40 Serious Questions to Ask
“I will build my church (people).” Matthew 16:18
Jesus is building His revelation truth – that He is the Christ – in the hearts of all who are authentically born again and following Him. So, His remnant people are the church – the called out ones.
When we finally become exhausted enough in the journey of “finding a church,” we may then begin to realize that God just wants us to be His church. Church is not where are go but who we are! We perhaps should cease trying to find a church and just be Christ’s church. Yet, if one insists upon finding a church to go to, here are some things that should be considered.
Below is a list of questions to ask when seeking out the ever so rare and elusive, true New Testament fellowship. These same questions should be asked of the current fellowship you may be involved in.
Perhaps we should begin realizing that God is not impressed with our Sunday morning shows, pretensions, and plastic passifications which we perform in His name but not under His lordship (Matt. 7:19-23; Lk. 6:46; 2 Tim. 3:5). The early believers did not “go to church” they were the Church, and met house to house daily to fellowship. Certain specific elements made up their genuine fellowship with Christ and one another (Acts 2:42-47). Friend, read this passage at the end of Acts 2 closely and prayerfully and see how much of a difference there is between commercialized modern church business houses and the early Church model of authentic Christian fellowship.
“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:41-47
The early Church setting was prior to the centralizing of “worship services” under the abominable roman religion of Catholicism which is where much of the structure of modern-day evangelical religion comes from.
It is my prediction that many house churches will result from the truth found on this page, which just may reveal that much of the modern church model is not according to the will of the LORD. Please proceed prayerfully.
If you are a pastor, please pray that the LORD will give your heart His gift of repentance, and bring forth fruits consistent with such change.
Perhaps the peril of finding a truth-seeking, truly God-fearing group of believers has never been so pronounced and critical as it is in this late hour, the hour of the foretold great falling away. Yet all wise-virgin believers realize that they must maintain fellowship with God’s true people. This leads them to leave most modern church settings which do not reflect New Testament Christianity see in the Word.
Looking for a good church? Join the club…. Well, on second thought, many whom God has called out of the visible, apostate church world, are simply being His Church in an organic fashion just as after Pentecost when the Church was born (Acts 2:42-47). Church-shopping can be a long and painful process. I gave that up and am now fellowshipping with the LORD’s people daily. Yet, if you insist …. To shorten your search, call the pastor of the church before you visit and ask the following questions. This will save you a lot of Sundays.
1. What is man’s biggest problem, sin or self esteem? Seeker-sensitive and felt-needs churches focus on man’s hurts and problems. The Bible says that man’s biggest problem is sin and depravity and that His need is to repent before a holy God to obtain His mercy and grace to be transformed. Beware of errant programs like Celebrate Recovery which do not honor the One who made man as the only One who can heal men’s lives. For a more in-depth study of the “seeker-sensitive” movement, get Deceivers & False Prophets Among Us 2 full chapters are dedicated to this movement and its practices.
2. What must a man do to inherit eternal life? Repent and trust fully in Christ alone is the Biblical answer. If the word “repent” is never used, say “thank you.”
3. How do you deliver the salvation message? Watch out for “asking for a decision” and “hand raising.” No one is going to sneak into the kingdom of God. Jesus wasn’t ashamed to come and suffer shame and crucifixion for mankind, and told us that anyone ashamed of Him or His Word will be rejected (Mk. 8:34-38). Also, ask the pastor to describe specifically his approach to the lost. Does he encourage people to simply say a prayer, or lay their lives down completely? Does he tell people to ask Jesus into their hearts, or fall upon His mercy in light of their utter sinful depravity, holding nothing back?
4. How hard is it to become a Christian? If the pastor says it is easy, he probably does not understand that dying to self is the hardest thing a person can do.
5. Pastor, How often do you talk about sin, righteousness, and judgment? Balance is key. This should not be the only emphasis, but it should be a regular emphasis as it was with Christ and His apostles which we read about in the Scriptures.
6. Do you preach on “sin” by name, or do you speak of “mistakes”, “addictions”, “disease”, and “shortcomings”? When is the last time you preached the 17 sinful “works of the flesh” named in Galatians 5:19-21? Is God’s Word, Holy Spirit, and true believers the answer, or a psycho-heretical, 12-step program of sinful men? See 2 Peter 1:3-4; 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
7. Do you believe and teach often that God is holy? If so, when is the last time you preached a whole message using the myriad of Bible passages which speak of the utter holiness of the Almighty and the necessity of such in the life of any person who will be with Him eternally? Hebrews 12:14
8. How “seeker-sensitive” is your church? Men who fear God are sensitive to Him first and foremost, and preach His original Gospel, recorded on the pages of holy Scripture, which begins with “Repent.” (Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Acts 3:19) The seeker-senstive message originates from the selfish motive of enterprising pastors, to grow their numbers by farming their communities, but only the LORD Himself can add to His Church. He does this by His Spirit, when His Word is preached and men come to repentance, laying down their lives for Him.
9. Who do you do church for, visitors or believers? Both is not acceptable. Church should be done for the body of Christ and pagans are welcome to watch and to repent when the call comes.
10. Do you dumb down your sermons? If the pastor says “yes” to this question, he is probably not trying to wean his members from milk to meat. Answers like, “We try to make our sermons relevant and accessible to everyone” reveal that he is not obeying God (Heb. 5:11-6:3). In other words, he is preaching “another gospel” to allure men to his little church business and in order to avoid offending those who give their monies to him. Instead of fearing God and preaching His pure and holy Word, this pastor is being “sensitive” to sinners while defying the Almighty (2 Tim. 4:2-5). He is building his own kingdom, not Christ’s.
11. What is your mixture of topical vs. expository preaching? Topical preaching is fine, but if a pastor never or rarely preaches expositionally (verse by verse), then you are going to be learning from the pastor and not God’s Word.
