PRINCIPALITIES AND POWERS

When I think of what the Bible has to say about principalities and powers, I usually think of Satan and his minions.  But there appears to be much more to the phrase than just the realm of evil.  The word "principalities" is from the Greek ἀρχή (archē), which occurs 58 times in the KJV.  Of those, it is translated "beginning" 40 times, and "principalities" 8 times.  It is define as being the "leaders, the first ones, those holding the first place, or who rule."  Examples are found in the persons of Adam having dominion (Gen. 1:26; Mt. 19:4), and Jesus being the Creator (Jn. 1:1-3; Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:1-2).  Perhaps that is part of the reason Jesus is called the "last Adam" (1 Cor. 15:45).

The word "powers" comes from the Greek ἐξουσία (exousia), which occurs 103 times in the KJV.  Of those, it is translated as "powers" 69 times, and "authorities" 29 times.  Examples are found in Jesus (Mt. 7:29), Caesar and the Centurion (Mt. 8:9), the Father (Acts 1:7), and Saul of Tarsus (Acts 26:12).  We also see from Hebrews 2:14 that Satan has the power and authority to take human life.  And in Revelation 6:8, the "fourth horseman," death, has that same power.

The phrase "principalities and powers" appears three times in the Word of God.  They read as follows:    

"To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God" (Eph. 3:10).

"And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it" (Col. 2:15).

"Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work" (Titus 3:1).

In the first example, the phrase refers to angelic beings (1 Pet. 1:12).  The second refers to Satan and his demons (Gen. 3:15; Ps. 68:18; Isa. 53:12; Mt. 12:29; Rev. 20:10).  And the third refers to human government (Rom. 13:1; Col 1:10).  Born again believers serve to educate Angels, to testify against Satan, and to be an example before those in authority over us. 

 

I have to ask, "How successful are you and I (God's salt and light) doing at this?"

 

"INVESTIGATING" GOD

Whether it be a police interrogation or a congressional inquiry, the questioning often seeks to find out "what did the person know, and when did he know it?"  Those in positions of power always attempt to shield themselves from culpability by making sure they have "plausible deniability."  That is, with the exception of God.  Although He is Omnipotent, He does not feel the need to deny He is ultimately responsible for all that has taken place, and for all that ever will.  Like Truman, God has "a sign on His desk" that says, "The Buck Stops Here!"

There are three verses in Scripture which specifically state that God foreknew what was going to happen before it occurred:  He foreknew that His Son would be crucified before the foundation of the world (Acts 2:23; Heb. 9:26; Rev. 13:8); He foreknew those of us who would accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior before the foundation of the world (Rom. 8:29; Mt. 25:34; Eph. 1:4); and His foreknowledge determined whom He chose to be His children before the foundation of the world (1 Pet. 1:2; Jn. 17:24; Eph. 1:4; Rev. 13:8; 17:8).  Notice that His children's names were written in the Lamb's Book of Life, and the names of the children of Satan were omitted from that book before the foundation of the world!

One of the greatest differences between man participating in the planning out of a criminal act, and God's foreknowledge of what happens, is motive.  The criminal breaks both God's and man's laws for some selfish purpose.  God allows man to break His and society's laws, but He is motivated by love for the lawbreaker.  He offers forgiveness and salvation to all who will turn to Him through faith in Jesus Christ (Jn. 1:12; 3:16; Acts 10:34; Rom. 2:11; 10:8-13; Col. 3:25).  Paul wrote:  "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.  For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.  Moreover whom He did predestinate, them He also called: and whom He called, them He also justified: and whom He justified, them He also glorified" (Rom. 8:28-30).

 

God is love!  All that He does and allows is motivated by love!  Trust Him!    

THE ACTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Many English versions of the Bible entitle the fifth book of the New Testament, "The Acts of the Apostles," and anyone familiar with its text understands why.  Acts is the History of the first century Church, during which the Apostles established the Church in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and began taking it to the "uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8; 2:5; 5:16; 8:14; 10:45).  However, when one examines Acts closely, it soon becomes obvious that all that the Apostles did (and did not do), was directed by, and empowered by, the Holy Spirit. 

* It was the Spirit who gave them the gift of salvation (2:28; Eph. 2:8; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who baptized them (1:5; Rom. 6:3; Gal. 3:27; Eph. 4:5; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who filled them (2:4; 4:8, 31; 6:5; 7:55; 9:17; 11:24; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who pressed them to speak (18:5).

* It was the Spirit who made them fervent and diligent (18:25).

* It was the Spirit Jesus used to direct them (1:2; 8:29; 11:12; 13:2; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who hindered their movements (16:6-7; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who transported Philip (8:39).

* It was the Spirit who gave them utterance (2:4; 6:10; 21:4; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who empowered them (1:8; 4:33; 6:8; etc.).

* It was the Spirit who comforted them (9:31).

* It was the Spirit who was THE Witness (5:32).

Is the Holy Spirit doing these things through you?

Are you bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23)?

If not, you might not be born again of the Spirit (Jn. 3:3-9)!

FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE

Yesterday, I wrote about the three Spiritual gifts which will "fail," "cease," and "vanish" from 1 Corinthians 13:8.  Today, I would like to talk about the three enduring characteristics of born again believers:  "Faith," "Hope," and "Love" mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13:13. 

FAITH:  All born again believers have faith.  We could not be born again believers without faith according to Ephesians 2:8-9 which says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:  not of works, lest any man should boast."  The writer of Hebrews defined faith this way:  "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1).  According to that Holy Spirit inspired definition, we can deduce that when we see Jesus in all His glory (1 Jn. 3:2), we will no longer need faith to believe in Him; we will know Him!  Praise God!  I so long for that day!

HOPE:  All born again believers have hope.  Paul wrote:  "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?  But if we hope for that we see not, the] do we with patience wait for it" (Rom. 8:24-25).  Notice that our "hope" will end when we see Him.  That is why our "hope" is not a "hope so" kind of uncertainty, but it is more the object of our faith, as described by Paul:  "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:27).  Again, Paul wrote:  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope" (1 Tim. 1:1).

LOVE:  All born again believers have love.  We love God, and our "neighbors."  The Scriptures say that "We love Him, because He first loved us" (Jn. 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Eph. 2:4; 1 Jn. 4:19).  Our love for our fellow man is evidence that we are saved; "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren . . . " (1 Jn. 3:14).  Clearly, the opposite it true; if we do not love the brethren, then we do not have evidence that we are saved.  Those without assurance of their salvation, fear God.  However, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear . . . " (1 Jn. 4:18).

 

Greater than faith and hope, love will never end because "God is Love" (1 Jn. 4:8, 16)!

