So What About the Prosperity Gospel?
February 6, 2010 by WebPastor
Filed under Pastor's Pulpit
So What About the Prosperity Gospel?
Recently I’ve noticed a bit of chatter about the prosperity gospel. It led me to do a scan of several You Tube videos in opposition to the term and preaching of the “prosperity gospel.” My motive wasn’t to find out who was saying what about it, but it came while I was looking into another topic. Needless to say, I was dismayed in particular over the attacks on the prosperity gospel. Not because there aren’t those who have perverted the perspective on the prosperity gospel for their own purposes of provision, but because of the outright attacking nature and seeming unwillingness to view prosperity in the context of the gospel for what it is, what it can be for us and what it should be to us.
I think I was more disappointed than disturbed by the implications and the overt presentations against prominent proponents of prosperity. I guess my big question is centered on why some feel motivated to clamor for the exclusion of prosperity from the overall plan of redemption God purposed for man.
From my perspective, prosperity is clearly presented in the Bible. In context, it has its place, alongside healing and health, rich, full relationships, a grounded purpose for a man or woman’s life given from the heart of God, a life of service, a life of sacrifice where needed, the willful care of resources in the earth and most importantly, salvation in Christ and Christ alone. As stated in Acts 4:12, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
In regards to the gospel of salvation as a whole, how did prosperity become a side issue of non-significance and irrelevance in some people’s minds? Why and how does healing and health, along with prosperity and wealth, demean the term “gospel?” Does gospel still mean “good news?” When did being healthy and having all your needs met physically, financially, socially, vocationally and relationally become “bad news” or reflect a lack of trust in God, or become contradictory to God’s priorities in salvation?
What does salvation mean? Romans 10:10 presents salvation from a Greek word “soteria” and means “deliverance, preservation, safety, deliverance from the molestation of enemies, Messianic salvation, salvation as the present possession of all true Christians, future salvation, the sum of benefits and blessings which the Christians, redeemed from all earthly ills, will enjoy after the visible return of Christ from heaven in the consummated and eternal kingdom of God; saved from the penalty, power, presence and most importantly the pleasure of sin.” This definition is found as a link through the Crosswalk website (www.crosswalk.com) and lists the Strong’s Concordance definition of this word, soteria.
Have you ever experienced poverty? If you have, do you feel blessed or desire to be delivered from it, preserved from and given safety away from the pain and potential destruction of poverty and lack? Sometimes, opponents of prosperity make being provided for and blessed of the Lord sound like a sinful pleasure from which people need to be protected. What happens when you make being blessed look and sound like a “curse”? It can create cognitive dissonance, or confusion about what’s right in the least. It can generate guilt and condemnation for having anything of value at worse.
In the New King James Version Proverbs 10:22 says, “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich and He adds no sorrow with it.” The word rich in this verse is a Hebrew word “ashar” and means “to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich, to gain riches and to enrich oneself.” Pretend means a thing that may appear false but is actually a precursor to what may not yet be tangibly evident.
From this scripture in Proverbs 10:22, and from Deuteronomy 28:1-14, Psalm 35:27, III John 2, II Corinthians 9:6-15, Galatians 3:13-14, Luke 6:38, Philippians 4:19, Galatians 6:7 and a whole slew of other exigetically supportive Old and New Testament passages too numerous to list here, we have clear evidence that being blessed of the Lord is scriptural and a good thing for the loving, giving, qualifying believer. And it’s worth reiterating that no sorrow, guilt or condemnation accompanies the blessing of the Lord.
Let’s consider for a few moments the words of Jesus. In John 10:10, the devil is portrayed as the thief. To be stolen from by a thief is not a blessing in disguise or otherwise. A thief is your enemy. Jesus said the thief or the enemy to the believer came to steal, kill and destroy. Jesus came to give life, or as stated in the Amplified Bible, Jesus said “I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”
Jesus came to deliver, preserve, make safe, protect and deliver us from the molestation of enemies. Jesus also came so that not only is this Messianic salvation a promise of future benefits, but that this “salvation is the present possession of all true Christians.” We who are in Christ currently have the ticket of future entrance for the full intent, purpose and expanse of salvation forever, and the experience of being saved in the earth, right now, today.
So what does it mean to be saved? In Romans 10:9, the word saved is a Greek word, “sozo.” It means “to keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger or destruction, to save a suffering one (from perishing), i.e. one suffering from disease, to make well, heal, restore to health, to preserve one who is in danger of destruction, to save or rescue and to deliver from the penalties of the Messianic judgment.” That’s the Strong’s Concordance definition that’s also listed by Crosswalk.
When and why did the promise of God’s love in prospering His children become a deterrent to salvation? If love gives, particularly if unconditional love gives, what is the cut-off point that determines what and how much that love is willing or allowed to give? Does unconditional love’s giving stop at spiritual needs, or can unconditional love transcend and translate into all needs small and great, spiritual, physical, emotional, mental…material and financial?
