THE SPIRITUAL DAMNATION OF RELIGIOUS GOSSIP

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THE SPIRITUAL DAMNATION OF RELIGIOUS GOSSIP

Some time ago I had someone I was talking with about the Lord make the following statement to me: I really shouldn’t talk about this person/Christian because it is gossip. I replied that if the Holy Spirit spoke truth to you about that person, it was NOT gossip! What they received was Spirit and Truth! Gossip is very prevalent within the church and often happens in prayer groups as well as from the pulpit! We have more “PARROTS” than real pastors these days as they merely repeat what some man, woman, seminary, opinions of people or some organizational entity has spoken or taught them. They speak these things without seeking the Lord to inquire if what they are being told or taught is Spirit and Truth and preach or speak it anyhow and people will follow what is spoken without a Spiritual Witness from the Lord! Thus they also repeat the same gossip! That is NOT divine revelation and you don’t even know it is Spirit and Truth! You know what they say about “ASSUME” as it make an “_ss” of you and me!

Acts 17:11–12 (NKJV)

11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. 12 Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men.

2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV)

15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

gos·sip

noun

  1. casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true.

    “he became the subject of much local gossip”

    Gossip is a form of lying because you have not verified it as Spirit and Truth! When someone preaches about Jesus it can be a form of gossip or blatant lying because of false teachings or beliefs.

    This is why I am not impressed when someone states the name of Jesus, God or Lord because I need to confirm who their Jesus, God or Lord truthfully is! I need a witness from the Living God within me!

Acts 19:15 (NKJV)

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

Galatians 1:6–8 (NKJV)

Only One Gospel

6 I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 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.

2 Corinthians 11:1–4 (NKJV)

Concern for Their Faithfulness

11 Oh, that you would bear with me in a little folly—and indeed you do bear with me. 2 For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!

This is why all preaching should be under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit just as the Word of God was inspired by the Holy Spirit! The word of God has NOTHING to do with the wisdom of men/women it is the wisdom of God! If you reflect on what the Pharisees did they spread gossip all around the community that Jesus was not the Son of God the incarnate Christ and said the Jesus committed blasphemy and should be crucified! It was not just the Pharisees that shouted crucify him it was also the followers of the Pharisees believing the gossip they had spoken! Gossip through human emotion shouted Crucify Him! Today in many churches with wolves in sheep’s clothing do the very same thing they use human emotional responses to perceive something is true because it appeals to the flesh, carnality and depravity of our fallen/worldly nature. If you are not being built up into a Spiritual House/Church/Temple you not being truly conformed into the image and likeness of Christ Jesus.

I remember when I worked out in Missouri while traveling in ministry for the Lord. I walked in my very first day and as I met my boss I asked him what his gifting and calling was from the Lord. His reply was certainly not words of knowledge. I told him that the Lord gave him words of knowledge all the time but he tried to rationalize those words with his own intellect thus blocking the revelation and application of those words of knowledge rendering those words of knowledge useless!

Matthew 16:1–28 (NKJV)

Debate Over a Sign from Heaven

Mark 8:11, 12

16 Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said to them, “When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red’; 3 and in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.

They did not discern that it was Christ Jesus which was the sign of the times! This is one reason there is little spiritual discernment in the body of Christ. That will be another post for another time.

Withdrawal of Jesus

Mark 8:13–21

5 Now when His disciples had come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said to them, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.”

7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have taken no bread.”

8 But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “O you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves because you have brought no bread? 9 Do you not yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand and how many baskets you took up? 10 Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand and how many large baskets you took up? 11 How is it you do not understand that I did not speak to you concerning bread?—but to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

False doctrine is NOT Spirit and Truth and when you follow and repeat false doctrine you are damning the souls of people who listen and follow! This is why by the Grace and Mercy of our Lord Jesus that Jesus teaches us in Spirit and Truth. We must be willing to allow this process and chose this process as the Holy Spirit reveals ALL TRUTH! Too many people will deny this process and that is why they do not grow spiritually and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. God will not empower lies and gossip!

John 14:26 (NKJV)

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

Revelation of the Person of the King

Mark 8:27–30; Luke 9:18–21

13 When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”

14 So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.

Notice Jesus came directly against the “gossip” of what people said about Him and asked the disciples who He was to them! Professing Christians go around stating that we need a personal relationship with Christ and yet try to influence others to conform to their own belief/relationship with Christ verses that person conforming to Christ alone. We are to reveal Christ not ourselves! This can often be the blind leading the blind because they themselves are NOT BORN AGAIN! Sorry but it’s true! There is no shame when someone asks you about scriptures that you struggle to understand or process to say I don’t fully understand and seek the Lord in prayer and meditation about this matter. Humility is the foundation of growth in the Spirit of God! I have often given words to believers that they need to ask the Lord questions because it is essential for growth. Even the disciples asked questions but they asked of the Lord not of a human!

Revelation of the Church

18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

20 Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ.

Isn’t it interesting that Jesus would tell them not to tell anyone! Each and everyone of us needs our own revelation of Christ Jesus not merely submitting to someone who claims to know Christ Jesus. I remember a conversation with a friend as we were talking about scripture and I mentioned a few scriptures that are often used to manipulate the saints. I mentioned the scripture that faith comes by hearing the word of God and how that is often used in manipulation so people will follow the preacher and not the Lord Jesus. He seemed troubled and inquired so I expounded. I said faith comes by hearing the voice of God as Jesus said my sheep hear my voice and the Word of God is God breathed so it is from the voice/mouth of God! Is the Word of God speaking to you or are you merely reading the Word of God! In addition I said another form of manipulation is the scripture where two or more are gathered Jesus is present. He said I have always been taught this as we need to assemble together and have two or more. So I replied, how did that work with Abraham, Moses or the prophets. Were two or more gathered with them. When you go into your prayer closet are two or more gathered or are you getting alone with God? I said everywhere I walk as a born again Christian I have two or more as I have the Holy Spirit who is one with the Father and Jesus! This is why Jesus said there is ONE who bares witness of Jesus who is the Father as Jesus was ONE WITH THE FATHER! Immediately he looked up the scripture about faith comes by hearing the Word of God and he said in the Greek it was both past and present tense! Yes because the Written Word and the Living Word are ONE! John 1:1, so are you hearing the voice of God or trying to follow a manual or the voice of a false prophet?

Revelation of Jesus’ Death

Mark 8:31–33; Luke 9:22

21 From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.

22 Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!”

23 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”

While line 22-23 is not about gossip I would like to take a moment to expound on this. Notice that it was the will of the Father that Jesus bare our sin and be crucified and Peter did not understand and spoke against the will of the Father so he was rebuked and read Jesus reply as it explains that the god of this world who is Satan is against the will of our Heavenly Father and Christ Jesus. Never underestimate this as when the Lord gives you instructions they are for you to fulfill and those who were not given these instructions from the Lord will often oppose you and deny that Jesus has given you those instructions. They may very well be people in your inner circle or fellowship. We are to follow Jesus not anyone else! See that no one Lord’s over you for you have one Father!

Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

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

Matthew 20:25–28 (NKJV)

25 But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. 26 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. 27 And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

1 Peter 5:1–4 (NKJV)

Shepherd the Flock

5 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

Revelation of Jesus’ Reward

Mark 8:34–37; Luke 9:23–25

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?

The Prophecy of the Second Coming

Mark 8:38–9:1; Luke 9:26, 27

27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. 28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”

I pray that you get a better understanding that gossip is associated with lying because when received unverified as truth you live out the lies and speak the same lies to others. I suggest you read the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 as that will expound on being mocked, slandered, ridiculed, persecuted for the Lord’s namesake! Much of what is written in Matthew 5 is a form of gossip and accusation.

May you be blessed and strengthen in Spirit and Truth and receive revelations of Christ Jesus in Spirit and Truth!

SAUL FROM TARSUS AND THE HARLOT CHURCH OF REVELATIONS

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SAUL FROM TARSUS AND THE HARLOT CHURCH OF REVELATIONS

I wrote a blog post back in June that I am expounding on as the Lord has been revealing more to me about this and many other spiritual truths and revelations. I want to expound on my post from June and you really should read that first so you get a greater understanding of this post. You can read it here: https://abidingbread.com/2025/06/07/jesus-verses-the-pharisees/

As I was spending time in contemplation and quietness with the Lord I was reflecting on Revelations and the Harlot Church and how it will will make war with the saints, overcome them and martyr many of the saints. The Holy Spirit brought back to me what I had written and showed me that Saul from Tarsus was in the Harlot Church system as he was delivering people to the high priest to be killed and murdered by the Harlot Church through the high priest. That is the same church system in the end of the age where the Harlot Church Beast System will make war with the saints as it is written. Saul was delivering the saints to be killed and that is the same thing that will happen in the end of the age.

Revelation 17:3–6 (NKJV)

3 So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. 5 And on her forehead a name was written:

MYSTERY,

BABYLON THE GREAT,

THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH

6 I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement.

I want to emphasis that you truly must read my original post: https://abidingbread.com/2025/06/07/jesus-verses-the-pharisees/ as it will bring all of this together as I will just touch on points but not expound as I did in that article to show how this comes together. After reading my post Jesus Vs. The Pharisees you will see the “synagogue of Satan”. In my earlier post which hopefully you read you will see that Jesus called the Pharisees hypocrites 7 times and turned them over to their own wicked hearts! This is the same foundational principle in Romans 1 with a reprobate mind! The word hypocrite is the Greek means “godless”.

Revelation 2:9–11 (NKJV)

9 “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

11 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” ’

Revelation 3:9 (NKJV)

9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

Now Saul from Tarsus was serving the high priest NOT the Lord Jesus and Saul had received “papers” from the high priest! Today we call those same “paper” ordination papers commissioned by a church system, denomination, seminary school, etc! These people with ordination papers mainly operate out of ORGANIZATIONAL AUTHORITY AND NOT SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY FROM THE HOLY SPIRIT. This is why they despise and detest TRUE spiritual authority! How does this differ from the modern day educational system? Today modern day theological education has replaced true spiritual revelation and wisdom, spiritual calling and gifting. It would be wise to remember that Saul from Tarsus was a Pharisee’s Pharisee a highly educated man! This is also why we know Jesus did not establish denominations as God is a Spirit and is NOT DIVIDED. This is also why many denominations deny many of the spiritual gifts and the offices of ministry which Jesus established AFTER Pentacost. The twelve disciples were NOT apostles until Pentacost! They were disciples that is why Jesus makes the following bold and profound statements!

John 14:26–27 (NKJV)

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 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.

This implies what I have told others that when you receive revelations from the Holy Spirit they are eternal forever a part of your spiritual life in Christ Jesus. This also implies that without the Holy Spirit they would not have remembered the teachings/discipleship of Jesus!

John 16:7–16 (NKJV)

7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me; 10 of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; 11 of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.

12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 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. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.

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.

The Prediction of Christ’s Death and Resurrection

16 “A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me, because I go to the Father.”

Now having read my previous post Jesus Vs. The Pharisees along with this posting you will see in greater measure there are only two types of churches, the Church of Jesus Christ in Spirit and Truth and the Synagogue of Satan which were both in the land of Israel when the incarnate Christ Jesus was on the earth.

Now that we have established Saul from Tarsus affiliation with the Synagogue of Satan let us look at the “NEW CREATION IN CHRIST JESUS” the Apostle Paul!

Acts 9:1–2 (NKJV)

The Damascus Road: Saul Converted

9 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

Acts 22:5 (NKJV)

5 as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

As I mentioned in my post Jesus Vs. The Pharisees I believe Saul from Tarsus was deceived believing he was serving the Lord Jesus by and through the authority of the high priest which in today’s language we could call man’s church or synagogue NOT the TRUE CHURCH OF CHRIST JESUS. Are you starting to see the modern day political church system created by the doctrines of men and demons? Let us look at Saul’s response during his encounter with THE RESURRECTED CHRIST JESUS.

