What Do You Fear?

 Yes, what do you fear? Humans typically have a fear of something. According to one study, Americans in the USA top 10 years are:

1) Corrupt government officials - 79%

2) People I love dying - 58.5%

3) A loved one contracting COVID - 58%

4) People I love becoming seriously ill - 57.3%

5) Widespread civil unrest - 56.5%

6) A pandemic or major epidemic - 55.8%

7) Economic/financial collapse - 54.8%

8) Cyber-terrorism - 51%

9) Pollution of oceans, rivers and lakes - 50.8%

10) Biological warfare - 49.3%

https://www.chapman.edu/wilkinson/research-centers/babbie-center/_files/Babbie%20center%20fear2021/blogpost-americas-top-fears-2020_-21-final.pdf

Job said, "For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me." (Job 3:25)

Proverbs also says, "The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon them..." (10:24)

Seeing what these verses declare and what the fears of the American people are, most likely they will occur to them.

Are any of the items mentioned on the aforementioned list on your list?

My point in bringing this up is that there are many things that people fear. How many of those items on the aforementioned list are spiritual? 

In this post, I'm going to be looking at the fear of man from a biblical perspective.

Proverbs 29:25 says, "The fear of man bringeth a snare..." Yes, the fear of man is a trap that needs to be avoided. Caring about what someone else thinks of you is a dangerous trap!

When we fear man, it's because we fear something negative will occur to us if we do not give in to their "peer pressure". We are afraid of their displeasure or rejection. Therefore we often will try to please people to keep their favor, because we seek their approval and friendship. Therefore, Christians are tempted to cast behind them the Word of God to maintain unity and peace, regardless of the spiritual consequences that will result by accepting a sinful lifestyle, or a false doctrine. Brethren, this thing ought never to be done!

What are some of the things we fear from our fellow man? People often fear their boss and some will compromise their faith when asked to for the sake of the company, or because they are given the ultimatum, do it or lose your job.

A HUGE fear for many comes from their own family. If you are a believer and married to an unbeliever the pressure can be great, as even some spouses will test their mates in hope it will cause them to reject God. 

A greater fear is when you come from a family full of believers and through diligent study of the Scriptures you discover that something you and your family believe, let's say the trinity, you have become convinced that it's not Scriptural. When you try to reason through the Scriptures with your family you are met with opposition, because everyone else you know believes it. Do you change your convictions to line up with God's Word, or do you buckle under your family's pressure to forget it?

Like the Jews in NT days (Jn. 7:13; 9:22; 12:42-43), they feared confessing that Jesus was the Messiah, lest they should be removed from the fellowship. These days if you speak out concerning "sin in the camp," or false doctrine being taught when they are accepted among the congregation, you will eventually be told to "zip-it" or leave, because you are a troublemaker, judgmental, and unloving.

Preachers, which most are nothing more than hirelings - to appease the people who hired them, present messages that appease and tickle their ears according to their favorite brand of doctrines (or preferences). Assuring them "peace and prosperity" only as long as they preach what they were hired to preach.

They will show partiality for their wages (Pr. 28:21). They will corrupt the Word of God for their earthly gain. They fear man rather than God. I know many preachers who hold to one set of doctrines and preach another according to the people that hired them, knowing that they cannot tell these people the whole counsel of God (Ac. 20:27), if they desire to keep their employment. So they will lie and deceive the people, telling them what they want to hear. This is a spiritual "lose, lose" situation. 

Proverbs 14:25 says, "A true witness delivereth souls, but a deceitful witness speaketh lies."

Proverbs 26:24 says, "He that hateth dissembleth, disguises with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him. Verse 28 says, "A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it, and a flattering mouth worketh ruin."

Such preachers are hypocrites! Jesus warned His disciples about them. One such example is found in Matthew 16, where He warned them to beware of their doctrine, or leaven. Why? Because these hypocrites like the praise, and approval of men. Appearing to be ministers of truth and righteous on the outside while being corrupt on the inside (Mt. 23). Remember, it only takes a little leaven, unsound teaching, immortality, etc to leaven the entire lump (1 Cor. 5:6-8; Gal. 5:9).

Therefore, your hired preacher may be a wolf in sheep's clothing as he keeps a tight lip for financial gain and allows not only your own soul, but all others that trust them to perish for eternity, but it will also cost them their very own souls. 

Unfortunately, most "churches" are nothing more than businesses, set up after the pattern of the antichrist worldly system in the form of a nonprofit 501c3 corporation. They don't follow the NT apostolic pattern to their own destruction. 

These preachers are like Aaron who listened to the people and syncretized the worship of the One True God when he made them a golden calf to worship (Ex. 32). They are like Eli who allowed his sons to corrupt the ministry and the people they ministered to (1 Sam. 2:12-17). They are like king Saul who sinned against God because he feared the people and obeyed their voice (1 Sam. 15:24). 

Why? For some, the fear of losing their jobs. For others, the fear of the people's rejection. Still others will fear losing their popular status in the community, like Nicodemus (Jn. 3) and Joseph (Jn. 19:38-40) who were members of the Sanhedrin. They feared excommunication from the synagogue, which would end many of their long-standing relationships and impact their livelihood by causing them to lose their prestigious place in the community. But the praise of others is fickle and short-lived. We should be much more concerned about God’s eternal acceptance than about the temporary gratification of other people’s approval. How do you compare with them?

People aren't much different today than they were in the first century. Jesus warned His hearers, "How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? (Jn. 5:44) Who was Jesus' greatest enemy among men when He walked the earth? None other than the religious establishment of His day. The scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees. Even the Herodians joined them in their plot to remove the Truth (Jn. 1:14; 14:6; 18:37; 1 Jn. 5:20; Rev. 19:11) from them because Jesus was a threat to the livelihood of their institution and throne. What is peculiar about these alliances is that they despised each other. Yet, they banded together in their war against the Truth, which picture is depicted in Psalm chapter 2 among other passages. It's the same religious establishment that fought against His apostles. We have seen this pattern throughout history. It is the orthodox religious establishment that often persecuted those that oppose their teachings.

Today it's no different. The orthodox Christian establishment speaks evil of any who do not follow after their commandments, doctrines, and traditions. Whose foundational tenets have been syncretized with gnosticism and the scholars who should know better, choose to let people believe these lies for at least two reasons: 1) to please the people they minister to; and/or 2) to please their peers in the ministry. Knowing that if they go against either they could lose all the worldly esteem, popularity, prestige, approval, financial benefits, friends and other things all their earnest study has gained them. Forgetting the example of Paul who told us to follow him (Php. 3:17), who lost all that he had gained from his diligent religious study and work and counted it as worthless and detestable that he might gain the true riches of Christ. (Php. 3:4-15)

A famous German once said, "If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed."

That is what has happened to us in Christianland. A portion of what we have grown up believing to be sound doctrine is falsehood. Our translations were translated according to biases and not always according to theological bias. Much of what we read in our translations are accurate representations, though as a little leaven leavens the whole lump, a number of the foundational tenets have been syncretized with gnosticism, the very things the apostles warned about. The apostle John referred to it as the spirit of antichrist (1 Jn. 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 Jn. 1:7). Therefore, a number of our foundational orthodox Christian tenets are unscriptural. We were bamboozled to believe lies!

I've shared what some of these are in past posts, like the doctrine of God; the doctrine of man; the destiny of man, and the Christian assembly.

John Bunyan once wrote, "What God said is best, is best, though all the men in the world are against it." 

