The Real Deal 2 - Color

THE REAL DEAL
(Following Jesus 101)
Rev. Gregory Alan Haage
AuthorHouse
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403
www.authorhouse.com
Phone: 1-800-839-8640
2008 Rev. Gregory Alan Haage. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted
by any means without the written permission of the author.
First published by AuthorHouse 5/28/2008
ISBN: 978-1-4343-5217-0 (sc)
Printed in the United States of America

Bloomington, Indiana
This book is printed on acid-free paper.
Dedication and Special thanks:

First and foremost, to the One who gives us life, breath, love and all good things. To you, Lord Jesus.
For your Spirit, your written word and the eternal life that youve provided, for all who ask for it: I thank
you. We follow you with truth and freedom.
To Denise: my wife, lover, roommate, best friend and life long condant. Next to salvation, you are
hands down His nest blessing to me and Im forever grateful to Him for you.
To our children: my son and trusted friend, Jonathan and to Piper, my daughter and bundle of joy. Mom
and I are so proud of both of you. Your own relationship with the Lord is continuously evolving. We pray
that you rest in Him, as we have.
To my Mom: for your support, input and all the kitchen table talks.
To C.T.O.: for being led by the Spirit to get me back on track.
To Bisch and Paul: Lifelong friends are rarethanks for being mine.
And to Heidi and Alan Winter, Bret Haage, Frank and Carol Masserano, Dan and Renae Peterson, Dan
and Jessie LHeureux, Grant and Michelle Hill, Mark and Miggs Hill, Kelly and Rita Sellers, Craig and
Jane Olson, Paris and Vicki Pasch, Derek and Pat Vandermerwe, Pat Evers, Percy and Mary Gutierrez,
Chuck and Linda Peterson, and the rest of my family, close friends and fellow ministers who helped in
this project by praying for me, encouraging me to keep writing and nancially helped me put the ink to
the paperyou know who you are. We pray His best for you.
To Richard Stacks: for the great front cover photo.
To Sandra Antis: for permission to use the artwork of your husband, Harry.
And to Sam Rangel for the UP FRONT logo.
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In memory of my dadBill Haage.
I consider myself very fortunate to have had a wonderful dad. He demonstrated to me parental kindness,
loving rmness, compassion and humility. His commitment to the Lord, my mom, their marriage, me,
as well as, my brother and sister, is forever ingrained. He taught me responsibility and showed me
gentleness. He also had one of the best singing voices Ive ever heard and having done years of recording
studio work, Ive been exposed to some of the best. (He was always the featured soloist at his church)
My dad exemplied integrity all throughout my life. He gave me a good picture of what my heavenly
Father is like: strong, loving, merciful, protective, faithful, patient and generous. I miss him a lot.
Im thankful for challenging me with the question: Son, do you want to be right or effective? (Right
meaning, in my own eyes)
We who call ourselves followers of Jesus must reach people not repel them. My dad was wise.
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Contents
Chapter One
SURRENDERING AND PUSHING RESET .................................................1

(Making the big decision)
Chapter Two
REMODELING ..................................................................................................13
(Renewing the mind)
Chapter Three
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE..................................................................................19
(Finding a perfect church)
Chapter Four
BURYING YOURSELF .....................................................................................59

(Water baptism)
Chapter Five
POWERDONT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! ...................................65

(The baptism with the Holy Spirit)
Chapter Six
THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN AND PROTECTION ...................................71

(The tithe)
Chapter Seven
THE HEM OF HIS GARMENT .......................................................................83

(Healing: questions, answers, controversies and mysteries)
Chapter Eight
ONCE SAVEDALWAYS SAVED? ..............................................................117

(Eternal security vs. personal apostasy)
Chapter Nine
THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH ............................................137

(Gods design for passion and intimacy)
Chapter Ten
THE WINE QUESTION .............................................................................153

(AbstinenceTemperanceExcess)
Chapter Eleven
#1 MILITARY STRATEGY ............................................................................169

(Know your enemy)
Chapter Twelve
JESUS IS GOD, SPARKY! ..............................................................................177

(The Deity of Christ)
Chapter Thirteen
WHOOSH KABOOMWHERED THEY GO? .........................................185

(The Rapture and the Second Coming)
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Forewords:
We who call ourselves Christians are often found arguing over our beliefs. Reading The Real Deal
was very refreshing, as Greg Haage does a great job of providing clear and understandable insights that
will help those who have struggled with some of todays more volatile issues. Greg has truly expressed
his passion for those in the church, as well as, a rare sensitivity for those observing the church from
outside its stained glass windows along with compassion for those whove been wounded by its
teachings and leaders. His tender yet piercing style makes this an enjoyable read as he opens up the
exciting aspects of Gods Word that have caused some to question and some to go to extremes.
Personally, as a Pastor, I nd Gregs insights quite helpful in bringing a very much-needed balance to
todays communicating of the Gospel and he delivers this in a very contemporary, palatable literary
style. Youll never regret spending time learning and applying this balanced look, that is conveyed in
Gregs exhaustive study of our Christian faith, different Bible translations and the original texts.
Allow The Real Deal to aid your walk with the Lordas I haveso it can have true substance and
not just be a mere religious episode.
Pastor Paris Pasch
Christs Family Church
Hastings, Minnesota
Greg Haage has proven himself to be a faithful servant of our Lord and His church. Gregs study of the
scriptures reects a practical and straightforward approach to Christian discipleship. As a pastor, he has
done an exhaustive search of the original Greek and Hebrew texts and has included those word studies
in this book, not as an apologist but rather a tour guide to the literal translations. He is a man of many
talents, especially gifted in music, leading others in worship and counseling. He is a relentless warrior
for the cause of Christ, even when there are paths less demanding and sometimes less painful. The
Real Deal will challenge you to come back to the cross, whenever you may have compromised and
allowed its claims upon you to lessen, to pick it up again with a grateful heart and follow Him, as well
as, encourage others who havent yet made their decision.
Rev. Frank Masserano
General Secretary
International Ministerial Fellowship
Greg Haage is a very committed Christian and has a hunger for the Word of God. His life is ever
changing according to what he has studied and the fruit of that is evident in his life, his family and
his writings. I know him to be a man of strong convictions, moral character and I truly believe he is a
genuine support to people, complementing the word of the Lord, turning to the Bible to be his guide. He
is open to the Spirit to use him in many ways and has demonstrated that with the completion of The
Real Deal. I know that God will use Gregs book and ministry to reach those that are badly bruised, to
speak the hope and mercy of the Savior to them, for there are many wounded who need healing in their
souls.
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In this labor of love book, he is gentle in prodding people to the higher walk with the Lord being well
used in one-on-one discipleship. Greg both formulates and communicates very well and always gets
to the heart of the matter. He is patient in listening to others yet speaks with authority in addressing
things like legalism and religiosity. Hes done us all a great service by including the original words
and their meanings, with the multitude of scriptures he has examined. Actual texts, concordance and
expository dictionary words along with his Spirit led insights, will make you really understand what
it means to follow Jesus. I believe its a much-needed cutting edge work for both the seeker and the
disciple. Its a wealth of knowledge in one book.
Rev. Alan Winter
FRONTLINE MISSIONS
Atlanta, GA.
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PREFACE:
(To those who have been traditionally taught and
denominationally trained)
Here we are: Eight years into the new millennium. We live in an ever-increasing, technologically
evolving, fast paced, computerized, oftentimes stressful world. There are many diversions, disruptions
and distractions available to us. Many dont take the time to rest or seek out the deeper things of life
because of the day timer, job(s), investments, lawn care, etc. Americans are pre-occupied with stuff
and activities. Right?
One of the greatest enjoyments in life, for me, satises both the rest part and the deeper things of life
seeking part, namely spending time in the Bible. Reading the Word, especially the New Testament
(the Gospel of John being my favorite) has now become my work, passion, ministry and calling. To
read, study and communicate it, correctly. If I can use an automobile metaphor, its Gods owners
manual. Looking for God to speak to you? A now word? A heavenly directive? Here it is Follow
the instructions and youll be alright.
The Real Deal shares my thoughts on the main focus of the Bible, Jesus, the Messiah, and what it
means to follow Him, as a disciple.
Tough issues can be uncomfortable, for some, to discuss. They say Just keep things lightdont talk
politics or religion. (Personally, I like a stimulating conversation when the timing is appropriate but
engaging someone in a heavy topic when theyre not ready for it, usually backres and can beand
oftentimes iscounterproductive)
Sopolitics? I vote for the person and my convictions not a party or agenda. Ill discuss issues but I
wont wrangle.
But when it comes to the things of Godwell, youll always know where I stand.
My conclusions about Him and His ways are more solidied since Ive been called to full time ministry.
Im now fty two, been married twenty ve years with two great kids and a former owner of a successful
music business. Heres a brief background: I have a Bachelors degree in psychology/marriage counseling,
a Masters degree (M.A.) in Theology, am a Bible college graduate and an ordained minister of the
Gospel. In all that time, study and preparation, Ive learned a few things along the waysome things
perhaps you can use and apply. This book is simply one more way that I can serve you because thats
what true ministers and believers are instructed to do: serve, not dictate to or control.
Originally I wanted to share these things with people I had worked with in the music industry here in
Minneapolis. The Working Class Musician, my rst book, was an overview of my years with a how
to make it format in the music business but more importantly it was designed as an outreach to those
who are still working in studios, the club scene and casinos, and are exploring the things of God.
The Real Deal was written for those of you who are interested in, and inquiring about, the Lord, the
Bible and the life of walking in the footsteps of Jesus but have been, shall we say, tainted by many
wolves in sheeps clothing, high prole Christian leaders or TV evangelists in it for the money or have
xiii
been traditionally indoctrinated. (Some of the things done in the name of God have been embarrassing,
detrimental and even destructive) There are many literalists, legalists and liberalists out there supposedly
enlightening the world.
Literalists believe everything in the Bible is simply to be taken, literally. When Jesus said in Luke
14:26, that in order to be His disciple you must hate your parents, wife and kids, it was symbolic i.e. I
must be first in your life. Jesus is not a sheep, although He is described as the Lamb of God. When
the Bible says to taste and see that the Lord is good, its a metaphor not literal. The list goes on. The
Bible is full of metaphors, parables and symbolism. Thats why we are to be like the Bereans of old and
take the time to study. (You should always conrm what a preacher saysalways. Im saying that as a
preacher myself. You hear me say something: check it out)
Legalists believe in the letter of the law. They generally are narrow minded, black and white in their
opinions and conclusions, and consider grey to equal compromise needless to say, grace is not a big
part of their doctrinal position.
Liberalists, simply put, believe anything goes. God loves you, therefore, you can do whatever you
want and youre safe and sound. No worries. They is a very dangerous position, as Ill show you later in
the book and unfortunately is prevalent in America. Its loose grace. Too many are like the Lacodecean
church Jesus mentioned in the book of Revelation. They were lukewarm and made Him sick.
This book was a Spirit led assignment for me to write. Ive heard a lot of people misquote, misinterpret,
take out of context and just plain massacre Gods word, His thoughts and feelings towards us. Most
havent diligently studied the Bible. Some have simply swallowed the sermon, bought the latest tape
series of popular preachers, consider them to be gospel truth with a they must be right attitude because
theyre ministers. Most people have put way too much trust in the preacher/priest, without doing their
own homework.
Others are far too wise in their own sight and constantly offer their opinioneven when you dont ask
for themthats based on their own bias or negative experience, not Scripture. Some Christians should
re-read this one: Be quick to listen and slow to speak. (James 1:19)
World religions are not the real deal. They are an attempt to get to God by their works, lifestyles,
regulations, traditions or being religious. Religious, dened as being careful of the externals of
divine service, more times than not, denotes something negative or offensive. Acting or being religious
is a turn off to the non-Christian. (I didnt like it and resented those who acted that way) Its certainly
not what the Lord wants you be.
He wants you to be like Him. (Romans 8:29)
Being pious, hypocritical, judgmental, sanctimonious and self-righteous, is something the world can
do without. Right? Yet thats what the Church has acted like for centuries. Its no wonder weve been
ineffective with the message of the cross.
Christianity, on the other hand, is not a religion. It is a relationship and a Word based lifestyle with God
the Father through Jesus Christ, the Son by the power of His Spirit. Although you may disagree at this
point in your life with this truth, Jesus is indeed the only way. (John 14:6) Through His death, burial
and resurrection He has built the bridge that were able to walk on to get to the Father, if we so choose.
And it is your choice: Hes given free will to everyone.
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Ive talked to a lot of Lutherans, Catholics, Muslims, Jewish people, agnostics, atheists, church goers,
fence sitters, and/or intellectuals, in my time. One of the things Ive noticed about the body language
of people when you mention the name of Jesus is this: it always gets a reaction, depending on their
relationship with the Messiah. From great intimidation, inhibition, fear, confusion, sadness, anger to one
of joy, elation and gratefulness. Theres just something about His nameHe always gets some kind of
response. Jesus is very controversial and still angers many, which is nothing new to Him.
The bottom line is this though: God loves us and His actions prove it.
I Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, does
not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity,
but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. (NIV,
NKJV)
Thats how the Lord isHe will never leave you, if you live for Him.
John 15:13 Greater love has no man than this: that he lay down his life for his friends. (Love is a
verban action not just a feeling)
Jesus did just thatHe died so you and I can live, eternally. If youre not convinced yet, I totally
understand. As the saying goes, Been theredone that. I invite you to keep reading. He welcomes
your skepticism and questions about Him. Hes alive and well. He can handle all your doubts, arguments
or negativity. Begin your quest.
Some new adventures, however, can be scary. I remember when I was in ninth grade and petried
with the idea of going out for wrestling next season in my sophomore year. (Too small physically, too
inexperienced and just plain afraid of the unknown) Yet it became my whole world for the next four
years with many great victories along with dozens of lasting friendships. Let that encourage you in your
pursuit. But before I became a Greco-Roman All American and then a college wrestler, I was taught
the basics at Minnetonka High School by my coach, Ray Christesen. He taught us the ABCs like
hand control, conditioning, passion, endurance, character, discomfort, losing graciously and elementary
moves.
So similarly, the rst few chapters are focused on these basics of Christianitysome fundamentals. I
then get into the deeper, more advanced things of God, some controversial topics, as well as, lifestyles
issues and how they relate to the believer and the seeker.
There are multitudes of ministers out there who have studied the Bible for years yet many have come to
some seriously mistaken conclusions. Erroneous teachings are pervasive, especially on TV or the radio.
(Proper voices are crucial) Im very selective to whom I listen to but I like variety and insights. From
Billy Graham to T. D. Jakes, from Chuck Swindoll to Joel Osteen, from Greg Boyd to Pat Robertson.
Multiple feeding is good. And when I hear something that I sense doesnt line up with scriptureI like
things bulletproofit just brings me back to this question:
O.K. What does the Word say?

Do I agree all the time, with their teachings? Not always, if it isnt consistent with the New Testament and
what the Holy Spirit is showing me. I simply shelve it for the time, pray, remain teachable(Proverbs
1:5) and come back to it later.
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For example, there are ministers with national radio and TV shows, write books and have Internet sites
that espouse theyre the Bible Authority folk. Promoting essential Christian truths such as salvation
by grace through faith, the resurrection, the Virgin birth of Jesus, etc. is appropriate. Many believe their
calling is to teach sound doctrine and to challenge questionable teachings. While refuting heresy
(Titus 1:9) is good they oftentimes cross the line from addressing false teachings to assassinating
the teachers character. We gotta be careful about accusing or maligning people and need to have our
information both, accurate and current. (II Tim. 2:24) (Know this: our walk with God isnt a snapshot
its an ongoing movie)
On the other hand, somenot allhigh prole prosperity preachers refuse to respond to people whove
challenged their teachings thus they create suspicion about themselves. (Not good either) Christians are
commanded to be accountable and submissive to one another (Ephesians 5:21) and not be divisive.
Theres a dangerous teaching out there that says You cant challenge me, everIm Gods appointed
man and quote, Touch not mine anointed and do my prophets no harm. Consider that preacher to
be indoctrinated, potentially dangerous, a charismatic leader and mark their ministry for your own
good. They have simply taken a text in I Chronicles 16:18 way out of context for their own personal
protection and nancial benet. This book addresses some of that teaching, which is basically bad
leaven i.e. error. (Naming names may be appropriateI Tim. 1:20, II Tim. 2:16-18, II Tim. 4: 14-15
and 3 John 9-10)
Jesus said to his disciples, You are the salt of the earth. In other words, I want you to be flavorful not
distasteful. It is Gods goodness that leads people to repent, period. (Romans 2:4)
So, allow me to lend some insight to you, of what Jesus meant when He said, Follow Me, because
Jesus is the Real Deal.
xvi
Chapter One
SURRENDERING AND PUSHING RESET

