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People of The Living God |
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April 2020
WATCHMEN ON THE WALLS
PARENTING IN AN EVIL WORLD
Alfred King
When I think about parenting I am reminded of a short clip from Bill Gaither in one of his earlier albums. As I recall, he and Gloria had two children and they were contemplating writing a book on parenting. Their first two children were mild tempered and easily disciplined, the parents felt they had really done a great job. Then they had their third child, Benjamin. It was Benjamin that made them decide that the book on parenting would have to wait. He was a totally different child.
When one thinks about writing a book, or even an article, on childrearing in modern America, it is a challenging endeavor and one in which he may receive considerable criticism, as there are so many different opinions as well as one’s personal and peculiar circumstances, so many factors vary tremendously from one home to another. On top of these variations, there are many outside influences which can make parenting extremely difficult. Not only are parents called upon to discipline their children, but they must evaluate what societal influences are safe and legitimate as well as those which are harmful. Discerning what is best for one’s child and how to instruct and lead them towards the things which will bring them into maturity with good work ethics, healthy relationships, and with a proper view of morality is an intimidating challenge. Knowing where to draw the line between holding on too tightly (which eventually drives the child away) and allowing them to grow their wings and wisely move out of the nest into a very dangerous world requires considerable wisdom and thought. For Christian parents, this is extremely challenging, to say the least.
As a parent myself, and as I have grown older, I look back over my life and I see many mistakes I made. However, I try not to inspect the mistakes alone; I also examine those decisions which I still feel was best for my son. There are regrets and there are those times when I saw him moving in the right direction, for which I felt great relief. If I were to give credit to our parenting abilities, I would have to say that my wife was a much better parent than I, yet in all sincerity, I have to give glory to God for His great help in bringing our son to the place where he asked Jesus into his life. That was the crowning moment of all our efforts and prayers. This article is not to give any real insight into childrearing but rather to urge those who are parents in an extremely immoral society to pray seriously for your children, no matter how far they may seem to stray or into whatever pit they may fall. God promises to honor those who fear Him, and He watches over their children. While God will not force anyone to believe in Him, He will work more forcefully in the lives of those whose parents pray diligently for their children, for He knows how best to reach them.
There are only a couple of issues that I would like to share with the readers regarding this topic. The first one is that when our son was an infant, we took him to church and laid him upon the altar and dedicated him to the Lord. We do not believe in infant baptism or things like that, but we wanted to offer him back to God, for we felt we were very blessed by God for this wonderful gift which He had given us. As I look back over my own life, one of the greatest blessings I had as a child was to be raised in a Christian home and in a Christian atmosphere. The discipline I received was fairly harsh at times and there were times I wanted to escape. But as I grew older, I began to realize the value of strict discipline. It’s not that it saved me, for salvation is only found in the blood of Jesus Christ; there is no other way. But walking with God is a life of discipline. Discipline is where the word “disciple” is derived. Discipline is very difficult for all of us, but I have seen over the years that those who have been disciplined as children have far less problems in submitting to the will of God and living obediently and humbly before the Lord. Even with the discipline I received as a child, I still wrestle at times with submitting fully to God’s will. I often quote John, the Baptist who said, “He must increase and I must decrease.” We all have a will which is contrary most of the time to God’s will, and that will must surrender to God in absolute obedience.
The second point I would like to make deals with evil spirit activity which is prominent in our world. As I read the news and see what is transpiring in America, and especially as it affects America’s children, I am extremely grieved by how parents are selling their children to the devil. In ancient times, scripture records that many children were offered as sacrifices to heathen gods. In our modern culture and supposed “civilized society,” we shutter at such thoughts and acts as those practiced by those ancients. Yet, in all sincerity, we practice the same atrocities when we submit our children to many of the ungodly attractions and entertainments, as well as allowing them to be taught in most public schools today where sex education, evolution, and other immoral ideas are drilled into our children’s minds. The recent unimaginable and disgusting atrocity of allowing drag queens to have story time for children in public libraries across the land as well as in many schools, is to offer our children to the god of perverted sex. Even some drag queens themselves have spoken out against parents for, not only allowing their children to attend such events, but encouraging them in those things. These children are being exposed to evil spirit activity, and many will be overtaken in the future by devils. God clearly warns us about these things. This is why it is so important that we, as parents, walk closely to God and stay in His word so that God’s word will be hidden within our hearts and we can find wisdom in our decisions regarding our children.
I would like to present an illustration from scripture that, hopefully, will help Christian parents understand a little better about how evil spirits operate. The account is of Legion who was possessed of many evil spirits; the account is found in Mark five. Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee into the land of the Gadarenes. It appears from the account that Jesus took this trip specifically for Legion, for after He delivered Legion from demon possession, He returned into Galilee. Jesus cast many devils out of Legion and, afterwards, Legion was sitting at the feet of Jesus, fully clothed and with a sane mind. This event certainly shows the power of God and God’s willingness to deliver those possessed as well as those influenced or inspired by evil spirits. But the question I want to ask here is: What happened in Legion’s life that made it possible for these evil spirits to possess him? Was there something that occurred in his youth that opened him up to the place where these spirits could find entrance into his heart and his life? They had gained complete control over him and caused him to do the unthinkable, things that normal people can’t even imagine. Something somewhere in his life took place that broke down his hedge of protection and made him vulnerable, and Satan took advantage of that vulnerability.
Since it is not recorded for us, we can only speculate about what it was that opened Legion to demonic possession. However, what is evident is that this account is a warning to us to beware of some dangers in the spirit realm and things in our society which can break down that divine wall of protection given to every man, woman, and child, whether saved or unsaved. The divine wall of protection to which I refer is our “conscience.” When we defy our conscience over and over, we are breaking down a divine protection provided by God in His mercy. A certain degree of God’s grace has been given to every man, and this grace is evident in man’s conscience. Paul speaks of this God-given gift in Romans2:14-15, “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another.”
