Sweet Jesus, the Eternal Security Savior?

Paula White Exposed [video]

THAT’s My King! Pastor Lockridge [video]

Powerful Prayers from Children-This Will Shake You [video]

The Fear of the LORD is to Hate Evil: Pride, and Arrogancy #shorts [video]

Beware of the Grace-Perverting Wolves

One of the most prevalent and cancerous doctrines being taught from hundreds of thousands of pulpits every Sunday is the deadly lie of “once saved always saved.” This was Satan’s lie to the first man and woman in the Garden. It led to the fall of mankind – “Ye shall NOT surely die” said Satan and yet God had just told the man and woman that if they sinned against Him, they would “surely die.” (Genesis 2:17; 3:4) The enemy of all souls inserted or added just one 3-letter word that led to the fall of the first man and woman and sadly, Satan is still using the most subtle source to lie to and damn the souls of millions – the pastors of today. It could be argued that this one teaching of Satan, has led to the downfall and eternal damnation of more souls than any other.

The most popular passage misused by the “once saved always saved” proponents is found in John 10. It is unfortunate that they siphon out selective verses to the exclusion of the whole counsel of God’s Word. The problem with the misuse of this passage is that those who conclude that a person cannot ever lose salvation after receiving it, is that they divorce verse 27 from verses 28-29. Let’s read these words of Christ:

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:27-29

Here the LORD identifies and qualifies just who His sheep are by what they do. He says that His true sheep “hear my voice … and follow me.” (v27) The promise of not being plucked out of the Father’s hand is only for those who are currently hearing the voice of Jesus and following Him.

When we read the whole text, we see just exactly WHO the security promise is given to and that it is conditional, not unconditional. John 10:28-29 are promises of security to those who are currently hearing His voice and following Him. In this passage, which obviously includes the words of our LORD in verse 27, we observe that those who are hearing His voice and following Him are promised that they will never perish. Jesus taught that some would “fall away” after being saved and as they stopped believing (Luke 8:12-13).

In John 10:28-29 Jesus was speaking to those He pre-qualified in the previous verse, verse 27. According to Christ, only those who are currently hearing His voice and following Him, have eternal security.

Laughably, OSAS dupes are going to act like they take the high road in interpreting things in context. John 10:27-29 is one passage they don’t like to hear in context. They want to extrapolation v28-29 and don’t even know Jesus’ words in v27 exist and give the conditional qualification for the promise of v28-29.

Jesus sure is our Salvation and security and Jesus says that such security only applies to those whom He saves AND of them, those who are presently hearing His voice and following Him. The promise of verses 28 and 29 are made contingent by Jesus on the condition of verse 27 – only those who are presently hearing His voice and following Him are secure in Christ and going to His holy Heaven. In John 15:5 the Son of God made it clear that any person in Him that doesn’t remain in Him will be cut off and cast into the fire. Read the WHOLE of God’s Word friend or you will continue to be misled by mere men (Revelation 3:11).

YOU don’t believe the lie of OSAS because you found it in God’s Word through honest, thorough study but rather you believe it because you haven’t gotten into God’s Word seriously for yourself and have allowed diabolical, grace-perverting wolves to deceive you. Now repent and get into God’s Word for yourself as He instructed you to do! (2 Timothy 2:15)

Heaven will be full of those who responded in repentance and in receiving Jesus as they were quickened to do so by God. Oh, and those who after being saved continued to the end abiding/remaining in Christ (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; 25:1-13; Luke 13:27; John 15:1-6; 2 Peter 2:20-22; Revelation 2-3…).

A clean, clear, and assured conscience comes only by way of saving faith and literal, practical obedience to God’s Word which is always the fruit of saving faith (1 Timothy 1:5). If a person wants a clear conscience, assurance, and eternal security, he must hear the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow Him. It’s only then – as he is presently worshipping Jesus with no idols or unrepentant sin, that he is assured of eternal life.

It is clear to the honest, objective, truth-seeking Bible student that Jesus placed condition on being saved and remaining saved. There is condition for final salvation. According to Jesus, as long as we whom He has saved are abiding (remaining) in Him, we are saved and assured of eternity with Him (John 10:27-29; 15:1-6; 2 Corinthians 1:10).

