Abiding

“They that were Scattered Abroad went every where Preaching the Word” [podcast]

Paula White Exposed [video]

THAT’s My King! Pastor Lockridge [video]

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

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

When persecution hit Jerusalem where the body of Christ was dwelling….

“Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Acts 8:4

“Persecution hit Jerusalem in a few significant periods: first, in the years following Jesus’s death, when the early Christian church was persecuted by Jewish authorities led by Saul (Acts 8:1-3).”

Remember, God allowed great persecution in Jerusalem in order to get His people to scatter to the ends of the earth.

“Jesus promised his disciples three things: that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy, and in constant trouble.” – GK Chesterton

“And he said unto them, GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15

This was right after the beloved deacon, servant of the LORD Stephen was murdered. See Acts 7:51-8:4.

Believer’s Bible Commentary

Acts 8:1

“A new era begins with the words, “At that time.” Stephen’s death seemed to trigger a widespread assault against the church. Believers were scattered throughout … Judea and Samaria.

The Lord had instructed His followers to begin their witness in Jerusalem, but then to branch out to Judea, Samaria, and the end of the earth. Up to this time their witness had been confined entirely to Jerusalem. Perhaps they had been timid about branching out. Now they are forced to do it by persecution.

From the human standpoint, it was a dark day for the believers. The life of a member of their fellowship had been laid down. They themselves were being chased like rabbits. But from the divine standpoint, it was not dark at all. A grain of wheat had been planted in the ground, and much fruit would inevitably result. The winds of affliction were scattering the seeds of the gospel to distant places, and who could estimate the extent of the harvest?”

In light of this biblical revelation, do we really think the LORD wouldn’t be allowing persecution to hit America in order to scatter His people across His earth in order to reach the billions who are unreached? The answer is obvious.

“Acts 8:4
They that were scattered – went every where preaching – Thus the very means devised by Satan to destroy the Church became the very instruments of its diffusion and establishment. What are counsel, or might, or cunning, or rage, or malice, against the Lord, whether they are excited by men or devils!” Adam Clarke

Of this passage, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes the following:

“8:4-8 The dispersal of the Christians did not silence their testimony. Everywhere they went they carried the good news of salvation. Philip, the “deacon” of chapter six, headed north to the city of Samaria. He not only proclaimed Christ but performed many miracles. Unclean spirits were driven out and the paralyzed and lame were healed. The people gave heed to the gospel, and, as might be expected, great joy resulted.
The primitive church obeyed the explicit commands of Jesus Christ:
It went out as Christ had gone (Jhn_20:21; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It sold its goods and gave to the poor (Luk_12:33; Luk_18:22; cf. Act_2:45; Act_4:34).
It left father, mother, houses, and lands to go everywhere preaching the Word (Mat_10:37; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It made disciples and taught them to work and obey (Mat_28:18-19; cf. 1Th_1:6).
It took up its cross and followed Christ (Acts 4; 1 Thess. 2).
It rejoiced in tribulation and persecution (Mat_5:11-12; cf. Acts 16; 1Th_1:6-8).
It left the dead to bury their dead and went and preached the gospel (Luk_9:59-60).
It shook the dust from off its feet and moved on when men refused to hear (Luk_9:5; cf. Act_13:51).
It healed, exorcised, raised the dead, and bore lasting fruit (Mrk_16:18; Acts 3-16).”

“Acts 8 details the early Christian church’s expansion beyond Jerusalem, starting with intense persecution by Saul after Stephen’s martyrdom (c. 34 CE), scattering believers who preached the Gospel, leading to Philip’s successful mission in Samaria (miracles, conversions), and culminating in Philip baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch, marking the gospel’s reach to the Gentiles.

