6-30-2022 Devotion: Study the Word

 Proverbs 2: 6: "For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding." No matter how much we are engaged in the task of searching for knowledge through our human experience in the world or going to centers of advanced learning, the source of all truth and all true knowledge is God. He must provide the wisdom necessary for the proper interpretation of reality. Although their emphasis is different, both Deuteronomy and Proverbs recognize that the underlying foundation of knowledge is the Word of God. If you want to have knowledge, you must spend time reading and studying God's Word. Even before sin had entered the world, Adam and Eve needed God’s Word in order to know themselves and their relationship to creation. The words of His mouth are contained in Scripture. It is there that God speaks. I have many degrees but it is the Word of God that I look to for true knowledge and wisdom. Study the Word to become wise.

6-29-2022 Devotion: Consent Not

 Proverbs 1: 10: "My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not." The term "sinner" is reserved in Scripture to describe unbelievers for whom sin is continual and who endeavor to persuade even believers to sin with them. The sins of murder and robbery are used as illustrations of such folly. This verse reveals to us that Wisdom has competition. Satan will be quick to send you someone who is really nice, friendly, generous and nurturing. Yet, the one thing they won't be, is a Christian. Throughout my life I can look back and see many times the enemy sent someone to me to distract and pull me away from what I was here to accomplish. Obedience says, "Consent not." When the temptation comes, resist it. Turn away from those things you know are extra appealing to you. You don't fight Satan. He is already defeated. He has lost. You don't give him an opportunity to fight you, you just resist him. Resisting means to proactively take action to avoid the temptation. The Lord Jesus Christ will provide a way of escape.

6-28-2022 Devotion: Wisdom and Knowledge

 Proverbs 1: 7: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." This idea is the controlling principle of Proverbs, and is ancient Israel’s important contribution to the human desire for knowledge and understanding. The fear of the Lord is the only basis of true knowledge. This “fear” is not distrustful terror of God, but rather the reverent awe and worshipful response of faith to the God who reveals Himself as Creator, Savior, and Judge. Too often in some churches "Jesus" becomes humanized and His position as the Son of God is relegated to a, "Hey buddy, how are you doing?" When we possess that reverential fear of God, knowledge will begin. While the unbeliever may make statements about life and truth, he does not have true or ultimate knowledge until he is in a redemptive relationship of reverential awe with God. Only a true believer can have real knowledge. Think about that.

6-27-2022 Devotion: It Will Work Out

 Romans 8: 28: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called to His purpose."  The best manuscript evidence records this verse as, “we know that God causes all things . . .” This affirms God's Sovereignty over His creation. In His providence, God orchestrates every event in life, even suffering, temptation, and sin to accomplish both our temporal and eternal benefit. The purpose of God guarantees “good” for His people. For them this is not necessarily ease and quiet, but being like Christ. God’s providence rules in such a way as to ensure everything that happens to us is working for our ultimate good. The understanding of God's Sovereignty and His Providence provides us comfort and security when we are facing difficult times. Know that nothing touches you today that does not first pass through our Father's loving eyes. When I "know" that fact, I am ready for whatever comes. My God is in charge no matter what the world or Satan think. Thank God today for His Sovereignty and Providence.

Biblical Sexuality: Marriage, Gender Identity, Transgender, and Pornography Part One

 Biblical Sexuality: Marriage, Gender Identity, Transgender, and Pornography Part One

In this study, I will discuss the issues of marriage, gender identity, transgender issues and pornography. I am indebted to Christopher J. Gordon and his booklet, “The New Reformation Catechism on Human Sexuality '' published in 2022. There have been times in church history that a catechism method has been used to convey truths about our Christian faith. A catechism is a question and answer method used to teach religious doctrine. The Heidelberg Catechism published in 1563 begins: “I, with body and soul, both in life and in death, am not my own, but belong to my faithful savior Jesus Christ.” The Reformation was a tumultuous time. The catechism was used to help guide people to know the truth about the Christian faith. Today, we are living in tumultuous times. There is a need for teaching on Biblical sexuality. Many (in this context “many '' means “most”) Pastors are afraid to speak the truth, don’t know the truth, or they are hirelings afraid to lose their job and paycheck. However, as always, there is a remnant that is willing to take the fire that comes from speaking the truth. This study will address the questions on what is marriage? How many genders are there and can you change yours? Can you be a believer and watch pornography?

Part 1: Creation

Q. How many sexes did God make at creation?

1. God made two sexes at creation; “in the image of God, He created them, male and female, He created them.” 

Genesis 1: 26-27; 2:18, 21-23; 5:2; Matthew 19: 4-5; Mark 10: 6-7

Q. Why did God make us male and female in His image?

1. That we might use all of the excellent qualities (Psalm 8: 3-9) with which He made us (100:3), in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4: 23-24), in body and soul (1 Thessalonians 5: 23), as male and female, for His glory as we exercise dominion over the earth (Genesis 1: 26-27; Psalm 8: 3-9). 

Q. Can we make a distinction between biological sex (the sex assigned at birth) and gender (what we identify as emotionally) in search of our identity? 

