True Success for the Born Again Believer
Joshua 1:8
TRUE SUCCESS
Framing our own worlds? Numerous or most “success” teachings, whether the speaker/author claims Christianity or not, will often quote and make use of Scripture in their speeches and books. These “experts” will use selected portions of the Bible like Prov. 23:7: “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he”; 29:18: “Where there is no vision, the people perish”; 18:20-21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Though Bible verses are utilized, it is not with the Christian world view nor intent that the Bible, God’s Word, is the final authority for divine knowledge and that its clear message is relationship with its Author – which begins with the essential of acknowledging one has sinned against God and repentance (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 20:21, etc.).
Here is a mere sampling of some of the self-development, personal “success” books available today.
- The Power Within You
- YOUR Best Life NOW
- The Purpose Driven Life (not Spirit Led)
- Think and Grow Rich
- Self Love
- Psycho Cybernetics
- How To Win Friends and Influence People
Are these book titles not indicative of the focus of these writings? These are philosophies which fill the minds of millions, including many who call themselves Christians. This type of godless philosophy is expected among those who don’t know the LORD but should be clearly rejected among believers whose trust is in Christ alone. Perhaps the Bible is referenced by some “success” coaches in the attempt to justify certain actions and draw in their audiences. Whatever the reason they may quote the Bible, it doesn’t mean they honor the LORD it reveals, and the central message communicated through their use of God’s Word is not intended to honor Him. In fact, a relationship with the LORD is avoided because such would require humility, repentance, change.
Using God’s words and refusing to give Him the honor for it is thievery. These teachers are stealing from and making use of the words of the God they refuse to serve in spirit and in truth. Many of the verses from the Bible used (out of context) are those which concern the thinking and the power of the tongue. Yet, have you noticed that these messages purposely exclude any slight glimpse of submission to the Author of the Words of Life they are quoting? A “success” message that excludes the LORD and empowers men instead of God, is Luciferic (Is. 14:12-14). This is the ultra-popular message that trains people to trust in their own inner ability or self-worth. People are being taught that they can speak into existence their own desired end and think to grow rich or become “successful.” They are being taught that they are “little gods.” The “little gods” teaching fosters the notion that one is in control of his own universe and can therefore think himself or speak himself into the success he so desires. This is rebellion and many of God’s people have bought into it. Many desire “godhood” that is, to be in control of their own lives, destinies, etc.
BABEL: SUCCESS WITHOUT GOD?
Isn’t the message of “unity without God” the sin we see committed at the tower of Babel, where men sought in unity to frame their own world, apart from the LORD? (See Gen. 11.) This same age-old rebellion still exists within sinful hearts that refuse to truly submit wholeheartedly to their Creator. So many who claim Jesus as Savior still retain beliefs, CD’s, books, and materials from people who are clearly teachers of godless rebellion. These teachings clearly exclude the Almighty from the success formula, just as Nimrod did at Babel. Many of those who teach such are the modern-day Nimrods and are anchored within the Christian community, dispersing these poisonous teachings in pulpits and through various mediums of communication.
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly” (Ps. 1:1). Look closely at this statement from the LORD. He didn’t say that the counsel of the ungodly wasn’t at times true, but that we are not to walk in the counsel of any person who is not clearly speaking as from His eternal truth—the Bible (1 Pet. 4:10-11). One may speak truth and even claim to be Christian and yet not possess the fruit of a true believer as defined in holy Scripture (Mt. 7:15-23; 1 Jn. 4:1-4; etc.). “Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD” (Jer. 17:5). If we desire to be blessed, we must rid our minds and libraries of all ungodly counsel, even that which claims to be Christian (comes in the name of the LORD yet doesn’t pass the Biblical acid test). Why do those who claim to be Christians, seek the world’s teachers and teachings, when they have the very Word of the all wise, eternally existent God? Isn’t this ludicrous and completely inconsistent with Biblical Christianity? Jesus asks: “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” (Lk. 6:46). What success could there be outside of the Alpha and Omega? What great success there is in the LORD’s “so great salvation”! (See Heb. 2:3.)
DIVINE PRESCRIPTION FOR SUCCESS
True success is knowing, loving and obeying the One who made us. This is the heartbeat of all who are seeking first His kingdom and righteousness (Mt. 6:33), and not ourselves; to think according to His Word, and to speak His words, not our own that are crafted according to how we want our lives to turn out. He told us to follow exactly what He told us and that such would result in real success, both now and forever (2 Tim. 3:16; Josh. 1:8; etc.).
Note carefully what the Almighty tells us about “good success” and being “prosperous”: “This book of the law (God’s written Word) shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Josh. 1:8). “THEN”— after you begin to speak, meditate upon and observe to do all His counsel, yes, HIS COUNSEL, your way will be made by Him to be prosperous and successful.
The word “success” appears only one time in the Bible and is directly connected to God’s written Word (Josh. 1:8). Real success occurs when the believer does not allow God’s Word to depart from his mouth, meditates upon it, and puts it into practice in his daily life. Our Father told us that in honoring Him, we were to fast (abstain from) our own words and speak His words: “…and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words” (Is. 58:13). This author positively believes in speaking and thinking the right words and thinking the right thoughts—which are all in God’s Word (Josh. 1:8; Php. 4:8; 1 Pet. 1:13). God owns true success, not mere men. He is the One who promotes to real success (Ps. 75:5-6).
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” – Psalm 1:1-3
God blesses the man who does not walk in the supposed “success” counsel of those who exclude the LORD Jesus Christ from their lives and teachings— “the ungodly.” Such is antichrist (against or in place of Christ). The “blessed” man is the one whose “delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night” (Ps. 1). God’s written Word is His will and plan for your life. Learn, memorize and meditate upon it and you will experience real success both now and forever.
COUNTERFEIT SUCCESS / WHAT SUCCESS IS NOT
Using God’s Word while rejecting Him is error. Is this not the “pride of life”? (See 1 Jn. 2:15-17.) Didn’t Satan utilize God’s Word in the desert when tempting Jesus? (See Lk. 4.) And we know he has no relationship with Christ. Did our LORD not warn us that there will be “many” (who were leaders in their earthly life) who say to Him on Judgment Day that they did many works in His name and yet they didn’t get to know Him in their earthly life? What will be their eternal end?
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” – Matthew 7:21-23
Supposed “success” without Christ, the Creator and Redeemer, is no success at all, but rather rebellion. It says, “I don’t need God, I can make my own way and secure my own success and future!” “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. 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” (Col. 2:8-10).
Using Scripture for their own benefit, the “success experts” teachings normally go along these lines: “As a person thinks so is he and as he speaks his life will be— negative or positive. So self-concocted verbalized affirmations are to be devised to cast the vision and goals essential to success.” What is eliminated in these “success” teachings is the LORD Himself and true trust in Him. Those who truly know Christ are not ashamed of Him: “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed” (Rom. 10:11). Trusting in the LORD would include not leaning to our own understanding by speaking our own words in an attempt to frame our own world/path/success, but rather by speaking His words and obeying His immutable vision recorded in holy Scripture (Josh. 1:8; Prov. 3:5-6; Hab. 2:2; Ps 33:11).
The vision He would have us to covet, internalize, possess and enact would be that recorded in His Word. His Word is His vision. Do you have His vision in your heart? “And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it” (Hab. 2:2). God’s “vision” for our lives is written and “plain” and clearly the path for the disciple of Christ to “run” on, as he “readeth it.” Praise His holy name forevermore! We have His “vision” in writing. “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law (God’s Word), happy is he” (Prov. 29:18). The LORD has bestowed upon us the beautiful treasures of His Word which paints His vision upon the tables of our hearts in living color!