Here’s a timeline of events in Acts 8:

Persecution & Scattering (Acts 8:1-3)
- Great Persecution: Following Stephen’s death (late 34 CE), severe persecution erupts against the Jerusalem church.
- Saul’s Role: Saul (later Paul) actively persecutes believers, dragging men and women to prison.
- Dispersal: Believers flee Judea and Samaria, spreading the word wherever they go.
Philip in Samaria (Acts 8:4-25)
- Philip’s Ministry: Philip, one of the seven deacons, preaches Christ in Samaria, performing miracles (casting out demons, healing).
- Conversions: Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon the sorcerer.
- Apostolic Confirmation: Peter and John come from Jerusalem to pray for the Samaritans to receive the Holy Spirit, confirming their inclusion.
The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)
- Divine Direction: An angel tells Philip to go south towards Gaza.
- Encounter: Philip finds an Ethiopian eunuch, a treasurer for Queen Candace, reading Isaiah.
- Baptism: Philip explains the scripture, and the eunuch believes and asks to be baptized.
- Spirit’s Transport: After baptizing the eunuch, the Spirit of the Lord takes Philip away, and Philip appears in Azotus, continuing his preaching.
Key Significance: Acts 8 shows the church moving from a Jerusalem-centric Jewish movement to a multi-ethnic, international one, fulfilling Jesus’ command to spread the gospel to “Samaria and to the ends of the earth”.

“The Communication of thy faith”

“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” Philemon 6-7

We are merely passing through saints. This is not our home.

“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;” 1 Peter 2:11

“New Creatures” …. given by God the “ministry of reconciliation” …. Christ’s “Ambassadors”

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-20

The body of Christ, each member, does our part in Christ’s Great Commission.

“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:13-15

“Romans 10:14-15: ‘How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!’ The LORD saved me because someone preached the gospel to me! And I instantly knew that was what was missing in my life! How would I have known if I had not heard?” Karen Cochran

The body of Christ alone bears the Good News…. that in light of each of us being lost souls, sinners…. God sent His only begotten to die, be buried, and raised again from the dead for our justification! See Romans 4:25; 5:6-8, etc.

You are a bearer of this Good News beloved of God. No one else can be—except those who are HIS. With the love, joy, and peace of Jesus emanating from your heart, take off that lampshade and unleash that beautiful smile and let the world around you know of Christ’s love for them! He proved this love by dying on that cross for them! (John 15:13)

“The love of Christ constraineth (compels) us.” 2 Corinthians 5:14

Evangelism – God’s way!

The 3 Ways God’s People can Participate in Christ’s Great Commission

1. Praying (Matthew 9:35-38).
2. Witnessing, sowing and communicating the Word (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 8:11).
3. Supporting, supplying those of God’s people who are doing His Great Commission, preaching the Word (2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Philippians 2:25; 4:16-20).

The writing is on the wall for the wicked false professors.

IF you aren’t participating in the Great Commission, you are a lost soul/counterfeit.

In light of the fact that Jesus gave us His Great Commission command, what did Jesus tell us in Matthew 7:21? What was His warning to us in light of judgment to come?

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21

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

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

The Cross and the Great Commission [podcast]

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

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

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

Abiding

Having a Pure Heart Requires the Cross Life [podcast]

“Great Podcast. Thank you. When I think about Mat 5:8 I think of Psalm 24 3 “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?” 4 “He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” Who is worthy to stand in God’s holy presence? Only those who are living holy and righteous lives! Those disciples who are free from pride and sin and are maintaining inner purity. With no idolatry, hypocrisy and deceit in their hearts! They hungry and thirst for the righteousness of God! Matthew 5:6. And are living in a New Jerusalem state of mind!”

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23

“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 either allow God to throw us into the fire of affliction, using His fullers’ soap to cleanse, purify, and burn away the dross (impurities) and refine our character, or we will be thrown into the flames of eternal hell forever on the day of Judgment. Only the pure in heart will see God (Matthew 5:8). Better to burn now in the refiner’s fire so you don’t burn forever in the fire that will not be quenched!

Mark 9:49 “For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.”

“Everyone will be salted with fire in one of two ways: (1) either by fiery tribulation in this life, which comes to those who genuinely follow Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33-34; John 15:18-21), or (2) by the fire of hell in the next life, which comes to those who reject Jesus in this life (vv 47-48).” Life in the Spirit Study Bible.

We must endure hardships and remain faithful until the end of our lives! And who shall stand when He appears? Only those who endure until the end will be saved (Matthew 24:13). And receive final salvation!” Karen Cochran

Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
Hebrews 12

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.”

