THE RELATIVE IMPORTANCE BETWEEN STUDYING THE WRITTEN WORD and PRAYING TO GOD, THE LIVING WORD
Paul Roberts, Copyright © 2019
I’ve been diligently studying the Word of God since 1974, but lately I’ve come to the realization that I am not experiencing the consistent spiritual manifestation of His glorious and peaceful presence and power as
I once did. After I was born again, initially, and for months thereafter, I spent hours in His presence and enjoyed fellowship with Him. His presence was palpable. Then, His presence faded for some reason. I thought maybe this was just the way it is with God, so I adjusted to it. In doing so I lost my perspective or the relative importance between knowing the living Word intimately and personally through lively communication with him through prayer and the mere gaining of lifeless knowledge from the letter of the written word through diligent study.
I made gaining knowledge through study of the written word an “end” in itself as though an increase in my knowledge of scripture would in and of itself, somehow, bring me into a closer personal relationship with the living God along with His manifest spiritual presence rather than using study to gain knowledge merely as a “means” to validate and authenticate the source of the spoken words coming to me from the mouth of the living God to my spirit by way of revelation from the Holy Spirit (John 16:13-15 KJV). That “means”, or “my knowledge from study of the written word”, is not to be the object of my worship. The living Word of God, not the written word, is to be the object of my worship. The written word, inspired by God, is merely the infallible and legally admissible evidence of things not seen from the realm of the kingdom of God which is spiritual in nature and therefore invisible (2nd Corinthians 4:17-18; Hebrews 11:1-3, 6 KJV), that has been recorded for all generations to bear witness to or testify to the truth, who is Jesus, the living Word of God, who was made flesh and dwelt among us (Psalms 12:6-7; Luke 24:27; John 5:39; John 1:1, 14 KJV). In Jesus, who is the living Word or the Word made flesh, dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9 KJV).
Jesus is not the letter of the written word. The letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life (2nd Corinthians 3:6 KJV). The written word only comes to life by way of the living God bringing it to life by opening His mouth and speaking it to the Holy Spirit according to God’s sovereign will and purpose for that particular time and season (Isaiah 55:11; Matthew 4:4; John 6:63b & 16:13-15; Hebrews 4:12 KJV):
“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” – (Isaiah 55:11 KJV)
- “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” – (Matthew 4:4 KJV)
- “—–the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” – (John 6:63b KJV)
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear ( e. whatsoever he shall hear of the living Word from God’s own mouth, my addition), that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” – (John 16:13-15 KJV)
- “For the word of God is quick ( e. living and operative, translation), and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” – (Hebrews 4:12 KJV)
We live by every anointed word that proceeds out of the mouth of God by way of revelation from the Holy Spirit in response to our daily prayers for such, not by the words we come to know initiated by our own self-willed study (Matthew 4:4 KJV). In turn the Holy Spirit then glorifies that living Word (i. e. Jesus) from the mouth of God by revealing His anointed words of faith directly to our spirit by-passing our sight or sense-based knowledge received from our five (5) physical senses. These words of faith to direct our paths come in response to our acknowledging God through daily prayer (John 16:13-15; Proverbs 3:5-6; 2nd Corinthians 4:17-18 & 5:7; Hebrews 11:1; Matthew 6:10-11 KJV). The living words we receive from God through prayer, that we believe in our heart, and speak with our mouth are anointed with the Holy Ghost and power and will be effectual in accomplishing the thing whereunto God sends it (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). The effectual fervent prayers of a righteous man availeth much power (James 5:16b KJV). Our effectual (1st John 5:14-15 KJV) and fervent prayers to God, not self-willed study, brings the supernatural creative miracle-working power of God to bear on that situation or circumstance which concerns us if we are walking uprightly with God (Psalms 138:8 & 84:11; 1st John 1:7, 2:10-11, & 3:22 KJV).
The written word bears witness to or testifies to the truth that Jesus, the living Word of God, is the only name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12 KJV). Jesus is God’s sole and sovereign plan of salvation for both Jew and Gentile. Listen to the perspective or relative importance Jesus gave us between searching the lifeless letter of the written words of scripture (i. e. the Logos) and our personal communication with the living Spirit of the spoken (i. e. the Rhema) Word of life received from the mouth of God through revelation to our spirit in response to our acknowledging Him in prayer along with the purpose of the writings of scripture in bearing witness to the Word of life which the Holy Spirit gave to us through the apostle John as well as other apostles:
- “Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God: Who also made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for “the letter” killeth, but ”the spirit” giveth life.” – (2nd Corinthians 3:2-6 KJV)
- “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” – (John 5:39 KJV)
NOTE: The written word merely testifies of the living Word but is not the living and eternal Word itself. Studying the scripture through self-determination and self-effort apart from revelation from the Spirit of truth in response to our daily prayers for both revelation and an understanding heart produces nothing but pride and is just an exercise in futility (John 15:5b & 16:13-15; 1st Corinthians 8:1b-2 KJV).
“Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. But if any man love God (i. e. the living Word, my addition), that same is known of him.” – (1st Corinthians 8:1b-3 KJV)
The necessary prerequisite to a fruitful study of the written word is to receive fresh daily bread (i. e. fresh manna from heaven) from the living word spoken by the mouth of our heavenly Father which daily bread comes to our spirit by way of revelation through the Spirit of truth to direct our line of study in response to our daily prayers for such revelation of God’s will and purpose (John 16:13-15; Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 1:17-23 KJV).
Annual study plans, devised by organized religion, to read the Bible from cover to cover in one year or less, are all bereft of revelation through daily prayer. Since it is not given to us to know the times or the seasons (Acts 1:7 KJV) which God has reserved for His personal use and power, we are, therefore, of necessity, bound to the need to acknowledge God daily in prayer in order to receive timely revelations from the Spirit of truth to direct our path (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). Otherwise, we will operate as did Martha rather than Mary (Luke 10:38-42 KJV). Martha was concerned with “doing things right” according to tradition regardless the time or season, whereas Mary was concerned with “doing the right thing” at the right time according to revelation from the living Word spoken by the mouth of God. We are to be still before the Lord each day in daily prayer, knowing that He is God and asking Him to direct our paths without leaning to our own understanding according to tradition.
- “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy might be full.” – (1st John 1:1-4 KJV)
NOTE: Those who saw and handled the living Word of eternal life were inspired by the Holy Spirit to use the written word to bear record and testify to us of the same so that our joy might be full. That is to say, our joy will be full if we come to Him in prayer, believing through faith that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. However, the written word is not that living Word who became flesh and dwelt among us whom we seek and communicate with in a living way through daily prayer. Remember this obvious distinction between the written word and the living Word made flesh; the Bible doesn’t bleed, therefore, it is not the living Word of God made flesh who was nailed to the cross.
While I certainly gained knowledge through my study of the written word, that knowledge by itself was cold, sterile, impersonal, and bereft of love. Therefore, my knowledge was lifeless (1st Corinthians 13:1-3 KJV). My knowledge of the written word through diligent study did not bring the presence of God which is the fullness of joy (Psalms 16:11 KJV). I became so hungry for the presence of the Lord and the initial joy of my salvation after all these years of study that I began in earnest to ask Him for the spiritual manifestation of His presence as a living Person like I had at the beginning of my walk with Him. Over time, here’s what the Spirit began revealing to me in my spirit which has given me a new perspective that has made my prayer life to the living Word of God preeminent to my study of the written word for the purpose of obtaining my spiritual direction (Proverbs 3:5-6; John 16:13-15; Philippians 4:6-7 KJV).
In the beginning, the living God spoke the living Word and the anointing of the Holy Ghost (i. e. the anointing means the Christ or the wisdom and power of God – 1st Corinthians 1:24 KJV) upon the spoken Word of God caused all things visible and invisible to come into existence in both the spiritual and the natural or physical realm. The Greek word Christ is an exact translation of the Hebrew word Messiah, and the English word anoint is an exact translation of the Greek word Christ. The word “Christ” or “Anoint” means to rub on or smear all over. The word “Christ” refers either to the anointing of the wisdom and supernatural power of God of Isaiah 10:27 upon the spoken word from God’s own mouth, which He sends to us in response to our prayers for such, or the “Anointed One” of Isaiah 61:1 which is Jesus or the Word of God made flesh. So, when translating the word Christ translate it as the “Anointed One” and his “anointing” and God will reveal to you whether it is referring to the “Anointed One” or the “anointing” or both since we really can’t separate the “anointing” from the “Anointed One” and visa versa.
For example, “I can do all things through Christ which (not who) strengthens me.” In this passage of scripture the word Christ is referring to the anointing of Isaiah 10:27 not the Anointed One of Isaiah 61:1. Jesus Christ, the “Anointed One”, brought the “anointing” into our midst during his earthly ministry and demonstrated the anointing of the Holy Ghost and power in Luke 4:18 when he stood up in the synagogue and opened the book of Isaiah to Isaiah 61:1 where it is written:
- “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 bind up the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord” – (Luke 4:18 KJV)
Before Jesus ascended, he instructed his disciples that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father. He told them that they would receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. After receiving this instruction from Jesus, his disciples went into an upper room and continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren, the number of them was about 120. At the day of Pentecost while they were still in one accord and in one place they received power from on high as the Holy Ghost came upon them for effective service.
This power from on high is still available to us today if we’ll persistently ask for it through fervent and prevailing prayer. Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be opened to receive the promise of the Father or the anointing of the Holy Ghost and power with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Regretfully, the body of Christ in large measure does not believe in the baptism of the Holy Ghost and power with the evidence of speaking in tongues and remain bereft of the supernatural creative miracle-working power of God. Mistakenly, they think they have received all the power of God there is to receive upon being born again of the Spirit and being water baptized with the baptism of John unto repentance. Yet Acts 19:1-6 contradicts such heresy.
When those who won’t believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit pray, they pray from a carnally minded perspective which is confined to the low level of the limited power of the natural laws of physics rather than from a spiritually minded perspective which is not so confined. A spiritually minded perspective believes in the supernatural nature of the immeasurable, unlimited, and greatly surpassing power of the Holy Spirit and His ability to override the natural laws of physics. This carnally minded perspective of those in the church who refuse to believe in the Promise of the Father (i. e. the baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues) is why the church, for the most part, remains powerless in combating the deception and wiles of the devil. In Texas, we refer to those who claim to have something they can’t demonstrate as being all hat and no cattle. The living Word spoken by the mouth of living God and the anointing (i. e. the Christ) of the Holy Ghost upon that spoken Word created all things visible and invisible, not the written word which came after God spoke the living Word.
So, the Word spoken out of the mouth of the living God or the living Word of God which was made flesh and dwelt among us has preeminence in all things including the written word even though the written word testifies of him (John 5:39 KJV). For in him (i. e. in Jesus, the living Word of God) dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9 KJV). The word bodily in Colossians 2:9, refers to the physical flesh and blood body of Jesus according to the Greek translation shown in Strong’s Concordance. According to Isaiah 9:6 the name of Jesus is called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. So, Jesus, according to the written word, is the fullness of the Godhead bodily or physically in the flesh.
After we’re born again of the Spirit, thereafter we are to take no thought for tomorrow nor are we to be careful for anything concerning those things we need for the support of biological life. Instead, we are to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to us. Additionally, upon being born again of the Spirit, old things are passed away and all things are become new. Rather than going our own way by leaning to our own intellectual understanding based on what we learned in the past through sight or sense-based knowledge received through our five (5) physical senses, in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving we are to let our requests be made known unto God for His direction in our lives through faith or the evidence of things not seen by way of the revelation to our spirit from the Spirit of truth which by-passes our five (5) physical senses. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Matthew 6:31-34; Philippians 4:6-7; John 16:13-15 KJV, my paraphrase). Matthew 6:31-34, Philippians 4:6-7, and John 16:13-15 are companion verses of scripture to the verses of scripture in Proverbs 3:5-6 which state:
- “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not to thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Acknowledging God means to pray to Him for direction (Proverbs 3:6 KJV). Being directed by the LORD by acknowledging Him in all our ways by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving is tantamount to being led by the Spirit who guides us into all truth and those who are led by revelation of the Spirit’s direction in response to their prayers to God are the sons of God (Proverbs 3:6; Philippians 4:6-7; John 16:13-15; Romans 8:14 KJV). Through prayer and supplication to God with thanksgiving, His Spirit is able to restore our soul or transform us by the renewing of our minds from a carnally minded perspective to a spiritually minded perspective such that we might prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God (Titus 3:5; Psalms 23:3a; Romans 12:2 KJV).
The paths into which we’re being directed according to Proverbs 3:6 or, rather, the paths into which we are being led of the Spirit, are the paths of righteousness for His names sake (Psalms 23:3 KJV). The steps of a righteous man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way (Psalms 37:23 KJV). These steps are ordered by faith which is the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1; 2nd Corinthians 4:17-18 KJV) and without faith it is impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). When we walk by believing through faith or the evidence of things not seen by way of direct revelation to our spirit from the Holy Spirit, who reveals only that which He hears from the spoken word of God at just the right time or just the right season (John 16:13; Acts 1:7 KJV), rather than walking by our own intellectual understanding from sight or sense-based knowledge received through our five (5) physical senses, we will, in a living way, experience the spiritual manifestation of God’s presence and fellowship. In His presence there is fullness of joy and the joy of the Lord is our strength ((Nehemiah 8:10b; Psalms 16:11 KJV).
