The Cross and the Wolf

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]

Excerpt from the book I Die Daily

The Cross and the Wolf

“There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shown difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.” Ezekiel 22:25-27

Make no mistake: there is a literal “conspiracy” of the false prophets against the God they claim to be serving. In their rebellion “they have devoured souls.” They have removed the “treasure and precious things” of God’s Word by replacing His precious precepts with the use of fad books, human philosophy, psychologies, and traditions. In doing so they have spoiled many souls, a fate of which Paul warned us to “Beware” (Col. 2:8). This they do to “get dishonest gain”—to gain their own fame, man’s approval, and earthly riches.

At the center of the “precious things” stolen by today’s wolves is the biblical message of the cross of Christ—that Christ laid down His life on the altar of the cross for our redemption, and then commands those who will be His to lay down their own lives to follow Him (Matt. 16:24-25; Luke 9:23-24).

The false teacher conveys to people what they want to hear in order to become popular. He meticulously picks and chooses the Scriptures he uses in order to entice and allure his audience to be endeared to him—in order “to get dishonest gain” (Ezek. 22:27). He refuses to teach the things that would jeopardize his standing with people. He fears men and not God (Gal. 1:10). This method of only teaching soft and dainty things works due to the obvious fact that there are so many who want to be told that going to Heaven and Christianity are easy. But that is simply a misrepresentation. That’s not what Jesus and His apostles taught.

“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

Does that sound easy?

“Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12

How many times are you hearing these divinely inspired words communicated by your leader(s)?

What about the following words of Christ? Have you heard this preached lately?

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:13-15

Notice in the above passage what Jesus is telling us. There is a narrow way that leads to Heaven and a wide road that leads to hell. Many are going down that wide road that leads to damnation and only a few are going down the narrow road that leads to eternal life. “False prophets” who are disguised in “sheep’s clothing” are, by their refusal to teach what Jesus taught, making the road to Heaven appear wider than He said it is.

The wolf leader is a hireling who is using his position in the ministry as a business to promote himself, so he does not want God’s Word getting in the way of such “success.” He certainly does not want God’s pure and circumcising Word of the cross doing its convicting work, because that won’t garner to him masses of people to fulfill his personal, self-serving dream.

The counterfeit leader would rather be relevant, relative, and seeker sensitive in order to reach a much larger segment of society. He markets his cross-less wares to the vast majority of people who are self-seeking instead of Savior seeking (Matt. 7:13-14; 2 Tim. 3:1-7). The beguiling author or leader targets this rebellious audience because they are much more plentiful and don’t read and heed the Bible, and therefore are easy to deceive and employ for the accomplishment of his goal.

Those who serve the lusts of the flesh instead of Christ, desire to be told that they are doing well in their current spiritual state, as they indulge in the lusts of the sinful nature, all the while believing they are saved and going to Heaven. But the Bible tells us that all those who love this world and the things in it are not of the Father (1 John 2:15-17). They shun the light of truth coming from the true God-fearing remnant of God’s people. They come to the defense of their false leaders when watchmen seek to uncover their evil teachings that are contrary to the clear message of God’s Word.

“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” John 3:19-21

Of the “evil workers” who “mind earthly things,” the Holy Spirit warns:

“(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)” Philippians 3:18-19

The wolf entices people to act on their sinful lusts—covetousness, greed, spiritual adultery, and idolatry. Instead of preaching the cross—that we must die that He might live, they “mind earthly things.” They tend to teach and talk about the things of this world. The false prophet completely ignores such an essential truth—he is an enemy “of the cross of Christ” (Php. 3:18). He himself does not bear the cross so he naturally doesn’t teach others to deny the self-life, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.

In neglecting to teach the cross, he teaches “another gospel” which is “any other gospel” that is not the original Gospel given to us by Christ and His holy apostles (2 Cor. 11:2-4; Gal. 1:6-9; Jude 3-4). The false gospel message of the wolf leader is void of the cross, and any cross-less gospel is a counterfeit gospel. The cross-less leader actually cheats his audience out of hearing the vital message of death-to-self; if they could but learn to die to self for the Savior, it would facilitate for them rich spiritual fellowship with Him (Php. 3:10).

