Feel Alone Sometimes?
“Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.” Isaiah 50:10
The lady who was most instrumental in leading me to Christ, who invited me to the meeting where I was saved, later departed from Christ. The man who preached that night when the LORD saved my wretched soul also departed from Christ, committing heinous crimes. So, who saves us saints? CHRIST! Why would we ever blame our dear LORD and Savior for what mere sinful men do?
We must continue to choose God – to love Him with all our being, heart, mind, spirit, and strength.
“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
The LORD is with us as we are with Him.
“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
When our LORD Jesus had fed the 5,000 and they departed, He turned to His 12 and asked “Will ye also go away?” (John 6:67) In other words, Jesus asked them, “are you also going to leave me?” Watch Peter’s answer:
“From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” John 6:66-69
WHERE would we go if we left the Almighty? Where is there to go? Selah.
“Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.” Psalms 73:25
“I am realizing that the closer we get to Jesus’ return, the tougher it is to find those who want to go with you.” Stacy Strother
Remember when Elijah thought he was the only one left following the LORD?
“Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him.” 1 Kings 19:18
Jesus assured Paul that he was not alone either …. “For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.“ (Acts 18:10)
Will we follow Him, even when it costs us “friendships” with people we thought were true friends? Consider this important question which should test our hearts as to whom we love the most.
“NO MAN stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” 2 Timothy 4:16-18
Even when “no man stood” with Paul, He knew Christ was with him and He pressed toward the mark for the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14). The apostle Paul is a blessed and God-given example given to us. We are following Paul as he followed Jesus – no matter who else does or doesn’t!
Is Jesus worth it to you? Is He truly your very “FIRST love”? (Revelation 2:4-5)
Have you driven this stake in the ground yet? If not, would you consider doing so today?
The girl who invited me to the meeting where I was saved backslid shortly afterward. So, I was faced with the life decision as to where my attention – the affections of my heart – were going to be focused. And, I was forced to seek the face of the One who saved me and who I was going to serve. This was not difficult due to having that personal, intimate relationship with the LORD. – “For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.” (2 Timothy 1:12)
The man who preached when God saved my wretched soul was a false prophet.
So what? Shall this be my excuse for not serving the LORD? Shall I walk away from God for what men do? How foolish would that be!?
I used to drive an Acura (an old one), so should I go dump it in the lake since I found out that a bank robbery was performed in an Acura?
“They are without excuse.” Romans 1:20
Am I not 100% responsible before my LORD, God, and Maker for my own life?
“For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.” Romans 14:10
Judgment Day is on the way. Can you see this? On Judgment Day, there will be many who say “But LORD, the people who were supposed to be following You weren’t truly following You and when I found that out I waned, and then that caused me to backslide.” Then will He say to them “Depart from Me ye cursed and ye worker of iniquity, into everlasting fire!” (Matthew 7:21-23; 25:46)
Should I have left the LORD Jesus Christ because of what men were doing?
Should I have condemned them or prayed for them? What shall I do today toward them? Condemn or lift them up? Is God wanting them to perish or is He “not willing that any should perish”? (2 Peter 3:9)
The LORD is calling us to soundness of doctrine, soundness of heart and mind, and soundness of Christlikeness, being evermore conformed to the image of the Son of God who is coming soon (Romans 8:29).
Beloved, let us never blame the Almighty, immutable God, even Jesus Christ who is “the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” for what faulty, sinful men do! (Hebrews 13:8).
“For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” Malachi 3:6
It’s only those who are not truly seeking the face of the LORD who condemn and turn aside their hearts from the LORD when others fail. Instead of praying for them and being sorrowful for the lapse of another, they foolishly scorn, never stopping to admit their own failings, heart wanderings, and sin.
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32
Are you a restoring agent (Galatians 6:1-2) or are you a self-righteous modern Pharisee who sits in the seat of the scornful? (Psalms 1; Matthew 23)
Never forget that the self-righteous need to be saved too!
While witnessing with a pastor on the streets as a new believer, we came upon a lost man who was down and out, living on the street. When he heard the Gospel, the sinner said “There’s too many hypocrites in the church!” To this the pastor immediately responded with: “Would you rather go to church with the hypocrites OR do you want to go to hell with them?”