(Making the big decision)
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he
cannot see the Kingdom of God.
I realize the phrase born again, has been misused, abused and loosely tossed around by countless
individuals. The misuse of it, along with un-Christlike words and behavior, has turned off far too many.
(It turned me off for nineteen years)
The description of Im a born again, Christian actually is redundant. Its like saying, bare, naked or
lthy, dirty.
They are synonymous. All true Christians are born again and if youre born again, you are a
Christian.
The time when you truly sense your need for Jesus in your life and choose to invite him in, you become
born again, saved, a Christian or a believer. When some people say Ive been a Christian all
my life, thats simply an impossibility. At some juncture, you chose to ask Him in, youre overjoyed
you made your decision, youre convinced God loves you and you know Heaven awaits you.
All born again means, really, is youre starting over with your life. Its simply a phrase that Jesus used.
Many are confused or annoyed by it so lets examine it together. Heres the context where He used it:
John 3:4 Nicodemus said to Him (Jesus), How can a man be born when he is old?Can he enter a
second time into his mothers womb and be born?Nicodemus, a brilliant Jewish elder and Pharisee,
just didnt get it. Another great theologian and scholar was bafed. This conversation took place roughly
2000 years ago. Jesus was trying to explain to him what a person must do to rst see and then enter
the kingdom of God. It was a real challenge for Nicodemus. (See page 12)
John 3:3 (Jesus speaking) Truly, I say to you, unless a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom
of God.
It was obviously a major head cramp for this elder and Jesus was amazed that he was in authority, teaching
the Jews. I can just see him scratching his head at a reside chat with Jesus saying WhatwhatWhy
are you staring? No, as a matter of fact, I dont get it in his Yiddish dialect. (Just goes to show you that
just because someones in charge doesnt necessarily mean they know what theyre doing)
You are Israels teacher and you dont understand?, Jesus said. (verse 10)
Today, millions still dont get it. Usually, the misinformed, the proud, the intellectual, the mistaught, the
stubborn or the religious crowd. Jesus dying for their sins isnt a reality. The Bible says just that:
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The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)
I Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing
The Greek word for foolishness is moria, which simply means absurd or silly. Thats what people
think of the Christian message of forgiveness through Christ who havent made their big decision yet:
its silly and absurd. Why? It has to be revealed to you through the Holy Spirit, which wont happen until
youre born again.
I Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit
of God for they are foolishness to them and they cannot understand them because they are spiritually
discerned.
Jesus tells him in verse 7, You should not be surprised at my saying, You must be born again. (NIV)
Surprised in the New International Version is rendered marvel in the King James Version. Its the
Greek word, thaumazo (#2296Strongs Concordance) which means to wonder.
How in the world am I going to do that? Nicodemus was wondering, doing the mental gymnastics
deal. Youll be in trouble when you depend on your mind to reason out the things of God, on your own.
The Bible clearly instructs us not to lean on our own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding but in all
your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.
Sure, He gave you a brain to use but dont put your trust there. If we had the Spirit without measure like
Jesus did and always had the mind of Christ, that would be different. Its a real challenge for most just
to study, meditate and pray.
Some Theologians and Seminary folk only study. They have relegated the Christian walk today to a
Scripture only Gospel. By teaching the gifts of the Spirit have ceased, they have dismissed a big part
of the ministry of the Holy Spirit thus the lack of power, gifts and miracles in their lives and ock. Many
have relegated the Word down to Oh, that was then. We have surpassed those things in Jesus day.
On the other hand, many Charismatic, Spirit-lled groupies and goose bumps seekers have chased after
the experience. In many instances, countless celebrity followers have exalted a speaker and/or a
favorite word teaching as being equal or superior to the Bible thus they have forgotten that its the
Scriptures, in the original texts, that are God breathed (inspired), ordained words and they are the criteria
for judging prophecies, experiences, signs, miracles and wonders.
In the account with Nicodemus, Jesus is trying to get him to focus on the right perspective of the
Kingdom. He says in verse 6, That which is born of the flesh is flesh; (natural birth) and that which is
born of the Spirit is spirit.(spiritual birth)
Reason #1 as to why people resist the Gospel, from my observations, is they dont want to acknowledge
they have sinned. (That was my roadblockbeing stubborn and needing to control) The day we
exercised our will to disobey Gods ways, was the day we spiritually died.
So Im not misunderstood, Id better qualify that. Im not talking about babies or children below whats
commonly called the age of accountability, here. If they prematurely die, they go straight to heaven.
Same with the mentally challenged. They are innocent or as Jesus called it, blind to sin. (John 9:41)
(Youre not really born a sinneryou become one) Im talking about the time you, as a free thinking,
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Surrendering and Pushing Reset
free deciding, free acting individual, deantly say No to God and His Word, and say Yes to your
own selsh desires and agenda. At that time, you died, spiritually. Only God knows that time.
Death, when speaking of the spirit, means separation from God. (Genesis 2:17) God said I set before
you life and death, blessing and cursing and He goes on to say, therefore choose life. (Deut. 30:19)
Like the T.V. show Father knows best. He really does. But Hell respect the free will He gave you and
choices you makegood or bad. In this text, by choosing Jesus, you choose life.
Most religious people, the wealthy or intellectuals, think I know best and I only trust documented
data. Pragmatic, logical, methodical and self-reliance are best. As Jesus would say, I think
not. (Sad to say, many brilliant folk miss heaven because faith and science, in their opinion, arent
compatible. Science is their god)
In Proverbs 11:4 it says, Riches do not profit in the day of wrath and in Matthew 16:26 Jesus says,
For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his soul? Money, logic nor science
can save you. (Carl Sagan knows better than any of us, now that hes dead, the reality of God, heaven
and hell. Hopefully, he chose life) And no, I wouldnt recommend conjuring up his spiritor any
otherto discuss itdivination is forbidden by Scripture. (Deut. 18:10-12)
Basically, we can sum up most logical/rational thinking, according to the world, like thisThere is a
way that seems right to a man but its end is the way of death. (Prov. 14:12) Id strongly suggest staying
out of that seems right thing. The way of death doesnt sound too enjoyable. (Jesus resurrection
was witnessed by 500 peopleI Cor.15:6yet countless millions have ignored it because it doesnt
seem right to them) Think hard about this: Would all the disciples really allow themselves to be
crucied, sawn in half or boiled in oil, for someone who they were convinced died for their sins but
wasnt resurrected? No way! Without Jesus being risenits all pointless.
Being born again or born from above is your choice. Its what Billy Graham calls a decision i.e.
the big decision. (I like Billy)
Eph 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved through faithand this is not from yourselves, it is the
gift of Godnot by works
God did His part, namely, saved us by grace and we have our part specically, accept the gift by faith.
We all have sinned and have fallen short. (Romans 3:23) We know it yet too many duck it.
Not much talk today about sin. Its sort of tiptoed around and many soften it by saying, I made a little
mistake, I blew it, I messed up, or I got off track a bit. The Bibles clear about sin. It is the
Greek word, hamartia (#266 in Strongs Concordance) which means a trespass against God. It means a
fault, missing the mark, an offense or a crime. A crime? Whoa. Its a crime that requires a judgment.
Sin separates us from Him. His holiness and our unholiness, cant co-exist.
Let me ask you a question. Dont you hate it when you watch the evening news or read the paper and
learn of a rapist, molester, murderer or terrorist who got away or was released on a technicality? Sure
you do. We all do. In addressing that, a friend of mine once said Without judgment there is no justice.
It really is true.
Allow me to illustrate judgment and grace. If someone you knew had committed murder and you
were the acting judge presiding over the case, youd be in a very tough spot. Lets say the facts in the
3
case are indisputable. Now lets say the accused was a loved one of yours, say a close friend. When the
preponderance of evidence was all disclosed and it was clear to everyone that they are undeniably guilty,
youd have to sentence them. If you lived in a state where capital punishment was the law, death may
be their sentence.
Now, lets say your only son shows up in court. He too knows and loves this person. He declares to you as
judge, that hell take the place of the accused for their crime and will take their punishment. Wouldnt
that surprise the accused, even shock them? Sure would. (Theyd be relieved and very gratefulyoud
thinkbut still shocked)
That basically is the message of the cross. The Gospelthe Good newsstates Jesus is our substitute.
The Father sentenced His only Sonsitting in for usto pay for the sins we all know weve committed.
Thats graceplain and simple. It is clearly, the best gift of all. Now the slate is not only clean but
forgotten. Its as if it never happened. (Clean and forgotten if you receive the free pardon, that is)
Pushing resetwhat more could anyone ask for? The time you realize that and act on the gentle
leading of the Holy Spirit by surrendering and inviting Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of your life, is
the time you are spiritually re-born, regenerated, born from above or what Jesus called born again. Its
not anything cosmic or Twilight Zone-ish, its an eternal reality that changes your destiny in this life and
after this life. You have the opportunity to make this decision when God the Father, Himself, draws you
personally by His Spirit. That is the time you can make your invitation and get saved. He is a personal,
one to one, God. He will not, however, force, coerce or manipulate you to choose. (God may intervene
like he did with Paul the apostle by knocking him off his feet but that is the extreme exception, however,
not the norm) The God of judgment is also the God of love, choice and fairness. Reciprocating love must
be voluntary, right?
Is God sovereign? Well of course He is. Do you and I have a free will? Of coursewere made in His
image and God has a free will. But to say God is sovereign (Supreme ruler/ All powerful) and whatever
happens must be all a part of His plan because Hes sovereign, and then go out and willfully sin, saying
its His will, is simply ridiculous and irreverent. (Just because you said a prayer of salvation with
someone doesnt mean you can continue in your lifestyle of sin, if you really want to follow Him)
Consider these words
John 14:23 Jesus answered and said to him, If a person loves Me, they will keep My words: and My
Father will love him, and We will come to them, and make our abode with them.
Then theres another extreme about sovereign. When an accident happens and your loved one is
prematurely killed or your child or family member gets in a car crash, many somehow gure it must be
Gods will because God is sovereign, so therefore He must have caused the tragedy or the death.
No, the Bible says that the thief(Satan) comes to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10) not the wonderful
Lord of Glory. Weve been lied to and deceived.
Sovereign can be misapplied to God as a negative or an exclusive for a few elect. For example, John
Calvins theory was God pre-planned those whom He wanted to be saved and that everyone else is lost
forever. Unfortunately, there are some who have been indoctrinated to that line of thinking and believe
theyre the only bunch who can only make heaven, like an elitist country club for the rich and famous.
Its error.
Then theres the intimidated, shamed and unworthy group who have heard this line of thinking and
believe they can never make it or that God loves somebody more, and therefore are entitled to more of
His blessingsor entitled to His better blessings. Or that God will heal someone else who is more
spiritual but certainly not them. The list goes on. That is whats called a strongholda fortress of
wrong thinking. As far as pre-destination and foreordination goes, heres the real deal: God so loved
the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have
everlasting life. (John 3:16)
The Father predestined the way for anyone to come to Him through Jesus. God does not play favorites
(Luke 20:21) because He is not a respecter of persons. (Acts 10:34) He desires everyone to be saved and
that none should perish (II Peter 3:9) and He has accomplished this mission by sending Jesus to die on
the cross, then raising Him from the grave and now anyone can be saved. (John 12:47) The salvation
plan was universal and complete. Jesus paid the price for all mankinds sin. (I John 2:2)
Question: If He desires all people to be saved, why would He pre-arrange only a select few? He wouldnt.
He simply knew ahead of timebecause God is outside of, and not limited by, the dimension of time
who would accept Jesus and who would deny Him.
Saved? OK, Greg. Saved from what? you may be asking.
Reason #2 why a lot of people resist the Good News: they dont believe in a literal hell i.e. an eternally
conscious, torment.
Well, if there is no literal hellno such thing as sinno penalty or price to pay for that sinwhy did
Jesus have to die? What was His mission? Was He some martyr? A ake? A crazy prophet? I dont think
so.
First of all, Hell was not designed originally for man but rather for Satan and his cohorts. (Matthew
25:41) When the Bible talks about death, again, its generally referring to spiritual deathwhich as
I have said before, means separation from God. That basically is what hell is, aside from being hot.
(Matthew 13:50furnace of re) It is eternal separation from God. Thats why the Gospel is Good
Newsyou dont have to wind up in that eternally separated furnace. No, if thats your destiny its
because you rejected the gift by never inviting Jesus into your life or knowingly walked away from Him,
after you did. God wont send you to hell, however. Thats a big however.
There is a very interesting book in heaven described in Scripture. It is a book with a whole bunch of
names in it. Its Gods Childrens directory. My name is there. My wife, Denise, and both our childrens
names are there. Its called the Book of Life. Yes, a real book. You say yes to the Lord Jesus and
your name is recorded. (Youll want it in there on something called Judgment Day)
Hell is where departed souls who have rejected Gods free gift are held until Judgment Day. After that
comes the Lake of re. (Revelation 20:15) The Lake of re is a prison with no exits, pardons or
reprieves. There is no death there though and it is void of comfort and hope. The ones there experience
constant torment.
The Bible says that there is a pleasure to sin for a season. (Hebrews 11:25) (Been down that road) But
the Bible says that the wages of that sin is deatheternal separation from God. (Romans 6:23) If youre
not in His bookyoull wind up in the everlasting torment. (Revelation 20:15) This is as serious as
anything gets.
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When people think of lakes here in Minnesota, they think of Lake Minnetonka, Lake Mille Lacs or any
of the other thousands of lakes. The Lake of re isnt one of recreation. No water skiing, no shing, no
swimming. Again, its a place of everlasting torment. Consider this end times prophecy very soberly
your future depends on your response to it. He gives us all enough time to choose.
Know this: God wants you in the Book of Life. He allowed the death of His own Son to give us the
opportunity to live eternally with Him. (Would you sacrice your child to save someone else? Probably
not)
Heres the most concise summary of the real deal with regard to the Gospel, as I can put it:
God, the Father through the Son by the power of the Holy Spirit (Elohimthe Hebrew word for God, is
plural) creates the world, including the earth. (Some scientists call this The Big bang theory) (Genesis
1:1) In Gods dwelling, the third heaven, theres a ght. (Revelation 12:7) The former number one angel,
Satan, then called Lucifer, wants Gods spot. It was the ultimate mutiny attempt.
Lucifer gets the boot and takes with him a third of all the angels, after some clever manipulation and
persuasion on his part. (Revelation 12: 4, 9) Lucifer gets his new name, Satan, and the former angels
get renamed devils, demons and unclean spirits. Their new location and connement? Planet Earth,
currently occupied by dinosaurs and a version of what later will be called man, without the spirit, of
course. (Revelation 12:9)
Millions of years go by. (Gen.1: 2) Commonly called The gap theory.
Let me go on a quick rabbit trail about The gap theory. (This is an interesting slant on long ago) In
Genesis 1:2 the word was without form and void in the Hebrew is hayahalways translated in the
Old Testament as become or became, except there in Genesis 1:2. The King James translators, for
some reason, chose to translate it that way when it really should have read and the earth became without
form and void, rather than was without form and void.
God never creates anything without form and void i.e. barren. How do I know that? Ive studied the
original texts, which are inspired.
In Isaiah 45:18 it says, Godwho formed the earthwho did not create it in vain.
In vain and without form are the same Hebrew word, tohuw. So again, God did not make the earth
without form and void, as the King James translators imply; it became that way. This theory has
some repercussions, however. No one can prove it, so it remains a theory and it diminishes the real issue,
namely salvation, sometimes by causing passionate debates amongst believers with outsiders listening
in and never get to the Gospel. It is an interesting speculation though.
Back to the summarySimilar to the previous model, He creates a new man only this time He makes
this creation in His own imagespirit, soul and body. (Genesis 1:26) Adam, by name. (Genesis 2:19)
After Adam is made, Eveyeah, a woman on the sceneis formed from this guys rib and things are
great, for awhile. God tells them See that tree? Dont touch it.(Genesis 2:17) But Adam and Eve got
curious and said I want to touch it after some careful suggestions made to them by the former number
one angel in the form of a snake, (Genesis 3:4) and so ends the story of paradise as originally intended.
4000 years later, God sends down the remedy for this rift that Adam and Eve made by disobeying Him.
The remedys name is Jesus, the one and the only. (Luke 2:21) He is God in the eshthe Word. (John
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1:14) Hes not the Father nor the Spirit but is co-equal with them. (Later on that) He takes upon Himself
the mess that Adam and Eve caused through the sin of willful disobedience.
Three inch long thorns, in the shape of a crown, are jammed into His head. (Matthew 15:17) Then whats
called a scourging or ogging takes placeoften called near death. (Not anything like what weve
seen in Hollywoods versions of what He went through) Mel Gibsons lm, The Passion, masterfully
shows it as it was. Leather strips lined with bone and metal, in the form of a small whip, are then used
to rip the back off this Jesus, not only removing skin but cutting deep enough to show veins, arteries and
organs. Thirty nine of these lashings took place. He then carries His own cross until He gets too weak
to carry it. (Isaiah 53:10)
Next comes a place called Calvary. (Luke 23:33) Nails (really 6 to 8 spikes) are driven through His
hands and feet on this cross. He dies physically (John 19:30) and triumphs over the devil publicly.
(Colossians 2:15) He descends to the lower parts of the earth (Ephesians 4:9) to take away the keys
of hell and death away from Satan (Revelation 1:18), in front of all his demons and strips him of the
authority given to him by Adam and Eve, via a forfeit. (Luke 4:6)
Three days later, He rises from the dead physically, ascends from the lower parts of the earth and sits
back on His throne in the third heaven next to the Father. His followers, called the church, now acting
as an occupying army here on earth, enforce His authority given to all that call Him Lord, by spreading
His message of salvation. (Matthew 28:18)
God and man once again have limitless access to each other intimately via the avenue established by
Jesus. End of story. Thats the Gospel. Yield to it, believe it, receive it and share itit is the real deal
about being born again. Surrendering hard for you? Its not scary, trust me. Its liberating. All those
things youve done and said? Confess them, (admit you said it and did it) and repent. (dont do them
anymore) It really is that easy. Like Ive said, its like pushing reset.
Remember the movie, City Slickers with Billy Crystal? His character described this pushing reset
this way: Its a do over. Think about that for a minute. Again, what more could we ask for?
Until you make Jesus the Lord of your life, God is your Creator not your Father. Jesus said that some
were of their father, the devil. (John 8:44) The Bible says we need to be adopted into the family of
God. (Romans 8:15) Getting saved is as easy as saying Help me, LordIll live for you. Just like a
child simply trusts. (Mark 10:15)
This is how it happened with me. I grew up in a suburb of Kansas City, Kansas called Prairie Village
where we went to a Presbyterian church called the Village Church, which was pretty dull from my ten
year old slant. It was a Protestant church that was for the most part a good congregation, solid Biblically
and was mainly focusing on a family atmosphere. (Its become quite liberal now, Im told)
My dad got transferred up here to Minneapolis in 1965 where he would eventually become vice-president
of Holiday companies. We found another Presbyterian church to go to called St. Lukes in Minnetonka.
This church had a little bit more are to it from my perspective mainly because the pastor was a lot
younger but it still was something I was pretty much disinterested in. My older brother, Bret and my
younger sister, Heidi, were conrmed there but not this kid. (Notice the look on my face as I dressed up
for church. My brother, sister and my mom are in the top photo and my grandma is in the lower photo.
Yup, Im the one with my arms crossed, pouting)
(Do I have to listen to that pipe organ again?)