1. No. God established a natural order in the creation of male and female, that is good for us as image bearers of God. (Genesis 1: 26-31; 9:6; Psalm 8: 3-8; James 3:9) To introduce gender as a new category of personhood, separate from the biological category of sex, in pursuit of a different sexual identity, is unnatural to the creation order, and harmful to the purpose for which God made us. (Genesis 1: 31; Psalm 100: 3; Romans 1: 21-27)

Q. Does God permit us to change our sex?

1. Certainly not (Leviticus 18: 21-19: 28; Deuteronomy 23: 1; Psalm 51: 3-6).To reverse how God created us as male and female, due to fallen, unchosen thoughts and self perceptions would be an act of rebellion, (Colossians 3: 5; 1 Thessalonians 4: 5) and a gross distortion of God's creative handiwork in specifically forming us for His glory. (Genesis 2:7, 22; Psalm 100:3) Further, in the New Jerusalem, any genital mutiliation, or confusion over sexual orientation identity, will be restored in our new resurrection bodies. Therefore, we should not change our sex since God promises to glorify our bodies, in everlasting happiness, as He created us male and female, in the final resurrection. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14: 33-40). God is the author of peace. Satan is the one who brings confusion. Any confusion over sexual identity lies with Satan, not God.

Q. What is marriage?

1. The holy bond of marriage was instituted by God at the very beginning of creation. God created marriage to be a lifelong, monogamous covental union between one man and one woman. (Proverbs 2:17; Mark 10: 6-9; Ephesians 5: 25-32) 

Q. Does the Lord permit sexual intimacy outside of marriage? 

1. No. Scripture teaches that marriage is the only acceptable context for sexual union.  Further, God calls us to live decent and chaste lives within or outside the holy state of marriage. (Genesis 2: 21-24; Exodus 20: 14; 1 Corinthians 7: 1-2; Ephesians 5: 3-5; Hebrews 13:4)

Q. Does God permit same-sex marriage?

1. Absolutely not. God ordained marriage only between a man and a woman for life. (Genesis 2: 24; Leviticus 18: 22; Matthew 19:5; Mark 7: 21; Romans 1: 24-32; 1 Corinthian 6:9; Ephesians 5: 31) Governments do not have the authority to change marriage into something contrary to what God instituted at creation. (Acts 5: 28-29; Romans 13: 1-2)

Part II: Fall

Q. With what lie did Satan tempt our first parents in the garden?

1. Satan lied about the goodness of God’s creation order. He presented God as restrictive and oppressive, and our first parents chose to sin through the desire to become their own gods and define their own way. (Genesis 3: 1-7; John 8: 44; 1 John 2: 22)

Q. Isn’t there a difference between temptation and the practice of evil desires?

1. God requires that we avoid entering into all forms of temptation. (Matthew 6: 13) Temptation is not sin when it originates outside of us. (Genesis 39: 6-12; Matthew 4: 1-10) Temptation becomes sin when we entertain and welcome the sinful desires of our hearts and act upon them. (Genesis 3: 6; 4: 6-8; 2 Kings 5: 20-27)

Q. What kinds of sinful desires and deeds does God’s law condemn? 

1. Christ teaches us this in summary in Matthew 15: 18-20: “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from his heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person.

Q. Will God permit our sinful desires to go unpunished? 

1. Certainly not. He is terribly angry with our sinful desires, as well as our actual sins. God will punish every idle thought, careless word, or wicked action by a just judgment both now and in eternity. (Matthew 12: 35-37; Romans 1: 18-32; 2: 16; Revelation 20: 11-15) The Bible declares: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5: 10)

6-26-2022 Devotion: Prayer Help

 Romans 8: 26: "Likewise the Spirit helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." Have you gone to God sometimes in prayer when you actually did not know what to pray for? All you could do was just go to Him and say, “Father.” You could not ask anything because you didn’t know what to ask for. At times like this the Spirit “helpeth our infirmities.” How wonderful that is! This is not, as some groups would contend, to speak with an unknown language which is actually just gibberish. This can be the deepest type of prayer. One that is so emotional that you can only utter a few words. This type of prayer is available when the reason for the prayer is very important to the prayer. Consider the parent that has been told that her child will not survive the night. He or she will be so broken that they might utter but a few words. The Spirit of God will groan with you. This is prayer at its most fundamental level. The will of the one praying is broken and totally depends on the will and purposes of God. A thought to ponder: why wait for a tragedy to engage in this type of prayer. We should be in a continual place of brokenness before our Lord Jesus Christ and bring our broken hearts to Him in prayer. Sometimes the best prayer is simply, "Oh, God help."

6-25-2022 Devotion: He Died for the Sheep

 John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep." Jesus as Shepherd does more than risk His life, He gives His life, enduring death on behalf of sinners. This is intimated in the name “Lamb of God” declared by John the Baptist and in other statements by Jesus Himself. for the sheep. This sacrifice is for “the sheep.” It is for those whom the Father has given Him, the elect. It is they who through the death of Jesus Christ on their behalf will be justified and enjoy fellowship with God. There is some bad theology that says that the Lord Jesus Christ died for everyone, even the lost. If taken to the logical extreme, this view advocates universalism (everyone is saved), which most would agree is not true. While Christ's sacrifice is sufficient for the entire world, it is only practically effective for His sheep. Those that reject Christ receive no eternal benefits. However, Christ died for only the sheep, not the goats (describes those that reject Christ). Thank Him today if you know He died for you.

