“Give us a King.” 1 Samuel 8:6
As it was at the tower of Babel where fallen mankind sought to have their own way, do their own thing without God, independent of their Maker, so it is today (Genesis 11). Nimrod, an antichrist, ruled over them.
Then when there was no king, anarchy reigned.
“In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” Judges 17:6
Yet when the people wanted anarchy gone, instead of seeking the LORD, they raised up mere sinful men and yet, mankind is fallen. The final example of this will occur when the antichrist promises “Peace and safety” only to be met with “sudden destruction.”
“For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3
Seems like the ultimate and final example of people demanding an earthly king in place of God will come forth with the coming antichrist.
The LORD’s Own People Reject His Headship
The Israelites were led by God out of Egypt which represents salvation (1 Corinthians 10). They were supposed to be led directly by the LORD Himself from that point forward. Yet, in their rebellion, they cried out “Give us a king” – a human king or leader (1 Samuel 8:6).
Is this relevant to New Testament saints today? Definitely. Most today are doing exactly what Israel did when they cried “Give us an earthly king.” The majority today who claim to be Christians are serving the god of self and therefore would rather cling to some pope, self-proclaimed prophet, or pastor instead of Heaven’s KING of all kings.
“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” Psalms 9:17
Jesus told us that each and ever enemy of the LORD, those who refuse to make Him their KING, shall be slain down into eternal damnation.
“But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.” Luke 19:27
Jesus says that “NO man can serve two masters” and so any person who doesn’t have Christ as the KING, the LORD, the Master of their life, is against Christ, is the enemy of Christ! (Matthew 6:24)
“He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30
Jesus is the “Head” of His body. This means that anyone not presently under His divine, matchless Headship, is not part of His glory-bound body. Those not worshipping Jesus Christ “in spirit and in truth” today have rejected Him as “Head” of their lives and are not going to be with Him – unless they repent.
“Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:18-19
Every backslider has something in common – their rejection of Christ as “Head” and “first love” of their personal life (Revelation 2:4-5). Just as Israel did, after being saved, they then rejected the headship of the LORD and went back to trust in the flesh, today many do the same.
In contrast, the remnant saint seeks, loves, worships, gladly obeys, relishes, delights in and celebrates Heaven’s glorious and soon coming KING!
“How shall we escape (judgment), if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?” Hebrews 2:3-4
God’s people saw His mighty works, His plagues upon their enemy, His power and miracles and yet still turned away from Him. Read Hebrews 2-4.
We have the same thing today. People get saved and then they want to just go to a so-called church building on Sunday mornings and listen to a mere man – instead of following Jesus first and foremost in their own personal, daily life – which God requires (Luke 9:23-24).
The critical lesson for us to learn is that wolves step right in on the wings of this evil desire to put away the LORD and exchange Him for a mere human leader (2 Timothy 4:3).
God gave us not only a king but rather the KING of all kings! Why look ye elsewhere friend? Know Him. Seek Him.
Hebrews 11 is where we see divinely authenticated “heroes” of the faith but JESUS is the ultimate preeminent HERO – Col. 2:18-19. Today there are lots of men and women paraded as so-called “heroes” of the faith. Yet those subjectively esteemed today as heroes of the faith do not have the divinely authenticated honor of being heralded by God Himself as godly saints. So, we should ask ourselves if we are learning HIS Word and learning from people in the BIBLE… There’s a whole lot there – between Genesis and Revelation.
The LORD gave us His “will” when He said:
“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:4
Two things are stated here as God’s “will”: The LORD desires and determines to 1. save, and then 2. bring those He saves to “the knowledge of the truth” which requires the individual participation and ongoing choice of the saved person (John 15:3; 17:17).
“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32
A sort of vacuum exists when a person gets saved. The question is, WHO is going to fill that vacuum? See Matthew 12:43-45.
Jesus and His holy apostles taught that those who are saved must “endure to the end” to be saved into eternal glory (Matthew 10:22; 24:13, etc.).
“Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3
Any person peddling the eternal security/once saved always saved heresy, is a false teacher. | Eternal Security Exposed as a Doctrine of Devils
Most today who claim to be saved, do not seek the LORD for themselves. No, instead, they depend upon a man or men to tell them what God says. Because of this, they are biblically ignorant instead of biblically intelligent, and have no clue that they are being misled. They don’t know God’s Word for themselves and therefore have no idea how much their local pastor or favorite preacher personality is leaving out of the original Gospel message. Sad but truth. They are not “valiant for the truth,” they don’t love the LORD and His truth enough to study and know what He said (2 Timothy 2:15). They therefore shall be deceived and turned over to “strong delusion” and ultimately be “damned.” See 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12.
Are you seeking the LORD Jesus for yourself dear friend?
Memory verse:
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” 1 Chronicles 16:11
Is Christ the very “first love” of your life? See Revelation 2:4-5.
“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3
“For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:” Exodus 34:14
Sadly, most ministries and ministers today are set on branding themselves and not Christ! Paul says:
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.”2 Corinthians 4:5
They want you listening to them because they need return customers to continue to keep the circus wheels rolling. Just as the Holy Spirit foretold, false leaders are exploiting the people – “through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you” (2 Peter 2:1-3).
The true disciple, though they be few, cries out daily as did the Greeks – “We would see JESUS”! See John 12:21. They seek no king but Jesus! They seek no mere men because they are too busy seated at the feet of their Master – KING Jesus!
The righteous cry: LORD Jesus, be my KING, my only KING. I love You dear LORD!
The vital lesson for us to learn is that wolves step right in on the wings of this evil desire to put away the LORD and exchange Him for a mere human leader (2 Timothy 4:3). Ear-tickling charlatans now occupy the vacuum created as Jesus is rejected as the supreme “Head” of His body (Colossians 2:18-19).
In the days of the kings, when God’s people rejected His leadership and sought a mere human leader, they were led into great trouble. We see the same transpiring today as we see church goers who swear they know the LORD and yet are in reality submitted to men and not God. The lack of kingdom fruit in their daily lives makes this clear. Their energies and supplies are wasted on helping build the kingdoms of mere men, and not Christ’s eternal kingdom!
Father, I here and now repent before Your Majesty for not seeking You for myself and for elevating men to the place of leadership, Kingship and reign, reserved only for Thee. Father, in Jesus’ Name, please forgive my sin of idolatry. I now ask You alone to reign in my heart and life. Amen.
“Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.” Zechariah 11:17
The “idol shepherd” is the man who sets himself up as king over the people in place of Christ. This is “the spirit of antichrist” working (2 Thessalonians 2; 1 John 2:18; 4:3). This is all empowered by people who want to follow a visible mere man instead of seeking “the invisible God” (2 Timothy 4:2-4).
“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:” Colossians 1:15
“Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:17
“By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.” Hebrews 11:27
God is “invisible” to the human eye and yet visible only to the eye of faith and “must” be worshipped “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23-24). Faith is a non-negotiable must, an essential.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Many today, who have been saved sometime in the past, have fallen away from the LORD in their hearts, which is exactly where His holy eyes are (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13). He sees that they are “fallen from grace,” backslidden – fallen away and in deep trouble and danger of hell fire (Galatians 5:4; Hebrews 2:1-3; 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39).
“The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.” Proverbs 14:14
IT IS FUTILITY TO LOOK UNDULY TO MEN, EVEN SAVED MEN. YET, THOSE WHO DO NOT TRULY AND PERSONALLY SEEK AFTER THE LORD “IN SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH,” INEVITABLY REVERT TO LOOKING TO MERE SINFUL MEN WHO ARE AUTHORS, PREACHERS, TV EVANGELISTS, AND PASTORS THAT ARE APOSTATE IN THIS LAST HOUR (JOHN 4:23-24). THE LORD NEVER INTENDED FOR MEN TO VICARIOUSLY EXPERIENCE HIM AND HE DOESN’T ALLOW SUCH. NOT EVEN BETWEEN FATHERS AND SONS (EZEKIEL 18:20). IN THE ALL-WISE DIVINE ECONOMY, A MAN EITHER GOES DIRECTLY TO THE FATHER IN AND THROUGH JESUS CHRIST, OR THERE IS NO RELATIONSHIP (JOHN 10:9; 14:6; 1 TIMOTHY 2:5, ETC.).
