Liberty in Non-Essentials: Receive Ye One Another [podcast]
“Let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart.” Zechariah 7:10
Get gone the guile. Crucify it.
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Colossians 3:12-14
The divine command to “love one another” appears 13 times in God’s word.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
When God’s people walk in God’s love, they are not nit picking or busybodying the lives of others. Never. No, rather they are realizing the potential of their own wicked hearts and the great and sheer mercy of God in saving them (Psalms 103:10; Romans 7:18, 24; 1 Peter 4:15). Whew!
Have you needed, do you presently need, and will you need future mercy? Yes.
Memorize:
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32
Love and Liberty in things Not Essential to Salvation – Things that don’t jeopardize the eternal soul.
God gives each of His saints liberty in NON-essentials, that is, in things not clearly stated as being sin. Read Romans 14 prayerfully, carefully.
The decisions other believers make concerning NON-essentials is none of your business. Read Romans 14 and obey God.
Concerning this important chapter, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes:
“Romans 14:1-23
In Relation to Other Believers (14:1-15:13)
14:1 Romans 14:1-15:13 deals with important principles to guide God’s people in dealing with matters of secondary importance. These are the things that so often cause conflict among believers, but such conflict is quite unnecessary, as we shall see. A weak Christian is one who has unfounded scruples over matters of secondary importance. In this context, he was often a converted Jew who still had scruples about eating nonkosher foods or working on Saturday. The first principle is this: a weak Christian should be received into the local fellowship, but not with the idea of engaging him in disputes about his ultra scrupulousness. Christians can have happy fellowship without agreeing on nonessentials.”
Issues arise among believers concerning non-essentials. Just what are the essentials of the faith? And therefore what things are non-essential to believers?
Love is the essential concerning non-essentials. Love doesn’t judge another saint concerning things not essential to his salvation which is in Christ (1 Corinthians 13; 1 Peter 4:7-8; 1 John 4:7-8, etc.).
God gives each and every believer individual liberty in the non essentials according to Romans 14. This are part of the in-house order of God’s people.
Never destroy the work God has and is doing in someone’s life for something not essential to salvation.
Read the Galatians 5:19-21 list of soul damning sins so that when you are thinking of addressing another believer on something, you make sure it’s that such as issue is named on this list of sins.
What kind of food someone eats is not on that list. The day of the week a believer chooses to gather with other believers in fellowship is not on that list. Who a believer chooses to marry (age, race, etc.), as long as they are a true believer, is not on that list. How one chooses to spend his money, is not on that list. etc.
One writer notes:
“And whether you are a ‘Lord’s day’ observer (Sunday) like Ignatius of Antioch, or a ‘Sabbath’ observer (Saturday) like his very close friend, Polycarp, as Paul the apostle would say ‘Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.’ These two men had NO contentions whatsoever between one another. In fact, Polycarp called Ignatius ‘Ignatius the BLESSED.’ Perfect harmony between brothers in Christ.”
The way an individual believer chooses to operate with his God-given personal liberty in non-essentials is up to him and no one else. Yet, he must not condemn others in his heart or otherwise for seeing and practicing their own God-given liberty as they see fit. See Roman 14. Being a “busybody” is condemned in Scripture (1 Peter 4:15).
God’s Word makes it clear that only a “fool” will meddle, interject themselves into the affairs of others unnecessarily.
“It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.” Proverbs 20:3
This is a biblical truth, component, not tended to enough. In order to “grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ”, we must cease being condescending towards other saints concerning things that are none of our business (Ephesians 4:15).
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink (non-essentials); but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. … For meat (any non-essential) destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.” Romans 14:17, 20
“It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.” Romans 14:21
Concerning judging other believers on NON-essentials, the apostle Paul forewarns:
“But why dost thou judge thy brother (on NON-essentials)? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.” Romans 14:10
Do you know what Scripture reveals of essentials and non-essentials?
It frustrates the grace and work of God when we infringe upon the individual liberty He gave each and every individual saint in non-essentials.
Among authentic disciples (not counterfeits nor wolves), we must never judge each other’s servant/serving. And, we must admit to/realize just how imperfect our own serving is…..
“Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.” Romans 14:4
If you dare take this self-righteous stance to judge other Christians for non-essentials, then you have some things to explain: Unless you are reading the Bible and praying 24 hours per day every day, then you have need to explain just why that’s not sin.
