[b]To all the people out there who are into the sex industry...who are defiling the temple of the Lord God with filth....
THE PIMPS...THE PROSTITUTED...THE STRIPPERS AND ALL THE OTHER BACK SLIDDEN...MOCKING.. CHRISTIANS WHO HAS GOD'S HOLY BIBLE IN ONE HAND AND THE CORD OF satan AROUND THEIR NECKS.....
READ THE SPOKEN WORDS OF GOD THIS MORNING AND KNOW THAT ACCORDING TO MATT 24:35 HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY BUT THE WORDS OF GOD..THE SPOKEN HOLY WORDS OF GOD SHALL NEVER PASS AWAY...
HIS WORDS SHALL NOT RETURN VOID..THIS IS WRITTEN...

.I want to tell you that the return of our Lord and Savior is near...and according to His Holy spoken words...

1 Corinthian 6:9..... Do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived :neither fornicators, nor idolaters,
nor adulterers, nor effeminate,nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of God ...

RETURN TO YOUR FIRST LOVE....JESUS....God bless you .....SUBMIT YOUR LIVES UNTO HIM ...HELL FIRE IS REAL...HEAVEN AWAITS YOU...RETURN TO YOUR FIRST LOVE ....JESUS!![/b]

Christ's Strength
April 25, 2012

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13)

This little verse gets quoted out of context a lot. It is used to justify bizzare plans and dreams, as well as to suggest that every Christian should be rich and healthly all the time. Not only are such applications without any support in Scripture, they are completely out of the context of this passage.

In the previous verses, Paul lists a variety of circumstances that he had faced, from proverty to wealth, learning to be "content" in each of these developments. Then he notes that he "can do all things" through the strength that the Lord provides during conflicting circumstances.

The "do" of this text is the prevailing of the power of God in which and by which we minister. "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament" (2 Corinthians 3:5-6).

The early church experienced a stunning growth in converts as it preached and testified of the resurrected Christ. This result, however, is due to the fact that the Word of God grew "mightily . . . and prevailed" (Acts 19:20).

Our fight is not a physical one. We wrestle against the great spiritual powers of wickedness that have their source in the heavenlies. The history of God's people is replete with the battle that was begun in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve lost because they sought to deal with the issue on their own. We win or prevail only when we arm ourselves with God's armour and become "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." (Ephesians 6:10). HMM III

For more . . . .

Ancient Times
April 26, 2012

"I have considered the days of old,the years of ancient times" (Psalm 77:5)

The Bible provides for us a fascinating perspective on the passage of time. Three thousand years ago,the psalmist was reflecting on God's ways in even earlier times and was seeking to understand God's ways in his time. Each new generation seems to think that it isthe "new wave," leading the world out of its past darkness into a new age of enlightenment. There is need for scientific research, of course (in fact, this is implied in the "dominion mandate" of Genesis 1:26-28,) but we need to keep in mind that true science is really "thinking God's thoughts after Him."The results of our scientific "discoveries" should always be to glorifythe Creator and to draw men closer to Him, not lead them away from Him. The same is true of history. We are merely the children of ancient patriarchs, and our moral natures are the same as theirs, all contaminated by inherent sinfulness andthe need for divine salvation. God dealt withthem as He does with us, so that every later generation needs to study and learn fromthe generations of ancient times and from God's inspired histories of them in the earliest books of the Bible--especially Genesis, as well as Exodus, Job, and other ancient books. "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort ofthe scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4). God is the same today as He was in Eden, on Mount Ararat, in Babel, and Canaan, and Sinai, and Calvary. "Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God" (Psalm 90:1-2). HMM

For more . . . .

Christ the King
April 27, 2012

"But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us" (Luke 19:14)

In this parable, the nobleman who had gone into a far country to receive his kingdom is a picture of Christ in the interim between His first and second comings. The "citizens" of His kingdom, however, refuse His Kingship. Nevertheless, He is the King, and when He returns, those "enemies, which would not that I should reign over them" (v. 27) will be slain. How much better to accept Him now! The first title ascribed to Him was "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2). Long before that, however, He was King of creation. "For God is the King of all the earth, . . . a great King above all gods. . . . The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land" (Psalm 47:7; 95:3, 5). He is also King of redemption, providing salvation for the world He created. "For God is my King of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth" (Psalm 74:12). "|The Father| hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1:13-14). He is not only King of all the worlds, but also King of all the ages. He is "my King of old" and also "King for ever" (Psalm 10:16). He is "the King eternal, immortal,invisible,the only wise God" (1 Timothy 1:17). He is "King of saints" (Revelation 15:3),the "Lord of hosts, my King, and my God" (Psalm 84:3). Indeed, He is "the blessed and only Potentate,the King of kings, and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15). Therefore, let His citizens say: "Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever" (Revelation 5:13).