Oh, How Great He is! “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations” (Ps. 33:11). God’s written counsel is His will. Our own words, crafted out of our own desires—apart from God—originate out of our will, not His. Thousands of books line bookstore shelves filled with godless philosophies and visions that call people to worship at the altar of self. How limiting! How narrow! How futile! How empty! King David, rich with God’s love and earthly wealth, made God’s Word His ultimate riches: “The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver” (Ps. 119:72). Job counted God’s Word more valuable than the food necessary to his body: “Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12).
If we truly follow the One who made and saved us, we will cultivate an ever-deepening love for the riches of His counsel and employ verbal affirmations from His Word. “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth” (Jos. 1:8). As we are made teachable, we realize that His thoughts are higher and superior to ours (Is. 55:8-11). Confessing His words for the right reason is powerful (Prov. 18:20-21). He instructed us to do such (Col. 3:16; Josh. 1:8). His thoughts and ways are higher than ours and it is His words that never return void (Is. 55:8-9).
TWO KINDS OF RICHES
“Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the LORD’s wrath” (Zeph. 1:18). Many who occupy leadership positions in the church world are teaching the age-old doctrine of covetousness and even using God’s Word to justify it. This should not be a surprise in light of the Holy Spirit’s prophecy through Peter:
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily (secretly) shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious (destructive) ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned (fictitious) words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not” (2 Pet. 2:1-3).
For years I was sucked up into this greed gospel movement. While the perpetrators of these teachings claim to be “Word” people, they do not approach the Bible from a full-counsel perspective. In fact, it is utterly amazing and dishonest how they completely avoid certain Bible texts which would damper their message of greed and ability to “make merchandise” of their audiences. For example, they purposely dodge this following New Testament text:
“Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” – 1 Timothy 6:5-12
By not embracing the full-counsel of the LORD’s Word, these men are leading the undiscerning down a path that leads to deception, despair and ultimately destruction (Eph. 5:5).
Only the selfish, cross-less, wicked hearted person judges, grades, measures others by what they do or do not have (Luke 12:15; James 2:1-5).
Among the many CDs and books these leaders produce and sell, never are the words of our LORD heard as recorded in Luke 12:15: “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” While financial success in this life is not necessarily an indication of one’s state with God, it is not the consuming focus of the genuine child of God. In fact, Christ told us that seldom a rich man enters into His kingdom.
“And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” – Matthew 10:23-25
Why do the vast majority of “success” messages leave out the very words of Christ? What do these “experts” want to hide from their audiences? What don’t they want you to know?
KINGDOM FOCUS
“And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist (knew) ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” (Lk. 2:49). His “Father’s business” was obviously not laying up earthly treasures, otherwise we would see Him doing such in the Scriptures. To the contrary, Christ possessed little in the way of earthly goods or real estate, even though He made and owned it all. “And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (Lk. 9:58). In keeping with the King of the kingdom, let us focus on being utilized to build His kingdom (not our own) in this late hour.
All our needs and even desires will be met as we seek His kingdom first (Php. 4:19; Mk 11:22-26). The LORD cares about and desires to fill and grant our desires. As we are fully given to Him, our desires will be His desires. “The desire of the righteous shall be granted” (Prov. 10:24). “Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them” (Mk. 11:24); “Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant” (Ps. 35:27); “For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly” (Ps. 84:11). To those who gave of their substance to the work of the ministry, the Holy Spirit promised: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Php. 4:19). When we take care of God’s business, will He not take care of us? “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Mt. 6:33).
Those seeking Real Success should occupy themselves with the business of the King and His kingdom and not the obtaining of temporal wealth that will not be transferred into the next life. “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity” (Eccl. 5:10). So many fool themselves into believing that they need to have earthly monies in order to be fruitful in the LORD’s work. Nonsense. Jesus Himself didn’t have much money, did He? Yet, no one before nor since has impacted the peoples of the earth as our LORD. At one point during His earthly ministry, Jesus and His twelve didn’t have the money needed to pay taxes, so he sent Peter to catch a fish which would have a gold coin in its mouth to pay the taxes (Mt. 17:27).
REAL SUCCESS IS WALKING IN HUMILITY AND LOVE
“Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth” (1 Cor. 10:24). Real Success begins with humility. Realizing that we are created beings fashioned by the infinite hands and mind of our loving Creator is a starting place for our standing in light of Him. Personally discovering a glimpse of His magnitude will help any prideful heart to adjust itself in the proper role as the creation under the Creator. The Almighty would ask: “Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding” (Job 38:4). This very eternal Creator and living Word told us to “love one another.” The two commandments that envelope all others were given us by our LORD: “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Mt. 22:37-39). Real Success is walking in love with God and pouring out His love to His precious people. This requires entering into the place of humility.
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 2:3-5
Thirteen times God’s Word tells us to “love one another.” “Beloved, let us love one ANOTHER: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 Jn. 4:7-8).
Money is not the ultimate provision of God. In fact, many times our LORD warned against the “deceitfulness of riches,” covetousness and idolatry (Mk. 4:19; Luke 12:13-21; Eph. 5:5, 1 Tim. 6:3-12, etc.). The greatest provision is the cross and blood of Christ and the love He has placed in our hearts “whereby we cry, Abba, Father” (Rom. 8:15). “The greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor. 13:13).
THE RICHES OF HUMILITY AND SELF-DENIAL
Here is where real success begins: “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Lk. 9:23). Jesus Christ taught self-denial. In stark contrast, most “success” teachings today teach self-love, self-actualization and self-esteem. Any teaching that is self-centered is Luciferic, regardless of who is teaching it. The pride of life or self is what got lucifer kicked out of Heaven and forever separated from the One who made him an angel to lead worship (Ezek. 28). It was Lucifer who attempted to exalt himself to the level of the Most High just before becoming the devil (Satan) and being violently thrust out of Heaven by the Almighty (Lk. 10:18). From Isaiah 14:12-15, we know that any teaching that leads people to trust in self is of satanic origin.
The LORD has instructed those who will follow Him to deny the self-life and spend their energies lifting others up. “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Php. 2:3-5). Following Christ requires self-denial, not the exalting of self, which is what counterfeit “success” philosophies lead people to do. God promises to lift up and promote those who live in humility before Him. “The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down” (Ps. 145:14); “By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life” (Prov. 22:4). The LORD’s route to real success is different from the world’s and all who will follow Him must separate themselves to Him in such— “Be ye separate” (2 Cor. 6:17).
Perhaps it is a parallel evil to be possessed with a disposition which glories in poverty as if it has anything to do with righteousness or humility (in God’s economy). Wouldn’t this be called false humility? Such a poverty mindset would contradict some of the LORD’s greatest patriarchs who were embellished with earthly wealth. Yet, the true riches are shown to lie within the infinitely rich Person of Christ and His character etched upon one’s heart and exemplified in their life. “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Php. 2:7). Our LORD came to earth as a humble servant, not a spoiled prince who possessed endless earthly riches. He came to accomplish His Father’s will and then sent us to do the same.
“Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. ...Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.” – John 4:34; 6:27
Is this what your life is about? Are you after the Father’s heart and seeking to do His will in all things? To be Christ-like is to have humility whether rich or poor at present in this life, and to be active about being filled to fulfill His will in this short life (Ps 90:12). Developing and Maintaining a humble and teachable heart and disposition is essential to walking in this success. This He leaves up to us: “Humble yourselves” (Jas. 4:6-10).
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” – Matthew 18:1-5
While the world’s people run greedily after the fleeting riches of this life, the true disciple abides in the riches of Christ’s redemption and holds eternity in view at all times. “Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven” (Prov. 23:4-5). The riches of the kingdom child is Christ. He is the exceeding great reward of the one who has a heart after the LORD. The true disciple allows nothing to deter him from such a love nor remove his feet from the narrow path on which he treads. His main prayer and cry is not for more money but for more of the riches of Christ. He glories in the riches of the cross of Christ and not in earthly wisdom that is “earthly, sensual, devilish” (James 3:15).
“Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.” – Jeremiah 9:23-24
THE REWARDER
To look to earthly riches or any other author than our Creator and Redeemer, is to commit spiritual adultery. Every time Israel (our example 1 Cor. 10:11) did this, they were miserably defeated by their enemies. God lifts His holy hand of protection and blessing from any person who goes after strange gods. Gold and earthly wisdom that does not originate from the Wisdom of the Ages, is deadly. “Woe to them that go down to Egypt (the world) for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!” (Is. 31:1). This should stand as a holy, piercing, and fear-inducing rebuke to the very notion or thought of going to any other person or system of wisdom than the LORD.
Real Success lies in the hand of the LORD alone and He doles it out to those who seek Him with a whole heart. Their hearts are truly engaged in Him (Jer. 30:21). “Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant. And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long” (Ps. 35:27-28); “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb. 11:6). So many Christians today are simply down and out because they have refused to hunger and thirst for the LORD (Mt. 5:6). Everything else seems to be more important to them than knowing the LORD deeper and learning and living His Word. They somehow believe that they can work things out for themselves and yet, year after year passes them by because they have not embarked upon knowing God’s Word and pressing in to know Him more intimately, which is the foundation for real success.
When we are not in high gear pursuing the LORD, the sins of the flesh inevitably take over in our lives. This is exactly what kept Israel out of their promised land, and this is exactly what will keep us out of the promised land of milk and honey where the LORD has ordained for us to live. According to 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, five sins keep people from their promised land: lust (v. 6); idolatry (v. 7); fornication (v. 8); tempting Christ (v. 9); and murmuring (v. 10). Are you willing to seek the LORD and be delivered from those sinful ways and embrace Him? “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin” (Rom. 6:6-7).
Are you willing to eradicate all idols out of your life, giving honor to His holy Word and its ability to cleanse your heart and life from all that displeases Him? (See Eph. 5:26.) “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” (Hos. 10:12); “O Jerusalem, wash thine heart from wickedness, that thou mayest be saved. How long shall thy vain thoughts lodge within thee?” (Jer. 4:14). Friend, please remember always that there will never be real success until there is real repentance first. The LORD refreshes and blesses those who live a repentant life (Acts 3:19,26).
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH
“And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith” (Lk. 17:5). Here the twelve were asking the God of the universe to “increase” their “faith.” You will note that there is no hint in this passage that the twelve original disciples of Christ sought to believe in themselves more fully. This author visited a church fellowship recently and was listening to some good preaching … until the preacher said that we should “believe in ourselves.” The Son of God instructed us to “Have faith in God (not self)” (Mk. 11:22). Is not self-trust the message of the new age movement and all the cults—to look within because all you need is inside you? Wasn’t this the first lie Satan told to the man and woman in the garden … and is still using? Didn’t he convince them that they didn’t need God because they were sufficient in and of themselves? (See Gen. 3:1-5; 1 Cor. 10:13.) Isn’t this the message of all of alienated mankind (the world) who are not trusting in the total sufficiency of Jesus Christ? The complete absence of even one instruction in holy Scripture to trust self should tell us something. Isn’t self-reliance the very thing that separates the saved and the unsaved? Wouldn’t self-trust be the antithesis of trusting in God? Why would we need to “trust in the LORD with ALL thine heart” (Prov. 3:5-6) if we were sufficient in ourselves? Why would we need God if we have all we need inside us … without Him?
“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. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” – Galatians 2:20-21
Have you noticed that this self-trust message has infiltrated every segment of society and nearly all motivational communications? This is to be expected among those who are without God (Eph. 2:12). Most unfortunately it has greatly consumed the church world through the psychologizing of the faith, and most people in the church world do not realize this. Most modern-day church goers believe that they need a mixture of faith in God and self-trust and self-reliance. Yes, we have our part in many things—but not justification. This is the free gift of God provided through Christ’s one sacrifice (Jn. 19:30; Heb. 10:12). In our daily lives, the LORD calls us to use what He gave us with all diligence while simultaneously trusting Him in and for all things (Php. 2:12-13; Prov. 10:4; 1 Cor. 15:10, etc.). “In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge” (Prov. 14:26). Our “place of refuge” is in “the fear of the LORD” and it is there we have “strong confidence.”
Some have even taught that “God believes in you.” How could this possibly be in the light of what He establishes in His Word about mankind (doctrine of man)? No doubt that the LORD knows who His good stewards are, but to say that “God believes in us” is unfounded and can be misleading. The LORD is all-knowing, and the following is what He tells us concerning fallen mankind.
THE DOCTRINE OF MAN: A FOUNDATIONAL BIBLE DOCTRINE
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jer. 17:9); “Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah (meditate upon this deeply)” (Ps. 39:5); “For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not” (Eccl. 7:20); “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one” (Rom. 3:10). When we truly understand the doctrine of sinful man, we realize the utter futility of placing confidence in him.
“Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.” – John 2:23-25
Notice here that Christ “knew what was in man” therefore He “did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men.” Every human being has faith in something or someone. Would you agree that faith is only as valid as the object or person in which it is placed? Why place trust in any other than the eternal and all-knowing, omnipotent, God and Creator of all things? “Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more” (2 Cor. 5:16); “For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh” (Php. 3:3).
The “manifold grace and wisdom of God” are totally sufficient to make His children excel in this life and be pleasing to Him in all things and at all times (Eph. 3:10; 1 Pet. 4:10). His surpassing greatness consumes and elevates all those who are pursuing ever-deepening relationship with Him, possess genuine humility and truly trust in Him for all things (Jas. 4:6-10; Ps 75:5-6). His grace is sufficient for them. “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me” (1 Cor. 15:10); “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Cor. 12:9).
Let’s ask God to “increase our faith” in Him and diminish all self-trust which has never led to anything except failure, misery and sinfulness (Lk. 17:5). Jesus Christ told us to “Have faith in God,” not man/self (Mk. 11:22). Paul, the apostle of the LORD said “We…have no confidence in the flesh” (Php. 3:3). Self-trust and self-reliance are the antithesis of trust in God. Why would we need Him, if we are sufficient in and of ourselves because we can somehow draw power from within (as many teach)?
All must choose. If one claims to be a Christian and yet trusts in self, he is deceived. All godless philosophies foster such rebellion. “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve” (Mt. 4:10). God requires faith from those who will please Him, and He will exclusively and abundantly reward those who look to Him and not themselves or some other idol. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb. 11:6).
What extraordinary privilege to be granted grace to have faith in the loving and eternal, unchanging LORD who is, and was, and is to come! God truly is love! (1 Jn. 4:8,16).
