For Unto Us A Child Is Born

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Today is Christmas. Even with all the extra fluff and worldly customs we have picked up through the years, it’s good to set aside a day when the world remembers one of the most important, yet hardly recognized events in human history. The fact that God came to earth in the form of a man, the second person of the Trinity, as a babe in a lowly manger, only to be tempted in all points as we are tempted, yet without sin (Heb. 4:15), is remarkable in itself. It is almost certain that he wasn’t born on December 25th due to the fact that shepherds didn’t keep their flocks out during that time of year, nevertheless, that’s the day that we have picked up so we celebrate it then.

You can see by the above scripture how prophesy works in the Scriptures. By this, how several thousand years can span during one verse. The first part of the verse says this, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:” That has happened already. Yet, there is more to come. If the Christmas story ended in the manger, we would not have cause to rejoice. If it ended on the cross, we still would not have cause to rejoice. If it ended at his resurrection, we may rejoice some but that’s not the end. The fact that we can see the second part of this verse gives us cause to rejoice. It takes us beyond this present world and beyond this dispensation, “and the government shall be upon his shoulder.” This world will not always be like this as one day Christ will rule and reign on the earth. “Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.” Isaiah 24:23

One day he is coming back, but this time not as a babe in a lowly manger, but as King and ruler. “And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.” Zech 14:9 So, during this Christmas season, don’t keep looking at that babe in the manger because he’s no longer there. Look for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords to return to earth and rule and reign. Are you ready for his return?

Depending On Christ

Depending On Christ






“And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” Matthew 5:29

This is a strange verse to start a blog with but I want to bring something out in this verse that is more than just the basic truth. First, the basic truth is that avoiding hell is so important that if a part of one’s body causes them to stumble, they should cut it off. That is very extreme and I am in no wise advocating that you do that but Jesus is trying to express the point that to avoid hell and make heaven is the most important thing we can do, even more important that trying to preserve our flesh. But that’s not all.

Look who he is talking to. “And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,” His whole discourse begins in the next verse, or verse 3 and continues all the way through until the end of Matthew 7. So, see how he is talking to – his disciples as “his disciples came unto him:” After they came to him, “And he opened his mouth, and taught them…” So, if a soul cannot parish after once being saved, why would he tell his disciples to go to great lengths to avoid Hell. If one can never be lost after being a a disciple or a child of God, there would be no reason for him to say that.

The truth of the matter that the doctrine of unconditional security has sent more souls to hell then just about any other false doctrine in the church because it teaches that once someone prays, there is no way they can be lost. Their reasoning’s are such as this:

“Christ is able to keep me.” Yes, he is if we are willing to be kept.

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 ¶ Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.” James 1: 12

“No man can pluck me out of his hand” True, but there is a condition.

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” John 10:27 (underline mine)

“Nothing will separate me from the love of God” ….but sin.

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Rom 8: 35-39

Finally, “My name is there in God’s book forever.” Take a look at the scripture.

“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” Revelation 3:5 A name cannot be blotted out unless it was there in the first place.

Yet, we do have confidence in Christ if we are willing to follow him as he will be our help if we depend upon him for strength and guidance.

“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,” Jude 1:24

The bottom line is that we must depend on him and not just some man’s doctrine of “I hope so” salvation. We can overcome by “the blood of the lamb” and by the word of our testimony. Revelation 12:11

Our Independence

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12

Today we celebrate our independence from Great Britain for the 235th time. It was a miracle of God that we were able to win against the then world powerhouse of sea and land. One needs only to lightly study the true history of the American Revolution and see that “If it had not been the LORD who was on our side” (Psalms 124:1) we would have never won. It was because of the fear of absolute tyranny that our forefathers rose up and boldly sought for independence.

May I say that we are in another war for independence, not from just another country, but from those within. This is not a war that can necessarily be won with guns and tanks, but must be won on our knees. While there are no doubt many more, we can focus on three things that are damaging and threatening our freedom to worship God, work as a private citizen, raise our children according to the fear of god, and keep live in a land of peace. The first is the invasion of the Islam religion. This religion has absolutely nothing to do with Christianity except that we should try to win them to Christ, not by compromise or giving them place in our churches, but by preaching to them the anointed Word of God. They are lost sinners caught up in a cult the same as Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses, Buda’s, and any others. We love them but they need to get saved from the religion that only produces hate and malice.

