OSAS/Eternal Security and the Deceived Who Defend It
Beware of this Garden Variety Lie and Satan’s Agents Who Defend It
Who’s Behind this OSAS Lie?
God Says:
“But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof (sin) thou shalt surely die.” Genesis 2:17
Satan Says:
“And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall NOT surely die:” Genesis 3:4
The “Ye shall NOT surely die” lie is the message of the enemy of all souls to every generation. Millions have bought it and are now and forever will be in hell and the lake of fire for rebelling against God. The “Ye shall NOT surely die” lie simply means that “you have no personal responsibility to obey the LORD and there will be no consequence for disobeying Him.”
“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 (eternal destruction); but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7-8
Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, were ejected from God’s presence upon sinning against Him. The human race had fallen and was corrupted and sinful (Genesis 3; 6:5, 12; Romans 1-3, etc.).
“Once saved always saved” (OSAS) is the lie Satan told the first man and women and it is the very one which led to their fall from saving grace. He told them that they would “not surely die” or suffer separation from God if they sinned against Him. Satan has thousands of agents who stand behind pulpits every week, telling those gullible listeners that they are eternally secure while refusing to speak of the necessity of obeying Christ in daily denying self, taking up the cross, and following Jesus (Luke 9:23-24). While many revel in Christ’s “goodness” – His righteousness and gift of everlasting life – a miniscule number of leaders speak about the “severity of God” as Paul put it. The LORD has instructed us to “behold” (look closely at) both His “goodness” and “severity” and He was referring to how He harshly judged His own covenant people who did not fear Him (Numbers 16). He promises to do the same to all those whom He has saved under the New Covenant who do not fear Him and His “severity.”
“Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: 21 For if God spared not the natural branches (Jews), take heed lest he also spare not thee (Gentile Christians). 22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.” Romans 11:20-22
There seems to be a gross lack attention given to the “severity of God.” In the absence of “severity” or judgment preaching, many leaders are leading their listeners to believe they have no personal responsibility to truly follow Christ. They are being led to believe and/or told that they are eternally secure, no matter what they do after Jesus saves them. All true Bible believers know that such is not true. The false idea that Christians have no responsibility to obey God and will suffer no consequence (judgment) for not doing His will.
God is holy and this is why the great apostle continually warned His people of divine judgment coming on all who die in sin. Here’s an sampling:
“Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” 2 Corinthians 5:11
In the modern gospel (another gospel), the biblical concept that God is holy may be mentioned occasionally in theory, but it never translates into the personal life of those who have believed upon Him who is “Holy, holy, holy.” (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8) Yet, His Word warns those who are His that without personal holiness “NO MAN shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)
“Ye shall NOT surely die” is Satan’s lie and anyone teaching this heresy, whether they know it or not, is teaching the lie of the serpent, Satan. The Bible calls them “ungodly men” who have “crept in unawares” or undetected and are “turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness”, which is a license for sin. By teaching this contrary heresy, these men are “denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”
“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. 4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jude 3-4
Here, we are told to “earnestly contend” against these liars and the serpent’s lie they are peddling. Beloved saints, this most critical issue is black and white. Those who teach Satan’s “ye shall NOT surely die” lie identify themselves as his agents and enemies of the Most High God. Paul the apostle informs us that Satan’s “ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness” (2 Corinthians 11:12-15) While posing as Christ’s representatives, they misrepresent Christ by teaching contrary to what He taught. Those who teach any form of this unconditional eternal security lie do just that. If OSAS were something Jesus wanted to convey to us, why didn’t He? Did He forget to tell His people something He wanted them to know or something they needed to know? Did the Alpha and the Omega, the God and Creator and Sustainer of all that is somehow have a lapse of memory, or are these wolves perpetrating another gospel on their audiences? True Bible believers know such would clearly contradict what the Son of God taught about the necessity of enduring to the end or being lost.
WHAT Is Really Behind those who Defend this Satanic Lie?
It’s obvious to the truth-seeker that the OSAS adherents and calvinists begin with the end in mind. The Word of God means nothing to them other than to try to use it to peddle their fairytale wares. These cross-rejecting moral cowards refuse to take God at His Word. They are of the same evil, “seducing spirit” as were the false leaders (pharisees) of Christ’s day who set aside God’s Word and let their false tradition take precedence (Mark 7:6-9; 1 Timothy 4:1). This makes them false and unsaved according to Jesus who stated “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” (John 8:47). Christ makes it more than obvious here that those who are saved – “of God” – put HIS Word as highest authority. Those who don’t identify themselves as being “NOT of God.”
“Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. 9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment (written Word) of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:6-9
Those who spread and defend this serpentine doctrinal cancer are leading souls to deception, falling away, and damnation (as it did in the Garden). They are not teaching, arguing for, and defending such a lie due to it being in the Bible, but rather because they do not want to come out of their mythical fairytale. This tragic tradition has entrenched them in a state of lukewarmness and deception and they can’t see it because God Himself has turned them over to this lie (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). They are intoxicated by the lure, lucrativity, and appealing nature of this lie and do not wish to be roused or woken from this dreamy state. They do not wish to stop the flow of funds and acceptance from the many who want their ears to continue to be tickled with a no-personal-responsibility false gospel.
The leaders that teach this heresy do so to continue in an un-biblical tradition that we are commanded to beware of (Colossians 2:8). This false teaching is clearly “not after Christ,” because Jesus taught that those saved must “endure to the end” or they will not be saved (Matthew 10:22; 24:13). This lie is an ear tickling money maker and very lucrative lie.
OSAS: WHY do so many violently defend this false teaching? – It’s simple: They are fighting for their life. Think about that statement – They are fighting for THEIR life. That is, they are fighting to reserve the right to run their own life – to reign as king over their own life, in lieu of Christ reigning in their personal life. They do not want to die to self as Jesus requires. All they want is their “ticket” to Heaven but don’t want to be bothered with knowing Him which would mean setting themselves aside. Make no mistake about this truth. This is a brazen, open denial of Jesus Christ and it will result in the eternal damnation of millions of souls.
**OSAS is never taught in Holy Scripture. Rather, it’s the invention of Satan himself and perpetrated by Christ-denying, willingly deceived men who want salvation and also the freedom to live outside of the true, Lordship of Christ. They are using Jesus to get what they want out of Him which is the definition of taking His holy name in vain. They want the heavenly crown while refusing the daily cross Jesus commanded.
Didn’t Jesus teach that in order to gain one’s life eternally, that individual must lose his life? Was the Son of God just kidding?
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. 25 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.” John 12:24-25
Jesus is saying to you that you must lose your life. Losing your life in this world is an essential according to the only One who can save you. This must mean that true, saving faith in Christ, without fail, brings a life that is lost in Christ and not spent serving self. Those who do not want to lose their lives in oneness with Christ, flock to hear ear-tickling, soul-damning wolves who hold leadership positions and write books in today’s apostate modern church world.
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves … lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power (the authority of Christ in their personal lives) thereof: from such turn away. … For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 3:1-7; 4:3-4
The love of self is clearly at the root of those who teach and defend this grace-perverting heresy of “once saved always saved” (OSAS).
Saving faith involves losing one’s life in this fleeting, sinful, fallen world. Those who love this world are the very enemies of God and will not inherit His eternal kingdom (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15). God’s Word – the whole counsel of it – defines exactly what God requires. The problem is, that so many who claim to be saved, do not love Christ enough to diligently study His written Word to find out what He says (John 8:31-32, 47; 2 Timothy 2:15).
NO, you cannot go to God’s holy Heaven your own way.
NO, you cannot and will not go to God’s holy Heaven any other way than that which He alone prescribes in His Word.
NO, you cannot work your way to Heaven.
NO, you cannot be good enough to know the LORD and go to Heaven (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:23; 6:23; Philippians 3:9-10, etc.).
NO, you do not merit God’s righteousness.
So many who while claiming to be serving Christ, are actually serving their own “best” interest and revel in John 3:16, while refusing to explore and learn the rest of what Christ said. They therefore have an impartial and erroneous view of what saving faith really is. They are quick to quote John 3:16 and the “justified by faith” verses in Romans. Those are truth and yet, if presented by themselves, they can paint an erroneous picture of God’s intentions for His people. That being said, let’s look at what Jesus says elsewhere, words that are as equally divinely inspired as John 3:16.
“But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.” Luke 19:27
So what did Jesus say in these words above? Read His words again and carefully please.
