Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I want to be candid with you and request that you open your heart and mind to understand the struggles that Christians encounter every day and the actions of those in Christendom who do us no favors.
I would like to open this up by using an analogy. When a person is a child they eat and drink whatever they desire. There is nothing that stops them from eating or drinking what they want or whenever they are hungry. When a child grows up they begin to notice changes in the body and the pressures of society force some to adhere and caution their eating and drinking habits. Whatever the reason or influence both good or bad, many go on the journey of losing weight. Many struggle to keep this weight off. There are those who are in this type of world who tell people that the only way for them to lose the weight is through a change of lifestyle, this includes eating differently and exercise. There are also those who advise that a person should be on a certain diet. While there are others who say that a person does not need to be on a diet or exercise all they need to do is take a certain pill, drink or wear a certain apparatus and the weight will fall off, it's that easy. While of course there are those who have just given up and have resorted to just wearing clothing to cover their weight.
I would at this time like to add another analogy. A person is raised in an environment that makes them adopt certain bad behaviors and addictions. These addictions disturb, disrupt and ruin a persons life and those around them. There comes a time when a person realizes that such addictions are hurting themselves and those they love, so they go on a journey to stop it. There are those who stop cold turkey and have no problems ever going back. While there are those who join a group such as AA, CA, GA, or some Recovery to help them stop. These support groups encourage a person to attend regularly, to have a sponsor or mentor and to avoid any environment or people who may drag them back into the life. We accept their advice. While there are those who try and try and then ultimately give up and just live in their addictions no matter what the circumstances are.
Now I had said all that to say this. People have been raised and been born into a sinful state. There comes a time when a person comes to Christ and is called out of this life. They realize that their life needs to change and that if they continue in the way they are at they will either end up in Hell at judgment day or end up living like it is Hell now. So a person comes to Christ and is encountered by a lot of advice and teachings. There are those who advise a person to live a holy life. To stop sinning and obey God. To form their life around good works and separate themselves from sinners and others who follow sin. To abhor and hate sin and hate anything that has any part of sin. That if such a person does sin, they are to repent and get back up and ask God to give them the strength to endure. These people demand if not require the believer in Christ to have a set of standards including involvement in the Church, Prayer and Reading the Bible. The Christian struggles, falls and gets back up again. They do this all their life. They struggle, fall and get back up again. Then they continue to be the best servant and yet they struggle, fall but they get back up again. Even though they know it is a struggle they never give up fighting.
Then there are those who come in and give the advice that all they need is grace. That Christianity is not about do's and don'ts and that God forgives and his grace covers our sins. That we are not to worry about our salvation but rather to love Jesus and love those around us. That sinners are our friends and that we should accept and love everyone as Jesus did. That while they do not advocate sin, they do not instruct on any type of holy lifestyle separate of sin and the sinner. They teach that works has no part of our salvation. That all we need is faith and love and that our Faith in Christ is sufficient.
As a Christian I have struggled in my life in Christ. I have had to battle many demons and skeletons in my closet as do many in Christianity. I have been involved in Churches and Teachings that have taught under both spectrums and in between. From those who teach holiness and separation and from those who teach grace and everything is surrounded and covered in grace and love. So here is what I have to say those who teach about grace and that Christianity is not about do's and don'ts, PLEASE DO NOT DO ME ANY FAVORS. You do not help me in my walk in Christ. As a matter of fact you put a stumbling block in front of me. You think that teaching that God has nothing but love and grace and no chastisement or punishment for me is doing me a favor, well it does not. I need to have a form of fear and life of holiness. I know that God loves me, I know that God has saved me by His love and only by His grace, I know it is not anything I have done that saves me, but now that I am saved I do not want to sin no more. You telling me that God loves me no matter what is not helping me. That God has forgiven all my sins, past, present and future is not helping me. As a matter of fact this type of teaching only makes me not care when I sin. It does not give me any form of consideration to others or have a spirit of holiness or desire to continue in a life of holiness. Please do not get me wrong. I know what God has done for me and I know what God is doing in me and what God will be doing through me but I do not need someone to tell me my bad actions mean nothing and my good actions mean nothing. Your talk of God loves me and your instructions that Christianity is not about works is not helping me. So please stop.
Reminding people of the love of God is good and thank you. Reminding people of the punishment of God is good also. There must be a balance. Warning Labels on products and foods serve a purpose. We demand them and require them. The nutritional and ingredent labels are necessary. They tell us what we are eating and how much of what we are eating. They protect us and we never complain about any label no matter how ridiculous they may seem. Like this package of peanuts may contain peanuts.
If the Church is the Bride of Christ and I am a child, I need to know that Dad is coming home soon and He better find me on my best behavior. I need to struggle with my sin when it appears. I need to be tough on myself. I need to hate my sin. I need to hate sin. I need to be told to do my chorus and to make sure they are done right. I need to be held accountable and spanked when I do wrong. I need to be told what to do and how to do it. I know that whatever I do has not saved me, but I also know that whatever I do or do not do may save me from myself and others.
Thank you for telling me that God had died for me and that God has forgiven me and that God has saved me, but please tell me to FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT!! Please tell me to RUN THE RACE!! AND PLEASE also tell me TO GO AND SIN NO MORE!!
- Bishop & Pastor Michael Salman
Harvest Christian Fellowship - Alethian Christian Church
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Believers and The Local Church
Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I would like to address the heresy and teaching that states: That believers do not have to go or belong to a local body of believers and an incomplete thought that believers of Jesus Christ are part of a universal church.
Let me begin with the latter part of the issue. There is no doubt there is a universal Church. A church that is NOT set up by buildings or any material structure. The word of God makes reference by saying such:
Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
1 Peter 2:5 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.
Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: (22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
These thoughts and doctrines were taught throughout the scripture. The apostles, bishops and church fathers knew that a Christian can in no way practice the Christian Faith outside the Local body of Believers. Lets move on to other examples.
One important point is to note that every epistle was written to Churches and/or the affairs of the Church. Not universal church but individual churches. If people were not part of the local church, how would they have gotten such instruction. How would they have heard what God wanted of them? That is why when the Apostle wrote letters he wrote them to the Church because that is where all believers were. Those who did not belong to the Church were not considered Christians. Let us look at how the Apostles and Bishops began their letters in the Bible:
(1 Peter 5:13 The church that is at Babylon "ROME", elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.) ROME HAD A CHURCH.
1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth,
2 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:
Let me begin with the latter part of the issue. There is no doubt there is a universal Church. A church that is NOT set up by buildings or any material structure. The word of God makes reference by saying such:
Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
1 Peter 2:5 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.
Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: (22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Provided the scriptures above it is already clear that while we as individuals make up part of the universal church, there is a strong indication that even we as individuals are bound together to make up a larger purpose.
So yes, we as believers enter a universal church bound together by Jesus Christ but scriptures make it very clear that we as individuals are called to part of a local body of believers (FITLY JOINED TOGETHER). Let us consider the following:
No Christian that ever came to Christ was an individual unto themselves. In other words the bible makes it clear that Christians who came to Christ were baptized and then added to the Church.
