Bible Studies 9 (For newest Bible Study see "Bible Studies 19")
Why Are We Here? (Added 3/16/14)
What is the most important thing to you in life? Is it your family, your health, your job, your position, your stuff? Is there a reason for all of this? Why are we here? Why are we alive and breathing on planet earth? Are we here for a reason, or is all of this just chance – no reason, no hope, no direction, no “happy ending?”
I was at a man’s group at my church and the Pastor said something I never really thought about before. Like most I suppose, I always thought Jesus knew everything while He was growing up from childhood on through the time of His death. But the pastor said Jesus did not always know everything. Jesus’ life and how He conducted Himself while here is our perfect example of how we are to live our lives. While living among us Jesus was fully man and fully God, but He was in constant prayer (fellowship) with His Father and He allowed Himself to be led by the Holy Spirit the same way we need to. He did not do anything His Father did not want Him to do or that the Holy Spirit did not direct Him too. When Jesus was born He was a baby and grew up to adulthood just like each of us. Luke 2:40 says, “And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” He was fully man and experienced pain, suffering, joy, sadness, and all of the other emotions we face too. However, He lived to do what God (His Father) told Him to do. His sole mission in life was to exalt and glorify God. In numerous passages Jesus tells us He did not do anything for Himself, of Himself, but He only did the will of His Father (a few are: John 5:19, 5:30, 8:28, 12:49-50).
Recently I felt stagnant in my walk with God and I felt led to reach out to a very dear friend with a cry for help. Instead of telling me I was doing great and telling me to hang in there and just have faith, he challenged me. He reminded me why we’re here. We are here for the same reason Jesus was here. Jesus was here to secure our salvation and to exalt and do the will of His Father (God).
In Luke 2, we find Jesus at the age of 12 missing from His parents’ caravan which was heading back home from Jerusalem after a Jewish religious celebration. Mary and Joseph (His parents) eagerly searched for Him. He had been missing for over 3 days. They finally found Him in the temple in Jerusalem. He was spending time with the religious teachers and leaders. When they questioned Him about not being with them and creating fear in their hearts His answer in verse 49 was, “And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’” He was telling them they should have known He’d be in His Father’s house. He had to learn and grow in God so He would be prepared to serve His Father.
So, why did my friend challenge me?
Like many Christians who have lived during the last 2,000 years since the time of Christ, I truly believe we are living in the “Last Days” or “End of Days” the Bible talks about. We are literally seeing Biblical prophecy being fulfilled during our lifetime. Jesus said in Mark 13:32-37 to look for the signs of His coming, but that no one knows when He will return. (“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. ‘Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”) Basically He told us to watch and be ready for His return.
So why do you suppose Jesus did not want us to know, or speculate, about the date of His return? It was because we (Christians) should live our lives as if He may come back any moment. If we are Christians, and we are truly Children of the Most High God, then we should desire to share the message of the Love of Jesus with everyone we meet. We are to have a sense of urgency in spreading the Gospel. In Matthew 28:18b-20 Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” I absolutely believe Jesus will return in my lifetime. But, I am not guaranteed my next breath. None of us are. Since that is truth, are we seeking to serve God? To be led by the Holy Spirit? To allow our Father to work through us? To seek and save the lost through the love of Jesus Christ?
So, really what is the most important thing to you in your life? Shouldn’t we be about our Father’s business and help those around us secure their eternity in God’s presence as His children? After all, that is the will of God.
Where Does It End? (added 3-23-14)
So tell me, where does it end? Satan has really stepped up his game lately. He knows his time is short. He has become very successful at convincing Christians that they can pick and choose what to believe out of the Bible. And by this he has been able to water down Christianity and make Christians seem like feeble, bigoted, self-righteous fools.