Getting saved is the entrance point into God’s kingdom and not the ending point. That one which will be an overcomer and “endure to the end” must obey Jesus in abstaining from serving himself so that he can please the LORD (Matt. 10:22; Luke 9:23-24; Rev. 2-3). This is what it means to deny ourselves and take up our crosses to follow Him. Jesus said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matt. 16:24).

The wolf leader is identified by the personal carnality he walks in (Jude 3-19). He is self-indulgent (Isa. 56:10-12; Php. 3:18-19; 2 Pet. 2:19). He spends more time on self-interests and minding earthly things than he does giving himself “continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). He is not prepared to be empowered and led by the Holy Spirit in order to preach God’s Word to feed His sheep. Being entangled in the things of this world has precluded him from having time to watch over the souls of the sheep of Christ’s pasture (Prov. 27:23; Jer. 23:1-2; 1 Pet. 5:1-6). By definition, this kind of leader is a hireling and not a true shepherd. Therefore, Jesus’ followers today should not submit to him according to Hebrews 13:7, 17.

Paul, a known true servant, and apostle of Christ, said:

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. Philippians 3:20-21

God is going to do His will in the life of the one who seeks Him with a whole heart daily (Jer. 29:13). The true disciple cleanses his heart daily, putting aside his own will so that the LORD’s perfect will can prevail (Jer. 4:14; Matt. 5:8; 2 Cor. 7:1; 2 Tim. 2:21). Cry out to Him now in utter desperation, announcing to Him what He has told us—that you have no hope without Him and can do nothing of eternal value without Him (John 15:5). We have nothing, can do nothing, and are nothing without Jesus Christ— “For of him (Christ), and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen” (Rom. 11:36).

The beloved late A. W. Tozer stated: “There must be a work of God in destruction before we are free. We must invite the cross to do its deadly work within us. We must bring our self-sins to the cross of judgment.”

The Word of God instructs us to “examine” and “judge” ourselves so that we will be in check with God, and not ultimately found guilty of serving self and not the Savior (1 Cor. 11:31-32; 2 Cor. 13:5). “For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world” (1 Corinthians 11:31-32).

There will be many surprised on Judgment Day (Matt. 7:22-23). They will be those who refused to build their lives on the Word—hearing and obeying it (Matt. 7:21-29; James 1:22).

Those who don’t want to die to the self-life have made many wolves very popular. This demonstrates several things, including the sad truth that most people aren’t willing to put themselves aside that Jesus might reign (2 Cor. 4:10-12). These are those whom He told us have a mere “form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” To the remnant He says, “from such turn away” (2 Tim. 3:5).

Paul instructed his understudy, Timothy, to “Preach the word.” He then said that “the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables” (2 Tim. 4:2-4).

To “endure sound doctrine” is to take God at His Word and never dodge biblical truth that is not flattering to the flesh and requires death to self. Those who “will not endure sound doctrine” in this fleeting life will forever regret their short-lived self-indulgence. Remember Esau, who traded his eternal birthright for a quick fix bowl of soup?

“And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.” Hebrews 12:13-17

The cross and the wolf are mutually exclusive. Though good at feigning adherence to the Gospel the wolf does not honor Christ’s death and the “blood of his cross,” nor does he take up the cross daily, denying his own self-serving and sinful nature (Col. 1:20). Due to his own personal disobedience, he naturally can’t lead others down the narrow road that leads to life.

The wicked one and his accomplices have targeted the very people of God. They have stricken at the heart of the Gospel—the cross.

“The enemy hath done wickedly in the sanctuary. Thine enemies roar in the midst of thy congregations; they set up their ensigns for signs…They have cast fire into thy sanctuary, they have defiled by casting down the dwellingplace of thy name to the ground.” Psalms 74:3-4, 7

The enemy has attacked the very “sanctuary” of the LORD by setting up his own ensigns or name in place of Christ and has cast into our midst the strange fire doctrines of a cross-less gospel which is no gospel at all.

