Is Todd Bentley a False Prophet? –
Is Lakeland a False Revival?
“Strong Delusion”
2 Thess. 2:11
Someone might say: “How can you imply that Todd Bentley is a false prophet?!” My reply: Because I can read. Can you read? Have you and are you daily searching the Holy Scriptures? (Jn. 5:39; Acts 17:11) If not, you have no discernment and are ultimately going to be “ashamed.” (2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 5:11-14). Read God’s Word and repent of trusting men and not Him alone – “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart…” (Prov. 3:5-6) – “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” (Exod. 20:3)
Any thrill-seeker who does not put this Lakeland “revival” to the biblical acid-test is in disobedience to the Almighty who instructed us to “believe not every spirit, but try (test) the spirits whether they are of God: because MANY false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1 Jn. 4:1)
Bentley seldom uses Scripture which alone makes him completely false – “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isa. 8:20; Ezek. 3:4; 2 Tim. 2:16-17; 1 Pet. 4:11)
Certainly, when Scripture is seldom mentioned, it will never be “Deny yourself, take up your cross daily and follow Jesus” or that God is holy and hell is coming to all the unsaved.
I want to warn those who would support in any way or even be so brazen as to defend this deceiver, that you are going to answer to the LORD and be partaker of his evil deeds (Ezek. 14:1-; Hos. 4:9; 2 Jn. 7-11). Also, if you do repent and come out of this deception, you are going to be very embarrassed personally for having endorsed this wolf.
The Bible instructs us to “buy the truth, and sell it not” and to “hate every false way.” (Prov. 23:23; Ps. 97:10; 119:104; 128).
The frivolity/lightness by which he operates also identifies Bentley as a false prophet.
“There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Romans 3:18
God’s people, in their backslidden and rebellious state, were divorced by Him for their lightness toward Him (Jer. 3:8-11).
Todd Bentley’s false visions, dreams, and lightness (instead of fear) toward the LORD are telltale signs that he is false:
“Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:32
Did you catch that last part of this verse? – “they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.” There will be no good fruit from this “revival” because of Bentley, yet perhaps people are being healed because of their own faith, or maybe there are no authentic, verifiable healings? In fact, beware because lying signs and wonders are connected to deception in 2 Thessalonians 2:
“Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
As we read in Jeremiah 16 (below), some are set in their hearts to shun His holy light of truth and go on in the lie. To them will be sent a “strong delusion” by God Himself:
“Also I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken. Therefore hear, ye nations, and know, O congregation, what is among them. Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.” Jeremiah 16:17-19
Bentley grossly over emphasizes angels and even leads people to chant for angels to invade the meetings. Fallen angels (demons) oblige. The Heavenly Father/God’s Word tells us that He has spoken unto us in these days by His Son and that it is in His Son (not angels) that He is “well pleased.”
“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.” Hebrews 1:1-2
“And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Mark 1:11
BEWARE: We are warned about those who do not uphold Jesus Christ but rather direct people to look to and worship angels:
“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 2:18-19
It is being said that the angel that enables Todd Bentley’s ministry is the same angel as enabled the ministry and false teachings of William Branham in the 1940’s. William Branham began the “Latter Rain” movement out of which much of the dominionism theology comes today through a myriad of Word of faith deceivers.
The angel that visits Bentley’s meetings is a fallen angel. He is an angel for sure and he is either Satan or one of his fallen angels (1/3 departed from God). Jesus Christ, the nail-scarred, risen Savior is not glorified but rather the angel. There is no reconciliation with this angel showing up and the ministry of Christ and His apostles. Also, Todd Bentley calls the angel “Emma-O” and yet there is no mention of a female angel in the Bible. The Bible reveals Gabriel, Michael, and Lucifer…all male angels. Note that Bentley (the one selling this whole bag of goods) is speaking here. He acts like he hears God as natural as one breathes. If so, why didn’t John, Paul, Peter, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Moses, or David hear God that clearly? Has the LORD changed? – “I am the LORD, I change not.” (Mal. 3:6) Is Bentley closer to the Almighty than these men whom we know walked with the LORD? Pfftttt He’s not even saved. Also, what happened when John saw the LORD? What was his reaction? He fell to the ground as one who was dead (Rev. 1:17). Bentley speaks as if he has this hearing ear and life that is always being visited by the Almighty…daily. Hardly. He is selling the crowd with these made-up stories. Not even the prophets and apostles mentioned above had this kind of relationship with the LORD. They certainly didn’t make common (profane) the LORD by acting as if He was their chum buddy. Can’t we see that he is making naïve people believe this so they will follow him and believe he is some great man of God? It’s a mere marketing scheme. Bentley is a circus conductor. He knows the formula for “revival” that gathers a crowd and that includes creating a phenomenon that makes it look like something is happening and act as if “God” is moving by doing physical things and psycho-suggestively seducing people to believe something is actually happening.
As we witness in the book of Acts, the apostles of Jesus “preached Christ” and gave glory to Him alone and it was in His holy name that devils were cast out and miracles were wrought by the LORD – not through an angel (Acts 3:16; 8:5; 9:20). Obviously the angel that accompanies Bentley is Satan, the fallen angel or one of the (one-third) angels that departed from God with him (Ezek. 28; Rev. 12).
There are gaping holes in his claims. For example: EVERYthing he is doing is being filmed and yet not 1 (not even one) of the numerous people he is claiming to have raised from the dead is on film. Not one resurrection has been validated by any independent organization. How interesting. Bentley and his marketing team claim that thousands have been saved through his ministry. How are people being brought to repentance and led to Christ when he doesn’t even preach the Word? Who/what is he leading them to? Pandemonium? This guy is the most obvious false prophet I think I have ever seen. There are many other things that reveal him as counterfeit.