The second threat is socialism. Christ was not a socialist nor were the apostles. When we read the first few chapters of the book of Acts, we see how the supplies were distributed evenly, however this did not continue. Paul mentioned the same thing later however it was never intended to emerge as a tyrannical government but a way to supply for those in need. “But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:” 2 Corinthians 8:14 This meant that when someone was at need, others would supply, then in turn they would receive help when needed. It was also voluntary as we read in Acts 5:3 “But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.” Socials demands that money that someone has earned be taken away from those who work and given to those who chose not to work. It is a system of control, enrolling the masses into government programs so the government can be their god. Millions of Americans have bought into this already.

The third, and I believe the cause of why we are where we are, is the backslidden church in America. Many fundamental pulpits are filled with those who only lightly preach the Word of God, leaving their people with only a crumb or two so they go through their whole life knowing little or nothing about the Bible, God’s promises, as well as what he expects out of his people. To most, the Bible is some strange book that is only lightly looked at and is way down on their reading list. Most know not how to fervently pray or travail in the spirit. They know little or nothing about fasting and separation but will raise up their own little projects to soothe the conscience.

We have a heritage based on the scriptures and Christ. Although the authors of our history books have worked overtime to depict it is anything but Christianity, the truth is, America was wrought by God and raised up on high due to God’s blessings. We can say with the Psalmist, “The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.” Psalm 16:5 As we celebrate the 4th, we must be thankful for God’s richest blessings on us but also remember that whom God has raised up, he is also able to put down. As Satan continues to make his advances on our nation, those who know how to pray and touch God need to raise up in this hour and pray for revival as well as repent for the sins of our nation. Celebrate the 4th, we should and we will, but remember our nation and that we must stay on our knees to fight for liberty for the souls of our loved ones, our neighbors, and our country. “As long as the people of the United States are well informed and virtuous, they will be free, and their government uncorrupted. It is in their power to remedy the evils, arising from having wicked and designing men at the head of government—they can lift up and pull down at pleasure.” This was spoken in a sermon by Cypron Strong, July 4th 1799. Ponder that statement when you have a chance. In closing, John Adams said, on July 3, 1776, “The 4th ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward, forevermore." May God help America and may God stir us to seek him for revival in our beloved country!

Memorial Day

"Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;" 1Peter 4:1

Today, Monday, May 30^th, is a national holiday called Memorial Day. It began after the Civil War when the wives of the soldiers who fell in the war decorated their graves to honor their sacrifice. The practice is still kept today and in many cemeteries throughout our country there were or will be ceremonies honoring our soldiers who gave their all so that we could enjoy freedom. As a Christian, this should make us want to guard this even more because as we see America in its declining stages, we must conclude that the root cause of this nation's decline is due to sin. America was built on Christian principles and the Constitution was written for a people with character and who feared God. It was also written for a society who had the fibers of Biblical morality in its culture so that even the heathen were ashamed to practice blatant sins out in the open. Now, that has all changed. I read recently that a poll was taken regarding immorality and the culture of our nation and the finding was that more people feel that the culture of our nation is about right today than just a few years ago, this by about eight percent. The church is supposed to be the salt of the earth. "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." Matthew 5:13 Salt does three things: it flavors, it can help preserve as they used to pack meat in salt in order to preserve it before we had freezers, and it is also used for judgment as God sowed Sodom and Gomorrah with salt. "But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26

In the future, when we think of spending some time in prayer and it seems uncomfortable or inconvenient to us, we may want to remember those soldiers who gave al for our freedom so we can pray without hiding. When we think we are going through a little discomfort due to fasting, we may want to remember all the brides and/or mothers who lost their sons or husbands so we could have the freedom we now have. We need revival in the church! Yes, I know eventually America will be facing judgment because that is no doubt in the prophetic scene however we can be salt to preserve our time of tranquility for us and our children if we would get on our knees now before the night comes when it may be to late. Have a great Memorial Day time with family and friends and remember why this is possible!

