“And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” Matthew 21:44
Bow now or be broken later – and forever.
“In the first part of the verse, the stone is on the ground; in the second part, it is descending from above. This suggests the two Advents of Christ. When He came the first time, the Jewish leaders stumbled over Him and were broken to pieces. When He comes again, He will descend in judgment, scattering His enemies like dust.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
This parabolic discourse of Jesus, the chief cornerstone, seems to invite us to apply what is called “the law of double reference.” In how Christ is treated – honored or dishonored – this truth applies to the nation of Israel and also the individual saint of Christ.
“[whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder] Whoever throws himself on the mercy of Christ shall be broken and made contrite (Psa_34:18; Psa_51:17; Psa_147:3), but whoever rejects His mercy shall be completely crushed (Greek: likmao (G3039), be scattered like chaff, Mat_21:44; Luk_20:18). This scattering like chaff refers to the dispersion of the nation (Luk_21:24). The term “broken in pieces” refers to complete defeat and destruction in Isa_8:9; Jer_50:2; cp. Dan_2:35, Dan_2:44-45.” Dake
Top or Bottom?
“To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.” 1 Peter 2:4-8
The Messiah was foretold to be “precious” to those who believe and “a rock of offence” to those who make the choice to defy and deny God’s only Savior, Jesus Christ.
“And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” Isaiah 8:14
The Son of God, the very One who is the prophesied Messiah in the above passage, taught the essential necessity of utter humility in the lives of all who will know and walk with Him.
“And (the false religionists, Pharisees) love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, 7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. 8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” Matthew 23:6-12
The Jewish Messiah came in a humble fashion, as a Lamb when they expected Him to come the first time to destroy their enemies with physical force. If I am following the Messiah, He is my Master and I am becoming more and more of a servant as He was (Philippians 2). When He promotes me it is for the purpose of exalting and serving Him and His people in a greater fashion, not to be exalted in the sight of men (Ps. 75:5-6). If I am to “grow in grace” it is in order that I may know and love Him more and in order to serve His people more fully (2 Pet. 1:2, 3:18).
This short life is not the occasion to be exalted among men, but rather to exalt the only One worthy to be exalted.
“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” John 12:32
Yes, I know He is speaking of His own death to save us and yet I must take liberty to ask: are we lifting Him up? One of the clearest ways we lift up the Savior, is to lift up His will, which is His Word, by doing it. In this and through this men will see His goodness in you and glorify your Father in Heaven (Matt. 5:16).
Where are my motives in serving God? Why do I want to be in leadership in the Body of Christ? Why do I want to sing in the choir, preach, teach Sunday School, greet, write a book, have a ministry, etc.? Is it to be seen of men like the religious hypocrites of Christ’s day? Or, is it to lift up the downtrodden, see God heal the brokenhearted, give hope to the hopeless, and exalt the King of all kings? Is this not why Christ came? (Luke 4:18; Jn. 12:32; Col. 1:17-19)
Christ is to be magnified in all things in the lives of those whom He has redeemed:
“Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.” Philippians 1:20
Please read the following words carefully and prayerfully. These are not the words of any mere man. These are the words of the Alpha and the Omega, the One who spoke the worlds into existence and now upholds them by the very word He spoke when He created all things. Jesus Christ is the One who created, sustains, and owns all things, yet came to this earth to serve us (John 1:10). The text below is paramount to understanding and walking in your God-given purpose in this life as you follow Christ in what He did in His time here on the earth, as He showed us the Father (Jn. 14:9).
“Then came to him the mother of Zebedee’s children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:20-28
Jesus came to serve us and commanded us to do what He did – serve others.
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:3-5
BELOVED, WHO DO WE THINK WE ARE?
If you have anything good about you at all, God is to be blamed (Rom. 3:10; 7:18). Every good and perfect gift originates from Him, and not from us (James 1:17). We have no existence without Him who is our life.
