Jesus’ longest recorded message to His people stands on the foundation of the very first words our Savior uttered in this sermon on the mount.
The foundational truth of the entire sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7) is found in the very first words of our LORD when unveiling this elaborate, far-reaching, and profound message to His disciples of all ages. Here are His first words:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
Note, “poor in spirit.” Not poor financially or religiously. The two should be mutually exclusive. The Greek word translated into English as “poor” is PTOCHOS. It means pauper, beggar, poor…..desperate and spiritually impoverished. Christ looks to desperate, hungry and thirsty people who want more of Him (Is. 66:2). Their hearts pant for more of Him (Ps. 42:1-2). They deeply desire more of His presence and Word. | Sin: Man’s Core Problem
Of this pillar truth of being “poor in spirit”, F.B. Meyer says:
“Note the passive side of the blessed life. To be poor in spirit, that is, to be lowly in one’s self-estimate; to be meek, not always interested in one’s rights; to mourn for the evils of one’s own heart and for the sin and sorrow around; to hunger and thirst after Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. These dispositions do not purchase blessedness, but to cultivate them is to be blessed. On the positive side are mercy, purity, peace and willingness to suffer all things for Christ. Here is 1Co_13:1-13 anticipated!”
Of this foundational cornerstone biblical essential, William MacDonald writes:
“This first blessing is pronounced on the poor in spirit. This does not refer to natural disposition, but to one’s deliberate choice and discipline. The poor in spirit are those who acknowledge their own helplessness and rely on God’s omnipotence. They sense their spiritual need and find it supplied in the Lord. The kingdom of heaven, where self-sufficiency is no virtue and self-exaltation is a vice, belongs to such people.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
Jesus said: “without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
“The more we know Christ the more we are aware we NEED Him!” Anita Villarreal
The path to victory is humbling ourselves in repentance and announcing our own utter poverty!
“But to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2
The absence of a “poor” or desperate for more of Christ “spirit” is the clear indicator that the self-righteous person is trusting in self and not Christ.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit (desperate, beggar, pauper): for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
The phrase “poor in spirit” speaks of being in a perpetual heart posture of being desperate for the LORD, being fully dependent upon Him as a beggar, a pauper.
“We never feel Christ to be a reality, until we feel Him to be a necessity.” Austin Phelps
God allowed Judas to betray Jesus and God allows our enemies to bless us to be broken. Judas the betrayer, was instrumental in Christ being delivered to be crucified, in His body being broken and blood poured out for the sins of the world.
The betrayal of our enemies also allows us to be broken.
“I have been to this place more than once. It has only been me and Jesus! It is a hard place to be. I have said ‘Jesus if You don’t help me, I am not going to make it!’ Looking back I can see that He has shown up, every time, even though at the time I wasn’t seeing it. Jesus has saved my life!! For that I am very grateful! Thank You Jesus!” Karen Cochran
Jesus commands us to love our enemies and oh how much easier this is to do when we realize how He is using our enemies to bring us to the bless-ed place of brokenness (Matthew 5:44).
“God uses the bad things that happen to us to save, sanctify and glorify us.”
The LORD has no interest in the empty worship of men or religion which is vastly prevalent today as it was in Christ’s day.
“He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 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. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:6-9
No other sin so grieved the Savior as un-engaged religious pride and worship which actually insulated men from Him. Religious groups where this is found misrepresent Christ while claiming to be the only way to Him. No other group received more harsh and dooming words from Jesus Christ as those who were the very leaders of the religion He started 2 thousand years earlier (Judaism). The Jewish system of religion is the only religion God ever started or ever will start, and it is now obsolete. Christ came to bring all people into a personal relationship with Him and the Father and Holy Spirit (John 14:6, 17:3, 1 John 1:3, 7…).
Though it may appear outwardly to be different, today we have so much empty “worship” in the modern church world and this is why true disciples are coming out of her by the millions – “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” (Rev. 18:4). If Jesus commanded those who will be His to “Come out of her,” there must be something to come out of! The Son of God is no lunatic – He is “the Great Shepherd of the sheep,” who gave His life for His people and seeks to feed them with His pure Word and protect them (Ps. 23; Jn. 10; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 2:2).
Relevant?
In today’s everything-and-anything-goes, trying-to-be-relevant-instead-of-Christ-like, church world of ungrounded people, a myriad of things have replaced Christ and His holy Word. In the world of evangelical religion today, there is anything but the pure Word of God. Here are some of the things that have crept in and are in full blown emphasis today in the modern church:
- a thrust to be “relevant” – a cloaked word used often by the emergent/seeker-friendly movement which boils down to being just like the world in order to win the world. Win them to what?! – to aself-serving “form of godliness” that denies Jesus instead of self?
- new Bible versions which are taken from corrupt manuscripts and are weak at best (see Amos 8:11 and BIBLE VERSIONS)
- fictional books from fad authors who misrepresent the Almighty through their caricatures and have and are leading many into idolatry as a result.
- soft, spineless leaders who do not present the biblical Gospel of Jesus Christ with repentance, the holiness of God, and necessity of personal holiness, hell, and judgment to come, etc.
- an emphasis on entertainment using music and arts at the expense of declaring divine truth in its pure form
Does the LORD call His true people to be like the world (relevant), or to follow Christ and be unlike the lost? Think about this: what are the lost being won to if the church world is no different than they are?