That pastor stated this well over 20 years ago and it stuck in my mind by God’s grace. He’s so good to us!
Never judge God for what men do!
Never judge God for what men do! Jesus taught that those who have been saved MUST “endure to the end” or they will be lost in hell forever.
“And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 10:22
“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13
Many Believers have and are Currently Suffering for Christ
YOU are not alone in your sufferings and afflictions and persecutions our LORD promised to ALL who will truly follow Him (2 Timothy 3:12). In fact, if you are not being persecuted, you’d better “examine yourself whether you are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5)
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” 1 Peter 5:7-10
Note 1 Peter 5:9 – “knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”
it’s Time to get happy if you are being persecuted for Christ OR it’s time to mourn that you aren’t!
“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:13
Being hated, shunned, and persecuted is a reason to rejoice! Jesus told us so! Listen to your Master, your LORD, your Savior:
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12
Some are so very clueless because they are not walking in the light and therefore walk in darkness. Though they are church attenders, they are out of touch and out of step – not abiding in and with Christ and therefore don’t know Him and have no fruit to prove such (John 15). These will be cast into the fire (Matthew 7:21; 25:14-30; John 15:6; 2 Peter 2:20-22, etc.). These counterfeits have not chosen to truly engage in a relationship with Christ and therefore have borne no fruit and do not qualify for the blessedness of being purged by the Potter who is the Savior – “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.” (John 15:2) They mock and scoff and wonder about the true body of Christ – that minute remnant of saints who are genuinely following their LORD and consequently suffering greatly as was foretold. They ask “Why” such and such is happening to you without ever stopping to realize that as a remnant, rare disciple of Jesus, you are actually obeying Him and doing what HE told you to go do and that’s spread His Gospel. And for such you are suffering “the afflictions of the gospel.” (2 Timothy 1:8)
Those who said a prayer to be saved in the past, attend church, confess they are saved, etc., and yet have no real walk of obedience to Jesus, have a mere “form of godliness, but denying the power” or rule and reign of Christ in their lives because they are “lovers of their own selves” and “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7)
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Articles
“Blessed are the Poor In Spirit” [podcast]

Jesus’ longest recorded message to His people stands on the foundation of the very first words our Savior uttered in this sermon on the mount.
The foundational truth of the entire sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7) is found in the very first words of our LORD when unveiling this elaborate, far-reaching, and profound message to His disciples of all ages. Here are His first words:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
Note, “poor in spirit.” Not poor financially or religiously. The two should be mutually exclusive. The Greek word translated into English as “poor” is PTOCHOS. It means pauper, beggar, poor…..desperate and spiritually impoverished. Christ looks to desperate, hungry and thirsty people who want more of Him (Is. 66:2). Their hearts pant for more of Him (Ps. 42:1-2). They deeply desire more of His presence and Word. | Sin: Man’s Core Problem
Of this pillar truth of being “poor in spirit”, F.B. Meyer says:
“Note the passive side of the blessed life. To be poor in spirit, that is, to be lowly in one’s self-estimate; to be meek, not always interested in one’s rights; to mourn for the evils of one’s own heart and for the sin and sorrow around; to hunger and thirst after Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. These dispositions do not purchase blessedness, but to cultivate them is to be blessed. On the positive side are mercy, purity, peace and willingness to suffer all things for Christ. Here is 1Co_13:1-13 anticipated!”
Of this foundational cornerstone biblical essential, William MacDonald writes:
“This first blessing is pronounced on the poor in spirit. This does not refer to natural disposition, but to one’s deliberate choice and discipline. The poor in spirit are those who acknowledge their own helplessness and rely on God’s omnipotence. They sense their spiritual need and find it supplied in the Lord. The kingdom of heaven, where self-sufficiency is no virtue and self-exaltation is a vice, belongs to such people.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
Jesus said: “without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
“The more we know Christ the more we are aware we NEED Him!” Anita Villarreal
The path to victory is humbling ourselves in repentance and announcing our own utter poverty!
“But to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2
The absence of a “poor” or desperate for more of Christ “spirit” is the clear indicator that the self-righteous person is trusting in self and not Christ.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit (desperate, beggar, pauper): for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
The phrase “poor in spirit” speaks of being in a perpetual heart posture of being desperate for the LORD, being fully dependent upon Him as a beggar, a pauper.