The Sin and Curse of Idolatry
The Israelites, having been saved out of Egypt (the world) turned back to walking in the flesh and not walking in the Spirit by faith (Galatians 3:3). The calamities they brought upon themselves are incalculable! The same is true for those today whom after being saved by Christ, by grace through faith, turn back to living in the flesh, to trusting mere men. Read Hebrews 10.
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” Proverbs 3:5-7
The best of men are wholly frail sinners. Remember, ALL men, EVERY mere man, even in “his best state is altogether vanity.”
“LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. 5 Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.” Psalms 39:4-5
IF JESUS IS NOT YOUR ONLY HERO, YOU ARE A CHRIST-DENYING IDOLATER, AND ALL “IDOLATERS” ARE GOING TO THE LAKE OF FIRE (REVELATION 21:8). GOD IS NOT GOING TO CHANGE. HE WILL NOT OVERLOOK THIS CORE SIN. HELL AND THE LAKE OF FIRE ARE CERTAIN FOR ALL WHO HAVE A MERE “FORM OF GODLINESS” AND YET DENY CHRIST’S REIGN IN THEIR PERSONAL LIFE DUE TO SELF-IDOLATRY (WHICH IS THE ROOT OF ALL IDOLATRY AND SIN).
“Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?” Isaiah 2:22
IF you are surprised that a mere man (leader) has slipped or fallen, you don’t yet have a mature understanding of man who “at his best state is altogether vanity” (Psalms 39:4-5). Didn’t even the great apostle of Jesus tell us all that “no good thing” dwelt in him, that is, in his flesh? (See Romans 7:18, 24.) The Bible tells us that Jesus “did not commit himself unto … men, for he knew what was in man” (John 2:24-25). What is it that our LORD knew about men that we should begin to understand?
Pour prayerfully over John 2:24-25 and 1 Corinthians 4:6.
Like the Israelites, you may be saying in your heart “Give me a king” – “Give me someone tangible in the flesh to look to!” (See 1 Samuel 8:6.) In essence, this is saying “Give me an idol to worship because I don’t want to live by faith, worshiping God in spirit and in truth!” (John 4:23-24.) But friend, we don’t come to God on OUR terms but rather HIS. – “They that worship the Father MUST worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23-24).
MANY TODAY WHOM THE LORD HAS SAVED ARE NOW DEMANDING AN EARTHLY REPRESENTATIVE, SOMEONE TANGIBLE THAT THEY CAN TOUCH, AND HEAR AUDIBLY, ETC. BUT THIS CIRCUMVENTS WHAT GOD REQUIRES – FAITH IN HIM WHICH MUST BE PURE FAITH. THIS IS UNMITIGATED REBELLION AND IDOLATRY, A DAMNING SIN.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
God has given regenerate men His Spirit and the ability to know Him and to worship Him “in spirit and in truth.” No other mere man can be in this equation or all is lost. Idolatry is wickedness and rebellion – “Thou shalt have NO other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). God is “Holy, holy, holy” and will not coexist with any rebel who insists upon having any idol (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8).
“For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.” Psalms 96:5
“For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.” Psalms 97:9
Vicariously experiencing God through another person is a farce. It is not possible. The sin of idolatry will be damning (Revelation 21:8). You must repent, return to Him, and place all your faith and trust in the only nail-scarred, risen Savior and LORD Jesus Christ.
“Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.” Isaiah 45:22
Instead of looking to any mere man, woman, or ministry, the Heaven bound child of God looks only to the King of all kings – the LORD of all lords. That disciple alone will be with Christ eternally. All others claiming to be saved, yet having any other false god/idol, will be terminated into the bowels of eternal damnation (Revelation 21:8).
