Forever Relevant
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Isaiah 40:8
Discernment Clue: Ministries that aren’t provoking you to get into God’s WRITTEN Word FOR YOURSELF DAILY, simply want you to depend on them-not God! RUN NOW!
Those who use the word “prophetic” desire to be the oracle, instead of letting God’s written Word be what it is – the final divine authority, the divine oracle and only one needed! Pride.
When the slick enterprising pastors and their disciples come along to teach you a more “relevant” way or un-biblical method, move closer to, search deeper, and cling to the Holy Scriptures which are tried, true, and eternally relevant, fresh, and charged with the divine life of the One who spoke them. – “These words are spirit and they are life.” (John 6:63) God’s words are always in style with Him and those who truly love Him. So, beware of the cheap substitutes which daily present themselves to you, seeking to sift you from resolute, pure trust in the God who gave us His Word (Luke 22:31-32).
Many seek to capitalize on your desire to discern, know, and follow God’s will. Beware.
God’s Word says “despise not prophesyings” and yet in the very next sentence it also warns us to “prove (test) all things.” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21) I don’t even read most “prophecies,” prophetic words, dreams, visions, etc. that circulate these days. Most of these “words” are coming from un-grounded novices, or flagrant flakes who don’t simply “Preach the word” but rather keep the circus wheels of their “ministry” spinning by their continual words (2 Timothy 4:2-4). Not that I despise them and yet the Word of God is inherently prophetic and the primary way God leads and guides His New Testament church (Isaiah 46:9-10; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21, etc.).
“Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21
GOD already told us in His Word all we need to know about these final days (Isaiah 46:9-10; 2 Peter 1:3-4; 19-21, etc.). Gauging all things by the written Word is key to escaping the prophesied end time apostasy. Some people choose to be led astray by the “MANY false prophets” Jesus warns us about who would “deceive MANY.” (Matthew 24:11)
WHEN DECEIVERS USE THE TERM “DON’T PUT GOD IN A BOX” WHAT THEY ARE REALLY SAYING IS “DON’T LISTEN TO HOW GOD DESCRIBED HIMSELF, HIS WILL, His divine attributes, sin, AND holiness, ETC. DON’T LISTEN TO HIS OWN WORD. LET ME SHOW YOU AN ALTERNATIVE, SOMETHING THAT CONTRADICTS HIS WORD!” THESE ARE SATAN’S WOLVES WHO SEEK TO SEDUCE YOU TO FORSAKE CHRIST BY FORSAKING HIS WORD. APOSTASY! RUN! SEE ACTS 17:10-11; PSALMS 33:11; 119:89, 105; JOHN 8:47; ROMANS 3:4; 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17; 2 PETER 1:19-21.
The so-called “prophetic” movement is for those who want to self-actualize, a luciferian New Age term and practice. Pure damnable pride. They are basically warlocks and witches, operating in witchcraft while using the name of the LORD in vain.
So he’s prophesying, giving words, visions, and dreams but not preaching the cross – and you STILL don’t see he’s a wolf? Repent sinner.
Here’s what the so-called “prophetic” is all about… scary…. SHOCKING DOCUMENTARY – False spirits invade the church – KUNDALINI WARNING – Andrew Strom
The Holy Spirit has ALREADY SPOKEN – between Genesis 1 and Revelation 22! Anything that is of God that is spoken today must line up with Holy Scripture which is the “more sure word of prophecy.” (2 Peter 1:19-21)
The “MANY false prophets” Scripture warns us about are known in that they seek to set themselves up above the LORD, perpetrating their weak, lame, foolish “words” on people to put a spell on them, attempting to bewitch their prey. ALL true servants of the LORD hold His written revelation WORD as the highest divine authority (2 Peter 1:16-21; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
WHEN the LORD gives a word, it’s always going to include the cross, repentance, and holiness. This excludes 95% of the “words” we see circulating. Beware saints. Discern.
Yes there are prophets in the New Testament, undeniably and yet, most if not all the people calling themselves such are the very wolves we are warned of. Read these: Ephesians 4:11; Acts 11:27; 13:1 …. New Testament prophets are not the same as in the Old Testament. All true men of God exalt Christ not self and the written Word as final authority (2 Peter 1:12-21).
UNTIL you have the revelation given us in 2 Peter 1:12-21, you are vulnerable to be deceived and ultimately “fall away” from the LORD – to apostatize (Luke 8:13; 1 Timothy 4:1, etc.). WHAT is the LORD conveying to us, His people, in 2 Peter 1:12-21?
“People want a word from God instead of the Word OF God.” Warren Smith
Hell is full of people who were initially saved while on earth and yet were lazy – refused to study, know, and walk in God’s Word for themselves – so they fell away! (Luke 8:11-15)
A lot of people have been schooled by wolves and don’t realize it. They are using God’s Word to self-actualize. That means it’s all about THEM and THEIR gifts and not about Christ. The same warlocks that have misled these un-repentant counterfeits never preach the cross – which is essential to the Christian faith – where you must die, lay down your life, mortify self, and cry to the Father, “Not my will but thine be done.” (Luke 22:42)
The thing being pointed out here is that many use prophet and apostle as a title to elevate themselves instead of simply humbly serving while drawing all attention to Jesus and not to self – the cross.
Any man calling himself (self-appointed) a prophet, is suspect. True prophets simply do the LORD’s work humbly, never drawing attention to themselves by using titles – which Jesus forbids (Matthew 23:8-12).
The LORD’s true “prophets” are not those who come up with some word they claim is from God but rather those who strictly, humbly, and obediently preach His “more sure word of prophecy” which is the written Word and more divinely authoritative then even the audible voice of the Father speaking from Heaven – 2 Peter 1:16-21.
BEWARE OF THE “PROPHETIC” WARLOCKS! The term “prophetic” never appears in Scripture, much less phrases invented by modern wolves such as “prophetic praise,” “the prophetic,” “prophetic warfare,” “prophetic worship,” etc. RUN from this witchcraft which is designed to bring you under the control of Satan’s warlocks pretending to have a word for you as a prophet of God! Wolves in sheep’s clothing! You have God’s Word and Holy Ghost – from Genesis to Revelation – which is the “MORE sure word of prophecy.” (2 Peter 1:16-21)
Because we know that God’s written Word is FINAL Divine Authority, we are not impressed with those who run around with “a word” for people. Yes “Despise not prophesyings” (1 Thessalonians 5:20) and yet, beware of those who use gifts or supposed gifts to ensnare you and not for the edification of the body of Christ for the glory of Jesus alone (1 Corinthians 14:1-5; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
False prophets seek out and prey on gullible, ungrounded dupes – who are enamored by their title or supposed prophecies, words. Beware! The authentic disciple is enamored with the Son of God and grounded in God’s Word – “the more sure word of prophecy” – and therefore not impressed with false prophets with “words.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)
EVEN if someone prophesies and is actually comes to pass, does NOT mean they are true! Get familiar with Deuteronomy 13:1-10 saints. 1. check their doctrine, and 2. if they are announcing themselves as a “prophet,” that is a red flag. 😉
One believer writes: “Psychics are sometimes accurate, does this make them prophets? Does the enemy not have his own prophets? The woman that followed the disciples, telling others that they were men of God, was a false prophet and the disciples rebuked her. But what she was saying was true.”