“We never feel Christ to be a reality, until we feel Him to be a necessity.” Austin Phelps
God allowed Judas to betray Jesus and God allows our enemies to bless us to be broken. Judas the betrayer, was instrumental in Christ being delivered to be crucified, in His body being broken and blood poured out for the sins of the world.
The betrayal of our enemies also allows us to be broken.
“I have been to this place more than once. It has only been me and Jesus! It is a hard place to be. I have said ‘Jesus if You don’t help me, I am not going to make it!’ Looking back I can see that He has shown up, every time, even though at the time I wasn’t seeing it. Jesus has saved my life!! For that I am very grateful! Thank You Jesus!” Karen Cochran
Jesus commands us to love our enemies and oh how much easier this is to do when we realize how He is using our enemies to bring us to the bless-ed place of brokenness (Matthew 5:44).
“God uses the bad things that happen to us to save, sanctify and glorify us.”
The LORD has no interest in the empty worship of men or religion which is vastly prevalent today as it was in Christ’s day.
“He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:6-9
No other sin so grieved the Savior as un-engaged religious pride and worship which actually insulated men from Him. Religious groups where this is found misrepresent Christ while claiming to be the only way to Him. No other group received more harsh and dooming words from Jesus Christ as those who were the very leaders of the religion He started 2 thousand years earlier (Judaism). The Jewish system of religion is the only religion God ever started or ever will start, and it is now obsolete. Christ came to bring all people into a personal relationship with Him and the Father and Holy Spirit (John 14:6, 17:3, 1 John 1:3, 7…).
Though it may appear outwardly to be different, today we have so much empty “worship” in the modern church world and this is why true disciples are coming out of her by the millions – “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” (Rev. 18:4). If Jesus commanded those who will be His to “Come out of her,” there must be something to come out of! The Son of God is no lunatic – He is “the Great Shepherd of the sheep,” who gave His life for His people and seeks to feed them with His pure Word and protect them (Ps. 23; Jn. 10; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 2:2).
Relevant?
In today’s everything-and-anything-goes, trying-to-be-relevant-instead-of-Christ-like, church world of ungrounded people, a myriad of things have replaced Christ and His holy Word. In the world of evangelical religion today, there is anything but the pure Word of God. Here are some of the things that have crept in and are in full blown emphasis today in the modern church:
- a thrust to be “relevant” – a cloaked word used often by the emergent/seeker-friendly movement which boils down to being just like the world in order to win the world. Win them to what?! – to aself-serving “form of godliness” that denies Jesus instead of self?
- new Bible versions which are taken from corrupt manuscripts and are weak at best (see Amos 8:11 and BIBLE VERSIONS)
- fictional books from fad authors who misrepresent the Almighty through their caricatures and have and are leading many into idolatry as a result.
- soft, spineless leaders who do not present the biblical Gospel of Jesus Christ with repentance, the holiness of God, and necessity of personal holiness, hell, and judgment to come, etc.
- an emphasis on entertainment using music and arts at the expense of declaring divine truth in its pure form
Does the LORD call His true people to be like the world (relevant), or to follow Christ and be unlike the lost? Think about this: what are the lost being won to if the church world is no different than they are?
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you (conditional), And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
Jesus Didn’t Lie to Us
In this late hour, just as He foretold numerous times, “many” are being led astray by false prophets who have come in sheep’s clothing and are deceiving “many.” (Matt. 7:15; 24:3-5, 11, 24; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:13; 4:2-4; Jude 3-4, etc.) Eternal damnation awaits (2 Pet. 3).
The prophecies of the final days are dancing on stage in our faces.
In the vast majority of modern assemblies of “worship,” Jesus is no longer tended to or bothered with, much less elevated as the Creator, Redeemer, and “Head of the body.”(Col. 1:15-18; 2:18-19) No, instead, men and women who having “itching ears” are making popular false prophets who tell them what their sinful hearts desire to hear (2 Tim. 4:2-5).
