Sunday, December 27, 2020

κυριακός What? More Greek?

Last time we looked briefly at the Greek word ekklesia as this is the word that is erroneously translated/substituted as 'church' in English translations of the Bible. 

I mentioned that the word 'church' didn't even appear until the mid-fourteenth century. 

So now I will look at how we came to the origin of the word 'church'.

'Church' has it's origin in an entirely different Greek word than ekklesia. The word being kuriakos. Kuriakos is only found two times in the NT (1 Cor. 11:20; Rev. 1:10), and a few times in the writings of the 'early church fathers', and not at all in the LXX. So it is difficult to develop an understanding of what the word means, yet it seems to apply a certain quality of belonging to a lord or master. This is an entirely different topic that I'll get into some time later.

Now over time, the place where believers met was called 'the Lord's house' using the Greek word kuriakon, which derives from kuriakos.

This word eventually became known as 'kirche' in German, 'circe' in Anglo Saxon, 'kirk' in Scotish/Norse, 'chereche, chiriche, chirche, churche, cherche, etc' in Middle English and 'cirice, circe' in Old English.

When Luther translated the NT into German in 1534, he did not use the word 'kirche' to translate ekklesia, but rather chose the German word 'gemeinde', which is similar to the English word community.

When John Wycliffe translated the first Bible into English in 1382 from the Latin, he translated the Latin word ecclesiam into "chirche". What led Wycliffe to do this?

According to the Ebenezer Cobham Brewers Dictionary of Phrase and Fable of 1898 concerning the word "church" it says:

"The etymology of this word is generally assumed to be from the Greek, Kuriou oikos (house of God); but this is most improbable, as the word existed in all the Celtic dialects long before the introduction of Greek. No doubt the word means "a circle." The places of worship among the German and Celtic nations were always circular. (Welsh, cyrch, French, cirque; Scotch, kirk; Greek, kirk-os, etc.) Compare Anglo-Saxon circe, a church, with circol, a circle." 

In England, the Druids would gather in stone circles, like Stonehenge, to worship their pagan gods. Many of the first Catholic houses of worship were located at these sites or were built with the stones from these sites. Therefore, the people attached the words "chirche", "cirice", or "kirk" to these buildings in error, as we learned in a previous blog post, ekklesia has no connection with a building, but rather a called out gathering of citizens, namely Christians.

When Tyndale translated the NT into English in 1536, he also did not use the word 'church' for ekklesia, but rather chose the word congregation. The Great Bible (1539) and the Bishop’s Bible (1568) also did the same.
In Wycliffe’s first translation of the Latin Vulgate into English in 1395, he used chirche for ekklesia. The Geneva (1557), Rheims-Douay (1582), and King James (1611) for some reason followed the approach taken by Wycliffe, rendering this “church” as have most English translations since then, simply because the KJV was the common translation for so many years.

It's interesting to note that in some modern languages, the true definition of ekklesia was used, like, in French (église) and Spanish (iglesia), rather than their word for 'church'.

As we have seen looking at the words ekklesia and kuriakos that the word 'church' did not originate from ekklesia nor from the concept of ekklesia. Ekklesia has an entirely different meaning than kuriakos. As you can see, there is a major problem here. We are not to add to or take away from God's Word (Dt. 4:2; 12:32; Prov. 30:6). Yet, the translators inserted the word 'church' in the English versions for ekklesia. They were not translating the word ekklesia in the text as one might expect. Rather, they were substituting an entirely different word, kuriakos, instead. This is wrong!

The word 'church' could be an acceptable translation for kuriakos seeing it derives from that word. However, the word 'church' is not an acceptable translation for ekklesia. Consider this carefully. The Word of God is Truth (Jn. 17:17). Yet, the word 'church' should never be used for ekklesia - a called out assembly. What will you do the next time you read and see the word 'church'? What should you do the next time you read and see the word 'church'? Is what you are reading or saying true? We'll be judged for every idle word we speak (Mt. 12:36). If we are to call Bible things by Bible names, as a popular slogan goes, then how can we honestly think that we can use the word 'church' instead of called out assembly or congregation as the word ekklesia is genuinely defined? Calling a tree a rock doesn't make it so, no matter how many times we refer to it as such. Or how about calling an apple a banana? The same can be applied to referring to ekklesia as 'church' instead of a called out assembly or congregation. Just because we do, doesn't make it so.

Let me put it another way to show the seriousness of applying a word with a different meaning to another word. I'll use two Greek words this time you should be familiar with - christos and antichristos. Would substituting or swopping the meaning of either word make a difference? Most certainly! It's honestly no different with the word ekklesia. 

There are believers which profess that they belong to the true and biblical 'church' because it's name can be found in Scripture (maybe) and they will vehemently stand by it's name and vehemently condemn your assembly if it cannot be found in their English Bible. False teachers do the same with their doctrines of devil's (1 Tim. 4:1) because they use Bible names for them and deceive many (Mt. 4:6; 24:4-5, 11, 24; 2 Tim. 3:13). 

Now the believers of the true and biblical 'church' will say that 'church' of God (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 1:2; etc) and 'church' of Christ (which this one is sad because the phrase does not appear in Scripture! Check it out. How deceived can one be? Though you will find 'churches' of Christ once - Rom. 16:16) are biblical because they are found in their English translation of the Bible (except as noted above), which I have shown to be faulty. Though I have pointed this out to some of them, they just brush it off and continue on as if I never mentioned it. Is their doctrine more important than the truth? The apostle John said he has no greater joy than to hear that his children walk in truth (3 Jn. 1:4). Would John be pleased with them? Do they enjoy speaking and teaching lies (Rev. 21:27; 22:15)? Jesus told the Jews that they where of their father the devil. That he was a liar from the beginning and the father of lies. (Jn. 8:44) How are these believers different than the false teachers I mentioned early? 

