God's Truth In Love

Posts Tagged ‘Repentance’

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Left Behind Movie (The Rise of the Antichrist)

In Abominations, Anxiety, Apostasy, Biblical Principles, False Doctrine, False Gods, False Teaching, Hate, Hatred, Hell, Left Behind, Religious Freedom, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revelation, Uncategorized on May 3, 2023 at 4:40 pm

The Left Behind Movie, the 2022 version that was in theaters recently is our topic. Really it is just a remake and an update of the original Left Behind, just incorporating modern day events and technology.

Some of the things that caught my attention which were incorporated into a modern day version of what could happen were…

The UFO angle. Many people believe in UFOs and our government in recent years have released video footage and documentation of objects flying in the air that could not be explained, footage taken by military pilots. Many people believe these things are UFOs. And then the movie kind of alludes to the idea that the people taken in the rapture may have actually been taken by UFOs.

They allude to the idea and concept that artificial intelligence, which is rapidly on the rise now, and many people are warning about, is playing a part in all of this as well.

Of course they talk about COVID, the fear that is instilled in people to get them to comply with whatever the government wants them to do. COVID-19 being a prelude to the idea that our government could get us to partake in self-imprisonment or mandated home imprisonment just because they deem something as a crisis in our country. That part is very real and a little bit intimidating when you think about that we have dealt with that during COVID-19, and we will most likely deal with it again. How unjust is our government to force that upon us in what we view as a free society.

Also, the idea of a one world government being birthed out of coming together over a crisis or pandemic type situation like COVID-19. Including the idea that the government will outright lie about a crisis that really doesn’t exist.

One thing that was depicted in the movie that I had not considered in any depth was how the internet potentially could be manipulated to remove access to the bible, biblical prophecy, references to the rapture, ETC. If you alter social media and internet searches most people, let’s say under the age of 50, would be completely lost when it comes to biblical things and the history of world events. So many people depend upon social media as their source of accurate information and that is so sad. I know for a fact during COVID-19 social media, specifically Facebook and Twitter, were removing any post from people’s accounts that they deemed as misinformation. I mean surely, I know you realize how incredibly dangerous that is to a society, yes?

One thing I have been aware of is the removal of certain things from the Scriptures as more and more translations emerge in our society. More and more is being removed especially surrounding Jesus’s Deity in the New Testament, so I could see how, as the movie portrayed, that one day potentially the Truth about the End Times or The Rapture could be completely removed from any existing Bibles, it’s not really that farfetched. This is why I’ve studied so many of the translations to see what has been removed or what has been changed because they indicate their improving the Bible’s accuracy, but when you look at what is actually going missing or being altered it is not an improvement.

The false teachers, like the pastor acknowledges being in the movie, to me seem extremely prevalent today in what is supposed to be Christian churches. Like he talks about in the movie, he knew all about the Bible but in his heart, he really didn’t believe the stuff, but he taught it, nevertheless. How incredibly scary! Although I absolutely believe I have met and interacted with Christian leaders who are exactly as this man describes himself. I can think of three off the top of my head, a married couple who minister at a church as well as a life group, and a man who heads a church and heads the local minister’s association. Is that like scary or what?

A pay system through an app. A form of one world currency. Well most of us are used to using PayPal or Apple pay, so we take a few steps closer and closer. And where they talk about you will either have to use the app to pay for things or starve to death, we see now that there are conditions that you must comply with to use any app, almost any type of app, and those conditions that must be complied with are not optional.

We have canceled culture, which goes against anyone who tries to put the Truth out.

Remember what Jesus told the disciples when he was describing what it would be like in the last days. His first words were, ‘Take heed that no man deceive you.’ People better know what they believe and why they believe it.

Favorite quote from the movie…

"So why do people who don’t even believe in God suddenly hate Him so much? Because they have no one else to blame it on."

Very typical of wounded or broken people, who are extremely fearful, unsure about life, and perplexed about why certain things happen or why a specific thing they know about or experienced has happened.

I would really enjoy reading your thoughts on the movie as well, please send them via the “comment” link. Let me know what you think.

If you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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GOD Growth in COVID-19 / Couples Growth

In Adultery, Agape Love, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Contentment, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, Couples, COVID-19, Disunity, Divorce, Godliness, Learning, Lifestyle, Love, Marriage, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Righteous Living, Righteousness, Uncategorized, Unity, Wisdom on April 2, 2021 at 8:33 am

Over the last few posts we have taken a look at the GOD growth in individuals and families during the pandemic. Today we take on the matter of growth in the couple relationship. I use the term GOD growth because God wants to bring about change in people that draws them closer to Him and that causes them to implement His Principles regardless of whether or not they have come to trust in Him for their salvation as of yet or not. God is about seeing His Will and His Principles come about in our society, in our homes, and in us personally before and after we enter that personal relationship with Him.

Questions to ponder. Why do people find it easier to bad mouth their significant other or spouse rather than express openly to other people what they like about the person? Why are their negative traits a more interesting topic of discussion than their positive traits? Society presents the idea that to complain about your spouse is funny and entertaining, but is it really? Why does society want to perpetuate the idea that loving relationships are rare and so hard to come by?

