life

Blog for Podcast #146 (How should Someone who follows Christ actually Live)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, Dreams, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, Thoughts, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV – Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Acts 2:44-45 NKJV – Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.

1 John 3:17 NKJV – But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

Proverbs 30:7-9 NLT – O God, I beg two favors from you; let me have them before I die. First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name.

How many at this very moment are saying “Who is the Lord?”

When we accept salvation, we are to leave the old world behind. Seek to be opposite the way we lived and what we sought after when we accepted the narrow and difficult path.

You know it is called “difficult” and it is “narrow” for a reason. When leaving our old lives behind. We are to repent, which means to no longer live or behave as we once did. What most don’t understand, or embrace is how they live is included in this change. This is seen straight from the Bible in the last verses we heard a bit ago from Proverbs. I will restate the core element of those verses.

“First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.”

Any who seek more are not following Christ. Period.

Understand. Don’t go saying they were never saved in the first place. Those that say this are judging, which is again a sin against God. Christ makes it clear that if we accept Him as our Savior we are to seek to be like Jesus Christ. Living a simple lifestyle with having our basic needs met. Spreading the Word of God. Then if we are given more then what is necessary, we are to use all the extra for God. It is called stewardship. Those that horde this extra wealth for themselves are considered bad stewards and again living in sin. This is why these words were written down by Peter:

2 Peter 2:20-22 NKJV – For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: “A DOG RETURNS TO HIS OWN VOMIT,” and, “a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.”

The vomit and the mire is living in the old life which is the world. Meaning those that keep and still seek after bigger, better and luxurious are wallowing through the mire and vomit. Why I say this is found here:

Luke 16:13-15 NKJV – “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these things, and they derided Him. And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

As I have established in past podcasts. The Greek word meaning “abomination” is used only six times in the New Testament. Four of those times it is used in the description of the antichrist and the apostate church which follows the antichrist. This is how those that pursue money and all it buys are seen to God. On the same level as the antichrist. Think on that as we continue.

How are we to live for God through Jesus Christ.

Romans 14:7-12 NLT – For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. Christ died and rose again for this very purpose—to be Lord both of the living and of the dead. So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I live,’ says the LORD, ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.’” Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.

Which includes explaining why people kept their fancy and expensive items and homes instead of using their money to spread the Word of God. To help those in need. Gathering unto themselves treasures in heaven not on earth.

James 1:27 NKJV – Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

Isaiah 1:17 NKJV – Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow.

We are to give most our earthly wealth away to those in dire straits. For since we have God within us and we have our needs met then we are blessed. For if we choose to be those that are called an abomination in the sight of God we must accept what is to come.

Malachi 3:5 NKJV – And I will come near you for judgment; I will be a swift witness Against sorcerers, Against adulterers, Against perjurers, Against those who exploit wage earners and widows and orphans, And against those who turn away an alien—Because they do not fear Me,” Says the LORD of hosts.

However, Christ made it clear to us how most would act and respond to the Truth.

Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV – “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

Many refuse to accept these verses are speaking about them.  Because they are saved, they are born again. They are filled with the Holy Spirit. They forget that a few verses later that Christ says this as well:

Matthew 7:21-23 NKJV – “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

Again, people will protest. They insist this does not apply to them. They will insist these are not the Christians Christ is referring to here. As I have established per the Words of Christ Himself in Matthew 12 only those that are followers of Christ can cast out demons. Therefore, those that said these words at the Great White Throne Judgement were at one time born again. However due to their lust for worldly rewards they turned their backs upon God. Refusing to abide upon the Vine and became the lukewarm.

James 3:14-16 NKJV – But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.

John 15:1-6 NKJV – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Revelation 3:15-19 NKJV – “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.

Understand that you are upon the path to death and that you may not be victorious and have your name blotted out of the Book of Life.

Revelation 3:1-5 NKJV – “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.

Time is running out. You must take action now to repent. You must sell off all your possessions and truly follow Christ.

Mark 10:17-25 NKJV – Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: ‘DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,’ ‘DO NOT MURDER,’ ‘DO NOT STEAL,’ ‘DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER.'” And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

“One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

Do this now. Downsize. Move into an apartment or a RV. Sell off all the items you do not require to live day to day. Then give to those in need. Fix your relationship with Christ now. Learn the Bible for yourself and then spread the Word of God. This is your task if you profess to being a child of God. If you deny this or laugh at these words you are denying God you are mocking God. Woe unto those that do not heed these warnings. For Christ is soon to return, and if you reject these warnings. Don’t be surprised if God rejects you upon the return of His Son.

God Bless.

Blog for Podcast #144 (The Storm of Selective Faith Part 2)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, Thoughts, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

In the last podcast I was discussing how many have decided to embrace a type of selective hearing. I mentioned in particular a woman that showed herself to be working in love and kindness. Yet she denied teachings found within the Bible because how one of the letters that now is a book within the New Testament was addressed. I once again return to scripture that per her slant upon the teachings found within the Bible would be limited to only ministers and pastors. Why I say this is because Timothy was the head of the church in Ephesus. This is reinforced by the fact that the two letter to Timothy and the letter to Titus are called the “Pastoral Epistles.” However, here is the verse:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV – All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

This means that everything that now comprises the Bible is scripture and is for all that profess Christ as their Savior to study and come to learn. To understand that it doesn’t matter to whom the letters were originally meant for. They are now something we must learn and embrace for our betterment.

Once someone says that this is ours and this is not ours adds to creating a false gospel, a false teaching.

Deuteronomy 4:2 NKJV – You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.

