Only You Can Decide: God has Already Decided that He Wants You – Sending His Son to Die for You! Do You Want Jesus?
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:36-37
From an eternal perspective, no person who dies and goes to hell is/was a success but rather a total failure, a rebel who will never escape the conscious torment of the domain of the damned. Are you born again and presently abiding in Christ? If not, the flames of eternal damnation will feed upon your soul forever. Repent now sinner and believe on the LORD Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins – before it’s too late.
With no exception, each and every eternal soul who now and forever will occupy hell would do anything to be in your position – to have just one more opportunity to cry out to Jesus to be forgive, saved into His eternal kingdom! Today is the day of salvation – the moment to repent and put your full trust in Jesus Christ, before it’s too late. Making Peace with God now – before it’s too late.
What’s more important to you than the LORD? Who? What? What organization? What affiliation? What religion, religious affiliation? What family member? What friend? Is it really worth your eternal soul? Is Your Sin Really Worth Going to Hell for?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
Jesus Christ will love you all the way into hell – because He gave you free will, allowing you to choose Him or sin and hell. He also died on that cross to forgive your sins and save you from eternal damnation (1 Timothy 1:15). Billions of souls this moment occupy hell irrevocably – there are no second changes (Hebrews 9:27). Are YOU going to hell?
The greedy moral cowards of today’s modern church world refuse to preach what Jesus preached – including the doctrine of hell. That’s why the true body of Christ is going organic!
You call him “pastor” and the wolf isn’t preaching hell? Repent and run!!!
99% of modern pastors knocked out on this alone! YOU know he’s a wolf when he refuses to preach the holiness of God and His mandate for His own people to “be ye holy.” – Sin will damn the soul. God is “Holy, holy, holy” and no sin shall enter His holy presence (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8). “Be ye holy for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16). “Follow peace with all men and HOLINESS without which NO man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)
“Be ye holy for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) But how? The cross is the solution Jesus gave us. “He that is dead is freed from sin.” (Romans 6:7)
All who follow Christ abandon all that offends him. Holiness is the work of God in a yielded, abiding born again saint (John 15; Romans 8:12-14; 1 Peter 1:15-16, etc.). Think about it: When the HOLY Spirit is ruling a person’s yielded life, that vessel will be HOLY.
Is the sinful pleasure you now enjoy worth spending forever in hell for? Jesus Christ made it crystal clear to both saint and sinner alike that any person who chooses even one sin to be more important to them than Him, will be doomed to the place He described as a dwelling place of gruesome, ceaseless torment:
“And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not (denotes complete consciousness), and the fire is not quenched. For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” Mark 9:42-50
What does “their worm dieth not” mean? This is an idiom meaning that the consciousness, the feelings of the damned will never cease.
Jesus used this term 3 times in Mark 9:43-49. In His severe warning, Jesus is refuting the idea of annihilation and teaching the facts that the conscience feelings and therefore suffering of all lost souls will never cease to be experienced.
In light of these penetrating words of the LORD Jesus, think ahead for a moment with me: Let’s imagine that you died in sin and it was 100 years into the future. There you are, in hell – experiencing excruciating pain and isolation (outer darkness – you can see nothing). You are fully conscious, and reeling in the agonizing remorse of the decision you made in your brief earthly life to retain your sin instead of repenting and forsaking it. During your short life on earth God granted several opportunities for you to turn fully to Him, but you chose to ride the popular, modern church wave of easy believism and eternal security, thinking everything was going to be fine because you said the sinner’s prayer and attended church services. Yet you retained a sin you knew God said would endanger your eternal soul (Gal. 5:19-21). You freely refused to cut off the hand and pluck out the eye of your sin and now you are trapped forever in incarceration – where “the fire is not quenched.” Is your sin really worth spending eternity in hell for? Is the sin you have chosen to continue in (retain instead of rejecting) really worth the everlasting pain of damnation in hell, while the righteous rejoice in sublime, unimaginable pleasure, joy, and bliss in Heaven with Jesus?
The world seeks to romance sin but if God says it’s sin, that’s what it is. Toning down the terms changes nothing. Judgment Day is on the way. Isn’t that the work of Satan – to tone down the wages, the consequences of sin? Yes it is (Genesis 2:17; 3:4).
The deception of our own deceitful, desperately wicked hearts and Satan, is that God is somehow going to overlook the sin we refused to confess, repent of, and die to. Not going to happen – doesn’t matter how special you think you are. If a person dies in sin – they are going to hell irrevocably. Gospel. The wages of sin is still death saints (Romans 6:23).
Without fail, those who teach Satan’s OSAS/eternal security heresy never teach the essential Biblical truth that God is “Holy, holy, holy.” (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8) They’ve been taught a “check your ticket at the door” “eternal security.” They are made to believe that they are free to live in sin and are still going to Heaven, no matter what. But this is not what Scripture teaches. “Be ye holy for I am holy” is Holy Scripture never heard among the diabolical perpetrators of the OSAS heresy (1 Peter 1:15-16)
“There comes a time when we must cut out that bad seed (all sin) less it spoil the whole bunch! If God hadn’t dealt with sin through the blood, death, life, and burial of His only begotten Son Jesus and caused Him to rise from the grave victoriously, there would be no salvation for man today. God is able to give us His grace to overcome all sin and to do what He’s commanded us to do. Amen.” Charles Pray
Fellow citizen of this world and Christ’s kingdom, if your life is not currently laid down flat before the LORD Jesus Christ in utter humility and brokenness for the immeasurable wickedness and depravity you have committed in the full and plain site of the omnipresent eyes of His holiness, you have no eternal security with Him. The flames of eternal damnation which will forever feed upon your separated soul await your arrival.