HMM For more . . . .

Forty Days
April 28, 2012

"To whom also he showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God" (Acts 1:3)

It is interesting how often the Scriptures refer to a forty day period. There are nine different forty-day periods noted in Scripture (the phrase itself occurs seventeen times),and it may be noteworthy that forty daysis 1/9 ofthe original (and prophetic) lunar/solar year of 360 days (note Genesis 7:11; 8:3-4; Revelation 11:2-3). Thus the total of the nine forty-day periods equals the ideal year. The periods are as follows:the intense rain fall at the Flood (Genesis 7:12, 17); the first giving of the law (Exodus 24:18; Deuteronomy 9:9, 11);the second giving ofthe law (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 9:18, 25);the searching of Canaan by the fearful spies (Numbers 13:25; 14:34);the defiance of Israelby Goliath (1 Samuel 17:16); Elijah's journey to Horeb (1 Kings 19:8 ); Jonah's reluctant preaching in Nineveh (Jonah 3:4); Christ's temptation inthe wilderness (Matthew 4:2; Mark 1:13; Luke 4:2); Christ's post-resurrection ministry (Acts 1:3). Each of these periods was a time of intense testing for one or more of God's people, exceptthe last. The final forty-day period, encompassing Christ's ministry to His disciples after His resurrection, was a time of triumph and great blessing. He had come victoriously throughthe most intense time of testing that anyone could ever experience, and now He could show Himself alive eternally to His disciples and promise them the same victory. Forty days of testing,then forty days of triumph! Even a lifetime of testing is more than balanced by an eternity of blessing. "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18.) HMM

For more . . . .

[size=16]THE BEST TIME TO WORSHIP GOD IS........
ALWAYS!!!!!!!!!!•.¸¸.☆ ♥´´¯`•.¸¸.☆ (◕‿◕✿)
(¯`•´¯).•´
` •.•´´´´¯`•.¸¸.☆
`•.•´
●/
/▌
/ \•.¸¸.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.☆❤
☆`•.,,.•´☆ AND FOREVER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!☆`•.,,.•´☆[/size]pt]

And Forty Nights
April 29, 2012

"And the rain was upon the earthforty daysand forty nights" (Genesis 7:12)

There are nine forty-day periods in Scripture, but on only five of these the notation "and forty nights" is added. On the other four occasions (the spies in Canaan, Goliath's challenges, Jonah in Nineveh,and the post-resurrection ministry of Christ) we can assume that the activity ceased at night. But on these five it continued unabated. The first of these was the great Flood. The most intense rains ever experienced on the earth poured torrentially, night and day. One can visualize the stress-fillednights for Noah's family, with the cries of the dying outside,and no light of the sun or moon to pierce the outer darkness. But, of course, they were all safe in God's specially designed Ark. Many years later, Moses twice spent forty days and forty nights in the awful presence of God on Mount Sinai, receiving the divinely-inscribed tablets, with the Ten Commandmentsand all the laws of God. The mountain was intermittently quaking and breathing fire and smoke while he was there,and the nights were surely more awesome even than the days, but God was there! Elijah spentforty daysand forty nights traveling back from Beersheba to Sinai, even though this relatively short journey would not normally requireforty days. Evidently Elijah experienced great hardship sand obstacles along the way and many sleepless nights, but God met him again at Sinai, and it was worth it all. Finally, the Lord Jesus (God Himself!) was "led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil . . .forty daysand forty nights" (Matthew 4:1-2). In weakened human flesh, without food or rest, this was a greater trial than any of the rest, but He was triumphant,and then the "angels came and ministered unto him" (Matthew 4:11). HMM

For more . . . .

its only in God you can find evertything you thirst and desire for. Rely on Him he wil not put you to shame.