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you (conditional), And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
Jesus Didn’t Lie to Us
In this late hour, just as He foretold numerous times, “many” are being led astray by false prophets who have come in sheep’s clothing and are deceiving “many.” (Matt. 7:15; 24:3-5, 11, 24; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:13; 4:2-4; Jude 3-4, etc.) Eternal damnation awaits (2 Pet. 3).
The prophecies of the final days are dancing on stage in our faces.
In the vast majority of modern assemblies of “worship,” Jesus is no longer tended to or bothered with, much less elevated as the Creator, Redeemer, and “Head of the body.”(Col. 1:15-18; 2:18-19) No, instead, men and women who having “itching ears” are making popular false prophets who tell them what their sinful hearts desire to hear (2 Tim. 4:2-5).
Why should we be surprised? This was all foretold. The adulterous emphasis in the apostate church world, perpetrated by wolves who wear sheep’s clothing, is clearly enumerated as it is shown in resume’ form in 2 Timothy 3:1-7. – They are leading astray those who are just like themselves – “lovers of their own selves…lovers of pleasures MORE than lovers of God…”
Christ told us differently. Who are you following? Jesus said: “If ANY (that includes you)man will come after me, let him DENY himself, and take up his cross daily (die), and follow ME. For whosoever will save (preserve) his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it….So likewise, WHOSOEVER he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” (Lk. 9:23-24; 14:33) These are the very words of the Alpha and Omega – when is the last time your pastor preached these words?
Instead of laid down lives, studying His Word to know and find out more about Him, self-serving and idolatrous emphasis bombard the people as they are constantly asserted by false leaders. “How to Get Rich,” “How to Live a More Fulfilled Life,” “How to Use God’s Word to get what YOU Want,” “12 Steps to a Better Life,” “How to have Better Relationships,” “How to Have Your Best Life Now,” “How to get Your Miracle from God,” “7 Keys to a New You,” “How to be a better Husband/Wife/Father/Mother,” “How to Get More for ME, Me, Me!!!,” etc. To the un-discerning eye, these things may seem harmless, but they are deadly. A man-centered gospel is a false, soul-damning heresy (Gal. 1:6-10; 2 Pet. 2:1-3). One can get a miracle, become a better wife or daddy, learn conflict resolution, read polluted fad “Christian” books, and use principles to get some self-help, and still die and go to hell. God is calling His people to become more intimate with Him, to repent of our sins, to know Him, to turn fully to Him, to become His disciples, and all else will follow (2 Chron. 7:14; Matt. 6:33; Jn. 17:3).
Jesus Christ is the Supreme God and Divine Creator of All that Is – the Whole Universe
“For by him (Christ) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” Colossians 1:16-17
Whenever and wherever the living and eternal Word, the divine Person of Jesus Christ, is NOT being sought after, studied, emphasized, worshipped, upheld, elevated, adored, praised, feared, and obeyed, false teachers are the leaders (Col. 1-2). Walking in these things nurtures saints and fosters in them a heart after God (Acts 13:22). Read Colossians 1-2 closely and prayerfully.
We have but a mere “form of godliness” if we have not presently chosen to crave more of Jesus, crying from our hearts and mouths – “He MUST increase, but I MUST decrease.”(Jn. 3:3; 2 Tim. 3:5) One can be actively involved in a local church environment while “ever learning,” and yet “never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Tim. 3:1-7) All worship that does not elevate the Person of Christ is evil idolatry. Spiritual adultery is being spread in the hearts of men wherever Jesus Christ is not being peered into, loved, obeyed, and sought after with a whole heart! Any and all spiritual activity that does not begin and end with Jesus Christ is unadulterated idolatry. – “Thou shalt have NO other gods before me.” (Exod. 20:3)
Jesus is the Only Head of His True Body
“In whom (Christ) are hid ALL the treasures of wisdom and knowledge…As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. BEWARE lest ANY man spoil (ruin) you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in HIM, which is the head of all principality and power…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, 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 2:3, 6-10, 18-19
It’s not how it makes us feel friend – it’s whether or not its biblical that matters! God forgive our sins! It’s time to repent, elevate Jesus Christ, and die to self that Christ might reign gloriously. – “Ye are dead and your life is hid with Christ in God.” (Col. 3:3) The kingdom of God is all about Jesus, not me or you or any other mere man. IF in fact you are going to be apart of His eternal kingdom, you must die – if you don’t He won’t live in you and you will not be with Him eternally. – “they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Gal. 5:24) You must suffer the death of your personal will and self-life or you will not be an overcomer (Rev. 2-3). You will consequently die and go to hell with all other rebels (Rom. 6; 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; 1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1).
Embracing the Cross
The overcoming disciple must cling to that old rugged cross. He must die the death that Christ ordained Him to die and set the example for us to behold – “not my will, but thine, be done.” (Lk. 22:42) He must of necessity resist the ease of the modern church program which makes church attendees instead of making disciples. He must possess a love for divine truth as he refuses to buy into the un-biblical falsity of modern religionist who rob Christ of His due glory. He must “buy the truth and sell it not.” (Prov. 23:23)
Only those who choose to daily die to self that Christ – the Greater One – might reign in their mortal bodies, will escape the horrific times to come where many are promised to fall away (Matt. 24:10-13, 24; 2 Thess. 2:1-12; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:1-7; 4:2-4).
