A CHRISTMAS SPECIAL - "GOD DOESN'T LIE TO US"

ONE TIME A YEAR the righteous and the wicked, the sinners and the born again saints, the repentful and the unrepentant …

One Time A Year…

The fornicator, the adulterer, the pedophile, the lesbian, the homosexual, the sexually perverted and immoral of all kinds…

One Time A Year…

The racist, the terrorist, the hater, the lover, the unforgiving and the forgiving…

One Time A Year…

The oppressed and the oppressors, the slave and the slave master, the tortured and the torturer…

One Time A Year…

Enemies of God, disobedient and rebellious workers of iniquity, brazen practitioners of vile transgressions, rapists, thieves, murders, drunkards and the shameless, the vulgar, the promiscuous, the greedy and the insatiably unholy…

One Time A Year…

Those who refuse to be baptized in the name of Christ, those who have rejected GOD’S TRUTH and those who were never gifted by GOD with the promised HOLY SPIRIT…

One Time A Year…

All worldly souls acknowledge, celebrate and worship the Christmas Spirit and pretend that they are followers of FATHER YHVH in CHRIST.

ONE TIME A YEAR The whole World, along with her churches and deceived priests, false prophets and gullible congregations have all bowed down in idolatry to worship the image of the beast and proclaim allegiance to demonic spirits.

ONE TIME A YEAR, folks who do not keep the Commandments of God nor remember His Holy Seventh Day Sabbath to keep it Holy; faithfully and passionately buy Christmas gifts, attend Christmas celebrations and Christmas worship services and spend billions of dollars in the name of Christmas.

ONE TIME A YEAR everyone pretends to be in Christ and loving toward everyone and obedient to God by wishing each other a MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Hypocrisy! Blasphemy! Liars!

Christmas is not a substitute for obedience to God’s Commandments and there isn’t any salvation in its pagan celebration.

Christmas is not a substitute for REPENTANCE, BAPTISM IN WATER INTO THE NAME OF CHRIST AND BEING GIFTED BY GOD WITH HIS HOLY SPIRIT.

Christmas is not a substitute for HOLINESS and celebrating it sure is not an indication that you belong to GOD.

DON’T BE DECEIVED ANY LONGER!

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, only those who do what my Father in heaven wants.  On that Day, many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord! Didn’t we prophesy in your name? Didn’t we expel demons in your name? Didn’t we perform many miracles in your name?’  Then I will tell them to their faces, ‘I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness! (Matthew 7:21-23)

REPENT BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!

Matthew 15:8-10
‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away from me. Their worship of me is useless,because they teach man-made rules as if they were doctrines.’”

You are not receiving this warning by accident but by divine providence. God wants you to be saved from the wrath to come and from the judgment of HIS eternal damnation.

And the great Dragon was cast down, that Chief Serpent, which is called The Devil and Satan, which deceives all The Earth, and it was cast down unto The Earth and its Angels were cast down with it. (Revelation 12:9)

Satan has deceived the whole world as prophesied and Christmas is one of the worldwide deceptions of Satan and many believers are in the deception. (Colossians 2:8 and 1 Timothy 3:13)

Ezekiel 13:1-16
The word of Adonai came to me:  “Human being, prophesy against the prophets of Isra’el who prophesy. Tell those prophesying out of their own thoughts, ‘Listen to what Adonai says!  Adonai Elohim says: “Woe to the vile prophets who follow their own spirits and things which they have not seen!  Isra’el, your prophets have been like jackals among ruins.  You [prophets] have not gone up to the breaks in the barricade or repaired it for the house of Isra’el, so that they can stand fast in battle on the day of Adonai.  Their visions are futile and their divination is false; they say, ‘Adonai says,’ when Adonai has not sent them; yet they hope that the word will be confirmed.  Haven’t you had a futile vision and spoken a false divination when you say, ‘Adonai says,’ and I have not spoken? 8Therefore here is what Adonai Elohim does say: ‘Because you have spoken futilities and seen falsehoods, therefore I am against you,’ says Adonai Elohim.  “‘“My hand will be against the prophets who have futile visions and produce false divinations; they will not be allowed into the council of my people, or be written in the register of the house of Isra’el, or enter the land of Isra’el. Then you will know that I am Adonai Elohim.  They deserve this, because they have led my people astray by saying there is peace when there is no peace. If someone builds a wall without mortar, they ‘plaster’ it with whitewash [to make it appear strong].  Tell these ‘plasterers’ that a cloudburst is coming, with huge hailstones and gale-force winds;  and the wall will fall down. Then people will ask you, ‘Where is the whitewash you used to “plaster” it?’”  Therefore Adonai Elohim says: “In my rage I will cause gale-force winds to break out, and in my anger there will come a cloudburst, with huge hailstones to consume it in fury.  This is how I will break down the wall you covered with whitewash — I will smash it to the ground, so that its foundation will be revealed. The wall will fall down, and you will be consumed with it. Then you will know that I am Adonai.  In this way I will spend my fury on the wall and on those who covered it with whitewash; and I will say to you, ‘The wall is gone, and so are those who “plastered” it,’  that is, the prophets of Isra’el who prophesy about Yerushalayim and see visions of peace for her when there is no peace,” says Adonai Elohim.’