IF you’re looking for a word, a dream, a vision, or anything but God’s written Word, it’s because you aren’t known of God but rather are a tare, a counterfeit! Repent and believe on the LORD Jesus Christ now before it’s too late. Self-Appointed and Greedy Prophetic Pimps (Radio) [podcast]
Have you noticed how self-appointed wolves always talk about how they are an “apostle” or “prophet” while never elevating Jesus, the only “Head” of His body – which He purchased with His very blood? (Colossians 2:18-19) The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is “the apostle and high priest” of our faith! (Hebrews 3:1) Run!
When a person around us gets all excited about a so-called “word from God” that some prophet or apostle says he or she received and yet that same person isn’t excited about “the more sure word of prophecy (the Scriptures),” then you know that such a person is utterly deceived (2 Peter 1:19-21). When people get all excited about some new book some mere man wrote and yet aren’t excited by and about the precious words of the LORD recorded in the Bible, you know that this person’s fruit is very bad.
–The LORD’s true “prophets” are not those who come up with some word they claim is from God but rather those who strictly, humbly, and obediently preach His “more sure word of prophecy” which is the written Word and more divinely authoritative than even the audible voice of the Father speaking from Heaven – 2 Peter 1:16-21
When we get the revelation that the HOLY SCRIPTURES are “the MORE MORE MORE sure word of PROPHECY,” we then become less in impressed (foolish awe) with the clowns who parade themselves as modern prophets and apostles yet fit the exact description of the beguiling wolves we are so often warned about in the “MORE sure word” which is the written Scriptures. Read, pour over 2 Peter 1:3-4, 16-21; 2:1-3. You will never be the same. Oh and Jeremiah 23 and Ezekiel 34.
“They are prophets of the deceit of their own heart.” Jeremiah 23:26
These modern day wolves are devils who refuse to preach the essential command to be holy as God is holy, true repentance, the holy fear of God, the daily cross, dying to self daily, the soon return of Christ, the uniqueness and divinity of Jesus Christ, taking up the cross, and being mortified to the sinful deeds of the body. The absence of these cardinal New Testament doctrines alone make these guys utterly counterfeit.
Do you want to be blessed? The LORD attaches present and eternal blessings to those who hear and heed His Word.
“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” Revelation 1:3
Beware of the many clowns who run around teaching people to “hear the voice of God” while downplaying and subverting the authority and place of the Holy Scriptures in God’s economy and in the daily lives of His beloved people (Deuteronomy 4:2, 9-10; 1 Timothy 4:6, 16; 2 Timothy 32:15; 3:16-17; 4:2-5). I have heard this deadly lie for decades now. This idea that we are to “hear the voice of God within us” is a classic deception among the charismatic/prophetic/apostolic circles. As is all of their false theology, this notion is based on the idea that man is his own little autonomous god who is empowered by himself to do his own bidding and control his own destiny. This is Luciferic and the same exact theology of the pagan and occult New Age religions and thought. In this they are setting aside–not upholding–the only “Head” of His true Church (Colossians 2:4, 8, 18-19). Beware. We hear the voice of the LORD through His Spirit and Word (Romans 8:14; Ephesians 6:17-18, etc.).
Destiny
Lots of “fulfill your destiny” type themes in the modern church world to lure in the gullible… but it’s all self-centered and not Christ-centered. If it were according to the original Gospel, the destiny would be recognized as living a crucified life – consenting to death and burial so Christ alone can reign! Just another cross-less heresy peddled by what Paul calls “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Philippians 3:18-19)
Jesus calls all who will follow Him to die – to lay down your life and will for His (Luke 9:23-24; John 5:30). This is what we are predestined to!
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son (the crucified Savior), that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29
So many seek their own vision and destiny. There is NO cross in it. Jesus was fully submitted to His Father whereas most who use these buzz words today are not also preaching the essential cross, the crucified life.
These who chase destiny are missing the cross which is central to the Gospel friend. Running around trying to fulfill our destiny is not of God. Laying down our lives – death and burial – assures us that GOD, not us, is leading and raising us up to do His will.
Jesus came to die and sent us to die and if we don’t we are not following Him (Luke 9:23-24). Seeking our own destiny is the antitheses of dying – it’s completely self-serving.
Of Jesus and through Jesus and to Jesus are all things–He is the supreme LORD of all lords and King of all kings who will soon return to exercise His infinite, divine authority and wrath upon the ungodly (Isaiah 26:21; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 2 Peter 3; Revelation 19:11-15).
There is nothing that has more authority or relevancy than God’s Word–because of who spoke it.–“The scripture cannot be broken.” (John 10:35)
“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. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17
Listening to what Jesus, the LORD, told us in places like Revelation 2-3 is most important. God has spoken to us in His “MORE sure word of prophecy”–the Holy Scriptures (Hebrews 1:1-3; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Psalms 119:105). Hearing the very words of God is hearing the fresh voice of God. Beware of the flashy, flesh-flattering titles of the books and products of the many wolves who operate in the apostate church world. Their use of the word “fresh” and others words of this type are designed to entice the potential buyer to believe they have the word of the hour and are the man or woman of the hour. Scam!
Jesus is the KING of every hour and that will never change!
Most of what is called prophecy today is simply flattery and serves no divine purpose as given in His Word. For example, why would the unchanging God change by doing something that has no purposes consistent with what He stated in His Word? Why would He send gold dust? What purpose has it? Gold dust has no purpose that is consistent with His stated plan and program to save and build up His people (Matthew 28:18-20). Do we not know that Satan himself can perform lying signs and wonders and that only those who do not choose to be valiant for and love the truth of God’s Word will be deceived? (Jeremiah 9:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12)
Remember that it was the evil Pharisees (wolves) that asked to see a frivolous sign. But what did Jesus say in response?
“Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. 39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:” Matthew 12:38-39
WHAT kind of person looks for a sign? – “An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign.” (Matthew 12:39)
“God and His Word are synonymous (John 1:1). Any attempt to divorce the written Word, which is our only objective standard for truth, from the Living Word should be viewed as utterly Satanic. Beware of men who subtly denigrate the written Word while promoting a supposed deeper spirituality by ‘being led by the Spirit.’ Don’t be deceived, if you reject God’s Word you reject His Spirit. If you refuse to obey His Word you cannot be led by the Holy Ghost. God’s Spirit always leads in perfect accordance with God’s Word; always, without exception.” Pastor Britt Williams
IF you are defending Satan’s wolves in our midst it’s because you are one of them! Repent sinner!
God’s Word never diminishes, fades, or loses power–it’s always–perpetually and eternally-fresh, relevant, instructive, and life giving. In light of this truth, do not be “carried about”or snared by these so-called “fresh” words from God and the demonic mystique surrounding this diabolical myth.
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” Ephesians 4:14
The only way to prevent being “tossed to and fro, and carried about”–blown away–is to be soundly and thoroughly grounded in the Scriptures through daily study, meditation, and memorization (Joshua 1:8; Proverbs 4:4; Jeremiah 15:16). Not one of us lacks capacity; we only lack choosing to fear God, delighting in Him, and living a disciplined life that reflects His work in us (Philippians 2:12-13).
The disciple of Jesus who has THE Word doesn’t go around looking for “a word” from a mere man or woman claiming to be a prophet or prophetess or apostle. This doesn’t mean there aren’t people who function in these gifts biblically, and yet there are many today misleading people with a misuse of the gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12-14). Prophetic accuracy does not authenticate a person as from God (Deuteronomy 13). Read Deuteronomy 13 and you will discover that if a person comes among God’s people and prophesies and what he predicts comes to pass and then he teaches false doctrine, he is to be put out and marked as false.
Fruit is more important than gifts. Gifts do not prove that one is saved. In fact, Jesus told us that “MANY” would brag about their gifts just before being terminated into hell. Fruit is the clear that one has a saving relationship with Jesus Christ! (Matthew 7:13-29) Nearly anyone can feign to have spiritual gifts. The occult gurus/Shamans do that and so do all false religious leaders.
Jesus did not say we’d “know” (discern) people but their gifts but rather “by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16, 20) The FRUIT of the Spirit is more important than the GIFTS of the Spirit because it proves relationship (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:7-10). Good fruit can only be produced through relationship. The gifts of the Spirit ARE important and yet, some who are presently operating in them will be hearing “depart from me” from Jesus as they are being cast into eternal hell irrevocably (Matthew 7:15-23). This proves that someone can move in the gifts of the Spirit without walking in an intimate relationship with Jesus which will always, without fail, produce “the FRUIT of the Spirit” which “is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance.“ (Galatians 5:16-24).
Can devils do miracles? “For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.” (Revelation 16:14) See also 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 and Deuteronomy 13:1-10.
Deuteronomy 13:1-10 tells us that even if a prophet comes and does a miracle or prophesies something that comes to pass and then speaks false doctrine to lead you away from the LORD, he is to be stoned. This clearly teaches us that the gifts of the Spirit do not authenticate any minister or leader or ministry.
The nine gifts of the Spirit do have a divine purpose and have not passed away because that which is perfect has not yet come (1 Corinthians 12-14).
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” Revelation 2:7
Here in the Scriptures of truth the Son of God is warning us to “hear what the Holy Spirit saith” to His people and not what some man or men are saying the Spirit is saying. The Holy Spirit gave us the Scriptures–“holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:20-21) We know He is divine, perfect and unchanging and so would never “alter” or change His Word to us (Psalms 89:23; 119:89). Also, “the sword of the Spirit IS the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17) Do we think the LORD is going to contradict what He has already spoken? How in the world can I possibly rightly discern some prophetic word coming from a mere human if I don’t daily and diligently study THE Word of God? (2 Timothy 2:15) To endure to the end, we must be like the Berean believers who “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11)
“My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.” Psalms 89:34
Also, when Jesus seven times says “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches,” He’s not talking about trying to hear something inside of your corrupt, depraved, and “desperately wicked” heart (Genesis 6:5, 12; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3). No, He’s teaching us here to walk the narrow road with His precious Precepts shining on our feet and on our path. After Adam fell into sin, our hearts are not to be trusted (Romans 5:12, 19; 7:1-24). –“He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.” (Proverbs 28:26)
There’s another safety measure our Great Shepherd put in place to protect us and that’s the counsel of the righteous–those who are sound in the faith due to being soberly rooted and grounded in sound doctrine.–“Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.” (Proverbs 27:9) Godly counsel will always come out of God’s Word and will be a confirming factor in our hearts when making key decisions in this life.
Currently, I, like many of you, am blessed to have the “hearty counsel” of several God-fearing men who walk daily in God’s Word. Yet, throughout the years I have witnessed folks who have been subverted and intoxicated by the charismatic wolves who don’t walk out sound truth by faith in what they get straight from the Bible. Instead, they live by so-called prophetic words, visions, dreams, and whimsical hyperbole. There is a particular group of these guys I know of who don’t work, don’t hold to or diligently study the written Word, and yet conjure up and are led by all kinds of “words” they say are God’s “prophetic” words for them. In order to perpetuate the deception, they constantly have “words” for each other, pretending those “words” are from God and yet have set aside God’s Holy written Word to be led of their own “words.” (Jeremiah 5:31; 14:14; Colossians 2:18)This is “the error of the wicked” that we are warned not to be “led away” from Christ by (2 Peter 1:19-3:18). Is this a new thing? No.
All spiritual gifts or the gifts of the Holy Spirit are to point to and glorify the divine Person of Jesus Christ alone and not to be used to feature or elevate human flesh, making the one with the gift the focal point. When the Holy Spirit is moving in a saint it will be obvious in that Jesus Christ alone will be glorified and His written, “more sure word of prophecy”will be the message (2 Peter 1:19-21). As it was in the days of the prophets, so it is today. Beguiled souls who have been “led away with the error of the wicked” regurgitate the same twisted blend of deceptive words they have learned from the wolves whom they have submitted themselves under and this includes the borrowing and speaking of the words of these wolves (2 Peter 3:17). There’s a whole new language they learn, using such terms as portals, the prophetic, soaking, etc., where they dazzle the gullible souls who follow and support their witchcrafts.
“For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:18
So, instead of honoring God by learning and speaking the “more sure word of prophecy” which is the Holy Scriptures – the written Word, these charismatic, false apostolic wolves have created a whole new language using their own line of buzz terms (2 Peter 1:19-21). This is an open rejection of Jesus Christ (Mark 8:38).
All that comes out of IHOP and Kansas City etc. is corrupt due to the fact that “a little leaven leaveneth the WHOLE lump.” (Galatians 5:9) First off, there is no term “the prophetic” found in God’s Word. This is the invention of wolves and devils.
