WHO are the True Jews?
Going Back to Jewish Roots?
Think again!
BEWARE of this most vile and delusional sham sweeping away the gullible in a feigned attempt to present itself as superior while it’s actually infinitely inferior (Galatians 4:9). Not only is it not superior, it’s going to eternally damn to hell the willingly deceived, antichrist souls of every person who forsakes the living Savior for this falsity.
One MUST leave Christ, to depart from the only Savior, to go back to law-keeping. Such a person has denied Christ, has “fallen from grace” – is under a spirit of witchcraft, and is no longer saved (Galatians 3:3; 5:4).
Anyone who is involved in the messianic movement, Hebrew roots, is bringing people back under the law. So they are peddling “another gospel” and are “accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9)
God’s people are “justified by faith” in Jesus, not law (Romans 5:1, etc.). The problem is not with the types and shadows given us in Scripture of the Messiah who was to come. No, the issue here is with those who would bring you back under the law.
Recently, while speaking with a lady who says she was in the “Hebrew roots cult for three years” before being delivered, I said:
“Amen sister …. Yes we are to keep His commandments and His commandments do not include keeping any old covenant feast because they were mere shadows of what He has already come and fulfilled. No certain day needs to be honored to please Him because Jesus is our Sabbath – we rest in HIM for our salvation and from the futility of law keeping – keeping the whole law perfectly (James 2:10).”
WHO is a true Jew? – “For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” Romans 2:28-29
Judaizer Alert: The true NEW Testament saint sees the Old through the eyes of the NEW Covenant and not vice versa. The NEW Testament, ratified in the very blood of Christ, is infinitely superior to the infinitely inferior covenant it replaced (Hebrews 8-10).
An overemphasis on Jewish feasts, customs, and scroll kissing without experiencing the New Testament reality that is only in the Person of Jesus Christ, is useless and actually takes people away from the Messiah. Before we get too far here, let’s observe what was noted by Stephen Tobe concerning the Jewish feasts and their place:
“All nations will keep the feasts of tabernacles in the millennium. See Zechariah 14. The Feasts are the feasts of the Lord and are appointed times. Paul kept them after his conversion (though such is not necessary and he was doing such to win Jews to Jesus, not to be righteous). The main thing is to understand them. They are the shadow, but the substance is Christ. They show His plan for man and they will all be fulfilled to the date. Many verses in the book of Revelation point to Yom Kippur. White robe stained with blood. We must have a good understanding of the Jewish feast days to see the idioms used in the Bible which were written by those who had a grasp on the holy days. They are a holy convocation which means they are rehearsals for that which is to come.”
HORRID HEBREW ROOT HERESIES!
Again, we must ask: WHO, WHO, WHO is a true Jew? – “For he is NOT a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” Romans 2:28-29 … There are so many gullible dupes who think that because something is of the Jewish culture or religion that it is automatically special or carries greater authority. Such a person has no clue as to New Testament reality and the superior nature of the NEW Testament under which we live – because of the ONE who ratified it with His own blood! (Matthew 26:28)
“For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Matthew 26:28
Grace comes with Christ, not Moses (law) John 1:17 – This is why you see no joy in the Hebrew Roots folk because they are under a spirit of witchcraft for rejecting Christ (Galatians 3:3; 5:4).
Hebrews 8-10 expounds upon the infinitely superior NEW Covenant over the obsolete Old Covenant.
Did the law die for you or did Jesus die for you? WHO ever perfectly kept the whole law except Christ? (James 2:10)
The New Testament believer not only lacks nothing, he/she is vastly superior in relationship with God through Christ than the Old Testament Jews could be. Read the book of Hebrews. In fact, let’s see, where is this following passage and truth found in God’s Word? Old or New Testament?
“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him (Christ who has now come!) dwelleth ALL the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.” Colossian 2:8-10
Why was that verse not in the Old Testament? It’s simple: The Old Covenant Jews were not complete in Christ until “in the fulness of time” Christ Himself came and perfectly fulfilled the Law (the only One ever to do so) and then “took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.” (Colossians 2:14; Galatians 4:4)
The Law demanded perfection to God’s holy laws but didn’t provide the grace (divine enablement) to actually fulfill such – until Jesus came. Remember that “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17) Jesus Christ is divine and infinitely greater than Moses, a mere mortal man.
The now obsolete for righteousness Old Covenant was put to rest and the NEW Testament begun 2,000 years ago “when the fulness of the time was come.” … “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.” (Galatians 4:4) The Old Testament laws and ceremonies and typologies merely pointed to as shadows the ONE, the Messiah who was to come. Yet, the very “spirit of antichrist” is at work in this whole diabolical and divisive HR (Hebrew Roots) movement which still over emphasizes the shadows instead of the Savior who HAS ALREADY COME! One might ask: Why do you say the “spirit of anti-christ” is behind this? (1 John 2:18; 4:1-3) Here’s why: First off, “anti” means not only against but also in place of. The goal of the evil spirit behind this whole system of false teaching is to intercept and rob the glory that is due only to Jesus Christ – to be worshipped fully and exclusively at God, Creator, and sole Redeemer. “The spirit of antichrist” denies Christ by denying that Jesus has already come and perfectly fulfilled the law and nailed it to the cross – taking it out of the way! (Colossians 2:14-19) Beware of the Hebrew Roots Judaizing Snakes! [podcast]
When Jesus told us the law would not pass away, He was in no way contradicting Himself by saying that one must keep the law to be saved (Matthew 5:17-18). That is a heresy. Paul picks this up in 1 Timothy 1 when he tells us that the law, law keeping is NOT for the righteous – “Knowing this, that THE LAW IS NOTTT MADE FOR A RIGHTEOUS MAN, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers…” (1 Timothy 1:9)
“THE END”! …. it’s either law keeping or Christ… can’t be both – you must choose.
“THE END” – “Christ is THE END of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.” Romans 10:4 (memorize this verse)
ANY time glory is put in ANY one or ANY thing other than the LORD JESUS CHRIST, those deceivers are “not holding (uplifting and glorifying) the HEAD” who is Christ alone! (Colossians 2:18-19) Emphasizing the mere shadows is an insidious, blasphemous way to steal the glory from the very Lamb of God by not diving due worship to Him who has already come. Yes Christ is He who came to die for the sins of the world and did so, perfectly accomplishing redemption as only He could do in that He is uniquely the prophesied Messiah of the world. While dying for the sins of the world on the altar of the cross, Jesus, recorded in John 19:30, said “IT IS FINISHED” or “paid in full!” Any questions? Now, read Galatians, Colossians, and Hebrews repeatedly. Pass this on to dispel this whole evil and antichrist movement which is a evil wind of false doctrine sweeping among those claiming to be Christians. Jesus says and it’s recorded in Revelation 3:9, “Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.”
The Only Law to Keep
THE only law to keep? … “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:2-4)
Salvation is not in the law. Salvation is in Christ alone and not the law or ANYthing else. EVERYthing else is an idol and “another gospel.” (Galatians 1:6-9) Any person endorsing or propagating this evil blasphemy against Christ is “accursed” and as sure for hell as if they were already there.
To choose to go back under the law is the ultimate rejection of Christ and clearly proves that one is antichrist for putting the law in place of Christ.
The Only Feast to Keep!
As we love and worship the LORD supremely and our neighbor as we already love ourselves, as He told us, that fulfills the whole law (Matthew 22:37-39). Neither Paul nor the apostles mention any instruction about keeping/observing any feast except one …
“Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” 1 Corinthians 5:7-8
You see, those feasts existed for one central purpose – to magnify the LORD! And Christ was the one depicted, foreshadowed. Yet, now He has come in the flesh as the fulfillment of what those shadows and types pointed to. So, to say we still need to keep those feasts is actually undergirded by “the spirit of antichrist” that wants to deny that Christ has come and fulfilled the law perfectly, nailed it to the cross, and taken it away! (Colossians 2:14-19; 1 John 4:3)
—- HEBREW ROOTS Movement Debunked / Refuted – Sabbath Theology (video below).
