Category Archives: Leading Or Mis-Leading?

Really Knowing God??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #777

11 Friday Feb 2022

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Confidence, Confidence or Presumption?, Conformed to HIS image, Consider Your ways, Courage, Daniel & Hannah--Faithful Servant's, Faith, Faithful, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Faithfulness, Have You Heard?, He Died That We Could Live, Know Whom I Believe, Knowing GOD, Knowing God's Word, Leading Or Mis-Leading?

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #777   Really Knowing God???

 

I would like to share a few examples from God’s Word today that I pray will help us see what confidence in God really looks like.  Two of my favorite Bible examples of purity, integrity and knowledge of God are Daniel, (an amazing young man, who had a confidence in God based on his knowledge, and apparent experience trusting in The God Almighty that he had walked with for some time, even though he was just in his late teens or at the most, early twenties when the account we’ll look at took place) and Hannah, the mother of Samuel, who also exhibited a great faith and faithfulness to Almighty God!

I pray that this will be an encouragement and help to you, for it is imperative that our confidence is based on the truth of God’s Word—the written Word and the Living Word, Jesus—which we can, we must, choose to stand on.  Paul reminds us of our part in developing this kind of relationship with our God and Lord Jesus, through the power of His indwelling Holy Spirit.

“Study to shew thyself

approved unto God,

a workman

that needeth not to be ashamed,

 rightly dividing the word of truth.

16 But shun

profane and vain babblings:

for they will increase

unto more ungodliness.”  2 Timothy 2:15-16

We must pursue God and HIS Word to be able to recognize and avoid the “profane and…vain” things that Satan uses to lure us into sin and stumbling.  And one of the things that I believe that Daniel and Hannah knew without a doubt, is that we must choose to believe truth, not the lies.  And believe you me, there are lots of lies floating all around us, for Satan is the great “father of lies” (See John 8:44), and he is always dangling them in front of us, like a carrot to lead the donkey!  We can choose to build our house on the sand of lies, or the Rock of truth; it’s your choice, but choose wisely, there is a test!  If we’ll choose to dig into God’s Word, we can be confident and secure in HIS truth!

“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

God’s Word is what prepares, equips, and reveals (to ourself and others) who and what we are as we live by the power of God daily so that others see Jesus in our lives in all we do and say.  Daniel was a great example of this.

This young man was taken captive by a foreign, pagan king and moved far from home, yet he made the decision to be faithful to his God regardless of the outcome!  When confronted with a threat of death, Daniel and his friends sought God’s help in prayer to reveal the King’s dream.  While we won’t look at the entire story today (you can read Daniel chapter 2 and see the whole scene play out) I do want us to see Daniel’s understanding of WHO was in charge, even in this situation that threatened death—BUT GOD!  Oh, praise you Father, Son and Holy Spirit for the truth of “BUT GOD”; you have been so faithful to me, and I pray that my life may ever reflect Your work and power!

“Then Daniel went to his house,

and made the thing known

 to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,

his companions:

18 That they would desire mercies

of the God of heaven

concerning this secret;

that Daniel and his fellows

should not perish with the rest

of the wise men of Babylon.

19 Then was the secret revealed

unto Daniel

in a night vision.

Then Daniel blessed

the God of heaven.

20 Daniel answered and said,

Blessed be the name of God

for ever and ever:

for wisdom and might

are his:

21 And he changeth

the times and the seasons:

he removeth

 kings,

and setteth up

kings:

he giveth wisdom

unto the wise,

and knowledge

to them that know understanding:

22 He revealeth

the deep and secret things:

he knoweth

what is in the darkness,

and the light

dwelleth with him.

23 I thank thee,

and praise thee,

O thou God of my fathers,

who hast given me wisdom

and might,

and hast made known unto me now

what we desired of thee:

for thou hast now made known unto us

the king’s matter.”  Daniel 2:17-23

WOW!!!  Is God good, or what?  GOD is so faithful to “all who call upon HIS name”! (See Deuteronomy 4:7). Daniel and his friends not only had their prayers answered but as you read the rest of the story, the answer brought not only deliverance from the ‘death sentence’, but Daniel and his friends were promoted to positions of prominence in the Kingdom of Babylon.  All because they had decided to trust their God in all things!  What about you and me?  What are we “not” trusting God for?  Why not?  If we belong to Jesus, we have the privilege of coming into HIS presence with not only our love and adoration (which Daniel did in response to answered prayer, we can learn from his example) but with our burdens, our grief, our sorrow, our needs (real or perceived), our fears, and our uncertainties—God is never unavailable, too busy, asleep, nor does HE ever say “oops”!

“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 4:15-16

Oh my, if we could just remember this regularly!  We can come to our Father, Our Lord Jesus, always in confidence, not arrogance or presumption, but in confidence that HE knows how we feel.  Jesus walked this earth with all its pain, sorrow, temptation, grief, and meanness, but HE did it without sin and then died willingly that we could live victorious lives of confidence in HIM—the risen LORD—victor over sin, death, and hell!!!  Don’t forget this truth.  Hannah didn’t—and she was simply looking forward in faith to the coming Messiah!