Christ the Foundation
April 30, 2012

"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11)

The only sure and lasting foundation, for either a Christian institution or an individual Christian life, is the Lord Jesus Christ. No other foundation will endure in that coming day when "the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is" (v. 13). It is vital, therefore, to build on the foundation that Christ Himself has laid. This is laid in three courses, each of which is essential for its permanence. First of all, we must acknowledge with the apostle that: "Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands" (Hebrews 1:10). He is the Creator of all things, and therefore Lord over all. Second, we must acknowledge with Peter that we have been "redeemed . . . with the precious blood of Christ . . . Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world" (1 Peter 1:18-20). His foreordained work of redemption thus was foundational even to the foundation of the world! Then there is the Word of God, which is foundational to everything beyond creation and redemption. "Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them. . . . He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock" (Luke 6:47-48.) The Lord Jesus Christ is the true foundation, for He has Himself laid every sure foundation. He created all things, His shed blood is the price to redeem all things, and His written Word, by His Holy Spirit, reveals all things needed to build a beautiful, fruitful Christian life or ministry. No other foundation will last, and"if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psalm 11:3). HMM

For more . . . .

The Power in Us
May 1, 2012

"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us" (Ephesians 3:20)

This amazing assurance of God's unlimited ability to answer our prayers is related to a unique "power [Greek dunamis] that worketh in us." Paul had used the same word twice before in this same epistle, speaking of "the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe," and "the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power" (Ephesians 1:19; 3:7). "Effectual working"in the original is one word, energeia, from which we get our word "energy." Such power working in us is actually nothing less than the presence of God Himself. Its very first occurrence is in the model prayer. "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever" (Matthew 6:13). It is this "power of God unto salvation" which is received when we first believe on Christ through the gospel (Romans 1:16). It has been so ever since the fulfillment of Christ's promise when He told His disciples that "ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:8.) This remarkable power of God is thus imparted to us and energized in us by the Holy Spirit. Because of this, we can be filled "with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost" (Romans 15:13). Furthermore, He thereby provides impregnable security for time and eternity, for we "are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:5). With such a resource of unlimited spiritual power working in us, God is able indeed to accomplish far more than we can ever imagine, as He works in and through those yielded to His will. HMM

For more . . . .

HE will give HIS angels charge over thee...

[b]“The narrow way is not the way of the world.”

(Words received from the LORD by Susan, April 29, 2012)
MY children, it is I, your LORD:
I come to you this day with Words of warning. The hour is getting closer for MY Return. Soon it will come and then it will be too late for those who are not ready.
I have many children who come to ME seeking MY Forgiveness. It is I WHO can give this forgiveness. Many more children do not seek ME for this forgiveness. So many children are far from ME and believe themselves in right standing with ME—or they do not believe in ME at all. Many have never even approached ME at all.
This is a sad hour, MY children for few seek ME, few know ME, few come to ME on a daily basis. I am a remote GOD to many and so many more do not believe I exist at all.
O’ the shock MY children, when MY children stand before ME in MY heavenlies and realize that I am the Eternal JUDGE, I hold the key to their eternal outcome. It is the defining moment for many—eternal bliss and for most eternal damnation.
Children, do not wait to be assured of your eternal outcome, when you stand before ME. Work out your salvation with fear and trembling now, even today.
Children, don’t leave this decision to chance, come to ME now, don’t delay. Each day you put off knowing ME, you waste precious time to be washed by MY Word and filled with MY Spirit. This is the Way to true life.
I never meant for you to live this life apart from ME. Your life can only have purpose and meaning if you are surrendered to ME and living in MY Will, MY Plan for your life. If you are living in your will and your plans you are living in futility, you are chasing after the world, empty dreams, and promises. You are living under the rule and reign of MY enemy, the devil who uses you for his plans to destroy you and those around you. He is looking to kill, destroy, and steal and will use whoever he can to accomplish his goals.
Break free from his grip. Come away from his control. Stop being used to destroy those around you and to work against MY Kingdom. Until you come into MY Control as LORD and MASTER by a full surrender, you are controlled by your father the devil and you work for him.
I need a full surrender of your life to ME, sincere repentance for your sins then with MY Blood Covering over you and MY complete forgiveness you can be out from under the control of MY enemy and free from sin’s reign over your life. Once you receive MY Pardon and obtain MY Freedom you can move in MY Will, MY way, the narrow path. Then your life will have true meaning and eternal purpose.
You can be assured of your salvation and that you are moving in the direction that I have prepared for you. I made a way for you—I laid the foundation. I died a humbling death for you. Your salvation is assured because I paid your price.
I give you this freedom, this assurance. I will give you safe passage when I come to claim MY OWN, when I come to remove MY bride. Will you be among her? She is few in numbers but her light shines bright. It pierces the darkness in an evil world, this world that is so troubled and far from ME. MY bride stands out as a beacon of hope, a lamp lighting the way to MY Narrow Path. Few find this path, few are seeking it.
The narrow way is not the way of the world. The world is far from ME. They know ME not. They seek ME not. They are only following MY enemy. Very few are coming with ME when the trumpet blows.
Children, this should make you sober. MY Book speaks of this truth. Who will be found with faith when I come to get MY bride? Who will be found watching when I come as a thief in the night?
I am returning. Don’t wait too long to seek ME. The time you waste with this world is time wasted on trivial pursuits. It is a dry path in the desert wilderness that leads to death. Come to the narrow way that leads to fullness of life, life abundant. Follow hard after ME, as I am the only safe way. All other ways lead to death. It is not too late, but don’t put off this important decision. Too many who have come before you have been lost for eternity never to find their way to ME again.
This warning is real and these Words true. Seek answers in MY Book. See for yourself that the Way is narrow and few find it. Leave nothing to chance. This hour before MY Flight is about to close.
I am the LORD and SAVIOR, The LAMP THAT LIGHTS YOUR WAY.
Leave nothing to chance. I am coming and it won’t be long.
Your FATHER in Heaven
Your BRIDEGROOM Cometh[/b]


