The Seven Churches Part Two

 

The Seven Churches Part Two

Rev 3:1 "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, 'These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. 4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. 6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '

Like many churches today, the church at Sardis had a name that it was alive, but it was dead. The Lord told them that He found their works not to be perfect before God. The Lord instructed them to repent, and to strengthen the things, which remain that are ready to die. The Lord told me once that most churches in America are dead, dying, or buried. The revelation that the Lord has given me concerning the apostasy within Christianity shook me to the core. A number of years ago I had an experience that felt like my spirit left my body. I found myself caught up to a place of white milky light. The Lord spoke to me concerning the apostasy, as well as the counterfeit ministers who are wolves in sheep’s clothing. The Lord instructed me to teach sound doctrine, as well as to expose the heretics. Through many visions, dreams, and audible words, the Lord has shown me that pastors are failing to teach their flocks to get sin out of their lives. This grace for everything doctrine is the apostasy (great falling away). Grace is not automatic; it requires repentance.

However, our good works are not enough to get us to Heaven. We must be redeemed (purchased) by the blood of the Lamb. Our Lord Jesus Christ made atonement for our sins upon the cross. Since our works can never be good enough for salvation, Christ supplies our lack. If we truly make Christ our Lord, His blood will atone for past and present sins, but this requires true repentance. If Jesus Christ is truly your Lord, you will have a spiritual transformation known as being born again. You will be buried with Christ in baptism and raised with Christ as a new creation. You will die to your old sinful nature and reflect God’s divine attributes. We are not perfect by any means, but if we continue in sinful bondages and do not repent, we will be cast away. If you are truly saved, then you must produce good works, as well as fruit. Christ told the church at Sardis that their works were not perfect before God; this emphasizes how crucial our works are.

Christ said to the church at Sardis, “Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.” The messages to the seven churches emphasizes the point that the overcomers will inherit the kingdom, and those who refuse to repent will be thrust into the great tribulation. We must remain awake and watch, as well as prepare for Christ’s return. Christ will return immediately after the great tribulation. Many of the overcomers will be hidden and protected by the Lord in the wilderness during the tribulation (Rev 12).

Christ said that there were a few names in Sardis who had not defiled their garments. The faithful ones would be clothed in white. Verse 5 states, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” This verse shows that our names can be blotted out of the Book of Life if we do not remain faithful to the Lord. The overcomers are those who remain firm in their faith, as well as live a sanctified life unto the end.

Rev 3:7 "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, 'These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens": 8 I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. 9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie--indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. 10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. 12 He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '

The Lord praised the church at Philadelphia, because they kept His word and did not deny his name. Therefore, the Lord opened a door for them that no one could shut. They persevered in their faith in spite of persecution from the Jews. Therefore, the Lord said that He would make the Jews worship at their feet, as well as would keep them out of the tribulation. It is obvious that the tribulation did not occur during their time. The message to the seven churches is a dual prophecy. The exhortation to each church is also for us today. If a person is surrendered to the Lord, a door will be opened to them for eternal life, as well as an intimate relationship with Christ. The Lord will protect those during the tribulation who persevere in their faith in spite of adversity. God did not rapture Noah out of the earth or build the ark for him. Rather, God instructed Noah to build the ark, and because of Noah’s obedience, we are here today. Although it took Noah 120 years to build the ark, he persevered and believed God. There is a reward for simple childlike faith. Abraham believed God and his faith was considered righteousness. God told Abraham to leave his home country of Ur and go to a new land. Abraham believed God and set out for this new land because God told him to. In Genesis 15, because of Abraham’s faithfulness God made a covenant with Abraham to give this land to his descendants. If we are faithful to God’s word, as Noah and Abraham were, we will pray and seek the Lord as to where to relocate to ride out the coming storm. If you are in the wrong location, God will not protect you where you are. I believe that God is raising up people who will be guides into the wilderness for His children. Like the early Christians in the book of Acts, Christians will need to band together and share their resources, as well as skills to survive.

In verse 11, Christ said to hold fast to what you have, that no one may take your crown. It is very important that Christians remain in the faith, as well as avoid false doctrines. There are many heretics, false prophets, as well as unsound teachers, which will lead you astray if you are not grounded in God’s Word. That is why it is vital that we study God’s Word for ourselves, and not take a minister’s interpretation as fact. We must remain faithful to the Lord unto the end to receive the crown of eternal life. If it were not possible to be led astray, or lose your salvation, Christ would not have said, “let no one take your crown.”

Rev 3:14 "And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, 'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'--and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked-- 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

The church of Laodicea was very similar to the churches today, because they compromised their faith. The Lord said, “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”  True Christianity does not merely believe in Jesus, it is a lifestyle. If we live, dress, talk, as well as act like the sinful world, we deny our faith, and bring shame upon the name of Christ. I watched a video on YouTube that showed girls in short shorts trying to evangelize the Amish. They did not believe that the Amish were saved because they did not understand their culture. The truth is that the Amish could teach these girls about modesty, as well as holiness. If a person from one hundred years ago, walked the streets of America, as well as attended modern churches today, they would be shocked at what they witnessed. The lewdness of our culture is well displayed within the lives of those who profess to know Christ.