Anyway, after graduating from Minnetonka High School in 1973, I went to college at St. Cloud State
University. During my sophomore year, after leaving my four years of wrestling behind, I found myself
pursuing music with a whole new passion along with a noticeable difference in my need to express
myself, hormonally. (The typically male, testosterone carnal thing)
Just about this time, a guy named Scott from Campus Crusade for Christ started talking with me in the
Hill-Case dorm lounge. He started the full court press gently, regarding salvation.
Do you know for sure, Greg, if you died today that youd go to Heaven? To which I responded Well,
of course. I uhwell I occasionally go to church and everythingwell, not latelyand Im basically a
good person and uh, well my parents are Christians, so obviously I must be and uh (I was trolling)
The truth is, I couldnt give him an honest answer because I didnt know. But the Bible says, however,
that we can know, for sure.
(I John 5:14)
I had the mind set that God graded on a curve and that surely, even if I was a C- or D+ person, Id still
make it.
I put Scott through the press conference routine barraging him with questions that were stirring inside
of me. Why must I choose?
How do I know the Bible is Gods Word?
Wasnt it just written by men?
Why would God send people to hell if He is so good and all loving?
One by one, Scott elded my questions thoroughly and patiently. We continued to talk periodically and
with each meeting, I grew more comfortable with him, the answers he had and I became increasingly
aware of the fact that I needed to make a decision, sometime in the near future. There was a pull on
me. The Father was drawing me.
Next thing I know, an old girlfriend of mine comes up from Iowa where she was going to college and
pays me a visit. She had that You look marvelous darling thing going on and wellyou knowthe
evening escalated in the passion department and thats pretty much where we spent the weekend. Yup,
it was sin, for sure.
As the weekend came to a close, I found myself in the typically male, dominating, controlling, immature,
conquest mode and pretty much gave her the impression she could leave any time. (The underlying
inference was that shed served her purpose) She respectfully honored my unspoken request and left
crying. Not a good scene.
The weight of how Id treated her was really getting heavy. Frankly, I wanted to pursue a relationship
with her but couldnt seem to nd the manhood to develop that. (Nineteen going on thirteen) The little
booklet Scott had given me kept coming to me. It was called, Four Spiritual Laws. The truths in it
along with all the things Scott had expressed to me combined with my pathetic treatment of my potential
girlfriend had come to a head. There was a gentle but rm tapping on my shoulder (spiritually) saying,
Its time for your decision.
So, downstairs I went to the dorm laundry room. (Thankfully, there was no one in thereI wanted some
privacy) I quietly said, God, I am blowing it. I cant kid You. Im sorry for all this. I know Jesus is
Your Son. I know it! Lord Jesus, thats it. I give up. I need you to help me. Please, save me. Nothing
monumental happened, naturally speaking. No angels showed up. No soundtrack played but a peace did
come all over me as I cried but I knew now that I was savedthe weight was gone. I had said to Jesus,
Come in.
Romans 10:9 That if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God
has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
Saved#4982 (Strongs Concordance) sozo, sode-zo; to save, to deliver or protect:heal, preserve,
save (self), do well, be (make) whole. (Its why the Savior cameto save us, period. End of story)
There is a classic painting of Jesus standing at a door knocking that you probably have seen. Its from
Revelation 3:20.
Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock. If anyone hears My voice and open the door, I
will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.
The interesting thing about that picture is theres no door knob on the outside of the house. Its on the
inside. You have to open it.
All who invite Jesus with a warm Welcome Lordplease, come in. My house isnt too clean right now
and Ive got some stuff in some of my closets that Id like You to get rid of for me because I cant seem
to do myself, those are the ones who will have eternal life.
The Messiah is not selective whom He loves nor is He a Christian Savior. No, He is Messiah to all
who accept Him, as such. Many Jews in His day were expecting this Rambo type to deliver them
from the Roman bondage they were under. The very ones, you would think, that would have embraced
Him, rejected Him.
The Messianic Jew movement today, however, is spreading all over the world. Countless Jews have
risked being ostracized by their family and friends who think the resurrection of Christ is a lie and have
been taught to reject the notion that Jesus (Yeshua) is Messiah (Christ/Lord). These remnant Jews have
now indeed, seen the light of the glorious Gospel as true and have said, I now believeYou are my
deliverer, as prophesied. Many have elevated their upbringing, teachings by religious leaders, opinions
or traditions above Scripture. If you are a Jew, Muslim, agnostic or any other seeker, consider these
words:
John 15:22 (Jesus speaking) If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now,
however, they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates Me hates my Father as well.
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke
upon you, and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart: and you will find rest for your souls.
For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
John 6:65 And He said, Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been
granted to him by My Father. From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no
more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, Do you also want to go away? But Simon Peter answered Him,
Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.
What Jesus did on the cross is called the great exchange. You give him your sins by way of invitation
and confessing Him as Lord, and He in turn gives you His righteousness. As Peter so accurately stated,
He does have the words of eternal life. Something no other person hasliving or dead. Look at what is
said about His name:
Philippians 2:9 God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name:
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things
under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the
Father.
One day youll meet Jesus, face to faceeither as Lord or as Judge. You, me and every human thats
ever lived will bow before Him, some with joy knowing they accepted Him in time and others with
great regret, knowing they had the opportunity to accept Him before their time was up and is now too
late. Thats a sad day.
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If you are now sensing that its your time because you feel the Spirit of God nudging you in your
valley of decision, take this moment and seal your destiny and say Yes Lordcome in.
Ill always depend on Jesus to free me up because I cant free myself. Ive heard some say: Before
you get saved you are a sinner by natureafter youre saved, if you sin, you do it by habit. Well, Im
not quite there yet, personally. For me, its not if I sin, its when. I have gone days sometimes without
sinning when Im really pressing in and seeking the Lord but sooner or later, Ill blow it. Pride,
selshness, etc. Yes, I sin periodically. At that point, I simply say, Sorry, Lord. Forgive me. (To say
our sin nature is gone, is error)
Because I love and follow Jesus, I wont stay in sin, however. When I blow it, I confess it. When I
confess it, Im clean again. Hes always faithful to free me from it and encourage me to get back on my
feet.
Psalms 32:5 (King David speaking) I acknowledged my sin to You, and I have not hid my iniquity. I said,
I will confess my transgressions to the Lord, and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.
iniquity5771. avon, aw-vone; perversity, i.e. (moral) evil:fault, iniquity, mischief, punishment,
guilt.
When you know you have unconfessed sin in your life and youre not right with your Maker, you feel
guilty and the perversity of your secret sins, remain. David was wise in admitting his guilt.
After youve been forgiven, youll feel clean and youll want to witness to others of how wonderful
the Lord is. People who have been forgiven much will love much. (Luke 7:47) Were called to be the
salt of the earth and the light of the world. That is our responsibility as a disciple. If youre going to
follow Jesus, you must share His love with a hurting world. The best way of doing this is invitational
witnessing not confrontational. Youre explaining to them about the Great exchange. Your sins
for His righteousness. Your past for His eternity. Your fears for His assurance. Your carnality for His
holiness. I try to share it wisely, as well as, often.
The earth is lled with violence, people hurt and life can be hard. In the parable of the Good Samaritan,
Jesus illustrated how we are to be when confronted with someone suffering. It was about a man who got
mugged and was left for dead. Two people walked right by him, either not caring or not wanting to get
involved. They were religious leaders. (Its a very sad commentary on what we havent done)
Luke 10:31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed
by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and
passed by on the other side.
A third person saw this person and went WAY out his way to help him. He put his agenda on the back
burner. He didnt just throw a $20 bill at him and say God loves ya, brother. No, he bandaged him up,
brought him to a hotel in his own vehicle and paid all the bills. It is the classic parable about Who is my
neighbor? So acting religious isnt where its at. Instead be kind and show your love in actionjust
like God did for you. Being born againreceiving eternal lifeis where you start.
Remember, Its a do over. You can do this do over at home, work, the golf course, wherever, when
you sense its your time. The real deal starts with saying yes to Jesus and pushing reset. Thats
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where the adventure and ride begins. If thats where it all ended, wed all go right to heaven. Theres
more about the real dealmuch more.
JESUS AND NICODEMUS by Harry Antis

www.christiancameos.com
(734) 769-3660 Sandra Antis
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Chapter Two
REMODELING
(Renewing the mind)
As someone thinks in their heart, so are they. (Proverbs 23:7)
I think its fair to say we all have had some kind of baggage in our lives at one time or another.
Baggage, being todays vernacular for Issues, Weights, Garbage from the past, Old tapes,
Dysfunction, etc. We all deal with it, some better than others.
Jesus said, My yoke is easy and My burden is light. (Matthew 11:30) Too many people have that
backward. They gure if theyre going to be in Gods will, theyll have to be loaded down, stressed to
the max, burned out, fried, overworked, over serving, sick and broke. Thats the kind of baggage that
causes addictions and ruins families. The remedy? Besides prayer, we all need to renew our minds. By
unlearning some lies we heard (the trash we may have been taught or shown), extracting and keeping the
good stuff (anything of value), and then learning, embracing and acting on the truth. (Gods thoughts)
Thats when the freedom begins and the victories come.
A yoke is a basically a coupling that is put on the back of two oxen plowing a eld. Its a harness
that allows a joint effort to be accomplished. In the case of Matthew 11:30, its a joint effort with Jesus. A
burden is the task He gives you. You will be well qualied for that burden and it wont be too heavy for
you. The yoke wont wear you outphysically or mentally, if its His. You wont be satised until you
get at it, trust me, and you wont discover this assignment until you seek Him on it. (Matthew 6:33)
Lets address the authority of scripture for a bit with this renewing the mind topic.
Ive heard many say, I dont trust the Bible. Im really not so sure its reliable. Isnt it full of mistakes
and contradictions?
Ive heard that a lot. The Bible talks of itself along these lines:
Psalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. (In other words, it shows you the
way. Its a mapa guide)
James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (This caution is for all
of us)
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped
for every good work. (Notice its all scripture, not some)
The Bible was written by the Spirit of God through numerous scribes. They simply put down what
He said to put down. However, not all statements made are statements by God. For example, when Job
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said the Lord gives and the Lord takes away. That was spoken but is was said by Job, not God. If Job
would have had a better clue, he would have known that the Lord gives and Satan takes away. (God
permitted Satan to strike)
Scripture, whats known as the canonwritings consistent with divine inspirationwas penned by
dozens of authors of various backgrounds, over centuries of time. It stands on its own merits. It has
been a source of constant attack and yet remains intact and ever changes lives. It cannot be destroyed,
only misinterpreted. Want to know what several heavyweights have said about the Bible?
George WashingtonIt is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.
Abraham LincolnI believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the
Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book.
Andrew JacksonThat book, sir, is the rock on what our republic rests.
Woodrow WilsonWhen you have the read the Bible, you will know it is the Word of God, because
you will have found the key to your own heart, your own happiness, and your own duty.
Although countless numbers of people have tried to disprove or malign the authenticity of the Bible,
no one has succeeded.
The Sunday pundits, Geraldo, Larry King and prime time magazine shows are all quite focused lately on
end times prophecies, rightfully so. All prophecies recorded in the Bible that have taken place, were
all predicted accurately, with some still to happen, right on schedule. Prophetic accuracy is indeed one
of the most effective witnesses of the reality of God, His plan for mankind and the infallibility of the
Bible.
Have you read the book, Storm Warning by Billy Graham yet? Read that book and then read Matthew
24, as well as, Revelation chapters, 17-22, for an accurate picture of the next season of time and events.
There are some things that will take place on Planet Earth, that has all been carefully documented,
thousands of years ago.
Im not a mathematician, Im a minister. But I do know something about odds. The odds based on
the law of probability with respect to all prophecies in the Bible being accurate is simply off the charts.
No one would ever lay down their life for a book of untruths. The persecution of Christians in the form
of martyrs, torture and prison, all stand as a testimony that the Bible is divine and true. So, because the
Bible is Gods word, you can trust it. It has volumes to say about thinking, thoughts, the mind, reasoning,
rationalizing, evaluating and understanding.
The rst and foremost scripture that comes to me is Isaiah 55:8. God speaking, He says, For my
thoughts are not your thoughts. (That may be a new revelation for somethat God is God, He thinks
perfectly and weve got a long way to go before we think like Him) Thats why most of us get into the
jams that we do because most of us dont know His thoughts, therefore were not thinking His thoughts,
which means we cant act on His thoughts.
The one thing that needs to be settled right now is God is for you. He loves you, (John 3:16) is praying
for you, (Romans 8:34) and desires nothing but good things in your life.
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Remodeling
Through the prophet Jeremiah, God said, For I know the thoughts that I think toward youthoughts of
peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Doesnt sound like a mean and cruel dictator to me. (I realize that many cant relate to God as a loving
Father because sadly, they had a poor example of one) He wants you to come condently to Him.
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy
and find grace to help in time of need.
In Luke 15:20, the parable of the prodigal son, the Bible says that God runs to those who acknowledge
their wrongs and want to come back to Him. They dont get the bootthey get a hug and a kiss. That is
Gods naturelove. If youve been taught otherwise, youve been mistaught. Youve gotten the false
deal, not the real deal.
Where is this God?, you say. Two verses later in Jeremiah 29, it tells you. And you will seek Me and
find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. (Bold mine)
So, do you think you can nd God? Well, He just said if youll dig in with all your heart, youll nd
Himguaranteed. The qualier is all your heart. As in 100%everythingall the marblesthe whole
shebangfocused intentdiligent questdetermined pursuit, no matter the cost. It is a commitment.
(Too many have given Him 50% and then quit the quest prematurely) Jesus talked about these people in
the parable of the sower
Mark 4:5 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word but the
cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desire for other things, enter in and choke the
word and it becomes unfruitful. (bold mine)
There comes a time in every persons life who receives Jesus as Lord, when they must change their
thinking or suffer the consequences. (You really do reap what you sow) The apostle Paulthe one whom
the Holy Spirit chose to pen most of the New Testamentsaid it like this: When I was a child, I spoke
as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, (grew up/matured) I
put away childish things.
Thinking youre stupid, inadequate, unworthy, crazy, the scum of the earth, no good, unforgivable, and
the like, are childish things. Similarly, thinking you dont need forgiveness and are just ne without
any Divine intervention, if there is such a thing, these are childish things you need to put away. First
of all, theyre not true, and secondly, theyre destructive thoughts that will eventually be your downfall,
if not eliminated from your thought process.
Let me talk about how the devil works most effectively.
Satanthe one you may think or have been told doesnt existis a master deceiverits his gig. He
always has been and will continue to be, if you let him. Along with his demons, he can come to you as an
angel of light. They look good, sound religious, even appear Godly but they are capable of powerful
devastation. (II Cor. 11:14)
First and foremost, the devil will always challenge Gods word in your life. Usually, he is very subtle.
(I worked with my kids in this areateaching them to know the difference between Gods voice, the
15
enemys voice and their own thoughts.) Satan and his cohorts will try to intimidate you one of two
ways:
#1) By being loud: the devil roams around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter
5:8) Roaring lions are loud.
#2) By whispering suggestions to you: if he knows you know Gods wordbecause the Bible says
that God speaks in a still, small voice (I Kings 19:12) hell try to fake you out into thinking its God
talking to you. Satan knows scripture better than most of us and will use 90% truth to pull you into his
agenda and then twist it with 10% lies to confuse, scare, oppress and/or inuence you through your
thinkingyour mindyour reasoningyour logic. (Terroristic propaganda)
Its called spiritual warfare. You could call it psychological warfare.
Although Satan was defeated by Jesus on the cross and made a public spectacle of in hell, in front of all
demons during his three days in the lower parts of the earth (Colossians 2:15), he still is at large, so
to speak, is the god of this age (time period) and consequently is still capable of some great damage
(John 10:10), if not dealt with. Dont arrogantly deal with him without the Lord and certainly dont
underestimate his craftiness. Dont fear him but dont ignore him.
Lets compare a couple of scriptures that when studied outwhich the Bible tells us to do(II Timothy
2:15) youll see the truth regarding thoughts and renewing the mind more clearly. They are II
Corinthians 2:11 and II Corinthians 10:4.
II Corinthians 2:11 says lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his
devices.
II Corinthians 10:4 says For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling
down strongholds, casting down arguments, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge
of God, bringing every thought into the captivity to the obedience of Christ
The thing I want to point out is that the words that I emphasizeddevices and thoughtin the Greek,
are the same word, noema.
Lets chop wood on that word, noema. (Chop wood is the expression we used in the music business for
getting the gloves on, spitting a few times and swinging the axgetting down to the work part)
Noema (#3540 in Strongs Concordance) according to Vines Expository dictionary denotes an
understanding thus a purpose or device, that which is thought out in the mind.
So, heres the real deal on II Corinthians 2:11 (my translation) for we are not ignorant of Satans
thoughts, ideas, schemes, reasonings, mind-sets, persuasions or slants that dont line up with the Bible
even if they sound good, religious or even Godlyotherwise hell get the upper hand in your life.
Hope I didnt offend you King James purists but that really is a better rendering of the original scripture.
When were ignorant of Satans devices i.e. thoughts, he gets an open dooran advantage. Like in
boxing, you have to keep your guard up.
You can always locate people with their words and actions, isnt that right? Well, generally, people
even believersarent going to act on something or say something unless they believe what theyre
16
Remodeling
doing is right or appropriate. Well, what is a belief? Its something youve thought about and come to
the conclusion (something youve nalized in your reasoning process) that it is accurate and valid. Satan
knows all about beliefs. (Why do you think there are so many world religions and denominations
around? Satan is into war and strife) That is the chief reason why his strategy is messing with your head.
If he can get you to swallow his inuence via suggestionsthe ultimate sucker punchwell, Down
goes Frasier. (I suppose I should explain that. Its a Howard Cosell comment from a boxing match
between George Foreman and Joe Frasier in one of the most memorable championship ghts)
Lets touch on strongholds (II Cor.10:4) for a minute. The word stronghold in the Greek is ochuroma,
(#3794 Strongs Concordance) which simply means, a fortress. It is used, however, in II Cor. 10:4 as a
metaphora word or phrase attached to something else as a comparison not used literally i.e. a mighty
fortress is our God. Well, in the case of II Cor. 10:4, a stronghold is something weve erected in our
thinking that is a fortress against Gods word.
In America, we have a phrase, Your walls up, meaning someones guarded or not open to input,
instruction or direction. Similarly, a stronghold is a wall or fortress in your mind that needs to
be dismantledbrick by brick or with Holy Spirit C4. (an explosive) Its what some call, stinkin
thinkin.
In verse 5 of II Corinthians the word arguments or imaginations, as the King James puts it, is the Greek
word, logismos (#3053 Strongs Concordance) which means a computation, reasoning, conscience or
thought. Again, its all in the mind. We are to cast down (to lower, to demolish, to take down, destroy)
these arguments which are usually Satans inuence or traditions of men which makes the Word of God
in our life of no value (Matthew 15:6). Its no game, friend. How did Jesus Himself thwart off Satans
twisting of Scripture during his attempt to dupe Him? Jesus knew the Wordfrom cover to cover.
Jesus knew He could defeat Satan therefore He had the condence, via this knowledge, to do so.
Remember, its not the truth that sets you freeit is the truth you know (John 8:32) and the truth you
practice/do. (Luke 10:28)
So, whats the real deal regarding renewing your mind?
Read your Bible. Ive got many different translations. Remember its not the translation thats inspired
by God but the original texts. Although paraphrased translations like the Living Bible and the Message
are easy to understand, they are not literal. Often times they are much easier to understand and therefore
easier to apply, however. The main Bible I read is the New King James and the Bible I study from is the
King James because its what James Strong used for references and keyed numbers in his lifelong work,
the exhaustive concordance. I also use Quickverse Bible software on my computer.
Study your Bible. Use the Strongs Concordance and a Vines Expository dictionary. Dig in, coffee
up and chop wood. Burn the midnight oil. It is only through the renewing process that I have come to
understand to a greater degree, who I am in relation to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Ive come to nd
out that theyre crazy about you and me. Its because they love me that I want to study His word, then
teach others.
Meditate and pray. Think about what youve read. Mull it over in your mind and talk to Him with
the intent of being teachable. Prayer shouldnt be your monologue or laundry list of desired things.
Its a dialogue. Its intimate. If you can actually get quiet for a moment in your chaotic, hectic, gotta
go American lifestyle, guess what? The Lord of all Creation will speak to you. Turn off the world, the
17
checkbook, the kids, the ironing, the shopping, the TV, the cares of this life for awhile and just listen.
Hell talkHe likes too. How do you develop relationships with others? You talk and then you listen,
right?
Be still and know that I am God. (Psalms 46:10)
Again, let your nal determination in what you think, all you say and everything you do, be based on
this: What does the Word say? Trust the Lord by reading the BibleHis wordto change you.
Thats the real deal about renewing the mind. You dont throw your mind away when youre following
Jesus, you know likeOh brother, you just gotta let the Spirit take you away and forget what you
think.
Well, yes and no. Be led by the Spirit, yes, but by using your mind in conjunction with your spirit, thats
what gives you harmony with God.
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed (xed/focused) on You: because
he trusts in You.
Keep your brain working, please. Theres already too many nuts, fruits and akes out there supposedly
guiding people to a higher place who say its all about the ethereal experiences.
Dont lean on your own understanding as Proverbs 3:5 says but keep pressing in to the things of God
by using it.
Readstudypray.
Readstudypray.
Readstudypray.
Readstudypray.
Readstudypray.
Readstudypray.
18
Chapter Three
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE
(Finding a perfect church)
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn
each other, especially now that the day of His coming back again is drawing near. (The Living Bible)
Church attendance was never really a priority for me, as you could surmize from my pictures as a kid. It
really wasnt until Denise and I made a serious commitment to our walk with God in 1989, that we made
fellowshipping and worshipping with others, a regular practice. In the renewing process, I discovered I
needed to plug in with other believers. Its what keeps us accountable and spiritually sharp.
So why is nding a perfect church impossible? Because people run them, plain and simple. And as
long as humans run them there will be imperfectionthats the real deal. I should know, Im a minister
and Ive got plenty of imperfections. In this chapter, Ill speak from a church attender perspective, as
well as, from a ministers viewpoint on church matters, from an insiders perspective.
As I said earlier, I was raised in the Presbyterian ow which consisted of three hymns from the mid
1800s sung by people 40 something, a handful of announcements including the church picnic and
car wash fund raising drive, topped off with 15 minutes of keys to insightful living in the suburbs from
Readers Digest. An average Sunday service.
As cynical as that sounds from my ten year old perspective, it really isnt all that far off from what a
majority of churches implement today. Its a far cry from the Great Commission. Somehow, American
churches have come up with idea that programs are what they need to focus on. Programs that are
geared towards their members and rarely associate with sinners. Thats just the opposite of Go into
all the world and preach the Gospel. So, when I experimented with church hopping in college and my
early twenties after graduating, I was very guarded and critical with what I was seeing in the main line
denominationsLutheran, Catholic, United Methodist, Episcopalian and Presbyterian, to name a few.
I witnessed a lot of ritual, pomp, tradition and liturgyI was looking for the real deal. I was looking
for a preacher with the passion and unwavering message of Billy Graham, a praise and worship team
that stimulated me musically but more importantly brought me to a place where Id forget about my
challenges for awhile and just focus on the Lord, followed by fellowship after the service where people
shook your hand and gave you a hugthe welcome dealand just plain love on ya. (Remember
love is a verb) I was striking out in those attempts and therefore I deemed church attendance as a nonessential. (Just where the devil wanted meuncommitted, hurt and complacent)
Well, then in 1989, Denise and I came to the conclusion that God was serious about having an impact in
our lives and our marriage and that we really should reciprocate. It wasnt a duty thing i.e. I have to.
No, it was He deserves a lot better than what weve been doing.
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With Denises Lutheran background and my Presbyterian background, we both knew we wanted
something moreboth for us and for the kids. We had heard of a church in Minneapolis that met in the
old Robbinsdale high school, next to our home, so we thought wed try that. Wow, what a difference!
It was called Church of the Open Door. The pastor, Dave Johnson, was an awesome teacher and orator.
(He is one of the many voices on the radio, that Ill give time to) We were looking for, and needed,
exciting and contemporary music, and we found it thereit was one of their main strengths. The
fellowship afterward was very warm and inviting. We thought to ourselves, Well, what do you know?
Good churches are out there. Wed discovered a church approach for usrelevant and appealing. As a
minister, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Dave Johnson and one of Open Doors associate pastors, Jeff
VanVonderen, for a book they wrote. Having been in ministry a long timesince 1995Ive observed
way too much discreet manipulation and/or control by ministry folk. They wrote the text book on this
false authority problem called, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse. (I consider it required reading for
those in ministry) Thank you, gentlemen.
We didnt sense, however, that Open Door was to be our church home at that time in our walk in 1989,
so we then found ourselves checking out another non-denominational church, located in the Twin Cities.
It was a charismatic churchsomething foreign to us. People were raising their hands while singing and
worshipping. Some people spoke in tongues. My rst thought was Honey, lets sneak out the backno
one will notice but I knew God had a plan for us there.
So we continued to go and we soon knew that it would be home for a season. (Three years) The music
was alive, technically procient and lled with joy. We could hardly believe it, it was so powerful. The
pastor on Sunday nights was a very insightful, funny, articulate and most importantly, approachable man
of God. He turned out to be our pastor for that season. He was such a major change from the traditional,
robed, shake your hand on the way out but dont call me during the week type, that we couldnt
believe wed stayed away from church as long as we hadif this was the way church was supposed to
be. We just didnt know what was out there.
The local congregation, house church or fellowship gathering you attend, is a place where you
are to be equipped for your Christian walk. (Ephesians 4:12) It is supplemental to your own reading,
studying, meditating and praying not a replacement. It is to be a safe place. Nobody should be
murmuring, complaining or backbiting. (Phillipians 2:14) It should be a place for encouragement and
direction by speaking the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15) And the leader(s) will never control you. (I Peter 5:3)
The mark of a ministry or church that you should avoid is a tone of dictation, performance or law.
But again, the perfect church wont exist as long as people run things. Almost every gathering,
you have an opportunity to walk in love, be patient, overlook peoples shortcomings and attitudes but
you also have an opportunity to get ticked off, hurt, offended, disappointed or critical, around every
corner. (Not getting offended is a sign of true Christian maturity that not enough believers walk in or
demonstrate)
Forgiveness is not optional for the disciple. Jesus said, If you have anything against anyone, forgive
them, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you, your trespasses. (Mark 11:25)
If you get stung or have been stung at church, you gotta let it go. You dont have to stick around
but you do have to release the offense to the Lord. If the situation is something you cant submit to
or you know to be contrary to the Word, move ondiplomatically and graciously and dont complain
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Mission: Impossible
about it or them. You vote with your feet, as my brother-in-law would say. Been theredone that, a
few times.
Everyone should have regular fellowship for their own spiritual safety, nourishment and accountability.
A trusted mentor/shepherd is a wonderful blessing in your discipling. Itll be a good t and youll
know it. If God is being allowed to do His work in a church gathering/fellowship, issues like control,
manipulation, power trips and the like, will be addressed and managed.
The next season in our walk (1992) found us attending and hooking up with another charismatic, nondenominational, Bible believing, mega church. It is a very well oiled machine. The preaching and
teaching under the leadership of the pastor is top notch, for the most part. Hes got some issues that
are obviously close to his heart that he shares from time to time that are more opinion than Word but
what else is newweve all got those. Right? (Ive got mine and youve got yours)
Even if the music ministry wasnt as good as it is, or if the youth and childrens ministries werent as
effective as they are, or the number of opportunities for service and/or fellowship werent as vast as they
are, or if thousands didnt get saved through their evangelism outreach, as they do, many would still be
drawn to this pastors strong command of the Word with his practical applications to every day life.
Is it a perfect church? Of course not. The pastor would admit that. Addressing the needs of 5000+ people
is not an easy task. As I said, this church, overall, demonstrates a spirit of excellence for other large/
mega churches to shoot for, if thats their calling. (They look through a glass darkly and are growing
in grace, like everyone) For that time in our life, the pastor and his wife helped us a lot.
Ive been seeing a desire by many to be part of something smaller and more intimate within the last 3
or 4 years. The only way for those attending mega churches to nd that intimacy is to plug into a small
group ministry, thats a part of the church. The house church I pastor, offers that living room
atmosphere that many nd more comfortable, enjoyable, safe and relevant than the arenas.
Having been in full time ministry now over ten years, one of the things Ive discovered is you cant
please everybody100% of the time
The pastor talks too longwell never make the brunch buffet.
The sermons are too shortwhat are we paying him for?
The pastor preaches too loudCant he just tone it down?!
The pastor is too laid backWheres the re of God in his life?
The pastor talks too much about moneyWhats up with that?
The praise team is so blaringIm buying earplugs!
I dont know any of these songs!!!Where are my hymns?!
I dont know any of these hymns!!!Where are my choruses?!
The singers cant be heardthose drums have to go.
The singers are drowning out the bandThat sound guy has to go.
The praise & worship is way too long/ way too short/ way too
No one talks to meI thought this church cared?
Everyone talks to meI want to be unnoticed.
The staff never returns my callswhats the deal? How rude
Have you seen the pastors car? So, thats where it goes.
The skirts on those girl singers are way to shortwhy theyre not even covering their knees.
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Sound familiar? Everybodys got an opinion, thats for sure. I realize Im stepping on some toes here and
hitting a religious nerve. In the account of Jesus clearing the temple, he yelled, used a whip of cords,
and threw people out of church. (John 2:15) God gets mad and isnt always nice.
As a pastor who leads congregations in worship, let me talk about music, specically whats commonly
called Praise and worship.
I do some itinerant outreach with others ministries. I cant stress enough the importance of having
anointed(equipped), technically procient and Spirit led praise and worship. (A quick point: worship
shouldnt be thought of as a musical formatits a way to show Jesus, youre grateful.) Music is
not a warm up to the teaching/sermon/messageits crucial for preparing peoples hearts for the Word
about to be preached, as well as, charges the atmosphere for the prophetic. Any good pastor knows that,
will cultivate that and be sensitive to what the Holy Spirit wants to do with that particular gathering.
Agendas have to take a back seat to the leading of the Lord, after all: we gather to worship.
To quote Plato, Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul. When instruments
are played by world class musicians and sung by incredible singers, its a wonderful experience. Thats
why national concerts by recording artists like Sting, Dave Matthews, Billy Joel, etc. are so appealing
to millions: music is incredibly powerful. It touches us. Im excited about all the professional musicians
who are coming to know the Lord and are using theirs gifts to share their faith, both in and out of the
four walls of the church.
There is a shift going on in the Christian community towards quality musicianship and an increase
in freedom to worship the Lord with a new song. As much as our parents enjoyed hymns or Elim
choruses, there is a new focus which includes a variety of musical styles, including funk, R & B, rock,
country and pop, as well as, instruments that facilitate this new liberty including keyboards, saxophone,
guitars and yes, drums
Psalms 150:4 Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and
organs.
Ever tried to dance without a drummer and keep the rhythm? (Its tough enough for some to keep the
groove going with a drummerOuch. Sorry but those are the facts) Many are not ready for this shift
nor do they wish to embrace it. They want it familiar and usually quieter (Volume is subjective. Too
soft or Too loud is a matter of taste) yet the Bible says the following about praising the Lord of
creation in worship and times of triumph.
Psalms 33:2 Praise the Lord with the harpSing to Him a new song; play skillfully with a loud noise.
loud noise8643. teruwah, ter-oo-aw; from H7321; clamor, i.e. acclamation of joy or a battle-cry;
especially clangor of trumpets, as an alarm, blowing of the trumpets, joy, jubilee, loud noise, rejoicing,
shouting, (high, joyful sounding).(bold mineIm making a point)
Psalms 98:4 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing
praise.
loud noise6476. patsach, paw-tsakh; a prim. root; to break out (in joyful sound):break (forth, forth
into joy), make a loud noise.
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Mission: Impossible
Psalms 150:5 Praise Him on the loud cymbals: praise Him on the high sounding cymbals. Let everything
that has breath praise the Lord.
high sounding8643. teruwah, ter-oo-aw; from H7321; clamor, i.e. acclamation of joy or a battle-cry;
especially clangor of trumpets, as an alarm, blowing of the trumpets, joy, jubilee, loud noise, rejoicing,
shouting, (high, joyful sounding).
Psalms 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in You rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because You
defend them: let them also that love Your name be joyful in You.
Psalms 32:11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice you righteous: and shout for joy, all you that are upright
in heart.
shout7442. ranan, raw-nan; a prim. root; prop. to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e. to shout
(usually for joy):aloud for joy, cry out, be joyful, (greatly, make to) rejoice, (cause to) shout (for joy),
(cause to) sing (aloud, for joy, out), triumph.
Psalms 47:1 To the chief Musician, O clap your hands, all you people; shout to God with the voice of
triumph.
shout7321. ruwa, roo-ah; a prim. root; to mar (espec. by breaking); g. to split the ears (with
sound), i.e. shout (for alarm or joy):blow an alarm, cry (alarm, aloud, out), destroy, make a joyful
noise, smart, shout (for joy), sound an alarm, triumph.
II Chronicles 30: 21 and the Levites and the priests praised the Lord day by day, singing with loud
instruments unto the Lord.
loud5797. oz, oze; or (fully) owz, oze; from H5810; strength in various applications (force, security,
majesty, praise):boldness, loud, might, power, strength, strong.
As a pastor, music minister and worship leader, Im certainly sensitive to the requests of people in a
ock with regards to song selections and a volume thats not causing any ear damage. However, when
I sense the Spirit wanting me to go in the direction of shouting for joy, praising Him loudly and taking
the lid off by encouraging His people to dance, sing loudly, raising their hands, clapping and getting set
free, thats what I have to do. (FYI: Praise songs are about Him. Worship songs are to Him)
I have to obey Him, not those who want it contained and suppressed. Some just want to control
others getting free. From my experiences, theyre usually people with a religious old tape playing and
have a tendency to grumble, which the Bible says is off limits:
Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and complaining.
Those who have the revelation on all that Jesus has delivered us from, speak of Him boldly to others and
worship Him freely, without restraints or the fear of man in their life. Thats the goal: freedom. Let
me ask you something. When youre at a sports event and your home team is winning, dont you shout,
as a fan i.e. fanatic? Sure you do. That should be the lifestyle of all who call themselves followers
of Jesus. Not weirdos but fans. The main point on praising the Lord, music styles, volume, freedom,
etc. is this: Remember all that Jesus has done for you while you worship.
John 4:24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth.
23
Look at that word in the Greek