No One Knows When

"But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." Mark 13:32

According to Harold Camping and many others, the rapture of the church was to take place this past Saturday at 6:00, May 21, 2011 (but I never knew which time zone he was talking about but assume it was the west coast). No doubt, many of these people were very sincere in their belief that it was to occur on that date at that time. I'm not questioning anybody's motives or purpose. We're still here! It didn't happen! Even before May 21^st, I read another headline that some group is now saying that Christ will return in October of this year, and of course there is that prediction that everything is going to come to a halt on December 21, 2012. So what does this tell us? The first and most obvious answer is that we can't set dates on Christ's return. The scripture above plainly states that only God the Father knows that. Funny how man thinks he is smarter than God, even when running his own program. But there is another underlying thing that we can observe and that is that these things are coming ever increasingly. I personally believe that man is aware that we are on the edge of history so he is groping for answers. He may not know when, he may not know how: he may not know exactly why, but he is searching.

Jesus was very plain in the following verse as to what the Christian should do in times like these. "Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is." Mark 13:33 If there is any time to pray, it is now. If there is any time to watch the world events, it is now. If there is any time to win souls and pray for revival, it is now! I read a newspaper article a couple days prior to Saturday the 21^st and the reporter asked about 30 people in our conservative East Texas area what they would do if they know things were going to end in a couple days. Most said they would spend the time with their families, one man said he would get right with God, and a few said they would pray. NOT ONE, no not one said they would try to win their friends and family to Christ in the remaining time. This shows the pattern of the Laodicean church of today. It was all focused on self and maybe a few around them. What is our focus, is it just on self and those few family members around us or are we concerned about others we cone in contact with or those we know even on a limited basis. It is time to examine our hearts as we live in the last of the last days. I firmly believe that God wants to bring revival to America but in order to do it, we must all look inside ourselves and take inventory according to God's Word. Remember what Jesus said in Mark 10:15, "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." We must humble ourselves before the Lord that he may exalt us in due time.

Christ Will Keep Those Who Want to be Kept

"For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." 2 Timothy 1:12

One of the biggest arguments raised to defend the Unconditional Eternal Security doctrine is that Christ is able to keep the soul from perishing. The last part of this verse is quoted to support this. As this is the Word of God, it is no doubt true. The fact that "he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day, " is right in that there is no danger in losing one's soul as far as Christ is concerned. The problem lies when we chose to leave him. John 10:27-28 state, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." It is correct that no can pluck you out of the hand of Christ but there is a condition and it lies in verse 27 which says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." The sheep have to follow the shepherd in order to keep their souls. The shepherd will not leave them provided they follow them. Also, see what Christ said to the Church of Philadelphia: "Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown." Revelation 3:11 Can a man just walk up and take your eternal crown? No! But he can persuade you to follow heresy or influence your soul to the point where Christ is no longer your redeemer in heart, but only in word. "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me." Matthew 15:8

Another argument states that if one lost his soul after being saved, it would make the Christ's sacrifice void. Yes, for that person it would, but at his own choosing however Christ still suffered on the cross and rose from the dead. This is a fact that cannot be reputed nor will his shed blood be void unless it is made void by a sinner refusing to come to him or a Christian backsliding and trampling under it. "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." Hebrews 6:4-6

Jesus said to the Jews that believed on him, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;" John 8:31b These Jews actually believed on him but when they were told that they needed to continue following him, then things changed. We read further down in verse 59 that they got so mad at him that they were getting ready to stone him. It's one thing to say a sinner's prayer, shake the preacher's hand, get baptized and receive the certificate, but it's another thing to actually follow him. Because of this erroneous teaching, millions have went to hell thinking they were saved just because someone told them that they were on their way to heaven since they said the prayer and got baptized. They were told that Christ is well able to keep their soul so not to worry about anything, even the way they live. While we don't worry about staying saved, we are to follow him which is not a grind but a pleasure and delight. I have even witnessed preachers of this persuasion tell demon possessed people that all they need to do is take advantage of their Christian rights that they received when they prayed several years ago and everything will be alright! Why do you think that God told the church of the Laodiceans that he was going to spue them out of his mouth. These were church folks like today. They went to church because they were partly hot but that's about all they did because they didn't think they needed anything yet they were unaware of where they really stood with Christ as they were blind to their own condition. Today is the same as we are in that age right now.

