, NOT HAVING MINE OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS (“filthy rags”), 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

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.

“It is then, we say, in the successive stages of his experience, that the believer sees more distinctly, and adores more profoundly, and grasps more firmly, the finished righteousness of Christ. And what is the school in which he learns his nothingness, his poverty, his utter destitution? The school of deep and sanctified affliction. In no other school is it learned, and under no other teacher but God. Here his high thoughts are brought low, and the Lord alone is exalted.” Octavius Winslow

The true disciple sees himself as absolutely undeserving of and infinitely blessed to have been found, forgiven, and saved by the LORD Jesus Christ! He sees himself like Paul – “LESS than the least of all saints.” (Ephesians 3:8)

“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15

Like Paul, we should always see ourselves as the one most in need of the great mercy of God given us through Christ our LORD! Pour over Titus 3:5-7 daily this week beloved of God.

We cannot die for our own sins. Jesus alone did that – perfectly paying for them (John 19:30). He lived a sinless life under the law – to keep it perfectly as no sinful man had or could ever do (Genesis 6:5, 12; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3; James 2:10, etc.). Christ then nailed the law to the cross and “took it out of the way,” removing us from under it – from under its impossible weight (Colossians 2:14-19, etc.). Memorize Romans 10:4 and James 2:10 and Galatians 2:16 brother.

Paul’s flesh was and our flesh is a constant reminder of the ever momentary need for the grace of Jesus – which works in us via the cross life. Romans chapters 6-7.

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)

“Hell is full of people who think they deserve heaven. Heaven is full of people who know they deserve Hell.” Unknown

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.

If we vainly imagine that someone else’s sin is more vile than our own in the eyes of a holy God, this is a tell tale indicator that we still don’t have a Gospel clue – as to our own utter unworthiness, wretchedness, and depravity outside of Christ! (Genesis 32:10; Jeremiah 17:9; James 2:10, 13; Titus 3:3-7, etc.)

How can we possibly begin to understand and appreciate why Jesus came to the earth to die if we still see ourselves as anything except “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” before a holy God? (Isaiah 6:3; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:18; Revelation 4:8)

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9

The heart of the human problem is the problem of the human heart.

The apostle Paul had his personal testimony of being saved by the grace of Christ and considered himself to be, not the least, but rather “LESS than the least” of all saints in Christ. In my opinion, this should be the only thing you and I should disagree with Paul concerning. Paul didn’t know us when he said that, right? 😉 Get the point? -you and I, as we see the truth about our own utter iniquitous depravity (Romans 7), we should view ourselves as “LESS than the least of all saints.” (Ephesians 3:8) We should also agree with the divine truth, uttered from the great apostle of Christ and recorded below:

“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.” Romans 7:18

Do you realize that outside of Christ, “NO GOOD THING” dwells in you?

“O WRETCHed man that I am! (presently) who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24

It really is true that Jesus “saved a wretch like me” when He mercifully saved me.

“And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. … And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.” Genesis 6:5, 12

Now, do we begin to see why we must be “crucified with Christ”? (Galatians 2:20)

Every believer grapples with the downward gravitational pull of the flesh (Galatians 5:17; Hebrews 12:4). Obeying God is the only way victory will erupt, manifest in our personal lives (2 Corinthians 4:10-12). Death and burial will be followed by resurrection! And, when Christ is truly reigning is us, victory will be sure! Time to get down low and watch the devil and sin go! (James 4:6-10)

“GOD is able” saith the LORD! (Ephesians 3:20)

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3:20

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).

We should see ourselves as the most undeserving of the saving grace of Christ. We should say before our God, with the man who hung his head low as he prayed and said “God be merciful to me a sinner.” (Luke 18:13)

God calls those whom He saves to relish the great love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy He has shown upon us – “WHILE we were yet sinners.” (Romans 5:6-8) This is the disposition of the true disciple. In fact, He calls us to lift up and prefer others actually ABOVE ourselves.

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” Philippians 2:3-5

The above passage is a great way to begin our day, every morning.