Once the Holy Spirit provides revelation of faith or the evidence of things not seen to our born again spirit to direct our paths in response to our sincere and fervent prayers for such direction, then our study and learning from the written word based on that revelation of faith will become fruitful such that we can understand it, meditate on it and, over time, become fully persuaded to believe or establish that faith, or that evidence of things not seen, in our hearts. Believing this revelation of faith in our hearts or believing in the evidence of things not seen from the Holy Spirit through the spiritual eyes and ears of our born again spirit (i. e. the spiritual eyes and ears of our spiritual or inner man), will restore our soul by renewing the thoughts in our mind such that we will do by nature the things contained in the righteous laws of the kingdom of God, which kingdom is spiritual in nature and therefore invisible to the natural eye of the natural man also known as the outward or physical man (Romans 10:10; 2nd Corinthians 4:13; Hebrews 11:1; 2nd Corinthians 4:17-18; John 3:3; Psalms 23:3; Romans 12:2 & 2:14-15; Psalms 1:1-3; 1st Corinthians 2:14 KJV).
In other words, by the renewing of our minds through revelation of faith to our spirit from the Holy Spirit, in response to our prayers which acknowledge God as a living Person, we will be transformed from a carnally minded perspective to a spiritually minded perspective. To be spiritually minded is to be mentally directed from the thoughts produced by the words engrafted into our spirit which represent faith or the evidence of things not seen that pertain to the invisible kingdom of God. It is by grace through believing in the gift of faith through revelation in response to our prayers that we establish and fulfill the law such that God’s will can once again be done in earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 5:17-19; Romans 3:31; Ephesians 2:8-10; Romans 8:3-4 KJV).
The Holy Spirit is showing me that I spend too much time in the scripture increasing my intellectual knowledge of the “written” word and too little time in prayer communicating with God to build a personal relationship with Him through the “Living” or “Spoken” Word. Face time with the Lord in prayer to build an intimate or close personal relationship with Him is no different than face time with another human being to build a personal relationship——especially one’s own spouse. Marriage is a great mystery concerning Christ and the church according to Ephesians 5:30-33 (KJV).
To emphasize once again the distinction and relative importance between having knowledge of the written word and having an intimate or close spiritual and personal relationship with Jesus as a living Person is to keep foremost in our mind at all times the obvious truth that the Bible wasn’t nailed to the cross because the Bible is not flesh and blood, and, therefore, it does not bleed. This distinction between communicating with the living Word through prayer and studying the written word to establish an intimate and close personal relationship to enjoy God’s presence is in no way a put down of the written word. Instead, it is to establish the relative importance between the “living Word made flesh” and the “written word which testifies of the Word made flesh”. I was impressed by the Spirit to compare the amount of time I spend studying to the amount of time I spend in prayer. The amount of time I spend studying the written word far outweighs the time I spend in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving——my unfortunate misstep in developing a closer personal relationship with God such that I could have more of His fellowship and His manifest spiritual presence which comes along with that fellowship.
The Lord impressed upon my spirit that studying the Bible at the expense of my face time with Him in communicating with Him in every thing by prayer is somewhat akin to the younger generation of my own children sitting at the dinner table with me with their face glued to their cell phone at the expense of acknowledging me and conversing with me in a face-to-face conversation. This distraction of my children’s time away from communication with their own living father at the dinner table by virtue of their spending an inordinate amount of time infatuated by an inanimate cell phone has always impressed me as a father as their being indifferent towards me and my being set far below the respect and honor that is due me which is obviously disrespectful, dishonoring, and rude. So, if my children are indifferent, disrespectful, and dishonoring in my presence, why would I want to visit them often and bless them with my presence? The Lord seemed to be saying to me that’s how He feels when I’m being indifferent towards Him by my being distracted in spending an inordinate amount of time studying the inanimate or lifeless written word at the expense of seeking His face and spending quality time in communication with Him, the living Word, through prayer.
What an enormously subtle deception is the devils insidious subterfuge of causing us to disrespect and dishonor the living Word of God through quality face time with Him in daily prayer by distracting us with the legitimate need to study the lifeless or inanimate written word of God. Following is the definition of the words “insidious” and “subterfuge” which will open our eyes to how the devil works his deceptions against both believers and unbelievers:
- “Insidious in it’s word definition means: 1a : awaiting a chance to entrap: TREACHEROUS b: harmful but enticing: SEDUCTIVE 2 a : having a gradual and cumulative effect : SUBTLE b : developing so gradually as to be well established before becoming apparent.”
- “Subterfuge suggests: the adoption of a stratagem or the telling of a lie in order to escape guilt or to gain an end.”
Organized Denominational Religion, through their traditions, have for the most part all fallen for this subtle deception concerning the false preeminence of study over prayer. However, this masterful deception is not surprising since the devil, in his prideful knowledge as the anointed Cherub, was able to deceive and take with him a third of the angels in his fall from the 3rd heaven while they were all in the very presence of God.
Most people will tell you that knowledge is power, but it is not the power of life itself. There is no life-giving power but that power which emanates from the self-existent God Who is life itself and the creator and sustainer thereof. Apart from Him there is no power of life. Only when we love God and are known of Him and become one with Him do we have life. We don’t have eternal life unless and until we are made a part of God. God, according to His mercy, by grace through faith, has made it possible for each of us to become one with Him as members of His body through a blood covenant relationship called the New Blood Covenant. The essence of a blood covenant relationship is that two become one by the shedding of blood which is also the essence of marriage.
Marriage is the great mystery concerning Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32 KJV). When a man has sexual intercourse with his wife, the hymen is broken and there is the shedding of blood. The hymen has no medical function whatsoever other than to break when joined to a husband in the marriage bed. Then the man and the woman become joined together as one flesh. In the same manner, when the Lord comes into our hearts by grace through faith we become bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh in a blood covenant relationship (Genesis 2:23; Ephesians 5:28-33 KJV).
Once joined together with Jesus he becomes our sovereign head or, in other words, the head of the body. As in marriage, we are given his name and the authority to act in his name provided we are being led by his Spirit in response to our daily prayers for his guidance into all truth which causes us to walk in accordance with his will and purpose for that particular time and place. Apart from Him, that is the life-giving Vine, we can do nothing, even if we have understanding of all knowledge from the written and lifeless words of scripture (John 5:39-40 KJV). Jesus, the living Word of God, said this: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” No one knows how to create or sustain life except the One and only life-giver—the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:2 KJV). If the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead now dwells in us he shall also quicken our mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwells in us (Romans 8:11 KJV).
According to the written word, “if any man thinks he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know” – (1st Corinthians 8:2 KJV). Mere knowledge puffs up or makes us prideful such that we begin to think of ourselves above measure (1st Corinthians 8:1 KJV). We become independent of God and become slack in our daily prayers to God for His direction. Those, who, like the devil, think that knowledge is power and that knowledge in and of itself is eternal life, know nothing yet as they ought to know. Therefore, they will not experience the presence of God nor the peace and fullness of joy that only His presence can bring us (John 5:39-40; Psalms 16:11; Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).
God refers to those who consider themselves able to understand all mysteries and have all knowledge and have all faith to remove mountains from diligently studying the written word as being nothing, if and/or when their understanding, knowledge, and faith are bereft of the nature and character of love which is the essence of the living God Himself. Faith works by love. Apart from love who is God Himself, we can do nothing. Since God is love it can also be said that the words of faith only work when spoken by the mouth of the living God Who is love. Listen to what scripture says concerning those who exalt the relative importance of studying the written word above our prayer life or our personal time communicating with God. When we exalt studying the written word above our praying to the living Word, that is the essence of leaving our first love which is warned against in Revelation 2:4-5 (KJV). When we put studying ahead of prayer, our prayers become impersonal, sterile, and rote which has an adverse effect on the quality of our personal relationship with God and being able to experience the joy of His presence:
- “Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.” – (1st Corinthians 8:1b-2 KJV)
- “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.” – (1st Corinthians 13:2 KJV)
- “But if any man love God, the same is known of him.” – (1st Corinthians 8:3 KJV)
- “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” – (1st John 5:3 KJV)
- “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” – (John 15:14, 17 KJV)
- “Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” – (Romans 13:8-9 KJV)
NOTE: God speaks of keeping all his commandments which commandments altogether are plural. But, since “loving one another as he loved us” briefly comprehends obedience to all the other commandments, he refers to keeping all the commandments with the singular command of “love thy neighbor as thyself”.
- “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him and make our abode with him.” – (John 14:21-23 KJV)
NOTE: Loving God, evidenced by loving others, is the key to God’s presence. Loving others fulfills all the law (Jeremiah 31:31-33 [prophecy of the new covenant]; Romans 8:3-4 & 13:8 KJV). Our ability to love others comes by acknowledging God in all our ways through prayer for His direction and guidance (i. e. Love’s direction and guidance since God is love). His direction and guidance come through revelation from the Holy Spirit to our spirit in response to our prayers and our ability to walk in His direction and guidance is empowered by Christ or the wisdom and power of God which is the anointing of the Holy Spirit (Proverbs 3:5-6; John 16:13-15; Ezekiel 36:26-27 [prophecy of the new covenant]; Acts 5:32; Philippians 4:13 KJV).
- “That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full [Remember, in His presence is fullness of joy]. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because the darkness hath blinded his eyes.” – (1st John 1:3-7 & 2:10-11 KJV)
- “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.” – (Proverbs 6:23 KJV)
NOTE: The law, as well as being a light, is also the truth (Psalms 119:142 KJV). However, it acts as a light only if and when it is securely hinged to love as it’s guiding principle or unchanging rule of governing action. When the law is ministered in the letter, untempered by love, it is being used unlawfully with our born again brothers and sisters and, as a result, it kills rather than making alive (Romans 7:10 & 8:2; 2nd Corinthians 3:6 KJV). Relationships with others in the body of Christ are to be cultivated by believing through faith in the words of the righteous laws of the kingdom of God all of which are fulfilled by loving one another as he loved us. The truths of the law must always be applied toward others in the body of Christ by a loving and merciful temperament as described in 1st Corinthians 13:4-7 (KJV). Remember, loving one another as he loved us, by grace through faith, fulfills all the commandments of the law. To those outside the body of Christ who haven’t been born again, the law works death in them rather than life by exposing their sinful state as shown in Romans 7:14-25 (KJV).
What we are to take away from the above verses of scripture is this. Unless we develop a close personal relationship with God through prayer and hear His spoken word to us by way of revelation from His Holy Spirit to our spirit, then we will walk in darkness apart from the light of His love. If we don’t have a close personal relationship with love, Who is God Himself, then we will not love our brothers and sisters in the Lord and, as a consequence, we will not experience God’s manifest spiritual presence. Revelation from the Holy Spirit in response to our daily prayers is the evidence of things not seen which is otherwise known as faith (2nd Corinthians 4:17-18; Hebrews 11:1 KJV). The evidence of things not seen, otherwise known as faith, pertains to those things of the kingdom of God which kingdom is spiritual in nature and therefore invisible to the natural eye. This faith is the light of the truth and we are to walk by this faith rather than sight. This faith works by love which is God Himself.
While spending time studying the written word is important and necessary, it won’t replace or supersede the priority and importance of spending quality time in daily prayer in coming to know Jesus personally as the resurrected and living Person that he is. According to 2nd Timothy 3:16-17 the written word is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may by perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. But, while “good works” are necessary they won’t replace the priority of our first coming to the Lord in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving to build an intimate or close personal relationship with Him such that He will open the scriptures to us by way of direct revelation to the eyes of our understanding of our inner man of the heart to direct our path into those “good works” and strengthen us with the anointing of the Holy Ghost (i. e. the Christ) to accomplish those works (Philippians 4:6-7; Proverbs 3:5-6; Ephesians 2:3-10; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Philippians 2:13 & 4:13 KJV).
Jesus’ intimate or close personal relationship with his heavenly Father motivated him to spend the early morning hours of each day communing with God in prayer——-not study. Through listening to his heavenly Father while communing with Him in prayer, Jesus received his fresh daily bread or his revelation from God necessary to direct his path into the will and purpose of God for that day along with the necessary supernatural creative miracle-working power of the gifts of the Holy Spirit to accomplish that purpose (Acts 5:32 KJV).
God also showed Jesus “things to come” so that he would always be prepared and never be taken by surprise. It is by diligently seeking God through daily prayer that I acknowledge that God is or that He exists as a living Being or Person. By diligently seeking God and acknowledging that He exists as a living Person who speaks, He in turn rewards us by way of revelation from the Holy Spirit who opens the spiritual eyes of our heart to understand faith or the evidence of things not seen necessary to direct our paths into His will and purpose at a particular time or season along with the necessary supernatural creative miracle-working power of the gifts of the Holy Spirit to accomplish that purpose (Proverbs 3:5-6; John 16:13-15 KJV). These revelations should all be validated by scripture to verify their source as being from God Who is the Truth.
