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Terry Watkins

1966 was a watershed year in the spiritual battle for good and evil.

The atheistic anti-God movement (Matt. 16:23) was formally unveiled as the April 08, 1966, Time magazine blasted on it’s cover “Is God Dead?” Also in April 1966, the satanic church was officially unleashed when Anton Lavey founded the Church of Satan.

And in 1966, the Bible PERversion army recruited a major soldier as The American Bible Society (ABS) released the New Testament of the deceitful and devious Good News for Modern Man Bible.

By 1969, the Good News for Modern Man sold over 17 million copies. Two years later, the number was a staggering — 30 million copies. According to Bible publication stats, more than 100 million copies (some estimates are over 200 million) of the GNB are in circulation. In some countries, the GNB is still the most popular version. A 1991 Gallup Poll awarded the GNB the most popular version in Britain.

In 1976 the Old Testament was completed. The American Bible Society later shortened the name from the Good News for Modern Man to the Good News Bible (GNB).

The GNB’s primary promotion is it’s ecumenical and interconfessional appeal. The GNB claims it is, “genuinely ecumenical, hailed by representatives of every church from Baptists to Jesuit Father Abbott of Rome’s Christian Unity Secretariat, who describes it as ‘a masterpiece of modern linguistic study’.” Because of the GNB’s watered-down, inclusive, tolerant, distortions it was welcomed with open arms by the new age, ecumenical movement, groups such as the liberal leaning Southern Baptist Convention, Billy Graham, the Roman Catholic Church and the National Council of Churches have recommended the GNB.

The American Bible Society has published several special editions of the GNB. They have published several Roman Catholic GNBs including the Catholic Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha books with the official Roman Catholic “imprimatur”. They also published an African-American Jubilee edition also including the Catholic Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha books. And of course, ABS published a Teen Extreme Faith GNB which so happens to include the Catholic Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha books complete with the official Roman Catholic “imprimatur”.

In 1992 the GNB was revised to fashion a feminist-neutered-inclusive edition, removing much of the masculine language, despite the clear masculine gender of the Greek text.

The GNB leads the list of the most perverted and mis-translated Bibles available. It attacks, distorts, intentionally mis-translates and just flat-out perverts virtually every major doctrine in the Bible.

ROBERT BRATCHER

GNB’s chief translator was Dr. Robert Bratcher. As you’ll see, Dr. Bratcher heads the class of the most heretical apostates to ever touch a mainstream Bible translation.

In the Brazilian Baptist paper called O Jornal Batista [The Baptist Journal], under the “Questions & Answers” (July 9, 1953) Bratcher openly denied the deity of Jesus Christ: “Jesus Christ would not enjoy omniscience. That is an attribute of God. … Jesus did not claim He and the Father to be one — which would be absurd.”
(cited in M.L. Moser, Jr., The Devil’s Masterpiece, p. 73)

Dr. Bratcher also ridicules the inerrancy and infallibility of the Bible:

“Only willful ignorance or intellectual dishonesty can account for the claim that the Bible is inerrant and infallible … To invest the Bible with the qualities of inerrancy and infallibility is to idolatrize it, to transform it into a false god. . .”

“Often in the past and still too often in the present to affirm that the Bible is the Word of God implies that the words of the Bible are the words of God. Such simplistic and absolute terms divest the Bible altogether of its humanity and remove it from the relativism of the historical process. No one seriously claims all the words of the Bible are the very words of God. If someone does so it is only because that person is not willing thoroughly to explore its implications. . .”

“The Word of God is not words; it is a human being, a human life … Quoting what the Bible says in the context of its history and culture is not necessarily relevant or helpful–and may be a hindrance in trying to meet and solve the problems we face. . .”

“We are not bound by the letter of Scripture, but by the spirit. Even words spoken by Jesus in Aramaic in the thirties of the first century and preserved in writing in Greek, 35 to 50 years later, do not necessarily wield compelling authority over us today. The focus of scriptural authority is not the words themselves. It is Jesus Christ as the Word of God who is the authority for us to be and to do.”

“As a biblical scholar, I view with dismay the misuse of scriptures by fundamentalists; . . ”
(The Baptist Courier, Apr. 2, 1981)

According to Dr. Bratcher, the Bible is “shifting sand”.

After lecturing at Furman University, Dr. Bratcher was asked the following questions about the Bible:

“Are there historical sections of the Bible that are sub-Christian?’ asked a student.
“`Certainly. Wishing that God would destroy one’s enemies. You call that Christian?’
“`You admit that the Bible has fallacies; then how is it valuable?’ a student questioned.
“`If we build our faith wholly on the Bible, then we are building our faith on shifting sand.

We must follow the facts or there is nothing to believe. We cannot literally follow Jesus, only go in his direction’.” (The Greenville News, November 8, 1970)

Would a truly saved person refuse to confess Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour? The Bible is clear. Confession of the Lord Jesus Christ is essential for salvation:

Matthew 10:32-33
32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

Romans 10:9-10
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Why did Dr. Bratcher refuse to “confess” Jesus Christ as his “personal Saviour”? In a Question and Answer at the First Baptist Curch in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the following took place:

Question: `Why did you leave out the blood of Jesus Christ in Romans 5:9 and 14 and other places?’
Answer: `It is a matter of translation.’
Question: `Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour?’
Answer: Dr. Bratcher would not answer this question.
Question: `Is the human heart by nature Man- centered or God-centered?’
Answer: `Let us stick with questions about translation.’
Question: `Is Jesus Christ God, or the same as God?’
Answer: `Jesus is not the same personality as God.’
(Donald T. Clarke, Bible Version Manual, pp. 98-99)

In another Question and Answer encounter at the First Baptist Church in North Augusta, South Carolina, Dr. Bratcher again would not answer the question:

Question: `If you should die, do you know you would go to heaven?’
Answer: Dr. Bratcher would not answer this question.’
(Donald T. Clarke, Bible Version Manual, pp. 98-99)

As we open the covers of the Good News Bible (GNB), notice the “reflection” of Dr. Bracther’s apostate beliefs beaming off the pages.

Note: KJB is the King James Bible. GNB is the Good News Bible (a.k.a. Good News for Modern Man and Todays’ English Version).

THE GNB ATTACKS THE DEITY OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

Acts 20:28 is one of the greatest verses in the Bible. It clearly states the “blood” that flowed through the Lord Jesus was God’s “blood” and that Jesus Christ was God. The GNB changes the emphasis or object of blood from “his” [God] to “his Son”. “Son” is not found in any Greek text.