Even as Paul warned the Colossians, "Beware lest any man spoil you [capture and enslave you] through philosophy [Platonic, gnostic philosophies] and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments [primary and fundamental principles of any art, science, religion, or discipline] of the world, and not after Christ."  (2:8)

As you learn how our doctrines were corrupted and you learn the true apostolic doctrines that were delivered to us (the faith once delivered unto the saints - Jude 3) and begin to practice and teach them, it will seem that all the Christian world will be against you. Of the truth, it will be! Keep in mind that "whosoever will do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Mt. 5:19)

Now this is where the "fear factor" comes in for you. Will you obey God rather than men? (Ac. 5:29) Are you willing to lose all that you have on this earth for Christ, if it comes to that? Are you ready to be hated by all men, and have them banish you from their fellowship and call you a troublemaker? (Is. 66:5; Lk. 6:22; Jn. 15:18-16:4; Ac. 24:5)

How do you overcome the fear of men? The first step is to examine the doctrines you have freely received as truth. Are they apostolic doctrine or the doctrines of men? Did they originate in the 1st century, the 4th century, or the 16th century? If what you believe and practice doesn't originate from the 1st century it cannot be apostolic doctrine. 

Another step is to study the original manuscripts. Our English translations have been doctored, chopped and changed to express human ideas and philosophies and not the truth of God's inspired Word. Many well meaning people have based doctrine on the English, which was tailored to teach after pet doctrines of men and not God's truth. I have shared some of these on my blog. It will amaze you how much our English translations have deviated from the genuine words of the manuscripts. 

Then after doing these first two steps, make sure you fully comprehend the honest truth of God's Word. Jesus said, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (Jn. 5:32) Once you have a firm grasp and have laid a firm foundation, you will be able to preserve through any storm that comes your way (Mt. 7:24-25) and your root will be in good ground and not wither and dry up when persecution comes because of His Word (Mt. 13:20-21). 

Once you've done these three steps remember to meditate in His Word day and night, and hide it in your heart, which is what those who delight in the Lord do (Ps. 1:2; 40:8; 104:34; 119:11, 97; Jos. 1:8) Remain constant in prayer (Lk. 18:1; 21:36; Eo. 12:12; Eph. 6:18; 1 Th. 5:17). Love God with your entire being (Mk. 12:30), knowing that His perfect love casts out fear (1 Jn. 4:17-18; 2 Tim. 2:7) Don't be like the Ephesians who left their first love in the process of keeping His Word untainted (Rev. 2:1-7) Furthermore, love others (Mk. 12:31; Eph. 4:2, 32; Col. 3:13). 

Count the cost of following Christ (Lk. 14:26-33). Are you ready to lose your livelihood for Him? Are you ready to lose your job, your family, your property, your checking and saving accounts and retirement funds? Are you ready to be excommunicated from your congregation, and other congregations, as well as lose your dear relationships with others in the faith because of your convictions to obey God's Word, knowing that Jesus Himself learned obedience by the things He suffered. Also understanding that He is the source of eternal life to those who obey Him (Heb. 5:8-9). 

If you continue and persevere in these things you should do well. Do not make the mistake of comparing yourself with others (2 Cor. 10:12). When we compare ourselves with others, we may feel proud because we think we’re better than them. It is so easy these days because Christianland is by and large anemic spiritually. I know of far too many professing believers, whether just pew sitters, or others involved in "ministry programs*" or that even head them up, who barely find time to simply read the Bible during the week, much less, study it. They also do not spend much time in prayer. They are as the seed that is planted among thorns and the care and anxiety of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, wealth, possessions, and worldly ambitions, utterly choke the word, and they become unfruitful, being no fruit to maturity (Mt. 13:22; Lk. 8:14; Jn. 15:2, 6; Mt. 3:10; 15:13; 21:19; Heb. 6:7-8).

[* Speaking of programs, where do we find men and women Bible studies and retreats and conferences and cruises in Scripture? Where do we see the segregation of ages with children's ministries, and classes for adults according to differing age classifications? Where is Sunday school in Scripture? Why are we programed to seek out the latest Bible study resources whether by book, workbook, or DVD? Could it be to fleece the flock? What ever happened to teaching the flock and encouraging them how to accurately appropriate the Scriptures for themselves? Is it because the flock is too lazy in their pursuit of eternal spiritual treasures while they are in hot pursuit of temporary earthly treasures?] 

But when we measure ourselves against God’s Word, we quickly realize that we have no basis for pride. Continually ask yourself, "How does my life measure up to God's Word?" "How does my life compare to that of Jesus Christ's?" We will have to give an account to God for all of our choices and decisions. Our ignorance will not stand on that day. We won't be able to point the finger and pass the buck. We alone will be responsible with how we have handled His Word. As Solomon said, "Fear God and keep His commandments for this is the whole duty of man." (Ecc. 12:13) We are to fear Him Who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. (Mt. 10:28)

Are you ready to walk in the love and fear of God and not according to the fear of men? Are you ready to stand alone for truth if that is what is required? Will you be like John the Baptist who rebuked the religious and political leaders of his day for righteousness's sake? (Mt. 14) Are you ready to take up your cross daily and follow Him? (Lk.9:23) Will you die daily? (1 Cor. 15:31)

What Does England Have To Do With It?

Today's blog is going to take us on a trip starting in 16th century England with King Henry VIII to the shores of the Americas.

Why Did Henry VIII Break Away From the Catholic Church?

Henry VIII broke away from the Catholic Church so that he could divorce his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and marry his lover Anne Boleyn.

The year was 1527, and Henry VIII wanted a male heir. Unfortunately, his wife was too old to bear a child, so he needed a new wife. At the time, divorce was not allowed in the Catholic Church, and if Henry got a divorce without the pope’s permission, he could be excommunicated or kicked out of the church – a fate that would ultimately lead to an eternity in hell.

Henry asked the pope for a dispensation to get a divorce, but the pope would not grant him that. In response, Henry asked the archbishop of Canterbury to grant him a divorce, and the bishop had no choice but to comply. The pope was appalled, but Henry just used the occasion to split away from the Catholic Church and to establish the Church of England.

The break away from the Catholic Church had far reaching consequences, and it subverted the current world order. Prior to the break from the Catholic Church, the commonly accepted hierarchy was God, pope, king, but Henry thrust himself between the pope and God in a move that was unprecedented. The king, or monarchy became the head of the "church". This is important as I'll reveal later. Ultimately, the break opened the door for the Protestant Reformation to enter England, but that movement did not gain speed in the country until after Henry’s death during the reign of Edward VII.

Henry's clean break from the "Church of Rome" did not seriously deviate from Catholic doctrine. With the exception of the denial of papal supremacy and expressions of skepticism about the existence of purgatory, Henry upheld all the central pillars of the Roman Catholic faith. It was also during this time that Henry commissioned a new English Bible, the Great Bible, to replace Rome's Bible.

Henry considered Martin Luther's teachings on justification by faith alone, the sacraments, the priesthood, and the Mass to be dangerous and erroneous.

When Edward VI (ruled 1547–1553), England made a religious shift towards Protestantism. It was during this time Archbishop Cranmer created the Church of England's statement of faith, the Forty-Two Articles. All of Edward's reforms were short lived. When "Blood Mary" reigned she reversed all his reforms and great persecution ensued.

Mary's reforms didn't last long. Queen Elizabeth took over the throne and turned the kingdom back towards Protestantism. It was during her time that the Forty-Two Articles were revised to the Thirty-Nine Articles and the Bishop's Bible came into existence.