Take a look at what Paul says about the giftings we have all been given on loan:
“For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory (boast), as if thou hadst not received it?” 1 Corinthians 4:7
If we have been given something, that means it didn’t originate with us. Right? It also means that God gave the gift(s) to us to serve others, not just ourselves (1 Pet. 4:10-11). So, why do we arrogantly boast in our hearts as if we are better than others because of something God Himself gave us? Rather we should be using those gifts to serve His people (1 Peter 4:10-11).
“For who maketh thee to differ from another? What hast thou that thou didst not receive? If thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory (boast), as if thou hadst not received it?” 1 Corinthians 4:7
We don’t own the giftings resident in our lives. These inherent gifts are merely on loan to us from the LORD. Each of us are responsible to God for the stewardship of these tools of service and will one day give account for how we chose to use them. Am I using them to serve Him and His people? Or, am I utilizing His gifts in me to glorify my own name?
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister (use in service) the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
The crucified life will bring about the producing of His good fruit in us and the fruitful use of the gifts He placed in each of us (Rom. 1:11; Phil. 2:3-5).
More questions from God:
“Shall the ax boast itself against him that heweth therewith? or shall the saw magnify itself against him that shaketh it? as if the rod should shake itself against them that lift it up, or as if the staff should lift up itself, as if it were no wood.” Isaiah 10:15
GOD HATES ARROGANCE
“Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.” 1 Samuel 2:3
“The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.” Proverbs 8:13
“And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” Isaiah 13:11
It is abundantly clear in the aforementioned verses of Scripture that the LORD will humble those who refuse to humble themselves. He also stated:
“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth (sets Himself against) the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” James 4:6
The prideful heart is a deceived heart:
“For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.” Galatians 6:3
THE CURE FOR ARROGANCE
“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Romans 12:3
“He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30
O that God would place in us the fleshly heart of a true servant who serves Him and others regardless of whether or not any man is looking or that he receives any reward on this earth.
YOUR PREDESTINATION
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29
God did “predestinate [us] to be conformed to the image of his Son.” You might respond to this Scriptural truth by asking “Okay, what does it mean to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ the Son of God?” Here is God’s answer:
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:5-8
Unlike Christ, many today want to be somebody who is known and elevated among men in this fleeting life. Many of those in places of leadership today act as if they are God’s gift to the world instead of possessing the heart posture of a humble servant. They are not dead to self and therefore not “alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:11). These are those “whose god is their belly (sinful appetites)” (Phil. 3:17-21). They are “enemies of the cross of Christ” – they are not dying to the sinful nature and therefore desire to be exalted amidst God’s people. Many in leadership make a “vain show” or “fair show in the flesh” (Ps. 39:5-6; Gal. 6:12). They reign as kings in the midst of the people. These serve themselves as they build their own kingdoms upon the sand foundation of depraved and finite self, and miss the unspeakable joy and opportunity to build upon the Rock of salvation Himself, the only real and eternal “foundation…which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 3:11). In doing this, they are leading “many” astray as Christ promised the “false prophets” would do in the last days (Matt. 25:3-5; 11, 24).
In stark contrast to those who seek their own glory, the very Creator and King of all kings Himself came to earth and “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant” (Phil. 2:7).
Serving self in the midst of a ministry leadership role can be so very subtle. Most who engage in such don’t even realize it because the sin of pride and arrogancy blind the heart and mind (Heb. 3:13). They are fully responsible for this sin because God commands all who will be His to humble themselves in His holy sight.
Overseers have the responsibility of being servant-leaders among God’s people. This is their calling:
“The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” 1 Peter 5:1-4
Friend, where are we allowing ourselves to be led? The Word tells us that “the leaders of this people cause them to err and they that are led of them are destroyed” (Isa. 9:16). We are also warned not to be “led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Pet. 3:17). Just as Jesus and His holy apostles and prophets foretold, blind leaders are leading to damnation millions who believe they are following Christ (Matt. 24:3-5, 11, 24; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:13; 4:2-5; 1 Jn. 4:1-3).