12. Do your sermons emphasize Bible theology, or are they just relevant? Are they meaty or full of filler stories and facts while purposely avoiding preaching line upon line Scripture truth? Many pastors will say their sermons are relevant. What you are looking for is whether or not they are afraid of biblical theology and sacrificing it on the altar of building their own congregation by withholding full-counsel Bible exposition (Acts 20:20, 27).
13. Describe your youth programs. If fun and games is the major (and usually first) emphasis, you have a youth program that is trying to compete with MTV, instead of calling the youth to repentance and making disciples of those who are born again.
14. Describe your evangelism programs. Don’t just accept, “We have an evangelism committee.” Dig. Are they serious about saving souls? If a local church fellowship is serious about obeying Christ in the Great Commission, they will be reaching those in their own community, first and foremost, not just sending money to Africa, India, or Russia (Acts 1:8).
15. Do you have a Gospel tract rack in your facility? If not, it may be that they are not interested enough in reaching the lost to have done so before now.
16. What church growth model do you follow? Hopefully they don’t have one. Churches should be reaching out to the lost with raw biblical truth, The LORD grows His true Church as He wills and as His people obey Him. Local fellowships that are plugged into new church growth models tend to follow man’s modern ideas rather than the Bibles. This they do because they seek to grow their own local business/agenda, not the kingdom of Heaven.
17. Do you espouse Rick Warren and His purpose-driven books? The Purpose Driven Lifeand The Purpose Driven Church or books by Warren that are full of error. Apostate local churches across the nation have gone crazy over this foolishness, making The Purpose Driven Life a national bestseller. What is most disheartening is that these same fellowships refuse to make God’s Word their Textbook. Rick Warren learned his church growth principles from notorious false prophet Robert Schuller who pastors the Crystal Cathedral. Schuller learned under Norman Vincent Peale, a deceiver posing as a Christian leader who has stated that it is not necessary to be born again and that he found his salvation at a shinto shrine – not Jesus Christ, who said “Ye must be born again.” (Jn. 3:3,7) More on Rick Warren.
18. Do you honor the LORD by celebrating the 66 books of His Word, or do you follow fad teachings via best-selling authors/books? What you are looking for is whether he is excited about and using the Bible as the Textbook of that local fellowship, and not poisoning God’s flock with deception-laced fad books.
19. What version of the Bible do you preach from and why? This is ultra important. If a man has no more discernment than to see and know that the new versions are corrupted, how can he be seen as one who is truly in the fear of God and captivated by His Word and Holy Spirit? Some leaders will even reveal the depth of their blindness by seeking to justify the tens of thousand of words removed from the new versions and numerous perversions of the essential, pillar doctrines that make up the Christian faith. See Bible Versions.
20. How much money do you give to missions and the hungry? Again, this reveals the heart of the church. While most churches give to missions, many never consider the poor, widows and fatherless. Most local churches have a token or photo op outreach program or two, yet their hearts do not burn to help the lost, hungry and hurting, because they are in the ministry for themselves, not Christ. Many local church leaders refuse to help fund the genuine ministries within their own fellowship, overlooking the need to minister to their own communities. In many cases this refusal to support godly people among them who do ministry is due to their own condescending perspectives of those they shepherd (they vainly imagine that their useless seminary/Bible College degree grants them authority, while those who do not have such are inferior. If we read the words of Christ, we will discover that usually, the opposite is true).
21. This is not a question. If you ask for the pastor and the receptionist says, “She will be right with you,” hang up before you get transferred. No woman could possibly be the “husband of one wife” which is one of the requirements for an elder (1 Tim. 3:2; Tit. 1:6).
22. Do you believe the Bible contains no errors or contradictions?
23. Do you believe in a literal 6 day creation?
24. Do you believe in a literal hell and eternal punishment? Diary of a Dead Man Tract
25. When you distribute the Lord’s Supper, do you emphasize the need to examine yourself and repenting of all sin?
26. Can a practicing homosexual, fornicator or adulterer inherit eternal life? 1 Cor. 6:9-10
27. Does your church exercise church discipline? (Matt. 18:15-17) Do you have examples? For example: what if a married couple divorces for non-biblical reasons? What if there is someone fornicating, greedy or stealing? (Eph. 5:5-9)
28. What would be your response to a homosexual couple attending your church?“Repent”? or, “God accepts all the way they are”? What would be your response if that couple requested membership?
29. Do you know those who labor among you? (1 Thess. 5:12) This would include those who teach, nursery workers, and youth volunteers. Do you require beforehand that they answer questions about their core beliefs and salvation, or are all volunteers accepted because of a lack of volunteers?
30. Pastor, do you personally win souls? (Prov. 11:30) Is every Christian suppose to win souls? Do you equip your body to win souls? (not necessarily street evangelism, but not just “Friendship Evangelism” either, but talking to strangers, friends, and family about Christ)
31. Do you, the pastor, fund and promote the propagation of the Word through the printed page/tracts? Do you invest in local souls by supplying Gospel tracts for those who gather to use? Many a leader sends money to help those overseas while letting those in his own community perish. For some pastors, their thought is that the perceived impact in the minds of his congregation will help his own image/cause, making it look like he really cares for people because he sends money overseas. But why not this nation? Is there a nation more in need of truth than America. Where does the Bible tell us to start ministering? See Acts 1:8.
32. Do you (the pastor) believe “Once Saved Always Saved”? If he says “Yes” you may want to introduce him to a few verses of volumes of Bible truth that refute this fable. If he is not teachable, you will be best to part ways quickly. Anyone teaching this doctrine is deceived at best and fulfilling the prophesy in Jude 4 by “turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness.”
33. How important is it for the believer to abide (remain in) in the fear of and obedience to the LORD? (John 15) If he doesn’t fully live in worship of God, will he forfeit all like the foolish virgins, or still go to Heaven and just lose his rewards? See also Ezek. 33:12-13; Heb. 3:12-15, etc.
34. Do you believe the gifts of the Holy Spirit are still for today? (tongues, interpretation of, prophecy, 1 Cor. 12,14)
35. When community outreaches are done, is the original Gospel preached? This includes: the holy law to bring conviction of sin, repentance, eternal damnation to all who don’t repent, Heaven, and turning from sin & faith to the end.