On the merit of “the blood of his cross” the believer is “complete in him” (Col. 1:20; 2:9). The wolf is the child of the enemy, who has come to steal, kill, and destroy (Jn. 10:10). In the midst of the sanctuary, the wolf has stolen the place and position due only to Christ, who alone is worthy to reign as LORD over His people, which He purchased “by himself” with His very own blood (Heb. 1:3). In doing so, he has cut off the flow of nourishment from Christ—the “Head” of the Church— to His body (Col. 2:18-19). This is what being spoiled is—when the very “reward” Christ died to purchase for us is stolen by those who would “beguile you with enticing words” (Col. 2:3, 18). We are only complete in Christ and partake of the treasures of His wisdom as we worship Him in Spirit and in truth, upholding Him alone as our object of worship (Jn. 4:23-24; Col. 2:3-19).

Wolf leaders do not like the cross, which dictates that they must truly repent and die to all self-ambition and allow Christ alone to be glorified in their own lives and in the midst of His people. They desire to use people to make themselves look good to others, so they compel their prey to do things outwardly to accomplish this. They do this to escape “persecution for the cross of Christ.” “As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain (compel) you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ” (Gal. 6:12).

At all cost the counterfeit will seek to evade and avoid the suffering associated with “persecution for the cross of Christ.” He therefore creates a church environment where he makes people feel good about themselves, but he refuses to live and preach the cross to prepare them to meet Christ as His bride (Matt. 25:1-13; Eph. 5:25-27; Rev. 19:7).

Of these leaders, Paul writes in the very next verse:

“For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:13-14

There are many modern-day forms of circumcision (outward religion that is void of repentance, regeneration, vital relationship, and a life that glorifies God in the spirit first). The wolf leaders who glory in self and in religion, are glad to have people patronizing their church businesses and making them feel good about themselves as they look out from their ivory pulpits and see people approving them by their presence and/or participation. But they don’t care for their soul— “What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:37). What will the devoured souls say in eternity? What will be the cry of those who were destroyed by the wolves? Will they say like Psalms 142:4, “No man cared for my soul”? It will be too late then. The root reason they followed mere men and were ensnared by wolves and damned irrevocably, was that they refused to truly repent and follow Jesus alone.

That’s what a wolf is—someone who is in ministry in order to get personal gain and not to love Christ and diligently watch for the souls of His precious flock. Therefore, he builds his own ministry instead of being used by the LORD to build His Church (Matt. 16:18; 2 Cor. 4:10-12).

Of many who hold positions of spiritual leadership, Jesus says: “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:43).

The religion taught by these beguilers is not genuine Christianity. Jesus promised persecution to those who would follow Him (Matt. 5:10-12). Exchanging identity with Christ Himself, and Him alone, for some other religious affinity insulates people from persecution. In turn, being kept from persecution insulates people from crucially identifying with the Person, Jesus Christ. People are taught to glory in the fleshly things like “I’m Baptist,” “I’m Charismatic,” or “I’m Methodist.” This idolatrous identification intercepts the affections of their hearts from Christ, the One they should be looking to and upon whom they should be setting their heart affections (Col. 3:1-4).

“Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? … 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:12-13, 18

Even those in the church world who have leadership positions are seen here to be perishing. They count “the preaching of the cross” as “foolishness.” If they didn’t, they would preach the cross of which Paul said, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” (Gal. 6:14).

Paul understood that there could be no raising up until there was first a laying down of the life in death and burial (Jn. 12:24; 1 Cor. 15:36).

The Pharisees lived in the flesh. They sought the praises of men and not God (Matt. 23; Jn. 12:43). The fleshly nature loves this type of identification—the praises of mere men—because being a Methodist or Baptist doesn’t offend people and keeps life smooth. However, being a follower of Jesus Christ does convict others and brings persecution upon the true disciple (2 Tim. 3:12). The name of Jesus Christ is powerful, and those who love Him confess Him and receive persecution as He promised (Matt. 10:22; Lk. 12:8-9; 2 Tim. 3:12).