[b]
Corresponding Scripture:
Luke 21:31-36 (KJV): 31So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the Kingdom of GOD is nigh at hand. 32Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. 33Heaven and earth shall pass away: but MY words shall not pass away. 34And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. 35For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the SON of man.
John 5:29 (KJV): And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
Philippians 2:12 (KJV): Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
John 10:10 (KJV): 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.
Philippians 2:15 (KJV): That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of GOD, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
Matthew 25:4 (KJV): But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Matthew 7:14 (KJV): Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
1 Corinthians 15:52 (KJV): In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
1 Thessalonians 5:2: (KJV): For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the LORD so cometh as a thief in the night.
Luke 18:8 (KJV): I tell you that HE will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the SON of man cometh, shall HE find faith on the earth?
Psalm 119:105 (KJV): THY word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.[/b]

The Trinity in Salvation
May 2, 2012

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God" (Hebrews 9:14).

There are a number of significant references to the work of all three Persons of the Trinity in the great work of salvation. Note the implicit reference to the Trinity in our text: "The blood of Christ . . . through the eternal Spirit offered . . . to God." There is also a beautiful Trinitarian implication in Ephesians 2:18: "For through |Christ| we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father."

The promise of Christ to send the Holy Spirit is a high point of the Gospel of John. "I will pray the Father," said the Lord Jesus, "and he shall give you another Comforter" (Greek parakletos, meaning "one called alongside",) "that he may abide with you for ever" (John 14:16). "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things" (John 14:26). "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me" (John 15:26).

It seems very clear from such Scriptures that all three--Father, Son, Holy Spirit--are each distinct persons. Yet that the three together are one God is also clear from the fact that they are identified by name as One. Converts are to be baptized "in the name |note the singular--one name| of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). Note also the benediction formula. "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen" (2 Corinthians 13:14). What we cannot fully understand in our minds of this wonderful triune Godhead, we can understand and believe with our hearts. HMM

For more . . . .

Angel Security.

Action Verbs
May 3, 2012

"Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates" (Deuteronomy 11:18-20)

This passage is similar to others (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:6-9) throughout Moses' writings and concerns the preserving and propagating of the news of God's miraculous protection of the people of Israel and the marvelous legal code He had revealed to them. We can understand better the care by which this preservation was to take place, by noting the action verbs used in this passage.

First, the people were to "lay up" or impress the information in their hearts and souls. Every fiber of their being was to be aware of and in submission to the law. This personal commitment was to be aided by physical reminders "bound" on each person's hands and clothing, in plain sight, so that it could not be ignored or forgotten.

Next, the personal saturation was to move from the family leaders into the family, particularly the children. Parents were to "teach" the law, "speaking" of it at every opportunity, whether sitting, walking, lying down, or rising up. In this way, the personal would become corporate.

Finally, it was to become public, for each was instructed to "write" portions of the law where all could see and know of the personal commitment within.

