Trusting Miracles or Christ?

Paula White Exposed [video]

THAT’s My King! Pastor Lockridge [video]

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

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

Miracles or the Master?

“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

Like all Latter Rain deceivers, in his pride Todd Bentley believes he can go into the heavenlies and the glory of God anytime he so chooses and get whatsoever he wishes to get. He is simply and plainly “intruding into those things which he hath not seen.” That’s why this is written here – to warn us of people who do such. In other words, he is his own god and in control – in place of the one true God. This is antichrist, which means in place of the real Christ/God. This is a classic example of what the Holy Spirit was warning us about here in Colossians 2 when He warned us all of those who do not uphold Jesus Christ as the only Supreme Ruler and “Head” of His body. He speaks of those who are “intruding into those things which he hath not seen” as they are “vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” Bentley and many other popular false prophets today are presumptuously venturing into things they know nothing of – if they did they would not dare do such a thing. These men do not fear God. The preposterous stories Todd Bentley tells are things he “hath NOT seen” by the LORD but rather in his own depraved imagination and that which is fueled by devils. He is speaking of visions of his own sinful heart like the false prophets have always done. Jeremiah 23:16 says: “Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the LORD.” No true disciple speaks of things on his own (1 Pet. 4:11). In fact, the deceiver is identified by not teaching only from God’s Word (Isa. 8:20). The one who is true to the LORD Jesus comes only from God’s holy Word. He is true to the LORD alone and this is proven in that he refuses to preach any other gospel.

Anytime someone goes beyond what Scripture tells us, he is “intruding into those things which he hath not seen.” (Col. 2:18) Speaking of “intruding into those things which he hath not seen” and being “vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,” check this out:

Here are a couple of excerpts from Todd Bentley’s 2003 article entitled Angelic Hosts:

them go into the four corners of the earth and gather me money.’”

There is no mention of Jesus Christ here in Bentley’s praying. He just partners with angels to get what he wants as he presumptuously intrudes into things he has no true knowledge of because “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Prov. 1:7) Any person who does things like this openly reveals (as their true fruit) that they do not fear God and therefore do not have His true knowledge and understanding because they do not know Him.

Bentley has figured out what works to create the phenomenon to draw the crowd and yet there are no verifiable miracles and true biblical fruit to validate his claims and the claims of the deceived people who support him. It’s all hype. Though he throws in some Gospel here and there to court those who care, in the overall picture, there is no true divine substance in his meetings. He is what the Bible calls a cloud and wind without rain (void of true divine substance – Prov. 25:14; Jude 12). People support this movement and “revival” because they are wanting something to happen. Because they are looking to man and for a sign, they forfeit relationship with Jesus and in fact, He calls them “evil and adulterous.” (Matt. 12:39) – Jesus said: “An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign.” Left without His discernment due to not seeking His face with a whole heart and placing His Word as final authority, these sign-seekers are willing to believe the hoax and further the cause of a false prophet against the LORD Almighty (2 Jn. 7-11). Their faith is not grounded in Jesus so they are left to desire seeing something that will help fill the void only Christ fills in the hearts of those who simply and fully trust Him. Those who know and seek Him are “complete in him.” (Col. 2:10) He is their all sufficiency and supplies their every need and desire – spiritually and otherwise.

Not only are miracles not the sign of a true prophet, God foretold that false prophets would actually utilize lying signs and wonders to deceive those who do not truly love Him and His holy truth (2 Thess. 2:9-12; Rev. 16:14; 19:20). Signs, dreams, miracles, or prophesies, are not proof that a person is a true prophet. The LORD actually foretold us that especially in the last days lying signs and wonders would be performed by those who actually call Him “Lord, Lord”and yet do not know Him and are on their way to hell as they lead others with them (Matt. 7:21-23; 2 Thess. 2:9-12; Rev. 16:14; 19:20). It’s about doctrine and godliness, not signs and wonders (Deut. 13). Jesus is coming and He told us that it is “An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign.” (Matt. 12:39)