Locked down, locked up, with your spouse during COVID-19; now this will make or break a marriage. When there is only the two of you, no children, no other distractions, you find out really quick whether or not you are just two ships passing in the night or two hovercrafts rotating around each other but never really coming in contact, not true contact. I believe if you went through this last year together primarily in lockdown and you still actually want to be together you might actually have a pretty solid relationship.

When we are alone with someone day in and day out, with them and with no one else, we see everything about them that we perhaps did not notice or that at other times are they were better able to hide. Especially during a crisis like the pandemic, we see their fears emerge, we see their insecurities at large, we see their compassion or lack thereof on display, we see their generosity and love or their selfishness and hatefulness. We talk to them more; we find out more about what makes them tick. We explore with them their hopes and dreams because when you are in a situation like we are in during this pandemic, locked down at home primarily, you cannot endlessly ignore the only other person in your spear, in your world for that matter for the most part, and you cannot talk about nothing nonsense forever. So eventually you dig down to what really matters, and that is when you begin to draw close to one another.

In this time of couple reflection many were able to find out how loved and cared for they made their spouse feel and the ways in which they did that. Also, they might have found out the ways in which they do not make their spouse feel loved and cared for and what they could do about it to change the negative impact on the relationship. For many it was a time of realigning the relationship and finding once again common goals and dreams.

A marriage is a covenant relationship. When someone badmouths their spouse for fun and the entertainment of people, they are betraying that covenant. What you speak about your spouse affect how you feel about your spouse. Your spoken words have a powerful effect on you and other people. People should rarely if ever hear from you what you believe to be “wrong” with your spouse or so my parents who believed in absolute loyalty taught me, just as the Bible teaching not to speak negative or harsh words (curses) against people. I have never found it entertaining to hear people teardown their spouse, and from what I have heard from other people they too think it terrible to listen to someone else do so, thinking badly of the person who is badmouthing their spouse, even if they themselves have been guilty of likewise at times.

I believe the select few in society who are not willing to do the work needed for a loving caring relationship like to perpetuate the idea that loving caring relationships are so terribly difficult to come by, in order to make themselves feel better about their own lack. Let them live in their isolation and loneliness, do not get sucked in, value the relationship you have and act like you do.

I want to close each of this series of postings with a quote from the original post, “COVID-19 – God and Man at Work.”

“Blessings from God are not just material or financial, more often the greater ones (blessings) are intangible such as growth and change.”

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GOD Growth in COVID-19 / Family Growth

In Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Contentment, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Disunity, Divorce, God's Voice, Godliness, Learning, Lifestyle, Love, Marriage, Parenting, Repentance, Revival, Righteous Living, Righteousness, Uncategorized, Unity, Wisdom on March 18, 2021 at 10:30 am

In the last post we took a look at the GOD growth in individuals during the pandemic. Family growth is the topic of this post. I use the term GOD growth because God wants to bring about change in people that draws them closer to Him and that causes them to implement His Principles regardless of whether or not they have come to trust in Him for their salvation as of yet or not. God is about seeing His Will and His Principles come about in our society, in our homes, and in us personally before and after we enter that personal relationship with Him.

Questions to ponder. Why do people find it easier to talk about the dysfunction of their and other people’s families than they are able to find the courage to talk about the positive loving things within their family? Has society’s distorted view of family made people where they feel almost ashamed of loving, caring, normalcy?

Boy has the family dynamic changed over the last year amidst the COVID-19 lockdowns. With children out of school. Some parents unfortunately unemployed, and most of the other parents working from home, family has taken center stage.

We have all seen the news reports, where the anchor is attempting to do a new story via Zoom from home and the child is in the background doing all they can to get that parents attention, making the parents task almost impossible. Sometimes it is so cute you just cannot help but laugh. Other times it seems that the child is driving the parent to distraction. And on any given day it might be a little of both. Nevertheless, during the pandemic families have been forced to be together.

Just as with the private individuals, of course there are incidents where families crammed together had a negative impact for the family members. However in those situations there were most likely deep deep problems prior to the family finding themselves in lockdown together.

For many people, the endless hours of family togetherness have resulted in finding new ways to spend that time together. Finding out more about each other. A realization that all of the busy activities that both the parents and the children were involved in were robbing them of what was precious time together. It no doubt unearthed cracks in the foundation of the family that needed some repair. It helped fathers to realize what they are made out of as a father. It helped mothers to come to terms with just how much nurturing of their children they were doing and willing to do. For the children, it just may have created a new found respect for their mothers and their fathers and a greater understanding of them as real people.

For many families it created a much-needed family reset, which in America we need greatly for the American families to function in a moral and godly manner. God wants us to lift up the wholesomeness of family, not the dysfunction. To find the courage to speak out about the loving manner in which families should function or do function. We cannot allow the distortions of a backwards society make us hide our light under a bushel, when it comes to lifting up the ideal of loving, caring, normalcy in the family unit.