Now I turn to King James I of England, who was formerly James VI, King of Scotland, whom had been raised and schooled in Protestantism. Of an interesting note, in 1601, while still King of Scotland, he entered the secret society of the Freemasons. The Masons credit him as being the originator of their lodges as they are to this day. 

One would think that King James was a godly man being raised a Presbyterian and commissioning a new Bible translation. Yet what do we learn of his character? It was said that he "perverted the laws, both of man and of God." (History of the Scottish Church, pg. 309) That he was "notoriously and outrageously wicked." (The Bible Question, pg. 37) The meanest and most despicable sovereign that ever held an English scepter." (Bye-paths In Baptist History, pg. 80) 

For a man raised Protestant he was notorious for persecuting them. In Scotland it was noted that "the ministers perfectly understood that James was ready to change his faith the moment he should find it expedient." (History of Scotland II, pg. 192) After becoming King of England, James "immediately revealed his deep hatred of Puritans and Presbyterians alike." (Church & State, pg. 96) He "was determined to tune the pulpit to the Royal pleasure, and the bishops were expected to play their part in controlling the sermons of the clergy." (King IV & I, pg. 213) "To suppress the Puritans, the people were subject to severe penalties if they did not attend the services of the state church; and if a minister refused to conform to the prescribed ritual, he was removed." (The Freedom Story, pg. 30) It was said that "his Majesty's bishops and ministers had been armed and weaponed with fire and sword and not with Scripture." (Bye-paths, pg. 80)

Yet, in 1604, he commissioned, or "authorized" [though there are no official records of him doing so] his own translation of the Bible. The translating work did not begin until 1607 and of course was released in 1611. The other versions, namely the Geneva Bible, fell to the Kings disfavor because their footnotes failed to honor the King, and his Church of England, or Anglican Church. To correct this, he invited fifty-four scholars, of which only 47 heeded the call (one-third of them being Protestants), and gave them fifteen edicts to follow [one of which is important to note is the chopping and changing (Tyndale) of Scripture with the word "church" corrupting apostolic doctrine in the process which corruption continues today without a bat of an eye] as they translated and published his Authorized Version according to the 39 Articles of the Church Of England (Anglican Communion), which is an interesting mixture of Catholic and Protestant theology or dogma. It is sometimes referred to as a middle way between Protestantism and Catholicism. This is troubling to say the least. (Are you unfamiliar with the "chopping and changing" of Scripture with the word "church"? Read my old blog post at the link below.)

https://fulekifiles.blogspot.com/2020/12/what-more-greek.html

Why? Because both dogmas have a mixture of Platonism which we know the apostles were combating in their writings. To put it another way, Platonism became mixed or syncretized with Scripture, and corrupted it. The translations of the Bibles were based on these biases. The apostolic doctrine was diluted with Greek philosophy and taught in the monasteries, seminaries and universities that not only influenced the Catholics, but later the Protestants and then the Evangelicals. Therefore, it created a different god and another Jesus. A good portion of the core "Christianity" we have been conditioned to accept is not according to apostolic doctrine. This is alarming!

The Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics said, “…it is Augustine who gave us the Reformation. For the Reformation, inwardly considered, was just the ultimate triumph of Augustine’s doctrine… the Reformation came, seeing that it was, on its theological side, a revival of Augustinianism…” Martin Luther, John Calvin and Ulrich Zwingli were highly influenced by the teachings of Augustine.

The systematic theology that is taught is contrary to what is revealed in the manuscripts that were translated. Much of what we were taught is core "Christian" doctrine, is actually nothing more than a syncretism of religious and philosophical ideologies. All of our English translations were distorted and twisted to keep these syncretistic doctrines in tack. Yes, it is amazing how man did not fear to tinker with God's Word.

Some of these gnostic philosophies are trinitarianism; original sin; immortality of the soul and an eternal afterlife in heaven or hell; gnostic allegorical interpretation of Scripture leading to acceptance of amillennialism in Catholicism as opposed to chiliasm.

Paul warned us not to be entangled and taken captive by empty philosophy devoid of truth after the instruction of men and the fundamental principles of the world and not after Christ (Col. 2:8). As Donald C. Stamp said. "Any teachings, doctrines or ideas originating from persons, congregations, or traditions and not expressed or implied in God's Word may not be included in the apostle's doctrine. To mix [syncretize] them with the original content of the apostle's doctrine is to pervert the Word of God. Anyone adding to or taking away from the original and fundamental truth of God's Word and the apostle's doctrine are under God's curse."

Mr. Stamps continued, "Those who reject the original revelation of Christ and the apostles do not have God. Although they may claim to know Him (1 Jn. 2:4 [John wrote this letter to combat the gnostic teachings infiltrating the Body of Christ]), they are deceived if they do not continue in the teaching of Christ; those who forsake Christ's doctrine forsake Christ. All theology that does not hold to the truth and righteousness revealed in the NT is not Christian theology and must be rejected. Those who distort and oppose the NT faith must not be received into the fellowship. God warns true believers to guard against accepting false teaching."

Paul's fear in 2 Corinthians 11:1-4 has become a reality and like the frog in a pot of water being brought to a slow boil, so people have been deceived through a corrupted English translation in holding, as truth, principles that are not truth. Are you among the many who hold to the pseudo "mainstream" "Christianity" that is propagated from "sea to shining sea"? If so, heed Donald C. Stamp's warnings above, as well as the warnings of the apostle's and return to the simple, unmixed, unadulterated, unaltered doctrine of Christ.

Moving on in history, the Church of England, or Anglican Church, is the primary state "church" in England, where the concepts of "church" and state are linked. The British monarch is considered the supreme governor of the "church". Among other privileges, he or she has the authority to approve the appointment of archbishops and other "church" leaders. All of this is contrary to the ekklesia of Christ (Mt. 16:18). Remember how I had mentioned earlier King James' edict on the use of the word "church" in the AV corrupted not only the Scriptures, but also the way we understand and practice them? 

According to the Twenty-third Article of Religion, the canons of 1604, the Article, though derived from one (No. 10 of the 13 Articles of 1538), asserts that the institution or licence to minister publicly belongs to some superior jurisdiction, and that ministry in a particular place is not a thing which a man can take upon himself. It is well known that such power of jurisdiction was claimed and exercised by the Crown, often on a large scale, in the 16th century, that power of licensing to preach, is, according to canon 36 of 1604, possessed also by the two Universities, and that power to institute and license has often been delegated to Bishop's officials...and forbids any to preach without licence of the King... - as I talked about in recent blog posts, if the head of your "church" is a man, a king, a monarch, the state, etc, by whom you are granted privelleges to operate or conduct business, you Head is not Christ!

Observe Peter Kershaw's take of the situation in England:

The British crown represented the establishment church system -- the Church of England. Moreover, the king, by royal edict, was "lord sovereign head" of the Church. Even many years subsequent to the official separation of the Church of England from the Church of Rome, Anglicanism remained thoroughly steeped in the tyrannical and despotic traditions of popery. In Rome, the pope was sovereign head of the Church; but in England, it was the monarchy. The "divine right of popes" was exchanged for the "divine right of kings."

All preaching and publishing was sanctioned by royal license. No religious license could be obtained without the public proclamation that the king was "lord sovereign head" of the Church. For those of Romish persuasion, there was no personal conflict in such an affirmation; but no Christian of Reformational faith could swear such an oath of assent. Many thousands of Presbyterian, Congregational, Baptist and Independent ministers were excommunicated, their churches locked, and they were ordered to preach and publish no more. Most defied the ban on unlicensed preaching, taking to their horses and preaching wherever they could find an audience. The era of the circuit-riding preacher was born!