Listen closely to what Jesus said concerning being ready to meet Him as we face these final days in which we now live:
“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare 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 21:33-36
The from moral coward runs from the cross which represents Christ’s sacrifice. He flees the life of a true disciple which demands laying down one’s own way, will, and life to love Jesus. He runs to the entertainment and the feeling of ease and would rather be told things that demand no repentance or sacrifice. He loves the wolves who don sheep’s clothing and their smooth messages (2 Tim. 4:3-4). This is the false form of Christianity (completely foreign to Scripture) that has lulled him to sleep in the first place. He denies Christ instead of self and His command for us to die to the self life. No, instead he relishes the temporal pleasures of this fleeting life. Like Esau, he is giving up his eternal birthright (Heaven) for a temporary fix (bowl of soup).
If you are going to be with Jesus, you must at once RUN from any leader who is not preaching the cross – he isn’t even saved (1 Cor. 1:18; Phil. 3:17-18). He’s an imposter. He’s part of the diabolical conspiracy against the LORD Almighty. He’s a counterfeit – in league with those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Phil. 3:18)
First, make sure you are coming to the LORD daily in prayer and worship and His Precepts. When gathering with other believers, bring a heart that is hungering for more of Jesus.
Any “church attendance” or “worship” that is not producing in your heart a desperate hunger and thirst for more of Jesus Christ, is completely misguided and being led by a person who has either never been saved or is backslidden! Run beloved, run for your life! Find true remnant disciples and flourish in worshipping the one true God, holding fast to His holy Word. Cease to further the cause of wolf ministries! Stop (by your attendance) endorsing and supporting with your finances ministries that are leading people away from Jesus instead of to Him!
Jesus said:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
In these precious words recorded in Matthew 5:3, the Master was saying that those who are desperately impoverished in their hearts, realizing their utter need for Him are “blessed.” Undue loyalty to the organizations and futile programs of mere men invariably taint and hinder the personal relationship He made us to experience with Him. LORD, please bless us to know and love You and You alone! We will have “no other gods before You.” (Exodus 20:3-4)
In Genesis 32 we read of Jacob wrestling with God. The LORD broke Jacob and as a result a “poor in spirit” disposition possessed him…
“I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant.” Genesis 32:10
Without a heart after God, all we have is a mere “form of godliness.” (Acts 13:22; 2 Timothy 3:5)
PRAYER: LORD, with deep resolve, I this moment make the obedient decision to come out of the antichrist, out of the apostate religious system where mere men, machinery, masters degrees, and programs are elevated in place of You! This moment I return to You O LORD and submit my spirit and whole being into Your holy and perfect hands! I love You LORD Jesus. Please forgive my sin of idolatry and spiritual adultery and fill me with Your Holy Spirit afresh. Please cleanse me by Your blood right now LORD. Please send me forth and make my life a fruitful field to Your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Here’s how the blessing of knowing Him happens. Am I that weary and thirsty traveler in the hot, dry desert, panting after that glass of cold water laid before me? In other words, am I currently and personally seeking the LORD with outright abandonment and absolute desperation?
“There is a glow and a spiritual fragrance about the life of a person who is Spirit filled that is unlike anything found in natural man. The beauty of divine holiness ought to be radiated from all Christians. It is always seen in the lives of those who are truly controlled by the Spirit.” G. Christian Weiss, Insights into Bible Times and Customs
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for THEY shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Q Who did Christ say were “blessed”?
A “they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness”
Q Who did Christ promise would “be filled”?
A “they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness”
One must “hunger and thirst” after the LORD, after His righteousness, in order to be “filled.”
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Anyone who claims to be a disciple of Jesus and does not choose to have a heart after the LORD like David, does not “hunger and thirst after righteousness”, has nothing but dead religion, is lukewarm, and is going to be rejected from Christ unless he repents (Revelation 3:15-16).
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?” Psalms 42:1-2
“This psalm, Psalm 42, is a desperate plea to know God deeper. There’s a deep hunger in our inner most parts of our being. I ask You Jesus to come and clean me so You can then fill me in my inner most places that I don’t yet know You. Thank You Jesus because I know You will hear my prayer.” Karen Cochran
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, please forgive me for the sin of not seeking You with a whole heart, for being self-absorbed and deceived. I utterly need You with every fiber of my being – every moment. You made me, died for and came and found and saved me while I was in my sin. Please forgive me for allowing the cares of this world, deceitfulness of temporal riches, lust for things other than You, and religion, consume me because I wasn’t seeking and being filled with more of You. I begin this moment to set my heart affections upon You alone and find my whole identity and purpose in You. May Your presence in me increase as You fill me afresh with Your Holy Ghost. Please increase in me Jesus and I choose to decrease, purging all that does not belong to You. I love You my LORD Jesus Christ. Praise Your holy name forevermore.
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Paul’s Prophetic Vision of Heretical Wolves Flooding the Church World During the Whole New Testament Era [podcast]
“And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, … 25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. … 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Acts 20:20-32
Seems clear that the Holy Spirit in Paul foresaw the vile heretical wolves that were going to invade the professing church world for the whole era of the New Testament leading up to when Jesus returned. So, the Holy Spirit quickened in Paul to commend us to the Word of God (Acts 20:32).
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
So, we see here that “rightly dividing the word of truth” is only possible by studying the Scriptures and not some man’s charts and system.
By the Holy Spirit, the LORD’s apostle Paul is instructing Timothy and us, to study the Word of God itself and not man’s system or charts.