Psychosomatic suggestion occurs when people’s minds are induced with an idea or notion and they are purposely conditioned in a certain direction or course of thinking. The whole atmosphere, tone, and ambiance of the Lakeland “revival” has been orchestrated to bring the desired results of its perpetrators. The attendees have not idea what planning has gone into those meetings. They think it is God. The place is charged with a type of hypnotic suggestion. From the tone of Bentley’s voice to the supposed claims and testimonials of miracles, to the false prophecies and words, to the well-trained stage hands, etc., all is intentionally set forth to suggest that something is really happening.
Like most so-called revivals today, the hypish marketing is a mere sales pitch to get people to come – and they do, by the thousands. Basically nearly any circus act that comes to town has an audience. People are so void of truth from personal elevation of Jesus Christ, denial of self, and study of God’s Word, that they are susceptible to any clown who comes on the scene with a new circus act, claiming it is of God.
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” Ephesians 4:14-15
That’s all these “revivals” are – The architects create a phenomenon and make it look like things are really happening and the self-seeking and clueless flock. It’s a simple formula and hucksters know it – perhaps they are literal Satanists.
- “False teachings always point Christians to man, man made organizations, denominations, self, material things of this world, and how to please men. Many times false doctrines have some element of truth in them but the end result is always deception. Many times false doctrines might seem to use Scriptures as their basis but in many cases, scriptures are twisted so as to promote a tradition or false teaching…so, watch out.”
http://pjmiller.wordpress.com/2007/11/25/consequences-of-false-doctrines-on-a-christian/
Are things beginning to come clear as to what our LORD warned us was coming in the final days of this age?
“And MANY false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive MANY…For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Matthew 24:11, 24
The names of these conferences always include the words “signs and wonders” to draw sign seekers, not Savior seekers (Truth seekers). Truth seekers know better. They are not blinded by their lack of seeking God and diligently studying His Word and therefore will not be ashamed or embarrassed in the end (2 Tim. 2:15).
What did Jesus say concerning those who seek signs and not Him? – “But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it…” (Matt. 12:39)
Jesus commanded His people to go forth and preach the Gospel to every creature and THEN signs and wonders would follow – The LORD Himself would confirm His Word (Mk. 16:15-20). But Todd Bentley is not preaching the Word, so who is it that is doing the signs and wonders (if any) that are being done in these crowds of sign seekers who reject the truth? – “Even him, whose coming is after the working of SATAN with all power and signs and lying wonders…” (2 Thess. 2:9-12)
“And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles…” Revelation 16:13-14
After listening to and watching Todd Bentley for several hours, the discerning disciple will perhaps find that he is simply telling stories. They are preposterous. His stories are endless and the crowd just laughs and goes along with anything he says because of the supposed signs and wonders he is doing. It seems that the gullible just drink in anything that he says while completely ignoring the words of the One they claim to serve. How foolish.
“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:17-18
To deceive some people, all a person has to do is have a stage act and it doesn’t even have to be a good one. All that is needed to gain a large following and draw international attention, is to have something to say and sound like you know what they are talking about. It’s just that simple in these last days because most “Christian” leaders are not right with God and therefore haven’t taught people to study to show their own selves approved unto God and test every spirit and doctrine against God’s Word (Acts 17:11; Eph. 4:11-14; 1 Jn. 4:1).
Look around you at the flakes who show up to see Bentley. No offense meant. The bottom line is that most people do not want to daily walk with Jesus by denying themselves, taking up the cross and following Him in a real way. So, they run to the next Mr. wonderful who claims that “God” is moving to get that quick fix to make up for their own personal rebellion and disobedience. Instead of getting the Holy Spirit, they get devils (2 Thess. 2:9-12). Quick fixes that are dependent on a mere man just isn’t how the LORD works. He also doesn’t bandaid our rebellion. We can’t shortcut the simple program He set up for us to love and learn of Him as we walk with Him through times of great joy and times of great tribulation and suffering and persecutions as He is conforming us to His holy image (Rom. 1:19; 1 Pet. 4:1-2; 12-13; 5:10, etc.).
This whole movement, like Brownsville and Toronto, is guided and controlled by subjective experiences and very bizarre ones at that. This foolishness is not reconcilable with biblical Christianity which is founded upon truth and doing it (Jn. 8:31-32; 17:17). The clowns who run these circuses pretend to be able to control or turn on and off the very Holy Spirit of God at any time THEY so desire. The LORD is not in control but rather THEY are. Their anthem is that of Satan and all rebels – “Not Thy will but rather MINE be done!” These men are utterly deluded. They pretend to have “faith” to “go up” to Heaven any time they so desire.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1
Being gullible is a curse, not a blessing – “The simple (gullible, naïve) believeth every word: but the prudent (wise) man looketh well to his going.” (Prov. 14:15)
They say things like “The things of the Spirit cannot be understood by the natural man.” BUT, they refuse to mention that the Holy Spirit will NEVER contradict what He gave us in His written Word – LOGOS (1 Cor. 14:33; 2 Tim. 3:16). These deceivers speak of being moved past the written Word to the “rhema word.” In this they are “beguiling unstable souls” who are not grounded in the LORD via His Word (Col. 2:6-10; 2 Pet. 2:14). The written Word is given by inspiration of the Holy Ghost and more authoritative than God the Father’s voice speaking audibly from Heaven (2 Pet. 1:16-21). – “Let God be true and every man a liar.” (Rom. 3:4)
“Beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.” 2 Peter 3:17
I believe it is highly possible that Bentley is a warlock and so are the other false prophets/apostles who have endorsed him. They are channelers of demons and have converged upon the gullible masses. Listen in these videos to the hideous laughter Bentley and others belch out. It sounds more than human as they laugh mockingly at how gullible people are to buy their bag of goods which they know is empty. This writer believes that this whole movement is a well-organized, premeditated infiltration being perpetrated by warlocks and witches. Some of the witches are out in the audiences channeling demons into those services.