   

FAIL, CEASE, AND VANISH

The Scripture says, "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:4). Three of these grace gifts are specifically mentioned as failing, ceasing, and vanishing (1 Cor. 13:8).  There is no disagreement over the fact that the Spiritual gifts of prophecy, tongues, and knowledge are described in 1 Corinthians 13:8-13, as being temporary.  The debate is over when they stop.  

When will prophecies fail? cannot mean "fail to come to pass," for there have always been false prophets.  It must mean that they fail to be necessary.  The text indicates that the Spiritual gift of prophecy and the Spiritual gift of knowledge (1 Cor. 12:8-10) are only small glimpses of the "big picture," and that when "that which is perfect is come," we will know everything (1 Cor. 13:12).  Then, there will be no need for the Spiritual gifts of prophecy and knowledge.  But what is it, that when it comes, causes these Spiritual gifts to be no longer necessary?  Some say "that which is perfect" refers to the Bible in its completed form, but I seriously doubt those saying that are arrogant enough to say they know everything.  No, the Word itself, clearly says it is not until Jesus comes and we meet Him face-to-face, that we will know what He knows (1 Cor. 13:12; 1 Jn. 3:2).

But what about the Spiritual gift of tongues?  Will it cease when Christ returns for His Church, or has it ceased to be necessary because of the completed Bible?  Obviously, unless the Bible is available in every language, there still appears to be a need for the gift.  Also, the Spiritual gift of tongues is a sign gift (1 Cor. 14:22).  It is the Jews who require a sign (1 Cor. 1:22).  Are there unsaved Jews today?  Of course!  Will there be unsaved Jews until Jesus comes?  Indeed!  Therefore, like prophecy and knowledge, there is still a need for tongues.

But the Spiritual gift of tongues needs to be defined.  First, it is known languages (Acts 2:4-11).  Because the languages spoken were understood by Jews from all over the known world, there was no need for an interpreter.  Notice that Peter described the words spoken in tongues as being prophecy (Acts 2:17-18).  It is my understanding that tongues, when coupled with the Spiritual gift of interpretation, is the same thing as prophecy (1 Cor. 12:10; 14:5, 13, 27-28).  If prophecy is still needed, then tongues, with interpretation is needed.  That is why Paul wrote for the Church not to forbid the speaking in tongues (1 Cor. 14:39).

 

"Let all things be done decently and in order" (1 Cor. 14:40).       

IF NOTHING ELSE, MAN IS CONSISTENT

The most obvious truths presented to us in the Bible are that God loves us (although I cannot comprehend why), and we love noone but ourselves! We, like Adam, prefer to be equal to God, rather than acknowledge His sovereignty. Here are a few illustrations:

God's single command to all: "Do not eat from that tree" (Gen. 2:17).
Man's response: "And . . . he did eat" (Gen. 3:6).
Result: The Fall - Romans 5:12.

God's single command to all: "If thou doest well (act righteously), shalt thou not be accepted? . . . " (Gen. 4:7).
Man's response: "And GOD saw that the wickedness of man . . . was only evil continually" (Gen. 6:5).
Result: The Flood - Genesis 6:6-18.

God's single command to all: "Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth" (Gen. 9:1).
Man's response: ". . . let us build us a city and a tower . . . lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth" (Gen. 11:4).
Result: The Dispersion - Genesis 11:7-8.

God's single command to Israel: ". . . Get thee out of thy country . . . unto a land that I will shew thee" (Gen. 12:1).
Man's response: "And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt . . . " (Gen. 12:10).
Result: The Egyptian Bondage - Acts 7:6.

God's single command to Israel: ". . . keep My commandments, and do them: I am the LORD" (Lev. 22:13).
Man's response: "Save Caleb . . . and Joshua . . . all the generation (did) evil in the sight of the LORD . . . " (Num. 32:12-13).
Result: Death in the Wilderness - Joshua 5:4.

God's single command to Israel: ". . . Prepare ye the way of the LORD . . . " (Isa. 40:3).
Man's response: ". . . and they crucified Him . . . " (Mt. 27:35).
Result: ". . . blindness in part has happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in" (Rom. 11:25).

God's single command to the Church: ". . . ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).
Man's response: ". . . the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly . . . " (Acts 6:7).
Result: ". . . there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria . . . " (Acts 8:1).

Do you want to know how the Church is doing?  Read Revelation 2:1 - 3:22!   

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EIGHT

Born again believers know that some numbers have a special significance when found in the Bible.  For instance, "one" symbolizes unity (Deut. 6:4; Mk. 12:29; Jn. 17:11, 21-23; etc.).  "Two" represents a uniting or union, as in marriage or have two witnesses (Gen. 2:23-24; Deut. 17:6; Eph. 5:31-32; Rev. 11:3; etc.).  "Three" has to do with divinity, as in the evidence in Christ's Resurrection after three days (Mt. 12:38-40); the formula for Baptism (Mt. 28:19); and the members of the Trinity as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 13:14.  The same could be shown for the numbers "four," "five," "six," and "seven."  But I especially want to look at the number "eight."

The number "eight" has to do with new beginnings resulting from God's mercy and His grace.
 
*  The Creation Week, like any other week in history, took seven days (Gen. 1:1 - 2:3).  We see the "eighth" day as the start of human history. 
*  The Hebrew child was initiated into the religious community by circumcised on the eighth day, (Gen. 17:10-12). 
*  There were "eight" persons saved from the Flood for the very purpose of the human race having a new beginning (Gen. 7:7; 1 Pet. 3:2; 2 Pet. 2:5; etc.). 
*  David was the "eighth" son of Jesse (1 Sam. 16:10-11). 
*  A leper was cleansed on the "eighth" day (Lev. 14:10-23). 
*  The Feast of Wave Loaves, commonly known as the Feast of Pentecost, occurred on the first day of the "eighth" week after the Feast of First Fruits (Lev. 23:10-21).  This feast can be seen as a feast of "new beginnings" because the Church was founded on the day of the Feast of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-47).       
*  The Feast of Tabernacles, the feast representing the Millennial Kingdom of Christ, lasted seven days; the following day was a Sabbath, a Day of Holy Convocation (Lev. 23:36).  It is that "following day," the "eighth" day, if you will, that represents the beginning of our eternity with God (Rev. 21:1 - 22:21)!

And, while the number "8" clearly represents God's mercy and grace at giving man a "fresh start," it is also ironic that the figure itself, laid on its side, is the symbol for infinity (eternity)!  My "seven days" lasted twenty-eight years, but thank God, my "eighth day" began January 31, 1971!

 

If all you have is "seven days," makes you weak;

it is the "eighth day" that makes us eternal! 