Entertaining devils through occult practices is not of the LORD, regardless of whether or not it’s deceptively called “the prophetic.”
Let’s read a passage from Jeremiah 23 and perhaps it will become obvious that such a practice is no new thing:
Jeremiah 23
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. 26 How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart; 27 Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal. 28 The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord. 29 Is not my word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? 30 Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the Lord, that steal my words every one from his neighbour. 31 Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the Lord, that use their tongues, and say, He saith. 32 Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the Lord, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the Lord.”
Did you note here that the LORD tells us that these false prophets “cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness”?
The shameless flippancy in the tone and attitudes of these modern day, self-appointed false prophets and false apostles is despicably absent of the fear of the LORD.
Words of mere men produce “lies” and “lightness” in those who give them audience. The words and terms of mere men do not carry divine authority. They are lightweight. The words of mere men are weak. They do not carry inherent divine power. In contrast to the“lies” and “lightness” of the words of mere men, God’s Word instills the fear of the LORD in the hearts of those who truly trust Him by daily ingesting His Word.
True disciples are not casual concerning the things of God. The true born again servant is the only person the LORD can use to help others and he lives in the fear of God, departing from evil as by His mercy and honest adherence to His holy truth.
“By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.” Proverbs 16:6
Proverbs 14:27 says that iniquity is spiritual death and it’s only by the fear of God that men depart from it, keeping themselves abiding in Jesus, their Good Shepherd. Sin brings spiritual death and it’s only by the mercy of God as one chooses to live in the fear of God, that he is delivered and remains in the light with Christ (Ezekiel 18:4; Romans 6:23; 8:13; James 1:14-15; 1 John 1:7).
Why did the LORD give us His written Word? To guide us, to cleanse us, and for many other wonderful reasons, yet one in particular comes to mind here and that’s Deuteronomy 4:10.
Deuteronomy 4
8And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?
9Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons;
10Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.
God gave us His Word so we would “learn to fear” Him and so what happens if we get out of His Word?–we cease to fear Him. Do we begin to see now why Satan uses his wolf prophets to get people out of THE Word and relying on something else like so-called prophetic “words”?
When you get around these type people we are talking about, you will notice what later will come out as a false joy (“lightness”). Instead of getting into THE Word, they give each other “words.” If you have ever been around these type of people who live off of pseudo “words” instead of THE Word, you will see no fear of God in them but rather frivolity and lightness in the absence of the fear of God and a sound and sober heart filled with the joy of Jesus. Remember that the LORD told us in the Jeremiah 23 passage above that these beguilers “cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness.” (Jeremiah 23:32)
What might be at the root of this rebellion? Why do these mere men come in Christ’s name (but not doctrine) and replace His very Word with their own “words”?–because they are lawless, which means they are not truly submitted to Him. Doesn’t this fit what Jesus said was going to happen at the judgment?–“Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 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 7:20-23)
The Divine “Lamp” and “Light”
“THY word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105
Here the Bible, God’s Word, tells us that God’s “word” and not our word or some figment of our own wicked imagination, guides our feet and lights our path. Satan has no new tricks in his bag–“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
“There is NO new thing under the sun.” Ecclesiastes 1:9
Throughout history, God’s people have erred when they began to rely upon the wicked imaginations of their depraved hearts (Romans 1).
Always remember that “ALLLLLLL things that pertain unto life and godliness” are found in the divinely-breathed “exceeding great and precious promises” of our LORD and Savior (2 Peter 1:2-4). Be it known that as long as you are on this earth, Satan, the enemy of your eternal soul, is going to send false teacher after false prophet who come in Christ’s name to get you to look to someone else outside of the LORD Almighty who gave you His unchanging, eternally relevant Word. The devil “walketh about seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) Jesus said he comes to “taketh away the word” of God from our lives (Mark 4:15). The enemy’s false prophets use all kinds of seemingly spiritual beguilement to get you to look to self and your own ability to “hear God’s voice,” etc. God is able to keep those who uphold Jesus Christ as the supreme “Head” and “holy potentate.” (Colossians 2:18-19; 1 Timothy 6:15)
“Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.” 1 Timothy 6:15-16
Your Savior is coming soon to get you–He loves you more than you can fathom. He commanded you to endure to the end–will you? Hold to Him! Seek Him! Love Him! Worship Him without reserve!
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” 1 Peter 1:23-25
The eternal and living Word gave us His Precepts and nothing could ever possibly be more relevant than God’s precious Words–so walk in them. Let them circumcise your heart, fill your thoughts and meditations, and guide your feet down the narrow road that leads to life.
PRAYER: Father, in the name of Jesus, please unite my heart to fear Thy holy name. Hasten my spirit to be perpetually seeking Your holy face and therefore protected in Your unalterable truth. Bless my life to help others do the same. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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The Spirit of Divination (audio)
https://youtu.be/fd4yBMP7EJw
Che Ahn, John and Carol Arnott, Heidi (and Roland) Baker, Mike Bickle of IHOP in Kansas City, Stacey Campbell, Randy Clark, James Goll, Cindy Jacobs, Rick Joyner of Morningstar in South Carolina, Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton of the Bethel Church in Redding, California, Patricia King, Chuck D. Pierce, Dutch and Tim Sheets, and Brian Simmons
Apostasy
The Truth about Fellowship and Going to “Church” [podcast]
The Simplicity of Fellowship that Exalts and Glorifies Christ
“And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. ” Acts 2:42
MANY today peddle the importance of fellowship because they hear it from their pastors on a regular basis. Yet, much more important than man to man fellowship is God to man, and man to God fellowship. This is little spoken of. And, what passes and is pawned off as “fellowship” today doesn’t fit the biblical description, the prescription for fellowship (Acts 2:42-47; Colossians 3:16, etc.). It’s not even a faint resemblance.
Jesus sums up the divine order of priority for and in the lives of all who will know Him and the Father.
“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. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40
WHAT’s more important 1. Fellowship with God, or 2. Fellowship with man? God! (Read Matthew 22:37-40.) In fact, your fellowship with man will only be according to your fellowship with our Maker.
The goal here is not to diminish the importance of fellowship with other members of Christ’s body but to ascertain the priorities of God and set them in their biblical order.
“Many pastors have destroyed my vineyard, they have trodden my portion under foot, they have made my pleasant portion a desolate wilderness.” Jeremiah 12:10
Pastors today (many of whom went to long-time apostate seminaries), are building a business instead of building the kingdom of Christ in the heart of those for whom He came and died. When Jesus said “I will build my church” He was speaking about building His kingdom in the hearts of His beloved people (Matthew 16:18).
