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The Importance of Personal, Organic Bible Study [podcast]

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]

To study the Bible organically means simply to study God’s Word without the undue influence, the taintings of mere men!

God’s Word is your life (Proverbs 4:20-23). The Word is your “daily bread,” and your life depends on knowing and obeying it (Matthew 6:11). Knowing and adhering to Holy Scripture is your protection (Proverbs 30:5-6).

“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield (protection) unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6

RECENTLY: In a very engaging fellowship discussion this morning with a dear brother in Christ, it was a blessing to witness his Berean approach to the LORD and His kingdom (Acts 17:10-11). He was factoring everything we discussed with Scripture, stopping to meditate and cite Holy Scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 anyone? Amen Jesus!

God gave us His Word in written format so we would not be deceived by false teachers, so there’d be no confusion, and also, no excuse on Judgment Day (Proverbs 22:17-21; 30:5; John 12:48; Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 14:33; 2 Timothy 3:16-17, etc.). The Word of God is the basis by which the LORD shall judge each of us.

ORGANIC Bible study, organic fellowship, and organic ministry. Organic simply refers to being “without foreign additives – poisons, taintings, pure.” May Jesus bless His people with absolute authenticity.

HOW do you know if someone is imposing something upon the Scripture text they are reading from IF you haven’t personally, organically, thoroughly studied the whole of God’s Word for yourself? You don’t.

So many among us are living wasted lives—lives where they’ve been seduced into systems of theology which contain poisons in the pond of their body of truth (the whole of what they believe).

The unchanging Word of God, the Bible itself, and the Holy Spirit are the divine Teachers of truth—and not mere men or sinful man’s concocted theological systems and/or charts! Beware saints. See Psalms 119:105, 130; Mark 13:31; John 14:26; 16:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17, etc.

Saints, let’s beware of the charts and systems men create to “help people understand the Bible better.” RED FLAG! God has ordered, commanded you to learn straight from Him and that’s why you have access to His Word. You have a Bible. Study it for yourself. Your knowledge and understanding of God must of necessity come straight from your own personal, daily study of His Word. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Antichrist cults in our midst that push the use of their charts and theological systems include the demonic dispensationalists, and many of the eschatology (end times) wolves.

The word theology simply means the study of God. And, if we shall see Him correctly, we must obtain our theology, our view, our knowledge of God, directly from the Word of God alone—allowing Him to speak for Himself, to reveal Himself to us without the tainting of mere men. We must learn of the LORD, learn for ourselves who the LORD is and what He said, and stop following man’s philosophies, notions, systems, and charts. When the Bereans tested what Paul taught, they didn’t break out some mere man’s system, theology, or a chart. No, they “searched the scriptures daily” to see if Paul was preaching the truth (Acts 17:10-11).

Many a believer has been misled by the teachings, the charts, and systems of evil men posing as Christ’s elders. Run from them! Stop and think: “Why would those men build a system, a theology, chart for you to follow instead of exhorting you to study the topic in God’s Word for yourself—just as God commanded you to do?” The only reason why wolves create systems and charts is to get you to believe their errors and to derail gullible people who refuse to study God’s Word for themselves (2 Timothy 2:15).

If a person isn’t in the Word, learning the Word and meditating on the Word, he has no business acting as if he is ministering for Christ! Such a person’s knowledge of God is second hand at best. Wisdom would be to repent now and get into God’s Word with reckless abandonment! When we get into the Word it will then and only then get into us! (2 Timothy 2:15)

Paul got Timothy into the Word for himself—else how could Timothy be an authentic minister for Christ? Think about all the phony men representing Christ today. They have a secondhand, a skewed knowledge of God—learned from mere men. Paul charged Timothy and us to:

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

In other words, Paul didn’t lead Timothy to come to Paul for the Word but rather to go to God to get His Word directly from Him!

After confronting a lady who is being misled by dispensational wolves, exhorting her to study God’s Word organically for herself instead of via wolves, she replied:

“We can’t claim the whole Bible to ourselves. We don’t all have to go out and build arks … Paul’s epistles are different for a reason as with Hebrews.”

REPLY:

You are using mere human reasoning. The Holy Spirit and the Holy Scriptures are our Teachers, not mere men. Paul told Timothy to study the Bible for himself (2 Timothy 2:15). Yes we, as Christ’s true body, are to dwell richly in God’s Word and yet, regrettably, you’ve been misled by an enemy of Christ, a false teacher, who is not the body of Christ but rather one of the wolves Jesus and His apostles so often warned us about (Acts 2:42; Colossians 3:17, etc.).