BEWARE of those who arrogantly believe they they can dismiss certain biblical truths because in their own puny minds, they don’t understand how it all fits together. Be not deceived, these are pride-filled wolves and there are many among us! They go to seed on one truth to the exclusion of the whole of Scripture. Rebuke and run! (2 Peter 2:1-3)
“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
The unchanging Word of God, the Bible itself, and the Holy Spirit are the divine Source and Teachers of truth – and not mere men or sinful man’s concocted theological systems and/or charts! Beware saints. See Psalms 119:105, 130; Mark 13:31; John 14:26; 16:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17, etc.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105
“The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalms 119:130
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” John 16:13-14
“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” Revelation 3:11
“… Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27
Is your favorite minister warning you to be ready for Christ to return?
Here’s why you must study God’s Word – the whole of it – for yourself:
Perhaps the most insidious, dangerous thing false teachers do is that they over emphasize the minors while evading or under emphasizing or never mentioning the majors – the doctrinal majors of God’s Word.
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. 24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.” Matthew 23:23-25
False Leaders are Know by their Refusal to Warn as did Paul
God’s men are to call out and not cover the sins of His people.
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” Isaiah 58:1
The LORD cites the false teachers among us in that they specifically do not tell the people what God says is sin – They refuse to lift up their voice and “shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.”
Very important truth here. False leaders refuse to show God’s people what GOD calls sin which is the only way people in sin (includes any of us) can be made free. Take note and make record of this verse:
“Thy prophets (leaders) have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of banishment.” Lamentations 2:14
“The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.” Proverbs 8:13
Paul’s Prophetic Vision of Heretical Wolves Flooding the Church World During the Whole New Testament Era [podcast]
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The Surrender of the Cross [podcast]
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29
One writer notes:
“Your sin is not the disqualification. Your refusal to repent is.
The strongest men in scripture weren’t the sinless ones. They were the ones who fell and did not stay down.
David: adultery, a murder ordered from a throne, a dead son. And the psalm he wrote on his face: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”
Peter: three denials in one night. “And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.” Fifty days later he stood in the same city and preached the sermon that saved three thousand.
Paul: dragged Christians to prison and death. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.”
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”
God is not collecting monuments. He’s raising men who get on their face, get clean, and get back in the fight.”
Brother Billy, a friend of mine, asked “What is the cross?” We’re going to talk about that in this podcast message.
So many today have this idol image of the cross. They do not understand what Jesus and His holy apostles taught us about what the cross is as it pertains to our daily life in following Jesus.
Some think there is power bowing down before an image of the cross. Not.
Some believe it’s of God to carry a little cross in their pocket, nearly like a good luck charm. Not.
Others believe that making the sign of the cross is of God. Not.
In one word, the cross, as it applies to us as Jesus taught, is surrender in repentance and thereafter daily.
When we’ve repented and received Christ as the LORD and Savior of our lives, He washes us clean of all our sin. That is initial salvation and thereafter we must walk with Christ and live in the victory He died and rose again to grant His people.
Did Jesus die on that cross to set us free to sin for the remaining of our days on the earth after He saves us? No.
The cross separates us from self and therefore sin. Jesus knew we’d need this in order to walking holy after He initially saves us, washing us of all sin. That’s initial salvation and in order to thereafter walk with our LORD, we must be crucified with Him which will keep us from living in sin.
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7
Jesus Christ is the only One who can save and sanctify us. Regrettably, so many stop at initial salvation and as Satan would have it, they are told the “eternal security” lie. This is the lie that led the first man and woman to sin which plunged the human race into darkness, separation (Genesis 2:17 > 3:4).
Jesus died to “take away our sins” – initially and ongoing as we “endure to the end” abiding, remaining, continuing in and with our LORD (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; John 15:1-6, etc.).
“he was manifested to take away our sins”
“And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.” 1 John 3:5-6
“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” Luke 9:23-24
Ask God to let His message of the cross be absorbed and deeply permeate your heart and mind.
“Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men.” Luke 9:44
Karen Cochran writes:
“’Only in the light of Calvary will we discover how the pain of our suffering can be transformed into a ministry.’
Our deepest transformations happen during our times of sufferings! I have found Jesus more in my darkest valleys than on the mountain tops, because in the high places I did not think I needed Him. But when I am in the valley of the shadow of death, and cry out, ‘Please Jesus I am poor in spirit and can doing nothing without You.’ In His grace He reaches down into that place and gives me the comfort of God, and raises me up out of my troubles. The cross life! Romans 6. We go down into death and He raises us up into newness of life.
When we experience His compassion, we are then required to comfort others with the same comfort we have received from God. 2 Cor 1:3-5. That is how He births ministry in us!”
“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18
IF in your fellowship you are not hearing the cross, the crucified life biblical message and knowing Jesus and the Father, you are sitting under “another gospel.” (John 17:3; Galatians 1:6-9; 2:20; 6:14; Philippians 3:10; Colossians 1-2)
Jesus is “the life” and Jesus taught and demonstrated by His own life and mission that death and burial must of necessity precede resurrection (John 14:6). YET, you will seldom if ever hear this original, central Gospel cross truth mentioned in a modern church. Think: “Life Surge”, another fad ministry campaign. They speak of the “surge” or resurrection and yet they will never mention the death and burial Christ requires as a condition to raise, to cause one to surge. This means they are raising themselves up instead of dying and letting God raise them up.
Beware of the false gospel being peddled at nearly EVERY so-called “church” in this late hour. The wolves who occupy those pulpits are “accursed” for preaching “another gospel.” (Galatians 1:6-9) A gospel without the cross of Christ and the one He mandated that you take up, is a false gospel .
“And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.” Matthew 24:11
WHO ELSE needs a rest from the vile rage of the flesh?