Take time and reflect and decide what you will do with the English word 'church' in your Bible.

Saturday, December 26, 2020

We Are The Lord's And Not Our Own

 For ye are bought at a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. - 1 Cor. 6:20

We have no right to ourselves. We are not our own masters. No true, genuine Christian can say, my time is my own, as those of the world say. It is not ours. Our time, our talents are not ours, they are God's. Our business even is not our own, but God's. Our house, our lands, our bank accounts, everything that we have is not ours, but belongs to the Lord; for He has bought us with His precious blood (Acts 20:28), and having bought us, He has purchased all that I have. Yet, many professing Christians have made lies their refuge and have given themselves over to the things of the world and of the flesh and not to the will of the Lord. We may call Him Lord, yet deny Him the right He has over every aspect of our vain lives. We cannot serve two masters. We serve whom we obey. Is it sin unto death or obedience to the will of God, Who purchased us with His precious blood unto righteousness? Have you counted the cost? Have you surrendered all to Jesus? If we don't forsake all, we cannot be His disciple.

Thursday, December 24, 2020

ἐκκλησία - What? That's Greek To Me?

ἐκκλησία - Ekklesia is the Greek word where we are led to believe that we get our words 'church' and 'churches'. Yes, you read that correctly - "where we are led to believe". Let me explain. I will give you a little background information to start with.

One would think that it is common knowledge that the original manuscripts of NT letters have been lost and that our translations that we have in our own languages are based on copies of copies of copies of what those originals were.

We have learned through the course of time how the copies we have came into being. To start, the earliest copies were penned by those in the faith who were literate. Back in Roman times, a very small number were literate. They estimate that around only 10% were literate. So, copying errors where not uncommon in the early centuries because they were typically copied by a non-professional scribe in the assembly. Often the one whose home they gathered in. It wasn't until 331 when Constantine had Eusebius have fifty Bibles made to be available for the fifty 'church' buildings he was erecting. Since that time professional scribes started to be employed in copying the manuscripts. 

Even though professional scribes were then employed, it didn't mean that copies were error free. I'm not going to get into all of that, but I believe that it's important to know that scribes were known to make changes in copying the manuscripts based solely on their theological bias of the Scriptures among other basic copying errors.

So, just as we have no original manuscripts of the NT that was written in the first century. We also do not have any 'Greek lexicons' written in the first century to draw from to know exactly how a word was used or defined in the first century. With this, let's look at the definition of the word ekklesia:

1577 evkklhsi,a ekklesia {ek-klay-see'-ah} 

Meaning: 1) a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly 1a) an assembly of the people convened at the public place of the council for the purpose of deliberating 1b) the assembly of the Israelites 1c) any gathering or throng of men assembled by chance, tumultuously 1d) in a Christian sense 1d1) an assembly of Christians gathered for worship in a religious meeting 1d2) a company of Christian, or of those who, hoping for eternal salvation through Jesus Christ, observe their own religious rites, hold their own religious meetings, and manage their own affairs, according to regulations prescribed for the body for order's sake 1d3) those who anywhere, in a city, village, constitute such a company and are united into one body 1d4) the whole body of Christians scattered throughout the earth.

Notice how ekklesia is not defined as the word 'church'. It's basic meaning is a gathering or assembly of people. I would like to point out that ekklesia was used in the Septuagint (OT Scripture in Greek. Also referred to as LXX), to refer to God's children. Let me draw on this further. Ekklesia is derived from the Hebrew word qahal (S# 6951) which is defined as an "assembly, company, congregation and convocation". Understanding this is helpful in why the Jewish translators that translated the Hebrew into Greek (LXX) used the word ekklesia for the word qahal.

As we know, the first Christians were Jews who commonly used the LXX. Even Jesus and the apostles quoted from it. So when the NT letters were written in the common language of Greek, addressed to both Jew and Gentile alike, it was only natural to refer to God's children as ekklesia as seen in the OT, as that was the only Scripture at that time. 

In recent centuries the word 'church' was added to the definition of ekklesia in lexicons. The reason the English word 'church' is a more recent addition to lexicons is because it didn't make it appearance until the mid-fourteen hundreds. So where did we get the word 'church' from? More on that next time.

Church? An Introduction


I probably don't need to tell you how common the word 'church' is, especially when it comes to the Christian world. Many refer to the place where followers of Christ gather as the 'church'. Many of these places even have the word 'church' in their title on a sign or on the building on the property.

The word 'church' is also commonly used to describe God's people.

The words 'church' and 'churches' appear in the NT 115 times.

My reason and prayer for presenting a study on this popular word, 'church', is to help unveil the truth of God's Word that believers will no longer continue in ignorance, not just on the word 'church', but on many things that have been erroneously taught and believed by those who profess a living and active faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

I will be breaking this study into different parts. Yet, before I conclude this intro, I'll share the references that the words 'church' and 'churches' may be found, that you can check each reference and equip yourself to be more prepared for unlocking the truth this study will uncover and how you should respond to it.