worship4352. proskuneo, pros-koo-neh-o (meaning to kiss, like a dog licking his masters hand);
to fawn or crouch to, i.e. (lit. or g.) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore):worship.
To kiss, like a dog licking his masters hand. If that doesnt paint the picture of how we should be with
Jesus, nothing will.
I remember being in a prayer group recently and while we were praying, a friend of mine started laughing
and started singing, Flintstonesmeet the Flintstones. Then later, Dino came up. (You knowfrom
the cartoon) Remember Dino, Fred Flintstones dinosaur i.e. his dog? When Fred would come home
from work, Dino would y out of the house, down the sidewalk and leap on him and lick his face
because he was so happy to see him. Dino worshipped Fred.
I know this is not a theological, seminary approach to Biblical truths but I like it and after all, Im called
to a different kind of personality, as a minister.
John 10:16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they will hear
My voice; and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.
Other sheepthats who Im called to minister to. The ones who probably wont ever go to a formal
church. In Bible College, a book that was required reading was Inside the mind of unchurched Harry
and Mary by Lee Strobel. It talked about all the different reasonsmany validwhy people dont go
to church. Were to reach out to them not condemn that as heathens, after all, He loves them too.
One particular group that Im commissioned to in the form of outreach are professional musicians
because thats what my vocation was for 25 years. Trust me, they are denitely, other sheep. Theyre
very creative, sometimes temperamental, highly sensitive, meticulous, dedicated and driven. I like
musicians.
So, the question with regards to worship, is this:
Do you have the freedom to worship the Lord, individually? Yes and amen, you sure do. You go right
ahead and worship God your way and your style, you have the liberty or freedom, to do so. Lift your
hands if you want, dont lift your hands if you want. Dance or dont dance. Shout or dont shout. Laugh
or cry. There are no rules to praising and worshipping God.
Thats the whole point about liberty:
2 Cor 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
liberty1657. eleutheria, el-yoo-ther-eeah; from G1658; freedom (legitimate or licentious, chiey
mor. or cer.):liberty.
Be sensitive to others who are worshipping quietly. Dont draw attention to yourself by singing too
loud. Doing the funky chicken dance is cool, if Spirit led, just dont become a spectacle. You have
freedom but use some common courtesy and be considerate of others, knowing that everyone worships
Jesus uniquely: Some are wild and others are still. Some are joyful and some weep.
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Mission: Impossible
Now then, when I say that youve got freedom, I dont mean you ladies should be doing some little
erotic, sultry dance number, up near the pulpit thats making the guys in front starting to squirm in their
seats and reach for a handkerchief to wipe their foreheads off because youre making them, shall we say,
a little hot and bothered. At that point, youve gone way past Holy Spirit freedom. Youre no longer
worshipping: now youre enticing, out of the Spirit and into the esh. Ive seen this at some ministry
meetings and its not good nor is it the Spirit of God. Its carnalityyou know Basic Instinctsand
brings distraction, confusion and possible lust. Modesty is better.
O.K. back to Mission: ImpossibleBeing a minister isnt an easy task. Granted, ministers and
ministries are surely awed but the best way to implement change in your church, should you feel an
area needs shoring up, is not to gripe or murmur, a natural human trait.
Any good counselor, worth their salt, would say, Communication is the answer. Its the key. My
experiences tells me that the communication problems are larger at the mega churches just by virtue
of the numbersthe amount of people and responsibilities serving those people. Communication
problems do exist and do need to be addressed. Hopefully, for the sake of the unchurched coming in each
day looking for answers, these problems should be handled as damage control. Good ministers, like
any mature person, will listen and make time for people. Again, thats what ministers do: they serve. If
ministry leaders are too busy for people, theyre too busy.
Thats one of the main reasons why the Bible tells us not to put novices (inexperienced, non-proven
pups) in the driver seat i.e. leadership positions. They must rst be tested and proven. (I Timothy 3:
6-10) The criteria is specic and strict, especially for the overseer/pastor of the church. Lets look at that
criteria real quick:
I Timothy 3:2A bishop (overseer, pastor, shepherd, elder) must be blameless, the husband of one
wife, vigilant, sober, good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach, not given to wine, no striker, not
greedy of filthy lucre, patient, not a brawler, not covetous, rules his own house having his children in
subjection with all gravity, for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care
of the church of God?, not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation
as the devil, having a good report from those who are without, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of
the devil. (King James Version)
Not exactly like the job description for working the day shift at McDonalds. No, they are tough
qualications. As you study each one of these qualications out you get a whole new appreciation for
what married men are expected to do and to be. (Men and women are equal in Gods eyes yet their
roles are distinct. More on that later in this chapter)
1.) blameless:
#483 (Strongs Concordance) antilegowithout reproach, speak against someone, no accusations
2.) husband of one wife:
#435 (Strongs Concordance)
anera man #3391

miaone #1135
gunea woman
*the context here culturally, by the way, is not a man who has been previously married or divorced
but rather one who is not a bigamist.*
25
3.) vigilant:
#3524 (Strongs Concordance) nephaleouscircumspect, cautious, discreet, prudent, watchful,
temperate, moderate, extreme or excessive.
4.) sober:
#4998 (Strongs Concordance) sophronsound in mind, self-controlled.
5.) good behavior:
#2570 (Strongs concordance) kalosgood, honest, worthy #2887 (Strongs Concordance)
kosmiousorderly, good behavior
6.) given to hospitality:
#5382 (Strongs concordance) philoxenosfond of guests, hospitable
7.) apt to teach:
#1317 (Strongs Concordance) didaktikosinstructive
8.) Not given to wine:
#3943 (Strongs Concordance) paroinosstaying near wine, a toper, (hard drinker) chronic. *While
someone will never have a drinking problem if they practice abstinencewhich is, of course, the
safest routethe Bible teaches moderation and temperance regarding the use of alcohol. Nor do you
want to cause your brother or sister to fall into an addiction or stumble by what you do. Two laws
here: the law of liberty and the law of love. See Ch. 10 (The wine question)
9.) no striker:
#4131 (Strongs Concordance) plektespugnacious, inclined to ght or quarrel, argumentative,
contentious, smiter, to hit or injure
10.) not greedy of filthy lucre:
#866 (Strongs concordance) aphilargurasunavaricious, not covetous
#146 (Strongs Concordance) aischrokerdessordid, vile, morally dirty
11.) patient:
#1933 (Strongs Concordance) epieikesappropriate, mild, gentle
12.) not a brawler:
#269 (Strongs Concordance) amachospeaceable
13.) not covetous:
#866 (Strongs concordance) aphilargurosnot covetous
14.) rules well his own house having his children in subjection with all gravity. (All from Strongs
concordance)
rules
well
#4292 proistemito maintain, to provide

#2573 kalosgood, honest, well
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Mission: Impossible
own
house
children
subjection
gravity
#2398 idiosones own, private, home

#3624 oikosa dwelling, family, household
#5043 teknonchild, daughter, son
#5292 hupotagesubordination
#4587 semnotescommanding respect
15.) not a novice:

#3504 (Strongs concordance) neophutosnewly planted, young convert, inexperienced
16.) having a good report from those who are without:
good
report
without
#2570 (Strongs concordance) kalosgood

