Category Archives: God’s Judgment

Who’s The Children’s Sermon For??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 03

12 Sunday Jun 2022

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, God's Judgment, God's love, God's measure isn't ours, God's Wisdom, Godly Wisdom, NOT the world's wisdom, Wisdom

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 03 Who’s The Children’s Sermon For?

“For when for the time ye ought to be teachers,

ye have need that one teach you again

which be the first principles

of the oracles of God;

and are become such

as have need of milk,

and not of strong meat.

13 For every one that useth milk

is unskilful in the word of righteousness:

for he is a babe.

14 But strong meat

belongeth to them that are of full age,

even those who by reason of use

have their senses exercised

to discern both good and evil.

6:1 Therefore leaving the principles

of the doctrine of Christ,

let us go on unto perfection;

not laying again the foundation

of repentance from dead works,

and of faith toward God,

2 Of the doctrine of baptisms,

and of laying on of hands,

and of resurrection of the dead,

and of eternal judgment.”  Hebrews 5:12-6:2

The author of Hebrews was dealing with a group of believers who, to paraphrase some of the verses above, were needing the “children’s sermon” rather that the full, meaty, sermon; and I am convinced that we have churches full of “children’s sermon” believers— “unskilled in the word of righteousness (the Bible)….a babe” — rather than those who are, “of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil”!  The thing I’d like us to consider today is, which one are you and I?  Are you ready for steak?  Or are you still drinking milk?

Are you/I one of those who are skilled in using the Word of God, or are we “unskilled…babes”?  Are we so distracted and focused on self and the things of this world that we have not “done our homework” in knowing God through HIS WORD.  It is vital to our spiritual wellbeing to know God and His Word; that we will be able to discern between that which is good and that which is evil—not good!

“Give therefore thy servant

an understanding heart

to judge thy people,

that I may discern

between good and bad:

for who is able to judge

this thy so great a people?”  1 Kings 3:9

King Solomon pleased God with his request for wisdom, a request that he made on more than one occasion; and yet we forget that without God’s provision, our wisdom is of very little value.  Paul gives us some great insight into this need for wisdom, and wisdom is almost always grounded in The Word of God!

“For our rejoicing is this,

the testimony of our conscience,

that in simplicity

and godly sincerity,

not with fleshly wisdom,

but by the grace of God,

we have had our conversation

in the world,

and more abundantly

to you-ward.”  2 Corinthians 1:12

 It is important and interesting to note that this is not the first time that Paul had approached this subject of wisdom to the Corinthian believers; so, they should have been aware of Paul’s opinion regarding wisdom.  We can settle for the world’s wisdom, or we can pursue God’s holiness, wisdom, and grace (in HIS WORD) which are the only things that will help us “discern between good and bad”!  And oh, how our world needs followers of Jesus who are truly committed to the pursuit of spiritual maturity and excellence (and I know this is a lengthy passage, but I think it gives great insight into the Hebrews passage above), so let’s dig in!

“And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.

2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.

3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:

7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:

8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.”  1 Corinthians 2:1-15

Let’s see what we can discern from Paul’s message to these believers in Corinth.

Paul gives all the credit of his “success” among the people of Corinth to the ‘cross’ and “the crucified Christ”!

Then, in verse 4 he attributes all the glory to the “spirit and power of God” rather than the “wisdom” of man!  Oh, how our culture is impressed with the wisdom of men; sadly that “admiration” has bled over into the church—where it never belongs!  Because our faith must reside IN JESUS not any wisdom of man.

Verses 7-8 are so packed full of truth, and sadly, truth that is often ignored or negated by men.

“But we speak the wisdom of God

in a mystery,

even the hidden wisdom,

which God ordained

before the world

unto our glory:

8 Which none of the princes of this world

knew:

for had they known it,

they would not have crucified

the Lord of glory.”

In other words, if men were so “wise” they would have seen and believed the truth that Jesus was, is and ever shall be The Son of God!  But they missed it, even as most do today.  And then, for those of you who aren’t familiar with it, one of the verses that is often quoted out of this context.

“But as it is written,

Eye hath not seen,

nor ear heard,

neither have entered into the heart

of man,

the things which God hath prepared for them

that love him.”