While watching the videos, one will notice that Bentley is always forecasting and planting seeds about other nations to go before him in order to export or project this same demonic revival upon the souls of the people in those nations.
In these false revivals, it’s all about suggestion, posturing, and gimmicks. That’s why he has to say “fire, fire, fire…..” and “angels, angels, angels…” He is building people up into a frenzy and it is working. The power of pyscho-sematic (?) suggestion is one of the tricks he is using. Only those who study and know God’s Word will escape the “MANY false prophets” coming on the scene using Christ’s name to propagate these delusions and falsehoods (Matt. 24:5, 11, 24). Jesus is coming – ready or not!
The story telling clown has gimmick after gimmick that the naive buy wholesale without question….“For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.”(Rom. 16:18) – the very verse before this tells us that deceivers like Todd Bentley are to be marked/exposed and not followed and supported.
2 Timothy 4:3-4 says:
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables (stories).”
People who refuse to seek God in His Word to know Him, are being turned over to Bentley’s “fables.” Bentley is anything but a true preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He bears no resemblance of a godly man. This all just brings to focus of what the Holy Spirit forewarned us would be going on in the final days of this age before Christ’s return – people are so void of biblical truth in their personal lives and hearts that deeply hunger and thirst to know Jesus, that they look for something physical and so anyone who says something physical (sign, wonder, dream, vision, story) is happening in their ministry, becomes an overnight sensation.
Notice that Bentley’s endless stream of preposterous stories/fables are not on video – the actual event is never on video – because they never happened. Wake up! Neither are any of the people he claims to have raised from the dead on video. This is why he has to tell the story – because they never happened! How gullible can we be!?
QUESTION: Where in the Bible do we have even the slightest resemblance of kicking someone in the face or God telling a man of God to close line someone? Anyone who refuses to become a Berean believer is going to be led astray and ultimately damned –
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11)
2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
“Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
They speak of “releasing the glory of God” as if God Almighty is being controlled by them. How arrogant!
The bottom line is that so many people just want to travel to some place and get an impartation of something because they are too lazy to seek God for it themselves. God only anoints those who obey Him (Acts 5:32). Disobedient people do not want to obey the LORD by denying themselves, taking up their crosses and following Jesus in a real way daily (Lk. 9:23-24). No, instead they want to go to a false prophet, believing he has an “anointing” to impart to them, not realizing that demons are being released into their lives.
Now, watch these videos below: Could it be that witches and warlocks (knowingly) have descended upon what is called “revival,” since there are so many gullible people willing to jump, shout, hooray, and travel hundreds and even thousands of miles to a sign-seeking thrill? Watch those who are laughing hideously. Seems to me they are laughing AT the naive who have gathered to receive of their lord Satan, captured by their own unwillingness to study, learn, and discern truth from error (1 Jn. 4:1). Where and how is Jesus Christ being glorified through this? Where is this reconcilable with Scripture and the true moving of the LORD? What is the point of just laughing and being intoxicated? Is it not a selfish thing? Where do we see such senseless nonsense in the New Testament Church in the Scriptures? If you are going to defend this, the burden of proof is upon you to produces several Bible references to what is transpiring in Lakeland (2 Cor. 13:2). Where are the changed hearts and lives? Where is the call to repent and lay down one’s life, be water baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost? (Acts 1:4-8; 2:1-4, 38-39; 19:1-6, etc.). Is sin being exposed? (Isa. 58:1; Lam. 2:14; Acts 3:1-26; Gal. 5:19-21) If there are true signs and wonders, where is the associated preaching of the truth as seen throughout Acts? Where is the fruit of the Holy Spirit being produced, calling and manifesting the love and holiness of God? Where is the witness to the world? (Acts 1:8)
NAR Delusion! Watch the video ordination of Todd Bentley by all the top NAR Warlocks
EXPOSE’ LINKS: Watch these and notice that as in any false revival meeting, the more foolish the stage actor becomes by falling over, acting like an animal, telling preposterous stories, chanting, or laughing hideously, the more the crowd responds positively as if that indicates that God is moving? How absurd! When the LORD moves people to repentance for their wickedness, then you have revival – but not until then. He is “holy, holy, holy.” (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8) Also, notice that Bentley and some of the other people have to shake unnaturally to try to make people think that God is somehow working big in their lives – this is more marketing…it is suggestive and is supposed to be proof that THEY are super special, that something is really happening, and those who aren’t moved to shaking aren’t. Don’t be fooled by these gimmick “revivals.”