Galatians 1:6-10 NLT – I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News but is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ. Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you. I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed. Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

Christ makes it totally clear where a person’s love is when they chose to have selective reading of the scriptures:

John 14:23-24 NKJV – Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.

These Words spoken by Christ tie right back in with those for 2 Timothy so I will say them one again:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV – All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

One of the biggest elements that fills the minds of those who choose to ignore all scripture is that they wish to believe that just because they believe they are set for true and complete salvation.

James 2:19 NKJV – You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!

Those that embrace faith alone are stating they are on the same level as demons. Could this be the reason why this is said?

James 2:26 NKJV – For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

It is here that we must once again come into an understanding of what “works” is. They are not rituals, but how we live our lives every single day as we strive to be a living example unto the world.

Titus 2:7-8 NKJV – in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

Matthew 5:14-16 NKJV – “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

1 Timothy 4:11-13 NKJV – These things command and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

This is works going hand and hand with faith. Living the life as a child of God. Day in and day out. Following all of Gods teachings.

In the last eight years of my life God as place several people before me from all aspects. Believers and non-believers. Pastors, deacons, evangelists and your everyday person who professed to being “Christian.”

I have talked to them. Worked with them. Dined with them. Befriended them. Even Confronted them.

I came to a sad conclusion. Most were stuck in their belief and mentality of how God worked and worked with them. Most were off the mark. Some of these by only a slight degree others to the point of cultic believes that were totally counter to what is written within the Bible. Most showed their desire to chase after money more than God. Many knew more about sports than the Bible.

As to those that were non-believers, they found me an enigma. I didn’t fit their mold of what they expected someone who professing to be a “Christian” to behave and act toward them. I had a “trans” person talk to me one day as we walked to a co-worker’s anniversary party. I was friendly and cordial. The next day the person didn’t come in and was out of work for several months. Read into that what you want.

My greatest disappointment came from those that professed to being followers of Christ. They showed more of the flesh than of the Spirit they professed to follow.

Galatians 5:19-23 NKJV – Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Those that professed to being children of God were hurt and astonished by what they believed and is the Truth found within the Bible. Their actions and reactions showing more ignorance of the Word of God than some of the non-believers. They believed things in some cases that didn’t even exist within the Bible. So, this begs the question. Are they really follows of Christ? Because their believes can’t be found within the Bible but in their own image of what is found within that image.

Isaiah 29:13 NKJV – Therefore the Lord said: “Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths And honor Me with their lips, But have removed their hearts far from Me, And their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men,

What they think is the Biblical, is Godly. What they believe comes from Jesus Christ isn’t. They hear all is love. All are welcome into heaven as long as they commit  to Him and of course give their 10% tithe. This by the way is not Christianity. This is religion wearing a façade of Christianity. it is this religion that says that all that is required is faith.

2 Peter 2:1-14 NKJV – But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber. For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly; and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)— then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment, and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries, whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the Lord. But these, like natural brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed, speak evil of the things they do not understand, and will utterly perish in their own corruption, and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes, carousing in their own deceptions while they feast with you, having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls. They have a heart trained in covetous practices, and are accursed children.

Within these verses we come to understand that God through His Son will not just Save people but judge them.

2 Timothy 4:1 KJV – I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:

John 12:44-50 NKJV – Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

Now when we return to 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we need to come to an understanding for “all scripture.” I wish to shed a bit of light of this from another book in the New Testament:

John 1:1-5 NKJV – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

Christ is the Word, and the Word is all scripture. Not certain books within the Bible, but the entire Bible. Therefore, when someone rejects part of the Bible, they are fully rejecting He who is the Word.

Matthew 10:32-33 NKJV – “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.

Christ said this:

John 14:15 NKJV – “If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Consequently, if the Bible says:

James 2:26 NKJV – For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Even though written by James it is actually Christ speaking through the Holy Spirit. Telling all that those that live by faith alone are dead. However, those that follow all the teachings given within the Bible, which includes all the commandments that pass the litmus test of Matthew 22:37-40 are works that we should strive to fulfill and complete to the best of our ability.

it is time to embrace the entire Bible and follow all the teachings within it. To be the light unto the world. Living a life that shows us to be a reflection of Christ and in no way a reflection of the world. What is truly and completely sad is most that reflect more of the world than Christ profess to being “Christian.” They are the lukewarm per Revelation 3:14-16. That Christ already sees them as dead per Revelation 3:1-5. Yet in both these letters He gives them an out. That they must repent. As seen in the last letter of the seven churches this means to get rid of worldly wealth and to seek true obedience to the Word of God. Time is nearly up. There is not more time to have a long journey of sanctification. It must happen now and must happen quickly or face eternal damnation.

God Bless.

Blog for Podcast #143 (The Storm of Selective Faith Part 1)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

The other day on social media a person posted a meme that said this:

“Most ‘Christians’ are going to hell.”

This caused quite a storm in the comments below it. The verses referenced in this meme were:

Matthew 7:21 NKJV – “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.

and

Luke 6:46 NKJV – “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?

I learned long ago that those that protested against this meme showed one thing. I have referenced these verses in the past, but I see I must do so again:

Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV – Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

You see those that countered this meme showed hatred. They experienced an outburst of wrath. They were causing dissension.  So, in essence they pronounced to all where they were not with God through Jesus Christ and that they were on the broad road and not the narrow path.

Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV – “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

Which I may add gives further support from the Word of God for the meme that started this tempest of complaints.

Now there was one slight outlier to this situation. This person didn’t truly argue, but the evidence she presented was aimed at pure faith.

I replied with one verse.

James 2:26 NKJV – For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Her response to this was truly depressing to me to say the least.