The mouth of the LORD has spoken. Hear what THE SPIRIT is saying unto the EKKLESIA of CHRIST. (Psalm 69:28)

REPENT!

Copyright © Othealor W. Prince 2015
All Rights Reserved

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!

Are You Like Christ?

It has been said that to be a Christian we must be Christ-like. And there are many people who consider themselves to be Christian. However, when we look at ourselves and our actions, do we resemble Christ?
Are You Like Christ?
Jesus was born for the purpose of obeying the Father even to the point of ridicule, torture and death.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus invested himself in others repeatedly without consideration for fame, fortune or celebrity.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus went out of his way to evangelize the undesirables and he risked the stigma of being a social misfit and a religious heretic in order to reach the oppressed, broken, discarded and downtrodden souls.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus demonstrated righteous indignation and holy boldness toward the corrupt and greedy money changers that operated in His Father’s House. He turned over their tables and expelled them from the temple.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus did not conform to the popular religious system but identified their leaders as a perverted, poisonous, hypocritical and deceitful brood of vipers.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus felt and demonstrated compassion on the poor, the sick, the widows and children.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus did not think himself too glorious to bend down and wash the feet of those whom he loved.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus did not hold a grudge against Peter for denying him but saw his contrition and restored him.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus never gathered wealth for himself nor taught his disciple how to gain worldly prosperity.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus never engaged in homosexuality, sexual perversions or lewd and vulgar language and behavior.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus did not practice overindulgence, intoxication or drunkenness.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus was not focused on carnal beauty, physical enhancements or outward adornments.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus obeyed The Father and kept all of His Commandments - not breaking one of them – not even the Seventh-Day Sabbath.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus never sought the glory, prestige, honor or position of ecclesiastical titles.
Are you like Christ?
Jesus was buried in a watery gave by baptism and filled with the Holy Spirit.
Are you like Christ?
The Father said that Jesus was His beloved Son in whom He was well pleased.
Are you like Christ?

Being Legal Doesn't Make It Right

Everything That Shines Ain't Gold

We have all heard it said that “Everything that shines ain’t gold.” And in Isaiah the 14^th Chapter, Lucifer (The Devil) is described as the bright Morning Star – The most beautiful of God’s creations.  Nevertheless, he was cast down out of heaven to the earth along with a third of the stars (angels) of heaven) for prideful rebellion (Revelation 12:4).

There are a lot of good looking, good sounding, excellent speaking, persuasive and motivating preachers and Pastors who shine brightly in the earth. 

But suffice it to say that “Everything that shine ain’t Gold.”

The Bibles teaches us to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” 

And how do we test the Spirit to see if they are confessing or rather teaching the Doctrine of Christ?

Apostles Paul answers that question in Galatians 1:8 by saying: “if anyone or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one preached to us by the Apostles of Christ, let them be under God's curse!”

The standard for telling if a preacher is preaching God’s Truth is to measure it against the commands of God and the teachings and practices of the true apostles of Christ.

Christ and His Apostles have set the standard for the Church of Jesus Christ. And  any other teaching, any other doctrines or any other practice is accursed.

Everything that shines ain’t gold!

A Crumb From The Master's Table / O.W. Prince Ministries

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. -1John 1:9

Clear the air. Open Confession is Good for the Soul.  If we confess first, then our enemies have nothing to hold over your heads. 

Disarm the devil and come clean with God and He will wash you whiter than snow. (Psalms 51:6-8)

REPENT

"LIED TO DEATH"

Would you rather feel good or be well?

A lot of folks are made to feel good while in actuality they are dying.  They are suffering from the horrors of the undiagnosed disease of sin.  They are exemplifying all of the symptoms of sin i.e. unforgiveness, malice, fornication, adultery, lying, stealing, disobedient to God’s Eternal Commandments, idolatry, homosexuality, false doctrines, witchcraft, licentiousness, lewdness, pornography, vulgar speech, vulgar appearance, vulgar thinking, drunkenness, sexual perversions and uncleanness, BUT NO ONE WANTS TO TELL THEM ABOUT THEIR DREADFUL DISEASE OF SIN.  