Looking to these externals (signs, wonders, dreams, miracles, etc.) is tied with looking to mere men. They become idols of our hearts. If we are going to look to men, look to the apostle Paul, John, and Peter. They were authentically His disciples, filled with His Spirit, honored His holy Word above all else, and walked with Him. The Bible tells us they were “holy men of God.” (2 Pet. 1:20-21) God Himself approved these men as opposed to the many self-proclaimed prophets and self-promoting deceivers on the scene today. Look to Jesus Christ. His Word is final authority (Rom. 3:3-4). Didn’t Jesus tell us that false prophets who come in His holy name would deceive “many”? (Matt. 24:5, 11, 24) Also, did He not foretell that “MANY” who call Him “Lord, Lord” and even use His name in vain to do miracles, prophesy, and do many wonder works, are going to hell? (Matt. 7:21-23)

Do you really know Him? Do you truly desire more of Him? Do you really love and seek His face? Where re the affections of your heart?

We are to “be not moved away from the hope of the gospel.” (Col. 1:23) Why such a warning if there were no possibility of being “moved away from the hope of the gospel”?Is God a lunatic? Or, was He, as “the great shepherd of the sheep” lovingly warning His sheep/people to beware of the wolves who are sent by their master Satan to move you away from Christ using any method they so choose? (Heb. 13:20)

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

Looking to man is a sin – it is spiritual adultery and idolatry. Looking for signs and wonders reveals that we have an un-redeemed heart and is “evil and adulterous.” (Matt. 12:39)

“Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.” Isaiah 45:22

God is Calling Us to Get our Feet on the Ground!

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.” Psalms 1:1-4

It is essential to the believer to be rooted and built up in Christ and this comes from learning of Him and walking daily with Him and not be seeing supposed signs and wonders or getting prophetic words. The book of Colossians establishes His utter and exclusive supremacy as the only Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. God be praised forevermore! This wonderful, marvelous, and monumentally important book of Colossians is especially so vitally important in this late hour as we look for the soon return of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. I don’t believe there has ever been a day where the following passage is more pertinent to the saints of Christ:

“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 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.” Colossians 2:6-10

The Christian life is all about being “Rooted and built up in him” – Jesus! Chasing signs and wonders is not consistent with being a disciple of Jesus. Those who truly know Him seek and love Him and walk with Him by faith in victories, testings, chastening, and fruitfulness. They do not abandon the eternal Savior by going to seek after a mere temporal sign.

Colossians 2:10 tells us that we are “complete” (perfectly filled up and supplied) in Christ and not in signs and wonders or miracles.

The Greek word for “spoil” here is sulagōgeō and means to be seduced away from Christ.

Before we close, let’s break down the Colossians 2:18-19 passage we began with:

“Let no man beguile you of your reward” – the reward of eternal life can be forfeited. Just a few verses prior this warning the Holy Spirit issued another warning. He warned us of being spoiled which means robbed of eternal life through philosophy, tradition, etc. Why in the world would God warn us of something if there were no danger of losing out? Are we not warned in the New Testament Scriptures how Esau gave up his very birthright for a temporary bowl of soup? (Heb. 12:14-17)

“in a voluntary humility” – this speaks of self-imposed false humility undergirded by a self-serving agenda.

“and worshipping of angels” – a preoccupation with angels. Involving angels outside of what Scripture reveals and thereby moving the heart affections of God’s people away from Jesus Christ (Col. 3:1-4).

“intruding into those things which he hath not seen” – this is when people tread into places that Scripture does not sanction such as the worshiping of angels and today’s so-called “prophetic” movement, etc. This comes from people who are not rooted and grounded in a relationship with Jesus and therefore use God’s Word for their own personal agenda – to deceive others (2 Cor. 2:17; 4:1-5; 2 Pet. 3:16). These beguilers use Scripture with private interpretation in an unsound and out-of-context manner.

“vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind” – deception emanates out of a prideful heart that does not put God first and foremost and does not fear the LORD though it sports an outward image of doing so – a “form of godliness.” (2 Tim. 3:5)

“And not holding the Head” – this is the whole crux. The true disciple loves, clings to, studies about, and preaches Jesus Christ. The counterfeit is identified in that he simply emphasizes something (anything) other than the Person of Jesus Christ revealed in Holy Writ.

“from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God” – proper nourishment from Heaven and spiritual growth can only flow to and through believers who are set apart to, upholding, and looking to Jesus Christ and not angels or mere men or any other idol.