This doctrine is troubling to me because there are good men who teach this doctrine. There are men who are worthy of some respect in their knowledge of the Word who embrace this, but no matter what or whom, it is a grave error. Many hold this doctrine because it was taught them in their schools and seminaries and it is a convenient doctrine for these last days of lukewarm church goers. Don't be fooled by it. Get into the Bible. Live a separated life looking unto the Author and Finisher of the Word. "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:12 Christ is well able to keep us, if we chose to be kept.

Seeking God

"Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:12-13

When was the last time you took time to really seek God? How long ago has it been since you've set aside two, three, maybe a whole day to do nothing but just seek Christ as well as study and meditate in his word? Do you think that there is a need? I tell you there is, not only for your own soul, but the souls of others, and for the salvation of our nation if it can still be salvaged. Do you think you will escape the very soon coming storm that will hit our nation? Will you have the faith to see it through or will you be carried about with the whims of the world and fear their fear and dread their dread.

The church needs revival, a real sin-killing, sanctification giving, soul saving revival! The church in America on the most part has lost its zeal, power, and even separation. I know what it's like to try to pray. Just when you start, that's when the phone rings, the neighbor decides to mow his lawn, someone starts yaking real loud out in the street, or your mind begins to wander. The devil will hinder you and try to stop you. You must be determined and consistent. Many who believe they belong to Christ's church do not even know how to pray nor do they even understand when one talks about spending several hours with the Master. It is foreign to them and their lives show it. Don't fool yourselves, God is not coming after an anemic church or a believer with an anemic faith. Remember the ten virgins. Read it for yourself in Matthew 25:1-13. They were ALL virgins, they ALL had lamps that started out burning, they ALL had the same objective but five forgot to have extra oil and it cost them a place with the bridegroom. Many start out but not all will have the extra oil or the Holy Ghost and faith to make it. Please don't kid yourself. You can be lost and go to hell after you were once saved if you lose your fellowship with him and live in sin. That does not make Christ's sacrifice void, only for those who turned their back on him.

"For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." 2 Peter 2:20-21

You may also want to consider the following: "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." John 15:2 (underline mine) Jesus said that the branches were "in me," that is, in Him. They were a part of him but he cut them off because they didn't bear any fruit. By the way, this was not just to the Jews but to the church, even for us today.

I know this is very pointed and straightforward and I usually don't blog this way but I feel the urgency and believe that there is a storm coming very soon to our nation. If there is any time we need genuine revival it is now! If there is any time the confessing Christian needs to get serious about the things of God it is now! If there is any time we need to trim our lamps, it is definitely now. Some will be offended because of the bluntness of this blog. Others will laugh it off, many will be stirred a little but nothing else will happen, but some will take it seriously and begin to call upon God. I pray that will be you! May god help you and bless you as you seek him.

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

Calling Evil Good and Good Evil

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" Isaiah 5:20

If a Bible reading Christian (I really don't know how there can be any other kind unless perhaps they are in a place where the Bible is not available where God gives them extra grace) can read the news today and be complacent and ho hum, than there's something terribly wrong. When I see the headlines and occasionally delve into the stories, I have mixed emotions. I guess the best way to express it is to say I feel anger, sadness, and yet excitement. I feel the anger because I see how evil continually triumphs in most every case and how our government officials are getting bolder and bolder in their efforts to knock over the constitution. But not only the constitution of our once great nation which was written with responsible God-fearing people in mind, the continual trampling on basic Biblical principles and institutions such as the Biblical family, morality, protection of Israel, and even the Holy Word of God itself. It is even more frustrating to see, not only the government, but many in the so-called church trampling down the precepts of Christ and bringing in Islam, and whatever else seems to be convenient into the mix. This is even more disturbing because those who should be holding up the banner of sanctification and purity are doing everything they can to bring it down, along with diluting God's Word.