 Many Christians watch television shows and movies filled with profanity, sex, violence, and the occult. If Christians would get rid of their televisions, as well as certain books, they would rid their homes of demons. Many movies and books are a portal for demonic activity to enter your homes and lives. God, as well as His house, are disrespected when women wear mini-skirts to church. Christians represent Christ, and we are to be role models for the world. If there is compromise in our lifestyle, then God will vomit us out like the lukewarm church of Laodicea. Christ told the Laodiceans, that he wished that they were either cold or hot, but because they were lukewarm, he would vomit them out. When some people first come to Christ, they may be cold at first, but they are expected to grow up spiritually. God gives us grace to grow from milk to strong meat. In time, a Christian is expected to become spiritually hot (mature) in the Lord. If you are only lukewarm, then you are compromising your faith, by reflecting the culture and not Christ. Some churches teach that God is progressive. They believe that as our culture becomes more wicked, God gives more grace for sins committed by His children. This is opposite to what the Bible teaches. God, as well as His standards, does not change with time. God is still the Ancient of Days and he will not be mocked.

The Laodiceans were corrupted by their wealth, and were probably lovers of pleasure more than God. The Lord told them that they were wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. Verse 18, “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” The Lord instructed the Laodiceans to be zealous and repent. He said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.” Many people today are blinded by the god of materialism. They seek after nice houses, expensive vehicles, fun vacations, or power positions in their community or on their jobs. Most people are comfortable and do not give God or His ways a second thought. God’s Word tells us that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. Christ said, that you cannot serve God and money because only one will be your master. However, it is not a sin to be rich, if you are generous with your money by helping the poor, as well as supporting God’s ministry work. There are people in the Bible that God blessed with wealth, Job, Hezekiah, David, Solomon, Abraham are but a few. These men put God and His kingdom first, and God blessed them for it. However, most people love their money and possessions more than anyone, including God. Greed mingled with selfishness will lead a person down the path of destruction. That is why we all need to do an introspection of our heart, to see where our treasure is. Do we lay up our treasure in Heaven, or on the earth? Do we love and serve God, or money?                       

    

       

               

 

 

The Seven Churches Part One

 

The Seven Churches Part One

 

Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent. 6 But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." '

Christ’s message to the seven churches in Asia Minor emphasizes the necessity of Godly works. Most churches today avoid sound doctrine in order to please their tithers, the result is that they are shutting people out of the Kingdom of Heaven. The books of 1 and 2 Peter, James, Epistles of John, as well as Revelation 2 and 3, are ignored by most because they conflict with the false grace message that tickles the ears of many. The Apostle Paul was making his case that we are saved by Faith, and not by keeping the Law of Moses, because we are under a new covenant. Many churches twist some of his teachings in order to bring about a comfortable doctrine that gives grace for un-repented sins. However, Paul made it very clear that if we continue in sinful bondages and do not cross the finish line, we will be lost. To have a complete understanding of God’s Word, you must study the entire Bible and not scripture pick.

 To the church at Ephesus Christ said, Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent. Like many Christians today, the Ephesians were beginning to compromise with the world and were considered unfaithful to Christ. Christ said, that if you love him you will keep his commandments. When Christians take on the attributes of the sinful culture, they are committing spiritual adultery; unless they repent, they will be lost. Christ said that unless the Ephesians repented, he would remove their lampstand from its place before the throne of God. This passage alone makes it clear that Christians can fall from grace, because of un-repented of sinful compromise. That is why it is important that we examine ourselves daily and repent of willful sins. There is grace for sins committed in ignorance, as well as for sins that are repented of, but grace is not automatic. Christ told the Ephesians, not only to repent, but also to do the first works. The first works is a reference to being born again. When we first come to Christ, we die to our old nature and become a new creation through heartfelt repentance. Unless a believer has a transformed life, they are not truly born again. This passage indicates that when we backslide, we are in need of another born again experience. In verse 7, Christ said, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." This verse is clear that the overcomers will inherit the Kingdom of God. An overcomer is one who endures unto the end and crosses the finish line. You must keep the faith, as well as live a sanctified life until the day you die, to enter God’s paradise.

Rev 2: 8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, “These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 I know your  , tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." '

The message to the church of Smyrna was one of hope. The Lord was pleased with them because they remained true to Him in spite of persecution. Although they were poor monetarily, they were rich in Spirit. The Lord told them to remain faithful to Him unto death and He would give them the crown of life. The message to the church of Smyrna is also for the many persecuted Christians around the world. There are many home churches in communist China that meet in secret. If they are caught, many will be imprisoned in hard labor camps, where many will die from sickness or malnutrition. The same was true of the former Soviet Union, as well as eastern Europe. In India, as well as the Islamic nations, Christians risk their lives daily for their faith. Many believers have their homes and churches burned to the ground. In spite of the persecution, Christianity is growing and true revival is occurring among the oppressed. When a person must risk their life or imprisonment for their faith, then God’s Spirit makes them strong. The persecuted church is an example of selfless, true Christianity.