This is well done. This will really show how very gullible some people are. All you have to do is throw out some cheap lie about history, saying the Roman Emperor Constantine changed the Sabbath, and they buy it hook, line, and sinker without ever verifying if it’s true. Instead of simply searching, studying, and living their lives by God’s written Word, they hand off their souls to the devil due to some pawn coming around with a supposed historical “fact.” Our willing ignorance of God’s Word will make a fool of us every time. Hopefully we have enough conscience left to be utterly embarrassed and repentant. “My people are DESTROYED (hell ultimately) for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6)
If You Have Ever Seen Satan, You Will See Him in this So-Called Hebrew Roots Movement
Jesus told us that Satan has come to steal, kill, and to destroy and he’s attempting to steal the glory from the King who already came and is coming again as He promised (John 10:10). The first time He came He fulfilled the 300 plus prophecies and types and shadows that foretold of His coming int he Old Testament. Now He will return to judge all who have rejected Him and those who diverted the attention and heart affections away from Him. “…not holding the Head.” (Colossians 2:18-19)
The great apostle fought vehemently to prevent the evil Judaizers from trying to bring Gentile Christians under bondage to the law or unnecessary, obsolete feasts, and ceremonialism. Study Galatians closely and prayerfully.
COULD it be that those who though they haven’t thoroughly studied the Word of God, yet have a strong love for truth, are most susceptible to this delusion? It seems that those who have a love for the truth may be the ones who are especially vulnerable to falling in to the Hebrew Roots delusion. It’s a real test to see whether we will choose to truly walk in the Spirit, love the LORD, and not sell Him out like the Galatians did when they departed from Jesus to go back under the law which He died to take away and get it out of our way. The spiritual immaturity of those who gullibly fall into this deception also plays into the evil pride that can be witnessed in those drawn away from Christ to this idolatry.
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1
Did the Bible tell us that God so loved the world that He gave the law or His only begotten Son? (John 3:16) You must and you will choose!
Jesus is the Revelation and intended focal point of all the Jewish feasts. They pointed to Him. Those mere “shadows” were crude and incomplete and are infinitely inferior to the Son of God they pointed to and who has now manifested. The only value the mere shadows have is that they pointed to JESUS who has already come. To say they are necessary or that keeping the law is necessary to be saved is an antichrist lie. This would mean that Jesus Christ did not complete redemption – that He did an incomplete work which is a lie (John 19:30).
The very first Jew (Abraham) was told by our LORD that HE alone is our “Exceeding great reward!” (Genesis 15:1) Wow that just hit me!! Thank You Jesus! We glory only in Christ and not some mere shadow that pointed to Him before He came. He has already come! John the apostle identifies “the spirit of antichrist”as that evil devil that denies Christ came in the flesh! Beware! (1 John 4:1-6)
“This movement is very dangerous but if you worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth you will know that this movement is from the father of lies, taking the Glory from Jesus Christ. He is our rest and peace every moment of the day. His yoke is easy. ‘IT IS FINISHED.’” Mitchell Woodhouse
Praise God it’s Over!!!
DO YOU want to go back to using vinyl records? Of course not but why not? – Because it’s vastly inferior to the technology we have today, right?
In the same way, the Old Covenant between God and man was only a bridge to get us to the NEW Covenant which is infinitely superior to the old covenant.
“And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. 10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. 11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. 12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: 14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Galatians 3:8-14
—- THE OLD Covenant was insufficient and infinitely inferior to Christ and His NEW Covenant that we now live under …. “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:3-4
You can’t keep the law. It’s impossible and so God wants you to repent and put your trust in the only ONE who kept that law perfectly and then He “took it out of the (our) way” by nailing it to that tree, cross (Colossians 2:14-19).
Okay what came “by Moses”? (a mere man) And, what came “by Jesus Christ”?
“For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” John 1:17
Has Jesus come?
“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;” Colossians 2:14
Do we not realize He came to do away with that old law that was against us?
—- INFINITE INFERIORITY OF THE OLD COVENANT PROVED …. IT’S BEEN REPLACED BY THE NEW TESTAMENT, RATIFIED BY THE VERY BLOOD OF THE MESSIAH IT ALL POINTED TO ….. JESUS CHRIST IS WORTHY TO BE PRAISED EVERY DAY …. Not just on saturn-day … “But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? 10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.” Galatians 4:9-11
The Old Testament ceremonies and system of law-keeping are called here “the weak and beggarly elements.” (Galatians 4:9) And, they are “bondage.” Paul was asking the Galatians why they wished to go “again” into “bondage.” WHY O WHY would a born again Christian ever want to go back to the “bondage” of observing “days, and months, and times, and years”? By doing this, the Galatians fell from saving grace (5:4).
It’s NOT about a mere day – any mere day. No, it’s about the ONE who made ALL days! “Worship Him”! (Revelation 14:7)
“Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” Revelation 14:7
Some have been seduced and brought under the delusion that they will experience more depth if they go the Jewish route. Though it’s not a sin to observe the Jewish feasts, we must remember that Jesus has come – we need not cling to any mere shadow that only served to point to His first coming!!! The kingdom of God is all about the KING – KING Jesus! There’s no depth in the mere shadow but only in the Savior who came to fulfill the mere shadow that only served to point to Him till He came. The shadow was a finite, vastly inferior representation of what/WHO was to come. HE – the Depth Himself – has already come and ratified the NEW Testament life in His own blood (Matthew 26:28). Nothing is deeper or higher than that – than HIM who is the Most High Creator God! Anyone who points you anywhere but to HIM is a wolf and an antichrist whom Paul told us “mind EARTHLY things” and are the very “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Philippians 3:18-19)
After warning us about “evil workers” who seek to bring us back under the law and ceremonious shadows, Paul, the Jew of all Jews (among mere men) said this of his Jewish background:
“For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. 4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; 6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;” Philippians 3:3-10
TORAH KEEPING CHRIST-DENYING ANTICHRISTS EXPOSED! Christ’s apostle Paul warned Titus and us of many judaizer devils! Nothing has changed! Expose them!
“For there are MANY unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision (judaizers):” Titus 1:10
To elevate law instead of Christ is to deny Christ and to steal His glory as the only “Head” of the true Church He is building (Colossians 2:18-19).
After speaking of the non-essential mere shadows of meat, drink, holy days, and Sabbath days, the apostle says:
“Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.” Colossians 2:23
Here Paul is condemning leaders who lead others in self-imposed commitments and obedience to things that are not commanded or honored by God such as keeping a certain day. In the hearts of those who want to feel like they are personally meriting or earning their own salvation, this produces pride, self-righteousness, and bondage. These have traded the perfection of Christ in for their own futile adherence to things God doesn’t require of them and in doing so, have rejected the only Savior.
“Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you (the religious self-righteous).” Matthew 21:31
Scroll Kissing Scam … Isn’t it Time we “Kiss the Son” Instead of a Mere Scroll?
“The LORD looketh on the heart.” 1 Samuel 17:6
Jesus says “IFFFF ye love me, keep my commandments,” right? (John 14:15) Obedience is the fruit/produce of loving God. Yet, many who are deceived attempt to elevate outer obedience above love or to overemphasize the fruit instead of the root – which is to love the LORD with all of our heart, mind, and strength (Matthew 22:37-40). 1 Corinthians 13 makes it clear that even if we lay down our lives to the point of giving our bodies to be burned supposedly for Christ and yet have not His love in us, it’s all in vain.