I emphasis resurrected intentionally because I want you to think of Paul as the NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH when you read his Epistles! Look at his life transformation! See how Saul fasted THREE DAYS with his encounter and how he was obedient to follow what Jesus told him to do. Let us read this incredible spiritual transformation of Saul to Paul! What amazes me is that in a short time after Paul received the Holy Spirit that Paul was bringing correction to the church putting the church back on the foundation of Christ Jesus in Spirit and Truth and how today there is little to no discernment of what is going on within the modern day church!

Acts 9 (NKJV)

The Damascus Road: Saul Converted

9 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

(Letters of ordination! Remember what Jesus said to the Pharisees about seeking one proselyte and making them twice the child of hell in Matthew 23:15.)

3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”

5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”

Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”

6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. 8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Saul fasted three days symbolic of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. Also similar to Abraham’s three day journey to sacrifice his own son!

Ananias Baptizes Saul

10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”

And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”

11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”

13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”

(Letters of ordination and designated authority similar to today’s modern day church structure created by man.)

15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”

Please notice that WITHOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT SAUL WAS NOT OF THE BRETHREN/BODY OF CHRIST JESUS! Even Jesus speaks of the brethren of the synagogue of Satan! Just because someone calls you brother do not be deceived as there are two kingdoms, two spiritual churches and two totally different “brethren”! You should really study on the topic of “kindred spirits” as they fellowship together and why a true spirit filled Christian will NOT fellowship with darkness or partake/sit under in the preaching, works or assembly of darkness, doctrines of men or demons! Amazing that Ananias called Saul BROTHER! Praise the Lord! Once again please think of the events of Saul being transformed/born again into Paul as a living example of the NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH! Paul never went back to the Pharisees but wished and prayed none would perish and all come to the light and truth of Christ Jesus.

18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.

19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

Saul Preaches Christ

20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.

21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?”

22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

Saul Escapes Death

23 Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. 24 But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.

Here we see that the Jews plotted to kill Paul because he preached Christ Jesus, they wanted to kill Paul just as they did Jesus! As I showed in my post Jesus Vs. The Pharisees they denied the living incarnate Christ in the flesh standing before them as being the Christ! That means they were of the Antichrist!

1 John 1:6–7 (NKJV)

6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.

1 John 4:3–6 (NKJV)

3 and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.

4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5 They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. 6 We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

BACK TO ACTS 9:

Saul at Jerusalem

26 And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists/Grecians but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.

The Church Prospers

31 Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

Aeneas Healed

32 Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. 33 There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. 35 So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

Dorcas Restored to Life

36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. 37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. 43 So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

The teaching, doctrines, methods, beliefs, and traditions of men will not produce TRUE disciples of Christ as ONLY Christ Jesus can disciple HIS people!

1 Corinthians 2:6–16 (NKJV)

Spiritual Wisdom

6 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, 8 which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

9 But as it is written:

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,

Nor have entered into the heart of man

The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 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. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.

13 These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. 16 For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

Let us see how Paul established the church. When Paul commissioned Timothy Paul did not give Timothy “papers” he laid hands on Timothy and “stirred up” the gifting and calling that the Lord had within Timothy! This is similar to the Lord telling Jeremiah I knew you before I formed you and called you to be a prophet!

1 Timothy 4:14 (NKJV)

14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.

2 Timothy 1:6–11 (NKJV)

6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Not Ashamed of the Gospel

8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, 10 but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.

Here is an example of how church appointments were made:

Acts 6:1–7 (NKJV)

Seven Chosen to Serve

6 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. 2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; 4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, 6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.

7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Now let us bring this home to the events playing out around the world. All the accusations, slander, mockery, etc. that is going on about Israel and antisemitism. We must understand that there are only two kingdoms, light and truth by the Holy Spirit vs. darkness and deceptions by the spirit of Antichrist. Two overall spirits and kingdoms, The Holy Spirit of Christ Jesus and the Antichrist Spirit! (there are many demonic spirits comprised and working for the Antichrist!) All of this was plainly written and establish in the original land of Israel through the Living and Written Word of God as you have read.

We must also remember that Abraham was NOT a Jew and that Abraham’s son Jacob was renamed Israel because the TRUE ISRAEL IS THE BORN AGAIN AND REDEEMED IN CHRIST JESUS and is NOT A PHYSICAL NATION ON EARTH. Jesus chose people, not land as the whole earth will be consumed by fire and the land of Israel will burn with the rest of the world! There will be a new heaven and a new earth.

Romans 2:28–29 (NKJV)

28 For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; 29 but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.

In closing I ask that you seek the Lord on what has been revealed to you so that you yourselves may receive revelation from the Lord Jesus. The end of the age is drawing near and we must come out of Babylon or suffer our own demise. Paul not only writes from divine revelations from the Holy Spirit he writes from personal experience of his own life and the life he know lived for Christ when Paul writes the following:

2 Corinthians 6:17–18 (NKJV)

17 Therefore

“Come out from among them

And be separate, says the Lord.

Do not touch what is unclean,

And I will receive you.”

18  “I will be a Father to you,

and you shall be My sons and daughters,

says the Lord Almighty.”

Paul came out from the false church and never went back so Paul is not only writing from the Holy Spirit he is also reflecting on what was required of him personally.

Galatians 2:20–21 (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. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”

Galatians 6:14–18 (NKJV)

14 But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation.

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.

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.” ’

ALCOHOLISM & DRUG ADDICTION TO INCEASE

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WARNING FROM THE LORD

ALCOHOLISM & DRUG ADDICTION TO INCREASE

The Lord Jesus spoke to me last evening about the increase of alcoholism and drug addiction and to write this message as a warning of events for the saints and non-saints/unbelievers.

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.

There is no true denial that all of us have witnessed this “plague” of increased drug addiction and alcoholism in these past years but this is going to increase rapidly as we come to the fulfillment of end times prophecy in the book of Revelations. Peace is being removed from the earth and chaos is increasing rapidly so profoundly that the antichrist will come in the “name of peace” even as the false prince of peace which is a FALSE peace!

The Lord put in on my heart to make this aware to the body of Christ for greater understanding of the spiritual nature behind this increase. People with problems of substance abuse and addiction are good people trapped by the enemy of our souls. They try to “tune out” from the pains, sorrows and burdens of this world through substance abuse only to fall deeper into the hands of the devil. They seek an inner peace that only the Lord Jesus can fulfill, occupy and give us! These people need the PRINCE OF PEACE THE LORD JESUS as there is no peace in this world without/outside of true born again conversion of the Holy Spirit. Even when someone becomes born again by the Holy Spirit true peace comes by revelations of the love, mercy, grace and caring virtues of continual growth in Christ Jesus by overcoming the trials, tribulations and schemes of the devil by the power and total dependency of the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit! We can not overcome this world or the things of this world WITHOUT the Lord Jesus.

2 Corinthians 4:7–5:8 (NKJV)

Cast Down But Unconquered

7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death is working in us, but life in you.

13 And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, 14 knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.

Seeing the Invisible

16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Assurance of the Resurrection

5 For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.

6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.

Too many professing Christians are not walking in the power of God to set the captives free. They “coddle” people rather than “cuddle” people! See my posting: https://abidingbread.com/2017/03/17/coddling-vs-cuddling/

One of the major problems with the body of Christ is the lack of true spiritual progression and growth in Christ Jesus. Being “saved” is the focus and message but “being conformed” to the completeness of the image and likeness of Christ Jesus is not being preached nor appealing to the saints as it requires “we die daily” to the desires and influences of this world. I believe too many saints do not understand being born again in the Spirit of God that we occupy two realms, the earthly realm and the heavenly realm in Christ Jesus. This is what the incarnate Christ did also as he was both of “man” and of “GOD”. We must die to this world to live and reign with Christ!

Romans 12:1–2 (NKJV)

Living Sacrifices to God

12 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Colossians 3:1–4 (NKJV)

Not Carnality But Christ

3 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

It is not my intent to write a long posting I will close with a few parting statements. Too many Christians are following the teachings of men and doctrines of demons and what you follow you worship! This statement would require much exposition so I ask you to seek the Lord about this and ask the Lord are you following Jesus in Spirit and Truth or the teachings of man and/or demons.

Let me ask you this question: Who taught the disciples? Why and how has that changed today when we are to be taught by the Holy Spirit which was sent from Jesus! It was better that Jesus should go so that the “Comforter” would be sent! I know many idolaters hate it when I bring this up because many idolize themselves as having “arrived” to completeness or follow a pastor above Christ Jesus. We must remember we are nothing without Christ Jesus as humility is the foundation of spiritual growth.

Philippians 3:12–21 (NKJV)

Pressing Toward the Goal

12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.

Our Citizenship in Heaven

17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

John 14:16–31 (NKJV)

16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

19 “A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. 20 At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”

Christ Answers Judas

22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?”

23 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. 24 He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.

25 “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 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. 28 You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.

29 “And now I have told you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming, and he has nothing in Me. 31 But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave Me commandment, so I do. Arise, let us go from here.

My intent was to reveal the spiritual nature behind addiction and substance abuse. It is not a disease which modern earthly knowledge and psychotherapy classify it as, it is SPIRITUAL thus must be dealt with in the wisdom, revelation and power in Spirit and Truth of the Holy Spirit.

DAVID vs. GOLIATH & THE MARK OF THE BEAST

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DAVID vs. GOLIATH & THE MARK OF THE BEAST

In my quiet time meditating with the Lord the Lord Jesus spoke and revealed to me the battle between David and Goliath and how that battle represents the Mark of The Beast. So as I went to scripture to read this accounting of events I thought I’d just share what the Lord spoke and revealed to me but as I read the scriptures more was given. So I am including the whole chapter of 1 Samuel 17 along with other scriptures. I will place my comments in between the scriptures as there is much to share.

Let me start out by stating that numerology plays a significant importance on scriptures and the meaning of scriptures so pay attention to numbers.

In the Bible, the number 8 symbolizes new beginnings, resurrection, and a new creation. This is because Jesus was resurrected on the eighth day, the day after the Sabbath, marking a new era and victory over death. Other examples include Noah’s family (8 people) being saved in the ark, signifying a new start for humanity, and the practice of circumcising baby boys on the eighth day, representing a new covenant with God. 

David was the eighth son and the number eight has great significance in David’s calling and reigning over Israel as well as the “bloodline” of in incarnate Christ Jesus.

1 Samuel 16:10 (NKJV)

10 Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen these.”

In Samuel 16 we learn that the Holy Spirit departed from Saul and that is why Samuel was commissioned to anoint David as King prior to the battle of David and Goliath. I suggest that what I share today is a “foreshadow” of the true Church/Bride of Christ in the end of the age as well as the journey each Christian is called to in the spiritual battle of this world.

1 Samuel 16:14 (ESV)

David in Saul’s Service

14 Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a harmful spirit from the Lord tormented him.

I would like you to keep in mind Genesis 6 and the fallen angels and what the Lord revealed about the times of the flood and Jesus stating that it will be as in the days of Noah.

Genesis 6:1–8 (NKJV)

The Wickedness and Judgment of Man

6 Now it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, 2 that the sons of God saw the daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose.

3 And the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh; yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.” 4 There were giants on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, men of renown.

5 Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

Please keep in mind Genesis 6:1-8 especially the bold and underlined texts as I will touch upon these later regarding the Mark of the Beast.

1 Samuel 17:1–58 (NKJV)

David and Goliath

17 Now the Philistines gathered their armies together to battle, and were gathered at Sochoh, which belongs to Judah; they encamped between Sochoh and Azekah, in Ephes Dammim. 2 And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and they encamped in the Valley of Elah, and drew up in battle array against the Philistines. 3 The Philistines stood on a mountain on one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side, with a valley between them.