36. Why are you in the ministry? Are you consumed with the love and fear of God and moved by His Spirit daily in the care of souls, or is your position merely a profession? Are you crucified with Christ? (Gal. 2:20) What is your daily goal? (Phil. 3)
37. According to the New Testament apostolic pattern, do you preach, warn and teach? (Col. 1:27-29) Do you warn of deceivers and false teachings abounding, and the danger of being spoiled? See Col. 2; Rev. 3:11. Most pastors preach and teach something, but few seek to protect God’s flock by warning them of the many wolves operating in the midst and media world of the modern church.
38. Do you often stress and preach God’s Word concerning the essential nature of personal holiness, a crucified life, and the soon return of Christ? See Lk. 21:34-36; 1 John 2:24-3:3. The return of Christ is the most prevalent doctrine in the New Testament cannon and yet is rarely ever mentioned in the modern church. Astounding omission! For more on the return of Christ, see This Hope.
39. Are you or your affiliated religious organization final authority? Or, is God’s Word? Do you fully and completely possess and teach this revelation? If not, he is a deceiver and false teacher and to be marked and rejected as a heretic. See Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; 4:2-5; Tit. 3:10.
40. Do you give yourself continually to prayer and the ministry of the Word, or are you busy administrating and marketing your local church business? Is the LORD adding to your local fellowship, or are you adding to it by worldly marketing schemes? Are you daily immersing your heart and mind in God’s holy Word, and have you renounced all the falsehoods taught you by men (in seminary or Bible College)? Acts 6:4; 1 Tim. 5:17
Could it be time to go back to the early church model of in-home meetings? Read Acts afresh and pray for understanding and repentance.
Dear Pastor: Open Letter | True and False Assemblies | Essentials of False Leaders | Wolf Expose’
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Abiding
“If any man speak, let him Speak as the Oracles of God” [podcast]

The Holy Spirit spoke through the prophet Amos of the day we now live in.
“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD:” Amos 8:11
“Amos 8:11: A famine in the land – The most grievous of all famines, a famine of the words of Jehovah; a time in which no prophet should appear, no spiritual counsellor, no faithful reprover, none any longer who would point out the way of salvation, or would assure them of the mercy of God on their repentance and return to him. This is the severest of God’s judgments on this side the worm that never dieth, and the fire that is never quenched.” Adam Clarke
Today, we have an epidemic of people in ministry, doing ministry, who’ve never been personally grounded in God’s Word. In many cases, they have followed the convoluted teachings of others, of mere men. Sad yet so true. On social media we see arrogant novices spreading a poisonous mixture, a diatribe of half-truths and heresies (1 Timothy 3:6). Beware and be not one of them. Get soundly grounded in God’s Word for yourself. Begin immediately studying God’s Word for yourself, which is a divine mandate (2 Timothy 2:15). That’s exactly what Paul told Timothy to do and exactly what God tells you to do here in 2 Timothy 2:15.
Deceivers don’t teach you the Bible itself. No, instead they build their brand, their “ministry” on extracting a few verses in order to use to tickle the ears of their prey. These people are charlatans and have no business teaching the body of Christ. Run.
“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:11
“If any man speak, let him – In his whole conversation, public and private. Speak as the oracles of God – Let all his words be according to this pattern, both as to matter and manner, more especially in public. By this mark we may always know who are, so far, the true or false prophets. The oracles of God teach that men should repent, believe, obey. He that treats of faith and leaves out repentance, or does not enjoin practical holiness to believers, does not speak as the oracles of God: he does not preach Christ, let him think as highly of himself as he will.” John Wesley
“In order to explain or enforce God’s word, and edify his neighbor, let him do it as those did to whom the living oracles were committed: they spoke as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost. … should speak as or according to the oracles already delivered, grounding all their exhortations and doctrines on some portion of that revelation already given. This command is sent to every man upon earth in holy orders … Their teaching should be what the oracles of God, the Holy Scriptures, teach and authenticate.” Adam Clarke
“That he may give more precision to his counsel, the Apostle proceeds to speak of gifts under two heads into which they are naturally divided. First come those which St. Paul (Rom_12:6-8) ranges under the head of prophecy, embracing therein teaching and exhortation likewise: “If any man speaketh, speaking as it were “oracles of God.” The first Christian preachers must have gained their knowledge of the life and teaching of Jesus by listening to the narratives of the Twelve, and must have gone forth to give their teaching orally. The training of those who were appointed to minister in the various places whither the apostolic missions penetrated must have been of the same kind. In those first years there was work to be done which would seem more important than the writing of a Gospel history. When such preachers published to the congregations what they had learnt of the Master’s lessons, their sermons would be orally given, and though conveying the same instruction, would be liable to constant modifications of words. It was from such oral teaching that the variations found in the Gospel narratives probably had their origin. The preachers gave the spirit, and as nearly as possible the text, of what they had been taught. Perhaps by memoranda or otherwise, they would refresh their knowledge of the apostolic words, so as to adhere as much as might be to what they had first received. The word logia-oracles-which the Apostle here employs, seems intended to remind such preachers and teachers that they now, as the Jews of old, had received “living oracles,” (Act_7:38) words by which spiritual life was conveyed, to deliver to the Church. Those of them who were Jews would call to mind how God’s prophets had constantly prefaced their message with “Thus saith the Lord” or concluded it with the Divine accrediting, “I am the Lord”; and that the Christian prophet must bear in mind that he is only an ambassador, and must abide by his commission, if he would speak with authority, that as a steward he must ever think of the account to be some day given of “the oracles of God” (Rom_3:2) with which he was entrusted, and must “handle aright the word of truth”. (2Ti_2:15) For all such is St. Peter’s admonition, “If any man speaketh, speaking as it were oracles of God.” Expositor’s Bible Commentary
Ministry has become a performance – where people are performing, seeking to brand themselves, constantly creating endless media productions to increase their followers, their personal popularity…. it’s a fleshly show, a stage for carnality … Paul speaks of this in Philippians 3:18-21.