Acts 2:41-47 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Someone had to baptize them into the Church and someone had to do the counting. Also note that they were ADDED UNTO "THEM." This is a strong declarative sentence that there was some form of close possession or group. They were added to a tangible, material and visual group.
Those who also were added continued in the apostles TEACHING and FELLOWSHIP.
(42) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (43) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
There were teachers who instructed, guided and taught the believers. They belonged to a community of believers that shared and fellow shipped with one another. They were not alone but a group.
They also were TOGETHER and shared with one another.
(44) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; (45) And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (46) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
They were TOGETHER and continued daily in ONE ACCORD in SINGLENESS of heart.
People saw them together and the works that were happening because of their unity.
(47) Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
There was ADDITION to the Church DAILY. Those that were saved were ADDED to the Church. Not just some universal invisible group but a real tangible group of believers who shared, cared, taught and ministered together.
The text above gives us a clear EXAMPLE of what every believer should be doing when they come to Christ. This example was placed to show us what Christ intended all believers to do and be. Why then are people taught differently when we have such a clear and clean example of what believers did? Why do people believe that being part of a local body of believers is not a NECESSARY part of the Christian Faith? Where do people get the idea that God is OK with a believer not belonging to a local body of believers?
Could you imagine if the scriptures said this: Those who believe were baptized and then they went home. They never met together, or gathered for fellowship. They did not get taught anything for they relied on the Holy Spirit to teach them. When someone was in need they had to figure it out. They ate their meals by themselves and God kept bringing people to Christ to be just like them.
Of course not. Such a story would be ludicrous and yet we have people teaching and preaching that that such a life in Christ is fine and permissible. They believe that those who believe in Christ are part of a universal Church and do not have to be part of a local body of believers. Such a teaching is false and has never ever been taught or even shown in scripture or even in the life of an early believer. The Early Church held to the belief that anyone separate of the local body of believers has no part of God.
Cyprian of Carthage (240 A.D.) wrote:
6. The spouse of Christ cannot be adulterous; she is uncorrupted and pure. She knows one home; she guards with chaste modesty the sanctity of one couch. She keeps us for God. She appoints the sons whom she has born for the kingdom. Whoever is separated from the Church and is joined to an adulteress, is separated from the promises of the Church; nor can he who forsakes the Church of Christ attain to the rewards of Christ. He is a stranger; he is profane; he is an enemy. He can no longer have God for his Father, who has not the Church for his mother. If any one could escape who was outside the ark of Noah, then he also may escape who shall be outside of the Church. The Lord warns, saying,
Cyprian of Carthage (240 A.D.) wrote:
6. The spouse of Christ cannot be adulterous; she is uncorrupted and pure. She knows one home; she guards with chaste modesty the sanctity of one couch. She keeps us for God. She appoints the sons whom she has born for the kingdom. Whoever is separated from the Church and is joined to an adulteress, is separated from the promises of the Church; nor can he who forsakes the Church of Christ attain to the rewards of Christ. He is a stranger; he is profane; he is an enemy. He can no longer have God for his Father, who has not the Church for his mother. If any one could escape who was outside the ark of Noah, then he also may escape who shall be outside of the Church. The Lord warns, saying,
He who is not with me is against me, and he who gathers not with me scatters.Matthew 12:30 He who breaks the peace and the concord of Christ, does so in opposition to Christ; he who gathers elsewhere than in the Church, scatters the Church of Christ. The Lord says,
I and the Father are one;John 10:30 and again it is written of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
And these three are one.1 John 5:7 And does any one believe that this unity which thus comes from the divine strength and coheres in celestial sacraments, can be divided in the Church, and can be separated by the parting asunder of opposing wills? He who does not hold this unity does not hold God's law, does not hold the faith of the Father and the Son, does not hold life and salvation.
These thoughts and doctrines were taught throughout the scripture. The apostles, bishops and church fathers knew that a Christian can in no way practice the Christian Faith outside the Local body of Believers. Lets move on to other examples.
One important point is to note that every epistle was written to Churches and/or the affairs of the Church. Not universal church but individual churches. If people were not part of the local church, how would they have gotten such instruction. How would they have heard what God wanted of them? That is why when the Apostle wrote letters he wrote them to the Church because that is where all believers were. Those who did not belong to the Church were not considered Christians. Let us look at how the Apostles and Bishops began their letters in the Bible:
Romans 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth,
2 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:
Galatians 1:2 And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:
Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
(Revelation 2:1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;) EPHESUS HAD A CHURCH
Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: (bishops and deacons were the leaders)
Colossians 1:2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (WHAT MADE THEM FAITHFUL?)
1 Thessalonians 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
EVEN JESUS ADDRESSES CHURCHES IN REVELATIONS BY WRITING:
Revelation 2:1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;
Revelation 2:8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;
Revelation 2:12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;
Revelation 2:18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass;
Revelation 3:1 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.
Revelation 3:7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
Revelation 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
It is very clear that the letters written by the Apostles and Bishops were written to CHURCHES. Instructions were given to groups of people. These instructions were then taught to the people by Bishops, Pastors, Teachers, Deacons and such. Instructions like, dwell in unity, love one another, provoke one another in love, encourage one another, sing with one another, pray for one another, submit to one another and many other ONE ANOTHER's. How could this possibly happen if one is not part of a Local Body of Believers?
The Bible also calls believers to be accountable saying things like: Submit to those who have rule over you, to honor the elders who serve in the church, among other things. If one does not belong to a local body, how can they be accountable? Who do they answer to? How are they taught? How do they serve? Who do they give to? When they do good and help others the next questions I have is who are they glorifying? Who are they truly helping? How are they helping the work of Christ? If I do not belong to a Church and lets say, I am a good person, believer in Christ and have a sincere love for God and I help someone. How does my helping glorify God? If such a person likes what I am doing and saying and then receives Christ as their Lord and savior, what are they to do now? How am I to instruct such a person? Do we then tell them just read the bible? Do we tell them to just do good? Where do they get fed, how are they taught and how do they grow without the Church? Our work becomes VAIN and all a person has done is birthed something only to destroy it due to malnutrition. Matthew 13 (Parable of Sower)
I will not exhaust this any further but provide you a couple more scriptures:
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
The Bible also calls believers to be accountable saying things like: Submit to those who have rule over you, to honor the elders who serve in the church, among other things. If one does not belong to a local body, how can they be accountable? Who do they answer to? How are they taught? How do they serve? Who do they give to? When they do good and help others the next questions I have is who are they glorifying? Who are they truly helping? How are they helping the work of Christ? If I do not belong to a Church and lets say, I am a good person, believer in Christ and have a sincere love for God and I help someone. How does my helping glorify God? If such a person likes what I am doing and saying and then receives Christ as their Lord and savior, what are they to do now? How am I to instruct such a person? Do we then tell them just read the bible? Do we tell them to just do good? Where do they get fed, how are they taught and how do they grow without the Church? Our work becomes VAIN and all a person has done is birthed something only to destroy it due to malnutrition. Matthew 13 (Parable of Sower)
I will not exhaust this any further but provide you a couple more scriptures:
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
How can one be obedient to Hebrews 10:25 if they do not belong to a local body of believers? Have they not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together? Does one have communion by themselves, does one baptize themselves, does one give to themselves, does one love themselves? A person who does not assemble under the Church can not truly follow the teachings of Christ and even fulfill what is written in Hebrews 10:25.