Acts 20:28, KJB
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

Acts 20:28, GNB
So keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock which the Holy Spirit has placed in your care. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he made his own through the blood of his Son.

1 Timothy 3:16 is probably the clearest verse in all the Bible asserting that Jesus Christ was “God manifest in the flesh”. The GNB changes it to the trivial “He appeared in human form”. So what. . . We all appear in human form!

1 Timothy 3:16, KJB
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

1 Timothy 3:16, GNB
No one can deny how great is the secret of our religion: He appeared in human form, was shown to be right by the Spirit, and was seen by angels. He was preached among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, and was taken up to heaven.

The GNB changes the clear statement of Philippians 2:6 testifying that Jesus Christ was “equal with God” to the vague and goofy “. . . he did not think that by force he should try to remain equal with God.”

Philippians 2:6, KJB
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Philippians 2:6, GNB
He always had the nature of God, but he did not think that by force he should try to remain equal with God.

In 1 Timothy 6:14-16, the GNB completely changes the object of “the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;” from the Lord Jesus Christ to “God” by inserting “by God” — without ANY Greek evidence whatsoever. They deliberately and deceitfully de-throne the Lord Jesus Christ as “King of Kings, and Lord of Lords”. Notice also, “commandment” is changed to the nonspecific “orders”.

1Timohy 6:14-15, KJB
That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;

1Timohy 6:14-15, GNB
to obey your orders and keep them faithfully until the Day when our Lord Jesus Christ will appear.
His appearing will be brought about at the right time by God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and the Lord of lords.

The late-great Evangelist Brother Roloff once preached a message on John 1:1. titled “The Greatest Verse in the Bible”. What a wonderful and enlightening verse, plainly emphasizing the deity of the Word – the Lord Jesus.

John 1:1, KJB
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

And like a wild-Texas-tornado ripping through a trailer park, the damage left by the GNB is devastating.

John 1:1, GNB
Before the world was created, the Word already existed; he was with God, and he was the same as God.

The GNB changes the eternal, infinite, without-time, “in the BEGINNING” to the time-constrained “before the world was created” thus attacking the eternality of the Word. And the clear reference to the deity of the Word, “and the Word was God” is now destroyed by the distorted “he was the same as God”. By adding “the same as” clearly negates the deity of the Word – creating a unfounded difference between the Word and God. It’s worth mentioning, as in nearly every case, there is no Greek evidence for the distortions.

In Colossians 2:9, the GNB completely twists the declaration that in Jesus “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” into the new-age, divine-humanity — “the full content of divine nature lives in Christ, in his humanity”. The “divine nature” of humanity is the root teaching of the Lucifer-worshipping, New Age Movement. It is also the serpent’s message of Genesis 3:5, “ye shall be as gods”.

Colossians 2:9, KJB
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily

Colossians 2:9, GNB
For the full content of divine nature lives in Christ, in his humanity,

In Ephesians 3:9, the GNB rudely strips the Lord Jesus as the architect of ALL creation. The GNB completely distorts Ephesians 3:9 into gabble to rob Jesus Christ’s role of creator. Why? And there exists no Greek manuscripts to reinforce such a mess. It is simply a deliberate attempt to de-throne the Lord Jesus.

Ephesians 3:9, KJB
And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Ephesians 3:9, GNB
and of making all people see how God’s secret plan is to be put into effect. God, who is the Creator of all things, kept his secret hidden through all the past ages,

In Revelation 1:11, the titles of “Alpha and Omega, the first and the last” are removed from the wonderful Lord Jesus Christ.

Revelation 1:11, KJB
Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.

Revelation 1:11, GNB
It said, “Write down what you see, and send the book to the churches in these seven cities: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.”

THE MUTILATION OF JOHN 3:16


John 3:16 has been called the “gospel in a nutshell”. John 3:16 is known and loved more than any other verse in all the Bible. It’s poetic beauty and crystal-clear clarity leaves the reader in a majestic awe.

John 3:16, KJB
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16, GNB
For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.

Notice in John 3:16, the GNB removes the critical word “begotten” thus denying the direct and only “begotten” relationship of God the Father and God the Son. While at the same time, introducing a glaring contradiction in the light of verses such as Philippians 2:15 and 1 John 3:2 where the Christian is called the “sons of God”. Or even in Luke 3:38 where Adam is called the “son of God”. Begotten is also removed in John 1;14, 1:18, 3;18, Acts 13:33, Hebrews 1:5, 5:5, and 1 John 4:9,

In John 3:16 the GNB also pours some nonsense in with the replacement of “should not perish” to “may not die”. John 3:16 is plainly a reference to a lost soul “perishing” in hell without Christ.


THE GNB REMOVES THE BLOOD


Salvation is only through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other way. And there is no other doctrine more important and more essential to the Christian faith. The “blood” of the Lord Jesus Christ flows through the inspired veins of the living Word of God — from book to book, from chapter to chapter, from verse to verse and from word to word. . . The blood of Jesus Christ is the “life-blood” of the Christian faith.

After researching scores of Bible PERversions, no other Bible so maliciously removes the precious blood of the Lord Jesus as the Good News Bible. Many times the GNB destroys the price and passion of our salvation by callously changing “the blood” to the impersonal and cold “death”.

Here’s a sampling of some wonderful verses where the GNB removes “the blood”.

Acts 20:28, KJB
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

Acts 20:28, GNB, (1966 edition)
Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock which the Holy Spirit has placed in your charge. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he made his own through the death of his own Son.


Romans 3:25, KJB
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

Romans 3:25, GNB (1966 edition)
God offered him so that by his death he should become the means by which men’s sins are forgiven, through their faith in him. God offered Christ to show how he puts men right with himself. In the past, God was patient and overlooked men’s sins;


Romans 5:9, KJB
Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Romans 5:9, GNB (1966 edition)
By his death we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God’s wrath.


Ephesians 1:7, KJB
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Ephesians 1:7, GNB (1966 edition)
For by the death of Christ we are set free, and our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God,


Ephesians 2:13, KJB
But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Ephesians 2:13, GNB (1966 edition)
But now, in union with Christ Jesus, you who used to be far away have been brought near by the death of Christ.

In Colossians 1:14 the phrase “through his blood” is removed.

Colossians 1:14, KJB
In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Colossians 1:14, GNB
by whom we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven.