Like the false Pharisees of Christ’s day, many today are willing to come to the written law and yet reject the One that law reveals as the only Messiah. They will kiss a scroll they call Torah and yet refuse to honor and “kiss the Son” of God who bled once to justify them. – “Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.” (Psalms 2:11-12)
Look at what Jesus told the Pharisees:
“And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. 39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:38-40
“False brethren” are willing to kiss a mere scroll but refuse to open their hearts without reserve and come to Christ. Like the counterfeit tares of Christ’s day, these robe-wearing wolves were willing to outwardly embrace the law but refused to open their hearts and believe upon the Messiah who stood in their midst, available to be worshiped. Many Judaizers today will kiss a physical scroll in outer observance (in their Messianic gatherings) but refuse to repent and come to and believe upon the Savior. They searched the words but refused to see that those words reveal Christ. They refused to worship Him“in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:23-24) It was easier to do that than to open their hearts and repent, laying down their lives at His feet and before His infinite majesty.
“And rend (tear open) your heart (inner affections), and not your garments (outer observance), and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” Joel 2:13
Many today feign to have an inside line with God because they participate in Jewish ceremonialism and yet, they are rending only their outer garments but not their hearts.
“Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men.” Isaiah 29:13
“He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips (their words and perhaps scroll-kissing), but their heart is far from me.” Mark 7:6
The Hebrew Roots Delusion
The Bible comes out and tells us in no uncertain terms that there is “NO advantage” to being a natural Jew. ” For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” (Romans 2:28-29)
The fact that God is going to ultimately bring the natural Jews to Himself does not justify that they are for now rebellious and the covenant they were under is now obsolete …. they have to repent and believe upon Christ to be saved or they will are hell bound. There is NO difference in salvation between Gentiles and Jews. Gal. 3:28; Eph 2, etc… there is only ONE body of Christ.
Lest we think the Jews are not important in God’s plan, let’s think again. It was through the Jewish nation, formed by the LORD beginning with the patriarch Abraham God blessed the world and brought His Word into the world. The LORD has blessed all peoples of all nations through His Jewish people – “Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises.” (Romans 9:4)
The concern Paul had was the bringing in of New Testament believers under the yoke of law keeping for righteousness… This was and always will be a big problem to the LORD (until we are with Him) … Galatians is perhaps His most poignant statement of anger against such … “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Gal. 5:1) ….
“And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter (the matter of any part of the law being necessary for righteousness, especially for NT, Gentiles who are saved by grace through faith in Christ). 7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. 8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; 9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. 10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? 11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.” (Acts 15:6-11)
“Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith (in the only One who kept the Law) without the deeds of the law.” Romans 3:28
Think this fuss about law-keepers is a straw man? Saint, if you haven’t yet, you will surely come into contact with a law-keeper in the days ahead. If you will hear and grasp this ultra important Gospel truth – that we are justified by faith in the One who is our Salvation and Sabbath – these Bible truths will prepare you to elevate Jesus Christ and communicate the faith of the Gospel of His grace, refuting the lies of hell that seek to rob the glory that belongs to Him alone who bled, was buried, and raised again for our justification (Romans 4:25; 5:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26).
These rabid cultists, fueled by Satan, are aggressive in their propagating of their “doctrines of devils.” (1 Timothy 4:1-3) The Bible specifically says to “rebuke them sharply.” (Tit. 1:13) Listen closely to the words of Titus 1:9-15 and see if you think Paul took this Judaizing lightly:
“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, the Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.” Titus 1
The biblical truth is that God does not accept any person (Jew or Gentile) on the basis of law-keeping but on the basis of saving faith in the One Messiah who bled to reconcile us to God (Ephesian 2).
“And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could NOT be justified by the law of Moses.” Acts 13:39
Many today feign to be holier than thou due to their connection with Jewish groups who practice observing the old feasts that merely pointed to the first coming of Christ. BUT has He already come or not???? Are we still under the OLD or are we under the NEW Testament? (Matthew 26:28; Romans 10:4, etc.) Was the blood of Jesus enough? Did His life and blood fulfill all that was written of Him and pay in full for us to be completely whole and justified in the eyes of God? Or, is Jesus Christ a liar and a fraud?
“THE END” – “Christ is THE END of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.” Romans 10:4 (memorize this verse)
You want the Law instead of Jesus Christ? Here you go:
If you are not born again, trusting Christ alone and fully, you are under the law and can’t keep it perfectly and are therefore guilty and condemned by it.
“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10
Any person who has ever once broken even one of God’s commands, is guilty of breaking it all and doomed to eternal judgment. “ALL have sinned” by breaking God’s law (Romans 3:10, 23).
You have broken God’s law. You have coveted, blasphemed His holy name, lied, stolen, committed idolatry, adultery, etc. You are fully guilty (Romans 3). So, if you want the impossibility of keeping the old law instead of Jesus, God says you have spit in His holy face by openly rejecting His only begotten Son – the only sacrifice for your many sins against Him. You have fallen from grace and are no long saved (if you were ever saved). See Galatians 5:4.
Any person has ever once broken even one of God’s commands, is guilty of breaking it all and doomed to eternal judgment. “ALL have sinned” by breaking God’s law (Romans 3:10, 23).
What is the reason some individuals seem to be vulnerable to diabolical, works-righteousness to further trust in their own feign ability to law-keeping, self-merit? Is it due to their unrepentant hearts which cause them to trust in themselves, their own supposed ability to keep the law? This is “the spirit of antichrist” which seeks to replace Jesus Christ with self’s ability to keep the law (1 John 2:18; 4:1-3). Those who trust in anything (including their own supposed, feigned keeping of the law) outside of the nail scarred risen LORD Jesus Christ, have “an EVIL heart of unbelief” and have departed (apostasy) from the living God.
“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” Hebrews 3:12
In Acts 15 the apostles gathered to see what God requires for a person to be saved. Their conclusions? No mention of keeping any part of the law or feasts or any sabbath. – “But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.” Acts 15:11
Those who insist on a certain day as the Sabbath are antichrists – they have replaced Christ and His perfect sacrifice with something else and are peddling a false gospel and are “accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9)
Hebrews 10 reveals that we are MORE accountable now that Jesus has come and completed redemption. Accountable to know, love, worship, and of course obey His NEW Testament Word, not trying to keep the law, which is the ultimate rejection of Christ.
If your “gospel” includes an emphasis on keeping certain days, your gospel is false, it’s “another gospel,” and you are “accursed” of God and on your way to the lake of fire (Galatians 1:6-9).
No such Sabbath instruction is ever given by Christ or any of His apostles and that means that any wolf pushing keeping any certain day is guilty before the Almighty for robbing glory from the One who came and bled to accomplish salvation on that tree (Colossians 2:8-19).
What about Galatians? There is no righteousness in the law, period (Romans 10:4). It’s all in and only in Christ!
NO, I’m not trying to get more Jewish. Nope! The ONE I have been saved by is the Ultimate Jew. You can have your far inferior mere shadow, I want my Savior! Also, the true, born again disciple of Jesus is complete in Jesus Christ alone, you know, the One who perfectly fulfilled what those obsolete, abolished OLD Testament shadows merely pointed to? – but He’s now come in the flesh!
On this important subject of the attempted Judaization of New Testament believers, Paul Asbury aptly notes:
“When a woman sews a dress, she uses a pattern, but she doesn’t plan on wearing the pattern. The ceremonial law was just a pattern for the New Testament. I’m afraid a lot of people who are trying to wear Judaism, are going to be found naked, when Jesus comes. – Hebrews 8:5 says: ‘Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.’ I’ve had friends who started in Messianic Judaism, only to forsake Jesus all together in the end. I can see why Paul was so hard against it.”