Before God will give us a public ministry, there must be an inner submission to and love for the things of God. This should be obvious to everyone around us. Then God can use us at home and elsewhere to His glory. JDM

For more . . . .

Communicate Well
May 4, 2012

"Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction" (Philippians 4:14)

"Communicate" is one of the older words from the era of the King James Version that takes some re-connecting in order to clarify the term. Our use today normally means speaking, understanding one another, or simply passing on instructions. The Greek word is sugkoinoneo, a compound of the preposition "with" and the primary word for "participation."

The basic term is often translated "partner" or "partake" and frequently is connected with the act of sharing finances in the ministry of others. That is the application in the context of today's verse. Paul commends the Philippian church for partnering with him over his journeys and recognising time and again the needs that were necessary to fulfill for the success of the ministry.

Today, there are a vast array of charity-based organisations, from large hospitals and universities to local food and clothing distribution efforts. Most of those, by the way, were started by Christian groups as a way to "communicate" to the "affliction" of many. But how do we determine who among the many, or at what ratio, to attempt to distribute "to the necessity of saints?" (Romans 12:13)

Two main principles must guide our "communication" in the Kingdom. First, it is clear that our New Testament responsibility is first to the church in which our Lord has placed us. Some disagree, but "storehouse" tithing appears to claim our first priority. Then there is opportunity to follow the specific leading of God among those ministries with which we are familiar and of whom we are confident that first seek the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). HMM III

For more . . . .

Spirit, Soul, Body
May 5, 2012

"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

The threefold nature of mankind reflects, to a degree, the triune nature of the Godhead. Just as each member of the triune God is complete and wholly God, yet distinct, so each aspect of mankind is also the whole, yet distinct. The body of man comprises the entire man, yet he also possesses certain soulish emotions, desires, and propensities; and finally, the total man is endowed with a spiritual, eternal nature, somehow reflecting the image of God.

These three reflect the three great creative acts of God during creation week, identified by the three usages of the Hebrew word bara, or create. "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth" (Genesis 1:1); i.e., physical material. Later, certain of this physical material was granted consciousness (1:21), which man shares with animals. On the sixth day, man was created as a spiritual being "in the image of God" (1:27), setting him qualitatively distinct from the animals, though he shares body and consciousness with the animals.

As in our text, when the "God of peace" sets about the task of sanctifying representatives of sinful, fallen mankind, restoring such ones to a measure of Christ-likeness, He does so in the order mentioned, beginning with a spiritual awakening. Then, through the transformed spirit, the soul is reached, and finally the body, with its appetites and lusts.

The wisdom of man says just the opposite, claiming the inner man can be improved by changing outside influences, a mentality all too often reflected even in evangelistic efforts. God's way is to start with the inner man--the root of the problem--and then affect the outer man. JDM

For more . . . .

Seeking Signs
May 6, 2012

"An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth" (Matthew 12:39-40)

If there was ever "an evil and adulterous generation," it is surely this present one and, once again, there is a widespread seeking after signs (same word in the Greek as "miracles".) The almost explosive rise of the so-called New Age movement has produced an amazing interest in all forms of occultism and supernatural phenomena: astrology, channeling, ESP, near-death experiences, UFOs, meditation, and mysticism of many strange varieties.

Even in Christian circles, there is an unhealthy interest in new revelations and other supernatural signs. The Lord Jesus, however, rebuked those who wanted special signs before receiving Him. "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe," (John 4:48.) He has already given us the greatest of all signs--His bodily resurrection from the dead, the best-evidenced fact of all history--and this should suffice, as He told the scribes and Pharisees in our text.

In fact, there is a real danger in seeking such signs and wonders, for many of these things--while perhaps supernatural--are not from God. "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect" (Matthew 24:24).

Unlike the first generation of Christians, we now have the complete written Word of God, both Old and New Testaments, and it is sufficient for every need of every believer until Christ returns, "whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19). HMM

For more . . . .

[size=14pt]
Is Your Lamp Oil Filled?

The LORD will take only those 'sold out' to HIM and filled with the HOLY SPIRIT in the coming rapture of the church (remember, only the five virgins with full oil lamps are ready when the Bridegroom comes). If you don't think you are 'sold out' to HIM because you are caught up in things of this world then there is still time if you engage yourself right now in a relentless pursuit of knowing and following HIM. You must first be filled, 'baptized' with the HOLY SPIRIT.

