Raptured In Christ

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RAPTURED IN CHRIST 

As with any of the Word of God it must be revealed to us by the Spirit of God for true understanding and revelations.  My post is intended to open and broaden our minds to analyze and seek the Lord for the truth and the full counsel of God. 

I am not here to debate pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation or post- tribulation.  I am here to share what the Word of God says according to the Spirit of God as it was inspired and written by the Spirit of God.  As for me Heaven is my home and it is where I chose to live, dwell and occupy daily!  Earthly people have a house, but children of God have a dwelling place and home in Christ Jesus.  The spiritual man dwells in Christ.  Elijah was taken by a “whirl wind” (Just as in Acts 2:2) to heaven as Elijah lived and dwelled in the Spirit of God which is in Christ seated in Heaven,  Just as we should dwell in Christ just as Christ dwells in us. 

Psalm 91:1 (NKJV)

Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

1         He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

2             Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I would suggest you read and meditation on the book of John 15th chapter which will expound more.  I will post a couple of excerpts here.

John 15:10 (NKJV)

10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.

John 14:15 (NKJV)

15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments.

1 John 4:18–20 (NKJV)

18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us.

Obedience by Faith

20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?

Upon reading some of these scriptures we should all analyze ourselves as the Word and Spirit of God requires.  Why do we fear?  The Word states that if we keep His commandments we will abide in His love and God’s perfect love casts out ALL FEAR.  Do you have total peace in this world? Are you keeping the commandments of God and love God with all of our heart?  Do you love your earthly life or your spiritual life in Christ Jesus?

1 John 2:15 (NKJV)

Do Not Love the World

15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Revelation 12:11–12 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. 12 Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time.”

The Lord has just put on my heart to share another point on a different topic but it will help to bring revelation to help with this topic.  I will start with a question which hopefully will open up our minds to seek revelation.  Where was David when he was inspired to write Psalm 23?  I am not referring to a region, nation but much, much larger! 

David was on the earth and who is the prince and power of the air?  Psalm 23 wasn’t written for the dead it was written for those living in Christ on earth.  The valley of the shadow of death is the earth as we are surrounded by people that are physically alive but spiritually dead as well as surrounded by evil spirits.  Now read Psalm 23 below.

 

Psalm 23 (NKJV)

Psalm 23

The Lord The Shepherd of His People

A Psalm of David.

1The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

3He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever.

 It would be good to meditate on this and also remember the fifth line is prophesying of partaking in Christ as in the last supper.  No matter where we are, how much evil we are subjected to or surrounded by, we too can partake in the Bread of Life!  Hallelujah!  Praise the Lord!

It would also be worth noting that Elisha may have followed Elijah but he did not idolize Elijah or praise Elijah but rather called on the God of Elijah to part the water!  Hallelujah!  Praise the Lord God! I say this because there is much idolatry in the church structure and we are told to lift up only one NAME which is Christ Jesus.  We have ONE MEDIATOR, ONE TRUE LIVING GOD and ONE NAME which salvation may be acquired and found.

Acts 4:12 (NKJV)

12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

2 Kings 2:14 (NKJV)

14 Then he took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and struck the water, and said, “Where is the LORD God of Elijah?” And when he also had struck the water, it was divided this way and that; and Elisha crossed over.

One particular church the Lord sent me to was having a bible study and two pastors were reviewing the book of Revelations with the group.  It was more a reading than a study and I can read the bible myself.  I was hoping for the “meat” and not the “milk” of God’s Word. 

One pastor said we needed to tell people about the book of Revelations and the things that will happen so people will accept Jesus and avoid the tribulation by being raptured.  Nothing of repentance, cleansed by the Blood or the Gospel just save your earthly life mentality.  The other pastor didn’t really comment only just read what the bible stated.  I said to the both of them I was already raptured and according to Matthew 24 THESE THINGS WILL COME TO PASS, THEN THE LORD WILL RETURN.

 

They looked at me like I was a fool but I stood my position.  I said that a born again Christian was seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus.  Isn’t Jesus seated at the right hand of the Father, isn’t Jesus our dwelling place according to Psalm 91.  Didn’t Jesus say the world would love us if we were of this world but it hates us because we are no longer of this world.  Didn’t Jesus say that He wished the Father would not remove us from this world but keep us from the evil one of this world. 

John 15:19–21 (NKJV)

19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.

John 15:18–19 (NKJV) 

The Relationship of Believers to the World 

18 “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.

 

John 17:15–19 (NKJV)

15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

Let us read together what the Word of God says.

Ephesians 2 (NKJV)

By Grace Through Faith

2 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Brought Near by His Blood

11 Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands—12 that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

 

Christ Our Peace

14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16 and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. 17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

Christ Our Cornerstone

19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

 

Jesus repeatedly spoke of HIS PEACE and Jesus is the Prince of Peace so why do so many live in fear?  Is Jesus a liar, certainly NOT!  In Jesus you should have perfect peace for Jesus has overcome the World and we are called to dwell in Christ who has overcome the world. 

John 16:33 (NKJV)

33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

 

I pray that the love and peace of God would dwell richly and deeply within you and that the well spring of life bring forth living water to a thirsty and needy world.  Let us walk in the love and peace of Christ Jesus.  May our lives bear true witness of Christ Jesus not just in mere word but in the love, peace, mercy and grace of Christ Jesus bearing witness by the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Shalom my brothers and sister in Christ Jesus.

What Spirit Are You

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What Spirit Are You?

 

Luke 9:55–56 (NKJV)

55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.

 

A few months ago as I was seeking the Lord and weeping in the Spirit over the condition of the professing church and how spiritually sick, spiritually poor and vastly deceived the professing church is the Lord spoke to me Luke 9:55-56.   “They know not what spirit they are of.” 

 

Revelation 3:17 (NKJV)

17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 

 

Why are so many professing Christians in churches with leaders that are wolves in sheep’s clothing.  Why are they fellowshipping with darkness and not exposing the darkness. Why are they making allowances and tolerating darkness.  Do they really even discern the darkness and evil spirits? Are they truly born again and do they hunger and thirst for the righteousness of Christ?  Do they pursue holiness?  How can you even be a living epistle without being born again?  

 

Matthew 5:6 (NKJV)

6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

For they shall be filled.

 

Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV)

14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:

 

John 16:13 (NKJV)

13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

 

How is it that the disciples followed Jesus but didn’t know what spirit they were of?  Obviously this was BEFORE Pentecost.   We have the very same thing going on within the church structure, many people INCLUDING leadership do not have the Spirit of the Lord!  They are not born again with a heart of flesh and a new Spirit from the Lord!

 

Ezekiel 36:26–27 (NKJV)

26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.

 

The people assemble unto a leader and to other people but DO NOT assemble humbly unto the Lord Jesus in one accord.  The “ACTS” church is not there!  The foundation and cornerstone of Christ is NOT there!  There might be a couple of true followers of Christ to bear witness of Christ but how long will the Lord keep them there under false teaching, deceiving spirits and the like?  

 

Acts 2:1 (NKJV)

Coming of the Holy Spirit

2 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

 

We have people assembling to other people, people assembling too leadership but how many are truly in accord only seeking Christ first and foremost?  I’ll be perfectly honest some of the greatest spiritual battles are within the local church assembly.  

Let me give you a brief scenario.  One of the greatest spiritual battles was fought in heaven when Lucifer and one third of the angels were cast out of heaven.  That battle is still being fought out here today within the confines of the church structure and assembly as well as throughout the earth.  Do you honestly believe that every person within the church is a true born again disciple of Christ?  Do you not know that the same battle that was fought in heaven is going to be fought on earth when Jesus returns?  Do you not know that this battle is also being fought within the church as Satan seeks to kill, steal and destroy?

I have personally witnessed leaders in churches that masquerade as angles of light just as Satan masquerades as an angle of light.  Paul explicitly said:

Galatians 1:8–10 (NKJV)

8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.

 

2 Corinthians 11:5–15 (NKJV)

Paul and False Apostles

5 For I consider that I am not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles. 6 Even though I am untrained in speech, yet I am not in knowledge. But we have been thoroughly manifested among you in all things.

7 Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge? 8 I robbed other churches, taking wages from them to minister to you. 9 And when I was present with you, and in need, I was a burden to no one, for what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied. And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you, and so I will keep myself. 10 As the truth of Christ is in me, no one shall stop me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia. 11 Why? Because I do not love you? God knows!

12 But what I do, I will also continue to do, that I may cut off the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the things of which they boast. 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.

 

Personally I am not impressed when someone uses the name or terminology god, lord or even the name of Jesus.  I want to know who their lord, god and Jesus is because very often it is not the Jesus I know!

 

Acts 19:15 (NKJV)

15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?”

 

I have always been concerned and quite honestly baffled at how Satan and his minions/demons know who were are in Christ but the professing body of Christ doesn’t know us in the Spirit of the Lord!  This should be alarming, troubling and very concerning to all of us!  