Colossians 1:20, KJB
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Colossians 1:20, GNB (1966 edition)
Through the Son, then, God decided to bring the whole universe back to himself. God made peace through his Son’s death on the cross, and so brought back to himself all things, both on earth and in heaven.


Hebrews 10:19, KJB
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 10:19, GNB
We have, then, my friends, complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus.


Hebrews 13:20, KJB
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

Hebrews 13:20, GNB (1966 ediiton)
God has raised from death our Lord Jesus, who is the Great Shepherd of the sheep because of his death, by which the eternal covenant is sealed.

1 Peter 1:19 is one of the most wonderful verses in the Bible. And the wicked GNB changes the “precious blood of Christ” to the impersonal, generic “costly sacrifice of Christ”.

1 Peter 1:19, GNB
it was the costly sacrifice of Christ, who was like a lamb without defect or flaw.

1 Peter 1:19, KJB
But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

Again, Revelation is a marvelous witness to the personal love and compassion of the Lord Jesus Christ. And again, the GNB dilutes and deadens the personal pain and passion.

Revelation 1:5, KJB
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Revelation 1:5, GNB
and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first to be raised from death and who is also the ruler of the kings of the world. He loves us, and by his sacrificial death he has freed us from our sins


Revelation 5:9
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
They sang a new song: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to break open its seals. For you were killed, and by your sacrificial death you bought for God people from every tribe, language, nation, and race.

The message of the “the innocent blood” of Jesus Christ from the mouth of Judas, testifying of the sinless, blood-atonement of the Lord Jesus, is changed to the frivolous “innocent man”. Notice also the definite “THE innocent blood” is changed to the indefinite “AN innocent man”. There are many “an innocent man” but there is only ONE “THE innocent blood”.

Matthew 27:4, KJB
Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

Matthew 27:4, GNB
I have sinned by betraying an innocent man to death!” he said. “What do we care about that?” they answered. “That is your business!”

Why did Dr. Bratcher and the GNB remove the blood?

In a question and answer time at the First Baptist Church in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Dr. Brtacher was asked “Why did you leave out the blood of Jesus Christ in Romans 5:9 and 14 and other places?’. His reply was “It is a matter of translation“. (Donald T. Clarke, Bible Version Manual, pp. 98-99)

The correct answer would have been “It is a matter of MIS-translation“.

The Greek word for “blood” and ONLY “blood” is “haima“. The following is Strong’s definition for haima:

129. haima, hah’-ee-mah; of uncert. der.; blood, lit. (of men or animals), fig. (the juice of grapes) or spec. (the atoning blood of Christ); by impl. bloodshed, also kindred:–blood

To translate “haima” anything but “blood” is to deliberately MIS-translate the Greek word. Every time the word “haima” occurs in the Greek text the King James Bible correctly translates it “blood”. In fact, the study of the blood is called hematology (from haima – hema – [blood] – tology [study]). Webster’s Dictionary defines the prefix hemo: “a combining form meaning ‘blood’” Hemophilia is a disease of the blood. A hemorrhage is a discharge of blood.

The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (Fourth Edition 2000) traces the prefix hemo directly to the Greek word haima.

hemo–
VARIANT FORMS: or hema– or hem– also haemo– or haema– or haem–
PREFIX: Blood: hemacyte.
ETYMOLOGY: Greek haimo-, from haima.
(The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (Fourth Edition. 2000))

The Collins English Dictionary also traces haemo directly to the Greek word haima — as does every Dictionary and Etymology reference I could find!

haemo-, haema-, before a vowel haem-
combining form denoting blood
example: haemophobia
Also: haemato-[U.S.]hemo-[U.S.]hema-[U.S.]hem-
[ETYMOLOGY: from Greek haima blood]
(The Collins English Dictionary, 2000 edition)

Dr. Bratcher and the translation team of the GNB knew the ONLY accurate translation of haima is blood. Why did they deliberately remove the precious blood of Jesus Christ? How can a “blood-bought, born-again” Christian intentionally mis-translate the Greek in order to remove the blood of Christ?


WILL THE REAL “BRIGHT MORNING STAR” PLEASE STAND UP. . .


In Isaiah 14:12 “Lucifer” is changed to the “bright morning star”.

Isaiah 14:12, KJB
How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!

Isaiah 14:12, GNB
King of Babylon, bright morning star, you have fallen from heaven! In the past you conquered nations, but now you have been thrown to the ground.

Hmmm. . . Now where have I read about a “bright morning star”? Oh I know. . . In Revelation 22:16, where the Lord Jesus Christ is called the “bright and morning star”! Why did the GNB attribute one of the titles of the Lord Jesus Christ to Lucifer? Do they believe Lucifer and Jesus are the same?

Revelation 22:16, KJB
I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.


THE GNB ABORTS THE VIRGIN BIRTH


Our blood line comes completely from our father. And without the virgin birth, the Lord Jesus Christ was born from the blood-line of sinful man. No virgin birth – no sinless blood atonement – and no salvation!

The GNB changes the pure, clear “virgin” to “young woman”. There are tons of “young women” who are not “virgins”. To change “virgin” to “young woman” is a denial of the virgin birth.

Isaiah 7:14, KJB
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Isaiah 7:14, GNB
Well then, the Lord himself will give you a sign: a young woman who is pregnant will have a son and will name him ‘Immanuel.’


Luke 1:27, KJB
To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

Luke 1:27, GNB
He had a message for a young woman promised in marriage to a man named Joseph, who was a descendant of King David. Her name was Mary.

In Matthew 1:18, The KJB plainly says Jesus Christ was born BEFORE Mary and Joseph “came together” [the act of human conception]. The GNB changes it to “before they were married”, again surgically removing the virgin birth.

Matthew 1:18, KJB
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

Matthew 1:18, GNB
This was how the birth of Jesus Christ took place. His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they were married, she found out that she was going to have a baby by the Holy Spirit.

In Luke 2:33, the virgin birth is attacked again as Joseph is changed to “the child’s father”. Note: This is not the same as John 6:42 when quoting the “Jews” saying Joseph is “Jesus’ Father”. In Luke 2:33, it is the Holy Spirit that is speaking, as the narrator.

Luke 2:33, KJB
And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

Luke 2:33, GNB
The child’s father and mother were amazed at the things Simeon said about him.