Have you ever pondered why there is little or no Scripture being used when listening to someone pretending to be speaking about the LORD? You should wonder (Matthew 7:16, 20; 1 John 4:1).
“Preach the word” is the divine mandate, command (2 Timothy 4:2).
Let us cease to pretend that we represent the LORD when everything we say isn’t coming straight out of His Word. Read that again please. He didn’t instruct us to entertain or to tell stories. He commanded us to preach HIS Word. King James Bible.
“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles (written Word) of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:11
Think God is calling you to serve? Good. If He has saved you, He has called you (Ephesians 2:8-10; 4:7). Get lost in His Word every day (Jeremiah 15:16). Read it (Revelation 1:3). Study it (2 Timothy 2:15). Memorize it (Proverbs 4:4). Meditate upon it day and night (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1). THAT’s your prep for ministry, not going to an antichrist seminary. Jesus inducted you into His school of the Holy Ghost and Word the moment He saved you.
Purged, Sanctified, Meet for the Master’s Use, Prepared unto Every Good Work
“If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21
The only way the disciple of Jesus can be “prepared unto every good work” of the Gospel, is via the Word of God, by way of a personal knowledge and understanding of the precepts of God and his personal use of that divine truth, wisdom.
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect (equipped, mature), throughly furnished (with God’s Word) unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17
“But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” Hebrews 5:14
Dear minister of Christ:
It is your duty and personal responsibility to study and learn and increasingly know and be filled full of the truth of God. And, this cannot and will not happen outside of diligently, daily study of God’s Word. Memorize 2 Timothy 2:15 and 3:15-17.
“Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. 18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. 19 That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. 20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, 21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?” Proverbs 22:17-21
How shall a man be prepared to speak the oracles of God other than getting those precepts, those divine truths into his own heart and mind by diligently studying God’s Word?
“Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, eat that thou findest; eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel. 2 So I opened my mouth, and he caused me to eat that roll. 3 And he said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness. 4 And he said unto me, Son of man, go, get thee unto the house of Israel, and speak with my words unto them.” Ezekiel 3:1-4
How can God’s words possibly get into us unless we get into and stay into His Word?
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.” 1 Peter 3:15
If you are a disciple of Christ, your goal should be to have Scripture memorized in order to be equipped to “give an answer to every” single person who you meet who has questions – saved and unsaved.
Every answer to man’s questions and problems are given to us in Holy Scripture. – “ALL things that pertain unto life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3-4). Are you learning them for your own life and the lives of others?
If Christ is truly sanctified (set apart as supreme, ultimate priority) in our hearts, we are diligently desiring, studying, learning, memorizing, and communicating His blessed Word. We are being armed for giving an answer from His Precepts to those He blesses us to speak with.
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
If you dare speak for God – Let God speak for Himself by speaking, quoting His Word. This necessitates your personal duty to learn, to memorize His Word: “Let thine heart RETAIN my words” (Proverbs 4:4).
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Apostasy
Beware of the “Intercessors” [podcast]

What could possibly sound more innocent than an intercessory prayer group, right?
Intercessory Prayer Witches Warning: There were no special “intercessory prayer groups” or special “intercessors” in the early church. Jesus is the Great Intercessor! (Hebrews 7:25) The Intercessor spoken about and revealed in the New Testament is Jesus Christ – not Satan’s infiltrating witches who claim to be special “intercessors”! Beware!
Recently, a woman claiming and announcing herself to be “an intercessory prayer warrior for 30 years” sent me a welcome DM. Here’s the reply she was sent:
There’s no such thing as an “intercessory prayer warrior” designated or appointed in the New Testament body of Christ. That premise is a bunch of witchcraft used by satan’s jezebels to infiltrate and destroy among God’s people. Repent now.
Saints, this is how they gain a stronghold, how they get their evil foot in the door. They must be rejected, turned away, called to repent. They witches are self-appointed and pretend to have special power in prayer with God. But we know that’s a lie because Jesus informed us that the Father answers the prayers of His people in Jesus’ name. Jesus says where 2 or more are gathered in His name right – there He is (Matthew 18:18-20). And the power is in HIS name in salvation, prayer, and everything in His kingdom – and not because some witches got together to offer their incantations! John 14:13-14; 16:23-24
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“Every woman I have come across that professes to be some special anointed prayer intercessor has turned out to be exactly what you’re describing. And they are usually rooted in NAR theology. My antennas always go up now when someone identifies as an intercessor. We all pray “intercessory” prayers when we pray for others. But I agree, there is no such thing as a intercessor anointing or anything like that. It freaks me out now after what I have experienced with these people.” Khrista
REPLY:
Exactly, there are many gifts and callings in the New Testament and not one of them is “intercesory prayer warrior” nor any such thing. I’ve found the same thing also…. they are all witches, infilitrating to destroy (Revelation 2:20-24). Jesus says where 2 or more are gathered in His name right….. and the power is in HIS name in salvation, prayer, and everything in His kingdom – and not because some witches got together to incantate! John 14:13-14; 16:23-24
“I will do a new thing” … what does that refer to? What does it not refer to?
One of the ways the witches and warlocks of today’s modern church world trick people to give up their eternal souls by following false doctrine, false systems of theology, false movements, etc., is to misuse, to use out of context, one portion of a sentence from Isaiah 43:19. They springboard of this phrase and then teach things the Bible never sanctions. One example of something not seen in the New Testament canon, in the earliest followers of Christ, is an “intercessory prayer group” and especially not one run by women, with no male elder overseer – which is a recipe for disaster.
The prophetic frauds of today’s modern church use the “I will do a new thing” phrase in Isaiah 43:19 to justify and trick people. Once they front with that “I will do a new thing” statement, then they bring in heresies. Yet we know that any “new thing” the unchanging God is doing, is not going to contradict His own Word.
