My heart is grieved over the realization that much of the Church has forsaken the Biblical Gospel. This is not a recent happening; it is a long standing problem! My heart is further grieved that most Christians don’t acknowledge or recognize the problem and continue on their familiar paths. At times my heart has rejoiced when I witnessed what seemed to be someone having their eyes opened, only later to see them being drawn away. What drew them away may have been different than earlier in their life, but the results were the same. And all the while, world systems continue their devilish plunge into the abyss drawing multitudes of people with them.
Is there anyone who understands? Is there anyone who wants to run this race? Who will count the cost and pay the price? The Church is to be salt and light to the world, but all too often that light has been hard to see. To shine brightly the Church must be restored. For the most part, what we have now is a wounded and broken Church. It is hard for the wounded and broken to fight the war.
Anyone who wants to help restore the Church must understand that the forsaking of the gospel is not a new phenomenon; as stated above it is a long standing problem. You must be ready for an intense uphill battle! As you work to bring forth a Church that will be mature salt and light to the world, not only must you deal with the world’s resistance you must deal with resistance from many parts of the Church. You will come to understand the real meaning of perseverance and endurance. They are necessary requirements as is the continual denying of self.
O,the power of the Biblical Gospel! Will you help restore that gospel to the Church and then help the Church share that gospel with the world?
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Pray With the Spirit and With the Understanding
When one is born again, he or she has the privilege to pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father with any language they have learned with their mind (intellect). When Jesus baptizes one in the Holy Spirit, he or she has the privilege to pray in the Spirit with a language or languages not learned by the intellect. Those languages may include known earthly languages, but also heavenly languages not known on earth. Paul said that the conclusion is to pray with your spirit and with your intellect. If anointed, both can be considered as praying in the Spirit.
This and many other things are easy to understand when one studies under the direction of the Holy Spirit. The problem is that Christians often listen first to private interpretations espoused by many seminaries, churches, relatives, etc. They then read those interpretations into Scripture rather than studying Scripture and allowing the Holy Spirit to read truth into their minds and hearts. Once on this path, it can last a lifetime. They are sanctified by man’s traditions and interpretations rather than by truth. Whenever and wherever this is predominant, there is always division with its accompanying problems. It will never be corrected by earthly principles, such as agreeing to disagree, etc. Things like that often sound good but always bring people to the lowest common denominator. It ends up trampling not only on truth but on real agape love.
This problem is compounded because there is usually truth mixed with error; we must learn that a little leaven leavens the whole lump. This is the prime reason that most of the Church is divided rather than united in faith. Because of this division, we are, at the moment, not doing a great job at being salt and light to the world. There are some successes, but we are far from reaching the maturity and potential that our Lord Jesus Christ desires and envisions for the Church that He is building and praying for.
The Church (Christians) must humble herself and repent. But Christians often place the blame and the need for repentance on others. For example, how often do you hear Christians saying that America needs to repent? It is the Church in America and throughout other nations that must repent! The Spirit of God is continually calling for repentance, holiness, unity, and maturity of Christians, and at some point in the future, there will be a faithful remnant Church that heeds His call! May it be sooner rather than later because there will be a cost to pay for delay. Actually, to the discerning eye, we are already paying a heavy cost. Pray with the spirit and pray with the understanding that Restoration, Revival, and Great Awakening will come forth to the Church and come forth speedily!
This and many other things are easy to understand when one studies under the direction of the Holy Spirit. The problem is that Christians often listen first to private interpretations espoused by many seminaries, churches, relatives, etc. They then read those interpretations into Scripture rather than studying Scripture and allowing the Holy Spirit to read truth into their minds and hearts. Once on this path, it can last a lifetime. They are sanctified by man’s traditions and interpretations rather than by truth. Whenever and wherever this is predominant, there is always division with its accompanying problems. It will never be corrected by earthly principles, such as agreeing to disagree, etc. Things like that often sound good but always bring people to the lowest common denominator. It ends up trampling not only on truth but on real agape love.
This problem is compounded because there is usually truth mixed with error; we must learn that a little leaven leavens the whole lump. This is the prime reason that most of the Church is divided rather than united in faith. Because of this division, we are, at the moment, not doing a great job at being salt and light to the world. There are some successes, but we are far from reaching the maturity and potential that our Lord Jesus Christ desires and envisions for the Church that He is building and praying for.
The Church (Christians) must humble herself and repent. But Christians often place the blame and the need for repentance on others. For example, how often do you hear Christians saying that America needs to repent? It is the Church in America and throughout other nations that must repent! The Spirit of God is continually calling for repentance, holiness, unity, and maturity of Christians, and at some point in the future, there will be a faithful remnant Church that heeds His call! May it be sooner rather than later because there will be a cost to pay for delay. Actually, to the discerning eye, we are already paying a heavy cost. Pray with the spirit and pray with the understanding that Restoration, Revival, and Great Awakening will come forth to the Church and come forth speedily!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Christians and Pearl Harbor
It will be easy to misunderstand and/or be offended by this but the greatest hindrance to spiritual maturity and unity in the Church is the Church herself. One absolutely necessary solution will be that each Christian determines to know Jesus intimately and His Word thoroughly and makes good on that determination.
(12/10/2010)
On this Pearl Harbor Day, most Christians either do not comprehend, or do not comprehend with urgency, the severity of things taking place, not only in the world but in many parts of the Church. Why? The two main culprits are carnal distractions and lack of spiritual maturity. Distractions keep people occupied, and the lack of spiritual maturity keeps them bound to private interpretations and traditions of men that are found in most parts of the Church. It would be very beneficial to intently study the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13 and Luke 8) and the basic doctrines of the Word found in Hebrews 5:12-6:2.
God is sending His prophets to call the Church to wake up, but few are listening because they are distracted and/or will not recognize the God-sent prophets as being prophets of God. Their distractions are not only with things of the world but with spiritual things. They either don’t believe in prophets or have been trained not to listen to voices beyond their spiritual group or heritage. Unless the Church (true disciples) wakes up, coming events for us, or our children and grandchildren, will make Pearl Harbor pale in comparison.
We need real and lasting revival. Revival will begin when true disciples yield to the Lordship of Jesus Christ! How many disciples understand the urgent need for a faithful remnant Church to be restored to Jesus Christ and His rightly-divided Word of truth? This would automatically bring about a unified Church (John 17) who would be true salt and light on this earth. United we stand; divided we can't keep from falling. Let’s wake up, repent, unite and having done all stand for Jesus Christ.
(12/10/2010)
On this Pearl Harbor Day, most Christians either do not comprehend, or do not comprehend with urgency, the severity of things taking place, not only in the world but in many parts of the Church. Why? The two main culprits are carnal distractions and lack of spiritual maturity. Distractions keep people occupied, and the lack of spiritual maturity keeps them bound to private interpretations and traditions of men that are found in most parts of the Church. It would be very beneficial to intently study the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13 and Luke 8) and the basic doctrines of the Word found in Hebrews 5:12-6:2.
God is sending His prophets to call the Church to wake up, but few are listening because they are distracted and/or will not recognize the God-sent prophets as being prophets of God. Their distractions are not only with things of the world but with spiritual things. They either don’t believe in prophets or have been trained not to listen to voices beyond their spiritual group or heritage. Unless the Church (true disciples) wakes up, coming events for us, or our children and grandchildren, will make Pearl Harbor pale in comparison.
We need real and lasting revival. Revival will begin when true disciples yield to the Lordship of Jesus Christ! How many disciples understand the urgent need for a faithful remnant Church to be restored to Jesus Christ and His rightly-divided Word of truth? This would automatically bring about a unified Church (John 17) who would be true salt and light on this earth. United we stand; divided we can't keep from falling. Let’s wake up, repent, unite and having done all stand for Jesus Christ.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Words of Restoration (December 2010)
When one is born again, he or she has the privilege to pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father with any language they have learned with their mind (intellect). When Jesus baptizes one in the Holy Spirit, he or she has the privilege to pray in the Spirit with a language or languages not learned by the intellect. Those languages may include known earthly languages, but also heavenly languages not known on earth. Paul said that the conclusion is to pray with your spirit and with your intellect. If anointed, both can be considered as praying in the Spirit.
(12/13/2010)
Renew your mind with the mindset of living to please and bring joy to the Lord Jesus daily rather than seeking ways to enjoy the day. In seeking to please and bring joy to Him, His joy becomes your strength even in the midst of trials and tribulations. With His strength you are always an overcomer! (12/11/2010)
On this Pearl Harbor Day, most Christians either do not comprehend or comprehend with urgency the severity of things taking place not only in the world but in many parts of the Church. Why? Two main culprits are carnal distractions and lack of spiritual maturity. Distractions keep them occupied and the lack of spiritual maturity keeps them bound to private interpretations and traditions of men found in most parts of the Church. It would be very beneficial to intently study the Parable of the Sower (Matt. 13 and Luke 8) and the basic doctrines of the Word found in Hebrews 5:12-6:2.
God is sending His prophets to call the Church to wake up, but few are listening because they are distracted and/or will not recognize the prophets as being prophets of God. Their distractions are not only with things of the world but with spiritual things. They either don’t believe in prophets or have been trained to not listen to voices beyond their spiritual group or heritage. Unless the Church (true disciples)wakes up coming events for us or our children and grandchildren will make Pearl Harbor pale in comparison.(12/7/2010)
Revival will begin when true disciples yield to the Lordship of Jesus Christ! (12/06/2010)
How many disciples understand the urgent need for a faithful remnant Church to be restored to Jesus Christ and His rightly divided Word of truth? This would automatically bring about a unified Church (John 17) who would be true salt and light on this earth. United we stand; divided we can't keep from falling. (12/04/2010)
What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. (1 Cor. 14:15). Have you ever really noticed that the Holy Spirit had Paul to list praying and singing with the spirit before praying and singing with the understanding? (12/2/2010)
(12/13/2010)
Renew your mind with the mindset of living to please and bring joy to the Lord Jesus daily rather than seeking ways to enjoy the day. In seeking to please and bring joy to Him, His joy becomes your strength even in the midst of trials and tribulations. With His strength you are always an overcomer! (12/11/2010)
On this Pearl Harbor Day, most Christians either do not comprehend or comprehend with urgency the severity of things taking place not only in the world but in many parts of the Church. Why? Two main culprits are carnal distractions and lack of spiritual maturity. Distractions keep them occupied and the lack of spiritual maturity keeps them bound to private interpretations and traditions of men found in most parts of the Church. It would be very beneficial to intently study the Parable of the Sower (Matt. 13 and Luke 8) and the basic doctrines of the Word found in Hebrews 5:12-6:2.
God is sending His prophets to call the Church to wake up, but few are listening because they are distracted and/or will not recognize the prophets as being prophets of God. Their distractions are not only with things of the world but with spiritual things. They either don’t believe in prophets or have been trained to not listen to voices beyond their spiritual group or heritage. Unless the Church (true disciples)wakes up coming events for us or our children and grandchildren will make Pearl Harbor pale in comparison.(12/7/2010)
Revival will begin when true disciples yield to the Lordship of Jesus Christ! (12/06/2010)
How many disciples understand the urgent need for a faithful remnant Church to be restored to Jesus Christ and His rightly divided Word of truth? This would automatically bring about a unified Church (John 17) who would be true salt and light on this earth. United we stand; divided we can't keep from falling. (12/04/2010)
What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. (1 Cor. 14:15). Have you ever really noticed that the Holy Spirit had Paul to list praying and singing with the spirit before praying and singing with the understanding? (12/2/2010)
Monday, November 29, 2010
Let the Church be the Church
(This is a part of the message Understanding Faith and Works which can be listened to at WWW.JesusandHisWord.org)
Jesus has been building His Church since He was on earth 2000 years ago. Throughout the past centuries there have been faithful disciples, but there have also been major problems in and with the Church. Time after time, things such as legalism, license to sin, licentiousness, carnality, error, and division have taken hold and characterized many parts of the Church. She has not been consistent in living by the Spirit and the Word. In short, the Church has not forsaken all to follow Jesus, to live by faith, and to carry on His works.