#3141 (Strongs concordance) marturiarecord, testimony, witness
#1855 (Strongs concordance) exothenexternal, from outside the body of Christ
Sixteen characteristics that every bishop (overseer, pastor, shepherd, elder) must have. My advice to
you if you see your pastor lacking in these areas: Pray for him. Hes got an important job and if hes a
good one, he knows it and takes it very seriously. If you need to talk with him, schedule a one on one
meeting. If his schedule doesnt immediately permit them to get together with you personally, please
do himand youa favor by sitting down and writing him a letter addressing your concerns in a
spirit of love and care. Trust God to change him because only He can. If immediate results dont ensue,
let patience have its perfect work in you. Please dont kvetcha Hebrew word for whining. Again
Phillipians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and complaining.
murmurings#1112 (Strongs concordance) goggusmos, gong-goos-mos: a grumbling:grudging,
murmuring, complaining.
complaining#1261 (Strongs concordance) dialogismos, dee-al-og-is-mos; discussion, i.e. (internal)
consideration (by impl. purpose), or (external) debate
When you perceive your pastor is possibly missing it and off scripturally, he should be open to
counselas I aspire to, as a pastorand wont argue or quarrel with you. Nor will he try to control or
manipulate you, if hes wise. In a spirit of unity, search out the scriptures together and then pray about
it. If pastors and leaders dont want to be foolish and if they want success in ministry, theyll listen,
humbly. I pray that I remain a good listener, all my life. My wife assists me with this area of ministry,
wonderfully, as my helper.
Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.
Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he who heeds counsel is wise.
Your pastor and your leaders are to shepherd you, help you, train you, correct you in love, nurture and
serve you. The true ones wont twist your arm or force you, in any way. If you cant support what
theyre doing, in good conscious, or you sense they are in error and unwillingly to listen, again: vote
with your feetleave quietly without slamming anyone but leave. Good leaders dont or wont control.
By in large, thats the earmark of a cult.
I Peter 5:3 Nor as being lords those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
27
The word lords in the Greek is katakurieuo. It means to lord against, i.e. control, subjugate:exercise
dominion over.
A red flag should go off when you see

this excessive control going on.
I know of a situation where a pastor said hes going to mark one of his Assoc. Pastors because he
couldnt nor wouldnt allow poor ministry practices, mismanagement of money and naivete, to continue
unchecked. The associate challenged the leader with the Word and demonstrated integrity. The pastor
reacted in the esh with the comment that he was going to mark this minister in every church he could.
(Leadership through intimidation. Pride + insecurity)
First of all, when someoneincluding your leaderdoesnt obey scripture, you have to speak the
truth in love and stand up to them. Again, lovingly but rmly. (All was forgiven but the minister moved
on)
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them who cause divisions and offences contrary to the
doctrine which you have learned and avoid them.
Anything that goes against what you know to be a Bible truth, is error and needs to be addressed head
on. Thats simply the Word at work.
Secondly, the word mark doesnt mean you get on a phone, radio, TV, Internet or write newsletters and
start maligning a brother or sister in Christs character or reputation. Thats slander and gossip. Seasoned
shepherds know this. (When theyre young, pray for them)
mark4648. skopeo, skop-eh-o; consider, take heed, look at (on), mark. Basically, it means take note
of and log it.
In other words, Consider, scrutinize well and take a mental note of the person who you think is
causing division or abusing scripture for their own gain, power and/or control and after youve done
that: go out of your way to stay clear. (In that case, the pastor was in error)
avoid1578. ekklino, ek-klee-no; to deviate, i.e. (absol.) to shun (lit. or g.), or (rel.) to decline (from
piety):avoid, go out of the way.
Often times in situations like these, even when theres a contention that is sharp between two people
(like Paul and BarnabasActs 15:39) God simply says Separate from each other for the greater good.
Youre right and so is he, in some areas. Youre wrong and so is he, in some areas. But unless they can
walk in humility, lose their pride and unless you can support whats being promoted; move on.
Disagreements between friends, even ministers, will most denitely happen. It happens in marriage and
they have a covenant with each other. The contention thing does arise. Ive had to thicken my skin a bit.
Im careful about the I love you, man line. Too many hurts.
Contention3948. paroxusmos, par-ox-oos-mos; dispute (in anger):contention, provoke unto.
Finances are certainly one way of controlling friends, ock and/or ministry staff, so Id better talk
about money for a minute. Heres a little test that locates most people. O.K. ready? Fill in the blank
28
Mission: Impossible
Those preachersall they want is your _______. Sure, its money. A lot of people think that. So,
allow me to address the issue of remuneration for ministers, for a minute. With all the TV evangelist
snafus, as well as, centuries of misappropriation of funds, this is a subject that needs to be addressed,
head on.
It is scriptural for those called to ministry to help youand the ones called to assist the apostle,
prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacherto earn their living from their service to the Lord. I know, I
knowthere have been many abuses and extremes but it is Gods special provisionJesus personal
arrangementfor the called one.
I Cor. 9:14 Even so, the Lord has ordained that they which preach the gospel should live from the
gospel.
The preaching of the gospel and all that encompasses that, is costly. Most good ministries, ministers
and support staff, generally, across the board that Ive seen are under-funded, stressed out and all too
often discouraged because of the continual nancial resource challenges. (It would be so much better if
Gods people supported the preaching of the Gospel more. Less than 20% of Christians, tithe. Later
on that)
Psalms 35:27 Let the LORD be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.
.pleasure#2655 (Strongs concordance) chaphets, khaw-fates; from H2654; pleased with:delight
in, desire, favour, please, have pleasure
.prosperity#7965 (Strongs concordance) shalowm, shaw-lome; or shalom, shaw-lome; from
H7999; safe, i.e. (g.) well, happy, friendly; also (abstr.) welfare, i.e. health, prosperity
3 John 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul
prospers.
.all#3956 (Strongs concordance) pas, pas; includ. all the forms of declension; appar. a prim. word;
all, any, every, the whole
.prosper#2137 (Strongs concordance) euodoo, yoo-od-o-o; from a comp. of G2095 and G3598; to
help on the road, i.e. (pass.) succeed in reaching; g. to succeed in business affairs.
God does indeed want to bless us in every area of lifespiritually, occupationally, maritally, sexually,
good health, loyal friends and yes, nancially. He will, if well do it His way, which includes this:
1. Properly dissecting His holy written word
II Timothy 2:15 Study to show yourself approved to God, a worker that needs not to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth.
2. Letting scripture, interpret scripture
II Corinthians 13:1 In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.
3. Not replacing scripture with your own views, perspectives, slants or insights
Romans 12:16 Be not wise in your own opinion.
29
With regard to ministers income, there is a polarization of positions on the subject. As Ive said before,
everybodys got an opinion to offer.
Theres no shortage of takes, perspectives or revelations.
From, If youre going to serve God, you must give up all material possessions and any thought of
natural resources or provisions being supplied. Prepare to be nancially strapped, as a lifestyle. (The
vow of poverty deal)
To the other extreme of God says youll be nancially blessed and have His best all the days of your
life. Youll be the head and not the tailabove and not beneath. The best cars, the best homes, the best
watch, the best anything youre believing for and confessing. No worriesno defeats. (The 100 fold
lottery harvest, non-content deal) If youre not experiencing this, youre obviously not in faith, must
be in sin and out of His will. (This is La La land that resembles multi-level marketing more than
Scripture)
Extremes and fads are taught all the time. We simply need the balance of Scripture. The Bible is quite
clear about prosperity, even for those in full time ministry. That word to prosper, simply means
wherever you go, youll succeed. Youll have guaranteed challenges and resistance but ultimately,
youll conquer them, as you run your own race. (Galatians 6:9)
It is a scriptural truth that youll reap if you dont quit but along the way, I can assure you there will be
many difculties with opportunities daily, to quit, especially when youre doing something right. The
devil will hit you from all angles. Hell try to get you in pride, work on your esh, try to split your family
and certainly, try to hinder your money ow. It is Biblical that God wants to prosper you. Know it.
prosper#2137 (Strongs concordance) euodoo, yoo-od-o-o; to help on the road, i.e. (pass.) succeed
in reaching; g. to succeed in business affairs:(have a) prosperous journey)
We need not guess about His will that He wants to prosper usHis word is His will. We need no
additional revelations, leadings of the Lord, personal prophecies or I gotta word for you. No,
the Holy Spirit, who wrote the Bible through men, always corroborates, validates and supports Himself.
His mandate is clear, not ambiguous and is forever settled in Heaven.
Prophecies and words of knowledge are wonderful when theyre Spirit directed but far too many lives
have been ruined due to an over zealous preacher needing to be in the spot light, trying to control a
situation or ock or looking for a quick buck. Be careful. These words must line up with the Bible
and be a conrmation or directive that you KNOW is from the Lord. It wont confuse you though it may
challenge you. Chew on the word given, pray about it and seek the counsel of Godly people you know.
True prophetic people have the heart of the Lord namely mercy over judgment.
Regarding wages for ministers, they arent owed or entitled them, like theyre doing God a favor
or something. Jesus said, I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18) God can do this ministry stuff
without our help but He desires to use us, thankfully, and He will care for us in the process. We are
partakers with Him. Called ministers dont demand their pay or insist on their own way but as they
depend on Him as their source, obey Him and trust His word with regards to their needs being met, He
will bless them to be a help to others. Hell reveal Himself to be very faithful, as you exercise patience.
Heres the best scripture about why God blesses with money:
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Mission: Impossible
Deut. 8:18 But you shall remember the Lord your God: for it is He that gives you power to get wealth,
that He may establish His covenant
There it is, plain and simple. God blesses with money to get people saved and the Bible is clear, that
people wont believe i.e. get saved, unless they have a sent preacher and it takes money to send
them.
Romans 10:14 How 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? And how shall they
preach, except they be sent?
Seescripture is so incredibly simpleweve complicated it. God wants the message of the cross
the mission of the Messiah to get out into the world. He does this by nancially empowering those
whom He can trust with money, to either go themselves and preach or to send the ones who have the
call and passion to do so. Preachers need to be equipped with the right equipment, staff and resources to
accomplish the task. As Ive said, its ordained by God Almighty to do it this way.
I Corinthians 9:14 Even so the Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should live from the
gospel.
.ordained#1299 (Strongs concordance) diatasso, dee-at-as-so; to arrange thoroughly, i.e. (spec.)
institute, prescribe, etc.appoint, command, give, (set in) order, ordain.
.preach#2605(Strongs concordance) kataggello, kat-ang-gel-lo; from G2596 and the base of G32;
to proclaim, promulgate:declare, preach, shew, speak of, teach.
.live#2198(Strongs concordance) zao, dzah-o; a prim. verb; to live (lit. or g.):life (-time), (a-)
live (-ly), quick.
When the Lord of all creation has his personal arrangement for ministersapostles, prophets,
evangelists, pastors, teachers and their assistantsinterrupted or under funded, the advancement of His
Kingdom of God is greatly hindered. There is in scripture a special provision allocated for the set apart
one. I believe that when provisions arent being met for those in ministry service, the church is out of
order.
The Lord is a God of order.

I Corinthians 9:11 If we have sown to you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal
things?
.spiritual#4152 (Strongs concordance) pneumatics, pnyoo-mat-ik-os; from G4151; non-carnal, i.e.
(humanly) ethereal (as opposed to gross), or (demoniacally) a spirit (concr.), or (divinely) supernatural,
regenerate, religious:spiritual.
.carnal#4559 (Strongs concordance) sarkikos, sar-kee-kos; from G4561; pertaining to esh, i.e. (by
extens.) bodily, temporal, or (by impl.) animal, unregenerate:carnal, eshly.
31
I Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who
labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture says, You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the
corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his wages.
.elders#4245 (Strongs concordance) presbuteros, pres-boo-ter-os; compar. of presbus (elderly); older;
as noun, a senior; spec.an Isr. Sanhedrist (also g. member of the celestial council) or Chr.presbyter:
elder (-est), old.
.rule#4291 (Strongs concordance) proistemi, pro-is-tay-mee; from G4253 and G2476; to stand
before, i.e. (in rank) to preside, or (by impl.) to practise:maintain, be over, rule.
.counted worthy#515 (Strongs concordance) axioo, ax-ee-o-o; to deem entitled or t:desire,
think good, count (think) worthy.
.double#1362 (Strongs concordance) diplous, dip-looce; from G1364 and (prob.) two-fold:double,
two-fold more.
.honor#5092 (Strongs concordance) time, tee-may; from G5099; a value, i.e. money paid, or (concr.
and collect.) valuables; by anal. esteem (espec. of the highest degree), or the dignity itself:honour,
precious, price, some.
.laborer#2040 (Strongs concordance) ergates, er-gat-ace; from G2041; a toiler; g. a teacher:
labourer, worker (-men).
.worthy#514 (Strongs concordance) axios, ax-ee-os; deserving,due reward, meet, (un-) worthy.
.wages#3408 (Strongs concordance) misthos, mis-thos; appar. a prim. word; pay for service (lit. or
g.), good or bad:hire, reward, wages.
Many leaders dont keep their word. Theyll make commitments and promise salaries via verbal
commitments, hand shakes or job description agreements, only to take a back seat to church expenses,
repairs, upgrades or past debt, when a nancial crunch hits. From my experience, I can tell you thats not
Godly and brings a reproach. Lets look at debt for a minute
In Romans 13:8 it says, Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loves another has
fulfilled the law.
This word owe in the Greek is #3784 (Strongs concordance) opheilo. It is used only once in the Bible.
It means to accrue, to be under obligation, to be in debt. But a deeper study of the Hebrew and the Greek
shows the spirit of the law rather than the letter of the law.
Exodus 22:25 If you lend money to any of my people who are poor among you, you shall not be like a
moneylender to him: you shall not charge him interest.
Matthew 5:42 Give to him that asks you, and from him that would borrow of you, dont turn away.
Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward
shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest: for He is kind to the unthankful and to the
evil.
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Mission: Impossible
Going into debt for unnecessary things and showing an attitude of indifference in repaying debts is not
of the Lord and is wicked.
Psalms 37:21 The wicked borrows, and does not repay.
A wise preacher once said that People judge our actions but God judges our intentions.
I Samuel 16:7for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.
If youre going to follow Jesus, youre commanded to be a good witness, demonstrating His qualities,
including integrity. Being in massive amounts of debt and being late to creditors with your payments, is
clearly a pathetic witness.
However, not honoring your wordyour contractsyour hand shaketo your family or friends,
especially those of the faith, is a far greater travesty, especially if theyre part of your own ministry
team. When we make commitments to people, we are to back it up, no matter the crunch. By denition,
thats what integrity means.
The world will doubt what we say but theyll believe what we do and they are watching us, for sure. They
want to see if you walk the talk not just look the part. Ive observed and experienced, unfortunately,
that too many believerseven some ministerslack integrity. God is not honored nor pleased with
that.
Proverbs 20:7 The just man walks in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
Back to debt, most creditors are civilized, would you agree? (I say that sarcastically because weve had
some guys call us when we were having a nancial glitch early in our marriage and youd think they
were Gestapo. Vee have vays of making you pay)
Anyway, most creditors are understanding when a crisis situation arises. They will generally respond
with grace when communicated with. Knowing youre ambassadors of Christ: make a payment plan.
.If there has been mismanagement of funds,
confess and repent.
.If there has been poor stewardship,
confess and repent.
.If there has been lavishness or excess,
confess and repent.
.If there is pride, confess and repent.
Church integrity: POINT #1
Proverbs 19:17 He that has pity on the poor lends to the LORD; and that which he has given the Lord
will repay him.
33
Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given to you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and
running over, shall men give into your bosom.
PROMISEIf you have given to others in need, the Lord will help you out in your time of trouble.
Been there
Proverbs 22:27 If you have nothing to repay with, why should he take away your bed from under you?
PROMISEIf you pray for favor with creditors and make a concerted effort to set up a reasonable
payment plan, God will honor that and arrange a break for you.
I Timothy 5:18 The laborer is worthy of his wages.
PROMISETruth does not change because of financial circumstances. The pastor and the ministry
team is worth the investment. They are worthy of their wages. Obedience to all His word brings
the promise to fruition.
James 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
PROMISEAfter communicating with creditors, be fully persuaded God will provide. Expect
Him to move on your behalf. Perhaps, a temporary adjustment in the payment structure of the
church or ministry salaries may be needed. Expect mercy because God has no pleasure when we
draw back.
Phillipians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem
other better than themselves.
PROMISEBy maintaining the divine arrangement for ministers salaries laid out in scripture,
communicating your emergency situation to your creditors and bringing before the elders, if not
the whole congregation, the immediacy and seriousness of the churches financial situation, you
have honored God and walked in integrity.
Phillipians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ
Jesus.
PROMISEWhen we have given with the right heart, we can relax in the promise that Hell take
care of us.
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Mission: Impossible
Psalms 112:1 Praise the Lord. Blessed is the man that fears (loves, reverences, worships) the Lord, that
delights greatly in His commandments.
We all could stand to do this delight greatly in His commandments deal more, which means to live by
and evaluate all situations by the Wordand not by fear, emotionalism, greed or opinion.
PRIORITY #1:
There must be peace and order in the homeespecially for ministersor there wont be any in His
church, right? Lack of money breeds worry and or strife; just ask any wife. Quarreling breeds strife
any married couple knows that. Gods design for remuneration (nancial compensation) for those in full
time ministry is by His divine design. Im not talking about the Send in your seed faith money now to
get your holy water from the Euphrates River scam guys dressed in white suits with a southern accent
with the breathing deal at the end of each operative word:
Receive(ah)your miracle package(ah) today(ah). The Holy Ghost(ah) has sent(ah) me do tell you(ah)
to dig deep(ah) in your pocket(ah) and believe Him(ah) for your 100 fold harvest(ah).
Come on. Wise up. Please PRAY about where you give AND dont react emotionally nor get taken. God
wants you to give cheerfully and wisely.
Again, ministers arent owed or entitled their wages. They should not demand their incomethat
would be selsh not seless. Like I said before, you go into ministry to serve out of a calling. But know
that its Gods plan to provide their needs and to bless them.
Thats the balanced teaching regarding wages for ministers.
He has made the rules, set the stage, made the arrangements and put things in order for His ministers
and their families. (FYI. The national average salary for a ministerpastor, youth, musicis $40K to
$60K annually) To drive my point home, once again:
I Corinthians 9:14 Even so the Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should live from the
gospel.
ordained#1299 (Strongs concordance) diatasso, dee-at-as-so; from G1223 and G5021; to arrange
thoroughly, i.e.(spec.) institute, prescribe, etc.:appoint, command, give, (set in) order, ordain.
Receiving a fair salary wont be the ministers priority, the call will be. But it will be the reward of
serving the Lord and it will be the right order. It is my belief, based on what I see in scripture, that they
are to be taken care of, nancially, even during a past debt repayment plan or current money pledge
for upgrades. I know ministers whove taken a huge cut in pay or even gone without, just so his staff
could eat and pay bills. Now thats an example.
I read a book when I was just getting started in ministry that was formatted in a practical suggestions for
effective ministry approach. The book talked very frankly about issues like a disciplined life, prayer,
being an example to others, your family, pastoring a congregation and a question and answer section.
This pastors position on paying ministers was that he compensates the ones who were called and
qualied, based on what they were earning in the worlds work force, for the minister too is a laborer
worthy of his wages.
35
If the furnace or air conditioning goes down, the roof needs replacing, the parking lot needs repaving or
some other emergency arises and there isnt $5000 surplus in the church checking account, the scriptural
thing to do would be to assemble the elders, discuss the options and pray. A short term loan may be
needed to take the pressure off. Bring it before your ock, as well.
Its not Gods will to eliminate valued ministry staffs salaries nor ask them to volunteer 30-50 hours
a week or to lay people off. Thats a reaction of panic and fear, like the Y2k hysteria. God didnt give
us a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7) and He is not the author of confusion. (I Cor. 14:33) The world does
their business that way. The Lords church should be above all of that. Thats why the orderly church
will have a solid board of elders.
Acts 15:2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they
determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles
and elders about this question.
Elders, according to Vines Expository dictionary, literally means men who are raised up, qualied
and appointed by, the Holy Spirit to have spiritual care of, and to exercise oversight over, the local
church. (It is not the age but rather the maturity of the believer as the criteria for an elder) Having elders
in place (solid men who know the Word and meet the criteria in I Timothy 3) is absolutely crucial.
Having these elders in place is for the safety of the pastor, the staff and the congregation/fellowship.
Youd better have the foundation in place. (Situations will arise, even amongst believers, for sure. Paul
and Barnabas had a huge blow out and went their separate ways)
Acts 15:36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, Let us now go back and visit our brethren in
every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing: Now Barnabas
was determined to take with them John called Mark. But Paul insisted that they should not take with
them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. So the
contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. (Hey, it happens even among great men
of God)
contention3948. paroxusmos, par-ox-oos-mos; dispute, in angercontention, provoke unto.
(disputes happen, its true)
Back to the teachingI Timothy 5:18 The laborerin context this means the people in ministryis
worthy of his wages.
If theres a nancially dry season, at your church, as a ministry team, you stick it out. You pray and
fast. A short season of tentmaking on the side may be needed by everyone. As best you can, be loyal to
each other as true friends and family. Stand together in the storms of life, its Gods way. (He wont leave
you nor forsake you. Jesus is called the Good Shepherd so if some insecure pastor res you, know it
wasnt Christ-like.) Jesus personies loyalty. Many ministers fail that.
If a nancial crisis arises, for whatever reason, take the hits as a team. I would suggest evaluating
all staffs nancial needs. Re-evaluate their income and benets based on those needs. If everyone
is included in a short term salary reduction, comradery and trust is cultivated. The most effective
ministry is an ensemble effort. If one of the team, is somehow exempt or insulated from any nancial
struggle or challenge, the team effort is greatly diminished, from my experience.
36
Mission: Impossible
If you discern that theres unrepentant sin in the ministry leadership, or a cavalier attitude about ministry
staff needs or a lack of ethics: move on, graciously. Submission is an act of your will. It is a voluntary
act of obedience. If you cannot submit willfully, for the benet of everyone, you should nd a new home,
church wise.
PRIORITY #2:
Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.
Not slothful in business;
The word for slothful in the Greek is okneros. It means to be tardy or irksome. As followers of Jesus,
especially full time ministers, we should never irk anybody. That certainly would include church
payroll, nances or church business dealings.
This Greek word also means to be indolent, which means having or showing an attitude of avoiding
exertion. In other words, being lazy. Mismanaging Gods money is being lazy.
Receiving His holy tithes and offerings with thanksgiving is appropriate at a service. Worshipping
the Lord with our nancial increase is Biblical. But there has been way too much mismanagement,
nancially, in the church thus the cynicism and skeptics.
Tucking church bills in a drawer, misappropriating funds, buying unnecessary items, being extravagant,
eating out at ne dining places as others suffer, making late deposits, getting overdrafts, and/or postponing
the inevitable of paying off debt is poor stewardship. God calls it slothful. In the only other passage of
scripture that uses this word, slothful, Jesus attaches it, to a wicked person.
Matthew 25:26 His lord answered and said to him, You wicked and slothful servant,
As I said, followers of Jesus are called ambassadors of Christ. When we make commitments and then
break them, in essence, were saying that Jesus doesnt keep His word, doesnt pay His bills and cant
take care of His own. Being a faithful steward and having integrity is of the utmost importance.
Ministers must not be foolish:
Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkens to counsel is wise.
Proverbs 21:20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man
spends it up.
Ministers must be wise:
Proverbs 1: 5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain
to wise counsels:
Proverbs 8: 33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
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Proverbs 13: 18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuses instruction: but he that regards reproof
shall be honoured.
If we truly believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God, then we as followers of Jesus will get our
act together for the sake of those who are watching our words and deeds to bring Him glory.
I Corinthians 10:31 Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Luke 12:1 (Jesus speaking)He began to say to His disciples first of all, Beware of the leaven of the
Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
Jesus said, Beware very sparingly in scripture. How come?
beware4337. prosecho, pros-ekh-o; from G4314 and G2192; (g.) to hold the mind (G3563 impl.)
towards, i.e. pay attention to, be cautious about.
hypocrisy5272. hupokrisis, hoop-ok-ree-sis; i.e. (g.) deceit (hypocrisy):condemnation,
dissimulation, hypocrisy.
Anytime someone, including a church leader/minister, is condemning or deceiving you with or through
their opinions not based on Scripture, you are to be aware of iteven in the smallest of amounts. Its
called leaven which spoils the whole deal. So, beware.
Its Denises and my experience, that too often, people resist the Gospel, church attending, and/or further
disciplingonce a commitment has been madebecause of this yoke of bondage that some religious
folk inict by guilt, manipulation or control. It is the curse of the law. God wants it eradicated.
In Genesis 3:11, after Adam hid himself because he was naked and scared, the Lord asked Adam, Who
told you, that you were naked? Look at those rst three words
Who told you..?