 Rev 2:12 "And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write, ' these things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword: 13 I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. 15 Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. 16 Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it." '

The saints in Pergamos lived in a very evil place. The Lord said that Satan’s throne was in that place. Although wickedness was all around them, many within Pergamos kept their faith and God commended them for this. However, the Lord said that some of them held to the doctrine of Balaam. They ate things sacrificed to idols and some were given over to sexual immorality. The Lord told them to repent, or else he would come to them quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth. We live in a perverted culture that is bound by sexual lust of all kinds. Many within the churches, including pastors, are addicted to pornography.

 A home Bible study group leader, made a comment that shocked me. He quoted the statistics of how many pastors admitted to being addicted to pornography within a prominent denomination. He asked the group, “Do you know why so many pastors are addicted to pornography?” He then said,” Because they are only human that is why.” I was shocked that this leader, within a thousand member church, would sanction the use of pornography. This was the same attitude of some of the members of the church at Pergamos. The Lord obviously did not wink at their sin, and say it is okay because you are only human. The Lord told them that unless they repent, He would fight against them with the sword of His mouth. This statement means that they would suffer the judgments of His wrath during the Great Tribulation. There are many other scriptures concerning sexual immorality within God’s Word. Each passage makes it clear, that the sexually immoral will not enter the Kingdom of God. Greasy grace Christianity will give you a fatal heart attack.

Rev 2:18 "And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, 'These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass: 19 I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first. 20 Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. 21 And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent. 22 Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. 23 I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works. 24 Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. 25 But hold fast what you have till I come. 26 And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations-- 27 'He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels'--as I also have received from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star. 29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '

Like Pergamos, the Church at Thyatira was given over to sexual immorality and eating foods sacrificed to idols. A woman referred to as a Jezebel, who called herself a prophetess, was teaching and seducing God’s servants to commit these grave sins. The Lord who searches the hearts and minds of everyone, had harsh words for those who refused to repent. The Lord said that He would cast this Jezebel into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into the great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. The Lord also said that He will kill her children with death, and He will give to each one of you according to your works. As you can read, works do entirely matter. James states that, as the body is dead without the spirit, so faith without works is dead. In addition, at the great white throne judgment, each person will be judged according to their works. On that day, the sheep will be separated from the goats. In verses 25, 26, Christ said, And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations. These verses, emphasize the point, that the overcomers are those who keep His works until the end. That is why it is vital, that Christians understand that they must keep the faith, as well as good works unto the end.                             

 

Love One Another

 

Love One Another

1 Cor 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. 13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

 

As Christians, we are called to be a reflection of our Lord Jesus Christ. If we are indwelt with God’s Holy Spirit, then we should have God’s divine nature and attributes present within our lives. As the moon reflects light from the sun, we should reflect the light of the Son. God’s Word tells us that the Law and the Prophets are fulfilled, if we love God, as well as love our neighbor as our self. Christ is our example of selfless love. Although Christ was God, he left his throne in glory, became a man, and humbled himself to the death upon the cross. Upon the cross he said, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” Christ taught us to love our enemies, and to do good to those who wrong us. We should imitate Christ and have this same selfless love for our neighbors.

It is sometimes hard to have love for our fellow coworkers, students, or even family members, but with Christ, all things are possible. If you are feeling anger or bitterness toward someone, I encourage you to pray for them, as well as pray that God will help you see them through His eyes. I always ask the Lord to help me to look beyond someone’s faults and see the need. We live in a fallen world and we all have faults, which is why it is important not to be critical of others. However, we must be born again to be truly saved. We must put to death our old nature and become a new sanctified creation in Christ. If we continue in sinful bondages then we deny both the Father, as well as the Son.

1 John 3:3-10 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 4 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.  5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.  6 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.  8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.  9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 10 In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother.

1 Corinthians 13 is known as the love chapter. The first three verses of this chapter show the importance of love. It states that you may have the gifts of tongues, prophecy, and faith, feed the poor, and be willing to have your body burned, but without love, it profits you nothing. Galatians 5 lists the fruits of the Spirit and love is stated to be the most important fruit. Many people are into good works, but if their works are not from a sincere heart, filled with love, then they are in vain. Chapter 13 also states that love is patient, kind and keeps no record of wrongs (KJV). Sometimes it is hard to be patient with children, as well as many adults, but true love is longsuffering. Love does not envy, nor is it arrogant, love puts the needs of others before it’s own. Verse seven states that love, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Without Christ, it is impossible to have this kind of love, but through the indwelling Holy Spirit, this is possible.      