 

2 Corinthians 5:16–17 (NKJV)

16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

 

1 John 4:1 (NKJV)

4 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

 

Many times I meditate on a scripture seeking the Lord for insight and the Lord is faithful to reveal things. A short time ago I was reflecting on Peter trying to walk on water.  I’ve heard so many Christians claim that Peter lacked faith and yet they themselves want the ability to walk on water likely just for show.  What they didn’t realize is what Peter was actually doing!  Jesus appears as a “ghost” because they saw Jesus for the first time as Spirit.  Just as in the book of Genesis when the Spirit hovered above the waters.  Peter was “testing the Spirit”.  Why are people today not testing the spirits?

 

Matthew 14:25–29 (NKJV)

25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.

27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”

28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”

29 So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.

 

1 John 4:1 (NKJV)

4 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

 

John 10:27 (NKJV)

27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 

 

Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

 

I was in my quiet place with the Lord and just sharing my heart with the Lord.  I was conversing with the Lord about His true servants and how few there truly are and how they are separated from other true servants.  It’s as if I was Jehu asking “where are the Lord’s servants”.  The Lord spoke to me and said Elijah was outnumbered 850 to 1.  If Elijah was outnumbered 850 to 1 what is it now?  If we take that ratio and apply it to Noah’s Ark how many were actually saved during the flood!  

Jesus warned in Matthew 24 see that NO-ONE deceives you!  As I wrote many months ago in my article about the spirit of delusion and the great apostasy we are witnessing the book of Revelations play out before us.  Choose this day whom you shall serve.

https://abidingbread.com/2020/08/29/reprobate-minds-spirit-of-delusion/

 

The only true teacher of God’s Word is the Spirit of God, no man can teach the things of the Spirit of God.  Saul/Paul was a scholar but on the road to Damascus Saul met the Lord Jesus!  

 

  1 Corinthians 2:11 (NKJV)

11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.


1 John 2:27 (NKJV)

27 But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.

 

If you truly want to walk in spiritual discernment you must be born again and seek/look for Christ in all things including people.  You can’t discern without the Holy Spirit and relying on earthly wisdom to discern spiritual maters is one of man’s greatest demises.  

 

To truly follow Christ you will be rejected, chastised, mocked, slandered and tossed away by many but do not let your heart be troubled for Jesus came to His own and they did not accept Him either.  

 

John 1:11–13 (NKJV)

11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.

The Acceptance of Christ

12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

 

May the Lord bless you and keep you in these perilous times.  I leave you with these scriptures for inspiration.

 

1 John 4:18–19 (NKJV)

18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us.

 

John 17 (NKJV)

Christ Prays for Himself

17 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. 4 I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.

Christ Prays for His Disciples

6 “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. 7 Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You. 8 For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.

9 “I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. 10 And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. 12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

Christ Prays for All Believers

20 “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; 21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22 And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

24 “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. 26 And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

Reprobate Minds – Spirit of Delusion

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Reprobate Minds – Spirit of Delusion

This morning in my quiet time with the Lord, the Lord spoke the words “reprobate mind” to me as I was reflecting on the following scripture and meditating on the times we live in.

Matthew 24:37–39 (NKJV)

37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 

Just as Noah was a preacher of righteousness and only 8 people were allowed on the Ark the rest of the people/humanity had reprobate minds and refused the righteousness of God.  People called, believed and promoted evil as good and called good as being evil!  It was not because they were not warned or did not hear the truth of God’s word but their denial of the truth while promoting and living evil lifestyles.  We know that the Lord Jesus wishes that no man would perish but it will be as in the days of Noah!

Matthew 24:35 (NKJV)

35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

Once I heard “reprobate mind” the Holy Spirit quickly began to show me that as the “mark of the beast” draws near so will the amount of people given over to reprobate minds.  In fact, many people have already been given over to reprobate minds and the “spirit of delusion”.  We must remember that anyone who receives the mark of the beast will not inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. 

Isaiah 5:20–21 (NKJV)

20      Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;

Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;

Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 

21      Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,

And prudent in their own sight!

 

Revelation 13:7 (NKJV)

7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.


Revelation 13:16–17 (NKJV) 

16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

 

Revelation 14:9–13 (NKJV)

9 Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, 10 he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.”

12 Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

13 Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ”

“Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.”

 

Romans 1:20–32 (NKJV) 

20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

 

Why have true prophets and prophetic warnings been denied?  Why all the debate on pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation and post-tribulation? God is not the author of confusion!  I remember once I was in a bible study and the leaders were teaching on the book of Revelations and the debate on the rapture or “catching away” once again became the debate.  I asked them why they were so caught up in this debate as I said I’ve already been raptured!  Just as John 17 and Ephesians 2 mentions.

 

John 17:16–19 (NKJV)

16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

 

Ephesians 2:4–7 (NKJV)

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

 

Contrary to once in grace always in grace the Apostle Paul told us that the great apostasy would occur prior to Christ’s return.  This was stated thousands of years ago, and today we are witnessing not only the great apostasy but also the reprobate minds of humanity who blatantly refuse the truth of God’s Word.  This spirit of delusion is so strong that people may even believe they are serving the one true Living God Christ Jesus!  Yes, these people will actually fulfil the Words Jesus spoke in Matthew 7.

 

Matthew 7:21–23 (NKJV)

True Way into the Kingdom

Luke 6:46

 

21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

 

2 Thessalonians 2:1–12 (NKJV)

The Great Apostasy

2 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

 

Noah didn’t try to persuade people neither did the servants of the Lord in the bible.  They spoke the truth, revealed truth, upheld truth and promoted truth according to God’ Spirit and Truth.  The accountability of one’s own soul remains with each of us as individuals.  We cannot blame leadership, family, friends, personal intellect, what we have been taught, or any other sources for our decision not to surrender to the Lordship of Jesus in Spirit & Truth. 

I believe in a remnant and the Lord always has a remnant, even until the Lord’s second coming.  We are in very perilous times people and I believe many people have been given over to reprobate minds and/or a spirit of delusion.

It grieves me that people are led astray but if each of us as individuals do not seek God’s truth in Spirit and Truth we too can be led astray.  Let each of us evaluate our own personal lives in this time and earnestly seek the righteousness of Christ Jesus and His wisdom. 

Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

Philippians 2:12–18 (NKJV)

Light Bearers 

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

17 Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.

 

May the love, peace, grace and mercy of the Lord Jesus dwell richly in your hearts and see that no man deceives you in these perilous times. 

 

Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

John 12:25 (NKJV)

25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

 

Matthew 24:12–13 (NKJV)

12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

 

2 Thessalonians 2:3 (NKJV) 

3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,

 

2 Timothy 3:1–9 (NKJV)

Perilous Times and Perilous Men 

3 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 6 For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, 7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8 Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; 9 but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was. 

John 16:33 (NKJV)

33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

 

Let us pray for the wisdom, peace, mercy and grace of the Lord Jesus in these difficult times we live in.  The great commission must continue until the return of the Lord Jesus. 

Sickness & Spiritual Attacks

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Sickness & Spiritual Attacks

I recall listening to messages in churches and online where preachers would preach that Satan has no power.  How does their message further afflict those who truly seek the Lord Jesus and preach the Word of God and the good news of Salvation who truly come under demonic attack?

Please do not underestimate real spiritual warfare.  I personally believe that real life is in the Spirit of God and the majority of our afflictions happen in the spiritual realm. I also believe that many healing are inhibited because of the lack of taking authority over these demonic spirits.  Our battle is not carnal, it is spiritual.

 Why would you need spiritual armor if there is no spiritual powers of darkness and evil?

Ephesians 6:10–13 (NKJV)

The Whole Armor of God

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

My concern is that so many Christians are being attacked and assaulted by demonic spirits and the works of Satan and they end up embracing the sicknesses and attacks rather than rebuking these attacks.  This often results in the “sickness” becoming their identity verses the Spirit of God.  While there is true sickness we must process and meditate on our sickness in Spirit and Truth.

For example, how sudden did you come under that influence or attack of this sickness?  Who was around you and where were you when this sudden sickness happened?  What were you doing just prior, were you about to preach, teach or witness for Jesus? 

I could give you testimony after testimony of the attacks I have endured but there is no point.  I just want all of you to seek the Lord in Spirit and Truth about your own situations.  Do not assume that your health suffers because of something you did but perhaps something you represent and promote which is Christ Jesus.

The Apostle Paul talks about this in Romans and Thessalonians.

Romans 1:13 (NKJV)

13 Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles.

 

(READ COMMENTARY)

2:18 Satan hindered us Satan is the enemy of God who opposes Paul and his apostolic ministry (e.g., 3:5; 2 Cor 2:11; 11:13–15; 12:7). Some of the Thessalonians likely worried that Paul abandoned them when he abruptly left the city and did not return (see note on 1 Thess 1:1–10). Paul assures the believers at Thessalonica that his separation from them was not his choice—Satan hindered him.

The Greek verb used here, enkoptō, literally means “to cut up.” It could be used to describe an army destroying an enemy’s road, consequently hindering their travel. Satan may have stirred up persecution in Thessalonica or caused an illness that kept Paul (and his companions) from returning to the city. The exact nature of the hindrance is unknown. In other instances, Paul credits God with preventing travel (1 Cor 16:12; Acts 16:6).[1]

 

1 Thessalonians 2:18 (NKJV)

18 Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us.