Again listen to what Jude writes about they who are dis joined,
Jude 1:19-20 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. (20) But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
Again listen to what Jude writes about they who are dis joined,
Jude 1:19-20 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. (20) But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
THE WORD SEPARATE THEMSELVES - apodiorizō - ap-od-ee-or-id'-zo means to disjoin (by a boundary, figuratively a party): - separate.
And again the apostle John writes,
1 John 2:19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.
In Conclusion,
Many people will argue that there are a lot of problems in the Church. That just because a person goes to church does not mean they are saved. While much may be true, we do not throw out the baby with the bath water. We have problems in our schools, in our work places and in our country but it never stops people from being taught or working or even staying in this country.
God gave us each other because He knew that it is in the Church there is safety. In numbers we can be held accountable, love, encourage and keep each other up. God never intended believers to be alone or not be part of a local body of believers.
Ephesians 4:11-13 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
God has a body. This body is made up of many members. These members are led by Pastors, Teachers and leaders. These leaders bring the members in the Body into Unity. A body that has members in unity to one another become a perfect man and receive the fullness found in Christ.
ANALOGY: Christ is the TREE, The Branches on this TREE is the CHURCH. The leaves on each branch are the MEMBERS in the CHURCH. These separate branches are connected to the Same TREE. A leaf by themselves can not survive and a leaf connected straight to the tree with no apparent branch is called a sucker branch. They may take the nutrients from the Tree but truly produce or multiple no real fruit. Such a branch is usually broken and removed from the tree so that the branches produce fruit.
What fruit is produced from a person who does not belong to a Church? A person who belongs to a Church can produce fruit and multiple 30, 60 and 100 fold.
- Pastor Michael Salman
Bishop of the Alethian Christian Church
* P.S. If you believe this article to be inaccurate please let me know how and what is inaccurate about it. So that we may truly discuss any exceptions that I may have overlooked. Going to Church does not save you, Christ does but he saved you to bring you into the Church so that you may remain saved and produce fruit and grow. Unless you are on your death bed reading this nothing should stop you from being part of a local body of believers. Be obedient and do the right thing.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Spoiled Children - The growing rottenness of undisciplined Christians
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I would like to address the growing cancer that plagues Christendom today. It is a cancer that is not eating us from the outside but from the inside. It screams at us, kicks us and disrespects everything Christianity stands for. This cancer is the undisciplined Christian. The bible tells us,
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
We accept the fact of God's discipline in our daily life and in the life of every believer. We know that we as believers, if we do not walk according to the word of God will be chastened by the Lord. While this may be a fact we can not ignore that the Word of God places a responsibility on the Church and its leadership to discipline those who offend or live openly in sin. Here are some examples:
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
Titus 1:10-13 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: (11) Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. (12) One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. (13) This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
2 Timothy 4:1-2 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; (2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
We accept the fact of God's discipline in our daily life and in the life of every believer. We know that we as believers, if we do not walk according to the word of God will be chastened by the Lord. While this may be a fact we can not ignore that the Word of God places a responsibility on the Church and its leadership to discipline those who offend or live openly in sin. Here are some examples:
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
2 Timothy 4:1-2 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; (2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
1 Timothy 5:20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
Matthew 18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 (14) And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. (15) Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
1 Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
1 Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
1 Corinthians 5:1-5 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. (2) And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. (3) For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, (4) In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, (5) To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:11-13 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. (12) For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? (13) But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
While it is evident that the bible clearly states that those who live unruly and without concern and respect to the Church are to be disciplined by the Church and in some cases avoided and kicked out, how often is that done in churches? Churches are no longer acting like the Church of God but rather a social club in which all are accepted as long as they pay their membership fees or attend the occasional gatherings. Churches are filled with people who are offensive, abusive and down right polluted with sins and the sins they have committed against others. It is not their fault though. Rather it is the fault of the Modern Day Church. When an offense occurs the Church is not taking the steps to address the offense. Offensive Christians are getting away with murder. When a concern is placed upon a member of the Church, the Christian moves on to another Church. Slowly bringing his offense and bad behavior to other Christians. When something must be addressed Church leaders are deciding to remain silent rather than to speak to the person for fear of losing them.
Church discipline is a reality and a must. Many strong biblical teachers and pastors will agree that a Mark of A TRUE Church is discipline. A Church that does not discipline is not a TRUE CHRISTIAN CHURCH. This is a fact folks. The bibles says this to a Church that does not take action:
1 Corinthians 6:4-5 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. (5) I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?
Church discipline is a reality and a must. Many strong biblical teachers and pastors will agree that a Mark of A TRUE Church is discipline. A Church that does not discipline is not a TRUE CHRISTIAN CHURCH. This is a fact folks. The bibles says this to a Church that does not take action:
1 Corinthians 6:4-5 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. (5) I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?
Churches that do not take serious the behaviors in a Church are truly not a Church. As a Pastor it is very easy to make a Sunday gathering an outreach instead of a time in which believers gather for instruction and encouragement to service. The behavior of those who gather, less those who visit must be taken serious, especially those who are offensive. Christians who call themselves Christians while living a reckless life, not only blemish the Church but the name of Christ and His teaching. Again the scriptures say this of those:
Romans 2:24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.
and again,
Titus 2:5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
While Churches that do not discipline believe they are doing a service by obtaining and keeping the disobedient, they do not see the damage that is being done in the background. They are raising spoiled children who are rotten and cause the offense of many. We save from leaving the Church only to condemn 100 others because of their behavior.