SUCCESS THAT ONLY THE LORD CAN GIVE
In the pain and agony of successfully completing the mission His Father sent Him to accomplish, our LORD said: “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done” (Lk. 22:42). True success is walking in the will of God, no matter what else is occurring. The ultra-popular “success” message only uses selected portions of God’s Word while excluding Him from the equation—His own message. True submission to the Person of the LORD Jesus Christ never enters the distorted picture which has been cunningly crafted to keep Him on the outside.
In this rebellion, do we not see the same thing that Satan told the man and woman in the garden, “Ye shall be as gods”? (See Gen. 3:5.) The tempter’s message is “You will be as gods so you will not need your Maker anymore.” So many are being sucked into this lie because of their neglect to lay their lives in God’s hands. Many want to be in control of their own lives, as did Lucifer just before he became Satan and was ejected from the presence of the LORD (Is. 14:12-14; Lk 10:18). Hearts that are not submitted to the LORD (Jas. 4:6-10) are still in control for themselves. They have not yet given that control to their Maker and so, will go about trying to design their own lives instead of trusting in the one Life-Giver to lead and guide them.
Many do all this using His words and claiming to know Him. Often, people will even use God’s Word to justify their own rebellion against His lordship. “Having a form of godliness (outwardly), but denying the power (authority, rule) thereof: from such turn away” (2 Tim. 3:5). Note that the Holy Spirit tells us here to “turn away” from those who claim Christianity and yet do not allow the lordship of Christ. To detach ourselves from a relationship with our Creator while using His Word for our own personal purposes, is simply not right. The true child of God is not to buy into this deceitful message that fosters further rebellion in the hearts of men. “And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple … But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me” (Lk. 14:27; 19:27).
The life of the true disciple of Christ is all about laying down his own right to rule and allowing the LORD Himself to live His life in and through that vessel (Gal. 2:21; Jn. 3:30, 12:24-26; Rom. 8:11; Col. 3:3). God calls those who will be His to give up the right to themselves. This is what true faith is: “Trust in the LORD (not self) with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him (not self), and he shall direct thy paths” (Prov. 3:5-6); “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5); “The LORD (not me!) will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands” (Ps. 138:2); “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Php. 2:13).
Thank the LORD for the blessing of being successful in all things in this life, including monetarily, but most of all, being successful in eternity by being “kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation” (1 Pet. 1:5). We must remain in the way of the LORD, in the narrow way which leads to life … and that few find (Matt. 7:13-14; 2 Pet. 2:20-21).
The true success of the believer is God’s life indwelling his and conforming him to the perfect will and image of Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:29). When Christ soon returns, He said that His reward will be with Him. In other words, He is our reward.
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” Revelation 22:12-16
The LORD gave Abraham, the father of faith, a vision of how He was Abraham’s “exceeding great reward.” “After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward” (Gen. 15:1). The vision our LORD Jesus Christ would impart to us is that He alone is our “exceeding great reward,” and that He is coming soon. The child of God should examine and beware of every teaching or influence that would seek to draw him away from this truth.
“Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (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: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly [sinful appetites], and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.” – Philippians 3:17-21
In the end, what will be the fate of those who die in control of their own lives, having refused to deny themselves, lay down their own will and truly submit their hearts to the only Savior? “Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver” (Ps. 50:22).
PRAYER: LORD, please forgive me for having myself as a false god before You and seeking my own way instead of Your perfect way. Please forgive me for not loving You in truth and therefore obeying Your Word/will. LORD, please grant me success Your way, not my own way – meticulously, astutely following your every instruction in Your Word, just as did Abel, Noah, and Moses. LORD, right this moment, I lay my life in Triune holy hands. Please grant me Your grace to live in true success as You have willed and will bring forth in me. Heavenly Father, please live Your life through me. In Jesus’ holy Name, amen.
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Abiding
FROM THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT by Jon Crane
By Jon Crane
“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5
A life surrendered to Christ and led by the Holy Spirit is made able to become a child of the kingdom of God (John 1:12-13; Romans 8:14-16; etc.).
The grace that saved us: the blood of Jesus Christ at Calvary is our atoning sacrifice and become the entrance into the eternal kingdom of God for the purpose of living from the new creation we have become in Christ (born-again John 3:3-7; John 15:1-5). Putting off our old man with his worldly mindset by washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:3-7).
Let us therefore, press into this inward holy life of living faith.
“But be ye doers of the word, and NOT hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a DOER of the work (Matthew 7:24-25), this man shall be blessed in his deed.” James 1:22-25
More Thoughts…
“Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath (vengeance belongeth to the LORD who created us all
9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD (actively doing God’s will in their lives; making full proof of the hope of redemption which they have by exercising their faith by works of love – Matthew 22:37-40; 1 Corinthians 13; etc.), they shall inherit the earth.
10 For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.
11 But the MEEK shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5); and shalt delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” Psalms 37:7-11
When pressed above measure read Psalms. 94.
Remember whose you are …
“And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.” 1 Corinthians 3:23
Take heart…
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:11-14
If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Savior yet and would like to make peace with God…
“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:15-18
Romans 3
“Moreover, brethern, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein in ye stand;
2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
“Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith unto them who are under the law: that every mouth (Jew, Gentile, Muslim, etc.) may be stopped, and ALL the world may become guilty before God.
20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
21 But now the righteousness of God, without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith (Rom. 1:16-17) of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
26 To declare, I say, at this time (today if you hear his voice: Heb. 3:7,15 conviction in your heart) his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” Romans 3:19-26
Confession made…
“But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:8-13
Call upon Jesus Christ according to faith and be saved!
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17
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Articles
Are Tongues Demonic? [podcast]
Believing lies will ever hinder the blessing of God on our lives. If you are born again and yet not yet baptized with the Holy Ghost, you will forever lack the divine power God wants you to walk in. Acts 1:8 says what?
Tongues are not of the devil and did not pass away! Get over yourself! YOU are not in control, sinner.
At times we hear well meaning believers (perhaps) saying that devils can give you tongues. hmmmmm My reply to such would be as follows:
That could be true and yet…. Jesus and His holy apostles never made such a statement. They DID though diligently testify of the baptism with the Holy Ghost and made sure every believer knew about it and were invited to receive it…. as in Acts 8:14-17 which we will look at in a moment.
The Misuse of Tongues Does Nothing to Negate the Genuine Baptism with the Holy Spirit and gifts of the Spirit ….. which the LORD never revoked and intends for His New Testament believers to receive.
For the record: By the grace of Christ alone, He saved and filled this once wretched man, this disciple with His Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38). This disciple is a whole-Gospel, full-Bible believer by Jesus’ grace. Like many today realize, authentic Pentecost is not the same as what is transpiring in the false charismatic or NAR cults which are a demonic mockery and counterfeit of authentic Pentecost. NO, I am not part of any organized church such as UPC, etc.
The Bible foretold of this hour of great apostasy as the return of our LORD draws nigh. Specifically speaking of those who claim to be Christ’s, the Word tells us that many of these professors would deny the power of their Creator to guide them, fill them, and be their all sufficiency (Colossians 1-2). This is the damnable sin of unbelief (Hebrews 3:12-14; Revelation 21:8).