Sister Nelline writes:
“I’ve recently left the organized church, couldn’t take it anymore. The pastor there used those tactics about coming to church and how you shouldn’t miss. Even threatened to stop the live stream because he felt people would rather stay home to watch instead of attend. But the one that really got me is, after I had been out sick a few weeks when I returned his first words to me were.. ‘How far back have you backslid?’ I told him I hadn’t backslid at all and added that I listen to preaching all the time. He said, it isn’t the same. Had to bite my lip from saying YOU GOT THAT RIGHT!”
Their prayer and goal and work does not center around Christ Jesus and seeing His people grow to know Him yet more and more and be established ever more deeply in His grace (Colossians 2:6-10). No, they seek to use any manipulating method they can to vest their prey in their ministry busine$$. They’ve turned the house of God, the place that is supposed to be for the worship of the LORD alone, into a den of thieves, and they are the thieves (Matthew 21:15-17).
“Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. 2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. 3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.” Philippians 3:1-3
“We Would See Jesus.” John 12:21
We are looking for, seeking Christ, not a church or a Christian “hero” or type of evangelical “pope.”
“Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?” Isaiah 2:22
Fellowship Priority
Yes, we fellowship with one another as Christ’s saints and yet by order of divine priority, “truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3).
“That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1:3
Many in ministry, building their own church business empire, put more emphasis on your fellowship with THEM rather than God. Beware.
The sobering reality is that the vast majority of church gatherings once a week are simply businesses with a paid conductor and volunteer staff.
In today’s church world we do not witness people who live a life of prayer fueling a life filled with Gospel action as we see of the earliest believers beginning in the book of Acts. “There is no new thing under the sun,” and this is how it’s always been among those who profess, who pretend to know God. Zephaniah the prophet exposed the circus conductor leaders of his day and ours.
“Her prophets are light and treacherous persons: her priests have polluted the sanctuary, they have done violence to the law.” Zephaniah 3:4
Rather we see that “Christianity” today consists of merely attending church, being part of a club that meets weekly to mull over felt needs instead of knowing Jesus, true repentance, personal holiness, a denial of self, the crucified life, and getting into the Word. Christianity has been reduced to attending a one hour circus on Sunday morning, hearing a few stories and a few verses from a cotton candy fake “bible” and a psychology laced sermonette. The fruit of the lives of of its adherents tells the story.
Sad Sunday Saps
“‘Church’ fellowship is kind of a joke these days. I’ve observed nothing more than a networking event in some cases where realtors and other entrepreneurs are just looking for business leads while hanging out at the church coffee bar.” Jennifer
May the truth of God blast us out of the sink holes, the quick sand that has absorbed us downward.
Is that what our lives, your life has come to? Is this all there is…. a stale, mundane country club membership in a mutual admiration society where overcoming sin is mocked at, the cross of Christ and crucified life are never heard from the Word and by the power of the Holy Ghost? Where’s the life of Christ truly in our daily lives? What kind of Gospel action is transpiring in your personal daily life?
“Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Acts 8:4
In the New Testament canon we don’t see any such “Christianity” as we witness today and hence the use of the word “churchianity” where the extent of “Christianity” is reduced to church membership and attendance.
Deep is calling unto deep beloved…. God is speaking to the hearts of His people to cry out to Him, to come unto Him with tears of repentance, asking Him to do something deeper, to rescue them from the pit, the muck-laden miry clay of religiosity, a mere “form of godliness,” and to establish them in a genuine walk and life of His authentic disciple. The Holy Ghost via Paul prophesied of this very day which is upon us (2 Timothy 3:1-7-13). Instead of being about Christ and His people, it’s all about the self-absorbed, self-idolatrous, entertainment of the prey.
“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.” Hosea 10:12
Scripture reveals that true fellowship is essential, not faithfulness to a certain group that meets in a certain building once or more weekly.
When told about good preaching at a certain local church, one disciple responded this way (sobering and true):
“So did my pastor preach the whole truth but nothing ever stuck, no revival meeting or guest ‘evangelist’ ever taught me anything that made any significant change in me. It was only when I invested my time and money into knowing what’s between Genesis 1:1 and Revelation 22:21 that I really began to know my Bible. It all started with Proverbs 8:17 where I took God at His word and held Him accountable for keeping his end of the bargain as I kept my end.”
Saints, many have been sold the bill of goods concerning “church” attendance and membership. Like trained monkeys they’ve been indoctrinated to be faithful to the local church, not Christ. The whole scam is set up to benefit the frauds who designed and who perpetrate it. They push people to be loyal to the system, not the Savior. Run.
THERE are so many who will be shocked to be separated from Christ in the end and it’s because they were told all their lives and believed that being faithful to their local church and pastor meant they were being loyal to God. In most cases, faithful church members are wasting their energy, heart affections, and money as they have pushed Christ aside to serve their wolf pastor and that local church and its agenda.
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” 2 Peter 2:1-3
“For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:18
One follower of the KING writes:
“So many in the ‘church’ world have no idea what it means to truly follow Jesus. I know that I fall short all the time too and yet am blessed to repent daily and do my best to be obedient to His Word as well as share His truth with others. I long to know Jesus and His Word even more daily.”
The biblical definition of “Official” would grossly differ from the commercialization of the den of thieves many call “church” today. Jesus is calling His remnant to “come out of her” or be consumed with her (2 Cor 6:17; Rev 18:4-5). I don’t know even one regular “church” attender of the modern church who is on fire for Jesus, who is winning souls, who is in the Word daily, fervently, who is prayed and fasted up, who is feeding Christ’s sheep. And those false churches don’t even use the real Bible, the King James Bible, they use fake “bibles,” lame.
Monetizing the Ministry
False leaders have long ago used their position over the people for their own self-serving benefit. They gather the people to garner their funds. They push for the people to gather, getting them to become a member, and yet are not fulfilling the ordained role of an overseer – to feed the flock and watch for their souls – yet received pay for such (Hebrews 13:7, 17). See Isaiah 56:8-12; Jeremiah 12:10; 23; Ezekiel 34; Zephaniah 3:4; Matthew 24:4-5; 2 Peter 2:1-3. Misuse of funds. Misappropriation.
Jesus exposed them…. by showing how they put on a big show to rob the people:
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. 15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” Matthew 23:4-5
“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?….. 10 Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them.” Ezekiel 34:1, 20
TRUE NEW TESTAMENT FELLOWSHIP DOES NOT EQUAL GOING TO A “CHURCH BUILDING” ON SUNDAY MORNING – SPECIFICALLY IF THAT GATHERING IS NOT CHRIST-CENTERED, FIERCELY BIBLICAL, AND FULL OF GOD’S LOVE AND STRICT ADHERENCE TO HIS HOLY, WRITTEN WORD.
When you are seeking Christ daily, you don’t need a Sunday morning pep rally.