“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19
Scripture says that “ALL scripture is given by inspiration of God” and is given to us, “ALL” of it “for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” (Isaiah 40:8) Oh and “For I am the LORD, I change not.” (Malachi 3:6) And “Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.” (Mark 13:31) And “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
“Prayer warrior” is not a calling listed in Scripture that is reserved for a few select, “anointed” who “bind” evil spirits in their “calling.” They are misled and illegitimate. EVERY saint of Christ is called to pray daily, perpetually for the members of Christ’s body, etc.
Most of the time, when you see someone claiming to be a “prayer warrior”, they are full of false teaching about prayer as this comes out of the grossly heretical NAR and Word of Faith movements, the same warlocks who have “intercessory prayer” groups.
Beware of the self-appointed intercessors. Beware of the intercessory witchcraft. Have you ever noticed that these self-appointed “prayer warriors” otherwise known as official “intercessors,” never ground you in the Word of God, the cross, the crucified life, as Paul did Timothy and Titus? (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:15-17; Titus 2:1) Instead, they entice and allure you to flatter you with the idea that you are gifted, you are special, and you’re needing to start a the church and you’re the man of the hour, etc. They flatter your flesh is what they are doing and causing, positioning you to become dependent on them, not God, not the Word of God. Therefore they stay upon their prey with regular phone calls and sessions in order to manipulate and control them. God says this is witchcraft.
What they do is deceive their prey to believe the lie that they have special power and access to God.
Today we see SO much pride-filled witchcraft going on in the name of “prayer warriors” and special “intercessors”. Personally I am learning to stay clear of the “prayer warrior” terminology and those who claim they are such, etc. Seems to lift up us, the mere pray-ers, and not Him and leads to pride in people as they boast of themselves, that they get prayers answered or that their prayers and calling is more important than others. Nonsense! Prayers are answered on one basis – the blood, the cross, the name of Jesus Christ. Any and every child of God can pray in the name of Jesus and God will answer it based on the righteousness of His only begotten Son, not some “powerful prayer warrior” or self-appointed “intercessor” witch (John 14:13-14; 16:23-24) | Why Does God Answer Prayer? On What Basis?
Beware that in any “prayer group” all it takes is for just one of those members to introduce a sugar-coated stealth request or attitude and the whole group is influenced. The course and direction of that group will be off target from that time forward. This is why many a disciple has and is learning to keep things down to a simple minimum void of the “need” or false obligation to join in with any and every “prayer group” that comes along.
The key is joining with one or two or so believers who are truly Christ-centered, biblical, crucified with Christ, teachable, humble, broken, and sincerely seeking the face of the LORD.
Like any cult type manipulation and control, these self-appointed “intercessors” wield their witchcraft over their prey by constantly having a word for them, by being their source. What the enemy is using them to do is to displace their prey from being one with Christ, in His Word, hearing His voice for themselves, and following Him as He, their Great Shepherd, is leading them (John 10; Hebrews 13:20).
Jesus says His sheep hear HIS voice and they follow Him and not other (John 10).
The primary way God leads His New Testament church, people, is via His written Word.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17
The LORD’s way is to train men through long seasons of learning and suffering and obeying the Word of God. He warns us about laying hands suddenly on no man, of partaking in ordaining a novice into the ministry (1 Timothy 3:16; 5:22).
There’s no such thing in Christ’s New Testament church as special “intercessors” or special intercessory prayer groups, especially not run by women. It’s a jezebel recipe for wicked women to manipulate the pastor and direction of that “church.” This can only function, happen where there’s an Ahab, a spineless moral coward “pastor” allowing it (Revelation 2:20-24).
“Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;” Romans 15:30
Interceding in prayer, simply praying for another person, is according to Holy Scripture, yes, yet intercessory prayer groups of all women, not overseen by male elders, is a recipe for jezebel disaster.
BEWARE OF THE INTERCESSORY PRAYER WITCHES! Satan loves to use that which sounds noble and spiritual and yet is not biblical. And it’s not biblical for a good reason. God’s Divine wisdom. To protect His body. Let’s stay with the Word saints!
THERE is lots of witchcraft going on in the name of intercessory prayer and spiritual warfare. THINK: Just what did Jesus do when combating the devil? He simply quoted GOD’s written Word which is final divine authority! (Matthew 4) It’s time to wise up and cease being led around by the nose by warlocks posing as Christ’s ministers! Spiritual Warfare
Are believers in Christ to pray together? Yes.
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:19-20
Believers are to pray to the Father in Jesus’ name, individually and in praying with other of God’s people (John 14:13-14; 16:23-24). This post is a warning that involves out of control jezebels who wield witchcraft behind the guise of being an intercessory prayer group.
When we hear or read “spiritual warfare” teachings today, we must ask: Do we see anyone doing that in Scripture? So much of what is pawned off today as “spiritual warfare” is actually witchcraft.
Even the sending out prayers and breaking this and that over people can be witchcraft….. much of what is called “spiritual warfare” today in the apostate modern church is actually “spiritual witchcraft.” God will not deliver any person who will not turn their heart toward Him in real repentance (2 Corinthians 3:14-16; James 4:7). We should simply ask God in Jesus’ name and trust Him to do things and stay clear of adding to that simple Scriptural prescription. “Let your requests be made know unto God.” (Philippians 4:6)
“WITCHCRAFT” is on the list of soul damning sins (Galatians 5:19-21). Witchcraft, in its basic definition means to preside over, to exercise control over. It’s simply when man takes control, in place of God. Cross-less. See Isaiah 14:12-15 and 1 Samuel 15:22-23.
No sinful human is qualified to make intercession for mankind and so God gave us Himself, the Word, the only begotten Son of God!