Over the years, there have been breakthroughs in various places, with such things as the Reformation, great awakenings, outpourings, and revivals—things that many look back to, long for, and pronounce that we need in our day. As great as these things may have been, in my heart I know that there is something more that is needed. It may be hard to describe with human words, but, in my spirit, I know that there is something the Church has missed or, if experienced, has not maintained and built on.
We have a great opportunity! We have the opportunity to be right in the middle of what the Spirit of our Lord wants to do. But I want you to know that there is going to be great opposition. Actually, the forces of opposition are already in place and are already at work. The opposition is great, and it is increasing. Day by day, the world grows darker. Day by day, parts of the Church fall away, and other parts become more solidified in the traditions of men and erroneous doctrines and practices. But know in your minds and hearts that greater is He, greater is the Holy Spirit who will help all who choose to deny self and forsake all to follow Christ Jesus.
What do you do? You make a choice! You choose! You choose to follow either the world, the falling away church, the status quo church, or you choose to follow Jesus and be part of the Church He is building, the Church that, in your day, begins to experience and fulfill the “something more” that we mentioned above. You have an opportunity to be part of the Church that earthly and/or heavenly history will record as the Church who matured and fulfilled her heavenly purpose on earth.
Let the Church be the Church! Let the Church be the Church that God has always envisioned! Let the bride be filled will the Spirit and led by the Spirit. Let her make herself ready, and let the Spirit and the bride say, “Come, Lord Jesus.”
Jesus has been building His Church since He was on earth 2000 years ago. Throughout the past centuries there have been faithful disciples, but there have also been major problems in and with the Church. Time after time, things such as legalism, license to sin, licentiousness, carnality, error, and division have taken hold and characterized many parts of the Church. She has not been consistent in living by the Spirit and the Word. In short, the Church has not forsaken all to follow Jesus, to live by faith, and to carry on His works.
Over the years, there have been breakthroughs in various places, with such things as the Reformation, great awakenings, outpourings, and revivals—things that many look back to, long for, and pronounce that we need in our day. As great as these things may have been, in my heart I know that there is something more that is needed. It may be hard to describe with human words, but, in my spirit, I know that there is something the Church has missed or, if experienced, has not maintained and built on.
We have a great opportunity! We have the opportunity to be right in the middle of what the Spirit of our Lord wants to do. But I want you to know that there is going to be great opposition. Actually, the forces of opposition are already in place and are already at work. The opposition is great, and it is increasing. Day by day, the world grows darker. Day by day, parts of the Church fall away, and other parts become more solidified in the traditions of men and erroneous doctrines and practices. But know in your minds and hearts that greater is He, greater is the Holy Spirit who will help all who choose to deny self and forsake all to follow Christ Jesus.
What do you do? You make a choice! You choose! You choose to follow either the world, the falling away church, the status quo church, or you choose to follow Jesus and be part of the Church He is building, the Church that, in your day, begins to experience and fulfill the “something more” that we mentioned above. You have an opportunity to be part of the Church that earthly and/or heavenly history will record as the Church who matured and fulfilled her heavenly purpose on earth.
Let the Church be the Church! Let the Church be the Church that God has always envisioned! Let the bride be filled will the Spirit and led by the Spirit. Let her make herself ready, and let the Spirit and the bride say, “Come, Lord Jesus.”
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Correcting Spiritual Bents
I spent the last few days visiting my mother in Alabama. Early yesterday morning, I again was spoken to concerning the Church. Will the Church willingly wake up, repent, turn to the Lord and, united in faith, be salt and light, or will she have to experience very, very difficult things to wake her up?
Later, while driving back toward home, the Spirit of God quickened to me that one of the major problems with the Church is that there are “spiritual bents” within various parts of the Church. I recalled that iniquity has to do with being bent and that, in Psalm 51, David prayed concerning iniquity, sin, and transgressions.
Just as there are bents within people, there are bents within the Church. What are some of these bents? No more apostles and prophets; no more miracles; fleshly greed for things; busy, busy, busy. All of these and many more, especially disunity, are spiritual bents, and they are devastating the Church and preventing her from being salt and light to the world around her. O, who has ears to hear? Who? Who?
A short time later during my drive home, I heard a minister on the radio ministering that judgment begins at the house (Church) of the Lord. Thank God that some ministers are beginning to see and/or admit that the Church needs to repent. Too often rather than being a witness of the Lord to the world, the Church is behaving like the world. Many are busy, but their busyness is bent.
Early this morning, before daylight, the Spirit of God was again speaking to me concerning the Church. I know that we must have a faithful remnant united in faith with Jesus Christ and each other or there are going to be dire consequences. Some church goers, especially in America, are excited because of recent political happenings; others are into sports or any number of things, including church, family, work, hobbies, even charitable related events. Please, wake up! Our time is short! If enough true disciples wake up, the possibilities are limitless. If not, the pain will be great, grievous, and much of it unnecessary, personally and corporately.
Please, if you are serious about being a follower of Jesus Christ, pray and ask God to open your eyes to see what He wants you to see.
Later, while driving back toward home, the Spirit of God quickened to me that one of the major problems with the Church is that there are “spiritual bents” within various parts of the Church. I recalled that iniquity has to do with being bent and that, in Psalm 51, David prayed concerning iniquity, sin, and transgressions.
Just as there are bents within people, there are bents within the Church. What are some of these bents? No more apostles and prophets; no more miracles; fleshly greed for things; busy, busy, busy. All of these and many more, especially disunity, are spiritual bents, and they are devastating the Church and preventing her from being salt and light to the world around her. O, who has ears to hear? Who? Who?
A short time later during my drive home, I heard a minister on the radio ministering that judgment begins at the house (Church) of the Lord. Thank God that some ministers are beginning to see and/or admit that the Church needs to repent. Too often rather than being a witness of the Lord to the world, the Church is behaving like the world. Many are busy, but their busyness is bent.
Early this morning, before daylight, the Spirit of God was again speaking to me concerning the Church. I know that we must have a faithful remnant united in faith with Jesus Christ and each other or there are going to be dire consequences. Some church goers, especially in America, are excited because of recent political happenings; others are into sports or any number of things, including church, family, work, hobbies, even charitable related events. Please, wake up! Our time is short! If enough true disciples wake up, the possibilities are limitless. If not, the pain will be great, grievous, and much of it unnecessary, personally and corporately.
Please, if you are serious about being a follower of Jesus Christ, pray and ask God to open your eyes to see what He wants you to see.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Words of Restoration (November 2010)
Waiting patiently on God reveals our faith, trust and dependence. (11/30/2010)
Over the past 2,000 years many people have been born of the Spirit, some of them have been baptized in the Holy Spirit (Matt. 3:11), but few have really learned to "Walk in the Spirit" (Gal. 5:16). Jesus Christ continues to build His Church, but has always envisioned a people born of the Spirit, filled with the Spirit and continuously led by the Spirit (Rom. 8:14). (11/29/2010)
In a new and greater way,let's learn to live in gratitude to God (Father, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit) and truly give Him thanks everyday. Have a life of joyful and Happy Thanksgiving! The Lord Jesus bless and keep you and your family. Love, Wayne (11/25/2010)
Experience, culture, and environment (including church doctrines and traditions) are having a greater affect upon many Christians than are the Holy Spirit and biblical truth. (11/23/2010)
Spiritual and natural gifts may flow through some people like a river, but if there are flaws in their character the flaws will always taint the flow. Flaws in character may be hidden underground for awhile, but they will eventually erupt and taint the atmosphere like an erupting volcano. Gifts will pass away; spiritual fruit is eternal! (11/19/2010)
We remember and honor our military personnel of the past and present; thank God for their service, dedication and sacrifices.
Spiritually, may the Church unite in faith to battle the unseen forces that are behind the seen conflicts. As we unite and do battle, thanks be to God who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ(1 Cor.15:57).(11/11/2010)
Let humility, righteousness, graciousness and above all love prevail! Humility and words of humility will bring forth God's favor and blessings; pride and words of pride always call for a fall. (11/3/2010)
May 1 Timothy 2:1-3 become a priority for every true disciple of Jesus Christ!
(11/2/2010)
Righteousness exalts a nation...(Proverbs 14:34). VOTE AND VOTE RIGHTEOUSNESS! Don't vote party, race or color, culture, male or female, personal preferences, etc. Vote righteousness and righteousness only!(11/2/2010)
Over the past 2,000 years many people have been born of the Spirit, some of them have been baptized in the Holy Spirit (Matt. 3:11), but few have really learned to "Walk in the Spirit" (Gal. 5:16). Jesus Christ continues to build His Church, but has always envisioned a people born of the Spirit, filled with the Spirit and continuously led by the Spirit (Rom. 8:14). (11/29/2010)
In a new and greater way,let's learn to live in gratitude to God (Father, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit) and truly give Him thanks everyday. Have a life of joyful and Happy Thanksgiving! The Lord Jesus bless and keep you and your family. Love, Wayne (11/25/2010)
Experience, culture, and environment (including church doctrines and traditions) are having a greater affect upon many Christians than are the Holy Spirit and biblical truth. (11/23/2010)
Spiritual and natural gifts may flow through some people like a river, but if there are flaws in their character the flaws will always taint the flow. Flaws in character may be hidden underground for awhile, but they will eventually erupt and taint the atmosphere like an erupting volcano. Gifts will pass away; spiritual fruit is eternal! (11/19/2010)
We remember and honor our military personnel of the past and present; thank God for their service, dedication and sacrifices.
Spiritually, may the Church unite in faith to battle the unseen forces that are behind the seen conflicts. As we unite and do battle, thanks be to God who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ(1 Cor.15:57).(11/11/2010)
Let humility, righteousness, graciousness and above all love prevail! Humility and words of humility will bring forth God's favor and blessings; pride and words of pride always call for a fall. (11/3/2010)
May 1 Timothy 2:1-3 become a priority for every true disciple of Jesus Christ!
(11/2/2010)
Righteousness exalts a nation...(Proverbs 14:34). VOTE AND VOTE RIGHTEOUSNESS! Don't vote party, race or color, culture, male or female, personal preferences, etc. Vote righteousness and righteousness only!(11/2/2010)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
My Quest
I am sitting at my computer putting in my words something that I experienced this morning, as well as seeking God for wisdom as to how to proceed. Before getting out of bed, I spent at least an hour praying in the Spirit. I experienced an intense hunger for God and a deep desire to know His presence and to do His will. I had a fresh realization that doing God’s will is why we are here on earth. I saw the desperate need for disciples to unite and live only to do God’s will, just as Jesus did while He was on earth. “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done” loomed large in my heart, soul, and body. My hands rose to God more than once. My heart and soul seemed to be flooded with the desire to know and to do God’s will, both individually and corporately with the body of Christ. I need God, but I also need His body, the Church. My experience and hunger brought me to tears!
Some of the things we need to overcome flashed through my heart and mind. I saw examples of things that often consume us. Good people are carrying out needed responsibilities. Yet, I knew that something is lacking; there is something more to realize in our walk with the Lord. Deep inside, I had the assurance that if I, if we, will seek God, He will show us the way. He will show us the necessary adjustments to make, and He will direct our steps. We need His directions, so that we can get on the correct course; we need, in all things, to be continuously led by the Holy Spirit.