 The entire world is a mission field and the Lord does not require us to be eloquent speakers to share our faith. True love will compel us to share our faith. We can plant seeds of faith with those around us. It's not up to us for them to believe, it is the job of the Holy Spirit to convict them of sin and lead them to the truth, but we should utilize every opportunity to plant seeds of truth. One person may plant a seed, then another will come and water that new tender shoot, then another will harvest the crop and bring it into the storehouse (Luke 8:5-18).

The golden law is, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” God’s Word teaches us, that if we forgive others their trespasses against us, the Lord will also forgive us our trespasses (Matt 6:14). In addition, if we show mercy to others, then the Lord will show mercy to us. God’s Word is clear, that the Lord will judge each of us, based on how we treat our fellow man.

 Matt 5:22-24, says that if we are angry with our brother without a cause we shall be in danger of the judgment, if we call him Raca (dumb head, or idiot), we shall be in danger of the council, and if we call him a fool, we shall be in danger of hell fire. God expects his children to pursue peace with all men, and name-calling, which results from anger, is forbidden with God. God’s Word also says that it is possible to be angry and not sin, but we are not to let the sun go down upon our wrath. In other words, we are to make peace, as soon as possible with the trespasser. If they refuse to make peace, we are to still forgive them in our heart before the day is ended. Bitterness dries up the bones according to God’s Word. It is also a medical fact, that people who are angry and bitter a lot, are candidates for cancer, heart attacks, strokes, as well as other diseases. The root of bitterness will lead to hate, which is the same as the sin of murder according to Christ. In verses 23 and 24, Christ said, that when you bring your gift to the alter, and then remember that your brother has something against you, go and be reconciled with your brother then come and offer your gift. This passage shows that grudges against others, will hurt your relationship with the Lord, as well as cut you off from his blessings. Quiet often, not forgiving others will also block a person from healings, as well as hinder their prayers from being answered. Matt 18:21 Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. In this passage, Christ was telling Peter that we are to forgive our brothers sins against us, countless times. We are to have the mind of Christ, and follow his example. Since Christ gives us grace, we should also extend grace to our fellow man, who is also created in God’s image.

Matt 18:23-35, Is the parable of the unforgiving servant. Christ said, that the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who had a servant who owed him ten thousand talents. The servant pleaded with the king to have mercy on him, and not to sell him and his family. The king chose to have mercy upon this servant, and to release him, as well as forgive his debt. This servant then went to one of his fellow servants who owed him money, and grabbed him by the throat, and demanded to be paid in full. This servant fell at his feet and begged him to have patience, but he refused to have mercy upon this servant. Instead, he had his fellow servant thrown in jail, until he was paid in full. Then the king had this wicked servant delivered to the tortures because he refused to have compassion upon his fellow servant. Verse 35 states, “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”

In response to the question, “who is my neighbor?” Christ taught the parable of the Good Samaritan. Christ said that there was a man who went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and left him half-dead.  A priest and a Levite, passed by him on the other side of the road and would not help him. But, a certain Samaritan saw him and had compassion for him. The Samaritan bandaged his wounds, poured oil, and wine on them, and brought him to an inn. He paid the innkeeper to care for the man until he returned. Christ said that the true neighbor was the Samaritan, because he showed mercy to the man who fell among thieves. Christ also said to go and do likewise.

 Many people nowadays are very self-centered and the needs of others are of no importance. In a city that I once lived near, I was told of a man who died from a heart attack, while parked on the side of a road. The man was slumped over the steering wheel in broad daylight, on a very busy, well-traveled road, and no one stopped to check on him. The physician who examined the body said that the man would have probably lived if someone had helped him. This is an example of the selfishness that exists in our modern world. We need good Samaritans that are willing to take the time to help those in need. I have also heard many stories of good neighbors, who risked their lives to pull people out of burning cars or homes. I know of a non- believer who was willing to open up their home to a homeless family, when their Christian family members refused to. This non-believer displayed mercy for this family and proved to be a good Samaritan, while the Christian family members were willing to let their family go to a homeless shelter. God will bless those who show mercy to others. In our modern culture, we are taught that our money belongs to us and we have no responsibility to help the less fortunate. The truth is quite the opposite; God’s Word teaches that if we neglect the needy, we will not enter God’s kingdom. James taught that faith without works is dead. James states, that if you see your brother or sister naked, or hungry, and say to them, “be warm and filled,” but do not give him what he needs, then your faith is dead.

 James 2:14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

I admire the good work of ministries like the Salvation Army, homeless shelters, and food banks. They show the love of Christ to the hungry and homeless, by living what they preach. My wife and I used to do volunteer work for a Salvation Army homeless shelter and it was very fruitful. A person is more likely to listen to your testimony, if you are showing loving kindness toward them, rather than begging for their money. If the church would learn to be givers, rather than takers, then we would see a large harvest of souls overnight. The wheat and the tares grow together in Christianity, but the day is coming when the tares will be removed, and cast into the fire. Consider Christ’s teaching on the separation of the sheep and the goats on judgment day. The sheep, who enter God’s kingdom, are those who have fed the hungry, gave water to the thirsty, gave shelter to the stranger, clothed the naked, visited the sick and prisoner. The goats that go into punishment are those who have NOT done these things for their fellow man. If we claim to know Christ, we should have love, accompanied by action, for our fellow man. I encourage you to be a good Samaritan and reach out with the love of Christ to a hurting world!