Church 

Matt. 16:18; 18:17; Acts 2:47; 5:11; 7:38; 8:1, 3; 11:22, 26; 12:1, 5; 13:1; 14:23, 27; 15:3f, 22; 18:22; 20:17, 28; Rom. 16:1, 5, 23, 27; 1 Co. 1:2; 4:17; 6:4; 10:32; 11:18, 22; 12:28; 14:4f, 12, 19, 23, 28, 35; 15:9; 16:19; 2 Co. 1:1; Gal. 1:13; Eph. 1:22; 3:10, 21; 5:23ff, 27, 29, 32; Phil. 3:6; 4:15; Col. 1:18, 24; 4:15f; 1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:5, 15; 5:16; 2 Tim. 4:22; Tit. 3:15; Phlm. 1:2; Heb. 2:12; 12:23; Jas. 5:14; 1 Pet. 5:13; 3 Jn. 1:6, 9; Rev. 2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14

Churches

Acts 9:31; 15:41; 16:5; 19:37; Rom. 16:4, 16; 1 Co. 7:17; 11:16; 14:33f; 16:1, 19; 2 Co. 8:1, 18, 23; 11:8, 28; 12:13; Gal. 1:2, 22; 1 Thess. 2:14; 2 Thess. 1:4; Rev. 1:4, 11, 20; 2:7, 11, 17, 23, 29; 3:6, 13, 22; 22:16

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Christmas, Christmas, Christmas

Christmas, Christmas, Christmas. It is a very popular worldly holiday celebrated by people the world over. It doesn't matter whether you believe in Jesus, or His heavenly Father or not. In each home throughout the globe, families tend to use the same customs in their celebration of this holiday. 

It seems odd that an unbeliever and a believer in Christ could celebrate a religious holy day since their ways, manners, customs, etc. are polar opposites as 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 clearly show, for example:

 14 Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?
 15 Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever?
 16 Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, "I will dwell in them and walk among them; And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
 17 "Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate," says the Lord. "And do not touch what is unclean; And I will welcome you.
 18 "And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me," Says the Lord Almighty.

 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Yet, followers of Christ, whether they be pro-Christmas or not, both twist and pervert their pets verses to support their views. For instance, those opposed to Christmas often use Jeremiah chapter 10 as reference to a 'Christmas tree', yet the context is clear with other Scripture passages that it speaks of making idols out of a stock of wood. Then those in support of celebrating Christmas often use Romans 14 to comfort their consciences to observe this day, though Paul is speaking specifically of the Jew's various days they observe and the foods they eat. As this was always a stumbling block for early believers as not only the letter to the Romans shows, but as other letters also reveal.

God has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (Jn. 8:12; 12:46; Acts 26:18; Col. 1:13; 1 Pet. 2:9) that we should be a people separated from the world and the things of it (Dt. 7:6; 14:2; Jn. 17:19; Rom. 12:1-2; Gal. 1:4; 6:14; 1 Cor. 3:17; Jam. 1:27; 1 Jn. 2:15-17, 1 Pet. 2:9), in entire and complete surrender to do His will (Mt.4:8-10;  6:24; 10:37-39; 16:25-26; Jn. 12:25; Rom. 6:6; 12:1-2; Gal. 2:20; Col. 2:20; 3:3) and to worship Him as a holy, set apart people. 

It's like the 'church' doesn't understand what it means to be a holy and set apart people to the Lord alone! To wear God's holy name (2 Tim. 2:19; 1 Cor. 1:12; 3:16-17; 2 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 2:21-22; 3:15) and be viewed as 'common' by the world is to profane God's holy name (Lev. 20:1-8; 22:2; 2 Chr. 36:14-16; Jer. 2:23-33; 7:18-34; Ez. 20:30-49; 23:39-40; 2 Pet. 2:20)  Study the Word for yourself and see! We are to be the people of the Lord, yet why do we not look any different in our celebration of Christmas than unbelievers? He called us to be a people above all others on the face of the earth (Ex. 19:5;  Tit. 2:14). God is a jealous God; calls us to prove our love for Him by obeying His commandments (that if we don't obey, it proves that we hate Him and are, in fact, His enemies and that He will be against us!) (Ex. 20:3--6; Dt. 5:8-10; Jos. 24:14; Ps. 81:15; Rom. 1:28; 1 Cor. 10:19-21; Jam. 4:4). These are very serious things beloved! We cannot engage in any form of religion that derives from something other than the Scriptures. That's a compromise! It's what is known as pagano-Christianism - a blending of pagan customs with Christian customs. That Christmas and Easter and others are not of Christian origin, but rather of pagan origin is common knowledge, that can even be found in an encyclopedia. 

Let me put it another way - we have what is known as syncretistic religious holidays - that is, a merger, a combining or a bringing together of two or more different philosophical, religious or cultural principles, practices, or ideas into one. Where did the Israelites get the 'golden calf' from? Where do we get Christmas or Easter from? Not from the God of the Bible, but rather from others that we are commanded not to copy and follow (Lev. 18:3; 20:23; Dt. 12:30-31; Jer. 10:2-3; Ez. 20:32; 1 Cor. 10:19-22)! We cannot take the truth of God's Word, we cannot take Christianity and join it, or mix it to what is worship of a false, damnable, demonic doctrine of lies! We cannot do this! We are called to separate ourselves from such things (Lev. 20:26; 2 Chr. 29:5; Ps. 4:3; Rom. 6:13, 16, 19; 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; 2 Cor. 617, 7:1; Php. 2:15; 1 Pet. 1:14-16; 2:5, 9; 4:1-2; 2 Pet. 3:11, 14; 1 Jn. 3:3)! If unbelievers see compromise in our life, they will be strengthened in their folly and rebellion. They will be comforted that we are not much different from them, so they will continue on in their evil course without any check of conscience.

God has commanded us not to learn the ways, customs and manners of others to worship Him as they do their gods and idols (Ex. 23:23-25; Lev. 20:23; Dt. 18:9-14; 2 K 17:7+; 21:1+; 1 Cor. 10:19-21).

As mentioned earlier, Christmas is derived form the worship of other religions is commonly known, yet preachers, elderships, etc. continue to lie to themselves for one (Dt. 11:16; Jer. 16:12; 17:9 Prov. 28:26; Heb. 3:12), and the flock as a hole (Is. 9:14-17; 28:14-15; 30:9-11; Jer. 7:4-15; 9:3-16; 14:14; 23:14, 25-40; Ez. 13:8-23; Amos 2:4), comforting them in their false worship of God (Is. 30:9-10; Jer. 9:3-6; 14:14; 23:25-26; 32; Ez. 13:8-9; 2 Tim. 4:3-4) in which He takes no delight in (Prov. 15:8; 21:27; Is. 1:10-15; 66:3; Jer. 6:20; Ez. 20:39; Amos 5:21-27; Mt. 15:7-9; Tit. 1:14).

