Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the spirit of God; every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh, is of God. And every spirit that confesseth NOT that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh, is not of God; and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye heard, that it should come, and even now already is it in the world.” I John 4:1-3
In this day and age of deception, God has given us a clear formula in determining who is for Him and who is against Him -- spiritual discernment. If someone proclaims that Jesus, the Messiah, the Anointed One, the Savior, came in the flesh….This person is of God.
However, if a person believes that Jesus Christ didn’t come in the flesh… ie: the Messiah, the Anointed One did not come in the flesh….. but that Jesus was just a good man, a self-actualized man, a prophet, a philosopher….. this spirit is NOT of God, but is of the spirit of antichrist.
Jesus warned us that there would be wolves in sheep’s clothing. Paul warned the early church with tears that there would be wolves coming in the flock to deceive. Peter says that there will be false teachers. These leaders speak of doctrines of devils that will cause a falling away!!
We are well aware that the Jewish community denies the deity of Jesus and based on their Talmud and other writings, they hate Jesus and His followers. Their hatred of Him is revealed in these two statements; “Jesus is considered one of the 3 worst enemies of Judaism,” taken from The Jewish Encyclopedia, and “He is in hell burning in hot burning excrement,” taken from the Talmud. The Jews also believe the lie that when Jesus’ was buried, His body was stolen (Matthew 28:12-16) and thus, He did not resurrect from the dead even though there were over 500 witnesses as the New Testament proclaims (I Corinthians 15:3-5).
The Muslim faith also denies the deity of Jesus Christ. The Koran states the following proclamation: “God is indignant if Christ is believed to be God himself. Christ is not even the son of God.”
The Koran also speaks about the death of Jesus; “Christ was altogether saved from the indignity of the cross and as if by a miracle of likeness, someone else of the same features was crucified by the Jews under illusion,’ says the Koran. Verse, 157 – “And they (Jews) said in boast, we killed Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, the Apostle of God (in the knowledge of God). But they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts with no (certain) knowledge, but only conjectures to follow, for a surety they killed him not.”
Wouldn’t you think that theologians, teachers of the Good News, would know these heretical doctrines of the antichrist spirit?
Here is what Billy Graham had to say in May 30, 1997 on the David Frost program: “I think Islam is misunderstood, too, because Mohammed has a great respect for Jesus, and he called Jesus the greatest of the prophets except himself. And I think we’re closer to Islam than we really think we are.”
John Haggee, in his book, In Defense of Israel, he said 3 alarming statements. The first: “Jesus did not come to Earth to BE the Messiah,” (huh? “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus; for He shall save His people from their sins…they shall call His name Emmanuel…God with us.” Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 2:25-38)); Second, “Jesus refused by word and deed to be the Messiah” (really? Read Mark 14:61-64; Luke 7:20-22 – the fulfillment of Isaiah 35; John 8:56-59; John 10:24-33). Lastly, “The Jews cannot be blamed for not accepting what was never offered” (Haggee must have forgotten about this parable and then the stern proclamation in Matthew 21:33-43, “Therefore I say unto you, the kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth fruit thereof.” Matthew 23:37 & 38 says, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not? Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.”
Either these men are totally deceived or they are aligning themselves with these false religions on purpose.
Am I being too harsh in my judging of these men because I believe they are supporting the spirit of the antichrist? Here is what II John 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 …whosoever transgresseth and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God; he that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him, God speed.”
Does this include Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons? Both denominations deny the deity of Christ. According to them, Jesus is a CREATED being rather than the ONE Who CREATED.
Peter has harsh words for the false teachers in II Peter 2. “But these, as natural bruit beasts made to be taken and destroyed speak evil of the things that they understand not, and shall utterly perish in their own corruption. And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness… having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, beguiling unstable souls...Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam… while they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption.”
We were warned that doctrines of devils were to come in the last days. Just for fun, do your own digging to see when the origins of the Hebrew Roots and the Pentecostal movements came about.
Check out the history of Wescott and Hort, the translators of the Nestles text. Did these men believe in the deity of Christ? Their work is the basis for the modern translations of the Bible.
It is interesting also to read what William Tyndale and Martin Luther (they lived in the 1500’s) believed BEFORE all the deceptions came about in the 1800’s.