The daily cross/dying Jesus commanded that we take up is the only way He brings us into His holiness…. with our full participation in dying…… The Daily Cross
Description of the Eternal Home of All Who are not Presently Living in the Fear of God and in Faithful Obedience to Christ
DIVINE JUDGMENT, the “severity of God”, IS NOT GOING AWAY JUST BECAUSE YOU OR SOME FAKE PREACHER IGNORES IT!!! (Romans 11:20-22)
Hell is for keeps. No second chance. Irrevocable … A divine sentence, judgment upon all who die outside of Christ! Sure as you’re breathing, if you are not born again and presently in the middle of God’s will, abiding in Christ on HIS terms, get ready to be consciously, brutally burned world without end.
Violent flames rage like endless waves that roar in a fierce ocean tossed to and fro by hurricane winds. Deafening voices shriek, hopelessly tormented in the turbulent fire that dominates their defenseless souls. One million years have passed and yet there is not a trace of relief from the horrifying torment that has enveloped their helpless souls. Vivid memories of their earthly life, when they had precious opportunity to escape this horrible fate, torment their bitter and remorseful beings. Welcome to the world of departed souls who died after refusing to apply the only cure to their deadly disease. Behind the thin veil of life on earth lies a real world – a forever world. Welcome to a profile of the after life.
There is no pain in this life so cruel nor permanent that can possibly be compared to what the Son of God described and warned of when he spoke of hell – that dreaded place of God’s holy wrath. Here is a punishment profile of what lies ahead for all who die outside the real Lordship of Jesus Christ.
- Unquenchable fire. Mark 9:45
- Eternal Damnation. Mark 3:29
- Everlasting punishment. Matthew 25:46
- A place of everlasting burnings. Isaiah 33:14
- Torment with fire and brimstone. Revelation 14:10; 19:20
- A lake (ocean) of fire. Revelation 20:15
- No 2nd chance to escape (utter hopelessness). Luke 16:26
- Weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 8:12
- A place of eternal remorse (regret). Luke 16:19-31
- A place of complete consciousness. Luke 16:25
- A furnace of fire with wailing. Matthew 13:42
- No rest day or night forever (eternal misery). Revelation 14:11
- Outer darkness. Matthew 8:12; 22:13
- A place of sorrows (seething remorse and despair). Psalms 18:5
- A place of everlasting destruction. 2 Thessalonians 1:9
- A place of torments. Luke 16:23
All is recorded in Heaven (Heb. 4:13). God sees ALL your sins and will pull the curtains back and roll the tape of your life on Judgment Day. Every single thought and deed of your life is on file with God. He made provision to remove and desires to forgive all. If you die without His forgiveness, you will face the Almighty on Judgment Day in the Supreme Court of the Universe as a guilty sinner who refused to repent and be pardoned. In trembling ruins you will stand shameful and without excuse before a holy God.
Our Sins Include:
Cursing, Lying, Adultery, Hatred, Cheating, Slander, Strife,
Idolatry, Dishonor, Murder, Stealing, Fornication, Unforgiveness,
Not putting Him First, Taking God’s Name In Vain, Etc.
“The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good…” Proverbs 15:3
“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15
Obedience Or Hatred?
Saving faith is always active and obedient. Of every one of those who claim to know Him and do not practically and daily deny themselves, take up their crosses of crucifying their earthly lusts, and perform His will, He foretells their destiny:
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.“ Matthew 7:21-23
Make no mistake: Hell awaits all who were once right with God and are now living outside of His complete Lordship over their personal lives:
“Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.” Ezekiel 33:12-13
As we see clearly in the above text, the Almighty judges your life by your current state of heart and all, yes all, of your past righteousnesses are not remembered if you are not completely bowed down under His holiness and Lordship at this moment.
Do we still wish to define truth based on how it fits our own lifestyle instead of how our eternal Judge gave it to us in His Word? What position is best for the long run?
We all know and can attest to the Bible truth that there is opportunity “to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season” and yet “she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.” (Heb. 11:25; 1 Tim. 5:6) Sin brings spiritual death and righteousness by the blood of Christ and enabling power of the Holy Spirit brings life and blessings untold now and forever (Rom. 5:17; 6:23; 8:13-14).
Security Check Point
Still not sure where you currently are with the LORD? Want to know? The Word says that “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” (Heb. 11:6) Heart faith that saves the soul is obedient to the One in whom its trust fully rests. If you are right with God, you are literally active and fruitful in the following things He commanded:
Boldly communicating His salvation to others, calling them to repent and believe upon Him or perish in hell – because you love Him and them more than self (Mk. 16:15-20; Phil. 2:3-5).
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- You are showing charity and love to all of the LORD’s children (Jn. 13:34-35; Gal. 6:10; 1 Jn. 4).
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- You assist others in any way possible (1 Cor. 10:24; 13:1-8).
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- You are abstaining from all appearances of evil or temptation to sin (Rom. 13:14).
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- You are living a life of godly repentance and the forsaking of any thought, word or deed that offends His holiness (Ps. 51; Mk. 9:43-49; 1 Jn. 1:6-10; Rev. 3:19).
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- You are fasting, praying and studying His Word (Isa. 58; 2 Tim. 2:15).
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- You are crying out to Him for brokenness and a clean heart (Ps. 51; 139:23-24; Matt. 5:6, 8; 1 Tim. 1:5).
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- You give all within your means to further the cause of the Gospel (Prov. 11:25-26; Phil. 4:15-16).
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- You are abolishing and staying clear of any idol of the heart as you burn with flaming love for Jesus Christ (Eph. 5:5-9; 1 Jn. 5:21; Rev. 2:4-5).
You are currently crying out and looking for the soon return of the Savior for His few who are on the narrow road that leads to life (Matt. 24-25; Tit. 2:13-14; James 5:5-7; 1 Jn. 3:1-3; Rev. 22:20-21).