Mountains represent “high places” where the gods dwell. It is a place of power and empowerment to those that worship the gods of those “high places”.

4 And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. 5 He had a bronze helmet on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail, and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of bronze. 6 And he had bronze armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders. 7 Now the staff of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, and his iron spearhead weighed six hundred shekels; and a shield-bearer went before him. 8 Then he stood and cried out to the armies of Israel, and said to them, “Why have you come out to line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and you the servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me.

Goliath was six cubits in height, wore/had six pieces of armor or equipment, and the spearhead weighed six hundred shekels of iron. In other words “666” or “six hundred and sixty six”. This battle between David and Goliath was a battle to the death because the two were enmity to each other.

This is where many Christians struggle they serve other religious people falsely believing they are serving the Lord Christ Jesus! How is it that Goliath recognized that the army of the Israelite’s served Saul and not the Lord of Hosts? Remember the Spirit of God departed from Saul as stated previously in 1 Samuel 16:14 as we read earlier. I have always marveled at how Satan knows who we are in Christ but professing Christians do not know who someone is in Christ! There is no real discerning of spirits among the brethren.

Acts 19:15 (NKJV)

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

1 Samuel 17 continued

9 If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.”

In verse 9 let us not forget that there is only two kingdoms, light and darkness and each is represented by a god. Either the god of this world or the TRUE LIVING GOD CHRIST JESUS who is the God above all other gods! What Goliath was actually stating was that if he won that the Israelite’s would serve the god of Goliath! Now if you take what I just said and apply it to the “end of the age” and the ONE WORLD ORDER/GOVERNMENT it is all about worshiping Satan who is the god of this world! More later.

Exodus 20:3 (NKJV)

3 “You shall have no other gods before Me.

10 And the Philistine said, “I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together.” 11 When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid.

I highlighted “give me a man” because a human without Christ cannot do battle with spiritual entities. I mentioned in an earlier post that too many Christians falsely believe that if they just love someone as Jesus does that that person would be healed or come to Christ. Sadly the demons in those people you are attempting do not receive the Love of Christ as they ONLY respond to Christ’s divine authority! God has no love for demons thus love is of no affect! We do not see or hear of Christians casting out demons because of false teachings, lack of spiritual discernment, no spiritual growth in Christ and no true love of Christ Jesus because if you love what Christ loves you will also hate what Christ hates!

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.

1 Samuel 17 continued

12 Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehem Judah, whose name was Jesse, and who had eight sons. And the man was old, advanced in years, in the days of Saul. 13 The three oldest sons of Jesse had gone to follow Saul to the battle. The names of his three sons who went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, next to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah. 14 David was the youngest. And the three oldest followed Saul. 15 But David occasionally went and returned from Saul to feed his father’s sheep at Bethlehem.

16 And the Philistine drew near and presented himself forty days, morning and evening.

17 Then Jesse said to his son David, “Take now for your brothers an ephah of this dried grain and these ten loaves, and run to your brothers at the camp. 18 And carry these ten cheeses to the captain of their thousand, and see how your brothers fare, and bring back news of them.” 19 Now Saul and they and all the men of Israel were in the Valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines.

20 So David rose early in the morning, left the sheep with a keeper, and took the things and went as Jesse had commanded him. And he came to the camp as the army was going out to the fight and shouting for the battle. 21 For Israel and the Philistines had drawn up in battle array, army against army. 22 And David left his supplies in the hand of the supply keeper, ran to the army, and came and greeted his brothers. 23 Then as he talked with them, there was the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, coming up from the armies of the Philistines; and he spoke according to the same words. So David heard them. 24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him and were dreadfully afraid. 25 So the men of Israel said, “Have you seen this man who has come up? Surely he has come up to defy Israel; and it shall be that the man who kills him the king will enrich with great riches, will give him his daughter, and give his father’s house exemption from taxes in Israel.”

26 Then David spoke to the men who stood by him, saying, “What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?”

27 And the people answered him in this manner, saying, “So shall it be done for the man who kills him.”

In verses 25 and 26 I want to emphasis that Saul did not have the power to do this as it was the Lord Jesus who called, anointed and commissioned David to be king! The Holy Spirit had already departed from Saul thus David was standing in his calling and anointing even though David was not recognized as King and later we know David did not retaliate against Saul even though Saul sought to kill him. David did not kill Goliath to achieve wealth, prestige or notoriety David did it in service to the Lord. Hope you see a hint of the false prosperity gospel! We serve the Lord for who HE IS not what for what we may obtain from Him. Also notice David stated that Goliath was uncircumcised of the HEART meaning godless and not of Christ Jesus!

28 Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men; and Eliab’s anger was aroused against David, and he said, “Why did you come down here? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the insolence of your heart, for you have come down to see the battle.”

I know personally as I have been accused of being prideful, arrogant and lacking humility from demonic religious leaders, leaders of seminary, etc! They HATE AND DESPISE someone who has confidence in Christ Jesus so they accuse you of what is in them and that is what Satan does as Satan is the accuser of the brethren!

29 And David said, “What have I done now? Is there not a cause?” 30 Then he turned from him toward another and said the same thing; and these people answered him as the first ones did.

31 Now when the words which David spoke were heard, they reported them to Saul; and he sent for him. 32 Then David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.”

33 And Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.”

There is NO age discrimination in the Kingdom of Heaven/God! I have had many so called professing Christians rebuke me when I started my calling with the Lord as they would make comments that they have been a Christian for 30 years! I was not impressed at all in where they were spiritually for 30 years of proclaiming faith in Christ Jesus! This was pride, arrogance and a form of manipulation and intimidation being used against me which I did NOT embrace or accept.

34 But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep, and when a lion or a bear came and took a lamb out of the flock, 35 I went out after it and struck it, and delivered the lamb from its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard, and struck and killed it. 36 Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.”

What David spoke has great importance and significance in the end hours we are living in. David overcame by the Blood of the Lamb, the Word of his testimony and loved not his life unto death!

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.

1 Samuel 17 continued

37 Moreover David said, “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”

And Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you!”

38 So Saul clothed David with his armor, and he put a bronze helmet on his head; he also clothed him with a coat of mail. 39 David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, “I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them.” So David took them off.

In verse 38 we see David removing all of the false protection such as the helmet, coat of mail and sword! Now if you go back to Genesis 6 as I mentioned in the beginning it was one of the fallen angels who taught men how to make swords, breastplates and do warfare! If you also refer to Ephesians 6 and the “FULL ARMOR” of God is NOT what Saul gave to David! This battle was much more than physical it was SPIRITUAL!

According to religious texts like the Book of Enoch, fallen angels taught humans a variety of forbidden skills, including metallurgy and weapon-making, cosmetics, sorcery and magic, and astrology and divination. These teachings are often presented as leading to increased sin, violence, and corruption on Earth.

Knowledge and skills taught

Warfare and metalworking: Angels like Azazel taught humans how to forge weapons such as swords, knives, and shields, and how to work with metals to create ornaments and armor.

Cosmetics and adornment: They showed humans how to beautify the body, including painting the eyelids and using dyes and costly stones.

Magic and sorcery: Some fallen angels instructed humans in spells, charms, and how to cut roots for medicinal or magical purposes.

Divination and astronomy: Teachings included the interpretation of signs from the sun, moon, clouds, and earth, which is also known as astrology.

Other skills: Depending on the source, other skills mentioned include the creation of jewelry, the use of cosmetics, and even the knowledge of how to cause abortions.

Why these teachings were forbidden

Caused corruption: The knowledge imparted by the fallen angels was seen as corrupting, leading to great impiety, fornication, and violence on Earth.

“Eternal secrets”: These teachings revealed secrets that were meant to be kept in heaven, and human attempts to learn them were seen as an abomination.

Lead to judgment: As a result of these teachings and the resulting corruption, God sent a great flood to cleanse the Earth.

 

1 Samuel 17 continued

40 Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine.

Here is where things get more interesting! Five is the number of grace and David picked up five “SMOOTH” stones from the brook. Smooth signifies refinement as Peter states we are “living stones” unto Christ Jesus and the brook would have been the refinement of “living water” and the Holy Spirit within us!

1 Peter 2:4–8 (NKJV)

The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People

4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture,

“Behold, I lay in Zion

A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,

And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”

7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient,

“The stone which the builders rejected

Has become the chief cornerstone,”

8 and

“A stone of stumbling

And a rock of offense.”

They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.

1 Samuel 17 continued

41 So the Philistine came, and began drawing near to David, and the man who bore the shield went before him. 42 And when the Philistine looked about and saw David, he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good-looking. 43 So the Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 And the Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!”

Notice once again I said this was a spiritual battle and not merely a physical battle! Goliath left the “high place of the mountain” where he summoned his god for power to defeat the Israelite’s. David was on a “high mountain with the Lord Jesus” receiving his power to defeat Goliath! It was a battle between the Lord Jesus the God above all gods against the fallen angels, gods of this world and principalities and powers! While on the subject of principalities I want to briefly mention that Jezebel was not only a spirit but a principality! Jezebel ruled over Israel through Ahab by using Ahab’s authority to do evil! So while Jezebel is a spirit it is also a principality seeking to rule over people, regions and territories and even the church as in Revelation 2!

45 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 47 Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.”

48 So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it.

Now think with me here and notice where the rock struck Goliath! The Lord was surely able and capable of sinking that stone through the breastplate into Goliath’s heart but the stone struck Goliath where the “Mark of the Beast” was, on the forehead! When Revelation speaks of the “Mark of the Beast” being on the forehead and/or the right hand what this means is the same as was spoken in Genesis 6! The “Mark of the Beast” is a mind totally given to doing evil and the right hand is representing the power of the beast to do evil! Just as Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father and has all power and authority! When Revelation says the number of the beast is 666 I believe it is the complete opposite of what Jesus said the first commandment was in the New Testament in Matthew 22:37 as the opposite is the Mark of the Beast! The first 6 is part of a man being your heart, the second 6 is with all your soul and the third 6 would be all your mind. So this the true Mark of the Beast! A born again Christian receives a new heart of flesh and the Holy Spirit which is a new soul and the Word of God through the Spirit of God is renewing our mind! This is why Paul states to cast down the strongholds of our imagination and to “have this mind in you which is of Christ Jesus!

Matthew 22:37 (NKJV)

37 Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’

2 Corinthians 10:5 (NKJV)

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,

Philippians 2:5 (NKJV)

The Humbled and Exalted Christ

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,

Genesis 6:5 (NKJV)

5 Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

1 Samuel 17 continued

And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled. 52 Now the men of Israel and Judah arose and shouted, and pursued the Philistines as far as the entrance of the valley and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell along the road to Shaaraim, even as far as Gath and Ekron. 53 Then the children of Israel returned from chasing the Philistines, and they plundered their tents. 54 And David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armor in his tent.

55 When Saul saw David going out against the Philistine, he said to Abner, the commander of the army, “Abner, whose son is this youth?”

And Abner said, “As your soul lives, O king, I do not know.”

56 So the king said, “Inquire whose son this young man is.”

57 Then, as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand. 58 And Saul said to him, “Whose son are you, young man?”

So David answered, “I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite.”

So while everyone is looking for a microchip, implantation, tattoo or bar code on the arm or forehead this is NOT the mark of the beast! It comes down to knowing people by the Spirit and Fruit of the Holy Spirit! A physical mark would only be needed for a “carnal person” but people will either by of Christ or AntiChrist which are spirits! Artificial intelligence is going to be used to implement the beast system and one world order but I believe that is why we have RETINA scanning. The eye is the gateway to the soul! Retina scanning will be looking into us, not just at us! I believe if your eyes are full of light it will detect that and if your eyes are filled with darkness it will detect that also! Pride has a look to it, anger has a look to it, hatred and murder has a look to it. If you walk in spiritual discernment you will see what is in the soul! The problem comes to what you want to see verses what the Lord wants to reveal to you! You can feel hatred when someone hates you and in today’s society evil has a boldness about it and makes no hesitation to let you witness, feel and hear the hatred!