Anglican Bishops routinely engaged in a campaign of terror against "Nonconformist" ministers. The most brutal and barbaric of men often received their Bishoprics as a direct result of their notorious and gruesome reputations. Such is the case of Bishop Paterson, inventor of the thumbscrews. Many a bishop actively engaged in inventing "machines of torture." If excruciating pain proved unsuccessful in compelling the "Dissenter" to recant of his "heresy," he would be shackled to a stake and burned alive. Few bishops showed any mercy, and this became their final, and most tormenting, of all punishments. Rather than setting light to combustibles which would engulf the victim in a roaring inferno and promptly dispatch them, the bishops would quite often select green wood. Many a bishop delighted in "slow-roasting" their victims.

It is, therefore, easy to understand why thousands of Nonconformist preachers fled to America's shores, and for a time at least, the Stuart monarchy* was glad to be rid of them. Few colonists shared the religious convictions of the British crown. For the most part, they were of the "Protesting faith." Many of the emigrant clergy had been convicted criminals, guilty of "preaching without a license" and "publishing without a license." Some had been "banished to the plantations." Others were fugitives of the law, having received subpoenas to appear before the king's Star Chamber, but fleeing rather than facing a heretic's trial. Some had even escaped from the king's prisons.

The Pilgrims arrived in 1620 to America to escape the shackles of the Church of England and it's head's lordship. They brought with them the Geneva Bible, and not the King James Bible. As noted earlier, both versions were corrupted from their purity with biased gnostic syncretism. The KJV was seen as the Bible of the English king and the state Church of England which had been persecuting them. This happened only for a short period of time, as the Anglican Communion had actually been established in the colonies beginning in 1607 with the establishment of Jamestown.

Kershaw continues:

But the arrival of thousands of unlicensed preachers in America did not spontaneously result in freedom of religion. While Protestants firmly adhered to a policy of the independence of the church from the State, Anglicans exerted their influence in an attempt to bring all American churches under the sway of the monarchy, and later, also under the parliament. In an effort to control religion, the British crown established hundreds of Anglican churches throughout the American Colonies. Through imposition of various "religious acts," the king sought a church monopoly. Unlicensed preaching and publishing was forbidden, and just as in England, the king declared himself "sovereign head" of America's churches. To America's Dissenting clergy, this was nothing short of blasphemy. It was in the unlicensed pulpits of America's Nonconformist churches that the phrase was coined, "No king but King Jesus!" It was also there that such patriotic phrases originated as "Live free or die!"

America's unlicensed clergy were typically among the most highly educated and brilliant men of their time. The Puritan world view held to the political philosophies of Locke, Milton, Sydney and Montesquieu. They abominated "pluralism," the view that one set of laws governs the church, while an entirely different law code governed the civil affairs of man. Only God is truly Sovereign, and the ruler that does not govern according to His Law's is not a ruler, but a usurper. As the Puritan's would say, "By his own tyranny, the king unthrones himself." They also abominated "Erastianism," the political philosophy that the civil ruler is supreme in authority over not only the the sphere of civil government, but also in the affairs of the church.

All clergy in America exercised an immense influence over public opinion, either for good, or for evil. The Anglican clergy were sent to our shores to convince the Colonists of the king's agenda.

The young candidates for the Anglican clergy were taught at Oxford that submission and obedience, clear, absolute, and without exception, was the badge and character of the Church of England. The Anglican clergy were compelled to read on the anniversary of the death of Charles I the Oxford homily "against disobedience and wilful rebellion,' or to preach a sermon against that sin.

Protestant preachers in America (and in England, for that matter) shared no such affections for the despot Charles, nor did they mourn his execution at the hand of Oliver Cromwell. Charles II, the "Supreme Governor of the Church," declared his father canonized among the "army of martyrs" and "saints," with the anniversary of his death solemnized, in the Anglican prayer book, a national holy-day of fasting. Not only was the reading of the Oxford homily compulsory for all ministers, but they were required to say a prayer for Charles I, and pronounce a benediction, "Let his memory, O Lord, be ever blessed among us." Many an unlicensed colonial preacher obeyed the letter of the law, but they did so with an air of solemn mockery, much to the delight of their congregations.

When you compare this blog with my recent blog posts it should be evident that the battle has been raging on for centuries over who will be lord or head over the "Christian" faith, man, or Jesus Christ. What doctrines of faith will be allowed to be taught? Man's through their corrupted, syncretized theology based translations, or the unadulterated, pure Word of God? See where the nonprofit 501c3 corporations fit in? I hope that it is becoming more evident that we have been bamboozled to believe lies mixed with truth. Plenty for you to chew on until next time.

https://www.reference.com/history/did-henry-viii-break-away-catholic-church-83929a640b7d87bd

https://www.gotquestions.org/39-Articles-42-Articles.html

https://christianityfaq.com/protestant-anglican-comparison/

https://www.encyclopedia.com/philosophy-and-religion/christianity/protestant-denominations/church-england

https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/church-of-england

https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/kjv_america/

https://scottishrite.org/about/history/

https://farnesius.wordpress.com/2018/11/21/the-interconnection-between-the-knights-templar-freemasonry-and-jesuits-and-illuminati/

http://hushmoney.org/DRK501c3.htm

Tithing Verses The NT Pattern Of Giving

Welcome back to this week's blog post! I hope you've had some time to search out what I shared with you last week. It is very important for you to grasp the deception and strong delusion and snare we've been entangled in, and to escape it!

Last blog I mentioned that I should do a study on the Scriptural pattern of giving as revealed by the Holy Spirit through the apostles concerning New Testament giving.

Without beating around the bush and instead making a spirited spring out of the gate, you will find that there is no biblical apostolic doctrine for tithing. The apostles didn't teach it. Scripture the NT Scriptures! Stop and do It now. It won't take you long, because you won't find a single verse that calls a Christian to tithe.

If there is not a single passage on Christian tithing then why is it a common and expected practice in "Christendom"?

The OT tithe was under the law (which we are not under - Gal. 3:19-24). A brief look at tithing will reveal the following:

Tithing was to be done only with what was grown, like wheat, barley, fruit, etc. and of cattle. If your employment was of other another type you did not tithe! This tithe was for the Levites because they were the only tribe not given land inheritance in the promised land (Lev. 27:30-33; Num.18:21-31).

Therefore, to equate it with today, only farmers would be required to tithe! If you work in healthcare, public education, industry, retail, transportation, etc. you wouldn't be required to tithe! If your congregation practices tithing, I'm sure they aren't requiring only those in the farming sector to tithe!

Next, a tithe of the aforementioned was to be kept for the people when celebrating the appointed feasts of the Lord. It is important to note that it that the tithe of the crops and cattle could be exchanged for money to make the journey to Jerusalem less burdensome. (Dt. 14:22-27) The reason I said to take note of this is because preachers will say that a reason you tithe with money today is because they didn't have money back then. The truth is they did, and this is the only exception when they were allowed to exchange the tithe for money. Even in the first century they tithed on what was grown (Mt. 23:23). Even Abraham had money before the law. (Ge. 17:12-13; 23, 27)

Lastly, the tithe, as aforementioned, brought in every third year was not only for the Levites, but also for the poor among them. (Dt. 14:28-29; 26:12-13) What does the "tithe" your "church" receives go to? If it goes to anything else, they are mishandling it! 