Those ordained of God and called to teach His people are commanded to study to show themselves approved unto God, workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2nd Timothy 2:15 KJV). However, rightly dividing the word of truth for teachers and all members of the body of Christ comes only by way of revelation of the evidence of things not seen which is the gift of faith from the Spirit of truth which by-passes our five (5) physical senses and goes directly into our spirit in response to our requests for such revelation by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving (Ephesians 1:17-23 – prayer for revelation KJV). The words of truth in our spirit concerning the evidence of things not seen (i. e. faith – Hebrews 11:1) then causes both workers and other members of the body of Christ to become spiritually minded or mentally directed by the thoughts produced from these seeds (i. e. words) of faith that have been revealed directly to our spirit by the Spirit of truth, a. k. a. the Holy Spirit:
- “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” – (John 16:13-15 KJV)
NOTE: These verses of scripture are key in understanding the need for prayer to the living God to obtain the spiritual revelation necessary to open up the scripture or the written word to the spiritual eyes of our understanding (Ephesians 1:16-19 KJV). Listen to what the above verses in John chapter 16 tell us in this regard: (1) The Spirit of truth is the living or 3rd Person of the Trinity assigned to guide us into the truth from the spoken or living Word initially received in response to our prayer by way of direct revelation to our spirit by-passing our five physical senses rather than through our study of the written word; (2) The Spirit of truth will not speak of himself, but whatsoever he shall hear of the spoken or living Word from the mouth of God is that which he shall speak, not write; (3) the Spirit of truth will show us “things to come” when God is ready to reveal them to us since none of us know beforehand the times or the seasons which God has reserved for His personal use and power (Acts 1:7 KJV); and lastly, (4) what the Spirit of truth reveals to us will glorify Jesus whose name is the only name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12 KJV). Once we receive words spoken by the mouth of the living God by way of revelation from the Spirit of truth in response to the prayer in Ephesians 1:17-23 for such, we can then use that revelation from the spoken word to begin a fruitful study in the written word to the glory of God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ.
- “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In ”all” thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV)
NOTE: Being spiritually minded or walking by faith doesn’t mean we are to presumptuously disregard what we understand by sight or through sense-based knowledge received through our five (5) physical senses. For example, Jesus walked by faith but when the devil took a verse from the written word of God out of context to tempt Jesus to jump off the pinnacle of the temple, Jesus refused to presumptuously disregard the natural law of gravity at the behest of the written word quoted from the mouth of the devil to attempt to override the natural laws of physics. Jesus would have never attempted to override the natural laws of physics unless he was first specifically authorized to do so by a spoken word from the mouth of the living God by way of revelation from the Holy Spirit to his spirit provided that word proved out to be true within the context of the full counsel of God’s wisdom as measured against two or three witnesses from the testimony of the written word as to the truth of that revelation.
Reading and studying the written word as the basis for mountain moving faith that can override the natural laws of physics by leaning to our own intellectual understanding should never be used to blind us to the reality of the dire consequences of breaching those things which are seen which are governed by the natural laws of physics. Instead, real mountain moving faith that can overcome the natural laws of physics can only come by way of revelation spoken from the mouth of the living God—-not the written word (i. e. the Logos) standing alone apart from the spoken word (i. e. the Rhema).
Real mountain moving faith comes only by way of revelation from the Spirit of truth directly to our spirit by-passing our five (5) physical senses. The Spirit of truth receives His revelation of the truth directly by word(s) spoken from the mouth of God the Father. This faith from the Rhema Word of God gives us a perspective which provides us with the relative importance between those things which are seen of the physical realm and those things which are not seen of the spiritual realm. Those things which are not seen concern evidence pertaining to the spiritual or unseen realm of the kingdom of God we never knew about until we were born again of the Spirit through believing in the faith provided by way of revelation from the Holy Spirit concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ and him crucified dead, buried, and resurrected. Except a natural man born only of the flesh be born again of the Spirit, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3; 1st Corinthians 2:14 KJV).
By believing through revelation of faith or the evidence of things not seen from the realm of the spiritual or invisible kingdom of God, we understand that the physical and visible realm was created (Hebrews 11:1-3 KJV). Therefore the power of the law of faith of the spiritual realm which rests solely on the spoken word of the living God is superior to and reigns supreme over the power of the natural laws of physics of the physical realm of the creation. We also understand that this unseen realm of the Spirit is eternal and unchanging whereas the visible realm of that which is created is temporal and therefore subject to change (2nd Corinthians 4:17-18 KJV). So, if things go from good to bad in the physical realm of that which can be seen with the natural eye, they can be changed back from bad to good by the supernatural creative miracle-working power of those things or words from the mouth of the living God which cannot be seen or heard except with the spiritual eyes and ears of our heart or our inner man:
- “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal ( e. equally translated as being subject to change); but the things which are not seen are eternal.” – (2nd Corinthians 4:17-18 KJV)
- “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – (Philippians 4:6-7 KJV)
- “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – (James 1:5 KJV)
Remember, it is not given to us to know “the times or the seasons” which God has reserved for His personal use and power (Acts 1:7 KJV). Since it is not given to us in the written word to know the times and the seasons, we must stay in close communion with the living God through daily prayer to know what He’s doing or going to do at any given time and how He wants us to do to accomplish His will and purpose at that particular time. However, only those who have become “the friends of Jesus” by an intimate or close personal relationship with him through face time in daily prayer will be shown what the Lord is doing at any given time or season. Recall in John 16:13-15 we are told that by way of revelation from the Spirit of truth, we would be shown “things to come” but not by intellectual understanding learned through studying the written word on our own beforehand:
- “Abide in me, and I in you, as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except It abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, that same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ( e. the Rhema or the living Word, my paraphrase) ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words (i. e. my Rhema words, my paraphrase) abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: That whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” – (John 15:4-7 & verses 14-17 KJV)
To emphasize my “misuse” of the written word as the means to build and obtain an intimate or close personal relationship to the living God and to experience His manifest presence, spiritually speaking, He gave me several scripture verses to make this point.:
- “And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. But if any man love God, the same is known of him.” – (1st Corinthians 8:2-3 KJV)
NOTE: You can understand all mysteries and all knowledge available from study of the written word, but if you don’t have a personal relationship with the living Word of God you’re not known of God as a friend. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15 KJV). His commandments were “spoken” words before they were “written” words. Believing comes through faith and faith comes by hearing and hearing by the “Rhema” Word of God (i. e. the spoken Word of God).
- “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” – (1st John 5:3 KJV)
NOTE: One of the commandments of Jesus to us, after we’re born again, is to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness by seeking, asking, and knocking for it through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving (Matthew 6:33 & 7:7-11; Luke 11:5-13 & 12:32). Remember, the kingdom of God is in the Holy Spirit according to Romans 14:17 which states: “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” So, seeking first the kingdom of God is essentially the same thing as persistently asking, seeking, and knocking for the anointing or baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues which is the blessing of Abraham or the promise of the Father along with continually acknowledging God daily through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving allowing Him, through the Spirit of truth, to guide us into all truth to direct our paths (Matthew 6:33 & 7:7-11; Luke 11:5-13 & 12:31-32; Acts 19:1-7; Galatians 3:13-14; Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:14; Philippians 4:6-7; John 16:13-15 KJV).
That the baptism of the Holy Spirit and power with the evidence of speaking in tongues is a separate issue from the baptism of John or the baptism unto repentance when we first believed and were sealed with the holy Spirit of God unto the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14 & 4:30 KJV) as the earnest of our inheritance, is evidenced by the fact Jesus breathed on his disciples long before the day of Pentecost and said receive ye the Holy Ghost (John 20:22 KJV). That these two baptisms are separate events is further reinforced by Acts 19:1-7. Also, since the kingdom of God is in the Holy Ghost why would Jesus tell us to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness which is in the Holy Ghost after we had already received and believed in the gospel message of Jesus Christ and him crucified through faith, been born again of the Spirit, received the baptism of John unto repentance, and received the holy Spirit as the earnest of our inheritance?
- “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.” – (1st Corinthians 13:2 KJV)
- “For if any man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.” – (Galatians 6:3 KJV)
NOTE #1: If a man or woman studies the written word and by virtue of their pride in their knowledge of the written word they think themselves to be something when they are nothing apart from an intimate or close personal relationship with the living Word, they deceive themselves.
NOTE #2: We are as nothing without abiding in Him and the Rhema word (i. e. the spoken Word of God) abiding is us through revelation by prayer.
- “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” – (John 5:39 KJV)
NOTE: The written word once revealed to our spirit by the Holy Spirit points to and glorifies the eternal and living Word who was made flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:1, 14 & 16:13-15 KJV). Jesus existed before the Bible was written and I knew Jesus personally as a living person immediately after I was born again of the Spirit and before I knew one word from the written word recorded in scripture. Again, the distinction between written word and Jesus, the living Word, is that Bible isn’t flesh and blood and, therefore, doesn’t bleed. I would never have been able to understand and know the written word or any of the things of the Spirit as a natural man had not Jesus, who is the Word made flesh, opened my spiritual eyes through the new birth (1st Corinthians 2:14; John 3:3 KJV). Jesus, the living Word of God made flesh, made it possible for me to come to God and be born again of the Spirit by the shedding of his sinless and innocent blood on my behalf through his death on the cross as my kinsman redeemer according to the flesh through a virgin birth.
Jesus is the Rhema or Living Word of God who was made flesh and dwelt among men (John 1:14 KJV), not the Logos or the written word which was inspired by God and penned by men to establish the scripture as an attestation or witness to the truth of Word of Life. Therefore, once again, the living Word has the preeminence in all things. The Greek word Rhema is useful to distinguish between two meanings of God’s word which are (1) the “spoken word” and (2) the “written word”. Rhema refers to “the spoken word” whereas Logos refers to “the written word”. Rhema is that personal word from God that comes to us by way of direct revelation from the Holy Spirit to our spirit by-passing our five (5) physical senses. Once the Rhema word is received by way of revelation then we can validate and authenticate it’s source or prove it’s spiritual source by measuring it against God’s standard and unchanging measure of truth—–the written word authored and inspired by the Holy Ghost and penned by men.
Studying the written word doesn’t replace communion with my heavenly Father in prayer. When Jesus said, “the words that I speak unto you they are spirit, and they are life – (John 6:63b; Hebrews 4:12 KJV)”, we overlook a very important aspect of what he said in that verse which is: “the words that I speak.” Jesus is a Living Person who is the living Word of God that comes to us by way of revelation from the Father’s own mouth to the Holy Spirit who in turn reveals the living Word to our spirit in a living way as he did to his disciples on the road to Emmaus. The words that I speak refer to that still small voice or Rhema word from the mouth of God that we hear personally in our spirit which goes directly into our heart by-passing our five (5) physical senses (1st Kings 19:11-13 KJV). The written word, in addition to it’s uses according to 2nd Timothy 3:16-17, also allows us to validate or prove whether or not the spoken word that comes to our spirit by way of revelation is actually from the living Word of God or not.
When Father God, by way of revelation, speaks to us personally through Jesus the living Word, or the Word made flesh, it is always effectual because it is spoken at the right time or season and therefore carries upon it the anointing of the Holy Spirit or the supernatural creative miracle-working wisdom and power of the kingdom of God to make that personal word from God come to pass (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). Remember, the kingdom of God is not in word but in power (1st Corinthians 4:20 KJV). While the written word is absolutely true and inspired of God, it is not eternal life itself (John 5:39 KJV). Instead, Jesus said that the written word merely testifies of those things concerning himself who is, the Living Word made flesh (Luke 24:25-27; John 5:39; John 1:1, 14; Romans 8:3-4 KJV). The scribes and the Pharisees had the written word but they didn’t know the living Word. My personal testimony does not testify to my knowledge of the written word but of my personal encounter with the living Word who is God and who is love Himself. Listen to how the living Word spoken from the mouth of the living God opened up the written word to the spiritual eyes and ears of the hearts (i. e. the inner man of the heart) of the disciples on their way to Emmaus:
- “And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. And they talked together of these things which had happened. And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus ( e. the living Word of God, my addition) himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them. And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread (i. e. the living Word of God took bread, my addition), and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. And they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he (i. e. the living Word of God, my addition) opened to us the scriptures?” – (Luke 24:13-16 & 25-32 KJV)
Spending time studying on my own through self-effort and self-determination apart from prayer in order to experience his presence and gain more knowledge of God, is futile. Any knowledge I obtain through my own efforts apart from revelation by the Holy Spirit in response to prayer merely puffs me up with pride (1st Corinthians 8:1 KJV). However when I commune with God in prayer, whatever the Holy Spirit reveals to me through faith as a result of prayer humbles me to glorify Jesus instead of myself since I know I received it as a gift from God, not through my own study efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9; James 1:5 KJV). There is nothing I have that I didn’t receive, so why do I boast as though I didn’t receive it (1st Corinthians 4:7 KJV). I can study from daylight to dawn ‘til my eyes burn, but unless and until I pray and receive revelation from the Holy Spirit in response to my prayers, the eyes of my understanding won’t be enlightened and my words and actions will be ineffectual in their application (Ephesians 1:16-19 KJV).