“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” 2 Timothy 3:5
Saints, beware of any person speaking against the Holy Ghost or the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
While the FRUIT of the Spirit is most important because it can only be born out of an abiding relationship with Christ (John 15; Galatians 5:22-23), that in no way negates the baptism with the Holy Spirit and the gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:7-10). Paul says to covet those gifts and that’s in order to be used of God to help others: “But covet earnestly the best gifts…” (1 Cor 12:31). We must not make the classic mistake of negating anything from God’s Word and especially because some have abused things. Never abandon a biblical truth to abuse. Never negate something the Word teaches because others have twisted or misused it.
“Identifying the Word of Faith and NAR (New Apostolic) heretical movements isn’t to say all Pentecostals believe this or are false. I also believe many things to be examples of false dilemma/ dichotomy fallacies where people are deceived and assume they must pick between one of two deceptions when more than those two options exist. The truth is the whole of God’s Word.” Jason Frost
One writer notes:
“Is John MacArthur a heretic when he teaches the entire Pentecostal movement worldwide (over 400 million) is of Satan? Isn’t blasphemy of the Holy Spirit when one attributes the gift of God to Satan? When MacArthur boldly teaches all speaking in tongues done today is demonic he has no idea of the consequences he’s facing!
Beware saints. Paul encouraged all the saints to speak in tongues (1 Corinthians 12:1-11). He also instructed us how to properly give and receive an interpretation of tongues in a church service (1 Corinthians 14:23-33). Any believer can pray and receive the gift of tongues. Not all have the gift to give an interpretation of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:30). I cherish speaking in tongues because this gift was given to me by Jesus (Acts 1:5). Yet, pastors like John MacArthur, Charles Stanley, and David Jeremiah, have convinced millions of Christians that speaking in tongues is demonic. The truth is, God desires every believer to be baptized in the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues (Acts 1:5; 2:4; Mark 16:17; 1 Corinthians 12:10; 14:39).
After Jesus healed a blind man who was demon-possessed, the Pharisees accused Him of doing it by the power of Beelzebub (Matthew 12:22-32). They were speaking evil of the Holy Spirit by attributing the power of God to the Devil. Jesus called this blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; 19:6). This is why anyone saying the gift of tongues is satanic is blaspheming the Holy Spirit. Ministers believing in such heresy usually teach the Holy Spirit only speaks through the scriptures. Such deception is grieving the ministry of the Spirit. I can’t imagine living my Christian walk without being able to hear from the Spirit of God. He not only gave me the idea of this book but spoke to my spirit many times while I was writing it.”
Jesus says His sheep hear His voice (John 10). Though the Holy Ghost would never lead contrary to the Scriptures, He has a living, breathing relationship with each of Christ’s saints and leads us daily. Sometimes those impressions and promptings are very specific. In fact, we see this throughout the New Testament Scriptures. Remember when Ananias was told by the LORD to go to a certain street and find Saul? “And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth” (Acts 9:11). Also, remember how the LORD spoke (without but according to Scripture) to Phillip? – “And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. 27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia…“ (Acts 8:26-27). The examples are all over the New Testament. God bless you all. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God” (Romans 8:14).
How could any true, born again believer possibly argue with the following? Decades into the New Testament era, Jesus’ apostle Paul wrote:
- “I would that ye all spake with tongues … “ 1 Corinthians 14:5
- “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:” 1 Corinthians 14:18
- “forbid not to speak with tongues.” 1 Corinthians 14:39
Clearly, after reading these things Paul uttered, we can conclude that to say tongues is demonic would be to declare that Christ’s apostle Paul was demonic.
“Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. 13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” 1 Corinthians 14:12-15
Of speaking in tongues and the error of teaching against it, Tim McCullough writes:
“Why can people not see this??? Paul plainly said he spoke in tongues more than all the Corinthians, albeit in privacy – between himself and the Lord. There is clearly a spiritual language that God has given to believers for non-corporate use – but for our own faith and benefit. MacArthur makes a deadly error confusing the two, and worse yet – writing it all off as demonic. This is a DEADLY false doctrine as it emboldens professing believers against the Word of God in the most dangerous area Jesus spoke of – attributing a work of Gods Spirit to the devil. This is a venomous error and John MacArthur desperately needs God to grant him repentance.” | John MacArthur Exposed
It seems reasonable that the first thing God takes over when HE immerses you with His presence is the most “unruly member” (James 3). Thank the LORD for that! God bless you all.
The baptism with the Holy Ghost and the gifts of the Spirit of God are vital, non-negotiable components of our LORD’s New Testament church plan/program. Are you baptized with the Holy Spirit? Dare we take away from the LORD’s stated, New Testament program? (Revelation 22:18-19)
MODERN TONGUES?
Jesus promises to give the HOLY Spirit and no evil spirit/demon to His children when they ask to be filled:
“If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” Luke 11:11-13
The misuse of tongues does nothing to negate (diminish) the divinely ordained, genuine baptism with the Holy Spirit. If tongues after Pentecost are false, that clearly makes the apostle Paul false. Decades after the Day of Pentecost, Paul said things that establish that the baptism with the Holy Ghost and praying in the Spirit is for all of Christ’s disciples throughout the New Testament era until Jesus returns. Certainly the following statements made by Paul are not only for the use of tongues in a group setting:
“I would that ye all spake with tongues … “ 1 Corinthians 14:5
“I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:” 1 Corinthians 14:18
“forbid not to speak with tongues.” 1 Corinthians 14:39
The counterfeit charismatic movement (word of faith and NAR – new apostolic reformation delusion) only further lends itself to the proof of tongues being for all believers today. Satan can only counterfeit what is authentic in order to twist and misled and distort and confuse.
PENTECOST, the baptism with the Holy Ghost is a non-negotiable, essential, central component of Christ’s New Testament program-yet not the things added by sinful wolves today. We are whole Gospel believers which would include discerning and rejecting additives – yet never diminishing aught, letting go of the true Pentecostal, Holy Ghost baptism Christ’s gives to His own. NOT the denomination but the New Testament reality. When exposing the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation)/Bethel warlocks and their witchcraft, you may at times be called a cessationist by those deceived by the enemy of souls. A cessationist is one who erroneously believes that the bless-ed power of the Holy Ghost was only for the earliest followers of Jesus. False. Yet, the authentic baptism with the Holy Spirit is never manifested in God’s Word as that which is anything except pure, holy, and “in order.” – “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Being baptized (immersed, clothed upon) with the Holy Spirit will always lead to more divine power to be holy, set apart unto Christ and not to misuse for things not sanctioned in and by His Word. Keeping it biblical!
“Calvinism is a lie and tongues are not demonic. The devil has a counterfeit for everything even tongues and the Holy Spirit. His counterfeit of the Holy Spirit is kundalini which is strange fire of the queen of heaven. Why do people get kundalini in many churches? It’s because they want the gifts of the Spirit without abiding in Jesus, wanting more of Him, and walking in holiness. They reject the daily cross and holiness while they selfishly want gifts from God for their own self-serving purposes. The gifts of the Spirit have not ceased.” Ryan Waldrop
Danielle Mangram writes:
“He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. Acts 19:2-6 KJV
The Holy Spirit is not demonic! That is blasphemy against the Spirit of God. There is demonic tongues but when one is filled with the Holy Spirit of God he speaks to him in a language of angels. The Spirit of God was promised to us from our Lord Jesus Christ. It did not go away. He says anything you ask in my name the father will give it to you (Luke 11:11-13). The problem is disbelief and doctrines of men, traditions. Jesus did not preform miracles because of their disbelief. If we as the body would just believe in Him truthfully, the church would arise so powerful. Unfortunately man and devils got in the way. I thank God that He is mightier than all that, in Jesus’ name, hallelujah.”