With the truth of tithing revealed above it should help you to understand a popular passage that is in the arsenal of every "tithe thumper" that is worth their salt to employ to induce guilt into the people to give. You may have guessed it already - Mal. 3:10. From what we have already learned, that if you do not have crops or herds you are not required to tithe. So in Malachi if you do not grow crops or raise herds you are not robbing God by not giving a tithe! Just think, if your preacher taught biblically, only the farming sector should be bringing their tithe into the storehouse for the Levites and the poor! If your preacher teaches otherwise they are wolves, scoundrels, criminals and wicked; fowlers who set a trap to catch people. They are FULL of deceit and prosper and enrich themselves off the people (Jer. 5:25-28). Trampling and crushing them (Amos 8:4; Is. 3:15). They are fleecing the flock! (Mic. 3:1-3) They are greedy dogs that look to make their living robbing God's people (Is. 56:11; Jn. 10:10). Such people will not inherit the kingdom of God! (Rev. 22:15)

Furthermore, some will point to Abraham as giving a tithe before the law to justify that tithing of all your income is to be practiced. However, the account they are referring to is Genesis chapter 14, when Sodom and Gomorrah was led captive by opposing kings and took Abraham's nephew Lot and his family as well. Therefore Abraham set out with 318 of his servants and overtook the opposing armies and delivered Sodom and Gomorrah and Lot. Afterwards, Abraham gave a tithe of the spoils to the king of Salem, the priest of the most high God. To be noted, it was a tithe of the spoils from battle and the remainder of the spoils he gave back to the king of Sodom, so the king could not say that he made Abraham rich. Therefore of what Abraham tithed he kept none of it! If your preacher is consistent, then in today's vernacular, after we have received our wages from battle, or employment, after giving a tithe to the Lord, we are then to give the remainder back to our employer, so it cannot be said that our employer made us rich! I'm positive no preacher that advocates tithing has taught this!

These preachers, the greedy dogs that they are, are of the many who corrupt the word of God, or as Tyndale translated it, "chop and change the Word of God." They cannot be trusted! We are to withdraw and depart from them! (1 Tim. 6:5; 2 Tim. 4:4)

I think I have shown what biblical tithing is and how it differs from what is promoted from most pulpits today. Therefore, I will move on to see what the apostolic doctrine of giving is in the NT. 

If we look in the book of Acts and the history of our faith, we note that right at it's inception that they "had all things in common and sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all men, as every one had need." (Acts 2:44-45)

We see this pattern continues a little later in Acts 4:34-37, though here they bring the money to the feet of the apostles. 

In Acts 6:1 We see that there was a daily distribution to the widows. Ministering to the poor, fatherless and widows derived from the law (Dt. 26:12) and was taught in the OT, before the law (Job 31:16), and afterwards (Is. 1:17; Ez. 22:7; Mal. 3:5). It was the practice of apostolic doctrine as well (Jam. 1:27; 1 Tim. 5:1-16; Gal. 2:10; Jam. 2:15-16). 

Therefore, selling your own property (which everything we have received comes from God - Jn. 3:27), and giving it to those in need is expected (Rom. 12:13; 15:26; 2 Cor. 8:2, 4). In fact, we are to work, not so we can consume it upon our lusts, but rather "that we may have to give to them that has need." (Eph. 4:28; Ac. 20:34; 2 Cor. 8:14-15) 

Jesus talked about how we are to be content with the basic necessities of life (Lk. 12:23). He certainly didn't teach the pursuit of the "American dream" filled full of worldliness, which He and His apostles told us to separate ourselves from (Jn. 15:18-19; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; Gal. 6:14; 1 Tim. 6:1-11; 1 Jn. 2:15-17). John the Baptist taught it (Lk. 3:14). The apostles also taught contentment as they had received from the Lord and practiced it (1 Tim. 6:6, 8; Php. 4:11-12; Heb. 13:5), which is a far cry from the false doctrine the preachers teach their disciples to practice today. Paul taught against the ideology of the "American dream," saying that the desire to gain earthly wealth and pleasure is the root of all evil (1 Tim. 6:10). Such greedy desire, avarice, covetousness, is idolatry (Col. 3:5) Sadly, the English in 1 Timothy 6:10 translates the Greek word "philarguria" as money, rather than avarice which gives the true mean as I shared above. 

If we are Christ's (Gal. 5:24; Php. 2:21), we have His mind (1 Cor. 2:16; Php. 2:5) and are imitate His ways (Eph. 5:2; Mt. 5:48; Lk. 6:35-36; 1 P. 1:15-16; 1 Jn. 4:11) then why do "Christians" engage themselves like unbelievers entangling themselves in hot pursuit of gaining earthly wealth and pleasures according to the flesh and not living according to the Spirit as apostolic doctrine teaches?  (Gal. 5:16-26) 

Jesus told us to lend, hoping for nothing in return (Lk. 6:35; 14:12-14). That doing good to others, is as if we are doing it directly towards Him (Mt. 25:34-40). His apostles also followed suit (Gal. 6:10; 1 Tim. 6:18; Jam. 2:15-16; 1 Jn. 3:17-18) Remember Jesus' words, "it's more blessed to give than to receive." (Ac. 20:35) Are you more happy to receive than to give? This is not the mind of Christ! Examine yourself honestly (1 Cor. 11:28, 31-32; 2 Cor. 13:5)

The apostle's doctrine also instructs us to give to those that teach us the spiritual truth of God's Word (Rom. 15:27; 1 Cor. 9:9-12; Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; Heb. 13:16). Though we see that the believers gave to meet these teachers need primarily (Php. 4:14-18; Ac. 20:33-35; ). Even as I have shown earlier. Jesus said, "that the foxes have holes and the birds have nests, but He had no where to lay His head." (Mt. 8:20) Paul taught that "having food and clothes we should be content." (1 Tim. 6:8) This is a blow below the belt to the worldly Christian establishment and their "American dream", syncretized doctrine, which is more in line with the greedy religious doctrine of the scribes and Pharisees that Jesus rebuked (Lk. 16:13-15). It's not much different today among our religious institutions. Neither John The Baptist, nor Jesus, nor any of the apostles had worldly wealth, but rather practiced what they taught, giving away that which was not a true, basic life necessity. Much that an American Christian has far exceeds basic necessities. Examine what God's Word identifies as necessities and compare it with our worldly culture's ideologies of necessities.

Think back about my recent blog posts on the whoredom played with the government's nonprofit corporation tax exempt status the religious establishment has corrupted herself with. This blog post should continue to open your understanding that what you believe and practice on these topics is not Scriptural.

Some other things which are related that I encourage you to search out are the origins of clergy and laity; salaries and retirement for ministers (sounds and looks very worldly), which you will find to be unbiblical. First, start with NT Scriptures. Let me give you a head start. As seen in our study today, neither the apostles or other NT teachers received salaries and benefit packages. The only time they "retired" from "the ministry" was at their death! Also, 1 Corinthians chapter 12 is a good place to start your search on clergy/laity. It shows we are all one. Christ's Body is not divided! (1 Cor. 1:13) A kingdom or house divided against itself cannot stand! (Mt. 12:25)

Again the worldly ideology of the "American dream" has crept in among God's people by men of corrupt minds, destitute of the truth thinking that worldly gain is godliness. That we are to withdraw from such (1 Tim. 6:1-5). Paul also said they only have a resemblance of godliness, but they reject and refuse such virtue and nature. To depart from them! They are always learning but never come to the knowledge of the truth (possibly because the love of the truth is not in them 2 Th. 2:12). They set themselves against the truth because they are of corrupt minds, and unfit and worthless concerning the faith (2 Tim. 3:5-8).