If the detractors to prosperity really believe that God’s gospel is adamantly opposed to and repulsed by prosperity, why do they not practice poverty? If indeed it’s not God’s will for His children to prosper, why do those who believe against the “good news” not sell all their goods, give it all away and live on the streets?
What’s so difficult about searching the scriptures to establish a harmony of beliefs that rightfully expands the paradigm of what our impossibility conquering God is able and willing to do? Is there not clear and compelling evidence that Jesus, who personally stated that He came to give an abundant life understood that an abundant life includes atonement for our sins, deliverance from our sins, a regenerate nature, eternal life, divine healing, divine health, financial and material provision and prosperity, protection and preservation from our enemies, a defined purpose in life determined from the foundations of the world, a place of dignity and respect in our communities and a fulfilling, satisfying, rewarding life here in the earth and for all eternity. Or am I reaching, perhaps along with Jesus, for more than we get with the gospel as a whole?
If Jesus is the Word made flesh–and He is—then a careful search of all the scriptures of the Old and New Covenant should reveal the fullness of God’s will and the contextual priority that prosperity as a whole plays in the life of the children, the very offspring of a limitless God. If we’re children, offspring of God, then it stands to reason that whatever He has is available to His dependents in some form or another, at some time or another.
Which of us willfully denies our children what they need? What do we call parents who deny their children all their basic needs? How often do we seek to give our children things that bring them joy? Who among us hasn’t at some point yearned within our hearts to do more for our own children? How many have given their children things the child desired and it was done out of a heart of love? Who among us hasn’t given a toy or an item that wasn’t high on our list but it became important to us because it was important to our children?
Where do you think that yearning, that compassion, grace and giving spirit comes from? All good and even doting parenthood—with balance—emanates from the Father of the family both in heaven and in earth.
To go a little further in this, how far down into “pure doctrine” do we have to go to extract out what I guess people would like to call the “pure gospel?” Did Jesus come only and exclusively for our sins to deliver us from Hell? Don’t quote me out of context. Salvation, deliverance from our sins, is the primary purpose for Jesus coming. John 3:16 leaves no doubt about this. But didn’t Jesus come to provide for other things that are “standard features” of His redemptive act? Is it that we should only think in terms of finding a way to make it through life with no hopes of things like provision above just the most basic of physical needs, the most basic of health needs, only the most basic of relational and vocational needs?
Should we have no aspirations beyond scraping by on a meager quantity of provision and live in only the most modest of means to prove our consecration and willingness to sacrifice? Why did God create an earth with such rich provisions, but then on the other hand say we should have no contact with the vast majority of the resources in the earth? Is the primary whole of the earth still looked upon as the tree of the knowledge of good and evil which we’re not to touch or eat? Why do people fight over things like having more than enough?
What usually happens when you take and over emphasize, and improperly prioritize any truth to extreme? Excesses and abuses, of course. What usually happens when you dilute any truth to extreme? Ignorance and destruction, of course. What happens when you take poverty to a full extreme? Death. What happens when you take illness to a full extreme? Death. What happens when you take sin to a full extreme? Natural and spiritual death.
What is spoken of in Galatians 3:13? “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us…” Jesus came to redeem us from the curse of the law. What is the curse of the law? Poverty, sickness and death, including spiritual death or eternal death. How would we describe our redemption from poverty, sickness and death, including redemption from spiritual or eternal death? Wealth, health and life, including spiritual or eternal life aptly summarizes our redemption in Christ.
What’s the problem with that depth of redemption and how can this be portrayed as “another gospel?” I’m concerned when factions are created over the “prosperity gospel.” Where’s the disconnect on biblical provision made by a God of love and judgment, mercy and wrath? When did God become so small that He couldn’t provide it all? How did we become so small minded as to think that any one of us, or any one group or denomination has the answers for everything? When did one group become the judge of the world and the judge of all other groups? Where do we find evidence that Jesus died so we could bicker back and forth over things that have a much wider context or greater purpose beyond us feeling we have to police one another–to the potential damnation of so many?
Is there a problem with misguided, even deceived Christians who have taken prosperity to an extreme and gotten the focus off their first love and onto an imbalanced view of prosperity? Sure. But that doesn’t mean you throw the baby out with the bathwater and assume any discussion of prosperity is superficial and manipulative. Are there prosperity attackers whose sole purpose is to follow in the footsteps of Judas of Iscariot and make everything that anyone says about money or prosperity, or healing and health for that matter, sound like heresy. Yes. But it doesn’t justify eliminating the investigation to fully support what we believe and why, and learning how to better communicate these important biblical truths throughout the Body of Christ.
