NAR Delusion – Exposing the Whole False Prophetic and Apostolic Movements
Bumbling Buffoons
(photo at left) Take close note to just exactly WHO was on this stage in the picture to the left. These bumbling buffoons are seen falling all over each other to ordain and endorse this unrepentant demonic mad man named Todd Bentley. And WHY? – It’s simple, Todd Bentley had become so popular among the gullible, that these false prophets, being the opportunists they are, jumped in there to try to garner fame for themselves. They are running a business folks, wake up!
If you will watch this movement and its wolves, the so-called apostolic/prophetic movement is nothing but Luciferic, self-actualization and self-promotion… just like their father the devil (John 8:44). See Isaiah 14:12-15 and circle the 5 “I”‘s of Lucifer.
Are YOU so gullible as to think these wolves are true apostles and prophets of the LORD? Think about it: If they were truly prophets, would they not have known that Todd Bentley was an unrepentant drunkard and adulterer????? Bentley admitted to staying drunk during that whole so-called Lakeland “revival.” He also left his wife to marry the secretary, violating the marriage covenant. Isn’t that adultery friends?
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. 26 How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart.” Jeremiah 23:25-26 (KJV)
(In case anyone is wondering from whence we come: Though less than the least of all saints, this writer believes and seeks to walk in the full Gospel of Christ including the baptism in the Holy Ghost with the fruit and gifts of the Holy Spirit. So, I do not write from the perspective of one who denies the work of the Holy Spirit. All the gifts and callings of God are to be operated by His grace and to glorify Jesus Christ alone, and not mere men. The LORD will never contradict His own Word and all gifts properly used will be in full accordance with Holy Writ (1 Pet. 4:10-11; 2 Pet. 1:16-21). Please proceed prayerfully and from a biblical mindset like the “noble” Berean believers of Acts17:11. As true disciples of Jesus, and in light of the numerous warnings of false prophets in the last days, our goal should be to glorify Him fully, which would include discerning what is authentic and what is not (Ezek. 44:23; Matt. 7:15-23; 1 Jn. 4:1).
It is utterly heartbreaking to see just how ungrounded so many of these people are who flock to see and support these scam wolves. To start a “revival,” all you need to do is get a slick-sounding guy who sounds like he knows what he’s talking about, play some good music in the background, and WHAM you’ve got a “revival.”
Most people who claim to be Christians don’t even know Acts 17:11 much less use it to discern. Do YOU know what that truth says? Have you memorized and put it into use daily, or, will you be deceived and damned also?
IHOW – International House of WOLVES
Most of what comes out of IHOP and Kansas City etc. is totally counterfeit. First off, there is no term “the prophetic” found in God’s Word. This is the invention of wolves and devils who are misleading millions who refuse to diligently study God’s Word for themselves.
God’s Word says that even “a LITTLE leaven (mixture) leavens (ruins) the whole lump.” (Galatians 5:6) IHOP and all the other false prophetic foolishness is more than just “a little” leaven,” it is witchcraft and has no reconciliation with biblical, New Testament Christianity. “Ye cannot drink of the cup of the Lord and of the cup of devils.” (1 Corinthians. 10:21)
“Beloved, BELIEVE NOT every spirit, but try (test) the spirits whether they are of God: because MANY false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1
C. Peter Wagner and Chuck Pierce make up Global Harvest Ministries which regrettably has worldwide connections and influence among many leaders. Other leaders involved include Mary Glazier, Pat Francis, Dutch Sheets, Patricia King, and Lance Wallnau.
Believers in Jesus are commanded not to just accept everyone who comes in Christ’s name but to rather “try (test) the spirits” – that is, put to the biblical acid test all who come in the LORD’s name. The Ephesian Christians did so and Jesus was glorified:
“…thou canst not bear them which are EVIL and thou hast tried (tested) them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars.” Revelation 2:2
The first thing one can recognize, is that these men do not preach the Word of God but rather their own visions like the false prophets of old identified as counterfeit by the prophets of God (read Jer. 23; Ezek. 34).
These men emphasize what they call “The Seven Spheres of Influence,” etc.
“He (Lance Wallnau) calls them the seven mountains. The warfare strategy is that ‘if the world is to be won, these are the mountains that mold the culture and the minds of men. Whoever controls these mountains controls the direction of the world and the harvest therein.’” (p. 114) [emphasis added]
They speak of taking these 7 mountains of society but never with the Gospel, but with social programs. Such is not the work of the true Church of Jesus which tells us these men are beguilers because they are misguiding others while not holding to “the doctrine of Christ” and by this we know that they do not have God (2 Jn. 7-11). Their approach and methodologies only include reform without repentance, and transformation without truth.
No mandate in Holy Scripture calls for such presumptuous activities from these or any other self-appointed wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matt. 7:15). This brazen arrogance underscores the presumptuous, self-directed spirit of these evil and deceptive beguilers (Jer. 23; Ezek. 34).
Isn’t it Jesus Himself who is going to destroy those 7 mountains and the evil doers of the Babylonian religious and political system? Read Revelation 17-19.
Lucifer sought to elevate himself and was brought irreversibly low (Isa. 14:12-15). He wanted his independence from God and so now he lost it for good. Jesus is coming and may God bless each of us with the oil of His enabling grace and Spirit to be put under deep into His death and burial, raised as and when and how He sees fit and ultimately raised to glory with Him in the New Jerusalem (Isa. 37:31; Jn. 12:24-26; Rev. 3:5; 21:1-7).
One disciple notes:
“The LORD first makes us realize humility (beggars at the dunghill), then raises us to sit with princes.”
Pride-filled people are imitating their father the devil who is “king over all the children of pride.”