Then Paul goes on to be sure that we understand that we can only know these “things” by the revealing of the Holy Spirit to those who are God’s own, and verse 13 says it so concisely:

“Which things also we speak,

not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth,

but which the Holy Ghost teacheth;

comparing spiritual things with spiritual.”

Paul sums it up nicely when he reminds us that the things of God are revealed to us by the Holy Spirit, who indwells each born-again believer; reminding us that our dependence is to be on the Holy Spirit’s direction, grace, and wisdom, not the wisdom of man!  We are to grow into mature believers by pursuing the wisdom, holiness, and grace of God rather than the justification and wisdom of man/the world!

But as Peter told us in the book of Acts, God KNEW what men would do, and HE had already set “in stone”, if you would, the plan of salvation that would be accomplished in the blood of Jesus, The One who would lay down HIS life for you and me, for all who will repent of their sin, and believe and receive this ‘gift of God’!

“Ye men of Israel, hear these words;

Jesus of Nazareth,

a man approved of God among you

by miracles

and wonders

and signs,

which God did by him

in the midst of you,

as ye yourselves also know:

23 Him, being delivered

by the determinate counsel

and foreknowledge of God,

ye have taken,

and by wicked hands

have crucified and slain:

24 Whom God hath raised up,

having loosed the pains of death:

because it was not possible

that he should be holden of it.” Acts 2:22-24

So, my friends, the question is, will you tune in to God’s wisdom and be transformed by “the renewing of your mind” (see Romans 12:1-3) that we may “prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God”; rather than enjoying the ‘children’s sermon’! (Which is a great thing for children, but not for mature believers in and followers of Jesus!)!  Which group do you fall into?

“For all have sinned,

and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23

“For the wages of sin is death;

but the gift of God is eternal life

through Jesus Christ our Lord.”  Romans 6:23

All this because the plan of God was made in Jesus Christ our Lord!  God’s wisdom not man’s!

“For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.”  John 3:16

Amen and Amen!!!

When Is True NOT??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 02

01 Monday Nov 2021

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, God Is In Charge, God Knows, God Who Sees, God's Judgment, True Knowledge, Trusting God, Trusting Jesus, Truth, Truth is True, When Is True NOT?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 02   When Is True NOT???

 

“Wherefore by their fruits

ye shall know them.

21 Not every one that saith unto me,

Lord, Lord,

shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;

but he that doeth the will

of my Father

which is in heaven.

22 Many

will say to me in that day,

Lord, Lord,

have we not prophesied

in thy name?

and in thy name

have cast out devils?

and in thy name

done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them,

I never knew you:

depart from me,

ye that work iniquity.”  Matthew 7:20-23

In Blanche’s paraphrase, Jesus is clearly telling us that “saying so, doesn’t make it so”!  Many today (and notice that the many are “not” truly following Jesus but claim to be) are using the name of Jesus for a multitude of things that don’t line up with God’s Word.  THAT IS the test—God’s Word is the standard by which we must judge and discern all things—yet today “many” claim to have a “new” revelation, or a “new” word, or a “new” understanding that changes what God has said, in order to accommodate sin!  Yet God has set truth in order, and it cannot be changed by man!  Truth has a name!

“Jesus saith unto him,

I am the way,

the truth,

and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father,

but by me.”  John 14:6

The author of Hebrews makes it abundantly clear that this very Word of God—both the living Word, Jesus, and the written Word of God, the Bible—is, has been and ever will be the standard of truth, and every person will be held accountable to it.  What are you accepting as “true”?  Have you checked it out by The Word?

“For the word of God

is quick,

and powerful,

and sharper than any twoedged sword,

piercing even to the dividing asunder

of soul

and spirit,

and of the joints

 and marrow,

and is a discerner

of the thoughts

and intents

of the heart.

13 Neither is there any creature

that is not manifest

in his sight:

but all things

are naked

and opened

unto the eyes of him

with whom we have to do.”  Hebrews 4:12-13

All because Jesus came to earth, walked as a man, lived, and died for our sin, we can be “righteous” before our God and have the honor and privilege of coming into HIS presence for help and support every day, no matter the situation!  Have you run to HIM lately; or have you settled for the counsel of the world?