False Revival
David Wilkerson on this False Revival – http://pjmiller.wordpress.com/2008/07/03/i-cant-laugh-when-they-make-the-holy-ghost-look-like-a-fool/
Todd Bentley’s Occultic Tatoos http://www.toddbentley.org/todd-bentley.htm (these tatoos were done recently)
Exposing Todd Bentley: Part 2
Todd Bentley Videos http://www.toddbentley.org/todd-bentley-videos.htm
Wrestle Mania with Todd Bentley!!!
http://earthless.wordpress.com/2008/05/21/todd-bentley-lakeland-revival/#comment-423
Signs and Wonders and the Lakeland Revival – Part 2
Lakeland/Bentley Tribal Dance
The Luminous Vibrating Todd Bentley (more preposterous stories)
Aping the Practices of Pagan Spirituality
In this next video, you will see several name brand, known false prophets getting on the bandwagon since Bentley is now so popular. Was his “commissioning” for his sake or for their advantage to be associated with this and get free publicity? Also, since when do we see a woman in the Bible laying hands on and sending forth a minister? A woman can’t even be an elder (1 Tim. 3:2). Notice that there is no admonition whatsoever. Watch what is spoken over Bentley in these videos. You will notice (from the other warlocks) that the whole thrust of Satan here is to get rid of the true Gospel of Jesus Christ and to replace it with something “new” and send it into the nations. Oh this whole movement is not new, it is a continuation of the manifest sons of God movement which began with William Branham and has been continued through false prophets like Benny Hinn, etc. It is “new” only in the sense that the enemy of souls wants to replace God’s Word and the true moving of His Holy Spirit which always brings a revelation of God’s holiness, the need for repentance, salvation, water baptism, the in-filling of the Holy Spirit and discipleship (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 1-3, etc.). According to Hebrews 13:8, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, so we know His Great Commission hasn’t changed and is still being carried out by those who are true to Him in this last hour. Now watch this foolishness if you must as you keep in mind what the LORD told us was to come in this final time before His return – “Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” (Rev. 12:12) Demonic Manifestation during Todd Bentley’s Apostolic and Prophetic Commissioning
READ EZEKIEL 34 JEREMIAH 23.
CAUGHT ON CAMERA! Todd White and Shawn Bolz – Proven Cold Readers!
Abiding
GOD is Greater than all Sin [podcast]
“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” Romans 5:17
GOD is greater than all sin.
“Through Jesus we now have an abundance of grace and His gift of righteousness reining over our lives instead of sin and death brought to His through Adam’s sin! Hallelujah.” Karen Cochran
So if God is greater than all sin, WHY do some Christians still struggle with sin?
Great question
“And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27
Our sin is never God’s fault but always our own fault.
“Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:13-15
It’s only possible to overcome sin by way of Christ and Christ mandates us, you be crucified with Him (Luke 9:23-24; Romans 6; Galatians 2:20, etc.).
Jesus requires surrender to overcome (John 3:30). As long as there is sin, there is Satan – he has foothold in our lives. Satan is giving place, has control over anyone who has not repent, is not walking with Jesus, abiding in Christ, in the crucified life.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
When we “Submit … to God” Satan must then “flee” from us because he has no more legal right to us – because to “Submit” is to repent and confess all sin.
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. 5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.” 1 John 3:4-6
Instead of denying the Bible truth of a bent toward sin, we must deny self, take up the cross and follow Jesus. As we do we are empowered by His grace, His divine ability, enablement to live fruitfully to His eternal glory.
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from ALL iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” Titus 2:11-15
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Mission Mexico Part 24
“Thank you for sharing all these stories of what our loving Lord Jesus is doing in the hearts of the Mexican people. Reminds me of Acts 15:12 when Paul and Barnabas declared to the early Christian believers all the miracles and wonders God was doing through them, showing them God’s power and love for all the brethren! It wasn’t so they would be praised but to give glory to the Lord. Just as I see in all these testimonies. It’s all about Jesus!” Karen Cochran | Mission Mexico
****Saints, when you click LIKE, when you comment and subscribe to the ministry youtube channel, it helps make the videos more visible to more people. Thanks. Please do. Takes seconds.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3VoGjTBzho
We cannot help everyone and yet, we can be the world of help to the people God blesses us to serve!
*****
JUST IN:
“I am Chaplain to a little over 600 detainees who are waiting for the courts to move them to the next step. Most of these detainees are Hispanic, Spanish speakers and I get the privilege to be their pastor for a few months or sometimes a couple years. Someone put your book ‘Authentic’ on my book cart yesterday so I grabbed it to preview it before I left it there. A breath of fresh air indeed; thank you for this book . Furthermore, looking through your website thank you for all you do among the Hispanic people.” Jay
If you would like to read the Authentic book (English or Spanish), hit reply and send me your mailing address.
“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10
*** We just now placed an order for 10 Authentic books in Spanish and 1 of each of the other Spanish books the ministry has. This will help with His ministering! Jesus is coming.
Here was Jay’s follow up email:
“Thank you for that quick reply!
I myself lived in Mexico a while back but now, I pastor in a little Border town called Quemado Texas and serve full time at this federal detention facility. That would be great, thank you.”
Our Mailing address is:
The Eagle Pass Detention Facility
Care of Chaplain Lentz
410 S. Bibb
P.O. Box 849
Eagle Pass, Tx. 78852
Where are you in Mexico?
Bendiciones”
Jay Lentz jlentz@geogroup.com
Thank you for praying for the people of Mexico to be saved.
These are three of the people who received our LORD’s Gospel today who were all blessed to know you would be lifting them in prayer. God is able. Colossians 4:12 anyone? Thank you for pausing to lift them in prayer – that they will be convicted of their sin and repent and be saved.
This is Elvita. She is a very dear lady and was in need and received help. Thank God and thank you to those who are praying and supporting. She was hungry and blessed with a delicious meal from a local vendor and also a medical bill was paid for her. You are making these things happen to the glory of the LORD.
“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
Elvita came asking for help but was turned away by some…
I was able to catch her before she got too far and asked if she were hungry and she said yes. I put my arm around her and began ministering Jesus to her and to her needs. Brought her to a dear lady who serves food and she fixed a nutritious delicious plate of food for Elvita. All organic.
Lots of internationals in Mexico.
Had a long talk with Singh today. He’s searching.
He received the Gospel and so we know what Isaiah 55:11 says right?