Satan's primary goal in his war with God's children is to infiltrate with error, to get in His called out assembly and teach lies, errors, poor theology - to bring in stuff that sounds good and even tickles our ears, yet are doctrines of demons (2 Cor. 11:3-4; 13-15; 1 Tim. 4:1)

The result of mixing and blending the ways, manners and customs of the world and their many forms of worship with the purity and truth of God's Word is that the pure and true worship on the one and only true God gets perverted, polluted and corrupted by compromise and His people become useless and shameful and blasphemous (Lev. 24:16; Ez. 35:12; Col. 3:8; 2 Tim. 3:2) in mocking the truth before the world that we are to be a light, a witness and salt that will bring them out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Think about it. How can we worship God in an unacceptable manner? 1) to worship a false god; 2) to worship the true God in a wrong way; 3) to worship God in a self-styled manner; or 4) with a wrong attitude. 

Are you one who has chosen to follow the original teachings and practices and patterns and customs of the first century NT Christians? If so, it is known that they didn't celebrate Christ's birth. Therefore, are you a hypocrite? 

Examine yourself concerning your worship, to see whether you and your worship is reprobate, not approved, not standing the test of God's Word (2 Cor. 13:5; Jer. 6:20; Rom. 1:28; 2 Tim. 3:8; Tit. 1:16) which is truth (Ps. 19:7; Jn. 4:24; 17:17) and taking the appropriate actions necessary to be approved and pleasing before God. As a popular mantra among Christians today taken from Joshua chapter 24:15 says- "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Will you choose to worship and serve others gods along with Jesus? Or will you worship and serve Christ alone? Choose this day whom you will serve.
 

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

 Think on this:

People have created gods in their own image. They interpret God according to their own cultural biases, as well as what family, educational, and business associations have predisposed them to believe. They then attribute His favor to their political parties, athletic teams, motivations, and prejudices. All this is done with precious little careful study into, meditation upon, and especially wholeheartedly believing of His inspired revelation of Himself in the Bible.
At the worship service held in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., a few days following the attack of September 11, 'clergy' from several different faiths or religions participated. Which 'clergyman' represented God? Which did God hear? Can they all be His representatives, even though they all believe differently? Do these differences not matter to Him? They must matter to those men; otherwise, they would not advocate their brand of faith. He makes very clear that no one comes to Him except through Jesus Christ.
Even this past Saturday at #StopTheSteal, many different faith groups came together in prayer, etc and the 'MC' of the event said, "This is an ecumenical event, if you believe in Jesus, I'm all in...and if you don't believe in Jesus in anyway, do you believe in the God of the Bible? That's good enough for me."
7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.
9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
- 2 Jn. 1:7-11
22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. - 1 Cor. 16:22

Sunday, December 13, 2020

It's A Love - Hate Thing

Reading and pondering on the children of Israel as they had entered the promise land and coming to the close of the life of their leadership in Joshua and the elders, one can draw up a number of applications for us today.

My focus began with Joshua chapter 24 and with Judges chapter 2.

In Joshua 23, Joshua gives his farewell address to Israel and reminds them not to cling to or join together with those that remain of the inhabitants of the land the Lord has given them, because they will be snares and traps unto them, and scourges to their sides and thorns in their eyes until the children of Israel perish (Jos. 23:11-13).

In Joshua 24:14-16, Joshua tells them to fear the Lord and serve Him only, entirely and completely in truth. In the NT our Savior, Jesus, tells of a time when the true worshippers will worship in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24), which time is now. Though like days of old (2 Chr. 36:15-16), His people(?) have cast His truth behind their back in disregard, to worship Him as they please and not according to His truth clearly displayed for us in Scripture. Oh, they may have a zeal for God, for religion, but not according to knowledge (Rom. 10:2). As it was once said, "He that is not zealous against error, is not likely to be zealous for truth."

Joshua precedes to tell them to put away their 'other gods'. In fact, he tells them to choose that very day whether they would serve God completely and solely and cast away all 'other gods' or not. To cast them behind their back, if you will. "Remember Lot's wife." (Lk. 17:32) Remember also, that, "no man having put his hand to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God." (Lk. 9:62) Their reply was 'God forbid that we should forsake the Lord and serve 'other gods'. Why is this important?

Because God had told them at Sinai that they shall have no other gods before Him. That they should not worship or serve them. For God is jealous and called them to love Him and Him alone, lest He punish them for chasing after 'other gods' (Ex. 20:3-6). 

He told them not to walk after the manners and customs of those people in the land they were to destroy utterly (Ex. 23:23-25; Lev. 20:23-26).

God had told them that they were special to Him above all the people of the earth. Therefore, they are to keep themselves separate from all the ways, doings, customs and manners of the other nations. God said that if they would not love Him and do His commandments, that He would repay such as hate Him to their face to destroy them (Dt. 7:2-11). Notice - if you obey Him, you love Him. If you obey Him not, then you hate Him. Obedience is important! (Eph. 2:2; 5:6; Col. 3:6; 2 Th. 1:8; Heb. 5:9; 1 Pet. 4:17)

So, we get an idea of what it meant for Israel that day to choose whether they would worship and serve the One true God or 'other gods'. How did they fare?

