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Devotionals

A group sermon by Devotionals

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Contributors to this sermon

*Light*
Message added by *Light*
This message will be about Jesus' ministry while He was on Earth, and the schemes the adversary employs in his attempts to thwart the unchanging purposes of God: this is done by obfuscating the minds of the naive by pulling the wool over their eyes, and gaining access into their minds through cunningness and deception (2 Cor. 11:13-15). This discussion will conclude with the Glorification of God and His Christ, His Faithfulness, and the Eternal State. Absolute Truth and Divine Love will ALWAYS prevail over lies, iniquity, and hatred; even if it appears as if the battle is being lost or too difficult to Overcome. It is the Power of the Spirit of God working in us that guarantees our Victory over "the gates of Hell" (i.e., synonymous of "death itself" cf. Ex. 15:2; Ps. 29:11; Isa. 40:29; Zech. 4:6; Matt. 16:15-18; Eph. 6:10; Phil. 4:13). These Promises of God are YES and AMEN, and we can be at supernatural peace by taking comfort in this Truth, and the irrevocable promises from God and Christ (e.g., "Verily, Verily" of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; cf. Matt. 18:3; Mk. 3:28; Lk. 23:43; Jn. 8:51; 2 Cor. 1:3-5).

Some have suggested that Jesus was born in a feeding trough, and ancient tradition says that He was born in a cave used for animal shelters; however, there is no clear mention in Scripture that states the exact location of where Jesus was actually born at (Lk. 2:7). When He comes again at the Second Advent to rule and reign on the Earth for 1,000 years, everyone will know who Jesus is, and why He came the first time into this world; even those who rejected Him upon His first arrival will see the "revealing" of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the whole world will face Divine Retribution as the Wrath of God and the Lamb will be poured out without mixture (Grk. apokalupsei tou kuriou iesou; "the [unveiling] of Christ as Judge of all the Earth" cf. Zech. 12:10; Matt. 13:24-30; 21:43-44; 23:37; 24:37-39; 26:63-64; Mk. 12:1-8; Rom. 11:25; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; Rev. 6:16; 14:10; 19:11-15).

"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for [he was cut off out of the land of the living]: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. And [he made his grave with the wicked], and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth." (Isaiah  53:7-9)
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
Jesus entered into this world in obscurity at His Incarnation, and the World in general did not KNOW Him; even His own people (i.e., "the Jewish Nation") did not recognize Him nor His Divine Purpose and Mission concerning the Gospel Message (Jn. 1:11; Acts 2:22). Some Historical "scholars" (a small number) even go so far as to deny that Jesus even existed (I don't know whether to laugh or cry). The problem with the secular world is their denial of Jesus' Resurrection and His countless miracles, and in spite of the multiple attestation found in the Synoptic Gospels, they remain in their state of unbelief. It's no marvel that the onslaught of Satan's attacks are centered on the core message of Christianity (i.e., its essential and cardinal doctrines that are Salvific). Those who are willing and unwilling agents of the ancient serpent also deny His Virgin Birth, Bodily Resurrection, Salvation through the name of Jesus Christ ALONE, and His Deity (cf. Matt. 13:13; Acts 4:10-12; 1 Cor. 15:14-19; 2 Cor. 4:3-4; 2 Thess. 2:7-12; 1 Jn. 2:22; Rev. 12:9).

"But [I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people]. All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him." (Psalm 22:6-8)

Those who crucified our Lord considered Him as nothing more than the common criminal; He was considered a worm and a nobody, and even disgraced by His own people (i.e., "the Jews") who wanted Him to be buried alongside with the thieves and the ungodly to shame Him, but He was given an honorable burial with "the rich" (Joseph of Arimathea donated a tomb where Jesus was to be resurrected; cf. Matt. 27:57-60; Mk. 15:42-46; Lk. 23:50-53;  Jn. 19:31,38-40).

"He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, [They hated me without a cause]." (John 15:23-15)
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
The "credibility" of Scholars governed by and through the influence and control of Satan are opinionated rather than putting their reliance upon The Absolute Truth and the veracity of Scripture; this is Time-tested to be proven Pure and Inerrant. More and more lies and deceptions are being perpetuated by the world system that rears its ugly head more often than not with anti-biblical teachings by those in the academic field of study; this "zeal without knowledge" is dependent upon the prevalence of false religions,  man-made philosophies, ideologies, false forms of "theism", and traditions such as: Islam, Buddhism, "Church" of Scientology", or even literature where facts are mingled with fiction, such as "the Davinici Code", and they are used to arouse confusion by stimulating and engaging ignorant readers to further promote more conspiracies and false belief systems. Our enemy is adept at obscuring and falsifying Holy Scripture and Christianity in general though mythology, false Religions, atheism, evolution, secularism, psychiatry and psychology.
 