Looking for the church means simply looking for other true members of Christ’s body! WE are HIS church – called out ones. Amen Jesus. Fellowship, Gatherings
Do the 4 simple elements seen in Acts 2:42 exist in the fellowship you attend? Also, what’s been added?
The WORD will always be front and center and not salaried frauds pretending to be true elders of the remnant body of Christ (Colossians 3:16).
As He did twice when He walked the earth, if Jesus were here today in the flesh, He would be flipping 99% of “churches” who’ve made the place of worship a den of thieves – to rob the people of their pure worship of God, of their time, of their money, of their place with God, etc. (Matthew 21; John 2). He’s still doing it through His servants who fearlessly preach His Word (Romans 16:17-18; Galatians 2; Jude 3-4; etc.).
Connie Hatten
“Our church went Purpose Driven too! I remember noticing THAT’S when it all changed for the worst. Rick Warren used MULTIPLE modern Bible perversions, and his online ‘network’ of resources can be accessed by pastors to download Sermons, etc! What happened to studying God’s Word and going to the HOLY SPIRIT?!”
Barbara H Kuks
“I noticed a change in the Bible study classes. I heard the church Pastor and staff actually went to visit Warren’s church back then. It was kept quiet but the changes were obvious. No more time or room for the Holy Spirit or words of knowledge in the services. They started television the Sunday morning service and limiting time etc. Became very theatrical and not spontaneous at all.”
“Since leaving church 9 months ago, I have grown by leaps and bounds in my faith. And in the knowledge of his word. Bless you brother!” C.
“Okay, sharing one of my biggest mistakes. We had family devotions when the kids were young. My sister and her husband and kids lived with us and we all took part in family worship. Then . . . my husband always liked this Pentecostal church near us and decided we would go there. They had something almost every night and that was the mantra, ‘Be in church whenever the doors were open.’ Our family devotions were so GOOD, but we dropped it for being in church, not realizing at the time that it was a bad decision.” Arlean
“I been out of “organized religion“ for many years now and I am closer to God than ever before.“ Tracy Parker
Not all fellowships and yet….. organized religion can many times seduce us AWAY from Christ and not endear us to Him. See Colossians 2:18-19.
Sharon Matthews writes:
“The modern church keeps their flock dependent on them. They also keep them busy doing different things instead of giving them the Word of God regarding becoming a disciple of Jesus. Following Jesus will cost them their way of life. Obedience is a byword, not a reality for most. It’s easier to go somewhere to listen to men instead of searching the Scriptures for real life in Christ. Many fill their mind with Scripture but don’t care to act on it—give up their own life in exchange for the life of Christ in them. Sloppy grace is everywhere! Churches (not all) don’t want to lose people, or teach children God’s Word, they might get offended and leave. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He said, come follow Me.”
The Bible truth is assembling to fellowship (Acts 2:42; Heb 10:25). As was the case when Jesus got here, the organized church was completely apostate. We have virtually (at least) the same today. There were no church buildings in the early church. Not a penny was collected to build a physical building either – especially not to build the real estate property for a man or men to use as their headquarters to make merchandise of the people, turning the house of prayer into a den of thieves (2 Peter 2:1-3; Matthew 21:12-17, etc.).
Jon Crane writes:
“I think the day the church sold itself to the state was when it became a 501c3. That very act of treason yoked them to mammon and divorced them from Christ. Just something I have been thinking about when I look at how God had to chasten Israel many times in the Old Testament. It always happened when they would forget God and chase after the things of this world. If I behaved this way in my marriage…well, I’m pretty sure I would get served. Yet, so many believe that God is okay with them cheating, as if they can force Jesus to bring the filthiness of their sin into His holy presence!
To the godly, seeing Jesus face to face in heaven will be the greatest joy, but I dare say; to never have to see my sin again will be a close second!”
All organized religion is false. Jesus and His apostles did not start any organization nor did they collect a penny to build a so-called “church” building – such is usually the work of wolves who exist to make “merchandise of you” (2 Peter 2:1-3). The Son of God and His holy apostles and the early church operated autonomously and were led and empowered by the Word and Holy Spirit of God. 501(C)(3) “churches” are stated owned, totally compromised, apostate. Run. Denounce. The Savior never sent anyone to sign up with the state to get permission to do His work.
“My kingdom is not of this world.” John 18:36
“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” 1 Corinthians 7:23
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“I got out of the apostate “church” about 3 or 4 years ago now. Can’t fellowship with any of those people now.” D.
REPLY:
This is the direction of Christ for His remnant. 2 Cor 6:17; Rev 18:4-5
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“The church comprises born again believers not a building. There are some great churches. DL Moody was used by God in a church in Chicago and in many churches in America and the UK. I have never been to a church that is controlled by the state. You can not say all churches are comprised many ARE but been to many that preach the Word without comprise and state control. I have heard many who preach repentance and hell. Attended a church, before his message the preacher got on his knees and prayed and ended every prayer to preach in the power of the Holy Spirit, that Sinners would not go to a place called hell. The Methodist recently had a split and came out from the United Methodist that are very comprised. Now they are independent Methodist.” Paul
REPLY:
You err here: I didn’t say all churches are controlled by the state but rather all 501C3 churches ARE. And that’s 100% truth. They signed a contract, they signed allegiance to the gov’t of mere men. Did Jesus, the prophets, or the apostle do such? No. You bear false witness as you state: “I have never been to a church that is controlled by the state.” EVERY church you’ve been to that is under a 501 C3 is state controlled without exception. For example, name even one of the churches you’ve been to that didn’t conform to the demonic, God-despising mask and 6 foot rule…. waiting. Yeah, I thought so – zero.
Whatever Wesley and Moody were, is all long gone. Moody institute was long ago taken over by the Vatican and I’ve got lots of personal experience with that. The UMC is also ecumenical, totally false, apostate.
——————–
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“This is called catastrophising. There’s a fair amount of truth in what you say, but you are making absolute statements that can’t be be absolutely true.
The biblical standard for absolute truth is that it must be absolutely true and your post just isn’t. Sorry.
I’ve been in churches for most of my six decades of walking with the Lord and I agree with much of what you say, but I draw the line at making this kind of sweeping generalisation and then implicitly condemning anyone and everyone who is part of a church. That is not biblical.
Go read what God said to Elijah on Mt Horeb, about how many people in Israel God had reserved for a remnant.