“He beholdeth all high things: he (Satan) is a king over all the children of pride.” Job 41:34
Of Wagner and Pierce, Mike Oppenheimer of LetUsReason.org states:
“These men are architects of the new paradigm who have promised a river but they have sold to the church an empty well. Wagner has written several books, one is called The New Apostolic Churches that explains the new apostolic spirit that is raising international leaders. Contrary to their claims of restoring apostles and prophets to the Church to complete a five-fold ministry mentioned by Paul in Ephesians, this movement can be more identified as Nicolaitans warned of in Rev. 2:15-16. But it is taking many churches by hook or by crook. The prophetic movement has for all intents and purposes proven to be a repackaged discipleship/shepherding movement under the title of church growth.
The stories of lives being ripped apart by people prophesying over them have become an in-house disaster that is often swept under the rug. Yet it daily continues with some new faces (and old) and a repaired program with a barrel full of excuses waiting to be used.
I have watched, studied, and spoken out on this movement since it was known to me in the late 80’s (as have numerous others). What we see today is the iceberg rising; no longer is 75% of it hidden but it is becoming more known all the time. A new Priesthood government is being set up that can only be comparable to what has been practiced in the Roman Catholic church hierarchy throughout its history. They are called ‘the anointed,’ ‘apostles and prophets’ and the Church must listen to them, allow them to minister and lead to be healthy and fulfill her commission. Without them we will be unable to complete our commission by Jesus; so they tell us.
Illegitimate Authority and Unwarranted Control
C. Peter Wagner and Chuck Pierce are the inventors and propagators of what they call “The New Apostolic Reformation Movement.” (NAR) Typically, those who invent some new movement conveniently happen to be the ones “God” supposedly places to lead. In this case these “apostles” are supposed to have the authority to rule over others. They position themselves as the “men of the hour” whom God supposedly speaks through. They convince people that they are God’s special spokesmen. In order to do this – to beguile gullible, biblically illiterate people – they downplay, ignore, and even disparage the true super apostles of our LORD – Paul, Peter, John, etc. These men were Christ’s authentic apostles of a surety and they truly honored “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.” (Heb. 3:1)
It is interesting that they themselves just happen to be the “super apostles” heading up the show in this case. A review of their teachings will reveal that these men, like all similar ministries, believe that modern apostles have an extraordinary amount of authority that Christians must submit to or be outside of the will of God. Such a teaching, spoken or insinuated, is cultish. It should be noted that the apostle Paul – a genuine apostle of Jesus Christ – never claimed to possess such an authority over God’s people. He also never taught or sought to exercise such dominion/authority over the people for which Jesus bled to purchase. In fact, the apostle Paul said:
“Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.” 2 Corinthians 1:24
True servants of Christ are submitted to Him and live to help the joy of those they come to serve. Compare this with the ‘lording it over’ mentality of the false prophets being exposed in this article. It is “by faith” in Christ that saints are saved and “stand” in their relationship with God and that is first and foremost and has nothing to do with mere men. Paul claimed no authority over those he led, instead, he postured himself as one who helped them experience the joy of Christ’s salvation.
Jesus gave His disciples authority over demons and sickness but never over people (Matt. 10:1-8; Lk. 10:18). The LORD Jesus has “all power” in heaven and in earth, and has sent all who know Him to teach His sayings (Matthew 28:18-20). We are called to preach His Gospel to others and to all nations and yet never to try to control another human being. That’s reserved for the LORD alone.
The LORD told us that His name is “Jealous,” that He is “a jealous God,” and commanded: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” (Exod. 20:3; 34:14)
The believer’s loyalty to mere men must be based upon that higher and prioritized loyalty to God (Matt. 22:37-40; 2 Cor. 8:5; Col. 3:17).
In their misguided desire to reign over others, these men are like Moses, who before his time, went forth and tried to do the will of God and wound up killing a man. These men are killing (bringing spiritual death) to many others in their rebellion against the LORD. Unlike Moses, these men have yet to repent and surrender their lives and futures to the coming King of all kings. These self-appointed men and women want so badly to be in control that they will stop at nothing to put themselves in authority over others (sound like Lucifer?) This is the exact opposite of what the Son of God taught. He taught that if we would humble ourselves, in His coming kingdom He would exalt us to rule with him.
Those who lift themselves up before they are prepared by the LORD through long hard seasons of testings and purging, will be “lifted up with pride” and “fall into the condemnation of the devil.”
“Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.” 1 Timothy 3:6
Those who are like their “father the devil,” lust after power in this life, and will be brought low – into the pit of hell for eternity (Jn. 8:44). 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that love “seeketh not her own.” Love is humble, it “vaunteth not itself,” and is like Christ – “lowly.” (Matt. 11:28-30) It’s “the meek” that “shall inherit the earth,” and the LORD is going to “stain the pride of all (fleshly) glory.” (Ps. 37:11; Isa. 23:9) Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matt. 5:5)
These men are like David’s two sons, Adonijah and Absalom, who tried to usurp the authority of the king and “stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Sam. 15:6) Satan is using these men, along with all false prophets, to steal the heart affections that are due only to the “only Potentate,” Jesus Christ (1 Tim. 6:15).
These self-appointed, so-called apostles, are usurping Christ’s authority to reign over His earth, the peoples of the earth, and His own saints that He personally purchased with His own precious blood (Ps. 24:1; Heb. 1:1-3; 1 Pet. 1:18-19). Jesus Christ made all things, sustains all things, and alone is “Head” of the people He purchased with His blood and won back to the Father (Col. 1:12-18).
The Son of God made clear that the only legitimate authority (that which He authorizes) is servant-authority – authority from Heaven, invested in us in order to serve others, not dominate them. The true leader in the kingdom of God serves as a slave and not as a ruler. Those who rule over people will be humbled to hell (Matt. 23:11-12).
Christ says and demonstrates that in His kingdom, greatness is not measured by dominion over other people but it’s measured by how we give ourselves in service to other people.
Jesus has been given “all power” and sent His people with His delegated authority to do His work, which never included power over other people – lost or saved. That’s witchcraft! He’s LORD over His people, not us! (Matt. 28:18-20) Jesus’ power and authority definitely did include power over devils and sicknesses but not other people (Matt. 10:1-8; Lk. 10:17-19).