Contrary to the apostles of Jesus, Most ministries and ministers today intentionally foster in their target market, their prey, a dependence upon them and not Christ. They want to entice and seduce in order to create a following, a repeat customer, and build their church or ministry busine$$. Beware saints.

Are you “Taught of God” or are you taught of man? (John 6:45; 1 Thessalonians 4:9) | “Taught of God”

“Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:” Isaiah 29:13

Those not diligently, daily in God’s Word for themselves are sitting ducks for a deceiver to come along in their vacuum and fill the void with heresy. IT WILL HAPPEN IF IT HASN’T ALREADY. If you wish to endure to the end, you must personally fill your heart and mind with God’s Word or you will be turned over to “strong delusion” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). God takes it personally when you don’t choose to LOVE His truth!

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

The personal nature of this instruction is introduced at the onset of this verse – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God.” YOU do it.

Yet, instead of personally studying the Bible organically, some want a short cut and so what they do is hook up with some ministry that is pushing a system. Laziness is also a contributing factor when men choose to go to seminary—to supposedly study a book they’ve had in their possession for years. Enlisting to be indoctrinated would sum up the course of seminarians.

SAINTS of Christ, be aware that clever men, operating as Christian pastors, authors, singers, etc., can make nearly anything look biblical. They perform this slight of hand, this trickery by selectively siphoning out Bible verses to make THEIR point, to make THEIR tradition look legit. Yet they do this to the exclusion of the whole of Scripture, which they hope you never thoroughly study. These are the very wolves in sheep’s clothing whom we’ve been warned about. They prey upon the ignorance of their prey (Hosea 4:6). We must ask, we must test the spirits by asking whether or not their doctrine is expressly, directly, explicitly stated in Holy Scripture, or not—just exactly as the Berean disciples did (Acts 17:10-11; 1 John 4:1). Again, nearly anything can be extrapolated using select Scriptures and yet, is that what the whole of Scripture communicates? Test. Discern.

“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

TODAY, the true body of Christ is “Looking unto JESUS” and not mere men (Hebrews 12:1-3).

One of the great deceptions in today’s “church” land is that many “pastors” verbally claim that God’s Word is the highest authority and then they cling to some thing(s) that contradict God’s Word. When confronted they ditch the Word of God for their tradition, their heresy, or doctrine of men. This is exactly what Jesus cited the false leaders of His day for doing (Mark 7:6-9, 13).

Praying in the name of Jesus to the Father, asking Him to help you never be misled, is vital.

“Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail.” Isaiah 34:16

Many today would rather find someone to tell them what the Bible says instead of studying it for themselves. Deadly mistake.

IF YOU don’t personally diligently study God’s written Word for yourself, you will forfeit a myriad of divine blessings and will be deceived—and in the end “destroyed” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Hosea 4:6; Matthew 22:29; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17).

Studying the Bible organically is the best method; thoroughly, topically, stacking Scripture upon Scripture (1 Corinthians 2:13). The less involvement of man, the better.

What happens in most apostate modern churches is indoctrination—not true Bible learning. People are being poisoned by the doctrines of men and devils.

YOU have a Bible? Good. Read it for yourself (2 Timothy 2:15). Stop relying on mere men to teach you what only the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit who gave them can teach you.

Let the Bible speak for itself. If somebody is having to tell you that the Bible says something instead of letting God speak for Himself, letting His Word speak to the individual, that should be a red flag. There are lots of voices saying “the Bible says” and yet until you personally behold it with your own eyes in God’s Word, “In the mouth of two or three witnesses” in Scripture, you should not embrace it.

“In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.” 2 Corinthians 13:1

We as men can find Scripture to justify nearly anything. Men can deceitfully extrapolate and “prove” nearly anything using the right mixture of Scripture taken out of the context of what the whole of Scripture teaches.

No Greek or Hebrew is needed and is certainly not the main rule of interpretation. We must take God’s preserved Word for what it clearly states in our own language, as we compile, compound, put together, and compare Scripture with Scripture (Isaiah 28:16; 1 Corinthians 2:13). This is the method of priority in apprehending truth, the highest, stated rule of interpreting truth. A thorough gathering of all Scripture pertaining to the given study, is essential.