The absence of these things from one’s life testifies to the backslidden state of the heart (Prov. 14:14). Such a person is under the judgment of a holy God who will soon return “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” (2 Thess. 1:6-9)
“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” Titus 1:16
According to God’s Word, judgment is always based on a person’s works because a person’s works are a clear manifestation of his inner heart and faith. No person will be judged on his mere profession of Christ but on the life he lived (Matt. 12:36-37; Jn. 5:29; Rom. 2:1-7, 13; 14:12; 1 Cor. 3:13-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Eph. 6:7-8; Col. 3:25; Tit. 1:16; Rev. 2:23; 20:12; 22:12).
Who Are We Lying To But Ourselves?
“And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:3-4
Only A Few Will Make It
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13-14
Friend, How many times have you been warned? How long will you harden your heart? How long will you deny Jesus Christ while embellishing yourself with temporal pleasure and comforts which have lulled you into a deadly stupor and sleep? Hell awaits. LORD draw us to You and grant holy repentance!
“Woe to them that are at ease in Zion.” Amos 6:1
There is not one unconditional blessing in the divine economy. Every blessing, including everlasting life in Heaven and missing hell, hinges upon the obedient faith (the only kind of authentic saving faith) of the recipient of the message.
“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:6-8
If one is not this moment crucified with Christ, he has denied Him and is serving the false god of self which indisputably incriminates one as an idolater, worthy of eternal damnation in His holy site. Those who do not surrender their will to Christ in whole hearted, first love devotion are not His and are divinely decreed as unworthy of His holy Heaven:
“But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them.” Galatians 5:5-7
The dismal punishment for choosing the selfish sinful pleasures in this fleeting life will never end.
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24
“No Man”
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24
Regardless of his past fellowship with Christ, the one who departs from the LORD, loses out.
Friend, are you serving Christ or self? According to Jesus, the answer is either one or the other – it is an impossibility to serve more than one master. Is it really worth it to “despise” Jesus Christ while serving self interests? To refuse outright and blatant obedience to Him is to deny Him and forsake all divine mercy.
“They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.” Jonah 2:8
To observe a teaching which supposes that one can live outside of the will of the One who is Salvation and still go to His holy Heaven is absurd at best.
Friend, are you going to “cover,” or confess your sins? Will you forsake, and flee from sin – that which displeases the LORD Almighty?
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13
Charles Pray writes: “So many want to hide their sins, especially those who like to appear Holy on the outside while inside they are dark, unholy ministers of the flesh. They have become a product of their own desires. Dear Lord, please bring them back to their first Love–Jesus! Amen.”
Like the man who possessed a heart after the LORD, we should quickly confess any sin we might commit – “For I will declare (confess) mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.” (Ps. 38:18)
Be not deceived: If experiencing the things of this fleeting world is more important to you than literally fellowshipping with and performing the will of God, you have denied and defied Him and are in love with the world and are the enemy of God (1 Jn. 2:15-17). If one loves this present world and the things in it, he is living in a state of death – the state of spiritual adultery. Such a person will go to the eternal dwelling place of all those who make themselves the enemy of God – regardless of what one professes with his mouth:
“Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15
Will You Obey The Truth?
One might say “Hey I made peace with God long ago. I am secure and safe, based on that one confession and act of faith toward Christ.” Nonsense! “Once saved always saved” is a sinful and hellish cop-out! If you will miss hell and be in Heaven, you must trash this lie like the cancerous plague that it is and march forth unreservedly in obedience to the soon to return LORD of all lords, whom “out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall Rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.” (Rev. 19:15)
Neither Jesus Christ nor His holy apostles taught such a license to sin doctrine. In Holy Scripture, such a doctrine is associated specifically with “ungodly men” who “turn the grace of God into lasciviousness” and “deny(ing) the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Jude 4) The Son of God told His own 12: “He that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Matt. 10:22) What explanation does this statement from “the Almighty God” need? (Rev. 1:8) I suppose none to the honest hearted. Any attempt to explain away or around such would be subversive, sinfully wicked and evil manipulation.
Listen to what Jesus tells the saints at Smyrna:
“And unto the angel of the church (not the lost) in Smyrna write…Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” Revelation 2:10-11
Our LORD’s words here are of course consistent with all of Holy Writ. Also consistent is the complete and purposed ignorance of so many who have to ignore volumes of texts like this to make their false grace message palatable. Here are two phrases that especially stand out in His message of warning to these believers in Smyrna and also His disciples today. When you read these see if you see conditions here. See if His blessing of eternal life has conditions attached:
“be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (v 10)
“He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” (v 11)
Why would very believers be warned here by Christ if there were no possibility of them losing out? Is Jesus a lunatic or did He place conditions upon the final reception of His salvation?
We must choose to “endure sound doctrine” and not turn aside to fables if we are going to be with the Truth Himself in eternity (Jn. 14:6; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 4:1-4). I know that these truths are hard truth and yet they are the very truths of the One we will be judged by on that Day (Isa. 30:10; Rom. 3:4). So, we all make the choice to ignore or wax over these Bible truths, or face them and fall flat upon the mercy of the LORD we so desperately are in perpetual need of.
Did the very Son of Man not indiscriminately level a severe warning concerning readiness for His return? Jesus forewarned that all those who were at one time in His kingdom would not make it to eternal glory:
“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting (over indulgence), and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares (suddenly, without warning). For as a snare (trap) shall it come on ALL them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:34-36
Will you be “accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass and to stand before the Son of man?” How can you know if you are ready?
Here are the main elements of this all-important passage in Luke 21:
“Take heed to yourselves” – take personal responsibility for your life and all that you think and do.
“Lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting (over indulgence)” – avoid overeating, overindulgence and reveling in this fleeting world; fast and pray often.
Do not live in “drunkenness” – be sober and do not become intoxicated with wine, strong drink or spiritual deception
Do not be caught up in the “cares of this life” – count Christ the supreme Prize of your whole existence and sever yourself from anything in this world that does not contribute to this all-consuming pursuit.
“Watch” – never allow yourself to doze off or fall asleep. Remain on guard at all times and let not any sinful thinking have dominion over your life.
“Pray always” – ceaselessly commune with the Savior. Live moment to moment in fellowship with Him.