The element of an evil control seems to undergird and pervade this “Apostolic Reformation” movement. Paul also asked the following rhetorical question: “was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Cor. 1:13) If Paul wasn’t crucified for us, certainly no modern day leader was. Right? When we give undue loyalty or adoration to mere human leaders, we enter into idolatry and spiritual adultery. Only the One who has nail-scarred hands and feet and is risen from the dead is worthy of our worship. Also, only those who “watch for your souls” by honoring and diligently speaking into your heart the full counsel of the oracles of God are to be submitted to (Acts 20-:20-32; Heb. 13:7, 17). The leader who doesn’t honor God by living and teaching by His Word alone, is never to be submitted to by the LORD’s people.
When any leader assumes undue control, it is the “deeds” and “doctrine of the Nicolaitans” which Christ said He hated and “will fight against.” (Rev. 2:6, 15-16) “Nicolaitans” means conquer the laity. Nico = conquer and laitans = the laity.
In typical Nicolaitan opportunist fashion, recently, after that pastor in Illinois was shot dead in the pulpit, one of the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) so-called apostles said that if this man had had proper “covering” he would not have been shot. That’s actually true, but not as this deceiver sees it. The “covering” we need is the LORD and not these self-exalting wolves who are so full of themselves that they vainly believe that everyone needs them to be “covering” them. Whose sins did they hang on the cross and die for? Were they raised from the dead after shedding their innocent and sinless blood?
“Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!” Isaiah 30:1-2
Any person in ministry who even insinuates that another Christian needs their sham of a covering, reveals openly just how delusional and arrogant he is.
The Great Shepherd of His sheep never authorized such authority to mere men. In fact, Jesus taught: “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” (Matt. 23:11-12) The measure of leadership is in serving others as unto the LORD. The true apostle will be found to have a heart that is broken and bowed before the LORD Almighty and a disposition to serve and not reign over God’s people. In light of what Christ, “the apostle and high priest of our profession,” taught, the next time someone comes around claiming to be an apostle, I think it may be good to say something like; “Well good brother, in that case you are to be the greatest servant among us so grab that broom in the corner and please sweep this dirty floor!” (Heb. 3:1) A man who is not postured to serve God’s people manifests his own desire to wrongly position himself and be served by God’s people which is contrary to Christ’s teaching concerning His leaders (Matt. 20:20-28; Phil. 2:3-5).
When giving instructions to “elders,” the apostle Peter wrote: “Neither as being lords (rulers) over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” (1 Pet. 5:3) The body of Christ was purchased by His very own blood and is “God’s heritage” and not man’s. Lording it over “God’s heritage” is the work of those men whom Zechariah said reign as “idol shepherds” amidst God’s people (Zech. 11:17).
One of the ways these men gain the positioning to control people is by making the people believe that they are the elite priesthood the LORD speaks through to His Church. Nonsense! Ever notice how they always have a new word? -A fresh word “from God”? Perhaps they have to perpetually conjure up new “words” to keep the circus wheel of their movement and ministries spinning and the money rolling in.
The flippant use among “Apostolic Reformation” leaders of phrases like “God is saying to His Church” is presumptuous at best. These self-appointed leaders pretend to have some special inroad to the LORD and use it to wield a false authority over His people. Of those who would control or be controlled in an undue fashion, the Son of God commanded: “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” (see Rev. 2:6, 15-16)
Self-Appointed and Self-Elevating “False Apostles”
It seems that sinful men will always invent some new way to elevate themselves above others. This is no exception. Isn’t it interesting that these men who claim the LORD is restoring apostolic leadership just happen to be those “apostles” He is elevating to rule over His people (as they vainly suppose). Quite convenient isn’t it?
Isn’t it interesting that they named their movement using the term “apostle” instead of servant? Why not “New Servant Reformation Movement”? Would that not be more biblical in nature? – in humility? Make no mistake, these men are self-appointed and self-elevating. It’s all about them and not Jesus Christ, who is “THE Apostle and high priest of our profession.” (Heb. 3:1)
“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.” Hebrews 3:1
Here the Holy Spirit tells us to “consider … Christ Jesus” whom He tells us is “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession.” The divine Person of the Holy Ghost here points us to Jesus Christ, the only Apostle that really matters. He never, not once, directs men who have been saved by the precious blood of “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession,” to look to human apostles. And we know by this that any person who even suggests such a thing is a “false apostle.”
Only people who don’t read and heed their Bible can be hoodwinked by such rank charlatans.
“Let me not, I pray you, accept any man’s person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man. For I know not to give flattering titles; in so doing my maker would soon take me away.” Job 32:21-22
Paul, the most authentic and powerful (human) kingdom apostle said this when dealing with self-appointed leaders at Galatia:
“But of these (some other supposed apostles) who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me.” Galatians 2:6
This is no new thing friends. As long as sinful men have been on earth, there have been those who emulate their father the devil in seeking to exalt themselves to rule over other men oppressively and to gain power and advantage and the rush of superiority over them (Isa. 14:12-15; 2 Peter 2:19). This is exactly what these modern day “false apostles” are doing as they operate among the professing church.
The idea that the LORD speaks through some special group of elite leaders is bogus and violates Scripture. God has chosen to speak through His Son and through His Word to bring men to Him and to bring about His desired end (Isa. 46:9-10; Luke 24:47; John 20:31; Hebrews 1:2). The Good Shepherd of the sheep told us “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John10:27) Any leader that makes it look like he has special access to the LORD should be departed from immediately, marked and openly exposed for the antichrist wolf that he is (Romans 16:17-18; Ephesians 5:11). The notion that God speaks from the top down among men is heretical. Think about this: Does Jesus need a so-called apostle’s permission to speak to an individual sheep He bled on the cross to save?