“Jesus said (a divine command) 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.” Matthew 22:37-38
It’s all or nothing. Jesus says:
“He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30
Any questions?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
“Give Us an Idol King”
Many churches today are built upon the personality of a mere man. The personality of the pastor is like their church business branding. There’s a particular church in this area and nearly every time I have met someone who goes there, they say “How we love Pastor Such and Such.” Upon listening to some of his messages online, I was flabbergasted at why people are so enamored. It could only be those who are carnal and are only looking at personality and not substance. As God’s Word foretold, there are many today who love to be stimulated by a good orator and are apparently willing to give up the substance of Christ Himself and truth in exchange for it.
“And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Paul made sure he did not do anything to cause people to unduly look to him, a mere man. As he ministered, the apostle refused to use “excellency of speech” in order to dazzle people and build a ministry on his own personality. He knew that many would rather cling to a mere man whom they can see instead of putting their faith in God Himself. This is no different than when Israel rejected the LORD and called for a human king who God gave them. This resulted in great pain and suffering.
When Samuel the prophet was old and about to retire to Heaven, the people of Israel called out for a human king to replace God. This grieved Samuel.
“But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD.” 1 Samuel 18:6
When the people rejected the reign of God Himself in their lives, God-fearing Samuel was “displeased” and “prayed to the LORD.” Like Samuel, God-fearing people today are greatly grieved when they see people worshiping and giving undue attention to mere human leaders.
The story continues …
“And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. 8 According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee. 9 Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them.” 1 Samuel 8:7-9
Nothing has changed in our day. Back then the people of Israel wanted to be like the God-less:
“That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles. 21 And Samuel heard all the words of the people, and he rehearsed them in the ears of the LORD. 22 And the LORD said to Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man unto his city.” 1 Samuel 8:20-22
Many today refuse to die to self and seek God “in spirit and in truth” which is the only way He can be rightly worshiped by faith (John 4:23-24). Instead, they would rather put their trust in a tangible mere human being who even in his very “best state” is “altogether vanity” (Psalms 39:4-5). In this, they reject the LORD Himself.
False leaders are much easier on people than God is. The LORD is holy and demands that His people be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). Most people don’t want to hear that message. So, they flock to smooth talking deceivers who offer them a false hope, all the while never realizing that it’s for their very eternal soul.
“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; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Have we ourselves set our affections upon a mere man? Have and are we seeking the face of the One who is our Maker, Savior, Friend, and the Judge of our eternal souls?
Have we heaped to ourselves human leaders who tell us what we want to hear – smooth messages that do not call us to repent and live a laid down life?
Is it time for you to turn in repentance and look directly to the LORD, the God who made you and said He is Jealous – His very name? (Exodus 34:14.) When you do look to Him who had infinite mercy upon your wretched soul, do you think He will fill you with His love and mercy toward others so that you will then be able to view them from His perspective, allowing His love to cover the multitude of sins in order to help them grow in His grace? (1 Peter 4:8; Ephesians 4:3, 32.)
The Most High God, Jesus Christ, says to you today:
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Prayer of Repentance to be Restored to the LORD: Holy Father, in the name of Jesus Christ and by His precious blood He shed to make me one with You, I come to you – in my sinful state. LORD, I openly acknowledge that I have departed from You and sinfully rebelled against You in the sin of idolatry. Right this moment, if never before, I call upon You Holy Father, asking You to forgive my sins, to change my life, to break me to the core of my being. I fully believe that Jesus Christ is God Almighty, that He came in the flesh, lived a sinless life as the very only begotten Son of God, died on the cross for the sins of mankind, was buried, rose again from the dead, and is soon going to return! I love You my LORD Jesus and from this moment forward, I am all Yours! I will follow Thee according to Your Word and Holy Spirit. Please fill me with Your Holy Ghost and use me every day of my life that You grant! In Jesus’ Name, amen!