 

Where I live there are principalities but the one that I want to talk about is the principality of infirmity/sickness.  I live in an area where it is common to see young adults and many others using motorized scooters to go shopping. There is much sickness where I live, and many are not aware of the spiritual attacks they embrace through sickness.  It can become a form of personal identity and a stronghold in the spirit realm.    Their sickness becomes their identity and dependency is often found on entitlements, government assistance, etc.  Yes, some are truly sick, and I am not downplaying their sickness.  What I want you to realize is that any dependency other than on Christ Jesus can become an idol.  

I remember not long ago the Lord had me attend a church service where an evangelist was praying for healings.  I waited for the evangelist after church and asked him if he was aware of the principality of infirmity in that area.  I would say that about 80 percent or more of the people needed prayers for sicknesses!  He looked at me as the Lord brought revelation to him. 

Recently I was asked to teach and preach to a leadership meeting in another country.  I talked about the demonic attacks that we come against and endure for the gospel of Christ Jesus amongst other things the Lord placed on my heart to share.  They were encouraged by the teaching knowing that the warfare was real and that they were still ministering even when attacked.  What I didn’t tell them is that 30 minutes before my appointed time to share the Word and teachings that I came under attack as Satan did not want me to encourage and edify the brethren. 

We all know that Ephesians talks about the armor of God but I want you to reflect on Hebrews 4:12.

Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)

12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

What I want you to focus on is the separation of “flesh from spirit”.  Even though our flesh might fail us because of sickness, spiritual attacks, ungodliness around us we must NOT let these things define us in the Spirit of God! 

Jesus never let all of His sufferings, persecutions, whippings or anything define Him in the Holy Spirit or Father. 

I have been receiving many new friend requests from pastors from various countries which are battling sickness.  Please seek the Lord for His wisdom and spiritual truth as it may well be a spiritual attack. 

Our battle is real, and the attacks are real.  We must seek the Lord for His wisdom and grace to overcome.

2 Corinthians 12:7–9 (NKJV)

The Thorn in the Flesh

7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 

In the end time there will be great false signs and wonders from Satan.  Are we to believe that Satan has no power? 

Revelation 13:7 (NKJV)

7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.

Much of what we are experiencing around the WORLD is written in the Word of God.  If ever there was a time to fulfill the abundant life in Christ Jesus it is now.  Yes, the abundant life is not an earthly life it is a life in Christ Jesus. 

Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 

My dear brothers and sisters stay encouraged in the Lord through the perilous times we live in and know that our suffering savior knows our burdens and pains.  Let us rejoice that we are called to partake in the sufferings of Christ for His namesake. 

1 Peter 4:12–19 (NKJV)

Suffering for God’s Glory

12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.

17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now

“If the righteous one is scarcely saved,

Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

Exodus 15:26 (NKJV)

26 and said, “If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.”



[1] Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (1 Th 2:18). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.

SANCTIFIED VESSELS

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SANCTIFIED VESSELS

There are many inroads to ungodliness, darkness, lawlessness, immorality and demonic influences and oppression. If you give Satan an opening, he will pry that opening wider and wider.

Matthew 12:43–45 (NKJV)

43 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. 44 Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. 45 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”

We must cast down vain imaginations and temptations which we know are contrary to the knowledge and way of Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 10:3–6 (NKJV)

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

What most people don’t see, choose not to see, underestimate or disbelieve is that the greatest spiritual battle was fought in heaven and that same battle continues here on earth even within the church assemblies and leadership.  Look across the world today at how exterior influences of Covid19 and other mandates have restricted the assembling of the saints not to mention the attacks from within the church assembly.

Sadly, much of this battle is fought within the church assembly and within leadership as demonic influences constantly attack even from within the church assembly. To deny that Satan puts people or demonic spirits/influences within the church buildings and assemblies to destroy the works of Christ is to deny the battle fought in heaven ever happened and the battle here and now, not to mention the battle which is to come when Christ Jesus returns.

In addition, it was the works of Satan which crucified Christ but even through that, Jesus was in control because Jesus controlled the time that the crucifixion would take place. It was at an appointed time.  Jesus freely gave His life, we need to do the same and lay down our lives to Christ for the salvation of others. 

John 15:13 (NKJV)

13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

I am saddened when I look at profiles that have lustful images and “likes”. There should be modesty in our appearances as this applies to both men and women.  As the Lord leads I private message people to help them work through their struggles and many do comply by repentance and removing those things that are ungodly or invite demonic influences into their lives.  The struggles are real, and we need to rightly deal with these struggles. 

When I see Pastors or church leaders with these things it is even more disheartening yet not surprising. (No condemnation) If Satan can attack leadership then everything under that leadership is subjected to those same demonic influences. Satan will always try to attack “the head” leadership and if that doesn’t work Satan will attack those close to the “head leadership”.  This includes the family structure and why there are so many separations, adulteries and divorces.

We must not sit under false prophets or ministers believing the words of these false prophets. Substituting lies for truth. Then there are those who “like” “false prophets” or a mixture of true prophets and false prophets. I am not being judgmental here I am stating facts.   The truth is every time we receive revelation of the Truth of God we are under judgment.  What are we going to do now that we truly have a revelation of Truth?  We must conform to Truth! 

John 14:6 (NKJV)

6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

(Read 2 Peter 2)

As we truly grow in Christ and walk the narrow path so will the people we follow or associate with.  Things we once enjoyed we longer enjoy, things we once did we no longer do. The time is accelerating and of urgency. The bride must prepare for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

See my article:

http://abidingbread.com/2018/01/28/marriage-supper-of-the-lamb/

As the world increases in ungodliness, immorality, perversion and lawlessness the influences and forces of these demonic attacks increase against us. Let us not lose hope or faith in this battle because a born-again follower of Christ knows this earth is not their home.

I believe however hard these times are for the body of Christ, all of this is a preparation for what is about to come. Many go without food and shelter. Others are abandoned by loved ones because of the spiritual division of beliefs. Whatever the hardship let us rejoice in the finished work of Calvary. Do not grow weary as our redemption draws near.

Galatians 6:9 (NKJV)

9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

 

See my article on Consequences: 

http://abidingbread.com/2020/07/12/consequences/

Meanwhile let us humble ourselves as individuals with truthful personal reflection of our pursuit of holiness and righteousness to Christ Jesus. Our salvation is not dependent upon others it is only dependent upon our personal true and godly devotion to Christ.

 

We need to restore one another in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus in the Fruit of the Spirit. Restoration only happens through true humility, honest reflection, repentance and our true desire towards being the bride of Christ Jesus. NONE OF US IS EXEMPT FROM THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE WE EACH MUST HOLD OURSELVES ACCOUNTABLE.

 

Galatians 6:1 (NKJV)

Bear and Share the Burdens

6 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.

 

1 Corinthians 11:27–34 (NKJV)

Examine Yourself

27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.

33 Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 34 But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.

 

We know that judgment starts in the house of the Lord, the Lord desires His pulpits to be holy, undefiled, sanctified, consecrated just as the Lord wants our bodies to be sanctified and consecrated.

 

1 Corinthians 6:19 (NKJV)

19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

 

True discernment within the church is not only knowing truth from error but also knowing those who are under demonic influences that truly seek deliverance and restoration verses those who come to undermine, kill, steal and destroy on behalf of Satan. As long as we falsely believe the “partial truth” that only the Lord knows the hearts of people we will deny that the heart is wicked and deceitful. To be a preacher of righteousness sin must be addressed and the wages of sin spoken and addressed.

 

Jeremiah 17:9 (NKJV)

9  “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?

 

 

Ezekiel 36:26 (NKJV)

26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 

The Lord always exposed the hearts of people to His true servants. These servants are humble enough yet strong enough in the Spirit of God to approach people for repentance and restoration. Many of these servants are mocked, slandered, demised, persecuted, cast away, ridiculed and were martyred.

(Read 2 Samuel 12)

King David is a prime example and David was a man after God’s heart. The Lord sent Nathan to speak to David and there are times the Lord will send people to us for restoration.  It is also worth noting that if ANYONE merely points out your sin but DOES NOT bring you to the cross of Calvary AND the resurrection of Christ so that we can become new creations in Christ they are NOT of the LORD JESUS!  (The exclude the gospel of Christ and the propitiation of sin through Christ.)

 

1 John 1:9 (NKJV)

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The time is long overdue that we seek the holiness and righteousness of Christ wearing the full armor of God not only in our personal temple but in the House of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:10–13 (NKJV)

The Whole Armor of God

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Luke 22:31–32 (NKJV)

Christ Predicts Peter’s Denial

Matt. 26:31–35; Mark 14:27–31; John 13:36–38

31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”

 None of us are exempt from the attempts or sifting of Satan.

 

The grace of God and the blood of Jesus is all sufficient and blessed are those who are cleansed, forgiven, redeemed and reconciled to Christ Jesus.  May the Lord receive the fullness of His inheritance, the hearts and souls of all His children. 