Jesus taught us not to be called by titles that elevate one brother above another because He said “one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.” (Matthew 23:8) The LORD Jesus said: “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” (Matthew 11:25) From this statement we know that God actually hides His truth from those who are wise in their own eyes and reveals it to those who are humble and broken before Him. Those who elevate self through man-instituted religious hierarchy are doomed to destruction (Matthew 16:18; 23).
The apostle Paul said “that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.” (1 Corinthians 4:6) Under the direct inspiration of the Holy Ghost, Paul also stated: “charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.” (1 Corinthians 13:4) “Emulations” is one of the 17 “works of the flesh” listed in Galatians 5. By definition, “emulations” means striving to excel at the expense of another. This is in contrast with what Christ taught and demonstrated in seeking to serve others and to prefer them above ourselves (Matthew 18:3-4; 20:20-28; Philippians 2:2-5). Of this sin this passage promises “that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:21) At the expense of the masses, these men are willing to reign as kings, to be honored above that which is correct for mere men who are in their very best state “altogether vanity.” (Psalms 39:5). What did Jesus do when the people attempted to make Him king? To elevate oneself and office is to strive to excel at the expense of others whom they lure in to partake of their strange fire.
“When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.” John 6:15
The LORD Jesus hid Himself when men sought to lift Him up. Today we have men in leadership who do just the opposite. They seek out and draw to themselves the praises and accolades of men instead of retreating from undue elevation and instead of seeking the praise that comes from God alone.
Speaking of religious leaders of His day, Jesus said: “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43)
Paul said that those who seek to please men more than God are not Christ’s servants (Galatians 1:10).
When Peter sought to circumvent the cross of Christ, Jesus “turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” (Matthew 16:23)
When the LORD Jesus died on the cross “the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom” and God came out to meet on a personal level every man who would believe and come unto Him (Mark 15:38; Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22). In contrast to the revelation of Holy Scripture, the goal of the counterfeit leader is to position himself as a true “prophet” or “apostle” of the LORD so as to gain the preeminence over and allegiance of as many as he can lure in. The wise saint will learn the Word and walk in the Spirit and not be snared by such a wolf. The Bible teaches us that Jesus Christ is the only true “Head” of His one Church (Ephesians 5:23; Colossians 1:16-18; 2:18-19). According to Jesus Christ there is only “one shepherd.” Only One bled to redeem and He alone is King of all kings and LORD of all lords (Revelation 19:16).
“And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” John 10:16
To pose as a Christian leader and posture oneself as one who wields extraordinary authority over God’s people is the height of evil arrogance. To do such is to not operate according to Christ’s Word and to use the name of the LORD in vain for one’s own selfish end (Exodus 20:7). False prophets come in His name but without the earmark fruits we are to “know them” by (Matthew 7:15-23; 24:3-4, 11, 24). Humility is one such earmark fruit, and not seen in the arrogant, power hungry deceivers who have headed up the charismatic movement over the last few decades (Matthew 18:3-4; 20:20-28). Jesus foretold us that these deluded leaders would have gifts, miracles, and prophetic words. Christ told us that “many” (not a few) deceived men who presently hold positions of influence over multitudes, would call Him “Lord, Lord” in their earthly lives and at the Judgment Throne and yet He said He will “profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:22-23) Why? – Because they do not the will of His Father (Matthew 7:21). The leader who does the will of God is obeying Christ’s command to be humble and serve others and never to seek to be served by others (Mat. 20:20-28; Philippians 2:3-5).
Concerning the false prophets in Israel, Jeremiah wrote:
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart; Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal.” Jeremiah 23:25-27
The false prophets of the “Apostolic Reformation” movement are like those of Jeremiah’s day. Of these false prophets, the Holy Spirit tells us:
- They “prophesy lies in my name”
- They are “saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed”
- “they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart”
- They “think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour”
In this movement one will discover gross and undue emphasis upon miracles, physical healing, signs, wonders, and “words” from God. This is their lure as Jesus foretold it would be (Matthew 7:22-23). 2 Thessalonians 2 speaks of “the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12) By this and other Scriptures, we understand that Satan can do miracles and yet he cannot counterfeit or produce good fruit as only the Holy Spirit can in the obedient, abiding, born again believers who “have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Matthew 7:15-23; Galatians 5:22-24). In this “Apostolic Reformation” movement one will discover the gross lack of sobriety and simple, plain, clear, forthright Bible teaching and learning. Walking in faith through God-guaranteed sufferings, persecutions, hatred, and trials will never be mentioned in their conferences or messages. These hard truths of Holy Scripture are intentionally avoided. Sound doctrine, which produces sound hearts and sound minds, will be absent. The biblical emphasis upon the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit in those who abide in daily communion with Christ will not be tended to in this camp (John 15; Galatians 5:22-24). The denial of the self-life as demanded by Jesus, will conveniently be ignored (Luke 9:23-24). The truth of the preeminent LORD and Savior and “Head” of His true Church will not be emphasized (Colossians 1:16-18; 2:18-19). When Christ is truly exalted as the only LORD and “Head” over His Church, it leaves no room for men to be exalted. The final authority, divine inspiration, and inerrancy of Holy Scripture will not be upheld in this camp of convoluted confusion and deception.
What do you think the motive would be of the man who hides the whole and naked truth from those he speaks to? Is he afraid that openly communicating the hard truths of God’s Word will not feed into his own personal agenda, image, and reputation? Is such a man truly serving Christ or himself? (Matthew 10:28; Luke 12:5; Galatians 1:10)
“Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:26
In order to become popular in today’s modern ministry world industry, one must say the right things and purposely leave out the things that would offend others. The Son of God guaranteed that any person who is popular among the masses of “Christians” who “heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears” is a false prophet. This is another truth to discern by – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-16)
Christ promised His twelve and all who would follow Him faithfully – “Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.” (Matthew 10:22) Ever hear these modern day “prophetic” or “apostolic” leaders teach this Scripture and the many Bible verses like it? Have you ever heard them mention these words which proceeded from the mouth of the One they claim to be serving?