Those who have adopted the “once saved always saved” cliche of mere men, are believing on a “Jesus” that is different from the One found in the Bible. The false “Jesus” says that after he saves you, you have no more responsibility whatsoever to do anything ever and that you can live in the most vile, dark sin known to man and still go to Heaven when you die. That is a false Christ!

Someone please tell me where the LORD Jesus Christ or His holy apostles ever used the phrase “once saved always saved.” Where does this phrase ever appear in the Holy Bible? It simply doesn’t. Yet, terms like “cut off,” “fall away,” and “fallen from grace” and the “if” condition, and the need to “endure to the end” appear many times in Holy Scripture (Matthew 24:13; Romans 11:22; Galatians 5:4). The warnings are abundant and departing from the faith is one of them which terminology makes it abundantly self-evident that such is possible (1 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 3:12-14). The Biblical terminology is clearly self-interpreting. Why would God repeatedly warn us of losing out in the end and for eternity if there were danger of losing out in the end? The Bible truth is clear that once the LORD saves you, you do not have a license to live in sin and if you die in sin you will be in the lake of fire forever! (Hebrews 10:26-39; Jude 4; Revelation 21:7-8, 27; 22:15, etc.)

God’s Word and condition does not stop with the initial reception of salvation. According to “the faith once delivered to the saints,” the same faith that initially appropriated God’s grace must be continued in to the end of one’s life, or eternal life will be forfeited. Though eternal life is eternal, the possession of it is not – necessarily.

Eternal life is the life of Christ in the believer and yet the possession of eternal life is contingent upon abiding in Christ. Although most Christian circles seem to stop right here – at the obtaining of initial salvation through faith, the LORD Jesus and His holy apostles have more to say concerning “Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:9)

“By faith are we saved, and by faith we stay saved.” E.M. Bounds

Jesus taught that one could believe and be saved for a time and then “fall away.” (Luke 8:12-13)

The Son of God taught that once He saves someone, they are responsible to remain in Him or be cast into the fires of hell.

“Every branch IN ME (not the lost) that beareth not fruit he taketh away … IF (denotes conditional) a man abide (remain) not IN ME, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned (hell).” John 15:2, 6

While it is true that we as believers have all stumbled, sinned, and been weak, it is also true that God was not the author of it, was not pleased in it, and that we must confess and forsake all sin.

Who did the LORD tell us He does and does not grant His mercy to?

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsakeththem shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13

Jesus Christ came to die for our sins, not only to forgive them, but also to redeem us from all sin. Those still living in sin – not redeem from sinning habitually – are not saved for Heaven, even if they were born again in the past.

“He that abideth in him sinneth not.” 1 John 3:6

God did not send His only begotten Son to give us a free pass on sinning. Contrary to the diabolical teaching of most evangelical churches, all future sins are not automatically forgiven. One must “walk in the light” with Christ – abiding holy, and obedient in Him – in order to have their sins cleansed.

“But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7

Nearly the whole evangelical movement believes and is taught that Jesus died for us to keep on sinning and that we simply cannot stop sinning. Yet, the Bible never teaches such.

“And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

The announcement of the birth of Christ tells us that Jesus was coming to “save his people FROM” and not in “their sins.”

Of the true grace of God, in Titus 2:11-14 we read:

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us,that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:11-14

When divine, saving grace is truly in our lives, it will manifest in “denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” (v12) We will also be looking for Christ’s soon return, literally be being delivered “from all iniquity” and be being purified and set apart as “a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” (v13-14)

“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 2 Timothy 2:19

Note that all who have been saved and name the name of Christ as their Savior, are to “depart from iniquity” and not excuse or justify it or adopt some false theology to rationalize remaining in sin.

“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1

1 John 3:3 identifies the exclusive “few” who are on “the narrow road that leads to life”with Christ eternally:

“And every man that hath this hope in him (the hope of Christ’s soon return) purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3

So, while all Christians most likely stumble, are weak at times, and might sin, there are two ways people deal with this:

1) Some, having no fear of God and taught the lies mentioned above, do not confess their sins, vainly believing they have no responsibility to be accountable for these violations of the holiness of our Great God and Judge.