The Son of Man came into this sin stained world as the Perfect Sacrifice for the sins of those who would call upon Him for Salvation, and His Message was spread throughout the World by Twelve ordinary men who were no better gifted than the hoi polloi; and this Gospel Message will one day be delivered unto all to hear so they may be given the chance to repent and turn to God and Christ for the remission of sins (Matt. 24:14; 28:16-20; cf. Eph. 2:19-22; Rev. 14:6-7). The message of His Story began with the most humble beginnings while He was on Earth; He became one of His own creations to serve them (Grk. diakonon -- i.e., "a servant"), and to minister to those who would call upon His Name; this will reach its pinnacle at the Commencement of the Eternal State (Isa. 42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-7; 52:13-53:12; cf. Matt. 3:13-15; 13:55; 20:28; Lk. 9:58; 22:27; 2 Cor. 8:9; Phil. 2:7; Heb. 5:7).
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
There are supernatural forces governing this world and its system of deception; these loyal servants of Satan are hellbent on defaming the person of Christ and His Ministry of Reconciliation (e.g., "the Islam religion"; see 2 Cor. 5:18): all of this is the result of the first sin committed by one of the most "ancient" creatures in existence (Gen. 3:1; Jn. 8:44; 1 Jn. 3:8; Rev. 12:9; 20:2). When it comes to determination, no one is more relentless than the Devil; he and his followers set foot on this planet before the creation of man. He was one of the first of God's creation to arrive here on Earth since ancient times, and he wants full ownership of this world and nothing less. He rules in the hearts of the unregenerate, whose vice is their pride, and this antithetical mindset leads to resistance from God Almighty by creating a barrier between mankind and Him (Ps. 119:21; 138:6; 2 Tim. 3:3; Jas. 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:5).

The fallen nature of man yearns for autonomy, and to be his own God: because it is the [inborn] nature of rebellious man as they are under the delusion that this "freedom" will set them free from all of their burdens, when in actuality they are the "slaves of sin" and Satan, and it is impossible for such deceived men and women to submit to the Sovereign Authority of God on their own ability (cf. Lk. 16:13; Jn. 3:19; 8:34; Rom. 6:6,19; 8:7; Gal. 5:1; Eph. 2:2-3; 2 Pet. 2:19). The Devil has been somewhat successful for quite some time at keeping the Truth that sets man free under wraps, and it is of no surprise that this continues to go on even to this very day (2 Cor. 4:3-4). The Holy Scriptures state, "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.", the implications and end result of self-governing power are Eternal if one fails to take heed; such spurned behavior brings forth delusion, spiritual ruin, greed, and ultimately spiritual death (cf. Ps. 10:3; Prov. 16:18; Isa. 47:10; Mal. 4:1; 1 Tim. 6:3-4,9).
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
It's been mentioned more frequently that robots will soon be taking over jobs where manual labor are required, and now the rise of artificial "intelligence" will also soon replace even white collar jobs; this will in due time lead to the loss of employment for many, and as a result, this will more than likely result in a cashless society. This will pave the way for the Antichrist and the Mark of the Beast, because it's either take the Mark of the Beast, starve to death, or get beheaded. The world system of deception governed by the god of this age is almost at its pinnacle. False prophets, apostasy, false Christ's (i.e., false "anointed ones"), sodomy, demonic activity, rise of feminism, slandering Christianity, increase in lawlessness, abortion, sorcery, rebellion, etc., are all on the rise, and these are increasing in frequency.

The grand architect of deception has coiled his serpentine scales around the tares, and these weeds are posing as Christians to infiltrate the True Body of Christ by disseminating false teachings using Scriptural sounding words (e.g., "bind, healing, signs and wonders, prosperity, sacrifice, etc."), but they have absolutely NO doctrinal or biblical basis at all when these claims are carefully examined in light of Holy Scripture using hermeneutics, exegesis, and sound theology. The scales of God's Justice in the death of Christ on the Cross has crushed the serpent's head and the lies perpetrated by this most vile of all creatures; we who are of His fold know the Truth and hear the voice of our Chief Shepherd, and whereby are we able to distinguish Truth from error (cf. Jn. 8:32; 10:5,27-28; 18:37; 1 Jn. 4:6).
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
An example of the case in point is the N.A.R (New Apostolic Reformation) which teaches that the functions of the Apostles (big "A", and not little "a" apostles) are still in existence today; this is not possible since "the" Apostles (i.e., "the twelve") were commissioned by Jesus Christ Himself to lay the foundation of the True Church through the proclamation concerning the Word of God revealed to them, and to confirm its message through miracles, signs and wonders (Acts 8:6-7; 11:28; 21:10-11; 1 Cor. 3:11; 2 Cor. 12:12; Eph. 2:20; 3:5; Heb. 2:3-4). There is no necessity for the foundation to be "relaid" (Rev. 21:14).

