True Freedom

Today (June 28, 2017) in the news we are hearing about a man who ran his car into a monument of the Ten Commandments that had been placed less than 24 hours prior at the State Capitol of Arkansas after a legal battle was lost by those trying to prevent it. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-arkansas-commandments-idUSKBN19J1XX

Please pray for this narcissistic man who claims to know God yet he shows it by breaking laws, favoring “separation of church and state” (where do you find that in the Bible?) over “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” Philippians 2:14-16 This man just wants attention. He is NOT a true believer, as we can see by his bad fruit. (Galatians 5:16-26)

But please also pray for those utterly lost souls who are celebrating the man’s actions (even while many of them claim not to endorse vandalism, they are still happy the monument has been destroyed). They have rejected the existence of God in favor of their own supremacy. They disapprove of the Ten Commandments because they reject that they are accountable for their behavior–that there is such a thing as right and wrong and that they will have to answer to Someone. They want to be their own “god” by determining right and wrong according to their own “wisdom,” opinion and preference. They are “tolerant” of everyone who agrees with them.

God lets people rebel against Him go their own way when they insist upon it. He doesn’t force us to believe or obey. (Romans 1) The founding fathers’ intention was that we should not be forced to be a particular denomination (or any at all), such as Roman Catholic, Methodist, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, Baptist, etc. They believed in ONE true God who gave us freedom to choose Him for ourselves. They were not atheists, nor were they Buddhists, Hindus, etc. If any of them at some point rejected God, that does not change the fact that God still does exist and our freedoms come from Him, just as every good thing does. (James 1:17, Psalm 89:11)

Breaking a monument does not change anything. The laws of this country were based on the Ten Commandments. God has shown evidence of His existence in our consciences and in nature, as well as in the Bible. (Romans 1, Romans 12:14-16) When people who reject Him as Lord stand before Jesus for sentencing, they WILL understand that they condemned THEMSELVES. (John 3:18, Matthew 12:33-37) This is why we need to pray for them, that God will have mercy and grant them repentance while there is still time, despite their having wasted so many chances already.

Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:23-26

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

We have been so blessed here in America to be free to worship as the founding fathers structured our society, based on the freedoms with which God gifted us. These people are working hard to change that, not knowing they will be the ones hurt by it in the end (as we can already see by so many “freedoms” that have been made the law of the land)–this is all temporary, but afterwards is forever. When their appointment with God comes, and no one knows when their own will be, they will wish to go back in time to give up these “freedoms” they are demanding now and gladly embrace the freedom God offers. They put all of their trust in the wisdom of men, but the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord and so they prove themselves to possess less common sense than innocent children who have the sense to recognize authority over them.

For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. 2 Peter 2:18-19

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:34-36

Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” 1 Corinthians 3:18-20

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever! Psalm 111:10

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes! And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire." Matthew 18:1-9

They can “play god” now if that’s what they think they want. It won’t change anything in the end (at least not the way they hope in their ignorance that it will), but our job is to love even our enemies.

But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?” Romans 9:20

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21

Let me just end with this, though. Those of us who go along with them and call it “love” will also answer to God. We were told to shine our lights, which is speaking the TRUTH in love. We were told to expect to be persecuted by those who don’t know God, not to blend in and compromise.

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:12-13

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,  making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.  Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Ephesians 5:15-17

The Way is Hard

Question: If it's so EASY to get into heaven that all we have to do is claim to believe in Jesus, then why did He say that the way is EASY that leads to destruction and HARD that leads to eternal life? It almost seems like there's more to this, doesn't it? What is hard about saying some words, whether you mean them in your heart or not?

"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.  For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few." Matthew 7:13-14

Jesus goes on to tell us to beware of false prophets. What do they do? Usually one of two things (IF they teach about Jesus as Savior): They either tell us that we need to work for salvation because what Jesus did wasn't enough, or they say that all we need to do is say we believe and then we can go on reveling in our sin as we did before we were "saved." (James 3:10-18)

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.  You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?  So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.  A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  Thus you will recognize them by their fruits." Matthew 7:15-20

Imagine that. God anticipated what false prophets would say, and so He went on to explain that no, just SAYING you believe is NOT enough. He expects you to SHOW that you REALLY believe by respecting Him enough to obey Him. (The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord. Psalm 111:10) He clarifies that "workers of lawlessness" are NOT going to be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven. Some may say they have done wonderful things for God, but they have really been doing those things for themselves in order to get rich and famous. They don't actually KNOW and OBEY God themselves. They are NOT wise at all.

"Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’  And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’" Matthew 7:21-23

Did Jesus just say that? Really? He DOESN'T just want lip service, but for people to actually DO what He says if they claim He is their LORD? Yes, He did. He said it again just in case anyone missed it the first time around:

"Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.  And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it." Matthew 7:24-27

So it's clear by Jesus' own words that He IS the narrow door through which ALL must enter into heaven (or they can't enter AT ALL), but that AFTER He has purchased us with His blood, then He is our Lord and we are to behave as such, doing as He said in the Bible. He asks (in the book of Luke) why anyone would call Him "Lord" if they do not obey Him. Good question! We have some examples of "bad fruit" above and also in the book of Mark below. People who have been born again spiritually into God's kingdom, as His children, do not bear these bad fruits. They are not instantly perfect and they will slip from time to time, but they will be grieved by how their sins displease God, causing them to repent and receive forgiveness and cleansing from Him.

So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep." John 10:7

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

“For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit,  for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush.  The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.  “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?  Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like:  he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.  But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.” Luke 6:43-49

And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him.  For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery,  coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.  All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” Mark 7:20-23

He summarized His commandments into two, because by keeping them, all of the others will be kept. (Romans 13:8-10) This does not mean that the others are not important, but again, that we are not able to keep these two without fulfilling the rest (just as our laws are (used to be?) based on the Ten Commandments, yet there are WAY more than ten, because more practical details are specified as to how to live by them). And so we come full circle to the question of how to enter the kingdom--Jesus tells the scribe who agreed with Him when He made the following statement that he was "not far from the kingdom."

And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?”  Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.  And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’  The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”  And the scribe said to him, “You are right, Teacher. You have truly said that he is one, and there is no other besides him.  And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”  And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And after that no one dared to ask him any more questions. Mark 12:28-34

Let's not try to fool God with lip service as though He doesn't see the things we actually DO, SAY and even knows what we THINK. That is not what someone who has a healthy respect for God would do, unless they have NO IDEA what He is even like. Let's study the Bible to find out what pleases God and then do it with the help of His Holy Spirit within us, out of love and gratitude for what He's already done for us. Amen!

Our guide to bad fruits (not saved) and good fruits (born by those walking in the Holy Spirit):

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,  envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.  And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.  Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:19-26

Let's recap. Jesus provides us with a sparkling white robe of His righteousness when we are born again. He is the ONLY one who could ever do this for us. However, it IS possible for us to use our free will to soil it or even throw it off. We need to ABIDE in Him and the word of God. (John 15) It is His desire that we should bear fruit (behave as though we are His and do good works He prepared for us to)--this brings Him (not us) honor and glory, and that's what we're here for.

“And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.  Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.  Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.  Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.  The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 3:1-6

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. James 1:27

(“Behold, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on, that he may not go about naked and be seen exposed!”) Revelation 16:15

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 

The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. Titus 3:8


In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16


"As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty." Matthew 13:23

The following is absolutely TRUE:

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 

But wait, there's more a little farther down if we keep reading:

You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. Romans 8:9

In today's culture, people have become more and more comfortable with less and less clothing on. Let's remember what God said about the matter and keep our robe of righteousness ON and CLEAN (by abiding in Jesus and His love, by coming to Him for forgiveness and cleansing whenever we have given in to our old sinful nature.)

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.  But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.  If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.  He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.  And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.  Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,  but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:  whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. 1 John 1:5-2:6

He wrote this to BELIEVERS who were deceiving themselves about their spiritual condition:

“And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation.  “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot!  So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.  For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.  I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.  Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.  Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.  The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” Revelation 3:14-22

Robots

I always say that if God wanted robots, He would have made them--but He didn't. He gave us free will--which we LOVE when we are getting our way and HATE when others are getting their way that negatively affects us. But another thought about robots is this: How could a robot possibly be made in His image? Is God a cold, calculating machine? NO! He is a consuming fire. He doesn’t say He wants ALL to be saved and then “program” only some for salvation. The fact that not all ARE saved doesn’t contradict His desire that they all be saved. (1Timothy 2:4, 2Peter 3:9, 2Corinthians 5:18-21, 1John 2:2) No one has “overpowered” Him by rejecting His plan. They have simply chosen to use a gift He gave them (free will) to harm themselves. His decision not to force us to do His will does not make Him any "less sovereign,” but rather, it shows how serious He is about having a TRUE love relationship with us that He would allow us to cause Him unimaginable pain and anguish as we use our free will to rebel against Him, our Maker, without whom there would be NOTHING.