Just because someone’s book, this website or any other, or some man standing in a pulpit says something, in no way makes it true. You must “prove (test) all things” and only hold fast the true (1 Thessalonians 5:21). This is exactly what the disciples at Berea did when they heard Paul preach—they put what he taught to the test, diligently searching Holy Scripture to see if it was God’s truth:

“And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:10-11

Are You being “Taught of God”?

Praying daily for the LORD’s understanding is imperative.

To bring light to the reality of how people are imposing things upon the Bible that simply do not bear out through honest, organic, thorough study, below is a list of examples. These are some of the falsehoods being peddled as biblical that simply aren’t. Those who thoroughly study God’s Word for themselves, being “taught of God” Himself, will never come out of their study of God’s Word and say things like:

“keeping Saturday as the sabbath is essential/important”
“once saved always saved”
“man has no free will” (calvinism)
“eternal security”
“the gifts of the Spirit passed away with the apostles” (cessationism)
“there’s more than one gospel”
“you have to learn the Bible through dispensationalism”
“pretrib rapture” (escapism)
“Jesus only died to save a pre-selected elect people” (calvinism)
“you have to keep the law to be saved”
“I received all of the Holy Spirit I need at the moment of salvation”
“God no longer does miracles” (cessationism, agnosticism)
“every believer needs a human, pastoral ‘covering‘ (deeds and doctrine of the nicolaitans)
“God doesn’t require that His people apply ‘ALL scripture’ to ourselves and gave us permission to decide what in His Word applies and what doesn’t” (Revelation 22:18-19)
“You can’t understand the Bible without mere men teaching you” (John 14:26; 16:13-14; 1 John 2:20, 27)
“All whom the LORD saves lose their free will and are forced to continue serving Him and forced to go to Heaven” (robotic, calvinism)
“fellowship is limited to a certain physical “church” building and organization that meets on Sunday mornings”
“The town drunk was saved and bearing fruit for Christ earlier in his life, is now living in open sinful rebellion but is still going to Heaven” (once saved always saved)

These are all errors induced upon the minds of men by other beguiled men. They misuse, twist Scripture as we’ve been warned about.

The list of man-imposed heresies goes on and on and on…… This is a mere sampling of man-induced falsehoods which Scripture never expressly states and that other known biblical truth contradicts. Letting God speak for Himself is essential to remaining in His truth saints. Today, there are countless doctrines of mere men imposed upon the Bible and being called “biblical” by those who perpetrate them.

Many things are being said to be “biblical” today which simply aren’t. Only the astute student who is being taught God’s Word via personal study and the Holy Ghost, will escape the many false “wind(s) of doctrine” blowing through the church world in this last hour (Ephesians 4:14).

“For we are not as many, which corrupt (twist) 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

“And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest (corrupt, twist), as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:15-16

Notice that Scripture tells us that “destruction” is the future of all “false teachers” (2 Peter 2:1-3).

Paul warned and was very concerned about the “enticing words” of mere sinful men who pose as men of God:

“And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. … Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:4,8

Men are misled, deceived due to their own dishonesty before the LORD.

“Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. … But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:7,13

Remember, the LORD says this concerning the 4th and only heart soil His Word falls upon who will be eternally with Him:

“But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.” Luke 8:15

Many men today, refuse to follow Paul’s example of denouncing all motives except knowing Christ. Their own depraved hearts therefore beguile and ultimately destroy them and those who allow themselves to be misled by such men.

“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-2

Like David, God-fearing men cry out to God perpetually for the purification of their heart motives (Psalms 19:12-13; 51:1-13; 139:23-24). They are able to lead many to righteousness as they handle the Word of God without guile.

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” 1 Timothy 4:16

Theological systems are an overlay, a structure of Bible organization that makes things easier to understand. That’s the appeal to some. Yet, the person who hasn’t personally studied God’s Word diligently for himself is not able to discern the errors of the system and thereby easily misled as he becomes swept up with the program. After all, the ministries which do this are usually large and lots of people are participating. A theological system pretends to organize and make the Bible easier to understand and yet in most cases, has built-in error that poisons the pond. Examples would include dispensationalism, Calvinism, etc. Can you add to this list?

“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:” 1 Peter 2:2

Lots of the systems of theology induce or impose things on Scripture. The novice has no depth of knowledge of God’s Word and so cannot possibly discern such. They are consequently indoctrinated.