How has he accomplished this? Well, he is the master of human nature and the father of lies. He knows we have pride and that we desperately need and want to fit in and be accepted. To be loved. He knows man has a desire for power and authority. So he has used this knowledge in a very clever and directed attack against God, the Bible, Christianity, and Jesus. He has made it unacceptable for us to voice our beliefs and to stick to God’s Word. Through “Political Correctness” we are not allowed to speak against anything that is accepted by society. It will be to the point very soon (perhaps we’re already there?) when a person who claims to be a Christian will be shunned and ostracized by society at all levels. Just look at TV and you will see that Christians, and our beliefs, are being ridiculed and condemned with a constant, heightened frequency.
Satan is very good at distorting God’s word. By getting more and more preachers and churches to accept the “Grace Movement” Satan has really made big progress. Basically, what the Grace Movement is all about is the distortion of God’s grace. What is being taught in a huge number of churches today is that because of God’s grace we are saved and since we are saved it is ok to live however we want to live. This is a true distortion and misalignment to God’s Word. In Romans 6:14-16 Paul tells us that even though we are saved through grace we cannot then just continue to live in sin, but we must be obedient to God and live in righteousness. Usually in these churches only happy, inspirational messages are preached. And they don’t teach about the Blood of Jesus, or against sin, and most preachers don’t take a stand for spiritual righteousness.
There is a very big, prominent church in TX whose lead pastor will not speak against homosexuality, and who also has stated he thinks Jesus may not be the only way to heaven. How many in his church, and through his TV ministry, are being misled?!
Another avenue Satan has taken is in getting Christians to not only accept other religions and their beliefs, but to actually align their beliefs with those other religions. Mitt Romney and Glen Beck are both Mormon. So allot of Republican Christians are now accepting Mormonism as a part of Christianity because they wanted so desperately for Romney to beat Obama, and their political thinking is in-line with Beck’s. Mormonism is the predominant religious tradition of the Latter Day Saints. This movement was founded by Joseph Smith, Jr. in the 1820s. Mormons believe a special messenger of God named Moroni visited Smith and gave him special insight. Joseph Smith then wrote the Book of Mormon to suit his “insight” from Moroni. He changed the word of God. If you want to read more about Mormon beliefs go to carm.org. The Apostle Paul said in Galatians 1:8-9 “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.”
The predominant faith among Muslims is Islam. I am not going to get into all the differences between Islam and Christianity, but I will mention a couple. Islamists believe Jesus was a great prophet but not the son of God, that He is not divine, and that he was not crucified. They also believe Muhammad is Allah's greatest and last prophet and his message supersedes all other past prophets including Jesus.
Chrislam is the newest movement by those who are “open” in their thinking merging Islam with Christianity. Basically Chrislam says all roads lead to heaven and there is no “one way” to get there. The adherents of this “religion” believe that Christianity and Islam can be merged together. This is just another step towards the One-World Religion described in the Book of Revelation, chapter 17.
Just some of the subjects the Bible very clearly addresses, and in which Satan is changing societal norms are:
*** Sin (John 8:34, Romans 5:12, 6:12, 6:14-16, 6:23) - sin is sin. It does not matter if it’s murder, a lie, adultery, stealing, blasphemy (taking the Lord’s name in vain) – Sin IS Sin and all who sin are condemned to hell.
*** The Deity of Christ (Matthew 8:29, Mark 3:11, Luke 1:35, John 20:31, Revelation 2:18) - Jesus is the Son of God and He is a member of the Trinity (the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost).
*** Murder–abortion (Exodus 20:13, Jeremiah 7:9, Mark 10:19) - Abortion IS murder. No amount of justification excuses it or makes it ok.
*** Homosexuality (Leviticus 18:21-22, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Romans 1:26-28) - God does not condone homosexuality on any level. Just like He does not condone theft, blasphemy, lying, adultery, etc… It is a sin. No amount of human reasoning or justification changes that.
*** Hell (Psalm 9:17, Proverbs 27:20, Matthew 5:20, Luke 13:27-29) - Hell is real and anyone who does not repent of their sins and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior WILL spend eternity there.
*** Jesus is the only way to heaven (John 3:16, 11:25, 14:6, 1 John 5:4-6) - God is extremely clear that Jesus is THE only way to heaven. No other religion teaches that. There is no other way to heaven except through Jesus.