There are several people revealed in the Bible who started off right in their leadership calling, yet ended up destroyed. These are apostates. Remember Saul, Lot’s wife, and Judas? These all have one thing in common – pride, rebellion, and arrogance. These were people who were in God’s grace and anointed for leadership by Him, but refused to remain humbled before His presence. This tragedy is the same thing we see happening today among many who now occupy leadership positions within the visible church world at large. They hold and have remained in leadership positions while they have departed “from the faith” (1 Tim. 4:1-3). The Bible foretold that in the final days some would “depart from the faith” not the pulpit (1 Tim. 4:1-3).
According to the Holy Spirit speaking through the apostle Paul, one must “keep under” his body – the sinful nature – if he will prevent becoming ultimately “castaway” from the LORD eternally (1 Cor. 9:27).
THE STONE
“And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” Matthew 21:44
Did you catch that?! Will you humble yourself or will God have to humble you eternally by confining your conscious soul to hell? Will you be voluntarily broken before God, or in judgment be crushed to fine powder (destroyed)? God never fails – the choice lies with the individual (Lk. 21:19, 34-36; 2 Tim. 2:11-13). One will choose to willingly and obediently fall upon the Rock of all ages and be broken, or, he will soon be crushed to powder by the Lion of Judah in His retribution of all rebellious souls (Amos 9:10; Isa. 1:19-20; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; Rev. 19:12-16).
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:10
THE MORE we grow in His grace, the more we will realize how nothing we are and how everything He is! THE STONE: Top or Bottom? Will you willingly repent, humble yourself, and put all your faith in Jesus Christ, OR will you be ground to powder?
Prayer for the Humility of Christ
O Father, please remove every trace of self- glorification, vain glory, and arrogance from my being. Let not this left hand know what this right hand is doing. This moment I choose to humble myself under Your mighty divine hand and to realize I am nothing and can do nothing without You Jesus. LORD, thank You for Your example. Please teach me to know You in true humility as I serve Your precious people and the lost souls You were crucified and raised again to save. LORD, I now present my body a living sacrifice to Thee. Please grant my heart Your influencing grace to walk in divine true humility that I may be well pleasing in Thy site this day and forward. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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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 kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:10-14
Did you notice in verse 14 that those who hot for Jesus are participating in the preaching of His Word to the end of the earth (Mark 16:15).
Anyone not devouring God’s Word daily is falling away, is not enduring to the end, is choosing the let their love for Jesus wax cold, and on the wrong, the losing end of this prophecy Jesus gave here on record in Matthew 24:10-14.
“I will spue (vomit, reject) thee out of my mouth”
“So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” Revelation 3:16-17
Praying God will help you love Him more (Matthew 22:37-40). It really all boils down to WHO we love most. THAT is exactly who we are serving (Romans 6:16).
Loving God is everything as far as what’s in our control – because it’s a choice, daily, and will determine if one remains in Christ to the end.
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40
“Thou hast left thy first love”
“Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” Revelation 2:4-5
1. When you are choosing not to spend quality time with God in prayer each and every morning… When you are choosing not to spend quality time with God in His Word each and every morning (Luke 9:23-24; 1 Chronicles 16:11).
2. When your love for God’s people is being reduced instead of increased (Philippians 2:12-13; 1 John 5:1) Marks of the True Christian …. “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” (Romans 12:9-11) See John 13:35.
“And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. 21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.” Luke 8:20-21
“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.” 1 John 3:14
“Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.” 1 John 5:1
Reading 1 Corinthians 13 today will refresh your heart and mind on the divine importance placed upon LOVE.
3. You are not denying self and not taking up the cross daily (Luke 9:23-24; 19:27; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3, etc.).
4. You aren’t communicating the light of truth to others because you no longer seek or fear the LORD and so His divine virtue isn’t teeming in and flowing out of you. Your cup no longer runs over but instead is running empty (Psalms 23). You have a lampshade over the light and are not letting His light shine in and through your life and words… “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” (Isaiah 58:1)
5. You live in fear instead of faith and the joy of being with Jesus (Luke 21:28; 1 John 4:16-18; Proverbs 28:1; Psalms 2:11).