Matthew 6:22–23 (NKJV)

22  “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

1 Corinthians 2:15–16 (NKJV)

15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. 16 For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

1 Corinthians 2:6–16 (NKJV)

Spiritual Wisdom

6 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, 8 which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

9 But as it is written:

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,

Nor have entered into the heart of man

The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 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. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.

13 These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. 16 For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

Well I hope this has been thought provoking to you and please take this to prayer for spiritual revelations from the Lord. It is the Holy Spirit that bares witness so if what I have posted doesn’t agree with you teachings of men, doctrines of demons please take it to the Lord. In a parting and provoking thought I want all of you to know that I have already been “raptured” as there is NO “rapture” in the bible only the second coming of Christ Jesus! I am raptured because I was delivered from the kingdom of darkness and the god of this world and I am now seated in heavenly place through Christ Jesus. Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father the place of divine authority and I am seated in Christ Jesus and know and utilize the Authority of Christ to set the captives free! The church has failed to set the captives free they do not cast out demons which keep people bound and property of the devil!

May the Lord bless you, keep you and edify you in His Spirit and Truth! God bless all of my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus.

CARRIERS OF COVENANT AND THE WORD OF GOD

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CARRIES OF COVENANT AND THE WORD OF GOD

Let us start at the beginning of creation so we can set the foundation of truth. It is imperative that you pay attention to the sequence of creation because in line two you might think the earth was already created and it was not. Also in line number two “the deep” refers to Water and Word because everything was created by the Word of God. You will see later that “Water, Word and Spirit” are ONE in Christ Jesus. Okay lets get started by reading Genesis 1:1-10.

Genesis 1:1–10 (NKJV)

The History of Creation

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.

3 Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.

6 Then God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.” 7 Thus God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament; and it was so. 8 And God called the firmament Heaven. So the evening and the morning were the second day.

9 Then God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear”; and it was so. 10 And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas. And God saw that it was good.

In line six we see that God created a firmament in the midst of the waters (deep) and it divided waters from the waters. Also notice that “were” is italicized in your bible as I italicized all of scripture to make it stand out from my writings. God separated the Water/Word by firmament and created Heaven. When we read line nine we see that the waters under heaven gathered into one place and “dry land” appeared God called the dry land Earth. Okay, so now that we have established this we can see that the waters above as well as below the firmament are the Water and Word of God.

Proverbs 18:4 (NKJV)

4 The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters;

The wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook.

So let us now reflect on Noah’s Arc and what the Arc represents and who the person of Noah reflects. We know that Noah was a preacher of righteousness which is the Word of God. We know that God told Noah to build the Ark so it was God who created the Ark by the hands of Noah. God was about to destroy the earth by the flood and Noah was the carrier of the Word of God in the Ark of the Covenant! The Ark represents the Covenant as we know God told Noah when you see the rainbow it is the NEW Covenant.

Genesis 9:12–17 (NKJV)

12 And God said: “This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: 13 I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. 14 It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; 15 and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” 17 And God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth.”

Now remember the correlation between Noah and Covenant by means of the Ark. Now we can look into the person of Moses.

We know Moses as an infant was to be killed by order of Pharaoh. However Moses mother created an “Ark of bulrushes” for him and laid it in the reeds by the river’s bank. Notice “ark of bulrushes” as this is similar to Noah’s Ark carrying the Word of God and the Covenant of God!

Exodus 1:22–2:10 (NKJV)

22 So Pharaoh commanded all his people, saying, “Every son who is born you shall cast into the river, and every daughter you shall save alive.”

Moses is Born

2 And a man of the house of Levi went and took as wife a daughter of Levi. 2 So the woman conceived and bore a son. And when she saw that he was a beautiful child, she hid him three months. 3 But when she could no longer hide him, she took an ark of bulrushes for him, daubed it with asphalt and pitch, put the child in it, and laid it in the reeds by the river’s bank. 4 And his sister stood afar off, to know what would be done to him.

5 Then the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river. And her maidens walked along the riverside; and when she saw the ark among the reeds, she sent her maid to get it. 6 And when she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby wept. So she had compassion on him, and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.”

7 Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call a nurse for you from the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for you?”

8 And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” So the maiden went and called the child’s mother. 9 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. 10 And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. So she called his name Moses, saying, “Because I drew him out of the water.”

We must notice in line one of chapter two the bloodline of Levi of Moses parents which is the royal priesthood. The “Ark of bulrushes” is what carried Moses and Moses was to be the person carrying the Word and Covenant of God. Moses would prophecy of  the “ONE TO COME” which would be the Lord Jesus. So now you see that Noah’s Ark and the Ark of Bulrushes” are one of the same as carries of the Word and Covenant ABOVE THE WATERS OF THE EARTH. This is an essential point of mention, above the waters of the earth as in Genesis mentioned earlier as the Water and Word are one of the Same, Christ Jesus.

Now let’s look at King David who was a carrier of the Covenant and Word of God which was the presence of God. Through David the Lord made a Covenant.

2 Samuel 6:1–23 (NKJV)

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem

6 Again David gathered all the choice men of Israel, thirty thousand. 2 And David arose and went with all the people who were with him from Baale Judah to bring up from there the ark of God, whose name is called by the Name, the Lord of Hosts, who dwells between the cherubim. 3 So they set the ark of God on a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill; and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drove the new cart. 4 And they brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill, accompanying the ark of God; and Ahio went before the ark. 5 Then David and all the house of Israel played music before the Lord on all kinds of instruments of fir wood, on harps, on stringed instruments, on tambourines, on sistrums, and on cymbals.

6 And when they came to Nachon’s threshing floor, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. 7 Then the anger of the Lord was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him there for his error; and he died there by the ark of God. 8 And David became angry because of the Lord’s outbreak against Uzzah; and he called the name of the place Perez Uzzah to this day.

9 David was afraid of the Lord that day; and he said, “How can the ark of the Lord come to me?” 10 So David would not move the ark of the Lord with him into the City of David; but David took it aside into the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. 11 The ark of the Lord remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite three months. And the Lord blessed Obed-Edom and all his household.

12 Now it was told King David, saying, “The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belongs to him, because of the ark of God.” So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with gladness. 13 And so it was, when those bearing the ark of the Lord had gone six paces, that he sacrificed oxen and fatted sheep. 14 Then David danced before the Lord with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod. 15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting and with the sound of the trumpet.

16 Now as the ark of the Lord came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart. 17 So they brought the ark of the Lord, and set it in its place in the midst of the tabernacle that David had erected for it. Then David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. 18 And when David had finished offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts. 19 Then he distributed among all the people, among the whole multitude of Israel, both the women and the men, to everyone a loaf of bread, a piece of meat, and a cake of raisins. So all the people departed, everyone to his house.

20 Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”

21 So David said to Michal, “It was before the Lord, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel. Therefore I will play music before the Lord. 22 And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight. But as for the maidservants of whom you have spoken, by them I will be held in honor.”

23 Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had no children to the day of her death.

I did a posting earlier about walking on water and now I’d like to bring more to that posting. Notice the name Moses means “out of the water”! Okay, now lets go to Jesus walking on water again.

Matthew 14:25–33 (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. 30 But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”

31 And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.

33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

Now from what I have spoken about Genesis and the “deep” waters being separated by firmament and the Waters and Word are ONE you can see how Noah, Moses, David and Jesus were carriers of Covenant and Word as well as Jesus being the incarnate Word in Flesh. You can also see how Jesus sustained their mortal lives through floods, pestilence, plagues and rulers. Jesus walking on water was symbolic of Jesus’ baptism by John the baptist. Jesus came up out of the “Water which was the Word of God” thus Jesus walked on water. Jesus rose above the firmament which separated the “deep” waters in Genesis. Above the firmament was heaven below the firmament was the earth yet both were “Water and Word”. This is how Jesus makes a bold statement He was not of this World and us being born again come up out of the Water & Word raised above the firmament into the Kingdom of Heaven no longer in the kingdom of darkness!

Matthew 3:13–17 (NKJV)

Baptism of Jesus

Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–23

13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”

15 But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.

16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

This is what happens through true repentance and Water and Spirit baptism we emerge from Water and Word which is Christ Jesus. We emerge with an open heaven! We have access to the Father through Christ Jesus! Jesus was demonstrating what was awaiting those who are baptized with Water and Spirit to the disciples. Remember initially Peter did walk on water but when Peter took his focus off Jesus and focused on the storm it inhibited Peter from continuing walking on the water. When Christ Jesus was pierced with the spear on the cross Water & Blood came out of Him. Water and Word are One in Christ Jesus. Jesus told the woman at the well that He could give her LIVING WATER.

Philippians 4:6–7 (NKJV)

6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

So if we focus on Philippians 4:6-7 we see that “peace” was challenged and when peace is challenged it is from one to three sources. One being our adversary the devil attacking our peace in Christ by spiritual conflict, secondly relying on our own abilities, worries or concerns and third an attack on our faith/belief! We must have unwavering faith in Spirit and Truth according to the Word of God and Spirit of God that conquerors the enemy and helps us trust fully in Jesus.

In 2 Samuel 8 we know that the Lord made a covenant with David and that the incarnate Christ Jesus would come from the bloodline of David. I hope you see who Noah on Water, Moses on Water, David with the Ark and Jesus walking on water all represent “Covenant & Word” as Jesus came to be our blood covenant as the sacrificial Lamb. Noah’s Ark, Moses Ark of Bulrushes, David with the Ark of the Lord and Jesus walking on Water as Jesus was the Water and Word made flesh and was the NEW COVENANT being the “Blood Covenant” of the sacrificial Lamb.

I have provided some more scriptures to support the “Water, Word and Spirit” as being ONE. I will continue after you read a few scriptures.

John 3:5 (NKJV)

5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

John 7:37–38 (NKJV)

Christ Reveals the “Living Water”

37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

John 19:34 (NKJV)

34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.

Ephesians 5:26 (NKJV)

26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,

So we have gone from Genesis to Noah, Moses, David and Jesus. Now let’s go from Jesus to the disciples to finish this part of the post. Let’s read about Jesus feeding the 5000 and the 12 disciples roles in this. It is important to see the final stages of the fulfillment of Jesus being the Blood Covenant and the fulfillment of His death, burial, resurrection and ascension. Pay attention to the words in bold type.

Matthew 14:14–21 (NKJV)

14 And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. 15 When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.”

16 But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”

17 And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.”

18 He said, “Bring them here to Me.” 19 Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes. 20 So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained. 21 Now those who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

I highlighted line 14 because I wanted to emphasis that Jesus was moved with compassion. Consider John 3:16 and Christ slain before the foundation of the world. Additionally these were “unsaved” not born again people and Jesus had compassion and care for them. So how much more at the end of the age will Jesus provide for His church/bride! Those that are TRULY His.

In line 16 Jesus gives the disciples instruction to give them something to eat. Isn’t this the same as Jesus telling Peter “feed my sheep” when Jesus restored Peter in love! Line 17 states there were 5 loaves of bread and bread being the Word of God from the Bread of Life Christ Jesus because Jesus multiplied the bread so it was divine bread! Five is the number of GRACE and the bread was the Word of God. The disciples were each told to pick up 12 FULL baskets of fragments. Notice the word FULL. This represented the grace of God with each of the disciples FULL OF THE WORD OF GOD. This would be the great commission of Matthew 28 and once Pentecost came they were filled with the Holy Spirit and everything the Lord had taught them the Holy Spirit would bring back to their remembrance. This is why I tell people when you receive revelations from the Holy Spirit they are eternal and NOT subject to your soul which would be your mind but the mind of Christ being built within you by the Holy Spirit. The disciples were to become Apostles carriers of the gospel of Christ Jesus the blood covenant of reconciliation with the Father through “Christ Crucified”. I mentioned in an early posting about needing 12 witnesses to fulfill “legal” requirements of baring witness. The 12 disciples fulfilled that requirement and became Apostles when the Lord breathed The Holy Spirit on them.