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Christology | Be Ready in the Morning [podcast] | The Sure Mercies of David [podcast] | That Repentance and Remission of Sins should be Preached [podcast] | At His Feet | Modern Church | Peace with God





Abiding
Jesus’ Counsel to the Lukewarm [podcast]

Laodicea: How Jesus Instructs the Backslidden to be Restored
Jesus’ Letter to the Church at Laodicea
“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
16 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:
18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
The cross, the crucified life is the cure to the curse of sin—sin dominating our lives.
Romans 6
Inflation is part of the judgment of God upon a wicked people, nation. We see such in Sodom and in Laodicea (Ezekiel 16:49-59; Romans 1; Revelaton 3:14-22).
“It appears that in this scarcity each might be able to obtain a bare subsistence by his daily labor; but a man could not, in such cases, provide for a family.” Adam Clarke
Your money doesn’t go far….. inflation
“Revelation 6 describes the opening of the first six seals, which represent God’s judgment, often called the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. The third seal, broken by a “black horse,” is interpreted to show hyper-inflation and famine, where a day’s wage (a denarius) buys only a quart of wheat. The judgment includes a command to preserve the oil and wine, which some interpret as luxury goods, while essential food becomes scarce and expensive.”
“6:5, 6 In obedience to the third living creature, a rider holding a set of scales came forth on a black horse. This represents famine, which often follows war. A voice in the middle of the four living creatures announced that wheat and barley were being sold at prohibitive prices. The scales were used to weigh the rationed grain and were thus a symbol of famine. The expression do not harm the oil and the wine is difficult. Some say that these were the food of the poor. If they were staple items, then they must be protected in order to preserve life. It seems more likely, however, that the luxury items of the rich are contemplated here: historically, even in famine the rich can get some luxuries.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
The only thing needed to go to hell is to not be on fire for Jesus—to be “lukewarm” (Revelation 3:15-16).
Jesus instructed the Laodicean church… to obtain, to “buy of me….
“3:18 The people were counseled to buy from the Lord gold refined in the fire. This may mean divine righteousness, which is bought without money or price (Isa_55:1) but received as a gift through faith in the Lord Jesus. Or it may mean genuine faith, which when tested in the fire, results in praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1Pe_1:7).
Also the people were counseled to buy white garments, that is, practical righteousness in everyday life. And they should anoint their eyes with eye salve, that is, gain true spiritual vision through the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. This counsel was especially appropriate, since Laodicea was known as a center for banking, textiles, and medicines—especially eye salve.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
“Revelation 3:18
I counsel thee – O fallen and deceived soul, hear Jesus! Thy case is not hopeless. Buy of me.
Gold tried in the fire – Come and receive from me, without money and without price, faith that shall stand in every trial: so gold tried in the fire is here understood. But it may mean pure and undefiled religion, or that grace or Divine influence which produces it, which is more valuable to the soul than the purest gold to the body. They had before imaginary riches; this alone can make them truly rich.
White raiment – Holiness of heart and life.
Anoint thine eyes – Pray for, that ye may receive, the enlightening influences of my Spirit, that ye may be convinced of your true state, and see where your help lies.” Adam Clarke
Warning
“Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15
Coming forth as Purified Gold
“But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10
To “come forth as gold” refers to the finished product, where gold has been purified of all its impurities.
“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” 1 Peter 1:7
“The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.” Proverbs 17:3
Idolatry is Sin
Putting, having anything or anyone before Christ in our lives is the soul damning sin of idolatry. Such a person has rejected Christ for something, anything else.
One such idol, one such cause today is patriotism for one’s earthly country. See Hebrews 11:14-16.
SO, you are fighting to save America (impossible) and not see souls saved for and by Jesus? Yet you claim to be following Christ who said “I MUST be about my Father’s business”? See Luke 2:49. You are deceived and in need of repentance before it’s too late. You left your “first love” and are in sin, in darkness (Revelation 2:4-5).