“So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk.

Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD.

10 And she was in bitterness of soul,

and prayed unto the LORD,

and wept sore.

11 And she vowed a vow, and said,

O LORD of hosts,

if thou wilt indeed look

on the affliction of thine handmaid,

and remember me,

and not forget thine handmaid,

but wilt give unto thine handmaid

a man child,

then I will give him unto the LORD

all the days of his life,

and there shall no razor

come upon his head.

12 And it came to pass, as she continued praying

before the LORD,

that Eli marked her mouth.

13 Now Hannah, she spake in her heart;

only her lips moved,

but her voice was not heard:

therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.

14 And Eli said unto her,

How long wilt thou be drunken?

put away thy wine from thee.”  1 Samuel 1:9-14

Now most of this is for background, but I want us to note that sometimes when we are doing right, others will not see it for what it really is!  Yet Hannah spoke up for truth!

“And Hannah answered and said,

No, my lord,

I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit:

I have drunk neither wine

nor strong drink,

but have poured out my soul

before the LORD.

16 Count not thine handmaid

for a daughter of Belial:

for out of the abundance

of my complaint

and grief

have I spoken hitherto.

17 Then Eli answered and said,

Go in peace:

and the God of Israel grant thee

thy petition that thou hast asked

of him.

18 And she said,

Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight.

So the woman went her way,

and did eat,

and her countenance

was no more sad.”  1 Samuel 1:15-18

Hannah was blessed and knew that she had honored God and answered Eli truthfully, also, that he believed her and blessed her desire.  We won’t look at the rest except for Hannah’s prayer, much like Daniel’s, that praised and honored God for His faithful provision.  For Daniel, it was deliverance from death, for Hannah, it was the provision of life—the life of a Son, whom she had promised to God and did in fact return Samuel to God’s service at the proper time.  How amazing that this precious woman knew her God so well.  Her prayer became scripture—what will our prayers write in our future.  Let’s pray on—we serve a God who hears and answers prayer!!!  In HIS way, and in HIS time!

“And Hannah prayed, and said,

My heart rejoiceth in the LORD,

mine horn is exalted in the LORD:

my mouth is enlarged

over mine enemies;

because I rejoice

in thy salvation.

2 There is none holy

as the LORD:

for there is none

beside thee:

neither is there any rock

like our God.

3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly;

let not arrogancy

come out of your mouth:

for the LORD

is a God of knowledge,

and by him

actions are weighed.

4 The bows of the mighty men

are broken,

and they that stumbled

are girded with strength.

5 They that were full

have hired out themselves for bread;

and they that were hungry

ceased:

so that the barren

hath born seven;

and she that hath many children

is waxed feeble.

6 The LORD killeth,

and maketh alive:

he bringeth down to the grave,

and bringeth up.

7 The LORD maketh poor,

and maketh rich:

he bringeth low,

and lifteth up.

8 He raiseth up the poor

out of the dust,

and lifteth up the beggar

from the dunghill,

to set them among princes,

and to make them

inherit the throne of glory:

for the pillars of the earth

are the LORD’S,

and he hath set the world

upon them.

9 He will keep

the feet of his saints,

and the wicked

shall be silent in darkness;

for by strength

shall no man prevail.

10 The adversaries of the LORD

shall be broken to pieces;

out of heaven

shall he thunder upon them:

the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth;

and he shall give strength unto his king,

and exalt the horn of his anointed.”   1 Samuel 2:1-10

I pray that this will bring hope, confidence and a truly encouraging word for you today.  I know some are grieving, some are wondering which direction to take, others are running from God so hard that you are out of breath; so, take a minute and listen to the voice of God speaking to your heart!

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying,

This is the way,

walk ye in it,

when ye turn to the right hand,

and when ye turn to the left.”  Isaiah 30:21

Remember, Jesus has this!  God has this, and if you are HIS, HE’s got YOU!!!  I believe—do you?

“But ye believe not,

because ye are not of my sheep,

as I said unto you.

27 My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them,

and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man

pluck them out of my hand.

29 My Father,

which gave them me,

is greater than all;

and no man is able to pluck them

out of my Father’s hand.

30 I and my Father

are one.”  John 10:26-30

Amen and Amen!!!

 

As For Me!!! And You??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 20

26 Sunday Jul 2020

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, All About Jesus!, Amazing Grace, Believe IN Jesus, Born Again, Choices And Consequences, Choose You This Day!, Consider Your ways, Conviction, Crucified With Christ, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Follow Jesus, Gospel, If not now? When?, IN Jesus!, Jesus Is Coming!, Jesus Saves!, Leading Or Mis-Leading?, One Day Too Late?, Only One Way, Salvation, Saved by grace, Take Up YOUR Cross, The Blood Of Jesus, The Crucified Life, The Only Way, Trusting Jesus?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 20 As For Me!!! And You???