How should the Church discipline? The bible makes it very clear on how to discipline a member of the Church:
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
James 5:19-20 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; (20) Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
Jude 1:21-23 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (22) And of some have compassion, making a difference: (23) And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
1 John 5:16-17 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. (17) All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
Matthew 18:15-17 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. (16) But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. (17) And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
In short the bible tells us to warn, to instruct, to call, to have compassion, mercy and have a truly sincere heart and desire for the sinning brother or sister to repent of their sin. That a persons very first step is to bring the sin to the sinners attention. NOT gossip, or point or complain and murmur but instead to privately bring it to their attention. If there is no resolution, one must then bring another brother. Not ignore it, or blow it off or not care anymore but the one who is offended, if no resolution has been made, MUST bring it to another brother in Christ for resolution. If anyone ignores offenses made to them, the offender may hurt someone else who is not as strong as you or even a new believer. If there are 2 or more people who agree that your concern is valid and they have consulted the offender with still no resolution, the issue must then be brought before the CHURCH. When it refers to the Church it means leaders of the Church. The Leaders of the Church in a council setting are called to sit with the offender and deal with the concern. In the event the offender after speaking with the offended, other Christians and the Church, still refuses to repent or see their fault and does not stop or resolve the issue, the offender must then be removed from the Fellowship. Such a person is under the judgement of God. There are couple of occasions the Bible speaks of such people:
1 Timothy 1:19-20 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: (20) Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
2 Timothy 4:14-15 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: (15) Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
1 Corinthians 16:22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
(*YOU CAN NOT SAY YOU LOVE GOD AND HATE YOUR BROTHER)
2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, (8) In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: (9) Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
1 Corinthians 5:2-5 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. (3) For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, (4) In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, (5) To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Matthew 18:17-18 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. (18) Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
The fact is no one likes to do the disciplining and no one likes to be disciplined. The last thing any church wants have is a group of people walking around pointing fingers and excommunicating one another. This is why certain steps are necessary to help discern and decipher from the less serious matters. A person not saying good morning to you or not stopping by to say hello, may easily be forgiven and overlooked, especially if the person did not know they did it. While a person who says something to you or does something to you that is obviously offensive should not be overlooked if such actions effect your relationship with them. With that said, Christians are NOT COMMANDED to do their own disciplining but rather to love one another. Follow the proper steps. Christians who do the silent treatment, ignoring, partiality and such who think that such a message will teach the offender a lesson is violating the commandment of God to love one another. The Duty of the Disciplining belongs to the Church not the individual. We are called to love, forgive and honor the Word of God and His Church.
- Pastor Michael Salman
Monday, October 28, 2013
What Kind of Christian Are You?
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I would like to address and discuss the citizens we find in Christendom. Christendom has all kinds of people who believe for one reason or another. Today I want to talk about the 4 types of people inhabiting Christendom. You probably know them and I can only pray that you are the latter.
People are Christians or participate in Christianity because they fit in one of these Categories:
1) For Social Reasons. People are not always tolerated or accepted in certain groups. Some people are considered outcast and unliked by the world. They exhibit certain traits that normal people have either written them off or dislike them. They have found in Christianity a people who are willing to tolerate them, work with them and even accept them. While they themselves have not accepted Christ personally, they like Christianity because it gives them some kind of social life. These people usually go from church to church or event to event trying to accumulate as many friends or acquaintances to feel socially accepted. They do not like to be held accountable to their walk in Christ. Since they are really not in it for the walk only the friendship they barely come to experience true salvation. Some even join a Church to find a spouse or companion. When they find a good man or woman their spouses are shocked to later find out that they do not know who they married but it sure was not a Christian. These people burn a lot of bridges. While there are some who do come to Christ, it is not until they learn that Christianity goes beyond just having friends.
2) For Moral Reasons. Christianity offers the most moral and ethical outlooks to life. It teaches not to steal, kill or commit adultery. While other religions may have some of the same values Christianity is the most widely accepted. It is a great way and place to raise a family and teach them some form of ethics and morals. While people do not look to live at a higher standard, people find that Christianity helps them feel like they are in a higher standard. It offers some form of family and personal security to know that they have some kind of grounding for themselves and family, morally and ethically. While they themselves have never felt a deep sense of conviction the striving to be moral is intellectually right rather than spiritually right. Just the fact that they attend a Church and attend special events like Christmas and Easter is enough to satisfy their Christianity label.
3) For Traditional Reasons. People are in Christianity because their grandfather was, their father was and now they are. Their family have attended the same church for many years and Christianity is a the traditional religion for their family. They feel that going to church is just what they do because it is traditional. Kind of like getting together for Thanksgiving Dinner. Even though there are family you do not like you just do it because it's thanksgiving and that is tradition. They raise their family in the Church because the torch must be passed. Again no true personal commitment has ever been made and the thoughts of those who are in Christianity is entitlement. They feel they are saved because they have always been Christians.
4) TRUE PERSONAL ENCOUNTER. These are people who have encountered the TRUE CHRIST. Not a great church, or great people but a Great God. They may have begun under the first 3 pretenses but they have hit a place in their lives that has broken them and questioned their purpose in this life. They understood the sin that has damned them and understood the Christ that has saved them. Their encounter is personal and they express, show and pour out Christ. Their lives are Holy, their behavior is Holy and their convictions are Holy. They have come to Christ by and through the WORD OF GOD and faith in Christ. These are people who have learned what it means to be Christ like and have learned what it means to be faithful, loyal and saints. These are people who usually attract the other types to want to be part of something larger.
In Conclusion,
Christ is able to touch the lives of many who may come for personal reasons. That is why it is important that we who have encountered True Christianity, show Christ. To let people know that Christianity is more than social, moral and traditional but a relationship with the True and Living God.
If you are in Christianity for the first 3 reasons, it is time that you come to experience more. For no friend, no form of ethics or no family name will bring you into an eternal loving relationship with Christ. It is only through Christ and your personal encounter with Him. Repent of your sins, have faith in God and walk in Christ. Come to Christ.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
People are Christians or participate in Christianity because they fit in one of these Categories:
1) For Social Reasons. People are not always tolerated or accepted in certain groups. Some people are considered outcast and unliked by the world. They exhibit certain traits that normal people have either written them off or dislike them. They have found in Christianity a people who are willing to tolerate them, work with them and even accept them. While they themselves have not accepted Christ personally, they like Christianity because it gives them some kind of social life. These people usually go from church to church or event to event trying to accumulate as many friends or acquaintances to feel socially accepted. They do not like to be held accountable to their walk in Christ. Since they are really not in it for the walk only the friendship they barely come to experience true salvation. Some even join a Church to find a spouse or companion. When they find a good man or woman their spouses are shocked to later find out that they do not know who they married but it sure was not a Christian. These people burn a lot of bridges. While there are some who do come to Christ, it is not until they learn that Christianity goes beyond just having friends.
2) For Moral Reasons. Christianity offers the most moral and ethical outlooks to life. It teaches not to steal, kill or commit adultery. While other religions may have some of the same values Christianity is the most widely accepted. It is a great way and place to raise a family and teach them some form of ethics and morals. While people do not look to live at a higher standard, people find that Christianity helps them feel like they are in a higher standard. It offers some form of family and personal security to know that they have some kind of grounding for themselves and family, morally and ethically. While they themselves have never felt a deep sense of conviction the striving to be moral is intellectually right rather than spiritually right. Just the fact that they attend a Church and attend special events like Christmas and Easter is enough to satisfy their Christianity label.
3) For Traditional Reasons. People are in Christianity because their grandfather was, their father was and now they are. Their family have attended the same church for many years and Christianity is a the traditional religion for their family. They feel that going to church is just what they do because it is traditional. Kind of like getting together for Thanksgiving Dinner. Even though there are family you do not like you just do it because it's thanksgiving and that is tradition. They raise their family in the Church because the torch must be passed. Again no true personal commitment has ever been made and the thoughts of those who are in Christianity is entitlement. They feel they are saved because they have always been Christians.