 

JUDGING OTHERS

Over the years, I have been accused of judging others simply by choosing not to participate in whatever activity was going on around me.  I cannot tell you how many times my refusing to drink alcohol has resulted in a "sermon" about my being a "judge."  I have never spoken out against someone smoking or drinking, nor have I ever indicated I think poorly of those who do.  In fact, my understanding of God's Word leads me to believe each individual should live his life according to faith.  If he would feel comfortable smoking or drinking in the Lord's presence, then fine.  If not, then he should stop.  This principle is clearly taught in Romans 14:22-23, which says, "Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.  And he that doubteth is damned . . . for whatsoever is not of faith is sin."

Recently, a sweet Christian lady was defending someone who was among a very small group of "suspects" accused of stealing something.  Because she loved the individual, her response was to share her view by using Matthew 7:1-5, which says, "Judge not, that ye be not judged.  For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.  And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?  Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam [is] in thine own eye?  Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."

Here is my response to her:  "I love that quote from Matthew 7:1-5! And I totally agree with it, as it is the Word of God. I have preached it on several occasions. But you know what I noticed that few ever realize?   Both "beams" and "motes" are sins!   Both need to be removed!   In other words, you are right; "there is only One who shall pass judgment" and EVERYONE will stand before Him at one of two judgments. Those who have been born again by faith in the Crucified and Resurrected Son of God, will be judged for their works done for Him at the Judgment Seat of Christ (Rom. 14:10; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10); those who have failed to turn their lives over to Him will be judged in another judgment, the Great White Throne Judgment, and spend eternity in the Lake of Fire (Rev. 20:11-15). God blessings to you and yours."

Jesus told the woman caught in the act of adultery, "Go and sin no more" (Jn. 8:11).  He had shamed her accusers into leaving her with Him, and yet, He wasn't excusing the sin of the woman.  You often hear it said, "Two wrongs don't make a right."  That is certainly true, but both are wrongs!

 

We cannot let the fact that "no one is perfect," keep us from trying to be!  

I AM THANKFUL FOR PEOPLE

I cannot recall a single Thanksgiving Day, of the seventy I have experienced, which has not been focused upon God's blessings to man.  People thank God for freedom, and for the food, clothing, and shelter He has provided.  Some, unfortunately far fewer than a majority, thank Him for salvation.  Those who are born again, recognize that it is only because of His grace and His mercy, demonstrated in the giving of His Son to pay for the sins of mankind, that we can call Him Father.

This year, I would like to thank some of those folks God has used, and is using, to make me more like Jesus.  You would think I would begin with my wife of fifty years, and of course, she has played a significant role in His work in me.  But, I am afraid her contribution to my Christlikeness would not have even mattered had it not been for the contribution of some others.  So...  

I want to thank Tim Coffman for obeying God's leading and witnessing to me.  It was the pocket New Testament he sent that God used in the well-orchestrated series of "coincidences" which resulted in my accepting Jesus as my Lord.

I want to thank Hal Judd, who not only witnessed to me, but even after I mocked him, he asked his church to pray for my salvation at every prayer meeting until I was saved.

I want to thank the Pastor of Dolphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, for preaching the exact message I needed to hear in order to open my heart to the truth about Jesus.  Similarly, I want to thank Rex Humbard of the Cathedral of Tomorrow in Akron, Ohio, for "pointing at me" through the camera, and moving me to get on my knees and accept Christ.

I want to thank Lee and Sandy Frerichs for coming to my home every Friday for two years, so that they could teach me (and over twenty others) the basic doctrines of the Word of God.  Their patience with an ex-atheist, with one who thought he knew it all, still boggles my mind!

I want to thank all of my Bible College Professors, and some of my Seminary Professors, for the sharing of their relationship with, and knowledge of,  the Creator of the Universe.

I want to thank Kip Smith for paying for my wife and me to attend our Emmaus Walks.

And finally, I want to thank my wife for her patience, her tolerance, and for her serving as a hindrance on the multitudes of occasions in which I demonstrated my un-Christlike, A.D.H.D, O.C.D. flawed character.  I believe she has literally saved the lives of some who have challenged me.

Thanking God should include mentioning those He uses in our lives!  

         

HE ALONE IS WORTHY

As a born again believer in Jesus Christ by the mercy and grace of God, and one priviledged to be used of the Lord to minister and bless others, I have, on rare occasion, received the praise of man.  I find that I am torn between two diametrically opposed responses:  I am grateful that others appreciate "my contribution" to their lives, but inwardly, I know that if they knew the real me, they more likely would be disgusted by me!  On the one hand, I am filled with pride and a false sense of worth, and on the other, I am totally humbled that the Lord would use such a wretch like me!

You see, by nature, I am a self-centered, self-absorbed, very unloving person.  When I look at myself in the mirror of God's Word, I see how little I resemble Jesus and I mourn.  However, every once in a while, I have the priviledge of being filled with God's Spirit, and in those, often far too short moments in time, I am totally Christ-like!  It is usually during those rare occasions that others tend to praise me.  The irony is, apart from the power and working of God's Spirit, there is absolutely nothing praise worthy about me!  It is Christ, working in me, that is worthy of praise!  God's Word says that it is during those occasions that "...it is God (who) worketh in (me) both to will and to do of His good pleasure" (Phil. 2:13)!  During those rare times, "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me" (Gal. 2:20).

 

Far greater men than I, have realized they were also unworthy of man's praise.  Jacob said, "I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant...." (Gen. 32:10).  A Roman leader recognized his unworthiness in Matthew 8:8, which says, "The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed."  Even John the Baptist was quick to declare his unworthiness to be used of the Lord.  In Mark 1:7, John said, "There cometh One mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose."  No, it is God alone who is worthy of man's praise (Ps. 8:5; 18:3; Heb. 2:7-9; Rev. 4:9-11; 5:2, 4, 9, 12; 19:1).

 

  
Thanksgiving is a great holiday for praising the only One worthy of praise!

MERCY DECIDES; GRACE PROVIDES

The two main attributes of God which are revealed in the Cross of Christ are His Grace and His Mercy.  "Grace" is getting something which is totally undeserved.  God gave us a means to escape the punishment we so deserve:  "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:  that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.  For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved" (Jn. 3:14-17).

That being said, if God would have stopped there, all men would still be destined for the Lake of Fire!  The next two verses reveal that even though God has provided a means to escape, man, in and of himself, would not respond.  "And this is the condemnation, that Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than Light, because their deeds were evil.  For every one that doeth evil hateth the Light, neither cometh to the Light, lest his deeds should be reproved" (Jn. 3:18-19).  We know from other passages of Scripture that ALL "doeth evil" (Rom. 3:23; Gal. 3:22; etc.). 