Luke 10:29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 Then Jesus answered and said: "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.  31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.  32 Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.  33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.  34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, 'Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.' 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" 37 And he said, "He who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

 

 Matt 25:31 "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.  33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'  37 Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' 40 And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' 41 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire  prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' 44 Then they also will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' 45 Then He will answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."  

 

 

 

          

The Wrestling Match

 

The Wrestling Match

Gal 5:16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

 

We are all participants in a wrestling match. For our fleshly nature is contrary to God’s Spirit, and the two natures are in opposition to one another. Our flesh wars against God’s Spirit, and must be brought into subjection to God’s will. Many people say that we are only human and God understands, as well as, tolerates our carnal nature. This false belief is a lie and is contrary to God’s Word. God’s Holy Spirit is more powerful than sin and He has equipped us with the power to live a holy life, separated from the world. The battleground is our mind and our will is all that stands in the way from totally surrendering to Christ. If we purpose in our heart to love God more than the world, and are willing to yield our minds to the convictions of the Holy Spirit, then God will transform us into a new creation. All things are possible with God, if you will surrender  your will to his.

 

 Christ said, that if you love him you will keep his commandments. Paul said, that if you continue in sin you do not know the Father or the Son. No one is perfect by any means, for we have all sinned and fallen short of his glory. Paul is speaking of habitual sins, also known as bondages. A sinful lifestyle will lead you down the broad road to Hell. Christ made atonement upon the cross for sins committed in ignorance, as well as, for sins that are repented of. Grace is not automatic, grace follows repentance only. Repentance means that we are sorry for our sins and are turning away from them. If we stumble and fall, we should not get discouraged. We should get back up, dust ourselves off, and press forward in Christ. There is grace to help us overcome our fleshly nature. God does not expect a new believer to grow up overnight. God gives us time to grow in him. We enter the Kingdom of Heaven as babes on milk, but we are expected to grow up to strong meat in time. God is calling His children to bear much good fruit for His Kingdom. Galatians 5, lists the works of the flesh, as well as, the fruit of the Spirit. The works of the sinful nature will bar a person from entrance to God’s Kingdom. Gal 5:19-21 states that those who practice these sins, will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Christ said, that any tree that does not bear good fruit, will be cut down and thrown into the fire. God’s Word, states that some will produce thirty, sixty, and one hundred fold fruit. As we grow in Christ, we will produce different levels of fruit, but we must produce good fruit if we are truly born again. To be born again, is to become a new creation in Christ, through submission to the working of God’s Spirit.

 

Many years ago, I worked as a security guard in a large office building. I had a conflict with the cleaning crew over security issues. This conflict caused me to have a great amount of bitterness toward these people. The Lord gave me a dream about the bitterness that I was contending with. I dreamed that I was walking through a building and the lights went out. Later the lights came back on. The angel of the Lord walked up to me and said, “You could have been injured, or killed, when the lights were out.” I was told to remain plugged in to the power source, which is the Holy Spirit. I was then seated at a large banquet table, with candles and good food. The lady, who was the supervisor of the cleaning crew approached me and looked very irritated. I was eating a red pepper, which is symbolic of anger. I spoke to her with kindness and forgave her. I understood that when we have bitterness, or hatred, toward others, we are walking in darkness rather than light. Bitterness, or hatred, will cut you off from God, as well as, his protection. God cannot look upon sin, it will cut you off from His provision, until you repent. Ephesians 5, tells us to be imitators of God, and to walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself for us. Ephesians 5, also tells us that no unclean person has any inheritance in the Kingdom of God. That is why it is crucial, that we allow God’s Spirit to purify us, and separate us, from the sinful world. Without holiness, no man shall see the Father. We are told to walk in the light, bearing the fruit of God’s Spirit, as well as, to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.

 

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. 14 Therefore He says: "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light."

Dreams of the Coming Judgments

 

Dreams of the Coming Judgments

Hebrews 12:26 whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven."  27 Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. 29 For our God is a consuming fire.