4) TRUE PERSONAL ENCOUNTER. These are people who have encountered the TRUE CHRIST. Not a great church, or great people but a Great God. They may have begun under the first 3 pretenses but they have hit a place in their lives that has broken them and questioned their purpose in this life. They understood the sin that has damned them and understood the Christ that has saved them. Their encounter is personal and they express, show and pour out Christ. Their lives are Holy, their behavior is Holy and their convictions are Holy. They have come to Christ by and through the WORD OF GOD and faith in Christ. These are people who have learned what it means to be Christ like and have learned what it means to be faithful, loyal and saints. These are people who usually attract the other types to want to be part of something larger.
In Conclusion,
Christ is able to touch the lives of many who may come for personal reasons. That is why it is important that we who have encountered True Christianity, show Christ. To let people know that Christianity is more than social, moral and traditional but a relationship with the True and Living God.
If you are in Christianity for the first 3 reasons, it is time that you come to experience more. For no friend, no form of ethics or no family name will bring you into an eternal loving relationship with Christ. It is only through Christ and your personal encounter with Him. Repent of your sins, have faith in God and walk in Christ. Come to Christ.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Role of Women In The Church
Role of Women and The
Church
Grace to you and
peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I would like to address the
role of Women in the Church. This is a
subject that has been discussed and debated for many years. While this was never a concern in the Early
Church we also do not make a mountain over a mole hill but rather affirm and
confirm the teachings found in scriptures and by the Early Church Fathers,
Apostolic teachings and doctrines.
In order for us
to understand the role of women in the Church it is important to look at all
the scriptures referring to women first and then like a puzzle in the full
counsel of God come to the understanding of the role of women in the
Church. Let us begin:
1 Corinthians 14:34-40 Let your
women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak;
but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the
law. (35) And if they will learn any thing, let them
ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. (36)
What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? (37)
If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him
acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the
Lord. (38) But if any man be ignorant, let him be
ignorant. (39) Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and
forbid not to speak with tongues. (40) Let all things be done decently and in order.
1 Timothy 2:11-15 Let the
woman learn in silence with all subjection.
(12) But I suffer not a woman to
teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (13)
For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
(14) And Adam was not deceived,
but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. (15)
Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in
faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Titus 2:3-5 The aged
women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not
false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; (4)
That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands,
to love their children, (5) To be discreet, chaste, keepers at
home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not
blasphemed.
1 Corinthians 11:1-9 Be ye
followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. (2)
Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep
the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. (3)
But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the
head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. (4)
Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered,
dishonoureth his head. (5) But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth
with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one
as if she were shaven. (6) For if the woman be not covered, let her also
be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be
covered. (7) For a man indeed ought not to cover his
head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory
of the man. (8) For the man is not of the woman; but the
woman of the man. (9) Neither was the man created for the woman;
but the woman for the man.
At first glance we come to the conclusion
that women are to take a silent role in the Church. That they are not allowed to speak and not
even to ask questions in Church. That is
the conclusion you would have to come to if you were to take the face value of
a text without applying other text that apply to the subject at hand. Since we are able to apply other text it is
obvious that this text is not sole and separate. For example there are times when a woman is
permitted to speak. 1) When she teaches or talks to other women. Titus
2:4 That they may teach the young women
to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, and 2) When she is given permission by an
authority above her to prophesy. 1
Corinthians 11:5 But every woman that
prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head:
for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
There are also a lot of examples where
women take a leadership role but only under the authority of a man. For example:
The office of Deacon is an office of authority and teaching and yet a
woman named Phebe is called a deacon by the Apostle Paul:
Romans 16:1-2 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is
a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:
(2) That ye receive her in the Lord,
as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need
of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.
Philip who was one of the Deacons of the
Church had 4 daughters who prophesied:
Acts 21:8-9 And the next day
we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered
into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and
abode with him. (9) And the same man had four daughters, virgins,
which did prophesy.
Notice how the Apostle mentions
that the daughters were VIRGINS. In other
words their Father was their head covering and authority over them giving them
the right to prophesy.
There are other instances in which women
take a teaching role, not as in the role
of a Pastor but rather a minister. For example there are circumstances in which
it is recorded that Aquila and his wife Priscilla are involved in a home church
and in teaching people. Whenever it is
mentioned it is mentioned as Aquila and his wife Priscilla If Priscilla was not active in the Church why
mention her. The women were not silent
only submissive. They understood their
place in the Church.
We cannot come to the literal conclusion
that women are to be silent in the Church.
What we can come to the conclusion is that women are not to have
authority over man and take the teaching authority over man in the Church. In other words, women are not to take the
role of Senior Pastor or any Pastorship over man. Instead a woman may prophesy, teach and
preach under the authority of the Senior Pastor and by her husband or father.
The role of women is very vital and
important in the Church. While women may
not take a leadership role in the Church, women are leaders in the Church. Women lead many of the minor administrative
works, organization of social events and other minor roles. Any form of leadership or lead by women is always conducted under the authority of the Church and it's Pastor's.
If you are a reader who takes the text
hyper literal then under rules of theology you must make it absolute. In other words, the Word of God says that a
woman is not to usurp authority over man but does not just say in Church
Only. Also a woman is be silent and
should not ask questions means any and all questions. There are churches who take this role, but
not in this Church.
Here are other women that are mentioned by
the Apostle by name because of their work and labor in the Gospel. These mentioned tell a different story than one found in a hyper-literal interpretation of a silent woman who does not speak in Church:
Romans 16:1-27 I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is
at Cenchrea: (2) That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh
saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for
she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. (3) Greet Priscilla and Aquila my
helpers in Christ Jesus: (4) Who have for my life laid down their own
necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. (5)
Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my
wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.
(6) Greet Mary, who
bestowed much labour on us. (7) Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and
my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ
before me……….(12) Salute Tryphena and
Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute
the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. ……. (15) Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the
saints which are with them. ….Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by
Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Why People Are Leaving The Church?
In this article I would like to briefly discuss the cause of why people are leaving the Church. I center this problem on two causes. There may be many causes to the reason but As a Pastor and Minister I have been able by my experience narrowed it down to TWO reasons.
The Reason people are leaving the Church is - Church Theology.
People are no longer dumb. In our modern age we are in a Multi-Media and Multi Information Age. In this age we can get any information we want whenever we want it. Thanks to Google and other search engines our networking is unlimited. Our Universities and our Children are graduating much more smarter than they were 10 years ago. The problem is while the world is getting smarter and more technical we are not. We are not feeding our children strong biblical truths anymore. We are stuck on Adam and Eve eating an Apple. A talking snake. Noah's Ark and Such. Even though there is some great studies and teachers, the churches have decided to take the dumb side of things. We no longer can explain, Why bad things happen to good people? Why is there evil in the world? and other things that people need real answers to. Our answers are very fairytaleish and our explanations are no longer based on common sense but solely on Faith. While there is nothing wrong with Faith, it is important that we as a Church are able to put substance to what we are saying rather than just saying: JUST BELIEVE. Schools are presenting evidence and scientific proof to what they are saying, no matter how questionable such evidence is, they still are. While Church Pastors and Teachers are not taking the time to refute evolution and other things that contradict the Bible. We are not giving the people of God the ammunition they need to be able to believe what they believe. We are avoiding confrontation and being judgmental. While the world has no problem confronting faith and putting our people in the corner, we are cowards and refusing to tell our people that evolution is a lie from Hell. We are refusing to fight for what we believe. We are refusing to go face to face and teach our people how to go face to face against such heresies and falsehoods and call them what they are, WRONG. Instead in love we tolerate and some cases accept their lies.
