05/09/25 DON'T WAIT, ACT NOW
Hope in Christ is the anchor of the soul.
Faith (obedient trust) is the cable that secures that hope.
Love (agape [ag-ah-pay] love) is the evidence of our connection with God. Remember, God said, love is the fulfilling of the law, and if we love Him, we will keep His commandments.
1 Corinthians 13:13
13 And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
God's word also tells us to build ourselves up in our holy faith, and to keep ourselves in the love of God.
Jude 1:20-21
20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
We build ourselves up and keep ourselves by reading and praying, trusting and obeying, worshiping and praising, and by following Christ fully and communing with God and His people.
Hebrews 10:19-31
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
28 He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden underfoot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Here are some of the steps Christians take in moving away from God.
They slip their spiritual moorings, which are, reading, praying, fellowship [with God and His people], walking in God's light, following God's leading [whether direct from His Spirit, His word, or His appointed leadership].
Ephesians 4:11-16
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
They experience remorse and regret and sorrow for failure to do the right thing.
If their sorrow is not godly sorrow, they reject God's call to repentance.
They deny personal responsibility, accountability and guilt.
They drift further from Christ.
They begin to yield to contrary currents.
They resist and reject spiritual authority.
Their remorse and regret for failure increases.
They shift their guilt to others'
They reset their course adjust their sails.
They settle for, and then choose failure, darkness.
Even if they eventually come to their senses, and return to the Father, their life was mis-spent, and wasted in the pigsty of sin, self and Satan's will.
I have heard people actually say that God has specific time for people to get saved. They have the audacity and ignorance to claim that God does not want a person to get saved before a "hidden agenda" of a so-called sovereign. NONSENSE. the Bible says, NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME, TODAY IS THE DAY OF SALVATION.
Regardless of how much time you have wasted or lost, NOW IS THE TIME. The Bible also says, REDEEM THE TIME.
For one thing, you may wait your way to hell. Also, the sooner you return to Him, the more you will glorify Him, and the more blessed you remaining life will be. Don't waste, don't throw away your life. SEEK YE THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND, CALL UPON HIM WHILE HE IS NEAR.
Saturday, May 31, 2025
05/08/25 A KINGDOM OF PRIESTS
05/08/25 A KINGDOM OF PRIESTS
This is what I see when I enter The Net House. This is where I gather with other Fishers of Men, to worship, praise, study, fellowship, serve, grow. I hope you are gathering with serious believers. Jesus is the only Head of the Church, and He died a sacrificial death once and only once. He alone is our High Priest, and we need no other priest. In fact, those who are saved are Priests. There is no ecclesiastical, organizational priesthood in the true church.
This is what I see when I enter The Net House. This is where I gather with other Fishers of Men, to worship, praise, study, fellowship, serve, grow. I hope you are gathering with serious believers. Jesus is the only Head of the Church, and He died a sacrificial death once and only once. He alone is our High Priest, and we need no other priest. In fact, those who are saved are Priests. There is no ecclesiastical, organizational priesthood in the true church.
The is no other Head of the Church, other than Christ, in heaven or on earth. Any teaching otherwise is anti-Christian, heretical and a doctrine of demons.
We must gather together regularly, and so much the more as His return draws near.
We must gather together regularly, and so much the more as His return draws near.
05/08/25 FOCUSING YOUR WHOLE LIFE
05/08/25 FOCUSING YOUR WHOLE LIFE
When you major on the minor and minor on the major, when you focus on the peripheral rather than on the central, when you carefully inspect the secondary and neglect the primary, you will never become what God wants you to become.
When your politics, your pleasures, your treasures, your culture, your race, your education, your habits, your hobbies, your social standing, your finances, your relationships, your emotions, your associations, your assumptions filter your faith and your behavior, you are a dead man walking.
God's salvation miraculously transforms you into a new creation and His indwelling conforms you to the image of Christ.
God gave you the power to choose or refuse His presence, power and purity of heart and life.
God calls you.
You choose.
God leads you.
You choose
Choose ye this day whom you will serve.
Choose Jesus.