Thank you for pausing to lift this man in prayer.
This man is saved.
Carlos was edified and built up in Christ.
Other than him ordering a coke it was a great fellowship haha.
When asked if he’d like several Christian people in the USA praying for him, he excitedly answered in the affirmative.
Thank you for pausing to pray for our brother (Colossians 4:12)
He is in need of being water baptized.
Working on that.
Carlos left with a stack of JESUS tracts to distribute.
Prayed with Jorge to be Saved. God knows.
Another divine appointment. Crossing paths with Jorge, a dentist, was nothing less then a God-ordained collision where Christ was glorified to save beloved Jorge.
Jorge was warmly greeted and thoroughly ministered to, the Word, and asked if he’d like to repent and receive Christ and be forgiven of all his sins by the precious blood of Christ, right now. He answered in the affirmative and he prayed aloud to the LORD the prayer of repentance and faith in Christ on the back of the JESUS tract ! Discipleship ensued. And as usual I informed Jorge that you would be lifting him in prayer as we celebrated his being brought by Jesus into HIS eternal kingdom. Also, Jorge needs more clients for his dentist office and I shared with him that we would also be lifting that in prayer.
This was a first:
Obed was sitting on a street curb with his head down. I approached him from behind, putting my arm across his back in a warm gesture of God’s love. Obed was very receptive from the start. Saints, when someone consents, when they verbally agree to receive prayer, they open themselves up to the LORD, to Heaven’s blessings. Well, such is the case with Obed. When I saw Obed, I noticed immediately that he had a Bible in his hand. Obed had the Word of our God preached to Him in Spanish and gladly received the JESUS tract. He was told that it’s about about relationship with Jesus, not religion. That’s all he possessed and also a willing heart. When asked, Obed said yes, that he wanted Christian people in the USA to pray for him. Boom. YOU, yes YOU hold the most important kingdom position – and that is bringing this bless-ed soul in prayer before God. Unleash the power of the name of Jesus in your prayer for this precious man. He wants it!!!! He wants Jesus. Oh and Obed was hungry and thirsty and given a warm fresh delicious meal and cold bottled water from a nearby local vendor.
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Apostasy
“The Collection for the Saints”
Are Money Collections Biblical?
Yes, yet what should money be collected to do?
1 Corinthians 16:1
KINGDOM PERSPECTIVE: Money collections to do GOD’s work are not a sin but rather an opportunity for God’s people to crucify, to put off the sins of greed and covetousness and to lay up treasure in Heaven as He commanded (Matthew 6:19-21; Ephesians 5:7-9). Also, to say that allowing people to support GOD’s work is wrong, is to declare Jesus to be a sinner because He had a treasurer which could only mean that people chose to support the work.
Recently the subject of giving has arisen several times in a short period of time so I wanted to treat it with God’s Word. When the topic of the Word of Faith prosperity pimps came up recently, a few people raised the question as to whether money should be collected by anyone today (any ministry). In addressing the question as to whether or not it is right or wrong for a ministry to facilitate the collection of money, the following reply was given.
There were collections among the saints in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 16:1-3), Jesus had a treasurer in case people wanted to participate and lay up treasure in Heaven…. yet the prosperity scammers falsely teach people to give in order to get God to bless them instead of giving out of love, obedience, gratitude, and worship to the LORD.
Okay, let me insert this: ANYone who doesn’t like ministers speaking about money has money as their god and are not saved according to Jesus because they have chosen money/mammon over God (Matthew 6:24). Those who truly serve the One who gives all good gifts delight in giving Him the first portion of what He gives them (Proverbs 3:10-11). By doing so they continue to establish that He alone is LORD and Master of their lives!
Collections were taken up in the early church (1 Corinthians 16:1-3). Jesus’ apostle Paul wrote:
“Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.” 1 Corinthians 16:1-3
First off, this tells us that Paul set in order, set up the order, he had “given order to the churches” to collect, to take up a “collection for the saints” when they gathered. He instructs Christ’s saints to “let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” There is much in this revelation. The saints of Christ are to be intentional and order the wealth God gives them, according “as God hath prospered” them. They are to “lay be him in store” or store up, to set aside that which they are going to give. The implication seems that we are to do such deliberately, and with joy as God prospers us.
According to the Word of God and the pattern and teaching of the apostles and early church, each disciple of Jesus should weekly and cheerfully set aside money, etc. to give. He/she is to “lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” (1 Corinthians 16:2)
Note that the “collection” was “for the saints” and not to be wasted on building a physical building of an enterprising pastor or to buy him a million dollar home, expensive cars, and watches, not to mention the extravagant accessories lavished upon many modern pastor’s wives. Oh, don’t forget that in the modern apostate church world, while some struggle to make ends meet and others go under financially, we must not forget to throw the pastor a birthday party and give him an expensive gift, right?
So, obviously collections are ordained of God to grant privilege and opportunity to those who would choose to give to His cause of helping Christians who lack and ministers of His Gospel. The collections are a blessing to us and yet, what we give to is the question. Supporting true, Great Commission, New Testament ministries is very important lest we fund a work that is not fulfilling the mandate of Christ and in doing so waste the resources He put in our temporal of care.
John Wesley writes:
“Let every one – Not the rich only: let him also that hath little, gladly give of that little. According as he hath been prospered – Increasing his alms as God increases his substance. According to this lowest rule of Christian prudence, if a man when he has or gains one pound give a tenth to God, when he has or gains an hundred he will give the tenth of this also. And yet I show unto you a more excellent way. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Stint yourself to no proportion at all. But lend to God all you can.”