6-24-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 31

 John 10:10: "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly..." Jesus Christ is the Way. He is the only Way. He is the Way out for you and He is the Way in for you. He has come to bring us an abundant life. The thief comes to steal, to kill, and to destroy. I think this is a test you can apply to a church, a religious organization, a radio or television program. Is it a religious racket? Is somebody getting rich out of it? As the old adage goes, "Follow the money." Compare it to the Good Shepherd who came to save sinners and to give us life, abundant life. If the person, ministry, or pastor is focusing on anything other than the Lord Jesus Christ, know that most likely is a ministry that will not bring abundant life. Oh, you might see some tricks to make money or make people feel good, but in the long run, it is a ministry of death. Without Christ, you shall die in your sins. If you want abundant life, you must have the Lord Jesus Christ. 

6-23-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 30

 John 16: 8-11: "And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on Me; Of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged." This word has two meanings: 1) the judicial act of conviction with a view toward sentencing (i.e., a courtroom term—conviction of sin) or 2) the act of convincing. Here the second idea is best, since the purpose of the Holy Spirit is not condemnation but conviction of the need for the Savior. The Son does the judgment, with the Father. In v. 14, it is said that He will reveal the glories of Christ to His people. He will also inspire the writing of the NT, guiding the apostles to write it, and He will reveal “things to come,” through the New Testament prophecies. The Holy Spirit will convict the world of unbelief in the Lord Jesus Christ, of the self-righteousness of the "unsaved religionists", and of the judgment on Satan and the world to follow. I am thankful that one day the Holy Spirit convicted me of my sin, self-righteousness, and unbelief. When the Holy Spirit did so, I could only cry out, "Lord, save me!" And He did! One doesn't repeat a sinner's prayer by rote, but instead the sincere cry from a heart that knows he or she is lost and headed to hell, is sufficient for salvation. Thank God for the Holy Spirit and His work in the world today.

6-22-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 29

 John 16:7:  "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will end Him to you...." Although news of Jesus’ departure disturbed the disciples, it was necessary if they were to enjoy the permanent presence of the Spirit. The promise of the Holy Spirit being sent is given to comfort the disciples. The first emphasis was on His life-giving power. The next featured His indwelling presence. The next marked His teaching ministry. The Holy Spirit comes to the disciples on the day of Pentecost. You can read about in Acts 2: 1-4. There was the sound of a mighty wind, it filled the house, divided tongues of fire sat upon their heads, and they all spoke in languages they had not learned. The Comforter is the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit. The Greek word for Comforter means counselor, intercessor, helper, one who encourages and comforts. You are never alone in this life. If you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, you have His abiding Presence in your life every minute of every day. Thank the Lord Jesus Christ today for the Comforter, His Spirit residing with and in you.

6-21-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 28

 John 15: 20: "Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you...." That axiom reflects the obvious truth that led Jesus to inform His disciples. They could expect to be treated as He was treated because those who hated Him don’t know God and would hate them also; and conversely, those who listened with faith to Him would hear them also. Most "Christians" today would endure this type of treatment. The reason is found in the word in English translated as "servant." The actual Greek work is doulos. In Greek the word means a slave. In New Testament times, the slave was dependent on his master for his food, drink, clothes and housing. The slave was totally dependent on the master to provide for him. In the same way, the true believer today is a slave to the Lord Jesus Christ. If you are converted, this is the description of your relationship. You are a slave. Not a slave, not converted. This is why the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ could embrace His sufferings. They were 100% sold out for Him. Slavery for the Lord is your best life now.

6-20-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 27

 John 15: 18: "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." The opposition between the world and God’s elect is stated in the strongest terms. The world’s hatred is not due to what the disciples do wrong, but to what they do right. Since Satan is the one who dominates the evil world system in rebellion against God, the result is that the world hates not only Jesus, but those who follow Him. Hatred toward Jesus means also hatred toward the Father who sent Him. The modern day church has tried to win the world by acting like the world, e.g. light shows for worship, no discussion of sin and conviction, etc. Today's church wants the world to approve of its message. There is no way this can be done without compromising. Know that the Gospel is offensive. It is supposed to be. If you tell someone they are a hell bound sinner headed for an eternity in flames, that is offensive. Only those elect will respond positively to that call of salvation. We don't know who the elect are. They don't have a big "E" embroidered on them. Our job is to preach the truth without compromise. The elect will respond through the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit. The church should not try to make friends, instead, they should preach the truth and leave the results to our Lord Jesus Christ. He knows His sheep.

"Plus One"

Plus One

In social settings, you may have an invited guest to a special event. The invited guest is the main person being invited. Sometimes, they can bring a “plus one.” The plus one generally is not named. They are not the main guests. They are an accommodation to the main guest. However, in matters of religion, the plus one takes on a much different role. In theology, that “plus one” will move you from theological soundness to theological error. The purpose of this study is to reveal how many church groups have taken the “plus one” and turned it into the main one. The result is heresy and being a danger to your soul. 

We start with the question, what is the gospel? Paul provides us a succinct description of the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15: 1-4: “1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.

3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;

4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures….”

The Gospel message is composed of five parts:

1. Christ died for our sins.

2. Christ buried.

3. Christ rose from the dead.

4. Christ ascended into heaven.

5. Christ coming again.

Following the mistake of the “plus one” church denominations or groups then add a “plus one” to the simplicity of the gospel message. The problem is that, unlike a social setting, the “plus one” becomes the main thrust of the particular church group. They diminish the role of the Lord Jesus Christ in favor of the “plus one.” In effect, they place Christ in a secondary role and this is what makes this error so dangerous. Christ is merely a door to get to the “plus one” experience. We will review different church groups to make this point. 