As parents, we must warn and teach our children to pay attention to their conscience. They must learn to discern between the little voices which speak to them. We all hear these voices. One encourages to do what is right and to refrain from what is wrong. The other pushes us to do those things we know are wrong. Peter, in his first letter, warns of our great adversary with these words, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1Peter5:8). Notice what the devil is doing. Peter was not speaking of the devil’s ability before the cross but afterward. The devil walks around today, even under the New Covenant, searching for those he can get to violate their conscience. He works not only against Christians but the unsaved also. Why do you think so many people are incarcerated in our prisons all across this land? Why is evil increasing every day? Why can people kill children in the womb? Why is crime on the rise? Why is divorce so common today? Why are there so many single parent homes? In Paul’s short letter to Timothy he speaks to Timothy concerning those who are captive to Satan, “And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will” (IITim.2:26). These are they who have paid little attention to their conscience, and the great adversary devoured them. They came to the place where evil spirits were able to, first influence, and later possess.
But let me return to the specific point I feel is so important for parents and children. Children are a gift from God, given to us with the responsibility to rear them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. We, as parents, are responsible before God as to how we deal with them. Prayer is one of the most important ways in which we can gain divine understanding in the decisions we make. When parents place their children before drag queens and allow them to be influenced by the spirits which influence this evil practice (and some may even be possessed), we are breaking down a God-given hedge to protect them and are failing as parents. We are not only failing our children, we are failing God. One may ask: “What are we as Christian parents to do when everywhere we turn there is ungodliness, profanity, immorality, pornography, etc?” It is true our world is becoming increasingly ungodly, and it seems the prophecies of Isaiah in chapter 28:8 were speaking of our day. It reads, “For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean.”
As Christian parents, we must stand in the gap. We must engage in spiritual warfare for our children. As children of God, we have been given power over all the power of the devil. But to have it given us is not enough. We must learn to gird on the whole armor of God and stand against the devil and all the power he claims. For greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world (IJohn4:4). It means that there will be times when we will have to fast in this warfare. It may take many battles before we win the war, but God’s word is true, “for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Gal.6:9). The battle for our children is certain. Our adversary is walking about seeking to destroy our children. But resist him stedfast in the faith and he will flee, and we can save our children from the destructive powers of evil spirits and evil influences. We must also continue to pray to our gracious Lord and Savior that He will bring them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. He saved us and He desires to save them also.
In conclusion, I would like to relate an experience that exposes the points I have desired to convey. When our son was about four or five years old, there was a couple who moved into the area and they began attending our church. They had two children, one a boy about a year older than our son and a daughter about a year younger. Our son and their children began spending time playing together fairly often. This couple had been taught that men were lords over their wives, a fairly common false teaching in some Christian groups. The wife was at least a second class Christian (and maybe a third or fourth class Christian) and had to submit to her husband, pretty much as a slave.
After a few weeks of our son playing with their children, our son began not wanting his mother to have anything to do with him. While it is not uncommon for a child to want one parent above the other one day and visa-versa the next, this time it continued for two or three weeks. I had to feed him, bathe him, dress him, put him to bed, read to him, etc. Of course, this was devastating to my wife, and it was to me as well. She was in tears. I tried reverse psychology by loving on her and telling our son how much I loved her, but nothing worked. We both were praying about the situation, but it continued on. One Sabbath morning we went over to visit this couple so our son could play with their children and we could spend some time with them. While we were visiting, their son and daughter began to fight, so the mother went into the next room and disciplined them. As she came back into the room, I heard the boy say to our son, “you don’t have to listen to your mom.” I know God brought about this situation because, as soon as I heard him say that, I knew there were evil spirits involved. We immediately left and I began to fast and engage in this battle, for to me this was very serious. Within one day, our son’s love for his mother returned and he was set free.
I learned several things through that event.One is that the doctrine that makes women second class is a doctrine of devils. The second thing is that, while we as parents work tirelessly to protect our children from physical dangers, whether it be to keep them from being injured or kidnapped or emotionally hurt, we must also be aware of their spiritual well-being and safety. Children are not able to defend themselves against evil spirits, just as they are not mature enough to not talk to strangers or go with one. They must be taught and protected by the parents. As evil increases, a parent’s responsibility increases and the dangers are more prevalent.
I pray that this article will help some parent who may be facing such dangers and will help them understand why they must be careful what they allow their children to be exposed to and to pray for their children. May God grant His wisdom to every Christian parent to see the snare of the wicked one before their child falls into his snare.
FIRST LOVE
Anna Leah McDonald
Dear believers, the topic of the first love is so important that I feel obligated and pressed to share it.Although I have been to many meetings and many places in 38 years of being a believer, I cannot remember hearing this topic taught. God is so clear about having a real love for Him that He says, “If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ let him be anathema (meaning accursed)” (ICor.16:22). In this text, “love” is translated from the Greek word phileo, which represents more of a tender, heartfelt love. Then our Lord says in Revelation3:16, “So then because thou art lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.” I believe that Jesus speaks so strongly here because He loves us so much that it really hurts Him that we can love Him so little. For example, after leaving heaven, Jesus lived a hard and ugly life on earth and died an incredibly painful death. Now He offers us an inexpressible, blessed life with Him, promising to love us forever. However, we can often be unthankful and cold towards Him. But I think He also speaks strongly to wake us up spiritually.
Another alarming scripture is Revelation2:4-5.It says, “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” Could God have something against us, too? According to these two scriptures it appears that this is something quite serious. So serious that God says, “I have somewhat against you.” Then He says to repent, lest He take your candlestick out of its place (Rev.1:20).