I want to close each of this series of postings with a quote from the original post, “COVID-19 – God and Man at Work.”

“Blessings from God are not just material or financial, more often the greater ones (blessings) are intangible such as growth and change.”

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GOD Growth in COVID-19 / Individual Growth

In Attitude, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Godliness, Godly Counsel, New Year’s Resolutions, Renewal, Repentance, Resolutions, Revelation, Revival, Righteous Living, Righteousness, Spiritual Fruit, Spirituality, Uncategorized, Wisdom on March 7, 2021 at 4:10 pm

Though people have played up the loss and problems of COVID-19, which there have been many of course, much loss and much grief, nevertheless, I mentioned in my last post that we would tackle the other side of the coin and explore the growth that has occurred and the good things that have come out of going through this pandemic.

Over the next few post we will take a look at the GOD growth in individuals, families, and couples during the pandemic. I use the term GOD growth because God wants to bring about change in people that draws them closer to Him and that causes them to implement His Principles regardless of whether or not they have come to trust in Him for their salvation as of yet or not. God is about seeing His Will and His Principles come about in our society, in our homes, and in us personally before and after we enter that personal relationship with Him.

Individual growth will be the topic here. As stated in the last posting, “There has also been more time for individuals to take a good look at themselves, to explore their own inner spiritual person, come to terms with, and perhaps do something in response to, what they discovered during the isolation that God has allowed in their life.”

Crisis pushes crisis, meaning a societal crisis usually produces a personal crisis for people. When confronted with mass alterations in the societal landscape a person finds their personal life altered in many capacities, and underneath those alterations they find their inner life altered as well.

During this pandemic people’s movements have been greatly restricted causing them a loss in what many people use to escape seeing themselves clearly, “distraction[s]” of every type and usually in multiple degrees or quantities. People often search for anything that can help them avoid dealing with what is inside of them. During the isolation of this pandemic that just has not been possible thus resulting horribly for some people in despair and giving up, but for other people in self-reflection and growth.

It is extremely hard to be alone with one’s self, yet it is extremely healthy. Many very spiritual and godly people over the course of history have heralded the importance of a time of personal spiritual retreat with God to reflect, recharge, and seek growth in God. It is during the aloneness that God’s voice is heard most clearly by the majority of people, when most people’s insight and understanding is opened up the most. In the aloneness we find whether or not we like ourselves (or if we should like ourselves), and if not, we learn from God what to do about what we do not like.

From what I have understood from people living in relative isolation during the pandemic, that isolation has also brought with it a quietness of life, a slowing of their pace, a peeling back of the daily stresses of life and thus resulted for many individuals in an embracement of a quieter simpler less stressful life.

The isolation of the pandemic for individuals has not been all bad, it has produced personal growth, reordering of priorities, and recharging of one’s stress coping batteries.

I want to close each of this series of postings with a quote from the original post, “COVID-19 – God and Man at Work.”

“Blessings from God are not just material or financial more often the greater ones (blessings) are intangible such as growth and change.”

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COVID-19 – God and Man at Work

In Agape Love, Attitude, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Church Growth, Contentment, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Disunity, God's Voice, Godly Counsel, Holy Spirit, Love, Marriage, Repentance, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 28, 2021 at 9:25 am

During the whole of the pandemic we have heard so much about the negative affects that the isolation and the restrictive movement have had on people’s lives, or so we hear in our local media. However, I challenge the notion that it has been all bad.

What has God been doing in the lives of people as He kept children at home, dads at home, moms at home, couples at home together? What has God been doing during the time when He stripped away religious practice and worship truly was up to the private individual, in their own way, in their own home?

Has there been mental and emotional, and perhaps even spiritual problems due to the isolation and the restricted movements of the pandemic? Yes, of course there have been. There has been horrible abuse, horrible loneliness, and sin has existed. However, there has also been great growth for individuals, for families, and for couples. Growth we will explore in more depth in another post. There has also been more time for individuals to take a good look at themselves, to explore their own inner spiritual person, come to terms with and perhaps do something in response to what they discovered during the isolation that God has allowed in their life.

The pandemic has caused financial loss, but I dare to say that in a spiritual and relational level it has done more good for people than harm, and certainly more good than what was financially lost. Blessings from God are not just material or financial more often the greater ones are intangible such as growth and change.

Sometimes God has to get people’s attention, sometimes God has to get a country’s attention, but God always leaves people who are repentant better off than they were when He started a particular work in their life.

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1 Year Mark Approaches – God speaks breaking His silence on Coronavirus/COVID-19

In Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, God, God's Voice, Godly Counsel, Repentance, Unity on February 28, 2021 at 9:06 am

As we approach the one year mark since COVID-19 started shutting the door of churches, changing our lives, and locking down America, what have we learned as a people, what have we learned as Christians?  What has God done and what is God doing through allowing COVID-19? 

Together let us start to explore that matter.