As a born again, NEW Testament disciple of Jesus, I am not interested in any foolish focus on obsolete feasts which were only a means of depicting the ONE (the Messiah) who was yet to come. If you are still focusing on the mere shadow given to the Jews under the OLD Testament, you are living under the old and obsolete covenant which was far inferior to the NEW Testament which Jesus accomplished and which is a far superior and a much “BETTER covenant” and made the old covenant obsolete (Hebrews 8:6). To put too much emphasis on that which only served to be a guide to understand and know the Messiah when He came is antichrist. This is an open denial of Christ – it’s antichrist because it denies that He already came in the flesh (1 John 4:1-3). Now that He HAS already come in the flesh and fulfilled the prophetic pictures and Word about Him, I would be denying Him to go back to mere shadows which only served to point the Jewish people to Him BEFORE He actually came “in the fullness of time.” (Galatians 4:4)
Why do Gentile (non-Jewish) believers somehow think they can be closer to the LORD by seeking to become like and act like and talk like Jews?
Once again, just WHO is a true Jew? – “For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” Romans 2:28-29
WHO is the “Israel of God” now that Christ has come?
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.” Galatians 6:14-16
“The Israel of God” are all those who glory only in Christ, period!
The shadow is not the problem, but the overemphasis of it sure is. A shadow is like sleeping with a picture of your wife instead of her. In other words, let’s say your wife goes on a long trip and while she’s away you sleep with her picture to feel close to her and then when she returns, you tell her to sleep in another room because the picture of her will do. Selah friend.
*** Beware of the useless, phony emphasis on Jewish tradition, feasts, and focusing on mere shadows that draw you away from Christ. We have HIM and so the mere shadows are not necessary! Some just don’t get it and they don’t want to! It seems as if a Judaizing devil has possessed them in their rebellion. They, like the Pharisees who knew the written Word, refused to come to Christ when He stood in their face! (John 5:39-40; Philippians 3:1-3). This was their damning sin! Read Colossians 1-2 and rejoice in the Person and supremacy of Jesus Christ alone! (John 17:3; Philippians 3:10) Knowing Christ and the Father is the exact reason you were created and exist. Read Galatians and beware of evil workers who prey upon those who are not pressing into and therefore experiencing an abiding relationship with Christ, the Life and are therefore vulnerable to seek some counterfeit like trying to become more Jewish!
The great apostle of Jesus constantly wages war against these Judaizing devils. These “EVIL workers” and their Christ-denying message must be met head on with truth. If they don’t repent, they must be identified and marked as false prophets (Romans 16:17-18; Galatians 1:6-9; Titus 1:7-16, etc.).
“Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. 2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. 3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.” Philippians 3:1-3
What are we warned about in Colossians 2:14-23?????
Jesus “took it (the law) out of the way.”
Colossians 2
“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and TOOK IT OUT OF THE WAY, nailing it to his cross; 15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. 18 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 (not emphasizing JESUS), from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. 20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, 21 (Touch not; taste not; handle not; 22 Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.” Colossians 2:14-23
Jesus or Yeshua?
If you have Jesus, you have everything and are not looking for some counterfeit diversion! You need to seek the LORD, being “rooted and built up in” Jesus Christ and refuse to be drawn away to a false gospel which will damn your eternal soul (Colossians 2:6-10).
One watchman has this to say …
“The continual insistence of the modern Judaizers that we refer to Jesus and the Father by Their Hebrew names has the appearance of being profound, but really it is witchcraft because they teach that if you pray “in the name of Jesus” Yeshua will not hear you, but if you pray “in the name of Yeshua” He will. This reduces the Name to AN INCANTATION and thus WITCHCRAFT. To pray “in the name of Jesus” or “in the name of Yeshua” means to pray in His authority and according to His will, it has nothing to do with how you pronounce His name.”
The name of JESUS not legitimate? Really? I have cast out devils in that mighty name above all names – JESUS CHRIST! There’s power – divine power – in that Holy Name!!!!!
“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
If you wish to call Him by the Hebrew rendering – Yeshua – that’s fine but don’t think that or any other Jewish observance makes you holier.
What’s the bottom line? What is Satan attempting to do here in moving the emphasis away from Jesus Christ and onto anything else, including old, obsolete, OLD Testament ceremonies that were mere shadows of what was to come and now has already come? The Good News is that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, has already come and accomplished complete, perfect salvation!! Study the book of Hebrews intently.
“ALL Israel Shall be Saved”
“And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:” Romans 11:26
The biblical truth that we who are born again into Jesus Christ are His people, does not mean that the LORD has permanently forsaken natural Israel (Romans 11). The fact that the body of Christ is made one in CHRIST (Ephesians 2 – Jew and Gentile) does not in any way negate the myriad of promises of God to restore natural Israel.
Any person who vainly believes that getting into Jewish practices does anything to make them more acceptable to God, is deceived. Read and get to know Romans, Galatians, Colossians, and Hebrews.
Beware: Paul the apostle of Jesus warred profusely and constantly against the glory-robbing devils who are antichrists that deny that Jesus Christ is THE Messiah who has already come and accomplished perfect salvation and justification with His own sinless, divine, perfect blood!
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Comments:
“I spent twenty years in deep study of God’s Word going through controversial subjects such as Biblical creation, the biblical calendar, Biblical Chronology, history and prophecy..In it all, keeping the simplicity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ..Then the Holy Spirit led me to Israel 5/6 years ago and the rising of the Hebrew roots movement that rode upon the Jewish messianic movement …Then all the deep study began to make sense as to the reason why. In all that time It was the book of Galatians that was highlighted whilst witnessing to Jews and Gentiles beguiled by Jewish fables and Jewish mysticism…” Daniel T.
“I used to be in a cult for about 3 yrs; it was the Hebrew Roots Cult. I no longer am in it. I got out of it a year and a half ago. I know I’m saved now by grace through faith in Messiah (Eph 2:8).
Hi Brother Todd, Yes that is true that we are not under the Old Covenant now.Heb 7:19 is clear to me on how we have the Better covenant due to Messiah dying for us and bring salvation to us.Now I live under the New Testament! Halleluyah! I am so thankful that I came out of the Hebrew Roots Cult a year and a half ago.I do not keep the Sabbath day any longer, as I see now I am to rest in Messiah.I also do not do the feast days anymore since Col 2:15-17 showed me they were but a shadow till Christ came.Your article is great! I’ll share it! Love in Christ,” Ginger
“Sadly, I was in this satanic cult of the hebrew roots movement, for close to 3 years. It is all about hating Jesus Christ, and getting the Christian to rebel against God’s Word. If that’s not satanic, I don’t know what is!” T.G.
Becky Stein writes: “I honestly think this has a lot to do with having a weak conscience. People become fearful they are not doing enough for God and haven’t been discipled to understand what a believer ought to and should be doing and they fall prey to this line or reasoning: that they must earn God’s love and favor. The process I have observed people go through–is an honest heartfelt desire to please God, having a weak conscience, they are told they MUST follow the LAW to do so and those who lead them transfer spirits of pride and arrogancy that THEY have made THEMSELVES right before God (rather than relying on the finished work at the cross and the continuing work of the Holy Ghost in them). Then the original person who, at the first had a godly desire to do right, is now doing works of the Law, to establish themselves as their conscience has been defiled, One of the major components of the BASICS, the very foundational teaching is that we repent of DEAD WORKS, those things that we have done to try to make ourselves acceptable before God. Hebrews 6:1, “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,” Hebrews 9:14, “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
Antoinette Van Vuuren writes: “Yes that is truly so and I have realized when you were gone there are such a lot of them out there who deceive the believers , as you say because of pride and boasting and thinking they are one step above others looking down on those who love God in such a humble pure way , making one wonder and deceiving them into the snare like you say – but every time I have found them naked without their garments and they are also very much in the flesh and not in the Holy Spirit – and that is the only way one can know for sure they have not opened their eyes to their own iniquities and projecting them on others to justify their own traditional belief system hiding their true colors – they are far more dangerous than the false teachers and prophets cause they are disguised as the morning star and will kill steal and destroy to make you believe them – and that is truly not from God – the other way one recognize them is they never place them selves in others shoes they only stay in their own – forgetting that they to were once babes and drinking milk – makes me wonder if they not back to the milk phase again – pray that God will open their eyes if they really want to see and that His truth will come upon them Amen.”