We all need the spiritual Bread of Life (John 6:33-35, 40, 63, 15:3, Ephesians 5:25-27), but God doesn’t force feed us. He OFFERS it and if we prefer to starve ourselves, then that is our choice. I have heard some say that’s like making some “savable” if not all Jesus died for are actually saved, but all have the opportunity to be saved. Some say having to accept it amounts to “works.” No, the Bread is ready to consume–all of Jesus’ work is FINISHED–we don’t “make” the Bread. If someone refuses to EAT the Bread, then that doesn’t make it any less finished and ready to consume, any less offered for the salvation of ALL men. If we offer bread to a homeless person and they refuse to accept it because they prefer cash to buy alcohol with, does that mean we didn’t want to save them from their hunger and we didn’t offer them a way to be saved? Is offering them a loaf of bread the same as offering them materials to use in making their own? (No.) Does it make them “stronger” than us if they reject our offer? No--just foolish, the same way that people are who hear the Good News about Jesus but choose to go their own way rather than following Him. ALL are invited, but they must respond, and there is ONE way to do that (clothe yourselves in Jesus’ righteousness, and keep that clothing ON - Romans 6, Revelation 7:14, 16:15, 19:6-8, 1Corinthians 6:9-20).

And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”’ But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests. “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:1-14

God lets us choose whether to believe in Him, accept His Son's sacrifice to pay for our sins, to honor Him in all we do, or not. If we were robots, then we wouldn’t need all of the exhortations throughout the Bible to believe and be saved, and to seek to please Him first in all we do, think and say. (Some of them are: Mark 1:15, 16:16, Luke 8:9-15, 13:24, John 1:12, John 3:14-21, 36, John 4:39-42. John 5:24, 45-47, John 6:27-29, 35, 40-47, John 7:37-39, John 9:35-41, John 10:37-38, John 11:25-27, John 12:35-50, John 13:19-20, John 14:1, 11, 20:29-30, Acts 10:43, Acts 13:38-39, Acts 16:31, Acts 19:4, Romans 3:21-26, Romans 4:3-8, Romans 9:33, Romans 10:4, 9-17, 1Corinthians 1:21, 2Corinthians 5:20-21, Philippians 3:14-20, Colossians 3, Hebrews 11:6, James 4:7-10, 2:22-23, 1Peter 2:6-8, 1John 3:23, 5:1, 10-13; Titus 3:8, Matthew 6:31-34, 1Corinthians 15:33-34, 2Corinthians 5:14-15, 2Timothy 2:3-7, Ephesians 4-5, 1John 1:5-2:6) Failure or refusal to heed God’s commands results in all kinds of suffering, big and small, on the part of mankind and also on God’s part.

We were born with a sinful nature, through no fault of our own, but we are still without excuse to remain in the sins we inevitably commit, because He sent His only begotten Son to pay the penalty for ALL of our sins. (Romans 5, John 8:24) All we have to do to accept this FREE gift is humble ourselves by admitting we are sinners in need of a Savior, and that He is Lord and we are not. (Romans 10:8-10) So in other words, we STOP rebelling against Him, and CEASE trying to save ourselves, after which we discontinue doing the evil works we formerly did when we were in darkness since we now live in the light of the truth. (John 14:6, 8:2, 12:35, Ephesians 5:8-17, 1John 1:5-10) Is He our Lord or not? Doesn’t that imply He has power over us and we do as He says? We can't DO ANYTHING to save ourselves, but He will not force us to believe OR obey Him. Eventually, everyone WILL see and believe and be forced to bow down and confess He is Lord, but that will not happen until the offer of salvation has ended. (Isaiah 45:22-23, Romans 14:11, Philippians 2:9-11)