John 14:26–27 (NKJV)

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 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.

Now I will begin to conclude this post as I hope you can see the “carriers of covenant” and the “Ark of Covenant” all the way to the Incarnate Christ who came to be our sacrificial lamb for the Blood Covenant.

Now I hope you see greater revelations of truth and how the Lord’s Word is faithful and true. I’d like you to consider what I have revealed and shared above and now apply it to the coming of the Lord and the pestilence, plagues and fire that will come upon the earth before the return of the Lord Jesus. With this in mind focus on the flood and Noah, the plagues of Egypt not affecting Moses and David conquering kingdoms for the Lord. The end of the age to come is with pestilence, plagues, fire and kingdoms against the Kingdom of the Lord Jesus. Think back and remember the three Hebrew men in the fiery furnace who were not burned neither smelled of smoke and apply this knowledge to the end of the age and being able to stand in the fire to come. All those who have been taught and believe the false doctrine of the per-tribulation rapture are NOT being prepared spiritually to overcome what is developing and to come upon the earth. Their faith is based in a lie and the Lord will not empower a lie as the Lord only empowers His Spirit and Truth. They embrace an illusion of living their best life now and embrace this world and the teachings of this world. They do not seek revelations of Truth from the Lord. The blind leading the blind. Meditate on the scriptures below and see how the Lord will sustain those that are completely His who have prepared themselves spiritually to overcome. I pray you receive revelations of Truth and repent for believing lies and following wolves in sheep’s clothing or leaning on your own understanding. You are following your own “pride of life” and not the truth of scripture.

Isaiah 43:2 (NKJV)

2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;

And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.

When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,

Nor shall the flame scorch you.

Psalm 66:12 (NKJV)

12 You have caused men to ride over our heads;

We went through fire and through water;

But You brought us out to rich fulfillment.

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.

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.”

Zechariah 2 (NKJV)

Vision of the Measuring Line

2 Then I raised my eyes and looked, and behold, a man with a measuring line in his hand. 2 So I said, “Where are you going?”

And he said to me, “To measure Jerusalem, to see what is its width and what is its length.”

3 And there was the angel who talked with me, going out; and another angel was coming out to meet him, 4 who said to him, “Run, speak to this young man, saying: ‘Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls, because of the multitude of men and livestock in it. 5 For I,’ says the Lord, ‘will be a wall of fire all around her, and I will be the glory in her midst.’ ”

Future Joy of Zion and Many Nations

6 “Up, up! Flee from the land of the north,” says the Lord; “for I have spread you abroad like the four winds of heaven,” says the Lord. 7 “Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon.”

8 For thus says the Lord of hosts: “He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. 9 For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me.

10 “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will dwell in your midst,” says the Lord. 11 “Many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me to you. 12 And the Lord will take possession of Judah as His inheritance in the Holy Land, and will again choose Jerusalem. 13 Be silent, all flesh, before the Lord, for He is aroused from His holy habitation!”

In my time with the Lord today the revelation of Moses Ark of bulrushes was given to me and it brought me all the way back to genesis to revelations as “Jesus is our Ark” or “Dwelling Place” and those that dwell in Him shall be protected from the pestilence, plagues, fires and destruction to come.

It was the Lord that “shut Noah in the Ark”, it was the Lord that delivered Moses from the death of Pharaoh as an infant, it was the Lord who slew the giants and kings for David and it is the Lord who will keep us from the onslaught of our enemies and the coming destruction.

I hope you have been enlightened, encouraged and edified to “stand firm” in Spirit and Truth and witness the hand of the Lord in your life and redemption.

Isaiah 66:14–24 (NKJV)

The Reign and Indignation of God

14 When you see this, your heart shall rejoice,

And your bones shall flourish like grass;

The hand of the Lord shall be known to His servants,

And His indignation to His enemies.

15 For behold, the Lord will come with fire

And with His chariots, like a whirlwind,

To render His anger with fury,

And His rebuke with flames of fire.

16 For by fire and by His sword

The Lord will judge all flesh;

And the slain of the Lord shall be many.

17 “Those who sanctify themselves and purify themselves,

To go to the gardens

After an idol in the midst,

Eating swine’s flesh and the abomination and the mouse,

Shall be consumed together,” says the Lord.

18 “For I know their works and their thoughts. It shall be that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come and see My glory. 19 I will set a sign among them; and those among them who escape I will send to the nations: to Tarshish and Pul and Lud, who draw the bow, and Tubal and Javan, to the coastlands afar off who have not heard My fame nor seen My glory. And they shall declare My glory among the Gentiles. 20 Then they shall bring all your brethren for an offering to the Lord out of all nations, on horses and in chariots and in litters, on mules and on camels, to My holy mountain Jerusalem,” says the Lord, “as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the Lord. 21 And I will also take some of them for priests and Levites,” says the Lord.

22 “For as the new heavens and the new earth

Which I will make shall remain before Me,” says the Lord,

“So shall your descendants and your name remain.

23 And it shall come to pass

That from one New Moon to another,

And from one Sabbath to another,

All flesh shall come to worship before Me,” says the Lord.

24 “And they shall go forth and look

Upon the corpses of the men

Who have transgressed against Me.

For their worm does not die,

And their fire is not quenched.

They shall be an abhorrence to all flesh.”

SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS

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SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS

Carnality and Narrow Mindedness

One thing you will notice as you grow in maturity in Christ is the paradox of opposites being twisted and manipulated as being one of the same. Similarly to calling evil good and good evil is exactly what Satan does through his lies and deceptions.

Narrow mindedness is a carnal mindset of the soul and fallen nature of humanity resulting in spiritual blindness imposed and empowered by Satan since the fall of humanity. This mindset of narrow mindedness only believing what you have been taught, brought up in and appealing to you or your earthly life experiences. Jesus himself referred to this as “leaven in bread” which was of the religious leaders, better stated the teachings of this world. Surely dying to yourself to follow and be built up in Christ is not appealing to those who perish. As born again believers we must keep ourselves in the love of God which will draw us deeper into the very heart of God, Jude 1:21. Love that is NOT reciprocated does not grow in love or revelations of Christ Jesus.

Salvation is the initial “call” to Christ Jesus but are we being built up into a royal priesthood by Spirit and Truth? Spirit and Truth ONLY comes from the Lord by the indwelling Holy Spirit and not from the teachings of humanity or the wisdom of humanity.

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.

As stated in my previous postings it was the Spirit of God in Christ Jesus that taught the disciples not the human, but the divine. This has not changed in any way and stands true today. Many people need to be “unlearned” so they can be taught, this is dying to yourself and to others and only seeking the Lord in Spirit and Truth. Everything written or spoken has a spirit attached to it. It’s either of the Lord, Antichrist or your own soul/flesh. This is why what you hear, see and read must be “filtered and validated” by the Holy Spirit. You must receive a spiritual witness from the Lord.

So in conclusion a carnal mindset is narrow minded but believes by deception that is is open and ready for a more “broader way/path of spiritual revelations of Christ Jesus”. Polar opposites in reality but the person never the less believes they are on the right path. Jesus said because you say you can see you are blind! This is narrow mindedness not being able to receive TRUTH because you are not open to truth. So this is believing you are on the NARROW PATH but you are on the WIDE PATH of destruction. I hope you see the paradox of opposites.

I believe the Apostle Paul’s reference that he died daily was not to sin but to carnality of thinking and believing. It was Paul who wrote in Romans should we continue in sin and crucify Christ again making a mockery of the Lord’s grace. If you reflect on Paul’s journey of faith it is absolutely incredible and heavenly how Paul preached. It was Paul who said he fed them milk because they were carnal and couldn’t tolerate solid spiritual food. Read Galatians 2:20 and Galatians 6:14 as these scriptures are for all of the saints so we may be the true image and likeness of Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 4:3–4 (NKJV)

3 But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, 4 whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.

We know that the broad path leads to death and destruction and that the narrow path leads to everlasting life in Christ Jesus. Think of this contrast and reflect on it: narrow mindedness believing you are on the narrow path to salvation but actually the wide path to destruction. Verses a Spiritual mindset in Christ by self denial/crucifixion of the soul seeking revelations of all Truth in Christ Jesus from Spirit and Truth. By dying to your personal beliefs and seeking the Lord in Spirit and Truth you allow the Holy Spirit to bring revelations of Truth to your Spirit and renewing your mind in Spirit and Truth. Man’s wisdom will never stand against the Lord’s revelations in Spirit and Truth. Shortly after my salvation the Lord Jesus took me all the way through my childhood and revealed to me the spiritual attacks through people including family. While doing this I became aware the Lord was sustaining me without me even knowing. Without going into great detail this helped me in many ways understand the spiritual realm and the influences of Satan working through people. I was set free of all of my past so I could live for the future in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!

We need Spiritual Revelations which including both the way/path of salvation and the Godly wisdom to withstand the wiles of the enemy by spiritual discernment. In other words a “broad mind” or Spiritual mind/mindset which through the Spirit of God reveals all truth, the mind of Christ. This means submitting our thoughts to the thoughts of God by the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 139:23–24 (KJV 1900)

23  Search me, O God, and know my heart:

Try me, and know my thoughts:

24  And see if there be any wicked way in me,

And lead me in the way everlasting.

Discernment is from the Spirit of God so if you are born of the Holy Spirit you should be growing in Wisdom and Revelation to be able to discern the spirits. Leaning on your understanding leaves you prey to the devil. Your wisdom won’t help you, you need Wisdom from Above.

1 Samuel 30:8 (NKJV)

8 So David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I pursue this troop? Shall I overtake them?”

And He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all.”

There are NO shortcuts in making mature spiritual sons of God. The Israelites spent 40 years in the wilderness only to make idols while Moses entered into the presence of the Lord up on the mountain. We must pursue holiness by Spirit and Truth and this includes our mindsets so that we may have the mind of Christ in us. Paul said “let this” mind be in you. “Let” signifies the will of our souls to bow and surrender to Spirit and Truth.

Philippians 2:5 (NKJV)

The Humbled and Exalted Christ

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,

Matthew 11:29–30 (NKJV)

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.”

Rest is no longer defined as keeping the sabbath it is the very person of Christ. Sure you can honor the sabbath but it is no longer a “remembrance” it is a life in Christ. Rest and peace is a positioning of our heart towards and in Christ Jesus. Read it for yourself. Peace doesn’t rest upon you it dwells in you as a born again Christian. Peace is a Spirit as Jesus is the Prince of Peace!

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.

Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV)

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

James 3:17 (NKJV)

17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

Colossians 1:9–13 (NKJV)

Preeminence of Christ

9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,

 

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.

Don’t be fooled my just taking the one scripture of calling evil good and good evil as you must apply this principle to all things pertaining to life and godliness. The only way to overcome is by true Spiritual Revelations by the Holy Spirit! If Satan can appear as an angel of light how do you come to the revelation that it is Satan speaking, by revelation from the Holy Spirit and NOT leaning on your own understanding. How do you determine a wolf in sheep’s clothing, by revelation from the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 10:16 (NKJV)

16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.

Carnality and narrow mindedness portrays that you have all the wisdom and knowledge you need thus there is no dependency upon Christ Jesus or the need for Revelations of Spirit and Truth. This is the “pride of life” and the “lust of the flesh” determining what your desires of truth are and NOT what is Spirit and Truth from Christ Jesus. Self righteousness and pride are ungodly and the Lord resists the proud.

The whole earth is the “valley of the shadow of death” so we are surrounded by darkness and evil everywhere. See my post: https://abidingbread.com/2025/04/16/the-valley-of-the-shadow-of-death/

1 John 2:16–17 (NKJV)

16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

Proverbs 3:5–7 (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.