Get it? You MUST be careful about who youre giving weight to, in your life. God continues to ask that
of us today. (He likes questions)
What are you listening to?
Why are you paying attention to those lies?
Why do you feed on false teaching?
Didnt I instruct you to renew your mind?
You really think Id say or do that?
Dont you know Im for you?
Dont you know I love you?
Who told you..?

My favorite scripture in this Who told you? topic is this:
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Mission: Impossible
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
There it isdont compromise!
stand#4739 (Strongs concordance) steko, stay-ko; from the perf. tense of G2476; to be stationary,
i.e. (g.) to persevere:stand (fast)
liberty#1657 (Strongs concordance) eleutheria, el-yoo-ther-eeah; from G1658; freedom (legitimate
or licentious, chiey mor. or cer.):liberty
free#1659 (Strongs concordance) eleutheroo, el-yoo-ther-o-o; from G1658; to liberate, i.e. (g.) to
exempt (from mor., cer. or mortal liability):deliver, make free. A release from prisona pardon.
entangled#1758 (Strongs concordance) enecho, en-ekh-o; from G1722 and G2192; to hold in or
upon, i.e. ensnare; by impl. to keep a grudge:entangle with, have a quarrel against, urge.
again#3825 (Strongs concordance) palin, pal-in; prob. from the same as G3823 (through the idea
of oscillatory repetition); (adv.) anew, i.e. (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conj.) furthermore or
on the other hand:again.
yoke#2218 (Strongs concordance) zugos, dzoo-gos; from the root of zeugnumi (to join espec. by
a yoke); a coupling, i.e. (g.) servitude a law or obligation); also (lit.) the beam of the balance (as
connecting the scales):pair of balances, yoke.
bondage#1397 (Strongs concordance) douleia, doo-li-ah; from G1398; slavery (cer. or g.):
bondage.
That word, stand, in the Greek, simply means to hold your grounddont be moved by what you
hear, even if it sounds religious. Maybe especially because it sounds religious. (Remember, Satan
can sound oh so religioushe is the author of confusion and nobody can twist the Bible better, thus
the warning: BEWARE. (Every cult leader knows scripture) One more time
Who told you?

Here the Vines Dictionary denition of bondage:
bondage1397 douleiato bind, primarily the condition of being a slave; the condition imposed
by the Mosaic law.
Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under grace.
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
The law is a system, collection or set of regulations controlling conduct, behavior or inuence by
enforced policies. Sound familiar? David Koresh, Jim Jones, Bin Ladin, Hitler, etc.
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Beware of the controller.

Im Gods appointed man and if you challenge me, youre challenging the Lord God and He will strike
you down. If you ever leave this church you will be cursed forever. And on and on
John, the apostle called, the beloved, warned us about guys like this:
III John 1:9 I sent a brief letter to the church about this, but proud Diotrephes, who loves to push
himself forward as the leader of the Christians there, does not admit my authority over him and refuses
to listen to me. When I come I will tell you some of the things he is doing and what wicked things he
is saying about me and insulting language he is using. He not only refuses to welcome the missionary
travelers himself, but tells others not to, and when they do he tries to put them out of the church.
There it is: thats a controller, a cult leader and not a pastor.
So I dont come across like an alarmist and to be fair, the majority of ministers who truly are called that
I know, or know of, love the Lord and love people. And of course, Im not suggesting you to be paranoid
about all leaders but there has been far too much spiritual abuse in Jesus church (subtle or overt) in
the past and its simply time for that to be put away. I believe that process is under way.
Peters appeal to pastors, overseers, bishops, elders:
I Peter 5:2Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but
willingly; not for dishonest gain, but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you but being
examples to the flock.
lords2634. katakurieuo, kat-ak-oo-ree-yoo-o; from G2596 and G2961; to lord against, i.e. control,
subjugate:exercise dominion over (lordship), be lord over, overcome.
Jesus speaking to His disciples:
Mark 10:42 As you know, the kings and great men of this earth, lord it over the people; but among you
it is different. Whoever wants to the greatest will be the servant of all.
lord2634. katakurieuo, kat-ak-oo-ree-yoo-o; from G2596 and G2961; to lord against, i.e. control,
subjugate:exercise dominion over (lordship), be lord over, overcome.
Controlling peoples behavior, conduct and lives through mandates or regulations rather than
teaching them Gods Word and trusting the Holy Spirit to lead and guide them into all truth brings them
back into slavery and under the curse of the law.
Galatians 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed
is every one that doesnt continue in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But
that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith.
cursed1944. epikataratos, ep-ee-kat-ar-at-os; imprecated, i.e. execrable:accursed.
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Mission: Impossible
Galatians 5: 3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole
law. Christ is become of no effect to you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; you are fallen from
grace.
debtor3781. opheiletes, of-i-let-ace; from G3784; an ower, i.e. person indebted; g. a delinquent;
mor. a transgressor (against God):debtor, which owed, sinner.
whole3650. holos, hol-os; a prim. word; whole or all, i.e. complete
James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.
stumble4417. ptaio, ptah-yo; a form of G4098; to trip, i.e (g.) to err, sin, fail (of salvation):fall,
offend, stumble.
guilty1777. enochos, en-okh-os; liable to (a condition, penalty or imputation):in danger of, guilty
of, subject to.
This is why New Testament grace is far better that the Old Test. law!
The Message Bible says it this way:
Galatians 5:1Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a
harness of slavery on you. I am emphatic about this. The moment any one of you submits to circumcision
(the law) or any other rule-keeping system, at that same moment Christs hard-won gift of freedom is
squandered.
So, one more timeWho told you? (Basically, consider the source)
So I give you the balance in this teaching on beware and our New Testament freedom: it does not
give us the license to sin, cause someone else to sin, fall into addictions or break the law.
I Cor. 8:8 But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are
weak.
Romans 13:1 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. (the ofces of authority not the men or
women appointed)
Nor does Jesus warning of beware mean we should be weirding out i.e. in fear of, or rebellious
towards, every person of authority in our lives. That would be chaos for every parent, police ofcer,
military commander or minister on the planet. Remember the denition of beware
towards, i.e. pay attention to.
It simply means to be aware of ittake note of itheads uppay attention to itdont be afraid of it
just be cautious about it.
Surely, Jesus wants us to have His peace, so we shouldnt be freaking out about everyone in our path.
Just be aware.
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Denise and I have a phrase we live by: Openly, guarded. Open to the voice of the Spirit but guarded
to the voice of the enemy, someones opinion or a personal prophesy that isnt accurate.
The Who told you shows up in the New Testament like this:
II Timothy 2: 15 Study to show yourself approved by God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth.
Romans 12: 2 Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind
So simply extract what you feel the Lord showing you while listening to others and shelve the rest for
a later lesson. (You need to judge teachings i.e. doctrine but not the people and their character) There
is a big difference between passing judgment and making a judgment. Heres the distinction:
Passing judgment:
Luke 6:37 Judge not, and you shall not be judged: condemn not, and you shall not be condemned:
forgive, and you shall be forgiven.
(In other words, continue to do self-examination in light of Scripture and the Spirits voice but dont
focus on others faults)
Making a judgment:
John 7: 24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. (It does say to judge
here, properly)
Matthew 7: 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheeps clothing, but inwardly they are
ravening wolves. You shall know them by their fruits.
As in the leaven of the Pharisees, again Jesus tells us to beware of false prophets.
towards, i.e. pay attention to, be cautious about
false5578. pseudoprophetes, psyoo-dop-rof-ay-tace; from G5571 and G4396; a spurious prophet, i.e.
pretended foreteller or religious impostor:false prophet.
know1921. epiginosko, ep-ig-in-oce-ko; from G1909 and G1097; to know upon some mark, i.e.
recognise; by impl. to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge:(ac-, have, take) know (-ledge,
well), perceive.
Matthew 7:17 Even so every good tree brings forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit.
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
REMEMBER: NOT EVERY THUS SAYS THE LORD IS A WORD FROM THE MASTER
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Mission: Impossible
Passing judgment on others:

Romans 14: 13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more
Colossians 2: 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of
the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
Respecting and honoring others:
Phillipians 2: 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem
other better than themselves.
lowliness5012. tapeinophrosune, tap-i-nof-ros-oo-nay; from a comp. of G5011 and the base of
G5424; humiliation of mind, i.e. modesty:humbleness of mind, humility
esteem2233. hegeomai, hayg-eh-om-ahee; mid. of a (presumed) strengthened form of G71; to lead,
i.e. command (with ofcial authority); g. to deem, i.e. consider:account, (be) chief, count, esteem,
governor, judge, have the rule over, suppose, think.
better5242. huperecho, hoop-er-ekh-o; from G5228 and G2192; to hold oneself above, i.e. (g.) to
excel; part. (as adj., or neut. as noun) superior, superiority:better, excellency, higher, pass, supreme.
Eph. 5: 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
submitting5293. hupotasso, hoop-ot-as-so; to subordinate; reex. to obey:be under obedience
(obedient), put under, subdue to, (be, make) subject (to, be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self
to.
Soregarding humility and serving, what is Jesus example to us?
John 13:3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from
God and was going to God; rose from supper, and laid aside His garments; and took a towel, and girded
Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples feet.
(When was the last time we washed someones feet?)
In I Peter 2:17 it says we are to honor all people. Do you know what the literal meaning of all, in the
Greek, is? Here it isready? Its all. All means all!! What do you knowthe Bible is accurate.
In other words, the Bible says what God means to say (His heart and requirements) and God means what
He says (Hes quite serious about the content) in the Bible.
Continuing the subject of Finding a perfect church, lets address authority for a minute. Some have
inappropriately used the following two scriptures to force their position(s) on authority.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for
your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is
unprofitable for you.
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1 Thess. 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you
in the Lord, and admonish you;
Lets look at the operative words in that rst scripture, keeping in mind that the English word in Websters
and the original Greek word in the New Testament can have completely different applications.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves
The pervasive teaching that the word obey means to unconditionally submit without questioning is
simply error. In the Vines Expository Dictionary, obey literally means to be persuaded by the Word
taught NOT by submission to authority, as it is often communicated erroneously.
obey3982. peitho, pi-tho; a prim. verb; to convince (by argument, true or false); to assent (to evidence
or authority), to rely (by inward certainty):agree, assure, to listen to, believe, have condence, be
(wax) content, make friend, obey, persuade, trust, yield.
submit5226. hupeiko, hoop-i-ko; (to yield, be weak); to surrender:submit self. (The
communication here is that you yield to the counsel, if scriptural)
rule over2233. hegeomai, hayg-eh-om-ahee; mid. of a (presumed) strengthened form of G71; to
lead, (According to Vines expository dictionary it simply means to guide)
Some have called this controlling, the shepherding law. I call it Ca Ca, you know, as in B.S. (Im
trying to be edifying in my speech here as an ordained minister but erroneous teachings irritate me.
Besides Ca ca, B.S., horse hockey are all derivatives of the Hebrew word used for manure,
excrement or, dung#6569 Hebrew peresh. (Lev. 16:27)
So, a more accurate rendering could go like this:
Rely upon, agree with, believe in, have confidence in, trust, listen to and be persuaded by the Word of
God thats being taught. Yield to it onlyif you know it to be Biblicaland allow those who are leading
you (spiritually) to act as your guide.
When you start to exalt a man or woman, youre asking for trouble. We are all equal in the body of
Christthere are simply different applications, job descriptions and assignments. The only One to be
exalted is the Lord Jesus. Hes the Master and is worthy.
Heres another one thats mistaught:
1 Thess. 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you and are over you
in the Lord
know1492. eido, i-do; to see (lit. or g.) to knowbe aware, consider, (have) known (-ledge), look
(on), perceive, see, be sure (of), tell, understand
over you4291. proistemi, pro-is-tay-mee; from G4253 and G2476; to stand before, i.e. (in rank) to
preside
In other words:
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Mission: Impossible
Be aware of, have knowledge about, be sure of and trust those who are standing before you, teaching
and equipping.
Ive seen some ministers use the analogy of military status to mandate blind obedience. Were Gods
army, Im his general, so get in line and dont challenge or question my orders, EVER.
If that is the case, then they should consider this: If any ofcer gives a soldier (less in rank) an order that
doesnt line up with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the soldier (even if hes not an ofcer) can
go up line to a higher authority and/or challenge the order. That isnt rebellionits going by the
book.
Higher authority in the body of Christ,
is the Spirit of God and Scripture.
The Haages love movies. Let me give some illustrations that may help illuminate my point. Have you ever
seen the lm, Crimson Tide? Denzel Washingtons character, Commander Hunter, was the Executive
Ofcerthe second in commandunder Gene Hackmans character, Commander Ramsey, who was
the Captainthe Commanding Ofcer. They had gotten initial orders via an E.A.M. (Emergency
Action Message) to launch their nuclear missiles because a Russian rebel group had acquired some
Akula class submarines and were preparing to launch a full strike of their nuclear weapons.
However, another E.A.M. came in designating a possible revision in those orders. Unfortunately, the
communications went out and the E.A.M. was cut off mid-sentencea message fragment.
To complicate things, a Russian submarine showed up in the area and they couldnt take the time to
surface to check on the second set of orders due to the very real threat of the Russian rebels getting to
launch their birds (missiles). A very tough spot to be in for anyone in authority.
As Commander, Captain Ramsey ordered the launch based on the initial E.A.M. But the book says
when updated orders are given but not yet clear; you wait. As the Executive Ofcer, Commander
Hunter reminded the Captain of that. Nevertheless, the Captain gave the order over the intercom to
launch. (Thankfully, on a nuclear submarine prior to 1996, you need both the Captain and the Executive
Ofcer to concur with each other before a launch is authorized)
Exec. Off. Hunter reminds Capt. Ramsey of this and an intense argument ensues.
Ramsey tries to have Hunter arrested for mutiny but no one would move on it because they knew Hunter
was right. Based on Capt. Ramsey wreckless actions, Exec. Off. Hunter has the Captain relieved and
sent to his cabin under guard.
In this case, the second in command was right to wait and to challenge the Sr. Ofcer. The whole thing
was not a good scene with a mutiny transpiring. But the Sr. guy was wrong and he suspected it of
himself, though he was compromised by his reaction to the rst E.A.M.
Ultimately, when the communications were re-established, it was indeed determined that the orders were
not to launch. Millions of people were spared and a nuclear holocaust was avoided because one man
of integrity who doesnt compromise, challenged an erroneous call by his superior (Commanding
Ofcer) and kept to the book. (a very good lesson for all of us in ministry)
45
Heres another example from the brilliant movie, A Few Good Men. Colonel Jessup played by Jack
Nicholson gave an order to a junior ofcer to implement a code red to a Private Santiago. They were
to duct tape his hands and put a cloth down his throat to teach him a lesson not to fall behind all the
time and to be a better Marine. (Pvt. Santiago had a heart condition) He reacted to the cloth in his throat
during this code red and died. Rather than challenging and disobeying a direct order from their
superior, his men blindly submitted. The result was someone died because of their unwillingness to
refute heresy (false teaching or command). This is serious stuff.
(By the way, there is some colorful language in both these military based moviesjust so you know
if you rent them)
Again, our higher authority is the Word of God, written by the Holy Spirit. You have the freedom to
check things out and are instructed by scripture to test the spirits (I John 4:1) You are commanded to
question anyone or anything, if it isnt consistent with the Bible.
In Dave Johnsons book, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse, this is wonderfully addressed in the
chapter, Because Im the pastor, thats why. Isolated scriptures, taken out of context, have been
responsible for far too many lives being shipwrecked in the name of God. There are countless scriptures
that point to the humble servant that we are supposed to be, as opposed to the ivory tower boss
promoted by todays Pharisees, that require OBEDIENCE, no matter what.
Again, minister (Gk. diakonos) means servant.
Matthew 18:16 (Jesus speaking) that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be
established.
Phil 2:3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each
esteem others better than himself.
esteem2233. hegeomai, hayg-eh-om-ahee; mid. of a (presumed) strengthened form of G71; to lead,
i.e. command (with ofcial authority); g. to deem, i.e. consider:account, (be) chief, count, esteem,
governor, judge, have the rule over, suppose, think.
Notice this: the word esteem in Phillipians 2:3 is the same word that some wrongly teach for
rule over as meaning, superior.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves
rule over2233. hegeomai, hayg-eh-om-ahee; mid. of a (presumed) strengthened form of G71; to
lead, i.e. command (with ofcial authority); g. to deem, i.e. consider:account, (be) chief, count,
esteem, governor, judge, have the rule over, suppose, think.
Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female:
for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, In truth I perceive
that God shows no partiality.
Eph 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
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Mission: Impossible
one to another240. allelon, al-lay-lone; Gen. plur. from G243 redupl.; one another:each other,
mutual, one another
Notice its mutual, this submission deal. Thats Bible.
Besides Jesus, its widely agreed upon by theologians that Paul was probably the most inuential and
powerful man in the New Testament, having written 2/3 of it under the inspiration of the Spirit. This
same Paul who penned I Thess. 5:12 and Hebrews 10:17 (Scriptures used to control people) also wrote
Phillipians 2:3, Galatians 3:28 and Ephesians 5:21.(Scriptures illuminating the requirement of putting
others rst)
Its the overall ow of the Bible you need to stick withBible interpreting Bible, not someones opinion.
Thats called hermeneutics.
There are some people, including ministers, who nd their worth, value or self-esteem from their jobs
and/or titles, mainly men. Notice something very important in scripture. Paul never addressed himself as
the great apostle Paul nor did he ever say, You will call me Apostle Paul, for I am Gods appointed
man.
No, Paul was the most humble guy on the planet after his conversion. He always said, I, Paul, an apostle
of Jesus Christ (job description) or a servant of Jesus Christ or the least of apostles, NOT, Im the
great Apostle PaulGods hot shot. I require and insist, that you give me my due respect and the title.
No, Paul had the revelation on the serve deal. Look at it for yourself:
(Romans 1:1) Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God,
(Romans 11:13) For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify
mine ofce:
(1 Corinthians 1:1) Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ
(1 Corinthians 15:9) For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because
I persecuted the church of God.
(2 Corinthians 1:1) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the
church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:
(2 Corinthians 12:12) Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs,
and wonders, and mighty deeds.
(Galatians 1:1) Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father,
who raised him from the dead;)
(Ephesians 1:1) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus,
and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
(Colossians 1:1) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,
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(1 Timothy 1:1) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord
Jesus Christ, which is our hope;
(1 Timothy 2:7) Whereto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie
not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
(2 Timothy 1:1) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life
which is in Christ Jesus,
(2 Timothy 1:11) Whereto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
(Titus 1:1) Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of Gods elect,
and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;
(I Timothy 1:15) How true it is, and how I long that everyone should know it, that Jesus Christ came
into the world to save sinnersand I was the greatest of them all.
As a matter of fact, Paul had the humble and team mentality down pat. Notice what he calls most of his
ministry team players including the very young new pastor, Timothy. He calls them his workfellows
in the King James Version. In the New King James Version, thats a fellow worker and calls himself a
partner in Philemon 1:17, not a superior. Look at some of this for yourself in the original texts.
Romans 16:21 Timothy, my fellow worker
fellow worker4904. sunergos, soon-er-gos; a co-laborer, i.e. co-adjutor:companion in labor,
(fellow-) helper (-labourer, -worker), labourer together with, workfellow.
Phillipians 2:25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in
labor, and fellowsoldier
companion in labor4904. sunergos, soon-er-gos; from a presumed comp. of G4862 and the base of
G2041; a colaborer, i.e. coadjutor:companion in labour, (fellow-) helper (-labourer, -worker), labourer
together with, workfellow.
fellowsoldier4961. sustratiotes, soos-trat-ee-o-tace; from G4862 and G4757; a co-campaigner, i.e.
(g.) an associate in Christian toil:fellowsoldier.
Over and over Paul uses that language. He calls Philemon a fellow laborer in Philemon 1:1 and calls
Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke fellow workers in Philemon 1:24.
Church workits a team deal!