I am so thankful that God has given us the strong warning and the tools to discern truth.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
As a Thief…Watch Unto Prayer
Jesus is said to come as a thief to those who are not paying attention. Many think that the “Thief in the Night” is referring to a secret rapture. Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul and Peter address this issue. What does the Word say?
Right after it says that one will be received and the other will be refused, Jesus said, “Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore, be ye also ready; for in such an hour as you think not, the Son of Man cometh.” Matthew 24:42-50
“Take ye heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is. For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left His house and gave authority to His servants, and to every man His work, and commanded the porter to watch; watch ye therefore (for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or as the cock crowing, or in the morning.) Lest coming suddenly, He find you sleeping….I say unto all, Watch.” Mark 13:32-37
“And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their Lord, when He will return from the wedding, that when He cometh and knocketh, that may open unto Him immediately. Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh, shall find watching; Verily, I say unto you, that He shall gird Himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if He shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the good man of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also; for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Luke 12:35-40
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith…” I Corinthians 16:13
“For your selves know perfectly that the DAY OF THE LORD so cometh as a thief in the night…therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” I Thessalonians 5:1-8
“But the end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober and watch unto prayer.” I Peter 4:7
“But the DAY OF THE LORD will come as a thief in the night, in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works therein shall be burnt up…”. II Peter 3:9-14
“Remember therefore, how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” Revelation 3:3
Between the 6th and 7th vials of wrath, it says, “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, least he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15
Scripture interprets Scripture. We are to watch … for the Day of the Lord… the day He brings wrath to the wicked and gathers His children to Himself… the day in which the heavens and earth are no more.
Heed the warning….“Strive to enter at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open unto us,’ and He shall answer, and say unto you, ‘I know you not whence you are.’” Luke 13:24 & 25
Right after it says that one will be received and the other will be refused, Jesus said, “Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore, be ye also ready; for in such an hour as you think not, the Son of Man cometh.” Matthew 24:42-50
“Take ye heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is. For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left His house and gave authority to His servants, and to every man His work, and commanded the porter to watch; watch ye therefore (for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or as the cock crowing, or in the morning.) Lest coming suddenly, He find you sleeping….I say unto all, Watch.” Mark 13:32-37
“And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their Lord, when He will return from the wedding, that when He cometh and knocketh, that may open unto Him immediately. Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh, shall find watching; Verily, I say unto you, that He shall gird Himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if He shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the good man of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also; for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Luke 12:35-40
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith…” I Corinthians 16:13
“For your selves know perfectly that the DAY OF THE LORD so cometh as a thief in the night…therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” I Thessalonians 5:1-8
“But the end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober and watch unto prayer.” I Peter 4:7
“But the DAY OF THE LORD will come as a thief in the night, in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works therein shall be burnt up…”. II Peter 3:9-14
“Remember therefore, how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” Revelation 3:3
Between the 6th and 7th vials of wrath, it says, “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, least he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15
Scripture interprets Scripture. We are to watch … for the Day of the Lord… the day He brings wrath to the wicked and gathers His children to Himself… the day in which the heavens and earth are no more.
Heed the warning….“Strive to enter at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open unto us,’ and He shall answer, and say unto you, ‘I know you not whence you are.’” Luke 13:24 & 25
Friday, June 19, 2009
Abortion Survivor Gianna Jessen
Must see testimony.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPF1FhCMPuQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8B1nKGIAeg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPF1FhCMPuQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8B1nKGIAeg
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Building Fences, Creating Sides Versus LOVE
Subliminal and blatant propaganda messages occur in media, news and current events. It seems that humanity is bombarded with all sorts of these “agenda” messages.
“Tata Jesus is bangala!” or "Jesus is Poisonwood"– is a phrase mentioned several times in Barbara Kingsolver’s New York Times best seller list book, Poisonwood Bible. Interestingly enough, this well written honest and witty story was also a member of the Oprah book club and a favorite of Hillary Clinton.
One reading this book can come away with the impression that Jesus and His followers create havoc for others. But upon taking a closer look, who really was the poison? Was it Jesus or was it the broken and misguided character, Nathan Price that was the poison? In the book, the poison spread to his wife and children with no hope for redemption.