Most folks are satisfied with being made to feel good about themselves. (2 Timothy 4:3)  They want to be encouraged in their sinful state. They want to be excused from any genuine change and told that they can be successful Christians through the process of self-improvement, learning to live right and understanding God’s Word by continual studying and church attendance.  Some are convinced that they can be saved simply by believing in the Lord whereas the demons also believe and tremble.  Are demons saved by faith also? If the demons are not saved then neither are those who simply receive Christ with a gesture of faith or some man-made sinner’s prayer.

I’d rather hear the truth about my sinful condition that threatens my eternal soul rather than be deceived into believing that I am alright then die and go to hell. I had rather be thoroughly examined, properly diagnosed and prescribed God’s eternal commandments for salvation (Repentance, Water Baptism in His Name and the Empowerment of the Holy Spirit – John 3:3-7 and Acts 2:38) and take my medicine now than walk around thinking I am saved only to hear the Lord tell me on that day “…I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” (Matthew 7:21-23)

As for the would be deceiver of my soul, there is a dreadful day ahead for him. (Ezekiel 33:1-9)

I’D RATHER BE WELL THAN JUST MADE TO FEEL GOOD.

How about you?

“There Is Only One Way”– The Bible Is Right and Somebody Is Wrong

I cannot help but to be concerned about my fellow believers in Christ Jesus who are so argumentative and divisive about what genuine salvation is.

Some say that they are saved simply because they have believed the gospel. However, they don’t obey the gospel.

Some say that they are saved because they have verbally confessed the Lord Jesus Christ. However, they don’t keep His commands.

Some say that they are saved because they have received the Lord Jesus Christ. But what does that really mean?

Some say that they are saved because they have been baptized into water in the name of Jesus Christ or in the name of the Father and of the Son and of The Holy Ghost.  But did they die to sin before the burial?

Some say that they are saved because they speak in tongue. But, the devil can imitate the tongue.

Some say that they are saved because they belong to a church or denomination. But is the Church in the Truth?  Is The Pastor Born Again and Sent By God?

Some are convinced of their salvation because they have experienced a strong emotional demonstration or they have undergone a lifestyle change whereby they don’t have any social vices or bad habits. But is salvation based upon habits, feelings, loud shouting and dancing in the church?

Sadly, eternal salvation doesn’t exist in any one of these. And although it pains me to say it, there are some believers (Churchgoers) who are not going to be saved.
Many are carnal minded, rebellious, stubborn, deluded and confused and cannot come into a saving knowledge of the Truth. (Romans 8:7, 1 Corinthians 2:14, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11, 2 Timothy 3:6-9)

Many would-be Christians expend enormous amounts of energy through emotional displays, theatrics and public performances, attempting to convince themselves and others that they are saved when in actually they are unchanged. They have been deceived by Satan, blinded by their own lusts and confused by their desire to validate their own Faith.

Nevertheless, for whatever reason or cause, many believers believe different things about God’s One True Plan Of Salvation and I am concerned that in this confusion of religious diversities, many would-be saints are being lost.

And regardless of what anyone thinks or says, it is the living Word of God – Christ Jesus - who is the ultimate authority and final judge of what is required for salvation and who is saved and who is not. (Matthew 7:21-23, John 5:22, 27, Acts 17:31, Acts 10:42)

And behold there is only One Way to be Saved – Jesus Christ!

To Learn More About This One And Only Way, Please Click On The Following Link:
You Must Be Born Again

“Separation of Church and State”

“Separation of church and State” is a phrase used by Thomas Jefferson and others expressing an understanding of the intent and function of the Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ….” This was intended to create a virtual wall between the Christian Church and the secular Government.

The need for the separation of Church and state has never been clearer than it is today. With the onset of State sanctioned homosexuality and same-sex marriage, the Christian Church’s voice for holiness and Christian morality has been dwarfed by the government’s amoral policies on sexuality and its redefinition of marriage and family.  The government has effectively rejected God and His Word.  The government’s voice for sin seems to be greater and louder than the Church’s voice against sin.

Good Christian folks are being persecuted, criticized and sometimes ostracized because of their biblical and morally justified stand against the abominable sin of homosexuality.

The children of God are openly being ridiculed and labeled as “haters” by the media and those in powerful and influential positions within society. Christians who do not acquiesce to the antichristian policies and  immoralities of society may find themselves being characterized as homophobic or sanctimonious.  Many Christians dare not voice their true beliefs against homosexuality for fear of reprisals. Many Christian politicians dare not voice their true opinion on the subject of gay marriage for fear of losing voters. There are even a few pastors who avoid the subject altogether for fear of losing their mega church status and enormous incomes. There are some of us who are reading this article who have been cowardly disloyal to God’s stand against homosexuality. We have accepted and approved of homosexuality either by our silence, our indifference or our fellowship with homosexuals.