HELL IS EXTINGUISHED IN THE GNB


If there is a word that the ecumenical, inclusive, love-everybody, new version, hates – it is the word “hell”. They will travel “far and wide, through thick and thin” over their translation (or mis-translation) road to pull-out that mean ol’ word “hell”. All the new versions travel this crooked path. Got to get that word out! And the GNB certainly does not disappoint – removing the word “hell” 33 times.

In Luke 16, the GNB “transliterates” hell into the new-age, “happy field” land of purification and transformation called “hades”. In case you did not know, “hades” in the new-age and witchcraft is not a place of eternal punishment but is called Summerland, Happy Fields, etc. and is a place where you go for purification and transformation before you are reincarnated into whatever you are reincarnated into.

Luke 16:23, KJB
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

Luke 16:23, GNB
and in Hades, where he was in great pain, he looked up and saw Abraham, far away, with Lazarus at his side.

Some times the GNB changes “hell” to the creepy “world of the dead”.

Acts 2:27, KJB
Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

Acts 2:27, GNB
because you will not abandon me in the world of the dead; you will not allow your faithful servant to rot in the grave.


Acts 2:31, KJB
He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

Acts 2:31, GNB
David saw what God was going to do in the future, and so he spoke about the resurrection of the Messiah when he said, ‘He was not abandoned in the world of the dead; his body did not rot in the grave.’

In Revelation 1:18, the GNB crew gets in bit of a pickle. The word “hell” shows up with the word “death” – clearly showing the difference. Now what will they do? Simple. They just magically and mysteriously create two deaths – “death and the world of the dead”. But, after all, when did “making sense” ever be a requirement for the new PERversions. Just get that word “hell” out!

Oh by the way, the Lord Jesus Christ no longer has “the keys of death and hell” but simply “authority over death and the world of the dead”.

Revelation 1:18, KJB
I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

Revelation 1:18, GNB
I am the living one! I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I have authority over death and the world of the dead.

The GNB does the same gibberish in Revelation 20:13,14

After removing the word “hell” in so many obvious places referring to eternal punishment, the GNB goes into the land of crude and rude in Acts 8:20. The GNB has Peter telling Simon the sorcerer, “May you and your money go to hell. . .” Of course, the Greek word for “hell” is nowhere in the verse.

Act 8:20, KJB
But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money

Act 8:20, GNB
But Peter answered him, “May you and your money go to hell, for thinking that you can buy God’s gift with money!


SALVATION CONFUSION


1 Peter 2:2 in the GNB teaches salvation by works.

1 Peter 2:2, KJB
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

1 Peter 2:2, GNB
Be like newborn babies, always thirsty for the pure spiritual milk, so that by drinking it you may grow up and be saved.

In 1 Corinthians 1:18, we are only “being saved” not “are saved”. Salvation is turned into a process rather than a completed work at Calvary by the blood of Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 1:18, KJB
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

1 Corinthians 1:18, GNB
For the message about Christ’s death on the cross is nonsense to those who are being lost; but for us who are being saved it is God’s power.

The “being saved” heresy is also found in Acts 2:47, 2 Corinthians 2:15 and others.

Acts 2:47, KJB
Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Acts 2:47, GNB
praising God, and enjoying the good will of all the people. And every day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved.


2 Corinthians 2:15, KJB
For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:

2 Corinthians 2:15, GNB
For we are like a sweet-smelling incense offered by Christ to God, which spreads among those who are being saved and those who are being lost.

In the GNB no longer is your salvation complete in Jesus Christ. But it’s up to you to “work” to “complete your salvation”.

Philippians 2:12, KJB
Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

Philippians 2:12, GNB
So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is even more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation,

In fact, the GNB even removes the clear reference in Colossians 2:10 that we are “complete” in Jesus Christ. Notice. Jesus Christ is no longer the head of ALL “principality and power” – just “supreme over every spiritual ruler and authority”.

Colossians 2:10, KJB
And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Colossians 2:10, GNB
and you have been given full life in union with him. He is supreme over every spiritual ruler and authority.

In Romans 10:13, the GNB confuses the “salvation call” with “everyone who calls out to the Lord for help”. When in times of trouble, many, many people “call out to the Lord for help” who are not saved.

Romans 10:13, KJB
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Romans 10:13, GNB
As the scripture says, “Everyone who calls out to the Lord for help will be saved.”

In the light of the confusion found in the GNB, it’s no great surprise, the “simplicity of Christ”, in 2 Corinthians 11:3, is replaced with . . .? You figure it out. I have no idea what the GNB is saying.

2 Corinthians 11:3, KJB
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:3, GNB
I am afraid that your minds will be corrupted and that you will abandon your full and pure devotion to Christ–in the same way that Eve was deceived by the snake’s clever lies.


PETER THE ROCK … 


The Roman Catholic Hierarchy gave their overwhelming support of the GNB. And why not? With such blatant pro-Catholicism heresy as found in the GNB’s distortion of Matthew 16:18, awarding Peter the Rock of the Church. Note: The Roman Catholic falsely teach that Peter was the Rock of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pope. The American Bible Society has even published special editions of the GNB including the Catholic Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha books with the official Roman Catholic “imprimatur”.

Matthew 16:18, KJB
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Matthew 16:18, GNB
And so I tell you, Peter: you are a rock, and on this rock foundation I will build my church, and not even death will ever be able to overcome it.

Note: The “this rock” in the KJB is NOT Peter. The word “this” is used as a indigenous reference to the Lord Jesus Christ. The same application is found in John 6:47-51

John 6:47-51, KJB
47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
48 I am that bread of life.
49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.
50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.
51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

The Bible in 1 Corinthians 10:3-4 leaves no doubt who is the rock.

1 Corinthians 10:3-4
3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.


TRUTH NOT NEEDED. . .


The great verse John 4:24 gives the requirements for worshipping God – in spirit and in truth. The GNB has . . .? Beats me. . .. I guess “as he really is”. The GNB replaces “in truth” with a vague “as he really is”. Question: how do define “as he really is” when you remove “the truth”?

John 4:24, KJB
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

John 4:24, GNB
God is Spirit, and only by the power of his Spirit can people worship him as he really is.”


THE PREACHER IS NOW THE PHILOSOPHER. . .


One of the more disgusting changes in the GNB is the change of “preacher” to “philosopher” in the book of Ecclesiastes.

Ecclesiastes 1:1, KJB
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.

Ecclesiastes 1:1, GNB
These are the words of the Philosopher, David’s son, who was king in Jerusalem.