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest,

that is passed into the heavens,

Jesus the Son of God,

let us hold fast our profession.

15 For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched

with the feeling of our infirmities;

but was in all points

tempted like as we are,

yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly

unto the throne of grace,

that we may obtain mercy,

and find grace to help

in time of need.”  Hebrews 4:14-16

Oh, how grateful I am that Jesus is my source of strength, wisdom and understanding (for I have very little in myself—so I praise God for such a Savior…). He was “made sin”, so I could be “made” righteous with and before God.

“Therefore

 if any man be in Christ,

he is a new creature:

old things are passed away;

behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God,

who hath reconciled us to himself

by Jesus Christ,

and hath given to us the ministry

of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ,

reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses

unto them;

and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors

for Christ,

as though God did beseech you

by us:

we pray you in Christ’s stead,

be ye reconciled to God.

21 For he hath made him

to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made

the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:17-21

So, the next time you hear something that doesn’t seem to “set well” in your spirit, take it to God’s Word and check it out, and verify whether it is “true” or “NOT”, then order your steps accordingly, praying for God’s wisdom as you go to HIS throne of mercy for help!  He is always faithful to provide when we will but ask!

“Beloved,

believe not every spirit,

but try the spirits

whether they are of God:

because many false prophets

are gone out into the world.”   1 John 4:1

Jesus called them “wolves in sheep’s clothing”!  And I can’t help but believe that we are inundated with “wolves” today!

“Enter ye in at the strait gate:

for wide is the gate,

and broad is the way,

that leadeth to destruction,

and many there be

which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate,

and narrow is the way,

which leadeth unto life,

and few there be

that find it.

15 Beware of false prophets,

which come to you in sheep’s clothing,

but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

16 Ye shall know them

by their fruits…..”   Matthew 7:13-16a

Peter used the metaphor of “lions” rather than sheep, but his warning was the same, be aware of what you hear and see, and let God’s Word guide your steps, not the culture!

“Humble yourselves therefore

under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you

in due time:

7 Casting all your care

upon him;

for he careth for you.

8 Be sober,

be vigilant;

because your adversary the devil,

as a roaring lion,

walketh about,

seeking whom he may devour:

9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith,

knowing that the same afflictions

are accomplished in your brethren

that are in the world.

10 But the God of all grace,

who hath called us unto his eternal glory

by Christ Jesus,

after that ye have suffered a while,

make you perfect,

stablish,

strengthen,

settle you.

11 To him be glory

and dominion

for ever

and ever. Amen.”  1 Peter 5:

Notice the traits that Peter calls us to rely upon, traits of righteous character and humility before our God.  And ‘sober’ isn’t simply a reference to ‘outside substances that control us’, but a reference to our life of self-control—or even more accurately, “spirit control”!  Peter calls us to “God-control” by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in humility, dependence upon God’s care, self-controlled, vigilant (always on guard), and aware that we have an enemy whom we are to resist (and “he will flee”, see James 4:7), knowing that regardless of our circumstances, our God is ever faithful to the situation!  Oh, how true HE IS—we can depend on HIM—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—while doing our part!

“Rejoice in the Lord alway:

and again I say, Rejoice.

5 Let your moderation

be known unto all men.

The Lord is at hand.

6 Be careful for nothing;

but in every thing

by prayer

and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known

unto God.

7 And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts

and minds

through Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brethren,

whatsoever things are true,

whatsoever things are honest,

whatsoever things are just,

whatsoever things are pure,

whatsoever things are lovely,

whatsoever things are of good report;

if there be any virtue,

and if there be any praise,

think on these things.

9 Those things,

which ye have both

learned,

and received,

and heard,

and seen in me,

do:

and the God of peace

shall be with you.”   Philippians 4:4-9

‘Nuff said!

Amen and Amen!!!

Searchlight Of HIS WORD??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 24

04 Monday Oct 2021

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, God's Faithfulness, God's Judgment, God's measure isn't ours, God's ways are not our ways, The Things of God, The Word, The Word Or The World?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 24  Searchlight Of HIS WORD???