The call of God in 2nd Chronicles 7:14 for us to humble ourselves, and pray, and seek His face (i. e. seek the spoken word at His mouth which is on His face through daily prayer), and turn from our wicked ways so that He will hear us from heaven and heal our land is not a call to one prayer or several prayers asking Him to heal our land. Instead, it is a call to a lifestyle of prayer, to start acknowledging Him daily, so that He is able to continually direct our paths into the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake from now on and forever. Our “wicked ways” referred to in 2nd Chronicles 7:14 are those wicked ways of a lifestyle directed by set traditions, like Martha (Luke 10:38-42 KJV), based only on the stale knowledge of what we have already come to know through study of the written word and doing that which we intellectually reason to be right in our own eyes but not based on our awaiting the words of wisdom from God’s own mouth in answer to our daily prayers for such fresh manna to direct our ways. God’s direction comes to us only by means of revelation from the Holy Spirit to our spirit in response to our daily prayers to God, trusting and acknowledging Him and asking Him for such direction (Proverbs 3:5-6; Matthew 6:9-13; Philippians 4:6-7 KJV). The Holy Spirit’s revelation is made directly into the spiritual eyes and ears of our spirit (i. e. the eyes and ears of our heart or our inner man) by-passing our sight or sense-based intellectual knowledge received from our five (5) physical senses.
We must continually remember that to “every thing” there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven, yet it has not been given to us to know the times or the seasons which God has reserved for His personal use and power (Ecclesiastes 3:1; Acts 1:7 KJV). We must also remember that “all things” work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 KJV). Since I do not know the times or the seasons, I must acknowledge God in all my ways through daily prayer so that he can direct my paths that I might continually be in sync with his purpose for the particular season and time at hand so that all things will work together for good for me and my family individually and for all members of the body of Christ collectively (Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7 KJV). So, prayer is a must, not a luxury, if I’m going to see all things working together for good. Therefore, I must give as much or more time in prayer to God, the Living Word, as I do in studying the inanimate letter of the written word if I want to build an intimate or close personal relationship with God to obtain the manifestation of His spiritual presence as a living Person. In His presence is fullness of joy and the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10b; Psalms 16:11 KJV).
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Apostasy
Apostasy Dialogues

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.” 1 Timothy 4:1-3
One disciple writes: “This modern day false church buildings are just as corrupt minded as those Roman soldiers that–“cast lots for portions of Christ’s torn garment hanging from the blood soaked cross”–making merchandise of the Lords Sufferings—Amen.”
Check this out: Scam and Scourge of the Modern Church World
“His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. 11 Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter. 12 Come ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant.” Isaiah 56:10-12
At times, when people don’t know the Word on a certain topic, they cop out by saying things like “Well, we can’t make that call” or “Well we just don’t know.” There are the “secret things” but that does not include the things God has revealed to us in His Word (Deut. 29:29; Hosea 4:6). Let’s not be ignorant of the Word of God beloved saints.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” Hosea 4:6
HOW DID JESUS tell us to know/discern others? By the FRUIT of their lives (Matthew 7:16,20). THE FACT that JESUS told us to “know” (discern) people means He wants us to do so! (Matthew 7:16,20) Same chapter as “judge not” (verse 1-5).
Not only are believers to “discern”, we are to teach others to “discern” – to distinguish the difference between truth and error, whole truth and half-truths!:
“And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23
DID YOU know that Matthew 18:15-17 is NOT speaking about wolves? Jesus is speaking in this passage about “thy BROTHER” which is exclusive to the true body of Christ and the members thereof. Please read this passage afresh and let’s cease misusing it. Many times when Jesus’ people obey Him by exposing, marking false teachers, some will erroneously try to apply Matthew 18:15-17 which is speaking only to the body of Christ and no heretic is a member of Christ’s body. Heretics who teach a lie publicly are to be marked publicly as they are leading others astray by speaking contrary to God’s Word, (especially on an essential doctrine). Romans 16:17-18 etc.
Live Action!
Recently, a dear sister in Christ sent in this warning in order to protect Christ’s body:
“I came across your website and would like you to add Robin Bullock. He and his wife used to be country western music “stars”. Now she is a “pastor” and he is a “prophet”. I listened to him for a time. It always bothered me that they obviously did not honor Titus 1 or I Timothy 3. Now I wish to help warn others. Their is a Rumble video where he talks about cities on the Earth before man and that Satan had lived on the moon. He is one of the prophets that endorse Trump.
Also, false prophetess Kat Kerr talks about “Christmas Town” in Heaven.”
QUESTION:
“Who do you think is a sound teacher?”
REPLY:
Good question ….. Genesis to Revelation – Moses, Jesus, Paul, Peter, John and all the “holy men of God” by whom God gave us His Word (2 Peter 1:19-21). Those are the only men we should endorse!
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“You are too harsh! You seem to come across with a sledge hammer.”
REPLY:
Gospel, truth sledgehammers are God’s way: “Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a HAMMER that breaketh the rock in pieces?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Perhaps you could learn some things…. right? “Open rebuke is better than secret love. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Prov 27:5-6) Are you rebuking when needed or are you the enemy who kisses, compromises with that which God calls sin/evil?
Soft men, soft preachers, soft preaching gets nothing done – it makes comfortable, it coddles men in their sins. No, they only perpetuate people in their sins, leading them to damnation (Isaiah 58:1; Jeremiah 23:22).
Was the message of the original Gospel always soft? Did Jesus and His holy apostles pander to the sinful sentiments and whims of sinful men? No! Read God’s Word for yourself as He commanded you to do – and cease now to be misled by the soft-peddling pansies of today’s apostate modern church world! Repent now. Follow Jesus! Then you won’t live by your sinful emotions but will rather be an authentic disciple of Jesus who loves His truth – NO MATTER WHO IT OFFENDS. But first it must offend YOU unto repentance – to drive you to real repentance and a real, a crucified walk with Jesus (Galatians 2:20). “Let God be true and EVERY man a liar.” (Romans 3:4) “You preach this Gospel JUST LIKE it’s written young man, you understand me!” “You preach this Gospel JUST LIKE it’s written young man, you understand me!”
Recently, some guy took me to task on a political post where I was preaching the Word. When asked he claimed to be born again. Then he ranted against me for preaching the Word on that forum and told me that the Bible didn’t belong there on that medium. Here was my reply:
Sir, the LORD is calling you to repent and be saved. Jesus says you are “NOT of God” because you refuse to hear His Word (John 8:47). Regrettably, you wouldn’t know the Son of God if He stood in your face. You are full of sin and self and have no hope outside of the nail scarred risen Savior and LORD. Repentance is essential and if you do get right with Him, you will never deny Christ, no matter where you are.
Recently, while seeking to shut down, hinder exposing Satan and his evil human agents, one said: “Love is the only thing that really matters. 1 Cor 13:1” My Response: “But you left out verse 6 which describes true love in contrast with false love – “Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;” …. God’s love, when resident in a man, will expose error, heresies, doctrines of devils. If not, he has no love at all from God.
“Open rebuke is better than secret love. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Proverbs 27:5-6
UNDER the command of the KING of kings we are on a mission to preach Christ’s original Gospel and to tell on the devil and his human agents! (Jude 3; Ephesians 5:11; Matthew 10:26; Romans 16:17-18) Let the light of divine truth expose all darkness – beginning in our own hearts!
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“I’ve been reading Philippians this morning. He says as long as Christ is being proclaimed whether in false motives or true he is rejoicing.”
REPLY:
Yes yet he also calls out “enemies of the cross of Christ” whose god is their belly – their un-crucified, self-serving carnal appetites (Philippians 3:18-19).
“What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.” Philippians 1:18
This is in no way a justification for false leaders. ANY person can preach Christ but that doesn’t make them true. He’s dealing with motives here. We can have perfect – BIBLE – doctrine and be spiritually amiss in our own hearts.
Notice that in Philippians 1:18 they preached Christ. That would mean they preached true doctrine. It was in the wrong motive yet they preached Christ.
Without exception, every false leader will have “damnation.” (2 Peter 2:1-3) In Matthew 23 alone 3 times Jesus tells the false teacher of His day that they are going to hell.
QUESTION ASKED:
“What do you think about ‘lordship salvation”‘”
REPLY:
It depends on how you use the term “lordship salvation.” Most of the people coming against what they call “lordship salvation” are the diabolical, lawless, Christ-denying, cross-less counterfeits who espouse Satan’s system of calvinism.
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“So you don’t believe we are eternally secure?” Baptist pastor
REPLY:
Undeniably, un-conditional eternal security is the first lie Satan told to mankind which caused his fall – and he’s still telling the same lie (Gen 2:17; 3:4). Jesus taught “If a man abide (remain) not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” (John 15:6). See also Ezek 33:12-13 and Matt 10:22; 24:13; 2 Pet 2:20-21; Heb 10:26-39, etc.). Lie of the Ages (book)
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“The church has dirty garments and is not ready to meet Jesus.”
REPLY:
At times we see people who erroneously think that Christ’s church are those in those Sunday morning buildings they call “church.” Nahhhh …. Actually, their perspective is off …. the real church, God’s people, are always ready, though they be few…. Christ’s church is not the visible apostate church world but rather individual believers who have come our from among those organizations which are long ago departed from the faith…. 1 Timothy 4:1-3
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“But no man, no leader or his doctrine is perfect.”
REPLY:
God’s Word is perfect. What a man teaches must be the perfect WORD of God or he is a false teacher, without exception. God gave us HIS written Word so there’s no excuse. “Preach the word.” (2 Timothy 4:2-4) Pretty simple. Speaking of sin and doctrine, Jesus and Paul both said that just “A little leaven leaveneth (ruins) the whole lump” (Gal 5:9). “Teach NO other doctrine.” 1 Tim 1:3……”If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God.” (1 Peter 4:11) “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isaiah 8:20) Satan’s most effective wolves in sheep’s clothing are those who speak 99% truth but that 1% of poison is all it takes to kill. You are making excuse but God’s Word never does for teaching anything except the original Gospel. In fact, anyone who preaches anything else is “accursed.” Read Gal 1:6-9. Sound Doctrine
Rose Marie Lenon Tolentino writes: “I was deceived when I was a Catholic and deceived in the ‘Christian’ faith by groups calling themselves ‘Christians,’ but in many instances their faith wasn’t biblical—according to Holy Scripture. I thank God that His Word says: ‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart’ (Jeremiah 29:13).”
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“You mean that most pastors are going to hell? Have you not gone too far with that?”
REPLY:
Hi Sean. You seem very sincere friend…… Question: Does the Bible ever use the words “many true prophets”? No. Does the Word of God use the words “MANY false prophets (leaders)”? Yes. What do we read in 2 Tim 3:13? KJB
Message Received:
(defending Sunday morning and modern church membership) “Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves.” Crystal
Reply:
Hi Crystal …. yes we’ve addressed that passage many times (Heb. 10:24-25)…. that says nothing of going to a church building on Sundays at a certain time and this being what’s important to Christ. In fact the earliest believers met house to house daily amen … Acts 2:42-27 … they simply could not get enough of Jesus who ordered us to serve Him “daily” and not weekly … many pastors use Heb. 10:24-25 in the wrong way …. yes sun is a great day to fellowship and I do it myself and yet, we must not limit this fellowship to sun mornings … in fact, check out the “daily” aspect of Hebrews 3:13 – “But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” We need Jesus “daily” and not weekly. The word weekly never appears in Scripture but “daily” appears in the New Testament Scriptures 22 times. Some pastors are building a business and they want people to associate their so called church building and church business with serving God which is wrong.
Interaction with a Pastor:
Here is my response in a recent interaction with a pastor who was confronted about recommending the “5 Love Languages” psychobabble book instead of Holy Scripture. Unbelievably, this pastor replied with the typical “well they are still on the milk as babes so can’t handle the Bible. Not everyone walk where I walk.”
My Response to Him:
Men of God are called to endear men to God’s Word, period and nothing else (1 Timothy 4:6). All human reasoning must be crucified. Isaiah 8:16 – “seal the law (Word) among my disciples.” “Preach the word” 2 Timothy 4:2. The reason why people aren’t walking in the full truth as authentic disciples of Christ is for this exact reason…. Where leaders take things into their own hands instead of simply feeding people GOD’s Word……and getting them into God’s Word for themselves. We have the words “sincere milk of the word” which is what baby believers are to be fed with and endeared to (1 Peter 2:2). Sharing peripheral sources only retards that process.
“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
Any pastor who is not preaching the pure Word, thereby getting their audience into God’s Word for themselves, is a false pastor.
We need a revelation of the power of the Word of God and it’s infinite divine power.
When the LORD gives us this revelation through seeking Him, we will preach nothing except His Word. Colossians 3:16; 1 Timothy 4:6, 16
By divine design, the longest chapter in the Bible, right in the center of the 66, is on one topic – the written Word of God.