There is a false form of revival in these final days before our Lord's Return for His Bride: we see this now through the chicanery of false miracles that cannot be substantiated when challenged, and in addition to false prophecies that are so vague that they parallel those of Edgar Cayce and Nostradamus and the rest of their ilk on TBN. The only revival experienced today is the unprecedented transmission of the Gospel in many languages to all the world and through many forms of broadcasting (e.g., via television, radio, internet, etc.) -- and we see a great multitude of all ethnic groups being converted to Christ as a result of persecution from the Antichrist in the near future as prophesied in the Bible (cf. Dan. 7:20-21,25; Jn. 15:1-17; Rev. 7:9-14; 13:7).
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are [NOT CARNAL] (Grk.  sarkika; i.e., "not worldly"), but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) CASTING DOWN (Grk. "kathairesin ochuromaton" -- i.e., "to take captive or destroy") IMAGINATIONS (Grk. "logismous" -- i.e., "an opinion, idea, philosophy, or reasoning; obstacles which are contrary to the Truth of God's Word"), and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and [bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ]. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Corinthians 10:3-6)

I watched/heard a sermon under close scrutiny given by Joel Osteen on how to "prosper" in life; most of its content were nothing more than selfish ambition, such as job promotions at your workplace, etc.

This hireling is brainwashing his congregation of the "dead" and into the wringer with "good words and fair speeches" by telling them that they should not allow any "negativity" to hinder them in their pursuit of self-gratification because God is on their side (cf. Rom. 16:17-18; Phil. 3:18-19; 2 Tim. 3:7-8; 2 Pet. 1:20-2:3; Jude 12-13). Others who are in opposition to their selfish lusts are compared to villains such as Judas the two-faced (my emphasis added) betrayer; in other words, godly men who adhere to sound biblical doctrine (e.g., Sola fide, Eternal Punishment, Sin, etc.) are to be ignored, and Joel's sheeple must simply "trust in "God" regardless of what others who soundly disagree with them have to say, even if Genuine Christians are truly concerned for the fate of their Eternal souls. Scripture says that we are to, ". . . have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." (Jude 22-23)

By the way, he brought up the story of reluctant Jonah, and how he was commissioned by God to go to Nineveh, but he failed to mention anything about Jonah preaching [repentance] in order to avoid God's Judgment. He also mentioned that his wife had lost something of tremendous "value" (her ring) and surprisingly recovered it later on. What about selling some of our fading "treasures" in the here and now and giving it to the poor so that we may lay up treasures in Heaven? Or what about the foolish man who heaped up the fruits of his labor only to be told by God that his soul will be required of him that very day? Would a wise man desire his "best life now?" Examples such as this is a wake up call to live for the True meaning of Life found ONLY in Jesus Christ (cf. Matt. 6:19-21; Lk. 12:16-21; Jn. 6:27; Jas. 5:1-5; 1 Jn. 2:15-17).
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
[CNN Interviewer] said: "Is Mormon a true Christian?"

[Joel Osteen] said: "Well . . . in [MY MIND] they are."

Which mind is he referring to? Probably a deceiving spirit answering the interviewer on behalf of "Pastor" Osteen. I wouldn't be surprised if his incessant [eye blinking] is the result of demons taking over, and taking into consideration that demon possessed people have sculpted faces over a period of time (facial muscles). Him and his [fixed] smile is for the purposes of hiding all the frustration and anger towards God behind rigid face (NOT caused by known symptoms). He is most likely motivated to condemning many to an Eternal Hell and the Lake of Fire. Am I 100% sure about this? let's just leave it at 90-95% positive.

"For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if [HIS MINISTERS] (Grk. hos diakonoi dikaiosunes -- POSSESSIVE pronoun in the reflexive) also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works." (2 Corinthians 11:13-15)

[Joseph Prince] said: "You know the word repentance like Joel said is from the Greek metanoia which literally means change your mind.  And every time [LIKE JOEL], I mean, preaching the Word without using the word repentance sometimes, well [people’s minds are being changed all the time], from thinking this way negatively to thinking positively."

Joseph Prince supposedly has several years of NT Greek under his belt, but he has horribly mistranslated the Greek noun (metanoia) when asked about it; it is no wonder that both Joel Osteen and Joseph Prince failed to mention the [Biblical meaning] of repentance should be of no surprise to anyone who has a modicum of spiritual discernment, and BOTH of them have Biblical names (Joel and Joseph), and it seems as if the Satan usually uses this to his advantage. The Biblical doctrine of repentance focuses on turning away  from sin, its seriousness of it in the sight of God, and its Eternal consequences if not dealt with immediately (Isa. 40:3-4; 55:6-7; Mk. 6:12; Lk. 24:47; Acts 2:38; 2 Cor. 6:2; 2 Pet. 3:9).

"[REPENT] ye therefore, and [be CONVERTED, that YOUR SINS may be blotted out], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." (Acts 3:19)
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
The Devil also uses secular music (especially songs about love) to sway "professing" Christians with lyrics that seem to contain words that may sound "praiseworthy" unto God, and if you listen to them carefully, they will ALWAYS have words that are completely against the Truth found within Holy Scripture; but this is not suggested if you are prone to getting emotional easily. CCM today is almost indistinguishable from secular songs and their lyrics; both of them have little or nothing to do with anything Doctrinal, Glorifying God, or offering up praises to Him and Jesus Christ (cf. Ps. 35:28; 150:2; Isa. 61:3; Heb. 13:15; 1 Pet. 2:9).