In all of these subjects God is very clear and unyielding. There is no gray area. God said in His Word and we are to obey.
So tell me, where does it end? It ends with Satan sharing hell with far too many people because he was successful in deceiving millions of people into believing they can live in all manner of sin and pick and choose what to believe from God’s word. What do you choose to believe? Ultimately, it is your decision and your destiny. Decide and choose wisely – with Godly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:23-25, and 2:6-8).
What Is Missing? (added 6/8/14)
Too many churches and pastors today are afraid of offending people and not filling their benches. They’re afraid to upset their “growth plan” and they’re afraid of people leaving their church. They don’t want to offend anyone so they become Politically Correct and accept every religion and every sin. Their services have become entertainment and a place to be seen and hang out. A place to socialize. They whitewash sin and false religions by talking about the Love and Grace of Jesus. They say everyone is accepted and there is no “One Way” to heaven, but many paths. They pick and choose what to accept and what to reject out of God’s Holy Word by saying certain passages are obscure or that they don’t apply to life today. Or perhaps the pastors don’t even believe the Word of God as the Holy Spirit dictated it to the authors of the books of the Bible. 2 Peter 1-2 says, “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them (Jesus with His atoning Blood!)—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.” Whatever their “reasoning” or excuses for not preaching the Word of God (The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing but The Truth) there is a whole new generation of people who think they’re going to heaven, but are not. They are headed to hell. Wow! Tough words from Jim Beau huh? Well, follow along as I take you further into this.
In a move by Pope Francis to usher in peace between Israelis and Palestinians, for the first time in history, Islamic prayers and readings from the Quran were heard at the Vatican today. And after meeting with Pope Francis this week (there were several in the group who’s beliefs and religious affiliations are not in line with the Word of God) Pastor Joel Osteen (Senior Pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston – the fastest growing and largest church in the US) said “I like the fact that this pope is trying to make the church larger, not smaller. He's not pushing people out but making the church more inclusive. That resonated with me.” This is the direction the world is headed towards – a One-World Religion as described in the book of Revelation chapters 17 & 18. Here’s a good article on this from gotQuestions?org - "What will be the end times one world religion?"
That is what’s wrong with the church today. Believers, Christians are the church and we are instructed in the Word of God, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial (a demon) or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15) Yet this is what these church leaders and pastors are doing. They are accepting and aligning their theology, their teaching, with non-believers. This is happening around the world. When you begin to move away from what God declares in His Almighty Word what is right and what is wrong, you are accepting false prophets and teachers. It is not about including everyone or accepting everyone. Yes all sinners (all of us) are welcomed at the foot of the cross. But if we do not make the decision to repent of our sins, turn away from them and follow Jesus as our Savior then the church is not supposed to accept them as a part of the brotherhood of Christ. Am I saying non-Christians should not be accepted to attend church services? God forbid. That’s where we all need to be. I am saying if a person rejects Jesus (in John 14:6 Jesus said “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Get that? Jesus is THE ONLY Way to God!) then they should not be made to believe everything is fine and they’re going to heaven. They are not. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 says “And all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.”
Yes Jesus loves us and because of the Grace of God we have the opportunity to be saved (our decision). See, that’s where allot of churches and pastors stop though. They fail to make sure their people know Jesus lived a sin-free life. They don’t mention that He did not commit any sin. That He died for our sins on the cross and rose again. And because of His sacrifice we are covered by the Blood of Jesus and going to heaven ONLY if we confess our sins and accept Him as our Savior. Then they tell their people something like Jesus died so you can be successful and because of His love and grace you can live the life you’ve dreamed of. They tell them that they deserve to have money and fortune. That they deserve to be happy and live a fun, carefree life. Many churches and pastors today make a mockery of the love of God, the sacrifice of Jesus, and the eternal promise of God’s grace. Galatians 6:7-10, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."