How do we proceed? Whether in heaven or while on earth, Jesus has always carried out the will of His Heavenly Father. It is our Heavenly Father’s will and desire that all who choose to follow Christ live to do His will, just as Jesus does. Each of us would be wise to address this issue and ask ourselves how this will become reality in our life. The Holy Spirit wants to take full control! Quiet yourself within, listen closely; He is waiting in the wings. O, let’s do it, brothers and sisters! Let there be glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men and women of good will. Come, Holy Spirit! I surrender all! Take control!
Some of the things we need to overcome flashed through my heart and mind. I saw examples of things that often consume us. Good people are carrying out needed responsibilities. Yet, I knew that something is lacking; there is something more to realize in our walk with the Lord. Deep inside, I had the assurance that if I, if we, will seek God, He will show us the way. He will show us the necessary adjustments to make, and He will direct our steps. We need His directions, so that we can get on the correct course; we need, in all things, to be continuously led by the Holy Spirit.
How do we proceed? Whether in heaven or while on earth, Jesus has always carried out the will of His Heavenly Father. It is our Heavenly Father’s will and desire that all who choose to follow Christ live to do His will, just as Jesus does. Each of us would be wise to address this issue and ask ourselves how this will become reality in our life. The Holy Spirit wants to take full control! Quiet yourself within, listen closely; He is waiting in the wings. O, let’s do it, brothers and sisters! Let there be glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men and women of good will. Come, Holy Spirit! I surrender all! Take control!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Overcoming Confusion over Israel and the Church
Many Christians are at odds with each other over Israel and the Church. One group speaks so much about Israel being God’s covenant people that they misunderstand Scriptures in the Old and New Testaments about God’s New Covenant. Another group is so focused on the Church and their private interpretations of Scripture and the New Covenant that they speak about the Church replacing Israel. Both groups misunderstand Scriptures, such as 1 Peter 2:9 about God’s own special people. Both groups misunderstand God’s intent in the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. It should not be but it is a mystery that they do not yet fully understand.
Both groups would benefit by setting aside man’s doctrines, traditions and private interpretations of Scripture and yielding to the Holy Spirit to teach them the Word of God. A study of the book of Ephesians would be helpful to all Christians. The Holy Spirit gave Paul more revelation about Jesus Christ and His body. Paul, in turn, expressed this revelation in the book of Ephesians. It is important to know that God did not reveal everything at one time. He called Paul and then began to progressively reveal His Word to him by the Holy Spirit. Another important point to note is that Paul wrote the book of Ephesians after he wrote the book of Romans. Nothing in Ephesians contradicts anything in Romans, but Ephesians sheds light that helps to understand the book of Romans, especially chapters 9 through 11.
Ephesians is especially helpful in understanding what the book of Romans, or any other part of the Bible, has to say about Israel and the Church. Understanding the mystery that was revealed in chapter three of Ephesians would, or might I say should, clear up a lot of misconceptions by the groups referred to in the opening paragraph above. It was always in the heart of God that His people would be made up of all nations, both Jews and Gentiles.
Concerning replacement, God has replaced the Old Covenant with the New Covenant, but He has not replaced anyone with someone else. He has not replaced Israel with the Church. He has opened the door for all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues to be His own special people. God’s New Covenant is inclusive, not exclusive. The only condition is that people receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. God’s purpose is and will continue to be bringing people into the body of Christ; this includes Jews and Gentiles. Will He still do certain things found in the Old Testament? Yes. He will continue to do what has always been in His heart, whether it was revealed in the Old Testament or the New Testament.
The prayer of Jesus in John 17 must be fulfilled in the people of God, regardless of the origin of their birth or their nationality. It cannot be fulfilled until we are sanctified by truth (John 17:17). As long as Christians hold to their beloved opinions, interpretations, and traditions, we will remain divided, and we will suffer the consequences. We will suffer the consequences of hindering people from coming to the Lord because of our division, and we will suffer defeats because we are divided and not united. May the Spirit of God find Christians all over this earth who are willing to yield to Him and to His teaching. Jesus stated in John 14:26 that the Father was sending the Holy Spirit to teach us all things. Students sit in academic classes every day and do not fully receive what their teachers present. Many Christians talk about the Holy Spirit but are not letting Him teach them all things. In both cases, the minds of people have been closed to certain things. This ought not to be. Christians are to “grow up in all things unto Him who is the head—Christ.” This cannot happen without the teaching of the Holy Spirit. We must remain open to His teaching and direction and grow to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine.
It is time to start re-examining many of our doctrines and strongly held beliefs to make sure they line up with the Word of God rightly divided. Where are those with ears to hear and eyes to see? Where are those with hearts and minds that are free from private interpretations and traditions of men? Before the return of our Lord Jesus there will be a Church made up of believing Jews and Gentiles who fulfill the Lord’s desire as expressed in Scriptures such as John 17:21 and Eph. 4:13. May you not only be a part of our Lord’s body, but be instrumental in the growing, maturing and uniting of His body! He who has ears to hear let him or her hear!
Both groups would benefit by setting aside man’s doctrines, traditions and private interpretations of Scripture and yielding to the Holy Spirit to teach them the Word of God. A study of the book of Ephesians would be helpful to all Christians. The Holy Spirit gave Paul more revelation about Jesus Christ and His body. Paul, in turn, expressed this revelation in the book of Ephesians. It is important to know that God did not reveal everything at one time. He called Paul and then began to progressively reveal His Word to him by the Holy Spirit. Another important point to note is that Paul wrote the book of Ephesians after he wrote the book of Romans. Nothing in Ephesians contradicts anything in Romans, but Ephesians sheds light that helps to understand the book of Romans, especially chapters 9 through 11.
Ephesians is especially helpful in understanding what the book of Romans, or any other part of the Bible, has to say about Israel and the Church. Understanding the mystery that was revealed in chapter three of Ephesians would, or might I say should, clear up a lot of misconceptions by the groups referred to in the opening paragraph above. It was always in the heart of God that His people would be made up of all nations, both Jews and Gentiles.
Concerning replacement, God has replaced the Old Covenant with the New Covenant, but He has not replaced anyone with someone else. He has not replaced Israel with the Church. He has opened the door for all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues to be His own special people. God’s New Covenant is inclusive, not exclusive. The only condition is that people receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. God’s purpose is and will continue to be bringing people into the body of Christ; this includes Jews and Gentiles. Will He still do certain things found in the Old Testament? Yes. He will continue to do what has always been in His heart, whether it was revealed in the Old Testament or the New Testament.
The prayer of Jesus in John 17 must be fulfilled in the people of God, regardless of the origin of their birth or their nationality. It cannot be fulfilled until we are sanctified by truth (John 17:17). As long as Christians hold to their beloved opinions, interpretations, and traditions, we will remain divided, and we will suffer the consequences. We will suffer the consequences of hindering people from coming to the Lord because of our division, and we will suffer defeats because we are divided and not united. May the Spirit of God find Christians all over this earth who are willing to yield to Him and to His teaching. Jesus stated in John 14:26 that the Father was sending the Holy Spirit to teach us all things. Students sit in academic classes every day and do not fully receive what their teachers present. Many Christians talk about the Holy Spirit but are not letting Him teach them all things. In both cases, the minds of people have been closed to certain things. This ought not to be. Christians are to “grow up in all things unto Him who is the head—Christ.” This cannot happen without the teaching of the Holy Spirit. We must remain open to His teaching and direction and grow to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine.
It is time to start re-examining many of our doctrines and strongly held beliefs to make sure they line up with the Word of God rightly divided. Where are those with ears to hear and eyes to see? Where are those with hearts and minds that are free from private interpretations and traditions of men? Before the return of our Lord Jesus there will be a Church made up of believing Jews and Gentiles who fulfill the Lord’s desire as expressed in Scriptures such as John 17:21 and Eph. 4:13. May you not only be a part of our Lord’s body, but be instrumental in the growing, maturing and uniting of His body! He who has ears to hear let him or her hear!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Words of Restoration (October 2010)
It is important to vote and to vote righteousness, but also remember no political party is the kingdom of God. The only solution to darkness is light and light is to come forth from true disciples that are united in faith following Jesus the Messiah and seeking first His kingdom and righteousness. (10/30/2010)
What is it going to take for Christians in America to repent (2 Chr. 7:14), become sanctified by truth (John 17:17), and have true unity in the faith (Eph. 4:13)? Will enough, a faithful remnant, do so willingly, or is it going to take really hard times (Ps. 119:67) for the Church to wake up? You have not seen anything yet! The “anything” can be restoration, revival, and awakening, or it can be devastation. The choice is godly restoration or devilish storms. If we choose godly restoration, if we repent and unify ourselves, there will still be persecution, but we will have an anointing that releases our Lord's authority and power in a measure not known since the early Church. (Updated 10/22/2010)
What did God do that caused Adam to become a living being? What did Jesus do that caused the spirits of the disciples to be born again? There is a connection between these two questions. (10/22/2010)
Father, Your Word teaches us that if in faith we agree on your will (Word) it will be done for us. There is a stomach virus attacking babies, children and adults presently. I ask you to heal and protect your family. I ask according to Your Word which says that by the stripes of Jesus we were healed. Thank You for hearing me. In Jesus name, Amen (10/17/2010)
While praying this morning I expressed to the Lord Jesus that He is the meaning to (of) my life. After saying this I heard in my spirit and mind that there are different groups of people. There are those who are totally apart from Jesus; there are those who are born again and Jesus is part of their life, and there are those for whom Jesus is their life. (10/09/2010)
How Bright is Your Light? In a recent test on religions, Christians were at or near the bottom of the list not only on knowledge of other religions, but also on knowledge of Christianity. Too many Christians are not studying the Bible!
Instead of studying God’s Word and being light to the world, Christians are being influenced by the world. They often know more of how the world presents God through movies (Bruce Almighty), TV programs (Glee) and books (The Shack) than how the Bible reveals Him. No wonder Christians did poorly on the recent test. Let's repent, pray study the Word, and get in the harvest fields and change things! (10/7/2010)
What is it going to take for Christians in America to repent (2 Chr. 7:14), become sanctified by truth (John 17:17), and have true unity in the faith (Eph. 4:13)? Will enough, a faithful remnant, do so willingly, or is it going to take really hard times (Ps. 119:67) for the Church to wake up? You have not seen anything yet! The “anything” can be restoration, revival, and awakening, or it can be devastation. The choice is godly restoration or devilish storms. If we choose godly restoration, if we repent and unify ourselves, there will still be persecution, but we will have an anointing that releases our Lord's authority and power in a measure not known since the early Church. (Updated 10/22/2010)
What did God do that caused Adam to become a living being? What did Jesus do that caused the spirits of the disciples to be born again? There is a connection between these two questions. (10/22/2010)
Father, Your Word teaches us that if in faith we agree on your will (Word) it will be done for us. There is a stomach virus attacking babies, children and adults presently. I ask you to heal and protect your family. I ask according to Your Word which says that by the stripes of Jesus we were healed. Thank You for hearing me. In Jesus name, Amen (10/17/2010)
While praying this morning I expressed to the Lord Jesus that He is the meaning to (of) my life. After saying this I heard in my spirit and mind that there are different groups of people. There are those who are totally apart from Jesus; there are those who are born again and Jesus is part of their life, and there are those for whom Jesus is their life. (10/09/2010)
How Bright is Your Light? In a recent test on religions, Christians were at or near the bottom of the list not only on knowledge of other religions, but also on knowledge of Christianity. Too many Christians are not studying the Bible!