The pattern of apostolic NT giving looks night and day different for what is taught and practiced in mainstream Christianity today. Search the Scriptures and see if your congregation practices giving and it's distribution of what is given in a Biblical manner, or after the manner of men who distort and twist the Scriptures to deceive the simple minded. Just think, if they so easily manipulate the Scriptures to make this an expected rite as being a member of the institution, what else have they twisted and distorted to lead you astray from the truth of God's Word? You better be digging into the Scriptures to learn the truth! If you aren't obeying God's Word how do you expect to hear, "well done thou good and faithful servant"? (Mt. 25:21)

The Dilemma?

 "How can one who pursues the corruptible things of the world and thinks that from these things he can comprehend the truth of divine nature not become a fool as he makes use of the artifices of sophistry?" Six Days of Creation 1.3.9. - Ambrose

They ·traded [exchanged] the truth of God for ·a lie and worshiped and served ·the creation [or the creature; or created things] instead of the Creator, who ·should be praised [or is blessed] forever. Amen.  . - Rom. 1:25

I'll begin this blog with a dilemma that John, a professor of theology and culture I'm acquainted with shared yesterday. He helps to train ministers and prepare them for ministry; not in the USA alone, but especially in Europe and Africa.

His story of the dilemma facing believers in Rwanda should help open your eyes on the deceit and dangers of the state and going to them for their nonprofit tax exemptions and privileges which include licensing, as I've been warning the past couple of blog posts as well as over the years.

Last week I mentioned how a 501c3 nonprofit tax exempt corporation is by law an artificial, fictitious person, a legal entity. Also that a 501c3 derives it's existence and all of it's powers, and privileges from it's sovereign, the state, who grants it's existence upon compliance with specified conditions. 

We know that man was created in the image of God and was granted certain "unalienable rights" that are protected by the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights. Our Founding Fathers totally understood that the "Church" is under the sovereign and sole jurisdiction of the Lord Jesus Christ and that civil authorities should not dare attempt to encroach upon that authority. It was so important to clarify and authenticate their respect for the "Church," the very first sentence of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution reads:

"Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..."

"...or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black stated, "The establishment clause of the First Amendment means at least this: Neither the State nor the Federal Government can set up a church." - Emerson vs. Board of Education, 1947. (Church In Chains, pgs 35-36).

Remember that the "church" of the Lord Jesus Christ is tax immune. Why would anyone of a sound mind choose to go to the government and submit to them and their policies and regulations to form a tax exempted corporation? Where do we see Paul using this approach in the book of Acts? 

It's also good that I remind you what an "accredited" minister is. In order to be an "accredited" or "licensed" minister, one obviously needs to attend an "accredited" religious institution of instruction. Accreditation provides further assurance that certain programs adequately prepare students for "licensure" requirements. Such an institution has the government's stamp of approval. "Accredited" or "licensed" ministers are responsible for conducting the worship ceremonies in Christian congregations. Such individuals are typically recognized by the state as being qualified to carry out marriages, baptisms, funerals, and other rituals that may have legal implications as well as religious significance. I'm sure you've heard ministers say at a wedding, "by the power granted to me by God and the state of..." Without such state licensing a minister has no authority to grant a marriage union that the state will accept. Therefore a "licensed" minister is a state emissary. Little wonder many ministers today are covid vaccine emissaries spouting the state's "politically correct" mantra. Remember, you can't serve two masters (Mt. 6:24) Jesus said, "If you are not with Me you are against Me." (Mt. 12:30) Who are you serving? Christ or the state? You cannot serve both! (Dt. 11:16) 

With this backdrop, it should help you with the current dilemma in Rwanda. [NOTE, in the following all italicized comments in the brackets are mine.]

This is just unbearable.

Many of you know, I started a school in Rwanda which, due to government mandates on churches and theological schools, was forced to close. To even petition the government to open legally, a school must have large amounts of land, a full raft of Ph.Ds., complete buildings, all staff, computer rooms, library, and more. Obviously, the government knows this is nearly impossible, which makes this an empty gesture.

For pastors, they must have “accredited” BA degrees. If they do not, they must leave the pastorate. But most can’t afford such education.

When we tried to negotiate with the government to be an extension school, we were told the only way our degrees could be recognized was that we had to build or buy a campus in Rwanda, align all teaching with government curriculum, in essence, have everything an actual school would have, then I must return to America, students must gather at the campus, and I must teach the classes we already taught for 4 years at the new campus, via distance learning. Does no one in Rwanda understand that the purpose of online education is to avoid a campus?

Now that the 4-year “grace period” for pastors to get an accredited degree is closing, the government has stepped in, removed about 3000 pastors and replaced them with school teachers, etc., with no theological training at all. What improvement is that? And it only goes to show the real motive. [Ah! What could the god of this world, Satan's, motives be? He is a liar and a deceiver. (Jn. 8:44; Rev. 12:9) A master of division and chaos. (Jam. 3:14-15;) A kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation (Mt. 12:25)].

Here’s the note I received from one former student, and I have verified this.

“The problem is that, Rwanda Government Board in charge of religions has suspended all the pastors in our Church (more than 3000 pastors) and has hired others who have never done theology except for a secular diploma, thus the Executive Committee, the Board of directors, [Do these sound biblical or worldly to you? Hmm] the provincial pastors, the parishioners are in the street today, those who are 60 are retired [Where does "retiring from the ministry" come from? The Bible or the world? Certainly not the Bible!], the others are volunteer pastors in the churches. This is how the signs of Jesus' return are visible.”

Few are more aware of the abuses happening in third world churches than this writer. However, what governments like this fail to see is that the Body of Christ is not under the jurisdictional authority of the state. [No. What the Body of Christ fails to see is that it is not to submit itself to the state's jurisdictional authority by seeking to be under the state's jurisdictional authority through a section 501c3 tax exempt status and all the privileges granted to them for doing so. If the Body of Christ doesn't seek the state's privileges, then the state would have no authority over them.]

Church buildings, etc., must follow building codes, etc. and the state has an obvious role there. But to dictate church governance, training, to decide what is a “cult,” is out of line.

NT writers faced the same, exact, and I mean exact, problems. But they didn’t ask Caesar to step in. [Exactly! They didn't go to Caesar to be their sovereign. They knew that Jesus, our Sovereign's kingdom is not of this world with it's methods, practices and contracts] They wrote better theology, trained men properly (without government accreditation!), [Bingo! Yet, today in the USA, every minister is "accredited" to be an agent of the state, through an "accredited" nonprofit religious institution that was granted it's existence by it's sovereign, the state] warned people of wolves out for money, and more. Everything was handled according to the authority Christ established in His churches.

The church of Rwanda is now under the control of a sovereign state [So are most in the USA, because they, in their ignorance, have submitted the affairs of Christ to another head or sovereign by becoming a 501c3 nonprofit corporation]. So, the government will be the watchdog for corruption in the churches? Who is watching the watchdog? [Exactly! Why did you reject Christ as your Sovereign and Chief Shepard for a worldly government ruled by worldly methods as your sovereign and watchdog?]  No, we have never heard of corruption in African governments, have we?

Pardon the long diatribe. I can write a lot more.

Be blessed.

Oh the heartache when one puts themselves under the jurisdictional authority of the state, especially when they weren't under it to begin with, but sought them out to receive their privileges to make money! 