"No man can serve two masters: for either he will [hate] the one, and [love] the other; or else he will [hold to] the one, and [despise] the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matthew 6:24)

Another strategy of the Satan involves "accusing" our brethren day and night (Job 1:9-10; Zech. 3:1-7; Rom. 8:33; 1 Pet. 5:8; Jude 1:9; Rev. 12:10). There are many ways the Slanderer accomplishes this, and a few of these are done by:

1. Christians not practicing what they preach, and I am certain that every Genuine Christian has been guilty of this at one time or another (me included). If you preach on godliness and holiness, he'll make tremendous efforts in trying to get you to live a life of sin which may dominate your life for a short season.
2. If you display acts of Sacrificial Love towards God, then he will attempt to disprove this by introducing anything idolatrous into your life, and he may be successful for but a moment. One way this is done is by attempting to persuade God that one of the reasons why you Love Him is because of the temporal blessings, or external acts not done from the heart of the Christian.
3. Another method is to disqualify you from your ministry by setting up traps and snares for the purpose that he may accuse you of setting bad examples of what Christian fruits you are to exhibit in your life (1 Cor. 9:27).

[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
If you are a Genuine Christian whose innermost heartfelt desires are to please the LORD by walking in obedience done out of Love for Him, then these attempts from the Devil will be short-lived, and they will NOT dominate your life as a child of God as you continually strive to prove yourself worthy to your Heavenly Father by taking up your Cross Daily. The Lord knows how to deliver the godly from [temptations] (Grk. peirasmou -- "a deliberate assault, or to attack intentionally" cf. 2 Pet. 2:9), and to punish the adversary and those siding with him with the severity of Divine Judgment that will befall them as they stand condemned in the Sight of the Lord. There are extreme measures one must take as a Christian to avoid falling into snares. Spiritual warfare is never to be taken lightly, and a few ways we are to engage in this battle to overcome sin and the Devil are:

Resisting the Devil (Jas. 4:7)
Walking in the Spirit (Gal. 5:16)
Sowing to the Spirit (Gal. 6:7-9)
Your Faith [IN] God and Christ through Trusting [IN] Him (Phil. 4:13; 1 Jn. 5:4)
Application of the Truth of Holy Scripture (Eph. 6:11-18)
Taking up your Cross Daily (Matt. 16:24)
Suffering in the flesh (1 Cor. 9:27; 1 Pet. 4:1)
Rejoicing at all times, and giving thanks to the Lord even in during fiery ordeals (1 Chron. 16:8-11; Neh. 8:10; Jn. 17;13; 1 Pet. 4:12-13)
The Hope of Glory (2 Cor. 4:16-18)
Praising the Lord (Ex. 15:2; Ps. 59:17; Acts 16:20-26; Heb. 13:15)
The Fear of the Lord (Isa. 33:6; Ps. 25:12; 31:19; 115:11; Prov. 14:26-27; Mal. 3:16-17)
Meditating on God's Word (Deut. 6:5-9; Ps. 119:11; Col. 3:16) from God as its source of power over sin (Ps. 18:2; Hab. 3:19; Zech. 4:6; Phil. 4:13; Rom. 5:6; 2 Tim. 1:7; Heb. 4:15)
Praying without ceasing: crying out "Abba" (Aramaic for "Father") which is suggestive of dependence, tenderness, and a relationship free of fear, distress, or worry (Mk. 14:36; Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:6; 1 Thess. 5:16-18)
Flee from Immorality (Rom. 13:14; 1 Cor. 6:18; 2 Tim. 2:22)
Always understanding that the Grace of God is not an excuse to sin (Jn. 14:15; Rom. 8:7; 1 Jn. 2:4; 5:3; Jude 1:3-4)
Humility ("Grace upon Grace to the humble"; cf. Eph. 1:5-8; 2:7; Jas. 4:6-7; 1 Pet. 5:5-6)
 
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
There are some denominations that falsely teach that the ability to "speak in tongues" is a sign that one is "filled" with the Holy Spirit, and this is done by Scripture twisting, eisegesis, and inserting one's personal opinion into certain passages. Can one be "semi-filled" with the Spirit? or what about 3/4 of the way? You are the temple of the Holy Ghost, so does the Spirit of God leave room for vacancy? (cf. 1 Cor. 6:19; Col. 2:10; 2 Pet. 1:3-4). Those who speak in false tongues tie it to the "baptism" of the Spirit, or a "second" baptism; the problem with this interpretation is that ALL Christians are [baptized] into ONE SPIRIT, with ONE BAPTISM, which is the Holy Spirit -- and there is no other Spirit that can [enter] into a man or woman, unless they are unclean and demonic spirits (Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 4:4-6).