6. You preach promises and not conditions…following the apostate modern church and you don’t preach the cardinal doctrines of the original Gospel which we are commanded to “earnest contend for.” (Jude 3) You begin meditating on and living by trends instead of truth (Jeremiah 9:3; 2 Timothy 4:2-4; Philippians 4:8; Romans 12:1-2).
7. You have little or no true fellowship with other born- again Bible believing disciples of Jesus as is defined in God’s Word and not by the modern church world (Acts 2:42).
The Word of God is to run rich, to be abundant among God’s people … “In all wisdom” and “all in the name of the Lord Jesus” … “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:16-17)
8. You know you are backsliding when your main thrust and identity become politics, not the work of the Gospel. YOU are a blood bought disciple of Jesus, not a conservative. You are a Bible believing follower of Christ (Luke 9:62; Galatians 6:14).
9. When you love this world…..When you spend more time and money on hobbies and the things of this fleeting world than you do on attending to knowing, walking with the LORD and preparing to be used of Him (Mark 4:17-19; 1 John 2:15; James 4:4).
10. When you spend more money on trash and trinkets then helping the work of the One you claim to love and the poor. You know you are backslidden when you are not obeying God with what He’s placing in your temporal possession. He shall bring you into full account for this.
Regrettably, people will give their money to any and every pleasure under the sun but make excuses when the opportunity to support the work of the One they claim to love and serve. The Holy Spirit foretold that in the final days before the return of Jesus, there would be those with a mere “form of godliness”, “men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous,” and “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7) According to the LORD, one of the main ways to measure our true love for Him or lack thereof, is by peering into our personal stewardship of the resources He’s placed into our temporary possession. Luke 12 and 16 offer a plethora of divine wisdom and warning concerning the judgment to come, the judgment we shall endure in giving account for our stewardship in this life.
The clear proof that God is working in our lives, that we are truly following Jesus, is that we are becoming less and less vested in this fleeting, fallen world (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17). And that we, our good works, our giving are more and more invested in eternity – in the eternal kingdom of Christ, laying up treasures in Heaven, sending them before us, relinquishing the things of this world for the glory of God – putting them to work for the eternal Gospel of Christ – for saints to be fed and equipped and the lost to hear the Word of God (Matt. 6:19-21).
“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. 22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! 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
To underscore the importance of stewardship, we should realize that 16 of our LORD’s 38 parables involved stewardship. Those who now do not wish to face and confront this truth, are apparently those who are in the most need of hearing it.
PRAYER: Father I come to You now in the name of Jesus Christ. Please cause my conscience to be super sensitive to Your conviction, Your leading, and to evade all that defiles me in Your holy eyes, sin. Here and now I submit my life afresh to You dear LORD. You must increase but I must decrease. I am crucified with Christ and thank You for conforming me to His holy image. I am all Yours LORD and thank You that You are all mine. I love You Jesus. Please make me one with You and the Father and with Your beloved body. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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More Good News! Mission Mexico Part 42
IF YOU SAINTS WEREN’T SO FAITHFUL TO JESUS, NONE OF THIS WOULD BE HAPPENING…..
So while going to bring a good supply of food and household essentials to Clara and her boys, by divine ordination I tracked and spoke God’s Word to a Holy Spirit filled sister in Christ. Her name is Maria La Luz. She eagerly took about 100 or more JESUS tracts with her to distribute!!!! That’s how Mexican people are – If they have something good to give, they give it!
Boom. Oh, and Maria LaLuz are in touch by phone so she will be letting me know when she needs more. Thank you for continuing to pray as Jesus instructed in Matthew 9:35-38 – that the Father would send forth labourers into the harvest!
Working with, supporting, equipping, fueling, and supply indigenous missionaries in key to exponential kingdom momentum in the spread of Christ’s Gospel in this beautiful nation.
Just think if this kingdom operation can be duplicated throughout Mexico and Latin America! (Matthew 24:14; 28:18-20) Do we think God has a plan? Yes He does!