The point in this matter that Paul makes is that what we eat or drink has nothing to do with our salvation and is a matter of individual liberty. So, we have and we give liberty to other believers in non-essentials.
To eat or not to eat is the God-granted decision of the individual disciple. Neither eating or not eating certain foods has anything to do with one’s place with the LORD. The person who doesn’t eat has no better relationship with Christ than the person who chooses to eat that pork, drink that coke, or otherwise.
Speaking of NON-essentials to the faith….
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.” Romans 14:1
“By thought and prayer and the study of God’s Word, conscience becomes educated and strengthened, and ceases to worry as to whether we should be vegetarian or not; whether we should observe saints’ days, or adopt a specific method of observing the Sabbath. Some people are constantly wondering and questioning about such things, as though their eternal salvation depended on minute observances.” FB Meyer
ON THE MATTER OF WHAT IS SIN IN GOD’S EYES AND WHAT IS A NON-ESSENTIAL
Recently, a dear brother in Christ began sharing with me how he’s being told by some self-righteous novices that he’s going to hell because he on occasion watches a football game. Here’s my reply to him:
I’ve been attacked by these pharisees too in the past. They are delusional, totally self-righteous. Ask them this: “So, is playing a GAME of cards going to send someone to hell? yes or no?” Force them to answer. Ask: “Where does God’s Word tell us that playing a game of cards is a soul damning sin? Chapter and verses please? Be the one asking the questions. Then ask them this: “Okay, so if my son or nephew are participating in a sporting event like say, they are playing in a football game, please show me in the Bible exactly what sin I am committing by attending the game. Waiting…..
So, in other words, a game is a game, so where do we draw the line? right? We draw the line where GOD draws the line in His Word. If something is not directly or principally listed as a sin, it’s not a sin. It’s a non-essential and totally an individual choice for the believer as he/she works out their salvation with fear and trembling before the LORD (Romans 14). Such liberties are not to be judged by other believers which would be being a busybody.
“But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a BUSYBODY in other men’s matters.” 1 Peter 4:15
If something isn’t listed at least categorically on the list of 17 soul damning sins in Galatians 5:19-21, it is not a sin and is a NON-essential. Rebuke and then point these self-righteous devils to Romans 14 and insist they read it. Personally, I hit and run with these self-righteous devils, for they are the same ilk as the hell bound religious devils Jesus dealt with and told they are going to hell three times in Matthew 23.
COMMON OBJECTION:
“But wait, James 4:4 says that if any man love this world, he’s the enemy of Christ.”
REPLY:
When James speaks of loving the world, he is not speaking about the liberties God gives to each individual believer in this life, otherwise James would be contradicting Paul, and we know that’s not possible. James is speaking of the 3 things Jesus specifically defines as loving this world in Mark 4:17-19: 1. the cares of this world, 2. the deceitfulness of riches, and 3. the lusts of other things. Not the use but the LUST of other things.
“And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” Mark 4:19
If you define anything other than Bible reading, praying, praise, and fellowship as a sin, you better stop all things like shopping, paying rent, walking down the street, going to work, driving a vehicle, getting something to eat at a restaurant, etc. – because in your conscience, your calculating, mis-guided mind, all those things are sin.
The neutral things of this world are NOT sin. The misuse of them is. Listen to what Christ’s apostle Paul wrote about this world as pertains to married people:
“But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; 30 And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; 31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away (is temporal). 32 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: 33 But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.” 1 Corinthians 7:29-33
It’s the abuse of the temporal things of this world Paul addresses and not the simple use of them.
Perhaps we’ve all got a bunch of legalism still in us due to the bad example and teachings we’ve heard and our own lack of knowledge of God’s Word on this topic…. we are not yet experiencing Christ’s liberty…. not liberty to sin but rather His joy and love in all things….
In this post, we are addressing and citing those who are sinfully judging other believers for things not essential to salvation – never specifically mentioned as sin…. Read Romans 14:4-5 again please.
Romans 14 is the chapter that is all about non essentials and personal liberty given to each individual believer by the LORD. Get familiar with it friend so we don’t judge other believers on non-essential issues that are none of our business.
PLEASE read Romans 14 every morning this week prayerfully. We must grow up into Christ in all things saints. Learn about essentials and non-essentials. Never argue or in any way hinder God’s work in one of His children concerning a NON-essential. That’s one of the main truths in Romans 14. Please share this truth with other believers.