The false gospel that is preached by so many today is obviously counterfeit to those who read their Bibles daily. This fairytale gospel of today tells us that God wants us to prosper in all ways while escaping all trials, tribulation, hardships, and suffering of any kind. Instead of God’s Word being their theology, they say in their mythology that the LORD is only on His holy throne to help us get a good parking spot and make us happy so we can have our best life now.

The Bible truth is that God is interested in our best life then and not now, and this comes from laying down our lives—decreasing daily—that Jesus might increase (John 3:30). Eternal blessings are just that—forever, and knowing Christ guarantees them. Not knowing Him guarantees eternal conscious suffering. Those who genuinely know the LORD are busy laying down their lives, learning to love Him more, and being a blessing to others.

Along the path in this life, we too will be blessed, but not to the fulfillment of our depraved self-serving flesh that is here today and gone tomorrow (James 4:14). The Bible tells us to lay up our treasure in Heaven not on earthly things. We need to get that in our spirits and understand the amazing plan that God has for our eternal future, while not being seduced by leaders to “mind earthly things” (Php. 3:19).

Religion and those wolves who perpetrate it upon people, provides a comfortable place for the deceitful heart, never calling it to repent and bring forth “fruits meet for (consistent with) repentance” (Matt. 3:2, 7-8, 10). Doing good works and following an outward form of godliness cloaks the sinful heart, because it does not demand full repentance like the original Gospel does (Mk. 6:12; Luke 13:3, 5; 24:47; Acts 3:19).

These things are not being pointed out to merely identify the many wolves operating in our midst, but more importantly to warn the individual reader who would desire to follow Christ. Many warnings are found in Scripture concerning being aware of and escaping the lure of the evil one, who uses men to lead astray “many.”

PRAYER: Father, please grant me eye salve to see Your holy truth and the many wolves that now are disguised in sheep’s clothing and leading many to hell. Help me, Jesus! I this moment turn afresh to You fully, asking You to have mercy on me and wash away all my sins. Grant the eyes of my heart discernment as only You can, as I walk closely with You. I choose this day to deny my own self-will and desires and ask You to consume me with Your wisdom, power, and grace. LORD Jesus, please bless me to know You intimately. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Identifying the Wolves Among Us [podcast]

In Defense of Wolves JESUS SAYS THAT WE “KNOW” (discern) people “by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16, 20) … and when someone is defending a fake “bible” or is a calvinist, an eternal securist, or a judaizer …. what does that reveal saints? They are under the influence (at least) of Satan, the great deceiver himself. They are in need of true repentance. Beware saints. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1 https://safeguardyoursoul.com/how-to-discern-good-and-evil-podcast/ Nelline Richard writes: “Money hungry, […]

Wolves Who Deceive, Devour, and Defund their Prey [podcast]

Jesus and His holy apostles often rebuked and exposed false leaders and false doctrine (Matthew 23; Acts 13:10; 20:29-31; Galatians 5:11-12; 2 Timothy 4:2-4; 2 Peter 2; 2 John 7-11; Revelation 2:6, 15, etc.). Therefore we know that part of following Jesus includes doing the same. In fact, the body of Christ is mandated to do just that (Romans 16:17-18; Philippians 1:17; Colossians 1:28; Jude 3-4). Simply put, it doesn’t matter what you think: The LORD has commanded that Satan’s ministers, his human emissaries, be exposed. Time to shut up and obey! (2 Corinthians 11:12-15) “Let God be true […]

Crumbing Christ [podcast]

“All things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” 1 Chronicles 29:14 THERE are children of God who are behind on bills. There are called-out men of God preaching Christ’s whole Gospel fearlessly, and you STILL support a multi-millionaire wolf who is making merchandise of the people to make himself even richer in this fleeting world? (2 Peter 2:1-3) God is calling you to repent. You are in darkness. Someone has wisely stated that: “On judgment day many will wonder why they got so excited about money and not Jesus.” Unknown —– WANT to see what […]

Apostasy

Jacked Up Jezebel Rebuked [podcast]

“Jezebel is a widely rampant spirit of rebellion that is hard to get rid of, rooted in pride, self-will, and self-sufficiency. Only the LORD can deliver but only if the individual truly repents and submits to Him, to His Word.” Anita Villarreal

Any person defending this jezebel heresy that women can be pastors, elders over men, is under the control of Satan, period. And in need of true repentance (James 4:7).