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;

Fear the Lord and depart from evil.

I am troubled when someone makes a statement like I follow pastor so and so because pastor so and so has not finished his race here on earth. Every single follower of Christ is NOT exempt from the wiles and schemes of the Devil. If you follow a pastor who has believed lies or false teachings from man’s wisdom you will be led astray by NOT SEEKING the Lord Jesus in Spirit and Truth! This is why I do not have any “likes” of ministries or pastors on my social media. I do not have availability 24/7/365 to vet them as not fallen from the narrow path and Spirit and Truth. Furthermore I do not exalt a man I only exalt Christ Jesus.

Stop believing the lies that you yourselves can not experience the true, pure and holy glory of God here and now. The resurrected Christ is available to all of us. Just be absolutely sure that the Holy Spirit in you bares witness to the Living God Christ Jesus as Satan masquerades and an angel of light.

I take the disposition that even when someone uses the terminology, Lord, God or even the name of Jesus I need to know who their Jesus is because it may not be 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?”

2 Corinthians 11:1–4 (NKJV)

Concern for Their Faithfulness

11 Oh, that you would bear with me in a little folly—and indeed you do bear with me. 2 For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!

I was helping a pastor online who was struggling and he reached out to me so I spent over a half hour telling him things and encouraging him in Spirit and Truth. He replied what a sermon. I said it was not a sermon it was experiential life in Christ. Everything I stated was testimony not a sermon! Now reflect on the Apostles, Prophets, Saints gone before us considering everything they spoke was not only inspired by the Lord but experiential life in Christ Jesus. It wasn’t just belief it was true experiential life. Just as the Apostles witnessed and testified of Christ so can we through an experienced life in Christ Jesus. We are called to live the life of Christ here and now.

May the Lord continue to strengthen you in His Spirit of Truth and in revelations of Christ Jesus.

SPIRITUAL MARTYRDOM – JEZEBEL

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SPIRITUAL MARTYRDOM – JEZEBEL

The slaughter of the sheep and the onslaught of the church has reached levels that only few truly recognize. Most people think that they won’t be here for the great tribulation because they can’t discern the spirits or the times we live in and twist scriptures to support their beliefs rather than Spirit and Truth. When you read in Revelations that the beast was given power to overcome the saints this can be spiritual and NOT just physical martyrdom.

It would be wise to know that Satan doesn’t need to kill us physically because Satan can kill us spiritually just as he did with Eve and Eve did to Adam. The wages of sin is death! Eve got Adam to partake. So today it’s not which gender gets you to partake it is about partaking! This is why Jesus warns many times about deception. You can be spiritually killed by believing, following and partaking in lies and deception! THIS IS A FORM OF MARTYRDOM.

JEZEBEL

This is why when Jezebel could not kill the prophets in the Spirit she attempted to killed them physically! The first objection is to get you into sin and this would include pagan worship to Baal so you will be killed spiritually and if that doesn’t work she will seek to kill you physically. While this might sound outrageous but it is true, Jezebel will even try to get you to kill yourself by suicide. I know this first hand! Suicide is spiritual! Going on medications and seeking psychological counseling will not deliver you from a Jezebel! If Jezebel can’t kill you spiritually she will attempt to take your life! Jezebel will use witchcraft, lies, manipulation, false accusations and turn friends and family against you making you feel abandoned and all alone.

Don’t make a mockery of Elijah by saying he lost faith because that is not true. Also stop just thinking of Jezebel as a spirit when it is also a principality! Jezebel ruled over Ahab and even used Ahab’s signature and king’s seal! Now when you read Revelations 2:20 think of Jezebel ruling the church of Jesus from within and how the church leaders and saints tolerated Jezebel. Where ever the Jezebel spirit is, it seeks to create Jezreel total dominance and authority for Baal worship. A Jezebel spirit seeks to clone itself in her own children. In my travels for the Lord I witnessed a Jezebel female pastor who was spiritually cloning her daughters into Jezebel pastors also. There are NO women pastors or preachers and you need to go back to the Levitical priesthood to see there was never a Levitical woman priest or preacher. That is why Jehu was instructed to kill all of Jezebel’s offspring.

2 Kings 10:23–28 (NKJV)

23 Then Jehu and Jehonadab the son of Rechab went into the temple of Baal, and said to the worshipers of Baal, “Search and see that no servants of the Lord are here with you, but only the worshipers of Baal.” 24 So they went in to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings. Now Jehu had appointed for himself eighty men on the outside, and had said, “If any of the men whom I have brought into your hands escapes, whoever lets him escape, it shall be his life for the life of the other.”

25 Now it happened, as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, that Jehu said to the guard and to the captains, “Go in and kill them; let no one come out!” And they killed them with the edge of the sword; then the guards and the officers threw them out, and went into the inner room of the temple of Baal. 26 And they brought the sacred pillars out of the temple of Baal and burned them. 27 Then they broke down the sacred pillar of Baal, and tore down the temple of Baal and made it a refuse dump to this day. 28 Thus Jehu destroyed Baal from Israel.

I’ve read several books and teachings on a Jezebel spirit but from my experiences and revelations received from the Lord there are many things not written about the Jezebel spirit. As I mentioned suicide tendencies and actual suicide in males is from the Jezebel spirit as you will read in scripture below. I know because I was suicidal from the age of 5 to the age of 49 off and on. Dealing with a Jezebel spirit is not an easy task especially when this spirit controls someone you love. I am thankful to the Lord for hearing my cries in the wilderness as I wanted to take my life that the Lord heard my cries and delivered me from the hands and spirit of Jezebel.

The Jezebel spirit is also the spirit behind the LGTBQ movement. This spirit emasculates men and feminizes them while making females with this spirit gets more masculine, authoritarian, dominant, overbearing and ungodly. Role reversal equals “gender reversal”. We need to recognize this not only as a spirit but a principality! Jezebel ruled the Israelite’s over king Ahab. What is happening in this world now with with transgender men in women’s sports, sex trafficking, etc. 

When you read about Jezebel in the scriptures you will read she was given a “season of repentance” but when a Jezebel goes beyond the point of repentance she was killed by Jehu. You really need to think about the progression of the evil spirit(s) in Jezebel. Let’s remember the name Jezebel is used but the spirits involved are what needs to be focused on. I don’t have time to elaborate more on the Jezebel spirit but I did want to touch on suicide and the LGTBQ movement as those I have not heard any other person mention or preach upon.

1 Kings 19:1–4 (NKJV)

Elijah Escapes from Jezebel

19 And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, also how he had executed all the prophets with the sword. 2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.” 3 And when he saw that, he arose and ran for his life, and went to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.

4 But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!”

When Jezebel said “so let the gods do to me” she was speaking of principalities where Jezebel received her evil powers and strength from. This is why we must not underestimate the effects that a Jezebel power has, or the ungodly influences of the Jezebel Spirit. It is the most alluring evil spirit as Jezebel gets others to do her dirty work so Jezebel can portray herself as a victim. When Jezebel lied about Naboth to get his vineyard she brought false accusations of Naboth cursing God and the king which led to Naboth’s stoning and seizure of his vineyard into the hands of Ahab. She portrayed Ahab as a victim! This is how manipulations transfers guilt and accusations onto the innocent which in this case was Naboth’s innocence. True spiritual discernment is needed to discern that Jezebel worships another god!  So Jezebel can appear to be spiritual, prophetic and can even display false humility and tears.  Fasting and prayer may be required and also getting out of the “spiritual atmosphere” of Jezebel, get into the wilderness with the Lord and seek the Lord for true spiritual discernment.

Notice Elijah saying he prayed he might die and even asked the Lord to take his life! This is suicide from a spiritual attack!

In closing I want to reiterate that martyrdom can be in the spirit and NOT just the natural death. Spiritual death is real just as the fall of humanity in the Garden of Eden. There is no true life without Christ Jesus dwelling in your heart.

Blessings to all, I hope this has helped you see the condition of the church as well as the times we are living in.

RAPTURED IN CHRIST JESUS

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RAPTURED IN CHRIST JESUS

Let me start off by saying that the revelations I received today I could write a book as these revelations and principles apply all through the Word of God and biblical history. These revelations are already written and contained in the Holy Scriptures. We must pursue the wisdom of God and not the teachings and wisdom of men/women. This statement is not meant to be offensive but it is the truth. That is why we meditate on the Word of God and not just read the Word of God. It is the Holy Spirit that gives revelations of God’s Word and by His grace and Spirit we can receive revelation of His Word. The Lord gave me much more but what I have written here is what started the Spiritual Revelations to flow. I pray you will receive revelations in Spirit and Truth.

While the title of this posting includes the topic of the rapture there is much more needed to reveal to render understanding regarding the rapture. I will bring to you what the Lord has revealed to me in Spirit and Truth but I won’t have time to expound and completely address some of those points at this time. Otherwise I would have to write a book instead of a short story. I ask you to seek the Lord on matters that I do not expound on but I will give you thoughts to consider in your time with the Lord.

Today as I was meditating with the Lord I was once again was troubled in my spirit about the lack of love, faith and trust in the Lord and the Truth of His Written Word that I read online and have seen in the church. These virtues of the Lord Jesus should be as a three stranded cord the scriptures tell us about. This is why I am so troubled by what I read online in peoples statements as when ONE virtue falls short it compromises all of the virtues of Christ Jesus. So I began to go back to the beginning which was Genesis as any “detective” searching for truth would do. In my Spirit I was called to the fall of humanity. In my spirit it was as if I was there personally which is possible with the Lord regardless of anyone’s belief or lack of.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NKJV)

12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.

And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Let’s begin:

Jesus told Adam about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Adam later told Eve about this same knowledge. They were told if they partook of the forbidden fruit they would die.

Genesis 2:16–17 (NKJV)

16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

Now pause there for a moment. Eve had not yet been created yet as we know in scripture. We do not exactly know how long Adam was alive before Eve but we can determine it was for some time before the Lord said it was not good for the man to be alone.

Genesis 2:18–23 (NKJV)

18 And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” 19 Out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them. And whatever Adam called each living creature, that was its name. 20 So Adam gave names to all cattle, to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper comparable to him.

21 And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. 22 Then the rib which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.

23 And Adam said:

“This is now bone of my bones

And flesh of my flesh;

She shall be called Woman,

Because she was taken out of Man.”

Now that we have established God’s divine order of man before woman lets expound on how the Devil got to Adam. We know the devil came to Eve and made the fruit appealing to her not only naturally but spiritually because the true word of God was twisted, manipulated, and lies and deception were spoken denying the truth about the forbidden fruit causing DEATH. The devil is the father of lies, he is a lying spirit so his words had spiritual powers of deception.

When Eve later presented the forbidden fruit to Adam he partook of the forbidden fruit. Now let’s look at how crafty and cunning the serpent really is. The devil perverted the LOVE OF GOD. You may not see it yet but you will. The serpent presented the fruit as sensual love which is NOT godly love. What did Jezebel do when Jehu arrived, she adorned herself to appear sensual. What happened to Sampson with the sensuality of Delilah? Does this sound familiar!

In my travels I have witnessed many spiritual manifestations and I can tell you this, the HOLY SPIRIT is NOT CARNAL and will not appear or manifest as sensual love! I have seen false mimicking spirits that are sensual and not the Holy Spirit. There was an old song and the lyrics said something like this. “I’m hooked on a feeling and I am high on believing” and that is what this false manifestation spirit does. People are under the illusion and deception that this is the Holy Spirit and it is from the Devil! Okay like I said I won’t go to far on this but it needed to be said.