Anthony Terry writes:
“Scripture is clear on the gatherings of the saints. They are for the saints only. They are to bring their offerings into the gatherings so when a need arises it can be met. Scripture also tells us that those with earthly goods should sell them when a saint is in need and to supply that need. This also is not done today. Too many are storing up treasures here and not in the kingdom. Scripture says if you have the ability to meet a need and don’t do it then how can you say God dwells in you? (1 Cor. 16:1-2; Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-35)”
HAVE YOU EVER NOTICED IN THE MODERN HOUSES OF EXTORTION THAT SOME CALL “CHURCHES” THAT THE PASTORS WILL OFTEN SAY THINGS LIKE “WE’RE FAMILY” AND YET, WHEN YOU HAVE A NEED, THEY COULD CARE LESS? THEY ONLY CARE FOR YOU INASMUCH AS YOU ARE GIVING TO THEM! BUT THE BIBLE TEACHES EQUALITY AND EVEN DISTRIBUTION, ESPECIALLY AMONG THOSE WHO ARE TRULY WORKING AND DILIGENTLY OBEDIENT (ACTS 2:44-45; 4:32-35; EPHESIANS 4:28; 1 THESSALONIANS 4:11-12; 2 THESSALONIANS 3, ETC.).
To illustrate the gross misuse of money in the modern church world, please allow me to relate the following true story:
An example comes to mind that was related to me by a good friend. The story goes …. This brother and his family (close friends of mine) were struggling financially and were on the brink of their second foreclosure. Their house was getting ready to be foreclosed on and a few members of the leadership fully knew this. Yet, during this same time period those very leaders organized and solicited the people of that particular local church to chip in to buy the pastor a $30,000 watch for his birthday. They totally ignored the needy brother’s necessity/lack and so that brother’s house was foreclosed on. This is an example of unthinkable inequity and brazen disobedience to God’s Word where one member of the body of Christ was elevated unduly above the other members. Among the earliest believers there was equity. Take note to what was transpiring just after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost at the end of Acts 2. Compare. Take close note to the blessed and exemplary state of the church before the greedy, self-serving wolves and their thieving practices entered in among the people of God (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35).
Now, the above is a revelation to most today who have been duped into believing that all the giving must be done to some “official” mere man or board of mere sinful men who have set up their church franchise businesses all over our cities. Before we move forward, let’s expand that revelation:
“And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.” Acts 2:44-45
Notice in the above passage that “EVERY MAN” mattered and not just some group of thieving wolves who were collecting and squandering the money on their own self-serving lusts!
While the collection of money is biblical the misuse of the money collected is sin. And for this reason, we must learn from God’s Word what that collected money is to be used for.
WE MUST STOP FEEDING THE WOLVES FRIENDS! FIND INDIVIDUAL CHRISTIANS WHO HAVE NEEDS AND GIVE TO TRUE GOSPEL WORKERS/MINISTRIES. THAT’S THE TRUE NEW TESTAMENT WAY!
To further establish that collections were always allowed and encouraged in the gatherings of our LORD’s people, check out this explosive message titled Jesus Sat Over Against The Treasury [podcast]
Here’s more early church practice that we must model/follow:
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own (they understood that God owns all and they were just stewards); but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” Acts 4:32-35
Compare. You will want to read this passage prayerfully and several times, remembering where it is to share with others. Note in the above passage that “they had all things common.” In other words, as each individual saint had need, they would share. Today, we have multi-millionaire wolves who parade and flaunt their lavish riches before their prey who many times can’t even pay their bills. Go figure!
Collecting and giving are a vital part of the divine economy from Genesis to Revelation but not in order to misuse – to misappropriate those funds. That’s what covetous charlatans have always done and are doing today. Yet, such evil does zilch to negate the God-given personal responsibility the LORD has given every individual believer to be a giver – of their lives which will translate into the giving of their substance.
Now, so far we have exposed the greedy wolves we are so often warned about in the Scriptures. Yet, before someone gets the idea that God wants His honest, true workers broke, think again. The LORD says that those elders (Gospel workers, servants of God) are to “be counted worthy of double honour” which refers to a good financial reward. This would be at or a bit above the average income of the median earning man that that Gospel worker feeds/tends to. Paul also inserted in his longest discourse on this very topic that those who are called out to labor for Christ can have a wife and family which of course requires more income to support (1 Corinthians 9:5).
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Did you note that those who “rule well” is a condition and it is defined as “they who labour in the word and doctrine“? True Gospel work must involve diligently getting God’s Word into the hearts of men, especially God’s own people. It is never ending because there are always saints to edify, help mature, pray for, teach the Word to, etc. It never ends and neither does the need to reach lost souls.
Because so many wolves have devoured people’s lives and finances, some want to forbid any and all provision from going to God’s workers which would be unscriptural and certainly to Satan’s advantage. The distribution of resources is to go to all of God’s people, not just the people collecting the money, which is what the modern, apostate church is doing. Compare what they are doing to Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35. It’s a scam. People should study this topic in their Bible as the article link above seeks to help them do. We cannot exclude the provision of those God calls out into full-time serving. The apostles gave themselves “continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:4) The Word of God sets forth the clear argument and case for provision for divinely called-out servants – those called out to give themselves to prayer and to the ministry of God’s Word. There’s no other calling so important in the earth or with eternal consequences. We must rightly divide and not overcompensate because others have abused. God bless you all.