Denying any thought or activity that doesn’t draw you closer to Christ is essential in preparedness for His glorious return.
That overcoming believer who endures to the end of his trial will receive the blessed crown of His righteousness (James 1:12). Now is the hour. Today is the day – to throw back the veil that blinds us and binds us to that chain of darkness!
Jesus told us that He came “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.” (Acts 26:18)
Jesus Christ came to grant us redemption and complete forgiveness, delivering us from all the power of darkness.
“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14
Make no mistake: If we do not draw nigh to Him in repentance of life and cultivate a heart after Him, darkness will inevitably overtake our lives.
Be deceived no longer friend, if your life is not laid down before Christ, your eternity is sealed by your self-serving idolatrous decision to deny the nail-scarred Savior. If He is truly LORD of your life, He is reigning supreme in all you think, say and do. He is risen! Rejoice and give glory to the One who bled for your sins on Calvary’s cross and rose from the dead.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption (eternal damnation)…” Galatians 6:7-8
“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?” Romans 6:16
If you haven’t heard this type Gospel communication, it may be time to flee for your life and from the wolf in charge of your current local church and find a true servant of Christ who preaches the Word! We must bathe and gird ourselves in His holy truth and become surrounded with those who are fervently seeking His face. There will be no excuse in that Great and Terrible Day.
Most churches today are mere playhouses for the leaders and those who attend (2 Tim. 4:1-5). Entertainment is the order of the day, not true biblical Christianity which seeks to glorify God exactly the way He told us to in His precious Word.
According to God’s Word to us (Ezek. 33:12-13), all of your past fruit or relationship with Christ is null and void (forgotten by God) if you are not submitted fully to His glorious Lordship at this moment. If you refuse to lay it all down and follow Jesus in truth, on that Great Day of Judgment He will grant you what you chose on earth – to live separated from Him. The one who lives his earthly life outside of an intimate abiding in Christ, can expect to be separated from Him for eternity in the lake of fire where the dense, horrid and ferocious flames of the literal ocean of fire will torment his helpless, conscious soul forever. Hell is for keeps. This eternal prison of fire is the point of no return and we should all consider that damnation is the eternal home of all who are not fully submitted to Christ, the only One who can rescue the depraved soul from the flames of the domain of the damned.
If one reading these words is now ready to be fully right with God, he should bow his head and heart and cry out to the One who loves him and was crucified to save and bless him. Never mind the slightest questioning or excuse – ARE YOU READY TO LAY IT ALL DOWN? OR, will you turn away and forsake what is perhaps your last call and opportunity to make things right with your Maker and Judge? To refuse to fully come to repentance upon reading these words, is to kiss the gates of Heaven and turn and militantly march through the gates of hell.
“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6-7
Your Prayer Of Complete Surrender And Repentance:
Father in Heaven, I have sinned against You grossly and have no one to blame except myself. I have rebelled and done things my way and not Yours. Holy Father, I hasten to repent. I now beg You in this very instant to forgive me and cleanse my soul of all the iniquity and sin I have committed. Wash me with Your sinless, holy blood Jesus and make me a new creature in Christ. From this moment forward I will follow You to the end of my life! I am ready to suffer persecution for Your precious Name Jesus, my LORD and my God. I lay my life in Your hands, never to take it up again unto myself. Father, Into Thine hands I commend/commit my spirit. From this moment forward I will never be ashamed of You again but will proclaim Your salvation to others as I eagerly look for Your soon return. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
If you truly desire to know more about how to really know the LORD, go here okay: Born Again: What is It?
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What Did Paul mean by “Double Honour”? [podcast]

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
“Double honour” is generous but not lavish. “Double honour” limits the income of “the elders that rule well.” This would be in contrast to the many pastors today who make themselves rich in this world, as they “make merchandise” of their prey, the people they lead (2 Peter 2:1-3).
Do we not realize that “double honour” actually prevents making merchandise of God’s people by making millionaires our of con men? You are not wiser than God, sinner. You don’t decide what His Word says. It’s best to shut up in humility and simply render humble obedience on this topic, doctrine, and all others.
“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice …” 1 Samuel 15:22
Tithing is not taught in the New Testament. Giving is to be done out of worship, gratitude, and the honor of the LORD. Christ’s New Testament disciples are to give out of a “cheerful” heart (2 Corinthians 9:7). Here is what the apostle Paul wrote about our giving under the New Covenant:
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. ” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
It’s actually sickening to see how some, out of their own darkened and corrupted hearts, want to starve out the God-called elders from carrying out their divinely ordained duties to feed and equip the flock and to watch for their souls.
Some people are so deep in darkness and therefore blinded that they don’t realize that the work that they do in this world to earn money is not even important compared to the paramount divine work of an elder that God has prepared, sent forth, and diligently feeding His blood-bought flock.
“Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. … 16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. 17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” Hebrews 13:7, 16-17
1 Timothy 5:17-18 is specifically of those called-by-God elders “who labour in the word and doctrine.”
“Double honour” here is twice the average earning in the specific economy and time. This apparently is so that they have no financial worries and can concentrate on the most important work in the earth, the kingdom of Christ—feed His flock (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-6, etc.). “The elders that rule well” are those who are to be given “double honour” and not the greed-driven enterprising salesmen …..
Of “double honour” one source notes the following (1 Timothy 5:17-18):
“In 1 Timothy 5:17, the “double honor” refers to giving financial support, respect, and esteem to elders who lead the church well and especially to those who work hard at preaching and teaching. This concept is rooted in the Old Testament principle that a laboring ox should not be muzzled, and a worker deserves their wages, highlighting the importance of caring for those who labor in ministry.”
What kind of men does the LORD look for to servant lead?
“Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:” Exodus 18:21
Paul’s refusal to covet what is not his own, in no way negates the compensation God has ordained for those who labor in His Word and doctrine to feed His sheep (1 Corinthians 9). There is no contradiction. Paul’s refusal to receive of the Corinthians doesn’t mean he didn’t receive from others. Take a look:
“And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.” 2 Corinthians 11:9
The above verse, revelation proves the argument wrong that suggests that ministers of the Gospel of Christ should reject receiving any giving to do His work.
The fact that “double honour” is appropriate to the elders described in 1 Timothy 5:17-18 is in NO way means this “double honor” compensation should be demanded. No. Yet God has stated such and in my opinion, from this passage and 1 Corinthians 9 and the Levites of the Old Testament, He says it should be a sufficient portion, a sufficient, a generous compensation that is supplied to “the elders that rule well.” Perhaps He stated double honor in order to be a measure of what is not enough and what is too much and so the elders defined here do not have to feel guilty. Also, is it not conducive to peace in one’s calling to know his bills are paid? As in no muzzling, no starving out the elder ox who treads out the corn of God’s Word, who works to feed the flock of God.
“Double honor – Διπλης τιμης. Almost every critic of note allows that τιμη here signifies reward, stipend, wages. Let him have a double or a larger salary who rules well; and why? Because in the discharge of his office he must be at expense, in proportion to his diligence, in visiting and relieving the sick, in lodging and providing for strangers; in a word, in his being given to hospitality, which was required of every bishop or presbyter.” Adam Clarke
“[Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine] Ruling elders, especially preaching and teaching elders are to receive double honor or wages (1Ti_5:17-18; 1Co_9:6-14; Gal_6:6; Heb_7:1-10). See note, Act_14:23.” Dake
“Let him that is taught in the word communicate (give) unto him that teacheth in all good things.” Galatians 6:6
The Greek word for “communicate” here is:
“koinōneō
koy-no-neh’-o
From G2844; to share with others (objectively or subjectively): – communicate, distribute, be partaker.”
We are privileged to supply those who feed us, to fund those who feed us God’s Word. Such men perform the most important and only eternal work in our lives in this world as we look for the soon return of our LORD.
Is “double honour” also not a demarkation…. where those who would dare exceed double honour to make themselves rich in this world are known as those who are making merchandise of the people? See 2 Peter 2:1-3. What the self-righteous who attempt to change “double honour” into something other than what it is don’t understand, is that “double honour” is a parameter that actually keeps men from making merchandise of the people, making themselves millionaires at the expense of, while exploiting the people. God is all wise….
John Wesley notes:
“Let the elders that rule well – Who approve themselves faithful stewards of all that is committed to their charge. Be counted worthy of double honour – A more abundant provision, seeing that such will employ it all to the glory of God. As it was the most laborious and disinterested men who were put into these offices, so whatever any one had to bestow, in his life or death, was generally lodged in their hands for the poor.”
It’s quite amazing how some expect the men who are prepared, called out by God to do the infinitely most important work in the earth are to do it for free. The origins of this lie which directly contradicts God’s Word, is “another spirit,” Satan—who wars against the LORD and His servants.
It seems that perhaps some become disillusioned when they realize they’ve been deceived by wolves in sheep’s clothing. Then they don’t give at all and yet the Word instructs us to give and to specifically give to the ministries that feed us the pure Word (Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18).
The lost will never supply, support God’s work. And that’s because they are not of God and that the LORD has left that opportunity for His own people – to lay up treasure in glory which He instructed us to do (Matthew 6:19-21).
God’s people are divinely called and are to be allowed and granted the blessed opportunity to give to HIS work—not forcefully coerced but given opportunity (2 Corinthians 9:7). This is clear in Scripture. When we give, we thereby learn to trust Him who replenishes our supply as He so often promised to do (Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11, etc.). It would be wrong to disallow God’s people from giving actually. Moses did not stop God’s people from giving until there was so much given by God’s people that there was nowhere else to contain it! He had to tell them to stop bringing their things to the work of the LORD because they had nowhere else to store it—there was too much of it (Exodus 35). To tell people not to give to God’s work(ers) would mean he forbade them from doing what the LORD told His people to do from the beginning—give. The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel set forth to continually worship and serve the LORD and His people, and Paul, Christ’s apostle, draws from this very truth/fact in 1 Corinthians 9 below.
God provides, yes, and His stated desire to supply, at least in part, is through His body—and that is so that they partake of the blessings both now and eternally (Galatians 6:6; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14; 1 Timothy 5:17-18). A proper and more thorough view of God’s kingdom reveals that to shut off the opportunity of giving and forbid His children from giving, stifles blessings.
When your reaction to evil produces more evil (causes you to trample on the clear contents of God’s Word, to pervert it), you know you fit what Paul calls men of corrupt minds (1 Timothy 6). While over reacting you perfect what Satan and his wolves perverted, you also are guilty of teaching against the LORD you falsely claim to serve and thereby bear false witness against the Almighty. “Let God be true and every man a liar” (Romans 3:4). You have joined the ranks of those you condemn in that you too have “limited the holy one of Israel” while denying His truth, as you pretend to defend the faith (Psalms 78:41).
“For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:17
“Jeremiah 3:15: ‘And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you knowledge and understanding.’ These are pastors who live according to God’s word and understand the very heart of God, which is His Word (Psalm 33:11). We have very few of these in this late hour! Most are too consumed with self.” Karen Cochran
Your ill-advised inner embattlement that consumes you doesn’t change the very Word of God. You have over reacted and dismissed the very Word of the God you claim to serve. This puts you in the same camp as those you condemn. Isn’t it time for you to step back and get into the place of repentance before a holy God? That way you will cease perverting the right ways, the Word of God – trampling its contents out of the imbalance.
“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you. 13 Ye have plowed wickedness, ye have reaped iniquity; ye have eaten the fruit of lies: because thou didst trust in thy way, in the multitude of thy mighty men.” Hosea 10:12-13
“He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Proverbs 18:13
Tithing? No. Levitical Priesthood Pattern brought into light by the apostle Paul? Yes.