We need to change. We need to teach our people that it is not wrong to stand your ground. To fight for what you believe it. That it is not wrong to say THEY ARE WRONG. That it is O.k. to believe in what you believe in, even if it makes you sound arrogant, hard headed or close minded.
THE SECOND reason people are leaving the Church is- WE have Created a God that We CAN NOT even Follow.
Churches are teaching that God is absolute love. That love is about God and that church and Christians are full of love and that a true Christian has love. The problem is there is so much love in the air that those who go to church and are hearing all this preaching are wondering "WHERE IS THIS LOVE?" While in Church many are practicing such a doctrine, at home they are not. The God that is being preached is a fairy tale. Christians are growing up looking at what we have created and are wondering where is this One we believe in. Someone once said, that the greatest cause of atheism is Christians professing what they believe but not living it. This is what they find unbelievable. The God that is created is not the God of the Bible. It is not a God who turned tables, rebuked the Pharisee and Sadducee or even the God who is in the Book of Revelation. The God we have created is impossible to follow and impossible to be like. Who can be like Him unless you are a monk?
We need to teach that God is in control of all things. That the Gospel is about saving us from the judgment of sin and damnation. That God is love but not all love is God. That anger without sin and righteous indignation is proper, allowed and in some cases obligated. That God is real and not a 60's Hippie running around placing daisies in guns. That the greatest enemy to God is Man and the only reason God has not eliminated man is because of His mercy and patience but one day He will. We need to teach people a God that we can follow and a God that is real.
In conclusion,
Folks we serve a real God. We need to be real. We need to teach a real doctrine centered around real truth. We need to teach our people to live Holy and to separate from this world while living in the world. Even if the World treats us like outcasts. We need to learn to Love good and HATE evil. That it is O.K. to go against the grain and to be passionate for what you believe in. It is O.K. to ask tough questions and to teach tough things. When we ground the people of God in the truth there is no lie, falsehood or worldly philosophy that will ever take them away. We serve an awesome God. When we teach the truth there is no persecution, trial or tribulation that will ever shake us. Thank you Jesus.
BONUS:
John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
We need to change. We need to teach our people that it is not wrong to stand your ground. To fight for what you believe it. That it is not wrong to say THEY ARE WRONG. That it is O.k. to believe in what you believe in, even if it makes you sound arrogant, hard headed or close minded.
THE SECOND reason people are leaving the Church is- WE have Created a God that We CAN NOT even Follow.
Churches are teaching that God is absolute love. That love is about God and that church and Christians are full of love and that a true Christian has love. The problem is there is so much love in the air that those who go to church and are hearing all this preaching are wondering "WHERE IS THIS LOVE?" While in Church many are practicing such a doctrine, at home they are not. The God that is being preached is a fairy tale. Christians are growing up looking at what we have created and are wondering where is this One we believe in. Someone once said, that the greatest cause of atheism is Christians professing what they believe but not living it. This is what they find unbelievable. The God that is created is not the God of the Bible. It is not a God who turned tables, rebuked the Pharisee and Sadducee or even the God who is in the Book of Revelation. The God we have created is impossible to follow and impossible to be like. Who can be like Him unless you are a monk?
We need to teach that God is in control of all things. That the Gospel is about saving us from the judgment of sin and damnation. That God is love but not all love is God. That anger without sin and righteous indignation is proper, allowed and in some cases obligated. That God is real and not a 60's Hippie running around placing daisies in guns. That the greatest enemy to God is Man and the only reason God has not eliminated man is because of His mercy and patience but one day He will. We need to teach people a God that we can follow and a God that is real.
In conclusion,
Folks we serve a real God. We need to be real. We need to teach a real doctrine centered around real truth. We need to teach our people to live Holy and to separate from this world while living in the world. Even if the World treats us like outcasts. We need to learn to Love good and HATE evil. That it is O.K. to go against the grain and to be passionate for what you believe in. It is O.K. to ask tough questions and to teach tough things. When we ground the people of God in the truth there is no lie, falsehood or worldly philosophy that will ever take them away. We serve an awesome God. When we teach the truth there is no persecution, trial or tribulation that will ever shake us. Thank you Jesus.
BONUS:
John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Notice what it means to be set FREE. One must BELIEVE IN HIM, CONTINUE IN HIS WORD AND BE HIS DISCIPLE. Once we begin here, we will know the TRUTH and the TRUTH WILL MAKE us FREE. Once a person has tasted Freedom they will never want to be entangled again.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
The Modern Day Judiazers
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. In this article I would like to address a subject that may be offensive to some. So before I begin let me begin with this text:
Galatians 2:11-14 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. (12) For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. (13) And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. (14) But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
This article is going to address a movement that had started a long time ago but has now been accepted by many Churches. This article as the text has stated will "Withstand in some peoples face." What I will do is expose by history and doctrine the movements false theology,doctrines and dogmas. Such that create an evident sign that they are no different than the Judiazers of the Paul's times. The movement I am talking about is what we call the "Messianic Jew." This term originated in the 1960's.
EXCERPT FROM WIKIPEDIA *
"Messianic Judaism is a syncretic[1] religious movement that arose in the 1960s and 70s.[9] It blends evangelical Christian theology with elements of religious Jewish practice and terminology.[14] Messianic Judaism generally holds that Jesus is both the Jewish Messiah and "God the Son" (one person of the Trinity),[18] though some within the movement do not hold to Trinitarian beliefs.[19] With few exceptions, both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament are believed to be authoritative and divinely inspired scripture.
Zionist have one thing in mind, the Jewish people. They believe in separation and segregation. They believe that all Jews should be in Israel and that any Jew living anywhere should not assimilate with any other society. They also are against Antisemitism. So what they are saying is, "It is O.K. for us not be part of you because we are not who you are and you are not who we are. But it is not O.K. if you do not want us to be part of your society." I am sorry but it does not take a rocket scientist to know there is a problem with that.