See also Ecclesiastes 1:12, 7:27, 12:8, 12:9, 12:10

In fact, the word preacher, preach, etc. is removed many times in the GNB.

For instance, the “preacher” is not longer in Romans 10:14-15:

Romans 10:14-15, KJB
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

Romans 10:14-15, GNB
14 But how can they call to him for help if they have not believed? And how can they believe if they have not heard the message? And how can they hear if the message is not proclaimed?
15 And how can the message be proclaimed if the messengers are not sent out? As the scripture says, “How wonderful is the coming of messengers who bring good news!”

There is no fear of God before their eyes. . .

If there’s one root cause of the decay and degradation of society, it is simple – there is no fear of God. It wasn’t too many years ago a Christian was described as “God-fearing”. Not today. The “fear of the Lord” is anathema with today’s Laodicean, inclusive, tolerant, Christians.

And of course, the GNB (as do most new PERversions) remove the “fear of the Lord”. Fitting for someone who does not hesitate to pervert the Words of God.

A couple of examples:

Ecclesiastes 12:13, KJB
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Ecclesiastes 12:13, GNB
After all this, there is only one thing to say: Have reverence for God, and obey his commands, because this is all that we were created for.


Romans 3:18, KJB
There is no fear of God before their eyes.

Romans 3:18, GNB
nor have they learned reverence for God.”


THE GNB TAKETH AWAY THE WORD. . .


The Lord CLEARLY and EMPHATICALLY warns against “adding and taking away” from the words of God. And yet, the GNB and other new PERversions, removes complete verses, adds and removes thousands of words with no hesitation or fear of God’s warning.

Deuteronomy 4:2
Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.

Proverbs 30:6
Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Revelation 22:18-19
18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

Jesus Christ gives the attack of Satan in Luke 8:12″ “. . .then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word. . . ”

Bible Versions Issue

How I Discovered the Corruption of the New Bible Versions: Personal Testimony [podcast]

The Translators of the King James Bible Brief Summary

New American Standard Version “Bible” NASV Catastrophe Exposed

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Mission Mexico Part 52-Pictures, Videos, Testimonies, etc.

RECENTLY brother Mark gave a JESUS tract to many while he was on an evangelistic walk, including a man named Angel. Angel then called brother Juan asking for help. Juan’s email address and phone number are on the back of the JESUS tracts now.

TODAY: Because you cared and prayed and gave, brother Angel received the love of our God in the form of a box of food and some cash ($27 USD). Oh and he gladly received a stack of JESUS tracts he is excited to pass out.

Juan has been in touch with Angel and here’s what he reported:

“On Saturday, Brother Ángel laid his wife and daughter to rest. They were riding a motorcycle when they were struck by a driver who was under the influence of alcohol. Although he has managed to provide them with a proper burial, he is now left without food. I am wondering if Brother Mark might be able to offer some support—he has shared his contact details with me, and he is currently unemployed. Perhaps some of the other brothers could reach out to help him; I will share this in the group, and I truly hope he can receive some assistance, as he is going through a very difficult situation. He has heard the Word of God—I shared the message of the Good News of Salvation with him—and he needs to see the love of God manifested through us, brothers.” Juan

Angel texted me this after being blessed by the body of Christ:

“Brother, Thanks so much, brother; this money will help me keep saving up for my rent. I really appreciate it—thank you so, so much. And please know that I’m more than happy to help you out with anything you might need. I’m letting Brother Juan know that I’m going to take the $500 (500 pesos = $27 USD) to the landlord, because he told me that if I didn’t give him something today, he would throw my things out and kick me out today. Thanks, brother. Honestly, if you ever need anything—washing your truck, clearing a piece of land, painting some things, whatever—just let me know, because I need to come up with the full amount for my rent.” Angel

Prayer: Feel free to lift up in prayer brother Angel – for his walk with Christ, his work life, and being able to pay the remainder of his rent. Angel is a typical Mexican man – super hard working. He’s obviously needing new clients.

As you can see, this blessing came right on time. God heard our brother’s cry and used you and I to delivered HIS blessing. As you can see, sounds like Angel would have been homeless tomorrow had God not intervened.

As God would have it, just before finding Angel to deliver the blessings, I met and old man who owns a store. Upon hearing the preaching of our LORD Jesus’ Gospel, the man rejoiced. We fellowshipped briefly, and he gladly received a stack of JESUS tracts to distribute.

GTR in Mexico!!!

GTR = Gospel Train Rollin

“So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” Acts 19:20

Mission Mexico


The weekly fellowship with brother Juan and brother Eduardo has been a blessing. Eduardo is the man who recently began emailing and texting. He said some “America guy” gave him a JESUS tract and it was like a gift from Heaven.

Eduardo is a born again brother in Christ who was much in need of fellowship (Hebrews 3:13; 10:24-25). This morning, brother Juan, who is super caring in God’s love and pastoral and evangelistic, ministered our LORD’s Word and love to brother Eduardo at length. Even though I can’t understand most of what they are saying in Spanish, there’s no doubt our LORD was edifying His son Eduardo.

Both these men are Spanish speaking. Here’s what Juan said at the end of our fellowship today with our brother Eduardo:

“Brother Eduardo says that he has faced discrimination from his family for becoming a Christian and following Jesus Christ. They have distanced themselves from him, as they prefer to practice a more traditional form of Catholicism—attending Mass and going to confession with a priest. But you know very well that it is God who chooses us, and we shall not be put to shame, because we have chosen the better part by believing in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Brother Eduardo says he’s unemployed and asks if you can help him in the group (to find work). He works in agriculture. He needs help with gardening, painting houses, or any other service because he’s unemployed. We need to see if you can support him here in this town.”

After a rich time of fellowship, both men were given coffee and breakfast and a small bit of cash as a way to bless them. Mexicans are very hard workers as you know and yet the economy in Mexico is not what it is in the US.

Thank you for caring for these beloved Mexican people, namely our brothers and sister in Christ.

Mission Mexico


Your prayers for the super receptive people of Mexico are a blessing. God is answering.

Mission Mexico


Lifelong Jewish lady now born again just got water baptized today.


Dear Mr. Augustine readily received the love God via His body (you!), the spoken Word of God, and the original Gospel on the JESUS tract. Your prayers and support make these things possible. Jesus is coming saints – and our hand is on the plow of our LORD Jesus’ bless-ed Gospel, the Great Commission He gave us (Luke 9:62). Everyone’s participation matters, greatly and will be rewarded accordingly (1 Samuel 30:24).