1. Campbellite denominations, e.g. Churches of Christ and Disciples of Christ: Consequently, these groups have traditionally and erroneously made water baptism an integral part of salvation.  Many teach a baptismal regeneration i.e., that the new birth occurs during water baptism and does not occur without it. These groups add baptism as a “plus 1.” If you ever encounter these groups, they will stress baptism over Christ. Whatever you add to Christ will be the main thrust of the ministry. Christ’s sacrifice is relegated to an inferior act.

2. Roman Catholic Church: Historically, Roman Catholicism has taught that faith alone is not enough for salvation. Instead, the Catholic Church has believed that salvation comes only when faith in Christ is accompanied by baptism, observing Catholic sacraments (especially the Eucharist), and dying without any unconfessed mortal sins. The Catholic Church does not have a “plus one,” they have approximately plus sevens. To a Catholic, there is no salvation apart from the church. Man must be involved to administer the sacraments, otherwise the person is lost. Christ is reduced to an incomplete starting point for salvation.

3. Mormon Church: The Mormon doctrine of salvation involves not only faith in Christ, but baptism by immersion, obedience to the teaching of the Mormon church, good works and “keeping the commandments of God which will cleanse away the stain of sin,” (Journal of Discourses, Volume 2, page 4). This was written by Brigham Young himself. Again, the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ is relegated to only a starting point for salvation.

4. Jehovah’s Witnesses: The Watchtower (the Jehovah Witnesses’ official vehicle to speak for the church) provides four steps for salvation: Accurate Knowledge of God’s purposes, Avoid Debauchery, Watchtower Membership, and Proselytism. Jehovah Witnesses believe in a work based salvation. Christ doesn’t save you, you save yourself through works for the Watchtower Society.

5. Oneness Pentecostals: These heretics deny the Trinity and teach that to be saved, you must be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus and you must speak in tongues.  If you don’t speak in tongues, you aren’t saved. As you can see, the sufficiency of Christ is missing. Christ doesn’t save you, you save you.

6. Pentecostal Denominations (Pentecostal Holiness and Assembly of God) and Wesleyan Holiness (Church of the Nazarene, Wesleyan Church, and a number of conservative holiness independent groups): These groups believe in a deeper life. Christ saves you, but you are not complete. You need an additional step to be ready for heaven. I want to be clear, I believe in holiness as taught by the Wesleyans. However, I cannot support their minimizing the work of Christ in salvation. Christ and Christ alone saves you. We should strive after holiness and live every day in submission to the Lord Jesus Christ. We should strive to be obedient. However, our striving is part of our sanctification, not our salvation. Salvation is of the Lord (Jonah 2:9) but sanctification is a mutual working together, us and the Holy Spirit.

7. Charismatics: This group has the most variations: prosperity, prophetic, signs and wonders, healing, seeking His Presence, and tongues and gifts. If you just listen to anyone in this group, just ask yourself, what is the most important thing to them? It won’t be the sufficiency of Christ. It will be the “plus one.

The purpose of this study has been to point out that whatever you add to the sufficiency of Christ will become the most important thing to that group.  The “plus one” is dangerous because it can move you to the category of being a heretic. Go back and read the beginning of this study on what is the gospel. It is simple and clear. Paul made it very clear. Our Lord made it very clear. Man has sought to create a number of “plus ones” to keep people from the truth. I urge you to avoid the “plus ones” and stay faithfully to the gospel. 

The gospel message is that no one is saved until they see themselves as a worthless sinner headed to an eternal everlasting hell. Once one sees himself that way, he will come to the foot of the cross, repent and place his faith in the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is on Christ you are to cast yourself completely and without reservation. You don’t need a long prayer. “Lord, save me!” This prayer is sufficient when spoken from a heart under Holy Spirit conviction. Don’t allow heretic groups to pull you away or confuse you. It is Christ alone!

6-19-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 26

 John 15: 16: "Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain...."  Jesus does not mean that His disciples exercised no will of their own; they did choose to follow Him. Rather, He is indicating that the first initiative, the original and saving choice, was His. Had He not chosen them, they would not have chosen Him. The immediate reference is to service as apostles, but the principle applies to many other matters including our election to salvation. In case any pretense might exist among the disciples in terms of spiritual pride because of the privileges they enjoyed, Jesus made it clear that such privilege rested not on their own merit, but on His sovereign choice of them. This is so important. If you are saved, it is not because of any goodness in you. It is because He chose you. Yes, you responded to His call. However, without His call, you never would have chosen Him. Thank Him for choosing you.

6-18-2022 Devotion: Day 25

 John 15: 14: "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." Just as Abraham was called the “friend of God” because he enjoyed extraordinary access to the mind of God through God’s revelation to him which he believed, so also those who follow Christ are privileged with extraordinary revelation through the Messiah and Son of God and, believing, become “friends” of God also. It was for His “friends” that the Lord laid down His life. Obedience is not what makes believers Jesus’ friends but what characterizes Jesus’ friends. We must understand that the Lord Jesus Christ laid down His life for the elect, not for the lost. This must be true. If the Lord Jesus Christ paid for the sins of those that reject Him, then they couldn't be lost. If their sins were paid for, they must go to heaven. This is the doctrine of universalism, i.e. everyone is saved. This is heretical. The Lord Jesus Christ only died for His sheep. This is not a cause for pride, but rather of deep humility. The Lord died only for those whom the Father chose before the foundation of the world. Stop and ponder this fact.