Zionism (Hebrew: ציונות, Tsiyonut; Arabic: صهيونية, Șahyouniyyah) is a form of nationalism of Jews and Jewish culture that supports a Jewish nation state in the territory defined as the Land of Israel.[1] Zionism supports Jews upholding their Jewish identity, opposes the assimilation of Jews into other societies and has advocated the return of Jews to Israel as a means for Jews to be a majority in their own nation, and to be liberated from antisemitic discrimination, exclusion, and persecution that had historically occurred in the diaspora.[1] Zionism emerged in the late 19th century in central and eastern Europe as a national revival movement, and soon after this most leaders of the movement associated the main goal with creating the desired state in Palestine, then an area controlled by the Ottoman Empire.[2][3][4] Since the establishment of the State of Israel, the Zionist movement continues primarily to advocate on behalf of the Jewish state and address threats to its continued existence and security. In a less common usage, the term may also refer to non-political, cultural Zionism, founded and represented most prominently by Ahad Ha'am; and political support for the State of Israel by non-Jews, as in Christian Zionism.
Beware of people who teach and preach such heresy and remove yourself from it. God is not pleased with the doctrine that the Messianic Jewish Movement carries. There is nothing wrong with being proud of your heritage and your race but there becomes a problem when such contradict the cross and the work of Christ.
HERE ARE SOME SIGNS TO LOOK FOR IN CHURCHES THAT SUPPORT SUCH MOVEMENT:
1) They have a Flag of Israel, the Zionist Flag, in The Church.
2) They say things like Shalom, Yahshua and other Hebrew Words even though they are not Jewish.
3) They have a Rabbi or Endorse Rabbi's.
4) They separate the Nation of Israel from the Church. Sometimes exalting Israel and Jerusalem above the Church.
5) The Gospel they preach and the teaching they give are all centered around Israel and the Jews.
6) They are closely connected with the Charismatic Movement.
7) Even though Israel is secular they fight and support the Nation of Israel. They believe they are blessed when they do so.
*NOT ALL ETHNICITY JEWS WHO BELIEVE IN CHRIST CALL THEMSELVES MESSIANIC JEWS. NOT ALL JEWS ARE RELIGIOUS. A MAJORITY OF MESSIANIC JEWS ARE ZIONIST.
Galatians 2:11-14 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. (12) For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. (13) And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. (14) But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
This article is going to address a movement that had started a long time ago but has now been accepted by many Churches. This article as the text has stated will "Withstand in some peoples face." What I will do is expose by history and doctrine the movements false theology,doctrines and dogmas. Such that create an evident sign that they are no different than the Judiazers of the Paul's times. The movement I am talking about is what we call the "Messianic Jew." This term originated in the 1960's.
EXCERPT FROM WIKIPEDIA *
"Messianic Judaism is a syncretic[1] religious movement that arose in the 1960s and 70s.[9] It blends evangelical Christian theology with elements of religious Jewish practice and terminology.[14] Messianic Judaism generally holds that Jesus is both the Jewish Messiah and "God the Son" (one person of the Trinity),[18] though some within the movement do not hold to Trinitarian beliefs.[19] With few exceptions, both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament are believed to be authoritative and divinely inspired scripture.
Some adherents of Messianic Judaism are ethnically Jewish,[2][21] and many of them argue that the movement is a sect of Judaism.[29] Jewish organizations, and the Supreme Court of Israel in cases related to the Law of Return, have rejected this claim, and instead consider Messianic Judaism to be a form of Christianity.[22][30] From 2003 to 2007, the movement grew from 150 Messianic houses of worship in the United States to as many as 438, with over 100 in Israel and more worldwide; congregations are often affiliated with larger Messianic organizations or alliances.[31][32] In 2008, the movement was reported to have between 6,000 and 15,000 members in Israel[33] and 250,000 in the United States.[
* WHILE WE MAY NOT DEEM ALL INFORMATION FROM WIKIPEDIA ACCURATE MUCH IS RELIABLE.
Not accounting the definition found in Wikipedia or other sources, we find that the Messianic Jewish Movement or Denomination however you may see it to be nothing less than Modern Day Judiazers and I will prove that. I do not write this article in any prejudice, racist or spirit of antisemitism but to warn the Church and believers to beware from falling into such heresy. Don't get me wrong, I believe many who are Jewish by ethnicity have come to believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and many have a sincere faith, as did many of those who opposed Paul and Peter. The Judiazers in the time of Paul were so called Christians who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His deity but they also believed in the practice and continuance of the identification of their religious beliefs and festivals. They preached to Jews and Gentiles alike persuading them to observe the Jewish customs and that if a Gentile was to be a Christian they must be a Jew first and become circumcised and follow such traditions. Paul in rebuking such a teaching stated:
Galatians 3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?" ...... FURTHER SAYING: ...." Galatians 4:9-10 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? (10) Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years."
The Judiazers were trying to keep the days and festivals of the Lord as a form of religious worship. Please do not misunderstand what I am saying for celebration of these festivals is not bad, but the celebration of them as a continuance of religious worship is wrong. The Early Church did not understand the error of their ways and were being persuaded by certain Judiazers to continue to follow the Law and traditions. The following text shows that even those who were pillars in the Church were led in this hypocrisy:
Acts 21:18-24 And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present. (19) And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. (20) And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law: (21) And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. (22) What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come. (23) Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them; (24) Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.
Later the Apostle Paul understands the errors of his way by saying:
Galatians 2:4-6 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: (5) To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. (6) But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:
These people who were Jews had come to Christ and were compelling other Christians who were Jews to follow the ways of the Judaism. They were trying to hold on to the traditions, laws and other Jewish beliefs. There is no doubt that there is a lot of symbolism in the Jewish culture that point to Jesus yet for us to continue holding onto the religion of it after the truth has come is vanity.
Today we have the same people who are doing the same thing. The Messianic Jewish Movement has reached beyond the Jews and has reached the churches. We have Gentiles (those who are not Jews were considered Gentiles) who are currently following the Messianic Jewish Movement who are observing days, months, years and festivals. They even go so far as saying Shalom (which means Peace in Hebrew) and calling Jesus "Yahshua" which is the Hebrew name for Jesus. Everything in their worship and religious practice centers on keeping to the old Jewish Traditions and Values. Even though the Jewish religion is contrary to Christianity they still continue in the label.
It is a FACT that those who are Jewish say, "That a person can not be a Jew and a Christian." To a Jew it is a contradiction in terms. They are RIGHT. It is no different than saying you are a Muslim Christian or a Catholic Christian or a Buddhist Christian. You are either one or the other. Those who claim to be a Messianic Jew are contradicting themselves.
What is the point of placing the word, "Jew" or "Messianic" in your name other than to keep the identity of being a Jew by religion? We are not American Christians, African Christians, Canadian Christians or Mexican Christians. The Modern Day Judiazers do not want to lose their identity or give up any form of Jewish or religious practice. Instead they find pride in being a Jew who believes in Christ and such pride creates a spirit of Prejudicy and Entitlement. Those who are in the Messianic Jewish Movement or have been in the Messianic Jewish Movement have mentioned to me that there resides a spirit of arrogance. Jesus is not Jesus but rather Yahshua and God is not God but Yahweh, Yahovah, or Elohim. Prayers are recited in the Hebrew language and such. Even Gentiles are being pushed and persuaded to speak Hebrew and say things that are Jewish. They believe that there is power in speaking certain words or saying certain things in the Hebrew Language that invokes God to hear and so answer the prayers. Yes, there are exceptions to what I am saying but they are very far and few in between.