Her reply went like this:

“You do see who James was talking to here in this letter correct? ‘James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings.’ this was aimed for the twelve tribes of Israel.”

This response is how many, especially those that embrace the false teaching of “once saved always saved” think and believe. They cut themselves off from those Scriptures which shows that salvation can be lost and as a result will lead to the Lake of fire. Which again gives verification to the meme that started this entire whirlwind of complaints. It also cuts them off from teaches which instructs them to not horde or keep their worldly wealth to themselves.

My reply to her was to the point.

 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV – All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

“All Scripture.”

This means that people cannot say that this part of the Bible was aimed at this group or that group. If we accept Christ as our Savior and we choose to follow His teachings and those of His chosen apostles. Then we must follow all that is found within the Bible especially if it causes us discomfort.

For those that deny that we are required to follow all the commandments given within the Bible that were not removed by the cross and pass the litmus test of the greatest commandments:

Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV – Jesus said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’  On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

When they say things like “it is by faith alone.” they are saying that Christ came to destroy the commandments, but Christ said this:

John 14:15 NKJV – “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”

and

Matthew 5:17-19 NKJV – “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

So those that deny the teachings of Christ have in essence denied Him for He is the Word of God:

John 1:1 NKJV – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

And what does Christ say about those that deny Him?

Matthew 10:33 NKJV – But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.

Therefore, if Christ has denied them to His Father. Our Lord and Creator: God. Then are we not cut off from Him?

The answer is simple and goes to one of the verses referenced in the meme:

Matthew 7:21-23 NKJV – “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

As I have presented before. One of the key elements found in these verses are these words:

“Cast out demons in Your name.”

This is Christ reply for this found later in the book of Matthew:

Matthew 12:24-30 NKJV – Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, “This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? And if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.

Since they cast out demons, they were at one point “Christian.” Yet now they are not known to Christ. AKA they are no longer “Christian.”

What did Jesus Christ teach about abiding in Him:

John 15:1-6 NKJV – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

If you want full details about what it means to abide in Christ look to podcast #139. A key element that must be made clear though is that a person cannot be upon the True Vine unless they are born again. Also as shown in these verses if a person does not bear fruit AKA “works” like following all the teachings given by Christ and His apostles then they do not bear fruit and will be removed and allowed to enter into the Lake of Fire. This is witnessed in the fifth letter in the book of Revelation:

Revelation 3:1-5 NKJV – “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.

“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life”

Let me further translate this part of the verses I just re-read.

If you do not overcome AKA follow the teachings of Christ Jesus. He WILL blot out AKA remove that person’s name from the Book of Life. And what is the fate of those whose names are not found within the Book of Life?

Revelation 20:15 NKJV – And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

Which returns us to where we began today’s podcast:

Most of those that profess to being “Christian” are going to hell. I am not judging. I am stating facts. I am quoting the Bible, which was inspired by God.

But understand this:

Only one person can cause someone to go to hell once they have accepted Christ as their Savior, and that is themselves. When you deny any part of the teachings of Christ or when you laugh AKA mock the Word of God you are causing yourself to most likely not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. In that case there is only one other destination. The lake of fire AKA hell.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #139 (Abiding in Christ)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

One of the greatest sorrows that exists in today’s community that labels itself as “Christian,” is that within it there are so many that deny the Words spoken by Jesus Christ Himself.

Case in point:

John 15:1-6 NKJV – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

This is a lesson about salvation. For Christ also said this just earlier:

John 14:6 NKJV – Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

What does it mean to “abide”

abide – G3306 – menó – to stay, remain, continue, dwell, endure

  1. dwell – to live in a place or in a particular way
    1. particular – distinguished or different from others or from the ordinary; noteworthy; marked; unusual.
  2. endure – to suffer something difficult, unpleasant, or painful.

As you can tell from these definition to “abide” is a complex word when it comes to following Jesus Christ. It is a word that truly needs to be understood. This is why studying the Word of God is so important. Not just reading it. For many read and due to a lack of understanding end up behaving in such a way that shows they do not abide in Him.

To remain in Him means to also to stay in the Word of God. It also means to take that Word in context. To believe that those that chose not to abide can be removed from the Vine who is Jesus Christ.

Early in my podcasts I did a study of the verses from John 15. I will not torture you with asking to listen to that. Therefore, I will bring out key facts from that study.

Point in case – Just in the four words (“I am the vine”) Jesus is showing that He is the true and divine vine, and no other can come to God except through being a branch upon His vine.

Simply only those that are upon the vine had accepted salvation. So, in all truth they are born again and attempt to abide in the teachings found within the Bible.

To become grafted onto the Vine, we must allow ourselves to be nurtured and at times pruned.

What does the word “prune” mean? In the KJV it is listed as “purgeth.”

 He purgeth – G2508 – kathairo – to cleanse, to prune, to expiate – purge

  1.  cleanse – to make something completely clean
  2. expiate – to show that you are sorry for bad behavior by doing something or accepting punishment
  3.  purge – to make someone or something free of something evil or harmful.
  4.  prune – to cut off unwanted branches from a tree, bush, or other plant.

This is a verification that those that are upon the Vine are saved, born again. Have received salvation.

With this insight in mind, we come to another level of understanding when we look at the word “abide.” That we are in fellowship with God through our Savior who is the Vine Jesus Christ.

By keeping Christ in us through the Holy Spirit and following the teachings given to us through the Bible we abide in Him as per His statement in these verses. We also see that God is also part of the relationship since He is the Vinedresser and when He finds those that are a part of the Vine and refuse to abide in Christ. It shows that they bear no fruit, and so are cut from the Vine by He who is the Vinedresser.