They never talk about righteousness, accountability, holiness, repentance, right-living, being changed because of His love, wanting to live separated from the filth and depravity of this world. That we are to live in the world, but not be a part of the world (2 Peter 1:2-4). So, am I saying they should not talk about the love and grace of Jesus? Nope. Not saying that. But instead of promising happy-happy, joy-joy lives they need to tell their people what the consequences of not accepting Jesus are. Jesus never promised a carefree, easy life. He told us we would have difficulties and be persecuted. He told us in John 15:19-21 “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.”
But our Lord and Savior promised us so much more if we are overcomers (Revelation 1-3) and are not led astray by the seductions of the world. Jesus told us we belong to Him and cannot be taken away. In John 10:26-28 Jesus told us “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” Jesus will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). He told us we will be filled with Living Water (the Holy Spirit) (John 7:37-39). And Paul wrote in Romans 8:38-39 “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 created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” We belong to Jesus. He alone is our King, our Lord, and our Savior.
These churches and pastors are going about things the wrong way. Jesus Did Not gloss over sin. He Did Not condone sin in any way or say it was acceptable. He lovingly pointed out a person’s sins and then explained what they must do to be saved. And He had thousands of people following Him as He walked around Israel for three years. And then His Disciples (with the indwelling Holy Spirit) continued with their ministry, and through their efforts and sacrifice, the world has the knowledge of Jesus and His saving Blood. So, if the churches and Pastors today truly want everlasting success and growth they must (WE must) turn away from accepting that which is wrong and telling everyone they’re “ok” when they’re not. There IS only One Way to heaven and that is by admitting you have sinned, asking forgiveness for your sins, and accepting Jesus as your Savior. That’s it. The Only Way to heaven. Every other way, every other religion, every other belief is leading people straight to hell.
Are You Ready for Eternal? (Added 6/29/14)
I’m going to do something different with this Bible study. This is the lyrics to an awesome song called “Fall Down” by Mercyme. The Bible verses the lyrics come from are listed next to the lyric. (I copied this from somewhere – I’m afraid I did not copy the link or the source.) So, instead of “preaching” to you, just read the lyrics (google the song to listen to it – you’ll love it!) and realize all of these lyrics come from God’s Holy Word – the Bible. God declares in His Word that He is eternal and that His words are eternal. We are eternal. So, where will you spend your eternity?
“Your word, oh Lord, is eternal, it stands firm (Psalm 119:89)
Your faithfulness continues through all the earth (Psalm 119:90-91)
All creation hangs on Your every word (Psalm 33:6; Hebrews 1:3, 11:3)
With the sound of Your voice, waters still (Mark 4:39)
You are Lord over all (Joshua 3:11, 13; Psalm 97:5, Acts 10:36; Romans 10:12)
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed (Luke 8:44)
And for You Jesus, we all fall down (Revelation 4:10; Philippians 2:10)
My soul finds rest and comfort from only You (Psalm 62:1)
My fortress and my rock, I won't be moved (2 Samuel 22:2; Psalm 31:3, 59:16, 71:3, 91:2)
You are my cornerstone whose love endures (Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 118:22; Matthew 21:42)
With the sound of Your voice, waters still
You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
For You Jesus, we all fall down
And I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
And I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made
With the sound of Your voice, waters still
You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
Jesus, we all fall down
Waters still, You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
For You Jesus, we all fall down
We fall down, we fall down”
Wow! What a good song reminding us of just how awesome and GREAT our God is! He loves us eternally! His Word is eternal and will not return to Him without being fulfilled (Isaiah 55:11 “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”) God said “every knee will bow and tongue confess that Jesus is Lord.” Have you confessed yet? Do you know how you’re going to spend your eternity? If not PLEASE say this prayer right now! Don’t wait another minute. “God I thank you for your love and I know I am a sinner and condemned. I ask you to forgive me of all of my sins and I put my trust and faith in Jesus as my savior. Please put your Holy Spirit in my heart and make me a new person in Christ. Thank you for your love and my salvation. In the name of Jesus. Amen.” If you said that prayer would you please contact me and tell me if I can help you in any way? I want to rejoice with you in your salvation.