It is essential to believe what God has revealed to us about Jesus Christ. We must remain in those fundamental doctrines of Christ or we will lose out in the end. The mission of the enemy is to use one of his many deceivers to move you away from the doctrinal and spiritually pure worship of Jesus Christ our LORD. Examine this next passage closely. 2 John 7-11 says:

“For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not (does not remain) in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth (remains) in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”

Let’s Get Fat!

“The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.” Psalms 92:12-14

PRAYER to be set apart to the LORD completely: Father in Heaven, I this moment return to You! I repent of seeking to something or another person or angel in place of You. Thank You Jesus for shedding Your sinless blood for me on the cross and rising from the dead to justify me completely. I am complete in You alone. I love You my LORD Jesus and am looking to You and Your soon return. In Jesus’ name Father, Amen!

MORE

“So is God still working miracles today or not, or are you taking a cessationist position?”

ANSWER:

Jesus Christ hasn’t changed (Heb. 13:8). So, we know He still heals and does miracles (Mal. 3:6). Yet He told us repeatedly to TEST all who come in His name and He also warned that “MANY” who prophesy and cast out devils and do many wonderful works don’t know Him (Matt. 7:21-23). “Beloved, believe not every spirit but try (test) the spirits to see whether they are of God, for MANY false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1) See Deut. 13. Also, it seems that many times in the book of Acts and in the sequence of Mark 16:15-20, there is FIRST the preaching of God’s Word (to bring forth the greatest miracle – men coming to repentance and being born again), and then miracles. In either case (regardless of what happened first) there WAS ALWAYS THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD at the forefront and as the centerpiece of the work of the kingdom. “Preach the Word…” – and especially in light of the foretold reality that many would turn away their ears from the truth, not enduring sound doctrine, and would be turned to fables (2 Tim. 4:2-4). In His ministry Jesus Himself preached, taught, and did miracles (Matt. 4:23-25). He taught and preached the kingdom of God and then healed and cast out devils, THEN He gave (preached/taught) the “sermon on the mount” which was a long teaching about His kingdom (Matt. 5-7). THEN, immediately following in Matt. 8:1, Jesus heals a leper…wow. LORD, please grant us understanding. Seems like the preaching of God’s kingdom Word and healings, miracles, etc., were intertwined – yet we should remember that the true works of the kingdom are never divorced from the Word of God and communicating it boldly. The point is, that when someone like Todd Bentley gets up and is supposedly doing miracles and signs and doesn’t preach the Word of God, he should immediately be marked for what he is – FALSE (Rom. 16:17-18). There “is NO light” in those who don’t preach God’s Word (Isa. 8:20). In fact, it is the very Word of God that gives the light of God (Ps. 119:105, 130).

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Hebews 13:8

Has Jesus changed? No. Impossible. Did Jesus do miracles while on earth? Yes.

Does God still do miracles? YES. Hebrews 13:8. He does miracles and gives prophecy but not fake stuff. The LORD’s works are real, tanglible. They can be proven and not just propped by false ministers (2 Corinthians 11:12-15). God’s miracles are authentic and bring glory to Him and not the mere men (1 Corinthians 1:29-31; Colossians 2:18-19). Lots of frauds pretending to raise the dead and prophesy and do miracles – Jesus foretold this very thing and told us that they’d be cast into hell (Matthew 7:21-23). These are Satan’s counterfeiters and yet, their evil in no way negates the miracle working power of our unchanging LORD Jesus today!

“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. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:21-23

God the Father answers prayer and does miracles in the name of Jesus and on His perfect merit alone! (John 14:13-14; 16:23-24) Anything added is of Satan in order to draw attention from and steal the glory from Christ! (Colossians 2:18-19)

THE NEW “APOSTOLIC REFORMATION” DECEPTION

LET’S LEARN GOD’S WORD TOGETHER – ONE TRUTH AT A TIME: Are you ready to begin retaining the Word in order to mediate upon it and communicate it with others? Are you tired of reading Scripture or hearing a good message from the Word and not retaining it? We can help you. This message was sent out to each person who is on the Moments For My Master e-mail devotional list. In supplementation to your personal daily study of God’s Word, we would love to add you and have the privilege of nourishing your heart with God’s Word (Jn. 5:39; 1 Tim. 4:6, 16; Heb. 5:11-14; 1 Pet. 2:2). Sign up here.