“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.” Ezekiel 22:30
“God is awakening those who will listen and hear Him. These false ministries have been blindly accepted for years. Under close scrutiny we can plainly see they’re based on fleshly desires of men to be elevated. No one person or ministry has a special place in the church save Jesus Christ. He alone is to be glorified. He alone is Lord.” Antoinette Yeboah
“Hi Todd, I just read your article on witchcraft in the Church and agree with it..I have just recently listened to a sermon by Derek Prince from 1971 and he says almost the same thing about the woman’s prayer groups and so on….The first 20 minutes says a lot. I have experienced my mother in-law operating in a Jezebel Spirit. My wife and I cut her off.” B.
The Great, Divine INTERCESSOR, Our Savior Jesus!
The word “intercessor” appears one time in God’s Word and is prophetically, specifically speaking of Christ. And, it says no man could be that “intercessor.”
“And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.” Isaiah 59:16
The word “intercession” appears 9 times in God’s Word and primarily, especially in the New Testament specifically speaks of Christ’s perfect sacrifice and therefore intercession for His people on earth.
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“Any time you pray for someone, you are ‘interceding’ for them. Guess we’d all better stop praying for others!”
REPLY FROM ANTOINETTE
“This is exactly the point. There should be no such thing as a ‘church intercessor’ or and intercessory ministry because we are all intercessors. We are all charged to pray for one another. Anything else is unscriptural and unnecessary. It’s man who complicated the gospel because of our erroneous and fleshly desires.”
More Interesting Feedback from Christ’s Body:
“Good post, Todd. In all my years of being a believer I have been referred to as an intercessor, of which I have never been comfortable with. I had never seen it like you have explained it now. Now I know why! Thank you for sharing this teaching.” Anita
“Now this is a real problem in most churches, and it’s growing. I put witchcraft up there with voodoo and witch doctors. Only those who believe in it are defected by it. How does it get into the church? Start with false teaching.” Alan
Christ Makes Intercession for His Saints
“Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he (Christ) hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and (Jesus) made intercession for the transgressors.” Isaiah 53:12
“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:34
“Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
HINT: Beware when a so-called “intercessory prayer group” (no such thing in Scripture) talks about everything and everyone EXCEPT THE GREAT INTERCESSOR HIMSELF – JESUS! (Hebrews 7:24-26, etc.). Or, more deceptively, they use His Word for things not clearly spelled out in His will/Word. Beware. Be grounded in Christ saints.
The Divine Holy Spirit Intercedes for Believers
“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27
Modern self-proclaimed “intercessors” busted and exposed!
Next time you meet a self-proclaimed “intercessor,” ask them to show you the calling for such in the Bible – other than that each and every believer, through JESUS CHRIST, is to go to the Father in the name of the one Great Intercessor – Jesus Christ (John 14:13-14; 16:23-24; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:24-25).
To say there are special intercessors in the body of Christ is to say:
- That God forgot to tell us of something important in His Word, namely that there are to be special intercessors,
- That Jesus, the real Intercessor, is not central to the Christian faith, knowing God, and
- That each and every individual believer doesn’t have full access to the throne of God via the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16).
There’s no such thing as a “prophetic intercessor” in the New Testament church. Such is a title used today in the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) movement for delusional witches!
Anyone who’s trying to control someone else is doing so because they’re not giving control of their own life over to God (James 4:7). This is called “witchcraft” in God’s Word and is a soul damning sin (Galatians 5:19-21).
The LORD avenges us of our enemies only when we submit to Him (James 4:7).
As long as we are not truly submitted to the LORD, Satan is in control of our lives. Memorize James 4:7.
“Praise ye the LORD for the avenging of Israel, when the people willingly offered themselves.” Judges 5:2
“Willingly” offering ourselves is spoken of in Romans 12:
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2
Modern self-appointed “intercessors” are not submitted to God and are therefore under the power of the enemy.
Recently, in a conversation with a lady, she boasted that she’d been an intercessor for 30 years. What immediately comes to my mind is not a good image. If you’ve been in the charismatic movement and have since had your eyes opened, you know how this witchcraft works. The “intercessors” in these churches are basically witches who pray for what THEY want to see come to pass and since they are under the control of the “prince of the power of the air,” the devil, it’s Satan’s will being instituted and prayed for! Beware!
“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” 2 Corinthians 2:11
The Bible informs us that the devil is a liar, he is our enemy, and he “as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 2:11)
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” 1 Peter 5:8
The enemy of souls uses things as fronts that seem to be honorable, noble, or logical on the surface yet that are not sanctioned in Scripture. There are many gifts and callings listed in Scripture and yet there is no record of the special calling of an “intercessor.” Also, we see no “intercessory prayer groups” in the early church. There were none.
The next time you meet someone who says they are an “intercessor,” ask them to qualify that so-called calling with Scripture alone. Keep reading….
Personally, I’ve never met someone who calls themself an “intercessor” who wasn’t deceived or outside the un-biblical New Apostolic Reformation or charismaniac movement.
Jesus warned us of and taught on jezebel and the destruction that comes as a result of allowing such! Revelation 2:20-24
Regrettably, nearly without fail, women who call themselves “intercessors” are jezebels and in many cases part of jezebel ministries. The men who call themselves “intercessors” are without fail Ahabs which means they are dangerous, weak, jezebel enablers.
Lemuel’s mother taught him: “Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.” Proverbs 31:3
YOU be the man. Study and know what God has made you for and requires of you as a man who is the servant of Christ.
Jezebel’s cannot and will not function where there is no Ahab but rather godly men who refuse to be moved off of truth! (Revelation 2:20-24)
“Intercessors” and “Intercessory Prayer Groups” in Today’s Church are the Manifestation of Jezebel!
Jesus’ warning in Revelation 2 about jezebel in the New Testament comes into focus. Notice that Christ say that she “calleth herself a prophetess.” She is self-appointed and self-important.
“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. 21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. 22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. 23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. 24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.” Revelation 2:20-24
Weak men, Ahabs, are guilty of allowing Jezebels to function and many times using the noble title of an “intercessor.” Charismatic churches are rampant with this evil witchcraft.