Why Are We Here? (Added 3/16/14)
What is the most important thing to you in life? Is it your family, your health, your job, your position, your stuff? Is there a reason for all of this? Why are we here? Why are we alive and breathing on planet earth? Are we here for a reason, or is all of this just chance – no reason, no hope, no direction, no “happy ending?”
I was at a man’s group at my church and the Pastor said something I never really thought about before. Like most I suppose, I always thought Jesus knew everything while He was growing up from childhood on through the time of His death. But the pastor said Jesus did not always know everything. Jesus’ life and how He conducted Himself while here is our perfect example of how we are to live our lives. While living among us Jesus was fully man and fully God, but He was in constant prayer (fellowship) with His Father and He allowed Himself to be led by the Holy Spirit the same way we need to. He did not do anything His Father did not want Him to do or that the Holy Spirit did not direct Him too. When Jesus was born He was a baby and grew up to adulthood just like each of us. Luke 2:40 says, “And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” He was fully man and experienced pain, suffering, joy, sadness, and all of the other emotions we face too. However, He lived to do what God (His Father) told Him to do. His sole mission in life was to exalt and glorify God. In numerous passages Jesus tells us He did not do anything for Himself, of Himself, but He only did the will of His Father (a few are: John 5:19, 5:30, 8:28, 12:49-50).
Recently I felt stagnant in my walk with God and I felt led to reach out to a very dear friend with a cry for help. Instead of telling me I was doing great and telling me to hang in there and just have faith, he challenged me. He reminded me why we’re here. We are here for the same reason Jesus was here. Jesus was here to secure our salvation and to exalt and do the will of His Father (God).
In Luke 2, we find Jesus at the age of 12 missing from His parents’ caravan which was heading back home from Jerusalem after a Jewish religious celebration. Mary and Joseph (His parents) eagerly searched for Him. He had been missing for over 3 days. They finally found Him in the temple in Jerusalem. He was spending time with the religious teachers and leaders. When they questioned Him about not being with them and creating fear in their hearts His answer in verse 49 was, “And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’” He was telling them they should have known He’d be in His Father’s house. He had to learn and grow in God so He would be prepared to serve His Father.
So, why did my friend challenge me?
Like many Christians who have lived during the last 2,000 years since the time of Christ, I truly believe we are living in the “Last Days” or “End of Days” the Bible talks about. We are literally seeing Biblical prophecy being fulfilled during our lifetime. Jesus said in Mark 13:32-37 to look for the signs of His coming, but that no one knows when He will return. (“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. ‘Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”) Basically He told us to watch and be ready for His return.
So why do you suppose Jesus did not want us to know, or speculate, about the date of His return? It was because we (Christians) should live our lives as if He may come back any moment. If we are Christians, and we are truly Children of the Most High God, then we should desire to share the message of the Love of Jesus with everyone we meet. We are to have a sense of urgency in spreading the Gospel. In Matthew 28:18b-20 Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” I absolutely believe Jesus will return in my lifetime. But, I am not guaranteed my next breath. None of us are. Since that is truth, are we seeking to serve God? To be led by the Holy Spirit? To allow our Father to work through us? To seek and save the lost through the love of Jesus Christ?
So, really what is the most important thing to you in your life? Shouldn’t we be about our Father’s business and help those around us secure their eternity in God’s presence as His children? After all, that is the will of God.
Where Does It End? (added 3-23-14)
So tell me, where does it end? Satan has really stepped up his game lately. He knows his time is short. He has become very successful at convincing Christians that they can pick and choose what to believe out of the Bible. And by this he has been able to water down Christianity and make Christians seem like feeble, bigoted, self-righteous fools.
How has he accomplished this? Well, he is the master of human nature and the father of lies. He knows we have pride and that we desperately need and want to fit in and be accepted. To be loved. He knows man has a desire for power and authority. So he has used this knowledge in a very clever and directed attack against God, the Bible, Christianity, and Jesus. He has made it unacceptable for us to voice our beliefs and to stick to God’s Word. Through “Political Correctness” we are not allowed to speak against anything that is accepted by society. It will be to the point very soon (perhaps we’re already there?) when a person who claims to be a Christian will be shunned and ostracized by society at all levels. Just look at TV and you will see that Christians, and our beliefs, are being ridiculed and condemned with a constant, heightened frequency.