“And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits. 33 And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. 34 Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries. 35 And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.” Daniel 11:32-35
“Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” Daniel 12:10
PRAYER: Father in Jesus’ name, please grant to my heart Your gift of repentance and the deep desire to have Your righteousness, to not be deceived by sin, Satan, or counterfeits and false teachers. Please forgive all my sins afresh, here and now by Your precious blood LORD Jesus. Unite my heart to fear Your name. Fill me with Your Holy Ghost and use me LORD. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | Fresh Start with God | Beware of the Many Fake News “bibles” | Lukewarm is Hell Bound! | Becoming Christ’s Disciple | PsychoHeresy | Overcoming Victory in Christ! | The Apostate Modern Church | Christology = the Study of Christ






Abiding
“You Who are Troubled Rest with Us” [podcast]

Many instill fear in Christ’s saints concerning these last days. Paul says: “You Who are Troubled Rest with Us”
“Rest with us” because Justice is Coming
2 Thessalonians 1:3-10
3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;
4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:
The Judgment at Christ’s Coming
5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
6 Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
Divine “vengeance” is coming “vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:” (v8)
Remember, while He instructed us not “avenge,” He also promised that “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Romans 12:19
We shall rejoice to see the LORD retribution come upon the wicked.
“The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked. 11 that a man shall say, 11 1 So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous: verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth.” Psalms 58:10-11
The Happenings just before Christ’s Soon Return
Luke 21:25-28
“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” Luke 21:25-28
Being Prepared for His Return
Luke 21:34-36
“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:34-36
Walking unwavering with and suffering with Christ and His body now – as we look forward to being with Him!
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18
The LORD knows all before it happens and He’s not surprised of anything. God is going to use all these things to conform His people to Christ. Remember, all things are not good but God takes them and uses them to conform us to Christ, to be “crucified with Christ.” (Galatians 2:20).
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 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 8:28-29
This truth has never been so relevant saints of Christ and the signs of the season of His return are at hand. He’s coming for you precious one!!!! Rescue mission!!! The Return of Heaven’s KING
May God allow us to preach in such a way as to cause His people to begin to be homesick for Heaven to be with Him.
“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9
I wonder how full our hearts will be as we become nourished up in His Word concerning Heaven. Will our hearts not burst forth and be filled with excitement, overflowing with joy like before we go on a vacation, the anticipation filling our hearts as we eagerly await being with our glorious Savior and Father? Read John 14:1-6 and Revelation 21.
Calling on the name above all names today. He’s the Maker and Controller of His whole universe and He’s coming back soon to retake control of it all – to decisively, violently put down all of His enemies both demonic and human (Colossians 1:16-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; Revelation 19:11-16).
No matter what’s going on – good or bad – WE KNOW that the song is true …. that our “God is so good, God is soooo gooood, God is so good, He’s so good to me…..” … There’s NO way to sing this simple song of praise and not get happy in Jesus! Impossible.
Our LORD Jesus is coming to establish His perfect Government on His earth. Stand by. Occupy. Rejoice. Look up. “Your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:28).
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
We can be sure that mankind is fallen and cannot solve his own problem – which is sin against His Maker. Only the Prince of Peace, our LORD Jesus, can do so…. and He will (Isaiah 9:6-7).
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14
He is going to crush His enemies under His feet (Romans 16:20; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; Revelation 19:11-16; 1 Corinthians 15:25, 27).
PRAYER: Holy Father, in the name of Jesus, please break me, cause me to be truly poor in spirit with a humble, contrite heart of flesh. Please grant a deep compassion in me dear LORD Jesus as You conform me to Your holy image in the crucified life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | The Return of Christ | Fresh Start with God | Making Peace with God – Now, before it’s too late | 100’s of Christ-centered, Scripture-rich podcasts



Idolatry
THE SIN, THE CURSE, AND THE FRUIT OF IDOLATRY [podcast]

“Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image, neither rear you up a standing image, neither shall ye set up any image of stone in your land, to bow down unto it: for I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 26:1
Idolatry will damn the eternal soul to hell (Exodus 20:3-7; Galatians 5:19-21, etc.). Just one idol. ANYthing that is more important to you than Jesus Christ is an idol. You must repent and receive Christ or you will perish in the flames of eternal damnation (Luke 13:3; John 1:12). If you aren’t willing to give up your religion to follow Jesus, you are a hell bound idolater who has chosen to pay for your own sins for eternity in hell.