 

The Lord has given me many dreams and visions about the coming judgments upon this world. Quite often, the Lord will show me tornadoes and earthquakes as symbolic of coming judgments. The tornadoes and earthquakes are literal, but they are also symbolic of the much greater judgments to come. I see the coming great tribulation as a very dark, immense storm on the horizon. In a dream, I saw many large black tornadoes drop from the sky. The tornadoes seemed to be targeting upscale neighborhoods. The upper halves of the tornadoes were angels of the Lord. The Lord spoke to me that the angels were directing the paths of the tornadoes. My wife drew the picture of the angel/tornadoes that I used as cover art for this teaching. These judgments are not random events; they come by the hand of the Lord. The Lord’s righteous judgments are meant to bring a wake-up call to repentance, to those who will respond. I had another dream, where I heard civil defense sirens wailing and I saw flashes of lightening, accompanied by rolling thunder. I heard a voice shout, “Tornadoes! Take cover!” I understood that God is warning His children to prepare a place of safety to ride out the storm of the coming tribulation. Those who wait until the last moment to prepare may find themselves stranded in the wrong location. The Lord did not rapture Noah out of the earth, rather He instructed him to build an ark of safety. Because of Noah’s obedience to the Lord, we are here today. We should follow Noah’s example and seek the Lord with prayer and fasting as to where the safe havens are located. The major cities of America will burn from nuclear fire. Go remote!

 

In another dream, I was standing in front of a federal courthouse in a large city. There was a large, round, seal of the USA, on front of the building. The seal was the eagle with the olive branch and arrows in its talons, which was also the seal of the Roman Caesars. A strong wind began to blow trash from the street into the air. I could hear a loud, cyclonic sound approaching the courthouse. The sound was the hum and roar of an immense tornado. I began to call on Jesus for protection. This dream was very clear high definition quality, and I could hear the sound of the cyclone for a few seconds after waking. The tornado was approaching a federal courthouse. I believe that this indicates God’s judgment is upon this land, and that God’s laws trump man’s form of justice. Gay marriage and transgender bathroom laws are an example of man-made laws that will bring judgment upon this land. The wind was blowing trash into the air; I believe that this is symbolic of the sins of this nation. This nation has much blood on its hands. Illegal war campaigns, abortion of the innocents, sexual perversion pushed in the classrooms, the removal of God’s laws from sight and sound, are but a few. Many people are lovers of pleasure more than of God. The Lord hates materialism and he will destroy Babylon (USA) in a single hour. The merchants of the earth will weep over her, as her smoke ascends upward.

 

 In another dream, the Lord showed me tornado judgments coming upon the United Kingdom. The Lord showed me that their materialism would also result in judgments. I saw buildings of commerce, as well as places of entertainment. The Lord said that they are almost Americans. In other words, they have forgotten God as well. The tornadoes are symbolic of many forms of judgments. In another dream, I saw people hiding in a bomb shelter in Paris, France. They were hoping to survive the Great War to come. I saw a large nuclear explosion go off near the Eifel Tower. I was told that Paris is ground zero, and that no one would survive. The Day of Judgment is coming upon the entire world and our only hope for survival is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Many of God’s children will be martyred during the Tribulation, but others will survive to see the Lord’s return. Those who will survive are those who know God’s voice and are willing to relocate to wilderness or remote areas of God’s choosing. I believe that God is rising up prophets to be guides for his children into the wilderness (Rev 12).

 

I believe that Babylon, described in Rev 18 is a dual prophecy. It is a reference to Rome of old, as well as the modern Rome of the end time (USA). It is also a reference to spiritual Babylon, (Roman Catholic Church and her offspring, apostate Christianity).

 

Rev 18: 1 After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, "Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury." 4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, "Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Render to her just as she rendered to you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix double for her. 7 In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, 'I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.'  Therefore her plagues will come in one day--death and mourning and famine.

 8 And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her. 9 "The kings of the earth who committed fornication and lived luxuriously with her will weep and lament for her, when they see the smoke of her burning, 10 standing at a distance for fear of her torment, saying, 'Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour your judgment has come.' 11 And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, for no one buys their merchandise anymore: 12 merchandise of gold and silver, precious stones and pearls, fine linen and purple, silk and scarlet, every kind of citron wood, every kind of object of ivory, every kind of object of most precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble; 13 and cinnamon and incense, fragrant oil and frankincense, wine and oil, fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots, and bodies and souls of men. 14 The fruit that your soul longed for has gone from you, and all the things which are rich and splendid have gone from you, and you shall find them no more at all. 15 The merchants of these things, who became rich by her, will stand at a distance for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 and saying, 'Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls! 17 For in one hour such great riches came to nothing.' Every shipmaster, all who travel by ship, sailors, and as many as trade on the sea, stood at a distance 18 and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, 'What is like this great city?'

19 They threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and wailing, and saying, 'Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! For in one hour she is made desolate.' 20 Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you holy apostles and prophets, for God has avenged you on her!" 21 Then a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, "Thus with violence the great city Babylon shall be thrown down, and shall not be found anymore. 22 The sound of harpists, musicians, flutists, and trumpeters shall not be heard in you anymore. No craftsman of any craft shall be found in you anymore, and the sound of a millstone shall not be heard in you anymore. 23 The light of a lamp shall not shine in you anymore, and the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you anymore. For your merchants were the great men of the earth, for by your sorcery all the nations were deceived. 24 And in her was found the blood of prophets and saints, and of all who were slain on the earth."                      

Awake, you sleeping giants! (written by my wife)

I originally posted this on January26, 2016, but I felt led to post it again, with a new introduction.