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Articles

Gospel Preached at Funeral of a Decorated United States Marine Officer in Mexico [podcast]

This past Sunday, here in beautiful Mexico, a saint’s temporal body was laid to rest. Brother Mark and I were given the opportunity, asked to speak to the whole group.

Our LORD Jesus’ Gospel was preached and everyone there was invited to repent and receive Christ before it’s too late—because Jesus died for them to be forgiven and receive eternal life, and that hell is forever (Revelation 22:17). Oh, the funeral attendees were also informed that “purgatory” is a lie, and that when they die, they will be going to Heaven or hell.

After a bit, an interpreter helped, joined in, and so every attendee heard the Gospel in their language—Spanish or English.

Trevor and Trish are the couple’s names. The way brother Mark met Trish, the now widow was 100% a miracle. Two weeks ago, we were invited to this couple’s home and spent the afternoon with them. Little did we know that the husband would pass shortly thereafter. God knew and orchestrated the events according to His perfect will.

Saints, thank you for your prayers for sister Trish.

After the people disbanded, several came and asked us about further fellowship. The preaching of God’s Word ignited them. A breakfast group fellowship had recently already begun to form, so they were invited.

Life springs out of death – “Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die” (1 Corinthians 15:36).

Christ’s economy is a cross economy. Here we see that very thing where out of one of His saint’s death and burial, the life of Jesus is at work, raising up others. Life springs out of death (2 Corinthians 4:10-12).

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalms 116:15

“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 14:13

God is so very good, saints. See Psalm 86.

Here’s comfort from “the God of all comfort” for each of you, concerning losing loved ones, namely born again loved ones! You can be assured that they are with Christ and the Father and protected from ANY and ALL danger, forever! See 2 Corinthians 1:2-5, also Revelation 21:4.

“The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. 2 He shall enter into peace: they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness.” Isaiah 57:1-2

Interestingly, the LORD brought together 4 United States Marines/Marine vets in Mexico to bring this to pass….

“Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15

The Brevity of Life in this World

“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” James 4:14

We all face death and judgment, and the Good News is that Christ’s perfect sacrifice, as we humbly appropriate it, means we are forgiven and will avert the judgment of eternal damnation.

“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Hebrews 9:27

Our Prayer with Isaiah for God to Prepare and Send Us

It’s the “Here am I; send me” LORD prayer in action! (Isaiah 6:8)

Child of God, are you ready, today, to lift your heart and hands to your Maker and dare to declare this prayer to Him? – “Here am I; send me!”

If you dare to freshly surrender the life God gave you and cry out to Him, get ready beloved for the fruit-bearing adventure of your life! Remember that Abraham was in Haran (means barren, dry, fruit-less) until he was instructed by God to get up and leave. That’s when the promised blessings began to unfold in his life. See the end of Genesis 11 and thereafter.

When you cry out to Him with the prophet Isaiah, the LORD is going to hear, answer, and do things that are utterly miraculous.

“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

Just “Go” and watch God! (Mark 16:15). Your life is never more richly blessed by God than when you live by faith, when you surrender afresh and ask Him to take all of you, to prepare and use you.

Isaiah's Call and Commission [podcast]

What did the LORD reveal of Himself to Isaiah? What was the result in Isaiah’s life and ours? When the LORD appeared to him, the prophet Isaiah was shown his own depravity, his own wicked heart, his own unpreparedness. What was his response and how does this relate to us? Are you ready this day to say “Jesus please prepare and use me mightily for Your eternal glory! I love You LORD. I am all Yours! Please do Your deeper work in this life You gave!”? One must be prepared by God to be used by God. “If a man therefore […]

LORD, Prepare Me! [podcast]

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” John 14:21 “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will […]

Mission Mexico Part 46 [podcast]

Recorded about a week ago: Much has happened since then! Your Love for God is Changing Lives Saints! Clara’s new rental. Brother Allan ministering in the Philippines. Many being reached daily in Mexico. And much more….. Happening now. In progress. Talking to Clara by text right now….. delivered the rent and deposit today. | Clara’s Cry Recently, when bringing more food to Clara and her 3 boys, food from God’s love in and through you, I noticed that her 3 boys were quite dirty and was moved. They were actually filthy. Clara is by nature a very quiet person. So I […]

Articles

The High Treason of False Leaders [podcast]

PWT = Preach, WARN, Teach

“Whom we PREACH, WARNING every man, and TEACHING every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:” Colossians 1:28

Did you catch what the apostle Paul did to prepare the church to meet Christ?