Instead of studying God’s Word and being light to the world, Christians are being influenced by the world. They often know more of how the world presents God through movies (Bruce Almighty), TV programs (Glee) and books (The Shack) than how the Bible reveals Him. No wonder Christians did poorly on the recent test. Let's repent, pray study the Word, and get in the harvest fields and change things! (10/7/2010)
Friday, October 1, 2010
Reviving the Dehydrated Church
(Updated from Truth for Today 12/24/2007)
“The present-day Church is dehydrated spiritually …suffering from all of the effects of dehydration: toxins in the body, confusion, and memory loss …”
It is evident throughout the Word of God that there are times when God judges His people through drought and famine. A close study of Amos 8:11-12 reveals another type of famine even more severe. There is a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.
Amos 8
11 “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord GOD, “That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD.
12 They shall wander from sea to sea, And from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, But shall not find it …”
The warning in Amos 8 not only became a reality for the people of the old covenant but has taken place at various times among Christians since the birth of the Church. It is probably more severe in the 21st Century than at any time in history.
The present day Church, as a whole, is in a severe spiritual famine; she suffers from an absence of pure biblical truth, and she most assuredly suffers from an absence of true prophets with true prophetic words from the Lord. The majority of Christians, especially those in the West, are not yet even aware of the problem, especially the seriousness of the problem. Many are comfortable with things as they are. They are much aware of worldwide problems but have not connected them with a famine of the words of the Lord. They need and want change economically, etc., but, spiritually, they are so geared toward and accustomed to things as they are that they neither see the need for change nor do they want things to change. Much of the Church, while engaging in various end-time prophecy teachings, either deny the existence of present day prophets of God or they are being overwhelmed with carnal and/or false prophets.
Results of Spiritual Famine
What are the results of this spiritual famine of the Word, especially the prophetic word? The primary result is that many Christians are spiritually dehydrated and are being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. This problem is nowhere more evident than in the Western Church, and more specifically, in the Church in the United States. Too many Christians are dehydrated spiritually because of a lack of the water of the Word. They are suffering from all the effects of spiritual dehydration: toxins in the body, confusion in the mind, loss of memory of God and His Word of truth.
They cannot focus properly on God and others because their spiritual dehydration causes them to be focused on self—their needs, their desires, their plans, their interpretations and traditions, for the most part. If they reach out, it is often motivated more by ritualistic obedience and/or self-satisfaction, with the accompanying warm feelings and personal fulfillment that they receive, than by a true godly fulfillment of our Lord’s command to go into all the world as a witness.
Solution
What is the solution? Those suffering from spiritual dehydration need to wake up and become spiritually re-hydrated and then remain hydrated! How does spiritual hydration take place? It begins with true and prepared prophets crying out for repentance. The Jewish people were very familiar with 2 Chronicles 7:14, but God still sent John the Baptist to cry out, “Repent.” Jesus Himself began His public ministry by preaching repentance. He made the Word of God clear, precise, and specific. He will again try to awaken His people by sending His ministers in the midst of famine to point out the need for repentance.
After Christians hear the call and acknowledge their personal need for repentance, they often find that one of the major problems to overcome is a lack of knowing God intimately and His Word thoroughly. This has caused spiritually blindness in various degrees and has resulted in a lack of true spiritual discernment. Without discernment, they were subject to deception and falling for the wiles of the devil. For example, many Christians, including pastors, have in the recent past named a book titled The Shack as one of their favorite books. One pastor listed three books as his favorites, with the Bible and The Shack being two of them. He needs his eyes opened about certain things in the Bible because they would expose the lies and deceptions of The Shack. In his defense, I will say that most of us were really not trained that well in the 20th Century Church. He, along with many others, may need to hear a prophetic word from another minister besides the ones he has been listening to for his eyes to become fully opened. Note: Some ministers are being what they call “successful” and see no need for change.
If God has opened your eyes about certain things that were in error, thank Him for His mercy. It is alright to judge and/or discern that others need help, but do so in love and a spirit of restoration and not out of a critical, judgmental spirit or attitude. Be loving and merciful toward them as you move to open their eyes. Let the love of God be shed abroad in your heart! Pray for them, always remembering that we are not casting stones but are trying to awaken our brothers and sisters in Christ. We need each other!
What else is needed? For those with ears to hear, there must be a willingness to do some really serious soul searching leading to the acknowledgment that there is need of repentance; make 2 Chronicles 7:14 a reality. Those who are spiritually dehydrated may also need to put away some private interpretations of Scripture and traditions of men. To do so will require being sanctified by truth by being continually washed in the water of the Word.
Conclusion
In conclusion, God has prepared true prophets in the wilderness to bring restoration and revival to His Church. They will cry out for repentance and a return to the Lord and His truth. When those with ears to hear humble themselves, repent, and cry out to God with a heart that is serious and determined to walk in the Spirit, the Lord will hear from Heaven and will rain His Spirit and truth upon them.
Will all of the Church respond? No. There are many in the Church who will not respond. They have either fallen so far away from God and His truth that they are not willing to repent or even acknowledge the need to do so, or they are so captivated by man-made doctrines and traditions that they will hang on tightly to them. But there are many who will repent. Some of them will respond to truth when they hear it. Others will have to go through some shaking before they will really hear and respond, but they will eventually respond, thanks be to God.
Restoration and revival can begin with a few willing and dedicated disciples. What better time is there for forsaking all to follow Christ? Will you humble yourself and give your all to Jesus the Messiah? Will you yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to open the truth of God’s Word to you? Will you begin washing yourself in the water of God’s Word? As the Spirit opens God’s Word to you, will you in turn teach that Word to all who have ears to hear? God bless you as you do. Let’s do what will prepare us and many others for the future appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s replace famine with truth and see real and lasting “Restoration, Revival, and Awakening!”
_____________________________
Study this week: Jer. 5:20-25; Matt.13:13-16; Mark 4:10-12; Col.1:24-27; Isa.55:6-7.
“The present-day Church is dehydrated spiritually …suffering from all of the effects of dehydration: toxins in the body, confusion, and memory loss …”
It is evident throughout the Word of God that there are times when God judges His people through drought and famine. A close study of Amos 8:11-12 reveals another type of famine even more severe. There is a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.
Amos 8
11 “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord GOD, “That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD.
12 They shall wander from sea to sea, And from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, But shall not find it …”
The warning in Amos 8 not only became a reality for the people of the old covenant but has taken place at various times among Christians since the birth of the Church. It is probably more severe in the 21st Century than at any time in history.
The present day Church, as a whole, is in a severe spiritual famine; she suffers from an absence of pure biblical truth, and she most assuredly suffers from an absence of true prophets with true prophetic words from the Lord. The majority of Christians, especially those in the West, are not yet even aware of the problem, especially the seriousness of the problem. Many are comfortable with things as they are. They are much aware of worldwide problems but have not connected them with a famine of the words of the Lord. They need and want change economically, etc., but, spiritually, they are so geared toward and accustomed to things as they are that they neither see the need for change nor do they want things to change. Much of the Church, while engaging in various end-time prophecy teachings, either deny the existence of present day prophets of God or they are being overwhelmed with carnal and/or false prophets.
Results of Spiritual Famine
What are the results of this spiritual famine of the Word, especially the prophetic word? The primary result is that many Christians are spiritually dehydrated and are being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. This problem is nowhere more evident than in the Western Church, and more specifically, in the Church in the United States. Too many Christians are dehydrated spiritually because of a lack of the water of the Word. They are suffering from all the effects of spiritual dehydration: toxins in the body, confusion in the mind, loss of memory of God and His Word of truth.
They cannot focus properly on God and others because their spiritual dehydration causes them to be focused on self—their needs, their desires, their plans, their interpretations and traditions, for the most part. If they reach out, it is often motivated more by ritualistic obedience and/or self-satisfaction, with the accompanying warm feelings and personal fulfillment that they receive, than by a true godly fulfillment of our Lord’s command to go into all the world as a witness.
Solution
What is the solution? Those suffering from spiritual dehydration need to wake up and become spiritually re-hydrated and then remain hydrated! How does spiritual hydration take place? It begins with true and prepared prophets crying out for repentance. The Jewish people were very familiar with 2 Chronicles 7:14, but God still sent John the Baptist to cry out, “Repent.” Jesus Himself began His public ministry by preaching repentance. He made the Word of God clear, precise, and specific. He will again try to awaken His people by sending His ministers in the midst of famine to point out the need for repentance.
After Christians hear the call and acknowledge their personal need for repentance, they often find that one of the major problems to overcome is a lack of knowing God intimately and His Word thoroughly. This has caused spiritually blindness in various degrees and has resulted in a lack of true spiritual discernment. Without discernment, they were subject to deception and falling for the wiles of the devil. For example, many Christians, including pastors, have in the recent past named a book titled The Shack as one of their favorite books. One pastor listed three books as his favorites, with the Bible and The Shack being two of them. He needs his eyes opened about certain things in the Bible because they would expose the lies and deceptions of The Shack. In his defense, I will say that most of us were really not trained that well in the 20th Century Church. He, along with many others, may need to hear a prophetic word from another minister besides the ones he has been listening to for his eyes to become fully opened. Note: Some ministers are being what they call “successful” and see no need for change.
If God has opened your eyes about certain things that were in error, thank Him for His mercy. It is alright to judge and/or discern that others need help, but do so in love and a spirit of restoration and not out of a critical, judgmental spirit or attitude. Be loving and merciful toward them as you move to open their eyes. Let the love of God be shed abroad in your heart! Pray for them, always remembering that we are not casting stones but are trying to awaken our brothers and sisters in Christ. We need each other!
What else is needed? For those with ears to hear, there must be a willingness to do some really serious soul searching leading to the acknowledgment that there is need of repentance; make 2 Chronicles 7:14 a reality. Those who are spiritually dehydrated may also need to put away some private interpretations of Scripture and traditions of men. To do so will require being sanctified by truth by being continually washed in the water of the Word.
Conclusion
In conclusion, God has prepared true prophets in the wilderness to bring restoration and revival to His Church. They will cry out for repentance and a return to the Lord and His truth. When those with ears to hear humble themselves, repent, and cry out to God with a heart that is serious and determined to walk in the Spirit, the Lord will hear from Heaven and will rain His Spirit and truth upon them.
Will all of the Church respond? No. There are many in the Church who will not respond. They have either fallen so far away from God and His truth that they are not willing to repent or even acknowledge the need to do so, or they are so captivated by man-made doctrines and traditions that they will hang on tightly to them. But there are many who will repent. Some of them will respond to truth when they hear it. Others will have to go through some shaking before they will really hear and respond, but they will eventually respond, thanks be to God.
Restoration and revival can begin with a few willing and dedicated disciples. What better time is there for forsaking all to follow Christ? Will you humble yourself and give your all to Jesus the Messiah? Will you yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to open the truth of God’s Word to you? Will you begin washing yourself in the water of God’s Word? As the Spirit opens God’s Word to you, will you in turn teach that Word to all who have ears to hear? God bless you as you do. Let’s do what will prepare us and many others for the future appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s replace famine with truth and see real and lasting “Restoration, Revival, and Awakening!”