Because you care, prayed, and gave, another sister who was just saved recently, was given (purchased) a brand new study Bible (Life in the Spirit Study Bible) KJB. She is elated and devouring God’s Word and growing daily! (2 Peter 3:18)
Also, once again Clara was elated that you prayed and gave. She just now texted me the following after receiving your gifts today:
“Seriously, thank you very much for helping me, it means a lot to me that you help me because I have not been able to find a good job and with this we survived a few days my children and I but just like if you have work do not hesitate to send me a message and I will also go it would be very helpful since the day comes when I have to pay my rent. And again, thank you very much, you are an angel that our Lord sent me, thank you, thank you, thank you 🙏🏻” Clara
Okay now get this…. Clara has been ministered to directly and she has read the JESUS tract. I don’t think she’s saved yet. She has seen your love for Christ in action by your prayers and giving. At first I didn’t know how she was receiving the Gospel but now, from above, it’s obvious that she is being ministered to by our LORD. Perhaps she’s already saved. I don’t know due to the language barrier. But we do know God is showing her His love and power! (1 Corinthians 3:6-9)
Here’s some of the food you purchased for this single mother today! See pic.
*More than half the 10,000 JESUS tracts are already passed out or in the hands of Christ’s witnesses!!! Yes more than half in just 2 weeks.
God is hearing your prayers and honoring your giving to Him!
“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:14
In Christ
Todd
Ever feel like just hitting the eject button and leaving the USA? If so, why not consider a town in Mexico? Pray. Ask God where HE wants you on His planet. Rest.
Also, perhaps begin research Mexico or Latin America on youtube.
A few days ago ….. WHEN we first arrived to refresh and minister to our LORD servant Maria, she was not her usual self, not overflowing with joy. Then when the body of Christ ministered to her, including replenishing her supply of JESUS tracts, there was a notable difference. See if you agree. Your prayers and support make this possible. | Mission Mexico Updates
“Wow!! I think of Jesus when he marveled at the faith of the centurions faith! Luke 7:9. I marvel at all the Lord is doing among the Mexican people! And now He is raising up Labourers into the harvest who emanate the joy of the Lord and His fruits! Some are crying when receiving these Jesus tracts and some are actually kissing the picture. Actually kissing the son (Psalm 2:12). Fills my heart with so much joy and I am not even there! But I am part of Team Jesus!” Karen Cochran | Mission Mexico
The meeting fellowships with Juan and Maria the evangelists continue. They are both, for the time being, stocked up on their supply of JESUS tracts and distributing them daily!
Over breakfast, when I brought the first shipment of the Spanish Bibles to Juan, he asked me if he could give them away to people who are not in prison. Of course I said “Yes” and that these Bibles are for him to be used of God to give wherever he wishes, as he ministers.
Juan is a man who is filled with God’s Word. He speaks verbatim Scripture in Spanish perpetually. The reason I know that is that when we sit down to talk at length he speaks and it’s translated into English and is pure Scripture. He has volumes of Holy Scripture memorized.
Here is Juan ministering to a dear lady. And remember, most Mexicans it seems, do not have a Bible in their home. They greatly treasure God’s Word.
“PRICELESS, LIKE OUR SAVIOR!!! She reminds me of my Great Grandma…she glowed with God’s love. It was written all over her face. She brightened the room, and you KNEW she loved you! It wasn’t till I knew the Lord, that I realized where that glow and love came from. This little light of mine, I’m a gonna let it shine… The tragedy is when that light goes out, and you can see and feel that also. VERY SAD. It’s like shutting off a light switch…from light to darkness. And they can’t see it?! So, I thank God for those who are sharing that light of God’s love, and sharing with them. Will keep praying for Maria, you, your ministry, and the family of God. Felipe, Mark, all the brethren. I keep wondering about Paul and Carol Galloway–will keep praying. God knows. May the LORD bless you Brother Todd….What a wonderful first E-mail of the day! GOD’S JOY.” Crystal
Message from brother Juan on the Spanish communications group (WA whatsapp).