The Vinedresser otherwise known as God not only removes those that do not abide in His Son, the Vine. He also prunes or should I say cleanses those that do abide in His Son. Putting them through trails and tribulations as well as persecution. For part of the evidence that someone truly abides in Christ they suffer persecution.

2 Timothy 3:10-12 NKJV – But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Understand this. Especially now is those that truly seek after God will be persecuted.

I had an encounter today to verify this.

He posted a meme with one verse in it stating: “What does this mean?” in question to that verse.

I commented that when taken in context you would see the answer plainly and then provided the verses that went with the verse and it did answer the question.

The person replied to me that I was correct. Then for some reason he went off and stated that this is the issue he had with those that stated salvation can be lost.

I brought forward the verses in today’s study. I also gave a bit of personal testimony. The person’s reply was to say I wasn’t saved nor ever had been and that I needed to seek out God. He also made it impossible for me to continue to have a discussion with Him.

What does the Bible say?

 1 Timothy 6:3-5 NKJV – If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.

The person’s attitude was one of superiority otherwise known as haughtiness. What does the Bible say about this?

Romans 12:16 NKJV – Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

“Do not be wise in your own opinion.”

This is a direct statement to seek true knowledge from the Scriptures and to pray that the Holy Spirit gives you discernment to the Truth of God.

I must confess that early in my faith I did fall prey to this weakness within humanity, but once I realized it and sought after true knowledge and understanding. It mainly comes from the Holy Spirit, but when mixed with a true understanding of the words as they were meant to be understood when they were first placed upon parchment adds to this understanding.

Also, when taking this verse into consideration we must understand that when those that take their own wisdom over that of God’s. Who are they placing first? The answer is simple. They are taking their understanding over that of God’s through the Holy Spirit and in so doing they are not honoring and worshipping God, but themselves.

But to get back on track.

We now understand that abiding in Christ is to reflect Christ. To live as Christ did. Simply and entrenched within the Word of God. Stiving to bear the fruits given by the Holy Spirit:

Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Ephesians 5:9 NKJV – (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth)

Philippians 1:9-11 NKJV – And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

With this knowledge we are to help others come to Christ through the great commission:

Matthew 28:18-20 NKJV – And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in my name, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

This is what bears fruit and honors God through Christ. It is not self-serving like those that teach the false and man-made doctrine of once saved always saved. Because that teaching does not work within the perimeters of abiding within Christ.

When abiding with Christ we suffer. We endure. While those that teach this false teaching of once saved always saved glorify the individual. Portraying themselves as if they are a god on earth. They glorify the presence of the Holy Spirit filling them as if it were an empowerment to seek after luxuries and rewards upon this earth. When we should feel fear. Fear that we would offend God in some form. For having the Holy Spirit within us and then sinning in essence blasphemes the Holy Ghost which is the only unforgivable sin. (Matthew 12:31-32) This may explain why the person that persecuted me by accusing me of not following the teachings of Christ, of him behaving in a haughty manner. The teaching within the Bible tells us to be humble to place others before ourselves. So that we can communicate with them in a loving manner so that they will accept true salvation. Seeking to honor God and to seek not earthly rewards, but rewards that we will receive in our eternal life yet to come.

Time is running out. We no longer have decades to fix our relationship with Christ. We have to get it right from the beginning. There is no time for false teachings. For those that embraced them will find themselves still here to suffer persecution that is on par with those that are suffering in Africa and the Middle East. Except it will be in every single nation across this globe. The mark or Christ. Live for a few years more or live an eternal life.

Don’t misunderstand. When we begin living eternally it will feel like now, be like now. The only difference will be in the service of God or in the Lake of fire. Honoring God upon the Throne or suffering in eternal agony. Both eternal, both in bodies that never die.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #137 (Truths)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

Truth

In recent weeks certain truths from a social media platform have come to the surface. Including the banning from this platform a president of this United States when he was in office. Just because they didn’t want to hear him any longer, because in their own words he never violated their rules.

Shutting down facts and truths because you don’t want to accept them is a form of lying.

“Lie” is define as to say or write something that is not true in order to deceive someone.

We can go a step further with the word “omission:” – the act of not including something or someone that should have been included, or something or someone that has not been included that should have been.

Why mention lies and omissions?

When it come to those that seek to truly follow Jesus Christ. It is a place that they live within. Of having what they say be called a lie. Of having those that don’t wish to hear the real Truth lie about those saying it. To being removed from them and omitted from their lives.

These recent revelations about this social media platform are just a simple example that the entire world is now seeing. It is something those that truly seek to follow Jesus Christ have experienced since they decided to take the narrow and difficult path.

But again, why mention lies and omissions?

Revelation 21:8 NKJV – But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

I will tell you. Those that block the truth. Those that call Truth a “lie” and a lie the “truth.”

Romans 1:18-25 NKJV – For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

This all happened before. But not to this degree. This time the entire world is involved. Calling lies the truth just so they can live in a sense of peace of mind that their choices have no ramification.

And what are the visible signs we are to look for that people seek after their own wants and desires and deny the very existence of God and His Son our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 1:26-32 NLT – That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved. Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.

Does any of this sound familiar? If you don’t think so you haven’t been paying attention to the world about you.

What is really sad though is that those in the Christian community are following suit with those in Rome when this letter was written. Let us look to what was said there:

Romans 2:1-11 NLT – You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. And we know that God, in his justice, will punish anyone who does such things. Since you judge others for doing these things, why do you think you can avoid God’s judgment when you do the same things? Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? But because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. He will judge everyone according to what they have done. He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness. There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on doing what is evil—for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. But there will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good—for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism.