It seems some are basing things on the wolves’ exploitation of the people and putting their weight there more than on the Scriptures which are clear concerning the compensation of certain elders, such as in 1 Corinthians 9 and 1 Timothy 5:17-18, etc. The Levites also. No the New Testament doesn’t teach tithing. No I am not trying to get anyone’s money, yet this ministry outreach accepts any cheerful giving from Christ’s saints…. which helps allow many to be reached with God’s Word.
Some novices on this thread seem to be making presumptuous conclusions of those who simply seek to stand on top of the whole counsel of Scripture on this topic. We must never abandon truth, God’s doctrine, due to others abusing it. Never abandon to abuse as it’s been put. We never throw out any part of the Word due to the abuse of it by others (Psalms 119:104, 128; 2 Corinthians 2:17).
A common misapplication of Scripture happens when people say “Freely ye have RECEIVED, freely GIVE.” (Matthew 10:8)
Watch closely what they quote – “Freely ye have RECEIVED, freely GIVE.” (Matthew 10:8) How are the men, the elders whom GOD has prepared and called out to serve HIM going to “GIVE” unless they are receiving? Some are misusing this verse. In the context of Matthew 10, the apostles had RECEIVED the Word, the Gospel from Christ and therefore were to GIVE it to others freely. That’s what ministry is and this is spoken in context of Jesus sending forth His disciples to minister. This in no way negates that God’s people are to be givers as they obey His command to lay up treasure in Heaven, to work so they “have to give”, but supporting His work – the going forth of His Word to feed, nourish, and equip Christ’s saints (Matthew 6:19-21; Ephesians 4:28). “How dwelleth the love of God in” those who don’t give? And where else to give but to poor Christians and the elders and work of Christ?
“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” 1 John 3:17
Are God’s people not instructed to fund those who feed them God’s Word? Yes. (Galatians 6:6)
How nonsensical for God to send forth men to be used of Him without the plan in place to provide for them. (1 Corinthians 9:1-14)
How nonsensical for the LORD to instruct His saints to give, to lay up treasure in Heaven and not waste it on earth, without the plan in place for where they are to give? (Matthew 6:19-21)
Some make the common novice mistake of concluding that God’s Word should be disobeyed, His true elders should not be funded but rather starved out, all because his enemy, Satan, has used false prophets to make merchandise of many (2 Peter 2:1-3).
What Does the Bible Say about the Compensation of Christ’s True Ministers? Is this topic addressed in God’s Word? If so, what does it say?
Compensation for true ministers is the stated ordained will of God (1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14)… problem is not pay but rather the hirelings who are getting paid…. to mislead!
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” – 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Reading these 2 verses together makes it clear that “double honour” includes financial compensation. Otherwise the command of v. 18 is being violated—when called out elders are labouring in the Word and doctrine are being muzzled. Seems this could not be more clearly stated than the Holy Ghost through Paul penned it.
“Double honour” is to be given to divinely called-out elders “especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17-18).
“Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” – 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 KJV
Recently one man attempted to reduce “double honour” to mere respect until shown the never verse, verse 18. He blocked me instead of amending his ways to believe the contents, the Word of Holy Writ.
“Double Honour”
“And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.” Luke 10:7
What does the Bible tell us concerning those who minister the Gospel?
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour (sufficient of generous financial reward), especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
“Double honour” specifically means twice the average pay of the present economy. In general that means that God wants those He calls out into ministry to be well taken care of. And, that’s the responsibility of those who are fed by that ministry.
“Elders (5:17-25) 5:17 The rest of this chapter deals with elders. First of all, Paul lays down the rule that elders who rule well should be counted worthy of double honor. Rule might be translated ‘take the lead.’ It is not a question of control, but of example, such elders are worthy of double honor. Honor might mean respect, but it also includes the idea of financial reimbursement (Matt. 15:6). Double honor includes both ideas. First of all, he is worthy of respect from God’s people because of his work, but also, if his time is devoted to this work fully, he is also worthy of financial help. Those who labor in the word and doctrine are probably the ones who spend so much time in preaching and teaching that they are not able to carry on regular employment.
5:18 Two scriptures are introduced here to prove the statement that the elder is worthy of recompense. The first is Deuteronomy 25:4, and the second is taken from Luke 10:7. … These scriptures teach that an ox which is used in the harvesting process should not be deprived of a share of the grain. Also, a laborer is entitled to a portion of the fruit of his labor. So it is with elders. In spite of the fact that their work not be be physical, yet they are worthy of the support of God’s people.” William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary, pp. 2096-297
Let’s address a very important, core issue: Do you believe that you are worthy of the money you are paid to do the work you do for a living? Do you believe in your heart, that those who do the work of the ministry are worthy to receive financial blessings from doing this all-important work? If you don’t, may I suggest that there may be a poverty curse on your life that needs to be broken (Deuteronomy 26,28). At the very least, there could be a lack of what the LORD has stated about this.
Many of the servants of the LORD are suffering at the hands of those who have the opportunity to give to the work of the ministry and haven’t. Beloved, let’s turn things around for those who bring us the Word and do the most important work in the earth.
When we truly begin to aggrandize divine truth, we will then begin supporting only those who truly preach all of it (full-counsel) fearlessly and cease from funding the ministries of false prophets who allow most of their ministry revenues to be absorbed on things other than that which is at the core of importance in the divine economy, like the true building up of the saints – getting them into the Word for themselves, and winning lost souls.
Concerning the work and workers of God’s kingdom, the Bible instructs us in Ezra 6:8 – “forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered” – that is, that God’s Gospel laborers be not hindered in carrying out His work.
The reason all of God’s people are to give to His authentic work is “that they (Christ’s workers) be not hindered” (Ezra 6:8).
It’s quite alarming how some have a death grip on their earthly riches and so come running to defend their refusal to give to the LORD, to HIS work.
“All things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” 1 Chronicles 29:14
May our LORD bless each of us to be cultivated in a heart filled with sincere and true worship and thanksgiving to Him.