Saturday, April 11, 2020 (Holy Saturday) 4:45 am (eastern time United States of America)

The Word of the LORD to His people, thus says the Lord…

“Amid the suffering, amid the dying, you My people still cannot see to understand the twisted nature of your ways because you seek My Face, no, because you seek My Hand. You seek My Hand (My part in) this crisis, amid your trial, when you should be seeking My Face (My Message during) the scourge.

In days past I brought My Message to My people first, then to the rest of the world. I spoke first to My people. Again, I bring My Message to My people first, then the world.

I, Jesus, am the Church, the Church is My People not your temples of brick and mortar. Not your symbols of man’s ambition and greed. I never built a building I built a people. I called for unity among those people, called and called through my servants over the last many seasons (years), yet, most among you have refused to listen. You hid behind your walls of brick and mortar content in a man-made world, while ignoring your brothers and sisters everywhere you are not. Now pushed out of your walls of complacency will you listen!

I have called My people in recent seasons (years) to unity, not unity around sin, never, but unity in Me, in My Message, My Message not your message, and unity around the need to love and care for one another amid an ever growing sinful world. Without unity the world will tear at the very fabric of the Body I built. Without unity sin and decay will distort it’s purpose, My Purpose. Without unity a season of great despair will be coming, so unite now, while you have the time. I drove you out of your buildings to drive you back together. I want unity around My foundational principles and a love for Me. Give Me My Unity, and again I will give you My Power as in days past.

Hear Me, respond to Me, love Me.”

Use the “comment” link to send in your insights regarding what God has been doing in the Body of Christ, the United States, the world,  and in your life personally during this pandemic. 

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 22 – Seed of Disunity

In Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Disunity, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Rhema Words, Spiritual Remnant, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on March 14, 2019 at 10:00 am

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we are proceeding this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will wrap up the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the last two postings focused on disunity within the Body of Christ.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 22 – Seed of Disunity

People’s fundamental lack of acceptance of who God created them to be is the seed of disunity. Ironically, it is in those differences that our individual beauty and value is found. In the passage of Scripture taken from Ephesians, chapter four, cited in the last posting, God addresses the need and reason for different spiritual gifts and ministry positions within the Body of Christ.

First, we have to realize that God’s grace is upon us to do certain things and to hold certain positions. If we attempt to act outside of that grace, we will not be able to adequately perform or serve as God intends us to and as is need for the rest of the Body of Christ. Grace enables us to do everything we do in life, without grace, we could do nothing; just as apart from Christ we can do nothing worthy of doing.

The saints must be equipped properly for God work. It is through God’s grace given to the apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors, and teachers that these Believers become equipped and ready to use their spiritual gift and talents for Kingdom service. Additionally, the edification of the Body is the responsibility of these individuals as well. Yet, when these individual and the task they are given to do is not respected by both themselves and others disunity is often the result. If the pastor wishes to be a teacher, he could well interfere with the work of the teacher within that community. If the prophet wishes to be a pastor, he will most likely be a miserable failure and make others miserable in the process. If an evangelist attempts to be an apostle, they will find they are restless in their work establishing churches and longing to be on the road sharing the gospel. If the saints resist the work of these individuals, or worst wish to be these individuals and believe they can do better, they will become agitators and never grow as God wishes them to grow. In all of this disunity will run ramped.

A further and deeper purpose of the leaders is edifying and building the Body of Christ in order to bring it into unity around one faith; faith in the Son of God, Jesus the Christ. To bring people to a fuller and deeper understand of who Christ is to His Church and to them as individuals. In so doing the leaders help the individual members of Christ’s Body to grow up in their faith and become grounded in their doctrine so that they are not easily led astray by false doctrine or wrong teachings.

Growing people often requires speaking the truth to them. Truth should always be spoken in love and for the hearer’s well-being, not the speaker’s fulfillment. We are not to go about bashing people over the head with our “truth”, but we are also not to remain silent when “truth” needs to be spoken. If we refuse to hear the truth, we will not grow as we should in Christ. It is only through hearing and accepting the truth that we can move from glory to glory being recreated in the image of Christ. If each individual continually focuses on the “in love”, aspect of presenting the truth then there will be less disunity caused by correction, exhortation, encouragement, and the like.

We all must do our part for the Body of Christ to be what it should be. We must all do our part to keep unity within the Body of Christ. We must all do our part in actually manifesting unity to the Body of Christ. Finally, we must all do our part to promote unity within the Body of Christ. Then and only then can the Body of Christ be what Christ desires for it to be.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 21 – Disunity

In Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Disunity, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Rhema Words, Righteousness, Spiritual Remnant, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on March 7, 2019 at 9:00 am

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we are proceeding this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will wrap up the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the last two postings focused on disunity within the Body of Christ. 

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 21 – Disunity

"a healthy perspective overlooks a multitude of "unresolvables" – Dr. James Dobson

Disunity, the lack of agreement or harmony, dissension, is found across the Body of Christ. No denomination, culture, race, social class, or region is excluded from this cancer, which is eating away at the heart of Christianity. What is the disunity all for in the end if we find we are all in heaven together worshipping at the feet of Jesus?