"For he that [speaketh in an unknown tongue] speaketh not unto men, [but unto God]: for [no man understandeth him]; howbeit in the spirit [he speaketh mysteries]." (1 Corinthians 14:2)

Most of Scripture is easily interpreted by its original language, grammar, verb tenses, and words that modify the main verbs in the sentence structure of biblical passages. No one understands the one who is speaking to God in a "tongue" (Grk. glosse -- a language) because he/she is speaking mysteries (Grk. musteria -- Truth that God has kept secret until the appropriate time to reveal it; i.e., "The things which pertain to The Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ") to God in a language with no interpreter. NO MAN understands what is being spoken but God alone, why? because God understands ALL languages (His Omniscience), and He is the Author of the Gospel.

The "gift" of tongues manifested today in the church visible is a counterfeit form from the adversary, and this is used as a false form of revival; we are warned of such apostasy and deception in the final days before our Lord's Return (cf. Matt. 24:10-11; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:5; 2 Thess. 2:3). Experts in linguistics have examined the words and syllables uttered by tongue speakers, and they have concluded that no definitive concordance could be produced as a result of compiling these "words" and their definitions. This alone evidently refutes that such gibberish is NOT an actual language; even if it were a supernatural language, it is most likely a defunct dialect spoken by ancient beings under Satanic forces that now govern this fallen and corrupt world. 
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*
Bad theology and counterfeit spiritual gifts gives rise to a reprobate mind (Rom. 1:28), and for this cause, God sends them [strong delusion] (Grk. "energeian planes"; lit., "energy of deceit") that they should believe a lie (cf. Rom. 1:18; 2 Tim. 3:8; 2 Thess. 12:11-12; Tit. 1:16; Rev. 16:2; 19:20). In other words, what they believe to be 100% true is in reality a lie from the pits of Hell.
 
Herein lies the deception: If the Devil's ministers who masquerade as ministers of righteousness can successfully persuade others into believing that speaking in tongues is a "sign" of Salvation, then this can deceive many to an Eternal Hell and the Lake of Fire; this is done through a "false assurance" of Salvation by imparting a counterfeit gift of tongues concocted to deceive the ignorant and uninformed  (cf. Matt. 7:21-23; 2 Cor. 11:14-15; 2 Pet. 2:1). It's no wonder why many of these denominations appeal to the flesh; and as a result, there is the high probability that many in their congregation are NOT born of the Spirit, so they fail to grasp the things of the Spirit of God and Christ (Jn. 5:37-39; 1 Cor. 2:14,16; 1 Jn. 2:20).

There are many methods conmen and women in "Christendom" contrive to deceive those who seek after [external signs] to "validate" their assurance of Salvation, or that they are well on their way to Heaven, and one of them is achieved by imparting bogus "spiritual" gifts (psychologically, demonic impartation, laying on of hands, etc.) to those who do not understand what Genuine FAITH is all about (Heb. 11:1; 1 Pet. 1:7). They will live the rest of their lives with a false assurance of Salvation because of some external sign (e.g., "counterfeit spiritual gifts") they received in an "experience" they had under wolves in sheep clothing, and anathema is the end result of failing to heed to the Command to test all spirits (cf. Matt. 7:15; 10:16; 24:11-13,24; Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Eph. 4:14; Col. 2:8;  2 Tim. 4:3; 1 Jn. 4:1). There are even classes taught at some of these local churches on how to become apostles and prophets, and there are also videos on youtube where "Christians" can "learn" how to speak in tongues. All GIFTS from God are given by His GRACE (they CANNOT be EARNED), and this nonsense is blasphemous and soul damning.
 
[Continued]
*Light*
Message added by *Light*

Another strategy from the Devil is to sow discord among the Body of Christ, and he uses the spiritually immature (or false converts) to accuse anyone who does not agree with EVERYTHING they believe in the Bible as heretics, false teachers, unsaved, and on their way to hell (Prov. 6:16-19; Rom. 16:17; Tit. 3:2; 1 Pet. 2:1; 4:17). They use certain passages in Scripture and take it out of context to justify their reason for condemning their fellow brethren (e.g., 2 Cor. 11:13-14; Eph. 5:11; 1 Tim. 5:20; Hymenaeus  and Alexander). 

  1. Salvation is by Grace through Faith ALONE, but a Faith that is NOT ALONE.
  2. The Deity of Christ (God is a Triune Being).
  3. The Inerrancy of Scripture.
  4. The Virgin birth.
  5. The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  6. Biblical Inspiration.
  7. The Sufficiency of Scripture.
  8. The Second Coming of Christ.
  9. The Final Judgment.
  10. The Substitutionary Atonement.
*Light*
Message added by *Light*

"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, [YE WHICH ARE SPIRITUAL, restore such an one in THE SPIRIT OF MEEKNESS]; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." (Galatians 6:1)

Failure to walk in obedience to the Commands of Scripture is indicative of spiritual immaturity or an unregenerate heart; such nominal Christians are completely devoid of any fruit of the Spirit (cf. Rom. 12:10; Gal. 5:22-23; Eph. 4:1-3; Tit. 3:10). Even more disturbing are the large number of ministries under the pretense of spiritual discernment, and they all fall into this category (straining at gnats). Being quick to condemn others demonstrates lack of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; and interestingly enough, this bouquet of [the] Fruit of the Spirit is what they do NOT manifest, so this sets of some red flags.