This is the behavior of many within the Christian community. There are those that live in the same sin shown in the first chapter. Many live their lives just as those within the world live their lives. Those that have to have a bigger and fancier house, a new car every few years and the best clothes. All this is worldly as shown here:

1 John 2:15-16 NLT – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

What many don’t realize that within the verses from the second chapter of Romans. It is being made clear that any who abandon the teachings found within the Bible and profess to being “Christian” judge themselves for they should know better. That they have made a place for themselves not in a place of happy reward with Christ but in sorrow as they stand before the Great White Throne. Many will challenge and argue this. The mere fact that they did just verify this lesson as Truth.

Galatians 5:19-21 NLT – When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

1 Timothy 6:3-5 NKJV – If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.

Most churches for decades have not been teaching the Truth. They fear being spurned. Why? Because they need money to keep them in business.

This is what is the reality of their situation, their Truth:

 Galatians 1:6-10 NKJV – I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.

Most who stand upon the dais show the world who they are truly being:

2 Peter 2:1-3 NKJV – But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.

These destructive ways are designed to make the ways they live more comfortable. Thus, they make it so those that listen to them live the same way. Which in turn causes them to live even more comfortably. The thing is the more comfortable they are here in this existence the more they pass judgement upon themselves. Which is why it is so swiftly. The more richly they live in this temporal existence the further from redemption they are.

As to those that listen to them, that is for them to figure out for themselves by actually reading the Bible for themselves. Consequently coming to know the Truth found within it.

However, sadly, most will not for Christ Himself made this very clear.

Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV – “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

“And there are many who go in by it.”

Now there will be those that say they are on the narrow path. Yet they still live in their big homes. They keep buying new cars and still go to the store and get the latest fashions. Which is exactly as the world does.

Luke 16:13-15 NLT – “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.” The Pharisees, who dearly loved their money, heard all this and scoffed at him. Then he said to them, “You like to appear righteous in public, but God knows your hearts. What this world honors is detestable in the sight of God.

Luke 16:15 NKJV – And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

Six times the word “abomination” is used in the New Testament. Four of those times it is in reference to the antichrist and those that follow that person. So, Jesus Christ was saying that seeking after and loving money was on the same level as worshipping the antichrist. And this was to religious people He said these things.

Ponder upon that for a moment.

So here we are. Another day closer to the very soon return of Jesus Christ. Very soon something will take place that will make people realize that they have made a horrible mistake. A mistake so bad that you will have to make a choice of serving the antichrist or serving God through His Son our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All because you didn’t read the Bible for yourself and learn the real and complete Truth.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #136 (Long-suffering)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

There are those in social media that say a lot of the right things when it comes to true Christianity. However, there are times when they do things that are not in line with truly following Jesus Christ. They come across as haughty, or even cruel in their wording.

Now one of the fruits that shows we are working with the Holy Spirit is “longsuffering:”

Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Longsuffering – G3115 – makrothumia – that is (objectively) forbearance, (subjectively) fortitude, patience

  1. forbearance – the quality of being patient and being able to forgive someone or control yourself in a difficult situation

Where does this ability originate with following the Holy Ghost?

The answer is simple: love.

1 Corinthians 13:1-10 NKJV – Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.

Now I want to make this very clear at this point. This is not the people pleasing “love” I am referring too, but the love that is not afraid to follow the directive given to us through Scripture.

Revelation 3:19 NKJV – As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.

2 Timothy 3:16-4:2 NKJV – All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.

When following the love given unto us through the Holy Spirit, we strive to convince people that what they think is true is false. We rebuke them in a way that is not insulting or demeaning. Then we exhort them to turn from their path to follow the truth that can only be found when someone genuinely studies the Bible to verify what is the real Truth which is Christ Jesus.

When someone belittles someone else and degrades someone they are not acting in love, but in an attitude of superiority.

Romans 11:11-25 NKJV – I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness! For I speak to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry, if by any means I may provoke to jealousy those who are my flesh and save some of them. For if their being cast away is the reconciling of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.

1 Corinthians 4:1-16 NKJV – Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. For I know of nothing against myself, yet I am not justified by this; but He who judges me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you! For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Therefore I urge you, imitate me.

As we can see from these verses in Romans and 1 Corinthians. If we are loyal to Christ, we will never think ourselves greater than anyone else. In fact, we should look at ourselves as less than others. Not only less than the Jewish people, but even less than those that persecute and harass us.

We should always seek after humility and never attempt to take pride in anything. For only God is worthy of receiving glory, not us mere humans.

James 4:6-10 NKJV – But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “GOD RESISTS THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

Romans 12:3 NKJV – For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

Romans 12:16 NKJV – Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

Matthew 11:29-30 NKJV – Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Philippians 2:3 NKJV – Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

We can only truly reach the hearts of those that mock and attack us if they do not feel assaulted on our part of the conversation.

In many instances those that are attacking us may believe with all their hearts they are loyal to Christ. They call themselves “Christian.” Yet the fruit they bear shows who their true master to be.

If they attack and mock we see that they have lost their way or may never have truly found it. Look at those in Galatia:

 Galatians 1:6-7 NKJV – I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ.

They had accepted Christ. They had been born again. Yet they started to listen to what was causing them to turn away so soon?

Galatians 1:10 NLT – Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

The only way to seek after God’s approval is to help people to see that they have turned away from Him if they have. To show people that their actions do not bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit but of the flesh and in doing so they may have made it so they will not inherit the Kingdom of God but opened themselves up to entering into damnation.

Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV – Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

John 15:5-6 NKJV – “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

This is why it is so important not to be harsh or belittle. For in reality what does that say about those that do this?

The answer is simple. They are not acting with the Holy Ghost, but from the flesh. It may be said that in time they to may find themselves removed from Vine who is the Lord Jesus Christ. Which means their name most likely has been removed from the Book of Life.

Revelation 20:11-15 NKJV – Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #135 (The Warning to Laodicea)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

In chapter four of Colossians in verses 13-16 the city of Laodicea is mentioned four times. Why was this city impressed upon the mind of Paul so much?

Now I must say I do not agree with those that challenge the authorship of this letter. I truly believe it was Paul who wrote this letter. Mayhaps not by his own hand, but his dictation since he was imprisoned at the time. Also since there was no mention of the earthquake which devastated Colosse and Laodicea, it places this letter to have been written in the late 50s A.D.

This means that 30 to 33 years before the city was mentioned as the last city of the seven cities in Revelation. It was already entering into sin, and it was a burden upon the heart of Paul to try and get them to turn from their ways. Ways which were leading them to damnation. To being vomited out of the Body of Christ.

33 years!

Studies have shown that one generation lasts 33 years. So nearly one generation before The Glorified Christ stated He would vomit them from His Body. Paul was given the need to teach them the Truth from various angles.

Colossians 4:12 NKJV – Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

Epaphras appears to have been given a specific burden upon his heart for this city.

Colossians 4:13 NKJV – For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis.

Luke and Demas were sent to this city to speak from the house of Nymphas, which served as the church for Laodicea.

In the sixteenth verse Luke and Demas are instructed to not only to teach the True Gospel in the church but in the streets of the city as well.

It was a warning cry to those within this city to repent.

A warning cry to abandon their riches. To abandon their comforts.

A warning that I believe was not listened to by those within this city. For in 60 A.D. the city was devastated by an earthquake.

Yet, they didn’t listen. For they were so rich that they rebuilt their city and returned to their ways of living in lavishness and luxuries. Counter to the teachings of Christ Himself.

Which is how they earned their place in enmity for all that follow the True teachings of Christ.

Enmity because they defied God. They were warned by three witnesses to end their ways. They in essence had become Sodom and Gamora. Which is why they are seen as worse than those that outright deny God. An entire generation corrupted.

Now those that are the lukewarm infect most of those that profess to being “Christian.” How many of the few are bearing witness? Maybe this is why these words are spoken?

Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV – “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

What are we to look for that within one generation, which will bring the return of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 24:3-31 NKJV – Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. “Therefore when you see the ‘ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place”  (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened. “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand. “Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together. “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Now what people don’t understand. What people don’t conceive of is that when Christ returns is at the end of this generation. At the end of 33 years. At the end of the tribulation which is to last seven years. That means that in the 26th year of the generation that will be witness to the events listed in these verses that is when it will all begin.

And how will we know it is to begin?

Christ gives us what to look for there as well.

Matthew 24:36-51 NKJV – “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods. But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Here is something else, especially those who are walking the path of the lukewarm don’t wish to see or acknowledge. We that profess to being His disciples, His children, His Body.

We are stewards of His household. Any earthly wealth we are given is not for us to use for ourselves for our wants and desires. They are given to us to help spread the Truth, the Way and the Light. We are to live with the least of this wealth to be able to use the most of this wealth for His glory.

This is the opposite of how those that are the lukewarm see their earthly wealth, which is why they are seen as the same as those that were in the cities that surrounded and included Sodom and Gomorra.

This is why they are vomited from the Body of Christ. For their very presence pollutes those seeking the Truth. One factor that must be totally understood is at this very moment the majority of those that profess to being a follower of Christ are in fact the lukewarm.

They profess to loving Christ. However, they refuse to downsize. They refuse to live in the least and keep the most for Christ. They keep the most for themselves and use the least if any for Christ. They think that their ten percent tithe they give to a business is all that is required to show their faith for God.

1 John 3:17 NKJV – But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

1 John 2:15-16 NKJV – Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.

James 3:13-18 NKJV – Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

We are to do our best for and only for Christ. We are to bear our cross and leave the things of the world behind.

Mark 10:17-21 NKJV – Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: ‘DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,’ ‘DO NOT MURDER,’ ‘DO NOT STEAL,’ ‘DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER.'” And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #132 (The Murderous Teachers)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, Thoughts, , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

It is time.

It is time to shout the Truth, but most will reject it, just as Jesus Christ said it would be.

Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV – “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

What is truly sad is the “many” believe with all their hearts they are on the difficult way. But why is this?

Because they think they are hearing the Truth, when in fact they are listening to lies.

Case in point:

Galatians 1:6-7 NKJV – I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ

“To a different gospel, which is not another.”

Many don’t grasp what is being said here. So let us look at it from a different angle.

Matthew 24:4-5 NKJV – And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.

They will use the Word of God and even confess that Jesus is the Christ, but they will leave out what is required to find eternal life. As a result, those that do this are cursed.

Galatians 1:8-9 NKJV – But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

But what is causing them to be cursed?

Galatians 1:10 NLT – Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

Those that are cursed are teaching a false gospel that is designed to make people feel pleased with how they now and how the wish to live. In luxuries and comforts here in this temporal existence, when Christ makes it clear that we are to store nothing here in this reality at all.

Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

If their heart is here in the world, then they are not with God.

1 John 2:15-16 NLT – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

If they are of this world, then who do they truly worship?

2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

Now right now there will be those that are angry and fuming at what has just been stated here. All I can say is thank you for providing a living verification that what has just been said is coming from the Truth.

Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV – Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

But, to get back on track.