Why are people so set on damning the possession of prosperity and provision above basic needs? In contrast, why are there those who think church and christianity is only about hearing how to make more money and accululate more stuff? What happened to the middle of the road and the solid foundations? What’s wrong with having financial discipline, temperance and biblical balance?
I’ve risked my standing in some places for believing this way and teaching the prosperity gospel, but let me state it for the record: I believe in the biblical truth of the prosperity gospel in the best context of what I’ve endeavored to communicate in this article. Prosperity is biblical and inherent in the nature of God as witnessed by the immensity of His creation and the overwhelming value of the blood of Jesus Christ. I believe there are those who have perverted and prostituted this truth for selfish purposes and ungodly ends. But a great many of the “prosperity preachers” are doing a great deal more to proclaim and support the gospel for material relief and real salvations worldwide than they are given credit for, and I dare say, more than many of their critics.
I finish this article with these thoughts. Why do some think we must rip out entire biblical passages that promise blessing, provision, increase, abundance, multiplication, favor and prosperity to evangelize? It’s clear that the man or woman without Christ has a nature that opposes God and stands in need of salvation from their sins. We know the unsaved man or woman stands in need of the Savior. But is God not big enough to do both, and to do it so as not to neglect the importance and value of either issue? When and where did being blessed of the Lord become a social, spiritual and personal pollutant? How did the spiritual riches of salvation in Christ, and eternal life through the blood and cross of Jesus Christ get so detached from the love of a Father giving His children the very best that His creation has to offer? Who concocted the extremes of prosperity teaching that give it a place of overstated prominence and destroy proper priorities? Who demonized and crafted the dilution of prosperity to a place of irrelevancy in the big picture of eternal life?
In a general sense, prosperity as it pertains to the Christian can be summed up with this thought: “Biblical prosperity is having eternal life, peace of soul and material provision to adequately cover our personal and family needs, enjoy the life God’s given us to live, to be a blessing to many in our circle of influence and to be a blessing to help people in need beyond our circle throughout the world.” All of this leads me to a final question for this article: Are you living a truly biblical, prosperous life that honors, glorifies and pleases God?
About Lance Ivey
Lance Ivey graduated with a B.A in English/communications from Siena Heights University in 1986, and has taught, served and ministered in multiple ministry settings over the past 23 years. Most recently, he was executive director at Heartland School of Ministry and Christian education director at Heartland World Ministries Church in Irving, TX. He was also assistant director and a full-time instructor at Victory Bible Institute and served on the pastoral team at Victory Christian Center in Tulsa, OK. Lance is currently in full time traveling ministry and writes freelance articles that have appeared in national online news websites.
Vs. 5 “SUPPOSING GAIN IS GODLINESS: FROM SUCH WITHDRAW THYSELF”
1Ti 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and
consent not to wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the
doctrine which is according to godliness;
1Ti 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but
doting about questions and strifes of words,
whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil
surmisings,
1Ti 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt
minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing
that gain is godliness: from such withdraw
thyself.
1Ti 6:6 But godliness with contentment is
great gain.
1Ti 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world
and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
1Ti 6:8 And having food and raiment let us be
therewith content.
1Ti 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into
temptation and a snare, and into many foolish
and hurtful lusts, which drown men in
destruction and perdition.
1Ti 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
The ‘Word Of Faith’ Movement & The Roman Road to Salvation
We did not get eternal salvation by making a “confession”. You can’t confess Faith, because Faith is an action! Demons confessed Jesus as God, and are they eternally saved?
Matt 8:29, Jas 2:19
Romans 10:9 is talking to believers who live daily by “FAITH”. If you would study the words saved and salvation in Romans 10:9-10 you would discover they mean: deliver, protect, heal, preserve, do well, make whole. Where the Bible refers to eternal salvation it clearly states that. Confessing with your mouth, not being mixed with true faith and the works of the Holy Spirit, cannot bring eternal salvation.
Matt 15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth (confession), and honoureth me with their lips (confession); but their heart is far from me. Mat 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Just because you confess Jesus as Lord means nothing unless you have FAITH, and faith without works (God’s Will) is DEAD! (James 2:17).
Matt 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
Matt 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart
bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil
treasure bringeth forth evil things.
Matt 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Matt 12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Can you see how people confess Jesus Christ, but their heart being evil brings out evil things. God’s treasure is His Son Jesus, the Word of God. So say whatever you want, but if Jesus, the Word/Works are not in you then whatever you say are meaningless words of no effect. We have always been saved, justified, and received salvation by Faith. Faith alone makes us justified. Having Faith is doing His will, you can’t speak Scriptures to try and move God to do what you want. Confessing the Word doesn’t make Him change His predestined plan.