Let’s get back to the fall in the garden. Adam had divine/agape love for God but when Eve came Adam loved the Eve also, in fact it was Adam that called her woman. When Eve presented Adam with the forbidden fruit she presented it just as the devil presented it to her, sensual because Eve had already fallen. What was presented to Adam by Eve was sensual love because she had already fallen. Not all love is the same there is only one form of Godly love. Just because a man is attracted to a woman doesn’t mean the man has godly love for that woman and it’s the same with a woman loving a man. Intimacy with your spouse should NEVER be put above or before your intimacy and love with the Lord!

This is why in 1 Corinthians 7 Paul expounds of husbands and wives and loving as Christ loves his church. I suggest you read this whole chapter so you will understand that Paul is addressing the original sin from the garden of Eden. Now Eve was deceived but Adam was NOT deceived. Now ladies do not take this as offensive but several years ago the Lord spoke to me and said to me as I was meditating, “I did not come back as the second Eve, I came as the second Adam.” Ladies please hear what I am about to say because this is a controversial subject today regarding divine order. Adam was Eve’s spiritual covering. In 1 Corinthians 7 Paul talks about if one spouse is not of the faith/believing and the other spouse is of faith/believing, then that spouse is the covering for the unsaved/unbelieving spouse. So before Adam fell, Adam was a “covering for Eve”even though she had fallen. When Adam fell the covering was removed, thus both fell. So IF the Lord came as the second Eve that would have meant Adam would not have been restored and the divine order needed to be restored. By coming as the second Adam everything that preceded after Adam could be restored. The original created order needed to be re-established.

So men build up your wives in the ways of the Lord and wives build up your husband in the ways of the Lord and stop letting the Devil destroy your marriage. Stop blaming one another and get Christ Centered, and put Christ first and foremost in your marriage honoring and adhering to God’s Covenant of Marriage. Paul is addressing the original sin and it is Paul who said the mystery of iniquity/lawlessness was given unto him. Paul is talking about how Adam fell by loving Eve more than God. So whatever a man or woman follows is what they worship. Adam chose to worship Eve, it was sensual love and not Agape love. This is why a spirit of “lust” masquerades of love. Jesus told the woman at the well the time was coming and was here now that HIS people would worship in Spirit and Truth. Adam fell from Truth, he knew the truth but denied the truth. What you follow whether right or wrong is what you worship in spirit. If you are following lies, what spirit are you worshiping? God’s Spirit is Truth! Shortly I will tie this all together from the book of Genesis all the way to the topic of the rapture.  Bear with me a little longer.

2 Thessalonians 2:7 (NKJV)

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.

Now let us look at the exchange Jesus had with Peter when the Lord asked Peter if Peter loved the Lord.

John 21:15–18 (NKJV)

Christ Speaks to Peter

15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?”

He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”

He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”

16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?”

He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”

He said to him, “Tend My sheep.”

17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”

And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”

Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. 18 Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.”

Peter had to be restored to Godly love verses brotherly love. Brotherly love in retrospect is no different than Adam choosing Eve over the Lord. Adam’s love for Eve superseded the love for God! It takes Godly love, the very love of Jesus and nothing short of it to overcome this world. Jesus himself makes reference to this:

Revelation 2:4–5 (NKJV)

4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.

Now let’s share the initial revelation the Lord gave me.

Let’s start from a parents perspective. When a parent tells their child don’t touch the stove top because it is HOT you hope that they will listen to you. What is really challenged is love, trust and faith. Let’s go further. This child has never touched the stove top before thus your initial warning DO NOT PARTAKE/TOUCH requires the virtues of trust, faith and love. What does a child do that has never experienced touching a hot stove? They test the theory for themselves. Is mom and/or dad telling me the truth? The child’s disposition is I need to see and know for myself. So they touch a hot stove and get burned.

Now take that concept back to the garden with Adam and Eve. The Lord tells them not to partake of tree of knowledge of good and evil or they would die. So ask yourselves as you reflect on this “What is death” where death never was before! Adam and Eve didn’t know what dying/death was they were supposed to have loving faith and trust that the Lord loved them to tell them NOT TO PARTAKE. Just as you told your child not to touch the stove. This was an advantage the devil, had he knew what it was to be “kicked out”! The devil knew they would be “kicked out” and die. So the devil presented sensual love to Eve who in turn presented sensual love to Adam. Love for each other is NOT the same as true love for the Lord! Now let’s look at what Jesus tells us the two greatest commands are, and don’t reverse the order like so many preach!!!!

Matthew 22:37–40 (NKJV)

37 Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

Now let’s take this further. What did Noah warn the people of, the imminent flood. What is a flood where there is no rain! Same principle applies here also! This is why the Lord gives us this warning:

Matthew 16:4 (NKJV)

4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.

If you need a sign you don’t have love, faith and trust in God’s Word. It’s no different than mocking Jesus on the cross and saying if you are the King of the Jews remove yourself from this cross. That is Satan speaking through a man. It was the will of the Father for Jesus to go to the cross. “GIVE ME A SIGN!”

The sign of Jonah is dying to yourself just as Jesus spent three days in the tomb! Paul fasted three days after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus and this was before Paul received the Holy Spirit.

How many plagues did Pharaoh have to go through which were “signs” and yet Pharaoh hardened his heart! Once again imagine death in a place that knew no death. A flood in a place that had no rain. Now we can go to the rapture.

How many believe that it is as the Word of God states in Matthew 24? Why do they not conform to God’s Word and Spirit and Truth. Why do they not believe what is written? Why do they take other scriptures out of context to validate false belief? What does Jesus tell us, let’s take a look.


Matthew 24:4–26 (NKJV)

The Tribulation

Mark 13:5–23; Luke 21:5–24

4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.

15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. 18 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 19 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. 21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.

23 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand.

26 “Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it.


Now I pose this question to you having read what the Lord inspired me to write why is there so much controversy regarding a rapture? It’s because people don’t believe God’s Word so they twist things to their own belief verses what the Word of God clearly says and the pick a couple of scriptures out of context so they can believe the lies Satan has inspired.

Just as what happened to Adam and Eve so it is today. When you don’t want to believe what the Word of God says you make yourself as god and create your own plan of salvation, not God’s way to be saved and overcome the world. It’s an escape mentality not an overcoming in spiritual and truth given by the Word of God and Spirit of the Lord. I can boldly tell you if you have difficulty believing any of the written Word of God that doesn’t mean it is not true. You need to believe even if you don’t understand, TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART.

James 1:5–8 (NKJV)

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

Now please take these matters to the Lord if needed. I believe many will receive witness from the Holy Spirit. Given what you have read I have a warning. Many are not prepared for the great tribulation such as the world has never seen before. When things get difficult many will likely turn away and get bitterness falsely believing the Lord Jesus didn’t love them because of the false teachings and beliefs of other people and preachers. But above all SEEK THE LORD! If we knew everything faith would not be necessary, we would be as god which is the original lie of Satan. There are also times the Lord is protecting us because we are not prepared or totally strengthened in a certain matter or issue. He even told his disciples this when Jesus told them He would send the comforter/Holy Spirit.

The problem is what Jesus address time and again, Faith verses unbelief! Jesus told many throughout the scriptures their faith has made them well. Jesus Himself was concerned about His second coming with the following statement, please take it to heart:

Luke 18:8 (NKJV)

8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

TAKE HEED OF ANY UNBELIEF IN GOD’S WORD OF TRUTH

INCLUDING MATTHEW 24 & LUKE 21

Matthew 17:19–21 (NKJV)

19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?”

20 So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

John 20:29 (NKJV)

29 Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Romans 3:4 (NKJV)

4 Certainly not! Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar. As it is written:

“That You may be justified in Your words,

And may overcome when You are judged.”

My closing statements. I was once in a bible study with two pastors and a group of people and the two pastors were going through the book of Revelations. I don’t claim to be a biblical scholar in any means but if someone is just going to read the bible I can do that on my own. I want spiritual meat not fluff.

In all honesty it wasn’t much more than reading it word for word verses giving revelation of meaning. One pastor and I use that term lightly and with hesitance said: We need to tell people about what is going to happen with the great tribulation and revelations so they will come to Jesus and be raptured out before any of this happens. The other pastor made no comment and just continued to read the bible like it was a comic book, NO MEAT just entertainment.

I said to the first pastor telling him that the tribulation and book of revelations is NOT THE GOSPEL! You two are trying to get people raptured but I am already raptured. I got looks like I had six heads or something. I said yes I am raptured, I was delivered from the kingdom of darkness and I am seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. I am in this world but I am not of this world so I don’t need to be raptured I am already home in Spirit and Truth! I was next in line to lead a bible study and my bible study was “who’s voice do you listen too”. After my bible study they closed it down for the saints to lead study and only the pastor could lead the study. That was okay with me as my time there came to a close as TRUTH was rejected so someone’s ministry could be built and NOT THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.

Galatians 2:20–21 (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. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”

Galatians 6:14–15 (NKJV)

14 But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation.

If this post has blessed you please feel free to share. I had never before seen origin sin in 1 Corinthians 7 as I was more focused on Covenant but today the Lord showed me how loved failed in the garden and in 1 Corinthians 7 was the original sin. Thus in the end of the age and the coming of the Lord Jesus is the “MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB”. That in itself should help you see 1 Corinthians 7 in a different perspective.

Please feel free to read my other articles which will help you with this article if you struggle with what I have said here they may help broaden your understanding.

https://abidingbread.com/2025/04/12/the-greatest-perverted-virtue-of-christ-jesus/

https://abidingbread.com/2025/04/10/the-new-testament-church-through-the-life-of-apostle-paul/

https://abidingbread.com/2025/04/15/salvation-unto-being-born-again/

https://abidingbread.com/2017/02/06/love-faith-trust-2/

THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH

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THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH

When I was a youth and I would be at a funeral I would hear Psalm 23 spoken and I would imagine as it was recited that it reflected the after death journey from this earth to heaven because it was spoken after people died and at their funeral. Mind you I was young and not a born again Christian The religious affiliation I had only heard Psalm 23 spoken at a grave site and I had never actually heard it elsewhere and it was not even mentioned in church growing up other than for funerals. Thus my perception although wrong was what I believed. If you will continue to read further you will understand that the valley of the shadow of death is not some far distant land of the days of old.

While the Lord inspired me to write this I believe it relates to a recent YouTube video I saw about tours of the Holy Land where a man stood up on a hill and pointed to a valley between two hills and said this is the valley of the shadow of death were David walked. I thought no that isn’t the valley of the shadow of death because of the revelation the Lord gave me. This is why the Lord prompted me to write this post. When you understand that the whole earth is the valley of the shadow of death you will understand the great commission to preach the Gospel of Christ Jesus throughout the earth. Under the curse of sin and the consequence of death from sin the whole earth groans for the sons of God to come forth.

Romans 8:19–22 (NKJV)

19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21 because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.

8:22 groans together and suffers agony The created order is in turmoil. Like God’s people, it is longing for Christ’s return, when He will liberate the world from death and decay (see Rev 21:1 and note). This restoration is a prominent theme of the ot1 prophets2 (compare Isa 35:1–10).3

Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)

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.

The true spiritual battle is based on the great commission and Ephesians 6 tells us about our opposition to fulfilling the great commission. The objective is by preaching the good news of the gospel which will deliver people from the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of the Lord Jesus. This can only be done by preaching the gospel in power through the Holy Spirit. In short people need to believe in the whole gospel, repent and be baptized in the Holy Spirit. Not a sinners prayer. Too many are deceived believing in the prayer and not the finished work of Calvary which includes the death, resurrection and ascension of the Lord Jesus.

1 Corinthians 2:4–5 (NKJV)

4 And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5 that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

Sadly I was visiting a church in Florida during one of my ministry travels. At the end of the sermon the pastor asked everyone to close their eyes and then asked those in attendance who wanted to be saved to raise their hand and he said no peaking. He then said you can put your hands down and everyone can open their eyes. He said I will lead “everyone” in a prayer for salvation. First of all I was already saved and filled with the Holy Spirit by saying this prayer the enemy would likely laugh at me as in the form of a question. “Look he doesn’t know if he is saved or not”. In addition the Word of God clearly states that we are not to be ashamed of the gospel. So why was everyone told to close their eyes! The deceptions of Satan!