6-17-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 24

 John 15: 7: "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." Both Jesus and Paul emphasized the importance of prayer, noting that people ought always to pray. Prayer includes asking and getting answers from God. But it is more than just asking; it is confession, adoration, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. By its nature, prayer is talking with God. It is the basis of the successful Christian life, and is so important that not praying is considered a sin (1 Sam. 12:23). When we pray, we should follow the model prayer Jesus gave His disciples and address it to our heavenly Father—beginning with adoration, including thanksgiving and confession of sins, making reconciliation with others, praying for our needs and the needs of others, and concluding in Jesus’ name. When we meditate on the verse today, we see the power and privilege of prayer. When we embrace our Lord's words and keep them in our minds and hearts, we can approach prayer not with an attitude of dread and boredom, but rather, we can pray with faith and hope. We can trust the Sovereignty of God, always.

6-16-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 23

 John 15: 2: "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." No branch that is Christ’s can be wholly fruitless. But branches that belong to Christ will bear fruit, and undergo the pruning necessary to increase. Failure to produce fruit can be caused by a failure to be obedient to God. These Old Testament discussions of the vine and its fruit, combined with Christ’s command to love in this chapter, indicate that “fruit” refers to a Christ-like life produced by the Holy Spirit, rather than to the number of people converted under a believer’s ministry.  Salvation is of the Lord. You are not considered fruitless just because you are not an evangelist preaching. You are fruitless when your life does manifest the Spirit of Christ in your life. This is why God removes all things in the believer’s life that would hinder fruit-bearing, i.e., He chastises to cut away sin and hindrances that would drain spiritual life just as the farmer removes anything on the branches that keep them from bearing maximum fruit. Be thankful that He is still working on you.

6-15-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 22

 John 14: 27: "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." "Peace" was a common Hebrew salutation used in greeting or farewell. Jesus gives it a new and deeper sense that reappears in the salutations of the New Testament letters. Jesus’ peace is true reconciliation with God, purchased with His death. It is the supreme remedy for all fears, and the legacy Jesus left for His heirs. The word “peace” reflects the Hebrew “Shalom,” which became a greeting to His disciples after the resurrection. At the individual level this peace, unknown to the unsaved, secures composure in difficult trouble, dissolves fear, and rules in the hearts of God’s people to maintain harmony. The greatest reality of this peace will be in the messianic kingdom. Only real believers in the Lord Jesus Christ have this peace. This peace trusts in the Sovereignty of God and that He is in control. There are many (means most) in the church that are unsaved religionists. Their faith is only good when their lives are the way they want them. As soon as anything happens they don't like, watch and listen to their words. They don't have peace and they don't have Jesus as their Lord. 

6-14-2022 Devotion: Promises 21

 John 14: 26: "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My Name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."  The Holy Spirit energized the hearts and minds of the apostles in their ministry, helping them to produce the New Testament Scripture. The disciples had failed to understand many things about Jesus and what He taught and when He taught it; but because of this supernatural work, they came to an complete and accurate understanding of the Lord and His work, and recorded it in the gospels and the rest of the New Testament Scriptures. It is the Son who sends the Spirit. The Father and Son concur in this sending. All things that they needed to know for their mission would be shown to them. Remember the New Testament Scriptures had not been written yet. They would have to depend on the Holy Spirit to help them remember Christ's teachings and help them communicate that truth to others. Today, we have the completed canon of Scriptures. We depend on the Holy Spirit to illuminate those words to our inner spirit. This is not voices in our heads but as you read and study the Word, He will guide you.

6-13-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 20

 John 14: 18: "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." Jesus refers primarily to the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, since the mutual indwelling, “you in me, and I in you", will not await the Second Coming of Christ. But these words are also appropriate for the hope of the body of Christ today. Jesus will return to take the redeemed with Him at the Rapture. Initially, He was referring to His resurrection, after which they would see Him. There is no record that any unbelievers saw Him after He rose. In another sense, this has reference to the mystery of the Trinity. Through the coming and indwelling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Jesus would be back with His children. The Lord knew that in a few hours the disciples would be scattered. They would be afraid and unable to see Him. This promise from our Lord was designed to provide some comfort when He said it, and much more later when the Holy Spirit would come to abide with all believers. Today, there are many groups that try to create a lesser type of Christian. They divide the believers as followers: those with the Holy Spirit and those without. All believers have the Spirit of Christ. There are no lesser Christians. If you think about it, you will now know why Satan wanted to cause this confusion. It minimizes the Gospel: Christ crucified, Christ buried, Christ resurrected, Christ ascended and Christ coming again. Ther bad theology that says you can have Christ and not the Holy Spirit seeks to undermine the true gospel. Think about it.