I want to encourage you to read this ultra important Bible chapter, praying before you begin, asking the LORD to reveal His truth to your innermost man along with His holy fear.
Todd
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“This is just another sign that He is coming soon, but first the apostasy has to come. We need to pray for all of these who are spouting false doctrine. I would not want to be in your shoes on judgement day. be blessed.”
REPLY:
Please give us all just 1 specific example where the Word of God instructs believers to pray for wolves? The burden of proof is on you…. and you won’t find 1 place in the Bible where we are told to pray for Christ’s enemies…. but you WILL find numerous places where the LORD instructs us to rebuke and expose and mark them …. YOU are on dangerous ground because you are bidding Godspeed to the enemies of Christ and if you don’t repent you will receive the same damnation as they do – 2 John 7-11; 2 Peter 2:1-3. Regrettably, you are speaking while having no biblical clue as to what you are saying and need to cease speaking out of emotions instead of biblical truth.
MESSAGE RECEIVED FROM AN ECUMENICAL CATHOLIC DEFENDER:
“Jesus preached Love not hate and division. I suggest you unfriend me then because I don’t think Jesus would say or do what you’re putting forth. There is enough hate and violence in this world and I don’t want to participate at any level. Christ Jesus is my Lord and Savior, the Only begotten and most beloved Son of the One True Living God. My relationship is with Christ and He doesn’t espouse hate but love. I’ll pray for Todd, that the Lord Christ Jesus will provide you heavenly understanding.” Douglas
REPLY:
The divine “heavenly understanding” is the written Word of God which He’s already given and which we are all personally accountable to keep and will be judged by (Psalms 119:105, 130; John 12:48; Romans 2:16; 2 Peter 1:3-4, 16-21, etc.).
To make such statements proves you have espoused a false love: Jesus says: “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34
Jesus DID preach division? – “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword (division).” Matthew 10:34
To speak the LORD’s truth is loving and to refuse to is deceitful hatred:
“He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.” Proverbs 12:17
Jesus preached a divine ultimatum – which divides mankind into just 2 kingdoms: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:16
Jesus said: “He that is not with me ISSSS against me.” Matthew 12:30
Jesus says: “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:18
False love exposed by the Bible: “Open rebuke is better than secret love. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Proverbs 27:5-6
Unity at the expense of truth is an antichrist/ecumenical lie from hell. God’s true people are unified by their knowledge of Him, being born again and based on HIS WORD, period. The written Word of God is the final authority for doctrine ad life for all who truly know the LORD (Mathew 7:21-29; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:3-4, 19-21, etc.).
God is not the author of unity at the expense of His truth. For example: The Catholic church is a works-based antichrist pagan cult and is plainly not part of Christ’s body (Ephesians 2:8-9). Of His beloved remnant body, concerning them being one with Him and the Father and the true body of Christ, Jesus prayed to the Father “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). The only and non-negotiable foundation upon which the true body of Christ lives, is the written Word of God (Psalms 119; Romans 3:4; 2 Timothy 3:15-17, etc.). Christ’s true body is set apart unto Him on the basis of their love and obedience to His truth (John 8:31-32, 47).
So, big shot, you going to tell the Almighty HE can’t judge people and tell us beforehand in His written Word why He will do such? Delusional. 18 times in Psalm 119 alone the LORD calls His written Word His “JUDGMENTS.” His “judgments” – words – warn us to be forgiven so we won’t be judged.
WHO is “OF GOD” and who is “NOT of God”? – Jesus says: “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47
Those who don’t come into and remain in the sound doctrine of God’s Word, are hell bound, sure as you read these words:
“For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
2Jn 1:8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.
2Jn 1:9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
2Jn 1:10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:” 2 John 7-11
Jesus says “JUDGE righteous judgment.” (John 7:24)
Douglas, speaking CHRIST’s truth is not unloving. What you are doing is unloving – because you are still full of self and therefore operating according to your self-serving emotions and not love at all. “God is love” not you and HE alone defines what love is. Read 1 John 4:7-8. You do not hear God’s Word when it’s presented to you but instead put your own tradition and futile thinking/doctrines in place of His Word – just like the hell bound religionists of Jesus’ day (Mark 7:6-10). You do this because you do not know Him. John 8:47 At this point you are an antichrist, a counterfeit and don’t yet see it Douglas. God is calling you to truly repent and when you do, He will save you and HIS Word will be the final authority of your life.
You are acting as if God didn’t leave us HIS WORD which is a denial of Christ. He has already given us His judgments. It will be too late when He comes to judge us for how we lived. Jesus, the JUDGE, says – “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” (John 12:48)
Doug, God is calling you to repent. He will not hear any other prayer. The LORD will remove the logs from your own eye once you truly repent and place your whole faith in Christ alone – who gave you His Word – His judgments.
EMAIL RECEIVED:
“Subject: Thank you!!! Message Body: I just wanted to thank you for all your post. I came across Jesse Morrel and Kerrigan Skelly (2 sinless perfectionism false teachers) and just felt so awful because I knew I was not completely sinlessly perfect. I am glad to have come across your articles. They have restored me back to hope. Thank you!” Natalianne
REPLY:
Hi Natalianne. Thank you for emailing sister. So
glad the LORD is moving in your life. Memorizing 2 Cor 3:17 and Gal 5:1 and 3:3 has helped my life immensely! God is so good. If you wish to be on the ministry email, just let me know sister. In Christ, Todd | Sinless Perfectionism Exposed
EMAIL MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“I get concerned when I read some of your articles concerning other ministries. Unfortunately you are not the only one. What is interesting when I read some of the information from the quote false prophet list of people you have on your list. I have yet to see your name on their list, because they don’t have one. Their main calling is to minister and love on the body of Christ and those who don’t know Him. Fortunately I have not found in the scriptures the ministry of correction. All I see is the love of Jesus being spread abroad. One thing is Jesus came to minister to the broken hearted, that means humble and ready to receive and not pull down. Jesus did not like the religious, He had little to say except you sons of vipers. I’m speaking from experience, if you continue on this track you will Fall. It took me years to recover from what I see you doing here. It took a lot of asking forgiveness and ALOT OF REPENTANCE, I am being renewed day by day in seeing people through the eyes of Jesus. I’m sure you get these comments all the time BUT PLEASE go before the Lord and ask forgiveness and forgive your earthly dad for what he did when you were 7 years old and seek out inner healing because there is a root to what is in your heart for what you’re doing here. Be blessed.” Bob
REPLY:
Hi Bob.
Thanks for expressing your thoughts.
You say you are “concerned”? Seems like it’s high time you got concerned about your own depraved, blinded state.
Will you call Christ’s apostle Paul a liar and a deceiver for issuing warnings such as: “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived”? 2 Timothy 3:13 Did Paul lie OR is there a real threat?
It seems clear that you haven’t read the Scriptures well if you haven’t found the myriad of verses on correction which is clear proof that the wolves have had their satanic effect on your mind (1 Peter 5:8). Those beguilers you’ve chosen over Christ don’t obey God by exposing other wolves and thereby prove themselves as wolves – who don’t want to be discovered.
True born again saints are commanded to “MARK THEM.” (Romans 16:17-18) Do you know what “Mark them” means? SKOPEO is the Greek word for “mark” and means to put them in the cross hairs – aim in and expose them.
“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove (expose, bring the darkness to the light) them.” Ephesians 5:11
God is calling you to get into His Word: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6
Perhaps, due to your own refusal to love and study and know God’s Word for yourself, you’ve been turned over by God Himself to “strong delusion” so that you believe these lies (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). This is “after the working of SATAN.”
“Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
I bet the wolves you’ve allowed to deceive you will never deal with texts/Bible passages like the one above, right? We know the answer.
“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
How can you possibly believe these false leaders “love” everybody when they refuse to communicate the whole counsel of Scripture which is directly from the only One who “is love”? (1 John 4:8, 16). No, the devil’s agents who you’ve allowed to mislead you intentionally dodge out mountains of Scripture – and siphon out selected verses to deceive the gullible – “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly (selfish carnal appetites); and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple (un-repentant and unlearned and therefore gullible).” Romans 16:17-18
Preaching the Word and rebuking/correcting are a divine command:
“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, REBUKE (correct), exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:2-4
Of whiners who refuse to truly repent and abandon their life to Christ, Ray Zeitler writes: “Upon hearing the hard truths of God’s Word, some say: ‘But I don’t like that Scripture… cause the Lord told me something different.’ Delusional! How is that any different than the made up fairy tale story from Joseph Smith? Or any different than the golden calf… we saw how well that worked out for the Jews.”
God gave us His Word so we could be CORRECTED:
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for CORRECTION, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Bob, you said: “Jesus did not like the religious, He had little to say except you sons of vipers.” Reply: 1. Jesus didn’t like the religious yes but HOW do YOU know that if HE DIDN’T say so??? Your problem is that you don’t realize just how many times He warned of wolves. Do you begin to see how blind you are friend? Read Matthew 23 and get delivered of your little pansy false “Jesus” notions. The Son of God and His men are not wall flowers. Time to repent and God will grant a spine. Do you not realize that in Matthew 23 alone, just 1 chapter, Jesus told the false religious leaders they were going to hell THREE TIMES? Read Matthew 11:12 and stand up like a man – the kingdom of God is full of conflict.
“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” Matthew 11:12
This is a war. No time for being a cowardly pansy. “Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (2 Timothy 2:2-4).
“FIGHT” is a biblical mandate:
“FIGHT the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12
“We must through MUCH tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22
You state: ” I’m speaking from experience, if you continue on this track you will Fall.”
Yes it’s more than obvious that you speak “from experience” and not from God’s Word. Been at this biblical work of exposing false prophets for 3 1/2 decades now. The fact is Bob, you’ve already fallen and simply don’t yet realize it. You are part of the prophesied self-loving, Savior-denying generation of those who ” profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:16) The Holy Ghost foretold that the final generation will have a mere “form of godliness but deny the power (divine authority) thereof.’ (2 Timothy 3:5) Denying the power of Christ to reign in one’s personal life is what the Holy Spirit is getting at here. Read this passage to see the details of this generation of self-loving, reputation-preserving moral cowards who openly deny Christ the right to reign in their personal lives – 2 Timothy 3:1-7, 13.
“There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.” Proverbs 30:12
You stated: “I’m speaking from experience” – and that’s the problem. You aren’t speaking as of the oracles of God. You have not repented and do not study and know the Word of God for yourself and this is why you are still in darkness (1 Peter 4:10-11). You don’t speak for Christ.
“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
To “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” is a divine mandate. And this because “there are certain men (ungodly wolves) crept in unawares (undetected by the blind).”
“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
Apparently, you were so busy judging me for supposedly wrongly judging that you missed the myriad of resources to help you learn God’s Word on the ministry website, such as Bible School modules, Study Guides, Biblical Literacy tests, and well over a thousand other Scripture-rich posts.
IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM with wolves being called out by name, YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH GOD! REPENT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! You are still full of self and in darkness (John 3:19-21). You may wish to beware of your collusion and bidding Godspeed to the very enemies of Christ and His cross – which is exactly what you are doing (2 John 7-11). Wolf Defenders
JESUS says there are “MANY false prophets” and you call the Son of God a liar by shunning and ignoring His many warnings of the “ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15; 24:11, 24; 23:1-25, etc.). Oh and Christ inspired His apostles to speak voluminously of this same threat to the sheep of His pasture for which He died. The reason you don’t see this yet Bob is that apparently you are full of yourself – and that’s why we need the cross – something those “enemies of the cross of Christ” you’ve espoused will not mention, much less teach on (Galatians 2:20; 6:14; Colossians 3:3).
You state: “It took me years to recover from what I see you doing here.” Reply: No, apparently, you were being critical and condemning out of your own depraved heart way back then – instead of denying yourself, taking up your cross, and following Jesus – and consequently being full of God’s love to protect the very saints He died to save!
Are you deeply in and studying God’s Word daily? We both know that answer. If not, you’re already backslidden, lukewarm, and ready to be spewed – rejected (Revelation 3:15-16).
THE LORD’S WATCHMEN are obediently on their posts and doing exactly what they are supposed to be doing – warning. “So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and WARN them from me.” Ezekiel 33:7
Jesus and all of His prophets and holy apostles warned. They were true to the Great Shepherd of His sheep who broods jealously over and protects the sheep of His pasture (Hebrews 13:20).
Bob, when is the last time YOU personally led someone to Jesus?
You claim the wolves whose lies you’ve bought are “seeing people through the eyes of Jesus.” By lying to them?
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their DAMNATION slumbereth not.” 2 Peter 2:1-3
Bob, it seems obvious that you don’t know and adhere to the very words of Jesus and therefore according to Jesus, are “not of God.” See John 8:47. Instead you follow mere sinful men. This plainly reveals that you are following “another Jesus” and don’t know the Jesus revealed to us in Holy Scripture. See Galatians 1:6-9 and 2 Corinthians 11:2-5.
