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!

Advice from the Master’s Table

A Final Sign of the End

“Time is just about up. Let evildoers do their worst and the dirty-minded go all out in pollution.” (Rev. 22:10b-11a [MSG])

“You cannot tell a person the Truth if they refuse to hear the Truth.  Leave them where they are.” ~ Bishop O.W. Prince

“If they don't welcome you, quietly withdraw. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way. You can be sure that on Judgment Day they'll be mighty sorry—but it's no concern of yours now.” (Matthew 10:14 [MSG])

“Don’t frustrate yourself over those who have chosen damnation over salvation.  Move on and continue to do the work of The Kingdom of God with passion and careful instruction.  Never give-up!” ~  Bishop O.W. Prince

“God is looking over your shoulder. Christ himself is the Judge, with the final say on everyone, living and dead. He is about to break into the open with his rule, so proclaim the Message with intensity; keep on your watch. Challenge, warn, and urge your people. Don't ever quit…” (2 Timothy 4:1-2 [MSG])

“Don’t Ever Quit!”

Word & Prayer Apostolic

Word & Prayer Apostolic The Prelude 202012
 
Today’s Word
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. ~ John 10:10 ( NIV)

For decades, I have heard the cries of hearts whose desire it is to have an intimate, exuberant relationship with God through Christ but don’t know how to go about it.  Perhaps you can relate to this. 

Many believers feel that there is something lacking in their Christianity.  They have become painfully aware that their religion is a montage of mundane theologically contrived demands aimed at pleasing secular expectations, providing only temporary emotional relief, intellectual stimulation and motivational entertainment.  

Some have awaken to the reality that the celebrity preachers and superstar teachers have lied to them about what is required for salvation—selling them on some counterfeit Christianity that give them the appearance of godliness but denies them entrance into the kingdom of God.  They are left empty and spiritually starved to eternal damnation.

Many believers have become aware of this fact and yearn to experience God’s True Presence and Power.

Am I speaking about you?  If so, you are not alone. 

Many have come to realize that joining a church, belonging to a denomination, serving on church boards, committees, auxiliaries and receiving ecclesiastical accolades only leaves them, at the end of the day, with hunger pains of the heart and soul that can only be satisfied with a genuine filling of God’s Holy presence.    
  
We long for a sense of closeness with God, but we have a hard time putting our finger on exactly what that closeness would look like.  So we go to Bible studies, attend church, say our prayers, and read our devotions. And yet, we constantly feel that we are somehow missing something.  

We have an unanswered question of “What is missing and what shall I do to get it?”  

I want to strongly suggest we seek the answer to our query not in church or denomination, not in theology or seminary education but in the Word of God!

As I pray for you today, I ask that you consider carefully The Word of God contained in the Following Videos. 


Today’s Prayer (May we pray?)
Father God, it is in the name of —*YeHoWsHua HaMashiach – Jesus the Christ I pray to You today.  Please forgive our sins as we earnestly seek Your answer to our emptiness.  Help us to surrender to Your Word of Truth, Salvation, Power and Demonstration.  Help us to see You;  To Hear You; To Obey You and to be led and fed by You. Fill us with Your Holy Presence and satisfy our hunger and thirst for Your Righteousness. This is our prayer today in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ, Amen.

Today's Word & Prayer for Today's Christian

Three Reasons To Pray

Today’s Word
I love the LORD, because He hears my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live. ~ Psalm 116:1-2

The psalmist says three things before saying he will call upon God as long as he lives.  All three things lead to his desire to pray.

First, he says, “I love the Lord.”  His prayer life is motivated by love.  Then he says “He hears my voice and my supplications.”  He prays because he knows that he is not just wishing out loud.  Nor is his prayer simply a religious activity.  No! God is there and He’s listening. Third, he says, “He has inclined His ear to me.”  God is paying attention.  He cares about the issues we bring to Him.
As you begin each new day speak to God from your heart. Let your prayers be the expression of your love for Him and not just your need for Him. Go through the day with the confidence and assurance that God is listening to you and that He is paying attention to the concerns and issues in your life.
Today’s Prayer
Father, I pray to You today in the name of—*YeHoWsHua HaMashiach – Jesus the Christ.  I pray to You out of love for You and Your Word.  When I think of Your love for me and all You’ve done for me, I become emotional.  My soul shouts “Hallelujah!”  I cannot help but Love You because You first loved me.  When I was bad, You were good to me and You are good to me all of the time.  You hear me when I pray.  And You save me out of all my troubles.  I am astonished that You would be mindful of a wretch like me.  Yet, You are inclined to be concerned with my concerns and attentive my issues. You are an awesome God, great in mercies, kindness and love. Thank You Dear Father for loving me the way that You do.  Help me to demonstrate Your love for me in my love toward others.  May I never cease to call upon Your name in prayer.  This is my prayer today in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ, Amen.

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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
____________________________________________________________
COPYRIGHT DISCLOSURE:
Bishop O.W. Prince and The O.W. Prince Ministries authorizes that this work along with all works posted on this blog and related blogs may be copied, redistributed and retransmitted in part or in whole for non-commercial purposes only and without change or alteration to its contents or materials  with the stipulation that the author and source be clearly acknowledged.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

Today's Word & Prayer for Today's Christian

“Consider this: The Father has given us his love. He loves us so much that we are actually called God’s dear children. And that’s what we are.” ~ 1 John 3:1 (GW)

Have you ever noticed that you are never a grown-up to the ones who birthed you? They completely disregard the gray hairs, crowfeet, and bulging waistlines of your adult life. No matter how many children call you “Dad” or “Mom,” to your parents you are still just a child yourself. 