In Judges chapter 2 we see that the children of Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua (v 7) and until that generation died (v 10). Though the next generation did not know the Lord or the works He had done (v 10). Why? Obviously, because the parents didn't teach the commandments of the Lord to their children as they were commanded (Dt. 6:7-9). So it is vital that the parents and leaders of God's children instruct them in the whole counsel of God (Prov. 22:6; Acts 20:20-21, 26-27). Again, I ask why? Look at Judges chapter 2 starting in verse 11 to see what became of the next generation which knew not God.

They went after the 'other gods' to 'serve' them, and to 'follow' them, forsaking the Lord Who called them and chose them to be His special people, separated and unique from all the people of the earth. Doing evil in the sight of the Lord provoking Him to anger against them.

Therefore, God's anger was hot against them and He delivered them into the 'hands of the spoilers'. The hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as He had said and sworn to them (v 15). 

Throughout the remainder of the chapter we see the cycle, the pattern of His people and His nature towards them:

1) They would forsake the Lord and serve other gods;

2) They would be punished for their iniquity, often by other nations;

3) God would hear their cries and have compassion on them and send a delivered;

4) They would serve God until the delivered died, but

5) They would return to serving other gods.

Are we any different today? Do we learn from theses examples that are before us (1 Cor. 10:6; Heb. 4:11; 2 Pet. 2:6)? Let's look again at an example:

Ps. 106:34-40

 34 They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them:

 35 But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.

 36 And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.

 37 Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,

 38 And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood.

 39 Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.

 40 Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.


They didn't follow after the Lord's commands, which if we love Him, we will keep His commandments (Jn. 14:15; 23) and if we don't keep His commandments, it proves that we do not love Him, or should I say hate Him (Jn. 14:24; Mt. 6:24; and as per some other passages referenced earlier). 

Plus, they mingled with the other nations, or as the NT would refer to it as 'the world'. They learned and served the ways, manners, customs, idols, gods and demons of the world rather than worship and serve God entirely, with their whole heart, their entire being.

We are called the temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19; 2 Cor. 6:16; Pet. 2:20-22) as foretold by the OT prophets (Lev. 2612; Jer. 24:7; 31:33; 32:38; Ez. 36:28).

In 2 Corinthians chapter 6, verses 16 and following, God again shows that we are not to mix or mingle with those of the world in worshipping and serving Him, as He asks:

1) "What fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness?" None! This should seem clear enough to most so I won't expound. The Scriptures show us the contrasts - Ps. 1:6; Prov. 15:9; Is. 3:10-11; Mal. 3:18; Rom. 2:2-11).

2) Again, He asks, "what association has light with darkness?" (v 14) If we are Christ's, we have been delivered from the authority of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of His dear Son (Col. 1:13). Or as Ephesians 5:8 tells us, "For we were sometimes in darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light." So many passages on the difference between those in darkness and those in light (Eph. 4:17-24; 2:1-7; etc.). In 1 John we learn that "God is light and in Him is no darkness at all." (v 5). Yet He continues by saying "that if we say that we have fellowship with Him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not the truth." (v 6). Are you full of darkness or light? (Mt. 6:22-23) Do you hate the darkness and love the light? (Jn. 3:19-21) Do you prove all things and hold fast to what is good? Do you abstain, refrain, from all appearance of evil? (1 Th. 5:21-22)

3) Again, God asks, "what harmony, what unison does Christ have with Satan?" None! Though there are many deceivers today that would have you think differently, don't believe them! Satan masquerades as an angel of light and his demons as ministers of righteousness (2 Cor. 11:13-15), which deceive many (2 Tim. 3:13; Mk. 13:6, 22-23; 1 Jn. 4:1). We were warned of doctrines of demons (1 Tim. 4:1) that would turn us from the truth of God's Word. Acts 13:10 is a good verse that shows contrast in pertaining to Elymas the sorcerer where Paul said unto him, "full of all deceit and mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, will thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord."

Jesus told the religious leaders of that day that "they are of their father the devil, and the lusts of their your father you will do" (Jn. 8:44). Sounds much like professing Christians today! They profess that they know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and to every good work reprobate (Titus 1:16). Who come near Him with their mouths and honor Him with their lips, yet their hearts are set on their covetousness (Jer. 6:13; Ez. 20:39; 33:31; Mt. 15:7-9). Which have a form of godliness, but deny the power to walk in it (2 Tim. 3:5). Jesus said we cannot serve God and another because we will hate the one and love the other (Mt. 6:24). Again, sounds like Joshua, or Elijah, or others that have told God's people to choose this day whom they would serve. 

4) God even asks, "what part has a believer with an unbeliever"? None! It should be obvious, yet in this day where people question if "truth" really exists, it's no surprise the "Christians"(?) have hopped in bed with others of all kinds of religious beliefs in the name of ecumenicalism committing spiritual adultery with them. Scripture calls us adulterers when we join together with the world/unbelievers. In fact, Scripture says that friendship with the world is hostility against God (Jam. 4:4). That we are God's enemy when we join with them. In contrast, Jesus calls those that do whatsoever He says, (that is, obeys Him), friends. (Jn. 15:14) So, you are either His friend or you are not!

 Again, look back to Moses and Joshua. The Judges, and the Kings and the OT prophets. This was always a snare and trap to them. We are called not to love the things of this world, but to do the will of God (1 Jn. 2:15-17). That if we love the world, the love of the Father is not in us. Yet, we mingle with and conform to the world in many ways, sacrificing, not only our own lives, our family's lives, other "believers" lives, but even deceive the world that we are to be a light to, presenting them a different gospel.

There are numerous ways we sacrifice, like making sports and worldly education more important than fellowship, prayer and Bible study. We have all heard the excuses parents give, but in the end they have "chosen" who they and their family truly serves. 