A man named Eduardo was given a JESUS tract today and is emailing me saying that he’s very excited to meet brother Juan, brother Mark, and myself this thursday for breakfast fellowship. God is good.

“If you have any, please let me know—thank you so much! An American man gave this to me on the street; it feels like it fell from the sky! Thank you very much…hugs”

There’s simply no way for us to report on every person who is being touched daily. It’s literally getting out of control. The LORD is marching into the hearts of the Mexican people.

Mission Mexico

“Wow!! Wow!! Wow!! The receptiveness in Mexico is beyond my comprehension! Even to the point of this man saying this gospel feels like it fell from the sky. Well I guess it did. Jesus came from heaven to earth to show us the way and seek and save those who are lost (Luke 19:10). Praise God for the many souls who are being reached daily with the gospel of Christ. God is well pleased!” Karen Cochran



PRAYER REQUESTS:

For Juanita and her sons Jesus and Victor. Beloved Juanita pictured below. She brought me into the gate of her house and said “Mi casa es tu casa” = my house is your house. A completely bless-ed lady who readily received the ministry of the Word, the glorious Gospel of Jesus. She may already be saved, I don’t know but she now knows who to repent and receive Jesus if not.

Also Fatima, a young mother with a little girl who receive ministry today.

They just moved here to this town today from CDMX (Mexico City).

Thank you.

God knows.

What to pray?

Colossians 4:12 boom.

In Jesus’ name.

Mission Mexico



“… The living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;” 1 Timothy 6:17

Some of the things one must suffer by going to “third world” Mexico to preach Christ’s original Gospel. Don’t worry, the cost of living here is much lower cost than the US.

Mission Mexico


Immediately upon handing a man the JESUS tract today, he lit up and hugged me. He was so excited because he’s born again and his father and grandfather are pastors. His name is Israel.

We connected and Israel and brother Juan are now connected and communicating. Juan gladly took some JESUS tracts to distribute. Would you like to pause and lift our brother Israel to the LORD in a prayer? (Philippians 1:19)

How do you find the saints in an area you go into? Just evangelize and watch God work.

*Below is a picture of one of the many men who received a JESUS tract this morning.

Mission Mexico

Jesus is coming saints.



Mission Mexico


Breakfast fellowship with the brethren of our LORD  …

in “third world” Mexico.

Oh boy if people only knew.


It’s a blessing that with your prayers, love, and financial support, you are declaring that “The People of Mexico Matter for Christ—He died to save them!”

“So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” Acts 19:20

IF YOU WANT TO PLEASE SATAN …..

MAKE SURE you do NOT support authentic evangelistic ministries that are literally, actually getting Christ’s Gospel to the lost souls of this world.

The apostle Paul did “the work of an evangelist” and instructed us to do the same.

“Preach the word … But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:2, 5

Our KING is coming saints, King JESUS!

Let’s roll beloved of God!

in Christ

todd

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Articles

What did the First Missionaries Do/Preach?

Concerning false leaders, Jeremiah pens these words: “they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah.” (Jeremiah 23:14)

God counts our sin of spiritual “adultery” as that of “Sodom” and “Gomorrah.” Do we not betray the Most High whom we claim to know and love when we “strengthen also the hands of evildoers?” Aligning with someone or organization that is in error will strengthen their evil cause and the LORD will turn His hand of blessing away from us (2 Chron. 18-19).

Recently I listened to a missionary to Mexico tell about his work down there. Unfortunately, he spoke more than once of Rick Warren (who is in deep deception and was trained under deceiver Robert Schuller) and yet not once did he declare or mention the name of Jesus Christ nor did he speak of the Gospel – the death, burial and resurrection of the Son of God (1 Cor. 15:1-4). So, what is this man doing in Mexico? What are his supporters supporting/furthering? Didn’t Paul say “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our LORD Jesus Christ”? (Gal. 6:14) And, that he “determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” (1 Cor. 2:2) There is “none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

This counterfeit has the wherewithal to proclaim known deceivers and yet not Jesus Christ?!

Not one Scripture was quoted or even referred to by this “missionary” during his hour talk about his family’s work in Mexico. What does this tell us about his work among those people? What is this man importing to Mexico if it’s not the true Gospel?

Important Biblical Discernment Truth: Jesus said that “ye shall know (discern) them by their fruits” and “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh” (Matt. 7:16; 12:34). So, by what men say and don’t say, we know (discern) who they really are. Real simple isn’t it?

I hope you know that I am speaking from a place of zeal for the LORD and earnestly contending for the Gospel faith once delivered to His saints (Jude 3-4).

What are we supporting here by sending a man who doesn’t even speak the words of the LORD? Whose cause is he promoting? How could and why would the living God empower a man who doesn’t honor Him and His Word? Where are we putting God’s resources (money)? Will there be any rebuke to this man? Will anyone seek to disciple him? If not, then are we not enabling such dissimulation and promoting “another gospel”? I wonder today how much “missionary” work has to do with the biblical model of making disciples, but is rather establishing the thoughts, philosophies, and curriculums of mere men and teaching people to go through these psycho-babblish programs and learn everything but the pure divine Word (1 Pet. 2:2). When people/victims come out of these programmed classes, one thing is certain – they don’t know the Word of God, so it’s ALL in vain. After all, it seems like the writings of mere men have taken precedence over God’s holy and precious Word in the apostate organized modern church world.

What did the first missionaries do/preach?

“And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.” (Acts 8:25; 13:5; 14:25; 15:36; Mk. 2:2)

Those who know Christ and are prepared for ministry preach His Word. If they preach ANY ANY “ANY other gospel”, they are “accursed” and to be treated as such by God’s people (Gal. 1:6-9). If a man claims in any capacity to represent Christ and yet doesn’t preach Jesus Christ and His original Gospel, “there is NO light in” that beguiler (Is. 8:20). He is a wolf in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15).

According to the law of Genesis 1, we can only produce after what we ARE, not what we say or convince others into believing we are. Genesis 1:11 says “the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seedis in itself.” So, whoever I am here, I am in China or Russia or Mexico.