There are countless arguments for homosexuality. The world and her children have embraced it.  The god of this world has promoted it and rewarded its proponents with wealth, fame, prestige and power.

However, regardless of how one may color it, the world is wicked, homosexuality is evil and those who advocate for its right to be openly expressed, socially embraced, politically and legally recognized as an acceptable sexual orientation are going to hell.

²⁰ Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20)

REPENT!

On Salvation

God's Sovereignty

by John W. Ritenbaugh
Edited for Re-post by Bishop O.W. Prince

Romans 13:1-7

(1) Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. (2) Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. (4) For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. (5) Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience' sake. (6) For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God's ministers attending continually to this very thing. (7) Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

Once we understand God's sovereignty over the nations, it is not difficult to understand where Paul bases his instructions in these verses. Thus we can understand why Moses so quickly and surely considers the actions of Korah and his group as rebellion against God rather than merely against himself (Numbers 16). When Israel rejects Samuel as judge over them because they want a king, God reveals to the prophet that the people are really rejecting the rule of God Himself (I Samuel 8:7). It does not matter whether a Christian considers his nation's government to be unlawful. What matters is whether God permits it. If He permits it, this One, who is aware of even sparrows falling, has allowed it or has directly brought it to pass because of the purpose He is working out. That is all that matters. God is ruling His creation, and this is what we are here to learn and trust.

Jesus lived His entire life under an unlawful civil government. The Roman government ruled over Judea as a result of military conquest. Moreover, at times even the ecclesiastical government was not in the proper hands because corrupt Roman officials discovered that just-as-corrupt Jews were willing to pay bribes to "buy" the high priesthood. But the Scriptures repeatedly show Jesus subject to them, though He called both, especially the ecclesiastical one, into account. Matthew 17:24-27 is a clear example:

When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, "Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?" He said, "Yes." And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons or from strangers?" Peter said to Him, "From strangers." Jesus said to him, "Then the sons are free. Nevertheless, lest we offend them, go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them for Me and you."

The Temple tax was one-half shekel per year for every Jew over 20. Since Jesus Christ was Lord and Owner of the Temple, He and His "children" should have been free of taxation. Jesus orders Peter to pay it anyway for both of them to avoid a bitter and offensive debate on the merits of His claim. By doing this, Jesus sets the right example looking by faith beyond a legal technicality to the True Ruler, the Father. God likely brought this episode to pass for our instruction.

Perhaps a brief statement of Solomonic wisdom will summarize Christian understanding of God's sovereignty over the governments of men: "There is no wisdom or understanding or counsel against the LORD. The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance is of the LORD " (Proverbs 21:30-31). His meaning becomes clearer in other translations. The Living Bible renders it, "No one, regardless of how shrewd or well-advised he is, can stand against the Lord. Go ahead and prepare for the conflict, but victory comes from God." The Revised English Bible translates it as, "Face to face with the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel avail nothing. A horse may be made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord."

It may seem a remote possibility, even strange, that we would fight against the Lord, yet because human nature remains in us, we do. The apostle Paul complains in Romans 7:14-23 that what he did not want to do he did anyway because a law of enmity against God worked within him. Proverbs 21:30-31 tells us that human wisdom, insight, and counsel must be in conformity with God's will to be successful. God's children must understand His sovereignty over everything and conduct their lives knowing that nothing avails against God and nothing without Him.

The Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes. (Daniel 4:25)

To rebel against leadership and power is to rebellion against the sovereignty of God. For it is The Most High God who assigns position and power to whomever He desires to accomplish His will. ~ owp

The Rapture

Join me on FaceBook

God Can't Use A Coward Soldier

More preachers than ever are concerned about offending other people more than they are about offending God. Many preachers...

View Post

How Committed Are You?

Would you give up pursuing your own happiness (sexual, financial, material and career ambitions) for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

Don’t lie! Many of you would like to think that you could give up your own ambitions for the sake of God but the truth of the matter is that your spirit may be willing but the flesh is weak.

You may think that this question is unfair but it is intended to make us examine our commitment to God and His Word.

Many, upon self-examination, are disqualified to respond to the question. We are disqualified whenever we insist upon practicing our religion rather than keeping God’s commandments. We are disqualified whenever we practice the pursuit of sexual fulfillment outside of the boundaries of holy matrimony. We are disqualified whenever we practice the pursuit of our own financial wellbeing at the expense of others. We are disqualified whenever we practice ignoring the needs of others when it is in our power to give assistance. We are disqualified whenever we have too much wealth while someone else has too little and we refuse to share.

