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.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | Because You Care Page | Bible/Word of God | Gifts | Prophetic or Pathetic? | Christology | Final Divine Authority | At His Feet | Prepared to be Used of God | Grace and Truth Bible School [modules] | 7 Study Guides to a Greater Foundation in Christ | Knowing God | The Cross Life |
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
Abiding
Supplying Saints and Sinners with Heavenly Sustenance
HIS TRUTH IS MARCHING ON – THROUGH HIS PEOPLE
“The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” Psalms 68:11
THERE is no time to waste – Jesus is coming. We must get the Word of God into the hearts of people, in every way, via any and all communication mediums available to us today. And this is the fulfillment of Matthew 24:14 – “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Let’s roll saints!
“We are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
The graphic below is for the order I just placed with the publisher for a fresh supply of the ministry books.
This ministry outreach, ministering God’s Word to thousands daily, is a vehicle for our LORD’s Word. What’s needed is more disciples who will monthly support it, who will put fuel in the tank in order to propel it forward to reach more and more people with the Gospel of our LORD Jesus. Will you answer that call?
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Does it make sense to put a percentage of our earnings into a 401K (or other earthly investment) and not force feed a portion off the top, with a cheerful heart to Christ’s eternal kingdom work? (Read Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11)
“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.” Matthew 6:19-21
It has been wisely concluded from what Jesus taught, that:
“The way we spend our money is a direct reflection of the priorities of our hearts.”
Is God truly first in your life? (Proverbs 3:9-10; Matthew 6:33, etc.).
There are no rich men, there is no religious or otherwise organization supporting this Gospel ministry outreach. Just regular people who know and love Jesus and the whole counsel of His truth and are growing in His grace daily with the other members of His remnant body (2 Peter 1:2; 3:18). There are monthly bills that only get paid by having the actual, the literal money in the account. In turn God turns that giving of earthly money to HIS work into heavenly treasure for all who give (Luke 16:9-11; Acts 20:35). These expenses are incurred by pushing the Word of God to the hearts and minds of the people and available to be paid and that’s God’s opportunity placed in YOUR lap to supply. In response, what is the LORD going to do? (Matthew 6:19-21; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Philippians 4:17, etc.)
“And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?” Luke 16:9-11
When Jesus says here to “Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness …,” what does He mean? This writer would like to encourage the reader to delve into this passage, to pray that the LORD will open the eyes of your understanding concerning what He seeks to communicate to your heart.
Of this passage, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes:
“16:9 We should make friends for ourselves by means of unrighteous mammon. That is, we should use money and other material things in such a way as to win souls for Christ and thus form friendships that will endure throughout eternity. Pierson stated it clearly:
‘Money can be used to buy Bibles, books, tracts and thus, indirectly, the souls of men. Thus what was material and temporal becomes immortal, becomes non-material, spiritual and eternal. Here is a man who has 100. He may spend it all on a banquet or an evening party, in which case the next day there is nothing to show for it. On the other hand, he invests in Bibles … It buys … copies of the Word of God. These he judiciously sows as seed of the kingdom, and that seed springs up into a harvest, not of Bibles but of souls. Out of the unrighteous, he has made immortal friends, who when he fails, receive him into everlasting habitations.’
This then is the teaching of our Lord. By the wise investment of material possessions, we can have part in the eternal blessing of men and women. We can make sure that when we arrive at the gates of heaven, there will be a welcoming committee of those who were saved through our sacrificial giving and prayers. These people will thank us saying, ‘It was you who invited me here.’”
“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed (God’s Word), shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves (eternal harvest, reward) with him.” Psalms 126:5-6
Christ’s Kingdom and His Gift to us to Participate, is Practical
Will you choose to part with temporal money to reap eternal, unending, irrevocable benefits?
An order has been placed for 20 more of the ministry books from the publisher ($125). The plan is to order this supply monthly for the next 3 months – and hand them out, person-to-person. Face-to-face, person-to-person gifting people on a daily basis, usually after they’ve received ministry, is a super-charged transfer of heavenly blessing (Philippians 1:19). As you know if you’ve read any of the ministry’s books, they are Christ-centered, Scripture-rich original Gospel volumes. Holy Scripture is on each page and put in bold print. In the rear of each book is the way to make peace with God. It leads them right to Jesus via and beginning with the biblical truth that we have “all sinned” against our God (Romans 3).
If you wish, feel free to help fund this part of the ministry exploits currently transpiring to get God’s Word in the hearts of more and more people.