Does God leave it up to chance who comes to Him and who doesn’t? Definitely not! There is no such thing as chance to God, because that involves not knowing something and there is NOTHING He doesn’t know, from beginning to end. Nothing happens without His either causing or allowing it. At one time only Jews were beneficiaries of salvation, but now we have received a precious, incredibly valuable gift we could NEVER DO ANYTHING to earn or deserve--but those who reject Him cannot blame Him (2Thessalonians 2:10, contrast John 8:21-25 with John 14), and the rest of us must treat everyone as potentially having their names are in the Book of Life. Jesus died for the sins of ALL and commissioned us to tell the Good News to everyone. (Matthew 28:16-20) Blessed are those with “an ear to hear.” (Matthew 13:1-43, Mark 4:1-33, Luke 8:4-18, 14:34-35, John 10:27, Acts 28:28, Revelation 2-3) God doesn’t harden someone’s heart and cause someone to “stop hearing” Him for no reason. He eventually leaves them to go their own way because they insist upon it. (Romans 8:18-32)

How amazing is it that God would prefer to suffer because of His creation rather than having an end result that is not genuine? (John 4:23, Matthew 15:7-11, Isaiah 40:6, 1Chronicles 28:9, Matthew 22:36-37) Talk about pain and anguish not "only" on the cross, but in all that led up to it, plus every time we make a choice using our free will to go against His will and His way, grieving Him. He is perfect in every way, including wisdom, power and love. He is all good, and His nature is not too much or too little of any virtue. We can trust Him. Putting our trust in anyone or anything but Him is utter folly. If we disobey out of ignorance, that's sad. If we do it out of rebellion, that's evil. (Luke 12:47-48, James 4:17)

The children of God were not meant to live in ignorance, accepting the wicked ways of the world and loving those ways. (2John 2:15-17, James 4:4, 1John 4:5-6, 2Timothy 3:12-17) We were meant to be set apart, gradually conformed to the image of Jesus by the inner working of the Holy Spirit. When we yield to Him, He makes us fit for honorable service to God. (Romans 8:29-30, 12:1-2, 2Corinthians 5:17, 2Corinthians 4:10-11, 2Corinthians 6:14-18, 2Timothy 2:19-26, 1Peter 1:13-19) When we resist Him, then discipline may be necessary to accomplish God’s purposes and plans for us. (Hebrews 12:5-8, Revelation 3:19) If we reject that discipline, we hurt ourselves (and quite probably those around us). Now would be a good time to really examine ourselves to be sure that we understand God's will and confirm that we are abiding IN Christ. (2Corinthians 13:5, 2 Peter 1:5-12)

Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. (John 15, Matthew 7:15-27, Hebrews 6:7-9) The branches that bear no fruit [of the Spirit*] will be cut off and burned, and those are not my words, but God's. Does He mean burned in hell or does He mean burned in the furnace of affliction, trial by fire, refined like gold? (Isaiah 48:10, Daniel 12:10, Revelation 3:18-19, Romans 8:16-18, 1Peter 1:6-7**) Does either one sound pleasant? If you don't believe in Jesus, then you can be sure that the fire is eternal. (Revelation 20:11-15, Matthew 9:42-48, Matthew 18:6-9, Matthew 25:41-46, John 3:18, 2Thessalonians 1:8-10, Romans 1:21-32) If you do believe, then behave like you are the child of God that you claim to be. (1John 3:6-10, Galatians 6:7-10) Wake up and be ready for Jesus’ return!

*For starters on what pleases God, see Galatians 5:16-26, 2Peter 1:5-12, Romans 12 (all), Colossians 1:9-10, Hebrews 13:15-17, Matthew 5:13-16 ("salt" must include God's truth or it has lost its saltiness just as a lamp under a bushel doesn't give light to the darkness), Matthew 7 (do not "choose" between Matthew 7:1 and Matthew 7:5, 18:15-17), Luke 6:20-49 (do not ignore Luke 17:3 in favor of Luke 6:37), Romans 6, 1Corinthians 6, 2Corinthians 9:6-12, Luke 17:1-10, Ephesians 2:10, 1Timothy 6:17-19, Titus 2 (all), Titus 3:8-11, James (whole book), 1Peter 3:1-17, 1Peter 2:11-24. (Or just read the whole New Testament.)