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“The Pharisees pointed out the obvious that Jesus wasn’t keeping their Sabbath as they saw fit! Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath!
John 9:16, “Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.”
Mark 2:27-28, “And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.”
Matthew 12:8, “For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.” Becky S.
RESPONSE:
Exactly. Those who elevate a mere day, a small element of HIS creation, above HIM, are delusional, hell bound lost souls. Gal. 4:9-11; Col. 2:14-19
ANGRY MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“ No. what you speak is a lie. Ezekiel 22:26 Her priests do violence to my law and profane my holy things; they do not distinguish between the holy and the common; they teach that there is no difference between the unclean and the clean; and they shut their eyes to the keeping of my Sabbaths, so that I am profaned among them.”
REPLY:
John describes “the spirit of antichrist” as that which denies that Jesus has come in the flesh – to do what the OT merely foreshadowed that He would do. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” 1 John 4:1-3 This judaizing movement denies that Christ came and fulfilled the law, nailed it to the cross, and “took it out of the way” (for righteousness) .. Read Col. 2:14-19…. They uphold the law not the only One who fulfilled it and took it out of our way. What does Rom. 10:4 say? Jesus is the SABBATH we keep – we rest in Him from law keeping because all the law did was show us how sinful we are. He came and perfectly fulfilled it and nailed it to the cross. It’s time to get a real NEW Testament life!
“Completely agree. Adherence to the law and religion always results in false pride and false humility. So much bragging coming from some of these “humble” folks. They brag about their diets, brag about their unique relationship with “Yah” and Yeshuah, oops Yahuah, (don’t want to spelling wrong!), they.brag about their observance of Holy Days, Sabbaths, and Feasts. They think they and their little group are the only ones going to Heaven, and the rest of us stupid, pagan “Christians” are going straight to hell. Sounds strangely familiar to the Pharisees, doesn’t it?” Rebecca S.
“Oh this is EXCELLENT! So tired of the legalists trying to push us back into the law and day and feast observance. This is what I always knew to be true. I never would give up my freedom in Christ, no matter how hard they tried. It did not feel right. I knew bondage and I did not want to deny the freedom Christ died to give us. Thank you so much for posting this, Becky. What a blessing this morning.” Yvonne | Jesus Lives to Provide what He Died to Purchase
“I can’t tell you how frustrated I am with this anti-christ stuff. A few people have tried and tried to convert me to the HR (Hebrews Roots) movement, sending me Staley’s videos, books, etc. Sigh………..Honestly, I feel very sad for those who get led away from the Freedom found in Christ and are led right back into bondage and works of the law, trying to justify themselves before God. Did they not learn anything from Paul’s teachings on the matter? Unfortunately, some of the HR people completely reject Paul, saying he either was mistaken, a false prophet/teacher, or we just are misunderstanding his teachings.” Cindy W. | BEWARE of Jim Staley Passion for Truth
“Great word on the Hebrew Hogwash. I am a Messianic Jew and agree completely. Many subvert the Gospel and many call Paul and his teachings heretical. I am NOT one of them. I observe the feasts as Word Pictures of Prophetic fulfillment and shun those who take scripture and use it to their own devices. Thanks for the article brother.” Steven S.
“I think you hit the nail on the head Bro. They don’t get it, but sadly I suspect many of them just don’t want to get it. Which is quite worrying. How prone people are to idolatry and external traditions.” unknown
“Thanks for sharing Todd. At one point in my life I embraced Judaism, tried to find my inner Jew, lol. It’s part of my genetic make up. Thank God I got out in time. I embrace the Jewishness of Yeshua, that’s about it.” Tania J.
“Thank you Todd for this. There are now places in the Born Again community that have synagogues! They dress in Jewish robes, speak Hebrew and say that we must keep the Sabbath and the Feast Days to be saved! The Assemblies of God is allowing this!” Diana Milligan
“Thank you Todd. I have seen this though the years in New York manifesting itself from culture to culture in a multitude of forms, making victims, robbing the truth of God and His Word and putting people into one bondage or another.” Pastor Frank Scavarda
“I am Jewish and love all the traditions. But I have to agree that any groups or denominations that add to or take focus away from Yahshua, are going down the wrong road. We have a new covenant in HIM who saved us. Rejoice!” Marat Nizberg
“When it’s all boiled down … this is just another denomination, a movement (the Jewish emphasis movement). It’s a lie that pulls well-intentioned believers into another rabbit trail trap. IF you are reading ‘The Word’… our Lord and the Disciples tell us in several, several places and in no uncertain terms DO-NOT go BACK to the Law! This movement and it is a movement, diminishes the POWER of the Blood of Christ, what Jesus Christ did on the cross. The promise was given to the seed of Abraham, as a foreshadow of the freedom in Christ, many centuries before GOD even gave the law to Moses. The born again Christian is commanded to stay away from law/Torah read Galatians etc. so many scriptures…Paul asked ‘Who has bewitched you…’ This is a serious matter that born again Christians need to know we are saved by the blood of Christ and nothing else. It is impossible to fulfill the law that is why the SON OF GOD, THE WORD, THE FATHER’S WORD IN THE FLESH HAD TO COME AND SET US FREE. THE LAW IS A CURSE, THE WORD SAYS AND THE LAW KEEPS US IN BONDAGE BECAUSE WE CANNOT KEEP THE LAW IN OUR FLESH. That is why through the Spirit of Christ we are saved THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH. ‘I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE’ don’t try and get yourself in through another door…this movement goes against the whole New Testament in reality. So people stop twisting the scriptures to meet your needs and believe in the Spirit of Truth and only the Spirit of Truth. The enemy has many tangled up in this movement or should I say this lie. PLEASE WAKE UP PEOPLE….” Mitchell Woodhouse
One writer notes:
“The sabbath, the Law, the sacrifices and offerings, and food regulations were given to the children of Israel under the old covenant. The church is now under the New Covenant in which Jesus is our rest. We are not to judge one another on what day we worship or the food we eat or how we choose to pray. Christians aren’t replacing the Sabbath by worshiping on Sunday. The Sabbath on the 7th day is eternal. Yet there is not one verse in the New Testament that commands believers to rest only on the Sabbath. Why? Because our rest is found in Christ!”
“And Indeed Brother Todd, the spring feasts are about the first coming of Jesus. The Fall feasts however have not yet been fulfilled, they are Prophetical about the second coming of Christ. And the Millennium reign. The victory over Satan.” Hanny
FROM SHANNON COOK:
“Brother Todd I couldn’t agree with you more that Jesus Christ Himself is indeed our Sabbath rest. It’s really tragic that those who are deceived select one calendar day to focus on Him and attempt to be holy, while we are free to worship, follow, embrace our beloved husbandman every moment of every day! Amen!”
REPLY:
Amen Shannon. They exercise great hypocritical pretension. This is exactly what Jesus was addressing in His lambasting discourse against the hell bound self-righteous religionists of His day. Matthew 23.
Message Received:
Salvation is only in Jesus. Torah is about doing the will of God after being saved by Grace.
Reply:
Knowing Jesus by being born again and then abiding intimately in Christ is what is most important. Even if we give our bodies to be burned and do not know and love Jesus, we are nothing and have wasted our lives (John 15; 1 Cor. 13). Sheer obedience will save no one from hell. Only Jesus can do that! Now, the fruit of truly knowing and remaining in Him will most certainly produce the fruit of good works but those good works or obedience save no one!
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Articles
7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross [podcast]
What Final Statements Did Jesus Make on the Cross and What Did They Mean?
Our LORD Jesus Christ said 7 things while as He was offering His body and precious, sinless blood to buy us back to God. He was suffering for the sins of mankind and for no sin of His own (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 7:26; 1 Peter 3:18). He was shedding His blood to Re-deem (buy us back) and that’s what Jesus did for “the whole world” when He died on the cross, was buried, and raised again from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 1 John 2:2). Do you know Him?