Topically studying God’s Word is extremely beneficial – where Scriptures are gathered on a certain topic. Yet, when the wrong ministry is putting those verses together, it can be dangerous. Again, this is why it’s imperative to study God’s Word for oneself.

Exhorting other saints to study God’s Word for themselves is one thing and a godly thing. Yet, forcing YOUR interpretation is another, an evil thing. Jesus gave us His Word and told us that the Holy Spirit is the ultimate Teacher. We must thoroughly study it, collate it, and let God, the Author, speak for Himself (1 Corinthians 2:13).

Beware of any man who unduly uses his position to usurp unwarranted control over your mind concerning the Holy Scriptures. This is how many have been deceived—when they allow mere men to impose their own views, or some regurgitated theology over their minds. Millions today abide deceived via this method of indoctrination, mind control. Beware of the curriculums.

Seeking to have or to exercise dominion over others, over their faith, is witchcraft!

“Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.” 2 Corinthians 1:24

Trust no man with your eternal soul. God paid for your sins in Christ and commanded you to trust Him, and to lean not to your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-7).

“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” 1 Corinthians 7:23

The LORD made you. He intentionally gave you the complete faculties to know Him for yourself by reasoning out the whole counsel of His Word—synthesizing it all together (Isaiah 28:10, 16; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 2:15). Study His Word daily, diligently and ask Him to lead you into all truth. Trust the Holy Ghost to teach you, to lead you into His holy truth and to protect you from the many poisons in the pond of the modern church (John 14:26; 16:13-14; 1 John 2:20, 27).

When man is controlling the study and interpretation of the Bible, that in itself is dangerous. People, individual saints are to be “taught of God” and not taught of men. There are people in leadership who insist upon presiding over the interpretation of Holy Scripture instead of letting GOD’s people read it for themselves, being “taught of God.” This presumption to supposedly hold the keys to interpretation is a farce. GOD alone holds the keys to understanding HIS own Word and He alone can ultimately teach HIS own people. When undue control is asserted by mere men over the interpretation of God ‘s Word, that’s a big red flag. This is how indoctrination occurs, this is how heresies spread.

“It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all TAUGHT OF GOD. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” John 6:45

“But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are TAUGHT OF GOD to love one another.” 1 Thessalonians 4:9

Are you being “taught of God” or are you being taught of men? Jesus warns:

“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” Revelation 3:11

Beware of Being a “Back it Up” Bubba

Personally studying God’s Word from Genesis to Revelation, organically, is ultra-important. | The Importance of Personal, Organic Bible Study

To “back up” a belief with Scripture seems to really indicate: “I believe ABC doctrine and I’m hell bent on finding Bible verses to prove it!” In other words someone like this doesn’t really care what the whole of Scripture teaches as much as they care to hold on to some pet doctrine (it’s usually something to justify their sin such as the falsehood of eternal security).

Some put forth their subjective beliefs and defend those beliefs by saying “I can back everything up with scripture.” Satan can too as we see him do when tempting Jesus (Luke 4). The devil used Scripture out of context as many today do. Are we merely backing up what WE say and what WE currently believe with Scripture, or are we simply reading and diligently studying the whole counsel of Holy Scripture and letting GOD speak for Himself as we “compare spiritual things (Scripture, known truth) with spiritual things”? See 1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 2:15. Big difference. Think about that. Men and devils can deceitfully make the Bible say anything THEY want it to say but that doesn’t make it biblically sound and true. We must beware of our own tendency to espouse and hold on to philosophies, notions, and doctrines that do not line up with the whole counsel of God’s Word and we must be corrected (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

We must honestly examine our own selves to see WHY we believe WHAT we currently believe. Discernment, “rightly dividing the word of truth” seems to be concretely connected to searching the Scriptures as we see with the Bereans who tested Paul and all that he taught (2 Timothy 2:15; Acts 17:10-11). Lots of people who talk about discernment trust their own subjective discernment instead of letting the written WORD be their two edged sword of discernment (Hebrews 4:12). Many believe they are discerning correctly and yet aren’t daily, diligently being grounded in the written Word, which God will never contradict (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21).