Preach
WARN
Teach

*Letting God Speak for Himself***

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15

Bible truths/words you never hear from wolves: Repent, obedience, the cross – crucified life, holiness, judgment, eternal Hell, the lake of fire, being spotless and ready for Christ’s return, etc..

Many today preach the crown but not the cross, the promise without the condition. They perpetually peddle half truths as they use words like “soar” and “rise up” and “elevation,” a going upward but never the essential non-negotiable condition of going downward before God will raise one upward (Isaiah 37:31; 2 Corinthians 4:10-12). Their misleading cross-less messages are “another gospel” and we know that because there is no cross, no mention of dying downward, no crucified life (2 Corinthians 11:2-5; Galatians 1:6-9; Philippians 3:18-19). The LORD will raise no one upward who doesn’t first humbly bow downward before His Majestic holiness (Luke 9:23-24; James 4:6-10). | Myth of Elevation without the Cross

“MANY pastors have destroyed my vineyard, they have trodden my portion under foot, they have made my pleasant portion a desolate wilderness. 11 They have made it desolate, and being desolate it mourneth unto me; the whole land is made desolate, because no man layeth it to heart.” Jeremiah 12:10-11

Were we not warned repeatedly to beware of those who would spoil us (ruin us eternally)?

This “famine” is here and has been induced by the “MANY false prophets” Jesus and His apostles foretold (Amos 8:11; Matthew 24:11; Isaiah 9:16; 2 Peter 2:1-3, etc.).

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD:” Amos 8:11

Self-induced “famine”: Those rebels who refuse to repent and get into God’s Word for themselves are starved out and deceived by the false gospel of the apostate modern church world. In contrast, every true disciple will study God’s Word diligently for themselves and feast in the midst of this prophesied “famine” for the Word of God.

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

PAUL GAVE LITTLE PLACE TO FALSE LEADERS (GALATIANS 2:4-5). THEY ARE TO BE IDENTIFIED, REBUKED, REJECTED, AND MARKED UNLESS THEY REPENT (ROMANS 16:17-18; TITUS 1:13).

Jesus warned:

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening (devouring) wolves.” Matthew 7:15

The false leaders Christ speaks of here would have all the trappings of a true Christian leader so as not to be detected. But the true remnant cling to Christ and therefore His Word and are thereby able to discern (Ezekiel 44:23).

“The majority has always believed the lies, gone the wrong way, never changed, and suffered great devastation. The pattern is repeated every third or fourth generation. People warning them are always considered alarmist or fools (conspiracy theorists). But God ordains faithful people. They will not cease to warn them until repentance is no longer an option.” C.

Paul Speaking to the Ephesians

“Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Acts 20:27-32

God’s Word informs us that Christ’s true servant-elders WILL TEACH God’s people to discern by weighing all against the standard of the Word of God (Ezekiel 44:23; Acts 17:10-11; 1 John 4:1, etc.). Therefore we know that any man in leadership not teaching people to discern between the holy and profane, between true and false, is himself a wolf!

“Even the very elect! We need to be guarding our hearts every moment because the devil loves an idle mind.” Charles Pray

“DISCERN”

“And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23

For a moment, let’s explore what true ministry is so that we can see what is not true ministry. Perhaps one good definition of what true ministry is would be: Giving people God’s Word in order to endear them to Him by His very own words. Is not the divine Person of the Holy Spirit integrally involved in that exchange? Did He not orchestrate it?

Watch closely at what the elders of Israel did when they stood before the people:

“So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly (directly, literally), and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.” Nehemiah 8:8

Truly God-fearing servants of Christ get people into HIS Word so that they follow Him and not them – mere men. Note that in this important passage in Nehemiah 8, we see the principle for leadership: Leading the souls of men to Christ, not to self.