Matthew 10:33 (NKJV)

33 But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.

While we battle with spiritual hosts, principalities, rulers of this world the gospel must be preached. In any type of warfare you must know your adversary along with your “equipment” and plan of action. In spiritual warfare we need the equipment listed in Ephesians 6 and plan of engagement being LED by the Spirit of God. Take for instance Moses conversing with the Lord about delivering the Israelites (Exodus 3) Moses was raised in Egypt in the Egyptian palace and their traditions. Who better to be commissioned as Moses knew the enemy of the Israelites personally.

Romans 5:17 (NKJV)

17 For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.

Let’s look at Psalm 23

Psalm 23 NKJV

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.

One day about three years ago, give or take, I was walking with the Lord in a remote area by a river praising the Lord and meditating on scriptures. This was only about 4 or 5 years after my born again experience. As I was meditating the Lord spoke to me and asked me a question which really opened my eyes to Psalm 23. The Lord asked me “where was David when he wrote Psalm 23”? I said Lord David was in Israel but Lord, that answer does not witness in your spirit with me to be the correct answer. So I kept talking with the Lord as He listened I said Lord in the beginning (Genesis) of creation you make no mention of creating Israel. You created the heavens and the earth. Lord the earth is the Valley of the Shadow of Death. I said Lord even though they recite Psalm 23 at funerals David was alive when He wrote Psalm 23. The Lord said yes, that is correct and confirmed that the earth is the valley of the shadow of death.

I never doubted or had any misconceptions that evil spirits existed as the Lord has had me come against demons in people and command them to come out. I guess in my mind I just did as the Lord led me each day but I never really thought of the bigger picture. I was focused on what was in my immediate area in my daily walk and the spiritual realm that would come against me and the will of God that I didn’t see the bigger picture. For me it was natural to share Christ Jesus with people and I never really saw the bigger picture and to me each day no matter where I was there was the great commission.

I said Lord, now everything come into proper understanding of the spiritual realm and why the battle is so real. I am alive in Christ, but I am surrounded by people who are physically alive, but spiritual dead to the Lord. If they are dead to you Lord then the devil uses those people who are not of you Lord (born again) to come against us because their father is the Devil and they are influenced and blinded by the spirit of this world the Devil. Now Ephesians six took on a whole new perspective so did the great commission to go throughout the world and preach the gospel.

Rather than put an overwhelming amount of scripture I thought I would just list them as a timeline as most of us know about the Garden’s provisions, the tree of Life, etc.

Let’s go back and read Genesis 1:1

Genesis 1:1 (NKJV)

The History of Creation

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

When the Lord God created the earth He saw that it was good.

Genesis 2:7 (NKJV)

7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

Man was created from the dust of the earth which God saw that the earth was good. In Genesis the serpent was cast to his belly to eat the dust of the earth. Wasn’t humanity/man created from the dust of the earth. The devil comes to kill, steal and destroy!

Genesis 3:14 (NKJV)

14 So the Lord God said to the serpent:

“Because you have done this,

You are cursed more than all cattle,

And more than every beast of the field;

On your belly you shall go,

And you shall eat dust

All the days of your life.

Genesis 2:15–17 (NKJV)

15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

Genesis 3:22–24 (NKJV)

22 Then the Lord God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. And now, lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever”—23 therefore the Lord God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken. 24 So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.

Garden of Eden. Location east of Eden (Gn 2:8) in the Tigris-Euphrates area of Mesopotamia, referred to 14 times in the OT4. The data in Genesis 2:8–10 show that it was in the Shinar Plain area, and that four “heads” were formed from the one river flowing through Eden to water the garden. The heads were the Tigris and Euphrates (both of which are familiar modern rivers), and two rivers which have disappeared—the Pishon and Gihon. The latter were most probably irrigation canals, since in cuneiform there is no separate word for “river” and “irrigation canal.” Thus the Eden area was irrigated after the Sumerian manner, making for a highly fertile garden. If Pishon and Gihon were in fact irrigation canals, the narrative places Adamic man firmly in a historic high culture, and takes him out of the realm of myth and legend. If the above identification is correct, Cush referred to the land of the ancient Kassites, while Havilah may have indicated Arabia.

The notions that the rivers were the four encircling the earth and that Eden is to be identified with the Sumerian Dilmun are based on inadequate geographical information.

Eden was the testing ground of man’s fidelity to God’s commands, and through disobedience, the garden was lost. It will be regained in the form of the new paradise (Rv 22:14).5

So as you see the whole earth is the valley of the shadow of death. Now lets look at some of the verses from Psalm 23.

Psalm 23:1 (NKJV)

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

This passage reflects the Lord’s care and protection.

Psalm 23:2 (NKJV)

2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

Sheep graze in pastures so this reflects the Lord’s provisions and nourishment for us.

Psalm 23:3 (NKJV)

3 He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

This would reflect being led by the Spirit of God as the Lord orders our steps and those who are led by the Spirit are the sons of god. (Proverbs 16:9 & Romans 8:14)

Psalm 23:4 (NKJV)

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.

This symbolizes that life will not always be characterized by green pastures and that we will walk through darkness and gloom.

Psalm 23:5 (NKJV)

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

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

While my study bible does not specifically state this, I see this as a prophesy of the last supper as well as David uses the term “table” and yet it also refers to David’s daily walk with the Lord. The holy Spirit revealed this to me and as I continue you will see it more clearly. Seeing how it prophesies of the “table in the presence of enemies” it is telling us that even surrounded by darkness and enemies we can partake of the Bread of Life Christ Jesus. See how this ties in the last supper. Hallelujah, praise the Lord. The anointing of oil symbolized constant refreshing of the Lord. (Psalm 92:10)

Psalm 23:6 (NKJV)

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.

This statement refers to being led and guided by the Lord through the Holy Spirit and the Lord’s unfailing convenantal love. I also see Psalm 91:1 even though it is not mentioned in my study bible. So when you meditate on God’s Word you will see the last supper and Psalm 91 in Psalm 23.

I would also like to make this statement because to many speak Psalm 91 like they are entitled to this. The rest of the Psalm 91 will not apply to you unless you yourselves fulfill line one. This is also stated in John 15 as I always like to provide more than one scripture.

Psalm 91:1 (NKJV)

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.

So know I hope you see the greater picture and revelation of the spiritual battle and significance of the valley of the shadow of death how it relates to the great commission. I would also like to state while I have been invited in the past to travel to other nations the whole world is our mission field and a saint must be sent by the Lord and in the Lord’s timing. It is not that I do not want to go so please do not take it personal or feel offended or left out.

We must be led by the Spirit, this is just the plain truth. You can see in the book of Acts for yourselves that Jesus sent the Apostles out to different areas they did not chose where they were sent and commissioned. While I know there are many afflictions of the righteous and many degrees of affliction globally I also know that suffering is not local it is global. That being said my mission field is always before me and not confined in a region as the whole world is the valley of the shadow of death.

Psalm 34:19 (NKJV)

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,

But the Lord delivers him out of them all.

Perhaps now you can see why when the second coming of the Lord arrives the Lord will create a new heaven and a new earth as the corruptible and evil ways of this world will be no more.

Numbers 6:24–27 (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.” ’

27 “So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.

1ot The biblical books produced by the “writing” prophets, including the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the twelve minor prophets.

2 prophets The biblical books produced by the “writing” prophets, including the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the twelve minor prophets.

3 Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., Whitehead, M. M., Grigoni, M. R., & Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (Ro 8:22). Lexham Press.

4OT Old Testament

5 Elwell, W. A., & Beitzel, B. J. (1988). Garden of Eden. In Baker encyclopedia of the Bible (Vol. 1, p. 839). Baker Book House.

A WARNING FROM THE LORD – IMMINENT AND SUDDEN DEATH COMING

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A WARNING FROM THE LORD – IMMINENT AND SUDDEN DEATH COMING

This is a Word From The Lord Jesus: My Spirit will once again be as it was in the days of Ananias and Sapphira when they were struck dead and also as it was in the days of Moses when the earth opened and swallowed them up and sent them to the pit. Take heed, for it is I says the Lord who gives life and takes life!

The Lord Jesus has a warning to those who are wolves in sheep’s clothing and masquerade as angels of light. He has a warning for all those who oppose the Lord Jesus in Spirit and Truth. Soon, my tolerance will come to an end and I will no longer allow these wicked people to defile my sanctuaries and lead my sheep astray! I will bring imminent and sudden death upon them!

LYING TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Acts 5:1–11 (NKJV)

1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. 2 And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? 4 While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” 5 Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. 6 And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. 7 Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11 So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

Numbers 16:25–40 (NKJV)

25 Then Moses rose and went to Dathan and Abiram, and the elders of Israel followed him. 26 And he spoke to the congregation, saying, “Depart now from the tents of these wicked men! Touch nothing of theirs, lest you be consumed in all their sins.” 27 So they got away from around the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram; and Dathan and Abiram came out and stood at the door of their tents, with their wives, their sons, and their little children. 28 And Moses said: “By this you shall know that the Lord has sent me to do all these works, for I have not done them of my own will. 29 If these men die naturally like all men, or if they are visited by the common fate of all men, then the Lord has not sent me. 30 But if the Lord creates a new thing, and the earth opens its mouth and swallows them up with all that belongs to them, and they go down alive into the pit, then you will understand that these men have rejected the Lord.” 31 Now it came to pass, as he finished speaking all these words, that the ground split apart under them, 32 and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up, with their households and all the men with Korah, with all their goods. 33 So they and all those with them went down alive into the pit; the earth closed over them, and they perished from among the assembly. 34 Then all Israel who were around them fled at their cry, for they said, “Lest the earth swallow us up also!” 35 And a fire came out from the Lord and consumed the two hundred and fifty men who were offering incense. 36 Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 37 “Tell Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, to pick up the censers out of the blaze, for they are holy, and scatter the fire some distance away. 38 The censers of these men who sinned against their own souls, let them be made into hammered plates as a covering for the altar. Because they presented them before the Lord, therefore they are holy; and they shall be a sign to the children of Israel.” 39 So Eleazar the priest took the bronze censers, which those who were burned up had presented, and they were hammered out as a covering on the altar, 40 to be a memorial to the children of Israel that no outsider, who is not a descendant of Aaron, should come near to offer incense before the Lord, that he might not become like Korah and his companions, just as the Lord had said to him through Moses.

The Lord Jesus is telling His people to “come out of the sanctuary/synagogue of Satan” for it shall be for them as it was with Sodom and Gomorrah. Do not look back when the Lord calls you out!

Revelation 2:9 (NKJV)

9 “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.

Revelation 3:9 (NKJV)

9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

Please notice that Revelation 3:9 states they will come to you! This means you are not a part of them or have fellowship with them!

2 Corinthians 6:17–7:1 (NKJV)

17 Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” 18 “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Come out and cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit perfecting holiness in the fear of God. You have defiled not only your flesh but also the Spirit by being under the teachings of false prophets. Get out from among them and have no fellowship with them as you repent ask for forgiveness from the Lord and ask the Lord to lead you in HIS righteousness and Truth.

THE TWO WITNESSES

Revelation 11:1–6 (NKJV)

1 Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod. And the angel stood, saying, “Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there. 2 But leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the Gentiles. And they will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months. 3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.” 4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. 5 And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies. And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. 6 These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.

I pray you hear, understand and obey the Words of the Lord in this post and come out of Babylon and worship the Lord in Spirit and TRUTH!

The Fall of Babylon the Great

Revelation 18:1–8 (NKJV)

1 After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.” 4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Render to her just as she rendered to you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix double for her. 7 In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.’ 8 Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and mourning and famine. And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her.