Once we have cleared the hurtles of the Deity of Christ, as found in the truth of His virgin birth, that salvation is through Jesus alone and no other, and that God’s Word, the Bible, is in fact His literal and definitive Word, why would there be any need for division. Nothing outside of those three things will effect a person’s salvation, eternal standing, or qualification within the Body of Christ as a brother or sister. Nevertheless, we have allowed the disagreements about biblical principles that we deem important or a larger priority to drive a wedge between our group and another group, both of which are part of the Body of Christ. With this, I have no doubt God is not pleased and not pleased at all. This is an act we justify, but in truth, we have no biblical justification for before God.

The Body of Christ, individuals, families, marriages, homes, business, government, and our country have suffered due to the lack of unity within the Body of Christ. Separation of church and state in the spiritual realm is a myth and would, nor will, ever be possible. The entire structure of society and life is based upon biblical principles. God has never and will never allow Himself to be left out of the sphere of His creation. The idea that He just dropped us here and left us to our own devices is simply not His way. Yes, He did give us freewill but that is very different from Him acting with apathy and indifference toward His creation.

The Body of Christ is knowingly and willingly hurting itself, its country, and each of its members by continuing in disunity.

Psalm 133 (NKJV)

Psalm 133

Blessed Unity of the People of God

A Song of Ascents. Of David.

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is

For brethren to dwell together in unity!

2 It is like the precious oil upon the head,

Running down on the beard,

The beard of Aaron,

Running down on the edge of his garments.

3 It is like the dew of Hermon,

Descending upon the mountains of Zion;

For there the Lord commanded the blessing—

Life forevermore.

The Body of Christ suffers from a lack of anointing when they are in disunity. Without that anointing, they lack the spiritual power needed to do God’s kingdom work in on earth. That lack of spiritual power leads Christians to the deterioration of themselves as individuals first, then their homes, then their congregations, then the Body of Christ, and finally their society and country. Without the anointing of God, we continually lose ground until the enemy has trampled us.

There is a way out of such a state however, and that way is to repent of our disunity and reclaim our unity. This has always been God’s heart and desire for us as His Church.

Ephesians 4:1–16 (NKJV)

Walk in Unity

4 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, 2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Spiritual Gifts

7 But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. 8 Therefore He says:

“When He ascended on high,

He led captivity captive,

And gave gifts to men.”

9 (Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)

11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

To walk in disunity is to dishonor God. We are called as Christians to walk worthy of the name. Walking worthy of the name “Christian” means to be humble, gentle, patient, loving, peaceful, and in so doing we exhibit the greatest form of love for one another by keeping unity within the Body of Christ. If we refuse to do this, we refuse to honor God and to obey His Word.

Even though we have chosen to identify ourselves with hundreds upon hundreds of denominations there is but one Church, one Body of Christ. The Scripture above from the book of Ephesians makes this truth clear. There is only one Body, one Spirit, one Lord Jesus our Savior, one faith, let me repeat that – one faith, one baptism, one God and Father; there is only One. How is it possible to be divided when there is only One!

The problem with disunity seems to be found in the fact that we are different. We can be one, we can be unified, and we can be godly and still be different. God created us differently, gave us different gifts, gave us different passions, and chose us for different purposes; none of which He wanted to be used as an excuse or reason to bring disunity to His Body.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 20 – Exclusivity

In Chrisitan Lifestyle, Church Growth, Compassion, Disunity, Exclusivity, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Rhema Words, Righteousness, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 28, 2019 at 9:00 am

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we are proceeding this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will wrap up the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the last three postings focused on exclusivity and disunity (disunity will be published in two parts).

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 20 – Exclusivity

The church congregation should be a place characterized by love, acceptance, and inclusiveness. Yet sadly, so many congregations are found to be characterized by “clicks” which creates an environment of exclusivity.

Exclusivity in the Merriam-Webster’s dictionary is defined as:

1 : the quality or state of being exclusive

2 : exclusive rights or services

Exclusive in the Webster’s dictionary is defined as:

1 : reserved for particular persons

2 : snobbishly aloof; also :

Take a few moments an honestly discern what is taking place in your own congregation. Do you find yourself or your group choosing to allow only yourself certain rights, services, or advantages in which other people in the congregation are not allowed to partake? Have you found ways to justify cutting people out of certain events? If you have partaken in this type of behavior then let me ask you a question, “Who made you god?”

Here are more subtle forms of exclusivity that you might find in a church congregation. Making your bible study just for your group. Your small group does not have room for anyone else because you have become comfortable with who is in it and do not want to add anyone else. Your group of friends all work for the same company so you have that in common and accepting someone new that perhaps works for another company is uncomfortable. Our couples group consists of people who all like the same things, we at the same level of incomes, we all have children, and come from the same type of culture; someone from their economic class and without children would not feel comfortable in our group. Lastly, the mother of all justifications regarding exclusivity, we are all the leaders of the church and therefore must remain to ourselves.