Getting back to The Roman Road to Salvation
If you look at Rom 10:14
Rom 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
How could anyone who does not “Believe or have Faith” call on the name of the Lord to think they would be saved? Verse 14 makes it clear only a believer who has trusted by faith in Jesus Christ can call on Jesus name for help (Salvation/Saved). How can someone who doesn’t believe call on the name of the Lord Jesus?
This clearly shows verses 9 and 10 are for “BELIEVERS”.
Rom 10:11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
The Roman Road to Salvation (verses out of context, put together by men) are a lie, and don’t tell the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ concerning eternal life (refer to Matt 15:9). Look at the definitions for saved and salvation mentioned in Romans 10:9-10
They aren’t speaking about “eternal life”.
G4982 SAVED (Rom 10:9)
From a primary word(contraction for the obsolete� saos; to save, that is, deliver or protect (literally or figuratively): – heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.
G4991 SALVATION (Rom 10:10)
Feminine of a derivative of G4990 as (properly abstract) noun; rescue or safety (physically or morally): – deliver, health, salvation, save, saving.
Think about this. There is no example in God’s Word in which a man spoke the written word of God (or repeating it) to bring about God’s will. The reason is clear why we can’t, because unless you are God you don’t know what His will is, until He alone reveals that to you. Jesus came only to do the will of the Father, just as we are to only do His will:
Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
He chose us, predestined us, and called us for His purpose.
Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the
foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
Eph 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will,
according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
Eph 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
Eph 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Php 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
A person can recite scriptures over and over and it will never change God’s mind or His will for your life. Besides that, to pray repeating scripture over and over again is what the heathens do. Learn how to pray and what to pray for. See if you find praying God’s Word to get what you want from Him. NO, you won’t! If you look up all the prayers in the New Testament they all have one thing in common; the prayers are for His will to be done. Example: More love, more forgiveness, more Spiritual knowledge, more Spiritual wisdom, more Spiritual understanding, patience, protection, deliverance, preserve…
Prayers were never about worldy gain and treasures here on earth, or for our wants and desires. Besides if you are dead and it Jesus who lives in you, He will only do God’s will and nothing else.
Mat 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the
heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mat 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Mat 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Note: It’s His kingdom, power, and glory, for ever.
It is Jesus and the Holy Spirit that intercedes and prays for us, and we don’t know what we should really pray.
Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself Maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Rom 8:27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
It is God, and God alone who speaks things into existence and He has finished from His works from the foundation of the world. He is the creator, and we are the creation. We are to “enter into His Rest”.
Heb 4:3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
We are only to do God’s will, and that is entering “His Rest”.
Heb 4:9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.
Heb 4:10 For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from His.
Rom 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate
to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might bethe
firstborn among many brethren.
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
G4267 FOREKNOW
From G4253 and G1097; to know beforehand, that is, foresee: – foreknow (ordain), know (before).
G4309 PREDESTINATE
From G4253 and G3724; to limit in advance, that is, (figuratively) predetermine: – determine before, ordain, predestinate.
To say other than God is all knowing is to call Him a liar. God knew the beginning and end before there was a beginning for us. There is nothing hid from God.
If we are dead to ourselves, as required by God’s Word, we will only seek His will for our lives.
If you think that when Jesus said, “I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. (Matt 21:21)
Then please keep it in its context. It was all about producing fruit or not producing fruit. So we must remember to always seek His will, believing in Him, and allowing Jesus alone to do His Father’s will in us. Then you will understand that to say to this mountain, “be thou removed”, you would know it’s referring to sin and obstructions that keep us from bearing fruit.
Look at what Paul said and how he describes the disciples walk of faith.
THE LIFE OF A FOLLOWER:
Vs. 8-10 is for those who believe in riches and earthly gain.
Verses 8-10 are sarcasm from Paul to those wealthy…
1Co 4:8 Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you.
1Co 4:9 For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.
1Co 4:10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.
1Co 4:11 Even unto this present hour we both
HUNGER, and THIRST, and are NAKED, and are
BUFFETED, and have NO certain DWELLING-PLACE;
1Co 4:12 And labour, WORKING WITH OUR HANDS: being REVILED, we bless; being PERSECUTED, WE SUFFER IT:
1Co 4:13 Being DEFAMED, we intreat: we are MADE AS FILTH of the world, and are the OFFSCOURING of all things unto this day.
1Co 4:14 I write not these things to shame you, but
as my beloved sons I WARN YOU.
1Co 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand
instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
1Co 4:16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
Can you follow after this depiction of a TRUE FOLLOWER?
DO YOU STILL WANT TO FOLLOW JESUS?
These were your own words:
“I was dismayed in particular over the attacks on the prosperity gospel”.
My fist submission was only God’s Word, so if I understand you correctly God’s Word is attacking the perverted “Prosperity Gospel”.
Prosperity For The Beliver
Treasure here, or treasure there (heaven), what will you choose? Did Jesus have a plan for us to all get rich? What does the Word teach about earthly riches, compared to some preachers today?