The movie, Milk, is the true story of the first openly gay official elected to public office in the 70's. The movie pits the gays against society, specifically the religious right (Anita Bryant and a senator).
This is not the only place where “the religious right” has made the news. Jerry Falwell is famous for stating that 911 happened because of God's judgment of America because of the gays. He was fond of calling Ellen DeGeneres, “Ellen Degenerate.”
George W. Bush claimed to be a Christian but is really in allegiance with his fellow “brotherhood of death” (Skull and Bones) buddies. He waged war on two countries killing thousands of innocent people and has passed several destructive executive orders that have dismantled our freedoms.
Now the seekers of truth may read, watch or pay attention to these themes – these messages from the media or these leaders – and say... “If Jesus is anything like Nathan Price, Jerry Falwell or Anita Bryant, I want no part of Him.”
If these “so called” Christian leaders are representing Jesus to an unbelieving world, many say – No thank you!
It is a perfect set up.
The Bible even warns of the emergence of these leaders. “Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15 “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…many shall follow their pernicious ways…making merchandise of you…”. II Peter 2:1-3
So who is this real Jesus? Did Anita Bryant understand that Jesus sided with the adulterous woman caught in sin and opposed the religious folks ready to cast their stones? Did Jerry Falwell ever truly understand that Jesus healed the Centurion's servant even though the Centurion himself felt too unworthy to have Jesus come to his house? Jesus praised the Centurion for having great faith even though he was a sinner (some speculate that this military man was gay or engaging in other “outright” sin).
It is clear to me that the world is being presented with a false representation of Jesus through these wolves; “angels of light” as Paul calls them.
Jesus said we will know them by their fruit.
Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35
He added, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” John 15:17
Jesus said for us to love our neighbor as our selves. Luke 10:27
Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan who had compassion on a wounded man. “Go and do likewise.” Luke 10:25-37 This story proves who is true and who isn't.
Paul said, “And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one towards another, and towards ALL men, even as we do towards you.” I Thessalonians 3:12
Did Jesus condemn anyone for their sin? He opposed only one group of people – the religious and political leaders.
Who is “the Pharisee”, really? Isn’t it a part of me? Isn't it my pride and self righteousness? My judgmental attitude toward others?
Jesus said, “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20
God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble – I Peter 5:5 & 6. My favorite parable is the Pharisee and the publican mentioned in Luke 18. The Pharisee brags about his giving and how he is not like the filthy sinners. The publican beats his breast and says, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
I echo the words of the publican because I, too, have been guilty before the Almighty God. But because of His great love for me, He came, died, rose again, ascended into heaven and is returning again. I have been translated from the kingdom of darkness and I am born again, a new creation, seated in heavenly places with Him. In Him, I am complete. In Him, I am a partaker of the divine nature of God. In Him, all the promises given to Abraham are mine. Now I am free to love Him in return, and to love my neighbor as myself.
Jesus is NOT poisonwood, but the balm for all who are wounded. He is the Bread of Life, the everlasting spring of Living Water, and rest for the weary soul. All who come in humility – He is waiting.
“Tata Jesus is bangala!” or "Jesus is Poisonwood"– is a phrase mentioned several times in Barbara Kingsolver’s New York Times best seller list book, Poisonwood Bible. Interestingly enough, this well written honest and witty story was also a member of the Oprah book club and a favorite of Hillary Clinton.
One reading this book can come away with the impression that Jesus and His followers create havoc for others. But upon taking a closer look, who really was the poison? Was it Jesus or was it the broken and misguided character, Nathan Price that was the poison? In the book, the poison spread to his wife and children with no hope for redemption.
The movie, Milk, is the true story of the first openly gay official elected to public office in the 70's. The movie pits the gays against society, specifically the religious right (Anita Bryant and a senator).
This is not the only place where “the religious right” has made the news. Jerry Falwell is famous for stating that 911 happened because of God's judgment of America because of the gays. He was fond of calling Ellen DeGeneres, “Ellen Degenerate.”
George W. Bush claimed to be a Christian but is really in allegiance with his fellow “brotherhood of death” (Skull and Bones) buddies. He waged war on two countries killing thousands of innocent people and has passed several destructive executive orders that have dismantled our freedoms.