“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. … O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:18, 24
There is nothing good in me, nor in you, other than Christ. This is why we must be “crucified with Christ.”
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
Your relationship with the LORD and the corresponding fruit are dependent upon you “Letting go and letting God.”
Without being born again and living the crucified life Jesus has called us to, there is no hope of remaining in Christ – of abiding in Christ and seeing God produce “fruit … more fruit” and “much fruit.” See John 15:1-16.
Putting to rest the deeds of the body is the crucify the flesh.
WHO are truly Christ’s?
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24
IF one is not crucifying the flesh daily, he is living in the flesh, in sin.
Reading Romans 6 each morning will be a blessing to your life.
“Not my will, but thine, be done.”
Jesus tells His disciples to “Watch and pray” – to remain vigilant perpetually in prayer and watching. Then He tells us why – because “the flesh is weak.”
“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. 42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.” Matthew 26:41-42
“Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” Luke 22:42
Our Savior demonstrated the cross, before the cross when He declared to His and our Father “not my will, but thine, be done.”
This is divine prayer material for us saints – “not my will, but thine, be done.”
One source notes the following concerning Jesus’ submission and surrender to the Father:
“Jesus yielded up His spirit to the Father after completing His perfect sacrifice.
- Luke 23:46: “And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost.”
- John 19:30: “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.”
- Philippians 2:8: “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
The Meaning of Surrender at the Cross
- Complete Submission: Jesus willingly submitted to the Father’s will, finishing the work of redemption.
- The Believer’s Response: Scripture calls followers of Jesus to model this surrender by taking up their own cross daily (Luke 9:23).”
Slaves to “Christian” or “Church” Conmen and Cross-less Counselors
The cross is the opposite of what the fake “church’s” calls “self-care.” “Self-care” is a fake “solution” that brings repeat busine$$ to those who perpetrate it. The cross is God’s solution – beginning at the foot of Christ’s redemptive cross and the cross He mandates you to take up daily. Beware of the cross-less deceivers (Philippians 3:18-19). There is no salvation or solution from sin outside of Christ, and Christ commands us to take up the cross, be crucified with Him, daily after He initially saves us (Luke 9:23-24). If not, you are not following Him. One can only follow Jesus the way He prescribed. Read that again.
There are lots of people peddling the lie of “self care” which is ultimately nothing more than absolute self-idolatry. Pure evil. We need SAVIOR care! Such “self-care” only perpetuates the prey, the victim, in their misery. The only way to deal with the wicked iniquitous nature, is to crucify it, not pamper it (Luke 9:23-24). It’s your time to get into God’s Word and follow Jesus (KJB). Repent, deny yourself, lay down your life and serve God and others, not yourself. Loving your wicked self IS your problem and so all “self care” is accomplishing is to make your problem bigger, to fortify the evil within (Galatians 5:16-24). Crucifying that evil by the power of the Holy Spirit who is then raising your upward in His grace, glory, and power, is the divine prescription (Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:3, etc.). Read Philippians 2:3-5 each morning this week. Jesus commands you to love God. Worship God. Obey God (Matthew 22:37-39).
Jesus conquered sin, death, hell, and the grave by surrendering – by dying to self and honoring and executing the will of the Father.
“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that THROUGH DEATH he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;” Hebrews 2:14
The daily cross, the surrender of self, is essential to keep sin out of our lives. It is our submission to God – giving back to Him the life he gave which is us – and came and died to redeem.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30
“ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price”
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Surely we don’t believe Jesus initially saved us only to approve of us thereafter living in sin.
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” Romans 6:1-2
Beware of the cross-evading “eternal security” deceivers whom Jude calls “ungodly men”, who by their serpentine heresy, are “turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness (license to sin)” and by doing so they are “denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Jude 3-4) These are “enemies of the CROSS of Christ.” (Philippians 3:18-19)
How do we know that those who teach “once saved always saved” are of the devil? – Because that was Satan’s first lie which led to the fall of mankind in the Garden and it’s resulting in the same falling away today. Read what God said in Genesis 2:17 and then what Satan said in Genesis 3:4.
Now read Romans 6 each morning for the next 3 days. Ask yourself: Can you live in communion with God who is holy, without the crucified life”? No.
“For he that is dead is freed from sin.” Romans 6:7
Read that verse again and ask: “WHO are the only people ‘freed from sin’”? – It’s exclusively those who are “dead” and buried with Christ. They are then raised upward in the glory and power of Jesus Christ, walking fruit-filled lives for His eternal glory (Romans 8:11-14).
PRAYER: Holy Father, I come to You afresh, and I ask You to have Your way in my life. Please overcome all evil dear LORD. You must increase but I must decrease – now and till You return. Not my will but Thine be done Jesus. Please help me to love and trust You more. In Jesus’ name.
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Apostasy
Sola Scriptura vs the Catholic Church and its Traditions [podcast]
When Paul spoke of “tradition” it was simply the thing he had and was teaching, the Word of God, and not some antichrist pagan practice the cult of rome calls a “tradition.”
“Tradition” is mostly used in a negative way in God’s Word:
“And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own TRADITION.” Mark 7:9
“Making the word of God of none effect through your TRADITION, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.” Mark 7:13
“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the TRADITION of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:8
Before we talk about Sola Scriptura vs catholic tradition and catechism, please allow me to ask you to take a look with your own eyes at the pictures below: HOW can you possibly defend this? Isn’t it time you came to Jesus?
“Forbidding to marry” is the recipe for disaster in this scenario.