The following in an excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages:
“Consider the words of the LORD when asked if there are few who will be saved:
“Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.” Luke 13:23-28
When asked “are there few that be saved?” Jesus answered “Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” It seems clear from these words that many who believe they are going to Heaven will not be permitted to enter. When they in shock “begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets” the LORD will answer “I know you not whence (where) ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.”
Apparently, these are people who ate and drank in God’s presence which dwells among His people. They communed and partook of Him and yet died outside of a relationship with Him due to not continuing to agonize or strive to enter into His eternal presence (and so they fell away). This should be considered alongside the many Scriptures where Christ warns us to “watch and pray lest ye enter into temptation.” (Matt. 26:41; Lk. 21:34-36) He warns that we will enter into temptation if we do not vigilantly and diligently watch and pray. The neglect of our relational fellowship with the LORD can be eternally fatal. See Luke 21:34-36.
Saints of the LORD, there is not one promise to be found in Holy Scripture assuring the salvation of any person who is not currently living in communion and obedience to Christ. Only those who love their darkness rather than light are teaching this, Satan’s first lie. They are counterfeits who refuse to truly repent, to lay down their life in this sinful world, and to obey Jesus Christ by denying self/sin, taking up the cross daily, living the crucified life (John 3:19-21; Philippians 3:18-19).
“All their wickedness is in Gilgal: for there I hated them: for the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of mine house, I will love them no more: all their princes are revolters. Ephraim (God’s covenant people) is smitten, their root is dried up, they shall bear no fruit: yea, though they bring forth, yet will I slay even the beloved fruit of their womb. My God will cast them away, because they did not hearken unto him: and they shall be wanderers among the nations.” Hosea 9:15-17
Either Christ is reigning supreme in our daily lives, are we are counterfeits. Eternal security heretics are allergic to personal responsibility, to obedience – because they love their darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil (John 3:19-21).
Unlike the prophets and apostles of our LORD, so many leaders today want people to feel comfortable, even if it is in their own sin and at the expense of their own eternal souls. These men serve themselves and not Christ and therefore they do not issue forth His clear truth and warning of judgment to come upon all who do not obey Him – regardless of any past relationship (2 Cor. 5:11; Phil. 3:17-21). Deceivers who hold positions in the church world do not want to suffer the persecution associated with preaching the original Gospel, so they carefully select Holy Scripture passages out of context so that they do not offend their hearers. Such a deceitful presentation of God’s Word is completely foreign from the Holy Spirit anointed ministries of Christ, John the Baptist, and the original apostles of our LORD.
Everything in God’s kingdom economy works through His divine mercy, grace and man’s faith and obedience. When coupled or enjoined with a man’s unwavering faith, God’s grace makes all things possible (Mk. 10:27).” Excerpt from Lie of the Ages, p. 457 Lie of the Ages
The bottom line, tragically, is that many of those who embrace the OSAS lifestyle lie, are simply lazy, moral cowards who refuse to take personal responsibility to put the LORD who bled first in their personal lives (Luke 21:34-36). They do not want the rest of what Jesus said and have fallen away. They are the foolish virgins in Jesus’ parable who have run out of oil due to neglecting Christ as first and supreme priority – “first love.” (Matthew 25:1-13). They are those deceived, miserable, “lukewarm” and “at ease in Zion” apostates who are deluded into thinking they are going to the King’s Heaven while they deny Him the reign of their personal, daily lives (Amos 6:1; Revelation 3:15-16). They adore the wolves who have taught them that “Christianity” equals being a good, faithful church-going, church member. Yet the Son of God told us that if we are not daily denying self, taking up the cross, and following Him, we are not His (Matthew 16:24-26; Mark 8:34-38; Luke 9:23-24, etc.).
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” James 2:17-20
In the divine economy, an honest heart is indispensable and essential. This passage cannot be ignored. This truth must be synthesized with the whole message of God’s Word. If it’s ignored and set aside and treated as if it’s not important or conflicts with other Scriptures, error will occur without exception. All of this points to the absolutely critical necessity of having an “honest” and sincere heart. Jesus told us that there are four types of hearts/ souls His Word falls upon and the only good one is the one that out of “an honest and good heart, having heard the word (the whole matter), keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.“ (Luke 8:12-15)
Honest.
Yes, honest!
Being “honest” would include refusing to ignore any part of God’s Word and refusing to draw a conclusion on any truth before studying the whole of what the Holy Scriptures say on that topic.