 

Numbers 6:24–26 (NKJV)

    24      “The LORD bless you and keep you;

    25      The LORD make His face shine upon you,

    And be gracious to you;

    26      The LORD lift up His countenance upon you,

    And give you peace.” ’

 

Titus 2 (NKJV)

Qualities of a Sound Church

2 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

9 Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, 10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

 

Trained by Saving Grace

11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

15 Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.

 

 

COVID 19 FACE MASKS – SPIRITUAL DUCT TAPE

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COVID 19 FACE MASKS

SPIRITUAL DUCT TAPE

 

Today during worship and prayer with the Lord I was conversing with the Lord regarding a recent posting on Facebook.  I saw a pastor wearing a face mask that had printed on it “Faith over Fear”.  This pastor is not alone as many Christians are wearing face masks, it was what was printed on the mask that truly saddened me as real faith isn’t found in a mask it’s only found in Christ Jesus.  Wearing the mask didn’t demonstrate or witness faith regardless of what was printed on it.  

I realize that each of us as individuals are at different places in our walk with the Lord however the whole gospel is based on the life, death and resurrection of Christ so that we may have eternal life in Christ Jesus.  How can someone preach the gospel of Christ in fear of death, I just don’t see a living witness as in Revelation 12:11.  What is the need of Psalm 91 if your faith is in a face mask?  

Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

Psalm 91 (NKJV)

PSALM 91

Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

1      He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2      I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;

My God, in Him I will trust.”

 

3      Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler

And from the perilous pestilence.

4      He shall cover you with His feathers,

And under His wings you shall take refuge;

His truth shall be your shield and buckler.

5      You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,

Nor of the arrow that flies by day,

6      Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,

Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.

 

7      A thousand may fall at your side,

And ten thousand at your right hand;

But it shall not come near you.

8      Only with your eyes shall you look,

And see the reward of the wicked.

 

9      Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,

Even the Most High, your dwelling place,

10      No evil shall befall you,

Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;

11      For He shall give His angels charge over you,

To keep you in all your ways.

12      In their hands they shall bear you up,

Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

13      You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,

The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.

 

14      “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;

I will set him on high, because he has known My name.

15      He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble;

I will deliver him and honor him.

16      With long life I will satisfy him,

And show him My salvation.”

 

Where is the spiritual witness and revelation of being a living witness for Christ?  How can you pray for the sick, cast out demons, raise the dead or even speak to the mountain to move wearing a face mask?  If I am missing something I am glad that I am missing it, fear has no dominion over me!  (See my post on spiritual sickness  http://abidingbread.com/2020/07/15/spiritual-sickness/).

As I was conversing with the Lord today about this the Lord said to me in the spirit realm the mask is like spiritual duct tape.  The Lord said that truth is being silenced and people are not standing in faith and speaking or demonstrating faith and truth according to God’s Word.  They should trust in the Lord with all of their heart and lean not on their own understanding.

 While this is a controversial subject the whole Bible is controversial to those that are perishing and life in the spirit is opposed by life in the flesh.   In Exodus 12 when the lamb was sacrificed and the blood of a lamb was put over the doorposts did death strike those covered by the blood?  Has the blood of Jesus lost it’s power, absolutely NOT!

 

Proverbs 3:5–6 (NKJV)

5      Trust in the LORD with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

6      In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths.

You either believe in ALL OF GOD’S WORD or you don’t.  You don’t get to pick and choose, add or subtract. We must demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit and the resurrected life; for all things have passed away and we are a new creation in Christ Jesus.   If you have been crucified in Christ then you should live by faith in Christ.

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

 

In baptism we died just as Christ died and were resurrected in Christ just as Jesus resurrected.  Jesus has risen and is not in the grave!  Hallelujah!  We shouldn’t be living on earth as if we are heading to the grave! Death has been conquered! 

 

Romans 6:4 (NKJV)

4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

 

Colossians 2:12 (NKJV)

12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.

 

Matthew 16:25 (KJV 1900)

25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

 

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV 1900)

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

 

1 Corinthians 2:4 (KJV 1900)

4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

 

1 Corinthians 1:18 (KJV 1900)

18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

 

Romans 8:14 (KJV 1900)

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

 

The Lord then brought to my spirit the death of Lazarus concerning the mandatory face masks and the body of Christ. 

 

John 11 (NKJV)

Christ Raises Lazarus

11 Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. 3 Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”

4 When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. 7 Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.”

8 The disciples said to Him, “Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone You, and are You going there again?”

9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” 11 These things He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.”

12 Then His disciples said, “Lord, if he sleeps he will get well.” 13 However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep.

14 Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. 15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.”

16 Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.”

17 So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away. 19 And many of the Jews had joined the women around Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.

20 Now Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. 21 Now Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.”

23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”

24 Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”

28 And when she had said these things, she went her way and secretly called Mary her sister, saying, “The Teacher has come and is calling for you.” 29 As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly and came to Him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha met Him. 31 Then the Jews who were with her in the house, and comforting her, when they saw that Mary rose up quickly and went out, followed her, saying, “She is going to the tomb to weep there.”

32 Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”

33 Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. 34 And He said, “Where have you laid him?”

They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.”

35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”

37 And some of them said, “Could not this Man, who opened the eyes of the blind, also have kept this man from dying?”

38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.”

Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”

40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” 41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.” 43 Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!” 44 And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go.”

The Pharisees Plan to Kill Christ

45 Then many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen the things Jesus did, believed in Him. 46 But some of them went away to the Pharisees and told them the things Jesus did. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, “What shall we do? For this Man works many signs. 48 If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.”

49 And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51 Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52 and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad.

53 Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples.

55 And the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went from the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56 Then they sought Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, “What do you think—that He will not come to the feast?” 57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him.

 

Once again, the Lord is weeping regarding the lack of faith and disbelief in those that proclaim that Jesus is the Life & Resurrection.  We either believe that the Holy Spirit bears witness that we are sons and daughters of Christ or we don’t.  Our actions speak louder than words and without faith it is impossible to please God.

 

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

 

 

Romans 8:16 (NKJV)

16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

 

John 11:25–26 (NKJV)

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

 

 

It would be wise to remember that the bloodline of Christ has always faced death.  Moses was floated down a stream in a basket and Joseph and Mary had to move because every male infant was ordered to be executed.  John the baptist was beheaded, the apostles were martyred and today people wear face masks. 

 

The Lord is grieving just as He did with Lazarus. If we reflect on the 10 virgins in the marriage supper 5 didn’t have their lamps full.  Are we witnessing today the foolish virgins wearing face masks because their lamps are not full? It’s a question that each of us needs to address and pray upon.  It would be wise to remember that the “DOOR” was closed to the foolish virgins.

 

John 10:9–11 (NKJV)

9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

 

 

Luke 18:8 (KJV 1900)

8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

 

There are religions that teach that you must die to experience the Glory of God or be in the presence of God.  This is a lie from the pit of hell!  The glory of God is for the here and now and blessed are those who have tasted and seen who have not departed from the faith.

 

Hebrews 6 (NKJV)

The Peril of Not Progressing

 

6 Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2 of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And this we will do if God permits.

4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, 5 and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, 6 if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.

7 For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; 8 but if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.

A Better Estimate 

9 But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner. 10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

 

God’s Infallible Purpose in Christ

 13 For when God made a promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, 14 saying, “Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you.” 15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. 16 For men indeed swear by the greater, and an oath for confirmation is for them an end of all dispute. 17 Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath, 18 that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us.

19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, 20 where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

SPIRITUAL SICKNESS

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SPIRITUAL SICKNESS

 

One of the greatest sicknesses isn’t a disease it’s a spirit which embraces other destructive spirits rendering sound decision making impaired, health restoration inhibited and attempts to destroy the same attributes in those we love and care about!

 

This spirit perverts, twists, manipulates, enforces tactics, methods, and protocols contrary to what is needed for restoration of true health. It can leave a person with feelings of hopelessness, destruction, abandonment, isolation, lack of self-worth, loss of strength, loss of motive and render complete paranoia and even the embracement of death.

 

Ultimately, its goal is to bring death to the soul and eventually to the life of the person and all those people exposed to this spirit. If this spirit were classified in human military terminology perhaps it would be called “friendly fire” because spirits work through people and affect other people. Its true spiritual purpose is to kill, steal and destroy every life possible!

 

There is no human antidote or medical cure because it is a spirit and not a disease! A disease can’t kill the soul only the flesh! Does this resemble what is transpiring across the globe now? 

 

SPIRIT OF FEAR

2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

 

There is a very simple reality about the fear of death and I in no way in stating this attempting to undervalue a person’s life.  Many fear death because the wages of sin is death.  They are not in right standing with God and/or truly not “born again”.  I am astonished at the number of professing Christians who fear death while openly proclaiming that the “Resurrection” dwells within them.  How can you fear a disease when the “Resurrection” dwells within you?  How can you embrace John 3:16 in faith and embrace death simultaneously?  How can you truly preach Christ fearing death, were not the Apostles martyred? 