Those who flatter you by refusing to preach the absolute necessity of repenting, taking up the cross daily and following Jesus…. Are setting you up for the kill …. You may vainly believe that it’s all fun and games now but judgment is coming if you don’t repent and diligently study and adhere to the whole counsel of God’s Word. When you do truly repent, you will no long put yourself under a smooth talking wolf who refuses to preach the whole counsel of the original Gospel of Christ (Isaiah 30:9-10; 2 Timothy 4:2-4).

“A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.” Proverbs 29:5

All ministers who soft peddle and do not endeavor to unapologetically declare the whole counsel of God’s Word, are deceivers. Run.

JUST because a preacher has a few good quotes does NOT at all mean he’s not a false teacher. If he has one false doctrine, he is false. Speaking of false doctrine, Paul wrote: “A little leaveneth the WHOLE lump” (Galatians 5:9). Example: There are many teachers/pastors of old who left behind good quotes and yet were false teachers. Examples would include the often quoted wolf C.S. Lewis, the diabolical monstrostity John Calvin, and the vile legalist Charles Finney. Also, there are many today who say a lot of good things and yet, then you find out they believe calvinism or the lie of eternal security/OSAS. Run.

One minister of Christ declared:

“People think that because I skin the brethren alive when I preach, that I’m not showing any love. That’s because they’ve been brainwashed by the glass toilet (the TV), and they respond to the tone of my voice much as my German Shepherd would. But I do love the brethren. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t preach against their sins. I would preach on coping and sharing and family values and let them hit a bonfire at the Judgment Seat of Christ.”

Think about how many people are promoting THEIR ministries and how much money is wasted on such trash.

“For THE LEADERS of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.” Isaiah 9:16

Leaders who betray the LORD and His people.

Remember that according to the record of the Gospels, it was the wicked religious leaders, the Jews of Christ’s day, who betrayed the Son of God their KING to the Roman authorities, calling out for His crucifixion (Matthew 27; John 19, etc.).

The kingdom of God is not about mere men’s ministries or churches or church organizations. Reading the history of Israel and the New Testament plainly reveals that false leaders have done inestimable damage – they have done so very much to oust Christ right out of the hearts and minds of the people they are misleading while posing as those who are leading them in the ways of the LORD (Isaiah 9:16).

“And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer (true worship); but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Matthew 21:13

Today is no different – In fact we are told it will get even worse in these final days at the hands of deceivers (2 Timothy 3:13). Like the wolves of old who were constantly exposed by Israel’s prophets, modern beguilers are intercepting the heart affections and resources of those they have misled. Listen to God’s prophet Ezekiel:

“There is a conspiracy of her prophets (false leaders) in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening (devouring) the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. 26 Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening (devouring) the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.” Ezekiel 22:25-27

Ready to Magnify Christ?

“O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.” Psalms 34:3

The eternal kingdom of God is all about KING Jesus.

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 8 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. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 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, 19 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 2:6-10, 18, 19

Most men in ministry are “not holding the Head” of the body – Christ – and therefore have intercepted the affections of the people in order to exploit them to build their own ministry business.

Any leader who is not constantly doing every possible thing he can to get YOU into God’s Word for yourself, is an absolute wolf of the worst kind.

Revelation: People don’t need you and me – they need the LORD – and He reveals Himself through His Word.

Christ must be magnified, not mere men – “And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another” (1 Corinthians 4:6).

IT’S SO very important not to over aggrandize any mere man. We must rid our hearts of all idols (Ezekiel 14:3). The personality cults must be seen for what they really are and shunned by Christ’s true remnant. Think about the personalities so many (most) modern popular ministries are built upon? Think about the ingratiating, manipulative, and flamboyant personalities of circus clowns like Jesse Duplantis, Joel Osteen, and Joyce Meyer, Rick Warren, and a host of other false leaders who have built their enterprises/empires on THEIR own personalities and telling people what THEIR unrepentant hearts want to hear instead of what God says in the full counsel of His Holy Word (2 Timothy 4:2-4). Others we could name are more subtle and yet nevertheless draw people to THEMSELVES, not Christ! This is robbery – robbing Christ of the glory due only to Himself.