A dream my husband had in 2014 inspired the new artwork for this blog.  The dream was as follows: As far as Mel could see, giants slept in ditches spanning the vast landscape (the giants represent today’s churches).  A large lion soon appeared and began approaching each of the giants.  He threw his head back and roared an ear-shattering rumble.  Yet, no matter how loud The Lion of Judah (Jesus Christ) roared, the giants would not wake.  A few sleepily opened their eyes, but none of them arose from their ditches.  A group of people dressed as construction workers were next to appear.  They were impatient for the giants to awaken because they had a lot of work to do.  The angels in Mel’s dream did not have wings as I drew the one on the right side, but the angels in his dreams are often dressed as builders, police, firefighters, etc., so it was easy to interpret that these construction workers ready to build for the Kingdom of God, were angels.  The angels long for genuine followers of God’s Truths to join them and work side by side.

Although Mel did not see a pile of secular items surrounding the giants in his dream, I added those to my drawing because the churches no longer teach such things as immoral.  Watching and reading items infused with witchcraft will separate you from the Lord, as well as addictions to pornography, alcohol, and cigarettes.  In other words, if you refuse to give up such vises, you are sleeping to the will of God.      

In our dreams God often shows both Mel and me family members and friends sleeping, and one or both of us is trying to wake them.  They are asleep to the Truths God so desperately wishes to share with all His children.  They are shown to us as sleeping with their backs to us and refusing to wake up, just as the giants refused to wake. 

Most people are so steeped in their religious boxes and misinformed theories that it is a struggle to attempt to wake them.  I used to have a deaf roommate whose alarm clock would go off for an hour or longer before she would hear it and get ready for work.  Because she had a little bit of hearing left, she would eventually hear the alarm, rise, and go to work.  We must be like an alarm clock for those who are spiritually deaf.  Somewhere deep down they can still hear what we say and want to know the Truth.  It will eventually sink in, and they will be ready to rise and go to work for the Lord.  We must not cease praying for God to open their eyes and soften their hearts so they are receptive to hearing the Truth. 

It is very difficult for anyone to swallow their pride and admit they have been wrong for many years, especially if this person sees himself as a leader or expert.  We must pray for patience and understanding for these people.  As a former preacher’s kid, I was once one of those too stubborn to listen to alternate theories.  I thought I knew it all.  Ultimately, my daily bible study opened my eyes to the many contradictions taught in most churches.  I was at a point in my life where I was spiritually sensitive enough to hear God’s voice and accept correction.  My bible studies continue to keep my eyes wide open to the Truths in the bible.  A typical prayer for me is that God will reveal any errors in my theologies so I may adjust them.  I pray you will also have an open heart to hear all that God wishes to teach you.

Here is the original blog (edited):

Awake, you sleeping giants!

In today's modern church, pastors have quit preaching lessons of repentance and holiness.  I am not saying every single pastor out there is preaching a lukewarm message, but sadly, the majority are. 

They are preaching feel-good sermons that are putting the church to sleep.  I am going to briefly touch on some of the dangerous, but common messages taught.

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light… finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says:

“Awake, you who sleep,
Arise from the dead,
And Christ will give you light.”  Ephesians 5:8-14

 

The first topic I would like to touch on is the issue of the rapture.  My husband, Mel, has pretty much said what I would have said in his blog, "The Truth About the Rapture." http://swordofthespirit77.blogspot.com/2015/01/the-truth-about-rapture.html  Here is an excerpt from that blog, but I encourage you to read the entire blog:

"There is much controversy as to the timing of the rapture, but God’s Word is very clear on this subject and we will explore what it really teaches. This is not a subject that should divide us, but it is critical that we be informed of the truth. The pre-tribulation rapture viewpoint is very dangerous because it teaches people that there is no need to prepare for the tribulation, or hard times ahead, because God is going to rapture you up to Heaven for seven years, then return again to establish His kingdom. This man-made doctrine is contrary to God’s Word, and was created by taking scripture out of context, as well as making scriptures jump through many hoops in order to bring about a man- pleasing belief.

"The Lord Jesus Christ himself told us exactly when he will return, as well as when he will send forth his angels to gather the elect. Christ said that immediately after the tribulation of those days he would return and gather his elect unto himself.

Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.  Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.  And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.  Matt 24:29    

"Christ said what he meant and was not speaking metaphorically. The pre-trib doctrine teaches that this passage is in reference to the second coming of Christ, seven years after the ingathering of the saints, but Christ said that at this time, he would send out his angels to harvest the elect. This passage alone is enough to establish that the rapture and the second coming of Christ are the same event and that this will occur immediately after the tribulation...

"God did not rapture Noah out of the earth, nor did he build the ark for him, rather he instructed him how to build the ark.  Noah was obedient to God and although it took him 120 years to build the ark, he did not give up. Because of Noah’s obedience to the Lord, we are here today. Like Noah, we need to be making preparations for the soon coming tribulation. I believe that the Lord is instructing people to prepare communities in remote wilderness areas for the time of trouble ahead. We all need to be seeking the Lord with much fasting and prayer concerning where to relocate. The cities, as well as populated areas are destined for judgment. This is not a time for fear but action. If we trust God as Noah did, then we will be obedient to him and follow his voice."