Did Christ’s Apostles Count the Baptism of the Spirit Important?
When the apostles heard that some people in Samaria had been saved, they counted the promised Holy Ghost baptism so vitally important that they sent Peter and John to see that those new Christians were filled with the Spirit.
“Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” Acts 8:14-17
After Jesus rose from the dead and was seated at the right hand of the Father, Christ’s apostles made sure when Jesus saved souls, that those newly saved saints had the opportunity to receive the full measure of the Holy Ghost – an integral part of New Testament Christianity and without which the believer cannot and will not be powerfully used of God (Acts 1:8).
Firstly, the central issue is not about tongues but about the baptism in the Holy Spirit. If one denies the volumes of Scripture on this New Testament experience then he will deny the gifts and power the divine Person of the Holy Spirit has ordained to be present among His people for the whole New Testament period (Acts 2:37-39).
After thorough study of the New Testament Scriptures, I cannot deny this gift or His divine involvement in and among His beloved people and have no desire to limit God which is sin (Psalms 78:41; 103:2; Revelation 22:18-19). In the name of Jesus and by the grace of God, I will unapologetically speak of this holy truth from the Holy Scriptures.
“Unknown” Tongues = NOT a known language.
To those who falsely claim that tongues were only for Pentecost and were all known languages……
Such is a false teaching. Beware of the false teachers. The Holy Ghost is in no one making this false claim (Ephesians 5:9).
Men don’t understand the tongues that Holy Spirit filled saints speak unless God supernaturally chooses to give one the interpretation (1 Corinthians 14). Why else would we have the word “unknown” when referring to tongues? Only God understands and those He chooses to reveal things to. This alone proves that these tongues are not any known language known of any man like those mentioned in Acts 2:1-13. This was the only time we have on record where men speaking in “tongues” was a known language of men. All other tongues are to God and inspired by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14).
The initial manifestation of tongues at Pentecost was when men heard others from other nations speak in their own tongue (Acts 2:4-8). A miracle. Yet it didn’t stop there. Notice … “tongues of men AND of angels” (1 Corinthians 13:1). Also, read closely: “For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh NOT UNTO MEN, but unto God: for NO MAN UNDERSTANDETH HIM; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries” (1 Corinthians 14:1).
In 1 Corinthians 12 the gifts of the Spirit are introduced and in 1 Corinthians 14 Paul teaches on the use and misuse of those gifts.
The gifts of the Spirit are temporal and to be accepted, facilitated in this time when God saw fit that they are needed. “That which is perfect” is Heaven and such has not yet come.
One of the two usages of speaking or praying in tongues in 1 Corinthians 14 is to edify or build up the believer (v3; Jude 20).
By divine design, those who pray in the Holy Ghost will be overflowing with the presence and power of God.
“building up yourselves”
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,” Jude 20
Edification – building up!
“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself…” 1 Corinthians 14:4
Then there is the tongue and interpretation gifts for use in the gathering of saints.
“For he that speaketh in an UNknown tongue speaketh NOT unto MEN, but unto God: for NO MAN UNDERSTANDETH him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.” 1 Corinthians 14:2
Note the word “UNknown” or not a known language of men. “For he that speaketh in an UNknown tongue speaketh NOT unto MEN, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.” (1 Corinthians 14:2)
God is also not forcing any of His precious gifts on anyone.
1 Corinthians 14:2 – “For HE THAT SPEAKETH IN AN UNKNOWN TONGUE SPEAKETH NOTTTT UNTO MEN BUT UNTO GOD: for NO MAN UNDERSTANDETH HIM; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.”
1 Corinthians 14:4 “HE THAT SPEAKETH IN AND UNKNOWN TONGUE EDIFIETH HIMSELF; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.”
“NO MAN understandeth him” and yet “in the spirit he speaketh mysteries”
When one prays in the Spirit/tongues, he is speaking mysteries. That’s what the Bible says and no mere man can explain such and only some are willing to live by faith and lean not to their own understanding.
An honest and objective look at 1 Corinthians 14 will plainly reveal that the text not once refers to any tongue known to man. The word “tongue” or “tongues” appears 13 times in this chapter (1 Corinthians 14), and not once is it referring to the languages of men such as Hebrew, Greek, Italian, Farsi, Spanish, Swahili, German, etc.
Many today ignore the Scriptures, including the whole context and truth revealed in 1 Corinthians 14, which speaks of tongues 13 times and not once speaks of tongues except for use among God’s people in corporate gatherings and in the individual lives just as the apostle Paul said that he spoke in tongues more than everyone else. Are you going to argue about Paul the apostle personally speaking in tongues? Is your pastor more authoritative than this great apostle? So, you are taking the word of vile heretics (those who taught you this lie – the Holy Spirit and Scriptures sure didn’t lead you down that road) over the apostle Paul and the LORD. Please tell those devils who taught you those lies what I stated about them.
A huge part of the problem of rejecting the fullness of the Holy Spirit is very limited learning – since Jesus sent Him to lead us into all truth (John 14:26; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 1 John 2:20, 27). Think about how this scenario plays out …. The young person grows up in an evangelical church setting where the baptism in the Spirit is denied. So, he then pursues God in his own limited strength, including going to seminary. In this “higher learning” facility, he continues to learn that he needs to accomplish the ministry in his own brain power, intellect, and feeble strength. He then gets a job as a pastor and blindly misleads those who themselves are not seeking the LORD enough to be enlightened to the New Testament teaching and experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
Why Did the LORD Grant the Gift of Tongues?
“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself … ” 1 Corinthians 14:4
“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Jude 1:20
Common Misconceptions and Scripture Twisting
“These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also.” Acts 17:6
After the tail-whipping Satan received when the earliest believers were baptized with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the enemy set out to shut it all down! Thousands of souls were being saved and Satan was being robbed. Precious eternal souls for whom Jesus died were being taken from Satan who has “the power of death” over those who are not saved out of the kingdom of darkness (Ephesians 2:1-3; Colossians 1:13-14; Hebrews 2:14). The enemy is able to exercise power over the souls of all who are unredeemed and yet, when the power of our Creator and LORD comes, Satan is utterly defeated EVERY time! God has ordained that this divine power operate in and through His people, the body of Christ. Jesus taught:
“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19
Jesus came to destroy Satan and his evil work:
“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
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8
The way Satan’s “works” are destroyed is by the power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of God’s people and this begins with the baptism in the Holy Ghost and not before (Acts 1:8). Any person who denies this Bible fact is denying Christ and His teachings.
Subtracting from God’s Word is a deadly pursuit that comes with a high and eternal price tag (Revelation 22:18-19). Stealing away the ordained relationship between Christ and His children is the work of devil-inspired wolves who are being used of Satan himself to rob the people of God of the divinely-ordained power of the LORD to be His witnesses.
“But ye shall receive power, AFTER that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Jesus taught that as His people went forth at His Great Commission command to “preach the gospel to every creature” that He would confirm “the word with signs following.” There is divine power present in the lives and preaching of all true disciples of our unchanging LORD and Savior!