Sadness comes when I see so many fall for the lies that are being perpetrated through our media and even from many of our pulpits. It almost seems as the masses are just sitting and loving to be stroked to sleep, believing anything that sounds good to the flesh. This is happening even in the church. Proverbs 14:15 says, "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going." Many believe because they have pleasure in unrighteousness. "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12

Then, after backing off and surveying all of this, I realize that Christ's coming is very near. No matter if he comes before, in the middle, or at the end of the tribulation period, it is definitely at the door and very soon. This is not the time to back down but it is high time to strengthen our faith and stay in the Book, the Word of Life. It is time to keep our eyes on the eastern sky waiting for his return, but also to occupy while we are waiting and keep reading, witnessing, leaving gospel tracts wherever we can, and work for Christ. In closing, remember the words that Jesus said: "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work." John 9:4 Anger, sadness with a burden, and even frustration is not uncommon when listening to the happenings of today, but keep the bigger picture in mind, soon all of this will be past. The true saint of God is like Abraham "For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." Hebrews 11:10

 

 

Four Reactions to the Gospel

"Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." Mark 10:15

 

We react to the gospel in four basic ways. When we speak of reacting to the gospel, we also mean our reaction to some truth we have learned in God's Word, something the Holy Ghost is impressing upon us to do or obey, a doctrine that we have been made aware of and know of its truth, or some area of sanctification in our lives that the Holy Ghost has put his finger on for our attention. Whatever it is, we react in one of four ways. We find them in the parable of the sower.

 

"And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Matthew 13:3-8

 

The first reaction could be that like that of Festus, the Roman governor in Acts chapters 25-26. The word "Festu" meant "festival." He also was called Porcius meaning "swine." From this, we believe that this guy liked to eat, drink, and just have a good time. He really wasn't a bad guy, not as bad as some of the Herod's but the Bible gives no reference to his even being moved by Paul's preaching. In one place, he called it "superstition" and in another, after Paul gives most of his testimony, he blurts out, "Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad." Acts 26:24b He just didn't get it. It went in one ear and out the other. He didn't try to suppress it, nor did he try to embrace it but his reaction was that of so many today, "Whatever!"

 

The second way is when one reacts like King Agrippa II. This is the group Christ referred to where the seed feel on stony earth but when things got too hot, they withered away. Agrippa II was that way. The Bible says about his reaction, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." Acts 26:28b Agrippa II knew the scriptures and had heard of Christ. He had never had anyone really explain about Christianity but when Paul did, he knew the truth and was almost persuaded to embrace it. But, as is in the parable, the sun came out and he realized what he would have to do to live it. He would have to break off the incestuous relationship with his sister Bernice plus no doubt deal with many other issues. He just couldn't, even though he saw the judgment of God at work in his father Agrippa I in Acts 12 who was eaten of worms. So we receive the wooing of the Holy Ghost on various matters and yet, do we reject them knowing full well they are correct? The Bible never records an instant where God deals with Agrippa II again.

 

The third way of reaction is that characteristic of the seed sown among the thorns. They receive the truth and even go forth, but are choked with the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life and bring no fruit to perfection. (Luke 8:14) When the Roman ruler, Felix, heard the gospel, the Bible says that he trembled at the preaching of Paul. But it stopped there. It is not enough just to get moved by the Holy Ghost and feel conviction, one has to act. "And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee." Acts 24:25 There is never a better day to obey God's Word than today. "…behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)" 2 Corinthians 6:2b Felix, whose name means "happy," kept calling for Paul but for different reasons. In Acts 24:26 we read, "He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him." He was looking for a way to profit from the gospel. Much could be said here but there isn't time or space. It doesn't stop there. He used Paul as a political ploy to try to keep him out of hot water with the Romans. "But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound." Acts 24:27 Because of some of his ruthless dealings with the Jews, he was fearful they would accuse him before the emperor so he hoped to appease them by keeping Paul bound. Many hear the truth, knowing it is right but fail to react and after while even become antagonistic towards it. How many times I've seen God deal with someone regarding an area of sanctification, only for them to finally reject it and later buffet those who hold that stand they rejected!