“Freely ye have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8
We should understand that we have freely received the salvation of our God in Christ and that those who don’t give out of the mercy, forgiveness, love, supply that He has given us, are not in God’s will. Out of what God gives us we give out and this clearly proves we have given ourselves to the LORD. We are not still serving the false god of self and therefore mammon (Matthew 6:19-24). When Jesus spoke of giving and it will given back to us, He’s speaking of all these things and not just giving out of the monies God has prospered us with (Luke 6:38).
These darkened souls seem to attempt to reduce giving to merely giving out the Gospel that we received. The Bible says there’s much more to the stewardship of the LORD’s resources (Matthew 25).
RECEIVING and GIVING in God’s Word expands far being saved and giving others the Word.
Every disciple is to give his life to the LORD as Jesus came and gave His life freely to saved us (Luke 14:33; 17:33; 19:27; John 12:23-25, etc.). BUT first that life, eternal life, is to RECEIVE from Christ and we give it back to Him.
There is no giving until we have received of the hand of God.
“ALL THINGS COME of THEE and of thine own have we given thee.” 1 Chronicles 29:14
Have we really given our lives to Christ who gave all if we don’t have a giving heart and hand?
There are seriously some people who HATE giving. They blame their refusal to be generous givers on the many false prophets who have made merchandise of them and many others. Also, they are greed driven hoarders who don’t want anyone suggesting that they should be cheerful, generous givers.
“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Read that passage again and note that there is no “foundation against the time to come (eternal judgment),” no laying “hold on eternal life” if one doesn’t have saving faith, whereby he would otherwise be a giver. And everyone has something to give—just as the widow with the 2 mites (Mark 12:41-44). She gave all she had and Jesus honored it and yet did not honor those who gave a token tip, small percentages of what they possessed.
Every saint is to give of his substance, as he has received of God, so he is to give with a cheerful heart (Matthew 10:8; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Ephesians 4:28, etc.).
It seems that the hoarding covetous, greed driven among us are possessed with deep hatred at the idea of giving. Their earthly gold is their god and they have rejected Christ (Matthew 6:21-24; Philippians 3:18-19). They have a deep and dark issue. Luke 12 and 16.
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” Ephesians 5:5
“(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)” Philippians 3:18-19
The following scathing rebuke was sent to a woman who denies that God has a plan in place to compensate the men, the elders He has prepared and called out to “labour in the word and doctrine.”
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
You have no biblical clue on this topic. It’s obvious from such a false statement.
Have you ever read, studied 1 Corinthians 9?
You’ve placed your personal issues above the Word of God which He has magnified above His own holy name and are in need of repentance (Psalms 138:2).
Were the Levites compensated? Yes.
So you like that the men who are prepared and ordained and sent out by God, to do the infinitely most important and only eternal work in the earth starve, and their families as well? Repent now.
Not one thing they state in arguing against Christ’s ministers being compensated undoes, negates the following Bible truth, facts:
1 Corinthians 9
Paul Surrenders His Rights
1 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
2 If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
3 Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
4 Have we not power to eat and to drink?
5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
6 Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?
7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?
9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?
14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Many are biblically illiterate on this topic and yet argue in their ignorance (Proverbs 18:13). Note that they will say things like:
“Paul worked and said for them to follow his example. We are NOT in the Old Testament.”
Paul specifically refers in the New Testament to the Old Testament divine pattern of God-called elders who wait upon and serve the LORD and His people to be compensated—for doing the most important and only eternal work in the earth. Paul ties together and builds on his argument by drawing from the divine pattern as it was with Levites, the Levitical priesthood.
“Say I these things as a man? or SAITH NOT THE LAW THE SAME ALSO?” 1 Corinthians 9:8
“Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 9:13-14
“9:13 Paul next introduces the argument from the support of those who served in the Jewish temple. Those who had official duties in connection with the temple service were supported from the income the temple received. In this sense they lived off the things of the temple. Also, the priests themselves who served at the altar were given a certain portion of the offerings that were brought to the altar. In other words, both the Levites, who had the ordinary duties around the temple, and the priests, to whom were entrusted the more sacred duties, were alike supported for their service.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
Under the Old Covenant, the giving of the people went to the ordained set-apart full time ministers, servants of the LORD—the Levites, the Levitical priesthood. Paul brings that pattern into New Testament giving, supplying for the work of the LORD.
“And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.” Numbers 18:21
Clearly in his discourse on the compensation of God-called ministers, Paul is referring to this provision the LORD made for His servants under the Old Covenant in the middle of declaring and arguing that such is to be so under the New Covenant, in this time of the Church.
“Say I these things as a man? or SAITH NOT THE LAW THE SAME ALSO? … 13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 9:8, 13-14
It is quite an indictment some dare level against God to say that He had, has a plan to call out and use His elders to feed and equip His blood bought flock and somehow has no plans, no provisions to provide for them. Nonsense. The LORD is the One who declared that “the labourer is worthy of his hire” (Luke 10:7). Oh and He needed not nor asked for the puny permission of any mere sinner, man.
There was no money in the New Testament Scriptures collected to build a separate “church” building. The money went to the believers in need (the poor), elders teaching sound doctrine, etc. (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35; Romans 15:26; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14, etc.). Also, we discussed that the highest paid elders are to be “they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17-18). They are a type of New Testament full time servants of the LORD and His people—such as were the Levites, the Levitical priesthood under the Old Testament who were set apart to seek God and serve His people.
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
It’s interesting that you are not arguing that plumbers, accountants, attorneys, teachers, etc., should not be compensated for their work. Wow. That’s the spirit of antichrist in you, make no mistake.
Your thinking is very convoluted at best, speaking of things being twisted. The King James Bible is the pure preserved Word of God (Psalms 12:6-7). Paul established as did Jesus that the workman of the Gospel is worthy of his hire. This is irrefutable. The way the individual works out his own salvation with fear and trembling is between him and God (Philippians2:12-13).