Those who truly seek and love the LORD, love also all men. Having freely received it, they desire to pour out the message of Christ’s saving mercy on others. Memorize the words of our LORD recorded in Matthew 22:37-40.

Saved by Divine 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

Do we still think we were worthy to be forgiven, saved? …. Not! God did it out of His sheer love! Can we examine that idea?

“But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags…” Isaiah 64:6

“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:” Romans 3:10

“I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant.” Genesis 32:10

Foundations: JESUS came to save man from his SIN, first and foremost and not just to comfort, remove stress, and solve all the other problems that emanate from sin. Seldom is this foundational Bible truth ever heard in the apostate modern church world where it’s all about “what’s in it for me”? Total self-serving, un-repentant counterfeits! Memorize Matthew 1:29; John 1:29; and 1 Timothy 1:15. The essential doctrine of fallen mankind is ignored by modern wolves. | The Sinful Depravity of Fallen Mankind – Man Outside of the Present Saving Mercy of God

How do you see yourself?

Some among us recklessly pretend to be sinless. This seems apparent in the way they harshly, mercilessly judge others. Yet, God’s Word warns each of us:

“be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23

Instead of covering our sins, denying we’ve committed them, we must admit them honestly and forsake them:

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13

“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 don’t see things from God’s perspective, through the eyes of Holy Scripture, we are completely deceived and in need of repentance and true obedience to the only LORD and Savior.

ALL sin is public to God. He knows every sin we’ve ever committed. Just because you didn’t get caught by mere men, doesn’t negate the fact.

“Some men’s sins are open beforehand (public, known to men), going before to judgment; and some men they follow after (unknown to men).” 1 Timothy 5:24

Some men’s sins are public while others are hidden for now and yet God sees and will bring them all to the light after death. Nothing is hidden from His eyes (Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13).

All we have to see the person most in need of divine mercy is to look in the mirror.

The sin that should concern us the most is our own.

Mercy! Back up the dump truck and unload it on others AS YOU DESPERATELY need it from God! He requires this! Hell is full of self-righteous, merciless hypocrites. Jesus says the harlots will be in Heaven before they will !

“Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.” Matthew 21:31

One commentary on this passage states:

“Christ forces from the unwilling hearers an answer which, at the moment, they do not see will condemn themselves. Unaccustomed to be criticized and put to the question, wrapped in a self-complacent righteousness, which was generally undisturbed, they missed the bearing of the parable on their own case, and answered without hesitation, as any unprejudiced person would have decided. The first; i.e. the son who first refused, but afterwards repented and went. Verily I say unto you. Jesus drives the moral home to the hearts of these hypocrites. The publicans and the harlots. He specifies these excommunicated sinners as examples of those represented by the first son. Go into the kingdom of God before you; προαìγουσιν ὑμας: are preceding you. This was the fact which Jesus saw and declared, he does not cut off all hope that the Pharisees might follow, if they willed to do so; he only shows that they have lost the position which they ought to have occupied, and that those whom they despised and spurned have accepted the offered salvation, and shall have their reward. We must remark that the Lord has no censure for those who sometime were disobedient, but afterwards repented; his rebuke falls on the professors and self-righteous, who ought to have been leaders and guides, and were in truth impious and irreligious.” Pulpit Commentary

In this statement and much more of what we see in Holy Scripture, God expresses to us that the filthiest of sinners He detests are the self-righteous religionists.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalms 103:12

THINK of the worst sin you have ever committed: Now, if you want all your sins removed “as far as the east is from the west,” God requires that you repent, cease your self-righteous attitudes and words condemnations on others, and relish His mercy that you never deserved but that God proved through the blood of the cross of His only begotten Son. Get your hands from around the neck of others or hell will be your forever abode – not matter what security you vainly believe you have with the LORD (Matthew 18:21-35).