Why should we be surprised? This was all foretold. The adulterous emphasis in the apostate church world, perpetrated by wolves who wear sheep’s clothing, is clearly enumerated as it is shown in resume’ form in 2 Timothy 3:1-7. – They are leading astray those who are just like themselves – “lovers of their own selves…lovers of pleasures MORE than lovers of God…”
Christ told us differently. Who are you following? Jesus said: “If ANY (that includes you)man will come after me, let him DENY himself, and take up his cross daily (die), and follow ME. For whosoever will save (preserve) his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it….So likewise, WHOSOEVER he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” (Lk. 9:23-24; 14:33) These are the very words of the Alpha and Omega – when is the last time your pastor preached these words?
Instead of laid down lives, studying His Word to know and find out more about Him, self-serving and idolatrous emphasis bombard the people as they are constantly asserted by false leaders. “How to Get Rich,” “How to Live a More Fulfilled Life,” “How to Use God’s Word to get what YOU Want,” “12 Steps to a Better Life,” “How to have Better Relationships,” “How to Have Your Best Life Now,” “How to get Your Miracle from God,” “7 Keys to a New You,” “How to be a better Husband/Wife/Father/Mother,” “How to Get More for ME, Me, Me!!!,” etc. To the un-discerning eye, these things may seem harmless, but they are deadly. A man-centered gospel is a false, soul-damning heresy (Gal. 1:6-10; 2 Pet. 2:1-3). One can get a miracle, become a better wife or daddy, learn conflict resolution, read polluted fad “Christian” books, and use principles to get some self-help, and still die and go to hell. God is calling His people to become more intimate with Him, to repent of our sins, to know Him, to turn fully to Him, to become His disciples, and all else will follow (2 Chron. 7:14; Matt. 6:33; Jn. 17:3).
Jesus Christ is the Supreme God and Divine Creator of All that Is – the Whole Universe
“For by him (Christ) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” Colossians 1:16-17
Whenever and wherever the living and eternal Word, the divine Person of Jesus Christ, is NOT being sought after, studied, emphasized, worshipped, upheld, elevated, adored, praised, feared, and obeyed, false teachers are the leaders (Col. 1-2). Walking in these things nurtures saints and fosters in them a heart after God (Acts 13:22). Read Colossians 1-2 closely and prayerfully.
We have but a mere “form of godliness” if we have not presently chosen to crave more of Jesus, crying from our hearts and mouths – “He MUST increase, but I MUST decrease.”(Jn. 3:3; 2 Tim. 3:5) One can be actively involved in a local church environment while “ever learning,” and yet “never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Tim. 3:1-7) All worship that does not elevate the Person of Christ is evil idolatry. Spiritual adultery is being spread in the hearts of men wherever Jesus Christ is not being peered into, loved, obeyed, and sought after with a whole heart! Any and all spiritual activity that does not begin and end with Jesus Christ is unadulterated idolatry. – “Thou shalt have NO other gods before me.” (Exod. 20:3)
Jesus is the Only Head of His True Body
“In whom (Christ) are hid ALL the treasures of wisdom and knowledge…As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. BEWARE lest ANY man spoil (ruin) you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in HIM, which is the head of all principality and power…Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:3, 6-10, 18-19
It’s not how it makes us feel friend – it’s whether or not its biblical that matters! God forgive our sins! It’s time to repent, elevate Jesus Christ, and die to self that Christ might reign gloriously. – “Ye are dead and your life is hid with Christ in God.” (Col. 3:3) The kingdom of God is all about Jesus, not me or you or any other mere man. IF in fact you are going to be apart of His eternal kingdom, you must die – if you don’t He won’t live in you and you will not be with Him eternally. – “they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Gal. 5:24) You must suffer the death of your personal will and self-life or you will not be an overcomer (Rev. 2-3). You will consequently die and go to hell with all other rebels (Rom. 6; 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; 1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1).
Embracing the Cross
The overcoming disciple must cling to that old rugged cross. He must die the death that Christ ordained Him to die and set the example for us to behold – “not my will, but thine, be done.” (Lk. 22:42) He must of necessity resist the ease of the modern church program which makes church attendees instead of making disciples. He must possess a love for divine truth as he refuses to buy into the un-biblical falsity of modern religionist who rob Christ of His due glory. He must “buy the truth and sell it not.” (Prov. 23:23)
Only those who choose to daily die to self that Christ – the Greater One – might reign in their mortal bodies, will escape the horrific times to come where many are promised to fall away (Matt. 24:10-13, 24; 2 Thess. 2:1-12; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:1-7; 4:2-4).