I’d like to expound on what I have never heard preached, but the Lord revealed to me.  When Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane, He sweat drops of blood as the crucifixion drew near.  Jesus then spoke not my will, but your will be done Father.  Was that the son of man or the Son of God speaking?  If flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of Heaven what was displayed and truly happening was the separation of the son of Man and the Son of God.  The flesh (human soul) needed to die/surrender to fulfill the will of God!  The last thing any person desires is to die so the conversion, sanctification and human will of the human soul is only overcome by the Spirit of God!  The Son of God is eternal and cannot die so it was the Son of Man totally surrendered to the Son of God in the garden of Gethsemane. 

 

Matthew 16:25 (NKJV)

25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

 

Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

John 11:25 (NKJV)

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.

 

If we reflect on Psalm 23 which is often quoted at funerals this Psalm is for those who live in Christ not for those who are not.  The good news is the Gospel of Christ where redemption is available, and atonement has been in Christ Jesus!

 

John 3:16 (NKJV)

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

 

Where is the “valley of the shadow of death”?   I am not referring to a city, country or specific location but generally speaking it is the earth.  We are surrounded by death, spiritual death.  There are people dying spiritually and they don’t even know it because the enemy has them captive.  Only through Christ are the captives set free!

 

Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death “I will fear no evil for thou are with me!” 

 

The table that is prepared is symbolic of the last supper and we are able no matter how much darkness and death tries to consume us partake of the “BREAD OF LIFE”!  Praise the Lord!  Glory to God! 

 

In these last days or as I see it last HOURS the professing body of Christ must overcome the fear of death!  Why are so many Christians afraid of death, let each of us search our hearts humbly before the Lord on this.  How will you be able to refuse the mark of the beast if you fear death? 

 

Satan is likely laughing as humanity fights whether to wear a mask or not to wear a mask when in reality the mask is NOT the problem it is a diversion and smoke screen to what is really happening.  A mask cannot save your life!  There is an evil agenda at work and who is anyone to Lord over us saying we can’t buy food without a mask?  How did they get to decide who lives and dies?  Satan wants to make himself God, what spirits are at work?  To simply say it is a mandate does not make it godly!  Is abortion godly?  It may be legal, but it is NOT GODLY! 

 

Has the mask become an idol, is your faith in your mask?  To be told you don’t love because you won’t wear a mask is absolute hypocrisy.  Are we bowing to a mask?  Do you believe in the Resurrection, have you encountered the Resurrection, or have you been conquered by the grave?  If you choose to wear a mask that is a PERSONAL decision and should remain a PERSONAL decision. 

 

Personally, I can’t imagine believing in the healing power of God and praying for someone’s health while wearing a mask.  I am either delivered from death or I am not.  Is sickness real, sure it is.  Does sickness define me, definitely NOT!  There is a separation of the flesh and the spirit!

 

Hebrews 4:12–13 (NKJV)

12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.

 

For example, I NEVER force prayer on anyone, and I respect their personal decisions and boundaries.  While in a store recently the Lord prompted me to pray for an elderly woman with difficulty walking.  I sought the Lord then approached the woman telling her the Lord wanted me to pray for her and asked if she would like prayer.  She said yes, I stated I am not wearing a mask does this make you uncomfortable and she said no.  Both her and her husband were wearing masks.  I laid hands on her and prayed.  I then looked at her husband and the Lord gave me words of knowledge and through those words of knowledge came prophetic utterance.  I said The Lord says you are a strong man and you do not wish to burden your loved ones with your troubles the Lord says that you need to cast those burdens upon Him as only the Lord can deliver you from your burdens.  There were other words from the Lord, but I am merely giving this as an example.

 

Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

22 Cast your burden on the Lord,

And He shall sustain you;

He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

 

Matthew 11:28–30 (NKJV)

28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

 

His wife then spoke and said he was just diagnosed with dementia.  I asked if he would like prayer.  He said yes, The Lord had me break the curses of his diagnosis as lead by the Lord and spoke the mind of Christ over him and proclaimed that the Spirit of God is not ruled or subjected to the flesh but the flesh is subjected to the Spirit of God.  I continued to pray as the Holy Spirit guided me.  We continued to pray and fellowship for a while. 

 

My point is that I respect your personal liberties and I merely ask the same in return.  I believe in the resurrection and I believe my destiny is in Christ and in NOTHING else.

 

Psalm 23 (NKJV)

Psalm 23

The Lord The Shepherd of His People

A Psalm of David.

1  The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2   He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

3   He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

4   Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5  You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

6   Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever.

 

It would be good to remember that a house divided will not stand and that the foundation of TRUE faith is ONLY in Christ Jesus.  My life is not my own but the life I live know is in the faith of Christ.

 

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

 

Daniel 3:16–18 (NKJV)

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

 

We know the story of Shadrach, Meshack and Abed-Nego and through meditation and perhaps the way the Lord has me process things I try to examine not only the truths of God’s word but also the consequences of God’s word.  For example, why something happened following God and what happens or could happen not following God.  There are consequences and I meditate on both sides for clarity.

 

An example would be who, what, when, why, how and why not.  The why not has me question why didn’t the rest of the Israelites go into the fiery furnace after Jesus was in there with the three Jews?  If you truly are seeking the Lord, HIS glory and to be one with the Lord why wouldn’t you go into the fire?  Jesus is an “All Consuming Fire” and everything will be tested by fire.  This question would also include the book of Exodus when they would not go up the mountain with Moses, but they made idols.  When I say Israelites, I am not being specific regarding Israel or Jewish people but followers of Christ.  If you are truly seeking and following Christ wouldn’t you want to dwell and abide in His presence?

 

I encourage all of us me included to continuously embrace these thoughts humbly in prayer.  Will the Lord be glorified in my life and death (human death) for His glory and will I be a living witness unto death for His name sake?

 

John 14:27 (NKJV)

27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

 

 

Fear is often used for manipulation, control, dominance and submission of a person’s personal liberties to life that is dictated by others.  The forces behind fear is evil and demonic in nature.

CONSEQUENCES

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CONSEQUENCES

 

There are consequences for both doing what is righteous/godly and doing what is lawless and immoral.  Are we willing to endure the hardships of righteousness as evil intensifies?  Will we fall or depart from “THE FAITH” as Jesus questioned?  Will the root of bitterness take root as we endure tribulation?  We must each ask ourselves these questions and make a firm, solid decision as the battle escalates against good versus evil.

 

We live in a world where consequences and accountability for personal actions, decisions and choices are perceived and taught to be non-existent, denied, obscured and “free will” is promoted without accountability or consequence.  “Individuality” is taught, spoken and promoted to eliminate the consequences and accountability of personal decisions and actions.  Free will has been manipulated to portray that there are no consequences to a person’s actions, decisions or lifestyle to the false belief that there is no “fall out” or effect on others and that our individual actions have no corporate or widespread effect on others.  This is a lie from the pit of hell!

 

 Discipline is now portrayed as unloving, unkind and inhuman.  Biblical “sowing and reaping” is being taught and embraced as “KARMA” where people actually wish others would experience the pains, sufferings and abuse they themselves have endured!  Let us remember that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for another just as Christ died the death we all deserved.  Are you willing to pay the personal cost of true discipleship and righteousness of Christ?  Are you willing to be forsaken by family, friends, employers, church members and the like? 

 

The time when you could “keep your head down”, “fly under the radar” or “mind your own business” without consequences has ended as evil is manifesting in greater measure and those that take a stand for the righteousness of Christ are overtaken by the fall out of evil.  Satan doesn’t care how many he destroys or who is a casualty of his evil. 

 

Do you have faith in Christ first and foremost for your daily needs when you are no longer able to buy, sell or barter for life’s essential needs such as food?  Have you totally surrendered your life into the loving arms of Christ?  Are you a true living witness for Christ not by mere words but by a lifestyle of the life of Christ? 

 

John 3:16 (NKJV)

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

 

1 John 2:2 (NKJV)

2 And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.

 

Isaiah 5:20 (NKJV)

Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;

Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;

Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

 

Statements like “It’s my life and I will do what I want”; “It’s my choice and I will decide,” “Mind your own business” and the classic statement; “Who are you to judge” are often quoted in an effort to remove accountability and consequences for one’s personal statements and actions.  It’s as if the whole world was created just for them and you are privileged to even breath the same air!

 

Marriages, relationships, jobs, friendships and even a person’s life and livelihood can suffer consequences because of someone else’s decisions, actions, lies, manipulations, etc.!  Selfishness, conceit, narcissism, pride and arrogance is common place as moral fortitude and backbone for righteousness and truth are sequestered and silenced while “free will” is the common moral law. Will you choose to remain silent as souls perish, people die or will you bear the cost of persecution, mockery, slander, captivity and the like for the purposes of Christ? 

 

Matthew 5:3–12 (NKJV)

3  “Blessed are the poor in spirit,

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4   Blessed are those who mourn,

For they shall be comforted.

5  Blessed are the meek,

For they shall inherit the earth.

6  Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

For they shall be filled.