 

After Joshua had served God with Moses, led the nation of Israel across Jordan into the promised land after the death of Moses, conquered the land as God used him to lead the nation to possess their promised land, and divided the land as an inheritance to each of the tribes, then took his own possession in the new land of promise.  As he neared the end of his life, he called his people to faithfully serve God—this people, who like us, often rebelled against God, needed this mighty leader to call them to earnest devotion to God.  Among other things he reminded them of his own faithfulness to God and called them to make a choice that would secure their future by relying on God’s faithful provision to those who would obey, he reminded them of God’s words and challenged them to choose wisely!

“And I sent the hornet before you,

which drave them out from before you,

even the two kings of the Amorites;

but not with thy sword,

nor with thy bow.

13 And I have given you a land

for which ye did not labour,

and cities

which ye built not,

and ye dwell in them;

of the vineyards and oliveyards

which ye planted not

do ye eat.

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.”  Joshua 24:12-15

We will choose whom we will serve but choose wisely for there is a consequence for every choice!

“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

Jesus goes on to tell us that “just saying so, doesn’t make it so”!  Many use His name today for a multitude of things that really have nothing to do with the substitutionary, atoning sacrifice that Jesus came to “BE” for sinners; rather they seem to only want to capitalize or profit financially, socially or politically from the name of Jesus—nor trust Him to redeem them and to take up the cross and follow Him (it’s one reason that the cross is such a contentious issue today)!

“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 7:21-23

Just as Joshua made it clear to the children of Israel, who were now in possession of the “Promised Land”, they needed to be sure that they were in ‘possession’ of the “Promised One”, by faith through grace—same salvation that we can have today; they were looking forward to the coming Messiah, we are looking back at the completed sacrifice that The Messiah came to provide.

“And she shall bring forth a son,

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people

from their sins.”  Matthew 1:21

We can choose to trust Jesus for forgiveness of our sin, and be redeemed by His blood sacrifice, or we can reject Him and pay for our own sin.  Paul painted an amazing picture of the choice given to every man, woman, boy and girl!  What have you chosen?

“As it is written,

There is none righteous,

no, not one:

11 There is none that understandeth,

there is none that seeketh after God…

…21 But now the righteousness of God

without the law is manifested,

being witnessed by the law

and the prophets;

22 Even the righteousness of God

which is by faith of Jesus Christ

unto all

and upon all them

that believe:

for there is no difference:

23 For all have sinned,

and come short of the glory of God;

24 Being justified freely

by his grace

through the redemption

that is in Christ Jesus:”  Romans 3:10-11 & 21-24

When we trust to His saving grace and receive His salvation and forgiveness of sin, we can rejoice always IN HIM!

“Giving thanks unto the Father,

which hath made us meet

to be partakers of the inheritance

of the saints

in light:

13 Who hath delivered us

from the power of darkness,

and hath translated us

into the kingdom

of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:”  Colossians 1:12-14

I find it interesting that both Jesus and Paul share the truth about dying to self and living the crucified life of devotion to Jesus, yet so many today ignore its import.

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross,

and follow me.

25 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

and whosoever will lose his life

for my sake

shall find it.

26 For what is a man profited,

if he shall gain the whole world,

and lose his own soul?

or what shall a man give

in exchange for his soul?

27 For the Son of man

shall come in the glory of his Father

with his angels;

and then he shall reward

every man

according to his works.”  Matthew 16:24-27

We can choose to take Paul’s admonition, and find the grace and strength to yield to His work in us, dying to self and living for Him who died for us; or we can ignore God’s warnings and be one who will not believe nor receive HIS substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for sin to be saved!

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live

in the flesh

I live by the faith

of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”  Galatians 2:20

And it’s hard to really grasp, but I think we haven’t a lot of time to waste trying to make up our minds; or waiting to call others to turn to Jesus.  I believe His return is truly eminent!  What if it were today?  Would you be ready?  Have you chosen Jesus?

“(For he saith,

I have heard thee

in a time accepted,

and in the day of salvation

have I succoured thee:

behold, now is the accepted time;

behold, now is the day of salvation.)”  2 Corinthians 6:2

And Paul’s famous appeal to King Agrippa:

“For the king knoweth of these things,

before whom also I speak freely:

for I am persuaded

that none of these things are hidden

from him;

for this thing

was not done in a corner.

27 King Agrippa,

believest thou the prophets?

I know that thou believest.

28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul,

Almost thou persuadest me

to be a Christian.

29 And Paul said,

I would to God,

that not only thou,

but also all that hear me this day,

were both almost,

and altogether

such as I am,

except these bonds.”  Acts 26:26-29

As the old hymn says, “…almost, but lost”! (“Almost Persuaded”, by Philip Bliss), what have you done with Jesus?  I stand with Joshua, “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD”!  What about you?  When He returns will you shout for joy or mourn because you failed to prepare.  Like it or not there is (as a great Lanny Wolfe song says) the possibility of being “One Day Too Late”!