The "churches" have corrupted and polluted themselves and have played the harlot, having cast away and rejected their Head, Jesus, choosing rather the riches of the world than the reproach of Christ. They made man their head and joined themselves to false religions of all sorts (1 Sam. 8:5-8) through their ignorance in seeking to be like those around them by desiring the earthly benefits provided to them through 501(c)3 incorporation (what?), instead of the spiritual blessings and benefits given to us by God. No where does the Scriptures teach this! It wasn't practiced in the early "church". Be zealous and repent and return to the patterns shown to us in the holy Scriptures!

5) God asks them next, "what agreement has the temple of God with idols"? I have already shared verses in how we are the temple of God. Looking back at some of those passages we learn more, as in 1 Cor. 6:9-20. We are bought with a price (Christ's death on the cross, Acts 20:28), therefore we are to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, WHICH ARE GOD'S! 1 Cor. 10 is written for our example (v 11) that we beware not to fall (v 12) away from God in a similar manner. Idolatry is brought up several times in this chapter. I want you to focus on verses 15-22.

While Paul confirms that an idol is nothing in and of itself, yet behind every idol is a demon. He told them not to have fellowship with demons (through the idols). That we cannot be partakers of the Lord's table and of demons. If we mingle our worship and service to God with the world, with those around us, that we provoke God to anger! Look back to the Scriptures I shared earlier. God said that if you obey Him you love Him. If you don't obey Him, that you hate Him.

He called us to be holy, separated people from those around us. That we are not to worship Him as others worship their gods. That if you do, He will visit you and repay you to your face! He will destroy you (1 Cor. 3:17; etc). Alas, many in the "church" teach, or have been taught, or simply practice that the grace of God is a license to do as we please and not according to what pleases Him! Therefore we have mingled our worship of God with that of those around us, as even the "celebration" of Christmas and Easter, which all know we're pagan festivals to honor their gods, which is nothing other than pagano-Christianism - a taking of something void of Christ and adding, joining and mixing Christian theology with it. A little leaven leavens the whole lump (Gal. 5:9; 1 Cor. 5:6)! His grace teaches us to deny ungodliness (a disrespect to God) and worldly lusts, that we should live with self-control, righteousness (right living according to God) and be godly (in respect and reverence of God), in this present world. If we call ourselves a Christian (1 Cor. 5:11), and continue in sin, we are called wicked (1 Cor. 5:13; Ps. 5:5; 145:20)! Yet, as God says in Psalm 50, it is true of many of us that call ourselves a Christian. Why? Because we have hated God's instruction and have cast His Word behind our back. Because our hearts are deceitful above all things and desperately wicked (Jer. 17:9; Mk. 7:21-23).

Ps. 50:16-17

 16 But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?

 17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind thee.


If we name the name of Christ, we are to depart from iniquity (2 Tim. 2:19). Though we may profess to be Christians - faithfully attend services, minister to those within and without the "church", perform signs, wonders and miracles, yet are workers of iniquity, Jesus will say that He never knew us (Mt. 7:23; Lk. 13:27; etc)! Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Gal. 6:7-8). Examine yourself, whether you are in the faith (2 Cor. 13:5)! Ask God to examine your heart that it may be made clean (Ps. 139:23-24).

Is your worship of God in vain? Worthless? Is it in spirit and truth (Jn. 4:24) and pleasing to God, or after the traditions and commandments of men (Mt. 15:9)? After so-called philosophy (gnosticism, humanism, hedonism, etc), devoid of truth, after the customs of the world (Col. 2:8)? Every word of God is pure (Prov. 30:5), because He is pure (1 Jn. 3:3). We are not to add or take away from it (Prov. 30:6, Dt. 12:32, etc). God has called us to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness, from all pollutions and from all corrupting influences, that we may perfect, complete, and finish His holiness (1 Th. 4:7; Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:15-16; etc) - pressing toward the high calling of God (Php. 3:14-15) - being conformed to His image (Rom. 8:29; 1 Jn. 3:3), in the fear of God. (Ps. 19:9; Prov. 8:13; 16:6; 2 Cor. 7:1; etc)

As we have seen in Joshua's day, they served many idols, gods, and demons. Yet, they "chose" to serve God, but probably still kept their other gods and worshipped them along with the one true God as they often did (2 Kings 17:9; 18:4; Amos 5:25-26; etc). Will you this day choose to worship God alone with your entire being (Mt. 4:8-10; Mk. 12:30) as the children of Israel did all the days of Joshua? Or will you continue to do wickedly in the sight of the Lord to provoke Him to jealousy and anger, so that His hand will be against you as it was against the generation that followed Joshua? Count the cost (Lk. 14:28) and choose whom you will worship and serve (1 Kings 18:21). Will you serve the God Who has called you to purity, holiness, righteousness. To be spotless and blameless. Or some other god of your making, or someone else's making?

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Wake Up?

Its not surprising, to see that many in the 'church' have set up idols in their hearts. Look at all the preachers, evangelists, etc that encourage the flock to not worship in truth and provoke the Holy and Jealous God to anger through their idolatry, proving that , as God says, they hate Him. Oh, they love the things of the world and comfort themselves like the false teachers and prophets of old, which God calls liars, that it's okay to worship God in such a manner. After all, "in opinions, liberty..." or should I say "peace, peace'. They twist and distort the Holy Word of God and the people love to have it so, that they can run after the things dear to their heart without a pricked conscience and call it acceptable worship to the Lord! With their mouths they show much love, but their heart runs after their covetousness and idolatry. Be not deceived! God will not be mocked! You cannot serve God and mammon. You cannot eat at the Lord's table and the table of demons. He even declares that we are not to eat with anyone that calls themself a brother and yet is given to idolatry! Wake up 'church' and do the will of God! Jesus is sanctifying and cleansing His 'church' to present it without spot, wrinkle or blemish! Pure religion and undefined before God and the Father is ... to keep yourself unspotted from the world! Where is the genuine love of the truth? Alas, the 'church' has had it's ears tickled and turned itself to worship God as those that do not know Him. Do not for a minute think that God is pleased. Wake up 'church'! Be deceived no longer!