Satan is very good at distorting God’s word. By getting more and more preachers and churches to accept the “Grace Movement” Satan has really made big progress. Basically, what the Grace Movement is all about is the distortion of God’s grace. What is being taught in a huge number of churches today is that because of God’s grace we are saved and since we are saved it is ok to live however we want to live. This is a true distortion and misalignment to God’s Word. In Romans 6:14-16 Paul tells us that even though we are saved through grace we cannot then just continue to live in sin, but we must be obedient to God and live in righteousness. Usually in these churches only happy, inspirational messages are preached. And they don’t teach about the Blood of Jesus, or against sin, and most preachers don’t take a stand for spiritual righteousness.
There is a very big, prominent church in TX whose lead pastor will not speak against homosexuality, and who also has stated he thinks Jesus may not be the only way to heaven. How many in his church, and through his TV ministry, are being misled?!
Another avenue Satan has taken is in getting Christians to not only accept other religions and their beliefs, but to actually align their beliefs with those other religions. Mitt Romney and Glen Beck are both Mormon. So allot of Republican Christians are now accepting Mormonism as a part of Christianity because they wanted so desperately for Romney to beat Obama, and their political thinking is in-line with Beck’s. Mormonism is the predominant religious tradition of the Latter Day Saints. This movement was founded by Joseph Smith, Jr. in the 1820s. Mormons believe a special messenger of God named Moroni visited Smith and gave him special insight. Joseph Smith then wrote the Book of Mormon to suit his “insight” from Moroni. He changed the word of God. If you want to read more about Mormon beliefs go to carm.org. The Apostle Paul said in Galatians 1:8-9 “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.”
The predominant faith among Muslims is Islam. I am not going to get into all the differences between Islam and Christianity, but I will mention a couple. Islamists believe Jesus was a great prophet but not the son of God, that He is not divine, and that he was not crucified. They also believe Muhammad is Allah's greatest and last prophet and his message supersedes all other past prophets including Jesus.
Chrislam is the newest movement by those who are “open” in their thinking merging Islam with Christianity. Basically Chrislam says all roads lead to heaven and there is no “one way” to get there. The adherents of this “religion” believe that Christianity and Islam can be merged together. This is just another step towards the One-World Religion described in the Book of Revelation, chapter 17.
Just some of the subjects the Bible very clearly addresses, and in which Satan is changing societal norms are:
*** Sin (John 8:34, Romans 5:12, 6:12, 6:14-16, 6:23) - sin is sin. It does not matter if it’s murder, a lie, adultery, stealing, blasphemy (taking the Lord’s name in vain) – Sin IS Sin and all who sin are condemned to hell.
*** The Deity of Christ (Matthew 8:29, Mark 3:11, Luke 1:35, John 20:31, Revelation 2:18) - Jesus is the Son of God and He is a member of the Trinity (the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost).
*** Murder–abortion (Exodus 20:13, Jeremiah 7:9, Mark 10:19) - Abortion IS murder. No amount of justification excuses it or makes it ok.
*** Homosexuality (Leviticus 18:21-22, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Romans 1:26-28) - God does not condone homosexuality on any level. Just like He does not condone theft, blasphemy, lying, adultery, etc… It is a sin. No amount of human reasoning or justification changes that.
*** Hell (Psalm 9:17, Proverbs 27:20, Matthew 5:20, Luke 13:27-29) - Hell is real and anyone who does not repent of their sins and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior WILL spend eternity there.
*** Jesus is the only way to heaven (John 3:16, 11:25, 14:6, 1 John 5:4-6) - God is extremely clear that Jesus is THE only way to heaven. No other religion teaches that. There is no other way to heaven except through Jesus.