2) Some, if they stumble, fall, are weak, or sin, they are stricken with the holy fear of the LORD and repent, return back to the LORD, confess, and forsake that sin.

Those listed in number two above are the true remnant. They are dead to self and sin and alive unto Christ alone (Romans 6).

“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24

“But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: 10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.” 2 Corinthians 1:9-10

To those already saved, Paul writes:

“For IF ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but IF ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” Romans 8:13

Jesus said “many be called, but few chosen” and those “chosen” in the end will be the “few” who kept their garments of His righteousness “unspotted.” (Matthew 20:16; James 1:27) Just what people does God’s Word tell us that Jesus is coming back for? Is it a people who are justifying their sins through false teaching of an unbiblical “security” or otherwise? Do you mind if we allow God to answer that question for Himself?

“Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27

Jesus and His holy apostles never painted the lukewarm lie we see presented in the apostate modern church by the beguiling hirelings today. In fact, in order to illustrate this, let’s test your favorite author or pastor against the words of Christ. Does your favorite leader preach this or is he an antichrist rebel?

“And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 10:22

“And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:10-13

“Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24

Jesus taught that those who do not cut off the hand and pluck out the eye that causes them to offend His holy Father by sin, will be cast into everlasting, always-conscious, fire (Mark 9:42-49).

The Son of God also taught that we are to fear God who is able to cast us into hell:

“And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.” Luke 12:4-5

When Jesus cited the sins of the seven churches He addressed in Revelation 2-3, He called them to repent and be overcomes or they would not be with Him in His Father’s Heaven.

The Holy Spirit warned us through Jude of the grace-perverting wolves we are earnest contend against in this late hour:

“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. 4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jude 1:3-4

When citing the false shepherds of Israel, Jeremiah the prophet reveals one of their damning characteristics to be that of promising eternal security to those of God’s people who are still living in sin:

“They say still unto them that despise me, The Lord hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.” Jeremiah 23:17

The word image is the root word of “imagination” and in the imagination of the hearts of most who claim to know Jesus, is the image of a false Christ – one who allows them to live in sin while keep them secure for Heaven. “The imagination of his own heart” refers to how that in evangelical America, the false image or “another Jesus” is present in the hearts of those who claim to be saved. It’s not the same Christ revealed in Scripture as He who will punish all sin and sinning people in His holy Judgment to soon come (2 Corinthians 11:2-5).

“He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Revelation 21:7-8

The false god of the evangelical movement today has preached a false Christ who doesn’t have the right to do what He told us He would do in His very Word – separate from His eternal kingdom, all who return to their sin and vomit after being saved. In fact, He made is clear that those who once knew Him and then departed from Him, would suffer the most excruciating pains in eternal damnation:

“For IF AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, AFTER they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit AGAIN; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” 2 Peter 2:20-22

The prophet Ezekiel makes it clear that the devil-inspired myth and cliche’ of “once saved always saved,” is utterly impossible:

“Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. 13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.” Ezekiel 33:12-13

Contrary to the willing ignorance of millions, Jesus is in total control and told us that He is going to eternally damn in the lake of fire all who got saved – were made righteous by Him – and then fell away and died in sin. Those who belief contrary are the tens of millions of who said a prayer and perhaps got saved, and yet, have given their eternal souls into the hands of grace-perverting wolves instead of seeking the LORD daily in studying His Word for themselves. “They are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20)

“Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.” Romans 1:21-23

If there is no danger of losing out after being saved, why so very many severe warnings, all written to those who were saved in the past? Is God a lunatic or, are those wolves teaching an unconditional eternal security the very vile wolves our LORD so often warn of?

Why such a severe warning to “holy BRETHREN” if there were no no need to endure “unto the end” and were no possibility of having “an EVIL heart of unbelief” and no danger of “departing from the living God” after being saved?

“But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. … Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end.” Hebrews 3:6, 12-14

To “holy BRETHREN” (3:1) the writer of Hebrews warns:

“For IF (that means it’s possible) we sin wilfully AFTER that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. 28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. 32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; 33 Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used. 34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence (saving faith), which hath great recompence of reward. 36 For ye have need of patience (enduring to the end), that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise (Heaven). 37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. 38 Now the just shall LIVE by faith (not just one moment of initial salvation): but IF any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition (destruction in hell); but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” Hebrews 10:26-39

Lie of the Ages | Calvinism | Eternal Security

Abiding

The Cross and the Throne of Grace [podcast]

“Hid with Christ in God”

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4

The safest place in the universe is in the cross of Christ: “your life is hid with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3).