The Holy Spirit foresaw that the catholic church was coming and gave us specific warnings concerning this “Mother of harlots” described in detail in Revelation 17.
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.” 1 Timothy 4:1-3
The warning of the Holy Spirit, the 2 teachings to look for are:
- “Forbidding to marry”, and
- “commanding to abstain from meats”
Yet Peter, supposedly, laughably called “the first pope”, was married (Matthew 8:14).
Then, it’s the catholic church who “abstain from meats” during their annual cultic lent season.
There’s only one system this fits as is the case in Revelation 17 which describes “THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.”
“And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” Revelation 17:5
Jesus created you. Jesus died for your sins. Jesus Christ gave you every breath you’ve ever breathed and every morsel of food you’ve ever put in your mouth. What has the catholic church ever done for you except lie to you to send you to hell eternally, irrevocably?
Sola Scriptura vs Catholic Teaching
The term Sola Scriptura simply means Scripture alone is the final divine authority. Yet the antichrist catholic church doesn’t like this very much because if God gave us His Word to establish truth, they they can’t teach their erroneous dogmas to the world and freely deceive them.
Any person whose been around a few catholics, knows that the fruit of their lives is strife, unrest, turmoil, and anything but God’s love. This alone reveals their doctrines to be false – because God does not bless the wicked, those who believe lies but rather only those who walk in His truth (Psalms 1, etc.).
“Great peace have they which love thy law (Word): and nothing shall offend them.” Psalms 119:165
Only those who live by the Word of God are possessed by the peace of God.
It’s laughable to think that mere sinful religious men can make up any fabled lie they can concoct in their depraved minds and say it’s of God. But Jesus told us exactly who is “of God” and who is “NOT of God.”
“He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47
As is clearly witnessed in the lives of catholics, those who follow tradition are full of turmoil. Those who follow Bible truth are full of divine peace.
“And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.” Luke 4:4
Notice above that Jesus pointed no man to religion. In fact His greatest enemy was and still is – false religionists (Matthew 23; Mark 7:6-10, etc.).
Friends, God gave us His Word in tangible, written form in order to protect us from the “MANY false prophets” He promised would “deceive MANY” in these finals days before the return of our LORD (Matthew 24:11).
Those who choose to love God will seek Him in His own Word and nowhere else. They alone will be protected by Him.
“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield (protector) unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6
The moment I prayed in repentance to receive Jesus Christ into my life, He washed me of all my sins. The ensuing days brought about a clear conscience, a sound mind, a peace, love and joy that made it clear to me that I’d been lied to by the cult of Rome my whole life. Needless to say, I never return to the catholic church.
Catholic deceivers have to constantly combat the many followers of Jesus who expose the heresy of catholic tradition being equal to the Bible. These pawns fight to perpetrate this tradition lie in order to be able to continue to perpetuate some of the vilest and strangest heresies known to mankind.
Many Christians believe that the Christian tradition of communion is the same as the Catholic tradition of the Eucharist. But this is not so. The Eucharist (i.e., Transubstantiation) is a Catholic term for communion when the bread and the wine supposedly become the very, the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ; thus when taken, the partaker is said to experience the presence of Jesus. These transformed elements are placed in what is called a monstrance and can then be worshipped as if worshipping Jesus Himself. The implications are tied in with salvation. In the catholic system, with the Eucharist, salvation becomes sacramental (participation in a ritual) as opposed to justification by faith in Christ alone. The mystical experience called the Eucharist is clearly a form of gross idolatry (as well as the very heart of Catholicism).
CATHOLIC TEACHING ON TRANSUBSTANTIATION is a complete theological statement and the name of a doctrine, out of which springs the most astounding set of beliefs and practices that have ever been taught in the name of religion. Yet few people know what the Catholic Church actually believes and teaches concerning this subject.
TRANS-SUBSTANTIATION CHALLENGE: PLEASE PROVIDE “EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE” – If the wheat wafer and wine TRULY become the actual and literal body and blood of Jesus Christ, as the catholic church teaches, then let’s do a DNA test to see what the composition of the elements truly are. That fair? Clue: Do they taste like flesh and blood, or bread and wine?
CATHOLIC MASS IS CLEARLY A MOCKERY and BLASPHEMY AGAINST CHRIST’S FINISHED WORK – it supposes to re-sacrifice Christ who paid ONCE for all sins on the cross according to God’s Word.
DID YOU KNOW THAT drinking blood is forbidden by God? Lev 7:27 “Whatsoever soul it be that eateth any manner of blood, even that soul shall be cut off from his people” BOTH TESTAMENTS CONDEMN DRINKING BLOOD – ACTS 15:28. So, why would the Son of God instruct us to do such (transubstantiation)??
Only a rebel rejects the divine truth that God gave us His Word so we’d not be misled by false prophet religions like this antichrist cult of Rome. The RCC teaches that tradition is equal to the Bible. Nonsense. They do so in order to be able to teach the myriad of heresies peddled by the antichrist roman cult which diametrically contradict the Word of God.
I grew up catholic, altar boy, catholic school, etc…. yet when Jesus saved me, immediately I knew that I’d been lied to my whole life. Instantly all my sins were forgiven and conscience cleared. What a blessing. Salvation is a personal relationship with Jesus, not a religion and this happens when we surrender, when we admit the reality that we’ve sinned against our Maker, are 100% guilty, and ask then ask Jesus to take over our lives from that moment forward. | Making Peace with God – Receiving His Forgiveness and Salvation
Recently I saw a catholic video titled “Sola Scriptura and Catholic Questions for Protestants.” The description said “This video is about Sola Scriptura and Catholic questions for Protestants, and why the teaching of the Bible alone is itself unbiblical.” Then he poses 5 questions. My replies are in blue.