 

I would like to challenge us today to examine our lives in light of what God’s Word says we are to ‘be’ and ‘do’.  We are bombarded with so much conflicting information and choices, that it is imperative that we know what God says.  I am truly weary of misinformation which some proclaim to be God’s Word, and people just take it as truth; and while God’s Word is truth not everything that is attributed to God, or His Word is actually from God’s Word.  Please, understand that we MUST get into God’s Word for ourselves, so that we will KNOW what God has said for ourselves, only then can we truly judge our lives and behavior by God’s standard instead of the world’s!

“Search me,

O God,

and know

my heart:

try me,

and know my thoughts:

24 And see if there be any wicked way

in me,

and lead me

in the way everlasting.”  Psalm 139:23-24

We are to seek God’s favor not man’s, and the Psalmist knew that we must open ourselves up for God’s searchlight of truth; and while it is often (almost always) somewhat painful—it is always a work of God’s grace, love, and purification of His own, for our good and HIS glory!

“Hearken unto me,

ye that know righteousness,

the people

in whose heart is my law;

fear ye not

the reproach of men,

neither be ye afraid

of their revilings.”  Isaiah 51:7

Paul often shared the import of examining our own lives according to God’s Word and standard, may we heed his advice!

“Wherefore whosoever shall eat

this bread,

and drink

this cup of the Lord,

unworthily,

shall be guilty

of the body

and blood of the Lord.

28 But let a man examine himself,

and so let him eat of that bread,

and drink of that cup…

…. 31 For if we would judge ourselves,

we should not be judged.

32 But when we are judged,

we are chastened of the Lord,

that we should not be condemned

with the world.”  Portions of 1 Corinthians 11:27-32

Hebrews gives us one of the clearest messages about how God views our life choice, and how urgent it is that we don’t fail to receive truth and obey it, for God will act and discipline His own, for their good and HIS glory!  I encourage us to ponder the truths contained in this message!

“And ye have forgotten

the exhortation which speaketh unto you

as unto children,

My son,

despise not thou the chastening

of the Lord,

nor faint when thou art rebuked

of him:

6 For whom the Lord loveth

he chasteneth,

and scourgeth

every son whom he receiveth.

7 If ye endure chastening,

God dealeth with you as with sons;

for what son is he

whom the father chasteneth not?

8 But if ye be without chastisement,

whereof all are partakers,

then are ye bastards,

and not sons.

9 Furthermore

we have had fathers of our flesh

which corrected us,

and we gave them reverence:

shall we not much rather

be in subjection unto the Father of spirits,

and live?

10 For they verily for a few days

chastened us

after their own pleasure;

but he for our profit,

that we might be partakers

of his holiness.

11 Now no chastening for the present

seemeth to be joyous,

but grievous:

nevertheless afterward

it yieldeth the peaceable fruit

of righteousness

 unto them which are exercised

thereby.”   Hebrews 12:5-11

Not a passage that we hear very often, but it is God’s Word and we need to not only heed it, but also take note of what God is doing in our lives—especially when HE is correcting us (even if we say ‘ouch’!).  And just FYI, the words in this passage from Hebrews 12, ‘chasten’ and ‘chastise’, are forms of a word that means “child training”, which includes all those lessons that are necessary to help a child learn and grow to maturity!  How many of us are ‘growing’?  How many of us are ‘mature’ users of God’s Word, those who are “approved unto God”?

“Study to shew thyself approved

unto God,

a workman

that needeth not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing

the word of truth.”  2 Timothy 2:15

And Paul also told Timothy that God’s Word and the study of it is ever profitable—and that is true for us today as well.  What are we doing about it?  And FYI, ‘perfect’ in this passage simply means ‘mature’ not sinless!  And there is also an implication that we need to keep in mind, if we are called to be “rightly dividing the word of truth”, it implies that we can (as many today do) “wrongly divide” God’s Word! We must let The Word say what it says, and heed and obey it!

“All scripture is given

by inspiration of God,

and is profitable

for doctrine,

for reproof,

for correction,

for instruction in righteousness:

17 That the man of God

may be perfect,

thoroughly furnished

unto all good works.”  2 Timothy 3:16-17

Oh, that we would dive into the word of God like we do into our favorite sport, or novel, TV program, or other pleasures. Which can cause us to neglect God’s Word and HIS very presence (oh, Father forgive me for the neglect that marks so many of my days, may I draw near to Thee to hear Your voice and heed Your direction in my life?)!  Oh, may we remember the declaration of the Psalmist:

“The steps of a good man

are ordered by the LORD:

and he delighteth

in his way.