God's Description of Hell

 Last week, I posted on the subject, "What A Lost Soul Discovers One Minute After Death in Hell." Today, we are going to look at God's description of hell. You don't wany my opinion, or for that fact, any man's opinion on this subject. This is too important subject for a mistake. God has told us in His Holy Word, The Bible, exactly what hell will be like. If you are unsaved, read about your eternal dwelling place. However, you don't have to go there. Come to the Lord Jesus Christ and He will never cast you aside. If you have been converted, read the description and thank the Lord Jesus Christ for blood redemption and hell will not be your home. If you know someone unsaved, I encourage you to share this with him. Now, let's see what God says about hell.

First, hell is a prison house. 11 Peter 2:4: "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness." 

Second, hell is a bottomless pit." Rev. 20:1: "And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand."

Third, hell is a place of sorrows. Psalm 18: 5: "The sorrows of hell compassed me about." Matthew 13:42: "And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."

Fourth, hell is a place of darkness. Matthew 8: 12: "But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Fifth, hell is a place where they curse God. Rev. 16: 11: "And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds." 

Sixth, hell is a place of filthiness. Rev. 22:11: "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be fithy still."

Seventh, hell is a place of no mercy. Luke 16: 24: "And he cried and said, Father Abraham , have mercy on me!" But the answer was, no mercy. 

Eighth, hell is a place of no rest. Rev. 14: 11: "And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image...."

Ninth, hell is eternal. Matthew 25: 46: "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment."

Tenth, hell is a place of everlasting punishment. Psalm 11:6: "Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup."

Eleventh, hell is a place where conscious never dies. Mark 9: 48: "Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. The fire of an awaked conscious is never put out. 

Twelfth, hell is a place of the wrath of God. Rev. 14: 10: "The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimestone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb."

Thirteenth, hell is a place prepared for the devil and his angels. Matthew 25: 41: Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels."

The above descriptions of hell come right from God's Word. They are not my opinion. My opinion is worthless unless it is based on the Word of God. You don't hear much about hell today from the pulpit. Instead, you hear things like, "God is not mad at you, He is mad about you." The previous statement demonstrates a lack of true salvation on the part of the one saying it. How can I make such a claim? No one comes to Christ until that person sees himself as a lost sinner headed to hell.  Holy Spirit conviction awakens the sinner to his lost condition and need for salvation. The "mad about" you statement is designed to soften Holy Spirit conviction. 

So, tell me, who wants to reduce Holy Spirit conviction? Is it God or Satan? Also, remember that there is a similar statement that God loves the sinner but hates the sin. Untrue and I wouldn't take much comfort in it. Why? God doesn't cast the sin into hell, He casts the sinner into hell.

If you know the truth, tell someone you care about. Perchance, God may use you to reach the lost.

6-12-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 19

 John 14: 16: "And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever...." The priestly and intercessory work of Christ began with the request that the Father send the Holy Spirit to indwell in the people of faith. another. The Greek. word specifically means another of the same kind, i.e., someone like Jesus Himself who will take His place and do His work. The Spirit of Christ is the Third Person of the Trinity, having the same essence of deity as Jesus and as perfectly one with Him as He is with the Father. Helper. The Greek term here literally means “one called alongside to help” and has the idea of someone who encourages and exhorts. “Abiding” has to do with His permanent residence in believers. This is one reason why the Trinity is so important. If you don't believe in the Trinity, I don't know how you could be saved. The Father chose you before the foundation of the world. The Lord Jesus Christ, the Son, paid for your redemption by the shedding of His blood. The Holy Spirit comes to you to regenerate, think "make alive" so you can believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for your salvation. When you are saved, you are baptized with the Holy Spirit into the body of Christ. Don't be misled. The Scriptures are clear. Thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He sent His Spirit to you so you would not be alone.

6-11-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 18

 John 14: 15: "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." The proof of love to Christ is not an oral profession but living obedience. Love for Christ is inseparable from obedience. “My commandments” are not only Jesus’ ethical commandments in context (vv. 23, 24), but the entire revelation from the Father. This is not a new concept. The OT already closely connected love for God with obeying his commandments. Now let us consider what all three of these verses say. What does it mean to ask in the name of Christ? To pray in His Person means to be standing in His place. It means to be fully identified with Him, joined to Christ. It means that you and I are pleading the merits of His blessed Son when we stand before God. We have no standing of our own before God at all. He does not hear my prayer because of our name, and He does not hear your prayer because you are who you are. He hears our prayers when they are in the name of Christ. This is not just a little phrase that we tag on to the end of our prayer closing with “in Jesus’ name.” Praying in His name is presenting it in His merit and for His glory. To me prayer is humbling. When I consider Who I am speaking and His holiness which is beyond me to comprehend, all I can do is call out in the Lord Jesus Name trusting in the merits of blood redemption that allows me entrance to be heard. Thank God for blood redemption. 

6-10-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 17

 John 14:14: "If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it." This verse supports the verse from yesterday, "And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do...." Since these verses are so misinterpreted, they warrant another look. "In my name" means “as My agent.” The promise of answered prayer is based on the disciple acting as the agent of Jesus’ will (cf. 16:23–26). It is also linked here especially in the accomplishment of the “greater works.” The promise is for unlimited resources to do the works of God. The promises that our Lord was making were qualified as well as radical. General statements of principle were sometimes qualified for particular circumstances . Nevertheless, few if any other teachers offered promises from God as radical as this, and none dared offer such radical promises about their own name. The Lord Jesus Christ knew that in a few short hours that the disciples would be scattered and confused. He wanted to give them assurance of His name. When we pray, we should see ourselves as His agent. God is Sovereign, but He has chosen prayer as one method through which He works. Never forget man's responsibility to His Sovereignty.