_____________________________
Study this week: Jer. 5:20-25; Matt.13:13-16; Mark 4:10-12; Col.1:24-27; Isa.55:6-7.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Words of Restoration (September 2010)
God wills that His children walk in the Spirit. To obey His will one must realize that they are a spirit with a soul (mind, emotions, will) housed in a body (temple of God). As a spirit they are to control their soul and body by being continually yielded to the Holy Spirit. Too many Christians are like channel changers; they regularly switch controls rather than constantly being led by the Spirit.(9/30/2010)
Worship originates from within us as we humbly and lovingly respond in adoration to God and the truth of His mercies. Performance originates from the external and entertains. The entertainment, the performance, often causes a response by our bodies, souls and spirits but is far from true worship. Singing can be an expression of true worship, but it can also just be entertainment and performance. (9/28/2010)
There is coming forth a faithful remnant Church who loves God with all her heart and will worship Him in spirit and in truth. True worshipers will also be united in faith and fulfill our Lord's prayer in John 17. I just pray that enough disciples do so willingly out of love for God and each other and not because things get so tough that they are forced to draw close to God and each other. Persecution can be a great motivator; it caused part of the early Church to get out of Jerusalem and take the "good news" to other places.
Problem: There is something in many parts of the Church that is being called praise and/or worship, but is really performance and entertainment. Solution: Become worshipers in spirit and in truth (John 4:23,24). (9/27/2010)
If we are honest, all of us would say that we want real inner peace. Jesus is called The Prince of Peace because He made a way for us to have that peace. People do a lot of things, even religious and/or spiritual things, to find peace, and all the while Jesus wants to give them what they are looking for. He loves us so much!
Over the centuries mankind, in the name of religion, has often shed the blood of their fellow man. All too often they have had no qualms about shedding the blood of others, but wouldn't receive by faith the precious blood of Jesus Christ that He willingly shed for all of mankind. When mankind accepts what He has done, they will not want to shed the blood of others. Love will prevail! (9/16/2010)
Our Lord Jesus prayed that we would be sanctified (set apart) by truth (John 17:17). One has to continually feed the mind with the Word of God by study and meditation of the Word. If not, the mind quickly reverts to following the flesh and natural senses. Be transformed by renewing your mind (Rom 12:1, 2); keep it renewed with the washing of water by the Word (Eph 5:26). (9/14/2010)
What is it going to take for Christians in America to repent (2 Chr. 7:14), become sanctified by truth (John 17:17), and have true unity in the faith (Eph. 4:13)? Will enough, a faithful remnant, do so willingly, or is it going to take really hard times (Ps. 119:67) for the Church to wake up? You have not seen anything yet! The “anything” can be restoration, revival, and awakening, or it can be devastation. The choice is godly restoration or devilish storms. If we choose godly restoration, if we repent and unify ourselves, there will still be persecution, but we will have an anointing that releases our Lord's authority and power in a measure not known since the early Church. (9/11/2010)
A prepared Christian is one who has hidden the Word of God in their heart and meditates on it day and night. Only those who have built their house on the Word will be able to withstand the coming storms. Any who here to fore have fallen short in the Word would benefit greatly by beginning today the practice of storing the Word in their heart. Parents and grandparents should constantly teach and demonstrate the Word to their children and grandchildren. (9/10/2010)
Are American Christians really prepared for tribulation? Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation." While Christians all over the world are presently experiencing tribulation we in America have so far been mercifully spared. Have you ever asked why? There is a reason for our extended mercy, but we must wake up quickly for the time grows shorter day by day. Many of our eschatology teachings would not be applicable where Christians are being tortured and martyred. We must wake up and reevaluate! (9/9/2010)
I am well aware of Islam, but the proposed act (burning of Koran) by the guy in Florida is way off the path of Jesus Christ. Things like this cause one to question people's relationship with and their understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. I definitely know that this proposed act is not led by the Holy Spirit. If any spirit is involved, it would be an unholy one. The Scriptural basis for this act being the burning of magical books, etc. in the book of Acts is totally out of context and in error. The Uuniversalists who oppose him are also a danger. True Christians must wake up, unify and become a true and strong witness for Jesus Christ and His kingdom. Spiritual warfare is real; deception is at work all around us. We must get our heads out of the sand (man-made doctrines, rituals and traditions) while we still have one. (9/8/2010)
Deception is on the rise within the Christian Church. Conservative Christians are often aware of the surface problem of liberalism but not the deeper problem of humanism. Even fewer are aware of the extreme deception of universalism which is evidenced by the popularity of a book titled The Shack. Ministers and their members have been deceived by this book. Increased deception is a mark of the last days!
(9/6/2010)
Revival is coming back into full use because of being restored to Jesus Christ and His biblical pattern. Many Christians speak of revival, but how many will be willing to count the cost and pay the price once they realize that true and lasting revival will involve total self denial and the giving up of some favorite traditions and doctrines? The price is great but the spiritual rewards will be greater! (9/6/2010)
Most Christians have adapted to afflicting circumstances rather than humbling themselves,repenting, drawing near to God and unifying in the faith (Ps 119:67, 2 Chr 7:14, Eph 4:13). (9/4/2010)
While various prophecy teachers continue to put their individual spin on end times which often includes adding to and taking away from the Word of truth, the Church in America sorely lacks true prophetic direction.(9/3/2010)
Worship originates from within us as we humbly and lovingly respond in adoration to God and the truth of His mercies. Performance originates from the external and entertains. The entertainment, the performance, often causes a response by our bodies, souls and spirits but is far from true worship. Singing can be an expression of true worship, but it can also just be entertainment and performance. (9/28/2010)
There is coming forth a faithful remnant Church who loves God with all her heart and will worship Him in spirit and in truth. True worshipers will also be united in faith and fulfill our Lord's prayer in John 17. I just pray that enough disciples do so willingly out of love for God and each other and not because things get so tough that they are forced to draw close to God and each other. Persecution can be a great motivator; it caused part of the early Church to get out of Jerusalem and take the "good news" to other places.
Problem: There is something in many parts of the Church that is being called praise and/or worship, but is really performance and entertainment. Solution: Become worshipers in spirit and in truth (John 4:23,24). (9/27/2010)
If we are honest, all of us would say that we want real inner peace. Jesus is called The Prince of Peace because He made a way for us to have that peace. People do a lot of things, even religious and/or spiritual things, to find peace, and all the while Jesus wants to give them what they are looking for. He loves us so much!
Over the centuries mankind, in the name of religion, has often shed the blood of their fellow man. All too often they have had no qualms about shedding the blood of others, but wouldn't receive by faith the precious blood of Jesus Christ that He willingly shed for all of mankind. When mankind accepts what He has done, they will not want to shed the blood of others. Love will prevail! (9/16/2010)
Our Lord Jesus prayed that we would be sanctified (set apart) by truth (John 17:17). One has to continually feed the mind with the Word of God by study and meditation of the Word. If not, the mind quickly reverts to following the flesh and natural senses. Be transformed by renewing your mind (Rom 12:1, 2); keep it renewed with the washing of water by the Word (Eph 5:26). (9/14/2010)
What is it going to take for Christians in America to repent (2 Chr. 7:14), become sanctified by truth (John 17:17), and have true unity in the faith (Eph. 4:13)? Will enough, a faithful remnant, do so willingly, or is it going to take really hard times (Ps. 119:67) for the Church to wake up? You have not seen anything yet! The “anything” can be restoration, revival, and awakening, or it can be devastation. The choice is godly restoration or devilish storms. If we choose godly restoration, if we repent and unify ourselves, there will still be persecution, but we will have an anointing that releases our Lord's authority and power in a measure not known since the early Church. (9/11/2010)
A prepared Christian is one who has hidden the Word of God in their heart and meditates on it day and night. Only those who have built their house on the Word will be able to withstand the coming storms. Any who here to fore have fallen short in the Word would benefit greatly by beginning today the practice of storing the Word in their heart. Parents and grandparents should constantly teach and demonstrate the Word to their children and grandchildren. (9/10/2010)
Are American Christians really prepared for tribulation? Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation." While Christians all over the world are presently experiencing tribulation we in America have so far been mercifully spared. Have you ever asked why? There is a reason for our extended mercy, but we must wake up quickly for the time grows shorter day by day. Many of our eschatology teachings would not be applicable where Christians are being tortured and martyred. We must wake up and reevaluate! (9/9/2010)
I am well aware of Islam, but the proposed act (burning of Koran) by the guy in Florida is way off the path of Jesus Christ. Things like this cause one to question people's relationship with and their understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. I definitely know that this proposed act is not led by the Holy Spirit. If any spirit is involved, it would be an unholy one. The Scriptural basis for this act being the burning of magical books, etc. in the book of Acts is totally out of context and in error. The Uuniversalists who oppose him are also a danger. True Christians must wake up, unify and become a true and strong witness for Jesus Christ and His kingdom. Spiritual warfare is real; deception is at work all around us. We must get our heads out of the sand (man-made doctrines, rituals and traditions) while we still have one. (9/8/2010)
Deception is on the rise within the Christian Church. Conservative Christians are often aware of the surface problem of liberalism but not the deeper problem of humanism. Even fewer are aware of the extreme deception of universalism which is evidenced by the popularity of a book titled The Shack. Ministers and their members have been deceived by this book. Increased deception is a mark of the last days!
(9/6/2010)
Revival is coming back into full use because of being restored to Jesus Christ and His biblical pattern. Many Christians speak of revival, but how many will be willing to count the cost and pay the price once they realize that true and lasting revival will involve total self denial and the giving up of some favorite traditions and doctrines? The price is great but the spiritual rewards will be greater! (9/6/2010)
Most Christians have adapted to afflicting circumstances rather than humbling themselves,repenting, drawing near to God and unifying in the faith (Ps 119:67, 2 Chr 7:14, Eph 4:13). (9/4/2010)
While various prophecy teachers continue to put their individual spin on end times which often includes adding to and taking away from the Word of truth, the Church in America sorely lacks true prophetic direction.(9/3/2010)
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Words of Restoration (August 2010)
O, how my heart longs for true revival among Christians! But who will count the cost and withstand the opposition? There will be opposition from the world without and from Christians within, the greatest to overcome being that from within. But revival must come, or the alternative is something neither you nor I want to think about. Who really wants revival, deep down lasting revival? Will you count the cost? 8/26/10
The Bible is such a precious and special gift from God, yet few Christians have ever read it through and even fewer read and study it through on a regular basis. Consider developing a plan to read and study through the Bible on a regular basis, making sure you let it speak to you rather than you making it say what you want it to say. The latter being the prime reason why most of the Church is divided rather than united in the faith. (8/24/10)
Jesus never intended for the church He is building (Matthew 16:18) to become a spiritual buffet with his people separated according to their individual appetites. Those concerned about our nation need to digest and apply 2 Chronicles 7:14 and unite in the faith before it is too late. Those following pleasures and other distractions need to get focused and get in the Word and pray, including prayers of agreement. (8/23/10)
It is troubling to me that so many Christians see a rapture and a second coming as two different experiences in the Word, but they cannot see the Word distinguishing the new birth and the baptism in the Holy Spirit as two different experiences. Could this be true because it is easier to receive teachings from man than from the Holy Spirit? This is not to say there will be no rapture, but could it be that the denial of the separate experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit leaves many wanting for spiritual understanding? Christians need to ask Jesus Christ to baptize them in the Holy Spirit. They need to be led by the Holy Spirit and taught by Him to rightly divide the Word on all matters. (8/12/10)
The world's way is for people to want less supervision and imput from others as they gain experience. The way of God's kingdom is for God's children to become more and more dependent on Him and His involvement in their lives as they grow and mature.
(8/8/10)
1. There is a difference, a great difference, in Jesus Christ being a part of your life and Jesus Christ being your life.