In comparison, in China, there are five government-sanctioned [approved, registered] religions – Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism – and a government-affiliated association monitors and supervises the activities of each of these faiths. Only state-sanctioned [approved, registered] churches in China are allowed to distribute Bibles.

Protestant churches are required to register and operate under the government's China Christian Council (CCC), the umbrella organization that monitors Protestant churches in China together with the Three-Self Patriotic Movement.

Many Protestant Christians [the underground "church", which ironically the state-sanctioned "churches" in the USA pray for and give money to], however, refuse to work with the CCC/TSPM, arguing that God is the head of the church and not the government. Surely the state-sanctioned, approved, nonprofit "churches" need to heed Paul's words: "Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. (Eph. 5:14-17) https://www.christianpost.com/news/china-s-gov-t-approved-church-reaches-out-to-house-churches.html

Looking back to the 16th and 17th century in England we see the battle between the Protestants and Puratins verses the Church of England, a.k.a, the Anglican Communnion or Church. Of the Church of England it was noted that it "has none of the marks of a true church" and that "it was a state church from that beginning." (Baptist Succession, p. 364) Also, that "the Church of England, indeed, is manifestly a secular kingdom. For it is established by human laws, and acknowledges a political head." (Defense of the Baptists, p. 174) It is this very state church and it's political head that brought the Pilgrims to Plynoth Rock to escape the bondage of that worldly system to worship God in spirit and in truth. 

Any intimate association with people of the world will eventually destroy the separateness and holiness of God's people. Notice again what it means to be state approved - "to register and operate under the government". Yes, that is what it means to be a nonprofit organization. The state owns you, not Christ! You are in bondage and servitude to the worldly state instead of Jesus Christ. Let that sink in for a moment. 

I'm sure you are familiar with Jacob and Esau. In Genesis 25 verses 29 and following is the story of Esau despising his birthright for temporary benefit. In similar fashion, those who have succumbed to the government for the tax exempt benefits are no different than Esau. They have given up their eternal inheritance for temporary benefits. What did God say of Esau? That He hated him (Rom. 9:13). Hebrews 12:15-17 gives more details on Esau's condition. Calls him a fornicator, which often in Scripture refers to spiritual fornication against God. It also calls Esau a profane person. In other words, unhallowed, or ungodly. Not hard to see how "Christians" who have prostituted themselves to the government for temporary earthly gains, can be likened unto Esau. As Peter said, they are blind, being short-sighted (2 P. 1:9). Again in Hebrews 12 they were told to be diligent that they would not fail to receive God's grace like Esau did. If you have rejected your eternal birthright in Christ for the covering of the government to receive temporary earthly privileges, do you honestly think God loves you when He hated Esau who despised his birthright, whom Scripture calls a spiritual fornicator and ungodly person? Are you likewise short-sighted like others who have given themselves over to the state for nonprofit corporation privileges and benefits? As the Lord sent out His messengers to warn His people who had gone astray to repent and return to Him (2 Chr. 36:15-16), Even so He chastises you and calls you to repentance because He loves you (Heb. 12:6; Rev. 3:19). Yet if you refuse. He will vomit you out of His mouth! (Rev. 3:16)

With all these things in mind let's turn to Scripture to learn from it's examples. (1 Cor. 10:11; 2 Tim. 3:16-17)

In Ezra 4:1-6, the enemies of Judah claimed to worship and sacrifice to the Lord as they did. However they retained their own gods as well and did not accept the written Word of God as the fundamental authority for His people. This is syncretism - a union of different or opposing principles, practices, or parties, as in politics or religion. A congregation that goes to a state sovereign to grant them a right to exist, they hand over their identity in Christ, their Creator, to identify with their new creator and sovereign, the state. 

Scripture warns that Satan will seek to distort God's message and bring spiritual ruin to God's holy people through offers of cooperation from false believers who are not loyal to God's revealed Word.

In 2 Kings chapter 17 The Israelites served the gods of other societies around them, thinking that they would provide a better life, such as greater prosperity, fertility, health, pleasure, well-being, contentment, and security. Therefore they adopted the customs and lifestyles of the world. 

For this reason Paul calls greed idolatry (Col. 3:5). Jesus Himself states that the pursuit of prosperity and wealth as a major goal in life is incompatible with serving Him. (Mt. 6:24; Eph. 5:5)

Israel too eagerly accepted the lifestyles and standards of those who were not God's people. Although separation from the nations was one of God's fundamental requirements, they adopted worldly customs from the surrounding nations. Conforming to the world's way of living and doing business is one of the greatest dangers that God's people always face. 

In Luke 16:1-15, the point of Jesus' illustration is that the worldly are earthly-minded enough to promote their own interest and welfare. Note that all the characters in this parable are unjust, unscrupulous, and corrupt.

As the Pharisees in their self-righteousness, regarded riches as a blessing from God for their faithful observance of the law, so do those of Caesar's nonprofit "churches" view their prosperity, their buildings, programs, multitudes, etc as a blessing from God for their faithfulness to Him, ignorantly forgetting the god of this world, whom they serve, has provided this worldly prosperity and security for them. (Lk. 4:5-8) 

 5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

 6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.

 7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.

 8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Are you only serving God, or your sovereign state? By whose authority are you governed? You can only serve one as Joshua charged the Israelites before his death:

 14 Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.

 15 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. - Jos. 24:14-15

Remember, you cannot serve God and mammon. (Mt. 6:24)  Are you like the toes in Nebuchadnezzar's dream that  were "iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay?" (Dan. 2:43) That image alone should help you see the futility of being mixed, or mingled with the world.

 

Amos 3:3 enlightens us that two cannot walk together except they are in agreement. In other words, two cannot have continual union, communion, fellowship, or partnership unless they are in agreement. Thus, the agreement with Caesar, the government, through their nonprofit tax exempt status. Also remember that God's assembly is already tax immune. There's no reason to submit to the state except that it be for worldly gains!

Jesus rejected this temptation because He knew His kingdom is not of this world (Jn. 18:36-37). He refused to seek a kingdom for Himself by the worldly methods of compromise with the world and it's earthly power and prestige, or pandering according to it's political maneuvering, designs, methods or blueprints, and worldly popularity, honor and glory. We are not to be ignorant of the devil's schemes. (2 Cor. 2:11)

Speaking of ignorance, doesn't your "church" give you paperwork at the beginning of the year for tax purposes to show your sovereign, the state, how faithful you were in paying taxes to a local state entity ("church")? Whatever happened to, "But when thou doest alms (charity), let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms (charity) may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly." (Mt. 6:3-4) Your "extra" on your tax return for charitable deeds from your sovereign, the state, will be your only reward (Mt. 6:1-2)

I also like what former IRS commissioner Roscoe Edgar said:

"The IRS for many years has had the right to examine church records, because churches have been collecting taxes for many years for the government; the churches therefore hold in trust that which belongs to the government. We have a right to examine church records to see if the churches are handling funds properly."

Well, how about that! I am quite sure the former commissioner knows what he's talking about. So, if your sovereign is the state, what Roscoe Edgar said makes perfect sense. You are no longer governed by Christ as Head, but rather by the state as your head. The Rwanda dilemma should be making more sense by now. That also reminds me of something else. Why is it that so many "church" buildings are used for government elections? Could it be that they have a license from the government to conduct business? Hmm.