Some people like to throw around cliches that are not direct Bible quotes such as, “Where God guides, God provides.” While that is generally true, we must be careful of blocking full-counsel Bible learning by cliches that are only half-truths. To stand on ANY cliches is a dangerous endeavor to the truth-seeking disciple. Stand on God’s Word alone which is what David said it is: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalms 119:105) Of our Father’s written Word, Christ said “Thy word is truth.” (John 17:17)
God’s people are divinely called and are to be allowed and granted the blessed opportunity to give to HIS work – not forcefully coerced but given opportunity (2 Corinthians 9:7). This is clear in Scripture. When we give, we thereby learn to trust Him who replenishes our supply as He so often promised to do (Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11, etc.). It would be wrong to disallow God’s people from giving actually. Moses did not stop God’s people from giving until there was so much given by God’s people that there was nowhere else to contain it! He had to tell them to stop bringing their things to the work of the LORD because they had nowhere else to store it – there was too much of it (Exodus 35). To tell people not to give to God’s work(ers) would mean he forbade them from doing what the LORD told His people to do from the beginning – give. The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel set forth to continually worship and serve the LORD and His people and Paul, Christ’s apostle, draws from this very truth/fact in 1 Corinthians 9 – below.
God provides, yes, and His stated desire to supply, at least in part, is through His body – and that is so that they partake of the blessings both now and eternally (Galatians 6:6; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14; 1 Timothy 5:17-18). A proper and more thorough view of God’s kingdom reveals that to shut off the opportunity of giving and forbid His children from giving, stifles blessings.
The apostle Paul’s case for provision being given to called-out servants of Christ is clearly and profoundly set forth below.
1 Corinthians 9
1 Am I am not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
2 If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
3 Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
4 Have we not power to eat and to drink?
5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
6 Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?
7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?
9 For it is written in the law of Moses, thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?
14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
The above passage makes it abundantly clear that God wants those He calls out to serve Him full-time supplied.
Collecting money is biblical – for the right use and reason which the LORD reveals in His Word. We must simply make sure that the collection is going to bless the people of God and not just one or a few staged deceivers who are running an entertainment business they have set up and call “church.”
One problem we see today is the defense of these beguiling, thieving wolves by the covetous, greedy folks who support them. These deceived people are full of self and “love to have it so.” (Jeremiah 5:31) In other words they love the greedy, covetous wolves they have submitted themselves to because these worldly rich wolves model the lifestyle their greedy, self-serving audience want (Hosea 4:9; 2 Timothy 3:1-6; 4:2-4).
There is a correct use of collections. Receiving money for true Gospel ministry work is according to the apostolic doctrine which we are to continue “stedfastly in.” (1 Corinthians 9:1-14; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; Philippians 4, Acts 2:42, etc.) Now, manipulating people – making merchandise of them – is the work of “false prophets,” Peter told us (2 Peter 2:1-3). Yet, that doesn’t negate the opportunity given to disciples of Christ to lay up treasure in Heaven by giving to God’s true work (Matthew 6:19-21). The key is simply to make sure the ministry is doing the Word and not just entertaining and keeping folks biblically illiterate in order to be able to continue to control them.
It’s time to get biblically learned, astute and cease being ignorant! – “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6)
Further, Paul gave the divine promise that God would supply all the needs of those who gave (Philippians 4). That promise and blessing of divine provision is specifically to those who had given to Paul who was a Gospel worker.
“But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.” Philippians 4:10
Taking care of those whom the LORD has called out – not self-appointed but God-appointed – is the privilege of the saints. Those giving are the blessed ones according to Jesus (Acts 20:35). If you can’t give out of a “cheerful” (joyful, generous, thankful) heart then don’t bother – you are wasting your money. The Bible reveals to us that Jesus actually watches each one of us and how we give (Mark 12:41-44). He looks at the heart posture and percentage that we give (Mark 12:41-44; 2 Corinthians 9:7).
You want to be blessed? If so, find a true Gospel worker and begin giving into his life and work. In fact, a lady called this week who said that as she gave to a certain Gospel ministry, God blessed her. This is biblical. It doesn’t matter if some have collected and wasted money. The true Gospel worker is “worthy of his reward” and not just honor but “double honour” which means sufficient supply, pay, and a bit more (1 Timothy 5:17-18). Anyone who doesn’t like that needs to take up their beef with the LORD. Getting a biblical foundation in this subject by thorough study of the Scriptures on this topic is essential. Begin with 1 Corinthians 9:1-14. Those who do the infinitely most important and only eternal work on the earth are the most worthy souls on earth to be sustained, and supplied – so they can continue to fruitfully serve the LORD and His blessed people, equipping them to “do the work of the ministry.” (Ephesians 4:11-12) This is God’s program and anyone who participates in it is going to be blessed – now and eternally!
The LORD told us He would fill the barns and overflow with blessings the person who puts His “firstfruits” into His cause (Proverbs 3:9-10).
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10
It’s not a sin or wrong to facilitate what the Bible teaches – giving. The early believers in Jesus went so far as to sell off the things they didn’t need in order to liquidate and turn those properties, etc., into cash to help the other believers who were in need and surely a bit of that went to the apostles to sustain them as they gave themselves “continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:4) See Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35. The apostles didn’t tell those people to take their money back because giving is an integral part of serving God who “So loved the world that he gave” (John 3:16) In fact, Christ says that “It is MORE blessed to GIVE than to receive.” (Acts 20:35) It would be wrong to disallow God’s people from giving actually.
Jesus Christ was betrayed by a thieving wolf!
Extorting thieves are nothing new. Jesus had one in His ministry while on earth. The fact that charlatans have misused money they collected from gullible people who didn’t discern correctly does not make giving wrong. The people who give must examine, best they can, if that ministry is fulfilling a New Testament purpose. Most people don’t even know the Bible, regrettably, so they have little to go by. A good place to begin is to see what Jesus’ commission to His church is (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20). After reading Christ’s commission, one should begin to examine the fruit of any ministry they are thinking of giving to – such as 1) are they endeavoring to teach the whole counsel of God’s Word in His holy fear and with no fear of any mere man (Matthew 28:18-20), 2) are they reaching out to lost souls (Mark 16:15-20).