Our place of protection is in the love walk with the LORD where we express our love for Him in obedience to Him. Jesus commanded that we deny self, take up the cross daily and follow Him. We are full of troubles and so it should be easy to relinquish all to Him!

“Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.” Job 14:1

In Christ alone is our rest from the toil of this life.

“Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.” Psalms 17:4

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16

“Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25

Prayer: Father, in Jesus’ name, please bring me to the end of sinful self. Rebuke and remove the foolishness of this heart! I love You LORD and thank You that I am crucified with You today and that You are raising up this life for Your glory alone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross [podcast]

What Final Statements Did Jesus Make on the Cross and What Did They Mean? Our LORD Jesus Christ said 7 things while as He was offering His body and precious, sinless blood to buy us back to God. He was suffering for the sins of mankind and for no sin of His own (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 7:26; 1 Peter 3:18). He was shedding His blood to Re-deem (buy us back) and that’s what Jesus did for “the whole world” when He died on the cross, was buried, and raised again from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 1 John 2:2). […]

THE ESSENTIAL IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTOLOGY [podcast]

WHO do WE say that Jesus is? “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8), and He is asking us the exact questions today that He asked His disciples while on earth. “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?” Matthew 16:13 “But whom say ye that I am?” Matthew 16:15 Jesus is asking each of us “What are others saying of Me and Who do you say that I am?” In other words, perhaps He’s asking us “In a world of many swirling ideas about Me, who do you say that […]

Abiding

“I Will Uphold Thee with the Right Hand of My Righteousness” [podcast]

One source notes:

“‘I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness’ is a famous promise from the Bible found in Isaiah 41:10 (KJB). It is a comforting verse offering reassurance against fear, with ‘the right hand of my righteousness’ symbolizing God’s divine power, justice, and support.”

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9

Help Me Jesus!

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. … For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:10, 13

“When we are in the fire of affliction it’s easy to feel afraid and wonder if God is there. Many of the great men of the Bible became discouraged and broken. But the secret was they took it to God in all honesty! In Job 3 he expressed a desire to die. But yet he said in Job 19:25 ‘For I know my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:’ David said in Psalm 56:9 ‘When I cry into thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.’ And we know Jeremiah, Jonah, Elijah, etc. all had moments of despair and suffering, but the Lord continued to uphold and encourage them. Their faith did not waver even in the midst of doubt and confusion!” Karen Cochran

“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” Psalms 118:6

“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:31-39

“in thy presence is fulness of joy”

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalms 16:11

“at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore”

"Blessed are the Poor In Spirit" [podcast]

Jesus’ longest recorded message to His people stands on the foundation of the very first words our Savior uttered in this sermon on the mount. The foundational truth of the entire sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7) is found in the very first words of our LORD when unveiling this elaborate, far-reaching, and profound message to His disciples of all ages. Here are His first words: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3 Note, “poor in spirit.” Not poor financially or religiously. The two should be mutually exclusive. The Greek word translated into English as “poor” is PTOCHOS. It […]

The Book of Revelation Narrated [podcast]

Chapter 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3 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. 4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which […]

Articles

Diminishing Returns or Divine Blessings? [podcast]

The Reason Your Bag has Holes in it [podcast]

Could our diminishing returns could be due to our refusal to put God first which would mean we are putting His work, His agenda, His stated will and mission – the Great Commission – first?

“The beginning of Haggai’s prophecy finds Israel returning to the land after 70 years under Babylonian oppression (God’s punishment for the sins of Israel’s leaders). Now, a new and younger generation of God’s people are working to rebuild God’s earthly dwelling place, the temple. Long before Haggai’s prophetic ministry, God had promised that when his own presence dwelled among his people, the life-giving power of God would flow from him into their land (Deut. 28:1-14, Haggai 1:1-4). So, in hopes of experiencing God’s promises after a long season of exile, the people begin to rebuild.