"And beside this, giving all diligence, [add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity]. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But [HE THAT LACKETH THESE THINGS IS BLIND], and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins." (2 Peter 1:5-9)

A baby does not enter into this world knowing the alphabets or mathematics; it takes nurturing, love, and patience for them to develop into adults. When one is "born-again", the same principle also applies to Believers as well; a new convert does not become a spiritual "giant" overnight, and some Christians grow spiritually at a different rate than others depending on their sanctification, but all must begin with the sincere milk of the Word (cf. Jn. 3:3-7; 1 Cor. 3:1-2; Eph. 4:15; 1 Pet. 2:2; 2 Pet. 3:18). Those who have been Christians for a long period of time often fall into the snare of judging other Christians according to "their" standard of holiness, and I have seen this time and again among prominent leaders within the Body of Christ (e.g., Pastors, evangelists, elders, etc.). One would think that after being a Christian for a long period of time that they would behave  in just the opposite manner and display a Christlike attitude towards others, but sadly this is not always the case.

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"[Let this mind be in you], which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be [EQUAL WITH GOD]: [But made himself of NO REPUTATION, and took upon him THE FORM OF A SERVANT] (Grk. morphen doulou), and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)

The word for "servant" is used in the New Testament to refer not only to Believers or "slaves" of God (Grk. "Doulos, Douloi, or Sundoulos"; cf. Col. 1:7; 2 Tim. 2:24; Jude 1:1; 1 Pet. 1:1; 2:16; Rev. 1:1; 7:3; 10:10; 11:18; 15:3; 19:2,5; 22:3,6); it is also used to refer to those who are under the control of Satan: these are things inanimate, sins, false converts, and all unbelievers, who are ALSO slaves of God (Matt. 18:28,32; 24:48,50; 25:26,30; Lk. 12:45; Jn. 8:34-35; 15:15; Gal. 4:7; Rev. 13:16). Even Satan himself is a slave of God whether he likes it or not, as with all other evil and unclean spirits (1 Kgs. 22:21-23; 1 Chron. 21:1-17; 2 Sam. 24:1-25; Job 1:12; Mk. 1:27; Lk. 22:31).

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The Word became flesh (Gr. kai ho logos sarx egeneto) i.e., forever remaining BOTH God and Man, and the Majestic Potentate of All Creation took of the form of the most [humble] "slave" (Grk. Doulos, lit., "slave"; see 1 Cor. 8:9; Phil. 2:5-8; Col. 2:9 for the Doctrine of Kenosis); this is why Jesus would refer to His Father as His God and would also often refer to Himself in the third person, or to [humbly] veil His Deity by not directly referring to Himself using the [title] God (e.g., "His Father as His God" Matt. 27:46; Jn. 17:3; 20:17; Rev. 3:12, "Why callest thou me good?" Matt. 19:17, "the Son doeth likewise, ie., He is the same nature as God" Jn. 5:19, or the Eternal "I AM" Matt. 14:27; Jn. 8:58; 20:28).

Jesus said that His Father was "greater" than Him (a verse often used by Jehovah's Witnesses to "disprove" the Deity of Christ), which meant that in Jesus' Incarnation, the Father was "greater" in authority (e.g., "my supervisor or manager is greater than me in position" -- but EQUAL as a "human being"). Furthermore, Jesus said that NO ONE takes His life from Him, and that He voluntarily lays it down by His own authority; and for this reason, His Father Loves Him (Jn. 10:17-18). It is sad how the Devil has deceived many to question the Deity of Christ Jesus with questions such as, "If Jesus was indeed God, then why didn't He just tell them plainly, I'm God, Worship me or else.", even though He did on several occasions in the most HUMBLE manner:

  • Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath (Matt. 12:1-8)
  • Jesus has the authority to forgive sins (Lk. 5:21)
  • Jesus referred to God as His OWN Father (Jn. 5:18)
  • Jesus has the power to GIVE life (Jn. 5:21,26)
  • Jesus is ONE with the Father (Jn. 10:30)
  • Whoever sees Jesus sees the Father, or God (Jn. 12:45; 14:7-9)
  • Jesus is THE (definite article) Son of God (Matt. 11:27; Jn. 3:16; 5:21; 10:36)
  • God's Glory was [shared] with Jesus BEFORE the World was created, and God does NOT [share] His Glory with anyone (Isa. 42:8; Jn. 17:5)
  • Jesus is Honored in the SAME way as the Father (Jn. 5:23)
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*** Many well-meaning Christians often misquote Micah 7:19 where God promises to cast our sins into a sea of "forgetfulness" -- but that passage does not explicitly state such; the KJV reads, " . . . cast all their sins into the depths of the sea." (cf. Ps. 103:12; Isa. 1:18). A Christian brother of mine became very irate when I used exegesis to explain to him that God is Omniscient, and that nothing escapes His Eternal Mind; this is something EVERY Christian ought to know, and there is no escaping this cardinal Truth -- unless one believes that God's attributes are NOT Immutable, and that is heretical if one were to believe this. The problem is not with God . . . the problem is man and his infinitesimal mind, attempting to comprehend the unfathomable Eternal Mind of Almighty God.