1. “My God, My God, Why hast thou forsaken me” (Matt. 27:46; Mk. 15:34; Ps. 22:1).
This concerned those who hung Him on the cross and how He became the sin bearer, the sin sacrifice and how the Father could not look on sin, so temporarily turned His head. Jesus was forsaken so that we might be forgiven (Isaiah 53).
Application to us: Job 19:6-10; Psalms 139:8; 2 Corinthians 12:7-12; Hebrews 13:5-6
2. “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Lk. 23:34).
He asked the Father to forgive them – a token of what His shed blood would pay for and facilitate – forgiveness of sin for all who come to Him on His terms to be saved. The sacrificial death of the Son of God satisfied the claims of the Father’s justice to justify mankind (Isaiah 53:11).
Application to us: As God forgave us due to Christ’s perfect sacrifice, He mandates, without exception, that we freely forgive all others, from our hearts. Matthew 5:44; 18:21-35; Mark 11:25-26; Ezekiel 36:24-26; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-14
3. “Verily, I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Lk. 23:43).
This promise of forgiveness and eternal comfort given to the thief who believed on Christ in his final moments is the same promise for all who come to Him and are saved (John 6:47).
Application to us: Immediate glory, comfort, and bliss with our LORD at the moment of death. Luke 16:19-31; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Philippians 1:21-23; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Revelation 21:4; Luke 21:28
4. “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Lk. 23:46).
Jesus closes with the prophetic words of Psalm 31:5, speaking to the Father. We see His complete trust in the Father (John 5:30, etc.). Jesus entered death in the same way He lived each day of His life on earth, offering up His life as the perfect sacrifice and placing Himself into the Father’s hands (Luke 22:42).
Application to us: This is a great prayer! Stephen emulated his Savior when being stoned to death for Christ (Acts 7:51-60). “Commend” means to submit. Personally I find these words, while in prayer, rolling off my lips – submitting afresh, daily, and asking the LORD to take full control.
5. “Woman, behold thy son … Behold thy mother” (Jn. 19:26-27).
Jesus, looking down from the cross, was still filled with the concerns of a son for the earthly needs of his mother. None of his half brothers or sisters were there to care for her, so He gave this task to the apostle John (Mark 6:3). Here we see Christ’s humanity.
Application to us: We must take care of earthly responsibilities according to the counsel of the written Word of our God (Psalms 119; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
6. “I thirst” (Jn. 19:28)
Jesus refused the initial drink of vinegar, gall, and myrrh offered to alleviate his suffering (Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23). But here, several hours later, we see Jesus fulfilling the messianic prophecy found in Psalm 69:21. By saying He was thirsty, Jesus prompted the Roman guards to give Him vinegar, which was customary at a crucifixion, thereby fulfilling the prophecy which showed that everything was happening according to God’s plan.
Application to us: We must endure hardness, bitter sufferings and seasons (Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 2:3; James 1:2-4, 12, etc.).
7. “It is finished” (Jn. 19:30).
This means “paid in full.” The sin debt for all was fully satisfied in the sacrifice of our LORD Jesus Christ, the ultimate price was paid to satisfy the claims of the Father’s justice to redeem fallen mankind (Isaiah 53:11). He is “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
Application to us: Jesus accomplished our salvation single handedly, satisfying the claims of divine justice to redeem fallen mankind. He died to abolish law-keeping for righteousness and so we must “walk by faith and not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:14-19; Hebrews, etc.) Read Romans 3-5; Galatians.
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Abiding
Counting the Cost – Following Jesus to the End of Your Life [podcast]
The Cost of Discipleship
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24
Those who count the cost refuse to count their own life dear to themselves and this is the only way not to be derailed, to finish our course, enduring to the end.
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 12:11
Those who balk at and ignore that Jesus says you MUST “endure to the end” to be “saved” into eternal glory, simply do not love Him (Matthew 10:22; 24:13, etc.). Jesus is not worth their life. They were worth His life which He gave for them on the cross, yet the Son of God is not worth giving up their own life in this fleeting world. Counterfeits. These are the frauds who hide behind the eternal security sham.
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
EARTHLY FAMILY DOES NOT COME FIRST – THE LORD DOES
By divine design, there’s an order of priority in the Ten Commandments. Here’s the first of the ten:
And the fifth:
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12
Honoring God supersedes even the love we have for our husband/wife.
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:37-39
Jesus knew that if we don’t love Him supremely, we will allow other relationships to interfere and circumvent our relationship with Him.
If we don’t hate those other relationships compared to our love for Him, our decisions will be affected, will be to please them and not Him. When we love the LORD supremely, His will takes precedence, priority over all others.
“If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:26
We must love the LORD so much that our love for others is near to being hate in comparison. If we don’t love God supremely, others will without exception, drag us downward and away from Him.
Of this passage in Luke 14, FB Meyer wrote:
“Our love must be greater than the ties of family affection, Luk_14:26; must be greater than our love for our own way, which must be nailed to the Cross, Luk_14:27; must be greater than our love of possessions and property, Luk_14:33. Christ has done more than any other teacher to cement the relationships of human love, but He always asks that they should be subordinated to the claims of God. Oh, for the love that Paul had! See Php_3:8.”
“What a comfort it is to realize that God counted the cost before He set about the task of redemption, whether of a world or of us as individuals. He knew all that it would cost, and surely He did not begin what He cannot complete!”
In Matthew 10, after speaking of the essential of enduring to the end (v22), Jesus gives warning concerning those things most likely to derail and prohibit our enduring to the end in His will.
“And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. 37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:36-37
Of this Adam Clarke wrote:
“He that loveth father or mother more than me – He whom we love the most is he whom we study most to please, and whose will and interests we prefer in all cases. If, in order to please a father or mother who are opposed to vital godliness, we abandon God’s ordinances and followers, we are unworthy of any thing but hell.”
Of Matthew 10:34-42, FB Meyer writes profoundly:
“RECEIVING CHRIST’S REPRESENTATIVES
In Jesus Christ we acquire a new affinity, stronger than that of family ties. When we enter into the family of God we belong to all His children. They are our brethren and sisters in the most intimate sense. See Mat_12:48-50. The new love that floods our nature does not make us less but more tender and sympathetic toward our own kith and kin; but if we are compelled to choose, then we must stand with the children of God, though it should rend us from the old happy family life in which we were nurtured.
As to the closing paragraph, may we not illustrate it thus? When the widow who sustained Elijah at Zarephath entered Paradise, she found herself standing amid the great prophets of Israel. When she asked the attendant angel whether there was not some mistake, he replied, ‘Certainly not. In treating the prophet as you did, you proved yourself to be of the same spirit and temper as he; and it is but right that you should share in the prophet’s reward.’”
To those who are entangled with earthly family, namely unbelievers who are not repenting, it would be spiritually beneficial to get free, to cease your dependence on them and to sever the soul ties and cease basing your emotional well-being on them and how they view you and your decisions. Lay the axe to the root as you denounce false obligation to them. “Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:60). Read Matthew 10.
“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole FAMILY in heaven and earth is named,” Ephesians 3:14-15
Jesus Addressed the Excuses
Jesus addresses excuses, diversions concerning obeying Him, asserting our highest priority – the LORD, not family. The point becomes even clearer – that we are to be captive to the LORD, our “first love,” supremely, and not family (Revelation 2:4-5).
“And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father (wait till parents die). 60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. 61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. 62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:59-62
Jesus further establishes that He is to be supreme in our lives and those who are His – not natural familial bonds. The body of Christ, its members, are our eternal family.