**Catholic Questions for Protestants:** (from a catholic)
Note: 2 Timothy 3:16 is the Bible answer to each of these foolish questions from this catholic heretic.
#1. Where in the Bible does it say the bible is all you need?
The more pertinent question is: Where does the Bible say you need anything else but the Word of God, which it is? Where does the Bible say that tradition is all you need? Where does the Bible say the Word of God can be mixed with tradition? Where does God’s Word say that tradition is equal to Holy Scripture?
“ALL scripture (not tradition) is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for DOCTRINE, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16)
#2. Where does Scripture teach that the Bible is the ONLY or FINAL authority?
Where does the Bible say that there is authority anywhere else but in itself, as the very Word of God. Friends, the only ones who want you to look away from the Bible, God’s Word, are those who have lies to teach you.
First off, only a biblically illiterate person could ask such a question.
Jesus told the false religionists of His day and today “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” (Matthew 22:29) Those who don’t know God’s Word go into error. “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law (Word) of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” (Hosea 4:6) Those who choose to look elsewhere, who do not seek God in His own Word, will be destroyed and rejected in the end. Satan’s religions exists for this very, this express purpose – to lead you away from the LORD and His truth. Beware.
God’s Word is Going to Judge Us, Not Sinful Man’s Traditions
“He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” John 12:48
“In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.” Romans 2:16
Is tradition or is Holy Scripture given to us for “doctrine”? “ALL scripture (not tradition) is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for DOCTRINE, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16) This would clearly reveal that any tradition or teaching that contradicts “scripture” is heresy.
Any person following the roman catholic religion instead of Holy Scripture has made a decision to reject the LORD.
“He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47
“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words (not catechism or tradition) shall not pass away.” Mark 13:31
“Thy word (not catechism or tradition) is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalms 119:105
The longest chapter in the Bible is 176 verses of which each and every verse speaks of the written Word of God, not tradition or the catechism of some self-proclaimed religion of sinful men. Read Psalms 119.
#3. How do we know, according to the Bible alone, know that the books in the Bible are inspired Scripture? Where in the Bible does it give a list of inspired Scripture and how do we know what is inspired and what is not? – Where does it say in the Bible that the Book of Hebrews is inspired Scripture? – Where does it say in the Bible that Matthew is inspired? Or Philemon?
To even ask these questions reveals that this man is demon possessed. It was and is Satan who casts doubt on what God has said – “Hath God said?” (Genesis 3:1)
“ALL scripture (not tradition) is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for DOCTRINE, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16)
The Bible never once hints or says that truth is found in tradition or the teachings of man’s religions. In fact, we are often warned against this specifically (Colossians 2:8, etc.).
#4. According to the Bible alone, how do we even know Matthew wrote Matthew? How do we know who wrote the Book of Hebrews?
It doesn’t matter if we know exactly who the mere human author it. We know God intended it to be in His Word, part of “ALL scripture.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Not being able to ascertain the exact human author in no way diminishes the truth, the reality of divine inspiration.
How do we know catholic traditions are not of God? Answer: They clearly contradict Holy Scripture.
The LORD told the man in hell that his brothers, who were still on the earth, had the Word of God – “Moses and the prophets” – and that’s all they need. And, if they won’t hear and obey them, they are going to hell also (Luke 16:27-30) This clearly demonstrates that any person who will not hear and obey God’s Word is going to hell. “Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.” (Proverbs 13:13)
The following Bible verse makes is clear that anyone who puts away, rejects, does not obey it as being from God, is “unworthy of everlasting life.”
“Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.” Acts 13:46
#5. Where in the Bible does it say the Bible alone is the Word of God?
Where does the Bible say that there is truth outside of it that God’s true people are to trust in? Nowhere. Where in the Bible does it say that tradition is equal with Scripture? Where does the Bible say that the tradition of the antichrist catholic cult is to be mixed with Scripture?
God’s Word states:
“All scripture (not tradition) is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Case closed. Oh, and where’s tradition in that? What did the Bible say is profitable for “doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”? “Scripture.” Actually when Paul spoke of “tradition”, he was speaking of the Word of God he had taught and not making any ole pagan cult’s traditions equal the the Word of God (2 Thessalonians 3:6).
In fact, the vast majority of times that we find the word “tradition(s)” in the New Testament canon, it’s a warning against the false religionists… of which the catholic church fits the description distinctly.
“Why do ye also transgress the commandment (Word of God) of God by your TRADITION?” Matthew 15:3
“Thus have ye made the commandment (Word) of God of none effect by your TRADITION.” Matthew 15:6
“And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment (Word) of God, that ye may keep your own TRADITION.” Mark 7:9
“Making the word of God of none effect through your TRADITION, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.” Mark 7:13
“Beware lest any man spoil (ruin) you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the TRADITION of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:8
The very reason God gave us His Word in written form was so that cults like the roman catholic church would not mislead His true people – so that we’d not be deceived by false prophet religions like “MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Revelation 17:5)
Read chapters 17 and 18 of the book of Revelation.
Is the catholic system based on God’s Word? No.