What Is The First Love?
It seems as though the majority of so-called believers don't even know what the first love is or haven't really thought about it.I asked a sincere Christian worker, “Do you know what the first love is?” He smiled and said, “Yes, it's when you love God as your fiancé, You think about Him often and you love to spend time with Him.” With a few more words he tried to describe this very special love. It's a love that can satisfy more than anything else in this world, giving a deep joy. It's better than a worldly love as it is eternal, real, and will not disappoint us. It has great promises that last forever. For this David writes, “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple” (Psalm27:4). And David also speaks of God as his “exceeding joy” (Psalm.43:4).
Jesus says that this is the most important commandment, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind” (Matt.22:37).ICorinthians13:2 tells us if we lack charity we are nothing. If we do many things, even give our body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits us nothing (ICor.13:3).
When I was nineteen years old, God renewed my first love.I had met others that had a zeal and love for God. I decided to follow Jesus and forsook all as the disciples were told to do (Luke14:33). God blessed me and gave me much joy. I passed a happy time like a honeymoon. Like that man who found a great treasure and sold all that he had to buy it.
This is the first love when God is God, and nothing is worth more than God.It's a love that has given grace to millions of martyrs and continues to inspire those that, even today, are now being grievously persecuted. Paul says, “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ” (Phil.3:8).
There is an emptiness in us that only God can fill.Trying to find fulfillment in trivial pleasures, things, people, and doing things can bring much frustration, for God has something much better for us.
How Do We Obtain This First Love?
I ask this because very few people seem to have this first love.There are a few that have experienced it. However, most of us need to fan the dying fires or reignite this first love. Why is it that there seems to be a lot of luke warmness in those that profess to be believers? I think a lot has to do with using teachings and programs that aren't even in the Bible and leaving out many things that are in the Bible. Leaving out, that is to say, often not teaching many basic and important teachings of Jesus, nor practicing them. Recently, I've been blessed by the online messages from Phil Lapp, Santos, and Zac Poonen from the River of Life Christian Fellowship in Colorado. These teachers share how the Christian life should be an exciting, joyful, and fulfilling adventure. We can't be satisfied with past victories but must continue to yield to God and experience DAILY the renewing of the Holy Spirit (Titus3:5; Luke9:23).
I should add here that there are many things that can hinder us from victory and having joy, particularly pride, sin, and spiritual attacks.Ephesians6:12-18 speaks about spiritual warfare. Some have told me of spiritual attacks after turning to God. The powers of darkness sought to discourage these brethren, but the darkness lost its power as these men faithfully trusted God, and continued steadfast in the faith. “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (IJohn4:4). So, if you don't feel like a spiritual giant because you continually have struggles, don't worry. Try familiarizing yourself with the lives full of struggles and tribulations of the many dear saints who have gone before us.
I want to share some important things that can help us to have this first love and a real, living relationship with Jesus.First, we should realize how important and essential our love for God is. Then we should do whatever it takes to obtain and nourish it. If we never had a first love we need to seek for it.
Pray For It
Happily, we can have this first love because God is good, and this is His will (IJohn5:14,15).“If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it” (John14:14). So we can ask for it (Matt.7:11).
We can confess and repent if we don't have this first love (Psalm51:17).“For God resisteth the proud but giveth grace to the humble” (IPeter5:5b). We should repent of any other thing that may be hindering us.
We should seek God wholeheartedly: “ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart” (Jer.29:13).
We should believe and receive it.“And all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive” (Matt.21:22; Phil.4:6).
“Give thanks (IThess.5:18) and nurture your treasure; “But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him” (IJohn2:5).
Then give God all the glory (ICor.10:31).Thus, we can avoid probably the worst sin that hinders our spiritual life, pride.
The Word Of God
Another very important factor to help us know God, is reading God's Word.“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matt.4:4). God's Word cleanses us. “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John17:17); (Psalm119:9). God's Word guides us and gives us understanding and light (Psalm119:105). It helps us to know what is good and correct. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (IITim.3:16).
The Word also imparts faith.“So then, faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom.10:17). Faith is very important. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb.11:6). And faith helps us to pray effectively. “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive” (Matt.21:22). So faith helps us to receive our petitions and the grace we need.
The Word also helps us to grow spiritually (IPeter2:2).And putting God's Word into practice will bring us happiness and blessing. “If ye know these things happy are ye if ye do them” (John13:17). Acts5:32 also shows that God gives the Spirit to those that obey Him. John8:31 & 32 shows that obedience to God's Word will help us to know the truth and the truth will make us free. As we put to death the things that are wrong in our lives we can experience more peace, more freedom from sin and the problems and shame that it brings.
Having lived in Bolivia for 19 years I've learned some important spiritual lessons from the Bolivians, like praying before you read the Bible.This has helped me to read more, understand, and enjoy it much more. It is very good to have a daily habit of reading God's Word or at least whenever possible (Psalm1:1-3). “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua1:8). Jesus said, “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life” (John6:63). It's especially good to have family devotions with our children. This also helps to build family ties and positively influence our children so that they stay away from negative influences.
God's Word helps us not to sin.“Thy word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm119:11). “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous” (IJohn5:3). Most people believe Satan's lie that if we obey God, we will be unhappy. I used to believe that lie; that if you surrendered all, watch out! Basilea Shlink has a book called “Repentance, the Joy Filled Life,” a book that shows how obedience can bring more blessing to our lives. Some believers go through more difficulties, but I wouldn't want to trade Jesus for anything. Even when times are hard, you have a Friend that comforts and helps you. Especially in difficult times, through prayer I've seen trials turn into victories and joy. Even when things are rough a true Christian will find God's promises true. He will never let us suffer more than we can bear. This is a great, assuring promise: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (ICor.10:13). Many times I've experienced relief from pain, and miraculous healings from death (even from malaria when I found myself deathly allergic to the pharmaceutical remedy) through prayer. I often see God's hand in my life and daily feel His blessed presence, especially during morning devotions and prayer with others. Even when things are difficult, the Christian can know God will help, and He has a purpose. No more fulfilling and interesting life can one have than to be a true believer.