Now the seekers of truth may read, watch or pay attention to these themes – these messages from the media or these leaders – and say... “If Jesus is anything like Nathan Price, Jerry Falwell or Anita Bryant, I want no part of Him.”
If these “so called” Christian leaders are representing Jesus to an unbelieving world, many say – No thank you!
It is a perfect set up.
The Bible even warns of the emergence of these leaders. “Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15 “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…many shall follow their pernicious ways…making merchandise of you…”. II Peter 2:1-3
So who is this real Jesus? Did Anita Bryant understand that Jesus sided with the adulterous woman caught in sin and opposed the religious folks ready to cast their stones? Did Jerry Falwell ever truly understand that Jesus healed the Centurion's servant even though the Centurion himself felt too unworthy to have Jesus come to his house? Jesus praised the Centurion for having great faith even though he was a sinner (some speculate that this military man was gay or engaging in other “outright” sin).
It is clear to me that the world is being presented with a false representation of Jesus through these wolves; “angels of light” as Paul calls them.
Jesus said we will know them by their fruit.
Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35
He added, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” John 15:17
Jesus said for us to love our neighbor as our selves. Luke 10:27
Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan who had compassion on a wounded man. “Go and do likewise.” Luke 10:25-37 This story proves who is true and who isn't.
Paul said, “And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one towards another, and towards ALL men, even as we do towards you.” I Thessalonians 3:12
Did Jesus condemn anyone for their sin? He opposed only one group of people – the religious and political leaders.
Who is “the Pharisee”, really? Isn’t it a part of me? Isn't it my pride and self righteousness? My judgmental attitude toward others?
Jesus said, “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20
God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble – I Peter 5:5 & 6. My favorite parable is the Pharisee and the publican mentioned in Luke 18. The Pharisee brags about his giving and how he is not like the filthy sinners. The publican beats his breast and says, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
I echo the words of the publican because I, too, have been guilty before the Almighty God. But because of His great love for me, He came, died, rose again, ascended into heaven and is returning again. I have been translated from the kingdom of darkness and I am born again, a new creation, seated in heavenly places with Him. In Him, I am complete. In Him, I am a partaker of the divine nature of God. In Him, all the promises given to Abraham are mine. Now I am free to love Him in return, and to love my neighbor as myself.
Jesus is NOT poisonwood, but the balm for all who are wounded. He is the Bread of Life, the everlasting spring of Living Water, and rest for the weary soul. All who come in humility – He is waiting.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
What is in a WORD?
I recently came into contact with 2 people who introduced me to the importance of WORDS. Both individuals commented on the power of these literary building blocks. I guess I never paid that much attention to their importance before.
But if you really look at it, a person who is being sentenced for a crime will pay attention to every word spoken by the judge or jury.
A man proposing to his girlfriend is going to anticipatingly wait for the worded response from his love.
I think of how just one word makes or breaks an idea. For example. Honey and RAW honey. Honey is a generic term for any honey and on today's market. Most honey is heated and filtered and some is even mixed with corn syrup. Now, adding a 3 letter word – RAW – changes the whole meaning of this honey. Raw honey contains pollen, propolis, beeswax, enzymes and all the other healing properties of the hive. BIG difference in the two products.
What does the Bible say about WORDS?
“A WORD fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” Proverbs 25:11
“...that ever idle WORD that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy WORDS thou shalt be justified, and by their WORDS thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36 & 37
“Man shalt not live by bread alone, but by every WORD that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4
Revelation 22:18 & 19 ”For I testify unto every man that heareth the WORDS of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues, that are written in this book. And if any man shall take away from the WORDS of the book of this prophesy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”
Sounds like God is serious about WORDS – that they are not added or subtracted from His Holy WORD.
Adding and subtracting changes the meanings – the goal – the truth of what God intended.
A huge example of this is found in Luke 23:42 (the story of the salvation of the thief on the cross). In the Geneva Study Bible, William Tyndale of 1534, the King James Version, it says, “And he said unto Jesus, 'Lord, remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.'”
In the NIV, New American Standard, English Revised Version, The Message, The New Living Translation, Young's Literal Translation, etc. etc... the verse says, “And he was saying, 'Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.'”