 

But the last group is like that of Zacchaeus. He was a tax collector and became rich from his profession. No doubt, like most tax collectors then, it wasn't always by being honest, in fact tax collectors or publicans, were known to be cheaters. But when he saw the Lord, it all changed. "And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold." Luke 19:8 He was ready to obey right away! Oh that we could have a heart of obedience like that so God could use us! He didn't ask a lot of questions, didn't try to use his intellectual reasoning, but just believed and obeyed because he know the Holy Ghost had shown him the truth. May we react the same way as he, like a child. As quoted at the beginning, "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." Mark 10:15 That's means, we walk humbly before Him!

Have You Received the Power Since You Believed

"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." Acts 11:15-16

Peter had been to Caesarea to the house of Cornelius who was a centurion, or captain over one hundred men, in the Roman army. You can read about the thrilling details in Acts 10 and I urge you to do so but the end result was Cornelius, and his relative that were with him, were saved and then filled with the Holy Ghost. Because he was a gentle, Peter was called in question for having fellowship with him as that was not the Jews custom. So now we quickly come to the verses above in Acts 11:15-16 where he is relating the incident to the Jews in Jerusalem. He noted that "the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." We can read about how it fell on them in Acts 2:1-4

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."

The question I have is, have you received the power of the Holy Ghost since you believed? Someone may say, well I have it by faith and there's really no way of knowing if you have the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit (both are the same). According to scripture, there is a way to know; they spoke in other tongues.

Peter knew that those in the Cornelius's family had received the Holy Ghost. "For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter," Acts 10:46 Paul met twelve men in Ephesus who had been saved under John the Baptist's ministry but knew nothing about the baptism of the Holy Ghost. But then we read the following in Acts 19:6, "And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." During a revival in Samaria, Peter was laying hands on folks who were getting the Holy Ghost as well. While the Bible does not specifically say that the spoke in other tongues, the outcome was so awesome that Simon the magician tried to buy the power from Peter but was sharply rebuked for his folly.

People back away from this valuable doctrine for several reasons:

1. They don't fully understand it and are afraid that it may not be of God. We can not fully explain how a lost sinner can suddenly become a new person with new desires and goals just from praying, but it happens.
   
2. They have been told that it is of the devil. There is absolutely no scriptural basis for that.
   
3. It is humbling to yield to God and trust him to receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost and be re-filled I'm afraid we have way too much pride in the church.
   
4. They are told that it is not for today. The scripture used is found in 1 Cor. 13:8, "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away." They say that tongues will cease, but if that is the case, so will knowledge. When read in context, Paul is talking about when we see God face to face. At that time, tongues, prophecies, and knowledge will cease, but not until. "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." 1Cor 13:12
   
5. Perhaps bad incidents or things have happened causing one to be prejudiced against this doctrine. I will assure you that I can tell you of things that have gone on that were not of God and they were done by people who spoke in other tongues. But I've had rotten fruit before but haven't quit eating fruit because I got a bad apple.
   

If there is any time that we need the power of God it is now in these last days. Being filled with the Holy Ghost will greatly enhance your understanding of the Word of God and will give you more power in prayer. It is really not an option, but a command, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;" Ephesians 5:18 If you really desire the Holy Ghost, I recommend the following:

1. Examine yourself and forsake any know sin in your life. Your conscience must be clear before you can fully yield to Christ, which means you must get all of the known sin out of your life and be clean.
   
2. Spend time fasting to receive the Holy Ghost and earnestly pray for it. Luke 11: 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
   
3. Don't give up! Study scriptures that relate to the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit. Keep focused on Christ because he is the giver!

It Is High Time

"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed." Romans 13:11

Do you know what time it is? Are you aware of where we are in history? Do you have any idea what is coming upon the earth? Let me give you some answers if I may.