“These things have I spoke unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John15:11).Jesus wants us to have joy. And the more we can trust and obey the more joy we will have. “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John10:10). The word tells us that the devil is a thief and a liar (John8:44). He likes to tempt us to sin, then point the finger at us in condemnation, bringing us deeper into bondage.
However, God only speaks the truth and we can trust in His words.God loves us and wants what is best for us. “As the father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love” (John15:9). This is amazing love! God can love sinners like us just like He can love Jesus, the perfect, and loving Son of God.
GOD'S TIMING
Benjamin Case
“Son, do you understand that when you leave prison you will be in a box?” the judge told me as I pled to three life sentences plus an additional 80 years in 2009.This was the result of a crime spree of violence and robbery in 2006. At the age of 26, my life was over on the outside of prison walls. At this point I had been locked up for three years in the Greenville County Detention Center, since I was 23. So the sentence I received wasn't a shock to me. Prison was already familiar because of a youthful offender sentence I served exactly one year (to the day) prior to the day I was arrested.
My life before prison was out of control to say the least.I had been smoking cigarettes since I was 9, smoking and selling bud since I was 15, at 16 I was carrying weapons, and at 18 I started selling cocaine and developed the habit of snorting powder. I was always a leader so, as I was growing up, I led many people down the wrong path. That is the short version of many war stories that have been told in prison and on the streets. Shameful acts that tear us away from society and our family are applauded and glorified in prison cells and on prison yards.
My life in prison was a different location for the same habits, ways, and schemes that I had been developing for years.My mentality was that I had no reason to be anything other than a gangster. In prison, my crime spree continued in a different form. I was carrying weapons, selling drugs, and doing anything necessary to make the almighty dollar. My time in prison is full of war stories of knife fights and the no-nonsense reputation I worked hard to build. I lived like I had no reason to live. My philosophy was that if I got killed my sentence and pain would be over, if I lost a battle and went to the hospital there was an opportunity to take a ride, or, if I won, my reputation was built up and solidified. I would tell you that it was a win-win for me. And what could the police do to me? At the end of the day I'm not free no matter where they put me. The only hope I could see was to embrace my identity as a convict and have as much control as possible of the world I had ended up in.
In 2016, I was introduced to a man who God used to lead me to His kingdom.I saw that he was a strong man of God instead of what I considered weak men running from something. By the grace of God I ended up in the same dorm with him after a short lock up stay. At this point I was broken and I couldn't see any purpose for my life. Deep depression gripped my mind and wrung my soul of any resemblance of hope. David befriended me and learned what my interests were; he started speaking into my life, and he was praying for me.
David was a chapel worker.He told me that there was a man coming to teach a class for creative writing. He also told me about a program that would allow me to spend a real day with my daughter. He knew these programs would appeal to me, because he had built a relationship with me. When I started to go to the chapel and take part in these different classes I met more solid men of God. These men were praying for me and speaking truth into my life. I started reading the Bible. I had an issue with Jesus being man and God. I couldn't wrap my mind around His divinity.
A brother that was in Malachi dads program with me introduced me to Lee Strobel's, The Case for Christ. That helped with my doubts and allowed me to see the truth of who Jesus is. Shortly after that, I read IICorinthians, chapters 5 and 6, and it really opened my heart and showed me that through Christ I can be a new creation no matter what I have done. I cried my eyes out as I read the Apostle's words to the Corinthian Church. “Look, now is the acceptable time; look, now is the day of salvation” (IICor.6:2).
As I prepared myself for the day with my daughter, I was getting closer and closer to God by reading His Word and getting involved in as many Bible classes that I could pack into my days.I remember going to property control to pick up the shoes I purchased for the big event. The officer handed me my shoes and told me to hold on for a minute because she had something else for me. When I saw what she had in her hand I got chill bumps all over my body. It was a leather-bound journal devotional called God's Calling that my family gave me while I was in the county jail. I misplaced it years before. I walked away from property control on a cloud. God's timing is perfect.
The day with my daughter arrived, and God showed me His love through my beautiful 12 year old little girl.It was an amazing day, and all of the reunions taking place around me were overwhelming. Ashton and I took a picture together that day. God was restoring one relationship in my life and setting the stage for a new one. I sent the picture of Ashton and me to a long time friend of mine. When she saw the picture of us she saw something different than what she knew of me.
Rose Anna had just come out of a bad relationship that she'd been in for years.I was able to talk to her, and at the end of our conversation I told her I would be praying for her. That was different than all of the corny lines and compliments that she expected to hear from me. She could tell something was different, and we stayed in as close contact as we could. She was living in Colorado at the time. Once again God's timing was impeccable and so many things lined up to continue to draw us closer in love that was built upon the Rock of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In less than a year she moved back to her native home in Greenwood. Since her first day back in South Carolina she has not missed one week of visitation. I proposed to her shortly after she arrived in Greenwood and, by the grace of God, she said yes.
As our relationship grew and we grew stronger in our faith, God was preparing myself and a long time friend to attend Columbia International University Prison Initiative Program.We both made it in; once again I was shocked that God had chosen me for such an incredible responsibility. The two years of school was the most impactful thing I have ever experienced. It prepared me to be an apostle in dorms, on yards, and to roommates like the Apostle that brought tears to my eyes when reading his words to the Corinthians. God has truly created me anew. I am no longer an inmate with a life sentence. I am now a missionary living in the mission field that He created me to impact.