Why?
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16
So, according to the FULL counsel of God’s truth, not a bit of which can be ignored, what is saving faith? The Bible makes it clear that there is a belief or faith that will not save and so we must apprehend what true, saving faith is, lest we be among the “many” who will hear “depart from me.” (Matthew 7:21-23)
The Greek word for “faith” is pistis and it simply means to trust in, cling to, and rely upon Christ. Those who cling to, trust in, and truly rely upon Christ, love, worship, and obey Christ as the very Ruler, the very LORD of their personal lives. He is the very supreme priority of their lives, their “first love.” (Revelation 2:4-5) They live to please Him alone, saying with Him,” not my will, but thine, be done” and “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” (Luke 22:42; 23:46)
Concerning faith as God’s Word defines it, Brian Stokes writes:
“The FAITH that SAVES (James 2:19-24). Faith (pistis) and belief (pisteuo) are rooted in obedience (peitho) and is everything that embodies the ‘will of God’ (Matt. 7:21-24). Biblical faith is more than intellectual belief. It is the reaction of ones whole being: Mind, heart and soul….”
– FAITH PROPERLY DEFINED: Faith is everything that embodies the ‘will of God’ (Matt. 7:21-24, Heb. 10:36, Rom. 12:1-2)
~ Belief is faith trusting (Mark 16:16)
~ Confession is faith speaking (Acts 8:35-37)
~ Repentance is faith turning (Acts 2:38)
~ Baptism is faith obeying (Acts 10:48)
~ Discipleship is faith following (John 6:56-66)
If any of these elements are missing then it is a worldly demonic faith that cannot save (2Cor. 7:10, James 2:19-24). The faith that saves is one rooted in obedience that produces FAITHFULNESS (Acts 5:32, Heb. 5:9, 1 Peter 1:22, Heb. 11:8, Romans 1:5 and 16:26) <——–<< IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ.”
We must conclude, after reading more than what Christ stated in John 3:16, that saving faith includes the full and heartfelt involvement of the recipient of His salvation. Saving faith begins at one point and yet, God requires an ongoing faith – to the end of one’s life – or all is lost. Salvation is a relationship with Jesus Christ and not a one-time, get-out-of-hell-free event. It’s an ongoing experience with Christ and relationship (John 17:3; Philippians 3:9-14). That would include loving God with all of one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength (Matthew 22:37-40). That would include the spirit, soul, and body of the individual (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
No true born again, honest-hearted, Bible studying, truth-embracing disciple of Christ could possibly believe in an “at ease in Zion,” “lukewarm,” “once saved always saved” gospel because that’s a false gospel and those who teach it are “accursed” for teaching another gospel (Amos 6:1; Revelation 3:15-16; Galatians 1:6-9). There is no excuse for setting aside and despising God’s Holy Word and teaching this “doctrine of devils” and this evil “tradition of men.” (Mark 7:6-9; Colossians 2:8) There’s a “seducing spirit” behind those who teach such and this teaching itself (1 Timothy 4:1). It’s simply an age-old lie from hell (Genesis 2:17; 3:4).
SEVERE WARNING
“For if AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.” 2 Peter 2:20-21
God’s salvation is conditional. It’s an initial and ongoing choice (Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Romans 6:16). Men must meet His requirements to procure and to keep His salvation. Though it be eternal, the possession of it is not un-forfeitable as is clear from a mountain of warnings and Scripture truth (Luke 8:13; Hebrews 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39; Revelation 2-3, etc.). An un-conditional eternal security is never found in Scripture. The LORD Jesus taught that those who are His disciples must “endure to the end” or be lost (Matthew 10:22; 24:13). His holy apostles taught the same and never once taught or are heard saying to God’s people that they are “once saved always saved.” See Acts 13:43; 14:22; Romans 6:1-2, 15; 1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Peter 2:20-21, etc. Such a teaching is not a component of “the apostle’s doctrine” that the true remnant of Christ is continuing in (Acts 2:42). In fact, this OSAS teaching clearly violates plainly set forth truth and is therefore a heresy to be exposed as a “doctrine of devils.” (1 Timothy 4:1)
“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Luke 6:46
Those who do Christ’s will are those who know Him. Those who do not do His will in their daily lives and yet believe they are Christ’s are fully deceived. If they do not repent and truly lay down their lives (that’s saving faith), then they will be a part of the “man” whom Jesus promised would hear “Depart from me ye workers of iniquity (lawlessness).”(Matthew 7:21-23)
“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” James 1:22
Those who say they know Christ and do not obey Him but rather obey self, are liars before God and will be found wanting/lacking His righteousness in the end.