The Primary Purpose of Studying God’s Word is to Know Him

IT’S ESSENTIAL TO PRAY ALL THE WAY THROUGH THIS LIFE AND AS WE STUDY HOLY SCRIPTURE—FOR THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF KNOWING THE LORD (John 5:39-40; 17:3; Philippians 3:10; Hosea 6:6).

Knowing the text, the words of Scripture is one thing—and knowing the LORD and possessing HIS understanding of HIS Word is yet another.

Those in ministry must be careful never to be forceful, coercive toward “GOD’s heritage” (1 Peter 5:1-6; Ezekiel 34:4).

“But with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.” Ezekiel 34:4

It should be a concern when we see men who spend more energy getting people to listen to themselves and to go through a curriculum than they do exhorting God’s people to seek His face in prayer for HIS understanding of HIS Word. Isn’t this exactly what Christ’s apostle Paul prayed for the body of Christ?

“Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 1:15-20

PRAYER: Holy Father in Heaven, I come to You now in the name and by the blood of my LORD Jesus Christ. LORD, I confess that I’ve been dishonest and deceitful before You and those around me. I confess the deceit and guile for what it is—sin. Please forgive, cleanse and allow the mind of Christ to dwell in, to find a home in, and to permeate my being. I ask this for Your glory and in Your holy name LORD Jesus. Amen.

Bible: God’s Word

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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.

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“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

Evangelism – God’s way!

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

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Evangelism Adventures: Stories, Reports, and Testimonies of God's Amazing Love [podcast]

SO, we prayed for God to use us today right? …. He’s hearing our prayer. So, in the gym this morning, a lady near me was struggling to get a large plate on each side of the barbell. So, I began to help her and she said “No Ingles” which means she does not speak English. So, I affirmed that she speaks Spanish and I began to speak God’s Word to her in her language. Her face lit up and she thanked me. God is good! Jesus says “The seed is the word of God” and His people are planting […]

The Cross and the Great Commission [podcast]

SAINTS of Christ, we are Team JESUS. And remember that your prayers and supply are just as powerful, effectual for Christ as those, boots on the ground, are giving out God’s love in the form of those Gospel tracts and food, assistance, the spoken WORD of God, etc. 100% acceptance down here! “WE (plural) are labourerS TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9 YOUR PRAYER: Father in Jesus’ name, please use me to be Your instrument in edifying Your people and winning lost souls to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Jesus is coming – Let’s roll saints! WE, TOGETHER, are […]

"Have ye Received the Holy Ghost since ye Believed?" [podcast]

John the Baptist Foretold: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me (Christ) is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:” Matthew 3:11 Jesus promised the Baptism, the Endument with His Holy Ghost: “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient (better) for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” John 16:7 Jesus instructed His disciples: “And, […]

Articles

“THAT REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED” [podcast]

“God … commandeth ALL men every where to repent.”

“And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” Acts 17:30-31

WHEN’s the last time your favorite preacher preached on the essential doctrine of REPENTANCE? Be sure of this – Christ’s true remnant is preaching repentance. Are you preaching that men must repent to be saved and ready for judgment? (Acts 17:30-31) If not, you are in need of repentance – before it’s too late. The lack preaching repentance is the fruit, the clear evidence that someone is not walking in the original Gospel of Christ but rather “another gospel” – a false gospel (Galatians 1:6-9)

With No Exception Christ’s True Body is Preaching that God Commands ALL Men Everywhere to Repent.

ALL who do not preach that men must repent to be saved are preaching “another gospel” and are “accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9) Chamge my mind with Scripture!

Jesus commands His people to preach repentance. Did you know that? Oh and is there something else we are to preach? Yes. See if you catch it here in Jesus’ mandate to us:

“And that REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED in his name among all nations.” Luke 24:47

“Repentance and” what? – “repentance AND remission of sins” are to “be preached.”

Not just “repentance” but also “remission of sins.”

The whole message of repentance includes remission of sins (Luke 24:47). Are we preaching the whole or half the Gospel message Jesus commanded us to preach? See Acts 20:20, 27, 32.

Of necessity, the kingdom of Christ, “among all nations,” all peoples, must be preached and that Gospel begins with “repentance and remission of sins.”

“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.” Matthew 24:14

WHAT Gospel is to be preached by Christ’s disciples? – “this gospel of the kingdom.” And what must be preached as a necessity to enter Christ’s kingdom? Let us ascertain such.