The Bible Challenges and Instruct us to imitate Christ’s unselfish humility.

In the book of Philippians 2:1-8 we find Paul giving apostolic instructions to the church a Philippi to “have the mind of Christ. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. But rather, in humility, value others above yourselves. Imitate Christ by looking to the interests of others.” This is the challenge of every Christian.

Regardless of the countless millions who profess Jesus Christ as Lord and savior, not many are committed to imitating Jesus Christ’s selfless humility.

How committed are you?

REPENT!

"No One Should Be Shocked"

No one should be shocked by what is posted on social network sites. Verbal vulgarities, pictorial nudity, allusions to sexual acts of perversion and immorality are common on today’s social networks. That is one reason so many religious groups have campaigned against them.

Nevertheless, it raises concern when so-called-Children of God are the ones who are posting these obscene materials. It makes one wonder about the integrity and sincerity of their salvation (Ephesians 5:3).

Many say that they are children of God and follow His Commands but their behavior nullifies their profession of faith.

Christians who are preoccupied with sexuality and sensuality have chosen their god and have denied the One True God—Jesus Christ. (Ezekiel 5:11, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Romans 8:5-8)

Being a Christian is not a 9 to 5 job. You don’t get to take time off from being holy no more than God gets to take time off from being God. It is a lifetime experience. It is who we are as God’s Children; if indeed we are His children. (Romans 8:9)

Stop fronting and be who you are.

If you belong to God, Act like it. If you belong to Satan, never mind. This message really was not for you anyway.
Bishop

THERE IS ONLY...

(Edited from Al Shannon’s Post in “Biblical Proof”)

Christians only have ONE authority, and that is Jesus Christ. He has the right to order and command. He said: All authority was given to him both in heaven and in earth. (Matt. 28:18).

God has the right to tell us what to do by virtue of the fact that he created us and not we ourselves. (Ps 100:3) When man tries to become his own authority, then he is acting according to the same evil desires with which Satan tempted Eve. Eve rejected God’s authority when she entertained a second opinion. When we seek ways to circumvent God’s laws we are committing the same sin Eve committed.

Authority Needed In Life

Authority is necessary in all aspects of life. Without it, there can only be anarchy and chaos. Without authority in the home, children will never learn the discipline needed to function in civilized society. Without authority in school, no one will receive a proper education. Businesses can’t exist without someone in charge because eventually no one will be productive. Without moral authority in governments, people will turn to wickedness like abortion, homosexuality, and adultery. Authority is needed everywhere. This is something that most people freely recognize. Someone has to be able to call the shots, and say the buck stops here.

Authority Needed in Religion

The need for authority is especially seen in the religious world. The existence of hundreds of denominations reveal this. The many divisions that exist, even among God’s people, testify of the need for authority. Divisions and denominations exist because people, at sometime, did not listen, and submit to the authority of God. Instead, they became their own authority, and acted in lawlessness.

“In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” Judges 21:25

The nature of man requires authority. Man can’t even direct his own steps. (Jer. 10:23). Some deny that we need authority for all that we say, and do. When people act or teach something without God’s authority, then they must look to one of two things: (1) Themselves or (2) Others. Yet, the Bible condemns looking to men as the source of authority (Jer. 10:23; Col. 2:20-22; Matt. 15:7-9; Rom. 12:3; 1 Cor. 4:6). Without God’s authority, we only have man’s worthless opinion, which changes like the wind, shifting to and fro.

“That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,
but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head — Christ — from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” Eph 4:14-16

Humanism teaches us that we do not need God to tell us what to do. However, if one person can appeal to himself or another man for authority, then why can’t another person do the same? Who is to say who is right or wrong? When men contradict each other, how will the issues and questions be settled? Where else can we appeal? Without God, confusion and every evil thing will exist in society. Only division and evil will result. There is no way for us to be united based on the authority of man. Only God’s Word can unite us, and keep us united with the same mind and judgment. 1 Cor 1:10

Sadly, some are insisting that the pleas for authority are legalistic, and unnecessary. “The church must change with the times,” they say. Actually, all who believe and espouse such nonsense are not rejecting us, but rejecting Christ’s authority, and His Word. (Matt. 28:18; Jn. 12:48).