You mustn’t condemn people en masse this way. And you must not make absolute statements that don’t match the biblical standard of absolute truth. That is a sin.” Alan Heron
REPLY:
Apparently, there are no absolutes in your faulty thinking. There’s a spiritual undercurrent to your influences…. and such is not going unnoticed. Again, you err. Notice, contrary to your false statement alleging that I condemned people en masse, notice that the original post stated that all ORGANIZED RELIGION, not people, is false. Did this post say all groups who assemble are false OR that all who minister are false? That is a yes or a no. Waiting. Let me help you: No, it said all organized religion, all that is religiously organized 501c3 etc… is false and I stand on that as the truth. Your years of serving God as you allege, have nothing to do with the truth, so you may wish to leave such out next time.
Jezebel’s Table – ORGANIZED RELIGION – compromised, took the bribe to be paid, receive a salary, are under contract to tickled ears, to dodge, to purposely evade the hard truths of Scripture…. ALL false.
The 7,000 God speaks of were all like JTB and Christ and His apostles and prophets… independent of the entanglements, the corporatized conspiracies (Ezek. 22:25-27) of mere men and “there is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Remember how early in this chapter (1 Kings 18), the beloved Obadiah fed the non-corporatized 100 true prophets who refused to come under the fraud banner of state religion? They refused to organize with the fraud religious leaders who tucked their feet under jezebel’s table which means they were bought and paid for by the state, the religion of the 501 C3 type contract of their day. The 100 true prophets were independent, autonomous, more safe from the heard mentality and conformity – just like Jesus, the prophets, and apostles.
“Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal (ALL the organized religionists did bow!), and every mouth which hath not kissed him. 1 Kings 19:18
“Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at JEZEBEL’S TABLE.” 1Ki_18:19
Arlean Benedict Kelley
“Yes. I’ve been to many state conventions and it’s like going to a business conference. Which church has added the most members, etc. But they are trying to do good with the best they know, I think.”
Elton Mishoe writes:
“I pastored 12 years in a “church” of 200. Tried to teach that every service. Higher ups couldn’t stand me. Lol. Finally gave a 10 year lease on that brick and mortar to another ministry and let them have it. Brick and mortar will perish and is only a meeting place. Church is where 2 or 3 are gathered in his name. Want to know the truth? go to the pastors, the higher ups in a denomination and ask to see salaries and benefits lol. Almost impossible to get the truth. Get involved with pastor meetings and watch them talk about nothing but ways to get more money into the church. I’ve Been there done it.
Most organized religion is 100% business and if a pastor bucks the system he is blackballed until he finally leaves or they get something to try to charge him with.
YES there are some pastors that give their life for the calling because they don’t consider it a job. But to most it’s a job. They use churches as stepping stones to get to the next bigger paying church. But it’s also the people’s fault they want all the bells and whistles and programs and the prestige of a huge church.
Worthy Pastors with no other income should be taken care of that’s biblical. Church of God is crooked as crooked gets, this one I know for a fact (1 Corinthians 9:1-14; 1 Timothy 5:17-18, etc.). Others are the same I’m sure. Want a good church? Good luck.”
One disciple of Jesus writes:
“At the last church I attended the pastor frequently said something like, “if you were a real Christian you would want to be in church every time the doors were open.” Goodness! that laid a huge guilt trip on me and others!
Being “in church” all the time took me away from learning about my God and Savior.
When I measured the time spent getting dressed and ready for church, driving to church, being in church, driving home from church, stopping at the store on my way from church and changing clothes after being in church I found that “church” consumed more of my time than Bible study.
I’m so thankful the Lord put an end to that for me and my husband. We now spend a LOT more time studying and getting to know our heavenly Father better than ever before. We have a home Bible study where we reach folks who would never “go” to a church but still love God, or one sister who thought she was being a good Christian and doing what God expected of her only to realize how far off base she’s been all these years.
Hallelujah!”
Clare R. Watts writes:
“Standing in the garage doesn’t make you a car. Hiding in the pantry doesn’t make you a jar of pickles, either. Going to church doesn’t save you, let alone make you a Believer! Surrendering to the Lord, obeying, trusting and following Jesus does.”
Jenny Douglas writes:
“Sadly with the rise of apostasy, false teaching, losing freedoms, etc., more and more of the remnant may have ‘church’ as the early followers did, from house to house. I see it coming.”
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Apostasy
Settled at His Feet [video]
“Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. 41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42
Note that first came the PRAYER then the PREACHING. Intimacy with the LORD always precedes Him using us:
“And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there PRAYED. 36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. 37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee. 38 And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. 39 And he PREACHED in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.” Mark 1:35-39
PRAYER communion with the LORD must always precede, go before PREACHING.
Abraham also had established habits for success with the LORD – to meet with and commune with Him “in the morning.”
“And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD:” Genesis 19:27
Is Jesus the first One you are going after tomorrow morning beloved?
Debbie LORD notes:
“I’ve experienced that at needful times in the past and I know He
loves to do that when we ask and have faith to “let go” and receive
that provision from Him. It’s truly wonderful when He teaches us
how to have a “Mary” (rather than a “Martha”) disposition of worship
and adoration at His feet even in the midst of much goings on.
Not that I’ve fully attained, but love being His student.”
Settled at His feet: THEN and only then can HIS work be accomplished His way and with His grace!
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Abiding
WHAT is the Context of Fighting the Good Fight of Faith? [podcast]
Dancing on the Defeated Devil’s Grave! Get some! Now!
What was Paul speaking of when he declared that Christ’s disciples must “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 6:12)
First off, it’s a “good fight” because we are going to win – yet only if we do things God’s way with no compromise. What do we fight against? What must we put under foot, conquer and reign victorious over?
What did the Holy Spirit in Paul mean by fighting the good fight of faith? Think context.
You have to “fight” to keep these damning sins out of your life – and the way you “fight” is to be rich in giving – otherwise you will have a sand foundation that will not stand in the judgment. You will go to Hell irrevocably. This is the clear teaching of Scripture, throughout. Read this closely:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 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. 10 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. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 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 6:6-12
Wisdom is fellowshipping with those who are on fire for Jesus, who refuse to be lukewarm, who are fighting the good fight of faith, who are finishing their course, who are keeping the faith (2 Timothy 4:7) …. who make you wonder if you are saved. Conviction.
The cross is an absolute essential in the life of every saint of Christ. There will be no overcoming without putting the cross at the center of our daily lives. Paul said:
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” 1 Corinthians 9:27
Eternal security is the fairytale of counterfeits.
Jesus told us that the cross is “daily” (Luke 9:23-24). It must be daily or you will fall away. No one can truly serve God on any other terms but the ones He has set forth. The cross must be at the center of your life. You must plant, drive that stake in the ground. Your heart and life will never be flooded with His love, peace, power, and joy until you do.
Those who don’t endure to the end after being saved are going to hell (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Hebrews 10:26-39).
Do you truly love God above self and all else? That’s the big question. If you love God supremely, you will give Him the preference in the life He gave you and for which you will give full account to Him.