You can be baptized in the HOLY SPIRIT right now: you can pray this suggested prayer: "In the LORD’s Name, I pray to be baptized in the Names of the FATHER, the SON, and the HOLY SPIRIT. I pray to be filled up completely from the top of my head to the bottom of my toes. I pray for my Spiritual eyes to be opened and for the scales to fall off and I pray for a bolder testimony for the LORD JESUS and for MY OIL LAMP TO BE FILLED TO THE TOP. I surrender my ALL to the LORD and repent for all my sins from a sincere heart of remorse for these things done before a HOLY GOD." (You can also be prayed over by someone who has been baptized in the HOLY SPIRIT.)

You don't have to go anywhere or do anything as it has to do with the attitude of your heart. Just pray and you will receive through a sincere heart. Surrender your life over completely and repent from all your sins to the LORD. If you desire to be baptized in the HOLY SPIRIT, stop right now, where you are and pray. You can pray the suggested prayer above. You have ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO LOSE AND EVERYTHING TO GAIN! When you pray to receive then 'press in' and read your bible or do it more and pray more. Fasting also is recommended because it is by fasting from food, a meal, or something enjoyed such as your ipod, TV/movies, worldly pursuits, whatever we do that we 'die to our flesh.' Fasting does not replace salvation by JESUS' Blood at all. It just means we are dying to our flesh which is pleasing to the LORD for greater personal intimacy, seeking answers through prayers, whereas salvation is a free gift from GOD and not earned by any human act of sacrifice. These are verses that support a second baptism (the other being water baptism—the water baptism can come before or after the HOLY SPIRIT baptism) given from the HOLY SPIRIT:[/size]


[b]
Matthew 3:11: "As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but HE WHO is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove HIS sandals; HE will baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT and fire."

Mark 1:8: "I baptized you with water; but HE will baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT."

Luke 3:16: "John answered and said to them all, 'As for me, I baptize you with water; but ONE is coming WHO is mightier than I, and I am not fit to untie the thong of HIS sandals; HE will baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT and fire."

John 1:33: "And I did not recognize HIM, but HE WHO sent me to baptize in water said to me, "HE upon WHOM you see the SPIRIT descending and remaining upon HIM, this is the ONE WHO baptizes in the HOLY SPIRIT."

Acts 1:5: "For John baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT not many days from now."

Acts 11:15-16: " And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. And I remembered the Word of the LORD, how HE used to say, 'John baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT.’"[/b]

He Counted Me Faithful
May 7, 2012

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry" (1 Timothy 1:12)

The testimony of a changed life is perhaps the best evidence that God is alive and active today. The fact that at salvation a dead slave to sin is given life and a new nature, comprises the only rational explanation for one who lives in victory and power after a lifetime of defeat.

Take Paul, for example. Our introduction to him is at the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:58,) after which his ardor for the Jewish traditions and hatred of Christianity caused him to wreak "havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison" (Acts 8:3). This was not just casual opposition, for he was "breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord" (Acts 9:1). He was a "blasphemer, and a persecutor |not only of Christians, but of Christ Himself--Acts 9:5|, and injurious" (1 Timothy 1:13).

However, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I |Paul| am chief" (1 Timothy 1:15), he said. Paul "obtained mercy" (v. 13), not receiving the punishment he deserved, through "the grace of our Lord |which| was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus" (v. 14), even though he was not even seeking God (Acts 9:1-5).

To a greater or lesser degree, God has worked that same work of grace in each life which now belongs to Him. Paul called himself the chief of sinners, but each of us has done or has been capable of equally heinous acts. Through His grace, we are not only rescued from addiction to sin, but rehabilitated and empowered and given, as we see in our text, missions to accomplish that are of eternal significance. Let us "thank Christ Jesus our Lord" with Paul. JDM

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Thank YOU LORD!

Watching for Christ's Return
May 8, 2012

"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. . . . Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 24:42, 44)

Those who try to predict Christ's return may become skeptical about biblical prophecy. But this would be a sad mistake. Regardless of just when it will happen, Christ will return, for so He promised, and He cannot either lie or fail. He has repeatedly made it plain that no one can determine the date of His coming. Not even He, while in His human limitations, knew that (Mark 13:32).