“And then shall appear the sign

of the Son of man

in heaven:

and then shall all the tribes of the earth

mourn,

and they shall see

the Son of man coming

in the clouds of heaven

with power

and great glory.”  Matthew 26:30

As Paul and John warned us, there is a day coming when we will all give an account.  Are your sins covered in the blood of Jesus, or will you hear Him say “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…”?  I pray that you will come while there is time!

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him,

and given him a name

which is above every name:

10 That at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow,

of things in heaven,

and things in earth,

and things under the earth;

11 And that every tongue should confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11

And as John saw in the Revelation, there will be a Great White Throne before which all who have refused to come to Jesus will stand.  It’s your choice, but choose wisely, there is a 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.

13 And the sea gave up the dead

which were in it;

and death and hell delivered up the dead

which were in them:

and they were judged

every man

according to their works.

14 And death and hell

were cast into the lake of fire.

This is the second death.

15 And whosoever was not found written

in the book of life

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

This reminds me of the words of Jesus to Nicodemus.  Like Nicodemus, we can believe and receive, or go our own way!  Will you receive or reject?  Will you choose to serve The Lord or self?

“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.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world through him

might be saved.

18 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.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.

20 For every one that doeth evil

hateth the light,

neither cometh to the light,

lest his deeds should be reproved.

21 But he that doeth truth

cometh to the light,

that his deeds may be made manifest,

that they are wrought in God.”   John 3:16-21

So, I simply ask you to consider your choices, for you have the God-given privilege to choose.  But just as Joshua declared, we will all “choose you this day whom ye will serve”!  And please note—refusing to choose Jesus, IS choosing!  I pray that you will hear His Holy Spirit speaking to your heart and open the door to Jesus—He loves you and is calling today!  Ye must be born again!

“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

Amen and Amen!!!

 

 

Church Wanted: Dead Or Alive??? Pt. 2 Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No. 20

03 Sunday Dec 2017

Posted by in Abundant Life In Jesus, Changed Lives, Church:Dead Or Alive?, Confidence, Dare To Be Different!, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Leading Or Mis-Leading?, Living Stones, Made like Jesus!, Perseverance, Salvation, The Only Way, The Same Yesterday, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Thy Will Be Done, Walking With Jesus

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No.20 Church Wanted: Dead Or Alive??? Pt. 2

 

As we continue with our thoughts from last week, I’d like to take a bit of a turn. I’d like us to not only examine the state of the church, but the state of our hearts; for the state of the hearts of God’s people is the state of the church. If our hearts are fixed on things other than the love, adoration and worship of Jesus Christ the Son who brings us to the Father, then we are off track! God has a plan to reach the world and He has given it to us—now it isn’t always worked out the same in every local body of believers–but it will always be rooted in the Holy Scriptures and the Holy Son of God who is the Only Way to God! And He hasn’t changed neither has His Word!

“Jesus Christ the same

yesterday,

and to day,

and for ever.” Hebrews 13:8

Amen and Amen! Let’s press on.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions:

if it were not so,

I would have told you.

I go to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go and prepare a place for you,

I will come again,

and receive you unto myself;

that where I am,

there ye may be also.

4 And whither I go

ye know,

and the way

ye know.

5 Thomas saith unto him,

Lord, we know not whither thou goest;

and how can we know the way?

6 Jesus saith unto him,

I am the way,

the truth,

and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father,

but by me.

7 If ye had known me,

ye should have known my Father also:

and from henceforth ye know him,

and have seen him.” John 14:1-7

Jesus made it clear to His disciples, as He was about to face the cross, be crucified and rise on the third day, that HE IS the only way to God, and those who believe in Him and receive His sacrifice for our sin, not only know God, but see God—God the Father—for they were, are and ever shall be ONE—Father, Son and Holy Spirit! Amen and Amen!

“My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them,

and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man pluck them out of

my hand.

29 My Father, which gave them me,

is greater than all;

and no man is able to pluck them

out of my Father’s hand.

30 I and my Father are one.” John 10:27-30

We “must be born again” of the Holy Spirit of God/Jesus, and when we are, we “know” Jesus and because we “know” Him, we also “know” God The Father, and those who were with Him physically had seen the very “I AM”; The God of all creation, for He and the Son are ONE! And those who are HIS, He knows, He saves and He keeps—because salvation is of GOD not man! Always has been, always will be. And when we, the church, try to live, work and function in any other way, we are spinning our wheels! We must ask God to search and reveal to us that which HE sees in our hearts—then we can adjust whatever needs adjusting to walk as HIS sheep! (See John 1:12-13 & 3:16)

“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 have a call, as the children of God, to walk in HIS ways, and we can only do that with the power, and strength of the Holy Spirit, and by immersing ourselves in the Word of God. We must know HIS Word or the world will subtly creep into our hearts and minds and lead us astray. Studying and knowing the Word of God and the intimate presence of its author are imperative to a faithful, and productive Christian life. One directed by God and not self!