—-There are NO female apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, or teachers under the New Testament (Ephesians 4:8, 11-12). Jesus gave these “gifts unto MEN.” (Ephesians 4:8) There is not even one woman mentioned in 27 books as an elder over Christ’s flock. Such is clearly forbidden (1 Timothy 2:11-12). In Acts 21:9 we read of Phillip’s daughters which “did prophesy” which is a gift of the Spirit (one of the nine-1 Corinthians 12:7-10). The office gifts are eldership functions for men called to be overseers over Christ’s flock, which is completely different than the gifts of the Spirit which every believer can function in and certainly women are seen doing such as Phillip’s daughters and how women are mentioned concerning operating in the gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 14.

Classic case of a jezebel lashing out when the Word of GOD corrects her (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Her rebellion is against God. Jezebel is utterly rebellious. She hates what God’s Word says and so the demons that control jezebels will lash out in personal attacks against the men who stand on the truth unwaveringly (such as did Elijah whom Jezebel sought to kill).

“Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.” 1 Timothy 2:11-14

“As I look around America I ask myself who can find a virtuous woman? Whose whole life is surrendered to God. And centered in the fear of the Lord. No woman will submit to their husbands unless they first submit to God. Ephesians 5:22 says women are to submit to their husbands, “as unto the Lord.” That must come first. And what is a great price in the sight of God? A woman who has a meek and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4). This is true beauty to God. But Jezebels are the complete opposite. Full of rebellion, pride and hatred! God says throw her down!” Karen Cochran

From the divine perspective, this is not about oppression but rather about protect. See Revelation 2:20-24 to see what Jesus warns when a woman is allowed to lead as an elder in the body of Christ. He uses the words “The depths of Satan” and speaks of the death and destruction that will result when the men allow a woman to lead in a manner that is outside of the stated role God ordained for the woman.

Yes the LORD said He will pour out His Spirit on all flesh, sons and daughter, but not to anoint a woman to do something HE forbids. Women are to teach women yes but not the general body of believers (Titus 2:1-5). There are NO female elders in the New Testament. God forbids it. Eldership is reserved for men – to humbly teach, lead and protect and cherish women and children.

“There’s a crazy role reversal across the land and men should always lead. Even our women’s prayer group was led by the pastor because that’s what he believed. Women are more emotional and men more logical. Both have their designated roles . God meant them to compliment each other rather than to compete.” John Umlauf

When people don’t like what God’s Word states, they will attack the mere messenger as if that changes the truth. Not. And, they heap judgment on themselves by doing so (Matthew 7:1-5; James 2:13). Persecution

“For we are not as many, which corrupt (twist, adulterate) the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:17

“He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47

“Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.” Proverbs 13:13

Jesus Addresses the Ahabs and Self-Appointed Jezebel at the Church at Thyatira

Revelation 2:20-24

Revelation 2:20-24 is about a certain self-appointed woman who was allowed by the spineless men in Thyatira to operate out of the biblically-stated order for women in the church setting.

Rev 2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
Rev 2:21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.
Rev 2:22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.
Rev 2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
Rev 2:24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.