“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11
The glorious Gospel of our LORD Jesus is communicated, disseminated, and received via His Word.
“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his GRACE, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might PREACH him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:” Galatians 1:15-16
As we can all witness, there are so many hungry souls wandering about in this fallen world who desire to receive the Word of God. The personal touch, contact is powerful – as it was when our LORD directed beloved Philip to minister to the Ethiopian eunuch whom our LORD consequently saves (Acts 8:26-40). And some, many and actually most of the people being reached are our beloved brethren who are looking for sustenance. I meet them each and every week. They are hungering and thirsting after His righteousness. Let’s be there for them saints.
Perhaps this can spread to where we are able to drop ship a supply books to some of the ministries this outreach supplies and has for years. If each of us does our simple part, great blessings will result.
Lately I’ve been handing out lots of the Moments with Our Master devotional books. People love them……. This week I had a lengthy breakfast meeting with a rich young ruler type young man. He articulated that all of his earthly success has left him empty in this world. It was a Scripture-rich time. Garrett gladly received a copy of the Moments devotional book and said “Let’s do this again.” His heart was filled with joy during and after that fellowship. He told me that in the past, as he walked with the LORD daily, his life was so much better. With a large smile he said “Man, I’d just walk down the street like I was floating 2 feet off the ground, filled with the joy and love of Jesus, sharing it with others.” Garrett texted me back the next morning with this:
“Appreciate you giving me that book. It’s convenient to use in the mornings.” Garrett
So, as we can witness, this Scripture-rich devotional book is the launching place for this man to seek and walk with the LORD. As usual, all of the ministry’s materials constantly exhort the readers/listeners to get into God’s Word daily for themselves (2 Timothy 2:15).
I know you’ll agree that the Garrett’s of our world matter to our LORD and we are the very “ambassadors” Christ has sent to bless them (2 Corinthians 5:20)! We are the delivery personnel of Heaven – handing out to people the treasure of Christ!
Just a few days ago, I gave 1 copy each to a young couple who I’ve become friends with at the gym (18 years old each). They were happy to receive this gift. First, as I like to do, I asked them if they like to read. One of them said they were currently “searching for something to read.” As usual when giving them the books, I opened one copy of the books and showed them that “there’s one devotional for each day of the year, all on one page. It begins with a Scripture, a few words, and a prayer at the end.” This way they see just how simple it is – and gives them a track to run on, a foundation to build their day upon. EVERY searching person is looking for this very thing. Their lives are meaningless, empty, and lacking the presence of the LORD. This is where we come in saints. As usual, I like to share with them that “This is a great way to begin the day.”
After qualifying the situation by asking people “Do you like to read?” I then ask them if I can give them a book and the answer is always a “Yes.” I then go fetch a book and gift them with it.
The season must now end where the Great Commission work of our LORD is shorted. Let’s fuel up and fill the Gospel war chest saints. It’s right under out noses – as God has placed it there! Let us each do our part (John 4:36; 1 Samuel 30:24).
Anyone who wishes to jump in and begin underwriting the kingdom opportunity cost for this is welcome.
Earthly expenses to do ministry, the most important and only eternal work in the earth, is the kingdom opportunity lying right in front of each of us (Matthew 6:19-21).
“May God empower us through the Holy Ghost to bring not a few guests to the wedding banquet; as we walk in the Spirit with the love of Christ flowing in and through our daily lives, and as we sow in tears; knowing that we shall reap with joy: because He that promised is faithful. To God be the glory in Jesus Name, Amen.” Jon Crane
Let’s review:
“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalms 125:5-6
YOU cannot do it. I certainly can’t do anything without Christ.
“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
Surrender, right? Yes.
Jesus Christ is LORD. He’s our coming King.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Because You Care | Evangelism | Feedback



Abiding
LIE OF THE AGES: From the Garden to Glory [podcast]
Excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages
The First Lie and the Fall of Man
“Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” ~ Genesis 3:1-5
Have you ever wondered what the first lie ever told was? Who told it? Why was it told? What was the result of it? Can the fruit be seen and felt today? Can its effects be traced throughout history and even into the future?
According to the Genesis account, the Garden of Eden was the sanctuary of the Most High, where He communed with the first man and woman He had made in His very own image. The Garden was a sinless, guiltless sanctuary of unimaginable relational bliss between the LORD Almighty and the man and woman. The Garden of Eden was the place of pure truth and love—a place where lies were not even suspected.
Enter Satan.