But there is also a great challenge for those of us who teach, preach and lead the flock now—and sin, selfishness and worldliness will “trickle down” from the top to the flock. We must guard against being “mis-leaders” and be true ‘leaders’, living, working and ministering in the power of His Spirit and His Word! God is holding us accountable!

“Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed:

but ye feed not the flock.

4 The diseased have ye not strengthened,

neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away,

neither have ye sought that which was lost;

but with force and with cruelty

have ye ruled them.

5 And they were scattered,

because there is no shepherd:

and they became meat to all the beasts of the field,

when they were scattered.

6 My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill:

yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth,

and none did search

or seek after them.

7 Therefore, ye shepherds,

hear the word of the LORD;

8 As I live, saith the Lord GOD,

surely because my flock became a prey,

and my flock became meat

to every beast of the field,

because there was no shepherd,

neither did my shepherds search

for my flock,

but the shepherds

fed themselves,

and fed not my flock;” Ezekiel 34:3-8 

James warned of this same danger to those who were in positions of leadership in the church—God doesn’t take the care of His flock lightly. Nor will He hold a person guiltless who abuses the privilege and call of leadership!

“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.” James 3:1 (masters=leaders, teachers, preachers)

Jesus revealed the work of His children to Peter after the resurrection.

“So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?

He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,

Feed my lambs.

16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas,

lovest thou me?

He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,

Feed my sheep.

17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas,

lovest thou me?

Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him,

Feed my sheep.

……19 …… And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.”   Portions of John 21:15-19

Peter had denied his Lord three times at the crucifixion, but here Christ asks Peter the same question three times, I think to remind Him of the forgiveness that the blood of Jesus provides. Yet we often forget that in forgiveness of sin, is the commission to go forward and do HIS work: but His work in HIS power, not our own. We are to feed the sheep—those who are Christ’s—and to fish for the sheep that don’t know Him (I know, a bad mixed metaphor, but you get the picture!) and teach them as well. And we can only do that as we heed Jesus closing words in this portion of the passage printed here: “Follow me”! That is the imperative—we are to follow Jesus!

You see, I don’t know who is hungry and needs to be fed; I don’t know who is floundering in the sea and needs to be brought to the shore of salvation—to become HIS sheep! But when I follow the Master, He does know and He is always working to lead us where He wants to use us; and sometimes (often in fact) it is in unlikely places, ministering in unlikely ways to the most unlikely people!!! We must stop measuring things by the world’s standard and “Follow” Jesus, by heeding the voice of His Holy Spirit—dying to self and living unto HIM!

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live in the flesh

I live by the faith

of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”   Galatians 2:20

Peter came to know this in power and truth and shared it with the believers in one of his letters later in his life. He called for the leaders to lead in God’s power and the followers to follow in earnest pursuit of holiness and a desire to be Jesus to a lost and dying world. It seems that today many are more interested in plans, programs and gimmicks than in ‘living’ Jesus before the world (It’s easier but that doesn’t make it right!)! And remember the “elders” that he refers to are the leaders, not just elder or aged in physical years (Even as Paul told young Pastor Timothy not to let others hold his ‘youth’ against him—in 1 Tim. 4:12)

“The elders which are among you I exhort,

who am also an elder,

and a witness of the sufferings of Christ,

and also a partaker of the glory

that shall be revealed:

2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof,

not by constraint,

but willingly;

not for filthy lucre,

but of a ready mind;

3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage,

but being ensamples to the flock.

4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear,

ye shall receive a crown of glory

that fadeth not away.

5 Likewise, ye younger,

submit yourselves unto the elder.

Yea, all of you be subject one to another,

and be clothed with humility:

for God resisteth the proud,

and giveth grace to the humble.

6 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.” 1 Peter 5:1-7

Praise God HE does care for us, and wants to save and care for those who will believe and come to Jesus! He makes us the building material of His church! We are the church—the living, breathing organism that is “the church”—not a building that can be bought or sold, but a living organism that is “sold out” to Jesus not the world! How about you? Are you living as a part of His body? Let’s peruse a portion of 1 Peter 2:

“As newborn babes,

desire the sincere milk of the word,

that ye may grow thereby:

3 If so be ye have tasted

that the Lord is gracious.

4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone,

disallowed indeed of men,

but chosen of God,

and precious,

5 Ye also, as lively stones,

are built up a spiritual house,

an holy priesthood,

to offer up spiritual sacrifices,

acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion

a chief corner stone,

elect,

precious:

and he that believeth on him

shall not be confounded.

7 Unto you therefore which believe

he is precious:

but unto them which be disobedient,

the stone which the builders disallowed,

the same is made the head of the corner,

8 And a stone of stumbling,

and a rock of offence,

even to them which stumble

at the word,

being disobedient:

whereunto also they were appointed.