Jezebel Category

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Family | Godly Manhood | Women

Proverbs 31 Woman

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God’s Education vs Satan’s Indoctrination [podcast]

Preacher Vicioiusly Attacked for Speaking the Truth! [podcast]

Jezebel Unmasked! Invasion of the Warrior Princess Jezebels [podcast]

Proverbs 31 Woman [video]

“Every woman on this planet should listen to the series ‘The Proverbs 31 Woman’. I just listened and it has changed my life. When I began to listen, I told God I am so far from this kind of Godly woman. I wanted to turn it off. But the Lord kept pushing me on! I now understand it is about the hidden man of the heart (1 Peter 3:4). The inner man. A meek and quiet spirit. One who isn’t easily provoked to anger. They will put up with injuries done to them and not retaliate. Quietly submitting all to […]

Apostasy

Racism: Nation Rising Against Nation [radio]

Nation Shall Rise Against Nation

Laboring in the Spirit, not the Flesh

“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude 21

It’s not about the color or your skin, it’s about what kingdom you’re in!

What Should be the Response of the Body of Christ? – LOVE!

Reading 1 Corinthians 13 each morning this week is a life changer. Nothing in our lives is going to work out right if we don’t prayerfully endeavor to walk in God’s love – loving God and our neighbor, above ourselves. I love pouring prayerfully over 1 Corinthians 13 and Philippians 2:3-5. Life changing is an understatement!

Racism is hatred and is not a skin color. It is a heart condition – coming from a sinful heart. Memorize Romans 2:11.

In the time of tribulation for the believers at Thessalonica, the Holy Spirit spoke through Paul and said this:

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5

By this we know of a certainty that the Holy Spirit is leading, directing our “hearts into the LOVE of God” and not the flesh, not a fleshly response. We now face tribulation and can be assured by this truth that our unchanging God is directing our hearts into His love and not hatred.

This is a divine truth for every era, every hour…. and we sure know that sin is exponentially abounding in this late hour…. which means divine grace is even greater – to save, heal, bless, deliver, and make whole!!!!

“But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:” Romans 5:20

Here’s more evidence of God’s leading His people into the love walk in trying times:

“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:7-8

Any person who does not walk in God’s love is not saved and we know that from many Scriptures. No hate, no hater shall enter Christ’s kingdom, no matter what justification that sinner thinks he has to warrant hating anyone. “He that loveth not knoweth not God.” (1 John 4:8) “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15)

When His disciples ask Him “what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?”, Jesus gave them this answer:

“And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation (ethnic group) shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 10 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 24:4-13

“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:3-5

The Church began, will end as containing precious souls from every nation, kindred, and tongue (Acts 2; Revelation 5:9; 14:6).

The New Testament church began with men from every nation under Heaven and will be the same throughout eternity in glory.

Acts 2:1-13

“And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;” Revelation 5:9

Nation/ethnos, ethnic yes…groups at odds was foretold by Jesus – Matthew 24:7

Yes we can be at peace, Jesus told us to fear not and to be at peace …..

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Compassion in Light of Christ's Soon Return [video]

PRAYER: Holy Father, please change us to the very core of our being…. that we might see the lost souls around us as precious to You! In Jesus’ name, amen. “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.” James […]

Articles

When God Says to STOP PRAYING! [podcast]

Reconciling with God and other Saints

“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law (the Word), even his prayer shall be abomination.” Proverbs 28:9

Those who do not love God enough to seek Him in the Word, to learn, and to obey Him, will not be heard by Him.

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

In general, because God is “Holy, holy, holy,” when there is sin, God will not answer prayers – until the sinner repents and reconciles with the LORD and any person involved as needed (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8; Proverbs 28:9, etc.).

“And the LORD said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? 11 Israel hath sinned …” Joshua 7:10-11

In other words, God said to Joshua “Why are you seeking My face, praying to me, talking to me, when there is sin in the camp? Get the sin our of the camp and then you can approach Me in prayer.”

STOP PRAYING AND LEAVE IT!

God is not going to bless our lives unless we are willing to sincerely admit our sins, repent and confess them, and make amends (restitution) with anyone we’ve harmed. In the divine economy, there’s no such thing as being right with God when you’ve done another person wrong, haven’t repented, and haven’t made amends for what you’ve done. Such a person will be outside of the will and blessings of God until he makes things right with God and man.