Revelation 21:4 states, " . . . the former things are passed away." Does this imply that our memories will be wiped out? As stated above, it is the misunderstanding of the Nature of God and His Mercy, Grace, and Lovingkindness that goes against the grain of normal human comprehension. It is not that God "forgets", it is that God's Forgiveness is SO Great in extent that He will no longer bring it into account EVER (from the time one is forgiven, and forevermore . . .), even though He is Omniscient. This is how Amazing His Forgiveness, Grace, and Mercy is! Moreover, the redeemed will no longer recall any past experiences that are in any way connected to sin in the Eternal State, and this is not the result of loss of memory, but the Absolute Purity and Everlasting Joy in the Presence of God and Christ which will eclipse the [darkness] with the Glorious Light of God; the "former things" that brought about death, sorrow, crying, or pain and mental anguish will never again be remembered. Furthermore, the Glorified [spirit] body will be designed for perfect worship, praise, honor, and service to God and Christ for all of Eternity.

  1. Lust of the flesh: (i.e., "sin incarcerated in unredeemed flesh"; see Rom. 7:15-25; 8:2-8; Gal. 5:19-21).
  2. Lust of the eyes: (Gen. 3:6; Josh. 7:20-21; 2 Sam. 11:2; Matt. 5:27-29)
  3. Pride of Life: (2 Cor. 4:4; 10:3-5; Eph. 2:2; 1 Jn. 5:19)
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In Closing:

There will come a time in the life of every human being with breath in their lungs in which a final decision must be made, and this will lead to the permanent hardening of their hearts; either to a stony heart of eternal condemnation, or a heart which has been transformed and renewed by the Spirit of God. It will be the Triune God who will be [seated] upon the Great White Throne, and not merely Christ alone (Jn. 5:22; 12:48; Acts 17:30-31; Rom. 2:14-16; 2 Tim. 4:1). Scripture states that it is [God] who will "judge" the dead through Christ Jesus whom He has appointed to judge the lost. Great signifies the majesty and power over all Creation; White symbolizes the Absolute Purity and Holiness of God, and the Throne is figurative of God's Sovereignty and Dominion over every creature in existence.

"And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which [he will judge] (i.e., God) the world in righteousness [by that man] (i.e., Jesus Christ) whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead." (Acts 17:30-31)

"For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) In the day when [God shall judge] the secrets of men [by Jesus Christ] according to my gospel." (Romans 2:14-16)

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Rejection of this most precious gift will lead to the Eternal Sin (Mk. 3:28-29), which is unforgivable, not because God has run out of mercy, but because the permanent hardening of the heart darkened by the deceit of ones own pride. The "evil one" is known to "snatch away" that which is sown in the heart of the one who hears the Gospel (Matt. 13:19) -- and it is the light of the Glorious Gospel of Christ alone that can remove this veil that blinds their eyes with the darkness from the god of this world and its system of deception (cf. Matt. 13:15,23; Jn. 12:40; 2 Cor. 4:4).

Christ came the first time as a gentle lamb without blemish to be slaughtered for the remission of sins in obscurity; He will come a Second time where there will be an [unveiling] of God in the flesh, as He will be "revealed" in full blazing Glory as the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords (Rev. 14:19; 19:15). All who dwell upon the Earth will see Him for who He Truly is: the Judge of all the Earth, and Vengenance upon the disobedient will be doled out through Holy retribution with the Sword of His mouth (cf. Isa. 11:4; Heb. 4:12-13; Rev. 1:16) as He treads the [winepress] of Almighty God in the Glory of His Father (cf. Isa. 63:3; Joel 3:13; Matt. 16:27; Rev. 14:19).

"And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus [shall be revealed] (Grk. apokalupsei) from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;" (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)

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"Behold, he cometh with clouds; and [EVERY EYE SHALL SEE HIM], and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen." (Revelation 1:7)

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: [AND THEN SHALL ALL THE TRIBES OF THE EARTH MOURN], and [THEY SHALL SEE THE SON OF MAN] coming in the clouds of heaven with [POWER AND GREAT GLORY]." (Matthew 24:29-30)

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that [the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high], and the kings of the earth upon the earth. And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited. Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously." (Isaiah 24:21-23)

The LORD God will confine the fallen hosts of heaven into a prison for 1,000 years, along with their leader, the Satan (Rev. 20:1-3). They will ultimately be cast into an Eternal Lake of Fire as "Prince Gog" (a demonic ruler; cf. Dan. 10:13, 20-21; Eph. 6:12; Rev. 12:4) and his army will be utterly vanquished as Fire and Brimstone is called down from Heaven by the spoken Word of Christ (Rev. 20:7-10). The Devil will be seized and thrown into a fiery Lake of burning sulfur where he will suffer the most horrific suffering imaginable, and this will never cease, as it will go on forever and ever. The Triune God will then reign for all of Eternity with His redeemed and His heavenly hosts, and they will serve Him forever and ever (Rev. 7:15; 22:3-4).