Concerning the replacement of God’s Word for a feeling and experience-based “Christianity,” one expose’ says:
“This kind of disdain for the word of God is common among (charismatics)…and we have several documented examples of such. All emphasis is on feelings while doctrine and Bible study are looked down and frowned upon. The Devil is pleased when people follow their feelings over the Bible!”
With the unscriptural overemphasis on words, signs, and wonders, this movement continues to produce experience or feeling-based “Christians” who live lives of hyped flakery because they are not rooted and grounded in a relationship of God’s love and Word and therefore do not possess sound hearts and minds as the LORD intended. These precious misled souls are therefore not prepared for the LORD’s return for His true Church, each member who is “subject to Christ,” sanctified, being cleansed, laying down his personal life, being washed by His Word, and purified of their iniquities (Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 John 2:28-3:3). These are those whose hearts are not “established with grace” and they are therefore “tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” (Ephesians 4:14; Hebrews 13:9) Mature believers who are deep into God’s Word “have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (see Hebrews 5:11-14) These who aggrandize God’s holy words far above those of mere men, will not be tossed about with the manipulations of these modern leaders who prey on weak, ignorant, and gullible souls.
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they (beguilers) lie in wait to deceive.” Ephesians 4:14
“Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.” Hebrews 13:9
Is there a conspiracy?
“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 showed difference between the unclean and the clean,…” Ezekiel 22:25-26
Is there a cause?
“For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.” Isaiah 9:16
Is there a threat?
“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:29-32
Are there blind leaders?
“Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?” Luke 6:39
The threat of deceivers and losing out due to being led astray by false prophets is a severe and present danger (Colossians 2:4, 8; 2 Peter 3:17).
When we study the Scriptures we gain an historical view of the beguilers and how they operate. These men are the emissaries of the father of lies and war against the Almighty by seeking to draw away His precious sheep and devour them (Matthew 7:15; John 8:44; Acts 20:27-32; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Jude). They selectively design their ministries by picking and choosing what Scripture they wish to utilize to tailor make their ministries to draw people. Deceivers refuse to communicate a balance of the full counsel of God’s Word (Acts 20:20, 27). The modern day false prophets are no new thing. They operate just as those in Jeremiah’s day. These leaders use the LORD’s holy name for their own advantage with their dreams, words, signs, and wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Jude 16). Their goal is the listening ear of the “simple” (unlearned; those who do not correctly discern via known truth – the revealed truth of God’s Word).
“The simple (naive; undiscerning) believeth every word: but the prudent (wise) man looketh well to his going.” Proverbs 14:15
The New Testament Scriptures tell us there are “false apostles” which seems to underscore that there are true apostles being counterfeited. See 2 Corinthians 11:13 and Revelation 2:2. Like the Ephesians (Revelation 2:2), Jesus’ true disciples will discern and not be swept away in the deception of these beguiling and “ungodly men.” (Jude 3-4)–“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:13) The fact that there are “the apostles of Christ” in the above verse seems to underscore that these “deceitful workers” who are “transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ” do so in order to gain a position of strategic advantage as they counterfeit that place of serving to set themselves up unduly. Satan is the master counterfeiter. Satan and his emissaries’ goal is to rule over and mislead–to usurp, destroy and devour (Isa. 14:12-15; John 10:10; 1 Pet. 5:8). This is why they are so audacious in their self-appointment for the purposes of deceiving and harming others.
We should be becoming intimately familiar with and remember as a basis for our understanding that in eternity past Lucifer sought to usurp a position or place outside of what sphere God ordained him to function in. Listen closely to this enlightening insight from the prophet Isaiah:
“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” Isaiah 14:12-15
Now, with this freshly in our minds, let’s peer into the Holy Spirit-inspired words of the apostle Paul who was a true and validated apostle of Christ:
“But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” 2 Corinthians 11:12-15
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Bill Johnson, C Peter Wagner, Chuck Pierce, Rick Joyner, Patricia King, and any other person associated with these animal wolves is straight from Satan. Flee the false churches whose wolf pastors bring in these vile deceivers.
https://youtu.be/eaNiuRWHZrY
https://youtu.be/lhrL233Ilsk
***ANY person or “ministry” pictured on these videos is completely false. EVERY local church that is in contact with false prophets like Bill Johnson and the Kansas City wolves is not a New Testament assembly but rather a house of flakes that are exploiting the unsanctified desire and wicked imaginations of unregenerate and self-seeking souls to feel or experience spirits outside the bounds of Holy Scripture. Devils abound in these environment and yet they use the LORD’s name in vain by saying these things are from Him (Exodus 20:7; 1 Timothy 4:1-3). No such bazaar spiritual manifestations are seen among the earliest believers whose doctrines, methods, ministries, and lives are witnessed on the pages of the New Testament Scriptures which have been forsaken in the aforementioned movements and assemblies. The Scriptures they do divisively use are for their own justification as they siphon a few select verses out of context and use them to exploit the unlearned, gullible, self-serving masses they have beguiled (2 Timothy 4:3-4). These wolves, movements, and false pastors who perpetrate and follow such atrocious falsehoods, do not represent New Testament Christianity and are in total disregard of the LORD who gave us His Holy Word as His instructions to His body and to keep His remnant safe (Proverbs 30:5; Acts 20:20, 27-32; Philippians 3:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Jude 3-4). In these houses of error there is no valiance for the truth and no emphasis on “sound doctrine” which is what is emphasized by our LORD and His holy apostles and for which we shall all give account to God (Jeremiah 9:3; 2 Timothy 2:14-16; 3:15-17; 4:1-4; Titus 2:1, etc.).
Wolf Exposé | Kingdom Now/Dominionism Delusions
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Articles
The Truth about Tradition and Church Membership [podcast]
Is Church Membership Biblical?