“For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.” Galatians 5:17-18

“Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.” Proverbs 20:11

“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

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:16-21

David, a man of God said to have a heart after the LORD, had fallen into gross sin and was in desperate danger and need of repentance and mercy from God. Here’s a portion of that prayer of repentance:

“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thytender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions:and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. 6 Behold, thou desirest truth in parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. 7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiterthan snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.” Psalms 51:1-8

If your life is not all about CHRIST, you are in trouble. Stop. Re-turn afresh to the LORD. Declare JESUS CHRIST as the LORD, Savior, Master, First Love of your life in this world! Do it with force! Memorize Galatians 6:14.

“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?” Galatians 6:14

Only the “pure in heart … shall see God”, shall be with God.

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8

“Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.” Psalms 51:4

You must come clean, completely clean. Get honest or go to hell. You have a choice to make.

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

Genesis 3 – Adam blamed Eve and Eve blamed the serpent. Neither blamed themself.

“And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. 13 And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.” Genesis 3:12-13

Nothing has changed.

“How few ingenuously confess their own sin! They see not their guilt. They are continually making excuses for their crimes; the strength and subtlety of the tempter, the natural weakness of their own minds, the unfavorable circumstances in which they were placed, etc., etc., are all pleaded as excuses for their sins, and thus the possibility of repentance is precluded; for till a man take his sin to himself, till he acknowledge that he alone is guilty, he cannot be humbled, and consequently cannot be saved. Reader, till thou accuse thyself, and thyself only, and feel that thou alone art responsible for all thy iniquities, there is no hope of thy salvation.” Adam Clarke

Of the 4 types of heart soil that the Word of God lands on, only the 4th is right with God and will be with Him eternally.

“in an honest and good heart”

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

Prayer: Precious holy Father, please have mercy upon me for my sin of not putting You first, not honoring You. I repent, I return now to You Jesus and denounce self-idolatry and spiritual adultery. I love You supremely LORD. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

When the Heart Turns to the LORD the Blessings Begin! [podcast]

“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” John 3:19-21 “But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be […]

7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross [podcast]

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

Abiding

“Be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” [podcast]

“Be Not Moved Away”

“If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;” Colossians 1:23

The victory is in Jesus Christ, and we are “stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:57-58

Remaining before the LORD, seeking His holy face “continually” is essential to abiding in Christ (1 Chronicles 16:11; John 15:1-16; Romans 8:14; Galatians 5:16).

“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” Romans 8:6

Being “stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the LORD,” has never been more essential than it is in this last hour before our LORD’s return.

Jesus is coming.

The Devil’s Diversions

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” 2 Corinthians 2:11

Satan has laid traps for each of us, snares of politics, non-essential doctrines, heresies, and fascinations of all kinds (2 Corinthians 2:11; Colossians 2:8-10; 1 Peter 5:8). Beware. His mission is to derail Christ’s saints from abiding oneness, fruitfulness – the fruit, more fruit, much fruit Christ has ordained us to walk in. Read John 15:1-16.

These things are of this fallen world and used by “the god of this world” himself, Satan (2 Corinthians 4:4).

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” 1 John 2:15-17

Why are there Christians who fall away from the work of Christ? – It’s because they ceased, fell away from the worship of Christ. Ceasing to participate in the work of Christ is the result of ceasing to worship Christ truly – becoming worldly or all about the fleeting cares and trinkets of this world.

“And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. 18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” Mark 4:17-19

“JESUS was met with hatred, and if you follow HIM you will be also. Hate mongers didn’t stop HIM, and shouldn’t stop us either.” Nelline Richard

Dear friend, be reminded that you will stand before the Almighty to give full account for your life in His earth that He gave you to steward for His eternal glory.

“We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.” Romans 14:10

Satan, the “god of this world”

As “the prince of the power of the air,” the evil one controls the airwaves and uses the noise to distract you, to confuse, and to anchor you in the temporal, the horizontal. This he does to prohibit/hinder your fellowship with the LORD, the vertical.

Are you living FREE or AFRAID/in FEAR?

“And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:16-18

Someone has rightly stated: “Fear is the currency of control.”