In order for us to come to faith in the resurrected Lord, the Father must draw us to Him (Jn. 6:44).  Just as His Grace provided the only means of salvation (Jn. 14:6), His Mercy makes it known (Jn. 6:45).  God's Mercy reveals the truth to man through the working of the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit convicts (convinces) the lost man:  1) that he is a sinner, 2) that Jesus is righteous as evidenced by His Resurrection and Ascension, and 3) that certain judgment awaits all who follow Satan rather than God (Jn. 16:7-11; 2 Cor. 4:4).

"Mercy" is not getting something which is totally deserved.  A person who seeks mercy is acknowledging three things:  1) that the One from whom he seeks mercy is the One to whom he must answer for his sin, 2) that he realizes he is a sinner, and 3) that God wants to forgive him.  Only when I acknowledge I am a sinner needing to be saved, will I call upon Him by name, pleading for Him to save me.  Paul wrote it this way:  "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Rom. 10:13).  When we call, God is Merciful!

 

Salvation results from believing in God's Grace and His Mercy!   

 

THE FALSE MESSIAH OF ISRAEL

Israel, and I am sure her Islamic neighbors, are tired of fighting! Israel longs for her promised Messiah, her Savior who will destroy her enemies, and establish His Kingdom, the only legitimate "one world government." The good news is, God always does what He promises (Gen. 3:15; 2 Sam. 7:12; Gal. 3:16); the bad news is, they are still waiting because when He came, they rejected Him (Mk. 15:1-27; Jn. 1:11)!

Ironically, when a false christ comes, Antichrist, Israel will accept him (Dan. 9:24-27; Jn. 5:43). To the born again believer, it is hard to understand why such an evil man would be seen as God's man. It is obvious that Israel is blinded to the truth about both God's Man, and Satan's man (Rom. 11:25; 2 Cor. 3:14; 4:4).

Jesus and Antichrist are nothing alike!
*  Jesus came in His Father's name (Jn. 5:43a vs. Jn. 5:43b).
*  Jesus came from above (Jn. 6:38 vs. Rev. 11:7).
*  Jesus was humble (Phil. 2:8 vs. 2 Thes. 2:4).
*  Jesus was despised (Lk. 23:18 vs. Rev. 13:3-4).
*  Jesus did His Father's will (Jn. 6:38 vs. Dan. 11:36).
*  Jesus came to save (Lk. 19:10 vs. Dan. 8:24).
*  Jesus is the Good Shepherd (Jn. 10:4-6 vs. Zech. 11:16-17).
*  Jesus is the Truth (Jn. 14:6 vs. 2 Thes. 2:11).
*  Jesus is the Holy One (Mk. 1:24 vs. 2 Thes. 2:8).
*  Jesus is the Son of God (Lk. 1:35 vs. 2 Thes. 2:3).
*  Jesus is called the "Mystery of Godliness" ( 1 Tim. 3:16 vs. 2 Thes. 2:7).
*  Jesus will be exalted (Phil. 2:9 vs. Rev. 19:20).

The good news is, our Christ will destroy Satan's Antichrist!

       The bad news is, He will also destroy those who follow him!       

KNOWING GOD'S "WON'T"

Born again believers are constantly wanting to know the will of the Lord for their lives.  Many ask themselves, "What Would Jesus Do?" in trying to say or do the right thing.  After all, as children of God, we want to act like the only begotten Son of God, right?  And unlike the religious person who wants to know God's will in order to avoid His wrath, true believers want to know because we want to show our gratitude for what He has done, is doing, and promised He would do forever!  But I cannot remember anyone asking "What Won't Jesus Do?"  It is as though we subconsciously know that our nature gravitates to doing those things He would not do, and that we are experts at failing to walk according to God's will.

This morning's devotion in Our Daily Bread referred to a church tradition which divides sin into seven categories:  pride, anger, envy, impurity, gluttony, slothfulness, and greed.  Although the order often varies, secular lists name them:  pride, envy, gluttony, lust, anger, greed, and sloth.  God, on the other hand, has His own list of seven things He considers abominable.  Solomon wrote, "These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him:   A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among (the or one's) brethren" (Prov. 6:16-19).

For illustrating my point, imagine that Jesus is still physically walking around on our planet.  Jesus won't be prideful; He is humble (Phil. 2:5-8)!  He won't be a liar; He is Truth (Jn. 14:6)!  He won't kill; He is Life (Jn. 10:10)!  He won't make up stuff; He tells it like it is (Jn. 6:63; 8:26, 28; 8:38; 12:50; 14:10; etc.)!  He won't be mischievous; He will not sin (Heb. 4:15)!  He won't be a false witness; He won't be a witness at all - He is the Judge (Rev. 16:5; 19:2, 11; 20:12-13)!  And He will not sow discord among His brethren, the Church, for its unity is His desire (Jn. 17:11, 21-23)!

Doing His will automatically means not doing His won'ts!

DO NOT ALLOW SIN TO WIN

Those who have read my daily posts on this blog for any length of time, know that I get much of my inspiration and material from www.middletownbiblechurch.org.  Today's post is no exception. 

I recently joined in a discussion at www.facebook.com/paul.mutschler#!/groups/christinprophecy/, where a debate was going on about whether or not born again believers possessed two natures:  the sin nature from Adam, and the new nature from Jesus (the "last Adam" - 1 Cor. 15:45).  One individual was very determined to convince several others that once a man is saved and indwelt by the Holy Spirit, his old nature was dead.  He based his belief on the following verse:  "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Cor. 5:17).  But, as is always the case when determining Bible doctrine, one must consider all that the Word has to say on the subject.  Here is what Middletown Bible Church's doctrinal statement says on the subject: 

"We believe that every saved person possesses two natures, with provision made for victory of the new nature over the old nature through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit; and, that all claims to the eradication of the old nature in this life are unscriptural (Romans 6:13; 8:12-13; Galatians 5:16-25; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:10; 1 Peter 1:14-16; 1 John 3:5-9)".

While these are excellent cross-references on the topic, I think it is amazing that Middletown did not reference Romans 7:14-25 and 1 John 1:8-10.  Notice that the verbs in both passages are present tense.  That means the Apostle Paul had an ongoing struggle within regarding his thoughts, words, and deeds.  His old nature was contrary to his new nature.  In the First John passage, John was writing to believers!  He even went so far as to say that those who deny they still sin, are calling God a liar!  It is clear that born again believers still sin.  It is also clear that one must immediately repent if he wants to remain in fellowship with the Lord.  Habitual sin is unacceptable, and my indicate one is not born again, especially if God does not "tan one's hide" (Heb. 12:5-8)!

 

As Israel purged their homes from leaven, so Christians should do the same with sin!

I THANK GOD FOR MY COMPUTER

I have been so blessed to have lived in America at a time when food is abundant, where medical assistance is readily available, where freedom of religion still exists, where travel is uninhibited, and where the sciences continuously make communication easier with each new invention.  If it were not for my computer, I would be more isolated, less informed, and without a ministry.  Although I am not a total shut-in, my health issues limit my activity greatly from just ten years ago.  Being on-line allows me to be a witness to people all over the world, to have access to vast amounts of Bible study materials, and to learn from those whom God's Spirit is constantly revealing His truth.