Godly and Ungodly Tradition and True and False Church Membership
YOU KNOW you are in a fake church when they have “membership classes” to get you to join yet spend little or no time preaching the Word on the necessity of repentance, forsaking your life in this world, denying self, taking up the cross, and following Jesus daily! Run!
Membership means money to them!
They have a busine$$ plan.
“Prove (test) all things; hold fast (keep and do) that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21
Of the 13 times we find the word “tradition(s)” in Scripture, only twice is it used positively. The other 11 times it is used negatively because men put their foolish traditions above Christ.
History of Church Membership: The history of church membership in Protestant and Evangelical churches begins with the Catholic Church, which implements its discipline over all the baptized (christened, water sprinkled), through a tradition-based sacramental system, governing the lives of their captors from cradle to grave. Essentially, in this way the Roman cult corrals and coerces the insistence of membership upon every initiated, water-sprinkled/christened catholic child. Without that cult-initiation rite, that membership to the Roman religion, that person is considered outside of salvation, outside of the “one true church.” Through church membership in the Catholic church, the completely un-biblical sacramental system is enforced. The Catholic sacramental system is the creation, the strategy of devils, designed to strengthen the piety of the Catholic faithful throughout their lives, guiding them safely into the bowels of eternal damnation. Jesus died and rose again that He alone might have preeminence over His true worldwide body. Church membership to a local church or church organization is perpetrated by cross-less wolves and is a direct affront to the Headship of the one, nail-scarred Savior (Colossians 1:18; 2:18-19, etc.).
The vast majority of so-called pastors today are more interested in getting you to join their church club, to become a member of their church, than they are about truly feeding the flock of God with the whole counsel of Scripture, equipping you for ministry, and winning souls to Jesus (John 21:15-17; Acts 20:20-32; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Peter 5:1-6, etc.). Prove it wrong.
Church membership today is nothing more than a device of wolves to corral and exploit the people! There’s no biblical justification for it.
Church membership is a tool to run a scam on the people – to number them as Satan led David to do (1 Chronicles 21). The LORD judged David for doing this and is judging the wolves today who coercively promulgate their church membership scam. God’s people belong to HIM and no other (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 7:23, etc.).
Church membership is for nobody’s good except those peddling it. Church membership is designed to make you loyal to their church club, not Christ.
APPLE CARTS FLYING: THE TRADITION AND DECEPTION OF CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: BEWARE!
Can anyone find church membership in God’s Word among the earliest followers of Jesus? No. If someone is concerned about you becoming a member of their church, that’s a red flag. Make no mistake: They are corralling you in order to control you. Think about it: WHY can’t they just love you as a member of the one blood bought body of Christ? (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4) Church membership as it’s done by the 501(C)(3) government churches is against Holy Scripture and is a device of evil men, wolves. Run.
Beware of the agenda saints. Church membership is a corralling of God’s people for the self-serving purposes of hirelings.
“Church membership” as it’s carried out in the modern church world, quenches the Holy Spirit in my opinion. It ruins the organic, spontaneous, pure fellowship true believers enjoy due to being in Christ. Church membership seems to be a learned device to coral believers in order to exploit them. Think about it: Seminarian pastors are taught this scheme to build their church busine$$.
Denominations or church organizations reinforce this to secure people and funds. It’s a business model. No such thing as church membership in the Bible except that membership Christ alone procured by His own blood. ALL of His saints’ names are written in Heaven (Luke 10:20). Jesus says that this is what we rejoice in!
“Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20
We are Christ’s kingdom disciples. We belong to HIM.
“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” 1 Corinthians 7:23
Local level “church membership” diverts the heart affections of those corralled by hireling wolves! Beware.
Only Abiding in the Truth Protects
“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
Is church membership not adding to God’s Word?
God gave us His written Word so that we can be safeguarded from being misled. As we will see in a moment, the traditions of men have and will continue to lead many astray and into eternal damnation. Tradition is passed along from one religious, truth-despising generation to the next. Concerning rightly dividing the truth of God’s Word and how twisting Scripture transpires as a tradition and applies to interpretation of God’s Word, Charles Koller writes:
“There are pitfalls of interpretation into which devout believers may fall, resulting in distortions of the truth. A preacher may borrow an interpretation from a devout Bible scholar, who had previously borrowed it from another equally devout but perhaps misguided Bible scholar. And so the inventions of devout men may unwittingly be passed around as ‘the Word of God.’ Let the Bible speak for itself! What does it actually say? And what does it mean?” Charles W. Koller, How to Preach without Notes, p.65
“Tradition(s)” as it Appears in Scripture:
Matthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the TRADITION of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Matthew 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your TRADITION?
Matthew 15:6 And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your TRADITION.
Mark 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the TRADITION of the elders.
Mark 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the TRADITION of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
Mark 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the TRADITION of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mark 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own TRADITION.
Mark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your TRADITION, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Galatians 1:14 And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the TRADITIONS of my fathers.
Colossians 2:8 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.
2 Thessalonians 2:15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the TRADITIONS which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.
2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the TRADITION which he received of us.
1 Peter 1:18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by TRADITION from your fathers;
Did you notice that in 2 Thessalonians 2:15, Christ’s apostle Paul says we are to “hold the traditions WHICH YE HAVE BEEN TAUGHT, whether by word, or our epistle.” The roman catholic cult deceitfully seeks to justify the use of its myriad of Bible-contradicting traditions using this verse. Yet read the words of this verse and carefully note that Paul taught these “traditions” and so they came from God who sanctioned the apostle to pen Holy Scripture (2 Peter 1:19-21). “Traditions” that glorify God are found in God’s Word, not in the writings of some religion of mere sinful men that diametrically contradicts what we read in Holy Scripture. Also, these “traditions” that we received from Paul are tangibly recorded in an “epistle.” The saints at the city of Thessalonica were receiving this divinely-inspired, written letter or “epistle.” This later became part of Holy Writ for all New Testament Scriptures and one of the books of the New Testament canon. What New Testament disciples “have been taught” is now canonized in the 27 books of the New Testament canon of Holy Scripture and is final authority for the faith and practice of all narrow way believers (2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21, etc.).