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
05/06/25 GOD IS FAITHFUL AND TRUE
05/06/25 GOD IS FAITHFUL AND TRUE
If we are to believe, as sinning religion tells us, that their god gets glory because he predetermined every human event, including Adam's sin and the inherent and inescapable sinfulness as a child of Adam, and he unilaterally and unconditionally predetermined to elect some people to salvation, but predetermined that others would be left in their sin, with no provision or offer of salvation, then it would follow that their god should also get glory for predetermining the damnation of those he created for the very purpose of being lost forever. After all, unilateral, unconditional, "sovereign" predestination for deliverance and for reprobation is the work of the same god, whether the sinner is one of the supposed elect or not. If salvation only depends on a wrathful god, rather than a just and loving God, Who desires all men to be saved, and if that salvation does not include the enabled free will of any sinner to believe in Christ's sacrificial death and physical resurrection, and to receive god's offer through repentance, confession, and obedience to Christ, then that god should be glorified for predetermining their god imposed reprobation.
I just choose to believe the Biblical revelation that Jesus died for all sinners and the Father will save whosoever will choose to believe on Christ, which includes faith, repentance, confession and faithful following. We must make our calling and election sure. Many are called (with an actual call) but few are chosen. Salvation is a Divine and human agreement and alignment.
If we are to believe, as sinning religion tells us, that their god gets glory because he predetermined every human event, including Adam's sin and the inherent and inescapable sinfulness as a child of Adam, and he unilaterally and unconditionally predetermined to elect some people to salvation, but predetermined that others would be left in their sin, with no provision or offer of salvation, then it would follow that their god should also get glory for predetermining the damnation of those he created for the very purpose of being lost forever. After all, unilateral, unconditional, "sovereign" predestination for deliverance and for reprobation is the work of the same god, whether the sinner is one of the supposed elect or not. If salvation only depends on a wrathful god, rather than a just and loving God, Who desires all men to be saved, and if that salvation does not include the enabled free will of any sinner to believe in Christ's sacrificial death and physical resurrection, and to receive god's offer through repentance, confession, and obedience to Christ, then that god should be glorified for predetermining their god imposed reprobation.
I just choose to believe the Biblical revelation that Jesus died for all sinners and the Father will save whosoever will choose to believe on Christ, which includes faith, repentance, confession and faithful following. We must make our calling and election sure. Many are called (with an actual call) but few are chosen. Salvation is a Divine and human agreement and alignment.
05/06/25 OVERCOMING
05/06/25 OVERCOMING
VERSES ADDRESSING "OVERCOMING"
I reference almost all of the verses in the Bible, which use the words related to "overcome." There is no verse in the Bible, which indicates Christian defeat by Satan. Though Satan is allowed to oppress and persecute and kill believers, he cannot defeat spiritually or eternally those who remain faithful to Christ.
My point is that Christians can expect to overcome sin and Satan. The use of the words in the Old Testament differs considerably from the use of the words in the New Testament.
The Old Testament passages are people and period specific, rather than Divine directives concerning believer's victories over spiritual battles. I have only referenced them as ADDITIONAL VERSES at the end of this article, since they are not directly addressing Christian spiritual battles. However, there is nothing in this list that intimates that those who follow Christ cannot overcome sin.
The New Testament verses (other than the Book of Revelation) refer to Christian's overcoming our spiritual enemies. There is not a single verse that indicates that Christians cannot overcome personal conflicts with darkness.
The Book of Revelation foretells the conflict between the Beast (the anti-Christ) and the Saints (Tribulation believers). The Beast will be allowed to oppress and kill the saints for a while. Ultimately the Lamb (Jesus) conquers the Beast and his dark domain.
NEW TESTAMENT
JESUS HAS OVERCOME THE WORLD, FEAR NOT
John 16:33
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
WE ARE TOLD TO OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD
Romans 12:17-21
17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
CHRISTIANS WARNED TO NOT BE OVERCOME BY EVIL (we have the choice)
2 Peter 2:18-22
18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
19 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.
20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
BELIEVERS OVERCOME EVIL
1 John 2:12-17
12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.
13 I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.
14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.
15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
CHRISTIANS OVERCOME LYING SPIRITS, FALSE PROPHETS AND FALSE TEACHERS
1 John 4:1-6
1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.
6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
CHRISTIANS OVERCOME BY FAITH
1 John 5:2-4
VERSES ADDRESSING "OVERCOMING"
I reference almost all of the verses in the Bible, which use the words related to "overcome." There is no verse in the Bible, which indicates Christian defeat by Satan. Though Satan is allowed to oppress and persecute and kill believers, he cannot defeat spiritually or eternally those who remain faithful to Christ.
My point is that Christians can expect to overcome sin and Satan. The use of the words in the Old Testament differs considerably from the use of the words in the New Testament.
The Old Testament passages are people and period specific, rather than Divine directives concerning believer's victories over spiritual battles. I have only referenced them as ADDITIONAL VERSES at the end of this article, since they are not directly addressing Christian spiritual battles. However, there is nothing in this list that intimates that those who follow Christ cannot overcome sin.