Beloved, what is important is the quality of the seed and the richness of the soil. The Gospel is the riches of God’s love in Jesus Christ, of which Paul was not ashamed because it is “the power of God unto salvation” unto those who were given it and believed (Rom. 1:16). Where the Gospel is honored fully, the soil is rich. If a person has not been faithful in his own nation in the true Gospel of Jesus, he is not fit to win the lost in another country and should never be sent or supported. If this missionary was not soundly grounded in God’s Word before he left to go to Mexico, then why did God’s people ever send him? Does a person become a missionary when his feet hit foreign soil? Of course not. And, remember, Jesus loves and seeks to save the people on American soil as much as He loves people on Indian, Africa, Mexican, and Chinese soil. In light of this, I don’t think we should entertain the idea that when we give to foreign missions, there is any difference than giving to Gospel workers here in America.

Isaiah was Prepared, Commissioned, and Sent by God. See Isaiah 6.

So, when we fund missionaries who do not possess the Word, or the Word doesn’t possess them, we are funding the spread of a false gospel (2 Cor. 11:1-4; Gal. 1:6-9). “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly (abundantly).” (Col. 3:16)

In the midst of citing the evil of the false shepherds of Israel, Jeremiah the prophet introduces a rhetorical question which is actually an identifier of true and false servants:

“For who hath stood in the counsel of the LORD, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word, and heard it?” Jeremiah 23:18

Those who stand in the counsel of the LORD (not men) and perceive and hear His Word, marking it and hearing it again and again, are true. All others are false and will inevitably peddle a false message.

When speaking of leadership in the body of Christ, the Scriptures instruct us to “know them which labour among you.” (1 Thess. 5:21) Concerning the ordaining of men into ministry, the LORD tells us“Lay hands (ordain into ministry) suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.” (1 Tim. 5:22) When we ordain or set forth and condone any man before we really know his life and doctrine, we will inevitably “be partaker of other men’s sin.” In other words, we will be equally to blame for the sin and error that man promotes and for all the people he misleads. We are mandated to “keep thyself pure” of this wickedness. This is a very serious issue. The support, promotion, condoning, or aligning with any person in ministry that is preaching “another gospel” brings a curse upon ourselves as we enjoin him in sin against God and the spreading of a false gospel (Is. 5:20-24; Gal. 1:6-9; 2 Chron. 19:2). We are commanded to withhold blessing from him lest we become “partaker of his evil deeds.”

“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

Bidding “God speed” is pronouncing an approval blessing upon a person or ministry. If such is done to any person who is not communicating the original gospel, it is “another gospel” and it is a deadly sin to condone –“bid him God speed.” Any person who does such “is partaker of his evil deeds.” This means that those who support in any way any person or ministry organization that does not definitively and forthrightly declare the original Gospel, are counted just as guilty as the peddler himself. Anyone who does not bring the biblical doctrine of Jesus Christ who is divine and came in the flesh, is “a deceiver and an antichrist.” (2 Jn. 7) All such counterfeit ministers are false and to be shunned and not blessed or promoted or esteemed among God’s people – “Keep thyself pure.” (1 Tim. 5:22) Anyone among God’s people who helps the person not bringing the true Gospel – bids them God speed – and is “partaker of his evil deeds.” In other words, he will reap the same punishment as the man peddling another gospel other than that which Christ and His apostles gave us in the New Testament record.

We will be held responsible for supporting any person who is spreading lies and weakening the people through falsehoods and promoting false prophets. When we financially or otherwise support a ministry which is not according the New Testament record, we become “partaker of other men’s sins.” (1 Tim. 5:22)

When we set forth any person who is not called, anointed by the Holy Spirit, and prepared in the Word and the crucified life, we launch evil upon everyone that “novice” influences. We also harm the unprepared man greatly and most importantly, we bring disdain to the name of Jesus Christ. God grant us wisdom from His Word and forgive our sins! Concerning the launching of people into ministry, the Holy Spirit directs: “Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.” (1 Tim. 3:6)

Don’t you know that the enemy laughs all the way to the bank when God’s true people cast their revenues into the coffers of those who are not preaching the true Gospel? Do we want to fund wolves in sheep’s clothing? Who shall we fear? See Galatians 1:6-10

CREDENTIALS FOR MINISTRY

“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions…” 2 Timothy 3:10-11

God’s Fruit according to 2 Timothy 3:10: Here are 9 earmarks of an authentic servant of Christ who would be prepared to serve in ministry:

  • doctrine
  • manner of life
  • purpose
  • faith
  • longsuffering
  • charity
  • patience
  • persecutions
  • afflictions

The fruit identifies the root (Jn. 15; Rom. 11:16). When a man is relationally and biblically rooted in and abiding in Jesus Christ, his fruit will among other things be that of truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), evangelism, charitable deeds, the care of souls, and the love of children. If a man’s life is not pure and he is not seeking the LORD diligently and daily in repentance and brokenness, he simply does not yet have the fruit of one who is to be set forth into ministry. Let’s walk in God’s written wisdom (His Word) and cease to enable any ministry that is not soundly rooted and grounded in God’s Word and love and purposes as revealed clearly in the Holy Scriptures.

“Thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.” Psalms 138:2

Have we magnified His Word above all else? Or something else above His Word? Have we magnified HIS Word above the names of all sinful men and their inferior writings? Or, are we despising the Almighty LORD Jesus Christ by elevating the words of mere men?

“I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.” Psalms 138:2

Do we search out and find His Words and eat/devour them like a hungry man who hasn’t eaten in days?

“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

Do we rejoice at men’s words or at God’s Word?

“I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.” Psalms 119:62

Are we daily eating and allowing His Word to be our life?

“It is written, That man shall not live (have God’s life) by bread alone, but by every word of God.” Luke 4:4

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What about Suicide – Self Murder?

Does Someone Who Commits Suicide (murders self), Go to Heaven or Hell?

IT’S REAL SIMPLE:

1. WHO is the Judge? God! (James 4:12)

2. Has the Judge spoken? Do we have a Bible which is His tangible written Word? Is the Bible God’s very Word? YES! – and so we have His very Word which He has lifted even above His own Holy name! (Psalms 138:2)

Some crassly set aside God’s very Word, as if He is silent on this matter.  That’s ridiculous at best.

Playing dumb seems to be the mode of many, but the LORD is “not the author of confusion.”  (1 Corinthians 14:33)

At the funerals of those who kill/murder themselves, false preachers intimate and blatantly say that the dead person who committed suicide is now “in a better place.” By doing this, these wolves embolden members of the listening audience to kill themselves also, all the while not realizing they are in for the most excruciating pain unknown to man on earth. “Ending it all” is a foolish lie. The worst thing any person in history has ever suffered is a dream of comfort compared to what lies ahead for those who die without a personal, born again relationship with Jesus Christ. Oh, and the lake of fire will never end, nor will consciousness (Mark 9:42-49). See Hell’s Menu here.