What “signs” did Jesus tell us “SHALL follow them that believe”? Before Jesus answers that in His own words below, please ask yourself whether or not you truly believe Christ at His Word. Now, test the answer to that question by reading His very words:
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” Mark 16:15-20 (KJB)
Another way Satan has stolen the divine power Jesus ordained for His people is that the new versions of the Bible either completely remove or cast doubt on the whole passage above (by a note in the margin that is actually a blatant fabrication). Why? Jesus taught us here that He was going to empower us to “cast out devils” and it takes divine power to do that (Matthew 12:28-29; Acts 10:38). Now, WHO didn’t want us to know how to cast him out? I’ll give you one guess 😉
So, if Satan didn’t want us to know we are supposed to cast HIM out and that God ordains His power in us against His enemy, who must be behind the new versions and the preachers who teach against the presence, baptism, and power of the divine Person of the Holy Ghost? Satan!
Oh, and what about Matthew 17:21? Again, the new per-versions remove this verse. Some have now deceitfully added it back due to being told on.
In the NIV and NAS (except in updated 1995 version of NIV) etc., this verse is missing! And why? Read the preceding verses where Christ’s disciples couldn’t cast out a devil. In verse 21, the omitted/deleted verse, Jesus tells His people of all times how to cast out devils. He gives us the key here. Just WHO didn’t want us to know how to cast him out? One guess!
“Howbeit this kind (of devil and unbelief) goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17:21 (KJB)
Are you now seeing why millions of true disciples are burning their new versions and getting a King James Bible?
Thieving Wolves
Jesus told us that Satan has come to do three things:
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10
The lengths some go to in order to teach their own brand of false theology is astounding and yet these same pharisaical wolves stand in positions of leadership and mislead others who refuse to study to show their own selves approved before the LORD (2 Timothy 2:15). Let’s take a look at some of the examples of their lame, obvious twisting of Scripture passage in order to pervert divine truth and teach falsely:
“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth (builds up) himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. 1 Corinthians 14:4-5
The fact that prophecy is a greater of the nine gifts of the Spirit because it involves serving others, only re-establishes that serving others first is Christ’s example and will for us. Yet, this in no way negates or diminishes the fact of and need for edification of the individual in the Holy Spirit. – “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself … ” (1 Corinthians 14:4)
QUESTION RECEIVED:
“But does everyone who is saved and baptized with the Holy Spirit have the gift of tongues? 1 Corinthians 12…………30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?”
REPLY:
This is a commonly misinterpreted verse erroneously used to cheat believers out of the blessing of God. Notice how Paul puts these 2 things together: “do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?” …. this is specifically speaking of corporate gifts not the individual gift of tongues. 1 Cor 12:31 is coupling those 2 things together which means it’s speaking of corporate use of gifts not individual. Jesus says “According to your faith be it unto you.” (Matt 9:29) Remember: “I would that ye all spake with tongues … “ (1 Corinthians 14:5) … “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:” (1 Corinthians 14:18) … “forbid not to speak with tongues.” (1 Corinthians 14:39)
Okay, let’s investigate another passage that is used by deceivers who count their tradition more important than God’s Word:
“Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
The deceit of the wolves who teach against the biblical experience of tongues becomes obvious when we simply read in context the passages that address the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
“We ask God for a revival but ignore our unpardonable arrogance of refusing his gifts!” – Leonard Ravenhill
Beloved blood-washed saint, don’t let some deceptive dupe of the antichrist evangelical system rob you of your simple faith in Christ concerning what He and His apostles taught and what we see in the earliest of His believers in Acts and the New Testament Scriptures. Repent of wrongly esteeming any mere human leader’s useless seminary degree (which simply taught him how to not believe God’s Word for what it plainly states). – “Let God be true and EVERY man a liar” (Romans 3:4).
Ask yourself a few simple questions and weigh this in the light of the New Testament Scriptures:
1) If the LORD doesn’t want His people to be baptized (immersed) with His Holy Spirit, why didn’t He simply come out and tell us this?
2) If the infilling of the Spirit is not for today, why did God not simply come out and tell us so?
3) If the baptism of the Spirit passed away with the apostles and early church, why did Christ’s apostle Peter say that this gift was for every believer throughout the whole New Testament era, which includes now? See Acts 2:37-39.
From the beginning of His church, Jesus never intended for any who believe upon Him to salvation to go without the gift of the Holy Ghost. It’s only as devil-inspired religious men came in and shut down the work, power, presence, and gifts of the divine Person of the Holy Spirit that we have a deafening absence of what Christ and His holy apostles taught.
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise (of the Spirit baptism) is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call (save).” Acts 2:37-39
Is God still saving souls? Yes! Well then, according to the apostle Peter’s utterance here – the LORD is still baptizing His people with the Holy Spirit.
And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. 7 And all the men were about twelve.” Acts 19:1-7
Like these disciples, many today have not even heard of the “gift of the Holy Ghost” which is clearly for all Christ’s disciples of all times under the New Testament era (Acts 2:37-39).
Every single born again believer can be baptized with the Holy Ghost which is simply a great measure of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This is God’s will for every one of His beloved children. This is God’s desire but He will only give this gift to the disciple who believers what His Word says and asked Him sincerely for it (Luke 11:11-13). The LORD also goes so far as to assure His children that no other spirit (evil) will be allowed in the life of His child who simply asks Him for the infilling of the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:11-13). There are always those who counterfeit the divine authentic but that does nothing to erode the truth or the things of God. Jesus promised that He would only give the Holy Spirit and that no other evil spirit could enter His child:
“If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” Luke 11:11-13
Who does God give His Holy Spirit to?
“And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.” Acts 5:32
Every single authentic believer can have the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the gift of tongues in their individual life. This is God’s will. Every Christian should desire to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and to yield his whole being over to the LORD. The true body of Christ upholds Jesus Christ alone as their “Head” and must not allow sinful men who write books and speak from pulpits to hinder the full work of Christ in their lives (Colossians 2:8-10, 18-19). Millions today are being cheated out of truth and the fullness of the Spirit due to adhering to those leaders who are dangerously speaking against the work and divine Person of the Holy Ghost.
“Ask and ye shall receive that your joy may be full” says Jesus (John 16:23-24). Now, a common verse that is often taken out of context to prove that not everyone can pray in tongues is 1 Corinthians 12:30. This of course gives those who deny Christ the reign in their personal lives an excuse to continue to live unto themselves, never surrendering wholly to Christ on His terms (which are clearly given in His Word). But take a closer look at the context of Scripture beloved saints. Paul is not speaking of individual tongues but rather ties tongues together with the interpretation of tongues which contextually he is speaking of concerning specifically a group setting. Hear what is being conveyed in the context of this passage and you will see that Paul is in no way contradicting himself and the whole of Scripture by negating the blessed gift of tongues for every saint.
“Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.” 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
You see, in this 1 Corinthians 12 chapter, the nine gifts of the Spirit to the body of Christ have already earlier been listed (v8-10). The last two gifts listed are “tongues” and “the interpretation of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:10) They are cited together for a divine reason. So, when Paul later speaks of tongues he is speaking of tongues in the setting of the function of the gifts in the body of Christ to be used in a CORPORATE SETTING and not individual tongues – “do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?”
“For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:8-10
The Proper Use of Tongues
Yes as is the case with all of our LORD’s gifts, some have abused or misused them. I sure have seen the misuse of the gifts of the Spirit firsthand. Some people use this as an excuse to not fully surrender to do things God’s way and thereby blame the LORD for the abuse of sinful men. They therefore forfeit the blessings of the LORD, His power, and drastically reduce their ability to be fruitful in this life.
Correcting any misuse of the gifts of the Spirit is exactly why we have 1 Corinthians 14. In this chapter Paul the apostle of Christ gives us the LORD’s guidelines for using the gifts of His Holy Spirit.