Sunday, November 29, 2020

Bible Interpretation Is A Skill

Bible interpretation is a skill that requires diligent work, an understanding of the meaning of the original languages, a working knowledge of grammar and logic, a grasp of historical settings, competence in theology, and a broad understand of the whole of Scripture.

Friday, November 27, 2020

Why Are We Not Separated?

 So many that name the name of Christ forget that they are to depart from iniquity (2 Tim. 2:19; Mt. 7:21-23, etc.) Many hear the word 'holy' and either don't fully understand what it means for those our Lord has called out of the world (Jn. 15:19; 1 Jn. 2:15-17, etc.) or they have itching ears and an unconverted heart that still loves and runs after the own covetousness and idols (Ez. 14:3-4; 33:31; 2 Tim. 4:3-4). Deceiving themselves by only hearing or reading God's Word but not doing it, which shows that a true love of the Son and Father they do not have (Jam. 1:22-25; Jn. 14:21, etc,). Again, many haven't counted the cost, nor have forsaken all (Lk. 14:26-33) to wholly follow the One True Lord and Master (Jos. 14:8, 9, 14; Mk. 12:29-30). They don't seem to understand that God is jealous and our continuance in our former ways patterned after the world provoke Him to anger  (Ex. 20:5; 34:14; Dt. 4:24-25; 5:9; 6:14-15). Yet, we need to ask ourselves, how is it that we have failed? I believe that in part it's because the preachers, teachers and elders have not laid the proper foundation of discipleship to include such things, or even to hold themselves accountable to them, much less the flock.

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Ignatius' Trial With Trajan


There’s a wonderful account, actually, as a somewhat old account of a man who was brought to trial, by the name of Ignatius.  He was standing face to face with the Roman emperor Trajan.  “Who art thou?” said Trajan.  “Thou wretch of a devil, that are so ready to transgress our orders while you seduce others also that they may come to the same bad end.”  Ignatius said, “No man calls one that beareth God a wretch of a devil, for the devils stand aloof from the servants of God.” 

Trajan said, “And who is he that beareth God?”  Ignatius answered, “He that hath Christ in his heart.”  Trajan said, “Do you not think then that we too have gods in our hearts, seeing that we employ them as allies against our enemies?”  Ignatius said, “You are deceived when you call the devils of the nations gods, for there is one God who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all things that are therein and one Christ Jesus, His only begotten Son, whose friendship I enjoy.” 

Trajan said, “Are you speaking of Him who was crucified under Pontius Pilate?”  Ignatius said, “I speak of Him that nailed on the cross sin and its author and sentenced every malice of the devils to be trampled underfoot of those that carry Him in their hearts.”  Trajan said, “Do you then carry Christ within you?”  Ignatius said, “Yes, for it is written, ‘I will dwell in them and will walk in them.’”

Trajan then gave the sentence and this is the sentence: “It is our order that Ignatius who says he bears about the crucified in himself shall be put in chains by the soldiers and taken to mighty Rome, there to be made food for wild beasts as a spectacle and a diversion for the people.”

The lines are drawn just that clearly.  We have Christ in our hearts.  We have no religious communion with those who do not.  We are the children of God; they are the children of Satan.  There can be no mutual spiritual enterprise.  Such compromise desecrates the name of Christ, gives false assurance to the unbeliever, and pollutes the Christian.


Sunday, November 22, 2020

Are You Separated?

Authentic believers in Christ simply cannot fit into the world’s system. We are supposed to be different. We have different values, a different Lord, and a completely different agenda.

Yet, if we take a simple glance at many who profess to believe, we don't see much difference between them and the world. The preachers and teachers love the world and have taught those under them to do likewise.
Yet, Jesus said if you hate your life in this world you will have life eternal. John said that if you love and copy and mimic and follow the ways of the world, the love of the Father is not in you.
Here's a test for you - Jesus said that the world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that it's works are evil. Jesus said that the world would love it's own, yet said it would hate us, call us evil and separate us from their company because He has called us out of the world. Peter said they would call us evildoers because our ways are different. Does the world (or even in these Laodicean like times, the "church"), treat you well or are you a reproach?
Jesus called us to be holy, separate and polar opposites of the world and all it's ways. He called us to be lights that expose and reprove the unfruitful works of darkness that we ourselves once walked in. Yet, how can we do that when we still walk in those unfruitful works? We have deceived ourselves to be unequally yoked to the world, by "Christianizing" the values, things, customs, practices and ways of the world? We cannot!
We cannot serve two masters, let alone five,, ten, or twenty! We can only love and serve one! You didn't tell your spouse on wedding day that you will love and serve them and this person, and that person, and that one over there, and ... if you didn't they wouldn't have married you! They expect and demand whole and complete loyalty and they should!
Are you unequally yoked? Are you corrupted or perverted by the world? Are you of a double heart and mind to the Lord? Awake to righteousness! Examine yourself! Come out and separate yourself and wholly follow the Lord! I am here for you -message me if you need.
6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Isa. 55:6-8

Sunday, November 8, 2020

Deceived Hearts? Say It Ain't So!

 What? Can a Christian's heart deceive itself to think they can model and imitate the world and think they are still living a set apart, holy life dedicated to the God they say they whole heartedly love and serve? Yes indeed!!!

In Jeremiah 17:9 God tells us that the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. Jesus also talked about the wickedness that lies in a man's heart in Mark 7:21-23 - saying that all these evil things come from within and defile the man. So truly wickedness lies in the heart of all men, Christians are not exempt! Again, in Jeremiah 17:5 the Lord says that cursed is the man whose heart has departed from the Lord. The Lord spoke through the prophet Ezekiel in 6:9 that His heart is broken in pieces with His people's whorish heart which has departed from Him to chase after the abominable idols they have set up in their heart (14:3; 33:31, etc.).