First, it is "high time," that is it is time to wake up out of slumber and spiritual sleep. We are not living in normal times but are on the edge of apocalyptic times, that is times that reflect direct prophesy in the scriptures. To put it plainly, we are near the tribulation period. Of course, how near is still the question but it is fairly certain we are near. We know this for several reasons:

1. Israel has become a nation. Jesus said in Luke 21:29-31, "…Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand." Israel is the fig tree. Christ makes this plain in another place when he refers Israel as the fig tree in a parable found in Luke 13:7-9. "6 ¶ He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down." Here, it is believed that he was in his final year of ministry and after three years Israel had not excepted him, bearing fruit as a nation. THE FIG TREE HAS BLOSSOMED! Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948.
   
2. The time frame is short once the fig tree blossoms. See what he says in Matthew 24:32-34. "Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. (Italics mine). Bible scholars believe that once the fig tree blossoms then it is only a generation before all the prophecies regarding the final days and setting up of his earthly kingdom are fulfilled. Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948 as I stated earlier. That was almost sixty-three years ago. So how long is a generation? Good question but let's look at the scripture to get the answer. Moses writes in Psalm 90:10, "The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow." He said a generation or lifespan is 70 to 80 years. Yes, there are those who live longer but that's about the lifespan of a generation. This would put the final time to around 1928. Now, we are not setting dates but just calculating 80 years plus 1948. It may be longer and perhaps shorter as a person born in 1948 could live until 2048 longer so we don't really know, but we do know that things are not going on for a lengthy period of time.
   
3. The forming of the European alliance rising up within the borders of the old Roman empire. This has happened as the economic power is being transferred from the United States to the European Union. When we look at Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel chapter 2, we see where he saw two legs of iron which represent the East and West Roman Empires, then he saw the feet with the ten toes, mixed with iron and clay. From this, it is believed that the world will be ruled by the state rising up out of the old Roman Empire, which would probably be the European Union.
   
4. The middle east countries, especially those surrounding Israel are falling and will probably be taken by the Islamic Brotherhood, bringing them under Sharia Law. This would mean that Israel would be surrounded by enemies whereas before, Egypt and Jordan were somewhat allies. This situation could easily cause Israel to one day make an agreement with someone who could "calm the storm" sort of speak. This is outlined in Daniel 9:27, "27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate." This would be referred to, as we know him, the anti-christ. He will make a covenant with Israel for peace and security but break this covenant in the middle of a seven year period or after three and a half years.
   
5. The nations are aligning themselves up for the war mentioned in Ezekiel 38 and 39. Without going in to lengthy detail, the nations are aligning themselves up for battle as mentioned in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. These are main Islamic nations along with Russia. It is felt that this war may take place before the tribulation or just after the covenant with the anti-christ is made.
   

Whle there are many more signs that could be pointed out, you can see from these that it is time for us to wake up and take the things of God seriously. The Apostle goes on in Romans 13:12 to say, "The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light." It is time for us to live holy and strive to live according to God's Word. We must constantly examine ourselves and strive to walk closer to him as the day approaches. Jesus said in John 9:4, "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work." This night may come sooner that we think so we must be about our Father's business while we can.

Christlam

"And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." Genesis 28:14

I always wondered how the Moslem religion would be molded into the ecumenical church. I thought, since the Koran and the five pillars of Moslem are so different than Christianity and the Bible, how can they find enough similarities? I am aware that the Pope has reached out to the Moslems and has met with them in the past but how would all this filter down. Well, this afternoon, I learned the answer. It is in the new religion called Christlam. You may have heard of it before but I haven't up until today. It is basically what it sounds; a merge of the Christian religion with the Moslem religion. So, is this of God and is this a true religion or false?

According to sources, it was founded in 1999 by a man named Samson Saka who after making a pilgrimage to Mecca was told by God to make peace between Christians and Moslems. While we are told in the Word of God "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;" Matthew 5:44, we do not love the doctrine of Islam which does not hold Christ as Savior and Lord. Remember, Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6 Yes, it is a narrow way and Christ is the ONLY way, not Mohammad, or any other! "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Matthew 7:14

It is said by those who support this movement that we all pray to God who is a loving God. This is not true as their God, which is Allah, is not the same. See the following:

Allah, as the Quran itself is witness, was well known in pre-Islamic Arabia. Indeed, both it and its feminine form, Allat, are found not infrequently among the theophorous names in inscriptions from North Africa" (Islam: Muhammad, and His Religion, New York: The Liberal Arts Press, 1958, p. 85).