One of the sites God has used to bless and teach me is the group known as "Christ in Prophecy."    
(https://www.facebook.com/paul.mutschler#!/groups/christinprophecy/10151209593418999/?comment_id=10151213918743999&notif_t=group).  Most of those sharing their understanding are self-taught; they have little or no formal Bible training.  And yet, I often gain greater insight from them, than I did in all the seminary classes I attended combined.  Here are just two comments that blessed me today.  I have known, in general, what each of these two women wrote about, but I had not thought of what they have shared in such clear terms.   

Diane Tipping Williams wrote:  "And I should also add that Bible prophecy points to Jesus Christ and Redemption as the entire Bible does. I hear all the time about every subject (not just prophecy) but any subject that people discuss..."Why don't we just focus on Jesus?" What I don't think people understand is that by studying what God says about our future, about what is happening around us, is part of understanding who Jesus is."

 

Pam Morgan Bilich wrote:  "Birth pangs, in terms of Bible Prophecy, refers to certain convulsive geopolitical, geophysical, astrophysical, and world-wide, socio-economic events and issues scheduled to occur in the time leading up to Jesus Christ's Second Advent (Second Coming). These are likened to the contractions experienced by a woman about to give birth, with those episodes increasing with frequency and intensity. Jesus' foretelling of these birth pangs uses the word "sorrows," in His Olivet Discourse on end time things to come."

 

God is using the computer, and internet access, to bringing the Body of Christ together, much in the same way God's Word describes the reuniting of the "parts" of Israel in Ezekiel 37:1-14!

MAN GETS ONLY TWO CHANCES

Our Father, the One and only God, the One who resides in heaven (Mt. 6:9), has demonstrated His love (Jn. 3:16), His patience (Rom. 15:5), and His willingness to give man a second chance, over and over again in the Scriptures.  A great example can be seen in how God "rewrote" the Ten Commandments after Moses destroyed the "originals." 

God had cut two stone tablets, upon which He had written the Ten Commandments, and He gave them to Moses (Ex. 31:18).  Upon Moses' return to his brethren at the foot of Mount Sinai, seeing their idolatry (Ex. 32:8) and debauchery (Ex. 32:6 w/25), he cast down the stone tablets and shattered them (Ex. 32:19).  In a way, Moses was guilty of sinning, in that he "broke the law" (pun intended). 

And what was God's reaction?  In the next chapter (Ex. 33), God promised to honor the covenant He had made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and He appears to the people as a "cloudy pillar."  We read in Nehamiah 9:12 that the "cloudy pillar" was evidence of God's presence during the day, and that He was seen by night as being in a "pillar of fire."  Then in the chapter after that (Ex. 34), God made Moses replace the stone tablets, and He wrote the Ten Commandments a second time (Ex. 34:1-4 w/28).

As evidence that God accepted the "second copy" of the Ten Commandments, He had Moses place them into the Ark of the Covenant, along with Aaron's rod that budded and a golden jar of manna (Heb. 9:1-4). When the Ark of the Covenant was placed in the Temple, it contained only the stone tablets; somewhere along the line, the other two items had be removed (1 Kgs. 8:9).  In my opinion, that symbolizes the fact that Aaron's role and the provision of manna had been temporary, but that the Law of God was to be a lasting testimony of God's servant Moses, and his role in delivering the Law to Israel .

Because we all break God's Commandments, God provided His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to pay for our sins, and offer us a second chance on life - a "second birth" (Jn. 3:3-8)!     

BIBLE STUDY COURSES

The Middletown Bible Church offers a Correspondence Bible Study Course for any person who is interested. The subjects covered include the following: 
the sinfulness of man, the work of Christ, God's way of salvation, the inspiration of the Scriptures, faith, redemption, justification, sanctification, holy living, eternal security, assurance of salvation, and many other topics. It is titled, "Basic Doctrinal Worksheets for Believers."

If you enroll in this course, you will receive Bible study worksheets in six installments (the entire course is 100 pages). You will need a Bible as your only textbook (KJV version is recommended).  

After you complete the first lesson you will mail it back to us for correction in a stamped envelope that will be provided for you. After it is corrected, it will be returned to you along with the next lesson. After you have finished all 100 pages (6 lessons), then you will receive a certificate, and an additional Bible study course will be sent to you (a 138 page study on the Gospel of John, in four installments).

To enroll, you merely need to do the following: 

Put a check in the mail for the amount of $22.00 payable to The Middletown Bible Church. This will cover the cost of postage, envelopes, etc. for the entire course. We are not making a profit. On the memo line of your check write "Correspondence Course." 

 

Mail to: 

George Zeller

Middletown Bible Church

349 East St.

Middletown, CT 06457 

 

(Make sure your return address is clearly written on the envelope.)  We are sorry, but this offer is only for those living in the United States, as the cost of shipping overseas is far too costly.

Please note that this Bible Study Course is available on our website and anyone can desires to work on these studies on their own.

 

If you want to know God's will, then you need to know His Word.

    

SELF-ESTEEM VERSES DYING TO ONESELF

When I entered seminary, my intention was to prepare to serve the Lord as a Christian Counselor.  I had taken seventy-seven hours of the Social Sciences in college, with enough to have majored in both Sociology and Psychology.  I thought I could help other Christians deal with the difficulties of living the Christian life.  However, upon purchasing the required textbook for my first class, I happened to read the author's description of his book.  He said, "This book is the only book the Christian Counselor will ever need."  I was shocked!  I fully agreed with him that only one book was needed, but for me, that book was the Bible.  I dropped the class and changed my "major."

As I see it, there are two diametrically opposed approaches to Christian Counseling.  The first focuses on building up one's self-esteem.  It attempts to portray the born again believer as though he is always filled with the Spirit, and emphasizes his wisdom, strength, courage, purity, and in the end, he becomes proud.  He thinks the Church, and for that matter, God is "lucky to have him." 

The other sees self-esteem as the root of pride, causing the believer to rely upon himself rather than upon the power and leading of the Holy Spirit.  This approach reminds the believer that it was grace (God's unmerited favor) that saved the poor wretches that we all are (Num. 11:15; Rom. 7:24; Rev. 3:17).  It teaches that although born again believers are filled with the Holy Spirit at salvation, unfortunately, we "leak."  We constantly must battle to overcome the flesh within us which fights against the Spirit (Rom. 7:14-25; 1 Jn. 1:8 - 2:2).  It recognizes that Christians who were filled with the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, needed to be "refilled" many times (Acts 2:4; 4:8; 9:17; 13:9; Eph. 5:18).