24 Though he fall,

he shall not be utterly cast down:

for the LORD upholdeth him

with his hand.”  Psalm 37:23-24

May our cry be:

“Order my steps

in thy word:

and let not any iniquity

have dominion over me.”  Psalm 119:133

May we truly pursue the face of God and His holiness in all we are (to be more like Jesus every day) and all we do—for what we ‘do’ comes out of our heart and reveals who/what we ‘are’!  May our heart pursue steps that HE is ordering, for us, day by day!  (See Hebrews 12:1-3)

“And Jesus said,

Are ye also yet without understanding?

17 Do not ye yet understand,

that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth

goeth into the belly,

and is cast out into the draught?

18 But those things which proceed

out of the mouth

come forth from the heart;

and they defile the man.

19 For out of the heart proceed

evil thoughts,

murders,

adulteries,

fornications,

thefts,

false witness,

blasphemies:

20 These are the things which defile a man:

but to eat with unwashen hands

defileth not a man.”   Matthew 15:16-20

And again, Jesus said:

“Either make the tree good,

and his fruit good;

or else make the tree corrupt,

and his fruit corrupt:

for the tree is known by his fruit.

34 O generation of vipers,

how can ye,

being evil,

speak good things?

for out of the abundance of the heart

the mouth speaketh.

35 A good man

out of the good treasure of the heart

bringeth forth good things:

and an evil man

out of the evil treasure

bringeth forth evil things.”   Matthew 12:33-35

And one last thing to measure by: a question for us all, “What’s in my heart?  The love of God, and Word of God, or not?”   Remember what’s hidden in the heart will come out in word and deed!  What will HIS searchlight find in my/your heart?  God’s light is true!  Am I?

“With my whole heart

have I sought thee:

O let me not wander

from thy commandments.

11 Thy word

have I hid in mine heart,

that I might not sin

against thee.”  Psalm 119:10-11

What’s hiding in my heart?  In yours?

Amen and Amen!!!

 

Is Small Insignificant??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 22

19 Sunday Sep 2021

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, God Knows, God Who Sees, God's Faithfulness, God's Judgment, God's measure isn't ours, God's ways are not our ways, Is Small Insignificant?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 22   Is Small Insignificant???

 

We live in a world of “king size” it. Extra large please?  Cups so big they won’t fit in the ‘cup’ holder?  Double, triple and even bigger burgers.  Houses that parallel castles, and cars that are more like a greyhound bus than a family car!  Yet, what has all this brought us to?  I think, in part, the inability to discern between the small in size and the insignificant in reality.  Let’s consider some small things and see what God’s Word has to say about “size”

There was a lunch of 5 loaves and 3 small fish—that fed 5,000+; a young boy with a sling and 5 stones—who brought down a giant with only 1 stone; there was another young boy whom God called to deliver a man-sized message—Samuel delivered God’s message of judgment to Eli; there was a small town which hosted the birth of the King of Kings—tiny Bethlehem!

“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah,

though thou be little

among the thousands of Judah,

yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me

that is to be ruler in Israel;

whose goings forth

have been from of old,

from everlasting.”  Micah 5:2

God doesn’t see what we see—and we, sad to say, often don’t see what God is calling us to see.

“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.

9 For as the heavens

are higher than the earth,

so are my ways

higher than your ways,

and my thoughts

than your thoughts.”  Isaiah 55:6-9

And as the Proverbs tells us:

“There is a way

that seemeth right unto a man,

but the end thereof

are the ways of death.”  Proverbs 16:25

“There is a way

which seemeth right unto a man,

but the end thereof

are the ways of death.”  Proverbs 14:12

Jesus talked about a narrow gate, and the “few” that find it.  And that is about as significant a passage as we will find regarding the import of seeking God’s “small” things, which in reality are the “big” things!  For you see, sometimes the seemingly small things have giant consequences!  Both of the above proverbs make it clear to us that when we miss the things of God, by choosing our own wisdom over God’s the consequence can be “deadly”!  Just because it’s popular or the “buzz word” of the day, doesn’t make it true—and regardless of what is accepted today—JESUS IS TRUTH!–  and HE is the standard by which we will all be judged.