Listen closely to what Jesus said concerning being ready to meet Him as we face these final days in which we now live:
“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:33-36
The from moral coward runs from the cross which represents Christ’s sacrifice. He flees the life of a true disciple which demands laying down one’s own way, will, and life to love Jesus. He runs to the entertainment and the feeling of ease and would rather be told things that demand no repentance or sacrifice. He loves the wolves who don sheep’s clothing and their smooth messages (2 Tim. 4:3-4). This is the false form of Christianity (completely foreign to Scripture) that has lulled him to sleep in the first place. He denies Christ instead of self and His command for us to die to the self life. No, instead he relishes the temporal pleasures of this fleeting life. Like Esau, he is giving up his eternal birthright (Heaven) for a temporary fix (bowl of soup).
If you are going to be with Jesus, you must at once RUN from any leader who is not preaching the cross – he isn’t even saved (1 Cor. 1:18; Phil. 3:17-18). He’s an imposter. He’s part of the diabolical conspiracy against the LORD Almighty. He’s a counterfeit – in league with those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Phil. 3:18)
First, make sure you are coming to the LORD daily in prayer and worship and His Precepts. When gathering with other believers, bring a heart that is hungering for more of Jesus.
Any “church attendance” or “worship” that is not producing in your heart a desperate hunger and thirst for more of Jesus Christ, is completely misguided and being led by a person who has either never been saved or is backslidden! Run beloved, run for your life! Find true remnant disciples and flourish in worshipping the one true God, holding fast to His holy Word. Cease to further the cause of wolf ministries! Stop (by your attendance) endorsing and supporting with your finances ministries that are leading people away from Jesus instead of to Him!
Jesus said:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
In these precious words recorded in Matthew 5:3, the Master was saying that those who are desperately impoverished in their hearts, realizing their utter need for Him are “blessed.” Undue loyalty to the organizations and futile programs of mere men invariably taint and hinder the personal relationship He made us to experience with Him. LORD, please bless us to know and love You and You alone! We will have “no other gods before You.” (Exodus 20:3-4)
In Genesis 32 we read of Jacob wrestling with God. The LORD broke Jacob and as a result a “poor in spirit” disposition possessed him…
“I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant.” Genesis 32:10
Without a heart after God, all we have is a mere “form of godliness.” (Acts 13:22; 2 Timothy 3:5)
PRAYER: LORD, with deep resolve, I this moment make the obedient decision to come out of the antichrist, out of the apostate religious system where mere men, machinery, masters degrees, and programs are elevated in place of You! This moment I return to You O LORD and submit my spirit and whole being into Your holy and perfect hands! I love You LORD Jesus. Please forgive my sin of idolatry and spiritual adultery and fill me with Your Holy Spirit afresh. Please cleanse me by Your blood right now LORD. Please send me forth and make my life a fruitful field to Your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Here’s how the blessing of knowing Him happens. Am I that weary and thirsty traveler in the hot, dry desert, panting after that glass of cold water laid before me? In other words, am I currently and personally seeking the LORD with outright abandonment and absolute desperation?
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for THEY shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Q Who did Christ say were “blessed”?
A “they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness”
Q Who did Christ promise would “be filled”?
A “they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness”
One must “hunger and thirst” after the LORD, after His righteousness, in order to be “filled.”
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Anyone who claims to be a disciple of Jesus and does not choose to have a heart after the LORD like David, does not “hunger and thirst after righteousness”, has nothing but dead religion, is lukewarm, and is going to be rejected from Christ unless he repents (Revelation 3:15-16).
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?” Psalms 42:1-2
“This psalm, Psalm 42, is a desperate plea to know God deeper. There’s a deep hunger in our inner most parts of our being. I ask You Jesus to come and clean me so You can then fill me in my inner most places that I don’t yet know You. Thank You Jesus because I know You will hear my prayer.” Karen Cochran
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, please forgive me for the sin of not seeking You with a whole heart, for being self-absorbed and deceived. I utterly need You with every fiber of my being – every moment. You made me, died for and came and found and saved me while I was in my sin. Please forgive me for allowing the cares of this world, deceitfulness of temporal riches, lust for things other than You, and religion, consume me because I wasn’t seeking and being filled with more of You. I begin this moment to set my heart affections upon You alone and find my whole identity and purpose in You. May Your presence in me increase as You fill me afresh with Your Holy Ghost. Please increase in me Jesus and I choose to decrease, purging all that does not belong to You. I love You my LORD Jesus Christ. Praise Your holy name forevermore.