ONCE SAVED – ALWAYS?
Harry Miller
The religious world is filled with all sorts of doctrines, separate and distinct from each other, many of which have no relevancy to a Christian's life: they neither add to nor detract from the level of spirituality of those who hold to these many views.Some of them may be classified as mere mental gymnastics or psychic entertainment, and may be said to be neither helpful nor harmful.
However, there are many which are not of a neutral nature and which should be examined by all who profess to be followers of Jesus Christ.Both the pro and the con of many doctrines are of vital importance to the adherents of the Christian faith, and such is the case, we believe, of the doctrine of eternal security.
Eternal Security Explained
There are several forms that this teaching has taken over the years.The extreme or hyper-Calvinistic view holds that all mankind was preordained through the sovereign will of God to be either “saved” or “lost” and that no man was given the chance to choose for himself in respect of his eternal destiny. If God determined to save a man, he would be saved above all his objections to the contrary. Or, if God chose to send a man to eternal damnation, nothing could reverse that decision which was made before the man was born.
The obvious hopelessness of this situation led to its eventual unpopularity and disdain among most fundamentalists, and in its place sprang up a new formula known to many as “post conversion” election.Stated simply, it means that man has a free choice until he becomes saved or born again, then he falls under the heavy hand of God's sovereignty and loses his right and power to choose. No matter what he does nor how he behaves, he can't become “un-saved” nor “un-born.”
He, thus, has a built-in guarantee of eternally unconditional, no-risk assurance which is oblivious to willful sin, degradation, iniquity and transgression.No matter how hard he tries, once he is a son, he can never become a non-son. The security and perpetuity of his salvation rest entirely upon the unmerited favor of God toward him.
Free Choice Explained
The major opposing view on this subject is sometimes known as Arminianism, or the right of free choice.It holds that all persons are free moral agents and may accept or reject God's good grace by the exercise of their own free will. Once they have been saved or born again, they may of their own volition turn their backs irretrievably upon God and be eternally lost. They hold that a born again son (a spiritual state) may die spiritually and suffer the fate of all others who are “dead” in trespasses and sins (Eph.2:1).
God does not demand of them any kind of merit, claim, or desert; they are, however, obligated to contribute something as surety on their part for the continuity of the salvation they enjoy; a demonstration of proof of intent, or a tangible pledge through performance of the terms of a divine contract (By default on the part of the contractor, the believer, the agreement can be terminated).
Certainly, both of these views cannot be correct.Our task is to know the truth, for “the truth will make you free” (John8:32), and to this end we will present many of the scriptural texts that are used on both sides of the question.
Always in Grace Defense
Let us first consider some of the astounding statements of fact that were uttered by Jesus:
“I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John6:35).
“All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (John6:37).
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.My Father which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand” (John10:27-29).
The Apostle Paul also gave great assurance with his words:
“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom.8:38,39).
Now, these are some very wonderful promises and are powerful arguments in favor of the always saved theory. However, we believe there is ample proof that these promises are based on the premise of condition and, also, that while no man, condition, nor circumstance is able to separate us from the Father's hand, God Himself IS able to, and we'll also present sufficient evidence to show that man himself can cut himself off from God.
First, let's consider another favorite of the “Once-Always” school.
“If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire” (ICor.3:15).
Were Jesus and Paul teaching that once a person had accepted the free gift of salvation from God he can never forfeit it?Were they actually saying that even if a person no longer wants this gift, he is forced to cling to it and is forever saved against his own will?
Consider again ICor.3:15.Does Paul promote the idea that once a man is saved his works have no bearing upon his ultimate salvation? If so, he contradicts himself, for he says in other places that men are justified by their works, and will be judged according to their works (Rom.2:13-16; IICor.5:10; Gal.6:7,8; ICor.7:19; Rom.14:10-12).
Now, this 15th verse is usually quoted out of context, as we have also now done.This third chapter of I Corinthians is a unit of thought from the first verse through the sixteenth. The topic is not eternal salvation, but the one true foundation, Jesus Christ, and the manner by which men build upon this foundation.
Paul makes it plain that he is speaking of his labors in “planting” the body of believers in Corinth.In verse 9 he calls them both a husbandry and God's building, both symbols of which have Jesus as their foundation. But, as the tillage or the building progresses, some good and some bad ingredients may become a part of the work. (Jesus also taught that the tares grow along with the wheat.) However, the presence of these in the field or the building will not cost the builder (in this case, Paul) his salvation. The building or parts of the building may be destroyed by God's fire, but this doesn't mean the demise of the builder!
This has nothing whatever to do with “works of righteousness which we have done,” nor obedience to His will and His law.The entire message is concerning the spiritual condition of the Corinthian congregation. In effect, he is telling them that he did a good job of laying the foundation there. If they fail to go on with God, he will lose them, but he himself will be saved. He is serving them notice that the condition of carnality, babyhood, wood, hay, and stubble was their responsibility. And he ends the stern warning with, “If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy (not save), which temple ye are”!
Now, this supposed fortress of the “Once-Always” theory has become one of the most powerful arguments among Paul's writings in defense of “Free Will, Conditional salvation”!And for further emphasis, we might reiterate that “If any man defile the temple” clearly shows that it is possible for an individual to defile himself (a temple) and be destroyed by God.
Conditional Salvation
In John15:1-8, Jesus spoke a parable in which He likened Himself to a vine and His followers to branches.He promised that they would remain branches on condition that they would bring forth fruit. He also promised that, “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he (the Father) taketh away” (verse 1 & 2). Notice, these are branches in Him, not artificial nor make-believe branches that never were; they became unproductive in their existence as branches and, as He says in verse 6, “If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered.”