No where in Scripture do we see that a certain end time view (pre, post, etc.) is essential to our salvation – other than knowing Jesus is coming back. Food and drink are also not essential to our salvation (Romans 14; Mark 7:20-23). Such is never mentioned as a soul-damning sin or as a Gospel imperative. God wants us to mature and not judge other saints for things that are non-essential – not necessary/essential to our salvation. IF you don’t see something identified as a soul-damning sin or essential foundational truth of the Gospel, you may want to refrain from despising in your hearts another believer. This doesn’t negate exhortation or admonishment when needed but we are never to judge another true Christian for observing Saturday or Sunday being that that has nothing at all to do with salvation (Romans 14; Colossians 2:14-19).
Unwarranted intrusion. In part perhaps “intruding” can mean going to places we are not sure of, such as citing someone for something you don’t like while the Bible never says that such a thing is sin. Such non-essentials must be kept in mind to be the God-given individual liberties of each believer, as that individual does so according to his own conscience. We are instructed not to judge another believer on something that is not an essential – something not specifically named as a sin in God’s Word. If something cannot be ascertained as a sin, a disciple of Jesus should not be cited, confronted about such. Instead, perhaps we should mind our own business and allow other members of Christ’s body to exercise themselves as they see fit in non-essentials to salvation. Get to know Romans 14.
“Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:18-19
Many times, when we become hyper-critical of others, it’s because there’s a deficiency in our own lives. Many times, when called upon to servant-lead, we wonder why others don’t desire to follow. On this note and namely concerning when we are called to lead, Oswald Chambers writes:
“If you are in a position of authority and people are not obeying you, the greatest heart searching you can have is realization that the blame does not lie with them but with you; there is a leakage going on spiritually. Get right with God yourself, and every other one will get in touch with God through you.” Oswald Chambers, God’s Workmanship, p. 328
Open God’s Word (KJV) and study Romans 14-15 today prayerfully.
Concerning “meat and drink” which represents non-essentials to salvation, Christ’s apostle warns: “Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. 5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.” (Romans 14:4-5)
It’s wrong if we impose upon other saints our own personal convictions on non-essential issues – in those things are not essential to salvation. Not one Scripture says watching a family clean movie is a sin or playing a card game or watching a soccer game or going out to eat….. Those who say such things are novices and adding to God’s Word and imposing your own conscience convictions concerning non-essential on others. Obviously you have no clue what Paul taught in Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 10 on Christian liberties.
If Jesus is teaching YOU personally to stay away from all these things, do it – BUT DON’T IMPOSE SUCH ON OTHERS unless it’s clearly taught in Scripture. Paul says “Why is my conscience judged of another man’s conscience?” ….
1 Corinthians 10:29-32: “Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience? 30 For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? 31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:”
It is wise to take a day weekly to worship and rest, reflecting upon the goodness of our LORD. However, this is not essential to salvation. The New Testament Scriptures tell us not to judge one of God’s children if they choose a different day of the week than we do (Romans 14 and Colossians 2:14-17). The point made here is to not condemn another blood-washed saint for something that God gave them personal liberty to choose and that doesn’t affect their relationship with Him. We are saved by faith in the blood of the only Savior and not by what day we observe or don’t observe or our end time view or what type food we choose to eat.
Consider that we are to worship the ONE who makes ALL days whom we are blessed to worship in spirit and in truth every day (John 4:23-24). No certain day is more special to the LORD than is the other days of the week (Galatians 4:9-11). Yet, if a believer chooses to count a certain day as a day of particular rest and worship, they are not to be condemned for such and neither are those who don’t agree. To walk in Christian maturity, this truth is a must.
Personally, this disciple loves Hebrew 13:9. This truth has helped me much, that is, to grow in divine grace. Asking the LORD to multiply His blessed grace in my life which has taken away nit-picking, critical, “evil eye” which Jesus says is a sin (Mark 7:20-23; Hebrews 13:9; 2 Peter 1:2; 3:18).
It seems obvious that our LORD’s rebuke applies to those, to us, if we have unresolved sin, a lack of victory over sin in our own lives and yet are pointing out the sins or supposed sins of others. In addressing hypocritical judgment, Jesus calls us hypocrites in such a case, in need of repentance ourselves.
“Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:1-5
Praying this verse, taking it before our LORD, has had a great impact on my needy heart.
“Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.” Hebrews 13:9
God’s Word informs us that the LORD Jesus wants His beloved people to “grow up”:
“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” Ephesians 4:15
Some unfortunately dis-fellowship other believers for whom Jesus died due to a differing view on the end times. Ones view of the end times or some other non-essential does not affect their salvation. We have no divine license to cut off any of Christ’s children for things not essential to our salvation. If we do such, perhaps Christ will cut us off.
We are to receive them as Christ has. Romans 15:7 says “Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.” “For meat (a non-essential) destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.” (Romans 14:20) Paul wrote in Romans 14:4: “Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.”
To those of you who have or are being judged for a non-essential, this Word is for you:
“Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:33-34
Your verdict comes from God alone:
“Let my sentence (verdict) come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.” Psalms 17:2
“One Body in Christ”
“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” Romans 12:5
Saints, this is not a message about “peace at any price.” No, this is an in-house message from God’s Word concerning Christ’s body – His true, remnant saints who are born again and abiding in Christ via His Word. As such, we are to dwell together in unity as His body, which is made up of “many members.” (1 Corinthians 12:12)
“For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:12
“But now are they many members, yet but one body.” 1 Corinthians 12:20
“The Unity of the Spirit”
“Endeavouring (working diligently) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3
—– Those who are not working hard to keep “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” amidst Christ’s true, fruit-bearing remnant, are out of God’s will (Ephesians 4:3).
Listen to His Words in Psalms 133:
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” Psalms 133:1-3
IT IS truly a blessing to see how God’s true children are walking in His love and “endeavoring (working diligently) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) This is beautiful in the sight of our Savior. He is watching exactly how we treat others which is how we are treating Him (Matthew 25:40-46). In these final days, as Jesus promised, the “love of MANY” is waxing “cold.” (Matthew 24:10-13) In light of this and so much more that He told us, you must remember that love, “shall cover the multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)
“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:7-8
Concerning Unbelievers – Those not Yet Saved
Tattoos, length of hair, length of skirt, has NOTHING to do with salvation. It’s a NON-essential (Romans 14). And, these women aren’t even saved so what’s that matter anyway? “The LORD looketh on the heart.” 1 Sam 16:7 …. It’s time to cease attempting to scale the fish that aren’t yet in the boat…. AND, once they are in Christ’s boat, HE will scale/clean them up. The hell bound self-righteous religionists in our midst haven’t even led themselves to Christ by true repentance and so have no clue or chance to leader another sinner to the Savior.
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Apostasy
Church History or the Scriptures? [podcast]
Regrettably, “reformed” counterfeits are more interested in the writings of their calvinistic wolves than in reading and studying the Bible itself – reading, studying Jesus, His apostles and prophets.
Unless you have the whole Bible memorized, and have a working knowledge of all the doctrines of the original Gospel, why would you be wasting your time reading something God never said He inspired, such as church history?
IF you are reading more “reformation” and church history literature than the Bible, you will inevitably be deceived for not choosing to have a love for the truth of God – which was given you in HIS Word (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). Study God’s Word itself beloved. That’s exactly what the LORD instructs you to do (2 Timothy 2:15).
We must go back further than the “reformation.” Nothing needed to be RE-formed…. because we have a Bible which is the final divine authority (Mark 13:31; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21, etc.). Many of the “reformers” were absolute heretics such as the demon possessed murderous maniac, John Calvin.Beware of those who without saying it outright, place church history on the same level as the Holy Scriptures. Such men are false (Matthew 23).
We get our view, perspective, knowledge, and understanding of God via His own Word. Everything else is secondary, every extra-biblical source, is unnecessary, and can be a diversion. Beware saints. Many today have a skewed understanding of Scripture because instead of allowing the Holy Spirit to teach them His pure truth through the study of His Word, they’ve researched and studied what mere men have stated about the Bible. This they did instead of studying God’s Word for themselves as the LORD instructs us to do (2 Timothy 2:15).
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:19-21
Personally, I waste no time on early church fathers or church history. They weren’t ordained, sanctioned by God exclusively to pen the words of Holy Writ, the Bible, which is God’s Word and the highest divine authority (2 Peter 1:19-21; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17). What’s it matter if you know what they said? The LORD didn’t ordain them to communicate His truth to the world. This does nothing but create confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Many would rather listen to what mere men had to say about God and the Bible than to learn for themselves what God said in His own Word. The LORD has always instructed His people to study and learn and attend to HIS words (Deuteronomy 4, 6, 11, Isaiah 34:16, etc.).