“For the word of God

is quick,

and powerful,

and sharper than any twoedged sword,

piercing even to the dividing asunder

of soul and spirit,

and of the joints and marrow,

and is a discerner

of the thoughts

and intents

of the heart.

13 Neither is there any creature

that is not manifest in his sight:

but all things are naked and opened

unto the eyes of him

with whom

we have to do.”  Hebrews 4:12-13

Jesus Himself reminds us that we must choose between that which is popular and that which is right!  The majority is seldom spiritually right!  Don’t believe everything you see or hear, we must compare all things to what God has said, and by the person of our Lord, Jesus Christ—The Truth! (see John 14:6)!  There are many false voices proclaiming themselves wise today—beware!

“Enter ye in

at the strait gate:

for wide is the gate,

and broad is the way,

that leadeth to destruction,

and many there be

which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate,

and narrow is the way,

which leadeth unto life,

and few there be

that find it.

15 Beware of false prophets,

which come to you in sheep’s clothing,

but inwardly

they are ravening wolves.”  Matthew 7:13-15

Paul had a lot to say about being aware of what we hear and see and being wise to discern between the true and false—what may appear to be small is often truly foundational to know God and HIS truth!  While your call or mine may seem insignificant to the world—if God has called us to it, may we go forward in faith, confidence and obedience and leave the results up to our God.  It worked for David, Samuel, and Andrew who brought a small lunch to The Master, and it will still work God’s way for us too, if we but learn to exercise our faith and trust in God and HIS Word!  Oh my, YES!

“For Christ sent me not to baptize,

but to preach the gospel:

not with wisdom of words,

lest the cross of Christ

should be made of none effect.

18 For the preaching of the cross

is to them that perish

foolishness;

but unto us

which are saved

 it is the power of God.

19 For it is written,

I will destroy the wisdom

of the wise,

and will bring to nothing

the understanding of the prudent.

20 Where is the wise?

where is the scribe?

where is the disputer of this world?

hath not God made foolish

the wisdom of this world?

21 For after that in the wisdom of God

the world by wisdom knew not God,

it pleased God

by the foolishness of preaching

to save them that believe.”    1 Corinthians 1:17-21

Ouch!  Remember our passage above from Isaiah:

“For my thoughts

are not your thoughts,

neither are your ways

 my ways,

saith the LORD”

I just love the way that God gave Paul to weave truths together, and that is just what he did in this first letter to the Corinthian believers; he goes on in chapter 3 to paint a most profound picture of the difference between doing things our way and doing them God’s way!

“According to the grace of God

which is given unto me,

as a wise masterbuilder,

I have laid the foundation,

and another buildeth thereon.

But let every man take heed

how he buildeth thereupon.

11 For other foundation

can no man lay

than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.

12 Now if any man build upon this foundation

gold,

silver,

 precious stones,

wood,

hay,

stubble;

13 Every man’s work

shall be made manifest:

for the day shall declare it,

because it shall be revealed

by fire;

and the fire shall try

every man’s work

of what sort it is.

14 If any man’s work abide

which he hath built thereupon,

he shall receive a reward.

15 If any man’s work shall be burned,

he shall suffer loss:

but he himself shall be saved;

yet so as by fire.

16 Know ye not

that ye are the temple of God,

and that the Spirit of God

dwelleth in you?”  1 Corinthians 3:10-16

Wow!  What a picture—we can choose to do God’s work with God’s materials—gold, silver, precious stones (those things which are created by God, and only mined by diligent pursuit of God’s treasure)!  Or we can choose to appear to do “God’s” work our own way, using the feeble, temporal, flammable materials of this earth (those things which can be produced by human effort!  Think about that!)!  When we belong to Jesus, we are to pursue HIS works, not our own works—usually done for our own glory, in our own power, hence the lack of reward, when our works lay in ashes with nothing to offer our KING!