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

“Jesus’ twelve disciples didn’t get rich off the gospel, they died for it.” Nelline Richard

Do you see this misconception of dragging a cross around as an issue, an erroneous view of what Christ and Paul spoke of concerning the daily cross and the purpose of it?

Yes exactly, and perhaps that’s what’s missing—the resurrection—from the erroneous view of the cross by the modern church….

Only Jesus bore our sins on that cross (Isaiah 53). Dragging our cross around daily won’t expiate for even one or any one of our sins….. we are debtors to live in the Spirit instead of the flesh

One disciple noted:

“We owe no debt to Christ. This is law—tit for tat thinking. Salvation is a gift. It is not a MasterCard account, but an unconditional gift. We are now to live after the Spirit, not the flesh. Yes, without the aid of the Holy Spirit the cross message is a burden with no good news. Lies. Romans 8:12. We are not debtors to the flesh. We are debtors to no one! We have been given a gift for which no debt was/is incurred.”

Heirs with Christ:

“12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:12-17

A Brother wrote:

“The worldly mind cannot think outside of ‘performance-based,’ tit for tat, earning blessing, merit based meritocracy, mammon based, law based labeling and judgmentalism, eye for eye, love those who love you back but not enemies. This is all a legalistic tree of knowledge of good and evil type mind and is dualism. God is non-dual, single, pure, not double-minded, sincere and the tree of life (love) which has a single-eyed view of life and lives in the way of the cross— unconditional self-sacrificial love.” T

The mind has to be turned upside down by the experience of the cross and resurrection to get this “mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16).

Perhaps this is all about the exchanged life, right?

Clearing the Noise

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

Only the truth, embracing and obeying it, makes us free from confusion and fear (John 8:31-32, 36).

Is the Cross Meant to be Drudgery or Victory?

The cross makes us free from the chains of religion, false obligation, dead pursuits, and drudgery.

As you well know, there’s a common misconception that is in the mind of most Christians concerning Jesus’ command to deny self, take up the cross and follow Him…. WHAT does that really mean? Does it mean the believer has to drag some burden around every day of his life? Does it mean drudgery, misery, and a heavy weight (Matthew 11:28-30)?

Let’s clear this up, God willing brother. I know you’ve probably taught on this already since you’ve been teaching and learning the cross for a while…… is it correct that……

The cross isn’t a burden. It’s an instrument to crucify you so that you can be liquidated, raised up, and free to be glorifying to, and to be used of God (Galatians 2:40).

The cross is not a burden. It is an instrument of crucifixion so that you are set free to serve God in the resurrection grace of Jesus Christ who is the resurrection and the life.

The cross sets us free, resurrection life in Christ…..”

F.B. Meyer on Colossians 3:1-11

“SEEKING THE ‘THINGS THAT ARE ABOVE’

Let us repeat the glorious truth, which was doubtless the heart of Paul’s teaching, that our old nature has been nailed in Christ to the Cross, and laid in the grave; and that our real self, the second Adam, has entered the new world of resurrection. We belong to the world on the threshold of which Jesus said, ‘Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended.’ We must guard against the defiling touch of the world, of sin, and of the old self-life. We stand between two worlds, each solicits us: let us yield to the influences that pull us upward, and not to those that anchor us to this sinful and vain world. Our eternal blessedness has begun, let us walk in it.

In Christ we profess to have put off the old man, i.e., the habits of our former life, Col_3:9; now let us actually do so, in the power of the Holy Spirit. We profess to have put on the risen Christ, Col_3:10; now let us don the attire and habits of the new man. Too many Christians resemble Lazarus, quickened from his death-sleep, but still arrayed in grave-clothes. Too few array themselves in the radiant beauty of the risen Lord, which is the common heritage of all who believe in Him, whatever their rank or nationality.” F.B. Meyer

“WE (plural) are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

NOTHING happening on God’s earth today is even remotely important compared to the work of Christ through His saints – to feed His flock and win the lost! That is the Great Commission He mandated to us and holds us accountable to accomplish! He’s with us beloved saints – all the way to the end – supplying every iota of grace and otherwise!

Jesus promised “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20

Get in the Word.
Stay in the Word.
Surround yourself with the Word.
Share the Word.