“And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. 28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” Luke 11:27-28
The harshest of biblical truth is the delicacy, the delight of the true disciple of Jesus. He runs to all of it and never from any of it. He embraces the cross, never evading it. He delights in the sword of the Spirit that cuts to the core and carves the image of Christ into his life – into the fabric, the innermost core of who he is in Christ! Christ and Christ alone is his sole identity and he counts not his own life in this world dear unto himself so that he is able to finish his course with great joy – hearing from His Savior the sweetest of all words “Well done, thou good and faithful servant … enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21; Acts 20:24; Romans 8:29; Galatians 2:20; 6:14; 2 Timothy 2:3).
Militancy is essential in our abiding relationship with Christ (Matthew 11:12). Heartfelt love also.
So many today who claim Christ view salvation as something they did in the past and not a present relationship with Christ on His stated terms (John 15; Titus 1:16).
Jesus commands His very own to “endure unto the end” to be “saved,” and unless one becomes deliberate, absolute, militant, he will not make it “unto the end” with Christ (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Mark 9:43-49; 2 Timothy 2:3, etc.). 
“And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage (a messenger to negotiate peace), and desireth conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:25-33
“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 3:5-7
Striving Lawfully – That is, According to the Rules, the Terms
Denouncing the crippling, corrupting comforts of Laodicea. Grasping for the obedient love of Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-22).
“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:3-5
May God bless each of His people to “endure hardness” as good soldiers of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3). Take note that “there is no respect of persons with God” (Romans 2:11). The LORD made His servant Jeremiah obey Him on His terms. God never bends or modifies, bends the rules (2 Timothy 2:5). We must not deceive ourselves and must “strive lawfully” which means according to HIS terms, not our own or any other.
“And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:5
“Be Not Weary in Well Doing”
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9
SATAN tempting you to give up? Who wins if you do? Where shall you turn? Turning away from God means we are without Him in our life and trials, right? The LORD, who is your Potter, has a plan. He will absolutely bring you through the floods of water and fire! (Isaiah 43:1-2; Jeremiah 18:1-6) After saving us, God has to bring us to an end of ourselves and that happens through “much tribulation” (Acts 14:22; 2 Corinthians 4; 12:7-12, etc.). Read 2 Corinthians 4. When Jesus had fed the flesh of the multitudes, they turned and walked away from the Savior. But…
“Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.” John 6:67-68
Discipleship | Enduring to the End | Abiding | The Blessing of Suffering
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Articles
The Laid Down Life [podcast]
Chapter 5 from the book Raised Up (narration)
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5
You know the counterfeits far outnumber the authentic followers of Jesus when you put out a message on youtube or social media titled something like “How to know your gifts” and the response is overwhelming due to the many self-centered, self-absorbed cross-less professors (2 Timothy 3:1-7). In contrast, when you put out a message titled something like “Learning to live the crucified life Jesus calls all His followers to” and but a “few” listen – you are reminded of how Jesus says His remnant, is a “little flock” and how Jesus says “FEW there be which enter therein.” (Luke 12:32; Matthew 7:13-14).
Living in the Spirit
Those who descend into death and burial will be blessed to be raised up by the LORD.
“For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Romans 6:5
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Galatians 5:24-25
“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:13-14
“Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.” 2 Corinthians 4:10-12
IT BOILS DOWN TO LOVE!
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2
WHEN Jesus died for our sins, He submitted to the cross without reserve to the Father in order to redeem us! When you obey Jesus by laying down your life, you are saying: “Whew I love You LORD Jesus! You alone are my supreme LORD, love, and the Head of my life. I love You more than sinful self, and I have made a complete mess of my life, spinning my wheels for far too long. Please forgive my rebellion against You! I want You to reign supreme in my life Jesus, from this moment forward. Have Your way in me my LORD, I love You Jesus. I’m all Yours Jesus!”
Living in the Spirit and not in the flesh is a settled issue with the remnant. They “have crucified the flesh” and the evil the sinful nature would do. It’s a done deal – They “HAVE crucified the flesh” that Christ the LORD might reign in their mortal body.
“Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” Romans 6:18
We cannot be a servant of righteousness unless we are crucified with Christ and sin is out of our way.
“Likewise reckon (count) ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you (because you have accounted yourself dead): for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” Romans 6:11-18
The “form of doctrine” delivered by Christ and His holy apostles in the original Gospel, included the accounting of one’s life now dead and then being raised up by Christ, with His life-giving grace operating within to please Him fully (see also Rom. 12:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9).
“What does this mean for us? Remember that there are two aspects of Christ’s death. He died for our sins. He died for us – substitution. But then Paul tells us that we are also to die with Him. “I have been crucified WITH CHRIST” (Gal. 2:20): “Reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin” (Rom. 6:11). The Israelites in bondage were delivered by the blood shed and sprinkled. But they are pursued by certain of their foes. These foes are slain at the Red Sea, but they themselves escape and are free. Egypt stands for the world of sin. Christ found us in “Egypt,” and by His death in our stead delivered us from the penalty of sin. But even after our conversion some of these sins followed us and harassed us – temper, pride, jealousy, lust, worry, avarice – causing discomfiture and misery, and occasionally temporary defeat. Where is there any escape, any real victory? Only through the Red Sea – baptism, or what baptism implies; i.e., a death to sin and a rising again to righteousness. That is a crucifixion with Christ, so as to be able to “reckon ourselves dead indeed unto sin.” How to Live the Victorious Life, by an Unknown Christian
God’s desire, plan, and command is that His people reign victorious in this life over sin and the enemy and become abundantly fruitful as we await the soon return of our LORD Jesus Christ (John 15; 1 Thessalonians 1:10).
“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:17
The Cross of Christ and the One He Commands us to take up are Essential
Let’s peer again into the words of our LORD found in John 12:
“And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.” John 12:23-26
Laying down our lives is paramount to walking with Jesus. It is His command (Lk. 9:23-24; 14:33, etc.). He raises up in new life those that are bowed down before Him (Ps. 146:8). The seed (“corn”) is planted or buried alive, and is resurrected by God to a life of glory and blessing. Without a death, there can be no resurrection. This death to the self-life is volitional and ongoing in this life – “I die daily.” (1 Cor. 15:31)
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30
As we are blessed to be “planted together in the likeness of his death”, so “we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.”
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Romans 6:3-5
This is rightfully the most popular Bible passage on water baptism and what the meaning and purpose of water baptism is. At water baptism, we are buried in water, figuratively dying to the old man, the man of sin, and being resurrected by the risen Savior and LORD to a new life where He reigns supreme.
“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” Romans 8:10-11
There are symptoms in the life of one who is not buried. The disciple who is buried with Christ is “dead to sin.” (Rom. 6:2) When we argue to justify the things we do in this life and call those who point them out “legalistic”, it is symptomatic of a life that is not laid down. When we argue against the truth (the Bible says “Lie not against the truth” (James 3:14) when we are shown it, we manifest the rebellion in our hearts because our lives are not authentically laid out before the LORD. The “corn of wheat” (dead seed) must be planted and remain planted in order to bud and bring forth new life. The laid down life does not make excuse when he realizes that he has sin. No, instead he rejoices to be yet more delivered and in the place of blessing and holiness with the One He delights to please and serve.
Aren’t we the temple of the Holy Ghost and commanded to “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God”? (2 Cor. 7:1)
If we still have habitual sin in our lives, we should know that we are not buried with Christ. If we were, His life would be teeming in us and causing us to put away sinfulness.
Overcoming sin happens when we bury the old man of sin by nailing it to the cross. God is with us to do such (Rom. 8:13; Phil. 2:12-13)
“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:21-24
The LORD looks upon the hearts of men (1 Sam. 16:7). Getting our hearts right with God begins with laying down the right to ourselves and releasing ourselves into the unfailing hands of the One who made us and gives us the breath of life (Lk. 23:46). This is in following the ultimate example of our LORD Jesus who came and laid down His sinless life for us (1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1).
Let’s check our deadness. Let’s see how dead we are to this world system and all of it’s arrogant rebellion against the God of the universe and all that is: Do we defend our “right” to fill our minds and hearts with the evil things that are blatantly and subtly portrayed on some TV and radio programming (and other forms of modern media)? If so, the fleshly nature is not dead but is still alive and we are therefore not raised to new life.