Can you see the difference between the seemingly insignificant and that which is of eternal value?  It kind of makes it clear why we see so few Goliaths falling around us!  Please God, help us see what you see in all these distracting things around us, and help me/us to pursue Your will, that we might do Your work, Your way!

I would like to simply close with the words of our Lord to help us reevaluate our focus.

“And when thou prayest,

thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are:

for they love to pray standing in the synagogues                                       and in the corners of the streets,

that they may be seen of men.

Verily I say unto you,

They have their reward.

6 But thou,

when thou prayest,

enter into thy closet,

and when thou hast shut thy door,

pray to thy Father

which is in secret;

and thy Father

which seeth in secret

shall reward thee openly.

7 But when ye pray,

use not vain repetitions,

as the heathen do:

for they think that they

shall be heard

for their much speaking.

8 Be not ye therefore

like unto them:

for your Father knoweth

what things ye have need of,

before ye ask him.

9 After this manner therefore

pray ye:

Our Father

which art in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done

in earth,

as it is in heaven.”   Matthew 6:5-10

Amen and Amen!!!

Inspired NOT Expired??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 09

13 Sunday Jun 2021

Posted by in A Father's Love, All About Jesus!, All Sufficient God!, Approved Unto God, God Is In Charge, God Knows, God's Faithfulness, God's Judgment, JESUS, Jesus IN You!, Jesus Is Alive, Jesus Is Coming!, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Jesus Is Truth, Jesus Knows, Jesus Saves!, Jesus SinLESS Son of God, Jesus' Sacrifice, The Things of God, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Thy Will Be Done

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 17 No. 09  Inspired NOT Expired???

 

I have a word for today that I pray will speak to hearts and help each of us take confidence in God’s Word—our Lode Star—it IS God’s standard!!!

“Heaven and earth

shall pass away,

but my words

shall not pass away.”  Matthew 24:35

The Psalmist rehearses the import of The Word of God, and we can take great comfort and encouragement in the faithfulness of our God and HIS Word!

“For the word of the LORD

is right;

and all his works

are done in truth.

5 He loveth righteousness

and judgment:

the earth is full of the goodness

of the LORD.

6 By the word of the LORD

were the heavens made;

and all the host of them

by the breath of his mouth.”  Psalm 33:4-6

God is creator and Jesus, The Son, was the conduit of HIS creation—for HE is also creator.

“In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:

15 Who is the image

of the invisible God,

the firstborn

of every creature:

16 For by him

were all things created,

that are in heaven,

and that are in earth,

visible and invisible,

whether they be thrones,

or dominions,

or principalities,

or powers:

all things were created by him,

and for him:

17 And he is before

all things,

and by him

all things consist.”  Colossians 1:14-17

ALL THINGS!  Did you get it?  Paul reminds us that “all things were created by him, and for him”!  And who is “HIM”?  John answers that question for us—and helps us understand that Jesus is the Living WORD, as well as the essence of the Written Word of GOD.

“In the beginning

was the Word,

and the Word was

with God,

and the Word

was God.

2 The same was in the beginning

with God.

3 All things were made by him;

and without him was not any thing made

that was made.

4 In him was life;

and the life was the light of men.

5 And the light

shineth in darkness;

and the darkness

comprehended it not…

….. 14 And the Word was made flesh,

and dwelt among us,

(and we beheld his glory,

the glory as of the only begotten

of the Father,)

full of grace and truth.”   John 1:1-5 & 14

The question is, “What will we do with The Word?”; both the written Word and The Living Word–JESUS?  God tells us through the Apostle Paul how we ought to use HIS Word!

“Study to shew thyself approved ‘    

unto God,

a workman

that needeth not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing

the word of truth.”  2 Timothy 2:15

“All scripture is given

by inspiration of God,

and is profitable

for doctrine,

for reproof,

for correction,

for instruction in righteousness:

17 That the man of God

may be perfect,

throughly furnished

unto all good works.”  2 Timothy 3:16-17

In line with our title, the thing we have to consider is whether we accept The Word of God as “inspired” or “expired”?  So many today disregard God’s Word, call it irrelevant, outdated or not applicable to our lives today.  Yet God’s Word, as Jesus said, will not pass away; and while Jesus fulfilled much of the law and prophets, especially those regarding HIS first coming, HE will also bring all of the remaining prophecies to fulfillment with HIS return.  While all these things are important—they are part of HIS Word—it all boils down to what YOU have done/are doing with God’s Word—both His written Word and HIS crucified, buried, risen and ascended Son, Jesus.  And the message is clear, The Word is what we need to know “what we believe”; “what is wrong”; “how to correct the wrong”; and “how to walk right and prevent the wrong”!  Paul also gives us instruction to help us live out what we have received from Jesus—the NEW Birth!