Notice how much of the Bible we would have to disregard if we want to support a position that God doesn't expect obedience from His children. No, He has told us repeatedly that IF we are His (and the Bible is written to believers) that we will show our love for Him by obeying Him. See John 14-15, 1John (whole book). Faith comes by hearing the word. (Romans 10:17) We come to faith through God's grace this way and we abide IN Jesus by remaining IN the word and obeying, which is what is meant by abiding in His love. (John 15:3 and entire chapter, pay attention to John 15:9-10.) This is not "works" to save ourselves or legalism, but respect and love for our Savior. This is showing that we mean what we say--that we're not hypocrites trying to fool God. (Galatians 6:7-10, 2Timothy 2:19-26, James 2:14, Hebrews 11:17-31, James 2:19-26, 2Corinthians 5:9-10)

**There is a difference between trials, tribulations, persecutions, etc. and God's wrath. The first is for the good of believers for their refinement and purification (to the extent NECESSARY in each case according to God's perfect evaluation–God will not allow anyone to be tried beyond their endurance - 1Peter 5:6-10, 1Corinthians 10:9-15 - relying on His strength is the key to overcoming - 2Corinthians 12:9-10, Philippians 4:13). The second (God’s wrath) is for destruction of the ungodly, of the children of the devil (like in Egypt when the Israelites were spared the killing of the firstborn and Jesus is our Passover Lamb - John 1:29). We do not suffer GOD'S wrath. (1Thessalonians 5:9)

Everyone will be salted with fire. (Mark 9:42-50, Hebrews 10:23-39) Did you know that in Old Testament times, salt was offered on the altar with each sacrifice? (Leviticus 2:13, Ezekiel 43:24) We now offer living, spiritual sacrifices and they must STILL include salt. (Romans 12:1, 1Peter 2:1-5, Matthew 5:13-16) We must pursue peace and holiness to see the Lord. (All of Hebrews 12, Matthew 5:1-12) God hasn’t changed (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8)–He still hates sin, but now that the time has come, we have a way to be forgiven and to overcome–ALL His doing. (Galatians 4:4-5) All we have to do is use His gift of free will to cooperate with Him instead of using it to fight against Him as we did before we were saved. The only thing anyone has to boast about is what God has done for them. (Romans 3:27, 1Corinthians 1:27-31, Galatians 6:14, Ephesians 2:8-10)

There is coming a time when there will be such great signs and wonders that EVERYONE whose name is not written in the Book of Life will be deceived into worshiping a false god (“beast”) and taking a mark in order to buy and sell (i.e. survive). (Revelation 13, 2Thessalonians 2:9-12, Matthew 24:24) Those people who do so will be thrown in the Lake of Fire at the end of the age. (Revelation 14:9-13) This coming time period is called "the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth." (Revelation 3:10, Revelation 17:12-14) Out of seven churches in Revelation 2-3, Jesus told ONE that He would keep them from the hour of trial, because they had ALREADY endured, not denying Him despite persecution for His sake. Notice in Revelation 17:14 that Jesus will be returning WITH those who are called, faithful and chosen to destroy the beast. (Revelation 19, Revelation 20:1-6)

Now I know that people like to point out the distinction between the church and Israel. It is true that two great mysteries of the ages are that God would save the Gentiles AND indwell believers with His Holy Spirit. (Colossians 1:27, Ephesians 3:6, 4:3-6, Romans 8:9, 1Peter 1:10-12, 1Peter 2:10, Revelation 10:5-7) We are members of His body (Romans 12:5, 1Corinthians 12:12, 27, Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18) However, Gentiles (people not born Jews, “wild olive tree branches”) are GRAFTED IN to Israel’s “cultivated olive tree.” (Romans 9-11) The original tree doesn’t become the kind of the branches that were grafted into it, does it? The result is ONE cultivated olive tree, or ONE new man. (Ephesians 2:11-22) We are adopted as God’s children, not to replace His other children, but to become part of the same family. (Romans 8:12-23, 9:4-5, Galatians 4:3-9, Ephesians 1:3-14) The kingdom in this age was given to people who would produce its fruit after Israel refused to shine her light as God intended and worse yet, rejected Jesus as Messiah. We are blessed due to their disobedience and because of the grace shown to us, they will also be blessed after the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. (John 10:16, Acts 28:28, Matthew 21:43, John 12:34-50, Romans 10:16-21, Isaiah 53, Isaiah 65, Isaiah 49:4-6, Romans 15:18-21, 1Peter 2:7-10, Romans 11:11-32)

Great promises were made to the overcomers in the other six churches in the letters of Revelation 2-3--who were NOT told they would be spared the “hour of trial,” but which calls for great endurance. (Revelation 13:9-10, 14:9-13, Daniel 7:25-27, 11:32-35, Revelation 15:2) God tells His children to "Come out of Babylon!" and to "escape to Zion." (Zechariah 2:7, Jeremiah 50:28-32, Jeremiah 51:45, Revelation 18:4, Jeremiah 51:35, Revelation 17:6, Revelation 6:9-11, Jeremiah 51:41, Revelation 18:9-20, Jeremiah 51:48-49, Revelation 18:6, 24) Notice how God has made sure we can understand that this is not only historical because of the reference in Revelation 18, which was written that we may know what is going to happen. (Matthew 24:25, Amos 3:7, Revelation 1:1-3) We can clearly see that there are many prophecies as yet unfulfilled. For example, Revelation 20 refers to Jesus reigning over an earthly kingdom for 1,000 years of peace. This is the same time period mentioned by the Old Testament prophets in Isaiah 11, Isaiah 65, Zechariah 8, Zechariah 14, to name a few passages.