Unfortunately, the temple rebuilders quickly become distracted from the project at hand. They stop working on the temple to build their own houses (Hag. 1:1-4). Meeting their immediate needs takes priority over rebuilding God’s temple. But this priority doesn’t work out well for them in the end. Haggai points out that no matter how much they sow in their fields, the returned exiles are reaping less and less. Every day, their rations get thinner, and they feel just a little thirstier (Hag. 1:5-6). Haggai says their diminishing returns are a result of their failure to prioritize rebuilding the temple, the place of God’s presence (Hag. 1:10-11). But he also promises that if they recommit themselves to the temple project, all the blessings and life they hope for will return (Hag. 2:7-8, 18-19). This new generation listens to Haggai and starts making plans for the project’s next phase.”

The rebuilding of the temple in the days of Haggai the prophet is equivalent to the Great Commission work Christ sent us, His “ambassadors” to accomplish as we look for His soon return (2 Corinthians 5:20).

Who is it that gives men the “power to get wealth”? The LORD. Why does He do such? – “that he may establish his covenant.” (Deuteronomy 8:18)

“And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. 18 But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. 19 And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. 20 As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God.” Deuteronomy 8:17-20

Does God still keep His Word to bless those who put Him first with what He grants them the ability to bring in?

If a person chooses to repent of poor stewardship and conform to God’s Word, will the LORD not give that person grace to do the impossible? (Proverbs 3:9-10; Mark 10:27) Are you on your own with your finances? Or, are you dying to human reasoning and excuses and simply obeying the LORD? When we do simply obey Him, we can expect that He will undertake the cause and begin to do things that are miraculous. We see this throughout history, especially as recorded in Holy Writ. Remember the widow who had only a handful of food left to feed herself and her son? Remember who when she obeying the LORD that she was abundantly blessed? (1 Kings 17:10-16) The fact that some wolves have utilized this passage to garner gains for themselves, in no way negates the divine authority in and of this passage of truth. Will the LORD still bless? Has He changed or is our sin hindering His blessings? (Isaiah 59:1-2; Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:9)

“Ye looked for much, and, lo it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house.” Haggai 1:9

The people of God were experiencing diminishing returns due to their refusal to simply put God first in their lives, hearts, and therefore finances. The LORD blew on their finances and scattered them because they were not putting Him and therefore His work first – but rather their own lives and money were first. Repentance required (Revelation 2:4-5). Read Haggai 1. It’s a very revealing chapter.

The LORD’s Plan to Feed, Protect, and Bless His Saints and to Spread His Good News

It’s interesting and telling to compare the distribution of goods/resources/funds among the earliest believers and the way things are done today. Read Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35. Today, as was so often foretold, the merchandising wolves are living ‘high off the hog’ when the Bible clearly instructs leaders never to “greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.”(Deuteronomy 17:17)

Of course, the Bible teaches that those whom God has called out are to be provided for (1 Cor. 9:1-14; 1 Tim. 5:17-18) and yet, today we have lavish wolves flaunting their multi-million dollar homes in gated communities (insulated from the little guys/the poor). This has nothing to do with and blatantly contradicts the lifestyles of Jesus and His holy apostles. This makes you wonder if those who enable these wolves have even read the Gospels! A second grader knows this is wrong.

Most of us have funded wolves only later to see the light of their greed later. So, should we stop obeying God by giving to further His work? Is it time we understand the LORD’s balance in these things?

Does the Almighty have or need American money in Heaven? No.

The LORD has a plan and following that plan (instead of our own) will result in glorifying Him and seeing many blessed.

***The true disciple of Jesus is not looking for the next trinket to waste his money on, but rather is about His Father’s business of putting that money toward God’s eternal kingdom! (Matthew 6:19-24)

Some who are greedy in heart, serving the god of mammon, do not like biblical teachings on stewardship. They will lash out against the messenger, when those demons that control them are enraged. There are more than 2,500 verses on stewardship in God’s Word and over half of Jesus parables are on stewardship so anyone endeavoring to disclose/teach the full counsel of God cannot dodge that topic.