9 But ye are a chosen generation,

a royal priesthood,

an holy nation,

a peculiar people;

that ye should shew forth the praises

of him who hath called you

out of darkness

into his marvellous light:

10 Which in time past were not a people,

but are now the people of God:

which had not obtained mercy,

but now have obtained mercy.

11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you

as strangers

and pilgrims,

abstain from fleshly lusts,

       which war against the soul;”   1 Peter 2:2-11

When we are born again, we are “babes” who should desire the “milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby”; and we are to grow into “living” stones that make up the “house” of God, the servants of God, those who offer up “spiritual sacrifices” that are acceptable and pleasing unto God, because we belong to HIS Son!!! What are you doing with your ‘stone’? Are you living for Jesus and sharing His truth, or have you fallen for the lies of the enemy of our souls? Let’s be “living” stones for Jesus—“sold out” to Him and not “for sale” to the highest worldly bidder!

“I beseech you therefore, brethren,

by the mercies of God,

that ye present your bodies

a living sacrifice,

holy,

acceptable unto God,

which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed

to this world:

but be ye transformed

by the renewing of your mind,

that ye may prove

what is that good,

and acceptable,

and perfect,

will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

 Let’s all commit today to be a display of the glory of God, doing His work His way. After all—God saved us and set the parameters of HIS work.

“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…..

27 But God hath chosen the foolish things

of the world

to confound the wise;

and God hath chosen the weak things

of the world

to confound the things which

are mighty;

28 And base things of the world,

and things which are despised,

hath God chosen, yea,

and things which are not,

to bring to nought things

that are:

29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.”   1 Corinthians 1:21 & 27-29

Just as God reminded Isaiah so many years ago, may we take heed and know that God’s ways are God’s ways!

“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.

10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven,

and returneth not thither,

but watereth the earth,

and maketh it bring forth and bud,

that it may give seed to the sower,

and bread to the eater:

11 So shall my word be

that goeth forth out of my mouth:

it shall not return unto me void,

but it shall accomplish

that which I please,

and it shall prosper

in the thing

whereto I sent it.”    Isaiah 55:8-11

So, dear friends, I challenge each of us to be diligent to let God’s Word do its “perfect work” in us, and be the faithful witnesses to the world that HE has saved us to be. May we truly be “sold out” to HIM, and not “for sale” to the world and it’s bling and ease. Jesus is coming, and He told us:

“And, behold,

I come quickly;

and my reward is with me,

to give every man

according as his work shall be.

13 I am Alpha and Omega,

the beginning and the end,

the first and the last.” Revelation 22:12-13

He spoke us into existence—may He be pleased with our use of His gifts to us. May we each find out what God is doing around us and join HIM in HIS work—as ‘living stones’ not a ‘dead church’! Praying that He will ever be seen in you and me!!! Always!!!

Church Wanted: Selling Or Standing??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No. 19

26 Sunday Nov 2017

Posted by in Changed Lives, Compromise, Confidence, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Knowing God's Word, Leading Or Mis-Leading?, Perseverance, Salvation, SIN, The Only Way, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Trials, Walking With Jesus

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No.19 Church Wanted: Selling Or Standing???

 

On our recent travels, I saw a sign that absolutely pricked my heart and soul in a way that I wasn’t expecting. We passed by a little church and this was the sign that was posted across the door: “Church for Sale”! Now, in and of itself, a ‘For Sale’ sign in front of a building, regardless of what it once was, isn’t particularly unusual, but it struck me to my soul, as I read that sign, that many churches today have already put a “for sale” sign on their doors, and they’ve sold out to the world pretty cheaply!

I don’t mean to be harsh, but we are living in a culture that has so invaded the church of Jesus Christ, that it is often difficult to tell the difference between the church and the world—creating an imitation church, if you would. And there are imitation ‘churches’, just as there are imitation ‘Christians’—always have been always will be.

“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.

       Do men gather grapes of thorns,

or figs of thistles?” Matthew 7:13-16

Jesus made it clear in His preaching that there is only One Way to God, and He is that way. It is a “strait gate” and yet it is not the only gate open to people: there is a “wide” gate, a “broad” way, but its end is “destruction”! And just as importantly, it is the most popular gate, “many there be which go in thereat”—and we need to recognize the fact that the draw of the world is great –but Jesus has called us to be faithful to proclaim HIS truth, and the reality that “narrow is the way”, and a way which we are not to attempt to “widen” or compromise the Word of God, regardless of how “few” believe our message!

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man,

but the end thereof are the ways of death.”   Proverbs 16:25

The church has never been called to a smooth/easy way, or to try to make the way of Jesus an appealing one; we are called to lift up the cross and the hope that it brings through the blood of Jesus Christ alone.

“And as Moses lifted up the serpent

in the wilderness,

even so must the Son of man

be lifted up:

15 That whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have eternal life.

16 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.

17 For God sent not his Son

into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world

through him

might be saved.