In all of these subjects God is very clear and unyielding. There is no gray area. God said in His Word and we are to obey.
So tell me, where does it end? It ends with Satan sharing hell with far too many people because he was successful in deceiving millions of people into believing they can live in all manner of sin and pick and choose what to believe from God’s word. What do you choose to believe? Ultimately, it is your decision and your destiny. Decide and choose wisely – with Godly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:23-25, and 2:6-8).
What Is Missing? (added 6/8/14)
Too many churches and pastors today are afraid of offending people and not filling their benches. They’re afraid to upset their “growth plan” and they’re afraid of people leaving their church. They don’t want to offend anyone so they become Politically Correct and accept every religion and every sin. Their services have become entertainment and a place to be seen and hang out. A place to socialize. They whitewash sin and false religions by talking about the Love and Grace of Jesus. They say everyone is accepted and there is no “One Way” to heaven, but many paths. They pick and choose what to accept and what to reject out of God’s Holy Word by saying certain passages are obscure or that they don’t apply to life today. Or perhaps the pastors don’t even believe the Word of God as the Holy Spirit dictated it to the authors of the books of the Bible. 2 Peter 1-2 says, “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them (Jesus with His atoning Blood!)—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.” Whatever their “reasoning” or excuses for not preaching the Word of God (The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing but The Truth) there is a whole new generation of people who think they’re going to heaven, but are not. They are headed to hell. Wow! Tough words from Jim Beau huh? Well, follow along as I take you further into this.
In a move by Pope Francis to usher in peace between Israelis and Palestinians, for the first time in history, Islamic prayers and readings from the Quran were heard at the Vatican today. And after meeting with Pope Francis this week (there were several in the group who’s beliefs and religious affiliations are not in line with the Word of God) Pastor Joel Osteen (Senior Pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston – the fastest growing and largest church in the US) said “I like the fact that this pope is trying to make the church larger, not smaller. He's not pushing people out but making the church more inclusive. That resonated with me.” This is the direction the world is headed towards – a One-World Religion as described in the book of Revelation chapters 17 & 18. Here’s a good article on this from gotQuestions?org - "What will be the end times one world religion?"
That is what’s wrong with the church today. Believers, Christians are the church and we are instructed in the Word of God, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial (a demon) or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15) Yet this is what these church leaders and pastors are doing. They are accepting and aligning their theology, their teaching, with non-believers. This is happening around the world. When you begin to move away from what God declares in His Almighty Word what is right and what is wrong, you are accepting false prophets and teachers. It is not about including everyone or accepting everyone. Yes all sinners (all of us) are welcomed at the foot of the cross. But if we do not make the decision to repent of our sins, turn away from them and follow Jesus as our Savior then the church is not supposed to accept them as a part of the brotherhood of Christ. Am I saying non-Christians should not be accepted to attend church services? God forbid. That’s where we all need to be. I am saying if a person rejects Jesus (in John 14:6 Jesus said “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Get that? Jesus is THE ONLY Way to God!) then they should not be made to believe everything is fine and they’re going to heaven. They are not. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 says “And all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.”
Yes Jesus loves us and because of the Grace of God we have the opportunity to be saved (our decision). See, that’s where allot of churches and pastors stop though. They fail to make sure their people know Jesus lived a sin-free life. They don’t mention that He did not commit any sin. That He died for our sins on the cross and rose again. And because of His sacrifice we are covered by the Blood of Jesus and going to heaven ONLY if we confess our sins and accept Him as our Savior. Then they tell their people something like Jesus died so you can be successful and because of His love and grace you can live the life you’ve dreamed of. They tell them that they deserve to have money and fortune. That they deserve to be happy and live a fun, carefree life. Many churches and pastors today make a mockery of the love of God, the sacrifice of Jesus, and the eternal promise of God’s grace. Galatians 6:7-10, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."