How it must grieve the Spirit of God among us when we choose exclusivity over inclusiveness. When we vex the Spirit of God, either as individuals, a group, or the Body we diminish our effectiveness greatly, if not lose it all together. The very act of exclusivity is contrary to a variety of ways Scripture instructs us to deal with one another as members of the same Body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:25–32 (NKJV)

Do Not Grieve the Spirit

25 Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. 26 “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, 27 nor give place to the devil. 28 Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. 29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. 32 And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 19 – What is our problem with authority?

In Abuse, Advice, Authority, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Religious Freedom, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Trust, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 21, 2019 at 8:51 am

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 19 – What is our problem with authority?

There are so many people in the world who have a real problem with authority. These individuals more often than not have been wounded by people who abused their authority and position in the individual life. This is the heart of our problem with authority as a group and as a society. The abuse and misuse of authority by those who were once trusted.

The bosses did mistreat and overwork the employees. They stole their ideas and called them their own. The mothers did abuse, beat, verbally assault, and neglect their children. Their children in turn grew up and did likewise to their own children, albeit not as severely. The daddies did molest their daughters and break their trust of all men in the process. The Christian spiritual leaders did use their flock for money, power, and prestige leaving some among them in great need and grossly disappointed. Spiritual leaders attempted to control their people to the degree they misused the women for their personal sexual pleasure and left an entire group wounded and spiritually broken. The husband did beat, lie to, verbally abuse, cheat on, and mistreat his wife and call on her to submit and endure such as part of her duty to him. This left the women confused, emotionally abandoned, and alone. On and on I could go with all the reasons we could mistrust authority or do mistrust authority. These examples certainly show what our problem with authority actual looks like and why. With all that laid bare, I still call us to repentance.

If we have misused our authority, we must repent. If we are refusing proper authority a chance in our lives because of the sins of past authority, we must repent. We must as a group, as The Church, begin to live with one another using our authority in a godly manner and submitting to our godly authority appropriately and willingly. It is only through those right relationships that God can work in an ideal fashion.

This concludes the writings on “authority” and its factor in church growth or lack thereof. The next couple of sections, “disunity” and “exclusivity,” will wrap up “Why My Church is NOT Growing.” I pray these writings have been a blessing to you and will be used of God to aid your healthy godly church growth.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 18 – Can authority be trusted?

In Abuse, Authority, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Decision Making, Godly Counsel, Prudence, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Trust, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 13, 2019 at 4:37 pm

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 18 – Can authority be trusted?

An honest appraisal and answer to the question of whether authority can be trusted or not is simply, not always. Authority is not always godly in nature and therefore, not always worthy of our trust. This is where our need for discernment comes into play.

God has granted His people the ability to discern the spiritual nature of those we are dealing with on a daily basis. That said we must always keep in mind that our ability to discern properly would depend upon our spiritual condition at any given moment. Let us presume that a person’s spiritual condition is godly, and they are submitted to the authority of God. In those conditions, one must use their discernment to determine whether a person in a position of authority is using that authority to point people to a greater understanding of Christ and to godliness or if they are using their authority for personal gain and worldly ambition.

2 Corinthians 10:8 King James (AV)

8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

1 Peter 5:2–3 (NKJV)

2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;

We find within the DNA of godly leadership a desire to build up, not destroy. A desire to teach truths not simply command conformity. There should be a desire within these leaders to care for those in their charge, not a sense of mere obligation to do so. If money is the motivator for a leader with authority, then they shall surely be affected by their greed to the point of being untrustworthy.

You can like a pastor without ignoring his obvious character flaws and emulating them, which only leads to your own personal struggles with self. You can love a husband without submitting to his ungodly leadership, which will only lead to the deterioration of your own life and character. You can respect a politician’s views and public service without covering your eyes to his or her compromise, which can place you in a position of supporting governmental changes that are ungodly through your support of the person. In all things, examine these people for godly character and character you deem worthy of emulating.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 17 – How should we respond and interact with authority?

In Abuse, Advice, Authority, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Confusion, Godliness, Godly Counsel, Remnant, Renewal, Revival, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 13, 2019 at 4:35 pm

At the beginning of 2019 we took on a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. However, please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 17 – How should we respond and interact with authority?

As we examine these questions about Christian Spiritual Authority and Societal Authority it is imperative to keep in mind that you do not want to allow your reflection on this matter to cause you to act inappropriately with said authority. In a healthy relationship or congregational setting there is a balance to be found in both the proper administration of authority and the proper response to and respect for authority, this must always be kept in mind as the goal of these writings, and I pray it is your goal as well.

It is extremely important to be balanced in our approach regarding submission to authority. If we fall to one extreme, we will become nonconformist, in a negative way, insolent and isolated without purpose. If however, we fall to the other extreme we will open ourselves up for spiritual, physical, financial, mental, and emotional abuse and mistreatment. There is a balance to be found in the proper discernment of what is going on around us and happening to us at any given time within our relationships and as we relate to the society around us.