1Jn 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.
If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1Jn 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust
of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the
world.
1Jn 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
Psa 112:3 Wealth and riches shall be in His house: and His
righteousness endureth for ever.
Mar 10:17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one
running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I
do that I may inherit eternal life?
Mar 10:18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is
none good but one, that is, God.
Mar 10:19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do
not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy
father and mother.
Mar 10:20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I
observed from my youth.
Mar 10:21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One
thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast,
and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in
heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
Mar 10:22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had
great possessions.
Mar 10:23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How
hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
Mar 10:24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus
answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for
them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
Mar 10:25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a
needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of
God.
Mar 10:26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among
themselves, Who then can be saved?
Mar 10:27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible,
but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
Mar 10:28 Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo,we have left all, and
have followed thee.
Mar 10:29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no
man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or
wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,
Mar 10:30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses,
and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with
persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
Mar 10:31 But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.
This is HIS riches: WISDOM and KNOWLEDGE
Rom 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways
past finding out!
Rom 11:34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his
counsellor?
Rom 11:35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto
him again?
Rom 11:36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Luk 1:53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
Jesus clearly says:
Mat 6:21 For where your treasure (wealth) is, there will your heart be also.
Now some will say, but in Mark 10:30 it says: Mar 10:30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
Who are our mothers and brothers, and sisters?
Mat 12:47 Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren
stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
Mat 12:48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my
mother? and who are my brethren?
Mat 12:49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said,
Behold my mother and my brethren!
Mat 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
This is for those who sell God’s teachings:
Mat 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Mat 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils:
freely ye have received, freely give.
Mat 10:9 Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
Mat 10:10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats,
neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of
his meat.
Mat 10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it
is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.
Mat 10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it.
Mat 10:13 And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it
be not worthy, let your peace return to you.
Mat 10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when
ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
So what does Jesus Christ tell us about how we should live?
Mat 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life,
what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall
put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Mat 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap,
nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not
much better than they?
Mat 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit
unto his stature?
Mat 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the
field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
Mat 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory
was not arrayed like one of these (richest man ever).
Mat 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is,
and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye
of little faith?
Mat 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What
shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Mat 6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly
Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and
all these things shall be added unto you.
Mat 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Php 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
1Ti 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1Ti 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we
can carry nothing out.
1Ti 6:8 And having food and raiment let
us be therewith content.
What is God’s wealth given to us for?
Psa 82:3 Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
If you are giving out of your excess, well then you are just like those in Mark 12:44.
Mar 12:44 For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
Who is willing to give up all to follow Jesus Christ?
Is seeking wealth wrong? That would depend on what your definition of wealth is.
Act 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and
fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Act 2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were
done by the apostles.
Act 2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things
common;
Act 2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted
them to all men, as every man had need.
Act 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the
temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with
gladness and singleness of heart,
Act 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The RICH here on earth:
Rev 3:15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou
wert cold or hot.
Rev 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I
will spue thee out of my mouth.
Rev 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
1Ti 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
1Ti 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
1Ti 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, SUPPOSING THAT
GAIN IS GODLINESS: FROM SUCH WITHDRAW THYSELF.
1Ti 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1Ti 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
1Ti 6:8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
1Ti 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into
many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
1Ti 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Luk 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and
fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
Luk 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at
his gate, full of sores,
Luk 16:21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich
man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
Luk 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the
angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Luk 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth
Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luk 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and
send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my
tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Luk 16:25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Jas 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
Jas 4:13 Go to now, ye that say, To and day or tomorrow we will go into such a city, continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
Jas 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth
away.
Jas 4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
Jas 4:16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
Don’t let the “Deceitfulness of RICHES” choke out the Word. Matt. 13:22
Words of Faith or New Age Philosophy
Let me ask a question: If we,BELIEVERS, are dead, and it is Jesus Christ who is to live and reign in our bodies what do you think your prayers will be? Here in Matt. 6:33 shows we need not to pray for the things we need, such as clothes, food, shelter, because He says He knows what we need and if we would seek Him and His righteousness those things will be provided. Your prayers are to be the prayers of the things for HIS WILL to be done in your life (Knowlege, wisdom, and understanding, guidance, protection, deliverance…)Mat 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (Mk. 8:34, Lk. 9:23)
G533 DENY
aparneomai
ap-ar-neh’-om-ahee
From G575 and G720; to deny utterly, that is, disown, abstain: – deny.
1)YOU DISOWN YOURSELF (WILL/WANTS) = DENY!
2)TAKE UP YOUR CROSS = SUFFER AS HE SUFFERED/LIVE HOLY
3)FOLLOW HIM = LISTEN, OBEY, PUT IN THE WORD!