Is there a significant WORD missing? How about “LORD.” Does this not change the whole meaning of the verse?
Some may say, no big deal. I say, take a closer look.
Two different ideas. One (modern translations based on the Nestles text) – salvation is accepting Jesus as Savior. Two (earliest translations based on the textus receptus) – salvation is accepting Jesus as Savior AND Lord.
How has this absence of ONE WORD affected the “CHURCH” today?
Can you see a difference in a believer who has prayed the sinner's prayer as a child and has placed their faith in that prayer – but they live as they please -- versus a person who has accepted the salvation of Jesus and is in the process of surrendering all to the Lordship of Jesus Christ – dying daily to their will to live for Him? Is this not the same message presented throughout the New Testament? Acts 9:6 & 22:10 Paul calls Jesus – “LORD”. See also Acts 16:31 and Romans 10:9. (** Seeing the big picture, the Biblical concept of “Lordship” is also under attack by the Hebrew Roots Movement. “Lord” is removed from their writings - their “Scriptures” - because a man wrote in a book that “Lord” is pagan and really means “Ba'al”).
There are many other examples of omissions and additions in the new modern translatons. Why is the concept of FASTING removed from the NIV (see Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; Acts 10:30; Acts 27:33; I Corinthians 7:5)?
More shocking, the NIV removes all of the following verses: Matthew 17:21, 18:11, 23:14, Mark 7:16, 9:44, 9:46, 11:26, 15:28, Luke 17:36, 23:17; John 5:4 Acts 8:37, 15:34, 24:7, 28:28, Romans 16:24; 1 John 5:7.
How important is the WORD? – Jesus is THE WORD become flesh (John 1:14); the Word of life (I John 1:1). I would have to say that Satan and his minions have done a good job silencing the WORD of life by trying to change, omit, reduce the Bible, thus destroying the hope of true salvation through JESUS CHRIST the LORD. I am confident that regardless of this fact, all who diligently seek Him will be found by Him.
But if you really look at it, a person who is being sentenced for a crime will pay attention to every word spoken by the judge or jury.
A man proposing to his girlfriend is going to anticipatingly wait for the worded response from his love.
I think of how just one word makes or breaks an idea. For example. Honey and RAW honey. Honey is a generic term for any honey and on today's market. Most honey is heated and filtered and some is even mixed with corn syrup. Now, adding a 3 letter word – RAW – changes the whole meaning of this honey. Raw honey contains pollen, propolis, beeswax, enzymes and all the other healing properties of the hive. BIG difference in the two products.
What does the Bible say about WORDS?
“A WORD fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” Proverbs 25:11
“...that ever idle WORD that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy WORDS thou shalt be justified, and by their WORDS thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36 & 37
“Man shalt not live by bread alone, but by every WORD that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4
Revelation 22:18 & 19 ”For I testify unto every man that heareth the WORDS of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues, that are written in this book. And if any man shall take away from the WORDS of the book of this prophesy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”
Sounds like God is serious about WORDS – that they are not added or subtracted from His Holy WORD.
Adding and subtracting changes the meanings – the goal – the truth of what God intended.
A huge example of this is found in Luke 23:42 (the story of the salvation of the thief on the cross). In the Geneva Study Bible, William Tyndale of 1534, the King James Version, it says, “And he said unto Jesus, 'Lord, remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.'”
In the NIV, New American Standard, English Revised Version, The Message, The New Living Translation, Young's Literal Translation, etc. etc... the verse says, “And he was saying, 'Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.'”
Is there a significant WORD missing? How about “LORD.” Does this not change the whole meaning of the verse?
Some may say, no big deal. I say, take a closer look.
Two different ideas. One (modern translations based on the Nestles text) – salvation is accepting Jesus as Savior. Two (earliest translations based on the textus receptus) – salvation is accepting Jesus as Savior AND Lord.
How has this absence of ONE WORD affected the “CHURCH” today?