“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:4
“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
Who or what one yields to clearly proves who or what they are serving and therefore whether or not they are in right standing with God, or not.
“What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 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 6:15-16
Obedience to Him is the proof that you are truly trusting Jesus in a true, saving faith relationship.
The OSAS adherent has bought Satan’s “ye shall NOT surely die” package and believes he is secure no matter what. He wants to redefine saving faith to fit his love for this world and hate for any personal responsibility in following Christ. The faith that saves is clearly defined by the whole of Scripture states and always produces the fruit of good works (Eph. 2:8-10; Tit. 2:11-14; 1 John 2:3-5). The OSAS pastor refuses to teach and preach the full counsel of God’s Word as Paul did and spoke of (Acts 20:20-32). So, his hearers are shallow and refuse to study the whole of God’s Word and are therefore deceived by half-truths. They are “not valiant for the truth” and will be “destroyed for lack of knowledge.”(Jeremiah 9:3; Hosea 4:6). They refuse to truly repent and lay down their lives. They will have none of that cross Jesus commanded to be taken up daily. No, No, No! “I want my OSAS lie so I can still live as I I I I I please and still believe I’m going to God’s holy Heaven! Get away from me with that fear of the LORD and His truth! I will have none of it!”
Were we not warned of this evil-hearted, last hour generation?
“There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.” Proverbs 30:12
Moral cowards want no personal responsibility in their divinely-required participation in their walk of abiding with Christ who told us that all who are in Him and then do not abide or continue with Him, will be cast into the fires of hell (John 15:1-6).
To Christians, the apostle Paul wrote:
“Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For IF ye live after the flesh, ye shall die (be separated from God): but IF ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live (have eternal life).” Romans 8:12-13
IF IF IF – the two letter BIBLE death nail to Calvinism and OSAS. Who are we debtors to? (Romans 8:12) How is the flesh subdued? (Romans 8:13) Must we “suffer” to be ultimately “glorified together” with Him? Yes – “IF IF IF so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” (Romans 8:13) This paints a different picture than the Scripture-denying, out of context OSAS/Calvinism many are taught by deceivers, doesn’t it? Verse 13 says – “For IF IF IF ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.”
If you CHOOSE to remain ignorant, thinking that it is a blessing, you better stop reading this truth. The mask is coming off those deceiving wolves who have taught you this false, soul-damning doctrine. If you want to enjoy this life and spend eternity in the lake of fire for believing the doctrine of demons, go right ahead. By God’s grace I will not be joining you!
Being “at ease in Zion” and “lukewarm” are both evidence of an apostate (departed) heart that is no longer right with God (Amos 6:1; Revelation 3:15-16). Those who are taking it easy and disinterested in seeking the face of the LORD Jesus want no suffering or to die to self, taking up the daily cross Jesus commanded in denying self and letting Him reign (Matthew 16:24-25; Luke 9:23-24; John 12:23-25; 2 Corinthians 1:9; 4:10-12). In many of His statements, Jesus makes it clear that no man will be with Him eternity that does not choose to love and worship Him supremely. For example, Jesus says: “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.” (Matthew 7:21) Also, our LORD said: “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:33). Christ defines His “enemies” as those who do not allow Him to “reign” in their daily lives:
It all boils down to the one true God and Christ, the Messiah and the daily cross and whether or not the individual is choosing to love Jesus supremely – above self. If he does authentically love God, it is plainly manifest in that he is dying daily to self and letting Christ truly reign supreme in his personal life, ever crying out “He must increase, but I (self) must decrease,” for “I am crucified with Christ.” (Matt. 16:24-25; Jn. 3:30; Gal. 2:20). In his dishonestly sinful heart, the Calvinist likes the idea of having no responsibility, so he migrates to spineless pulpiteers who teach the doctrines of ease, and he purposely evades and rejects the true disciples who teach what the Bible plainly reveals – that we must die by personally participating in Christ’s death in order to have God’s eternal life (Rom. 6; 2 Tim. 4:3).