Yet, the Lord spoke of a generation that always erred in their heart to depart from the Lord. An evil heart of unbelief. A heart hardened by the deceitfulness of sin (Heb. 3). Oh, they call Him Lord, but do not the works He has instructed them to do in His Word - Mt. 25:11-12; Lk. 6:46; 1 Jn. 2:3-6. 

Oh I can hear the casual Christian filled with the world, having a form of godliness and religiosity - this doesn't speak of me! I'm okay. No one is perfect. And besides, my Christian buddies are doing the same. Yet, Galatians 6:7-8 tells us not to be deceived, that what we sow we will reap! Have you in all your ways been sowing the fruits of righteousness (Jam. 3:18; Prov. 11:18; Heb. 12:11), or have you rather been plowing wickedness, reaping iniquity and eating the fruit of lies with yours buddies (Hos. 10:13)? Are you an honest doer of the whole Word of God (Jam. 1:22-25)? 

Have you deceived yourself into a love of worldly things? (1 Jn. 2:15-17) Have you learned the ways of the ungodly and practice them without a pricked conscience? I have recently observed professing Christians once again observing their own form of Halloween, though with a different name in most cases. The casual observer notices no difference! The apostle Paul asks the Corithians what partnership does righteousness have with unrighteousness? What portion or part has does a believer share with an unbeliever? What fellowship has light with darkness? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? Why? Because we are the temple of God and He has called us to separate ourselves from such things! He calls us to cleanse ourselves from such wickedness and live in holiness in the fear of God! Alas, have you separated yourself, dearly beloved and elect of the Father? Or have you turned your heart after other gods/idols to serve and worship them? (Dt. 8:19; 11:16)

Remember that God is light and there is no darkness in Him (1 Jn. 1:5). Moreover if we say that we have fellowship with Him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not the Truth (1 Jn. 1:6). Is the path you are walking as a shining light that shines brighter each day, or is there some darkness lurking in your heart that is causing you to stumble with you even realizing it? (Prov. 4:18-19; Jer. 13:16)

Dear Christian, take heed to your ways. Examine them. Deceive not yourself. Just because others in your circle are doing it, doesn't mean that it is right and well pleasing before the Saviour of our souls and the righteous Judge Who will expose all unfruitful works of darkness. What exposes unfruitful works of darkness? Light of course (Eph. 5:11-13). How is your walk? Are you walking wisely or foolishly? (Eph. 5:15-17; Prov. 13:20) Normally those in darkness hide (Jn. 3:19-21), yet even today, those that name the name of Christ are walking in darkness and are not ashamed to let others know, but rather encourage others to follow the destructive ways (2 Pet. 2:2) and many are happy to do so! Yet, if we name the name of Christ we are to depart from iniquity! 2 Tim. 2:19; Mt. 7:21-23, etc.

Have you aloud yourself to be deceived? Take an inventory of the furthest reaches of your heart. Get into the Word! Ask God to search your heart for any wickedness. When it is found, forsake it and repent and God will be plentious in mercy towards you! Don't delay! Get right with Him today!


Saturday, November 7, 2020

Nothing More Insulting

There is nothing which is more insulting to the holy name of God than to profess Him with your lips and deny Him with your life. 

Many who profess to be Christians are so enamoured by the things of this world, that the love of the Father and His Truth is not in them. They have been blinded by the God of this world and God has given them over to a strong delusion that they should be lies - as is evident by their love and friendship of the world, not realizing that they have given themselves over to other gods and have forsaken the one true God, Who is a jealous God and rightfully so!

You need to stop and examine yourself, your thoughts, your desires, all that you do with Scripture. Why are you driven to such things? Are you honestly pursuing to love God with all that you are? Denying yourself of earthly pleasures. Always putting Him first and even others before yourself. Or do you still enjoy flirting with the world? 

Like I have said, so many professing Christians have deceived themselves as they chose not to be holy, set apart, or not to be unequally yoked with the things of this world, but rather have chosen to be buddies with it. It appears they don't know what it means to be set apart from the world and wholly devoted to God. We are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked! Repent! Seek God! Amend your ways! Not later, NOW!

Sin is truly in the camp and the leadership must like it that way. Maybe they practice the wickedness of the world themselves. Maybe they are also under the strong delusion God has aloud because they do not have an honest love of His Truth. How often have you seen "church" discipline? We are in dire need of it! 

This post will probably get likes from the very people I'm trying to wake up. Even as the Lord told Ezekiel, that they hear your words. They will like what you say, but they will not do them. Instead they will continue to run to the worldly things they covet.

How much time do you spend in the Word of God? Many preachers set the bar so low it's no wonder that those who should know and put it into practice don't. I'm sure most of you do not spend near enough time in it. Why? For most there is no honestly good reason. There's no better time than the present to get off your phone, off of FB and all the worldly endeavors that will not amount to a hill of beans in eternity. We will all individually stand before the righteous Judge and give an account for our self. Will Jesus call you a good and faithful steward? Or will He say that He never knew you despite all your supposed religious Christian activities that is nothing more than smoke in His eyes that is detestable to Him because you practice unrighteousness? 

I could give numerous examples of worldliness in our lives and in God's called out assembly, yet you need to get into His Word for yourself and prayer and take an honest assessment of yourself to start. How thorns come in and choked the Word? Are the roots exposed on the rocks in the hot sun? Examine yourself! Take ernest heed! Bring yourself into subjection! Your life is a vapor. Here today, gone tomorrow. Sow to yourself in righteousness today!