“And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.” 1 Sam 8:7

A standard of right and wrong is essential to mankind. Our Standard must be the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Romans 10:14-16). Without the inspired Word of God, we can’t know God’s will. This is why it is vital for us to seek for a genuine Holy Spirit filled, God sent man-of-God who is appointed by God to teach and preach out of the revelation of Holy Spirit and not out of religion’s pre-translated text. “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Pet. 4:11).

Mock it if you want, reject it if you will, but only God’s Word comes with the Spirit and power of God.

“And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” (1 Cor 2:4-5)

Nadab and Abihu Rejected God’s Authority

Many examples given to us in the Old Testament testify to the need for acting with authority (Rom. 15:4). Nadab and Abihu were condemned to death because they acted in the silence of God. (Lev. 10:1-3). They used a strange fire which the Lord “had not commanded them”. Perhaps they thought that they did not need authority. Many strange fires burn on the Alter of Christianity today that God did not authorize. Unless they repent, they too shall perish.

Jesus’ Authority

The Pharisees questioned Jesus authority, and asked Jesus about his teaching and works: “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” Jesus didn’t say, “I don’t need any authority. You’re just being a legalistic!” Jesus ultimately refused to answer them because they refused to admit that John the Baptist preached with God’s Authority. This also reveals that authority only has two sources: God or man. (Matt. 21:23-27)

Jesus came with the power to heal the sick, raise the dead, and forgive sins. Even they knew that no one could do such without God’s authority and power to do so. Yet, they said, this man has a devil which gives him such authority. (Mt 12:23-28)

Jesus eventually told them that he received his authority, and power from His heavenly Father. But rejected this and crucified our Lord between two thieves. When we reject God’s Word and it’s authority, we are rejecting Christ. (Jn 12:48)

Apostles Authority

All Christians are to follow the Apostles’ doctrine which is One with the doctrine of Christ. (Acts 2:42; 1 Cor 11:1) The apostles likewise taught the need for acting with authority from God. We are to the endeavor for unity (Eph. 4:16; 1 Cor. 1:10). The only way for unity to be maintained is through respect for God’s authority. We must all follow the same standard and abide by it (Phil. 3:16). True disciples of Jesus Christ abide in his word (Jn. 8:31,32). We must remain within the confines of the revealed Word of God (1 Cor. 4:6). To go beyond the teachings of Christ and His Apostles is a total disrespect for The Lord and will bring destruction on whomever seeks to change God’s law. (2 John 9, Rev. 22:18-19).

Conclusion: The Church is to be subject to Christ who is the head in everything (Eph.5:23,24). Without question, the Scriptures teach us the need for acting with authority in all that we do and teach. Let us never complain at God’s commands. Let us not mock God’s preached and revealed Word. Instead, let us bring honor, and glory to God by our full submission to his will. Let us remember we are the created and not the creator. (Ps 100:3) Let us always remember: Christ is the “author and finisher of our Faith and the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him” (Heb. 5:9; Heb 12:2). Let us never forget, God always has the Last Word.  His Word is everlasting and waiting to Judge us all. (John 12:48)

^“4 There is one body and one Spirit. In the same way you were called to share one hope. ⁵ There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is over everything, through everything, and in everything.” (Ephesians 4:4-6)

ONE AUTHORITY!

"Truth"

"I am Your Pastor"

I would like to be your friend and make you happy all of the time. But I can’t. I am your Pastor.

I would like to fellowship with you—engage in worldly pleasures and naughty deeds. But I can’t. I am your Pastor.

I would love to yield to your wants and desires—fulfilling your dreams. But I can’t. I am your Pastor.

I would love to tell you what you want to hear but I must tell you the Truth. I am your Pastor.

My life doesn’t belong to me and I can never truly belong to you. I am your Pastor.

You cannot give me my job description or set the parameters of my authority. I am your Pastor.

You didn’t call me or ordain me—from my mother’s womb I was chosen. I am your Pastor.

The Words I speak are not my own but belong to Him who sent me. It’s not personal. I am your Pastor.

Loved yet hated. Despised but needed. Killed yet lives. Emptied but filled. Poor yet rich. Naked but clothed. Loving yet unloved. I am your Pastor.

Think About It!

Bishop O.W. Prince

Author

[Reference: John 15:18, Romans 10:14-17, 2 Timothy 4:2-3, 1 Corinthians 6:20, Titus 2:1-15, Ephesians 5:11]

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

“Do God’s Children Need A Revival?”

Where in the Holy Scriptures does Jesus or his apostles establish the practice of “revivals” or “religious revival services?” The answer is “nowhere.” Nowhere does Jesus or his apostles establish the practice of revivals in the original Christian church of the first century. As a matter of fact, the word “revival” doesn’t appear anywhere in the original language of the Bible. The nearest equivalents are “revive” (quicken) and “reviving,” but these may be applied to individual awakening and are not synonymous with, what is traditionally known as, “religious revival service.”