Enter the lie.
Enter the seduction.
Enter no fear of God.
Enter stolen restraint.
Enter sin.
Enter the fall of man.
Enter alienation from the Creator.
Garden Scene—The First Lie
Do you think this first lie may hold some insight into the work of Satan and his war against God and His treasured people today?
“And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die…(Now here’s what the woman said:) But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. (Now here’s what Satan said:) And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die.” ~ Genesis 2:16-17; 3:3-4
In the book of origins (Genesis) where every major biblical doctrine is rooted (has its beginning), there can be found the keys and answers to life. Mankind’s Maker, his beginning, his ultimate enemy, temptation, sin, the resulting fall, and the redemption of man are revealed in the first chapters of this all-important first book of the Holy Bible.
Perhaps there could be no greater occupation than for the student of Scripture to undertake, pour over, pray over, and dismantle the first three chapters of the book of Genesis. In this endeavor, he will gain insight into the origins and purpose of creation, pitfalls facing mankind, divine restoration, and the keys to living a victorious life in harmony with his Creator.
Sin entered the human experience through the temptation and fall of the first man (Rom. 5). By this the enemy gained a foothold and has warred with that sole creation made in the image of the Maker Himself. But it is sin that is man’s problem, not circumstance or self-esteem nor any other diagnosis. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (See Jer. 17:9.)
Someone has wisely stated: “The heart of the human problem is the problem of the human heart.”
From the very beginning, Satan has tempted man to believe that breaking the commandment of His Maker was not to be feared or avoided and could not harm him. The temptation for man is if he is going to determine truth on his own terms and how it fits his own lifestyle, or repent and humbly accept and obey what God says.
Cain was a religionist. He refused relationship with the LORD because he chose to do things his own way instead of God’s (Gen. 4:1-7). In his pride, Cain wanted to make up his own rules – he was lawless. Religion is where men have created a god in their own image and follow those teachings which render obedience to that false god. The most deceptive and evil form of religion is that which is close to the truth and uses Bible Scriptures out of context to make up that doctrine which circumvents obedience to the plain truth of God. (See Jesus rebuke the Pharisees in Matt. 23.)
Who are we going to believe and trust? Whose report will you believe? Since the LORD and the devil stated something in direct opposition to each other, we know that one of them is a liar. As He gave the first man and woman the option, so the LORD gives us the choice to trust and obey Him or not to obey Him. Each of us will decide who it is that is going to be a liar in our hearts—the Almighty, or Satan.
God said (Gen. 2:17): “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE.”
Satan said (Gen. 3:4): “And the serpent said unto the woman, YE SHALL NOT SURELY DIE.”
The lie of the ages began in the very cradle of creation. The aim of the enemy of all souls was the first man and woman who were uniquely created in the image of the One who made all things. Adam and Eve were the subjects of Satan’s deadly lie—the first lie ever told. Apparently, this cunning enemy understood that if he could cause the man and woman to take things into their own hands and violate the instruction of their Maker, they would be ushered out of His Garden (presence) and forfeit their place with Him.
Mankind’s enemy led him to believe that he could violate the instruction of his holy Maker and still remain within His approval. Like Adam and Eve, it is readily observed that men naturally internalize this philosophy as “I can sin with no fear of consequences.” Is it possible that this lie is still leading men and women to believe that they “shall not surely die” if they live in direct opposition to the LORD?
Concerning this most insidious and destructive lie of the serpent, the Life in the Spirit Study Bible states:
“‘YE SHALL NOT SURELY DIE’…The first lie proposed by Satan was a form of antinomianism (lawlessness), denying the judgment of death for sin and apostasy. One of the basic sins of humankind is unbelief in God’s word. It is believing that somehow God does not really mean what He says about salvation, righteousness, sin, judgment, and death. Satan’s most persistent lie is that unrepentant, deliberate sin and rebellion against God will not necessarily bring separation from God and eternal condemnation.”
As he did with the first man and woman, the adversary tells us “Ye shall not surely die” (Gen. 3:4).
Escaping the judgment of a holy God has long been the vain imagination of depraved men, fueled by the enemy of all righteousness who has come “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy” (Jn. 10:10).
“Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” ~ Ecclesiastes 8:11
“Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God? he hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.” ~ Psalms 10:13
Question: “Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God?
Answer: “He hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.”
The hearts of those who are not in fellowship with the LORD say “The LORD will not ‘require it’ of me. He will not bring me into accountability for my life in this world. After all, He has not done anything to me for my wrongdoing thus far. I am okay in my sins; God will just overlook them.”