Jude speaks of a similar situation: “trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots” (verse12).It shouldn't be necessary to explain that “once a son” doesn't guarantee that the son cannot die (be twice dead), and that dead sons do not inherit eternal life. The condition speaks for itself.
Salt Of The Earth
Jesus wrapped some of His tersest teachings in the fine linen of analogy and pithy parables, because the very comparisons and likenesses were quicker to catch and capture the ear of the listener than a plain, outright statement of fact.By way of example, consider Matthew5:13, “ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under the foot of men.”
Now, the credibility of this verse stands or falls on the question of whether salt can actually become tasteless or insipid – lose its savour.If it can, then the “Once-always” theory becomes mere hypothesis. If it cannot, Jesus was guilty of using terminology of which He had no knowledge and, henceforth, we'll be justified in viewing any or all of his statements with skepticism.
Before we explore the scientific possibilities of the properties of sodium chloride losing their compound characteristics of “saltiness” through aging, dilution, or other decrystallization, let us give Him the honor due as the Creator of all things (John1:3).Since He made the elements that, together, form the compound sodium chloride (salt), surely He was knowledgeable concerning the action/reaction of the mineral when placed in certain conditions or circumstances. And, since it was He who offered the postulation, who are we to dispute it? It follows that if we are to believe Jesus' words, we must confess that it is possible for some salt (or humankind) to become “good for nothing but to be cast out,” a most “unsaved” condition, to say the least.
Case Of The Reprobates
Since it is false economy to put all one's eggs in a single basket, we'll offer further testimony for consideration.
The astute apostle, in his first Corinthian letter, aptly described his “Pilgrim's Progress” as a sort of sanctified Marathon and gladiatorial combat: “I therefore run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (ICor.9:26,27)!
Paul said that?Surely he didn't think any man was able to pluck him out of the Father's hand? Never! His problem was more subtle than other men's attacks, or “death, life, angels, principalities, powers, things present, things to come, height, depth, or any other creature, none of which was able to separate him from the love of God. But this thing he designated “my body” was a ferocious enemy over which he must ruthlessly rule – bring it into subjection – or face the fate of a castaway.
Webster says a castaway is a shipwrecked person, an outcast (or cast out), cast adrift, thrown away.But an even stronger noun is employed in the Greek test: reprobate! For brevity's sake we can say a reprobate is one who has been tested, tried, and rejected. An unregenerated sinner can hardly qualify for the title, as is clearly shown by the Greek definition in Strong's concordance: unapproved, rejected, worthless.
Paul uses the term in IICor.13:5: “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you except ye be reprobates?” – rejected, outcasts, thrown away.
Jesus does not live in the heart of a reprobate; that's plain to see.The question is, though, “Did He abide there before the person was rejected?” And that's the focal point of the entire verse: “Examine yourselves,” He says. Find out if He is still there. It may be that you have become an outcast and are no longer in the faith! In the church, yes. In the faith???
A PLEA FOR PRAYER
Jimmy Windham
Dear Saints of the Most High God,
I greet you all today in our Savior’s holy name, for there’s no other name given under heaven whereby we shall be saved than in the name of Jesus our Redeemer. His job was to come as a bond slave having His ear pierced through by an awl and freely giving His life as a ransom for those of us who also become His bond slave with a pierced ear so we can hear what the Spirit of God is saying in the last hour to His church.
The latest plague called the coronavirus has taken many lives across the world, and I’m sure that it has a lot of God’s servants wondering if they will contact it, for it can be a deadly virus. Well, we’ve all surely been praying about it and asking our God to protect us, our families, and our friends.
If I saw death coming towards me and those I love, I would surely ask them to run to a place that I was at that is totally safe from all harm. Well, I do know of such a secret place of safety, and it is under the shadow of a strong and mighty tower that has a proven reputation against all calamities and evil. It’s a place in God’s word that puts us all under the wings and feathers of God in His secret place. It’s found in Psalm91:1-10. Please stop for just a moment and read it. Notice the palmist said, by inspiration, words that came to us from the heart of God Himself in verse 4, that He would cover us with His feathers and we’d find safety under His wings. That is a strange way of talking to us surely, but if you know anything about a mother hen and her brood and you’ve gotten near her, you’ve seen how fearless she seems to be and you’ve witnessed that her wings are spread as a covering for all her baby chicks that gather under her wings. Our dear Savior even used this analogy when talking to the people in Jerusalem. He said, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered thee under my wings as a mother hen gathers her brood but you would not.” He wasn’t talking about a city, He was referring to His people and expressing His deep love as our creator (John1-3). So, though this virus has taken many lives to date, it doesn’t have power over us if we put on the whole armor of God and walk in the light everyday. We don’t have a spirit of fear nor do we have to fear the darkness and death we see coming, for verse 5 gives us confidence over fear, and in verse 7 we are told by God’s Spirit that a thousand may fall at our side or even 10,000 at our right side. It will not, cannot, should not, come near us, for it is the reward of the wicked disobedient children.
So children, we must pray daily in faith, put on the whole armor of God, wield the sword of the Spirit, hold up the shield of faith in God’s word and stay repentant so we can abide under the shadow of the most High God who sits above all creation; for no weapon Satan is allowed to bring on the earth can prosper against us who believe God’s word. So, if you are living in the word you’re safe from all harm, for God isn’t a man that will lie to you about His protection. The day of the Lord Joel2 saw coming is our day, and it would be a day of darkness and light, a day of gloominess and joy, for all evil will soon be eradicated from the earth and the tares will be removed from the wheat. So, put all your cares on Jesus, for He cares for you. It’s also not a lack of faith to wash your hands many times a day with soap and avoid large crowds. God bless and keep us all safe is my prayer.