2. Most Christians are focused more on popular topics — end times, the rapture, Israel, Armageddon, politics, personal prosperity, their local church beliefs and activities, etc. — than they are on forsaking all to follow Christ, attaining unity in the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, and together seeking God's kingdom and ministering the gospel of the kingdom to others.(8/6/10)
There are three classifications of people:
• spiritual Christians
• carnal Christians
• the unsaved.
Spiritual Christians must follow Jesus Christ and come to the unity of the faith (Ephesians 4:13). The result will be a unified witness of Jesus and His kingdom to all other people (Matthew 24:14). (8/5/10)
Rather than being a Church united in faith that the gates of Hades cannot prevail against, modern Christianity is for the most part a conglomerate of religions known more for their different beliefs and doctrines than their unity of the faith. This must change or there is going to be a great price to pay. (8/3/10)
THE LORD IS OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS! (Jeremiah 23:6) Through the blood of Jesus, the Messiah, I am justified and made righteous just as if I had never sinned. Therefore I am free from all condemnation (Romans 8:1). (8/1/10)
The Bible is such a precious and special gift from God, yet few Christians have ever read it through and even fewer read and study it through on a regular basis. Consider developing a plan to read and study through the Bible on a regular basis, making sure you let it speak to you rather than you making it say what you want it to say. The latter being the prime reason why most of the Church is divided rather than united in the faith. (8/24/10)
Jesus never intended for the church He is building (Matthew 16:18) to become a spiritual buffet with his people separated according to their individual appetites. Those concerned about our nation need to digest and apply 2 Chronicles 7:14 and unite in the faith before it is too late. Those following pleasures and other distractions need to get focused and get in the Word and pray, including prayers of agreement. (8/23/10)
It is troubling to me that so many Christians see a rapture and a second coming as two different experiences in the Word, but they cannot see the Word distinguishing the new birth and the baptism in the Holy Spirit as two different experiences. Could this be true because it is easier to receive teachings from man than from the Holy Spirit? This is not to say there will be no rapture, but could it be that the denial of the separate experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit leaves many wanting for spiritual understanding? Christians need to ask Jesus Christ to baptize them in the Holy Spirit. They need to be led by the Holy Spirit and taught by Him to rightly divide the Word on all matters. (8/12/10)
The world's way is for people to want less supervision and imput from others as they gain experience. The way of God's kingdom is for God's children to become more and more dependent on Him and His involvement in their lives as they grow and mature.
(8/8/10)
1. There is a difference, a great difference, in Jesus Christ being a part of your life and Jesus Christ being your life.
2. Most Christians are focused more on popular topics — end times, the rapture, Israel, Armageddon, politics, personal prosperity, their local church beliefs and activities, etc. — than they are on forsaking all to follow Christ, attaining unity in the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, and together seeking God's kingdom and ministering the gospel of the kingdom to others.(8/6/10)
There are three classifications of people:
• spiritual Christians
• carnal Christians
• the unsaved.
Spiritual Christians must follow Jesus Christ and come to the unity of the faith (Ephesians 4:13). The result will be a unified witness of Jesus and His kingdom to all other people (Matthew 24:14). (8/5/10)
Rather than being a Church united in faith that the gates of Hades cannot prevail against, modern Christianity is for the most part a conglomerate of religions known more for their different beliefs and doctrines than their unity of the faith. This must change or there is going to be a great price to pay. (8/3/10)
THE LORD IS OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS! (Jeremiah 23:6) Through the blood of Jesus, the Messiah, I am justified and made righteous just as if I had never sinned. Therefore I am free from all condemnation (Romans 8:1). (8/1/10)
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Words of Restoration (July 2010)
Many people, including Christians, are being manipulated by a carnal and self-serving use of the word destiny. The truth is that your destiny is to deny self, forsake all, follow Christ and unite in faith with others of like mind and heart to advance the message of God’s kingdom. (7/29/10)
SLOW BOIL LOSS OF FREEDOM- As the proverbial frog in the slow boiling pot, Christians in America are losing their spiritual freedom. All the while they tenaciously cling to their man-made teachings and traditions which prevent them from being a united witness and victorious force for Jesus Christ and His kingdom. They listen to newscasters but will not believe in or listen to God sent prophets.
(7/14/10)
Today, many Christians will follow rituals but who will worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23)? Many will talk and/or think about the ills of government, etc., but who will realize that the Church needs to repent and unite in faith (2 Chron. 7:14; Eph. 4:13)? Many will follow their doctrines and traditions, but who will be led by the Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:14) and hear truth (2 Tim. 4:2)? Heaven waits! (7/11/10)
Each disciple must belong to a local Church, but one is not a part of the Lord's Church because of a specific name---Baptist, Church of Christ, Church of God, etc. One is a part of the Lord's Church by truly being born again of the Spirit and joining with other true believers regardless of the label. Some who claim to be the
only true Church are not helping bring about true unity of the faith (Eph.4:13).
7/5/10
The Church humbled, purified and united in Jesus Christ is the only hope of maintaining freedom in America (2 Chr. 7:14). (7/3/10)
With so much going on in the USA and throughout the earth, I hope that soon enough Christians will unite in faith and pray prayers like the Lord expects of His kingdom of priests. Hopefully a faithful remnant is already awake or waking up to the fulness of who Christ is and who they are in Christ.(5/21/10)
Any time that a part of God's Word of truth is clarified, believed and acted upon steps are taken towards the unity of the faith (Eph. 4:13). Any time that culture, rituals, traditions of men and man-made doctrines (derived from personal opinions and thoughts) are mixed with or replace God's Word of truth steps are taken which prevent true unity of the faith in the body of Christ. (Updated from 11/13/05)
SLOW BOIL LOSS OF FREEDOM- As the proverbial frog in the slow boiling pot, Christians in America are losing their spiritual freedom. All the while they tenaciously cling to their man-made teachings and traditions which prevent them from being a united witness and victorious force for Jesus Christ and His kingdom. They listen to newscasters but will not believe in or listen to God sent prophets.
(7/14/10)
Today, many Christians will follow rituals but who will worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23)? Many will talk and/or think about the ills of government, etc., but who will realize that the Church needs to repent and unite in faith (2 Chron. 7:14; Eph. 4:13)? Many will follow their doctrines and traditions, but who will be led by the Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:14) and hear truth (2 Tim. 4:2)? Heaven waits! (7/11/10)
Each disciple must belong to a local Church, but one is not a part of the Lord's Church because of a specific name---Baptist, Church of Christ, Church of God, etc. One is a part of the Lord's Church by truly being born again of the Spirit and joining with other true believers regardless of the label. Some who claim to be the
only true Church are not helping bring about true unity of the faith (Eph.4:13).
7/5/10
The Church humbled, purified and united in Jesus Christ is the only hope of maintaining freedom in America (2 Chr. 7:14). (7/3/10)
With so much going on in the USA and throughout the earth, I hope that soon enough Christians will unite in faith and pray prayers like the Lord expects of His kingdom of priests. Hopefully a faithful remnant is already awake or waking up to the fulness of who Christ is and who they are in Christ.(5/21/10)
Any time that a part of God's Word of truth is clarified, believed and acted upon steps are taken towards the unity of the faith (Eph. 4:13). Any time that culture, rituals, traditions of men and man-made doctrines (derived from personal opinions and thoughts) are mixed with or replace God's Word of truth steps are taken which prevent true unity of the faith in the body of Christ. (Updated from 11/13/05)
Saturday, July 24, 2010
The Gospel of the Kingdom and End Times
What do you know about the gospel of the kingdom? Since it is the message that our Lord Jesus preached and taught it seems that all Christians would be very familiar with it, but the truth is very few Christians know much about it.
While Christians all over the earth, including the United States, are losing their freedom(s) many are increasing their focus on end times. For example, a friend of mine edits books; she has recently edited more than one for different people who are expressing their views about end times. There are good and well meaning people who minister and publish different views about the end times, but the truth is that none of them will get it right until they understand the gospel of the kingdom.
With human nature being what it is, people in and out of the Church will continue to follow their religious inclinations and espouse their views about end times. But the Holy Spirit is looking intently for followers of Christ who will wake up to the gospel of the kingdom. I must caution you that just as there are different views on end times there are Christians who have incorrect views on the kingdom of God. A true biblical understanding of the gospel of the kingdom will only come to those who totally yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to be their Teacher. Will you be one of those? If so, you can be a vital part of what God wants of His Church before He returns.
To be continued!
While Christians all over the earth, including the United States, are losing their freedom(s) many are increasing their focus on end times. For example, a friend of mine edits books; she has recently edited more than one for different people who are expressing their views about end times. There are good and well meaning people who minister and publish different views about the end times, but the truth is that none of them will get it right until they understand the gospel of the kingdom.
With human nature being what it is, people in and out of the Church will continue to follow their religious inclinations and espouse their views about end times. But the Holy Spirit is looking intently for followers of Christ who will wake up to the gospel of the kingdom. I must caution you that just as there are different views on end times there are Christians who have incorrect views on the kingdom of God. A true biblical understanding of the gospel of the kingdom will only come to those who totally yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to be their Teacher. Will you be one of those? If so, you can be a vital part of what God wants of His Church before He returns.
To be continued!
Friday, June 11, 2010
When Will the End Be?
Compare and Contrast Matthew 24:6 and Matthew 24:14
Matthew 24:6 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. (NKJV)
Matthew 24:14 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. (NKJV)
Each of these two verses are very important, especially so to those who are focused on end times. Each verse and what they represent must be rightly divided. They must be put into proper context and perspective by those disciples who properly understand the kingdom of God and who are seeking first that kingdom and right standing with God. Unless this is done, Christians can be easily distracted and get off target from what our Lord has commanded them to do.
For example, there is much emphasis in certain parts of the Church on verse six and all the things that have been and are taking place such as wars and rumors of wars. These wars and rumors of wars can not be denied but if one misses that the end is not yet they can also miss what they are to be doing. Verse fourteen makes it very clear what must take place before the end. Regretfully, many Christians who are off track in their teaching and understanding of verse six either miss or misinterpret verse fourteen.
One may ask, how could they miss or misinterpret verse fourteen? One way that they miss it and cause others to miss it is by their over emphasis on verse six. One way they misinterpret it is by not really understanding what the gospel of the kingdom is. One can easily miss the Holy Spirit's intent concerning the kingdom of God if they don't rightly understand the gospel of the kingdom and/or are not seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Jesus went about teaching and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and then confirming that message with accompanying signs (Matt: 4:23). Paul summed up the message of his ministry two times in the last chapter of the book of Acts.
Acts 28:23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. (NKJV)
Acts 28:30, 31 Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him. (NKJV)
When enough disciples forsake all to follow Jesus and get the message right, then we will be on the path to putting Matthew 24:6 in proper perspective as well as being on the path of fulfilling Matthew 24:14. The stakes are high! Who has ears to hear and can break free from private interpretations and traditions of men that make the Word (truth) of God of no effect (Matt 15:6). This gives real meaning to humility. Many Christians are as dogmatic and proud of their interpretations and traditions as were the Pharisees and Sadducees while Jesus was on earth, but the poor in spirit and humble of heart and mind are going to break forth and spread the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and His kingdom throughout the earth.
Matthew 24:6 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. (NKJV)
Matthew 24:14 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. (NKJV)
Each of these two verses are very important, especially so to those who are focused on end times. Each verse and what they represent must be rightly divided. They must be put into proper context and perspective by those disciples who properly understand the kingdom of God and who are seeking first that kingdom and right standing with God. Unless this is done, Christians can be easily distracted and get off target from what our Lord has commanded them to do.