God is not hearing the prayers or worship of any person who has done someone else wrong and refuses to make restitution (Matthew 5:23-24).

“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; FIRST be reconciled to thy brother, and THEN come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 5:23-24

God will not answer the prayer of any person who does not honor and obey His Word and if a person has an outstanding offense He wants them to clear up these matters (Proverbs 28:9, 13).

Here Jesus gave us the instruction to stop praying! What!? Someone may be thinking “Todd, are you being sacrilegious now!? What is your problem brother!?” Keep reading okay.

“If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:” Psalms 66:18

“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” John 15:7

According to the Son of God, just when (if ever) should the believer stop praying? When he remembers that a brother has “aught against” him. Yes, I know this may raise eyebrows to say that Jesus told us to stop praying, but He certainly did. That’s what we read of His very words in Matthew 5.

He instructs us not to wait for the other person to come to you. Go to them and make peace. Work things out so that neither of your relationships with God will be in any way hindered. Forgive. Seek restitution and forgiveness. The Christian life is all about relationship – vertically first and them horizontally.

Jesus is saying here: “Stop praying or doing any form of worship until you have first done all you can possibly do to make peace with that person you had strife or misunderstanding with, offended, or wounded – the person that still has aught against you, whose heart isn’t yet clear in the matter. Your prayers and any form of supposed worship will not be honored in Heaven until you take care of this matter. Since I am holy I require certain things of you and one of them is that you do your best to keep unity with others, especially My people. Remember how I told you to love one another and to treat others as you wish to be treated? I love you and want clear communion with you and am simply not going to allow you to have a clear conscience until you work things out with that other person who has aught against you. Remember that though I love you, I care about others as much as I care about you. Get that human relationship right first and then come and seek My face in worship and we shall commune.”

God forgives us through Christ’s perfect sacrifice and as we choose to give it out to others! WHO might you have aught against in your heart today beloved?

As a believer, the LORD holds me personally accountable to facilitate reconciliation and peace in others when there is a rift and no matter whose fault it is (Matt. 5:23-24).

First and foremost we must realize that when we sin it is against the One who is “holy, holy, holy” (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8). After that fact, we at times sin against or offend men (James 3:1). So, when we have wrongly offended someone who is created in the image of God, we should first confess that sin to the LORD and then do whatever it takes within our power to make it right with the person.

“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. 28 Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.” Proverbs 3:27-28

“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:25-27

Child of God, are you aware of anyone who might be upset with you for something you have done or they thought you did? Is anyone offended at you?

This writer is no stranger to wronging people, but is learning to follow this simple truth in Matthew 5, making sure to openly and transparently facilitate healing in those I have brought hurt to or who are offended at me for any legitimate reason.

Granted, we are going to offend people at times when it is not our fault. I am not talking about that. I am talking about when it is our fault or the situation is questionable or a close call.

Have you been offended? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone else held the key to your closure, your healing? Think back in your life: Have you ever needed someone else’s help in getting free in your heart from something concerning a situation?

Jesus called the divine Person of the Holy Spirit “the Comforter” (Jn. 14:26; 15:26; 16:7). God is all-powerful and can help us walk through a heart-rending ordeal where another person has hurt us and is unwilling to partake of the healing process according to the Word/instructions of the LORD. This He can and will do, yet He holds that other person responsible for doing their part – “Leave there thy gift before the altar – FIRST be reconciled to thy brother.”

Those made righteous by the blood of Christ are to do all in their power to facilitate healing in others.

“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 12:18

Jesus Christ came to make captives free and such freedom is the desire of all who follow Him. They desire also to see people set free and do their part when it is in the power of their hand to help (Prov. 3:27).

“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

When need be, we are to work hard to make sure God’s peace abides among the saints.

“Endeavouring (working hard) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3

“Endeavouring” – it’s hard work at times to keep unity in the body. Have you noticed that things happen that need attention, patience, humility, admission where wrong has been done, etc.?

It is our personal responsibility to keep schisms out of Christ’s body as much as it is in our power.