You don't need a "Christian Counselor" to help you!

If you want to know where you are in your spiritual growth,

you must keep looking at yourself in the mirror of God's Word (Jam. 1:22-25)!

 

CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR

When a sailor shares his reflections on his time in the Navy, they are called "sea stories."  One of mine, inspired by today's Our Daily Bread devotion, has to do with my applying for the classification of Conscientious Objector.  On January 31, 1971, my life had changed forever.  I awoke that Sunday morning, an atheist, but after being drawn by the God to sit through three hours of Christian programming (Jn. 6:44), I knelt in my living room and placed my total trust in Jesus Christ.  Two days later, I was seated in the Navy Personnel Office applying for a discharge, because I believed it was inconsistent for a Christian to be in the military.  I had absolutely zero Bible knowledge, but in my mind, if I was to be like Christ, I could not take part in a military organization.

The next evening, Wednesday, I randomly picked a church out of the Yellow Pages, and called to find out what classes I needed to take in college so that I could go to seminary.  There was music playing in the background, and the Pastor told me services were starting; he would have to call me back.  When he did, the first thing he said was, "Do you know Hal Judd?"  Hal, a man I had ridiculed for his faith in Christ, had testified that the young atheist for whom the church had been praying, had accepted Christ.  I had seen Chief Judd the previous day while applying for C.O., and had told him of my decision.  By "coincidence," I had called Hal's church!

The Pastor wanted to meet me so I accepted his invitation to meet him the next night at Dunkin' Donuts.  When he arrived, he had a couple other fellows with him.  He said that I should go with one of them.  I do not recall his name, but I was more than willing to accompany him on what turned out to be a home visit to a shut-in.  The man turned out to be a Major in the Marine Corps, a member of their church, and who was recovering for surgery.  The man I was with sat quietly, saying nothing.  So, I told them both how the Lord had saved me the previous Sunday, and that I had applied for a discharge as a C.O.  When I finished, the Marine asked if he could show me what the Word of God had to say about Christians serving in the military.  In less than fifteen minutes, I realized my error, and the following day, I withdrew my application.  Ironically, although I attended that church for over two years, I never saw the Major again.  For all I know, he might have been an angel used to "school" an over-zealous baby Christian.  I served eight more years, retiring in 1978.  I am so thankful God was, and is, directing me as He makes me more and more like His dear Son (Phil. 1:6).

 

Veterans serve their nation; Christian veterans serve their nation for the Lord!        

VETERANS' DAY

To tell you the truth (I try to do so 100% of the time), I am not exactly sure how this holiday should be written; is it "Veterans Day," "Veteran's Day," or "Veterans' Day?"  I have chosen the latter because the first could merely point to a day when veterans get to shop at a discount.  The second could be interpreted to be a day to honor a single veteran.  But the third not only honors all veterans, it does so in a way that shows the bond that veterans of all services have, and it honors veterans throughout our nation's entire history.  There is a fraternity-like unity that veterans have with each other.  It is a respect for those who have walked in our shoes.

Military veterans have committed themselves by stating the following: 

"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

Notice the differences in the Oath of Office of the President of the United States:
"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."  The military oath mentions "enemies foreign and domestic," "true faith and allegiance," the written document which contains the code of conduct (UCMJ), and of course, the oath is stated in such a way as to acknowledge the need for God's help! Admittedly, most Presidents have placed their hand upon the Bible, and added the words "so help me God."  However, it is not mandated by law.

Presidents are kept out of harm's way; Presidents are paid enough to qualify them for higher taxes (over $250,000); Presidents have a staff, while the majority of veterans were the staff; Presidents get a home while veterans spend years away from home; Presidents leave office after four or eight years as millionaires, while veterans may have a little savings after twenty years of service.  I could go on, but I think I have made my point. 

 

Veterans AND THEIR FAMILIES deserve to be honored for their sacrificial service!

 

   

SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE

It is amazing to me how one's position on the concept of a wall of separation between the Church and the State, varies or fluctuates depending upon the current issues being debated.  For instance, typically, most conservative Christians are absolutely certain that Jefferson's "hypothetical wall" was intended to protect citizens from governmental restrictions on the freedom of worship, but that the Bible should be the foundation for civil law.  The vast majority of the rest of the U.S. population, typically holds to the view that religion should have no control over the law of the land; that the mere reference to a religion, especially the religion of the majority, is to be seen as an endorsement, which, they are quick to point out, is strictly forbidden by the First Amendment.

Being a conservative Christian, I understand why the Bible, being inspired by God, should be the basis for all civil law.  After all, God knows what is best for man.  I also understand why those who disagree, tend to feel that Christianity is "cramming its teachings down the throats" of non-Christians.  In other words, one group wants their religious beliefs to be recognized as the foundation of civil authority, and the other wants civil authority to go out of its way to avoid being influenced by the majority religion. 

But, unlike the majority of my conservative brethren, I have to agree with the other side's position that the Bible and Christianity should hold no special place with respect to the law.  I know, many reading this will think I have either lost my mind, or that I am one of the "wolves in sheep's clothing."  And although in saying so, I risk of being "stoned to death," I feel I need to point out something that apparently has failed to become obvious to my conservative brethren.  We ARE the religion of the majority, but what happens when that is no longer the case?  Do we actually want Sharia Law to become the law of the land should, God forbid, the Muslims become the majority in America?  I do not think so! 

Faith should be a personal matter between the individual and his God.  It should influence his thoughts, words, and deeds.  It should be shared with others of like mind, and with those who seek to discover the basis for one's way of life.  It should not be the law of the land!

    

 

COLOSSIANS 4:5-6

In light of the obvious outrage over the outcome of the recent national elections, and in light of some of the, shall we say, questionable responses by conservative Christians, I was led to remind myself and others of the Apostle Paul's words:  "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without (not like minded about political or spiritual things), redeeming the time (not wasting one's time in foolish or hate filled debate).  Let your speech be alway(s) with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man" (Col. 4:5-6 KJV - my thoughts in italics).
I have heard everything from "no born again believer could have voted Democrat," to "a coup sounds pretty good to me right now."  One would think that we conservatives want everything done by the strict letter of the U.S. Constitution until things don't go our way!  No wonder the lost world looks at Christians as hypocrites!  That being said, we followers of Jesus, supposedly wanting to always do the will of the Lord (W.W.J.D.), seem to forget His teaching on how to behave in the "heat of battle."  Here is how Jesus handled those who would disgrace Him, or, worse yet, trick Him into committing treason against Rome.  In Matthew 22:15-22, we read"

"Then went the Pharisees (religions leaders), and took counsel how they might entangle Him in His talk.  And they sent out unto Him their disciples with the Herodians (political leaders), saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest Thou for any man: for Thou regardest not the person of men (have favorites).  Tell us therefore, What thinkest Thou?  Is it lawful to give tribute (pay taxes) unto Caesar, or not?  But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye Me, ye hypocrites?  Shew Me the tribute money.  And they brought unto him a penny.  And He saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?  They say unto Him, Caesar's. Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.  When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left Him, and went their way."