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
God’s Word is “Settled in Heaven” forever!
“For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.” Psalms 119:89
Church history doesn’t matter at all and is littered with false teachers. It has no divine authentication or standing in Heaven and is the very reason so many are misled today. WHO told you to study church history or that church history was important? Not the LORD. No Scriptures could affirm such a position. Jesus told us the Holy Spirit would lead us into all truth and that His “word is truth,” not church history (John 16:13-14; 17:17). Church history is not divinely inspired, Holy Scripture is and it alone is “profitable for doctrine, correction, reproof, and instruction in righteousness,” not church history (2 Timothy 3:15-17). No one could ever possibly know the Holy Scriptures well enough so why waste time studying mere men who were never sanctioned by God to be our examples or teach His sound doctrine?
“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.” Mark 13:31
ANYONE LEADING YOU TO STUDY CHURCH HISTORY INSTEAD OF THE BIBLE ITSELF, IS A VILE DEMONIC WOLF. BEWARE.
Jesus and His holy apostles made it clear that only the Word of God can wash and sanctify (set apart) the disciple to the LORD – and nothing else.
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” John 17:17
“Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27
When you hear someone promoting the study of church history, you can be sure he’s either been: 1) to seminary, or 2) influenced by seminarians.
The reformers were mere men. They were not included in the “holy men of God who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” as were those who were divinely inspired to pen the words of Scripture (2 Peter 1:19-21). WHY waste your time on church history? We must go back to the LORD and His prophets and apostles just as did the Bereans who tested Paul and his doctrine strictly against the written Word (Acts 17:10-11). Otherwise we will err in our doctrine. Reformed groups are famous for misdirecting people from Scripture onto their heroes of the faith, none of which were sanctioned by God or ordained to record Holy Writ. They mislead people into studying men in history who were known devils. One example of this course, this atrocious deception, is that they herald diabolical, heretical wolves like John Calvin.
ALL of God’s answers are here – in His written Word – not in the study of church history (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3-4; 19-21).
Personally, I stay away from the “revivalist” and church history and stick with the Scriptures which are pure (Proverbs 30:5-6).
The LORD has called us to be His humble disciples (Micah 6:8; Matthew 5:3; 10:16; 20:20-28; 23:8-12, etc.). Do we see the call for a “revivalist” in the Word? Evangelist yes (Acts 21:8; Ephesians 4:11). I say this because of some aspiring to become “revivalists” due to reading church history. Sobeit. Yet isn’t it safest to walk humbly before our LORD, reaching one precious saint or soul at a time? Isn’t that a better, more biblical aspiration? (Micah 6:8)
At least some of those many refer to as a “revivalist” taught heresy, such as Charles Finney.
When a preacher has to always be yelling, does that raise a red flag? What’s HE hiding? Is the anointing in the volume?
Reformed groups are famous for misdirecting people from Scripture onto their heroes of the faith, none of which were sanctioned by God or recorded in Holy Writ. As if drawing people away from God’s Word to study un-inspired church history wasn’t enough, they mislead people into studying men in history who were known devils. One example of this course, this atrocious deception, is that they herald diabolical, heretical wolves like John Calvin.
Church history is not holy Scripture and is not divinely inspired.
MANY, instead of studying pure Holy Scripture (KJB), get caught up and derailed by the myriad of false systems of theology that have flooded the church world …. Calvinism, eternal security evangelicalism, church history, church fathers, the delusional witchcraft of the NAR (new apostolic reformation) movement, the Christ-denying heretical word of faith system, etc. The list goes on and on and on. Satan has many snares laid to clutter your mind and life with foolishness. God allows those who don’t authentically fear and love Him enough to study HIS pure Word to be sent “strong delusion” and thereby deceived (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). They are blinded, thinking they are going to Heaven and yet are “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:7). There’s a divine elimination system – separating the sheep from the goats.
1 Corinthians 11:19 is an interesting verse of truth to ponder.
“For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.” 1 Corinthians 11:19
Church history contains an epidemic of contradicting theology and confusion because it’s not divinely inspired. “God is not the author of confusion” (1 Corinthians 14:33).