“He was

in the world,

and the world was made

by him,

and the world

knew him not.

11 He came unto his own,

and his own received him not.

12 But as many as received him,

to them gave he power

to become the sons of God,

even to them

that believe on his name:

13 Which were born,

not of blood,

nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man,

but of God.”  John 1:10-13

Another of Paul’s words to help you and me.

“Wherefore, my beloved,

as ye have always obeyed,

not as in my presence only,

but now much more in my absence,

work out your own salvation

with fear

and trembling.

13 For it is God

which worketh in you

both to will

and to do

of his good pleasure.

14 Do all things

without murmurings

and disputings:

15 That ye may be blameless and harmless,

the sons of God,

without rebuke,

in the midst

of a crooked and perverse nation,

among whom ye shine

as lights in the world;” Philippians 2:12-15

What are you “working out”?  The salvation that God has offered to you.  Or the worldliness that pervades us on every hand?  Jesus, The Lamb of God, is not only our Lord but HE left us such an amazing example.  Now don’t misunderstand—HE came to be our sacrifice, not just “an example”; but in HIS coming HE left us the greatest example of all.  But notice the context—the context is about suffering for Jesus.

“For this is thankworthy,

 if a man for conscience toward God

endure grief,

suffering wrongfully.

20 For what glory is it,

if, when ye be buffeted for your faults,

ye shall take it patiently?

but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it,

ye take it patiently,

 this is acceptable with God.

21 For even hereunto were ye called:

because Christ also suffered for us,

leaving us an example,

that ye should follow his steps:

22 Who did no sin,

neither was guile found in his mouth:

23 Who, when he was reviled,

reviled not again;

when he suffered,

he threatened not;

but committed himself

to him that judgeth righteously:

24 Who his own self

bare our sins

in his own body on the tree,

that we,

being dead to sins,

should live unto righteousness:

by whose stripes ye were healed.

25 For ye were as sheep

going astray;

but are now returned

unto the Shepherd

and Bishop of your souls.”  1 Peter 2:19-25

If you don’t know HIM, you can; He gave HIMSELF for your salvation.  Won’t you trust to His substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for your sin and mine.  He’s still calling men, women, boys and girls to HIS cross.  He died for YOU!  It’s what HIS Word reveals throughout the pages of all scripture.  You can receive His “inspired” Word of truth or you can reject it as an “expired” myth and pay for your own sin.

“For when we were yet without strength,

in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified by his blood,

we shall be saved from wrath

through him.

10 For if,

when we were enemies,

we were reconciled

to God

by the death of his Son,

much more,

being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:6-11

Will you answer HIS call upon your heart?  The choice is yours but choose wisely there is a test.

“Behold,

I stand at the door, and knock:

if any man hear my voice,

and open the door,

I will come in to him,

and will sup with him,

and he with me.”   Revelation 3:20

The test:

“And I saw a great white throne,

and him that sat on it,

from whose face

the earth

and the heaven fled away;

and there was found no place

for them.

12 And I saw the dead,

small and great,

stand before God;

and the books were opened:

and another book was opened,

which is the book of life:

and the dead were judged

out of those things which were written

in the books,

according to their works…

…. 15 And whosoever was not found

written in the book of life

 was cast into the lake of fire.”   Revelation 20:11-12 & 15

I pray that you will receive the “inspired” Word of God—Jesus—the conduit of the written Word and the Living Word Himself, who laid down His life for you and me!

“Hereby perceive we the love of God,

because he laid down his life

for us:

and we ought to lay down our lives

for the brethren.”  1 John 3:16

“He that believeth on him

is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name of the only begotten

Son of God.”  John 3:18

Amen and Amen!!!