The New Testament verses (other than the Book of Revelation) refer to Christian's overcoming our spiritual enemies. There is not a single verse that indicates that Christians cannot overcome personal conflicts with darkness.
The Book of Revelation foretells the conflict between the Beast (the anti-Christ) and the Saints (Tribulation believers). The Beast will be allowed to oppress and kill the saints for a while. Ultimately the Lamb (Jesus) conquers the Beast and his dark domain.
NEW TESTAMENT
JESUS HAS OVERCOME THE WORLD, FEAR NOT
John 16:33
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
WE ARE TOLD TO OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD
Romans 12:17-21
17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
CHRISTIANS WARNED TO NOT BE OVERCOME BY EVIL (we have the choice)
2 Peter 2:18-22
18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
19 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.
20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
BELIEVERS OVERCOME EVIL
1 John 2:12-17
12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.
13 I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.
14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.
15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
CHRISTIANS OVERCOME LYING SPIRITS, FALSE PROPHETS AND FALSE TEACHERS
1 John 4:1-6
1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.
6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
CHRISTIANS OVERCOME BY FAITH
1 John 5:2-4
2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
THE BOOK OF REVELATION
(Chapters 2-3 are prophecies concerning seven churches [and the Church Age]. Christians have the ability to overcome spiritual enemies, as indicated in these seven verses, directed to each of the seven churches. The seven churches were actual churches, but they are also prophetically symbolic of seven periods of the Church Age.)
The Church in Ephesus
Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
The Church in Smyrna
Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
The Church in Pergamos
Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
The Church in Thyatira
Revelation 2:26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
The Church in Sardis
Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
The Church in Philadelphia
Revelation 3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
The Church in Laodicea
Revelation 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
THE SAINTS OVERCOMING SATAN
Revelation 12:10-12
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
THE BOOK OF REVELATION
(Chapters 2-3 are prophecies concerning seven churches [and the Church Age]. Christians have the ability to overcome spiritual enemies, as indicated in these seven verses, directed to each of the seven churches. The seven churches were actual churches, but they are also prophetically symbolic of seven periods of the Church Age.)
The Church in Ephesus
Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
The Church in Smyrna
Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
The Church in Pergamos
Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
The Church in Thyatira
Revelation 2:26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
The Church in Sardis
Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
The Church in Philadelphia
Revelation 3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
The Church in Laodicea
Revelation 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
THE SAINTS OVERCOMING SATAN
Revelation 12:10-12
10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
THE LAMB OVERCOMING THE WORLD
Revelation 17:12-14
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
THE LAMB OVERCOMING THE WORLD
Revelation 17:12-14
12 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast.
13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
ULTIMATE OVERCOMING OF SIN AND SATAN... (New Heaven, NEW EARTH, and New Jerusalem)
Revelation 21:2-9
13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
ULTIMATE OVERCOMING OF SIN AND SATAN... (New Heaven, NEW EARTH, and New Jerusalem)
Revelation 21:2-9
2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.
NEGATIVE OCCASIONS DURING THE TRIBULATION
(when God allowed sin and Satan power to overcome the saints)
THE BEAST OVERCOMING THE TWO WITNESSES
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.
NEGATIVE OCCASIONS DURING THE TRIBULATION
(when God allowed sin and Satan power to overcome the saints)
THE BEAST OVERCOMING THE TWO WITNESSES
Revelation 11:5-7
5 And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
7 And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
THE BEAST OVERCOMING THE SAINTS (temporarily... see chapters 12, 17, 21 and 22)
Revelation 13:4-8
5 And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
7 And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
THE BEAST OVERCOMING THE SAINTS (temporarily... see chapters 12, 17, 21 and 22)
Revelation 13:4-8
4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?
5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.
6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
ADDITIONAL VERSES
(addressing specific earthly conflicts) ...
Genesis 49:19; Numbers 13:30, 22:11; 2 Kings 6:5; Isaiah 28:1; Jeremiah 23:1-12 (this passage from Jeremiah is directed at false prophets).
5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.
6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
ADDITIONAL VERSES
(addressing specific earthly conflicts) ...
Genesis 49:19; Numbers 13:30, 22:11; 2 Kings 6:5; Isaiah 28:1; Jeremiah 23:1-12 (this passage from Jeremiah is directed at false prophets).