They never talk about righteousness, accountability, holiness, repentance, right-living, being changed because of His love, wanting to live separated from the filth and depravity of this world. That we are to live in the world, but not be a part of the world (2 Peter 1:2-4). So, am I saying they should not talk about the love and grace of Jesus? Nope. Not saying that. But instead of promising happy-happy, joy-joy lives they need to tell their people what the consequences of not accepting Jesus are. Jesus never promised a carefree, easy life. He told us we would have difficulties and be persecuted. He told us in John 15:19-21 “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.”
But our Lord and Savior promised us so much more if we are overcomers (Revelation 1-3) and are not led astray by the seductions of the world. Jesus told us we belong to Him and cannot be taken away. In John 10:26-28 Jesus told us “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” Jesus will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). He told us we will be filled with Living Water (the Holy Spirit) (John 7:37-39). And Paul wrote in Romans 8:38-39 “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 created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” We belong to Jesus. He alone is our King, our Lord, and our Savior.
These churches and pastors are going about things the wrong way. Jesus Did Not gloss over sin. He Did Not condone sin in any way or say it was acceptable. He lovingly pointed out a person’s sins and then explained what they must do to be saved. And He had thousands of people following Him as He walked around Israel for three years. And then His Disciples (with the indwelling Holy Spirit) continued with their ministry, and through their efforts and sacrifice, the world has the knowledge of Jesus and His saving Blood. So, if the churches and Pastors today truly want everlasting success and growth they must (WE must) turn away from accepting that which is wrong and telling everyone they’re “ok” when they’re not. There IS only One Way to heaven and that is by admitting you have sinned, asking forgiveness for your sins, and accepting Jesus as your Savior. That’s it. The Only Way to heaven. Every other way, every other religion, every other belief is leading people straight to hell.
Are You Ready for Eternal? (Added 6/29/14)
I’m going to do something different with this Bible study. This is the lyrics to an awesome song called “Fall Down” by Mercyme. The Bible verses the lyrics come from are listed next to the lyric. (I copied this from somewhere – I’m afraid I did not copy the link or the source.) So, instead of “preaching” to you, just read the lyrics (google the song to listen to it – you’ll love it!) and realize all of these lyrics come from God’s Holy Word – the Bible. God declares in His Word that He is eternal and that His words are eternal. We are eternal. So, where will you spend your eternity?
“Your word, oh Lord, is eternal, it stands firm (Psalm 119:89)
Your faithfulness continues through all the earth (Psalm 119:90-91)
All creation hangs on Your every word (Psalm 33:6; Hebrews 1:3, 11:3)
With the sound of Your voice, waters still (Mark 4:39)
You are Lord over all (Joshua 3:11, 13; Psalm 97:5, Acts 10:36; Romans 10:12)
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed (Luke 8:44)
And for You Jesus, we all fall down (Revelation 4:10; Philippians 2:10)
My soul finds rest and comfort from only You (Psalm 62:1)
My fortress and my rock, I won't be moved (2 Samuel 22:2; Psalm 31:3, 59:16, 71:3, 91:2)
You are my cornerstone whose love endures (Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 118:22; Matthew 21:42)
With the sound of Your voice, waters still
You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
For You Jesus, we all fall down
And I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
And I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made
With the sound of Your voice, waters still
You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
Jesus, we all fall down
Waters still, You are Lord over all
With the touch of Your robe, sick are healed
For You Jesus, we all fall down
We fall down, we fall down”
Wow! What a good song reminding us of just how awesome and GREAT our God is! He loves us eternally! His Word is eternal and will not return to Him without being fulfilled (Isaiah 55:11 “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”) God said “every knee will bow and tongue confess that Jesus is Lord.” Have you confessed yet? Do you know how you’re going to spend your eternity? If not PLEASE say this prayer right now! Don’t wait another minute. “God I thank you for your love and I know I am a sinner and condemned. I ask you to forgive me of all of my sins and I put my trust and faith in Jesus as my savior. Please put your Holy Spirit in my heart and make me a new person in Christ. Thank you for your love and my salvation. In the name of Jesus. Amen.” If you said that prayer would you please contact me and tell me if I can help you in any way? I want to rejoice with you in your salvation.