Notice that His enemies approached with flattery.  Notice that one's enemies tend to forget differences between them, and that they readily unite when they want to do us harm.  Notice that Jesus may have been the originator of the phrase "separation of Church and State."  Notice that Jesus practiced what He preached ("be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves" - Mt. 10:16).

 

Do not forget the message that we are citizens of a much greater Kingdom!  

HAND PICKED LEADERS

The Bible is filled with examples of how God used government leaders, both good and bad, to accomplish His will, and thereby, work out the plan He had from the beginning of time.  There was the "good Pharaoh," whose promotion of Joseph provided for the family of Jacob (Gen. 41:41), and the "bad Pharaoh" who began what was to be the four hundred years of bondage of God's people (Ex. 1:8).  There was the "bad king" of Israel (Saul - 1 Sam. 9:17-13:13), and his replacement, the "good king" who was a "man after God's own heart (David - 1 Sam. 13:14-16:12).  God used Cyrus, King of Persia, to rebuild Jerusalem after the seventy year bondage of Israel in Babylon (Ezra 1:1-3), and He used Pilate, Governor of Judea, to sentence His only begotten Son to death (Jn. 3:16; 19:6)!

With all the biblical evidence that God is in control, it puzzles me how I, and most born again believers, are astounded by the election of less-than-perfect men to be President of the United States.  It is as though we believe God is soverign, and yet our elections are controlled by "ignorant fools" as one person wrote on Facebook!  Either God is in control, or He is not.  If we forget this, we fail to truly believe He is Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent in the affairs of men.  In other words, our view of God is more like that of a glorified absentee landlord, than He is the ever-present Lord of lords!   

Perhaps the best passage in Scripture to confirm God's control in the affairs of man, is found in the Book of Daniel, which says, "O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour:  and for the majesty that He gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down.  But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:  and he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that He appointeth over it whomsoever He will" (Dan. 5:18-21).

Don't protest against God's chosen; pray for him!

GOD APPOINTS KINGS

In light of yesterday's election results, I thought I would simply copy my responses to those who were grieved by the outcome.  Here are just a few of my quotes from Facebook:

Paul Mutschler  "It is God who appoints kings, so for the Christian, he is OUR President."

Paul Mutschler  "LAODICEA, my brother! The people rule."

Paul Mutschler  "Don't let your wisdom overrule your witness. America has received exactly what it deserves, and the same majority who cried "crucify Him," have spoken. Whenever the people rule (Laodicea), evil wins."

Paul Mutschler  "LAODICEA, my Sister! Revelation 3 speaks of the two churches in the end time. One, Philadelphia, will be raptured. The other, Laodicea, will remain to suffer during the Tribulation, because it is a social organization "ruled by the people" with Jesus standing outside waiting for someone, anyone, to open the door and let Him in."

Paul Mutschler  "Remember, my brother in Christ, it was a majority that spoke when they said "crucify Him." If God can make something as awful as that turn out for His glory, I am sure He can do the same with our elected officials. There is no shame in voting for those who represent Christ, but I am afraid neither of the two options qualified: shame on America for limiting our choices to the two men we had from which to choose. One worships a phony jesus, and the other is overtly anti-Israel. SAD either way."

 

Paul Mutschler  "He WILL be glorified in the end, as EVERY knee will bow before Him. However, the minority bows during their life time, and the majority following their life. In the meantime, we will watch as humanity self-destructs. God help us - it is time for the Rapture, or at least I pray it is!"

 

God Almighty  "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.  For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour" (1 Tim. 2:1-3).

 

 

 

Born again believers are only useful to God when they act like Jesus.

Remember, He lived in the days of Rome!

INTERESTING QUOTES ON VOTING

Like the quote from Edmund Burke ("All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."), William E. Simon's statement (“Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote.”), declares the importance of voting.  Here are a few quotes by others: 
 
“The vote is the most powerful instrument ever devised by man for breaking down injustice and destroying the terrible walls which imprison men because they are different from other men.”  Lyndon B. Johnson

“Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.”  John Q. Adams

"Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual--or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country."  Samuel Adams

"Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption."  James Garfield

"Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation , to select and prefer Christians for their rulers."  John Jay

"If you have been voting for politicians who promise to give you goodies at someone else's expense, then you have no right to complain when they take your money and give it to someone else, including themselves."  Thomas Sowell

 

Our leaders are a perfect reflection of the character of its citizens! 

VOTE AS JESUS WOULD!

As American citizens, God has given us the freedom to decide who our elected officials will be.  As American Christians, we should be absolutely certain we vote for the persons God wants in office.  To be apathetic and vote for members of one's own party affiliation, or one's own religion, or one's own race, or one's own gender, is not only foolish, it is dangerous.  There are decent men and women in both parties, but unfortunately, there are corrupt men and women in both parties as well.  Because of what the Bible teaches concerning how believers are to respond to those in governmental positions of power, it certainly behooves us to vote for those whose beliefs are in accordance to God's Word.  Otherwise, we are placing ourselves under the authority of men and women who could care less about the will of God!  Hear the Word of the Lord!      

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.  Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power?  Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:  for he is the minister of God to thee for good.  But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.  Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.  For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.  Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour."  (Rom. 13:1-7).

"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme:  unto governors, as unto them that are sent by Him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.  For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:  as free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.  Honour all men.  Love the brotherhood.  Fear God.  Honour the king" (1 Pet. 2:13-17).

 

God is not mocked; the vote you sow will yield the leaders you deserve!

TELL THEM WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU!

One of the metaphors used in the Bible to describe the lost, is their blindness (Mt. 15:14; 23:16; Jn. 12:40; Rom. 11:25; 2 Cor. 3:14;  4:4; Eph. 4:18; 1 Jn. 2:11; Rev. 3:17; etc.).  On one occasion, the Lord's disciples saw a blind man and they ask Him, "Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?" (Jn. 9:2).  [The Jews believed that health, wealth, and salvation were the result of one being righteous, so whenever they saw someone sick or poor, they assumed it was because they had offended God (Mt. 19:16-29).  Note that the reward for good works is not eternal life, but salvation is the result of being a child of Almighty God; we inherit it (v. 29)!]  One would think that the Book of Job would have taught them differently, but no, Jesus had to explain the man's blindness from birth was for the purpose of revealing God's Savior (Jn. 9:3-5).