Many who study church history instead of God’s Word, are caught up in the heretical system of the worst wolf in New Testament history. Yes, they adhere to the diabolical monstrosity named John Calvin, a man who had over 60 people murdered and admitted he received his teachings from a Catholic named Augustine. John Calvin Exposed
There is no contradiction in Scripture because the one true God inspired all of it! Church history is not Holy Scripture and is not divinely inspired. Let us wake up and study God’s Word as He expressly instructed us to do (2 Timothy 2:15, etc.). The LORD never once told any of His servants to study church history. Such is a diversion of the enemy of all souls.
“ALL things that pertain to life and godliness” are written for us in the “Holy Scriptures” which are “the exceeding great and precious promises” of the LORD (2 Peter 1:3-4; 20-21).
The study of church history in search of answers is a misguided endeavor and a waste of the time God has given us if we don’t even thoroughly know the full-counsel of His Word.
What is final divine authority? Man’s history or Holy Writ? Why waste our time studying the works of men when we grossly lack the knowledge of God’s Word? (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Acts 17:10-11)
The study of church history is clearly a rabbit trail of the enemy to keep people from the revealing and transforming truth of God’s Word. The Berean believers “searched the SCRIPTURES daily,” not church history outside the Bible canon of the 39 OT books. Jesus told us to “search the scriptures” because HE Himself is revealed in the Holy Scriptures, not subjective church history concerning mere men who were not divinely authenticated as were the “holy men of God” whom God used and “spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (John 5:39-40; 2 Peter 1:20-21).
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:39-40
The Holy Scriptures have as their Grand Subject the Son of God. Like the pharisees, the religionist of His day, those who hear it and don’t repent, coming to Jesus, forfeit the blessing of His salvation.
The “Holy Scriptures,” not church history books, are given to make us “wise unto salvation,” “for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,” and so that we might “be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17
It’s the Word of God, not church history, that furnishes the heart and life of the man of God, fully equipping him for the work of the ministry.
When Paul instructed Timothy to “Study to shew thyself approved unto God,” he was speaking of studying the Holy Scriptures, not church history (2 Timothy 2:15).
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Articles
Mission Mexico Part 46 [podcast]
Recorded about a week ago: Much has happened since then!
Your Love for God is Changing Lives Saints!
Clara’s new rental. Brother Allan ministering in the Philippines. Many being reached daily in Mexico. And much more…..
Happening now. In progress. Talking to Clara by text right now….. delivered the rent and deposit today. | Clara’s Cry
Recently, when bringing more food to Clara and her 3 boys, food from God’s love in and through you, I noticed that her 3 boys were quite dirty and was moved. They were actually filthy. Clara is by nature a very quiet person. So I began asking her questions….. With the current rental, they have one outdoor sink with running water. That’s it. No shower. The current rental is beyond shabby for sure. Sorry, just trying to communicate facts here.
Now the good news…..
Her mother found Clara and the boys a new rental, about 50 yards from where they currently live. She gave the price and I made a counter offer, negotiated a discount. Here’s the score:
Move-in Costs: It’s going to cost $382 USD total to move in, which includes the first month’s rent and deposit. I asked the landlord to give us the remainder of September as a bonus for this rental contract and she accepted. So, Clara’s monthly rent will be $208 USD – and this includes the water and electricity (both included). Her rent has doubled, all the way up to $208 USD per month for Clara and her 3 young boys 😉 …. In my estimation, this move is also going to help Clara be less weighed down as perhaps many of us know how it feels to live in dire conditions. Having a nicer, more functioning home to live in will surely do much for her morale. Do you agree?
If anyone wish to earmark a special gift for Clara and her boys, just submit it and send me an email, letting me know your special gift is for Clara. If more than $382 is raised, it will still all go to Clara’s cause. | info@safeguardyoursoul.com
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” Proverbs 19:17
On the behalf of Christ Jesus and His beloved body, we are in Mexico to love, to equip, to support, to be a blessing to the members of our LORD’s Jesus’ body. Please allow me also to say, that it’s more than obvious that these saints in Mexico have never been loved and supported as they are now. This is all due to your love being poured out upon them in prayers and support.
The people, the saints God has put His holy finger on for us to serve, in no particular order, are as follows:
- Brother Juan
- Sister Maria
- Clara
- Brother Allan in the Philippines
If you’re going to go bananas over anything, let it be Christ. Everything else is fleeting and a waste. Read that again.