“There are many injustices in life; the Word of God says so. Many receive no visitors. God works in us both to will and to act according to His good pleasure. We are called to be doers of God’s Word. And knowing the good we ought to do, yet failing to do it, is sin. To Him be all glory and honor.” Brother Juan
RECENTLY: Immediately upon beginning to hear God’s Word spoken to him in Spanish, this man began to weep and to profusely thank God, to call out to Jesus, to kiss the Jesus tract he was given, to kiss my hand and cheek. Need I state the obvious, of how hungry these beloved people are to hear and believe Jesus’ bless-ed Gospel? …. Beloved Filipe was given the Gospel of Christ and instructed to go home and repent and receive Christ for the forgiveness of his sins and that only Jesus can forgive him and that it’s not about religion but relationship. Like the vast majority of Mexicans (99%), Filipe had never heard the Gospel of Jesus till today. Please lift beloved Filipe and the Mission Mexico heavenly operation in prayer. Thank you.
WHERE does God want you in this last hour – doing HIS will, being about the “Father’s business”? (Luke 2:49) Are you surrendered and therefore crying out to the LORD to put you on HIS EARTH exactly where you can please Him the most? | Mission Mexico
It’s all because of God’s love in Christ and your prayers and support…. This homeless man received God’s love in the form of the spoken Word, a JESUS track in Spanish, and a warm breakfast and hot coffee! Jesus is moving!
“For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8
Mission Mexico
https://safeguardyoursoul.com/mexico-mission/
Issidro asked for prayer. He’s catholic but he’s open, a little bit. He received an abundance of truth from God’s Word today and a JESUS tract in Spanish. Thank you for lifting these precious souls in prayer saints.
“Praise the Lord ! She is shining for Jesus! Overflowing Joy! It’s a blessing to see how God is moving in the ministry, Mexico for Jesus, Glory to God!!” Darlene
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
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Articles
Why the Apocrypha Isn’t in the Bible
MESSAGE GIVEN:
“I’m reading the apocrypha now and you can tell it’s definitely from the Bible and seems like it should be in there. I guess that is why God said in revelation if anyone changes or removes or adds anything to this Holy book all the plagues in it will come on them, cos he knew that it would happen.” V.
REPLY:
You are missapplying Revelation 22:18-19. God oversaw the canon of His Word, just as He promised to do in Ps 12:6-7. It’s exactly how He desired, ordained it to be in the King James Bible. To say God checked out, was negligent, is a lie, is bearing false witness, and is an indictment against the Almighty (Psalms 121:4; Daniel 4:32, etc.). There were specific reasons those apocryphal books were not included in the real Bible, as opposed to the catholic “bible.”
Roman Catholics may tell you, “You Protestants are missing part of the Bible. We have the rest of it.” [Note: These people’s leaders (popes, priests, etc.) have led them astray to this wrong belief.] This comment about missing books can throw people off, but it no longer has to. These popish additions to the Bible are commonly called the Apocrypha or sometimes the Deuterocanonical books. This is a short treatise on WHY these books are not in the Bible.
What is the Apocrypha anyway?
The Apocrypha is a collection of uninspired, spurious books written by various individuals. The Catholic religion considers these books as scripture just like a Bible-believer believes that the 66 books in the 1611 Authorized Version of the Bible are the Word of God, i.e., Genesis to Revelation. We are going to examine some verses from the Apocrypha later in our discussion.
At the Council of Trent (1546) the Roman Catholic institution pronounced the following apocryphal books sacred. They asserted that the apocryphal books together with unwritten tradition are of God and are to be received and venerated as the Word of God. So now you have the Bible, the Apocrypha and Catholic Tradition as co-equal sources of truth for the Catholic. In reality, it seems obvious that the Bible is the last source of truth for Catholics. Roman Catholic doctrine comes primarily from tradition stuck together with a few Bible names. In my reading of Catholic materials, I find notes like this: “You have to keep the Bible in perspective.” Catholics have been deceived into not believing that the Bible is God’s complete revelation for man [but they can come out of these deceptions in an instant if they will only believe the Bible as it is written].