The disciples witnessed Jesus anoint the blind man with clay made of saliva and dirt, but they did not witness him receive his sight (Jn. 9:6-34).  It was not until after his testimony of what Jesus did for him was rejected, that the Lord's disciples saw him healed (Jn. 9:35).  Of course, the blind man's healing was evidence to His disciples of His identity, but it also illustrated the blindness of the religious leaders (Jn. 9:39-41). 

Like most of us who know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, the blind man had to come to an understanding as to who Jesus was, before he responded with saving faith.  He, like all of us, knew He was a man (Jn. 9:11).  He, like we, realized that His words were truth, and that He was therefore a prophet (Jn. 9:17).  The text does not say that he, himself, knew Jesus was the Messiah of Israel, but we can make that assumption because his parents did (Jn. 9:18-23).  I doubt that any born again believer, at the same stage in the salvation process, had a problem believing Jesus was supposed to be Israel's King.  And like this healed blind man, when we came to the realization that Jesus is the Son of God, our response is to worship Him (Jn. 9:35-38)!  Our hearts were blind, but they were opened to Jesus by the working of the Holy Spirit (Jn. 3:3-8; 16:13)!

 

Every saved person has a testimony; tell people how you received your sight!

      

GOD'S G.P.S.

According to Wikipedia, G.P.S. stands for "Global Positioning System," and it states that it is a satellite navigation system, maintained by the United States government, which provides location and time information to anyone having a G.P.S. receiver.  Basically, the receiver tells one's location using triangulation from the signals of multiple satellites placed in geosynchronous orbits, or orbits which are synchronized with the rotation of Earth.  The G.P.S. system is extremely useful in travel, in that it not only tells you where you are, it can be used to guide you to your chosen destination.

Like the man-made G.P.S. navigational system for Earth, there is a God-made G.P.S. "navigational system" for a lost person to use to find where he is currently "located" (lost), where he is currently headed (hell), and the route he needs to take to arrive at his desired destination (heaven).  Let's call it "God's Perfect Scripture," or "God's Perfect Savior" (after all, Jesus is the Word - Jn. 1:1/14; 1 Jn. 1:1; Rev. 19:13). 

The Bible repeatedly tells us that, without Christ, man is lost and on the roads to destruction (Mt. 10:6; 18:11; Jn. 17:12; etc.).  Notice what Paul had to say about the difference between the "ways" and "The Way of Peace" (Rom. 3:9-17).  Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isa. 9:6; see also Acts. 3:15; 5:31; Rev. 1:5). 

The world is inundated by thousands of religions, all of which lead to destruction.  But, God's "G.P.S," Jesus, speaking of Himself, said, "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Lk. 19:10).  He stated very clearly that He was "The Way," and that "no man cometh unto the Father (Who dwells in heaven - Mt. 6:9) but by Me" (Jn. 14:6).  Our faith in Him causes us to become the adopted children of God (Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:5)!

Yes, the Bible, the Scripture, the Word of God, tells us that when a man "comes to his senses," he turns (repents), and believing his father will provide what he needs (save him), he humbly "goes home to his Father" (Lk. 15:11-24).  And like the father in the parable, God rejoices!

According to God's G.P.S., where are you? 

  

    

WHAT IS THE GIFT OF GOD IN EPHESIANS 2:8?

In Ephesians 2:8, faith is not the gift. Faith is how we receive the gift. Most Calvinists tend to speak of faith as if it is something that man cannot do. This results in a wrong understanding of man's inability. The question the Philippian jailer asked was this: "What must I DO to be saved?" (Acts 16:30). Some would answer in this way: "Nothing! You can't do anything! You are dead and totally unable to respond to God until you are regenerated. You have no part in salvation. God must do it all. You cannot exercise saving faith." This answer might harmonize with one's theological system, but there is only one problem. This is not how Paul and Silas answered the question! Paul and Silas told the jailer that there was something that he could do and was responsible to do: "BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ!"

Regardless of one's theological system, Acts 16:31 is very clear. God must do the saving; man must do the believing. The saving is something that God alone must do. The believing is something that the sinner must do. Faith is when the sinner humbly recognizes his desperate need and acknowledges that God must do all the saving. Salvation is wholly the work of god; faith is wholly the responsibility of man. Man does not contribute to his own salvation. It is the work of God. God alone must do the saving; man must do the believing (Acts 16:31). Those who are saved have only God to thank; those who are lost have only themselves to blame. God gets all the credit for man’s salvation; the unsaved man must take full blame and responsibility for his eternal damnation. The saved person thankfully says, "I’m in heaven because of God!" The lost person must truthfully say, "I’m in hell because of me." His damnation is based, not on God’s rejection of him, but upon his rejection of God (Mk. 16:16; 2 Thes. 2:10-12; Jn. 5:40).

D.L. Moody once said, "Some say that faith is the gift of God. So is the air, but you have to breathe it; so is bread, but you have to eat it; so is water, but you have to drink it. 'Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17)’ It is not for me to sit down and wait for faith to come stealing over me...it is for me to take God at His Word."

 

God saves all those who place their faith in Jesus!

 

 

 

LOTS OF ROADS BUT ONLY ONE WAY

One of the most widespread but unsound religious teachings of our day is that there are many roads to God. If men are sincere, we are told, it does not matter which path they travel—in the end they will all reach the same destination.

Speaking to a large audience on God's eternal purpose in relation to man, a nationally prominent educator quoted an Old Testament declaration that God created man for His own glory, and said that this purpose cannot be defeated. All men, he said, are brothers, and at the last great gathering not even the most erring ones will be missing. The speaker depicted a beautiful palace standing in a delightful garden. There was only one entrance to the castle, though there were many roads that led to it from all directions. On these roads throngs of pilgrims traveled. Many climbed over tortuous mountain trails; others followed less rocky paths; some, with songs and laughter traversed smooth and flower-bordered ways. But all, finally arrived at the palace gate, and then it mattered not that some had found the journey hard and painful, for all the sufferings of the way were forgotten in their complete and perfect joy. A pretty picture, this—but not a true one!

Since by divine revelation alone we can discover the way to God, we must turn to the Bible, rather than to man's imagination, for our guidance. Jesus, the Christ, describes the two roads open to men. One is a straight, narrow pathway leading to God and eternal life. The other is a broad and easy road leading to final destruction. On this broad road are many travelers, enjoying the fellowship of their comrades and thinking little about their destination. On the narrow way are fewer pilgrims, but a heavenly radiance lights their pathway.

Trusting in Jesus is the ONLY WAY one can be saved from his sin!  The Word of God states it this way:

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Mt. 7:13-14).

"Jesus saith unto him, I am THE WAY, the truth, and the life: NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME" (Jn. 14:6).

"Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the Stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER: FOR THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED" (Acts 4:10-12).

The Bible is the map that shows us THE WAY to eternal life!