Notice for example that the Word of Faith wolves don’t bother to give money to the general body of Christ – individual saints. That’s obvious in that they take that money to themselves in undue fashion and build mansions. Most of them have several mansions, fly over the the world on their own jets, stay at the most elite hotels, etc. This is complete misuse of resources given to them by people and fulfilling what Peter wrote about.
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” 2 Peter 2:1-3
We have the divine promise here that God is going to eternally judge those who “make merchandise” of others. There are some extorting wolves operating as pastors, evangelists, etc., but that doesn’t mean His disciples shouldn’t give!
STEWARDSHIP IS SAID TO BE THE MOST PREVALENT OR FREQUENTLY OCCURRING SUBJECT IN GOD’S WORD. ACTUALLY, ABOUT HALF OF JESUS’ PARABLES DEALT WITH STEWARDSHIP. THIS IS A HUGE TOPIC AND VERY IMPORTANT TO THE LORD. HE TOLD US THAT WE ARE TO BE “RICH TOWARD GOD” AND THAT OUR VERY “HEART” AFFECTIONS WOULD FOLLOW WHERE WE PUT OUR “TREASURE.”(MATTHEW 6:19-24; LUKE 12:15-20, ETC.) OUR LORD EVEN TOLD US THROUGH JAMES THAT IF WE HOARD INSTEAD OF FREELY GIVING, THAT WHICH WE HAVE LAID UP WILL FRIGHTENINGLY BE A WITNESS AGAINST US IN THE JUDGMENT (JAMES 5:2-3).
Some hide their own greed behind exposing the obvious greedy wolves who hold ministry positions. They use those beguiling thieves as an excuse to stop giving altogether. Don’t cease giving just because you were deceived by a wolf. If you do, you will hurt and hinder the work of our LORD Jesus in this late hour. Continue to obey God by giving Him your whole being and will daily. Your treasure will be His as long as you are truly His (Matthew 6:19-24). Just pray for more discernment and stay in the Word. Measure everything according to His Word (Acts 17:11). Be ready to help other Christians in need all around you and prayerfully find a good called-out brother in Christ who fears the LORD truly and preaches His pure Word and begin giving to his life and work – God’s work! The LORD promises to bless you for doing so.
Where you give is very important. You should ask: Is this ministry or church fully vested in Christ and His mission to save souls and feed His flock and teach HIS pure Word? Such a question eliminates 95% of all ministries which are nothing more than a flesh-flattering entity designed to rob the resources Christ ordains to go directly into His work and workers. There is no work on earth today that has eternal ramifications except the work of Christ. Are you a contributor? Why did He give you a way or ways to earn money? See in Ephesians 4:28 and begin supporting His true Gospel work – His Great Commission.
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QUESTION:
“Should those in ministry take up collections? Is that biblical? Also, should those who write books have to pay for the whole funding of those books and for that matter, should they have to fund the LORD’s work themselves?” What does God’s Word tell us about money?”
ANSWER:
So, where are true ministries supposed to get their money/resources? Question: Is that not our privilege and opportunity to give and thereby support the work of Jesus? In fact, is this not exactly why God gave us an income – to support His work? And, on top of that He puts money into an eternal investment “account” in Heaven? Wow! Philippians 4:17; Matthew 6:19-21.
“Collections” are biblical yes and they are the privilege of the giver much more than the mere human servants receiving the treasures to be stored up in Heaven for their own eternal benefit (Matthew 6:19-21). Giving also keep idolatry and greed away from the one who gives, securing his eternal soul with Christ. These are clearly soul damning sins specifically listed in Holy Scripture as such (Ephesians 5:5-7; Revelation 21:8, etc.).
Is it a sin for a person in ministry to not have enough money to pay for everything? No, that’s not a sin at all and in fact, it’s a blessing to those ministered to by that outreach. God actually ordains it that way usually so that other of His people can lay up treasures in Heaven, just like Jesus told us to do (Matthew 6:19-21). In fact, the apostle Paul cared much about the heavenly “accounts” of those he ministered to and so should we – “Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.” (Philippians 4:17) Most men in ministry have not studied biblical stewardship very closely and for instance, do not even know about the verse posted in the previous sentence. God told us here that we have an “ACCOUNT” in Heaven. Now the question is, what’s in our “account”? What have we given into His true New Testament work?
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Some are misled by their own situations, opinions, and impartial knowledge of this important subject …. go read about some people Jesus actually puts in His trophy case in what we call “The Hall of Faith” …. read Heb. 11:37-39 and let’s talk about that.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6) Notice that it’s not that most people don’t have at least some knowledge of a topic and yet that can be deadly. God is good….. a little knowledge is enough to kill us all.
Getting a tad of knowledge can be deadly …. if we don’t keep studying the topic all the way through Scripture to gain a thorough biblical knowledge on that subject and thereby be blessed to rightly divide the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Support | STORE | Podcasts | The Return of Christ | Stewardship | Where to Give and Where Not to Give | Fruit Abounding to Your Account! | Consider Your Ways [podcast] | Consider and Build [podcast] | Holes in Your Money Bags? [podcast] | Dollar Dialogue | Jesus Sat Over Against The Treasury [podcast] | Escaping Sodom! | Waste | Stewardship | Giving
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Apostasy2 years ago
SHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True
Providing Christ-centered Scripture-rich resources to feed, edify, and equip the body of Christ (John 21:15-17; Ephesians 4:11-15).
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