“That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” 1 Corinthians 12:25-27

The LORD promises us that He commands His precious peace where brethren dwell together in unity.

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there (in the unity of believers) the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” Psalms 133:1-3

The person who is truly born again cares for the body of Christ. Peace among the saints is where God’s blessing abides.

“We know that we have passed from death unto life (we know we are saved), BECAUSE we love the brethren.” 1 John 3:14

Without love we are nothing (1 Cor. 13). Divine love, authentically demonstrated in our lives, is the earmark fruit of the Heaven-bound disciple. There are no exceptions – “He that loveth not knoweth not God” (1 Jn. 4:8). If such charitable love does not presently appear in our lives, we should consider going before the throne of grace and making things right with God (repentance). The genuinely born again person is filled with God’s love and teachable in the precepts of the LORD. When he discovers a previously unknown (to him) truth, he swiftly hearkens and obeys. Remember, God’s eternal kingdom and the terms for entrance into it are based on the LORD’s terms and not any individual’s. Either we meet the terms and conditions or we shall be found without (Matt. 7:21-23; Lk. 6:46-49; 13:24-30; 1 Jn. 2:3-5; Rev. 2-3).

“We know that we have passed from death unto life (we know we are saved – been brought from spiritual death to spiritual life), BECAUSE we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” 1 John 3:14-16

Child of God, do you have a key that would help another get free? If you possess the key that would assist in obtaining their freedom, the LORD holds you personally responsible to use it to help unlock that person’s heart and assist in their returning to a heart that is right with God, free from anything that hinders that relationship.

“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” Ephesians 4:26

Don’t let the sun go down upon that which you can do to cause reconciliation in Christ’s body for which He bled. Leave your prayer closet and any and all worship and go get things right with that person the LORD may be placing on your heart. You will be glad you obeyed the LORD in this.

You see, if we truly have an intimate and saving relationship with Christ, we realize that nothing could be more important to us – and others. Knowing Jesus is everything. Armed with this knowledge and moved upon by the Holy Spirit, we are to be compelled to help others in their relationship with Jesus in any way we possibly can.

PRAYER: Father in Heaven, thank You for sending Your only begotten Son Jesus to live and die for me – for all of my many sins. This moment, I turn my life to Thee O God – asking Your merciful forgiveness on my sin of departing from You. Right this instant I ask You to please be my first love LORD Jesus! Bless this heart with sensitivity and a deep conviction for Your truth. Please allow this heart to have godly conviction! Please bless this life You graciously gave lift others to You and help them in any and every way I have opportunity. I am all Yours and You are all mine my LORD. Quicken my heart in any matter that You wish me to make amends with another person. Right now I now humble myself under Your mighty hand and ask You to use me to help facilitate peace between You and others Jesus, and in Your body. Please bless Your body to live in Your love, and Your truth and in peace with You and one another. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

For a topical study of deeper proportions on this subject, see The Blood of Jesus.

If you truly desire to know more about how to really know the LORD, go here: Born Again: What is It?

PEACE with GOD

“For in Many Things We Offend All” [podcast]

“Endeavouring (working hard) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3 Can we be honest for a moment? Have you ever wanted God to just rip your tongue out? CAN YOU RELATE to this? …… As Christ’s followers and therefore members of His one body, we all have sinned and have and perhaps still say things we shouldn’t which wound others. “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.” Proverbs 18:8 Words can seriously wound. Word are containers of something or the […]

Answered Prayer? WHY?

WHY Does God Answer Prayer? On What Basis Does Our Access to Him Come? Where do we see the church doing 24 hours in the New Testament other than when Peter was locked up Acts 12? God answers prayers due to the name of Jesus, not because people pray around the clock…. sounds like works instead of faith which God requires, which pleases God (John 14:13-14; 16:23-24; Hebrews 11:6). There’s no end to the phony gimmicks that Satan is using his human agents to use in replacing Jesus Christ from the center of salvation! There is no salvation without Jesus Christ! […]

Grounded in Grace [podcast]

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) : And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of […]