THE WICKED AND THE WONDERFUL: Does the Bible say that You are Wonderful? [podcast]

Attention: Jesus didn’t come to die because you are wonderful. No He came because you are wicked (Genesis 6:5, 12; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3, etc.). The testimony of Holy Scripture is that JESUS is “Wonderful” (Isaiah 9:6-7)…. and we are “desperately wicked” without Him (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:18, 24). Each of His children, bought by His blood, merely stand as unworthy beggars, shoulder to shoulder in honor of our KING, Jesus! The only righteousness we have is that which our LORD Jesus mercifully, graciously provided for us by the one-time shedding of HIS precious blood for our sin – to […]

The Exceeding Riches of His Grace

Excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages Ephesians 2:7 “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 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: That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:4-8 Here are […]

Abiding

God Blesses those who Read His Word [book]

God blesses those who Read His Word

“Blessed is he that readeth” Revelation 1:3

“Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and READ.” Isaiah 34:16

“Rightly dividing the word of truth”

“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

YES God’s people are to “study” His Word and how else to do such than to begin by “READING” His words? 2 Timothy 2:15

“Till I come, give attendance to READING, to exhortation, to doctrine.” 1 Timothy 4:13

“Blessed is he that READETH ….” Revelation 1:3

Years ago I found that if I don’t get up early to read God’s Word and spend quality moments in prayer first and foremost, it will never happen. God must be put first and this requires ruthless discipline.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

Reading all of God’s Word is the priority of every astute follower of Jesus.

There’s no way to learn God’s Word other than reading it yourself (2 Timothy 2:15). God gave you His Word in tangible format in order for you to learn of Him, from Him, and by Him. Those who leave it to others to teach them God’s Word are self-deceived and will be misled by those they depend on to teach them the Bible.

“I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.” Job 23:12

O the beauty of doing things God’s way. When things are done our LORD’s way, His blessings ensue! Blessings will chase you down! Are you putting GOD first in your life, truly, literally?

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

“The joy and rejoicing of mine heart”

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.” Jeremiah 15:16

GOD’S WORD

Saints, in order that some may be encouraged, below, let’s talk about our current personal Bible reading…..

“Presently, I am in 1 Kings, reading all the way through the Bible again, and also reading through Revelation backwards. Personally I like to read several chapters every morning to begin the day and like to include OT, Poetic books, and New Testament chapter readings….. along with pouring over passages like 1 Cor 13; Phil 2:3-5; Col. 3:1-4, 12-14;” Todd

“In 1 Thessalonians reading through the Bible.” Jason

“I am reading Mark.” Michele

“Philippians—Paul’s letter in prison—and joy.” Joe

“I Been Reading James And 1st And 2nd Peter This Week.” Connie

“Working my way through 1 Sam (ch 14 finished now) Psalms 77 and John chapter 4 finished. Trying to read through in 6 months. I enjoy listening (KJB on YouTube) while I read also.” Nathan

“Reading 1 and 2 Corinthians. That’s the Scripture portion that my current CD covers at night. Listening to the whole KJB on CD and set it to repeat while I’m sleeping. This morning specifically studied 2 Cor. 4:10.” Debbie

The Blessings of Bible Reading [podcast]

podcast coming soon “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.” Revelation 1:3 The quickest and surest way to get blessed is to simply read God’s Word. This is so simple that most miss it. Bible reading is the key to learning the things of God (Prov. 22:17-22). Bible Study is paramount to spiritual growth (1 Pet. 2:2). Reading God’s Word etches the image of Christ upon the canvass of the heart (Lk 24:27; Jn 5:39, 46). Bible reading instills the […]

The Real R.E.D. Alert

THE REAL R.E.D. Alert ….Saint of Christ, are you in God’s Word richly and daily, being reminded of His blessed truths? (Colossians 3:16; Acts 2:42) If so, then you are to be putting His children in remembrance of these truths as we look together for His soon return. When we do this, we are considered “a good minister of Jesus Christ.” “If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.” 1 Timothy 4:6 Where to Look Jesus […]

IS DOUBTING YOUR SALVATION ALWAYS A BAD THING? [podcast]

Making Sure We are Truly Saved While We Still Can Obviously, the assurance of salvation should concern each and every one of us. “For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 Notice “if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.” Note that those who honestly assess and amend their ways in the LORD will not be judged with the wicked. Those who don’t, will be. They will fall away and not […]