God is unchanging. He gave us His Great Commission command to accomplish. Many are distracted and wasting their lives and resources on that which is not the Great Commission command Christ gave us and expects us to be fulfilling.

“I have set thee for a tower and a fortress among my people, that thou mayest know (discern) and try (test) their way.” Jeremiah 6:27

Today we have a less than neutered version of Christ’s Great Commission command…. It’s not even a faint resemblance of what Christ mandated. This is clearly the fulfillment of the great falling away from the faith of the Gospel foretold in Scripture. Jude 3

PREACHING and TEACHING the Gospel of repentance is the ONLY way men can be free from sin, cleansed, washed, and refreshed (Acts 3:19). REPENTANCE always precedes REFRESHING.

“REPENT ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of REFFRESHING shall come from the presence of the Lord;” Acts 3:19

By definition the band aid preaching of today has never dealt with the root of the issue and that means the issue will never go away. Nothing less than repentance from God’s people and obedience to his Great Commission command is going to change this nation.

Self-righteously screaming at people is not what we see Christ or His apostles and earliest followers doing. Such is ungodly. Yet in conversation, in any communication about Christ’s kingdom, the law to convict of sin and the divine call to repent should be included, along with believing on the LORD Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38; 3:19; 16:30-31; 20:21; Galatians 3:24; 1 Timothy 1:7-10; Revelation 22:17, etc.).

God’s people are being called to be obedient to His Great Commission command. Jesus and His holy apostles never went around, set up clinics, and answered questions. They simply obeyed the Lord and preached His Gospel so that people could be saved into this Kingdom… His Father’s business.

BREAKING: THIS here is all that matters saints…… Jesus is coming and wants to be glorified in forgiving all sin and changing lives….

“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10

Kingdom news is the only Good News and everything else is going to hell. Are you behind the KING and His work He sent us to do – so that He can forgive all sin and change lives?

This dear brother has been asking us lift him in pray for a while now. Thank God and that you answered that call to lift our brother in prayer. We all know that only God Himself can break us and separate us to Himself, away from the sin that otherwise has a death grip on our lives. Here’s what our dear brother sent this morning:

“Praise report…The Holy Spirit broke me down…and for the 1st time in 42 years I’ve left nothing on the back burner, I’ve left nothing in reserve … it’s not Jesus and…it’s not Jesus but…. No, it’s just Jesus … that cross of my salvation. I’m free indeed!

Thank you brother! I’m truly being made free for the first time… I’ve wasted years holding on to temporary sin…. but no more! The Holy Spirit has been flowing, even today at work! Thanks again brother …. pray for my strength and endurance. I preached it yesterday and people gave up drugs and all sin afterwards (they came to real repentance). Jesus has been so good to me! I can never thank Him enough for his life…” Chris

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18-19

The Betrayal

This generation of “preachers” has betrayed God and their fellow man. They will set up gathering to answer questions but unlike Paul on Marrs Hill, refuse to preach repentance. And, the professing “Christian” church today loves it. Think about it…. for example, Turning Point USA has over 270,000 monthly supporters and aren’t even preaching the Word of God. That means no one is getting saved or even convicted of their sins. THAT is not the Great Commission Jesus mandated that His people fulfill. Teaching and preaching His Word and preaching repentance sums up our LORD’s Great Commission command to us – and for which He is holding us 100% fully accountable. See Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:47.

Jesus died for our sins, for the sins of the world so that repentance could be preached and souls be saved into His eternal kingdom family. He commanded that repentance be preached. No one can or will do this except His own people. And, He gave “the promise of the Father” to His people to empower them in this mission – the baptism with the Holy Ghost (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). Read this closely:

“And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 47 And THAT REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And ye are witnesses of these things. 49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:46-49

The professing “church” in America wants to restore America – so they can go back to living their lukewarm hell bound lives in peace (Revelation 2:4-5; 3:15-16). They don’t want to repent and do things God’s way. Beware of the prevalent false gospel which is any varation from the original Gospel given us by our LORD on the pages of His Holy Word (Galatians 1:10). We are to earnestly contend against this grace-perverting false gospel and the “ungodly men” who peddle it.

“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 3-4

NOTHING good happens until we get honest and repent. “Times of refreshing from the presence of the LORD” come only to those who repent (Acts 3:19). They are the only happy people on this earth and will forever enjoy the splendor of eternal glory with their soon coming KING (Revelation 21). Boom Jesus!