6-9-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 16

 John 14: 13: "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son." This does not guarantee that God will do whatever we ask if only we add to our prayer the words “in Christ’s name.” To pray in Christ’s name is to identify with the purpose of Christ to the extent that our will has become identified with the will of God (1 John 5:14). To ask in Jesus’ “name” does not mean to tack such an expression on the end of a prayer as a mere formula. It means: 1) the believer’s prayer should be for His purposes and kingdom and not selfish reasons; 2) the believer’s prayer should be on the basis of His merits and not any personal merit or worthiness; and 3) the believer’s prayer should be in pursuit of His glory alone. Those who do not obtain what they specifically request are often surprised by a different but better answer—and “no” is sometimes the best answer. Prayer is a time to acknowledge God's Sovereignty over your situation. It is a time to submit to His perfect will and plan. When we pray with this mindset, we have no fear regarding the answer. God's will is perfect and so should be our submission to it.

6-8-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 15

 John 14: 12: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works I do shall he do also; and greater works than these he do; because I go unto my Father." Jesus did not mean greater works in power, but in extent. They would become witnesses to all the world through the power of the indwelling and infilling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8) and would bring many to salvation because of the Comforter dwelling in them. The focus is on spiritual rather than physical miracles. The book of Acts constitutes the beginning historical record of the impact that the Spirit-empowered disciples had on the world. If you think about it, at the time of the crucifixion, the Lord Jesus Christ was known to very few people. His promise of "greater works" meant that His followers would take the gospel to the entire world. Think about how far the Christian faith has spread. Ponder the martyrs that have died for the gospel. It sickens me when I see "ministers" distort verses like this one to sell the idea that believers could have creative power like our Lord. There have been no creative miracles since the apostles. I remember a few years ago when there was a "revival" in Lakeland, Florida. People were supposedly raised from the dead. All false and it was proven. It ended when the lead evangelist left his wife for a staff member. When the words of the Lord Jesus Christ are understood in context, they are a source of comfort and never disappoint.

6-7-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 14

 John 14: 6: "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." This is a strong affirmation that Christ alone is the way of salvation. To imagine and proclaim other ways is to mislead people and forget the necessity of His coming and redemption. In this verse, the exclusiveness of Jesus as the only approach to the Father is emphatic. Only one way, not many ways, exist to God, i.e., Jesus Christ. Gentiles complained about Jews’ “intolerance” because Jews insisted on only one God. Some Jewish groups, however, notably the Qumran community, were even more exclusive; they believed that they followed the only path to God and that other Jewish groups were lost. Jesus goes beyond such groups; he does not teach a way to God, but rather is the way to God. Face it, the Gospel message is offensive. It proclaims that Jesus is the only way to the Father and the glories of heaven. Does this mean all the unsaved Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus are all going to hell? The answer is "yes" according to the Lord Jesus Christ. If this bothers you, it is a good indicator that you are unsaved. To those of us that have received Holy Spirit conviction, see ourselves as lost sinners, know that we deserve hell, and yet can see the risen Lord Jesus Christ and know He died for us and shed His precious blood for us, we rejoice in the salvation we have freely received. 

6-6-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 13

 John 14: 6: "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." We will spend two days looking at this verse of Scripture. Today, we focus on the first part.The image of a path or way in the Hebrew Bible often stood for keeping the commandments or teachings of God. This was a common ancient metaphor for active participation in a set of beliefs, teachings or practices. The Dead Sea Scrolls community called themselves followers of “the way,” by which they meant they were followers of their own interpretation of the path that pleased God. Paul and the first Christians also called themselves “follower[s] of the Way” The word truth is used in Scripture in two ways: true as contrasted with false; and genuine as contrasted with unreal. Although both apply to God, when we speak of the truth of God, normally His genuineness is contrasted with false gods of other religions. The Scriptures in this sense declare Him “the only true God”.  The word in Greek for life is "zoe" and refers to spiritual life. There is only one way, one truth, and one life, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ.

What a Lost Soul Discovered One Minute After Death in Hell

Lu 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
Lu 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Lu 16:21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
Lu 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Lu 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Lu 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Lu 16:25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Lu 16:26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
Lu 16:27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:
Lu 16:28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
Lu 16:29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Lu 16:30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
Lu 16:31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

The above text has been called "The Rich Man and Lazarus." Notice our Lord does not describe it as a parable. Today's message is entitled: "What a Lost Soul Discovered One Minute After Death in Hell." Christ has advised His listeners that there were two men who lived and died, and they went into Eternity. This is a real-life story given to us by our Lord Jesus Christ. We would do well to remember this teaching.  The beggar when to heaven and the rich man to hell. This is what the rich man learned one minute after his heart stopped.

First, he learned that death does not end it all. "And in hell he lift up his eyes." (v. 23)

Second, he learned that hell is a living reality. "Being in torments." (v. 23) It is not a joke, and you won't be hanging out with friends.

Third, he learned that his conscience survives death. "Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented." (v. 25)

Fourth, memory survives death. "Remember...." (v. 25) You will never forget how many times you heard the Gospel and rejected it.

Fifth, he learned the awful certainty of the fixed condition of a lost soul in hell. "There is a great gulf fixed." (v. 26) No hope and no chance for a reprieve. 