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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. 18 But 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.
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Articles
Is Hell Forever or Temporal? [podcast]

The original Gospel prominently includes the judgment of hell coming to every person who dies on sin (Mark 9:43-49, etc.). EVERY preacher not preaching hell is a false prophet who is preaching “another gospel” and is “accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9) Jesus and His holy apostles taught it and there’s no excuse for not doing the same. Repent now self-serving coward.
Are Hell and the Lake of Fire Eternal or Temporal?
As an eternal memorial of the holiness of God, the pit of hell will be an open, visible display of what happens to those who do things their own way instead of living in relationship to their just Maker.
“And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die (consciousness never ceases), neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.” Isaiah 66:24
Anyone who wonders why God is going to damn all rebels to hell does not understand or begin to appreciate the depths of the depravity of man in the eyes of a holy God nor does He begin to understand the ultimate sacrifice of the Son of God.
“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation.” Hebrews 2:3
PRAYER: Holy Father, in Jesus’ name, help us preach hell so hot that those separated from you can feel the flames and smell the smoke! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
MAY God bless us to preach hell so hot that sinners can feel the flames and smell the smoke!!!!
“True and righteous are thy judgments”
You think God is harsh, unjust? You going to sit there and arrogantly judge the Almighty? Humble yourself. He’s super merciful and it’s proven in that we – you and I – are not in hell! WE’VE LIED, STOLEN, USED HIS HOLY NAME IN VAIN, ETC.
“And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS ARE HIS JUDGMENTS.” Revelation 16:7
Judgment Day nears…. Yet, because God is “not willing that ANY” of us “should perish” we have this time, today, to repent and make things right with Him, to settle out of court – before it’s too late (2 Pet 3:9). He wants to drop all the charges you racked up against yourself. Making Peace with God – before it’s too late.
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8
It’s all fun and games until you die and go to hell – to be forever incarcerated in the lake of fire, consciously tormented world without end.
You know you are dealing with an antichrist cult when they deny eternal conscious suffering – NEVER ending! How do we now this? Great question….. keep reading! Listen to the podcast here above.
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with EVERLASTING destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10
v. 9 The fact that “destruction” is spoken of here as “everlasting” clearly proves that annihilation is a lie. The Greek word for “destruction” is olethros ol’-eth-ros and means to ruin. This is like the biblical word “perish” where it refers to being ruined or spoiled and not annihilated or not completely done away with. Again, the term “everlasting destruction” means that this destruction in hell which will be experienced by all who die in sin instead of in Christ, will last for ever – will be “EVERlasting.”
“Who shall be punished with EVERLASTING destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;” 2 Thessalonians 1:9
Jesus warns us to fear God who is able to send us to hell:
“And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.” Luke 12:4-5
What did Jesus teach about eternal punishment? In Mark 9, Jesus repeatedly uses the term – “their worm dieth not” – “worm” here is an idiom for consciousness which He says will never end. Lost souls will suffer unending torment. Annihilation is a lie. Here Jesus is warning us to get rid of all sin lest we be cast into hell, separated eternally from He who is “Holy, holy, holy” and commanded us to “Be ye holy; for I am holy” (Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Revelation 4:8).
“And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into THE FIRE THAT NEVER SHALL BE QUENCHED: 44 Where THEIR WORM (consciousness) DIETH NOT, and the fire is not quenched. 45 And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into THE FIRE THAT NEVER SHALL BE QUENCHED: 46 Where THEIR WORM (conscious feelings) DIETH NOT, and THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED. 47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: 48 Where THEIR WORM DIETH NOT, and THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED. 49 For every one shall be salted with fire (preserved in suffering), and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.” Mark 9:43-49
“Salted with fire” refers to preservation. This further exposes the annihilation lie. Notice how these cultists are amateurishly obvious in their selective, seductive theology as they seek to do away with the plainly stated eternal divine retribution that is coming on all wicked souls. Is salt not obviously a preservative? Well, is Jesus not confirming and reiterating the rest of what He is saying here with the obvious truth that all sacrifices in hell will be salted to preserve them from being annihilated so they can be tormented consciously as a just reward for rejecting the very precious blood of Jesus? The Father didn’t send His only begotten Son to die in vain.