Oswald Chambers wrote:
“The passion of Christianity is that I deliberately sign away my own rights and become a bondslave to Jesus Christ. Any fool can insist on personal rights, and any devil will see that he or she gets them, but the Sermon on the Mount means that the only right the saint will insist on is the right to give up personal rights.” Oswald Chambers, God’s Workmanship, p. 329
Perhaps it is true (as has been stated by some) that a person can be known by what he laughs at or finds humorous. What do we laugh at? What do we find entertaining? – “Charity…Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.” (1 Cor. 13:4, 6)
Apparently, according to the Word of God, returning laughter when we witness foolishness (folly) confirms the person we are laughing at in his folly and causes us to partake of his foolishness and deeds.
“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.” Proverbs 26:4
Laying down our lives requires a deliberate, willful decision to fear and obey the LORD and not men. Believers are called to be circumspect (fully set apart in holiness) and not glorify anything the LORD calls profane (Prov. 17:15; 24:24; Isa. 5:20-24; Ezek. 44:23; Eph. 5:15-17).
Yet we should ask: Why crucify the flesh when there is no reason to do such as the false church would have us believe? When a new believer is told that he is “eternally secure” or OSAS, why then should he get sanctified, live a repented life, be wholly set apart to the LORD, be matured and equipped to do ministry, and prepare for the soon return of Jesus Christ?
The following brief and yet convicting commentary is taken from the Life in the Spirit Study Bible concerning Romans 1:32. First let’s view the Biblical text, then the commentary.
“Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” Romans 1:32
“‘HAVE PLEASURE IN THEM THAT DO THEM’. Paul’s last word on general human sinfulness is God’s condemnation of a condition even more damning than the practice, i.e., supporting, approving, and encouraging evil by taking pleasure in the immoral actions of others. This disposition is the ultimate in depravity – vicarious enjoyment of lust and evil. Sin becomes entertainment. (1) The word ‘have pleasure’ (Gk. suneudokeo) means ‘are pleased with,’ ‘delight in,’ or ‘give approval to,’ and points to the casual enjoyment of the sins of others that prevails in human society. (2) Today we know that great harm is produced by the portrayal of immorality that dominates the entertainment media; yet many consent to it and derive pleasure from it. Being entertained by watching other people sin and engage in ungodly actions, even while you yourself abstain, brings you under the same condemnation of God as those engaging in such evil practices. Iniquity is intensified in any society where sin meets with no inhibition from the disapproval of others and where people enjoy watching it. (3) Hence, those (and especially those who profess faith in Christ) who use the immoral actions of others for entertainment and enjoyment are directly contributing to public opinion favorable to immorality and, therefore, to the corruption and eternal damnation of an indefinite number of other people. This sin is worthy of death and will be exposed and judged at the final day of judgment (2 Thess. 2:12).” p. 1729
Concerning the many things in this sinful world that would draw our affections away from Jesus Christ and blur that pure-focused disposition, the Psalmist wrote:
“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.” Psalms 101:3
Do we seek to protect our “right” to continue over-relishing or over-indulging in the things of this world which are despised of God? See 1 John 2:14-17. The Bible tells us that those who love this world system and the things in it, hate God and are His enemies – regardless of what they profess (Tit. 1:16; James 4:4).
“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 21:24-26
When we live out the Word, He promised persecution and instructed us to rejoice (Matt. 5:10-12; Mk. 4:17; 1 Pet. 4:12). Have you ever been persecuted by other “believers” and called legalistic because you chose not to watch a movie that mocks at what God calls sin? I guess I have seen people do this to truth-speakers for so long, that it has little affect anymore, other than inducing a concern for where they really are in their hearts. Seeking to be upright in one’s ways in not legalistic – it is biblical. The Word instructs us to “walk circumspectly” which means fully obedient – exactly, diligently, perfectly.
“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Ephesians 5:15-20
“And in all things that I have said unto you be circumspect: and make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth.” Exodus 23:13
What the LORD tells us in Proverbs 26:4-5, is that when we join a fool in his folly (foolishness), we become as guilty as he is and perpetuate this sinfulness in his life and more importantly – we offend the holiness of the LORD we claim to be serving.
What we partake of and/or laugh at reveals who we really are. If all these sinful things and justification of them are still alive in us, we do not have a laid down life.
“Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.” Proverbs 14:9
“Folly (foolishness)is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.” Proverbs 15:21
Yes, laughter is a blessing and there is a “time to laugh” and to rejoice, yet we are not made free from sin by the blood of Christ to laugh at evil things (Eccl. 3:4). LORD please bless us to be purified in our hearts and to rejoice and laugh more – for the right reasons! Please grant us Your joy Jesus! Amen.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” Proverbs 17:22
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge and those who have it walk uprightly – they walk biblically in the Holy Spirit of grace and not legalistically. They have joy from Jesus and are the most blessed people in the world.
“The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down.” Psalms 145:14
Beloved, our LORD is calling us to lay down our lives like Christ did – that He might fully possess us. Bow down before His holiness that He may raise you up His way. Let it all go. Die to justifying your sins. Before this day expires, get alone with the Savior and release the life He gave to you back to Him. Completely relinquish control as you cry out like Jesus did on the cross when dying for us – “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” (Lk. 23:46) Give up the ghost. Cease living life on your terms. Lay your whole life at His feet and let Him raise you up in newness of life in the Holy Spirit and reign supreme in your body.
The Path of Our LORD Jesus
Jesus was to be glorified by the Father in laying down His life for all men (Jn. 15:13).
“…nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done…” Luke 22:42
He laid down His own will because of the immeasurable love He has for each of us.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
Do we love Jesus Christ in return? How much do I love Him? Will I lay down my whole existence before Him, knowing He will raise me up to new life and fruitfulness as He lives His life through me? Is this not the essence of Galatians 2:20?
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
He must increase and we must decrease, that He might be glorified in us, and we might be the living epistles He has called us to be. When Jesus is reigning in a person’s life, it is obvious. His holy and impelling presence is the life that exudes from that person instead of the stench of the self-centered and selfish nature (Jn. 3:30). At this place of resurrection life, the LORD who made and redeemed us is greatly glorified and pleased and His fruit is being yielded.
“Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” Ephesians 5:1-2
Finding that place with God in prayer is where the laid down life begins. May I suggest that you begin with prayerfully, and from deep within, citing Galatians 2:20 aloud.
“Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.” Psalms 42:7
PRAYER: Please draw me deeper in You LORD Jesus. Father in Heaven, You sent Your only begotten Son to die for me in order that I might be raised up in new life in this brief life and eternally. I love You Jesus and ask You to lead me to that crucified life that you lived when here on earth. Quicken me by Your Holy Spirit and fill me afresh O LORD, that this life You gave might be fully fruitful and pleasing to Thee. Lord, I am watching and praying in light of Your soon return. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
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The Laid Down Life [podcast]
The Sure Mercies of David [podcast]
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Counting the Cost – Following Jesus to the End of Your Life [podcast]
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The Lying Vanity of “Eternal Security” [podcast]
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Bowels of Mercies [podcast]
Parenting and the Eternal Destiny of Your Child [podcast]
The Laid Down Life [podcast]
The Goal of the Ungodly Eternal Security Teachers [podcast]
Settled at His Feet [video]
Following Christ’s Great Commission Command [podcast]
7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross [podcast]
Counting the Cost – Following Jesus to the End of Your Life [podcast]
The Laid Down Life [podcast]
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America10 months agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
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Articles2 years ago
Children being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
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Articles8 years ago
Self-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
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Apostasy2 years ago
SHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True
Providing Christ-centered Scripture-rich resources to feed, edify, and equip the body of Christ (John 21:15-17; Ephesians 4:11-15).
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