Testing and Discerning what is True Tradition and What is False
All who cling to their religion and/or religious tradition in lieu of Christ and His Word, are as sure for hell as if they were already there (Mark 7:6-9).
We are warned in Colossians 2:8 to “Beware” of false “tradition” which leads us away from the pure worship of “Christ.”
“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 2:8
Many times people in local “churches” are seen or heard saying “That’s just how we do things around here!” Well, if what you do around you stupid “ministry” is not according to God’s Word, it’s time to repent and change it. Now!
Testing the Concept and Practice of Modern Church Membership
No such thing as church membership in the early church. Totally false.
Church membership is a tool of controlling leaders to corral souls for their own self-serving purposes! Beware! (Jeremiah 23; Ezekiel 34; Matthew 23) They discount your place in Christ by telling you that membership is important in the church business they are building to their own glory.
JESUS came to make captives free. SATAN’s agents seek to put you in bondage! (Luke 4:18; John 10:10; Galatians 5:1)
—- MOST “good church members” are lost due to following a pastor and program instead of truly following Christ on HIS terms. See Mark 8:34-38 and Luke 9:23-24 and you will see why Jesus says only a “few” will be in Heaven Matt. 7:13-14. Your pastor is not your judge, God is and so you better please Him according to what He told you in His Word or you will be cast into the lake of fire as a disobedient, idolatrous rebel (Matthew 7:21; Titus 1:16; 1 John 2:4; Revelation 21:8, 27; 22:14-15, etc.).
Church membership as we know it today, is a tradition of mere sinful and self-serving men “whose god is their belly.” (Philippians 3:18-19)
“(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: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.).” Philippians 3:18-19
There is nothing found in Scripture that directly teaches people that they should “join a church.” So, did the Almighty, all-knowing God somehow forget to tell us something we needed to know, OR, has someone added something foreign to the practice of the Christian faith?
The Bible student must conclude that “joining a church” as we know it in this apostate age, is not by divine decree but is rather a tradition of sinful men and therefore a “false way” that we should “hate.” (Psalms 119:104, 128) So, church membership in an earthly organization is not a tradition any disciple of Christ should hold and should stay clear of such in order not to dilute his allegiance to the one and only “Head” of His true body, Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:18; 2:18-19; Ephesians 5:23). This is after the workings of sinful men to secure the allegiance and loyalty of men’s hearts, intercepting the affections of their hearts from the “Head.” Was it not rebellious Absalom who “stole the hearts of the men of Israel”? (2 Samuel 15:6) Is this not the subversive, insidious “spirit of antichrist” at work today to rob God of the glory due to Christ’s holy name alone?
Did Jesus or any disciple in the New Testament Scriptures ever instruct anyone to “join a church” or become a good church member as we know these thing to be today in westernized “Christianity”?
Such a question poses a threat to some pastors who are far too possessive, un-submitted, and un-abandoned to Christ. Though not truly submitted to the LORD, which would mean they trusted Him in all things, many of these same leaders seek for coerce others to submit to them, to join their church, to support them, etc.
Posing such a question as this one on church membership, is an example of testing all things against the counsel of Scripture like good Bereans (Acts 17:11). Testing what is being accepted in a local gathering of saints can shake up a leader who is not truly broken before the LORD. Testing all things helps us rightly divide the word of truth and begin to examine what is truth and what is tradition in the things we do as His body and as individual saints. We must live and oversee only as our LORD has revealed in the divine wisdom of His Word and as He enables and leads – which will always be in accordance with His Word (Psalms 11:105; 2 Timothy 3:15-17, etc.).
Jesus says “follow me” and if one is going to know and follow Him, that person must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Him “daily.” (Matthew 16:24-25; Luke 9:23-24).
Church membership as we know it today in the modern church system, is clearly a tradition of mere men and not a part of true, New Testament Christianity. At this point, many will say: “But brother, the Bible says we are to fellowship!” Yes, true, but remember that church membership is completely unneeded for true Christian fellowship as defined in the New Testament Scriptures (Acts 2:42-47; Colossians 3:16-17, etc.). Yes, the Bible teaches us that Jesus’ true disciples are to fellowship with one another and modern church membership is completely unneeded for such unless you factor in the hirelings who perpetrate such for their own personal purposes. In fact, self-serving ambition is the root of most traditions. The whole church-building centered modern church system is designed to benefit and profit the business-owner or franchisee (the pastor), not the LORD and His people. Christ’s true saints are not lukewarm weekly church members but rather, on fire disciples are fellowship daily and “exhort one another DAILY” and so much the more as His return draws nigh (Acts 2:42-47; Hebrew 3:13; 10:24-25).
You see, if a pastor can get you to sign his roster, he knows he has your allegiance and therefore you money.
Most people claiming to be Christians have this tradition in their minds that they need to find and join a church. Yet, it’s a nearly impossible task to find a body of true believers who are walking in the New Testament definition and revelation of what God calls fellowship where Christ is supreme. 99% of local churches are entertainment centers that offer little or no elements nor the spirit of the early church believers.
The test of true Christian fellowship is whether or not there are the following elements as found in the book of Acts (partial list):
- continuing steadfastly in the apostle’s doctrine (written Word)
- breaking bread together
- fellowship
- prayer
- sharing one to another whatever each member of the body of Christ needs – having all things common
- ceasing not to teach and to preach Jesus Christ (Acts 5:42)
You see, when you find – if you ever find – a pastor who tells the people to give among yourselves, having “all things common,” you have found something very rare. Regrettably, the modern church is a business and that CEO pastor who refuses to truly pastor the people, needs to pay a mortgage and many other unnecessary expenses they are wasting. So, in his mind, following Christ has nothing to do with it – making the mortgage and building his church business is what matters to him.