HELL IS FOREVER AND SO IS THE CONSCIOUSNESS OF EVERY OCCUPANT OF HELL. They will never cease to feel the horrific pain.
In light of this Mark 9 passage, Jesus, the only Savior, preached hell and commanded His people to preach hell in order to warn men to not go there. Hell is the justice of a holy God and is a vital component of the original Gospel message preached by Jesus and is a manifestation of God’s love. Only wolves in sheep’s clothing leave it out of their messages!
“You only live once” on earth but you will live eternally in Heaven or hell. By default, as being fully guilty, you are going to hell as a sinner to pay for your own sins – unless you repent and receive Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. … 13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:9-10, 13
From an eternal perspective, no person who dies and goes to hell is a success but rather a total failure, a rebel who will never escape the conscious torment of the domain of the damned. Are you born again and presently abiding in Christ? If not, the flames of eternal damnation will feed upon your soul forever. Repent now sinner and believe on the LORD Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins – before it’s too late.
Unleash Heaven’s holy fury on sin by preaching the consequence of dying in sin – eternal hell!
False teachers also ignore the simple idiom Jesus uses here in saying that “their worm dieth NOT.” This refers to their consciousness which makes sense.
This passage begs the question of Why O Why would the Son of God give such a severe warning if the penalty for violating it weren’t so severe and eternal? That is, if those who die without Christ are just going to be annihilated? After all, Jesus tells us here that it would be better, that is more profitable, to literally cut off our hand, to cut off our foot, and to even pluck out our eye if these members cause us to violate the holiness of God.
This message demonstrates as an example, that no Greek or Hebrew is needed and is certainly not the main rule of interpretation. We must take God’s preserved Word for what it clearly states in our own language, as we compile, compound, put together Scripture with Scripture (Isaiah 28:16; 1 Corinthians 2:13). This is the method of priority in apprehending truth, the highest, stated rule of interpreting truth.
If conscious suffering in hell isn’t unending, the Son of God is a liar. Only cults teach this temporal punishment heresy. When you hear someone teach such, you know he’s an agent of Satan.
Heavenly Father, please grant to Your children an eternal perspective, in Jesus’ name. Amen dear LORD.
Damned sinners of the past are “Set forth for an example” …. “Eternal Fire”
“Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of ETERNAL FIRE.” Jude 7
- “suffering”
- “vengeance”
- “ETERNAL (unending) fire”
3 Things in Mark 9:42-49 that Jesus says to Establish that Eternal Suffering is Never Ending
- “their worm (consciousness) dieth not”
- “the fire that NEVER shall be quenched”
- “every one shall be salted with fire”
“ETERNAL judgment” is one of the six foundational truths of Christ according to Hebrews 6:2. We see the LORD Jesus using the term “ETERNAL damnation” as recorded in Mark 3:29.
“shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever” (Revelation 20:10)
According to Revelation 20, at the Great White Throne Judgment of the wicked, death and hell shall be cast into the lake of fire.
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:10-15
In Revelation 20:10 above, the Bible assures that those tormented in hell “shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”
Hell is the righteous judgment of the one true and holy God and awaits all who are not 100% in Christ when they die.
Concerning the unrepentant wicked, David prayed: “Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them” (Psalms 55:15). May the flames of eternal damnation envelop the unrepentant enemies of God as He said they would (Psalms 9:16-17).
Of all who take the mark of the beast, sealing their eternal doom with all other unrepentant souls, the Bible states:
“The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Revelation 14:10-13
Notice v11 – “And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up FOR EVER AND EVER: and they have no rest day nor night” … this is not someone who ceases to exist but rather someone who is preserved to be consciously tormented, to be “salted with fire” (preserved in suffering).
Those who use dishonest means to come to the conclusion that the suffering in hell of the wicked will ever end, do so because they are sensual, determining what they believe based on their own feelings. This seems to reveal that they serve the god of self and not the Savior who was crystal clear on this matter.