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC APOCRYPHA
- Tobit
- Judith
- Wisdom
- Ecclesiasticus
- Baruch
- First and Second Maccabees
- Additions to Esther and Daniel
Apocryphal Books Rejected by the Catholic Religion:
- First and Second Esdras
- Prayer of Manasses
- Susanna*
*A reader says: “Susanna is in the Roman Catholic canon. It is Daniel 13.”
Why the Apocrypha Isn’t in the Bible.
Not one of the apocryphal books is written in the Hebrew language (the Old Testament was written in Hebrew). All Apocryphal books are in Greek, except one which is extant only in Latin.
None of the apocryphal writers laid claim to inspiration.
The apocryphal books were never acknowledged as sacred scriptures by the Jews, custodians of the Hebrew scriptures (the apocrypha was written prior to the New Testament). In fact, the Jewish people rejected and destroyed the apocrypha after the overthow of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.
The apocryphal books were not permitted among the sacred books during the first four centuries of the real Christian church (I’m certainly not talking about the Catholic religion. The Roman Catholic “Church” is not Christian).
The Apocrypha contains fabulous statements which not only contradict the “canonical” scriptures but themselves. For example, in the two Books of Maccabees, Antiochus Epiphanes is made to die three different deaths in three different places.
The Apocrypha includes doctrines in variance with the Bible, such as prayers for the dead and sinless perfection. The following verses are taken from the Apocrypha translation by Ronald Knox dated 1954:
Basis for the doctrine of purgatory:
2 Maccabees 12:43-45, 2.000 pieces of silver were sent to Jerusalem for a sin-offering…Whereupon he made reconciliation for the dead, that they might be delivered from sin.
Salvation by works:
Ecclesiasticus 3:30, Water will quench a flaming fire, and alms maketh atonement for sin.
Tobit 12:8-9, 17, It is better to give alms than to lay up gold; for alms doth deliver from death, and shall purge away all sin.
Magic:
Tobit 6:5-8, If the Devil, or an evil spirit troubles anyone, they can be driven away by making a smoke of the heart, liver, and gall of a fish…and the Devil will smell it, and flee away, and never come again anymore.
Mary was born sinless (immaculate conception):
Wisdom 8:19-20, And I was a witty child and had received a good soul. And whereas I was more good, I came to a body undefiled.
It teaches immoral practices, such as lying, suicide, assassination and magical incantation.
No apocryphal book is referred to in the New Testament whereas the Old Testament is referred to hundreds of times.
Because of these and other reasons, the apocryphal books are only valuable as ancient documents illustrative of the manners, language, opinions and history of the East.
Wasn’t the Apocrypha in the King James Bible?
The King James translators never considered the Apocrypha the word of God. As books of some historical value (e.g., details of the Maccabean revolt), the Apocrypha was sandwiched between the Old and New Testaments as an appendix of reference material. This followed the format that Luther had used. Luther prefaced the Apocrypha with a statement:
“APOCRYPHA–THAT IS, BOOKS WHICH ARE NOT REGARDED AS EQUAL TO THE HOLY SCRIPUTRES, AND YET ARE PROFITABLE AND GOOD TO READ.” KING JAMES VERSION DEFENDED, PAGE 98.
In 1599, TWELVE YEARS BEFORE the King James Bible was published, King James himself said this about the Apocrypha:
“AS TO THE APOCRIPHE BOOKES, I OMIT THEM BECAUSE I AM NO PAPIST (AS I SAID BEFORE)…” KING JAMES CHARLES STEWART BASILICON DORON, PAGE 13
In his, “A Premonition to All Most Mightie Monarches,”–found in his Workes (a collection of the king’s writings)–King James said this–
“…IS IT A SMALL CORRUPTING OF THE SCRIPTURES TO MAKE ALL, OR THE MOST PART OF THE APOCRYPHA OF EQUALL FAITH WITH THE CANONICALL SCRIPTURES…?”