Now, I started the topic of this article with the words “A plea for prayer.” Because it’s my plea to you, God’s church, to pray for me, for on April 29th, a Wednesday morning, I go back up for my parole hearing. I’m asking all of ya’ll to please take a burden from the Lord and fast and pray for me on that day before my hearing. From Jan. 14th through Feb. 13th (30 days) I fasted and prayed, asking our God to deliver me. My mom is 97 years old and has prayed for me, and God answered her prayers to save her son. Well, my prayer is to get out and go kneel beside my mom’s wheel chair and hold my mom at least one last time in my arms and kiss her little face. So, please pray for me to make parole on April 29th. Thank you all!
Jimmy Windham #127054
A prisoner of Jesus Christ
NOTE: Because of the threat of the Corona virus, South Carolina has stopped all visitors to their prisons for thirty days.This is a concern to Brother Jimmy because, if it is extended for any length of time, it could affect his parole hearing on April 29th. He has asked that you who pray, to remember him at this time, that there will be no delays in his parole hearing and that God will give him the freedom he desires. He truly appreciates every prayer that is offered in his behalf.
WHEN I SEE THE BLOOD, I WILL PASS OVER YOU
Exodus 12:3
Randall Walton
These solemn words which came to Moses from the mouth of the Living God, have tremendous significance for the people of God today – as much, in fact, as they did for the Israelites who were held in bondage in ancient Egypt. Unfortunately, the greater part of professing Christiandom has been led to believe that the celebration which accompanied the phenomenon of that first “pass over” has been relegated to the archives of history along with animal sacrifice, the Levitical priesthood and the many ordinances of the Old Covenant.
However, this is not true. There were several annual “feasts” or times of festival which were given to Israel through Moses (These were not “Jewish” holy days, by the way. They were given to ALL of Israel. The Jews were literally only of the tribe of Judah. Eventually, the tribes of Levi and Benjamin became known as Jews because of their loyalty to, and close association with, Judah.). Of all these annual holy days, the Passover is the only one which is substantially upheld as still obligatory under the New Covenant, with the possible exception of the New Moon (Col.2:16).
While the shedding of the blood of Jesus was the antitype of the blood which was put upon the houses of the Israelites for their safety, Jesus taught that the Passover itself has a greater fulfillment, to be accomplished in the future. “And he said unto them, With desire have I desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer: For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God” (Luke22:15,16). And in the parallel account in Matthew26:29, He said, “But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
Speaking of the Passover in ICorinthians5:7,8, Paul admonished, “Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”
It is apparent from this evidence that the feast of the Passover and unleavened bread still has a place in the practices of the Church. Of course, animal sacrifice and the sprinkling of blood has no part in any Christian ceremony, but the removal of leavening and the use of unleavened bread does have great significance for the saints of God.
For a broader understanding of the Passover and the Exodus of the Israelites from the land of Egypt, it is necessary to turn to the Book of Exodus, chapter 6, and read verses 6 through 8. There are eight distinct promises given to Moses for the people:
·I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.
·I will rid you out of their bondage.
·I will redeem you with a stretched out arm and great judgment.
·I will take you to me for a people.
·I will be to you a God.
·Ye shall know that I am the Lord your God.
·I will bring you into the land.
·I will give it to you for an heritage.
Let us remember that the Passover and the departure of the Israelites from Egypt were indispensably connected; the most highly significant part of the entire observance was the blood on the lintels and door posts of the houses, and this, of course, spoke of the blood of The Lamb of God, the Lord Jesus Christ.Calvary was portrayed on that Passover night – not only the death of the lamb and the use of its blood, but the triumph, the deliverance, the glory and the power of the Blood. Through this means, the eight promises were made available and accessible to Israel.
And through the means of the Blood of Jesus those eight promises are for the people of God today, but on a greater scale and on a higher plane. While the fulfilling of those promises to them was of a material nature and in the physical realm, they offer to us a highly spiritual fulfillment. Through Jesus Christ, our Passover, we have (1) been delivered from the tyranny of the Egyptians, the oppression of evil spirits which once dominated our lives (Eph.2:1,2; Matt.18:18,19). (2) Through the power of the Blood there is deliverance from the bondage of their evil influence and inspiration (Col.2:15; Acts10:38). (3) Through His Blood we have been redeemed, our sins have been washed away (Rev.1:5; IPeter1:18,19; Eph.1:7; Col.1:14; Rom.3:23-25). (4) We are now His people (IPeter2:9,10; Acts20:28; Heb.8:10; Eph.2:16). (5) He is now our God (Heb.8:10; Rev.21:7). (6) We know that He is Lord (John17:3; IITim.1:12; IJohn2:3; IJohn4:13). (7) He has brought us to a better land (Eph.2:6; Heb.12:22-24; Col.1:13). (8) He has given us the land for an inheritance (John14:1-3; Rev.21:7; Col.1:12; Col.1:5; Eph.1:13,14; IPeter1:3,4).
Now, all of these blessings have been made available to us through the shedding of the Blood of Jesus, wonderful, glorious promises that are for us, not because we merit or deserve them, or have in any way earned them, but because the precious Lamb of God gave Himself for a sacrifice once for all (Heb.7:27; Heb.9:24-28; Heb.10:10-12).
Therefore, we keep the feast in celebration for the matchless accomplishments of Jesus at Calvary. Not only do we observe the ritual of eating and drinking the Lord’s body and blood (unleavened bread and wine), for seven days we keep all leavening out of our houses as a testimony that the perfect (7) work of redemption has been finished and we have been set free from the corrupting influence and the bondage of the Egyptians (evil powers). Our celebration is not only in honor of God’s deliverance of ancient Israel, but in a greater and more meaningful way, it is in honor of the great work which He did for everyone when He gave Himself in death upon the cross.