It is he who does God’s will, which are the things HE has purposed within HIMSELF,
that goes to heaven. Even Jesus said repeatedly that HE does HIS FATHERS WILL
and not HIS own!
How are we to pray?
Mat 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites
are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the
corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto
you, They have their reward.
Mat 6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when
thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy
Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
Mat 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the
heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their
much speaking.
Mat 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father
knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in
heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mat 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in
heaven.
Mat 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.
Amen.
____________________________________________
How many preachers today tell you to just keep speaking to your situation or wants/desires?
Vain repetition like heathens!
____________________________________________
Two important things on what to pray:
1) We are to pray His will to be done, not our will and desires.
2) What we have need of. Our needs are the things to accomplish His will for our lives given to Him. His armor!
____________________________________________
What comes next in Matthew 6 is what also contradicts these
New Age teachers and preachers in our churches.
Matthew 6, all by it self proves the Word of Faith Movement, and
the Prosperity Preaching are totally and completely a lie. The Word of
God is full of things that disprove what these men and women are
teaching in our churches. Study your Bible, not books of men.
Mat 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth,
where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through
and steal:
Mat 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where
neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break
through nor steal:
Mat 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart
be also.
Mat 6:22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be
single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of
darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great
is that darkness!
Mat 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the
one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise
the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (MONEY).
Mat 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life,
what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what
ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than
raiment?
Mat 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do
they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth
them. Are ye not much better than they?
Mat 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his
stature?
Mat 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of
the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
Mat 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory
was not arrayed like one of these.
Mat 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to
day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more
clothe you, O ye of little faith?
Mat 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or,
What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Mat 6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your
heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Mat 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow
shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the
evil thereof.
____________________________________________
These books by these men and women have made them very wealthy, but at the cost of
leading thousands away from the truth of God’s Word. Do you think we should ever
promote todays books over the Bible?
How many of these churches today would Jesus do this to?
Mat 21:12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
Mat 21:13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called
the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
____________________________________________
RE: (Matt. 21:21) This verse they take out of context to say that we can speak to make things happen (good or bad).
What is the context of the message in Matt.21:19-22?
The whole context of Matthew 21 is about those who produce fruit and those who don’t and mislead others.
Mat 21:19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said
unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.
Mat 21:20 And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled,
saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away!
Mat 21:21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only
do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.
Mat 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Just as the fig tree wasn’t producing fruit, the mountain is the sin and obstructions (fruitless waste of existence) in our lives keeping us from producing fruit, and by praying God’s Word those things will be cast into the sea. Vs. 22 the word believing is entrusting ones spiritual well being to Jesus Christ.
New Age Philosophy and Word of Faith preachers teach you are in control of your life and we are all gods and have the power to speak (create) things we want into our lives. Most of these preachers come right out and have said, we are little gods. This is the same thing the serpent in the Garden told Eve. Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
These “Word of Faith” preachers and teachers say we “COMMAND” God by what we say, and He (God) has to do it. If this were at all true we all could go around commanding things to happen, but it’s to be God’s will to be done and not ours.
If you control your destiny, than you don’t belong to God! He is Lord, Master…
If you think you are “I AM”, and you can speak to make things happen,
than you think you are God, and you’re NOT!
If you believe you are to be wealthy by earthly standards, than you don’t know the Word and what Jesus taught about earthly treasures, riches, and wealth here, and how we are to live! Some have more and some have less. It’s not the wealth that is the problem, but what is done with that wealth. Just as Jesus said, “this world is not my home/kingdom”, so why build up earthly treasures that really aren’t yours, because only that which is eternal remains and everything else passes away (vanity).
Does this sound like Jesus had many of His own homes He owned?
Mat 8:20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests;
but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
These preachers teach Jesus was wealthy and had many homes, and He needed a treasurer (?-Judas).
If you think Jesus, Who is God, would ever make Judas the treasurer, than you believe God is dumb or very naive! Judas carried the “bag”, because he was a thief, just like these lying preachers who steal God’s truth from you!
Do you think Jesus would entrust His money to a DEVIL?
Joh 6:70 JESUS answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a DEVIL?
Joh 6:71 He spake of JUDAS Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
Jesus would have to have been a hypocrite when He told the rich young ruler to go and sell all that he had and give to the poor, take up his cross and follow HIM!
Did Jesus, who is God, who created everything, need a earthly treasurer? The word treasurer is non-existent in the N.T.
I guess many think “money makes things happen”, not God and His miracles, because they think they are god. Maybe you think Jesus really didn’t feed thousands from a couple of fish and loafs of bread? Maybe He sent Judas to the local fish and chips, and he brought back thousands of meals for the people? These preachers teach it takes money to do God’s work, but if that is true we no longer need faith just the “allmighty buck”. Besides just look at these preachers lives and how they live, and the waste they spend on themselves and their earthly kingdoms.