7   Blessed are the merciful,

For they shall obtain mercy.

8   Blessed are the pure in heart,

For they shall see God.

9   Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they shall be called sons of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

 

Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

Luke 9:24 (NKJV)

24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.

 

People are taught “sensitivity training” and not to judge others according to what is right verses wrong.  Love has been perverted into whatever feels good and that love will never face adversity, struggles, hardship, trials or tribulations. 

 

1 Corinthians 2:15 (NKJV)

15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one.

 

Right vs. Wrong

 

Isaiah 5:20–21 (NKJV)

20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;

Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;

Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,

And prudent in their own sight!

 

 

 There is a personal price to pay for doing what is right and for what is wrong.  Sadly, most people will not stand for what is morally and biblically right because of the personal sacrifices, persecution, slander, ridicule, loneliness and other losses as well.  These actions are not self-induced, self-inflicted but are normal consequences of other people’s actions who promote lawlessness, immorality, inhuman activity and actions against those who stand up for, promote and speak God’s truth. 

 

John 15:20–21 (NKJV)

20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.

 

Are you confronting the works of darkness and lawlessness?  Are you fellowshipping with darkness or tolerating darkness?  We are called to expose the works of darkness and have no fellowship with darkness.

 

Ephesians 5:11–13 (NKJV)

11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light.

 

2 Corinthians 6:13–17 (NKJV)

13 Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.

14 Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? 15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said:

“I will dwell in them

And walk among them.

I will be their God,

And they shall be My people.”

17 Therefore

“Come out from among them

And be separate, says the Lord.

Do not touch what is unclean,

And I will receive you.”

 

The time is short as evil is escalating and each of us must ask ourselves this very important question as we humbly seek the Lord.  Are we willing to partake in the sufferings of Christ for His name sake and glory?  We will not escape this world we will only overcome this world through Christ Jesus.

 

John 16:33 (NKJV)

33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

 

Matthew 24:22 (NKJV)

22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.

 

1 Peter 4:13 (NKJV)

13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

 

Galatians 6:16–18 (NKJV)

Blessing and a Plea

16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.

17 From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

18 Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

 

There is only ONE that will not forsake us and that is Christ Jesus, but will we as individuals forsake Jesus?  We must endure the hardships as a “good soldier” for Christ and endure whatever may come for Christ as the great commission must continue even in these difficult times.  The battle has been for thousands of years but as the second coming gets closer and closer evil gets worse and worse.  Put ALL your trust in the Lord and may the love, grace and mercy of God dwell in you richly for the glory of the Lord Jesus.  Are you willing to totally lay down your life for Christ Jesus?  We must each make that choice and have understanding of the consequences we must bear for His namesake, and remember that Agape Love bares all things and does NOT fear.

 

1 Corinthians 13:4–13 (NKJV)

4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.

11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.

13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

 

2 Timothy 3 (NKJV)

Perilous Times and Perilous Men

3 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 6 For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, 7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8 Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; 9 but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was.

The Man of God and the Word of God

10 But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, 11 persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. 12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

 

Cross-Carrying – A.W Tozer

3. The spiritual man wants to carry his cross. Many Christians accept adversity or tribulation with a sigh and call it their cross, forgetting that such things come alike to saint and sinner. The cross is that extra adversity that comes to us as a result of our obedience to Christ. This cross is not forced upon us; we voluntarily take it up with full knowledge of the consequences. We choose to obey Christ and by so doing choose to carry the cross. Carrying a cross means to be attached to the Person of Christ, committed to the Lordship of Christ and obedient to the commandments of Christ. The man who is so attached, so committed, so obedient is a spiritual man. 4. Again, a Christian is spiritual when he sees everything from God’s viewpoint. The ability to weigh all things in the divine scale and place the same value upon them as God does is the mark of a Spirit-filled life. God looks at and through at the same time. His gaze does not rest on the surface but penetrates to the true meaning of things. The carnal Christian looks at an object or a situation, but because he does not see through it he is elated or cast down by what he sees. The spiritual man is able to look through things as God looks and think of them as God thinks. He insists on seeing all things as God sees them even if it humbles him and exposes his ignorance to the point of real pain.

FALSE SALVATION

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FALSE SALVATION

 

I am praying and grieving for the lost who falsely believe they are “born again” and saved who are being led to the slaughter by exalting the sinful nature by proclaiming false grace, false love and false mercy.  Rather than declare in Spirit and Truth the old man is dead to the flesh/sinful nature and the new creation in Christ lives they embrace the fallen and sinful nature creating excuses, alibis, lies and eliminate the resurrection power of Christ Jesus.  It’s no wonder Holiness isn’t preached and sin isn’t being addressed because holiness is only found in the Holy One, Christ Jesus.  

 

The truth is that no man, woman or even Satan himself can keep someone who is truly seeking Jesus in Spirit and Truth from Christ Jesus.  (Psalm 23)  Seeking fellowship and acceptance isn’t the same as seeking Christ Jesus.  

 

John the Baptist was in the wilderness for a reason, he wasn’t in the religious assembly and falseness.  He was born in the Spirit of God and when the religious leaders came into the wilderness John the Baptist rebuked them because they were not coming to seek Christ but destroy the works of Christ!  Just as the religious leaders crucified Christ.  

 

I have witnessed people get baptized as a formality but not from a heart of flesh with true repentance thus true rebirth in Christ hasn’t happened and they are deceived believing they are truly saved/born again by formality or rituals!  I’ve been swimming many times but only baptized once.  Don’t confuse earthly water with LIVING WATER!  TRUE BAPTISM IS AN OUTWARD EXPRESSION OF AN INNER WORKING AS SANCTIFICATION IS AN INWARD PROCESS WITH AN OUTWARD MANIFESTATION.  You will know them by their FRUIT!  GALATIANS 5!  Many desire “healing and deliverance” but don’t truly want Jesus and a life of holiness just as the parable with the lepers.

 

Matthew 3:7 (AMP)

7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee and escape from the wrath and indignation [of God against disobedience] that is coming?

 

Matthew 23:33 (AMP)

33 You serpents! You spawn of vipers! How can you escape the penalty to be suffered in hell (Gehenna)?

 

2 Corinthians 6:14–17 (AMP)

14 Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers [do not make mismated alliances with them or come under a different yoke with them, inconsistent with your faith]. For what partnership have right living and right standing with God with iniquity and lawlessness? Or how can light have fellowship with darkness? 

15 What harmony can there be between Christ and Belial [the devil]? Or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? 

16 What agreement [can there be between] a temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God; even as God said, I will dwell in and with and among them and will walk in and with and among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. [Exod. 25:8; 29:45; Lev. 26:12; Jer. 31:1; Ezek. 37:27.]

17 So, come out from among [unbelievers], and separate (sever) yourselves from them, says the Lord, and touch not [any] unclean thing; then I will receive you kindly and treat you with favor, [Isa. 52:11.]

 

1 Peter 1:16 (AMP)

16 For it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy. [Lev. 11:44, 45.]

 

Acts 26:18 (AMP)

18 To open their eyes that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may thus receive forgiveness and release from their sins and a place and portion among those who are consecrated and purified by faith in Me. [Isa. 42:7, 16.]

 

Romans 6:1–2 (AMP)

WHAT SHALL we say [to all this]? Are we to remain in sin in order that God’s grace (favor and mercy) may multiply and overflow? 

2 Certainly not! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer?

 

2 Thessalonians 2:13 (AMP)

13 But we, brethren beloved by the Lord, ought and are obligated [as those who are in debt] to give thanks always to God for you, because God chose you from the beginning as His firstfruits (first converts) for salvation through the sanctifying work of the [Holy] Spirit and [your] belief in (adherence to, trust in, and reliance on) the Truth.

 

2 Timothy 2:21 (AMP)

21 So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself from contact with contaminating and corrupting influences] will [then himself] be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes, consecrated and profitable to the Master, fit and ready for any good work.

 

The “Kingdom of God” ISN’T within them for the old man/fallen sinful nature rules and reigns and isn’t being put to death by the LIVING GOD by the Holy Spirit.  Please see my article:  FALSE ARRIVAL RENDERS FALSE REVIVAL

 

http://abidingbread.com/2019/01/13/false-arrival-renders-false-revival/

 

FALSE ARRIVAL RENDERS FALSE REVIVAL

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FALSE ARRIVAL RENDERS FASLE REVIVAL 

The moral/human compass or lack thereof verses full obedience and complete trust and submittance to the Spirit of The Lord in Spirit and Truth has many people deceived and believing they are in a revival in victory for the Lord when it is a revival of disobedience and lawlessness.  When we believe we “have arrived” as the Apostle Paul states we are in rebellion, pride, idolatry, witchcraft and self-reliant, self-trusting and believe we are more knowledgeable than the Lord Jesus.  We must remember that the “son’s of God are lead by the Spirit of the Lord”! 

Colossians 3:6 (AMP)

6 It is on account of these [very sins] that the [holy] anger of God is ever coming upon the sons of disobedience (those who are obstinately opposed to the divine will),

Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

Proverbs 16:18 (NKJV)

Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

Psalm 37:23 (NKJV)

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD,

And He delights in his way.