The word "Allah" comes from the compound Arabic word, al-ilah. Al is the definite article "the" and ilah is an Arabic word for "god." It is not a foreign word. It is not even the Syriac word for God. It is pure Arabic. (There is an interesting discussion of the origins of Allah, in "Arabic Lexicographical Miscellanies" by J. Blau in the Journal of Semitic Studies, Vol. XVII, #2, 1972, pp. 173-190).

Neither is Allah a Hebrew or Greek word for God as found in the Bible. Allah is a purely Arabic term used in reference to an Arabian deity. Hastings' Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics I:326, T & T Clark, states:

'"Allah" is a proper name, applicable only to their [Arabs'] peculiar God. '

According to the Encyclopedia of Religion:

'"Allah" is a pre-Islamic name . . . corresponding to the Babylonian Bel' (Encyclopedia of Religion, I:117 Washington DC, Corpus Pub., 1979). Please see the following web site The Cult of the Moon God for more information. From this we can see that Allah and our God or Jehovah are not the same.

Another claim is that we both descended from Abraham. While this is true it is clear that the Jews, whose seed came the Messiah, came through Jacob as seen in the scripture in the beginning.

There are many other points that can be brought out but this is enough to prove that they are not the same. It is Christ and Christ alone. Any Bible reading believer will quickly catch their tricks no matter who sells out to this. Don't fall for something that is not biblical even though so-called Christian leaders are buying into this. Stand on the foundation of Christ as he is the chief cornerstone. While God is a God of love, he will one day judge the earth for sin. "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him." Jude 1:14-15

Stand for the truth. We want to win the precious Moslem people to Christ, not be pulled into the same errors which lead to perdition. For your sake and theirs, stand!

 

Redeeming the Time

"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:16

It's a brand new year and time moves on. we can talk about what has been done (or not done) in 2010 but there are plenty of articles, both Christian and secular that can give more information than we probably want. But when I look at the socialistic, God-hating, sin-loving trend that is moving in our government and society in general, I can only back up and see things from the broad prospective of God's Word. When you're on the ground, you only see the present surroundings that are in your limit of vision but when you are in an airplane, you see how that little area you were in fits into the who picture. That's the way it is when seeig things through God's prospective or through his Word. Political movements to the right are fine but without God's morality and him as the center there is little hope for them to go far or last long. That's why the only solution to our problems in the church and America is revival and faith in his Word.

 

The Christmas season is fun and always a wonderful time, spending time with family and friends. It's a time when there just seems to be a special spirit in the air that is not there the other times of the year. However, when the season is over, it has a way of leaving one spiritually drained so this is now a good time to "redeem the time" and get our prayer and fasting life back in order. Redeeming means, "by payment of a price to recover from the power of another." There are times we will have to fight - not in the physical sense - for our prayer time and press in for study time.

 

The previous verse is also interesting to note: "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise," Circumspectly means "exactly, accurately, diligently" which implies that we should walk as God's Word dictates. The world, of course, doesn't lke it but we also know that the Bible is clear on the outcome of things. All of this is just temporary but God's kingdom is permanent. Hollywood stars and other prominent personalities who have sold out to Satan are getting their due here, but the day will come when Satan will come to collect and then their souls will be damned. We too, will meet certain judgment if we don't take heed to God's word and his commandments. "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Matthew 16:26 We must keep our eyes on the prize of eternal life, not only for us but our loved ones. We must keep our eyes on that which is eternal and that which is noteworthy for Christ. We must keep our eyes on the Word of God, knowing whom we believe and trusting in Him. We must keep our eyes on the only solution to the problems in our churches and country. If we do that, we may just have revival in 2011! Maranatha!!