God’s ultimate purpose is being played out around us and in our society. Please note that I stated His “ultimate purpose” not His day-to-day Perfect Will. There is a difference. The primary difference being God’s ideal and God’s awareness. God knows all that is going to happen and all that has happened, but He does not usurp freewill in order to make His Will come to pass. That said, He also does not allow anyone to rise to or fall from a position of power and authority without His awareness and choice not to intervene. The people in certain positions within our society and within the Body of Christ are there for a reason that perhaps only God know, but for a reason, nevertheless.

Romans 13:1 (NKJV) – Note: Read all of chapter 13 for complete understanding and context.

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.

2 Timothy 2:20 (NKJV)

20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor.

Are the previous statements contradictions? No, they are the manner in which God has chosen to interact with His creation since the being of time. Examine the interactions within the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and see God at work in just this way. Did He stop Judas from betrayal, extortion, conspiracy to commit murder, and suicide, all of which are sins? No, He allowed Judas, even used, or allowed Judas to be used, so that His ultimate plan might be fulfilled for mankind’s redemption.

Once again, I want to reiterate that we as Christian’s and personal followers of the Lord Jesus, the Christ, obey God and God’s Word over any authority whether governmental, relational, or spiritual in nature.

Acts 5:29 (NKJV)

29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.

Quite naturally, man is going to benefit from godly leadership and suffer under the rule of wicked (ungodly or godless) leadership, whether in a church setting, a society, governmental setting, group setting, or family setting – bad, sinful, unwise leadership produces fruitlessness – death instead of life, destruction instead of growth, strife instead of peace, and the like.

Proverbs 29:2 (NKJV)

When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice;

But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.

This is why God’s people must continue to be active in the selection and placement of their governmental and Christian spiritual leaders, and women extremely careful about the men they choose to marry. Without attempting to play your part in the selection and election process of these leaders, one cannot expect to have a say before man or God about the outcome. Involvement that is directed by and ordered under the direction of God is vital to the godly health of our nation, local church congregations, families, and ministries.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 16 – “Authority” Who or what holds authority?

In Abuse, Advice, Apostasy, Authority, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Church Growth, Confusion, Decision Making, Religious Freedom, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Truth, Uncategorized on January 31, 2019 at 1:26 pm

As we take on a new year, 2019, we will take a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 16 – “Authority” Who or what holds authority?

The Word of God is authority to the highest degree because of its ability to address all life matters that concern us. Even though it does not always provide a literally specific answer to a question, such as where to live or what car to buy, it does always provide the life principles that make those decisions answerable in a godly manner. The overall guidance needed for any situation is found in the authority of God’s Word.

Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)

12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Through the use of God’s Word, we are not only able to find guidance for our life situation, but we are also able to have our own hearts and motives revealed to us as we search the Word for our answers. Through our submission to the process of seeking God’s guidance by means of His authority found in His Word, we are able to allow Him authority over our thoughts and the intents of our heart.

It is God’s desire to help us, protect us, keep our lives on course, and lead us out of any places of ungodliness but we must trust His authority in our lives to make that possible.

Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV)

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;

Salvation is to be saved from something. To be delivered from sin, danger, difficulties, to be preserved from destruction, etc. This is what God wants for us in this life and in the life hereafter. The Word of God is the authority through which He often makes that possible, if only we would adhere to its instructions.

The authority of God Word, the Bible, exists because it is the mind, heart, and will of God. It is not the ideas of man but instead the ideals and very nature of God Himself revealed to man. The men who wrote the words down on paper were mere secretaries of sorts taking shorthand for their Boss.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NKJV)

16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NKJV)

For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.

The idea that only a portion of Scripture is true or that it does not mean what it says is simply a lie, one that Satan perpetrates. Where you see the existence of lies Satan reigns because he is the Father of Lies according to Scripture. Lying is a direct by-product of Satan’s influence in a situation or in a person’s life. God’s Word is just that, God’s Word, all of it, always good, always correct, and always righteous in its nature. It is meant to enhance mankind’s life and lead them to godliness in all things.

Psalm 119:160 (NKJV)

The entirety of Your word is truth,

And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.

The greatest display of the authority of God’s Written Word is the impact and transforming power it has on the individual who allows the Word to be the authority of their life. Sanctification comes by the Word of God. Meaning both through the person of the Word found in Christ Jesus and through the power and authority found in adherence to the Written Word.

John 17:17 (NKJV) Jesus speaking.

Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

James 1:22 (NKJV)

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

If we refuse to appropriately follow the Word of God, then we will not find the process of sanctification to be manifesting in our lives. By refusing to allow the Word to be our authority we are making ourselves people who simply hear the Word but do not do the Word. We are commanded by God to do both, hear and do the Word. Truth is found in the Word, the Word submitted to becomes Authority, and when truth is discovered in the Word and applied sanctification is the result.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 15 – “Authority” What is in a word?

In Abuse, Advice, Authority, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Church Growth, End Times, Exhortation, False Doctrine, Godliness, Persecution, Prudence, Religious Freedom, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Spiritual Remnant, Truth, Wisdom on January 16, 2019 at 12:07 pm

As we take on a new year, 2019, we will take a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 15 – “Authority” What is in a word?