What my dad did when I was 7? There you go attributing obedience to the LORD to something you made up in your own darkened heart. This is what the Bible calls divination – or conjuring up things. This is further evidence that you “prophesy lies … of the deceit of their own heart;” “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 23:26
“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.” James 4:8-9
The LORD is calling you to repentance Bob – to get all the logs out of your own eyes and to cease hypocritically judging others who are actually doing exactly what the Bible tells us true servants of the LORD do.
“Judge not, that ye be not judged.
2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?
5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.”
Matthew 7:1-5
We ALL need God’s mercy and yet can only receive such when we do things His way and no other way. Hosea 14:1-2
Naming Names: Is it Biblical? Yes or no?
todd
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“No Todd it is not idolatry to study the words of men. We all do it to become educated. It was men (and women) who taught you to speak, read, write, do arithmetic, etc. The men I listed looked at scripture says about predestination and the will of man. They systematically countered the arguments of the men of their days who were making similar arguments to the one you are trying to make. But instead of educating yourself of what the Arguments of Erasmus were and how Luther destroyed them with scripture, or where Calvin elaborated on the arguments of Luther, or how Edwards destroyed the arguments being put forth in his days, you proudly put on display your total lack of understanding of the subject matter. You don’t even understand the positions of these men, whose theology you seek to critique because NONE of them taught that we are like robots, lacking responsibility for our actions. By mischaracterizing a theological position that you clearly don’t understand and have never studied you have created a straw man to argue against.” Bill
REPLY:
Bill, you are an idolater who is either a seminarian or in the least you’ve allowed yourself to be indoctrinated (made a twofold more child of hell) by seminarians wolves. Show just 1 Scripture that even hints that New Testament believers are to be educated in the knowledge of the sinful philosophers and heretical theologians of their day? Waiting ….? “Educated”? Satan educates. You have lived the straw man argument by wasting your time studying mere men and now you defend such vile, diabolical, murderous heretics such as John Calvin. What spirit are you of? The born again disciples of Jesus must know HIS Word and have HIS revelation. Who needs to even know those arguments? Paul warned against such. Knowing the dispersing the truth is what God calls His people to. You are bogged down in the mud of all this nonsense. You’ve wasted God’s time studying the words and beliefs of mere sinful men instead of simply studying God’s Word in the King James Bible. Satan has defeated you in this. You are exactly like Jesus describes the false leaders/pharisees of His day …. He cited them for setting the Word of God aside for their own traditions of mere men (Mark 7:6-9). You have allowed the writings and words of mere sinful men to trump God’s Word. Jesus says that those who are “of God” hear and elevate God’s Word as final authority. You can’t have it both ways and God hates mixture. “Let God be true and EVERY man a liar.” (Romans 3:4) When the LORD says “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge”, was He speaking of lacking the knowledge and beliefs of the men of that day OR was He speaking of not knowing HIS Word? He answers this question in the very verse: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” (Hosea 4:6)
Total convoluted antichrist mixture coming out of pure rebellion…. claiming to love Christ and yet wasting the time HE gave you on this diabolical mess ….. Satan is laughing. If you knew and believed God’s Word, you’d see this …. He’s calling you to true repentance. When you truly repent, the LORD will instill in you His holy fear and you will study HIS words and not the words and philosophies of mere sinful men. He gave us His Word for this very reason (Deuteronomy 4:10). The LORD Jesus taught that those who are “of God” give heed to and elevate “God’s word,” not man’s (John 8:47).
Historical Fact: Calvin’s doctrines are founded in the antichrist heresies of metaphysics and catholicism …. The pagan philosopher, Aristotle, born in 384 BC, wrote a book he called, Metaphysics. His reasoning concluded that “God can’t feel and can’t change.” This God must be unaffected by anything and unalterable. He is unchanging, for change too would be a weakness and change thus renders Him less than the ultimate God. Aristotle’s God cannot love, cannot suffer and cannot be influenced. Saint Augustine incorporated this philosophy from Plato, Plotinus and Aristotle into his writings which were transferred to John Calvin. Thus Calvin’s doctrine of predestination was born. Calvinism’s Satanic Roots | Seminarian Sacrilege
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“Be careful who you disrespect, disregard or dishonor in the natural realm. You don’t know their RANK in the SPIRIT.”
REPLY:
With all honor, namely to the LORD and His beloved body …. “rank in the Spirit” is nowhere in the Bible. Such a term panders to and fosters pride and is heard in the false prophetic and word of faith movements. In those churches you will find those who tout themselves and not Christ. Their identity is sinful self which they cloak with a facade of spirituality. But Jesus says simply “But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” Matthew 23:8-12
See also Philippians 2:3-5 and Colossians 3:3 and Galatians 2:20.
ASSAILED:
In defense of a “pastor” who truly manifested his blindness and false doctrine, one here came at me with how “fine and loving” the rebuked wolf is and how he’d visited his church, etc.
REPLY:
There are many “fine, loving” devils posing as Christ’s representatives who are wolves in sheep’s clothing as Jesus warned repeatedly (Matthew 7:15; 24, 11, 24). Catholic priests and mormon priests are “fine, loving” men who are not of God and leading many to eternal damnation! Prov 14:12 … Sounds like you need to repent and get into God’s Word, crying out to Him to bless you to be possessed with the holy fear of the LORD.
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“Be careful who you disrespect, disregard or dishonor in the natural realm. You don’t know their RANK in the SPIRIT.”
REPLY:
With all honor, namely to the LORD and His beloved body …. “rank in the Spirit” is nowhere in the Bible. Such a term panders to and fosters pride and is heard in the false prophetic and word of faith movements. In those churches you will find those who tout themselves and not Christ. Their identity is sinful self which they cloak with a veneer of spirituality. But Jesus says simply “But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” Matthew 23:8-12
See also Philippians 2:3-5 and Colossians 3:3 and Galatians 2:20.
Question Received:
“Is it wrong Todd to drive a nice car and live in a nice house. Is that wrong when the Lord has actually blessed you with these things though they do not move you or hold your trust.”
Reply:
Is it wrong to keep money from those in need and God’s work while you lavish yourself in this fleeting sinful world? That’s the Gospel question, right. Isn’t this exactly what the once “rich men” did before dying and being sent irrevocably to hell? (Luke 16:19-31) You mention nothing of being “rich toward God” instead of self (Luke 12:15-21). You mention nothing of using this world’s riches to reach others (Deuteronomy 8:18). Your question could have just as easily been a statement such as: “Praise God for the ability to earn and help others and further the message of the Gospel of Jesus!” This reveals that your affections are on the things of this world and not on Christ! (Colossians 3:1-4). God is calling you to repentance and to truly lay down your life. When you do, you will be enthralled in the Great commission Jesus gave and not making excuses for getting stuff for self in this world. “Minding earthly things” is a characteristic of those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ” “whose god is their belly” (carnal appetites). Read Philippians 3:18-19.
Question Received:
“Todd: My church is heavily involved in the book, “Not a Fan”, by Kyle Idelman (sp) to the point they study it in the worship service on Sun. morning and Bible studies on Sun. night and Wed. night. Everyone is simply “gaga” over it and the author. This has been going on for the past 6-8 weeks and they don’t plan to end it anytime soon. I plan to stay away & attend another church until it’s over. I feel like they are putting this book over the Bible, and its author before God, and it makes me feel resentful because of it. Please tell me if you think I am wrong and should just put my feelings aside and let it go. Thank you.” Donna
Reply:
No, you are being alerted by the Holy Spirit sounds like sister. There’s something fundamentally wrong about using that time together as a body going through a mere man’s book. Yes typical apostate modern church scenario here sister. Isn’t it interesting that these counterfeits never go through one of the 66 glorious books of the canon of Holy Scripture and yet they are going through a mere man’s book? Can nearly guarantee it’s not Scripture rich ….. remember Lk 6:26 …. whenever people get gaga over men, it’s usually because they are false.
Question Received:
“So, I’ve been reading your site. I have some questions. What is your on gay rights? Abortion? and most especially, how do you feel about Catholics and Catholic priests?” Therese
Reply:
“Hi Therese.
Well as a born again Bible believer ….. all 3 of these items are addressed on the ministry site.
- Sodomy / homosexuality is sin
- Abortion is murder and sin
- The catholic church is antichrist – a works based, Christ-denying cult
Also, there is a CATEGORY drop-down menu and a SEARCH box on this site.
Message Received:
“In the Bible, there are several verses to identify false pastors, why you do not quote in your opinion about the writings of Charles G. Finney? Why you do not expose false pastor like Benny Hinn, Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer and others?”
Reply:
Hello. Thanks for your email. There is a SEARCH box and also a CATEGORY drop down menu on this site. Check these out concerning your email:
todd
Message Received:
“Does true Christianity exist?…’When the Son of Man comes, shall He find faith on earth’?…What did Jesus mean by that statement? Especially in today’s modern world where everyone is ‘knowledgeable’ of biblical ‘truth,’ and there are so many claiming to be ‘born again.’ Perhaps our faith is bogus and we worship a pseudo God, one that we project that suits our way of thinking and being. Maybe, we should all analyze and examine ourselves. Because if Jesus knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that there would be one single person truly waiting for Him in true Godly faith, He would not have made that statement!” Josh
Reply:
Hi Josh. Obviously Jesus WILL have a remnant of true saints to come back for, otherwise He would never have promised such so many times (1 Thess. 4:16-18; James 5:7-9; Christ called His people a “little flock” and so we know He has a flock (Luke 12:32) …. who are His sheep, hear His voice, and follow Him (John 10:1-10). There will be those on His RIGHT hand, received when He returns with a glorious “Well done my good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25). There are those in Revelation 6 who are the souls of the redeemed who are under the altar in Heaven. The full counsel of Scripture refutes this idea that Jesus will return for no one. He told us that His Bride is making itself ready to meet Him and so this again tells us that He has people (Revelation 19:7-8, etc.).
Message Received:
“How do you know if a person is Catholic that they are not born again. I think God can only make the decision who goes to hell.”
Reply:
Hi. There’s no such thing as an idolater who is saved. Read Rev. 21:8. Can a mormon, JW, or muslim be born again? No. No born again believer would be partaking with doctrines of devils. “Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.” 1 Cor. 10:21 ….. as an ex-catholic, I know exactly what false gospel they preach. It’s nowhere near the original Gospel of the grace of God in Christ. It’s a false, works-based cult.
Message Received (Wolf Defender Rebuked!):
“Don’t judge Pastors that you don’t know, GOD called him (John Piper) 45 years ago. Take a look at your own life. If you can’t say anything good, say nothing at all.” Francois Du Plessis
Reply:
Deception. The Bible never says If you can’t say anything good, say nothing at all.” In fact, one does good to say the bad truth about people who are leading others to hell. We don’t know them? Nonsense. We all know them by the fruit of their doctrine (Matt. 7:13-20). Piper is a calvinist which means he’s a false teacher at best. ….. The Bible mandates that God’s people, especially men, be not spineless but rather mark and expose false teachers in order to protect Christ’s flock. The true body is busy teaching discernment (Ezek. 44:23) and earnestly contending for the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3-4). It’s time to judge your own heart, to repent, and get right with God before it’s too late. Any person who comes to the aid of a known wolf is bidding Godspeed to that enemy of Christ and will judged with that person (2 John 10-11). John Piper: Satanic High Priest of
Indoctrination and Initiation into the Cult of Calvin
Message Received:
“But some leaders may be teaching falsely, even slightly but we shouldn’t judge their motives.”
Reply:
“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.” James 3:1
Yes if someone is teaching “another gospel” they are “accursed” as false teachers period …. it doesn’t at all matter about their motives….. Their doctrine is not from Scripture, which if nothing else, all they’d have to do is simply read pure Scripture – straight from God’s written Word, period. Yet, they are choosing to buy into false systems of theology, movements, camps, and other notions and philosophies that did not come from the words of Holy Scripture (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17, etc.). We all have a Bible and so have no excuse and as teachers are more accountable …. because if we teach anything but according to the Word, we are misleading others, are accursed, and there is no light in us (Gal. 1:6-9; Is. 8:20, etc.).
Message Received:
“Sad, Some people make a career out of bashing the ministers of the Gospel. Wish they would concentrate more on preaching the Goodness of the Gospel than accusing the ones who are doing. Pharisee spirit at work. The great Accuser.”
Reply:
So, you are saying that obeying God’s mandate to expose wolves who pose as leaders of His sheep is the work of a pharisee? chapters and verses please … Joshua, you need to get a life in the Word of God and own the personal, God given responsibility to watch over His flock. It’s time to repent and grow up into Christ and cease these little lame smokescreens … which usually come out of self-serving motives, you know, those unrepentant evil motives of greed etc that cause people to migrate to these wolves who feed those lusts? …. “false prophets and false teachers ….They allure through the lusts of the flesh …” Read 2 Peter 2 and Acts 20:29-32 and ask God to forgive you for having to concern for the flock Jesus bled to save and for seeking to cover and protect the very enemies of Christ (2 John 7-11).
What does Jude 3-4 tell true believers?
How about Rom. 16:17-18?