Jesus has overcome the world and death. (John 16:33, Romans 6:9) However, only those who are IN Him (do not claim Romans 8:1 apart from Romans 8:9, John 15:8-14, 1John 2:28-29) will receive glorified bodies prior to the millennium (the first resurrection, Revelation 20), and by His power, everyone CAN overcome. We don’t need to rely on our own strength to hold on to Him, but that doesn’t mean that He won’t LET us go if we prefer our own way even after tasting how good He is. (John 10:28-30, Hebrews 6:4-12) If we love God (as He is, from His own words in the Bible) and our brothers and sisters in the Lord, we have nothing to fear. (1John 4:16-21, 2Timothy 4:7-8) Jesus will return and reign until all of His enemies are at His feet, including the last to be completely vanquished, death. (1Corinthians 15:12-28) Since there is still some death during the millennial reign, we can see that there is a gap between the first resurrection and the end when Jesus hands over the Kingdom to His Father and the “eternal day” begins (2Peter 3:18, Revelation 22:5)--just as there is a gap between Jesus’ victory and ascension to heaven and His return to reign. (Revelation 11:15-19)

We spiritually transfer our “residence” from earthly Babylon to heavenly Zion when we are born of God, and we do not continue "residing" in Babylon or “move back” there. (Philippians 3:17-21, Colossians 1:13-14, Hebrews 11:13-16, Hebrews 12:22-24, Psalm 87 - notice the reference to Rahab who hid the spies at Jericho? Her actions ("works") evidenced her fear of the one, true God. She believed first and then obeyed. If she had merely said she would hide them, but then betrayed them, it would NOT have been counted to her as righteousness. This is true of ALL of the giants of the faith in the Bible). Also Col. 1:9-23 - continue in the faith steadfastly, NOT shifting from the hope of the gospel - does anyone actually think God wants us to prove we are putting all of our hope in Him by behaving like unbelievers? How would that be light and salt? Is it wise to run from him? The father did not run after the prodigal son in the parable Jesus told. Does God contradict Himself or change His mind? Also see Romans 8:14-17, John 1:12-13, Galatians 3:26-27, Philippians 2:12-16, 1John 3:1-3, 2Timothy 4:18, Hebrews 3:1-6 - again, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and hope; Revelation 14:1-5 - these [overcomers] follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, wherever He goes and have His name written on them. John 10:2-16, 1Thessalonians 4:17, Revelation 3:12, 12:11, 17:14, 19:7-16; firstfruits - Revelation 14:4, Romans 8:23, James 1:18)

There is NO other way to be saved apart from Jesus (John 14:6, 10:9), and AFTER we have received the precious GIFT of faith and salvation, we don't go running back to wallow in the mire, having been cleansed with the precious blood of Jesus, our Savior, the SON OF GOD. (2Peter 2:17-22, 2Peter 1:9-11) He didn’t say believe and then go back to what we were doing before we believed and wait for His return. (Luke 9:57-62) He said to FOLLOW Him and to stay awake and watch so that we can be ready. (Matthew 24:42, 25:13, 26:41, Mark 13:33-35, Luke 12:37-38, 21:36, Romans 13:11, 1Corinthians 15:34, 1Thessalonians 5:6, Revelation 3:2-3, 16:15) If we truly believe, then let’s encourage one another to DO what the Bible says.

Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God. Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; for “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever.” And this word is the good news that was preached to you. 1 Peter 1:13-25

Also if we truly believe, then let’s not play games with other people’s souls by telling them lies because that’s what they like to hear. People these days protect themselves from the truth to preserve the views they embrace. They lobby for laws to label beliefs they don’t embrace as “hate speech” and they run to “safe areas” where they will not be “hurt” by anyone’s speech that disagrees with their views. They call names and spout “facts” with no basis, relying on the wisdom of men. (Matthew 5:10-12, Luke 6:26, 1Corinthians 1:18-31, 1Corinthians 3:18-23) If they claim to be believers, they twist the Bible to say what they want it to say (2Timothy 3:1-7, 4:3-4, 2Peter 3:14-18, Romans 1:18, Romans 2:1-11, Philippians 2:14-16, Titus 3:8-11) and accuse anyone who disagrees with their revised version of being archaic. They think God has changed with the times the way that the culture has–the way they would LIKE Him to. (Ephesians 5:8-20, 1Peter 4:7-8, 2Timothy 2:22-26, 1Peter 4:1-5) Their feeble, tired arguments about the Old Testament foreshadows of the new covenant (Colossians 2:17) and the way they even ignore clear passages in the New Testament condemning their evil practices and those they approve of reveal how little of the Scriptures they understand, and apparently, how little they value God’s word. They deliberately lump true Christians in with fanatics whose actions do not line up with the Bible in order to discredit everyone who doesn’t compromise the truth. (1Peter 2:15-16, Titus 2:7-8)

How do we react? Do we continue speaking the truth in love and stand up for Jesus and our brothers and sisters in the Lord who do the same? (2Timothy 1:8, 2Timothy 1:16-17, 1Peter 4:16-19) No, many of us distance ourselves from anyone who is under attack and we remain silent in order not to draw attention to ourselves. It’s much easier. No one likes to be thought of as a “villain.” People think we’re “nice” if we go along with the flow. Let me just say this: NO ONE who ends up in hell because they relied on a version of God they invented in their own heads who doesn’t exist will be grateful for that kind of “love” shown to them in this short lifetime as they are sentenced to eternal punishment. They will accuse us of not warning them not to rely on a “god” who is their own invention and cannot save them. We need to look at the big, eternal picture and make sure there is no blood on our hands. “I wish I had not missed out on so much ‘fun’ because of making Jesus my highest priority in life,” said NO ONE, EVER after they went home to be with Jesus. We need to think of how we’ll feel when we stand before Him and explain why we were not willing to suffer for His sake–that we didn’t love people’s souls the way He did (and still does) and expected (expects) us to do. (Mark 8:38, Luke 9:26, Romans 1:16, 1John 2:28, Revelation 11:18)

Jesus is the ONLY way (Galatians 1:4, John 10:17-18, 1John 2:23), and those who truly believe will show fruits of the Spirit (His Spirit, who dwells IN us - the Holy Spirit does NOT contradict the Bible, EVER, so He will not teach us to approve of sins that God hates! He empowers us to OVERCOME, just as Jesus instructed the churches to do in Revelation 2-3). This is not to say we are lost if we slip, or that we work to retain salvation. It means that if we have been bought with the precious blood of Jesus, then we will live so as to please Him now and forever–out of gratitude, respect and love. (1Corinthians 6:18-20, Acts 20:28, 1Peter 1:17-19, Revelation 5:9, 1John 4:18)

We need to examine our motives for every single thing we do or refrain from doing. ALL is to be for the glory of our mighty God. (Colossians 3:23-25) We who belong to Jesus follow Him, not the world or false teachers who claim to be spiritual (anything goes) or religious (legalism, rote, ritual). (John 8:30-47, John 10:24-30, John 15:18-23, Galatians 2:11-14, Galatians 5 - note both legalism and self-indulgence are condemned, Colossians 2:16-23 - see the last part about how outward appearances of godliness do not stop us from indulging our flesh–the point isn’t that it’s okay to indulge the flesh, but that God wants TRUE faith lived out, not just going through the motions to “look” religious or spiritual, 2Timothy 3:1-7, 2Peter 3:1-3, Romans 13:11-14) Fear is NOT an acceptable reason for a Christian to do anything (or fail to do as we should). We are to fear ONLY God and nothing and no one else. (Matthew 10:24-28, Luke 12:5, Acts 5:29, Galatians 1:10) Let's choose to give ALL of our allegiance and devotion to the King of kings. It's easier said than done, but with God’s help we CAN overcome.

Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love of the brethren, a tender heart and a humble mind. Do not return evil for evil or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing. For "He that would love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking guile; let him turn away from evil and do right; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those that do evil." Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is right? But even if you do suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to make a defense to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence; and keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are abused, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing right, if that should be God's will, than for doing wrong. 1 Peter 3:8-17

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