They seem to think you have slipped into the closet to put on grown-up clothes and are really just playing a game. They must believe that somewhere beneath the receding hairline there is still a child, hiding in the shadows of adulthood. The worst part about it is (keep this quiet) I think they are right! 

And like our parents, the Lord looks beyond our façade and sees the trem­bling places in our lives. He knows our innermost needs. No matter how spiritually mature we try to appear, He is still aware that lurking in the shadows is an insecure little girls who needs her Father to tell her that he loves her and he is going to make everything alright. He is aware that beneath the façade of brawny masculinity is a little boy who needs his Father to reassure him of his manhood and tell him that he is the image and glory of his daddy. God is aware of the hidden issues of His “all grown-up” little children. 

The Father understands the hidden fears, insecurities, anxieties, hurts, anger and feeling of revenge that lurks in each of us from time to time. He is aware of the worst in us, yet still thinks the best of us.

He understands the child in us, and He speaks to our blanket-clutching, thumb­-sucking, infantile needs. In spite of our maturity, income, edu­cation, or notoriety, He still speaks to the childhood issues of our aging hearts. 

The Father’s Love Never Fails.

Today’s Prayer
Father, I pray to You today in the name of—*YeHoWsHua HaMashiach – Jesus the Christ.  I thank you for adopting me into Your family and for calling me Your child. I am grateful for the privilege to be called a child of God. And like a child I am still growing and learning. I need Your guidance and instruction to help me navigate this tedious life. I am unsure of my myself and I need Your reassurance. I have strayed from the path You’ve chosen for me and I need You to lead me back to the path of righteousness. I have even been rebellious at times and now I repent and I need You to forgive me O God. Have mercy on me. No one knows me like You do. Speak to the issues of my heart and heal all of my hurts and pains. Daddy, I need You and I need You now! Help me to become more and more like You—to look and sound like You and to walk in the knowledge and power of my birthright. This is my prayer today in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ, Amen.

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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

____________________________________________________________

COPYRIGHT DISCLOSURE:
Bishop O.W. Prince and The O.W. Prince Ministries authorizes that this work along with all works posted on this blog and related blogs may be copied, redistributed and retransmitted in part or in whole for non-commercial purposes only and without change or alteration to its contents or materials  with the stipulation that the author and source be clearly acknowledged.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

The Uzzah Syndrome

 In the Book of 2^nd Samuel there is a story of a man named Uzzah who was in the employment of David.  He and his brother were entrusted with the task of guiding an ox drawn cart upon which the ark of the LORD had been laid.  However, there was a divine order in which the ark of God was to be transported and handled. (Exodus 25:10-22, Numbers 4:1-20, 1 Chronicles 15:13-15)  This divine order was not observed by David or Uzzah.  They ignored God’s instructions and prerequisites regarding the handling of the ark, for only Levites were suppose to transport the ark of God in a divinely prescribed manner.  And when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out His hands to steady the ark of God so that it would not fall and God struck him dead.

A life was lost because a pair of human hands was laid upon the ark of God in irreverence (disrespect) to God’s divine orders.  Uzzah placed his hands upon the ark with the best of intentions, to steady it and keep it from falling, but they touched God's work presumptuously, and he fell dead. 

In today’s contemporary Christian churches, there are many systems of religions that espouse various forms of gospels that offer various means of salvation.  They have presumed to change God’s divine order of things and do it their way.  They have, in a real sense, shown irreverence to God’s divine will and instructions.  And regardless of their motives or of their good intentions, they are inviting the wrath of God and the destruction of themselves. 

God is a just God.  All of His actions are right and fair.  He does not show partiality for He is no respecter of men.  Deuteronomy 32:4 says, ^“He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.”  

If God killed Uzzah for touching the ark and disregarding His divine order, what will happen to those who mishandle His Holy Word-Jesus the Christ- disregarding His divine order and establishing their own way?

Disobedience to God equals disrespect for God and this will always end in death.

Our challenge today is simply to Trust and Obey.

Today’s Word

⁶ When they came to the threshing floor of Nakon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen stumbled. ⁷ The LORD’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God.  ~ 2 Samuel 6:6-7

 Today’s Prayer

Father, it is in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ that I pray to You today.  I confess that I have sinned against You.  I have shown irreverence and disrespect for Your way and Your will.  I have not followed Your instructions or kept Your Holy Commandments as I should.  I realize that I am in danger of eternal damnation.  Please forgive me O God.  I am sorely sorry for my sins.  I REPENT!  I realize that Your way is always right and just.  I desire to obey Your Word, for in Your Word is life—life everlasting.  Please forgive me O God.  Help me to never disregard Your living Word or disrespect Your divine order.  Your divine instructions are a delight and a joy to obey.  Empower me to keep all of Your commandments.  Help me to obey Your divine instructions regarding repentance, water baptism in Your name and the indwelling of Your Holy Spirit.  Protect me from false religions and counterfeit faith.  Please keep me away from perverse doctrines of demons and religions of men.  I want to be found in Your perfect will.  I want to be saved according to Your divine way.  This is my prayer in the name of the LORD YeHoWsHua* (Jesus) the Christ, Amen. 

For a Bible lesson on God’s ordained instructions regarding the salvation process, please visit the following link:  http://owprince.wordpress.com/you-must-be-born-again-introduction/