18 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.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.”   John 3:14-19

Jesus came to save those who will believe in His work at Calvary. He knew that was His destination even as He spoke to Nicodemus, and He declared, even before the cross, that His atoning death was the only answer—before, during and after! And the salvation that He offers is the only thing that saves people “from their sins”, but those who reject Him will die in their sins! Men still love “darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil”, and we will never win the world by conforming the church to align with the evil that men love. We must call people to repentance and faith in Jesus—to turn from their “sin”, not to make them feel at home in their “sin”! And I’m afraid that much of what is purported to be “church” is simply trying to make sinners comfortable in their sin—don’t ever make anyone feel uncomfortable. But my dear friends, the conviction of sin that the Holy Spirit brings, is the only thing that will bring people to the cross. Without the power of God, no one will ever come to the cross, and making sin look good will never bring anyone to the cross!

“No man can come to me,

except the Father

which hath sent me

draw him:

and I will raise him up

at the last day.

45 It is written in the prophets,

And they shall be all taught of God.

Every man therefore that hath heard,

and hath learned of the Father,

cometh unto me.” John 6:44-45

The church is called to preach the truth and call people to it—not compromise the truth and let people believe they can relish sin while claiming the name of Jesus! Christ’s church isn’t called to be like the world, but to call the world to the cross! It’s the only “Gospel” that saves and transforms lives—and it’s the message that we must cling to! May we ever join with Paul and “preach Christ crucified”—never “selling out” to the world for numbers, popularity, wealth, ease, political correctness or prominence!

“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.

22 For the Jews require a sign,

and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

23 But we preach Christ crucified,

unto the Jews a stumblingblock,

and unto the Greeks foolishness;

24 But unto them which are called,

both Jews

and Greeks,

Christ the power of God,

and the wisdom of God.

25 Because the foolishness

of God

is wiser than men;

and the weakness

of God

is stronger than men.”   1 Corinthians 1:19-25

Preaching the cross of Jesus and “Christ crucified” is the only message that we have—and it has always been seen by the world as a “stumblingblock” and “foolishness”; but we must never abandon the truth for compromise. We must never sell out for signs, wonders, and worldly illusions. We must never believe the deceit of the enemy and fall for the lies that Satan is spreading throughout western Christendom today, that being like the world will win the world!

“But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

13 For such are false apostles,

deceitful workers,

transforming themselves

into the apostles of Christ.

14 And no marvel;

for Satan himself

is transformed into an angel of light.

15 Therefore it is no great thing

if his ministers

also be transformed

as the ministers of righteousness;

whose end shall be

according to their works.”    2 Corinthians 11:12-15

Satan often deceives people by pretending to be “an angel of light”—and he has no qualms about telling half-truths, which in reality are lies—just plain lies! And his demon assistants and followers do the same. Remember that saying so doesn’t make it so! Jesus Himself told us the same thing as He warned that not everyone who claims to be His really is His!

“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 7:21-23

Jesus reminds us that just ‘saying so’ isn’t enough; we must know Him in salvation, through repentance and faith in the blood that He shed for SIN! Even doing what appears to be “great” things before the world isn’t necessarily proof of belonging to Jesus. Remember the “angel of light”! Satan is busy imitating real believers, and the day is coming when he will even try to imitate the Son of God! We must be sure that we are sharing, preaching and teaching God’s truth as the Bible tells it! Paul warned the Ephesian church that there would be false teachers and leaders from among their own flock. Just being “in” the church doesn’t mean that we “are” the church.

“And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. 18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons……………22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there………24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God...…27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves,

and to all the flock,

over the which the Holy Ghost

hath made you overseers,

to feed the church of God,

which he hath purchased

with his own blood.

29 For I know this, that after my departing

shall grievous wolves enter in among you,

not sparing the flock.

30 Also of your own selves shall men arise,

speaking perverse things,

to draw away disciples

after them.

31 Therefore watch, and remember…..

32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Portions of Acts 20:17-32

Paul knew, even then, that there were those who were self-motivated in their work, not genuinely following Jesus—and the same is still true today. That is why it is imperative that we know the Word of God, so we can discern truth from deceit! And dear friends, there is a lot of deceit going around today, and so many are being misled and deceived because they don’t know the Word of God! What about you?

Are we more concerned with avoiding conflict and not suffering for our faith, or are we following Jesus with our whole hearts, not selling out to the world, regardless of the cost? Jesus said a lot about the cost of following HIM!

“And he said unto them,

Ye are from beneath;

I am from above:

ye are of this world;

I am not of this world.

24 I said therefore unto you,

that ye shall die in your sins:

for if ye believe not that I am he,

ye shall die in your sins.”    John 8:23-24

And again:

“If the world hate you,

ye know that it hated me

before it hated you.

19 If ye were of the world,

the world would love his own:

but because ye are not of the world,

but I have chosen you

out of the world,

therefore the world hateth you.”   John 15:18-19

“These things I have spoken unto you,

that in me ye might have peace.

In the world ye shall have tribulation:

but be of good cheer;

I have overcome the world.”   John 16:33

Paul also prepared Timothy for the cost of following Jesus!