I would like to add that the church also uses Luke 17 to explain that these verses refer to a rapture.  But if you read the entire section, you will see this does not mean people are being raptured, but the opposite, they are being killed.  It was reading the book of Luke during a personal bible study in 2012 (2 years before I met Mel) when I came to the conclusion that I had been mis-taught all my life.  No one came to me to explain it, but simple daily bible study opened my eyes.  That is why it is so important to read your bible every day. 

I am not going to include all the verses, but please read all of Luke 17.

I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left.
“Where, Lord?” they asked.
He replied, “Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather.”  Luke 17:34-37 

The bible warns against not preaching about holiness. Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to make sure their followers are striving to live holy lives. Paul even predicted that there would be a time when people would refuse to listen to the Truth.  Pastors, wanting to be popular, have begun to tell the people what they want to hear so they do not lose their offerings.  It is not about souls being saved, it is all about the amount of money that goes in the plate.

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.  II Timothy 4:1-5

Another popular message of the church is that there is grace for everything, without first repenting of your sins.  Yes, God is full of mercy, love, and grace, but we must ask for forgiveness, repent of our sins, give up habitual sins, and make the daily decision to continue to walk down paths of righteousness.  We are not automatically “saved” when we say a simple sinner’s prayer.  It is the beginning of a wonderful walk with the Lord, but, as with any relationship, we must nurture it and work at producing good fruit.  We are continually being saved until we cross the finish line at the end of this life.

Some people may never set foot in a church, but they will listen to Christian music or at least attend a concert.  Therefore, Christian artists (as well as authors who market themselves as “Christian”) have the same responsibility as pastors to preach sound doctrine in their songs. There are many Christian artists I enjoy; they are talented singers and songwriters with what appears to be a genuine desire to serve the Lord.  However, very few songs are about holiness.  The word “grace” is more likely to appear in their songs than the word, “repentance.”  They also care more about being popular and making money than convicting people of their sins.  

I know I just posted this about 3 weeks ago, but I am going to quote from my blog "Come as you are, but don't stay that way!"

"...once you have surrendered your heart, mind, and soul to Christ, you are not instantly saved forever.  The theory of eternal security is a lie of the devil in order to put Christians to sleep.  When we think there is grace for everything, and that our actions suffer no consequences because our salvation is guaranteed with one simple prayer, we can easily slip into a life of sin and comfortably stay there...

"It is very true that Christ accepts us as we are and He gave His life on the cross for our sins so we can have eternal life.  Yet it is also very true that, though we may come just as we are with all our faults, God expects us to change.  Jesus is a loving Father who readily forgives our sins as long as our repentance is sincere and we do not continue to live in sin...He is holy and it is His desire that we live holy lives if we are to follow Him.  That does not mean we have to be perfect, but we must seek out to destroy our sinful nature."

You can read the entire blog at the above link.

Let's be honest, the devil loves it that the church has been spiritually put to sleep.  He loves that they are teaching that there is no devil and/or Hell.  Therefore, and this goes along great with the grace message, there are no consequences for your actions.

While I do not believe Hell is literally forever, based on Revelation 20:14-15, I do believe it exists.  

Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.  Revelation 20:14-15

There are too many references in the bible on Hell to list them all, but reading all of Revelation 20 reveals a lot.  Please read the entire chapter.

There are several more topics that come to mind as far as what the church is teaching to put people asleep.  However, as I am writing this, I feel God is telling me, that instead of listing all the areas I see error, I am to write about these issues individually.  Therefore, I will do my best to continue to write God's Truths as they are laid upon my heart.  I have had several ideas forming in just a few minutes. 

So how do we arise from our sleep?  As I mentioned above, studying God's Word daily is a wonderful start.  Really devouring what you read and making sure you understand it will help you avoid falling for false teachings.  When you know what the Bible says on a certain subject, then you are less apt to fall for man's doctrines. 

Be diligent [work hard] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.   II Timothy 2:15

I never want you to take my word for anything.  Study on your own.  I am overly logical and highly skeptical on most subjects; I always want second and third opinions on everything.  There are a lot of very cunning and manipulative people that will try to force you to believe their way is the only way.  I am not one of those people.  God's way is the only way, so read His words and really let them sink in. Pray before and/or after you read the bible that God will reveal His Truths to you.  Also, if you attend church, do the same.  God has revealed to both my husband and me when there are false doctrines being taught by spiritual leaders as well as individual people in our lives.  Although Mel is more gifted in prophecy that I am, God speaks to both of us through dreams and visions.  If your heart is pure (you don’t have to be perfect) and you are humble and willing, God may speak to you as well, so be willing to listen.  

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God.  I John 4:1-3