Can you see a difference in a believer who has prayed the sinner's prayer as a child and has placed their faith in that prayer – but they live as they please -- versus a person who has accepted the salvation of Jesus and is in the process of surrendering all to the Lordship of Jesus Christ – dying daily to their will to live for Him? Is this not the same message presented throughout the New Testament? Acts 9:6 & 22:10 Paul calls Jesus – “LORD”. See also Acts 16:31 and Romans 10:9. (** Seeing the big picture, the Biblical concept of “Lordship” is also under attack by the Hebrew Roots Movement. “Lord” is removed from their writings - their “Scriptures” - because a man wrote in a book that “Lord” is pagan and really means “Ba'al”).
There are many other examples of omissions and additions in the new modern translatons. Why is the concept of FASTING removed from the NIV (see Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; Acts 10:30; Acts 27:33; I Corinthians 7:5)?
More shocking, the NIV removes all of the following verses: Matthew 17:21, 18:11, 23:14, Mark 7:16, 9:44, 9:46, 11:26, 15:28, Luke 17:36, 23:17; John 5:4 Acts 8:37, 15:34, 24:7, 28:28, Romans 16:24; 1 John 5:7.
How important is the WORD? – Jesus is THE WORD become flesh (John 1:14); the Word of life (I John 1:1). I would have to say that Satan and his minions have done a good job silencing the WORD of life by trying to change, omit, reduce the Bible, thus destroying the hope of true salvation through JESUS CHRIST the LORD. I am confident that regardless of this fact, all who diligently seek Him will be found by Him.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Knit Together in Love
When gay or lesbian people try to find approval of their sexual relationships from God, many turn to the relationship between Jonathan and David.
Here is one of the key verses: I Samuel 18:1 “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
Notice the word KNIT. In order to understand a particular Bible verse, one must interpret it with the rest of Scripture. For example, what else does the Bible say about the word, KNIT?
Two relevant passages are as follows:
Colossians 2:2 “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love...”
Colossians 2:19 “And not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands have nourishment ministered, and knit together, increasing with the increase of God.” (see also Judges 20:11; I Chronicles 12:17 and Acts 10:11)
Being Knit together is how God describes how the Body of Christ should be toward one another.
A person born again by the Blood of the Lamb is a new creature and part of the BODY of Christ. The Body: We are His hands, His feet, His mouth, His eyes, His heart! How does a believer understand and hear God? How does a seeker come to know God? Through the touch and voice and love and compassion of the BODY. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU...” (John 13:34 & 35). They will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Fake superficial, “holier than thou” love? NO -- DEEP, RICH, selfless, life changing AGAPE love.
The Body of Christ is to be knit together – to become one. Jesus said, “Holy Father, keep through Thine own Name, those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be ONE as We are ONE.” John 17:11
It is interesting how God set it up for a male and female to join together to become ONE flesh (Genesis 2:24 & 25). But God calls His Body to become ONE in the Spirit.
Because I was immature, needy and selfish for so many years, I didn't understand this oneness concept and my attractions led into inappropriate same sexual relationships. The love I felt was directed at only one person. Now I see God calls me to be knit together collectively as a body.
God has placed wonderful women in my life. “Attractions” come and I am not afraid of them anymore as I know it is God's love that I am experiencing. It is the same love Paul had for his co-laborers. DEEP AGAPE LOVE.
How our world would change if we would love, agape style!
Here is one of the key verses: I Samuel 18:1 “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
Notice the word KNIT. In order to understand a particular Bible verse, one must interpret it with the rest of Scripture. For example, what else does the Bible say about the word, KNIT?
Two relevant passages are as follows:
Colossians 2:2 “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love...”
Colossians 2:19 “And not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands have nourishment ministered, and knit together, increasing with the increase of God.” (see also Judges 20:11; I Chronicles 12:17 and Acts 10:11)
Being Knit together is how God describes how the Body of Christ should be toward one another.
A person born again by the Blood of the Lamb is a new creature and part of the BODY of Christ. The Body: We are His hands, His feet, His mouth, His eyes, His heart! How does a believer understand and hear God? How does a seeker come to know God? Through the touch and voice and love and compassion of the BODY. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU...” (John 13:34 & 35). They will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Fake superficial, “holier than thou” love? NO -- DEEP, RICH, selfless, life changing AGAPE love.
The Body of Christ is to be knit together – to become one. Jesus said, “Holy Father, keep through Thine own Name, those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be ONE as We are ONE.” John 17:11
It is interesting how God set it up for a male and female to join together to become ONE flesh (Genesis 2:24 & 25). But God calls His Body to become ONE in the Spirit.