For example, there is much emphasis in certain parts of the Church on verse six and all the things that have been and are taking place such as wars and rumors of wars. These wars and rumors of wars can not be denied but if one misses that the end is not yet they can also miss what they are to be doing. Verse fourteen makes it very clear what must take place before the end. Regretfully, many Christians who are off track in their teaching and understanding of verse six either miss or misinterpret verse fourteen.
One may ask, how could they miss or misinterpret verse fourteen? One way that they miss it and cause others to miss it is by their over emphasis on verse six. One way they misinterpret it is by not really understanding what the gospel of the kingdom is. One can easily miss the Holy Spirit's intent concerning the kingdom of God if they don't rightly understand the gospel of the kingdom and/or are not seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Jesus went about teaching and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and then confirming that message with accompanying signs (Matt: 4:23). Paul summed up the message of his ministry two times in the last chapter of the book of Acts.
Acts 28:23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. (NKJV)
Acts 28:30, 31 Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him. (NKJV)
When enough disciples forsake all to follow Jesus and get the message right, then we will be on the path to putting Matthew 24:6 in proper perspective as well as being on the path of fulfilling Matthew 24:14. The stakes are high! Who has ears to hear and can break free from private interpretations and traditions of men that make the Word (truth) of God of no effect (Matt 15:6). This gives real meaning to humility. Many Christians are as dogmatic and proud of their interpretations and traditions as were the Pharisees and Sadducees while Jesus was on earth, but the poor in spirit and humble of heart and mind are going to break forth and spread the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and His kingdom throughout the earth.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
ANOTHER CALL FOR RESTORATION
Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save your nation! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save the nations! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and see your loved one(s) come to the Lord!
It is obvious to many Christians that the devil and his demonic forces are enemies of God, enemies of God’s kingdom, and enemies of His Church. Many Christians also understand that the flesh fights against the things of God. What is not properly understood by many Christians is that the Church herself is oftentimes a hindrance to God and His purposes.
To one with true spiritual discernment it may be obvious that the Church is a hindrance, even a major hindrance. Others may nod in the affirmative but see from spiritual prejudice rather than from true discernment. For example, they may castigate those who are not part of their group and/or don’t see things as they see them. This perspective in itself is a major contributor to the Church being a hindrance.
At this point, I must acknowledge that I cannot communicate to you what the Holy Spirit is saying to me if I lean to my own understanding. Neither can you understand what is being communicated if you lean on your understanding. Therein is a major crux of the problem in and with the Church: too many Christians are leaning to their own understanding of God, His kingdom, His Word, and their reason for existing, rather than listening to the Holy Spirit and rightly discerning Scripture.
Before you become defensive and turn me off, do an intensive study of the Church at Ephesus and our Lord’s message to her in the book of Revelation. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your Teacher. You will see that this Church received a high revelation not only of the Lord but also of His Church. In a few short years, however, the Church at Ephesus was the first church corrected by our Lord in His letters to the churches. She had many good works and programs, as it were, but she received a stern warning to repent, or else. She needed restoration! She needed to return to the Lord and His biblical truth and pattern.
Recently, I was listening to a well-known minister on TV as he was teaching about certain world conditions. Toward the end of his message, he said that nothing was lacking that needed to be done before the rapture of the Church. It did not upset me to hear what he said, but it deeply concerned me. There are so many ministers who love God, His people, and the lost, but they just do not see or understand that the Church is in desperate need of restoration. Now, I do fully understand that our Father can send Jesus Christ for us whenever He decides to do so. But, presently, we are coming up short in carrying out God’s biblically-revealed will in some vital areas. You might ask, what are those areas? There are several areas that are obvious to the discerning mind; I will name only five at this point. First, we are lacking in holiness and obedience. Second, we are lacking in maturity. Third, we are not unified in faith. Fourth, we have not forsaken all to follow Jesus. And lastly, we have not witnessed the gospel of the kingdom as biblically directed.
I have been praying for and calling for the restoration of the Church for many years. What do I mean by restoration? In brief, what I mean by restoration is that the Church needs to be fully restored to Jesus Christ and His biblical truth and pattern. What is involved in becoming restored? Among other things, true humility and repentance, full surrender to the Holy Spirit, and sanctification by truth. Sanctification by truth (washing of water by the Word—Eph. 5:26) will remove all traditions of men and private interpretations of Scripture that have infiltrated and captivated the various parts of the Church over the centuries. These two major culprits—traditions of men and private interpretations of Scripture—have been greatly instrumental in producing a Church that is in a mess for the most part. They are major contributors to the five areas listed above where the Church is lacking. I will list them again. The Church is lacking in carrying out God’s biblically-revealed will in:
1. holiness and obedience.
2. maturity.
3. unity in faith.
4. forsaking all to follow Jesus.
5. witness of the gospel of the kingdom, as biblically directed.
What is involved in becoming restored? Among other things:
1. true humility and repentance.
2. full surrender to the Holy Spirit.
3. sanctification by truth (His Word is truth—John 17:17).
We are given free will to humble ourselves, repent, and surrender to the Holy Spirit. When the Church is restored to holiness and obedience, moving in maturity and true spiritual discernment, united in faith, forsaking all worldly interests to follow Jesus, then His supernatural power will enable us to preach the gospel of the Kingdom as a witness.
If restoration seems too monumental for the Church, then consider the alternatives. A future alternative is to weep before the Lord because of the realization that we really missed fulfilling His will while on earth. A present alternative is that we are going to experience unnecessary devilish storms. We are already experiencing those storms, but darker clouds are gathering. I have been warning for years that we either have Godly restoration or there will be devilish storms. This short message is another call for restoration, which includes revival and awakening. Who am I that you should listen to me? I am just an unknown voice out in the wilderness. Who are you to hear what I am crying out? That is between you and God, but the stakes are high.
Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save your nation! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save the nations! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and see your loved one(s) come to the Lord!
It is obvious to many Christians that the devil and his demonic forces are enemies of God, enemies of God’s kingdom, and enemies of His Church. Many Christians also understand that the flesh fights against the things of God. What is not properly understood by many Christians is that the Church herself is oftentimes a hindrance to God and His purposes.
To one with true spiritual discernment it may be obvious that the Church is a hindrance, even a major hindrance. Others may nod in the affirmative but see from spiritual prejudice rather than from true discernment. For example, they may castigate those who are not part of their group and/or don’t see things as they see them. This perspective in itself is a major contributor to the Church being a hindrance.
At this point, I must acknowledge that I cannot communicate to you what the Holy Spirit is saying to me if I lean to my own understanding. Neither can you understand what is being communicated if you lean on your understanding. Therein is a major crux of the problem in and with the Church: too many Christians are leaning to their own understanding of God, His kingdom, His Word, and their reason for existing, rather than listening to the Holy Spirit and rightly discerning Scripture.
Before you become defensive and turn me off, do an intensive study of the Church at Ephesus and our Lord’s message to her in the book of Revelation. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your Teacher. You will see that this Church received a high revelation not only of the Lord but also of His Church. In a few short years, however, the Church at Ephesus was the first church corrected by our Lord in His letters to the churches. She had many good works and programs, as it were, but she received a stern warning to repent, or else. She needed restoration! She needed to return to the Lord and His biblical truth and pattern.
Recently, I was listening to a well-known minister on TV as he was teaching about certain world conditions. Toward the end of his message, he said that nothing was lacking that needed to be done before the rapture of the Church. It did not upset me to hear what he said, but it deeply concerned me. There are so many ministers who love God, His people, and the lost, but they just do not see or understand that the Church is in desperate need of restoration. Now, I do fully understand that our Father can send Jesus Christ for us whenever He decides to do so. But, presently, we are coming up short in carrying out God’s biblically-revealed will in some vital areas. You might ask, what are those areas? There are several areas that are obvious to the discerning mind; I will name only five at this point. First, we are lacking in holiness and obedience. Second, we are lacking in maturity. Third, we are not unified in faith. Fourth, we have not forsaken all to follow Jesus. And lastly, we have not witnessed the gospel of the kingdom as biblically directed.
I have been praying for and calling for the restoration of the Church for many years. What do I mean by restoration? In brief, what I mean by restoration is that the Church needs to be fully restored to Jesus Christ and His biblical truth and pattern. What is involved in becoming restored? Among other things, true humility and repentance, full surrender to the Holy Spirit, and sanctification by truth. Sanctification by truth (washing of water by the Word—Eph. 5:26) will remove all traditions of men and private interpretations of Scripture that have infiltrated and captivated the various parts of the Church over the centuries. These two major culprits—traditions of men and private interpretations of Scripture—have been greatly instrumental in producing a Church that is in a mess for the most part. They are major contributors to the five areas listed above where the Church is lacking. I will list them again. The Church is lacking in carrying out God’s biblically-revealed will in:
1. holiness and obedience.
2. maturity.
3. unity in faith.
4. forsaking all to follow Jesus.
5. witness of the gospel of the kingdom, as biblically directed.
What is involved in becoming restored? Among other things:
1. true humility and repentance.
2. full surrender to the Holy Spirit.
3. sanctification by truth (His Word is truth—John 17:17).
We are given free will to humble ourselves, repent, and surrender to the Holy Spirit. When the Church is restored to holiness and obedience, moving in maturity and true spiritual discernment, united in faith, forsaking all worldly interests to follow Jesus, then His supernatural power will enable us to preach the gospel of the Kingdom as a witness.
If restoration seems too monumental for the Church, then consider the alternatives. A future alternative is to weep before the Lord because of the realization that we really missed fulfilling His will while on earth. A present alternative is that we are going to experience unnecessary devilish storms. We are already experiencing those storms, but darker clouds are gathering. I have been warning for years that we either have Godly restoration or there will be devilish storms. This short message is another call for restoration, which includes revival and awakening. Who am I that you should listen to me? I am just an unknown voice out in the wilderness. Who are you to hear what I am crying out? That is between you and God, but the stakes are high.
Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save your nation! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and save the nations! Restore the Church to Jesus Christ and His truth and see your loved one(s) come to the Lord!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
A Call For Humility
How can Christians who profess Christ be so divided and in opposition to the prayer of Jesus in John 17? Please don’t miss this point! Christians, for the most part, are not only not standing on a foundation of unity with one another, but are also not fulfilling the Lord’s Prayer for unity. Some will miss and/or even oppose this point because the devil has planted a wrong understanding of unity in their minds. The devil is a defeated foe while at the same time he is a foe to be contended with. Never under estimate him.
How can we be so divided? One of the main reasons is that many if not most Christians tend to lean to mental understanding, either their personal understanding or the understanding of others that they have adopted as their own or a mixture thereof. The natural mind can be religious, but if left to its own can not discern and comprehend spiritual things. As concrete hardens, the minds of many Christians, especially those in the United States, are stubbornly locked into various mindsets concerning certain aspects of God and His Word. One of the things that confuses Christians about this and other things is that they know in their heart that Jesus is real and that they love Him and He loves them. They also know that certain parts of Scripture are clear in their minds, but what they have not fully comprehended is that in spite of all of this and more too they can still be leaning to their own understanding about the Lord and His Word in certain areas, even in key areas. Always remember that a little leaven leavens the whole lump.
The devil is subtle and deceptive. He causes Christians to buy into a little leaven and then works to enhance their pride and stubbornness about their beliefs. He deceives them into thinking that they are being staunch and dedicated defenders of the faith that will overcome him eventually, but in reality they are holding on to things that make place for the devil. Specifically they are holding on to things that sustain disunity rather than bringing unity in the body of Christ. We are to be a unified body, a unified army of the Lord as it were. One can put a thousand to flight and another one can put another thousand to flight, but the two together can put eight thousand more to flight. Pray for the spirit of wisdom and understanding; please do not miss this. I do not want to frighten you, but more than you can imagine is at stake.