Authority according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is as follow:

authority

Function:

noun

1 a (1) : a citation (as from a book or file) used in defense or support (2) : the source from which the citation is drawn b (1) : a conclusive statement or set of statements (as an official decision of a court) (2) : a decision taken as a precedent (3) : TESTIMONY c : an individual cited or appealed to as an expert

2 a : power to influence or command thought, opinion, or behavior b : freedom granted by one in authority : RIGHT

3 a : persons in command; specifically : GOVERNMENT b : a governmental agency or corporation to administer a revenue-producing public enterprise <the transit authority>

synonyms see INFLUENCE, POWER

Concerning the definition identified by the number 1, for the Christian Community, this relates to the Written Word of God, which is the Holy Bible. The Written Word of God is the final authority in all things. We do not, regardless of who might instruct us; government, Pastor, husband, wife, parent, boss, etc., sin against God’s Written Word. Anyone who is asking us to violate God’s Word is in sin himself or herself and we are not to follow them into sin. We follow God’s Word first, then man second. We also follow God’s Word when our own desires and wants contradict His Word. This is what it means for God’s Word to be the final authority in our lives. We are to subject all of our decisions to what God’s Word says on the matter.

In reference to the definition labeled number 2, we must subject ourselves to God so that any authority we have, in any type of relationship, is properly administered to others. If we hold a position of authority where we are able to teach or through other means influence the thoughts and mindset of another human being, then we owe it to God, them, and ourselves to daily self-evaluate and make sure we are submitted to the greatest Authority, God, our Creator. Without our daily submission to the Almighty, our authority is worthless.

The final definition number 3, puts or pits God’s agenda either in line with or against the agenda of societal government and/or institutionalized religion’s governing bodies. This situation is a bit trickier to deal with. God calls for us to obey the laws and ordinances of man and our Christian spiritual leaders expect when to do so would require us to disobey Him. One might think, ‘Would we really ever have to disobey God in order to obey government or a church leader?’ Yes, I believe that at times we might be forced to make that choice and answer the question of whom we will obey, for ourselves as individuals. The apostles made ever attempt to obey the laws of their land but when they were told to stop preaching the gospel by the authorities in their land, they declined to do so because they knew their greater obligation was to Christ. Our greater obligation will always be to Christ and what Christ wants us to do. We live in a time and in a country that is rapidly changing, and those changes are becoming more and more ungodly. As our society changes, we may find ourselves in the very real position of having to decide to obey God and possibly go to jail or having to obey man and suppress truth.

Acts 5:26–32 (NKJV)

26 Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, 28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!”

29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. 31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

This is a wonderful example of how we should respond to and interact with governing authorities.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 14 – “Authority” Introduction

In Advice, Anxiety, Apostasy, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian, Christian Living, Christianity, Church Growth, Exhortation, Godly Counsel, Jesus, Prophecy, Prophet, Prophetess, Reformation, Religious Freedom, Remnant, Renewal, Repentance, Revival, Righteousness, Spiritual Remnant, Trust, Truth, Uncategorized on January 10, 2019 at 12:41 pm

As we take on a new year, 2019, we will take a different approach to finishing both our series on Church Growth, or lack thereof, and the Study of the Book of Proverbs. Instead of alternating weekly between two subjects, as we have in the past, we will proceed this year by carrying one subject to completion and then next to completion. Please be assured we will finish each subject, Church Growth and Proverbs. We will begin by finishing the series, “Why My Church is NOT Growing” with the focus for the next several weeks placed upon the issue of how “authority” affects church growth.

Why My Church is NOT Growing – Part 14 – “Authority” Introduction

What is authority? Whom or what holds authority? How should we respond to and interact with authority? What is our problem with authority? Can authority be trusted? All wonderful questions we will seek to answer in this portion of the series.

In the Book of Revelation, the word “power” is synonymous with the word “authority”. In chapters 2-8, you will find that if you compare the King James Authorized Version with newer translations such as the New King James the word “authority” appears in the New King James Bible where the word “power” once appeared in the King James Authorized Version Bible. This alteration in translations of this word takes place whether the verse is referencing Christ or Satan. Therefore, we can see one key thing about what authority is and means, power, power in some form.

The word “authority” according to the Greek Language Definition, as found in 2 Corinthians 10:8, which we will examine later, is as follows:

Strong’s Greek Reference #1849

1849. ἐξουσία ĕxŏusia, ex-oo-see´-ah; from 1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, i.e. (subj.) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (obj.) mastery (concr. magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence:— authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength.

Authority is meant to influence. Not only to influence but also to delegate influence, in such a way that people are empowered, not oppressed. Yet, so often evil or corrupt authority seeks to oppress, always has. Authority by its very nature being, a privilege to influence others through a realistic ability to do so, should be administered with competency and a desire for liberation and freedom for those under said authority. This is what Christ wants for us, liberty, and freedom. One administers a certain token of control in order to guide another person to personal liberty, freedom, and the ability to govern oneself appropriately. It takes a strong individual to use authority with honor and integrity because they must have the spiritual and personal power to do what is right in each situation.

Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.

Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:

This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.

Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV

11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.