Not subordinates, not underlings, not second class ministers under him, less in rank, less important,
secondary or inferior.
No, Paul called them co-laborers, companions in labor, fellow helpers. In other words, separate in job
description but equal in position. The day of the hot shot, superstar is over.
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Mission: Impossible
We all need to get Pauls revelation of the team. One body.

Of course we need to respect the role or position that someone is in but simply put: Dont glorify or
idolize anyone with titles, accolades or pious robes. Do not elevate people because it may come back to
bite you and certainly you should be aware of when they elevate themselves.
If Robert Smith is a physician then calling him, Dr. Smith, is appropriate. Ask him how he wants to be
addressed, out of respect.
If Sue Jones is a cop then Ofcer Jones, is probably what you should call herwhile on duty. Its a sign
of respect.
Similarly, calling someone the Reverend such and such is ne, as long as, youre not setting yourself
up for a potentially controlling situation by giving them possibly too much honor.
I dont need anyone calling me Rev. Haage or Pastor Greg. My ego doesnt require it. I know who I am
because of Jesus. Im secure with Him, my wife, my kids, my friends and my talents. Yes, I certainly
appreciate the respect I get for the years of Bible College, then getting my Masters degree, studying the
word and recognizing my calling but I dont insist on it. I usually just say, Heyjust call me Greg.
Oftentimes, that brings down some walls, which is always good, right? Again, as a minister, Im called
to serve. That truth needs to come back into play. Many in ministry are being resisted by God right
now because of their pride.
I understand the notion that familiarity breeds contempt. Some dont give your words the weight that
they should because they know you. Jesus dealt with that:
Mark 6:4 But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his
own relatives, and in his own house.
It can be true but certainly not always. (Some ministers use that scripture as an out in not developing
close friendships and keep others out of their life. Its basically the fear of man, still intact)
When my dad was alive, I never would dream of calling him, Mr. Haage. Nor would I call him, Bill.
For me, he was Dad.
Similarly, when I pray, I dont say, Lord God Almighty of Israel No, I pray like Jesus showed me
how to: Father
Yes, He is the Lord God of Israel but He is, more importantly, my heavenly Father who wants me to
come to Him daily and without fear. With reverence and awe yes but He doesnt want us to be fearful.
Jesus is my Savior. He is called the Lord Jesus Christ but when I talk with Him during the day or
night, I usually call Him by His name, Jesus. He doesnt mind and most denitely likes you and me to
be intimate with Him. Yes, He does indeed like that.
In some church ows or camps, submission has not been rightly divided and has been unfortunately
been used by some to shame, guilt or control.
Theyve confused Spirit led help, aid and assistance, as wrangling, bucking, stubbornness or
rebellion, when confronted on the proper application of submission. The very thing that God is
trying to impart to them, in order to shore up some areas that need addressing, they contend with, out of
49
insecurity, fear, previous indoctrinations on submission to authority and/or simply by being new in
ministry. God doesnt care how long youve been in ministry, you still need to listen to people. He just
may be speaking through them to get through to you.
So, a nal scripture in this yoke of bondage that Jesus warned us to beware of:
I Peter 5:5 Yes, all of you be submissive one to another, and be clothed in humility, for God resists the
proud, and gives grace to the humble.
resists498. antitassomai, an-tee-tas-som-ahee; from G473 and the mid. of G5021; to range oneself
against, i.e. oppose:oppose themselves, resist.
proud5244. huperephanos, hoop-er-ay-fan-os; from G5228 and G5316; appearing above others.
Again, there are far too many apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachersor anyone calling
themselves ministersthat have postured themselves, by their own pride, into the position of being
resisted by the Lord. Not smart but its their choice.
Look at who He gives grace to: the humble not the cocky: I Peter 5:5 Yes, all of you be submissive
one to another, and be clothed in humility, for God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble.
humble5011. tapeinos, tap-i-nos; of uncert. der.; depressed, i.e. (g.) humiliated (in circumstances or
disposition):base, cast down, humble, of low degree (estate), lowly.
Basically people who have been stepped on, broken, hurt, squashed, depressed, humiliated, abused,
ignored or abandoned. Common people who dont think more highly of themselves than they should.
Personally, I want grace and dont want to be resisted by God. My goal is to be humblethe prodigal
son safe at home. (We all have to be careful about getting into pride. Even by pointing out others
who are in pride, you can get prideful in your assessment of them. You dont want to be that which you
despise, right?)
So, is there a perfect church? No, not yet. When Jesus returns, there will be. But for now, we can aspire
towards excellence. Pray for your church and its leaders. (Some of the most lonely, discouraged and
defeated (privately) people, I know, are ministers) Try to be supportive and actively helpful. Create an
environment where people are welcome and safe. Encourage the leaders to give each area of ministry,
its rightful attention. Unfortunately, some churches and ministers have been harsh, brazen, arrogant,
condescending, patronizing, belittling, degrading, controlling, sexually abusive and manipulative. (Thats
why you shouldnt confuse great charisma for anointingremember, Satan is very charismatic)
The good churches do just the opposite. They build up hurting people and allow the Holy Spirit to use us
to restore them. This is what we do at the house church I oversee that the Lord has entrusted me with,
UP FRONT Fellowship.
At those meetings, we minister to others through the word I teach, then we pray and fellowship with
them, offer hospitality and be available to talk with. My wife and I enjoy that.
Know this: most ministers I knowwhether they are denominational or non-denominationalare kind,
hard working, passionate and are sensing a new season of repentence, restoration and humility. The
walls of division (racial/doctrinal) are nally starting to come down in the true church. The world needs
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Mission: Impossible
to see us as one or theyll just scoff. If you are blessed with a great pastor and group of believers you
call your church homemega, mid-sized or in a small house churchtake a minute now to just thank
the Lord for His blessing of that in your life. Far too many dont know that safe place.
The whole point of the leaders in the church and ministry is to help others be better witnesses for
Jesus. Thats their assignment.
Eph 4:11 And He Himself (speaking of Jesus) gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists,
and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry for the
edifying of the body of Christ.
Some call them the ve fold ministry gifts. They are job descriptions i.e. assigned tasks for certain
believers.(They are not above anyone though)
Let me do a quick overview for you in this Mission Impossible: Finding a perfect church topic:
apostles652. apostolos, ap-os-tol-os; a delegate; spec. an ambassador of the Gospel; ofcially a
commissioner of Christ [apostle] (with miraculous powers):apostle, messenger, he that is sent.
Basically, the apostle is a sent one. This can be someone who is commissioned to birth new works
and/or establishing churches and mentor other ministers. Basically, a missionary. They are great leaders
with the power of God to conrm the word preached with signs, wonders and miracles. From what Ive
studied, they are itinerant. (On the road) Be careful, however, of those who call themselves, apostles.
(Jesus speaking) Rev 2:2 I know your works and your labor and your patience, and how you cannot bear
them which are evil: and you have tested them who say they are apostles, and are not, and have found
them liars: (The self-appointed ones? Look out for)
prophets4396. prophetes, prof-ay-tace; from a comp. of G4253 and G5346; a foreteller (prophet);
by anal. an inspired speaker; by extens. a poet:prophet.
The prophet speaks for the Lord. He addresses changes that need to take place and are often moving in
the gift of word of knowledge. They have the gift of basically reading your mail. They dont condemn
or embarrass you but are sent to encourage, rebuke or warnif necessary, expose unrepentant sin,
exhort, comfort, lead and offer hope.
Many church leaders are very careful about those professing to be a prophet, rightfully so. The prophetic
has been abused too often thus many pastors are simply guarding the ock theyve been entrusted with,
which is reasonable. Im guarded myself, unless I really know the man or sense the Spirit indeed wants
to say something.
On the other hand, some pastors/leaders will never allow a prophet to speak the word of the Lord because
theyre afraid of what might get exposed or addressed. Some simply believe, prophets arent needed.
Prophets are usually misunderstood and come across as loners, therefore they intimidate many. The body
of Christ needs the prophetic. However, they are just people, therefore they can miss it. Their words are
to be tested. Many lives have been damaged or worse by someone bringing a Thus saith the Lord,
when it was just their own thought or opinions for that person or couple. Be careful. When someone
says, Thus says the Lord, its usually a mixture of God, the person and some general insights.
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True prophets see things in the spirit realm. They are called seers. Personally, Id listen to the
authentic prophets. Some have said that prophets arent necessary for today. In light of Sept. 11, I
disagree.
Like apostles, you need to know what Jesus warned the seven churches in the book of Revelation
about:
Revelation 2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel,
who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat
things sacrificed unto idols.
True prophets will be aligned with other ministries and churches and wont be a lone ranger, who are
accountable to no one.
evangelists2099. euaggelistes, yoo-ang-ghel-is-tace; from G2097; a preacher of the gospel:
evangelist.
Simply put, evangelists are preachers. The most famous one to us is obviously, Billy Graham. He is at
out anointed by the Lord to preach the Good News. (Remember that you evangelistsGood News not
bad news. God loves the worldHe doesnt want anyone in hell)
Millions have come into the Kingdom because of brother Grahams faithfulness and effectiveness. In my
estimation, he is a national treasure. (Not to be idolized but respected) If you want to nancially support
a solid ministry, hes a sure bet. The evangelist does what we should all be doing: being a witness,
sharing and proclaiming Gods love that Jesus died for sinners and was raised from the dead to show the
worldand Satanthat He is Lord.
pastors4166. poimen, poy-mane; of uncert. afn.; a shepherd (lit. or g.):shepherd, pastor. Pastors
take care of people, the good ones, that is. This is one of my jobs, along with music ministry and
marriage counseling. (I like being a pastor. I like to think Im a good one. Its my desire and Ive always
liked helping others) I consider it a great honor and dont take it lightly, trust me. Peoples lives are in
the balance by what we say or do.
Good shepherds are word students, aspire to walk in purity and try not to compromise. They are men
of character. They are to be, like any good Christian, examples of integrity. I believe in the plurality
of leadership. One overseer per ock or home church, yes, but advised, counseled and inuenced
by other solid, mature elders, ying in formation with the bishop/pastor/overseer. Its a balance that
requires constant self-examination and humility. It is that checks and balance system that protects against
the all too prevalent system of spiritual abuse i.e. control or manipulation.
When Paul and Barnabas had a problem, they didnt go to a pastor at a local church, they went to the
apostles and the elders. (Acts 15:2)
Believers are instructed in James 5:14 when sick, to call on the elders not just the pastor, although the
pastor will be one of the elders. The teaching that God leads through one man is Old Testament, not New
Covenant. No, its a plurality of leaders.
I mentioned earlier about roles for men and women. This is a touchy subject for many so lets
address it for claritys sake. The issue really is all about proper authority and assignments.
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Mission: Impossible
Women have been (and continue to be in many places) underappreciated, not valued and treated as
second class for centuries. Its not Gods plan. Women were a huge part of Jesus ministry yet they
had distinct roles. Not inferior just distinct. For example, a wife under the authority of a husband isnt
a position of inferiority, its one of protection. (Read Liberated through submission by Bunny Wilson.
Shes married to an ex-music producer and got set free when God showed her this truth)
Jesus is under the authority of the Father yet Hes not inferior. They are one but not the same. There
must be a head of a church, ministry and family otherwise theres confusion and chaos. God does things
decently and in order. I dont nd any place in Scripture where a woman is to be the head of a husband,
church or a ministry. This cant be dismissed as cultural, as some would promote. That dangerous line
of thinking gives permission and license for some to live in forbidden lifestyles because that was then.
Weve evolved and matured so the cultural restrictions found in the Bible dont apply.
Eve was created to help not lead. Biblical chain of commandin the home or in ministryand
todays feminism just arent compatible. The masculinization of women and the feminization of men is
proof positive were sliding away from Scripture. Godly women are easily submissive to men when they
know they will be treated as Jesus told men to treat them: with respect and honor.
Women have their roles, as do men. Personally, my life and ministry wouldnt be nearly as fullling
without my wife and her input. Same goes for my daughter, my mom, my sister and all my female
friends. Theyre very important to me. Many women run businesses and hold political ofces, which is
great. Christian women are called to pray, prophesy and witness but according to Scripture, theyre not
to pastor a church nor are they to be the head of a marriage. (If youre a single mom, temporarily, thats
different) Solid doctrine is crucial.
A woman can never be the husband of one wife. (I Timothy 3) Many American churches dont stick
with Biblical doctrine (teaching). Its why were in a moral decay and things are upside down.
teachers1320. didaskalos, did-as-kal-os; from G1321; an instructor (gen. or spec.):doctor, master,
teacher.
The teacher gift is someone who is very astute in the Word and can rightly divide it and communicate it.
Good ones are wonderful to listen to. Simply put, they are instructors. (Chuck Swindoll, Jack Van Impe,
Les Feldick and Hank Hanegraff are some I listen toalthough at times we differ)
A good point about the ve fold ministry gifts taught by Jack Hayford about perfecting or equipping
people for the work of the ministry involves healing up the spiritually wounded, restoring them, teaching,
encouraging and getting them back out in the world loving on people and sharing the Good News.
perfect2677. katartismos, kat-ar-tis-mos; from G2675; complete furnishing (obj.):perfecting.
Training is just one aspect of it. Jack Hayfords deeper study showed it included the mending and
caretaking of people who have been hurt, sometimes by ministers. He discovered that the Greek verb
katartismos, was used most often in terms of medicine i.e. setting a bone. The analogy of an out of
place member of the body needs help i.e. mending. His insight was not so much getting people to work
the ministry but rather getting them in working order for the ministry, much like a medic in the military
would. Its a great insight that all of us who call ourselves ministers should examine and embrace. One
of the best ways to get people doing the work of the ministry is by mentoring them, hands on.
53
The four key areas to be addressed at a believers gathering, home group or assembly (the book of Acts
principle for church) are the following:
Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the (#1) apostles doctrine and (#2) fellowship, and in (#3)
breaking of bread, and in (#4) prayers.
1. apostles doctrine1322. didache, did-akh-ay; instruction (the act or the matter):doctrine,
teaching
2. fellowship2842. koinonia, koy-nohn-ee-ah; partnership, i.e. (lit.) participation, or (social)
intercourse, or (pecuniary) benefaction:(to) communicate (-ation), communion,(contri-), distribution,
fellowship.
3. breaking2800. klasis, klas-is; fracture (the act):breaking. bread740. artos, ar-tos; from
G142; bread (as raised) or a loaf:(shew-) bread, loaf.
4. prayers4335. proseuche, pros-yoo-khay; from G4336; prayer (worship); by impl. an oratory
(chapel):X pray earnestly, prayer.
There it is pastorsthe church model. Embrace it.