Again and again He urged us to watch and be ready for His return. He did not tell us to watch for the Antichrist or the revival of Rome's empire or a great apostasy or a great revival or a world government or anything else--just for Him! Note some of His commands to do this (in addition to the two in our text):

"Take ye heed, watch and pray, for ye know not when the time is" (Mark 13:33).

"Watch ye therefore: . . . Lest coming suddenly, he find you sleeping" (Mark 13:35-36).

"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 25:13).

In addition to such exhortations by the Lord Himself, the apostles also sounded similar warnings:

"Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation" (Hebrews 9:28.)

"Abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming" (1 John 2:28.)

Space limitations preclude listing others, but again in the words of Christ: "And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch" (Mark 13:37). HMM

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rastamouse:

Thank YOU LORD!

Welcome to the e-fellowship. Your contributions are welcome anytime.

The Promise of Liberty
May 9, 2012

"While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage" (2 Peter 2:19)

This chapter consists of a strong denunciation of false teachers. They are, among other things, sensuous, beguiling, covetous, and accursed (v. 14). They desire personal wealth (vv. 15-16), but their message is empty, and even destructive, and will be judged (v. 17), appealing to the pride and lusts of their hearers (v. 18.)

In our text we see the false teachers are quick to make promises. Promises are cheap; they cost nothing. Satan first revealed himself to mankind with a promise: "Ye shall be as gods" (Genesis 3:5), and later attempted to seduce the Son of God with "all the kingdoms of the world" (Matthew 4:8.) Empty promises are Satan's golden hook, and many are the foolish ones who take the bait.

In this case, the false teachers promise liberty--liberty to act without the shackles of responsibility and moral law. But they themselves are"servants of corruption," slaves of a most abhorrent mentality. And who are they to offer liberty? These are indeed "great swelling words of vanity" (2 Peter 2:18,) for slaves cannot rightly offer liberty.

How is this promise kept? Bondage. Bondage to that which has overcome. The liberty that sin promises is slavery, and the greater the sinner, the greater the bondage to the sin. There is perhaps no more wretched a state than to be in bondage to abject corruption in the name of liberty. It is a bondage of the spirit; a captivity of the soul. Of all states of slavery, it is the most lasting.

On the other hand, through grace we can "stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free," with no need to be "entangled again with the yoke of bondage" (Galatians 5:1). JDM

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A Test for False Prophets
May 10, 2012

"Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him" (Deuteronomy 13:4)

Our text for today seems somewhat out of place, for it is tucked into a passage dealing with false prophets: instructing the people of Israel in ways to detect one who would lead them into false worship. The penalty was death, "because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt" (v. 10). The purpose was both purification and example, for "all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you" (v. 11).

The chief test of a prophet was not his ability to perform signs and wonders (v. 1). Elsewhere the test of total, lifelong accuracy was applied. "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously. . . . that prophet shall die" (Deuteronomy 18:22, 20). A more immediate test lay in the absolute harmony of the prophet's message and deeds with the revealed Word of God, and the wholehearted commitment to the Lord Himself. This test takes the form of the holy standard set forth in our text.

Note that an inward attitude will be expressed, as given in the six action verbs. If we are to please God, we must "walk after" or "pursue" Him, and "fear" or "reverence" Him in all things. Furthermore, we must "keep" His commandments, striving to "obey" Him on every issue He addresses. He expects such a one to "serve" Him: to do His bidding. Finally, we must "cleave" or "cling" to Him, holding fast to Him in an ever deepening relationship. To do less is to fail the test used to discern false prophets, incurring at the least His displeasure; at the most His wrath. JDM

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The Linen Clothes
May 12, 2012

"Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury" (John 19:40)

The Jews of Jesus' day prepared bodies for burial in a much different fashion than we do today. In our text the word "wound" actually means "to bind, tie, or wind," and bodies were tightly rolled up in long strips of linen cloth. Parallel passages in Matthew 27:59, Mark 15:46, and Luke 23:53 employ words derived from the Greek hellisso, meaning "to coil," from which we get our word "helix."

The tightness of the winding can be inferred from the raising of Lazarus from the dead. After Christ had called him back to life, "he that was dead came forth, bound |same word as 'wound'| hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go" (John 11:44).

On resurrection morning, after hearing the news of the missing body of Christ, Peter and John ran to the sepulcher. "Peter . . . went into the sepulcher, and seeth the linen clothes lie, And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped |same word as 'wound'| together in a place by itself. Then went in also that other disciple . . . and he saw, and believed" (John 20:6-8.)