Sixth, there is no opportunity granted to those in hell to redeem past carelessness or indifference. "Send Lazarus to my father's house: for I have five brethren." (vs. 27, 28) Only in this life can you change indifference or carelessness.

Seventh, he learned the absolute authority and finality of God's Word. "They have Moses and the Prophets...." (v.29) God's Word is the absolute and final authority. Gd's Word will never pass away.

Eighth, he learned that his money was useless to buy him out of hell. 

Ninth, his religion could not get him out of hell. The rich man was an Orthodox Jew. Jews believed because they were Abraham's descendants, they had a guarantee of heaven. He was wrong.

Tenth, he learned that he would be punished according to the truth he learned. If you have heard the truth of the Gospel and rejected the Lord Jesus Christ, you will have greater suffering.

Eleventh, he learned that there is no respect of persons with God (Romans 2:11). All who reject the Lord Jesus Christ will enter hell forever. 

Reading friend, consider the words you have read. Hell is real with eternal flames of punishment. There is no soul sleep or annihilation.  Where will you spend eternity? You will live forever, the only question is where?

6-5-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 12

 John 14: 2: "In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."  The word "mansions" is literally.dwelling places, rooms, or even apartments (in modern terms). All are in the large “Father’s house.” We often hear this verse at funerals in an effort to comfort us about the loss of a loved one. However, the Lord Jesus Christ is speaking this to comfort us who are alive about our future abode. Stop and think that our Lord has gone and He has a place specifically for you. While I don't know what the accommodations will be like, the Scriptures tell us the streets are paved with gold. My thought is that the "mansion" will make the best five star hotels in the world pale in comparison. Remember,that while Christ is preparing the place in heaven for His own, and the Holy Spirit is actively preparing the redeemed on earth for their place in heaven. Let us be sensitive to the working of the Holy Spirit as He prepares us for heaven. Always be listening to the Word of God as the Holy Spirit applies it to your heart. 

6-4-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 11

 John 14: 1: "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me." Instead of the disciples lending support to Jesus in the hours before His cross, He had to support them spiritually as well as emotionally. This reveals His heart of serving love. This passage of supreme comfort is offered by Jesus in an hour darkened by the shadow of Judas’s treachery and Peter’s failure, only a few hours away from the agony of Gethsemane and death on the cross (13:21). Yet the statement conveys a sense of sublime peace, and is intended to minister to the fears of the disciples rather than to Jesus’ own needs. The words spoken to the disciples apply equally to us today. Concerned about inflation, gas prices, the uncertainties in our world? The Lord Jesus Christ says to us today, "Let not your heart be troubled." In the Greek language, the word for troubled means confused. Our Lord is saying, "Don't let the world and events confuse you." We can stand sure on God's Word and His promises. His Word is our foundation, not Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Stand sure.

6-3-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 10

 Luke 12:32: "Fear not, little flock: for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." The Lord Jesus Christ is providing assurances to His followers in an effort to reduce and eliminate their anxiety. Jesus provides four weighty arguments against anxiety. First, concern for worldly goods is foolish because life itself is more important (v. 23). Second, God will take care of His own, just as He cares for the birds of the air (v. 24). Third, anxiety accomplishes nothing (vv. 25, 26). Finally, as heirs of the inexhaustible riches of the kingdom of God, believers should not worry about earthly details (vv. 32, 33). Jesus calls His followers to order their priorities correctly by focusing their hearts on the kingdom (v. 34). When we set our priorities correctly, we will reduce our anxiety. Know that nothing can happen to you today that does not first pass through the throneroom of heaven. Whatever my Father intends for me to encounter is in the best interests of my God and His Will. That reduces my stress.

6-2-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 9

 Matthew 16:25: "Whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." This verse lays out a general principle. Save his life implies someone seeking ways to make his own life comfortable, good, and pleasant. Everyone wants a pleasant and happy life, one that is fulfilling. Unfortunately, most people seek it directly by trying to make themselves happy. The principle here is that such an effort will fail. The proof is seen by looking around at most Americans today. America has been defined as 330 million people desperately trying to make themselves happy. A better route is for one to lose his life for the sake of the Lord; then he shall find it. That is, if someone sacrifices their own goals, dreams, and happiness for the sake of following Christ, the end result will be a happier, more fulfilling life. In general, a life lived unselfishly will be happier than a life lived for oneself. Specifically, in this context, Jesus was pointing out that someone who dies for Christ and the gospel has lost nothing. He or she will find blessing in eternity. The central thought is that a selfish life is an unfulfilled life. Live for Christ and you shall find true happiness.

6-1-2022 Devotion: Promises Day 8

 Matthew 28:20: "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." When the Lord Jesus Christ says He is with us even to the end of the world, the verb tense is present indicative. Present means it is ongoing without a break and indicative means it is a statement of fact. It is a guarantee for us. Matthew's gospel ends with the promise of our Lord's presence in our life. Early in the gospel, we learn that in Matthew 1: 23 that the name of our Savior will be "Immanuel" meaning "God with us." Matthew's ending is a touching reminder of His Name and the promise of His Presence. Regardless of what you face in life, you can do so with the knowledge that He is with you, if you are one of His sheep. He is always with us. That is a great comfort in this time of rising inflation, gas prices, and the uncertainties in our lives. Thank Him for His abiding Presence today.