“My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. 23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:20-23

“Work of Faith, and Labour of Love” [podcast]

Don’t Bother Obeying If You Don’t Love! “Sadly… Failing to keep the words and commandments of Jesus Christ and the Word of God is the greatest proof that you really don’t love Him.” Jennifer Leza If you are in love with someone, you want them to love you back. You want them to want you. That’s what makes chemistry and a good marriage – a man and a woman who spontaneously reciprocate love to each other – because they truly love one another. Think about that. No human would deny such a simple, self-evident truth. Well, the One who made […]

"I Love You Son" [podcast]

THIS WILL GIVE YOU CHILLS: (author unknown) “I LOVE YOU SON” AFTER A FEW OF THE USUAL SUNDAY EVENING HYMNS, THE CHURCH’S PASTOR SLOWLY STOOD UP, WALKED OVER TO THE PULPIT AND, BEFORE HE GAVE HIS SERMON FOR THE EVENING, HE BRIEFLY INTRODUCED A GUEST MINISTER WHO WAS IN THE SERVICE THAT EVENING. IN THE INTRODUCTION, THE PASTOR TOLD THE CONGREGATION THAT THE GUEST MINISTER WAS ONE OF HIS DEAREST CHILDHOOD FRIENDS AND THAT HE WANTED HIM TO HAVE A FEW MOMENTS TO GREET THE CHURCH AND SHARE WHATEVER HE FELT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR THE SERVICE. WITH THAT, […]

The Unsearchable Riches of Christ [podcast]

The Mystery Revealed Ephesians 3 Paul gave no glory to the sinful men who imprisoned him. Eph 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, The apostle took pleasure in these afflictions for the sake of Christ. We are reminded of his thorn in the flesh where Paul gave no glory to “the messenger of Satan” whom God allowed to afflict him … 2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, […]

Fruitfulness is Found in Abiding in Christ [podcast]

“A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.” Proverbs 28:20 Jesus is the True Vine “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the […]

Abiding

The Greatest of these is Charity [podcast]

God sent His only begotten Son to die for your sins and He now calls you to lose your life in this fleeting world and follow Jesus – His example and His teachings.

“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” 1 John 3:16

Loving God and Others

“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40

Following Our LORD Jesus by Putting God and Others Above Ourselves

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” Philippians 2:3-5

Due to the Many Evil things Transpiring in this Late Hour before Our LORD Returns, the Love of Many toward God and Others, is Waxing Cold

“All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:8-14

Keeping Ourselves in the Love of God

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

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

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8

“Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;” Romans 12:9-10

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:34-35

The Savior’s Love in His True Disciples vs the Lovers of Self

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5

God’s Love in Us

THE LOVE CHAPTER

Read it each morning this week in the King James Bible.

1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2 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 charity, I am nothing.

3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

YOUR PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I come to You now, in Jesus’ name. Please make good on Your prayer of oneness – that Your people, Your body will be one with You. Thank You for dying for my sins Jesus, for shedding Your precious blood to purchase me to Yourself and the Father. Please break me, let me be poor in spirit and pure in heart. Cause me to be full of Thy holy love toward You and others. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

The Return of Christ | Discipleship

The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold [podcast]

If someone’s love toward God’s people has waxed cold, it’s only because their love for the LORD first waxed cold (Matthew 24:10-14). Today is the best day to repent and return to the LORD. “And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all […]

10 Clues Your Love for God has Waxed Cold [podcast]

The wise virgin saints are keeping their lamps full of divine oil, they are taking personal responsibility for their own spiritual state with Christ the great and soon coming Bridegroom. Read Matthew 25:1-13. “The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold” “And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the […]

A Plea to Return to the LORD [podcast]

Widespread Corruption IMPORTANT: Read Matthew 24 and Luke 21 this week. Jesus foretold this would all be happening right before He returns! Jesus is coming. Get ready. A cursory introduction to Jeremiah 5-7. God’s people were in rebellion to Him and reaping what they’d been sowing (Galatians 6:7-8). Read, pour prayerfully over these chapters this week beloved. This message is designed to launch the God fearing saint to pour over this passage as they examine their hearts, their lives before Him honestly. “Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. 26 For […]