Abuse does not negate the right use of the gifts of the Spirit which is what Paul deals with in detail in 1 Corinthians 14.
My goal is not to be right but rather to simply sort all things in Holy Scripture. We must continue to look at all of the counsel of the LORD’s Word and as we do our LORD’s truth will continue to unveil itself (2 Peter 1:19-21).
There is a specific use and instruction for tongues and interpretation of tongues in a group setting.
“Yet IN THE CHURCH I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.” 1 Corinthians 14:19
The church or congregational setting is the context of 1 Corinthians 14:19.
We must beware of our own tendency to have selective hearing based on the human teachers we have listened to in the past. People like John MacArthur have a strong personality and can be convincing, especially if the individual listening to him is not in the Word himself. MacArthur teaches some false doctrines. He is but a man as this writer is. God gave us His Word and we are to let Him be true “and every man a liar” (Romans 3:4). Yet John MacArthur’s personality or the way he seems to provide convincing information does not negate the very Word of God nor is MacArthur or any mere man the final authority. MacArthur negates the gifts of God and in doing so he is on dangerous ground as he is speaking against the divine Person of the Holy Ghost and His blessed work. Regrettably, many who listen to John MacArthur do not test his teachings against God’s Word for themselves and receive the due reward of being turned over to “strong delusion” for not personally loving and studying God’s Word for themselves (Acts 17:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12).
Back to tongues ……
If tongues are demonic, that means Christ’s very own apostle Paul was demonic. After all, Paul said:
“I would that ye all spake with tongues … “ 1 Corinthians 14:5
“I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:” 1 Corinthians 14:18
“forbid not to speak with tongues.” 1 Corinthians 14:39
If Paul is demonic, then 2/3 of the New Testament Scriptures were written by an ungodly, demonic man. Right?
Who will you believe, MacArthur or the great apostle Paul?
After introducing tongues concerning the individual’s use of them, Paul then speaks of the use of tongues in the congregational/group setting:
“I would that ye ALL spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. 6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?” 1 Corinthians 14:5-6
Here Paul is saying that in order to lift up others above ourselves, we should covet to prophesy because prophesying edifies other members of Jesus’ body as opposed to praying in tongues individually which which has the divine purpose of building up the individual believer (1 Corinthians 13:2-3; Jude 20).
That Paul is speaking of the use and order of tongues in a body or group setting is self-evident in this whole passage and yet there is not a hint of negation (denial) of tongues for the individual prayer life (Romans. 8:26-27).
“I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: 19 Yet in the church (congregational setting) I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.” 1 Corinthians 14:18-19
The fact that Paul here says that “in the church” setting he’d rather speak words that people can understand only underscores that he is contrasting tongues for his individual communion and edification with Christ and those tongues/interpretation of tongues for use among more than one member of the body.
It is not profitable to blurt out in tongues among more than one believer in a gathering of believers and that’s what Paul is getting at in this chapter. This guideline of tongues amidst a group of Christians does not do away with the blessing of individually praying in the Spirit (Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:5; Jude 20). Under divine inspiration, Paul the apostle says that all believers should speak with tongues which aligns with how the other apostles made sure all believers were baptized with the Holy Ghost after being saved (Acts 8:14-17; 1 Corinthians 14:5). Paul clearly speaks of his own personal praying in tongues (1 Corinthians 14:18). The apostle commands “FORBID NOT to speak with tongues” (1 Corinthians 14:39).
Biblically speaking, there’s more than one purpose and use of tongues. We cannot limit it to one. Such is a common error made by many today who are not thoroughly and honestly studying God’s Word but rather listening to false teachings from mere sinful men who have set themselves up as leaders and refuse to honestly teach the full-counsel of God’s Word. Some get stuck on one part of one doctrine and close their hearts to the whole of what the living Word says of the matter and therefore walk around with a skewed view. Others who are supposedly saved, are not hungry for more of the LORD, which is suspect. Wanting all that God has for us is what this is about, in part. The LORD will not force or push and will only fill those who by faith hunger and thirst for more of Him.
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6
Prayer to Receive the Baptism with the Holy Spirit
LORD Jesus, thank You so much for finding and saving my wretched soul from sin and Satan and sure damnation! I praise You right this moment for coming and dying on that cross, shedding Your precious blood for my sins. Right this moment, I humbly bow before You my LORD and ask You to take over my life completely. I yield all that I am to You right now and ask You to baptize – to fill me – with the Holy Spirit. I ask You to take over my being completely LORD Jesus. I yield my heart, mind, body, and tongue to You. Use me with Thy great power to do Your work from this moment forward. In Jesus’ Name! Amen.
todd tomasella
FEEDBACK:
“The best method of doing this is to be only, always, and all for Him. We must not offer Him a share of our heart and devotion. There must be no division between Him and others. Whenever iniquity, darkness, Belial, and unbelievers seek to share our nature with the Holy Spirit, and we permit the partnership, He withdraws. No idols must be permitted in any hidden shrine of the heart. The whole nature-spirit (that is, the Holy of Holies) soul (that is, the seat of our individuality), and body-must be the temple of the Eternal, who rules it from the Shekinah, which is enthroned on the Ark of the Covenant. God still walks the world in those who love Him and are wholly yielded to His indwelling. The loneliest spirit finds Him to be father, mother, brother, sister, all. What an incentive to cleanliness not only of flesh but of spirit! Heb_10:22. The Apostle concludes by expressing his intense thankfulness that his converts had not misunderstood the urgency of his former letter.” James Brutton
“When we first left the church (building) I questioned everything that I had been taught especially speaking in tongues. There are times when that’s the only way to pray because I don’t have the words to speak in the natural. I do notice though at church it is only women that give words in tongues and also give the interpretation and I don’t want to speak against it but I do wonder why it is the women and why is it not men giving words? Thank you for this article and speaking truth!” Lori
REPLY:
Hi Lori. I went through the same experience of sifting through what is biblical and what is not and the proper use of those things. 1 Cor. 12 introduced the gifts of the Spirit and ch. 14 tells us how they are to be used and how they are not to be used (misused, abused).
One disciples writes: “BEWARE that calling an act of the Holy Spirit demonic is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, the only sin that cannot be forgiven. To say tongues are demonic places you on severely dangerous ground.”
Mathew 12:22-32
“Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. 23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David? 24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, THIS FELLOW DOTH NOT CAST OUT DEVILS BUT BEELZEBUB, THE PRINCE OF DEVILS. 25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: 26 And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? 27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. 28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. 29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.
30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. 31 Wherefore I say unto you, ?All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: ?but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.”
One disciples writes: “Tongues are completely biblical. Here’s what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14:18-40:
‘I thank my God, I SPEAK WITH TONGUES more than ye all: 19 YET in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, THAT BY MY VOICE I MIGHT TEACH others (common sense) also, than ten thousand words in an UNKNOWN tongue.
20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. 23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: 25 And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. 26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. 29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. 30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. 31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
34 ‘Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law. 35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
36 What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? 37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.’
Here we see Paul placed all occurrences in their proper order. God is not the author of confusion, and there ARE false tongues, forced about by the flesh. This doesn’t do away with the fact there ARE true tongues. Please think about the following Scripture when calling people fools.
Matthew 5:22
‘But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, THOU FOOL, shall be in danger of hell fire.’”
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“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
Did you know that God has magnified His Word even above His holy name?
“I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.” Psalms 138:2
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