Religious revivals and the word “revival” descend from religious traditions absent of scriptural and apostolic authority and divine approval.

I realize that this is strong language and challenges most of our beliefs and religious practices. However, it is not my intention to be hurtful or confrontational but to edify the body of Christ as inspired and instructed by the Holy Spirit of God.

One may easily borrow from the earthly and scientific disciplines of etymology, philosophy, sociology and theology to explain the term “revival” and substantiate the practice of religious revival services. However, the fact would still remain that revivals, as we have come to know them, are not a part of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ.



For a Christian to accept the notion of or participate in the religious practice of “revival services” is for them to believe that a Christian can be dead spiritually and be brought back to life. This is contrary to everything that Jesus taught us about the ever-living Spirit of God and the born-again believer (John 11:26,John 6:47, Romans 8)

The word “revive” is made up of two parts: “re” meaning “again” and “vive” meaning to “live.” Thus, “revive” means “to live again, to be brought back to life, health or vitality.” Although this concept sounds good it lacks the authority of Holy Scripture and it contradicts the teaching of Christ and His apostles.

Neither Jesus nor his apostles ever advocated for revivals or accepted the notion that once you were born of the water and of the Spirit that the Spirit would die and need reviving. No! It is the Spirit of God that makes us alive (Romans 8:11). If indeed we have the Spirit of Christ, we are constantly revived (2 Cor. 4:16). Only those who are a part of the counterfeit church of Satan or those who have been deceived by religious traditions would dare think that God’s Holy Spirit needs reviving.

As members of the Body of Christ, we are instructed to build one another up and keep each other encouraged (Hebrews 3:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Corinthians 12:20-27). We were not instructed to do this through some religious service but on a daily basis. It is The Way of LIFE.



However, in our contemporary Christian churches, especially in the predominately black southern churches (where my experience mostly lies), the word “revival” has become synonymous with fund-raising services.

In the name of “revival services,” most churches are just raising money. They choose the revivalist that can draw the largest crowd in the hope of raising the most money. There is little or no concern for the truthfulness of the revivalist’s message or the integrity of his salvation. The main concern is raising money.

In the name of “revival services,” many churches have membership drives whereby their goal is to see how many souls that they can get to join their religious institution. They just want to increase the number of potential paying members in the hope of increasing revenues. It is a calculated business strategy and promotional venture.

In the name of “revival services,” some Pastors exchange pulpits with each other and in essence exchange monies with each other so as to increase their own exposure, popularity and wealth.

In the name of “revival services,” many churches put on a religious production with various performers including preachers, comedians, singers, choirs, musicians and other talents that may or may not be true agents of God. Their goal is to create a festive atmosphere of joy and vibrancy whereby one may feel saved without actually being transformed. And in exchange for this false sense of salvation, the collection plate becomes the collection basket and the Alter becomes the place where people toss their monies in response to the performance much like a minstrel show.

I have yet to go to a revival service where money was not a significant part of the service. And I have never seen anyone revived at a revival service. I have seen them deceived. I have seen them lied to. I have seen them motivated to an emotional frenzy. I have seen them robbed of their money but I have never seen a spiritually dead person brought back to live simply by attending a revival service. Some may have gone through the motions of reanimation but I assure you that they did not experience genuine salvation.

“You Cannot Revive That Which Was Never Alive.”

Not all so-called revivals have clandestine agendas. Some churches are sincerely trying to reach lost souls with the message of Jesus Christ. Some churches and some evangelist are adamant about teaching and preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. Some are devout followers of Christ and teach the importance of genuine repentance, water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. However, such churches should not call their services “revivals.” If they must have a distinction they should be but called “evangelical services.” They are evangelical at heart; attempting to fulfill the ministry of the kingdom of God and not their own surreptitious ambitions, denominational policies, theological beliefs or financial agendas (2 Timothy 4:1-5). They have given themselves fully to the ministry of eternal Life (John 14:6).

The Word of God says, “Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching… do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”

Obey The Word!

REPENT!

This Week’s Word & Prayer / “Sometimes The Hardest Thing To Do Is Nothing”/ June 4-8

This Week’s Word
“Be still, and know that I am God…” Psalm 46:10

———————————————————

From my earliest years, I can remember being taught to set goals and meet deadlines and while pondering my next ministerial project, Psalm 46:10 came to my mind. It says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” A voice seemed to speak to me out that text and say. “Let’s just spend time together. No agenda. No goal. No deadlines. I want to rekindle the intimacy we once knew. I just want to spend time with you.”