Lucifer’s lure capitalizes on the sinful nature of men, preying upon his desire to be his own god, controlling his own destiny. Somehow, according to this revelation and others, it is within man’s makeup to believe that because his Creator is not presently executing tangible judgment for his sin, he believes that God is not going to judge him at all. So, unregenerate man goes on sinning with reckless abandon, not realizing that that Great and Terrible Day of Judgment lies just ahead.
The first man and woman bought into the first lie that claims there is no consequence for violating the command of the one true God. Such self-deception is no new thing. Since the first man and woman, people have sought to define right and wrong on their own terms instead of simply acknowledging what the LORD says. As the first couple found out, it is a losing endeavor to determine truth by how it fits one’s lifestyle instead of by God’s non-negotiable counsel given us in His Word (Jn. 17:17; Rom. 3:3-4; 2 Tim. 3:16). Defining truth on one’s own terms is buying into the lie of the ages presented to every man by the evil one who “walketh about seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8).
When men seek to redefine truth on their own terms, they unwittingly create a god in their own image—one who accepts them in their sins with no judgment. They then migrate to pastors and teachers who will tickle their itching ears with smooth messages void of the full-counsel revelation of Holy Scripture (Jer. 5:30-31; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
After Adam and Eve, it was their son Cain who sought to make up his own way to God on his own terms. He failed. To Cain and to all who seek through religion, whether self-styled or organized, the Almighty would ask: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door” (Gen. 4:7).
The LORD says to Cain “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted?” This simply means “If you will do things the way I prescribed, will I not fully accept you as I did your brother Abel?” Cain hardened his heart and refused to do things God’s way by offering the type of sacrifice God requires. Due to his own choice to rebel against the Most High he became so filled with the enemy that he killed his own brother (Gen. 4).
This is a classic example of how the enemy led this man Cain to believe that he could make up his own rules, violating the holy Creator and still escape His just judgment. Like Cain, millions of faithful religionists today have a mere formula of godliness while denying the power of a truly surrendered life to the one true God who sent His only begotten Son as the only sacrifice for the sins of men (2 Timothy 3:5).
When he was able to successfully persuade the first man to violate the command of the LORD, Satan gained access to authority over the man by the sin of the man (Isaiah 59:1-2; Ephesians 4:27; James 4:7). Jesus re-gained that authority for His highest and prized creation and all those who come into relationship with Him experience the abundant blessings that come along with being saved by His precious blood (Jn. 10:10; Rom. 5:17; 1 Pet. 1:18-19).
“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” Romans 5:17
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” ~ John 3:16-17
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, please unite my heart to fear Thy name and keep it from falling prey to this same lie that led to Adam and Eve’s fall. Quicken my heart in the fear of the LORD. Please teach me that there are many harsh consequences for disobeying You, by not doing what You say, by sinning against You. Convict my heart of sin, and I beg You to make my conscience extremely sensitive to Your conviction and leading. Change my heart, O LORD. Grant me a heart of flesh that delights to live in Your presence and do Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Eternal Security/OSAS | Accounted Worthy to Escape [podcast] | Eternal Security Exposed | Sealed? | The Return of Christ | Lie of the Ages [podcast] | 10 Questions about Eternal Security | Is Salvation Eternal? | The Damning Myth of Unconditional Eternal Security [podcast] | The Essential of Fearing God | The KING is Coming [podcast]
Abiding
“They that were Scattered Abroad went every where Preaching the Word” [podcast]
When persecution hit Jerusalem where the body of Christ was dwelling….
“Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Acts 8:4
“Persecution hit Jerusalem in a few significant periods: first, in the years following Jesus’s death, when the early Christian church was persecuted by Jewish authorities led by Saul (Acts 8:1-3).”
Remember, God allowed great persecution in Jerusalem in order to get His people to scatter to the ends of the earth.
“Jesus promised his disciples three things: that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy, and in constant trouble.” – GK Chesterton
“And he said unto them, GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15
This was right after the beloved deacon, servant of the LORD Stephen was murdered. See Acts 7:51-8:4.
Believer’s Bible Commentary
Acts 8:1
“A new era begins with the words, “At that time.” Stephen’s death seemed to trigger a widespread assault against the church. Believers were scattered throughout … Judea and Samaria.