Was Paul the apostle a pharisee? See Acts 13:10
So, all “ministers” are God’s just because they wear sheep’s clothing (pose as such)? – 2 Corinthians 11:12-15 says: “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.
13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 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. Are true Christians to Defend or Expose False Teachings and False Leaders?
Message Received:
“(Concerning mega churches) Let people learn, they like to go to big churches, and conferences, until they can see deeper in Christ, and have a deeper walk with the Lord then they won’t need big events to please them cause they will have Christ in a deeper level in their life that will please them all the time, with or without other people in their life. It takes time Todd. Many call on the name of the Lord, but to walk with the Lord in a deeper spiritual way, they need the internal walk with the Lord not the external. The external walk with the Lord will lead them to mega churches, we can only pray for them to see and know what God truly wants for them.”
Reply:
Hi. Thank you for dialoguing. If the LORD has saved them, He is still working in them to bring about an abiding, fruit-bearing fellowship with Him (John 15). When they are blessed with such they will see that they do not need those conferences or churches, hoopla, and the fanfare of it all which draws attention away from their LORD and Savior. The goal of those church businesses is to make themselves an essential component in their lives. That’s why they are constantly pointing people to their classes, groups, and programs instead of pointing them to Christ alone. They constantly drop innuendoes – to brand themselves. The spirit of antichrist is behind such a displacement of Christ as “Head” of each individual saint and His body at large. Colossians 2 nails this down hard. Anti simply means “in place of” and so this is the reason I speak freely to identify these placebo churches as antichrist – due to their incessant branding, programs, and membership drives (which is not at all biblical and displaces the blood bought membership we have in the one body of Christ). See Ephesians 4; 1 Corinthians 12).
Question Received:
“Could it be that those supporting the prosperity preachers are lost souls now who once knew Christ?”
Reply:
Hello brother. Read 2 Tim. 4:3-4 and 2 Thess. 2:10-12 and you will have God’s answer to this …. oh and also 2 Tim 3:1-7 and notice these are not rank heathen but rather those within the professing church who actually had a “form of godliness” …. when people are deceived, especially those whom Jesus once saved, they are willingly deceived … we know that because He gave us a Bible so we would know His truth/way and not be misled by beguilers who are making merchandise of the willingly deceived within the modern church world (2 Peter. 2:1-3, 17). Those who follow mere sinful men instead of following Christ by sitting at His feet daily and drinking in His Word, prove their hearts have departed from the LORD (Hebrews 3:12-15).
Message Received:
“I used to tithe to Joel Osteen until the veil was lifted from my eyes! … I grew to really like Charles Stanley, have been tithing to his church! There’s no one left in my eyes! I have been so very disappointed with churches that I have stopped going! .. So I have been reading my Bible and watching Charles Stanley on TV! .. Now I will read my Bible & look up to Jesus!” Charles Stanley Exposed
Reply:
Precious sister, this all proves and clearly demonstrates that God’s hand is upon you, His daughter. He is calling His true followers outside the apostate local churches which are nearly invariably run by false leaders. There are 2 books on this topic and many posts on the ministry website SafeGuardYourSoul.com …. I want to also encourage you to continue to obey the LORD with your giving. That’s a good thing and He will direct you as to where there is fertile ground in a New Testament ministry(ies) … which are known by their obedience in carrying out the Great Commission mandate He gave us. Praying for you sister.
Message Received from Osteen Defender:
“Let he is who is without sin……….” B. (This person was wanting true disciples who were exposing Osteen for the wolf to back off and to cease obeying the Gospel mandate to expose Christ’s enemies.)
Reply:
Hi B. Actually it’s a sin with severe consequences to refuse to mark false teachers who are leading people to eternal damnation. Those who do so receive the same eternal reward as the enemy of Christ they defend. Read 2 John 7-11; Jude 3-4, and Romans 16:17-18. It is a divine mandate to “earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints” (2 Timothy 4:2-4). The LORD is calling you to true repentance and when that happens, you will get into the whole counsel of God’s Word and live an authentic New Testament life (2 Timothy 2:15). Jesus calls us to die and as we do we have the promise of living or having our BEST LIFE for eternity not now. Paul says that only the “enemies of the cross of Christ” would teach such (Philippians 3:18-21). Please view this: Beware of the Wolf Defenders
Connie Long writes:
“Those who listen to him, and the many more like him, get very ugly and downright angry when you try to show them through God’s Word, their idol is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. They don’t like you throwing truth bombs in their, “positive possibility, me, my and I, all about me gospel.” These are those who profess Christ, but do not possess Christ, they know about Christ, but do not know Christ. They do not believe that they must take up their cross and die daily, they do not believe that Christ is Lord of all or He is not Lord at all…”
Ray Zeitler notes:
“2 John was one of the biggest revelations the Lord led me to. Am I accepting of sin to the point that I willingly want to accept the sin of false teachers? To have a portion of that sin laid on my debt that Jesus paid? Even though I personally did not commit their sin, I accept a part of it like I committed it… Even the act of bidding them Godspeed, or welcoming them into our home is sinful… I would rather concentrate on my repenting from my sins, living a holy life and not have to worry about the sins of another being laid at my feet..”
Lorin Richman writes:
“Another one they always use out of context is, “touch not God’s anointed!”, not realizing that false teachers ARE NOT God’s anointed, but rather His believers are because we are in Jesus and He is in us.”
Message Received:
“The world hates Christians because they’re so irrational!” (from a professing Christian)
Reply:
Jesus told us that because we are truly His, the world would hate us…. “Ye shall be hated by all men for my name’s sake.” (Matthew 10:22) And “The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.” John 7:7 etc. So yes true disciples of Jesus are hated, not because they are irrational but simply because they are Christ’s! 2 Timothy 3:12
Message Received:
“Oh my you are so judgmental and damning…not what a Christian should be….if I were you I would think about what I was saying about God’s people…it’s not about what we believe or are taught to believe but what Jesus did….and we cannot add or take away from that…that is why I left the church….the only thing blasphemous to God is cursing His creation…and saying what you believe is right and acting like this…..Paul said he was a chief sinner because of his killing the first Christians but he did it in innocence because he thought he was doing good for God…..if you think this is doing good for Him….it’s not.”
Reply:
Hi Regina. I am in no way moved or angry at what you stated here. It’s interesting how you openly condemn me while claiming I am being condemning. Have you ever read Matthew 7:1-6 and Romans 2:1-3?
The Catholic religion is damning the souls of millions and you are defending this enemy of the LORD Jesus Christ while claiming to be loving. The Bible is the final authority – it’s the very Word of God – and it states that we have “ALL sinned” and are fully guilty before the very Judge of our eternal souls (Romans 3:10, 23). God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son and not some self and Satanically appointed, blasphemous, phony, pagan religion out of Rome that claims to have exclusive rights to offer the sacrifice Jesus single-handedly came to provide. This same Son of God who bled and rose again to save us, also commanded – “Ye MUST be born again” to enter His eternal family and kingdom (John 3:3, 7). “For by grace (unmerited favor) are ye saved through faith and that not of yourself; It is the gift of God; not of works lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Message Received:
“Todd, I read this a couple of times today, and it lists just about everybody out there…even Smith Wigglesworth and Lester Sumrall…so I’m wondering who and I mean who out there is teaching sound doctrine/pure truth…I’ve caught a preacher named Mel Bond a few times, watched “Gospel Truth by Andrew Womack” which builds faith and humbles…..we are all men and all fall short and not one seeketh, not one understands everything…. I sat back in the early 80’s under a man named Hobart Freeman whose church was Faith Assembly in Northern Indiana…a solid faith teacher but boy things went bad (google his name) and left many if not all confused when it deteriorated….and Freeman never pointed to himself, always exhorted to get in the Word…so I left and wandered not becoming a worldly sinful man but always tried to remain transparent before God…so here I am today, got a Bible and am seeking God, by grace walking in Rom 12:1-3 but it’s very difficult to discern some of what’s happening out there today…thanks for listening and always encouraging… Plan on supporting your ministry but having a financial trial currently.” Tom
Reply:
Well, as you pointed out, we have God’s Word in the King James Bible and because of this we can have pure fellowship with Him without the tainting of mere men. Lester Sumrall and Andrew Womack are WOF/Word of Faith which means they are false and aligned with known false doctrine and false teachers (Ezekiel 22:25-27). Or, at best people like this are in great danger. I go with the former. Yes there is no perfect, sinless vessel and even Paul had to be checked out/tested by the Bereans (Acts 17:10-11). There’s a spirit that will come on any of us if we fellowship with wolves, no matter how innocent it may seem. I’m talking about blatant false teachers and/or those who align themselves with them such as WOF beguilers. Regrettably, the vast majority of men in ministry are branding in the minds of their audiences their ministry, not Christ and His cross. They are perpetually selling or branding their own names and ministries (Colossians 2:6-10, 18-19). I will lift you in prayer brother right now. Feel free to call sometime brother Tom. During day is best 214-425-8398.
Message Received:
“We must not judge but love and pray for others and not expose them. It is not our job to judge…it is our job to pray for them…if you see wrong in them pray for them….these things are not of God…because God says to pray for our enemies not destroy our enemies…where is your heart? Leave everything to God…yes it is true we need to be careful & be warned of false prophets but also we need to be warned of how we preach & judge others or God’s Word! Surely I say to you…I forgive you because even among wolves God is there to save me….my love for God is very far instinct from yours….& my faith in him is very far greater than yours…..cause you do not know my heart….this what God made me to be….His fruit of His love & through that fruit I shall continue to grow…..by your own means seek in your heart…in what I believe in….but my heart seeks the love of God..” Christina
Reply:
Identifying and marking “them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine” of the LORD, is to be a regular part of the Christian life. In an hour when the proliferation of false teaching is mutating at an increasingly exponential rate, those who love the LORD must examine and test everything against the final authority of the recorded oracles of God (Acts 17:11). The following warning enlightens us to understand this:
“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
Christina, did you know that Jesus instructed us to “judge righteous judgment” and in this case He obviously counted the judgment of His disciples to be unrighteous instead of righteous (Jn. 7:24).
I suggest that you yourself stop judging those who are judging righteous judgment as Jesus commanded His true people to do (John 7:24).
Where’s the Scripture Christina? Where did God ever tell us to pray for wolves? Did He not mandate that we expose them so that their prey would not be deceived and go to hell? Chapters and verses please?
Acts 20:27-32 is truly key to seeing the apostolic faith and how it and those saved by that original Gospel are to be safeguarded against the enemy’s wolves. Also Philippians 1:17 and Jude 3-4. If you name the name of Jesus Christ, please study these passages prayerfully and carefully.
Is it Biblical to Mark False Teachers?
Millions are being taught by the wolves who have deceived them not to expose them. I was personally taught by the wolves who deceived me not to ever speak a word against them. They were covering their tracks by using Scripture out of context to their own self-serving advantage (Philippians 3:18-19).
What does the Bible tell us to do about false leaders who are misleading others? “Mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” Romans 16:17
We are commanded to never endorse or help in any way those who do not preach strictly God’s Word, which is “the doctrine of Christ”:
“For MANY DECEIVERS are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves (take personal responsibility to earnestly contend for the truth), that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth (remains) not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth (continues) in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” 2 John 7-11
You are defending the right of the very enemies of the One you claim to be serving to mislead precious sheep whom Jesus bled to save …. and claiming it’s love. This is delusional.
It sure IS IS IS our job to judge – The Son of God says “JUDGE righteous judgment.” John 7:24 …. Now who’s lying – Christ or Christina?
Christina, the hatred for Christ in your heart is manifesting ….. you are fighting for and defending His very enemies. How would you feel if your own family member who you thought loved you, went to war to fight for and defend someone who was your sworn enemy? That’s betrayal isn’t it? And yet you seek to dress it up as love. But the Bible declares: “Open rebuke is better than secret love.
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Prov. 27:5-6)
How does the LORD feel that you claim to love Him while ignoring His words and fighting to defend His enemies that are destroying the people He came and died to save on that cross?
Jesus says “Out of the abundance of the HEART the mouth speaketh.” (Matt. 12:34) Your heart is manifested openly by your own words and thoughts which you have penned here. So we do know your heart.
Message Received:
“Wow! Have any of you listened to the message they preach? Joel Osteen says at the end of every sermon to find a Bible based church, he does not say buy my book. Joseph Prince does in fact preach the gospel and better than any pastor I have ever heard. Are you all that shocked that God’s blessings on these men’s lives can be so great? Yes they sell books, that’s where they get their money, not from the flocks of blind sheep you assume are sending them piles of cash every week. Actually watch a sermon or show just once… many have come to faith in Christ Jesus because of those 2 men sharing the gospel. Is this not God’s will???? To share the message, to feed the poor? Please feel free to contact them and find out exactly what ministry outreaches they are involved in. Also maybe ask Father God what his opinion is on pastors who speak biblical truths… Sounds like a spirit of envy to me. Does it bother you that God has blessed them? May God bless you and keep you on the path… do not pray for me! Do not! In fact I rebuke any prayers you have sent my way for me or my family. I am blessed enough already! Father God leads me and I will not condemn those who speak truths. James 4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and destroy: who art though that judgest another? What was the commandment Jesus added? To love one another…” Michelle
Reply:
Hi Michelle. Osteen never preaches God’s Word or the original Gospel. “God’s blessings on these men’s lives”? I guess the Muslims, Catholics, JWs, and Mormons are “blessed by God” too because they have much more wealth than these false teachers. They sell their books that contain anything but the original Gospel ….and make millions. Books aren’t a sin, what’s in them and/or what’s not in them is what matters. These men are selling their lies and have become multimillionaires doing so. God has shown us in His Word what He thinks of these greedy wolves Michelle (2 Peter 2:1-3, etc.). Joel Osteen Exposed
“Sounds like a spirit of envy to me. Does it bother you that God has blessed them? May God bless you and keep you on the path… do not pray for me! Do not! In fact I rebuke any prayers you have sent my way for me or my family. I am blessed enough already! Father God leads me and I will not condemn those who speak truths.”