Either Christ is covering you as your Head, or the state is. Again, the Body of Christ doesn't have two heads! Yet alas, if you sought out the state to grant you existence in compliance with specified conditions according to the section 501c3 tax codes to obtain it's privileges, then you have set up another sovereign over you than Christ. Don't be deceived! It's not God's will. You have rebelled against Him! "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly..." (Ps. 1:1)

1 Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin:

 2 That walk to go down into Egypt [a type of the world], and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! - Is. 30:1-2

 4 They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew it not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off. - Hos. 8:4

Idolatry may seem like a sin that modern people need not worry about. But idolatry means more than bowing down to idols; it is trusting and relying on anything other than God. It is counting on your own power or someone else's to make your way. You are not depending on your Creator God but rather on something that was created, temporal and changeable. If we say we worship and serve God but put our trust in bank accounts, political leaders, the state, homes, businesses, or organizations, then we serve idols. Do you trust God more than you trust what human hands have made? (LASB)

Last week we saw that friendship, or partnership with the world is hostility towards God (Jam. 4:4). Carnal thoughts and purposes lead to death. Why? Because it is hostile towards God. In fact, such a one can not please God. Whereas spiritual thoughts and purposes lead to life and peace. (Rom. 8:5-8) Enoch walked with God (Gen. 5:24) and had a testimony that he pleased God (Heb, 11:5). Can two walk together except they be agreed? Who are you walking with? Either you wholly follow God (Jos. 14:8, 9, 14) or you don't. You can only serve one!

Have you built your foundation on the apostles and prophets or on the methods, and precepts of man? Or have you mixed them together as a 501c3? Are you like the Israelites who had entered into a close relationship with unbelievers, adopting many of their ways; and as a result they became as worthless as a half-baked bread? (Hos. 7:8) We must not enter into a partnership with the world, for we will adopt their ways and attitudes and identity, thereby turning to sin and away from God. 

Peter (in 2 P. 2:1-3) told us to beware of false teachers who would craftily smuggle among them eternally destructive (vs. 1-3; 3:7, 16) teachings that deviate from the truth of God's Word, causing the renouncing and rejecting of their Sovereign Lord (their Head) Who bought them with His own blood (Ac. 20:28), bringing upon themselves swift judgment and unfortunately many would follow after their destructive ways. Therefore the world mocks and scoffs Christ because of these Christians who do not follow the Sovereign Lord they claim.

In essence, these people will profess to be Christians but deny Christ’s Sovereignty and Lordship over their lives, refusing to live as obedient servants to Christ and His Word, choosing rather to follow the lusts of the world and it's god, the devil, by joining and selling themselves to another sovereign head, the state, for financial gain in the form of a nonprofit corporation. Don't be fooled. Denying the Sovereignty and Lordship of Christ while claiming to be His "church", doesn't make it true. Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE. (Jn. 14:6) If you have denied Him as Head, you have also denied the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE.

Peter said that it is by means of covetousness (which is idolatry -Col. 3:5) that they will make gain of you. Seeking out worldly benefits and privileges through the state's tax exempt status and conforming itself according to it's worldly organization and functions would be considered covetousness. 

Just because something is popular or commonly promoted and accepted in the Christian arena doesn't mean that it's according to truth as revealed in God's Word.

Before you drop another penny into the "offering plate", evaluate it carefully. As shown earlier, you are only giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar - taxes. Where do you see this nonprofit tax exempt corporation practiced or even hinted at in the Scriptures? Remember, God never changes! (Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8; Jam. 1:17) If it's not in the Bible, it's not of God, but rather a creation of man! Be a noble Berean (Ac. 17:11). Search the Scriptures diligently that you may show yourself worthy of God, correctly and accurately allocating and apportioning and dividing the Word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15), and see if you can find anything about His congregation functioning as a tax exempt corporation. You need to be honest with yourself before God, as you lone will have to answer to Him. Where is the Scriptural backing behind your serving a sovereign state head for earthly benefits and privileges? The apostles didn't do this to promote the gospel? Therefore how can you be abiding in the apostle's teachings if you have rejected them to practice the world's ways of doing business?  While you're searching the Scriptures on this, it wouldn't hurt to search giving as taught and practiced by the apostles in the NT. More than likely you have been deceived by your teachers who are making gain of you. Also the tithe was given to support the Levitical priesthood (Num. 18:21, etc). None of the tithe went to build or maintain the tabernacle or temple. Free will giving did this (Ex. 36:1-6; 2 Chr. 24:1-11, etc). Therefore, if your congregation practices tithing and it's goes to anyone or anything (like paying property bills, property upkeep, etc), other than those in the Lord's service, it is unscriptural; a corrupt teaching of man and not in obedience to the Word of God! Be diligent and search the Scriptures! Come out of the pseudo-Christian system! I should probably write some blogs on this soon.

I've tried to reveal in a different light how a congregation's partnership with the state through a tax exempt nonprofit is like iron mixed with clay; like oil and water; like light and darkness; like righteousness with unrighteousness; like bitter and sweet; or like good and evil. God's kingdom and Satan's kingdom do not mix. Either you are in one or the other. Either Jesus is your Sovereign, or Satan, the god of this world is your sovereign. You can not have more than one head as Alan Smith's piece below shows.

On a hotel-provided shower cap in a box: “Fits one head.”

Some of those warning labels conjure up some humorous images. Like the last one -- can you imagine trying to fit a shower cap onto two heads at once? Ridiculous, huh?

Almost as ridiculous as taking the body of Christ and suggesting it has more than one head. There is one body (Eph. 4:4), and it has only one head. Fortunately, that head is no earthly person or group of people. It is none other than the Son of God himself.

Talk about hitting the nail on the head! Either your Head is Christ, or you've rejected Him and played the harlot, and have made a person, or group of people, the state, your head. Remember Rwanda? Sound like you? If so, what are you going to do? Think Rwanda couldn't happen here? Think again! Babylon in the OT didn't see their destruction (Dan. 5), neither will the Great Whore, Mystery Babylon (Rev. 17 & 18) see theirs.

Do you consider it a lite thing to make an alliance with the state to receive their nonprofit privileges? The same state that does wickedly in the shedding of innocent blood through abortion. The same state that does wickedly in condoning and promoting and approving same sex marriages and furthering the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. John the Baptist reproved king Herod for his incest and was put in prison. (Mt. 14) John exposed sin in the government like we are supposed to do (Eph. 5:11). John didn't hop in bed with Herod through some wicked alliance, but continued to separate himself unto God and remain pure. 

God through His prophet Jehu castigated Jehoshaphat because of his imprudent and incongruous league with wicked Israel and their king Ahab as an unholy alliance that would be conducive neither to the honor and comfort of his house nor to the best interests of his kingdom. Therefore God's wrath was upon him. (2 Chr. 19-20) God does not change (Mal. 3:6; Jam. 1:17). Do you honestly think that the Lord is pleased with your unholy alliance with the wicked state for financial privileges? What do you think nonprofit tax exemption benefits are about?

Remember, God is putting you to the test to see whether you love Him with all of your heart, or whether you be reprobate (Dt. 13; Jer. 6:30; Rom. 1:28; 2 Tim. 3:8; Tit. 1:16). Have you left your first love, though you remain zealous for truth? If so, repent, and do the first works; or else He will come quickly, and will extinguish your light. (Rev. 2:1-7)

As the saying goes: "Most people don't really want the truth. They just want constant reassurance that what they believe is truth." It is high time to come out so that you do not partake of the wrath of God that is to come because of their sins! (Gen. 19:12-17; Num. 16:26-27; 2 Chr. 19:2; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; Rev. 18:4-5)