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"Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and [THEY SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD]." (Ezekeiel 38:23)

Those who are in the Family of God can be assured that their Absolute Trust in God's Faithfulness to keep His Promises will NEVER be disappointed or put to shame (Ps. 25:3; Isa. 28:16; 49:23; Rom. 10:11). Whenever doubts occur in the heart of a Christian, it shows that such a one does not fully understand the Power of God; Genuine Faith entails the belief and understanding regarding the extent of God's Power to transform the lives of those who call upon Him with TRUST AND FAITH, and rewards those who approach Him in this manner (Gen. 15:1; Deut. 4:29; 1 Chron. 28:9; Ps. 58:11; Isa. 40:10; Heb. 4:16; 10:35).

The Bible says what it says, and it means what it means; there is no middle ground to stand on, and I will go so far as to compare this lack of faith [IN] God as tantamount to sacrilege. Once you seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, then all your prayers will be in accord with the purposes and Will of God for you; the results are effective, and your petitions will be answered if you sincerely seek after godliness, holiness, purity, and the knowledge of God and Christ (cf. Matt. 5:8; 6:33; Phil. 3:7-9; 4:19; 1 Jn. 3:3).

"Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. [COMMIT THY WAY UNTO THE LORD; TRUST ALSO IN HIM]; and [HE SHALL BRING IT TO PASS]." (Psalm 37:4-5)

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"And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, [BELIEVE YE THAT I AM ABLE TO DO THIS?] They said unto him, [YEA, LORD]. Then touched he their eyes, saying, [ACCORDING TO YOUR FAITH BE IT UNTO YOU]." (Matthew 9:28-29)

There are often times when the Lord intervenes in your life as He freely chooses to do so according to His Wisdom, Knowledge, and Divine Counsel through His Providence; and there are also times when you MUST TRUST God with all your faculties with steadfastness. You should then come to a point in your Christian walk where you will not be surprised at what God is able to accomplish in and through you when you see the unbroken pattern of fulfilled prayers and their consistency. You will then develop unwavering Trust in the midst of all your struggles, and God will make certain that all things will work together for good as He directs your steps according to His Good Pleasure (Gen. 50:20; Job 42:2; Prov. 3:5-6; 16:3,9; Isa. 14:27; 46:10; Jn. 16:13; Rom. 8:28; Eph. 1:5,9; 2 Thess. 1:11).

"And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and [GOD HIMSELF SHALL BE WITH THEM, AND BE THEIR GOD]. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for [THESE WORDS ARE TRUE AND FAITHFUL]." (Revelation 21:3-5)

God Bless!

Guaranteed Victory in God and Christ over the enemy

*Light*

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Hello Family of God, 
 
My apologies for my poor Grammar and punctuation errors; my hope for the reader is for him/her to attain a deeper Understanding of God and Christ through His Words found in Holy Scripture.

"Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: [And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain]. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable." (1 Corinthians 15:12-19)

I will be focusing on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our Faith [in] Him; the [express image] (Grk. charakter tes hupostaseos; i.e., "The Word of God sustains all things in existence" see Col. 1:17) of the Invisible God, Incarnate in human flesh (Jn. 1:14,18; 10:30; 14:9; 2 Cor. 4:4,6; Col. 1:15; 2:9; Heb. 1:3). Sadly, those who deny the Lordship of  Jesus Christ will always take issue with His Deity, even though there is conclusive evidence that proves that He is. He is the "EXACT" [representation] of God; so in other words, He is EVERYTHING that the Invisible God is in bodily form, and yet He is still NOT Deity according to these doubters. This sort of nonsense is a perfect example of how Satan blinds the minds of apostates and false teachers. Jesus was the most humble man who had ever walked the Earth as God in human flesh, and He also claimed equality with God Himself (cf. Matt. 11:29; Mk. 10:45; Jn. 5:18,19; 10:30; 13:3-7; Phil. 2:5-11).
 
"Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but [a body hast thou prepared me]: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:5-7)
 
The author of Hebrews takes this quote from Psalm 40:6 (LXX Septuagint) which reads, "mine ears hast thou opened": this is a Hebrew idiom for the hollowing out of the ears as integral to fashioning a human body. Ears are organs symbolic of being attentive to God's Will and His Truth's (1 Sam. 15:22); the Ultimate Sacrifice was offered unto God with the Gift of Unspeakable Value: The Precious Blood of His Son, Jesus Christ (Heb. 2:14).
 
[Continued]
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