The Lord had instructed His followers to begin their witness in Jerusalem, but then to branch out to Judea, Samaria, and the end of the earth. Up to this time their witness had been confined entirely to Jerusalem. Perhaps they had been timid about branching out. Now they are forced to do it by persecution.
From the human standpoint, it was a dark day for the believers. The life of a member of their fellowship had been laid down. They themselves were being chased like rabbits. But from the divine standpoint, it was not dark at all. A grain of wheat had been planted in the ground, and much fruit would inevitably result. The winds of affliction were scattering the seeds of the gospel to distant places, and who could estimate the extent of the harvest?”
In light of this biblical revelation, do we really think the LORD wouldn’t be allowing persecution to hit America in order to scatter His people across His earth in order to reach the billions who are unreached? The answer is obvious.
“Acts 8:4
They that were scattered – went every where preaching – Thus the very means devised by Satan to destroy the Church became the very instruments of its diffusion and establishment. What are counsel, or might, or cunning, or rage, or malice, against the Lord, whether they are excited by men or devils!” Adam Clarke
Of this passage, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes the following:
“8:4-8 The dispersal of the Christians did not silence their testimony. Everywhere they went they carried the good news of salvation. Philip, the “deacon” of chapter six, headed north to the city of Samaria. He not only proclaimed Christ but performed many miracles. Unclean spirits were driven out and the paralyzed and lame were healed. The people gave heed to the gospel, and, as might be expected, great joy resulted.
The primitive church obeyed the explicit commands of Jesus Christ:
It went out as Christ had gone (Jhn_20:21; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It sold its goods and gave to the poor (Luk_12:33; Luk_18:22; cf. Act_2:45; Act_4:34).
It left father, mother, houses, and lands to go everywhere preaching the Word (Mat_10:37; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It made disciples and taught them to work and obey (Mat_28:18-19; cf. 1Th_1:6).
It took up its cross and followed Christ (Acts 4; 1 Thess. 2).
It rejoiced in tribulation and persecution (Mat_5:11-12; cf. Acts 16; 1Th_1:6-8).
It left the dead to bury their dead and went and preached the gospel (Luk_9:59-60).
It shook the dust from off its feet and moved on when men refused to hear (Luk_9:5; cf. Act_13:51).
It healed, exorcised, raised the dead, and bore lasting fruit (Mrk_16:18; Acts 3-16).”
“The Communication of thy faith”
“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” Philemon 6-7
We are merely passing through saints. This is not our home.
“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;” 1 Peter 2:11
“New Creatures” …. given by God the “ministry of reconciliation” …. Christ’s “Ambassadors”
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-20
The body of Christ, each member, does our part in Christ’s Great Commission.
“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:13-15
“Romans 10:14-15: ‘How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!’ The LORD saved me because someone preached the gospel to me! And I instantly knew that was what was missing in my life! How would I have known if I had not heard?” Karen Cochran
The body of Christ alone bears the Good News…. that in light of each of us being lost souls, sinners…. God sent His only begotten to die, be buried, and raised again from the dead for our justification! See Romans 4:25; 5:6-8, etc.
You are a bearer of this Good News beloved of God. No one else can be—except those who are HIS. With the love, joy, and peace of Jesus emanating from your heart, take off that lampshade and unleash that beautiful smile and let the world around you know of Christ’s love for them! He proved this love by dying on that cross for them! (John 15:13)
“The love of Christ constraineth (compels) us.” 2 Corinthians 5:14
The 3 Ways God’s People can Participate in Christ’s Great Commission
1. Praying (Matthew 9:35-38).
2. Witnessing, sowing and communicating the Word (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 8:11).
3. Supporting, supplying those of God’s people who are doing His Great Commission, preaching the Word (2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Philippians 2:25; 4:16-20).
The writing is on the wall for the wicked false professors.
IF you aren’t participating in the Great Commission, you are a lost soul/counterfeit.
In light of the fact that Jesus gave us His Great Commission command, what did Jesus tell us in Matthew 7:21? What was His warning to us in light of judgment to come?
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | Evangelism | Jesus, Light of the Word | Compassion in Light of Christ’s Soon Return | Striving Together for the Faith of the Gospel [podcast] | Prepared to be Used of God | The Return of Christ | Christ’s Compassion Audio | Our Approach to the Lost | Kindness is a Soul Winning Weapon | Stop Sinning? Really? How? | Angry Street Preacher Warning



-
America9 months agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
-
Articles2 years agoChildren being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
-
Articles8 years agoSelf-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
-
Apostasy2 years agoSHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True