Not only this, but the sixth article of the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England (1571 edition. The Church of England published the Authorized King James Version) states that
(1) the Old and New Testaments are the Bible–
IN THE NAME OF THE HOLY, WE DO VNDERSTANDE THOSE CANONICAL BOOKES OF THE OLDE AND NEWE TESTAMENT, OF WHOSE AUTHORITIE WAS NEVER ANY DOUBT IN THE CHURCHE…
(2) the apocrypha is not the Bible–
AND THE OTHER BOOKES, (AS HIEROME SAYETH), THE CHURCHE DOTH READE FOR EXAMPLE OF LIFE AND INSTRUCTION OF MANNERS: BUT YET DOTH IT NOT APPLIE THEM TO ESTABLISH ANY DOCTRENE. PHILIP SCHAFF, CREEDS OF CHRISTENDOM. GRAND RAPIDS: BAKER BOOK HOUSE, 1977, VOL. III, PP. 489-491.
The Hampton Court Document came as a result of the famous Hampton Court Conference of 1604 when King James specially commanded the translation of the Bible that would one day bear his name. Concerning the apocrypha and the Church of England, it states–
THE APOCRYPHA, THAT HATH SOME REPUGNANCY TO THE CANONICAL SCRIPTURES, SHALL NOT BE READ…
Select Statutes and Other Constitutional Documents Illustrative of the Reigns of Elizabeth and James I, edited by G.W. Prothero, Fellow of King’s College, Cambridge, 1894, p. 416
The Apocrypha began to be omitted from the Authorized Version in 1629. Puritans and Presbyterians lobbied for the complete removal of the Apocrypha from the Bible and in 1825 the British and Foreign Bible Society agreed. From that time on, the Apocrypha has been eliminated from practically all English Bibles–Catholic Bibles and some pulpit Bibles excepted.
Not even all Catholic “Church Fathers” believed the Apocrypha was scripture.
Not that this really means anything. The truth is not validated by the false. Nevertheless, this may be of interest to some… Jerome (340-420) rejected the Apocrypha:
“AS THE CHURCH READS THE BOOKS OF JUDITH AND TOBIT AND MACCABEES BUT DOES NOT RECEIVE THEM AMONG THE CANONICAL SCRIPTURES, SO ALSO IT READS WISDOM AND ECCLESIASTICUS FOR THE EDIFICATION OF THE PEOPLE, NOT FOR THE AUTHORITATIVE CONFIRMATION OF DOCTRINE.” JEROME, JEROME’S PREFACE TO THE BOOKS OF SOLOMON
According to Edward Hills in The King James Version Defended p. 98 other famous Catholics with this viewpoint include Augustine (354-430 who at first defended the Apocrypha as canonical), Pope Gregory the Great (540-604), Cardinal Ximenes, and Cardinal Cajetan.
There are other spurious books.
These include the Pseudepigrapha which contains Enoch, Michael the Archangel, and Jannes and Jambres. Many spurious books falsely claim to have been written by various Old Testament patriarchs. They were composed between 200 B.C. and 100 A.D. There are lots of these spurious books like The Assumption of Moses, Apocalypse of Elijah, and Ascension of Isaiah.
Concerning the Dead Sea Scrolls, there may be some information in them that parallels the Masoretic Text, but there are fables in them, too. I went to see the scrolls a few years ago with great expectation but found a bunch of fables. The best defense against error in any form (unauthorized Bibles and religions) is a solid knowledge of the AUTHORIZED (King James) Version of 1611 of the Bible. If you read it, forgeries become readily apparent.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
King James VI & I Page
The Workes of the Most High and Mightie Prince Iames [James], By the Grace of God, King of Great Britaine, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c.
Translators Revived, Alexander McClure, p. 142
Bible Believing Study, Edward F. Hills, p. 15
The King James Version Defended, Edward F. Hills, p. 96, 97, 98
God Wrote Only One Bible, Jasper James Ray, p. 90
An Understandable History of the Bible, Dr. Samuel Gipp, p. 245
Making Peace with God | Bible Versions Issue | Why Did the 1611 KJV Include the Apocrypha? | THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE OR DOUAY? Catholic “Bibles” Exposed | Lineage of the Modern Corrupt | The Catholic Church Exposed
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