What the Messianic Jew fails to understand is that the Middle Wall that separates the Jewish Religion from the world, has been tore down. That even though there is a Jewish Religion it is not valid in the sight of God. The old covenant, the law and the traditions have been fulfilled in Christ.
What the Messianic Jew fails to understand is that the Middle Wall that separates the Jewish Religion from the world, has been tore down. That even though there is a Jewish Religion it is not valid in the sight of God. The old covenant, the law and the traditions have been fulfilled in Christ.
Ephesians 2:14-16 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; (15) Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; (16) And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
He took 2 people, Jew and Gentile and made them 1. A New Man. So then why are people building the wall back up and creating another, the Jewish Christian? The word says:
Galatians 3:27-29 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (29) And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
AND AGAIN,
Colossians 3:10-11 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (11) Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Obviously the apostle is not saying there are no Jews and there are no Gentiles but rather in Christ, there are No Jew or Gentile. In Christ there is ONE. So then how can I then be a Jewish Christian? If there are Jewish Christians then there must be another. Gentile Christian? While those who claim to be Jewish Christians will never call anyone else a Gentile Christian, they by default must. If I am not a Christian Jew, than what am I? Just a Christian? If so why can't they be Just Christians?
The Messianic Jew claims that they keep the word Messianic in their name so that they can reach Jews. Yet, any Messianic Jew will tell you that those who are Jews and believe in Christ are rejected in the Jewish Community. They are considered traitors and outcasts. While they claim evangelism to the Jews they mostly proselytize other Christians and Non-Believers who are not Jewish. A majority of the Messianic Jewish Churches are filled with Gentiles practicing as the Jews. Doing exactly what Jews would do with a Christian Twist. Even raising the banner of Israel over their own country and waving it as if the flag was a center of worship and creating the attention of God. Are they truly lifting Christ or are they lifting their heritage?
The Messianic Jewish Movement has even infiltrated the Christian Community and Churches. Churches are now holding and waving the Israeli Flag in the Church. They believe this flag is the Flag approved by God but it is NOT. It is a flag not endorsed by the Church and is considered a Zionist Flag.
"The flag of Israel (Hebrew: דגל ישראל Degel Yisrael, Arabic: علم إسرائيل 'Alam Isra'īl) was adopted on October 28, 1948, five months after the country's establishment. It depicts a blue hexagram on a white background, between two horizontal blue stripes.
The blue colour is mandated only as "dark sky-blue",[1] and varies from flag to flag, ranging from a hue of pure blue, sometimes shadedalmost as dark as navy blue, to hues about 75% toward pure cyan and shades as light as very light blue.[2] The flag was designed for the Zionist Movement in 1891. The basic design recalls the Ashkenazi Tallit, the Jewish prayer shawl, which is white with blue stripes. The symbol in the centre represents the Magen David ("Star of David"), a Jewish symbol dating from late medieval Prague, which was adopted by the First Zionist Congress in 1897.[1] "
Zionist have one thing in mind, the Jewish people. They believe in separation and segregation. They believe that all Jews should be in Israel and that any Jew living anywhere should not assimilate with any other society. They also are against Antisemitism. So what they are saying is, "It is O.K. for us not be part of you because we are not who you are and you are not who we are. But it is not O.K. if you do not want us to be part of your society." I am sorry but it does not take a rocket scientist to know there is a problem with that.
Zionism (Hebrew: ציונות, Tsiyonut; Arabic: صهيونية, Șahyouniyyah) is a form of nationalism of Jews and Jewish culture that supports a Jewish nation state in the territory defined as the Land of Israel.[1] Zionism supports Jews upholding their Jewish identity, opposes the assimilation of Jews into other societies and has advocated the return of Jews to Israel as a means for Jews to be a majority in their own nation, and to be liberated from antisemitic discrimination, exclusion, and persecution that had historically occurred in the diaspora.[1] Zionism emerged in the late 19th century in central and eastern Europe as a national revival movement, and soon after this most leaders of the movement associated the main goal with creating the desired state in Palestine, then an area controlled by the Ottoman Empire.[2][3][4] Since the establishment of the State of Israel, the Zionist movement continues primarily to advocate on behalf of the Jewish state and address threats to its continued existence and security. In a less common usage, the term may also refer to non-political, cultural Zionism, founded and represented most prominently by Ahad Ha'am; and political support for the State of Israel by non-Jews, as in Christian Zionism.
Not only are such beliefs adopted and taught by Messianic Churches but also other Christian Churches are adopting the same things. Churches are carrying the same flag in the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Flag that builds walls and mocks what Christianity is about.
Who are we fooling here? Churches are now claiming that those who bless Israel will be blessed due to the promise given to Abraham, Genesis 12:3 "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you." Have they not read that we are the Children of Abraham and Heirs to the promise?
Who are we fooling here? Churches are now claiming that those who bless Israel will be blessed due to the promise given to Abraham, Genesis 12:3 "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you." Have they not read that we are the Children of Abraham and Heirs to the promise?
Here are excerpts of John Hagee and the teachings that are taught in many churches:
"I believe that every Jewish person who lives in the light of the Torah, which is the word of God, has a relationship with God and will come to redemption" (Houston Chronicle, April 30, 1988).
The Houston Chronicle newspaper then quoted Hagee's own shocking words...
"I'm not trying to convert the Jewish people to the Christian faith... In fact, trying to convert Jews is a waste of time. Jews already have a covenant with God and that has never been replaced by Christianity." (Houston Chronicle, April 30, 1988, sec, 6, pg. 1).
Beware of people who teach and preach such heresy and remove yourself from it. God is not pleased with the doctrine that the Messianic Jewish Movement carries. There is nothing wrong with being proud of your heritage and your race but there becomes a problem when such contradict the cross and the work of Christ.
HERE ARE SOME SIGNS TO LOOK FOR IN CHURCHES THAT SUPPORT SUCH MOVEMENT:
1) They have a Flag of Israel, the Zionist Flag, in The Church.
2) They say things like Shalom, Yahshua and other Hebrew Words even though they are not Jewish.
3) They have a Rabbi or Endorse Rabbi's.
4) They separate the Nation of Israel from the Church. Sometimes exalting Israel and Jerusalem above the Church.
5) The Gospel they preach and the teaching they give are all centered around Israel and the Jews.
6) They are closely connected with the Charismatic Movement.
7) Even though Israel is secular they fight and support the Nation of Israel. They believe they are blessed when they do so.
*NOT ALL ETHNICITY JEWS WHO BELIEVE IN CHRIST CALL THEMSELVES MESSIANIC JEWS. NOT ALL JEWS ARE RELIGIOUS. A MAJORITY OF MESSIANIC JEWS ARE ZIONIST.
Notice the Comments: I would never be called a Christian and other Anti-Christian Statements.
Also notice the close observances to the Law and Arrogance that such movement portrays.
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