Because I was immature, needy and selfish for so many years, I didn't understand this oneness concept and my attractions led into inappropriate same sexual relationships. The love I felt was directed at only one person. Now I see God calls me to be knit together collectively as a body.
God has placed wonderful women in my life. “Attractions” come and I am not afraid of them anymore as I know it is God's love that I am experiencing. It is the same love Paul had for his co-laborers. DEEP AGAPE LOVE.
How our world would change if we would love, agape style!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
My Long Hard Week
“...My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou are rebuked of Him. For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son He receiveth....now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous, nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness, unto them which are exercised thereby.” Hebrews 12: 5-11
It all started with my hot water pipes freezing. That wasn't too bad because I still had water. The next night, not only were the hot water pipes frozen, but all the faucets were frozen except the bathroom facilities. Still, I was thankful that I had water (because I have been without water for 4 days – and that wasn't fun). The next day, all the water faucets came back on as my dad instructed me to turn the furnace on (I use wood heat so no reason to heat up the house with the furnace). Great... things were looking up. The next day, I decided I needed to do laundry. Ten minutes into it, water started gushing everywhere. The washer drain was frozen so the rinse water had no where to go but all over the floor, the walls, etc. Now, I was starting to get TICKED off. I finally made it through that ordeal – clean clothes! I have learned to not take all of my modern conveniences for granted.
Later that day, I left to have lunch with a friend and to go to my Bible study group in Detroit (3 hrs away). Only 30 minutes into my trip, my car just died. Oh my... what could it be? I called my dad and brother and thankfully, they helped me get the battery recharged so that I could get my car to the repair shop. What an ordeal. So – I had to call and cancel my plans. I was VERY bummed as these planned events have always been such an encouragement to me – being with like-minded women with sweet fellowship. What made it worse is, I was supposed to lead the Bible study and lots of new women were to be in attendance.
I realized I was angry at God. I had already been feeling alone in life – as I work from home and haven't connected with friends in my area. My one opportunity to fellowship with friends was taken away. WHY God???
Two days later, I come down with a BAD head cold and it WIPED me out! Ok, GOD, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?? Are You trying to get my attention?
After suffering for a few days, it became apparent He was disciplining me. I was on the wrong path in many different ways (my eating habits, trying to prove truth to the “unenlightened” with too much salt, etc.). It all started to really make sense when He caused me to read this verse:
“And He said unto them, 'Ye are they which justify your selves before men, but God knoweth your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed amongst men, is abomination in the sight of God.'” Luke 16:15
Whoa.... now I know that He is speaking to the Pharisees but it sounds all too familiar regarding my life. One of my weaknesses has always been pride, seeking recognition and wanting to be held in high esteem for my “great knowledge and intimacy with God.” What a joke!! The truth is: All my righteousness is filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6) and there is no good thing that dwells in my flesh (Romans 7:18). Without Him, I can do nothing (John 15:5). To be held in high esteem by people is disgusting to God. Wow!
It is not about having all the answers, being able to convince of truth to all the ignorant or saving the ungodly from their eternal fiery resting place.
These are the workings of the Almighty God. He alone has the answers. The Holy Spirit alone is the ONE who convicts someone of truth and righteousness and this same Spirit draws lost ones to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
So what does He ask of me? Repent of my arrogance and humble myself before the Almighty God. To seek Him with all my heart. To study to show myself approved so that I am not ashamed. To love Him with all my heart. To trust Him and lean not on my own understanding.
Very clearly, at the end of time when He separates His righteous from the wicked, here is His what is pleasing in His sight: Matthew 25! Verse 40 says, “And the King shall answer, and say unto them (the righteous), 'Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye have done it (fed the poor, gave water to the thirsty, took in a stranger, clothed the naked, and visited the sick and the prisoner) unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it into Me.'' To these righteous, He says, “Come ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”
I want to be blessed by my Father in heaven. So who else is blessed?
“Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice...”. Matthew 5:3-12
In the midst of the discipline, I saw God's mercy in many ways. Things could have been so much worse. My week of hardship was not fun, but the lessons learned are priceless.
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