Catholics claim they go through the whole Bible yearly in their weekly mass. Is that true or is it just another lie? A lie. There are 1,189 chapters in the Bible. Catholics don’t read 52 chapters a year in their masses. Think about it: If they read just 1 chapter each Sunday, which they don’t, that would only be 52 chapters. Far short of 1,189 chapters. That would 1,137 chapters short of reading the whole Bible yearly.
Did the Catholic Church Give us the Bible, as they Claim?
Catholics will even dare say that the Bible came from the catholic church. Is this true? No.
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH WASN’T EVEN FORMED TILL THE 3RD OR 4TH CENTURY A.D. THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE WERE COMPLETED ABOUT 90 A.D. BY JEWISH MEN WHO WERE INSPIRED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT (2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 3:16)
So-Called “AUTHORITY” THAT VIOLATES UNCHANGING DIVINE TRUTH IS SIMPLY ILLEGITIMATE – REGARDLESS OF ITS CLAIMS. JESUS SAID HIS WORD IS FINAL AUTHORITY. Jesus says:
“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.” Mark 13:31
Catholics do not believe the Bible is final authority – they are taught that catholic tradition and early church fathers are on the same level – this is strategically taught them, in order that the catholic religion might have open game to deceive them – by making up their own religion of mere sinful men.
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:19-21
Personally, I waste no time on early church fathers or church history. They weren’t ordained, sanctioned by God exclusively to pen the words of Holy Writ, the Bible, which is God’s Word and the highest divine authority (2 Peter 1:19-21; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17). What’s it matter if you know what they said? The LORD didn’t ordain them to communicate His truth to the world. This does nothing but create confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Many would rather listen to what mere men had to say about God and the Bible than to learn for themselves what God said in His own Word. The LORD has always instructed His people to study and learn and attend to HIS words (Deuteronomy 4, 6, 11, Isaiah 34:16, etc.).
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
The Catholic Council of Trent declares that: “It is lawful to have images in the church and to give honour and worship to them … Images are put in churches that they may be worshipped.” The Oxford dictionary defines an idol as: “An image used as an object of worship. A person or thing that is the object of excessive devotion.” An Idolater is a devoted admirer of idols.
IF THE BIBLE IS A CATHOLIC BOOK, THEN:
- Why does it condemn clerical dress? (Matt. 23:5-6; Luke 20:46).
- Why does the Bible teach against the adoration of Mary if the Bible is catholic? (Luke 11:27-28).
- Why does it show that all Christians are priests? (1 Pet. 2:5,9).
- Why does God’s Word condemn the observance of special days if it’s catholic? (Gal. 4:9-11).
- Why does the Bible teach that all Christians are saints if it’s catholic? (1 Cor. 1:2).
- If the Bible were truly catholic, WHY does it condemn the making and adoration of objects of worship, of graven images? (Ex. 20:4-5).
- Why does the Bible teach that baptism is immersion instead of sprinkling or pouring if the Bible is catholic? (Col. 2:12).
- If the Bible is truly catholic, WHY does it forbid us to address religious leaders as “father”? (Matt. 23:9)
- If the Bible is truly catholic, why does it teach that Christ is the only foundation and not the apostle Peter? (1 Cor. 3:11).
- Why does it address only God Himself as the “Holy Father”? (John 17:11)
- If the Bible is catholic, why does it teach that there is one mediator instead of many? (1 Tim. 2:5).
- If the Bible is catholic, why is the Bible completely silent about infant baptism, indulgence$, purgatory, confession to priests, the rosary, the mass, and many other things taught by the Catholic Church?
- If the Bible is catholic, why then did the Pope put the Bible on the Index of forbidden books in the 12th century?
EVERY breath and morsel of food you’ve ever received was from GOD, not your stupid religion. WHO died on that cross for you? Jesus Christ did. Repent and follow Jesus – and not the devil’s religion which exists for one purpose – to lead you to hell.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | The Catholic church | “MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH” [podcast] | Did Mary Die for Our Sins? [podcast] | SATAN IN THE VATICAN | The Chosen and Jonathan Roumie Exposed [podcast] | Peace with God
Paul’s Prophetic Vision of Heretical Wolves Flooding the Church World During the Whole New Testament Era [podcast]
The Surrender of the Cross [podcast]
Sola Scriptura vs the Catholic Church and its Traditions [podcast]
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In a Small Prison Cell, Justin was about to Commit Suicide … [podcast]
John Wesley on Calvinism, Once Saved Always Saved, and Conditional Security
Why Did God Give Us His Word? [podcast]
Paul’s Prophetic Vision of Heretical Wolves Flooding the Church World During the Whole New Testament Era [podcast]
Beware of “Private Interpretation” [podcast]
Beware of the Hebrew Roots Judaizing Snakes! [podcast]
The Highest Form of His Creation
The Flesh will Never be Reformed it Must be Crucified [podcast]
The High Treason of False Leaders [podcast]
Direction in God’s Word? [podcast]
Can and Will God Use You? [podcast]
A PLACE CALLED HELL [podcast]
Arrogant Bible Correctors Rebuked
“Pastors According to Mine Heart” [podcast]
Nicolaitan Nightmare [podcast]
Sola Scriptura vs the Catholic Church and its Traditions [podcast]
Paul’s Prophetic Vision of Heretical Wolves Flooding the Church World During the Whole New Testament Era [podcast]
The Surrender of the Cross [podcast]
Sola Scriptura vs the Catholic Church and its Traditions [podcast]
America2 years agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
- Articles3 years ago
Children being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
- Articles9 years ago
Self-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
- Apostasy3 years ago
SHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True
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