Many today who name Christ as their Savior are saying in their hearts: “I have more important things to fund than YOUR work LORD! After all, the things in my life, to make me feel more comfortable in this fleeting world, are very important. Jesus, please don’t bother me any more concerning funding YOUR work. I have vacations to go on. I have to get a bigger, nicer car so that I, I, I, look better to mere men. I HAVE to run out and see the newest movies, buy the latest fashions, subscribe to magazines from the world to help me me me be in the know, eat out 20 times monthly, put more money in the bank for MY security, get a bigger house to make myself feel better …”

Which World are You Rich In?

“There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.” Proverbs 13:7

Praise God for those who give to the work of Christ! It is regrettable though that many of those who see God’s work and receive of Him through it as they see those workers of the LORD doing HIS work, do not contribute and do not agree with God that HIS workers “ARE worthy”of financial reward so they can be sustained and furthered in doing HIS HIS HIS work. Many are saying with their inaction that Christ’s workers are NOT worthy of their hire. They are saying “LORD, I know You said that Your servants ARE due financial reward so they can keep doing YOUR work, but I am too busy to take a moment to help, I am too strapped financially, after all, I have the cable TV bill to pay, I have to pay my mortgage, my rent, for food, daily coffee, golf, and for many other essential things. I really don’t think that Your work is important. Winning souls to Your eternal kingdom for who You bled and rose again is not important to me. I am too busy being entrenched in and loving this present sinful world. So, Your kingdom, Your work, and Your people will have to wait till I have so much money that I can keep doing these important things that are important to ME in this life and also throw a token tip your way.”

When is the last time you read 1 Corinthians 9:1-14 and 1 Timothy 5:17-18? Do you know what the LORD is teaching us in these important passages? How can we expect to be blessed of Him if we ignore His instructions?

It is clear that God will bless those who agree with Him – in heart, mind, and in action. We will find amazing, supernatural blessings in our lives if we will put Jesus “first” in our stewardship, in our finances (Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Proverbs 3:10-11). Did He not promise to bless us if we put Him first which means putting His work as a top priority?

The “double honour” financial reward is due to called out Gospel workers and that’s the instruction of the One who has called out and set those workers apart to do (1 Timothy 5:17-18). That money should be there and that’s why God says that those who labor in His Word – learning and feeding His sheep – are to receive “double honour” so that they do not have to be interrupted in doing HIS work.

Jesus says that what we do with our monies is a direct reflection of who we truly love, worship, and serve – self or the Savior. “For where your treasure is THERE will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-24)

Who has God put in your life to feed you HIS Word? What does the Bible say to do to those who feed you God’s Word? (Galatians 6:6)

Is God calling you to get into agreement with His revealed mind? Is He calling you to count His work as a high priority in your life? Will He not open His windows of blessings upon your life? (Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11) Will His kingdom blessings now be added to your life if you truly and practically put Him first? (Matthew 6:33) Will your barns not be “filled with plenty”?

“Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:¹⁰So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10

If you are upset, I am sorry. I sure hope this never has to be said again other than in the general teaching of the full-counsel of God which includes the important topic of stewardship.

“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. ⁷Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. ⁸And 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. ¹⁰Now 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;) ¹¹Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Do you begin to realize what is at stake here? Do we begin to understand the implications of sinful omission? Do we begin to realize what great rewards we are forfeiting?

Aren’t the bank accounts that are connected to the work of the LORD worthy to be filled in order to supply for His work to be done?

Are you doing your part to fund those who are truly fulfilling a New Testament purpose?

Is the feeding of the LORD’s people important to you? Do unreached precious souls for whom Christ bled and rose again matter?

Jesus says “Feed my sheep.” (John 21:15-17) Are you personally interested in Christ and His sheep? Are you concerned that His sheep will be fed (nourished) and that more souls will be won to Him before it’s too late? What work or labor in this fleeting, sinful world could possibly be more important than that of the LORD’s business? Are you prayer for His laborers and supporting the work of Jesus? (Matthew 9:35-38)

Do we fit into that last day’s prophetic category of those who have a mere “form of godliness” yet deny the power, the divine authority of God to reign in our daily lives? Are we “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God” and are we those who are “lovers of their own selves, covetous …”? May the LORD rebuke and change us now! (2 Timothy 3:1-8)

God is able!

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