Will you ask the Spirit of God to clear your minds and hearts of anything that is devilish leaven? Will you humble yourself before God? Ask His Spirit to reveal the full truth of 2 Chronicles 7:14 to you. It means that Christians, God’s people, are to humble themselves, pray and seek His face and turn from their wicked ways and then and only then will He heal their land-be it the United States or any other part of the earth.
Some of you are so captivated and absorbed by and with various end times teachings of prophecy that it is hard for you to hear or fully hear God speaking prophetically. I do not mean to offend you. But while you are trying to discern the times please do not miss what God is trying to say to you.
Will you hear and heed this call for humility and then pursue what follows in 2 Chronicles 7:14? God placed me in the wilderness several years ago. He has spoken several things to me that I have tried to pass on to others. One of those was concerning restoration, revival and awakening- three key words. He then spoke, among other things, that there would be godly restoration or devilish storms. Then a few years ago, I asked Him to do something for me, but not to do it until I was what I should be. I did not know what would be involved, but I know that the Lord God is working to fully form Christ within me. I desire above all else to spend eternity with God and to know Him intimately while I live on earth. I want to love God and to love you; I want to always be humble, broken and contrite. I want to minister God and His Word of truth, be it a pastoral Word or a prophetic Word, but I want it to always be ministered in love. There is much more that I could say, but if you have hearing ears you will hear.
I love you; I love the Church and I love the world. It is my desire to be so given to God that He can love the world through me. I have been deserted by some and others have been like John Mark, but I pray that like John Mark was returned to Paul that we will all work together to fulfill our Father’s will on this earth. May His kingdom come and His will be done.
How can we be so divided? One of the main reasons is that many if not most Christians tend to lean to mental understanding, either their personal understanding or the understanding of others that they have adopted as their own or a mixture thereof. The natural mind can be religious, but if left to its own can not discern and comprehend spiritual things. As concrete hardens, the minds of many Christians, especially those in the United States, are stubbornly locked into various mindsets concerning certain aspects of God and His Word. One of the things that confuses Christians about this and other things is that they know in their heart that Jesus is real and that they love Him and He loves them. They also know that certain parts of Scripture are clear in their minds, but what they have not fully comprehended is that in spite of all of this and more too they can still be leaning to their own understanding about the Lord and His Word in certain areas, even in key areas. Always remember that a little leaven leavens the whole lump.
The devil is subtle and deceptive. He causes Christians to buy into a little leaven and then works to enhance their pride and stubbornness about their beliefs. He deceives them into thinking that they are being staunch and dedicated defenders of the faith that will overcome him eventually, but in reality they are holding on to things that make place for the devil. Specifically they are holding on to things that sustain disunity rather than bringing unity in the body of Christ. We are to be a unified body, a unified army of the Lord as it were. One can put a thousand to flight and another one can put another thousand to flight, but the two together can put eight thousand more to flight. Pray for the spirit of wisdom and understanding; please do not miss this. I do not want to frighten you, but more than you can imagine is at stake.
Will you ask the Spirit of God to clear your minds and hearts of anything that is devilish leaven? Will you humble yourself before God? Ask His Spirit to reveal the full truth of 2 Chronicles 7:14 to you. It means that Christians, God’s people, are to humble themselves, pray and seek His face and turn from their wicked ways and then and only then will He heal their land-be it the United States or any other part of the earth.
Some of you are so captivated and absorbed by and with various end times teachings of prophecy that it is hard for you to hear or fully hear God speaking prophetically. I do not mean to offend you. But while you are trying to discern the times please do not miss what God is trying to say to you.
Will you hear and heed this call for humility and then pursue what follows in 2 Chronicles 7:14? God placed me in the wilderness several years ago. He has spoken several things to me that I have tried to pass on to others. One of those was concerning restoration, revival and awakening- three key words. He then spoke, among other things, that there would be godly restoration or devilish storms. Then a few years ago, I asked Him to do something for me, but not to do it until I was what I should be. I did not know what would be involved, but I know that the Lord God is working to fully form Christ within me. I desire above all else to spend eternity with God and to know Him intimately while I live on earth. I want to love God and to love you; I want to always be humble, broken and contrite. I want to minister God and His Word of truth, be it a pastoral Word or a prophetic Word, but I want it to always be ministered in love. There is much more that I could say, but if you have hearing ears you will hear.
I love you; I love the Church and I love the world. It is my desire to be so given to God that He can love the world through me. I have been deserted by some and others have been like John Mark, but I pray that like John Mark was returned to Paul that we will all work together to fulfill our Father’s will on this earth. May His kingdom come and His will be done.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Criteria for Saving America
There are innumerable problems confronting the peoples of the earth, but God is not shaken about any of them. He is the Lord God of heaven, earth, the seas, and all that is therein. He has all power and authority! All He has to do is speak and mountains are removed, the winds stop, the gentle rains come forth. But there is one problem that hinders God’s plans for earth. Some would be quick to say, “Yes, the devil; the devil is the problem.” No, the devil is not a problem for God. The problem for God in accomplishing His will and purposes on earth is finding enough people who will obey and carry out His will and purposes.
Adam and Eve chose to listen to and obey the serpent rather than God. Mankind still makes that choice daily, and Christians are not exempt from the problem. I don’t want to offend anyone but I wouldn’t be far from the truth if I said “Christians are the problem.” For example, I can appreciate the emphasis by many American Christians in calling for America to repent and return to God. It would be great if that happened, and I would be so thrilled. But the truth is that first things must be first, and before America returns to God, the Church must repent. A certain number of righteous people were required to spare God’s judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah. In like manner, a certain number of disciples are required to turn things around in America. There are also some conditions that go with this truth. Two of the main conditions are that those disciples must be mature in Christ and united in faith. Presently, there are few that meet either of these criteria.
One description of the Church in America, or in most places of the earth for that matter, would be that the Church is Christians who come together in specific or particular groups according to their mental beliefs about God and His Word. Now some would argue and say I should say spiritual beliefs, but mental beliefs make the point. These various groups may be outwardly pleasant to other groups of Christians and even call them brothers and sisters, but deep down there is no real degree of unity of faith. There is definitely no maturity in unity of faith. The bottom line reason is that they are not mature in Christ and the understanding of His Word.
This is a long-time problem. Yes, I repeat, it is a problem. It is the problem that is preventing God from having enough people on earth who will obey and carry out His will and purposes. If you have read this message, I encourage you, first of all, to make sure that you have totally surrendered your life (self) to God. Determine to live a continually humble life before God and man. Repent of anything that stands between you and God and you and others. Seek God and His word of truth. Make sure that you are born of the Spirit and have also been baptized in the Spirit.
If you are interested in knowing more about the restoration of the Church, please study the things we offer on the Internet. We have both written messages and audio messages. I would be glad, also, to have you call. The time is short, but we have time. Let’s redeem that time and work together to bring forth a people who are totally restored to God and His word of truth, a people who are going on to maturity in Christ and unity in faith.
The Lord Jesus bless you!
I love you in Christ,
Wayne Wilson
Adam and Eve chose to listen to and obey the serpent rather than God. Mankind still makes that choice daily, and Christians are not exempt from the problem. I don’t want to offend anyone but I wouldn’t be far from the truth if I said “Christians are the problem.” For example, I can appreciate the emphasis by many American Christians in calling for America to repent and return to God. It would be great if that happened, and I would be so thrilled. But the truth is that first things must be first, and before America returns to God, the Church must repent. A certain number of righteous people were required to spare God’s judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah. In like manner, a certain number of disciples are required to turn things around in America. There are also some conditions that go with this truth. Two of the main conditions are that those disciples must be mature in Christ and united in faith. Presently, there are few that meet either of these criteria.
One description of the Church in America, or in most places of the earth for that matter, would be that the Church is Christians who come together in specific or particular groups according to their mental beliefs about God and His Word. Now some would argue and say I should say spiritual beliefs, but mental beliefs make the point. These various groups may be outwardly pleasant to other groups of Christians and even call them brothers and sisters, but deep down there is no real degree of unity of faith. There is definitely no maturity in unity of faith. The bottom line reason is that they are not mature in Christ and the understanding of His Word.
This is a long-time problem. Yes, I repeat, it is a problem. It is the problem that is preventing God from having enough people on earth who will obey and carry out His will and purposes. If you have read this message, I encourage you, first of all, to make sure that you have totally surrendered your life (self) to God. Determine to live a continually humble life before God and man. Repent of anything that stands between you and God and you and others. Seek God and His word of truth. Make sure that you are born of the Spirit and have also been baptized in the Spirit.
If you are interested in knowing more about the restoration of the Church, please study the things we offer on the Internet. We have both written messages and audio messages. I would be glad, also, to have you call. The time is short, but we have time. Let’s redeem that time and work together to bring forth a people who are totally restored to God and His word of truth, a people who are going on to maturity in Christ and unity in faith.
The Lord Jesus bless you!
I love you in Christ,
Wayne Wilson
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Shafted By The Shack
Deception is rampant in the world! One of the main reasons that deception is rampant in the world is that deception (darkness to truth) is rampant in many parts of the Church. One case in point has been how quickly Christians, including many ministers, were deceived by a book titled The Shack.
As the return of the Lord grows closer there will be a Church who is faithful to Him and His Word, but there will also be those who fall away. One of the main reasons that they will fall away is deception.
The Lord is sending, out of the wilderness in many cases, ministers proclaiming Him and His word of truth. At the same time the devil is sending into many parts of the Church his ministers disguised as ministers of righteousness. It seems that many are listening to the false ministers who are preaching and teaching a false righteousness while ignoring those whom the Lord has prepared and sent.
I recently was spoken to by the Lord that we have not seen anything yet. The word has both positive and negative applications. I am beginning to see the word become a reality in both the positive and the negative.
The writer of Hebrews admonished and corrected Christians when he wrote that by now you should be teachers, but I have to re-teach you the basics (milk) of the word. He went on the challenge them to go on to maturity. That correction and challenge is still pertinent for us. Who has ears to hear God's voices of truth and who are being ensnared by the voices of the evil one?
I pray that each of you will seek God and His Word until you are sanctified by truth. Are you one who believes something because you think it is true or are you one that believes something because it is true? Some may ask, what is the difference? The difference is deception and truth. Be a person of truth who shines as a light. Don't be deceived as those who have and are being shafted by things like The Shack.
As the return of the Lord grows closer there will be a Church who is faithful to Him and His Word, but there will also be those who fall away. One of the main reasons that they will fall away is deception.
The Lord is sending, out of the wilderness in many cases, ministers proclaiming Him and His word of truth. At the same time the devil is sending into many parts of the Church his ministers disguised as ministers of righteousness. It seems that many are listening to the false ministers who are preaching and teaching a false righteousness while ignoring those whom the Lord has prepared and sent.
I recently was spoken to by the Lord that we have not seen anything yet. The word has both positive and negative applications. I am beginning to see the word become a reality in both the positive and the negative.
The writer of Hebrews admonished and corrected Christians when he wrote that by now you should be teachers, but I have to re-teach you the basics (milk) of the word. He went on the challenge them to go on to maturity. That correction and challenge is still pertinent for us. Who has ears to hear God's voices of truth and who are being ensnared by the voices of the evil one?
I pray that each of you will seek God and His Word until you are sanctified by truth. Are you one who believes something because you think it is true or are you one that believes something because it is true? Some may ask, what is the difference? The difference is deception and truth. Be a person of truth who shines as a light. Don't be deceived as those who have and are being shafted by things like The Shack.
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