Monday, May 5, 2025
05/02/25 DON'T BE DISTRACTED
05/02/25 DON'T BE DISTRACTED
"Magic" is not magical (that is, it does not just happen without a cause, it is not unexplainable). It is often the trickery of sleight of hand, or it is demonic activity, and sometimes it is both trickery and demonic. Trickery, deception is the primary tool of the devil. Magic appears to make some things vanish, or it appears to make some things materialize out of thin air. The key thought here is, "appears".
"Magic" is not magical (that is, it does not just happen without a cause, it is not unexplainable). It is often the trickery of sleight of hand, or it is demonic activity, and sometimes it is both trickery and demonic. Trickery, deception is the primary tool of the devil. Magic appears to make some things vanish, or it appears to make some things materialize out of thin air. The key thought here is, "appears".
Satanic deception happens when the "magician" misdirects the person's attention from the major issue to a peripheral issue, while the deception develops. The devil tricks people into spending a lot of time thinking, focusing, studying, discussing, debating and following issues, such as religion, culture, "science," psychology, anthropology, politics, which distract them from a right relationship with God, a deep relationship with God, a growing relationship with God.
The afore mentioned issues have a value, but they are peripheral to the revelation of God. The time and energy spent in pursuing or investigating those issues not only takes time away from a right relationship with God, but it also shades, colors, demeans the person's view of the Bible and robs them of the true treasures of Divine revelation and reconciliation.
When time and attention are spent on worldly and carnal ideas, views, activities, events, beliefs, behavior, then it is expected that the person will move further and further from God's leading and empowering. It happens slowly, unobtrusively and appears to be harmless. The person starts out with the right intention, but he is drawn into darkness rather than light.
These deceptions come as entertainment, education, political jargon. They also come through ministries, such as Bible teaching and preaching and Christian songs. Don't waste your time on that which numbs, robs, destroys, kills. The imaginary wisdom, found in worldly (and religious) events, amusements, treasures, pleasures, not only replaces the truths of God in our lives, but it also removes the truths of God from our lives.
I have observed that a great amount of the teaching and preaching by popular "Christian leaders" is focused on the peripherals and very little addresses the main reason Christ actually came. In fact, more and more of the popular "Christian" ministries are undermining and attacking the actual message of the Bible. Jesus came to redeem us from every evil deed and purify unto Himself a distinctive people, zealous of good works. Jesus came to save us from our sins. Jesus came to make us holy, righteous and pure.
I not only preach the fundamentals of the faith, and I teach Biblical doctrines, I also declare the whole counsel of God, deliberately keeping "the main thing as the main thing," by "majoring on majors and minoring on minors." My job is to lead the believer into holiness of heart and life and equip them to for every good work.
2 Corinthians 11:2
2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
Ephesians 4:11-14
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Ephesians 5:25-27
25 ...as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Colossians 1:9-12
9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Colossians 1:21-23
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:
13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
23 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.
24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
1 Peter 5:8-11
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
dlg note... I could go on and on, but this should make it clear concerning the true objective of God's salvation.
I consider myself to be fairly astute concerning the various facets of life, but I am aware that this world is not the friend of God. Remember, "friendship with the world is enmity with God."
The afore mentioned issues have a value, but they are peripheral to the revelation of God. The time and energy spent in pursuing or investigating those issues not only takes time away from a right relationship with God, but it also shades, colors, demeans the person's view of the Bible and robs them of the true treasures of Divine revelation and reconciliation.
When time and attention are spent on worldly and carnal ideas, views, activities, events, beliefs, behavior, then it is expected that the person will move further and further from God's leading and empowering. It happens slowly, unobtrusively and appears to be harmless. The person starts out with the right intention, but he is drawn into darkness rather than light.
These deceptions come as entertainment, education, political jargon. They also come through ministries, such as Bible teaching and preaching and Christian songs. Don't waste your time on that which numbs, robs, destroys, kills. The imaginary wisdom, found in worldly (and religious) events, amusements, treasures, pleasures, not only replaces the truths of God in our lives, but it also removes the truths of God from our lives.
I have observed that a great amount of the teaching and preaching by popular "Christian leaders" is focused on the peripherals and very little addresses the main reason Christ actually came. In fact, more and more of the popular "Christian" ministries are undermining and attacking the actual message of the Bible. Jesus came to redeem us from every evil deed and purify unto Himself a distinctive people, zealous of good works. Jesus came to save us from our sins. Jesus came to make us holy, righteous and pure.
I not only preach the fundamentals of the faith, and I teach Biblical doctrines, I also declare the whole counsel of God, deliberately keeping "the main thing as the main thing," by "majoring on majors and minoring on minors." My job is to lead the believer into holiness of heart and life and equip them to for every good work.