Perhaps we should cease searching for a church and simply be Christ’s church.
The LORD Himself, nor any of His apostles ever hinted of or instructed anyone to “go join a church” or to “become a good church member” and yet this is the order of the day in the apostate modern church world which is piloted or hi-jacked by self-serving hirelings who are farming their communities to build their own local church franchise, competing against other CEO type entrepreneurs. Now grant it, being an entrepreneur is not a sin if done uprightly in the business world and yet, the Church of Jesus Christ is no place to employ entrepreneurial tactics. Christ’s church is not a business. Yet this is the way much of the modern church world is set up. Ecclesiastes 1:9 tells us that “There is no new thing under the sun” and so we know we can peer into history and see the same things happening as we see transpiring today.
“And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Matthew 21:13
God’s house or dwelling place in individuals and in groups is to be dedicated to the worship of Him alone and yet, many today are intercepting the worship due only to the LORD and exploiting His people for their own self-serving purposes (Isaiah 56:10-12; Jeremiah 23; Ezekiel 34; Philippians 3:18-19; 2 Peter 2:1-3, etc.).
Setting forth such an idea that subverts the modern tradition of church memberships may be scary to some. To make the case that true New Testament fellowship is what is important and not joining a church, makes some pastors nervous because they are entrenched in following tradition instead of Christ. Perhaps they are threatened by this because they have not fully released themselves and therefore the people to the LORD, acknowledging Him alone as their Maker, God, Redeemer, and “Head.” (Colossians 2:18-19) Today would be the best day to denounce these idolatrous sins and begin to “lean not to thine own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5-7)
Please don’t read rebellion against God into this – but do read rebellion against man and satan into it please. You can put my name on that! It’s time to sift through and test every notion, philosophy, and practice of today against what we observe in Holy Scripture to be truth and according to the mind of Christ. See Acts 17:11 and Jeremiah 1:10. The erroneous traditions and contradictions to holy truth must FIRST be removed and torn down before a proper foundation can begin to be built. Study and memorize and put into action the divine principle and order of Jeremiah 1:10.
Christ and His redemptive work on that cross is despised by church membership. How? Well, church membership dishonors that Christ bled to make us members of HIS one body or church. Read Ephesians 2; 4; 1 Corinthians 12.
It’s only where Jesus Christ is upheld as the supreme KING, God, Counselor, Truth, Way, and Life that divine virtue flows from Heaven into His people! See Colossians 2:18-19.
Until we first put to the test the very reasons for which we assemble/meet and embrace the priorities set forth in Scripture, our assemblies will be limited at best.
Blindly following or going along with tradition instead of what is taught in God’s Word, always leads to dismal results as we have the pharisees for an example.
We should ask “What is the biblical precedence for ….” and “What saith the Scriptures?”
This doesn’t mean we won’t find things that are biblical, but how can we possibly have a clear heart about things until we do?
“Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” 2 Samuel 15:6
Traditions of Mere Men are Meant to be Broken – Rooted Out
A reading of the Gospels reveals to us that Jesus often upset the religious bafoons of His day by breaking their foolish, man-centered, Christ-denying traditions. Their foolish traditions trumped divine truth.
“For laying aside the commandment (Word) of God, ye hold the TRADITION of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.” Mark 7:8
Do you know what Jeremiah 1:10 says? This verse gives us extremely valuable and necessary insight into the order and workings of the LORD.
“See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.” Jeremiah 1:10
What is the LORD’s order of working in our hearts?
- “to root out”
- “to pull down”
- “to destroy”
- “to throw down”
- “to build”
- “to plant”
First we should diligently examine why we do what we do. All teachings and practices must be acid tested against Holy Writ (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). Questions to explore:
- “What did the early church do” is a very good starting question.
- And, “What do we see the apostles and Christ doing”?
- “What does the Bible teach?”
Your Prayer: Holy Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I come to You in the name of Jesus, asking that You would please begin to purge out any notion or philosophy or belief in this life You gave that is not of You – that is not according to the whole counsel of Your written Word. Please make me Your authentic disciple. Root out all from my life that does not glorify You and fill this vessel with the fruits of Your righteousness to bring glory to You and to serve others as unto You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Articles
The One Essential to Victory [podcast]
Victory is at hand!! This message is at the heart of the original Gospel message Christ and that His apostles gave. Yet, this is seldom if ever heard today. Victory awaits you!!!!! God desires to give it to you!!!! You be careful though saint. Be not deceived. Get this truth in your heart and life and God will raise you upward to the victory that brings Him glory and where you belong. Paul said that there are many “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Phil. 3:18-19) Discover who they are and what is divinely required for you to be blessed with victory in this life and in eternity with Christ!
The Victory is in Jesus [podcast]
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Articles
Bowels of Mercies [podcast]
“Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
“Now the end (supreme goal) of the commandment (Word of God, Gospel) is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:” 1 Timothy 1:5
Recently a dear brother in Christ who got to reading on the ministry site, sent me an email claiming that I was perhaps being too harsh in some of the expose’s on the site. After I responded, this dear man sent back an apology, asking forgiveness for his own unwarranted harshness towards me.
Whew! Saints this is exactly how we should humbly work out things in the body of Christ, whose love never fails!
Here was the response sent to him:
“Blessings in Christ dear brother and thank you for the iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17). Please let me know how can be a blessing to you (Ps 133:1; Eph 4:3).”
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Colossians 3:12-14
WHEN we aren’t concerned about how we are affecting others, it’s because we don’t care for them and are full of self (Colossians 4:6).
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Colossians 4:6
“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:” 1 Peter 1:22
“Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.” 2 Corinthians 6:12
“For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:8
“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,” Philippians 2:1
“For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” Philemon 1:7
“Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:” Philemon 1:12
“Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.” Philemon 1:20
“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” 1 John 3:17
Saints, may our LORD help us to HELP other disciples who are in the same fight as we are in and help them in the LORD’s process of sanctification. Galatians 6:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26
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