God will not be worshipped by physical objects, idols. Jesus says:
“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him MUST worship him in spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24
2 Corinthians 5:16 says “Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.” This verse, this divine truth has helped me out much. God forbids any attempt to worship Him through, via any images, anything physical (Exodus 20:3-7). According to this Bible verse, we do not even know Jesus after the flesh.
Jesus stated the divine essential, the non-negotiable imperative that “they that worship him MUST worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23-24).
17 Soul Damning Sins
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 IDOLATRY, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19-21
“But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” James 3:14-16
IDOL’ATRY, noun [Latin idololatria. Gr. idol, and to worship or serve.]
1. The worship of idols, images, or any thing made by hands, or which is not God.
Idolatry is of two kinds; the worship of images, statues, pictures, etc. made by hands; and the worship of the heavenly bodies, the sun, moon and stars, or of demons, angels, men and animals.
2. Excessive attachment or veneration for any thing, or that which borders on adoration.
from Websters1828
Anything you refuse to give up for Jesus is your idol.
Any person who will not give up their religion to follow Jesus is a hell bound antichrist idolater.

The Stark Contrast between True and False Worship
“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3
Whatever you won’t give up for Jesus is a soul damning idol (Mark 9:43-49).
The reason so many don’t take sin seriously and sit under sin-justifying wolves in sheep’s clothing, is because they do not fear nor take God seriously. Then they attack the true messengers of Christ who are declaring that God is holy and He requires non-negotiably that anyone who will know and be with Him eternally cut off occasion for all sin as Jesus commanded in Mark 9:43-49 KJB. They talk about grace but only in the respect that their sins were initially forgiven, yet never in respect to divine grace being the divine influence and enablement in their daily lives to overcome all that displeases Him, as they worshipfully with great gratitude deny self, take up the cross and follow, abide in Jesus (Titus 2:11-14; Luke 9:23-24; John 15:1-6, etc.).
The cross message of Christ and His holy apostles is not a novel concept, idea, or mere suggestion but rather it is a non-negotiable essential component of the original Gospel.
Recently, I ran across a comment by a person who wrote: “A cross (or crucifix, picture, statute, etc.) is not idolatry so long as it leads the person to worship God, and not the object itself.”
Is this true? No. This is pure human reasoning and a denial of the Word of God. As you can tell, this person commenting was most likely catholic. Speaking of the catholic church, they removed the second commandment because it was costing them money. The 2nd commandment says:
“Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: 5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.” Exodus 20:4-6
God is not and will not be worshipped through images. In fact only Satan receives worship when images are used (Exodus chapter 20; 1 Corinthians 10:19-21). Satan is the entity who received worship when someone does that which God forbids….
Committing the sin of Idolatry yokes you with devils.
“They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not.” Deuteronomy 32:17
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | Because You Care Page | The Greatest of these is Charity | Be Ready in the Morning [podcast] | The Sure Mercies of David [podcast] | That Repentance and Remission of Sins should be Preached [podcast] | At His Feet | Prepared to be Used of God | Walking with Jesus on His Stated Terms – the Cross | Fasting and Prayer | The Old Man Must be Put Down [podcast] | The 5 Sins That Keep God’s People Out of Their Promised Land [podcast] | What Did Paul Mean by “I Keep Under My Body”? [podcast] | “Jesus the Author and Finisher of our Faith” [podcast] | A Living Sacrifice unto God [podcast] | Departing from Hell Beneath | Prayer




America1 year agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
Articles2 years agoChildren being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
Articles8 years agoSelf-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
Apostasy2 years agoSHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True













