The great apostle went out of his way – he made sure and steadfast provision – to never draw or entice the affections of men’s hearts to himself. That would be theft – high treason against Heaven. In the holy fear of God, Paul took great precaution not to endear the hearts of men to himself, a mere man, but rather he espoused them to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2-5). Listen to him:

“For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2

Have you memorized the above verse yet?

“I Have Espoused You to … Christ”

Let’s again listen closely to the heart of Paul to the people of God, Christ’s messenger/apostle:

“For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. 5 For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. 6 But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things. 7 Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?” 2 Corinthians 11:2-7

Paul espoused those he oversaw to Jesus, not to himself. He caused them to trust Christ through His blessed Word and invited others to compare what he taught to the Holy Scriptures (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:15-17). Is this what your pastor is doing?

In a recent conversation with my friend Tim, he was edified to hear the encouragement that every time he gets someone into the Word of God for themselves, he is doing much more than most pastors or “Christian” authors who make people dependent upon them – so that they get repeat customers for their business.

Are you in the Word daily friend?

How can God’s Word get into you if you don’t get into it?

Are you drawing and remaining close to the Savior in this late hour like the wise virgins who kept the oil of His presence in the lamp of their lives and were therefore ready when He returned? (Matthew 25:1-13)

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly (abundantly) in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16

Listen to this audio message: Esteeming the Words of His Mouth | Colossians 1:28 PWT Preach Warn Teach

Penknife Sacrilege

Bible Burners in the Modern Church World: Butchering the Word of God for Self-Serving Purposes (excerpt from the book LIE of the Ages) Forsaking the Full-Counsel of God “And it came to pass, that when Jehudi had read three or four leaves, he cut it with the penknife, and cast it into the fire (this is what is happening today in our churches) that was on the hearth, until all the roll was consumed in the fire that was on the hearth. Yet they were not afraid (no fear of God), nor rent their garments, neither the king, nor any of his servants that heard all these […]

The Myth of Elevation without the Cross [podcast]

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Often, I’ve heard seminarians and modern “Christians” reject the biblical concept, the divine command to fear God. Both loving God and fearing God are divine commands (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 22:37-39; Luke 12:4-5, etc.). Yet we must ask: Is loving God enough? Is loving the LORD all we need to do? Will saying we love God keep you out of sin? It’s a nice platitude, yet this is false humility. Trite. Holiness by way of the fear of the Lord is an essential to remaining, abiding in Christ. May God instill in the depth of our being His holy fear […]

Strive to Enter in at the Strait Gate [podcast]

“Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” Hebrews 4:11 “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. 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 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 […]

Apostasy

Why Did God Give Us His Word? [podcast]

The 4 Pillar Purposes for the Holy Scriptures

There are 4 reasons detailed in 2 Timothy 3:16 for the Holy Scriptures being given to us by God. Under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, the apostle Paul wrote:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16

According to this verse, the Bible, God’s very Word, has been given to the people of God for 4 reasons: Doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. Let us take a brief look at these 4 reasons for the written Word so carefully presented here concerning the very purpose of the Bible.

Doctrine – (Gr. DIDASKALIA): that which is taught; teaching, instruction. An individual’s doctrinal body of truth consists of that which he has been taught and holds to be true.

Reproof – (Gr. ELEGMOS): proof, proving, test. As the noble Berean believers demonstrate and John commands, to test every doctrine that comes from the mouth or pen of men, against the holy Standard – the Scriptures. This is, in part, what is being spoken to us by the Holy Spirit in this verse at hand. Therefore, we conclude that we have been given “All scripture” in order to exercise “reproof,” or the testing of men’s doctrines against Holy Writ and to test every notion of belief we currently hold against the divine standard of the written Word which is final divine authority (Acts 17:10-11; 1 John 4:1).

Correction – (Gr. EPANORTHOSIS): a restoration to an upright state or right state. The Scriptures are “given by inspiration of God” to bring correction into our own hearts, and into the hearts of all who heed the divine message (James 1:21-25).

Instruction in Righteousness – (Gr. PAIDEIA): training in righteousness is what is meant here. The Bible is given to train us in the ways of the One who inspired the same. The divinely given Precepts of life can never fail anyone who would search out and do its commands (Isaiah 34:16). All of life’s answers, as pertains to man, are found within its pages (2 Peter 1:3-4; Psalms 119:128a). Millions of godly pilgrims, journeying through this earthly life, has found the perfect divine will and direction by studying the words of Holy Scripture (Psalms 119).