____________________________________________
Faith is not believing what you say will happen, but praying God’s will to be done. He will accomplish His will for your life if that’s what you earnestly seek. Go back and study how we are to pray. If it is God who predestined you, and we don’t know what all that entails, how come there are those who teach we command God regarding our lives, if it is our life then we didn’t give it to Jesus.
Eph 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his
will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
Eph 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which
are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
Eph 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Eph 1:12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
A way to know for sure you are being mislead:
1) Paul said if anyone comes to you with something other than what he taught (the Gospel of Jesus Christ) DON’T BELIEVE IT, and let them be ACCURSED!!! Gal 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
2) Always refer to exactly what Jesus taught in the Word!!!
New things: Prosperity Preaching, Word of Faith Movement, slain in the spirit, holy laghter, drunk in the spirit… These things publicly exault people above God!
If it’s not in the Word (JESUS), it’s an imposter!!! There’s nothing new.
DOES GOD ALWAYS ANSWER OUR PRAYERS THE WAY WE WANT? NO! HIS PLAN, HIS WILL, HIS DESIRES! What did your baptism mean to you?
Ecc 12:10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.
Ecc 12:11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
Ecc 12:12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
Ecc 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecc 12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
1Jn 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
1Jn 5:15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
Where and when did Jesus (God made flesh) ever teach or talk about the “Abrahamic Blessing”? Where did Jesus ever tell us that we have the power to speak to make things happen aside from His will. They teach our words make things happen whether good or bad, sounds like karma to me. There are numerous scriptures to teach us what we are to SPEAK, DO, and DON’T DO, but it ALWAYS must be GOD’s WILL and not our own. They believe they receive a “rhema word” from God, but in most cases the words they say they are receiving contradict the Word of God. They have written a new Gospel, so let them be accursed as Paul wrote.
Karma at Dictionary.com Hinduism, Buddhism. action, seen as bringing upon oneself inevitable results, good or bad…
Rhema & Logos:
According to the majority of Greek scholars, however, there is no real validity to this theory that the Bible writers made such a distinction between these two Greek words. Much of what passes for rhema words in many Charismatic circles appears to be extremely idiosyncratic, unsubstantiated, highly fanciful inventions of the subconscious of the person claiming to have the rhema word.
These preachers teach many other lies…
Their teachings promote men/women more than God.
If people would just look at what Jesus did, said, and taught there would be absolutely no question that what is being preached and taught in todays churches is false. This is the “Laodicean” church, and nothing good is said about it by Jesus. The first shall be last, and the last first. There will be few who make it!
Ok, wow Ron Evartt are you well to do? Do you have more than just basic needs? Have you ever been poor? Prosperity is not evil. But the bible tells me not to argue with one such as you. For it would be nothing but a waste of my time.
1Ti 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
1Ti 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
1Ti 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
1Ti 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1Ti 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
Tonya,
What I have given is God’s Word, “SCRIPTURE”. So if you disagree with what’s in my responses, then your only disagreeing with GOD. (Jn. 1:1-2)
Ron,
You should also let Tonya know that what she said is NOT in the Bible and that the Word of God IS given, in part, for correction… Since when is it a waste of time to correct someone, if they need correcting, and you don’t, because it is the Word of God that you posted. It is the “Word of Faith” CULT that tells them not to try and discuss scripture for correction… You can’t say or question the Sunday School teachers in their churches. Just like at Rhema where their school is not the Word of God, but books from men and women.
Sincerely, DS
What Is a True Believer for Today
Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
First we must discern the times we live in, in order to know what the Word/Jesus prophesied about today’s church.
Rev 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write;
These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness,
the beginning of the creation of God;
Rev 3:15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would
thou wert cold or hot.
Rev 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot,
I will spue thee out of my mouth.
Rev 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods,
and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art
wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
Rev 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou
mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be
clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous
therefore, and repent. (We must repent!)
Rev 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my
voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup
with him, and he with me.
Rev 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my
throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my
Father in his throne.
Rev 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto
the churches.
Do you believe we are in the last days?
Are there famines, earthquakes, unusual weather (Climate change), wars and rumors of wars, people who are lovers of self rather than lovers of God, knowledge greatly increasing, unnatural affection (homosexual activity greatly increased), children disobedient, times as in the days of Noah, violence, those who want to hear only good and what they can get, instead of God’s wrath for sinners, Israel becoming a nation…
Now let’s look at what Jesus prophesied about today’s Christians.
Rev 3:17 Rich on earth = man’s doctrine, a lie according to God’s
Word.
Rev 3:18 Gold tried in the fire = God’s truth, rebuked and chastened
from the Lord, and is zealous for God’s Word, and
REPENTS!
Rev 3:17 Earthly rich man = “wretched”, “miserable”, “poor”.