John recognised, as we should, that only a miracle could account for the state of these linen clothes. If thieves had stolen the body, they would either have taken the clothes, or the clothes would have been strewn around, not lying in the same location and shape as they had been when the body was present. Previously, John "knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead" (v. 9), but when he saw the linen clothes he "believed."

Christ miraculously rose from the dead. John believed; we have his eyewitness testimony. Can we do less? JDM

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The Mother of Us All
May 13, 2012

"And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living" (Genesis 3:20)

Sarah, Abraham's wife, was called the mother of all "the children of promise" (Galatians 4:28,) and the wife of Noah was the mother of all post-Flood mankind, but Mother Eve, alone, was "the mother of all living." "Adam was first formed, then Eve," Paul said in 1 Timothy 2:13, and so-called "Christian evolutionists" have never yet been able to explain God's unique formation of Eve's body in any kind of an evolutionary context.

Eve, as our first mother, experienced all the great joys and great sorrows that all later mothers would know. She evidently had many "sons and daughters" (Genesis 5:4), and probably lived to see many generations of grandchildren. With Adam, she had even known paradise, but sin had entered their lives when they rebelled against God's Word, and God had to say: "In sorrow thou shalt bring forth children" (Genesis 3:16). The greatest sorrow was no doubt when Cain slew Abel, and as with another mother whose Son's innocent blood was shed many years later, it was like a sword piercing her own soul (Luke 2:35).

Nevertheless, as near as we can tell, after her first great sin, Eve trusted God's Word henceforth, and received His forgiveness and salvation. Later, as the mother of Seth, she taught him and her grandson, Enos, about the Lord and all His promises. "Then began men to call upon the name of the Lord" (Genesis 4:26).

Most Christian believers are looking forward to seeing their own mothers again someday--restating their love and appreciation for all they did in bearing them, and in caring, teaching, and praying for them. But it will be a wonderful experience to meet our first mother, also, as well as Sarah, Hannah, Mary, and all the other godly mothers of old. HMM

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What Sort of Work
May 14, 2012

"Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is" (1 Corinthians 3:13)

This key verse of Scripture gives the principle by which God will evaluate our works in that great future day when all believers will be assembled before "the judgment seat of Christ" (Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10). The non-believer will be judged elsewhere, while this will be a judgment of believers only, for when the purifying fire tries our works, "if any man's work abide . . . he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved" (1 Corinthians 3:14-15).

Note carefully the basis for determining rewards or loss of rewards. It is not the amount of work done--not the number of witnessing contacts or souls won to Christ, not the number of students taught in a school or the amount of money given to missions. Neither are rewards based on the type of work done; menial labour is no less eligible for heavenly rewards than is the ministry of the gospel.

The criterion of the eternal value of a believer's work on earth is what sort it is! That is, what is the motivation of the work, the sincerity, the dedication? The Greek word translated "sort" definitely conveys the meaning of quality, rather than quantity of results or type of occupation. No matter the nature of the work, or its size. The question is, what sort is it? Jesus knows that "he that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much" (Luke 16:10), and so He will "give every man according as his work shall be" (Revelation 22:12).

Therefore, "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:23-24). HMM

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The Faithful Lord
May 15, 2012

"But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil" (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

The Lord Jesus Christ has many wonderful attributes, not the least of which is His faithfulness. That is, He is believable and trustworthy, sure to do all He promises. He will keep us from the evil one and from being overcome by evil in our lives, as promised in our text. Also, "God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted |that is, 'tested'| above that ye are able" (1 Corinthians 10:13). Why does He care for us so?

In the first place, He is our Creator, and has a distinct purpose and will for our lives. Therefore all who are His can safely "commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator" (1 Peter 4:19). He will keep us to the end; Paul said, "I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." Then follows his confident assurance: "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).

Even when we yield to the temptations along the way, and fall into sin, He promises: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9), because He has paid the penalty for all our sins, and He is "a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people" (Hebrews 2:17).

With such a faithful Saviour and Lord, we surely ought to trust Him fully. In spite of this, we often doubt Him and His Word, but even this does not change His love toward us. "If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself" (2 Timothy 2:13). Indeed, "God is faithful, by whom ye were called" (1 Corinthians 1:9), for His very name is "called Faithful and True" (Revelation 19:11). HMM

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