Do you truly desire the power of God to function in your life? The cross is His way beloved.
YOU, yes you are in a war. The cross is the instrument of your death so that Christ, who is “the resurrection and the life” might reign in and through your life (John 11:25). Don’t even think you’re going to conquer devils, principalities, when you haven’t even conquered your own heart, soul, lusts, and life.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30
Scarcely will we hear a man preach on the cross – the crucified life – which proves he himself is not taking up his cross. And the cross is a non-negotiable essential in the divine economy. Never wait for any other man to take up the cross or preach it. You do it. God holds you 100% responsible to do so – and you will appear before the Almighty to give full account for doing so, or not.
The war is won within – as you push your love upward to God and outward to men. This must be the labor of love deliberately won by fighting, battling through everything that seeks to assume first place in your life, time, your thoughts, your heart, your affections, etc. God only raises up crucified – dead and buried disciples. THAT’s when the victory is won and such a crucified disposition must be diligently procured daily by the cross – knowing that God is only going to raise up the surrendered soul.
Memorize:
“Let us labour (fight) therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” Hebrews 4:11
Treasure that will be Eternally Tremendous or Trouncing
Where your money is proves where your heart is …. Take a look at your bank statement and see where the money is going and also your investments and property. There is where you will see where your heart truly is. Your bank statement will reveal to you who you really are – as in contrast with who you may claim to be. The self-deception will be exposed.
Getting “honest” in your “heart” and life are a required essential to bear fruit unto everlasting life with Christ, the Father, and the saints (Luke 8:15).
Jesus says: “WHERE you treasure (money) is, THERE will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21).
Are you pouring into Christ’s kingdom? If not, what does that actually reveal about your life at this moment? – It reveals that you love this world, you love your life in this world.
Isn’t it time to lose your life in this world?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
Is Christ your Protector or is your money? Remember, you will soon be separated from your money – and stand naked before the Almighty (Job 1:21; 1 Timothy 6:6-11). What shall you say to Him in that day? Will He declare over you “Well done” or “Depart from me”? Read Matthew 25:40-46.
“Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.” Luke 17:33
If you are rich toward yourself instead of “rich toward God” – you chose to forsake Christ, even though you were running a lot of religious interference. God sees through it all. Read what Christ taught in Luke 12:15-21 and 16:19-31.
Are the authentic ministries you know of, who feed you and others, well stocked with supply, fuel to function? Do you realize they have monthly bills and have a family to provide for as they have answered God’s call to do the infinitely most important and only eternal work in the earth?
Jesus spoke of those who are and those who aren’t “rich toward God.” Those “rich toward God” have God first and nothing else. Nothing gets spent before Christ’s workers and work are supplied. They make sure Christ’s work and workers are fully fueled. They are the bless-ed Obadiahs and Epaphroditus’ of our day.
Who was Epaphroditus? Well, he was like Obadiah in the days of Elijah and the other true prophets of God. He kept laborers of the Gospel supplied so they could function in the calling of the LORD on their lives.
“Lay up for yourself treasure in Heaven, not things on the earth. Because it will all burn up one day, all will be lost. Can’t take anything of this earth’s wealth with you. Only all you’ve given to God will last. Give as a cheerful giver. Jesus cheerfully gave His life for you. He died for you to save you. Our giving will not out give God. Supporting the work of the Lord is laying up treasures in Heaven. God Bless.” Darlene
Epaphroditus is the New Testament Equivalent to Obadiah
Timothy and Epaphroditus
“And Ahab called Obadiah, which was the governor of his house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly: 4 For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)” 1 Kings 18:3-4
Read Philippians 2:19-30 to discover how this man, this brother in Christ named Epaphroditus, supplied Paul and the ministry of Christ.
WHO was Obadiah in the Days of Ahab and Jezebel?
“And Ahab called Obadiah, which was the governor of his house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly: 4 For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)” 1 Kings 18:3-4
“Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD” (1 Kings 18:4). Through his ministers that held high positions within the kingdom of God, the devil “cut off” the supply of finances to those prophets who remained in the truth, refusing to compromise with the system and majority. God-fearing Obadiah secretly supplied these servants of Christ with food and water to sustain their lives. Is there any new thing under the sun? No. In our day, when those few who refuse to compromise are being cut off from financial supply by those who have a stranglehold on the control of 99% of the finances flowing in the church world, we, the remnant, have been called out to be like Obadiah and supply those who remain true to the LORD in serving His people. See 1 Kings 18.
The Most Dangerous and Prevalent Sins?
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor COVETOUS man, who is an IDOLATER, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” Ephesians 5:5-6
One man of God noted that “More people will be in Hell for covetousness and greed than all other sins combined.” The honest student of Holy Scripture cannot but agree to this. There is a direct connection between your money and the Messiah, your supply and the Savior.
Those not laying up treasure in Heaven (digging their way into Hell) prove such by not being “rich toward God” but are rather rich toward the god of self, who cannot save them from eternal damnation.
“Yes! Amen. Jesus shine your light into my heart and reveal your truth to me. I can hide and not want to know what is in me. Turn up the heat so I will surrender to you what is not of you.” Karen Cochran
Jesus Instructs You to Lay Up Treasures in Heaven
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:19-24
At the end of his earthly life, the apostle Paul could declare with clear conscience:
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Sin must be warded off, must be kept at bay, must be put under foot by the cross, the crucified life. There are not shortcuts. Knowing you are expected to cling to and know and walk with Jesus is one thing – and walking it out is another. Here’s a memory verse:
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Those who answer the call of God to do His work forego, waive, give up their own earnings in this passing world in order to obey God by feeding and equipping His precious sheep for whom He died and rose again (John 15:16; 21:15-17; Acts 6:4; 15:26; 20:24; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14, etc.). It’s a blessing for us to be able to contribute, to get behind this most important and only eternal work of our LORD transpiring in His earth as His children live in fervent expectation of His glorious and soon return.
“Earth is planning for war.
Heaven is preparing for a wedding.” unknown
This is not our home beloved saints of Christ. NO ONE is going to do His glorious Gospel work except HIS own children – and that’s us!
“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
Jesus Christ is KING.
YOUR PRAYER OF REPENTANCE: Holy Father, I come to You now in the name of Jesus Christ and ask You to forgive my sin of self-idolatry, of spiritual adultery. I have lived in sin, in pride, in self-love and am now turning wholly to Thee my God – asking You to wash me clean, to clear my sin by Your precious blood LORD Jesus. Here and now I denounce all covetousness for the trinkets of this world and choose, from this moment forth, to be rich toward You dear LORD – in getting behind and fueling Your Gospel work in the earth. In the name of Jesus Christ – let’s roll Jesus! Amen.
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