2 Corinthians 11:2
2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
Ephesians 4:11-14
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Ephesians 5:25-27
25 ...as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Colossians 1:9-12
9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Colossians 1:21-23
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:
13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
23 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.
24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
1 Peter 5:8-11
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
dlg note... I could go on and on, but this should make it clear concerning the true objective of God's salvation.
I consider myself to be fairly astute concerning the various facets of life, but I am aware that this world is not the friend of God. Remember, "friendship with the world is enmity with God."
The more time a person spends with the world, the more love they will have for the world and the things of the world. "If you love the world and the things of the world, then the love of the Father is not in you."
Saturday, May 3, 2025
05/02/25 TOO MANY VOICES
05/02/25 TOO MANY VOICES
THIS IS A REPOST (maybe a re-repost) from something Lydia wrote, but it so true and so well said that it needs to be heard and re-heard. Though I am not an Augustinian, here is a well-known quote, which does have value.
"In essential things, unity,
In doubtful things, liberty,
In all things, love."
God determines that which is essential and reveals it in Scripture. Don't allow human interpretation to be your authority. Be sure to be faithful to that which is essential, regardless of what other people say.
Don't hold other people accountable for your light.
And remember, love is more than a sentiment. Love is a relationship, a nature, a character, an action, a standard, and it is demonstrated in thoughts, words and deeds.
We are to be steppingstones, not millstones; we are to be bridges, not barriers; helpers, not hinderers. The more truth we have, the more we will resemble the One Who is the Truth.
This is something that needed to be said and needs to be read.
02/18/25 My post.
MY COMMENT TO LYDIA'S POST.
Quote...
I was working on a post very similar to yours, for days. I would write, set it aside, write some more... This morning, I deleted it because I was not happy with my post.
YOU HAVE SAID IT BEAUTIFULLY, AND ACCURATELY.
The only point I will reiterate is the fact that sin is what God calls sin, not what self-assured prophets and self-made authorities tell us that sin is. If it violates God's clear revelation, it is sin. God holds us accountable for what we KNOW to be His truth, He does not hold us accountable for another person's light (or confusion).
Again, this is a thoughtful, kind and loving encouragement. Christian Perfection demands humility and compassion and personal liberty concerning many issues.
...End Quote.
REPOST OF LYDIA'S ARTICLE.
Quote... There are a lot of loud and usually obnoxious voices out there trying to tell you what to do concerning your health and the health of your family.
Think about it. We have the WHO, the CDC, and the Faucis of the world telling us everything we should do concerning our health. Preventative medicine, long-term care, and injections of all kinds. They are very in your face sometimes and don’t care how they demean you for not agreeing with them. It’s really rather disgusting.
Then on the other side you have the anti- WHO, the anti-CDC, and the anti-Faucis of the world telling us we shouldn’t listen or do any or all of the preventative, long term care, or injections of most or all kinds. They are very "in your face" sometimes, and they don’t care how much they demean you or your decisions when it comes to your health or the health of your family, including your children. And it’s really rather disgusting.
Why is it disgusting coming from either side? Because neither side is God.
A loving husband and wife who seek the Lord concerning their overall health and wellbeing, and the overall health and wellbeing of their children should tune out those voices on either side who are calling them crazy (at least when they’re being nice about it and using a nice adjective to describe you), and instead seek the Lord and listen to His voice.
God knows above all the other voices what you and your children need. And I know this comes as a shock to some people, but not everyone has the same maladies, issues, and susceptibilities as everyone else.
Not even little children. Some children will go through life and never encounter a major medical issue, or have any underlying problems, or be susceptible to sickness or diseases that other children are susceptible to. We should be very grateful for such a blessing.
But, there are little children who suffer things you would never want to see your precious little boy or the little girl who is your whole world go through. And those parents and families are living day to day, trying to keep their little ones as healthy as they can, for as long as they can, and keep them from suffering as little as possible.
As Christians, we need to seek the Lord concerning our overall health and the overall health of our children. And the path doesn’t look like everyone else’s, and that’s ok We need to drown out the voices of those who rant and try to call into question our wisdom, and sadly even those who question our walk with the Lord, because we choose to follow His leading when it comes to our medical decisions for our families.
Your story is not my story. And my story is not your story. That’s why I don’t rant and rave against other Christian’s decisions when it comes to the wellbeing of their families.
Seek the Lord and follow His will. He knows you and your family better than anyone else. And never forget to sincerely love those who don’t agree with you, who rant and rave against you, and who question your sanity or even your salvation.
...End Quote.
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