Though nearly never heard in today’s apostate modern church world, according to Christ’s unchanging original Gospel, repentance is an absolute necessity.

Karen Cochran observes:

“It doesn’t seem the word repent is part of Christians vocabulary!! In th emodern church, it’s all about God accepting you the way you are without any requirements to repent and die to self.”

LOTS of miserable people in this fallen world. Why? Read the paragraph above again (Proverbs 13:15; Revelation 3:15-16). Remember what Jesus says to the lukewarm?

“Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and MISERABLE, and poor, and blind, and naked:” Revelation 3:17

Letting the truth be known.

People cannot be forgiven of their sins, set free, refreshed, blessed, etc., until they repent and so “how shall they hear without a preacher?” See Romans 10:14. How shall those living in sin hear the message of Gospel, to repent, unless the true body of Christ communicates this message?

Anyone not preaching sin and repentance is not preaching the original Gospel but rather is walking in “another gospel” (Galatians 1:6-9).

Preaching the essential of repentance eliminates easy believism. Anyone preaching a “salvation” without the necessity of real repentance that brings forth fruit, clear proof of that repentance, is preaching a false gospel (Matthew 3:7-10).

WE’VE helped no one till we have delivered God’s Word to them and they repent.

“I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:3

No true disciple of Jesus should ever lay his head down to rest after a day wherein he hasn’t plundered the gates of hell by the declaration of the original Gospel of Jesus which begins with the non-negotiable divine command to “repent” (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 20:21, etc.).

WHAT to preach?

— Repent (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 20:21, etc.).
— Receive Christ (John 1:12).

“Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, REPENTANCE TOWARD GOD, AND FAITH TOWARD OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” Acts 20:21

Were we saved by our own merit or good works? No.

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:5-7

“How beautiful that He canceled our debt. How merciful and Holy!” Susan Harrison

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

“We were the guilty ones! And God’s justice says we deserve punishment! But in God’s infinite love for us Jesus died and paid the price for us! Jesus Christ was our only hope for us to be reconciled back to the Father! The plan for our salvation was established! Alleluia!” Karen Cochran

Fresh Repentance

May God bless each of us to come to fresh repentance and remission of our sins:

“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.” Hosea 10:12

“O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. 2 Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips.” Hosea 14:1-2

“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.” Ezekiel 18:30

“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:6-10

PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I come to You in the name of Jesus Christ, admitting I have been living for my own evil glory. I am a sinner. I’ve committed the sin of idolatry, having myself first instead of You. I admit here and now before You that I have been committing the damning sin of spiritual adultery. I have claimed to know You and yet refused to uncompromisingly adhere to Your Word. Here and now, right now if never before, I repent and ask You to forgive my sins and to wash me afresh from my sins in the precious blood of Jesus Christ my LORD. Into Your hands I commend, I submit my spirit, my life, right this moment and ask You dear LORD to fill me with Your Holy Ghost and use me to preach Your glorious message of repentance to those around me so that they can receive the forgiveness of all their sins and walk in the times of refreshing from Your holy presence dear LORD. I love You Jesus. I am all Yours and I know You are all mine. In Jesus’ Name amen.

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Christ's Great Commission is Central to the Original Gospel [podcast]

“Adulterous” vs Grace Abounding! – the Tale of 2 Kingdoms Jesus told us that we live in “an adulterous and sinful generation” and yet “where sin abounded, grace did much more abound” (Matthew 12:39; Romans 5:20). Among Christ’s people alive on His earth today in these final days, there is seemingly an increasing attention being placed on the work of the Gospel. Jesus instructs that we pray to the Father to send out His labourers into the great harvest: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall […]

The Goal of Grace [podcast]

Reckoning with the Depravity of the Old Man “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 6:14 Rightly assessing what the Bible informs us of concerning the old man is essential. Nothing good exists in us except Christ Himself, His perfect righteousness! “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. … 24 O […]

Mission of Mercy in Mexico

Upon seeing this woman in this condition, stationed at a busy passage way in the market, I fetched her some good food and a cold delicious fruit drink. Upon returning to her and sitting down with her, facing her, the Word of our God in Spanish was spoken to this dear woman. Among many other things, as usual, Jesus Christ was preached to her – as the only way to God. Relationship not religion. No Mary. No pope. No catholic church (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5). Jesus is the only way to God and the only One who died for […]