Some will say “But God knows the heart, we don’t.”  God sure does know the heart and Jesus told us that all sin – sin separates us from Him and will damn us – comes from the HEART. “And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, MURDERS, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” Mark 7:20-23

When the LORD looks on a heart of murder, what will He do? Rev. 21:8; 1 John 3:15

“NO MURDERER hath eternal life abiding (remaining) in him.” 1 John 3:15

How impugning to the LORD it must be when those claiming to be saved ignore, and brazenly disregard Him by denying His Word and what He plainly stated. What did Jesus say about these are ashamed of Him and His Word? See Mark 8:38 and John 8:47.

There’s a deeper root in the lives of those who can’t simply read God’s very words and take Him at His Word. Damnable unbelief is the root (Revelation 21:8). Repentance is necessary.

According to Revelation 21:7-8, one of the things that must be overcome is murder and that doesn’t matter if it’s killing self or someone else.

Not wanting to live is the symptom of separation from God. Those who turn to the LORD are saved and blessed to have in their hearts His blessed victory and “Love, joy, peace …”(Galatians 5:22-23) Suicide is never the answer and will result in the beginning of an eternity in more pain than any of us could ever imagine. Getting saved is the answer, not killing yourself. Keep reading friend. You are not reading this by accident and your answer is at hand!

THE JUDGE HAS SPOKEN AND HERE’S WHAT HE SAID:

“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and MURDERERS, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8 (KJV)

“NO MURDERER HATH ETERNAL LIFE ABIDING (REMAINING) IN HIM.”  1 John 3:14-15

What could possibly be plainer?

The truth is self-evident. The Bible is self-interpreting. The problem is with the corruption of calvinism in the minds of many who make their evil traditions more important the God Himself (Mark 7:6-9).

It should deeply anger us to see ourselves or others who deny the LORD by denying His very Word. Instead, they philosophy, reason, and justify. This is what God calls “an EVIL heart of unbelief.” (Hebrews 3:12)

“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 5:22-23

The world acts like depression justifies murdering self. Not. Depression can be a reality for good and bad reasons and yet murdering God’s creation is never the answer and is always a soul damning sin (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 John 3:15; Revelation 21:8; 22:15). Suicide is sin. Suicide will damn the soul irrevocably in hell.

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MURDER is a soul damning sin and it doesn’t matter if you are murdering someone else or yourself – because GOD made you. You didn’t make yourself. HE is to decide when you are to leave this His earth. Hell awaits all who commit suicide.

What about capitol punishment – the death penalty?

“Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” Genesis 9:6

“The institution of capital punishment presupposes the establishment of governmental authority. It would be chaos if anyone and everyone avenged a murder. Only duly appointed governments may do so. The NT perpetuates capital punishment when it says concerning the government, “. . . he does not bear the sword in vain” (Rom_13:4).” Believer’s Bible Commentary

Intriguing Suicide Dialogue/Feedback:

“I was gonna commit suicide almost 3 yrs ago. However, GOD stopped me from doing it. I knew that I was going to spend forever in eternal darkness. It was the Holy Spirit who stopped me.” Harry S.

Email Rec’d:

Hi Todd,
I have a question for you in regard to what the Word say about suicide. What about the person who is trusting in Jesus as their Savior, but continues to struggle and be tormented by demons who play on their deep depression … resulting in suicide?  I had a friend who committed suicide. It was her 2nd attempt that did her in. She was digging deep into God’s word and really growing in the word, yet she struggled with a debilitating depression that only her husband and family knew the depth of. I witnessed her desire to push through and LIVE…but in small moment of weakness she succumbed to other voices and shot herself through the head.  It was a difficult thing to grasp, as she was an incredible grandmother and friend to the down and out. She had the gift of easing others burdens by being a joyous giver. She was purposely dragging herself out of her bed and attending bible studies, Sundays and Wed. to get God’s word into her. She considered God’s word her medicine.  I watched her make a valiant effort over the years to live and to honor God…so naturally I wonder about this. Isn’t it possible that for whatever reasons that demons can just overcome a mind in a moment of weakness and push them over that line? The thing I wonder about is God’s mercy and grace in such a case.  I can just imagine her crying out to Jesus before she pulled the trigger. She was mentally ill and her Godly family did everything possible to help her.  I see what God’s word says and I wholly agree that suicide is wrong and so much easier for the unsaved to get to that point. But what about this sister in Christ?  I see some gray areas in this scenario.

Naturally I hope she’s with the Lord….but I really do not know

Janet

Response:

Hi Janet.

One of my good friends, once a vibrant and fruitful believer, also committed the sin of murdering himself (suicide). Think about and mediate upon this:

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

I believe that if a person is that deeply depressed and defeated it seems that that’s evidence that they were not trusting Christ who is the life and holds all victory in His hands and grants it to all who truly are trusting and walking with Him (1 John 5:4-5; 1 Cor. 15:57). From Scripture we see many examples of small moments of weaknesses resulting in eternal ruin because that small moment of weakness was the culmination of a life that was seemingly seeking the LORD but full of the mixture of rebellion. Judas had obviously been departing from Christ long before he made that final, fatal decision to betray the very Son of God.  – “Judas by transgression (act of sin) fell, that he might go to his own place (eternal hell).” (Acts 1:25) Judas was a “familiar friend” of Jesus, clearly a child of God – chosen to occupy an eternal place with Christ (Ps. 41:8; Matthew 19:28).

I know this sounds very harsh and yet, I must answer according to the Word of God best I see it to date. Christ grants total victory and as we are seeking His holy face and abiding in Him. As we do, we are delivered from sin and devils (John 15:1-6; James 4:7; 1 John 3:5-6, 8; Rev. 12:11). Christ is synonymous with victory. Yes, we have all failed and sinned in our weaknesses and yet there are absolutes in God’s economy and one of them is “no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15)

“For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:4-5

Now, if a person is in the process of committing suicide and it’s not a sudden death and they are able to call upon the LORD in repentance on their way out of here, then I fully believe Jesus will save them as He did the thief on the cross who called upon Him.

God’s blessings be with your family sister.

Todd

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