The Bible never hints that hell and the lake of fire (which it will be cast into) are temporary. Throughout Scripture they are revealed to be eternal in their duration.
Wolves across the globe, seek to explain away the complete and crystal clear meaning from God’s Word concerning the conscious everlasting torment that awaits all who leave this earth outside of a born again, abiding relationship with the one Redeemer, Jesus Christ. They seek to take away from God’s Word which, by itself, brings the plagues of Revelation; including the lake of fire (Revelation 20:11-15). They do as they are led by their father the devil who did the same thing to the first man and woman. Satan did this by adding one 3-letter word to the Word of God. God told the man that if he sinned, “Thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17). Satan then told the woman “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4). In other words, the enemy of our souls told the woman that she would not suffer consequences for sinning against God. Yet, the LORD kept His Word and forced the man and woman out of His presence and pronounced many curses on them. Satan still seeks to diminish the severity of the divine warning of coming judgment. Look at this sample of what the Bible says lies just ahead for all who die outside of Christ – in sin:
In light of the fact that Christ-denying rebels seek to soften the blow and thereby lower the defense against sin, let’s look at a menu of the eternal consequences for dying in sin:
- A place of complete consciousness (all feelings)………..…Luke 16:25
- Torment with fire and brimstone……………………….……Rev. 14:10
- Weeping and gnashing of teeth…………………….………..Matt. 8:12
- A place of eternal remorse (devastating regret)……….……Luke 16:25
- A place of torments………………………………………….Luke 16:23
- No rest day or night forever (eternal misery)……….……….Rev. 14:11
- A furnace of fire with wailing………………….………..….Matt. 13:42
- A place of everlasting burnings………………..…………..Isaiah 33:14
- A lake (ocean) of fire…………………………….………….Rev. 20:15
- Unquenchable fire (ferocious flames)……………….………Mark 9:45
- Outer darkness (blinding loneliness)……………………….Matt. 22:13
- No 2nd chance to escape (utter hopelessness)…….…..……..Luke 16:26
- A place of sorrows (seething remorse and despair)…………….Ps. 18:5
- A place of everlasting destruction………………………….2 Thess. 1:9
“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8
Questions answered concerning where the lost soul goes at the moment of death:
Many are in hell right now. Judgment begins at the moment one dies (Luke 16:19-31; Hebrews 9:27). The unregenerate dead go to the rightful place they deserve as divinely just judgment is exacted upon them at the instant they die (Luke 16:19-31). Read these passages closely: Luke 16:19-31; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Philippians 1:20-23; Revelation 22:11. At the Great White Throne judgment, God will dredge up from hell all who died in sin and then cast them into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:11-15).
Annihilation heretics today try to make “death” and “perish” mean to no longer exist, to cease to exist. They don’t understand that “death” means separation. According to the whole and clear counsel of Holy Scripture, “death” means separation from God eternally in hell. Instead of looking objectively at the whole of what Scripture teaches, they make the error of hyper-defining certain words to fit this heresy.
“For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” James 2:26
Notice: “the body without the spirit is dead” … at death the body and spirit separate. The spirit goes to glory or hell immediately upon death – when the spirit leaves the temporal earthly body.
In Luke 16:19-31, Jesus speaks of a “CERTAIN MAN” which casts doubt upon this being a parable. Either way, Jesus is teaching and the Son of God speaks of one man who died and went to a place of comfort while the other went to a place of torment.
“For as the body without the spirit is dead – There can be no more a genuine faith without good works, than there can be a living human body without a soul.” Adam Clarke
“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8
In the verse above, the apostle Paul clearly conveys that when he leaves his body at death, he will be “present with the Lord.” Now, notice below how Paul speaks of the certainty of being “with Christ” when he departs from his earthly body at death.
“For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:” Philippians 1:23
A just God must have a penalty for sin. A loving God paid the ultimate price for that sin.
We owe a debt we cannot pay – He paid a debt He did not owe.
“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:15-17
In eternity, do you want to be glad you sought the LORD during your days on earth or regret in remorse that you refused to?
Peace with God | More on Hell here
SHOULD “GEHENNA” BE TRANSLATED “HELL”?
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