In Romans8:23-25, Paul speaks of a future event which we are all anticipating. This, he says, is “the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.” The work of redemption which was finished by Jesus through His death was of a spiritual nature: it made possible the reconciliation of the human spirit with the Spirit of God. It gave substance to the plan of salvation, actually making new creatures of those who appropriate or apprehend the conditions of that salvation. But it provided redemption for “the body” as a future manifestation.
While it is true that Jesus has already “abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (IITim.1:10), it is also true that the acquisition or the fulfillment of this great work will be made manifest “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality” (ICor.15:52-54). So then, at the last trump, which also coincides with the last day, and the last enemy, the saints shall receive immortality – that glorious state of everlasting life in which it will be impossible to sin! Then the Passover and all that it signifies will be swallowed up in victory, and these bodies which now bear the image of the earthy shall then bear the image of the heavenly (ICor.15:42-50; Phil.3:20,21).
Until that day, then, God’s people should “keep the feast,” not only as a memorial of past glories of our Lord, but in celebration of that which has been “prepared for them that love him” (ICor.2:9,10).
PASSOVER 2020 CORRECTION
In the March issue of “The Testimony of Truth” we stated the date for Passover this year would be on April 14th at sundown.This is incorrect: The correct date for the Passover Feast is April 7th at sundown, making April 8th the first day of Passover and also a Sabbath. The Passover feast will end on Wednesday, April 14th at sundown. People of the Living God will be celebrating this feast throughout that week. We apologize for this error and hope that it did not confuse any of our readers.
However, we would like to draw our readers’ attention to this yearly feast.We realize that some of the readers of “The Testimony of Truth” do not see the need to keep this feast or any of the feasts Israel observed. People of the Living God observes only the Feast of the Passover and not the other feasts, and we do not feel that observance of the Passover is a salvation issue. We observe it because we see it as a feast of our Passover, Jesus Christ being offered for us, and we desire to honor Him and give His praise and glory for that wonderful and glorious salvation He has procured for us. It is a yearly reminder of that day when Jesus washed away our sins and brought us into His divine family. What can be more glorious than this?
People of the Living God church will be observing the Passover this year beginning April 7th at sundown. April 8th will be a day of convocation, a Sabbath which we observe much as we do the weekly Sabbath. This feast includes the Feast of Unleavened Bread and lasts for seven days. We observe the seventh day as a Sabbath, also. The Feasts will end on April the 14th at sundown. We like to give this notice so those who intend to observe these feasts will know the time which we believe is correct for its observance. We pray that God will bless each one as we celebrate and acknowledge Jesus’ great sacrifice for man’s salvation.
THE PRICE OF OIL
Harry Miller
It is a simple matter to see that time is an important factor in the securing of a supply of “oil” fit for the lamp of a “virgin.” “Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.” So many people have accepted the erroneous idea that salvation for the soul costs nothing! Consider the words of Jesus in answer to this question: “Which of you intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?…So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple” (Luke14:28,33). Sit down, my friend, and count the cost. Becoming a disciple of Christ is an expensive affair! These parables also present a picture of the cost: “the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it” (Matt.13:44-46).
“I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire” (Rev.3:18). God appeals to the tradesman who will pay the price to secure things of eternal value: “Buy of Me…white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear” (Rev.3:18). “White raiment” is of a very special value in this latter day (and bear in mind that it must be bought): “And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints” (Rev.19:8). Let no man despise godly works. The admonition, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil.2:12), is not idle talk.
Many sects have gone overboard on the doctrine of “grace,” Calvinism, or “once saved, always saved.” To a sin-loving generation this doctrine is most acceptable; it offers safety in Christ while living for self and for mammon. Be vaccinated with Christianity and live for evermore! According to this warped philosophy, belief is all that God looks for in a Christian. This so-called belief assures men that the grace of God is frustrated by man’s works of righteousness. Of course, if anyone feels that he must do some work of righteousness, he can do it for an extra reward, but his work will have nothing to do with his salvation – so he is told!
“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 book, according to their works” (Rev.20:12). “All the churches shall know that I am He which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works” (Rev.2:23). “We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ…every one of us shall give account of himself to God” (Rom.14:10,12). “The righteous judgment of God; who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: but unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil” (Rom.2:5-9). In the face of Scriptures like these the “once saved, always saved” doctrines fall to pieces. These statements from God’s Word set forth the fact that the Lord of heaven will judge all creatures according to their works, not according to their professed beliefs.
The one main teaching of the parable of the ten virgins is this: that those who make the proper preparation for the return of Christ will be saved; and those who do not make such a preparation will be lost. Outside the marriage chamber there “shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matt.22:13).
The Corinthian church was certainly an apostolic body, yet the apostle Paul gave them a number of warnings, “lest ye have believed in vain” (ICor.15:1,2). In the second epistle to this same church he reminded them, “For by faith ye stand” (IICor.1:24). In the last chapter of this same letter he told them to “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith” (IICor.13:5). Remember, these folks had done more than “accept” Christ as their personal Saviour – they moved in the midst of “the demonstration of the spirit.” Yet there was a danger that they might become “reprobates” (disapproved, rejected).
Peter, in writing to those of “like precious faith,” said that we have in Christ “Exceeding great and precious promises,” and that “by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature…giving all diligence add to your faith…For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful…But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence (get to work) to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do (works) these things, ye shall never fall” (IIPeter1:4-10).
“Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready” (Rev.19:7). The wise virgins were ready because they had applied themselves to the required preparations: they worked to become ready: “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure” (IJohn3:3).
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches…He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels” (Rev.3:5,6).