When we reflect on the inspired Word of God concerning king Saul we see a man who started out humble but fell into pride believing that his own merits obtained the position of king and that his personal knowledge, decisions, actions and the approval of others was above the Lord Jesus and the Word of The Lord.  Self-arrival is NOT self-denial!  A true humble servant of the Lord need not seek validation, vindication or approval of humanity for it is the Lord that vindicates not the servant.  Humility speaks truth, reveals truth and allows the Lord to reveal truth just as Agape love is not self-seeking humility is not self promoting, self-righteous.  Let us not confuse building a ministry with building the Kingdom of God they are not one in the same!   

John 16:13 (AMP)

13 But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future].

Let us review the Word of God concerning king Saul.

1 Samuel 15:10–35 (NKJV)

Saul Rejected as King

10 Now the word of the LORD came to Samuel, saying, 11 “I greatly regret that I have set up Saul as king, for he has turned back from following Me, and has not performed My commandments.” And it grieved Samuel, and he cried out to the LORD all night. 12 So when Samuel rose early in the morning to meet Saul, it was told Samuel, saying, “Saul went to Carmel, and indeed, he set up a monument for himself; and he has gone on around, passed by, and gone down to Gilgal.” 13 Then Samuel went to Saul, and Saul said to him, “Blessed are you of the LORD! I have performed the commandment of the LORD.”

14 But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?”

15 And Saul said, “They have brought them from the Amalekites; for the people spared the best of the sheep and the oxen, to sacrifice to the LORD your God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed.”

16 Then Samuel said to Saul, “Be quiet! And I will tell you what the LORD said to me last night.”

And he said to him, “Speak on.”

17 So Samuel said, “When you were little in your own eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel? And did not the LORD anoint you king over Israel? 18 Now the LORD sent you on a mission, and said, ‘Go, and utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and fight against them until they are consumed.’ 19 Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? Why did you swoop down on the spoil, and do evil in the sight of the LORD?”

20 And Saul said to Samuel, “But I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and gone on the mission on which the LORD sent me, and brought back Agag king of Amalek; I have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. 21 But the people took of the plunder, sheep and oxen, the best of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice to the LORD your God in Gilgal.”

22 So Samuel said:

“Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices,

As in obeying the voice of the LORD?

Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice,

And to heed than the fat of rams.

23      For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,

And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.

Because you have rejected the word of the LORD,

He also has rejected you from being king.”

24 Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. 25 Now therefore, please pardon my sin, and return with me, that I may worship the LORD.”

26 But Samuel said to Saul, “I will not return with you, for you have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you from being king over Israel.”

27 And as Samuel turned around to go away, Saul seized the edge of his robe, and it tore. 28 So Samuel said to him, “The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today, and has given it to a neighbor of yours, who is better than you. 29 And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor relent. For He is not a man, that He should relent.”

30 Then he said, “I have sinned; yet honor me now, please, before the elders of my people and before Israel, and return with me, that I may worship the LORD your God.” 31 So Samuel turned back after Saul, and Saul worshiped the LORD.

32 Then Samuel said, “Bring Agag king of the Amalekites here to me.” So Agag came to him cautiously.

And Agag said, “Surely the bitterness of death is past.”

33 But Samuel said, “As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women.” And Samuel hacked Agag in pieces before the LORD in Gilgal.

34 Then Samuel went to Ramah, and Saul went up to his house at Gibeah of Saul. 35 And Samuel went no more to see Saul until the day of his death. Nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul, and the LORD regretted that He had made Saul king over Israel.

Saul allowed “worldliness” and the accolades, praises and his personal reputation became dependent on the approval of humanity and his personal followers. The joy of the Lord had been reduced to the praises of his peer’s verses having intimacy, grace and favor of being in right standing with the Lord.  If we read the books of Ezekiel we read that the church’s outside appearance might seem to be okay but the interior/spiritual attributes are wicked, deceitful and an abomination to the Lord.  Just as the Pharisee’s Saul wanted to appear right amongst people.

As if it were not bad enough Saul built a monument so he could be admonished and praised by humanity.  What is the difference between a monument and a building, ministry or calling?  Saul’s actions are totally opposite of the Words of Jesus in the Beatitudes in Mathew 5 where blessed is the man who is mocked, ridiculed, persecuted and despised for the Lord’s namesake.  All of Saul’s followers celebrated in their “false victory and revival” by offering the fatten calf as a burnt offering.  They celebrated a false victory and false revival and it was the prophet Samuel who then slayed Agag a false king who promoted sin, rebellion and created a childless woman!  We know the “woman” to be the church and a childless church is a spiritual dead church with FALSE conversions embracing, rejoicing and praising rebellion, idolatry and witchcraft!  To be very frank and candid much of this is apparent in the church today as the praises of rebellion, idolatry and witchcraft in the very temple that is to be holy and pure without spot or wrinkle. 

What people refuse to see is that when Truth is denied Jesus is denied and if you are denying Truth you likely will renounce your faith when the mark of the beast is enforced as you have already denied Jesus. 

Isaiah 66:2 (NKJV)

2      For all those things My hand has made,

And all those things exist,”

Says the LORD.

“But on this one will I look:

On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit,

And who trembles at My word.

Notice how Saul tore Samuel’s robe and how the Lord would not allow that which is unholy to touch that which is holy!  The kingdom of Israel was “torn” from Saul as darkness and lawlessness will not inherit the Kingdom of God!  Just as Adam and Eve were removed so it was with Saul.

Saul stated that he had fulfilled the Word of the Lord (1 Samuel 15:13) and demonstrated and believed that a servant is greater than his master and that he fulfilled the Word of the Lord!  Where is “picking up your cross and denying yourself and following Jesus”?

John 15:20 (NKJV)

Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Matthew 16:24–26 (NKJV)

Revelation of Jesus’ Reward

24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

Perhaps we need to reflect on what is a bride and to whom a bride is totally submitted to in covenant.  A bride belongs to the “Bridegroom” and not the bridal party, in-laws, family, the congregation or the world. 

Luke 14:25–27 (AMP)

25 Now huge crowds were going along with [Jesus], and He turned and said to them,

26 If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his [own] father and mother [in the sense of indifference to or relative disregard for them in comparison with his attitude toward God] and [likewise] his wife and children and brothers and sisters—[yes] and even his own life also—he cannot be My disciple.

27 Whoever does not persevere and carry his own cross and come after (follow) Me cannot be My disciple.

Is fellowship above intimacy with Christ Jesus? Are we intimate with the congregation or Christ Jesus? Are we partakers of Christ or the assembly? 

1 John 1:7 (AMP)

7 But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations]. 

2 Corinthians 6:14–18 (AMP)

14 Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers [do not make mismated alliances with them or come under a different yoke with them, inconsistent with your faith]. For what partnership have right living and right standing with God with iniquity and lawlessness? Or how can light have fellowship with darkness?

15 What harmony can there be between Christ and Belial [the devil]? Or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever?

16 What agreement [can there be between] a temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God; even as God said, I will dwell in and with and among them and will walk in and with and among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. [Exod. 25:8; 29:45; Lev. 26:12; Jer. 31:1; Ezek. 37:27.]

17 So, come out from among [unbelievers], and separate (sever) yourselves from them, says the Lord, and touch not [any] unclean thing; then I will receive you kindly and treat you with favor, [Isa. 52:11.]

18 And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. [Isa. 43:6; Hos. 1:10.]

 

Did Paul, Peter or John die for us? It is obvious that the church according the book of ACTS is not prevalent today as there is no true “oneness” in Spirit and Truth and there is little desire for Spirit and Truth as true worshippers.  Let us not confuse or distort truth for ridicule, as that is not my intent.  Truth is not slanderous or gossip, Truth is what we are called to conform to in Christ Jesus. 

 

1 John 2:15 (NKJV)

Do Not Love the World

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

John 4:24 (NKJV)

24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

The story of the prodigal son is a spiritual house not merely and earthly house and we tend to overlook the bigger picture only focusing on the sinful nature of the prodigal son.  We need to seek the big picture and ask questions seeking the Lord.  Where was the prodigal son before he left, what became of him and how did he return? 

The prodigal son was in “HIS FATHER’S HOUSE” and backslid by desiring the blessings of the Father but didn’t want or feel a need for his Father!  This is about the “son’s of God” in the Father’s House who have backslidden.  Knowing this we can now see the importance of 2 Chronicles 7:14! If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and repent of their wicked ways, lawlessness, rebellion, idolatry, spiritual adultery/fornication and return to their Father’s house He will heal their land and restore them back to blessings.

Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)

14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

Is the bride ready for her Bridegroom?  Has the bride prepared herself in holiness without spot or wrinkle?  Whom are you totally committed and submitted too? 