WE CERTAINLY CAN’T HELP EVERYONE AND YET WE, YOU, ARE BEING THE WORLD OF HELP TO A FEW—THOSE GOD HAS DESIGNED: Wednesday was Clara’s birthday, yesterday. Because you prayed and gave, she was given food and a pastry item so they could celebrate her birthday with her boys and mother, and other family members. Remember, people here are poor.
Many eternal souls are being reached in beautiful Mexico. God is able. Thank you for your prayers for these people.
Last Night: Maria called and needed more JESUS tracts and so I brought them to her on her witnessing post. She had finished the first 2,000 she was given after the 20,000 print run recently!
Mission Mexico | Download and Read the JESUS tract here – English and Spanish available.
Keep lifting up in prayer—fruit, more fruit, much fruit (John 15). God is answering. Can nearly not keep up, praise God for HIS mercy and goodness. What is reported is but a sampling of our LORD’s work among the beautiful humble people of Mexico. More and more Mexican saints taking JESUS tracts and distributing them!
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30
From Brother and evangelist Juan here in Mexico:
“Brother, I’ve chosen to leave some Bibles and pamphlets (JESUS tracts) at the businesses I distribute to for my job, and the customers have told me they’ve been a blessing. People come up to ask me to pray for them, and glory to God, because He gives us both the desire and the ability to do what is right. We know His Word never returns empty; it always fulfills its purpose. Amen, brother, brother.” Juan
Brother Allan and his ministry team in the Philippines are leading people to Jesus on a regular basis. God be praised that it is hard to keep up with all the evangelism success here in Mexico and also the Philippines with our brother Allan who is a fervent disciple of Jesus, a consummate soul winner (Proverbs 11:30). I’ve been blessed to know and be in fellowship with our brother for over 30 years now. He is authentic.
Here’s just one small example of what our LORD is doing in the Philippines: A few days ago a whole class full of students and the teacher received Jesus. Saints of Christ, the world is full of people who desire to hear the Gospel of our LORD Jesus and to receive Him. We are blessed to feed the Word of God to hungry souls who receive and don’t reject Christ.
“And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. 15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.” Matthew 10:14-15
You and I are blessed to stand with our brother Allan and the Philippines ministry. YOUR prayers and support are making this possible!!! God is able!
“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20
Everyone is welcome to pray and support. It would be nice to increase our support soon to our brother Allan and Team Jesus in the Philippines! See Support button on safeguardyoursoul.com Let’s roll saints! Jesus is coming.
As has been shared previously…..
More and continual vehicle ministry….. rolling. If all you did was move to Mexico and passed out JESUS tracts as you drove around town, you’d be hitting home runs for Jesus daily!
Because you prayed, you cared, you gave, this beloved homeless man was fed—food, cold water, and the Gospel of Jesus! The Bible, God’s Word as much to say about feeding the poor and how God will bless those who do. Proverbs 19:17, etc.
It’s a blessing that with your prayers, love, and financial support, you are declaring that “The People of Mexico Matter for Christ—He died to save them!”
“So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” Acts 19:20
IF YOU WANT TO PLEASE SATAN …..
MAKE SURE you do NOT support authentic evangelistic ministries that are literally, actually getting Christ’s Gospel to the lost souls of this world.
The apostle Paul did “the work of an evangelist” and instructed us to do the same.
“Preach the word … But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:2, 5
Our KING is coming saints, King JESUS!
Let’s roll beloved of God!
in Christ
todd
More Mexico Mission Action here.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
Mission Mexico – See more here. | Give support here. Many options
Download. Read. Print out your supply of the JESUS tract – English and Spanish.
Articles
The Cross in the Book of Job [podcast]
“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. 24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” Luke 9:23-24
“I looked that word, through, up in the KJB Dictionary and it is used 463 times in the Bible. And it means to ‘pass through.’ That’s what the cross does. We pass through from death and burial and into the resurrection life! Just as the Israelites did, they passed through the red sea into the promised land. And through the red sea their flesh was crucified, dead and buried and thrown into the sea. Then they were raised up into newness of life!” Karen Cochran
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Church History or the Scriptures? [podcast]
Mission Mexico Part 46 [podcast]
The Cross in the Book of Job [podcast]
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Apostasy Dialogues
Church History or the Scriptures? [podcast]
Mission Mexico Part 46 [podcast]
The Cross in the Book of Job [podcast]
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