ANY person who puts their own supposed calling before the truth of God and body of Christ is completely self-serving and has no concern for the LORD or His body whatsoever. In fact, such a person is completely departed from the LORD and will bring great destruction on the body of Christ if allowed – if suffered. This is exactly what Jesus addresses in Thyatira and calls it “the depths of SATAN” himself (Revelation 2:20-24). In their self-deceived hearts, they are sure that God has called them to minister in a way He clearly forbids – just like the Jezebel who was allowed by the Ahabs in Thyatira who was self-appointed – “calleth HERSELF a prophetess.” (Revelation 2:20-24) Repent now.
“For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.” Ephesians 5:23-24
Out of God’s order is out of God’s order. If God calls man to be the head, and He non-negotiably does, that means that MEN bear that personal responsibility for which they will be judged.
“Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.” Proverbs 31:3
“Strength”
H2428
חַיִל
chayil
khah’-yil
From H2342; probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength: – able, activity, (+) army, band of men (soldiers), company, (great) forces, goods, host, might, power, riches, strength, strong, substance, train, (+) valiant (-ly), valour, virtuous (-ly), war, worthy (-ily).
Total KJV occurrences: 243
This is the same diabolical ploy to steal the glory of Christ we see played out over and over again…. the spirit of antichrist.
Counterfeits are known in that they refuse to uphold JESUS as the “Head” of His body!
“Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:18-19
First off, isn’t it interesting that those today who call themselves “intercessors” never mention the matchless Great Intercessor who bled to redeem and ever liveth to make intercession for all believers at His Father’s right hand (Hebrews 7:24-26). Every believer should be an intercessor – simply pray for others. Do we ever see the word “intercessor” in God’s Word relating to us? No, in nearly every case the words “intercessor” and “intercession” are applying only to Jesus or the Holy Spirit.
These self-appointed modern “intercessors” are caught red-handed in this alone: They refuse to preach the Great Intercessor and only hail their own virtues and the need for themselves, insidiously replacing Christ with themselves. Anti-Christ means when anything, anyone is put “in place of” Christ.
Where is the special, named calling for an “intercessor” in God’s Word? There are servant callings in the New Testament and the nine gifts of the Spirit yet no calling named “intercessor.”
In Genesis 3, the curse…after the fall…. God tells the woman “thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.” (Genesis 3:16) Scholars believe this in the Hebrew means that the woman will desire her husband’s position as the head. It should be obvious that many a woman has a difficult time submitting and not wanting to be the ruler. This seems to be part of the curse pronounced on mankind after the fall.
It’s when the cross is at the center of our lives that we “buy the truth and sell it not” (Proverbs 23:23). And as those who say with our brother Paul, “Let God be true and EVERY man a liar.” (Romans 3:4) As Jesus’ disciples we refuse to use human reasoning to determine what we will believe (Proverbs 3:5-6). Scripture reveals to us that what one believes is always a matter of the heart – a choice to believe truth or anything else (Proverbs 23:23; 2 Timothy 4:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; 2 Timothy 4:3-4, etc.).
JEZEBELS hate to be questioned or constructively challenged! They are stubborn, prideful, unaccountable, not submitted, and arrogant!
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
To identify the root of this rebellion against God, His order, Andre Viljoen writes:
“James 4 vs 7 So submit to (the authority of) GOD. Resist the devil (stand firm against him) and he will flee.” Vs 10 Humble yourselves (with an attitude of repentance and insignificance) in the presence of the LORD, and HE will exalt you) HE will lift you up, HE will give you purpose.”
Those who are not submitted to the LORD truly, are under the influence and power of Satan himself.
The individual priesthood of each and ever believer is never to be violated by controlling witches or warlocks! Beware.
Jesus didn’t die on the cross to save you for any other mere sinful man to control you! You are bought with His precious blood! You are His! He is the “head” of your life!
“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” 1 Corinthians 7:23
LOTS of people in the modern church are doing “ministry” not seen in the New Testament Scriptures. They are suspect. Beware. They are subjecting their prey to this foolishness, this rebellion which is as the sin of witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Many follow what they learned from other deceived people doing “ministry” in the modern apostate church world! Instead of seeking the LORD earnestly, they continue to perpetrate these devices upon others. LET JESUS teach you from scratch – from the ground upward!
GOD calls all of His people, who are born again into Jesus Christ, to pray, not just those who are self-appointed “intercessors”, an office or gift never mentioned in Scripture other than that Jesus Christ is the Great Intercessor (Hebrews 7:24-26). All born again believers who are washed in the blood of Jesus, presently abiding in Christ, can pray to the Father in Jesus’ name! No such thing as an “intercessor” calling other than for ALL believers, not a special few. Beware of those who claim they are called “intercessors.” These are usually jezebels who cloaked their evil behind this title or supposed special calling.
Prophetic or Pathetic? | Witchcraft | Prayer | Jezebel Exposed | Manhood
Beware of the Witches and Warlocks in the Church [podcast]
Testimony of Jeni
“While standing in the gap and praying for others IS scriptural and holy, Satan often plays. His “playground” is often right inside “the church”. He is the master of twisting and perverting God’s holy truth. He has, from the beginning, wanted to be like God. He has always had his counterfeits to the things that belong to God. Once I was in a prayer line. Suddenly a lady came and laid her hands on my head. She began to pray, “Lord, give her dreams and visions…” I received the dreams and visions. I received them for years after…. They consisted of reoccurring tormenting dreams and never dreams of peace. The dreams were filled with demonic activity. I awoke often in fear, dread and a sense of hopelessness. We must be aware that often times when some are praying to the “Lord”, they are in actuality speaking to “lord”(our enemy and the deceiver of all mankind). We do well to remember that Satan can also work wonders. Yes, he can also give unto man, and send answers to prayers.. His main goal being destruction. Satan’s ministers are everywhere just as the bible warns, transforming themselves into ministers of “righteousness”. 2 Cor. 11 God graciously brought me out of that group. He allowed me to look back and see the “den” I was in. He revealed to me that it was not of Him. He brought me out because I am his sheep, and he is my Shepherd. We must lean fully upon our God to lead us out of the traps and deception of the enemy. JESUS is the way, the truth and the life. He promised to deliver his true ones from every evil work. We must stay close to the Shepherd and bishop of our souls for He knows the way and he can be trusted. Remember salt “looks” like sugar my beloveds. However, salt will never be sugar.”