You are now judging everyone on this post who are discerning believers and that’s okay? Isn’t that hypocritical? You are judging/condemning me and/or the others who see these wolves for who they are while saying we’re wrongly discerning/judging. The Bible tells us that if we bid Godspeed (endorse or defend) false prophets who are the very enemies of Christ, we will be judged with them…. —- WOLF WORSHIPERS: BEWARE of the Wolf Defenders … Truth-Despising, Wolf-Protecting, Devil-Defending Agents of Satan
—— SUPPORTING WOLVES (Christ’s very subverting enemies) will land you in hell with them according to God’s Word. https://safeguardyoursoul.com//wolf-protectors/
So far, instead of dealing with this biblical issue from Scripture, you have resorted to personal attack, condemning others who would dare tamper with your idol wolves ….
You are sadly deceived if you think Father God is leading you to defend those He told us are false and His very enemies …. God is calling you to come to Jesus in repentance and to truly get into His Word without the influence of mere sinful men whom you have trusted and made idols of ….covetousness and greed and loving your life in this world may be the roots … God’s Word warns us …. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” 2 Peter 2:1-3
Judging or discerning false prophets by the fruit of their doctrines and ministries is not what James wrote about here. No, he was speaking of the true body of Christ of which wolves operating in our midst are not a part. So, this does not apply. They are not “brethren.” Jesus commanded us to “Judge righteous judgment.” (John 7:24) Jude wrote: “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
Notice Michelle is a classic wolf worshiper. She says nothing of worship to the LORD Jesus but will fight to the death to defend obvious wolves who are the enemies of Jesus Christ. She has no hesitation in condemning me and perhaps others here while she simultaneously judges us for exposing those who have lied to her and captured her soul for satan himself. Unreal blindness and hypocrisy.
Message Received/Answered:
BERNICE: Hey, can you discern if someone is prophesying falsely?
TODD: Usually yes. 2 Peter 1:20-21 tells us that “the more sure word of prophecy” is the Holy Scriptures
BERNICE: Ok, The prophecy about tsunami or about the blood moon or the ww3 are they though?
TODD: most of that stuff is very misleading at best …. and hasn’t come to pass when they said it would …. I would stay clear of Francis Chan, Perry Stone, and John Hagee.
Some of the latest radio shows have dealt with this very thing … go here and scroll down, OK? | Podcasts
Message Received:
(defending Sunday morning and modern church membership) “Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves.” Crystal
Reply:
Hi Crystal …. yes we’ve addressed that passage many times (Heb. 10:24-25)…. that says nothing of going to a church building on Sundays at a certain time and this being what’s important to Christ. In fact the earliest believers met house to house daily amen … Acts 2:42-27 … they simply could not get enough of Jesus who ordered us to serve Him “daily” and not weekly … many pastors use Heb. 10:24-25 in the wrong way …. yes Sunday is a great day to fellowship and I do it myself and yet, we must not limit this fellowship to Sunday mornings … in fact, check out the “daily” aspect of Hebrews 3:13 – “But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” We need Jesus “daily” and not weekly. The word weekly never appears in Scripture but “daily” appears in the New Testament Scriptures 22 times. Some pastors are building a business and they want people to associate their so called church building and church business with serving God which is wrong.
QUESTION RECEIVED:
“Are ‘Godspeed’ and God bless you’ the same? When we hear someone say “God bless you” to an unsaved soul it means ‘that’ person saying “God bless you” is partaker in their evil deeds according to Scripture. Thank you brother Todd for being so diligent in sharing HIS Word. Glory to Father YHWH!” Darlene T.
REPLY:
Hi Darlene. “Godspeed” is blessing or supporting the ministry or minister who is teaching falsehood whom the LORD tells us is “accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9). In the context of 2 John 7-11, it’s not just an unsaved person John is speaking of, it’s someone who is peddling falsehoods, false teachings and misleading others which is a whole different thing. That person has become the very enemy of the LORD (2 Chronicles 19:2; Philippians 3:18-19). Saying “God bless you” to a lost soul is a good thing. Jesus told us that the Father blesses all – both the evil and the good and that we should have the same mindset/perspective toward them because God is “not willing that any should perish.” (Matthew 5:44-48; 2 Peter 3:9) When I say “God bless you” to a lost soul what I mean is that God did bless them and myself and all men when He sent Christ and my intention is to help lead them to Him.
MESSAGE RECEIVED:
“I stopped attending service now in our church… My Pastor said that Baptist is the true church of Christ because it was started and it originated from John the Baptist…well I did believe it until I found out the real truth in you…” E.
REPLY:
Jesus Christ is the only Foundation and Chief Cornerstone of the true body of Christ, His Church – His blood bought, presently abiding people! (1 Peter 2; Corinthians 3:11, etc.). Satan’s job, and his human helpers’ (false leaders’) is to seduce and spoil you of this reward, even Christ Himself, by drawing your attention away from Christ our LORD to anything else. Read Colossians 1-2.
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11
“He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.” Deuteronomy 32:4
“Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isaiah 28:16
1 Peter 2
“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
1Pe 2:3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
1Pe 2:4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,
1Pe 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
1Pe 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
1Pe 2:7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
1Pe 2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
1Pe 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:” … May your study of Jesus Christ deepen …. here’s some help Colossal Colossians!
INTERACTION:
“Thanks for your phone number, I will call sometime…back in the 80’s I sat under the teachings of a minister named Hobart Freeman, it seemed to be very sound doctrine but things fell apart so I’ve been kind of a loner biblically but believing to belong to a group of strong believers that don’t follow the status quo of today’s ear tickling ministers.” Tom S.
REPLY:
Well that may be the best place to be brother … we learn so many false and fake ways amidst the apostate modern church world…. God has to pull us out, if we are listening to Him … to “come out from among them and be ye separate” and that involves stopping going to and being influenced by them …. they are following each other and not Christ … for generations.
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Articles
The Gracious LORD will Abundantly Pardon [podcast]

“Abundantly Pardon”
“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6-7
The repentant thief on the cross next to Jesus called Him “Lord” and simply asked, believed on Christ. Where is he now? “paradise” …
“Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 42 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:41-42
God’s pardon is paramount to being in paradise with Him and His saints. When we cry out to Him, the LORD will freely forgive us. That’s why He came and what He desires to do. Yet we must never forget that we shall reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7-8). If we choose to sin, there will be dire consequences and while we can be forgiven, those results must be reaped.
How many people does God desire to perish? Not one (2 Peter 3:9).
Matthew 5:3, 6, 8
“Jeremiah’s message was never meant to leave the heart in despair. Every warning from God carried an invitation to return. The Lord does not expose empty religion to shame His people, but to heal them. Repentance is not the loss of hope, it is the beginning of hope. Christ still receives every soul that comes with humility, and He gives living faith where there was only habit, peace where there was only fear, and joy where there was only emptiness. The call remains the same today, to draw near to Him with a sincere heart, trusting that His mercy is always greater than our weakness.” Dan Blincoe
“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. 10Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:6-10
“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;” Acts 3:19
“Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 13 and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. 14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God?” Joel 2:12-14
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” 2 Corinthians 13:5
YOUR PRAYER TO GOD: Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, please break me! Please crush me dear LORD. YOU are my Potter. Pour the water of Your Holy Spirit and Word upon this life You made and saved for Your glory, not mine. I love You Jesus! Let this heart be broken, contrite, and let tears flow from a poor and pure heart that hungers and thirsts after Your righteousness. In the name of my LORD Jesus, amen.
“God has a multitude of mercy (Psalm 5:7), is ‘plenteous in mercy’ (Psalm 86:5), ‘rich in mercy’ (Ephesians 2:4), and has ‘abundant mercy’ (1 Peter 1:3). Wow! And I need all of that! But the real test is since He gives me all that mercy, do I extend mercy to others? If I don’t show mercy to others I will not receive mercy from God. James 2:13.” Karen Cochran
FORGIVE “from your hearts” or go to hell. That’s your choice (Matthew 18:21-35).
It becomes easy to forgive when you look in the mirror honestly and see all your own sins (Mark 11:25-26). Repent now.
“Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in SINCERITY and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.” Joshua 24:14
“God specializes in taking broken vessels and molding them, shaping them, and making them vessels of honor fit for His use!” Karen Cochran
Woman taken in the act of adultery. What about the man? Selective mercy, judgment?
Yes, we are to “Go, and sin no more” and yet “IF (not when) any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father.” Right? We can confess our sin in repentance and be forgiven (1 John 1:6-2:2).
It seems, from the whole counsel of God’s Word, that Jesus is more likely saying “You are now forgiven, saved, and grace empowered and do not need to live in sin any longer.” Surely His mercy and grace didn’t “run out” the first time she was redeemed, rescued. God is a merciful God and YES He 100% requires that we repent whenever needed, re-turn to Him and confess all sin. Yet when we do, is He not merciful? See Lamentations 3:22-23; Psalms 51; 103:10-12; Luke 22:31-32, etc.
The point intended here is that the “Go and sin no more” seems to be isolated by some…. first Jesus forgives/redeems her as she was obviously repentant. Then He says “Go and sin no more.” Did that mean “You better not sin again or it’s over, no more mercy, no chance of you ever returning to Me!” OR, did He mean that she is now redeemed, is a temple of the Holy Ghost, and empowered by divine grace to live free from sin and so she no longer has to be under it’s dominion”? See Romans 6:14; Titus 2:11-12.
“She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” John 8:11
“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” Psalms 86:5
“But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” Psalms 86:15
HOW can God possibly use me to show His mercy to others if I am not walking in His mercy toward others?
IF YOU DEAL mercilessly with others, undiluted harsh judgment is coming upon your own life. That’s a divine promise:
“For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” James 2:13
Read that again. Memorize it.
YOU set the measure of the judgment/mercy coming upon your life from God by how you show such to others.
“Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:1-5
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Abiding
“If God be For Us Who can be Against Us?” [podcast]

WHO is God truly “with”?
“And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The Lord is with you, while ye be with him; and IF YE SEEK HIM, he will be found of you; but IF ye forsake him, he will forsake you.” 2 Chronicles 15:2
What happens when one of His children deny Him?
“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: 12 if we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13 if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” 2 Timothy 2:11-13
Those who reject Him shall be rejected by Him. OSAS/eternal security is a fairy tale espoused by the moral cowards who refuse to serve God on HIS stated terms – repentance, faith, true worship, obedience, holiness, the crucified life, etc.
“And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. 15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.” Matthew 10:14-15
Persecution and the Disciple of Jesus
1 Peter 4
“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
Romans 8
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”
God’s Everlasting Love
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.
34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“Romans 8:29: For whom he did foreknow, etc. – “In this and the following verse the apostle shows how our calling is an argument that all things work together to advance our eternal happiness, by showing the several steps which the wisdom and goodness of God have settled, in order to complete our salvation. In order to this he first gives us, in this verse, the foundation and finishing, or the beginning and end, of the scheme of our redemption: For whom God did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son. To foreknow, here signifies to design before, or at the first forming of the scheme; to bestow the favor and privilege of being God’s people upon any set of men, Rom_11:2. This is the foundation or first step of our salvation; namely, the purpose and grace of God, which was given us in Christ Jesus, before the world began, 2Ti_1:9. Then, he knew or favored us; for in this sense the word to know is taken in a great variety of places, both in the Old and New Testaments. And as he knew the Gentiles then, when the scheme was laid, and before any part of it was executed, consequently, in reference to the execution of this scheme, he foreknew us. This is the first step of our salvation, and the end or finishing of it is our conformity to the Son of God in eternal glory, Rom_8:17, which includes and supposes our moral conformity to him. When God knew us, at the forming of the Gospel scheme; or, when he intended to bestow on us the privilege of being his people; he then destinated or designed us to be conformed to the image of his Son; and, as he destinated or determined us then to this very high honor and happiness, he pre-destinated, fore-ordained, or pre-determined us to it. Thus we are to understand the foundation and finishing of the scheme of our salvation. The foundation is the foreknowledge, or gracious purpose of God; the finishing is our being joint heirs with Christ. Now, our calling or invitation (see on Rom_8:28 (note)) stands in connection with both these.” Adam Clarke
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