Clearing Up the Confusion
The lengths some go to in order to dismiss their clear teaching of Scripture is telling, revealing their are antichrists who are speaking against the Word of God. Notice these same people who want God’s pastoral oxen starved out, removed from their posts have never argued that plumbers, accountants, teachers, and doctors, etc. should provide their own way, to refuse to be paid for what they do. Yet what those laborers do is a temporal work, an infinitely inferior work compared to those God calls out to do the most important and only eternal work transpiring in the earth. Repent now.
The abuse of some, of wolves, in no way negates the LORD’s plain teaching that His workers are to be compensated.
“The labourer is worthy of his hire.” Luke 10:7
God’s pattern of the Levites continues:
“Say I these things as a man? or SAITH NOT THE LAW THE SAME ALSO?” 1 Corinthians 9:8
Paul uses the illustration of how the military are worthy of their hire—to be compensated for carrying out their duties to provide protection for a nation.
“Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?” 1 Corinthians 9:7
“Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges?” In other words WHO within the military comes home from war and has to pay the bill he incurred by defending our nation? Does the USA give a bill to its military when they return from war? Such would be ludicrous and yet you foolishly suggest that men called to the infinitely most important warfare for the souls of men should be forced to fund their own way? God plainly disagrees.
To continue to make his point Paul then argues: “Who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof?” Yet you argue that those who plant gardens should refrain from eating of the fruits of that garden? And those who feed their flocks should not be able to drink of the milk of that flock.
Greedy, hoarding counterfeits hate the instruction to give. They have a death grip on their temporal trinkets and rusted gold which will be their eternal undoing (Luke 12, 16). Eternal damnation awaits (Ephesians 5:5).
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Sabbath Keeping, Justification, Sports, and Non-Essentials [podcast]

Hint: If something is not specifically named as a sin in God’s Word, leave others alone about it. MYOB, right? (Mind Your Own Business)
In this podcast, you will hear about a Recent Phone Call from Hell I received and how it was dealt with.
Over the years, I’ve conversed with men who are religious but not saved. Oh and boy are they fervent and sincere, and yet sincerely dead wrong. This particular phone conversation was no different. Many times Paul’s writings were born out of his defense of the faith of the original Gospel and this message is the same. Perhaps there’s a two-fold blessing in this:
- Continuing to established the essentials set forth in the original Gospel of Christ (John 21:15-17; 1 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:15-17, etc.).
- A constructive example of how to biblically handle religious people like this (remember Jesus was most stern and straight with the rich and the religious. See Matthew 23, etc.).
“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12
If all your religious activity hasn’t produced “righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost”, all you have thus far is religion, not Jesus. Listen closely to what happens when Jesus saves you:
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17
This is the truth of God, the fruit granted to all who’ve truly believed on the LORD Jesus Christ and thereby been saved. One thing’s for certain: The LORD desires to give you “righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost”.
Jesus is the Sabbath of Every Saved-by-Grace New Testament Saint – Not a Certain Day
“Sabbath” means intermission, to rest. All of God’s people now rest from attempting to keep the law perfectly and instead rest in the righteousness of Christ, the only One who ever kept the law perfectly.
“For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.” Hebrews 4:3
“Hebrews 4:3: For we which have believed do enter into rest – The great spiritual blessings, the forerunners of eternal glory, which were all typified by that earthly rest or felicity promised to the ancient Israelites, we Christians do, by believing in Christ Jesus, actually possess. We have peace of conscience, and joy in the Holy Ghost; are saved from the guilt and power of sin; and thus enjoy an inward rest.” Adam Clarke
“There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. 10 For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.” Hebrews 4:9-10
“In Hebrews 4:10 we are directed to our risen Lord, who has finished the work of Redemption and rests, as God did when He pronounced Creation to be ‘very good.’ When we understand what He meant by ‘It is finished’, we, too, shall rest.” FB Meyer
Some today uphold a certain day instead of the LORD who makes all days (Galatians 4:9-11). They prove to be lost souls. False teachers are known in that they uphold something, ANYthing other than Christ.
“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, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:14-19
Justification
It has been wisely stated that “If you’re flirting with Moses, you’re cheating on Jesus.”
Have you memorized John 1:17 ?
“For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” John 1:17
How does God save us?
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
The law finds us all guilty of breaking it. Even if it were just once, just one law we broke, we are guilty of breaking all of it and 100% fully worthy of death.
“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10
God alone can justify us and He does such exclusively through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ His only begotten Son. “It is finished” means “paid in full.”
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” John 19:30
“Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:4-5
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:1-2
“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.” Romans 10:4
Sports are Not a Sin – Unless they become One’s Idol or put before God.
Paul uses three different sports/games to illustrate spiritual truths, realities. This alone informs us, proves that sports in and of themselves, games, are not a sin. Running (track and field), boxing, and wrestling (1 Corinthians 9:24, 26; Ephesians 6:12).
In all the lists of soul damning sins found in Scripture, not one of them names sports or playing a game as a sin. If that were the case, playing a game of cards with grandma, or going to a nephew’s soccer game, would be a sin. Not. However, the misuse of anything on this earth can come out of a sinful heart of idolatry. Use and misuse. Work out YOUR own salvation with fear and trembling and cease being a busybody in the lives of other believers concerning things not essential to one’s salvation (Romans 14; Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Peter 4:15).
“And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.” 1 Corinthians 7:31
What the Bible Teaches about Non-Essentials, Things not Essential to Salvation.
Never judge or destroy God’s work in the life of another saint for things that are non-essential, NOT essential to salvation.
“Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. 5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. … 15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. … 20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.”
Justification | Support | STORE | Podcasts |
Support | STORE | Podcasts | The Bridegroom is Calling His Bride | Purifying Ourselves as He is Pure [podcast] | 10 Clues Your Love for God is Waxing Cold [podcast]



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