Who is truly at fault for this?

2 Peter 2:1-3 NKJV – But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.

So those that do this are cursed as well as the fact that they are destroyed quickly. Also note that they even deny the Lord who bought them.

Therefore, those that live in this manner were once upon the Vine who is Jesus Christ. However, they have now been swiftly removed from the Vine.

John 15:1-6 NKJV – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Thus, those that teach false doctrine are cursed, quickly removed from the Vine of salvation, and are cast in the fires of damnation.

But why is this punishment so harsh?

Revelation 21:8 NKJV – But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

When we are born again it is then that we begin to seek to have eternal life. Yet if we do not accept the Truth and do not abide in Christ by seeking to become a reflection of Jesus Christ. We are removed from the Vine and suffer the second death.

If it is due to listening to those that teach a people pleasing message that includes words like “God,” “Jesus,” “love” and “salvation.” Then those that teach these lies are in fact murderers.

For what does Christ say in love?

Revelation 3:15-19 NKJV – “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore, be zealous and repent.”

To repent is to go the opposite direction of what someone was doing with remorse. Therefore, if someone sought after bigger, better, fancier. Then they are to go for smaller, lesser, and cheaper.

Yet those in places of power within the buildings called “churches” do not say or do this.

I once was at a men’s conference, and I was set with the associate pastor of the building called a “church” I was again trying to see if they are truly seeking after Christ. During the ensuing discussion I stated that it was wrong to seek after a huge house. I could visibly see the embracement on the young pastor face. He then confessed to just investing into a million-dollar home for purposes of entertaining. This and some haughty behavior by others at this conference was the straw that broke the camels back for this building and so I came to my final conclusion that the buildings called “churches” were nothing by dressed up social clubs. And those that ran them did not seek to help people find enteral life, but eternal death.

Thus, labeling those that stand upon the dais or behind the pulpit murderers if they teach only to please those that listen to their words. Accordingly, explaining why they are cursed and so quickly censured by God. The richer they are. The more of the world they themselves worship and the more destruction they have heaped upon their souls for all eternity.

It is time to leave the buildings called “churches” that do not call a sin a sin and teach of repentance and rejection of the world and all it offers.

For we are to be “zealous.” What does this mean?

zealous – G2206 – zéloó – affect, covet (earnestly), (have) desire, I am eager for, am eager to possess.

Especially now there is a need to be zealous for what is promised by God through the teachings of Jesus Christ. We should be earnestly seeking to become a true reflection of Christ by living a simple life. Fervently seeking to follow all the laws as commanded by Christ Himself who came not to destroy but fulfill them.

John 14:15 NKJV – “If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Matthew 5:17-20 NKJV – “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.

We are told not to listen to people pleasing messages. We are also told that if we encounter it, we are to leave those that not only listen to it but teach it.

1 Timothy 6:3-5 NKJV – If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.

Leave now and seek the Lord your God through learning fully the Bible and be obedient to His Son our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

God Bless.

Blog for podcast #131 (A parable for those that seek after their Rewards here on Earth)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

I recently encountered someone that insisted that God will reward them here in this temporal existence. Now for those that have listened to or read my podcasts you know that the Scriptures themselves shows us that this is the furthest thing from the Truth.

Let us look at this in the way that Christ Himself started to teach when those of Israel refused to acknowledge Him as who He is: the Messiah, the Son of God.

An owner of much land had two servants. One servant insisted that he be rewarded daily for his work. The other servant said to the landowner reward me when you see fit. Just please provide me with my daily rations and clothes to cover my nakedness.

The first servant became wealthy from his rewards given unto him by the landowner. One day he came to the landowner demanding more rewards to the point of wanting land from the landowner. And he said to the landowner that he himself would govern his own affairs and become his own landowner with the land given to him by his master.

The landowner gave the first servant a small part of his land and within a few seasons it was a waste and useless. Nothing would grow upon it and the first servant used all his wealth in an effort to fix the land once again and soon after died of starvation.

The second servant continued to work for the landowner. The landowner saw how the second servant honored who truly owned the land and how he treated all within it with respect as to who it belonged to. He saw how this servant nurtured all that was needed to cultivate the land and each year there was a greater harvest.

One day the landowner came to this servant and said to him. I have watched how you care for what belongs to me. So, I have decided to reward you by making you my son. All that is mine shall be yours for as long as you live. All will call you my beloved child and will obey your commands as if they were given by me: your father.

Just so those listening or reading understand. Those that seek for their rewards now. Here in this temporal realm are the first servant. The second servant keeps their eyes upon their eternal rewards that are promised us when Christ Himself returns.

You see Christ makes it clear that all will be rewarded when He returns.

Matthew 16:24-27 NKJV – Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.

“For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.”

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself.”

Let’s break down what it means to “deny himself.”

Deny – G533 – aparneomai – I deny, disown, repudiate (either another person or myself), disregard, to deny utterly, abstain

  1. repudiate – to refuse to accept something or someone as true, good, or reasonable

When denying oneself when taking what was just defined into mind. We come to one conclusion. We ask nothing for ourselves and seek only to glorify Jesus Christ.

This means not asking for money, for a fancy home, for fancy clothes. We see this in the Lord’s prayer as well.

“Give us this day our daily bread.”

This is all we are to ever ask for. For that is all that we need.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NKJV – Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

When people pray for earthly rewards, they are ignoring what is the true great gain. All we should seek after is our daily bread and to cloth our nakedness. That is made clear in these verses. Those that ignore this do not deny themselves. They seek to glorify themselves.