The verse following this monumental 16th verse, v17, also reveals to us another reason for the Scriptures – “That the man of God may be perfect (mature), throughly furnished (equipped) unto all good works.” This maturity will come as a result of the workings of God as we walk with Him. He will teach our hearts His doctrine, His correction, His reproof, and instruct us in righteousness.

In review, what are the 4 reasons that God gave us His Word in written form?

doctrine
reproof
correction
instruction in righteousness

The Bible was written to CHANGE you – TO CORRECT FALSE THINKING – and not to accommodate the lies you believe. Are you washing your mind of every false notion – by daily study of God’s Word, OR are you backslidden? (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:26) Repent now and conform to Christ by learning, embracing, adhering to, searching, studying, and obeying His truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17). WHY DID GOD GIVE US HIS WORD? WHAT are the stated 4 reasons God gave us His Word? Do you know this truth, and are you ready to share it with others?

You are obviously saved when you are putting God’s Word as final divine authority of your life and that’s pleasing to the LORD (John 8:47). When we allow God’s Word to correct us, we prove He is authentically the LORD of our lives (2 Timothy 3:16).

SOFT-PEDDLING, HALF-TRUTH preachers are Satan’s agents. No conviction, no cross, no holiness, no repentance, no readiness for the return of Christ, no judgment to come, no hell, no lake of fire! RUNNNNNN

WHY did God give us His Word? It was to establish His truth in and to protect His people from the many deceivers – “them that seduce you.”

“These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.” 1 John 2:26

God gave us His Word so that we may be established in him and kept safe from the “Many false prophets” He so often warned us about. He provided His written Word, his tangible revelation, so that we may fear Him (Deuteronomy 4:10), and so we can know Him (John 5:39). As you study Scripture, be on the look out for the many divinely stated reasons our LORD gave us His written Word.

Beloved saint, will you now teach these Bible truths to others? Share this.

Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16

God gave us His Word in written format so they’d be no confusion and also, no excuse on Judgment Day (John 12:48; Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 14:33; 2 Timothy 3:16-17, etc.). The Word of God is the basis by which the LORD shall judge each of us.

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

“Read your Bible for yourself. Please. A YouTube sermon clip is not enough. A podcast is not enough. Your favorite preacher is not enough. Know your Bible.” Biblical Man

“Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail…” Isaiah 34:16

Read God’s Word itself, yourself (KJB). THAT is God speaking. Every time you read His Word, God is speaking to you.

In Christ’s Love.

PASS IT ON

Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16

GOD’S WORD

LET’S LEARN GOD’S WORD TOGETHER – ONE TRUTH AT A TIME: Are you tired of reading Scripture or hearing a good message from the Word and not retaining any of it for yourself and to help others? This message was sent out to each person on our Moments For My Master email devotional list. We would love to add you and have the privilege of nourishing your heart with God’s Word (1 Tim. 4:6). Sign up here.

Loving not our Lives unto the Death [podcast]

Just WHAT do we need to “remember” about “Lot’s wife”? (Luke 17:32) “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. 12 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.” Revelation 12:11 Will you finish with joy? “But none of these things move me, neither count I my […]

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“Search the scriptures … they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:39-40 Those who are Christ’s come to Him and the way they do that is that they “Search the scriptures” to see Him for who He is, to know His will, to learn to worship, love, and obey Christ who is the Word of God. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 Those who truly know and are […]

Doctrine, Correction, Reproof, Instruction in Righteousness [podcast]

Doctrine, Correction, Reproof, Instruction in Righteousness 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:15-17 ARE you learning sound “doctrine”? Are you being corrected by the LORD? Are you being reproved by Jesus? Are you being instructed in Christ’s “righteousness”? RED FLAG: You attend a “church” and yet aren’t searching, diligently and daily digging into, devouring, and memorizing God’s Word daily. Backslidden! Under the bless-ed weight of the true original Gospel, men are convicted, broken, and crushed to repentance! (Matthew 21:44; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 2:4; 2 Corinthians 4:20; James 4:8-10, etc.) WHEN a minister’s message is all about encouragement, prosperity in this fleeting life, […]