Apostasy
When Bible Burning Backfires [podcast]

King Jehoiakim Judged
Let us ever be aware of the Bible truth of sowing and reaping.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7-8
Read Jeremiah 36 (KJB) perhaps several times. In this passage, note:
v. 28 – Denial changes nothing. Burning a scroll or the whole Bible negates not one iota of the divine authority invested therein nor your personal accountability to it. John 12:48; Rom 2:16; Revelation 20:11-15
v. 30-31 – King Jehoiakim burned God’s Word and denied God.
v. 32 – The Word of God stands forever (Psalms 89:34; 119:89; Mark 13:31). It cannot be erased, and anyone who tries to burn or erase it, will be erased, burned in the fires of hell by the one true God whom they defied.
Jeremiah 36 records and details a pivotal moment in the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, where he is commanded by God to write down his prophecies, leading to a direct confrontation between the Word of God and the defiant King Jehoiakim. The chapter serves as a testament to the endurance of God’s Word despite human efforts to destroy it.
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:19-21
Historical Background
- Timeframe: The events take place around 604-603 B.C., in the fourth and fifth years of King Jehoiakim of Judah.
- Political Climate: Babylon, under Nebuchadnezzar, had recently defeated Egypt at Carchemish (605 B.C.) and was asserting control over the region. Judah was in a precarious position, shifting loyalties between Babylon and Egypt, creating a state of high political tension.
- The King: Jehoiakim, son of the reform-minded King Josiah, was wicked and defiant, starkly contrasting his father’s humility.
- Jeremiah’s Status: Jeremiah was “shut up”—likely banned from the Temple grounds—after preaching for over 20 years.
Overview of Jeremiah 36
1. The Command to Write (vv. 1–3)
In the fourth year of Jehoiakim, God instructs Jeremiah to take a scroll and record all the prophecies, warnings, and calls to repentance he has spoken against Israel, Judah, and other nations since the days of King Josiah. The stated goal is that the people might hear of the impending judgment and repent, allowing God to forgive them.
2. Baruch Records and Reads the Scroll (vv. 4–10)
Jeremiah dictates the messages to Baruch, the son of Neriah, his scribe. Because Jeremiah cannot enter the Temple, he sends Baruch to read the scroll on a fast day, hoping for national repentance.
3. The Officials’ Reaction (vv. 11–19)
Baruch reads the scroll to the people. Micaiah, a concerned official, reports this to the royal cabinet, who summon Baruch to read it to them. Upon hearing the content, the officials (including Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah) are frightened, recognizing the danger the message brings. They wisely advise Baruch and Jeremiah to hide.
4. Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll (vv. 20–26)
The officials inform the king, who sends Jehudi to fetch the scroll. As Jehudi reads it, Jehoiakim, in a state of defiance, cuts the scroll with a penknife and burns it section by section, despite pleas from some of his officials to stop. Neither the king nor his attendants showed fear.
5. The New Scroll and Judgment (vv. 27–32)
God instructs Jeremiah to rewrite the scroll and adds a specific, harsh judgment against Jehoiakim: his body will be left unburied, exposed to heat and frost, and none of his descendants will sit securely on David’s throne. Baruch writes a second scroll, which includes all the original words plus many more added prophecies of judgment.
Key Themes
- The Indestructibility of God’s Word: The king burns the first scroll, the Word of God is simply rewritten and expanded, highlighting that human opposition cannot destroy divine truth.
- Repentance vs. Defiance: The chapter contrasts the proper response to God’s word (fear and repentance) with Jehoiakim’s defiance.
- The Role of the Prophet and Scribe: Jeremiah is the messenger, and Baruch is the faithful scribe who records and reads the word at great personal risk.
- God’s Patience and Justice: God offers repentance through the scroll, but when that is rejected, judgment is inevitable.
In Jeremiah 36, the burning of the scroll by King Jehoiakim represents a pivotal moment of defiance against God’s word, where the king used a penknife to cut and destroy a prophetic scroll.
The Event (Jeremiah 36:22–24)
- The Setting: The scene takes place in the “winter house” in the ninth month, with a fire burning in a brazier (or firepot) before King Jehoiakim.
- The Action: As Jehudi read the scroll aloud (containing prophecies from Jeremiah), the king cut the scroll into pieces using a scribe’s knife (or penknife) and threw them into the fire.
- The Destruction: The king methodically cut and burned the scroll column by column (or section by section) until the entire scroll was consumed.
- The Response: The king and his servants did not show fear or tear their clothes in repentance, demonstrating complete indifference and hardening of heart.
Symbolism and Significance
- Rejection of Divine Authority: The burning of the scroll symbolized an attempt to silence God and reject His warnings of impending judgment.
- Contempt for the Message: Cutting the scroll, which was a parchment scroll of leather or papyrus, column by column, showed intense contempt for the message.
- The Futility of the Action: Despite the destruction of the physical scroll, God commanded Jeremiah to write a second scroll, indicating that divine truth cannot be destroyed.
- Judgment: The act led directly to further judgment from God against Jehoiakim.
Key Terms
- Penknife/Scribe’s Knife: A tool normally used by scribes for cutting or sharpening reed pens, misused by the king for destruction.
- Scroll (Roll): The parchment containing the prophecies.
- Brazier/Firepot: A metal pan used for burning coals to provide warmth.
Those who despise the Word of God will be destroyed:
“Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.” Proverbs 13:13
Those who do not receive and obey God’s Word will be counted “unworthy of everlasting life”:
“Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.” Acts 13:46
“Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.” Jeremiah 20:9
May God’s Word be fully received in our hearts and be that burning fire emanating from our very bones and pouring out to those around us daily.
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16
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