When they say that that they pray to God, and He rewards them with earthly rewards. They are acting counter to the Words of Christ Jesus Himself.

Matthew 6:19-24 NLT – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

Yet who is giving them these rewards which go counter to the teachings within the Bible itself?

1 John 2:15-16 NLT – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

Since these things are evidence of the world and do not belong to our Father: God. Who do they belong to?

2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

Luke 4:6 NKJV – And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.

Satan is their god, and it is he who is rewarding them. The father of lies pretending to be the Son of God.  Giving them rewards which can be destroyed or stolen.

John 8:44 NKJV – You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

Who they are worshipping is not the Savior Christ Jesus, but he who seeks to kill all and have them share in his ultimate misery.

Revelation 20:10 NKJV – The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

For those that truly seek to follow Christ they must do what is ordered by Christ Himself:

Luke 14:26-27 NKJV – “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.

Luke 14:33 NKJV – So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.

However, none that seek after worldly rewards wish to hear this. They reject that they must give up everything. Yet Christ made this very clear.

Mark 10:17-31 NKJV – Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: ‘DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,’ ‘DO NOT MURDER,’ ‘DO NOT STEAL,’ ‘DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER.'” And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.” Then Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.” So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

“One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

Time and again Christ Himself says to get rid of the self and what the self desires and lust after. They insist that they can be wealthy here in this life and still be a servant to God through Jesus Christ.

Christ has a name for those that think this way. They are called the “lukewarm.”

Revelation 3:15-21 NKJV – “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”

Do you truly wish to be vomited out of the Body of Christ? Do you truly wish to be cast into the Pit of fire for billions upon billions of years? Just because you wish to have a few comforts here in this life that last at maximum just over one hundred years.

This is the reality of this. This is how you show you believe there is truly a God that created everything, or it is just a fable, and you can do as you wish and please. But in a nice way because you say with your lips that you are a follower of Christ, but your heart lusts after what will please your fleshy need now.

There is no longer any time to play these stupid games with where you will spend eternity. Christ is very soon to return and if you don’t change right this very moment and repent you will suffer horribly and by chance for billions upon billions upon billions of years. All because you want what you want now. It is you that have chosen your fate and so you will be rewarded by Christ Himself accordingly.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #130 (Is it Christianity?)

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Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

The Christianity that Jesus Christ taught. The one that promises eternal life for all that follow Him and His teaches, for the most part, does not exist.

Yes, you heard me correctly. It does not exist.

What people embrace as what is called “Christianity” is a false veneer to the Truth Jesus Christ sought for all humanity to live.

Most of humanity seeks after money. For they need money to get a house, a new means of transportation. Yet Jesus Christ said this:

 Matthew 6:24 NLT – “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

This is a black and white statement.

It is God or it is money. The majority goes with money. I know this to be true. I see it every single day and even did so myself. However, I have made my choice. I went with God.

I downsized over several years and now all I own is in a small RV and an open-air trailer for my motorcylce.

This is how it should be for all that seek after God through Jesus Christ for that is what He wants for all that seek after earthly wealth.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV – Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

I run into those that say the words: “I am a Christian.” A majority, especially those that are high within the hierarchy of the buildings called “churches” behave in a haughty and self-serving mentality.

I worked with a man that professed to being “Christian,” but his focus was upon making a million dollars in his 401k. It made it and then a few days later one of the recent stock market crashes occured and he lost over $200k in one day.

Extremely rarely have I heard or seen people take their earthly wealth and give it freely to all others that are in need, in pain or suffering. In fact, it is so rare I cannot name a single person in recent history that has given most of their wealth away for the glory of God.

This is the earmark that what people call “Christianity” currently are living a lie. And who is the father of all lies?

John 8:44 NKJV – You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

Who was Jesus speaking to when he said these words?

He was speaking to those that came to the temple to supposedly worship God. However, in the preceding verses to the one just spoken Christ explains to those present that they do not follow His Father for if they did, they would see Him as what He was: the Messiah.

These people are the descendants of those taken out of Egypt. These are those that profess to being Jewish.

This is how it is now. How those people lived is how those that profess to being “Christian,” for the majority, now live and act. Their father is not the Father of Jesus Christ. They are their own witnesses to whom they worship in how they live.

1 John 2:15-16 NLT – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

Who is in control of this world at this time?

2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

What fruits are born by those that live of the world?

Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV – Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NKJV – Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.

As I have taught in past podcast many misunderstand what is idolatry. Many think it is the worship of statues.

Ephesians 5:5 NLT – You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.

“For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.”

What else is said in Ephesians:

Ephesians 5:3-4 NKJV – But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.

Right now, covetousness runs rampant within those that profess to being “Christian.”

I worked with a man who professed to me that he was a “Christian.” However, he did all he could to get as much money for the job as possible. He was known by many as an overtime-whore.

What was he worshipping? For it was not Jesus Christ.

In Acts we are given an example of how we were to live:

Acts 2:42-47 NKJV – And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

“Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.”

I personally know of none that live this way. Yet, this is how we should be living and seeking to live.

Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

It can be done. I have done it and am living my best in this fashion. Even though I was late in my life to come to this Truth. As a result, I cannot fully fulfill that which God demands, but still I will strive to do my very best to be His disciple.

Luke 14:25-33 NKJV – Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks conditions of peace. So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.

“So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.”

How many disciples are counted in the Bible? It is not a “great multitude,” but only twelve.  

Are you downsizing? Are you considering downsizing now?

If not, then who truly is your father?

Revelation 3:1-5 NKJV – “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.

Revelation 3:14-22 NKJV – “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

The time to repent is now. Not tomorrow, for tomorrow will be too late.

God Bless