This surprised me. I hadn’t even realized that the fire had died down. Wasn’t I working for the Lord? Wasn’t I doing God’s will? Wasn’t I busy about my Father’s business? Wasn’t I striving to please him? And then I began to see what He meant. In the middle of all my busyness for God, I had neglected my relationship with God.

Sitting still wasn’t in my nature. I never was a lazy person. I always had a desire to work. And the church always taught us that we should be active in the church in order to show our love for God. But I began to realize that my desire to work and serve was standing in the way of my worship. My natural tendency to be active for God was getting in the way of my communion with God. My daily routine of evangelical and pastoral activities was getting in the way of divine intimacy which God desires to have with each of His children.
I was totally unaware that I had allowed the agenda of traditional religion and my own ignorant desire to serve over shadow my intimacy with God (Proverbs 19:2 ). I made my relationship with Jesus work oriented and far more difficult than it had to be. I spent too much time striving to prove my heart to God. And all the while God has been whispering to me, “I already know your heart. Cease striving and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

And that is what I feel that the Spirit is telling us today; be quiet and settle down“—be still and know.” We know that God is God. It is the “be still” part that stumps us every time. Most of us can be still for a few minutes, maybe even an hour if need be. But much longer than that and we are undone. Restless spirit syndrome begins to shake our souls and the urge to get up and get moving wrestles us away from focused, intimate communion with God.

So today I ask you to join me in a time of rejuvenating intimacy. Be still and know that He is God.

REPENT!

This Week’s Prayer
Father, I pray to You today in the name of *YeHoWsHua HaMashiach – Jesus the Christ. Help me to learn what it means to be still, and know that You are God. As I seek to serve You and to please You, help me never to allow personal goals, deadlines, agendas or objectives to hinder my worship of You or cloud my vision of who You are. I realize that I cannot live, move or have my being unless I am in You. Empower me Oh God to be still and reverent in my worship of You so that I may hear Your voice over the busyness of the world and the activities of religion. I want to spend my days with You. I want to feel the warmth of Your embrace and the comfort and security of Your forgiving love. I want to know You in a special way. This is my prayer today in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ, Amen.

____________________________________

Footnote:
The Hebrew spelling of the name of Christ is used in this prayer for educational purposes. Yehowshua is often shorten to Yeshua but out of respect for my Lord I chose to use the spelling of His proper name to demonstrate that His name s above every name and that even the spelling of His name is relative to the spelling of The Father’s name – remembering that there were not any vowels in the Hebrew alphabets. Thus, YHWH (Yahweh) and YeHoWsHua (Yahweh is salvation) are grammatically and uniquely related.
For more information of the authentic name of God, please follow the link below:
http://www.therockofmontgomery.org/Yahweh.html

Please pray for this ministry.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

Today’s Sabbath Message For April 28, 2012 / TESTS OF A TRUE PROPHET – “Prophets” Part 2

“Prophets” Part 2

TESTS OF A TRUE PROPHET

Throughout history, God has spoken to His people through prophets. As we draw closer to the end of time, it should come as no surprise that there are many individuals in Christendom claiming to be prophets of God. However, nearly all of these fail to meet the scriptural requirements for a true prophet. I would like to offer a lists of ten biblical requirements for a true prophet. They are:

1) A true prophet does not lie. His predictions will be fulfilled. (Jer. 28:9) “But the prophet who prophesies peace will be recognized as one truly sent by the LORD only if his prediction comes true.”

2) A true prophet prophesies in the name of the Lord, not in his own name or according to his own will. (2 Pet. 1:21) “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

3) A true prophet does not give his own private interpretation of prophecy. (2 Pet. 1:20) “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation.”

4) A true prophet points out the sins and transgressions of the people against God. (Isa. 58:1) “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the house of Jacob their sins.”

5) A true prophet is to warn the people of God’s coming judgment. Here are some examples of judgment such as portrayed in Isa. 24:20, “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls — never to rise again.” and Rev. 14:6, 7, “Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth — to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.’”

6) A true prophet edifies the church – counsels and advises it in spiritual ad doctrinal matters. (1 Cor. 14:3, 4 ) “But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.”

7) A true prophet’s words will be in absolute harmony with the words of the prophets that have preceded him. (Isa. 8:20) “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.”

8) A true prophet recognizes the incarnation of Jesus Christ. (1 John 4:1-3) “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.”

9) A true prophet can be recognized by the results of his work. (Matt. 7:16-20) “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”

10) A true prophet speaks and acts in accordance with the Word, will and approval of God. (Deut. 18:19) “If anyone does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name, I myself will call him to account.”

———————————————————

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons license.