Rev 3:18 Spiritual/Godly rich man = Storing and knowing your
treasures are in heaven.
Rev 3:17 Earthly rich man = spiritually blind, no Spiritual
understanding.
Rev 3:18 Spiritual/Godly rich man = follows by faith and not sight,
eyes covered with “eyesalve”. Obedience to God’s Word.
Rev 3:17 Earthly rich man = Naked, not a righteous man. Not dead
to self so that Jesus may live in him. Not clothed in “white
raiment”
Rev 3:18 Spiritual/Godly rich man = Clothed in the righteousness
of Jesus Christ. Putting on the armor of God or “white
raiment”, meaning an intimate knowledge of the Word.
What are the biggest lies being taught in today’s church?
1) Christians are to be rich and healthy and with a positive confession of things, thinking they are gods and can make good things happen. LIES! Most preach today how if you are a Christian everything will be wonderful. Rich, Healthy, and Positive Confession are not God’s Truth.
God’s Word, which is God (Jn 1:1-2, 14), warns everywhere about earthly riches, and that not everyone will be physically healed.
What is God’s will for us?
1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in
Christ Jesus concerning you.
1Th 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever
follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all
men.
1Th 5:16 Rejoice evermore.
1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ
Jesus concerning you.
1Th 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
1Th 5:20 Despise not prophesyings.
1Th 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
1Th 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
1Th 5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray
God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God’s Will (Obedience to His Word)
1) Follow and do what is good, for you and all (II Th. 1:8).
Don’t do anything that even appears evil (I Tim. 3:9).
2) Rejoice in the Lord always (Ps. 32:11).
3) Pray without ceasing (Prov.3:6).
4) In all things give thanks to God (Ps. 30:12).
5) Don’t put out the Holy Spirit. Don’t say no to good (fruits of the Spirit) and do evil. (Luk. 6:33-35)
6) Don’t despise prophesying (Prophecy will never conflict with the Word of God. II Pet. 1:21), BUT
7) Prove everything and hold on to good (Rom. 12:2).
Do this, and you will be blameless at His coming!
1Pe 2:15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to
silence the ignorance of foolish men:
This is what a true follower looks like.
1Co 4:9 For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it
were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the
world, and to angels, and to men.
1Co 4:10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we
are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honorable, but we are
despised.
1Co 4:11 Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and
are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain Dwelling
place;
1Co 4:12 And labor, working with our own hands: being reviled, we
bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:
1Co 4:13 Being defamed, we in-treat: we are made as the filth of the
world, and are the off scouring of all things unto this day.
1Co 4:14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons
I warn you.
1Co 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet
have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten
you through the gospel.
1Co 4:16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
Who can say this about their life today?
Vs. 9
…appointed to death… …made a spectacle unto the world, angels, and men…
Vs. 10
…fools for Christ… …weak… …despised…
Vs. 11
…hungry… …thirsty… …naked… …buffeted… …no home…
Vs. 12
…labor with hands… …reviled… …persecuted… …suffer…
Vs. 13
…defamed… …filth of the world… …off scouring(outcast)…
Why is he writing this?
Vs. 14
TO WARN US!!!
Vs. 15
There are many who say they come in the name of Jesus, but to deceive you with lies. Example: To be “Healthy, Wealthy, and using witchcraft like “Positive Confession”.
Luk 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him
deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
Luk 9:24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever
will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.
1) Deny self = Disown self (Your life no longer belongs to you)
2) Take up your cross = Knowing, as Jesus said, “you will suffer as I have suffered”, doing the will of God.
3) Follow Me = Jesus is the Word that was made flesh. Obey it!
Joh 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
Joh 1:2 The same was in the beginning with God.
Joh 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we
beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the
Father,) full of grace and truth.
If you follow what a man has taught you, you are a follower of man! NO eternal reward!
If you are a follower of Jesus, then you know and follow His Word. Eternal Life, if you continue and “overcome”.
Godly riches are Spiritual understanding, walking and living in truth…
How do we obtain this?
2Ti 2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Act 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that
they received the word with all readiness of mind, and
searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Psa 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin
against thee.
1Co 15:34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the
knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.
How should we live, and what should we watch out for today?
1Ti 6:1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own
masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his
doctrine be not blasphemed.
1Ti 6:2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise
them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service,
because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit.
These things teach and exhort.
1Ti 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome
words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the
doctrine which is according to godliness;
1Ti 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about
questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife,
railings, evil surmisings,
1Ti 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of
the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such
withdraw thyself.
1Ti 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1Ti 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can
carry nothing out.
1Ti 6:8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
1Ti 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a
snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown
men in destruction and perdition (HELL).
1Ti 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some
coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced
themselves through with many sorrows.
1Ti 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and
follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience,
meekness.
1Ti 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life,
whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good
profession before many witnesses.