While it is apparent even to the unsaved that we are in the “last hours” in this fallen and wicked world why is everyone so focused on the Rapture or “Catching away” rather than being prepared!  I am not here to debate pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation or post tribulation but rather propose a question.  Why are you not already raptured!  If you totally belong to Jesus you are in this world but not of this world!  You have already been raptured in the Spirit and the life you live now is not your own because you have died to self to live in Christ!  To be an ambassador for Christ means the earth is not your home and you are a pilgrim in a foreign land.  The world loves their own and because you are not of the world the world hates you just as it hates Christ Jesus.

John 15:18–25 (AMP)

18 If the world hates you, know that it hated Me before it hated you.

19 If you belonged to the world, the world would treat you with affection and would love you as its own. But because you are not of the world [no longer one with it], but I have chosen (selected) you out of the world, the world hates (detests) you.

20 Remember that I told you, A servant is not greater than his master [is not superior to him]. If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word and obeyed My teachings, they will also keep and obey yours.

21 But they will do all this to you [inflict all this suffering on you] because of [your bearing] My name and on My account, for they do not know or understand the One Who sent Me.

22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin [would be blameless]; but now they have no excuse for their sin.

23 Whoever hates Me also hates My Father.

24 If I had not done (accomplished) among them the works which no one else ever did, they would not be guilty of sin. But [the fact is] now they have both seen [these works] and have hated both Me and My Father.

25 But [this is so] that the word written in their Law might be fulfilled, They hated Me without a cause. [Ps. 35:19; 69:4.]

Luke 17:33 (NKJV)

33 Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Why doesn’t the church address and expose sin and foster and promote holiness for without holiness no one will see God!  Is this not false arrival and false revival!  Have we arrived and are we in our glorified bodies?  We are surrounded by a fallen world surrounded by lawlessness, immorality and darkness and there is no contrast within much of the professing church but rather worldliness, sin, lies, deceit and wickedness.

When someone says that they won’t address sin because it is offensive are we to let that person and soul spend eternity in separation from God! We are called to be ministers of righteousness and speak in Spirit and Truth and allow the Holy Spirit to convict sin.

Matthew 23:15 (AMP)

15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, pretenders (hypocrites)! For you travel over sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes one [a proselyte], you make him doubly as much a child of hell (Gehenna) as you are.

John 16:8 (AMP)

8 And when He comes, He will convict and convince the world and bring demonstration to it about sin and about righteousness (uprightness of heart and right standing with God) and about judgment:

The lack of spiritual discernment within the body of Christ is the direct correlation of worldliness within our own hearts. Deceit is a HEART CONDITION!

 

Luke 16:15 (AMP)

15 But He said to them, You are the ones who declare yourselves just and upright before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted and highly thought of among men is detestable and abhorrent (an abomination) in the sight of God. [I Sam. 16:7; Prov. 21:2.]

Jeremiah 17:9 (AMP)

9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly perverse and corrupt and severely, mortally sick! Who can know it [perceive, understand, be acquainted with his own heart and mind]? [Matt. 13:15-17; Mark 7:21-23; Eph. 4:20-24.]

Does victory in Christ stop at salvation?  What is Jesus doing in your heart daily and how is Jesus helping you to overcome by the blood of the Lamb, your testimony and not loving your life unto death!  Are you putting to death the members of your flesh or resurrecting the “old nature”?

Colossians 3:5 (AMP)

5 So kill (deaden, deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God).

What is Communion? 

Is communion just a reflection and memory or is it continually life changing?  Partaking in the “Body & Blood” is a personal call to personal crucifixion dying to self and being resurrected in Christ as well as suffering for Christ to advance His Kingdom not our ministries, gifting or calling!  What is communion without covenant?  What is communion without intimacy, self-reflection and reflecting on John 3:16?  Why has the prosperity gospel/message corrupted communion with covetousness, idolatry and worldliness, do we not know that the abundant life is a spiritual life not a carnal or worldly life.  Communion is a lifestyle not just a formality!

Have we allowed the professing church to become a house of thieves, wolves, covetousness, idolatry and rebellion?  Are we praising king Saul or the King of kings and Lord of lords in church? Jesus didn’t preach to the religious leaders, as they were the ones who called for Jesus to be crucified not wanting themselves to be seen in their lustful, deceitful, rebellious and idolatrous ways.

Hebrews 6:6 (AMP)

6 If they then deviate from the faith and turn away from their allegiance—[it is impossible] to bring them back to repentance, for (because, while, as long as) they nail upon the cross the Son of God afresh [as far as they are concerned] and are holding [Him] up to contempt and shame and public disgrace.

The Lord has been sending messengers to the leaders of the church to bring correction and to choose this day whom they will serve but they will not head the Word of the Lord just as king Saul didn’t head the Word of the Lord. 

Jesus tells us why they are not heading the Word of the Lord in Spirit and Truth.

John 9:41 (NKJV)

41 Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore your sin remains.

Mark 8:18 (NKJV)

18 Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?

Matthew 23:13 (NKJV)

Jesus Condemns the Pharisees

13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.

The eight woes are upon the church as judgment begins in the house of the Lord.  Ichobod is prevelant within the church for the Lord’s Spirit will not dwell in temples made with human hands nor in rebellious hearts.  Rebellion is rampant within the church and rebellion is witchcraft and the Lord will have no part with it at all. 

The church of Christ is a church of Holiness, Holy Spirit, Truth, Love and obedience to the Lord Jesus and does NOT seek the accolades of humanity or the lust of the flesh as flesh and blood will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 15:50 (AMP)

50 But I tell you this, brethren, flesh and blood cannot [become partakers of eternal salvation and] inherit or share in the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable (that which is decaying) inherit or share in the imperishable (the immortal).

Romans 3:4 (AMP)

4 By no means! Let God be found true though every human being is false and a liar, as it is written, That You may be justified and shown to be upright in what You say, and prevail when You are judged [by sinful men]. [Ps. 51:4.]

Revelation 2:29 (AMP)

29 He who is able to hear, let him listen to and heed what the [Holy] Spirit says to the assemblies (churches).

Ezekiel 2:7 (AMP)

7 And you shall speak My words to them whether they will hear or refuse to hear, for they are most rebellious. 

Jeremiah 7:27 (AMP)

27 Speak all these words to them, but they will not listen to and obey you; also call to them, but they will not answer you.

Luke 10:16 (AMP)

16 He who hears and heeds you [disciples] hears and heeds Me; and he who slights and rejects you slights and rejects Me; and he who slights and rejects Me slights and rejects Him who sent Me.

Deuteronomy 18:19 (AMP)

19 And whoever will not hearken to My words which he shall speak in My name, I Myself will require it of him. 

Isaiah 5:20 (AMP)

20 Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!

Matthew 24:12 (AMP)

12 And the love of the great body of people will grow cold because of the multiplied lawlessness and iniquity, 

Matthew 24:37–39 (AMP)

37 As were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.

38 For just as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, [men] marrying and [women] being given in marriage, until the [very] day when Noah went into the ark,

39 And they did not know or understand until the flood came and swept them all away—so will be the coming of the Son of Man. [Gen. 6:5-8; 7:6-24.]

Noah was a preacher of righteousness walking and submitted in obedience to the Lord.  In order to achieve the Covenant promises we must walk and submit to the Lord in His covenants.  Marriage is a covenant ordained by God and many will be invited but only a few will be allowed into the marriage ceremony. 

Matthew 7:21–23 (AMP)

21 Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father Who is in heaven.

22 Many will say to Me on that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name and driven out demons in Your name and done many mighty works in Your name?

23 And then I will say to them openly (publicly), I never knew you; depart from Me, you who act wickedly [disregarding My commands]. [Ps. 6:8.]. 

1 Samuel 4:19–21 (AMP)

19 Now his daughter-in-law, Phinehas’ wife, was with child, about to be delivered. And when she heard that the ark of God was captured and that her father-in-law and her husband were dead, she bowed herself and gave birth, for her pains came upon her.

20 And about the time of her death the women attending her said to her, Fear not, for you have borne a son. But she did not answer or notice.

21 And she named the child Ichabod, saying, The glory is departed from Israel!—because the ark of God had been captured and because of her father-in-law and her husband. 

Matthew 7:15–20 (AMP)

15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you dressed as sheep, but inside they are devouring wolves. [Ezek. 22:27.]

16 You will fully recognize them by their fruits. Do people pick grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles?

17 Even so, every healthy (sound) tree bears good fruit [worthy of admiration], but the sickly (decaying, worthless) tree bears bad (worthless) fruit.

18 A good (healthy) tree cannot bear bad (worthless) fruit, nor can a bad (diseased) tree bear excellent fruit [worthy of admiration].

19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and cast into the fire.

20 Therefore, you will fully know them by their fruits. 

The Lord is calling His Bride to holiness, purity of heart with hearts of fire and passion towards His Truth.  We must be lovers of Jesus who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

John 14:6 (AMP)

6 Jesus said to him, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except by (through) Me.

Revelation 2:4 (AMP)

4 But I have this [one charge to make] against you: that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first [you have deserted Me, your first love].

The Lord has prompted me to share my article about the Marriage Supper of the Lamb which coincides with this article which can be read at this link:  http://abidingbread.com/2018/01/28/marriage-supper-of-the-lamb/