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12

Jesus prayed for us, and we also need to pray for wisdom and courage to “stand fast in the evil day”—and my friends, we are there. We must be ready to hold on to the truth and not sell out to the world! It’s the difference between life and death. The gospel and its good news are the reason that we have been left in this world.

“I have given them thy word;

and the world hath hated them,

because they are not of the world,

even as I am not of the world.

15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them

out of the world,

but that thou shouldest keep them

from the evil.

16 They are not of the world,

even as I am not of the world.

17 Sanctify them through thy truth:

thy word is truth.

18 As thou hast sent me

into the world,

even so have I also sent them

into the world.”   John 17:14-18

God has only One Way-Jesus! God has only One Message-Jesus and His cross, and it is the message that we must stand on—without apology and without compromise. We must not sell out to the world; we must follow the way that God has laid out, and that is the Gospel. Salvation in Christ alone, by faith alone—transforming grace!

“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…..

27 But God hath chosen the foolish things

of the world to confound the wise;

and God hath chosen the weak things

of the world to confound

the things which are mighty;

28 And base things of the world,

and things which are despised,

hath God chosen,

yea, and things which are not,

to bring to nought things that are:

29 That no flesh should glory in his presence. 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:21 & 27-31

Many today don’t want to suffer with or for Jesus, but when we compromise to avoid conflict and opposition, we forget that people were continually in conflict with Jesus, and the religious people of His day were often in 180-degree opposition to HIM! So, will we stand with our Lord, or sell out to the world for the sake of ease? The world is invading the church, and has caused many churches to so conform to the world that there’s more of the world in the church than of the church in the world. Think on these things and we may continue this train of thought later. Blessings on your week as you stand fast, pressing on with our Lord Jesus– knowing and trusting HIM and HIS Word! Sell or stand?

Leading Or Mis-Leading??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #406

27 Friday Oct 2017

Posted by in Confidence, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Leading Or Mis-Leading?

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #406    Leading Or Mis-Leading???

 

We all hear about someone having the “leading” role in some theatrical production, or even as children we all played follow the “leader”, and little school children love to be picked as the “leader” for the day. Most everyone wants to be a leader at one time or another, but what kind of leader are we being? And like it or not, we are all a leader in someone else’s life! So m y question for us today is a question that Dietrich Bonheoffer posed many years ago, will you “be a leader or a ‘mis-leader’”? The only way that we can be a true and faithful leader is to follow the Lord Jesus Christ, the creator, savior and Lord of all!

Jesus calls us to follow Him, and as we follow Christ faithfully, we can rest secure as others follow us.

“For though ye have ten thousand instructors

in Christ,

yet have ye not many fathers:

for in Christ Jesus

I have begotten you

through the gospel.

16 Wherefore I beseech you,

be ye followers of me.

17 For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus,

who is my beloved son,

and faithful in the Lord,

who shall bring you into remembrance

of my ways

which be in Christ,

as I teach every where in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:15-17

Paul called the Corinthians to be “followers of me” as he was a faithful ‘follower’ and Apostle of Jesus, leading them in “my ways which be in Christ”! What way are we leading those who are following us? There is a great responsibility for each of us, and the example we set for others ought to be faithful and true to God and His Word! Just as Jesus called us to follow Him, and sacrifice “self” to HIM!

“And he said to them all,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross daily,

and follow me.

24 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

but whosoever will lose his life

for my sake,

the same shall save it.”   Luke 9:23-24

We must loose ourselves ‘in’ Jesus, but we must also ‘come’ after Him with all our will, giving ourselves to following Him deliberately and consistently. Then, and only then, can others see HIM in us, and we will be leading them “to Jesus” and not to ‘self’! And we can only do this by the power that Jesus gives to those who are His, the power of the Holy Spirit that Jesus gives to those who come to Him in repentance and faith! And when we come to Jesus we are to abide in HIM and not the world; and then Jesus can be seen by those who are following us, for without HIM we will never lead them in the right direction!

“I am the true vine,

and my Father is the husbandman.

2 Every branch in me

that beareth not fruit

he taketh away:

and every branch that beareth fruit,

he purgeth it,

that it may bring forth more fruit.

3 Now ye are clean

through the word

which I have spoken unto you.

4 Abide in me,

and I in you.

As the branch

cannot bear fruit

of itself,

except it abide

in the vine;

no more can ye,

except ye abide in me.

5 I am the vine,

ye are the branches:

He that abideth in me,

and I in him,

the same bringeth forth

much fruit:

for without me ye can do nothing.”   John 15:1-5

May we “abide” in Jesus! His work being seen in us, by the power of HIS Spirit, so others, who are following us, will see HIM! And that’s what it’s all about. Being leaders and never “mis-leaders”, as we die to self and live unto Jesus! Lead on dear friends—lead on as “Christ liveth in me”! Press on! Lead on—someone is following YOU!!!

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live

in the flesh

I live by the faith

of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”  Galatians 2:20