Why does the Calvinist heaps to himself false teachers who tell him what he wants to hear instead of the Gospel truth? Why does he migrate to the damnable doctrines of John Calvin? Because they teach him that he has no personal responsibility. So he commits spiritual fornication via the self-serving teachings of reformed theology, forsaking the living God for his own temporal convenience and ease. The bottom line is that the Calvinist, after reading and hearing God’s Word – which teaches anything but Calvinism – rejects it for the doctrines of OSAS ease. He is a moral coward who refuses to come clean in sincere honesty before a holy God and therefore cannot prosper (Proverbs 28:13). He remains entangled in his sins while vainly believing his is still “secure.” A rude awakening with eternal consequences lies just ahead if he does not repent. On the Day of Judgment soon and certain to come, he will be lost and without the saving grace of the One he called “Lord, Lord” while he lived lawlessly (according to his own dictates). The hypocritical Calvinist rejects, hates, and denies the truth but will face it at his judgment, when it is too late. Because the rebel has freely chosen to live outside of the Savior in his personal life, God has chosen him alright but not for that which he vainly thinks – God has chosen and elected him to be cast into the flames of eternal damnation (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 14:33; 17:33; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Titus 1:16; Revelation 20:11-15; 21:8, 27).
The very first class of rebels to be cast into the lake of fire are “the fearful.” (Rev. 21:8) The Greek word from which “fearful” is translated into English, is deilos which means faithless, fearful, timid as in those who don’t fear God. – They “did not choose the fear of the Lord.”(Prov. 1:29) They are those who serve self instead of the LORD Almighty and are therefore moral cowards without a clear, open confession and testimony of the transforming blood and grace of Jesus Christ whereby they could otherwise be overcomers, truly saved to Heaven in the end (Revelation 2-3; 12:11). To those who teach OSAS or anything contrary to God’s Word, the Holy Spirit warns:
“But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” 2 Corinthians 11:12-15
Many today have time, money, energy, and the wherewithal to study the so-called reformers and heretics like John Calvin, but little or no time to seek the face of the LORD by studying HIS Word. They are willing and able to study what these mere sinful men had to say about the Bible, and yet find little or no time to study to show their own selves approved unto God by getting deeply into His written Word daily (2 Timothy 2:15). Sad!
Only Christ and His holy apostles and prophets have been divinely sanctioned to record God’s Word of truth. All else is to be subservient. All the words of mere men are infinitely inferior and carry no divine authority. Those who truly follow Christ, and destined for Heaven, honor His Word and walk according to it (John 8:47). So let’s just stick with Holy Writ. Go straight to the prophets, our LORD Jesus, and His apostles. And yes, He demands, requires, and enables holiness without which no man shall see Him (Matthew 5:8; Luke 21:34-36; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrews 12:14-15; Revelation 21:8, 27; 22:14-15, etc.).
Will Everyone Jesus Saved be in Heaven?
Lie of the Ages | John Calvin Exposed | The Idiocy of Calvinism | Eternal Security Dialogue
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FEEDBACK:
To a man who refused to listen to (hear) and hearken to God’s Word when it plainly contradicted his false, Calvinistic beliefs, I wrote:
“No matter what Scripture says, you refuse to believe it or take God at His Word. Just like the false leaders/Pharisees of Christ’s day, you set aside the commandment/Word of God in order to keep your diabolical tradition (Mark 7:6-9). Jude 4 tells us that you are a grace-perverting ‘ungodly man.’ It’s obvious that you have espoused extra biblical teachings and are far apart from the Word of God. You are defending a position, a false tradition. All de-formed theology contradicts Holy Scripture. That’s obvious to any true Bible believer.”
Message Received:
”‘Christ-denying, willingly deceived men.’ Not the way to talk about those who claim to be brothers and sisters.”
Reply:
Michael, claiming to be a true disciple of Christ does not make one such. What does Titus 1:16 say? How about “heresies” being 1 of the 17 soul-damning sins list in Galatians 5:19-21?
Message Received:
“God saved us and he will not lose one of his own.”
Reply:
Those whom He saved and who endure to the end, abiding in Christ, will be with Him eternally (Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Jn. 15:1-6; Col. 1:22-23; Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39, etc.).
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Mission Mexico Elvita Dejected then Blessed [video]
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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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Articles
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 |
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