So, do you want your congregation to grow and be healthy? Follow the model:
Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies,
according to the effective working by which every par does its share, causes growth of the body for the
edifying of itself in love.
supplies2024. epichoregia, ep-ee-khor-ayg-ee-ah; from G2023; contribution:supply.
People, help your church leaders by offering your contribution.
Jesus is called the chief Shepherd and He takes care of us. Hes easy to submit to because He is so
trustworthy and faithful. Its been my experience that ministers, churches and staff get caught up with
the way other ministries are doing church, get the snapshot in their heads as to how the big boys
operate, read about it in Charisma magazine ads and then come back to their church or ministry and try
implementing it. (Basically its like putting a square peg in a round hole) You can force it in, cut, splice,
shimmy here and there to make it work but invariably it wont be a good t. You cant manufacture or
whip up, Gods presence nor His will for your ministry. Each congregation in Jesus church worldwide,
is unique. Theyre supposed to be that way. (Avoid the cookie cutter approach to ministry)
Unfortunately, too many people have been running from special meeting to special meeting striving
to get more of God, a special touch, a now word, gold in their teeththats the latestor chasing
some sign, wonder or miracle. Hey, the Lord Jesus knows your address and phone number. Running
across the country to nd Him isnt faith unless youve been directed to. You can diligently seek Him
in your home town and save $1000s. Being hungry is great but the Lord can minister and talk to you
right where youre at. Many get caught up in an experiences relationship and a next move mentality.
Dont get suckered into buying the hype of a charismatic preacher, please. Passionate preaching I love
just be heads up.
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Mission: Impossible
Yes, you can fall under the power of God and some have legitimately done so BUT too many at
some of these meetings are being pushed over or feel the peer pressure to fall backward when being
prayed for because others fall. In my studies, the only time someone fell back was when the soldiers
were coming to arrest Jesus and His power knocked them over but He wasnt ministering to them at a
Charismatic church gathering, by any stretch of the imagination.
People are just wanting a touch from God. I understand that. My wifes question is If God knocks
you over, why would you need someone to catch you? If Hes powerful enough to drop you, isnt He
powerful enough to cushion your fall? Its a good point and worth meditating on. (Shes very sharp and
has good radar)
Again, our position is were Openly, guarded. Its healthy. Once you establish trust for someone, you
move from suspicious to relatively condent, which is a good place to be. As Ive said, Ive been
in full time ministry for many years. (Full time meaning, all my worktime and talentshave been
put into ministry and all my income received from it) Ive seen, experienced and learned thousands of
lessons: lots of good, some bad and even, the ugly.
When I was nishing up Bible College, I had to think about being credentialed. Even when the Lord
calls you and puts it on your heart to the point where you cant think about doing anything but serving
Him with your vocation or occupation, you still need to be recognized and validated by qualied
ministers, otherwise, youre nothing but a self-appointed, hot shot. You dont need a denominational
recommendation but you should seek out those who are experienced men of God who concur that you
have been denitely given your commissioning by virtue of your heart and the fruit in your life. Again,
the qualications that I examined earlier are clearly spelled out in the word (I Timothy 3 and Titus 3) for
those who seek the high calling of minister.
In 1994, Pastor Jim Glassford, an associate pastor at a large mega church at the time, had gotten to
know me, recognized the call on my life and invited me to a monthly ministers meeting to get the ball
rolling for my next few steps. The rst onea big stepwas being licensed as a minister. This isnt
an easy deal, at least if you do it right. There are far too many advertisements out there that basically
say, Well get you licensed and then ordained, as well as, get IRS approval as a church. Just ll in your
name on the back of this matchbook cover There are too many people in ministry who shouldnt
be. Why? Theyre not called, theyre self-appointed and looking for fame, fortune and/or notoriety.
Some in ministry have their motives completely off. Again, the true ministers assigned to be an apostle,
prophet, evangelist, pastor or teacher are called by the Lord as servants to equip others to do the work
of the ministry, period. (Its sort of like Ofcers training)
If youre pondering this and youre called, Id call a reputable pastor or contact a trusted para-church.
They should have a tough credentialing committee to make sure you truly are commissioned by God.
(Some organizations Ive seen advertising in magazines simply have you mail in $50 dollars and youre
in. No questions asked. Its basically a mail order scam)
A good para-church will send you literature and you can apply for one of four places that you have to
qualify for:
1.
Certied Christian Workerbasically those called as helpers.
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2. Commission to Preachlittle or no experience but are in a season of assisting pastors/ministers in

order to gain experience.
3. Licensed Ministersome ministry experience but need more time (two years) in order to be better
equipped as a minister.
4. Ordained Ministersomeone who has an established and proven ministry. (After licensing
period of two years is up)
If youre going to oversee a ministry, hold services or gatherings and want to give people the benet of
being able to have their contributions tax deductible, youll need to have your legal ministry papers in
order. The place you start is getting a 501(c)(3) non-prot, tax exempt status approved by the IRS, which
we did. The application fee is $500. But you may need a professional, like a lawyer to help you ll it out
so the costs could be well over $1500.
Having fellowship with seasoned pastors and ministries is invaluable for wisdom, experience, a sounding
board, prayer and just basic accountability so if you start veering one way or another that isnt healthy,
there is a protection mechanism in place. Ive been mentored by Pastor Derek Vander Merwe and he
has been a God-send for me, and other pastors. I lean on him in tough situations, as well as, ministry
applications and scriptural insights. If more ministers had this kind of mentor/peer/protege fellowship,
there would be far less stress in ministry and far fewer casualties.
As a minister and pastor, I have strong counselors in my life, by choice: I desire God directed wisdom
and protection. Besides Derek Vander Merwe, I have my brother-in-law, Alan Winter. He is a very
seasoned Christian and has been in ministry over 20 years. He is a short term missionary and goes
all over the world impacting people with the love of Jesus. Alan preaches a balance of scripture, that
very few do. He doesnt play the crowds, he speaks the truth in love. While he certainly believes and
teaches that God blesses with material things, his position is this: Im most interested in preaching
the cross, Him crucified and is now risen. (I couldnt agree with by dear brother more)
Chew on that a bit. Material things are nice but if it isnt increasing your desire to witness along with
a passionate hunger and thirst to know the Lord more, its time to re-prioritize. Church integrity and
back to the basics: thats the real deal. Its what the world is looking for. The church is NOT a building.
It is a body of followers of Jesus Christ who love, help, serve and yes, sometimes confront. Ive seen
some old footage of Billy Graham in his earlier days. He was confrontive but loving. Personally, I think
hes a great example of integrity and someone who never compromises the message of the cross. Even
today when hes on Larry King, for example. His message remains: God loves us and proved it by
sending His only son to die for ours sins. A simple message that wont ever change.
Revival starts in the heart of someone. That can happen at a tent revival meeting but it can also happen
in a quiet one on one conversation on a porch. Most of the effective ministry work Ive done has been
face to face in an intimate conversation where walls are down.
We are to be witnesses by living the life of a Christian rather than going witnessing. (How do you feel
when you see those two Jehovah Witnesses approach you on a Saturday morning? Right, thats what
I thought. Two by two is scriptural but living it speaks louder than passing out tracts and invading
someones space) Commit to do this: read His word (Hell talk to you there), pray (spend quiet time in
His presence ministering to Him and listening) then gather together to fellowship and worship with like
minded believers, small or large venues. Special meetings can be great if the Holy Spirit is having His
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Mission: Impossible
way: people coming to Jesus, great music facilitating deep worship, people getting healed, delivered,
being properly prophesied over and lives being changed. Unfortunately, too many Christians are getting
sucker punched by some ministries with the emphasis on money, blessings, houses, cars and planes.
Wherever we go, we need to be a witness. (salt and light) At Cub foods, the gas station, the dry
cleaners, at home, out in the world not just putting on a religious mask at church on a Sunday morning.
Church is supposed to be where you gather to worship the Lord with others, end of story not hiding in
the comfort zone of my church.
When you nd the right one, youll know it because you can be yourself. Everyone needs to nd a safe
place for fellowship, accountability and spiritual feeding, as the family of God.
As the soldiers of God, you need to nd courageous, seasoned veterans whom you can trust your life
with and in turn, can trust you. When youre in a reght or a foxhole situation, youd better know who
youre ghting with, right? You wont be hashing out opinions of scripture there, youll just want to
survive and know the person next to you is going to ght with you.
We consider ourselves quite fortunate to have found a handful of ministers to serve with as we do
spiritual warfare against the evil in this world together. The two ministries Ive aligned myself with,
Frontline Missions, and Praise2worship are run by men of integrity and are not only approachable but
readily accessible.
Theres no perfect church. It is an impossible mission to nd one but we can move towards maturity
and servitude. One of my dearest friends and peers in ministry is Pastor Chuck Peterson. Hes a
preachin, wild guy for God. His quote on church & ministries is this: Example, isnt the main thing in
ministry, its the only thing. I concur.
A nal thought about money, circles of friends, outreach, inuence and stewardship: Handle money very
carefully. Scripture warns about desiring wealth i.e. pursuing or lusting after getting rich. Dont be
judgmental toward people acquiring things. (especially if youre not yet. Thats envy) Nor be judgmental
towards people when they seem to be nancially challenged. (and youre apparently walking in great
blessingsthats patronizing and pride) Both are wrong.
The parable of the vineyard workers in Matthew 20 is a great lesson in distribution. (The main point
is Jesus can give grace as He sees t but the natural truths of nance and pay, apply) In this parable, if
the boss, i.e. God, wants to give someone $100 for one hour of work and yet pays another worker $100
for 8 hours of work (which this person agreed to)no one should be complaining. The boss calls the
shots. Rejoice when someone gets a break and/or achieves some degree of success. Celebrate people
when grace comes their way. God just may be choosing to equip them for a great task for Him. We all
need a worldview of bringing the Good News, which includes money and teamworkthat will move an
imperfect church away from self interests and closer to Jesus.
Thats the real deal.
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Chapter Four
BURYING YOURSELF
(Water baptism)
(Acts 10:48) And He commanded them to be baptized in the

name of the Lord
Getting water baptized literally changed my life. When the pastor at the church we were attending said,
If you havent been baptized as a believerif you were christened as a babyyou need to get water
baptized and dont put it off. It will change you forever. It didour pastor was right about this step of
faith in our following Jesus.
My rst thought, probably like yours, if you were raised in a Christian home, was Hey, wait a
minuteI was baptized. What are you trying to hand me? They sprinkled me as a baby.
This challenge caused us like many others to react emotionally to, maybe even deantly rather than
responding to a scriptural principle. Its because of the denominational indoctrination we got as kids,
a lot of us have to unlearn erroneous traditions.
I knew though when I heard the challenge, that the Lord was speaking through this pastor directly to me.
As the spiritual leader of the home, I in turn would have to instruct Denise and the kids as to why we
needed to get baptized. (Being in the dark on this topic, the study began) The rst thing I needed to
know was why not just that I should. Whats the big deal? Isnt it just some religious ritual?
Well, Jesus Himself, thought it was important enough that He included it in the Great Commission in
Matthew 28:19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the
Son and of the Holy Spirit.
As followers of Jesus, when He says to do something, we should just do it. Not because we have to or
Hell punish us but because He said to do it and we want to please Himthats the real deal.
A big controversy is Do I have to be water baptized to be saved? The answer is, of course not. (Most
folk brought up in the Catholic and Lutheran ow have heard this line of thinking but its not Biblical)
The controversy comes from an erroneous interpretation of Mark 16:16 where Jesus says He who
believes and is baptized will be saved. Not rightly dividing the word, they arrive at their teaching.
The Bible says in Hebrews 6:2, however, that there are doctrines of baptisms.(plural) In Mark 16:16,
Jesus is talking about the rst of the three types of baptism:
1.
Baptism into the body of Christ (salvation)
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2.
Water baptism (being identied with Christ)
3.
The baptism with the Holy Spirit (lled with power)
Lets see a good example of NOT being water baptized yet inheriting the kingdom of God.
In Luke 23:43, Jesus said to one of the thieves being crucied with Him, Assuredly, I say to you, today,
you will be with Me in paradise.
Notice, He didnt say, Now, wait a minute brotheryou know the drill. No baptismno heaven. Or
Well, Ill cut you a deal. If you can nd a way to get yourself off your cross, nd a seminary graduate
and go get dunked, well well talk. Of course not, thats ridiculous!!!
Many are in a doctrinal ditch on this. We arent saved by anything we do. It is only by receiving what
God has freely givenJesus. It says in Ephesians 2:8, For by grace you have been saved through faith;
and that not of ourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. ITS A FREE
GIFT. (Luther had that part right)
So, by pressing in I discovered three main reasons to get baptized:
1. Jesus said to do it
(the Yes, Lord deal)
John 15:10 If you obey My commandments, you will remain in My love, just as I have obeyed my
Fathers commandments and remain in His love.
2. It shows a lifetime commitment to Him, publicly
(From the engagement to the marriage i.e. the vow)
II Cor. 11:2 I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present youa pure virginto
Him.
3. It marks a new beginning
(Like the Sting song A brand new day)
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now
live in the body, I live by the faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
The whole point of being water baptized is to let the whole world know, especially to those who know
you, this declaration: Im following Jesus. Im His. Im not looking back. Im forgiven and have no past
to look back to. I make mistakes along the way but Ill trust Him to help me get back on track. Mark this
moment. This is my 4th of Julymy independence day!
Jesus died, was buried and then was resurrected. Those are the facts. By getting water baptized as a
believer and follower of Him, youre identifying with Him. Here are some scriptures for this Bible
truth.
Romans 6:3-6 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized
into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was
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Burying Yourself
raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we
have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His
resurrection, knowing this that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done
away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.
Do you have a secret sin? Have you ever felt you were a slave to that secret sin youre dealing with?
Getting water baptized with the right heart declares Thats it! Enough is enough. You once and for all
are choosing to live right and the Lord will honor you.
Theres a little booklet called My heart/Christs home. In it, it talks about places in your life as rooms.
Many have rooms in their house that they really dont want Jesus looking in. You knowlike the
hidden cubby, the basement stash, etc. Id suggest letting Him do some house inspection. Give Him
access to do His spring cleaning unlike any other can. (I so testify) Worry, lust, greed, pridethey
can all diminishlittle at a timewith His help through your permission, moving towards elimination
of them.
Colossians 2:11-13 In Him (Jesus) you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature,
not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been
buried with Him in baptism; and raised with Him through your faith in the power of God, who raised
Him from the dead. When you were dead in your sins and in the circumcision of your sinful nature, God
made you alive in Christ.
Back to the baby christening deal. As a Presbyterian infantlike most Lutheran, Catholic, Methodist,
infantsI was sprinkled in our church, as a newborn. My mom explained to me, however, that when
my dad and mom chose to go through this ceremony, they viewed it as more of a dedication to God, than
a baptism.
So, in 1991, as I was being challenged to get baptized as a believer, I needed a clear answer. I found it,
as it jumped out at me.
In Acts 2:38, Peter says, Repent and be baptized.
After reading that and re-reading that, the obvious question that came to me was, How can you repent
as a baby? The answer of course is, you cant. Youve got nothing to repent from. Although many
say, Youre born a sinner, a more accurate statement would be, We all turn into sinners. Babys
arent sinnersthey grow up to be through the fallen nature. If they die (born or unborn) they go to
Heaven.
If babies were sinners and if they werent sprinkled, theyd be lost forever, some say. That is heresy to
teach yet many do teach just that by the inference communicated through the baby sprinkling ceremony.
If its looked upon as a dedication with the intent of instructing the child in the things of God and
teach them that at some later date, theyll need to be baptized once they are a believer, I understand that,
although it seems like a fruitless exercise. It would be so much better if wed just do things the Bible
way, not the American tradition.
In seeing the repent and be baptized scripture, it settled my traditional, denominational teaching on
baby sprinkling: it was error and not Biblical.
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The fact that I was deceived and was mistaught, irritated me. And as far as the sprinkling goes, lets
look at the original Greek. Baptized is the word baptizo (#907 Strongs Concordance) which means to
get fully wet, to make whelmed, submersed, immersed. In other words, get dunked.
Jesus being our example in everything, after being baptized, came up out of the water. (Matthew
3:16) He did this to show us the way to get baptized, not because He had toHe was sinless. He simply
gave us an example or model to follow. When Philip, an evangelist and one of Jesus twelve disciples,
was preaching Christ to the eunuch it says they went down into the water (Acts 8:38) Scripture is
really clear about the baby sprinkling thingIts not supported anywhere in the Word.
A lot of things in the Bible are symbolic, like taking communion, for example. The bread represents
Jesus body broken for us and the wine represents His blood for the remission of sins. (I dont ascribe to
the transubstantiation teaching taught by some, where the communion elements literally become His
body and blood. They are representative. Ill touch on that later in the book)
Similarly, when we get water baptized as believers, we are symbolically being crucied with Him,
(Galatians 2:20) being buried with Him, (Romans 6:4) and being resurrected with Him. (Colossians
2:12) It was a miracle day, for Denise and me, along with our son, Jonathan. He asked Jesus into his life
at 4 and most certainly knew what he was doing then. At 8, he wanted to make his public declaration
with us. It was awesome. Our daughter, Piper, followed in our footsteps three years later, when she too
chose to say, Im a Christian. Im following Jesus. They are both solid followers of Him.
As Denise and I were progressing in our new walk with the Lord in 1991, we were fully persuaded that
getting water baptized was going to mark an amazingly new work in us. She and I had plenty of things
we wanted to buryindividually and collectively.
One of Satans most effective weapons against Christians is fear. The afternoon we were baptized, a
wave of it came at me just as my turn to get into the water was approaching. It took every ounce of faith
I could hang onto just to stay put. I could relate to that scripture that says when youve done all, stand.
(Ephesians 6:13) It took all I had within me just to exercise self-control, yield to God, take authority over
the situation and stand. Finally I said quietly, Uh no, Satan or whatever demon is hassling menot
today. I am going to do this. Ive got the victory and you wont rob me of it.
Why would the devil choose to harass me then? Whats such a big deal about baptism that threatens
him? Because every advancement in your walk as a follower of Jesus scares him. He knows, as a spirit
being, the results of getting closer to God. Youre a threat thus these assaults come at the most interesting
times, usually when youre not thinking about it, expecting it or prepared for it. The fear he throws at
you sounds so convincing and immediate and makes you panic. The master suggestor/accuser that he is,
brings you the following mental/spiritual warfare to contend with:
Who do you think you are getting baptized?
Who do you think you are following Jesus?
Youre gonna faint
Youre gonna have a heart attack
Youre gonna die
Im going to expose you and your sins.
When they nd out what youve done, theyll throw you out
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Burying Yourself
Of course, I never faint, I never have a heart attack and Im still alive. Hes a liar and I know it. When the
fear assault comes at you, however, your calm, methodical, logical, reasoning faculties are sufciently
put to the test, so youd better be ready. Anyway, I went into and under the water, and came up a new
person. The immediate results were joy and peace. (Two highly coveted items in my life) The past was
behind us and each day since then is a new opportunity to share His goodness with others. Again, things
like lust, fear, love of money, selshness, anger, depression, and the like, have dissipated and were
moving towards complete eradication.
The way to be baptized is to get dunked. Do it scripturally:
Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Thats how we were baptizedin the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. There are a few other
references but they all essentially relay the same thing: getting baptized in the name of the Lord.
Acts 2:38, baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Acts 8:16, 19:5 baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Acts 10:48 baptized in the name of the Lord.
Dont let anyone get legalistic with the name in which you get baptized. Some say it has to be in the
name of the Lord Jesus Christ to be valid. Others say it has to be in the name of the Lord.
God knows your heart. Follow Matthew 28 and youre ne. Some Oneness Pentecostals and other sects
actually have put condemnation on people because of this. Dont allow them to mess with your head.
Solet me conclude with the question that the Bible asks
Acts 22:16 says, And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins,
calling on the name of the Lord. Getting dunkedits the real deal.
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Chapter Five
POWERDONT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT!

(The baptism with the Holy Spirit)
Luke 24:49 Behold, I send the Promise of my Father upon you; but wait in the city of Jerusalem until
you are endued with power from on high. (bold mine)
Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you shall be
witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (bold mine)
Doctrinal issues frequently isolate Christians from one another. The Baptists against the Pentecostals.
The Catholics with the Protestants. The Lutherans with the Methodists. Or even the Baptists with the
Baptists, the Pentecostals with the Pentecostals and the Catholics with the Catholics. There is so much
division amongst followers of Jesus.
There are few doctrines that stir up more, shall we say, intense fellowship, than the baptism with the
Holy Spirit, along with one of the evidences that youve received it, namely, speaking in tongues. Jesus,
the Messiahthe Saviorthe Lord, said to His disciples, Wait for the promise of the Father. My
paraphrase Before you go and preach about Me and My Kingdom, get the power.
In other words, Powerdont leave home without it!
When Jesus told his disciples to wait before they go out preaching, it was after His awesome victory
over Satan at the crosscommonly called the Atonement, (Romans 5:11, Col. 2:14), after the three
days that Jesus was in the lower parts of the earth (Hadesthe upper part of hell) getting the keys
of hell and death back, (Rev.1:18) after whooping on Satankicking devil butt and taking names,
(Colossians 2:15, Ephesians 4:9), after He gathered Old Testament saints from Paradisethe gulf
xed between the upper part and lower part of hell (Ephesians 4:8) and after His resurrection. (Matthew
28:6) Hes talking to His small but mighty and loyal church. He told them to wait for the power i.e.
The ultimate equipping.
You may ask: The power of what? Power to say what? Power to do what? Why do we need it? Dont we
get it all in one shot?
The Greek word for power is dunamis (#1411 Strongs Concordance) which means miraculous power,
ability and might. It has been taught that this is where we derive our word, dynamite. The Holy Spirits
baptism gives you explosive power. Wonder working miraculous power. Its subsequent to your
receiving the Holy Spirit, when you make your decision to receive Jesus.
First off, lets settle something doctrinally, right here. The purpose for being baptized in the Holy Spirit
is NOT to speak in tongues i.e. languagesas it has been poorly taughtbut rather it is for being
empowered to be a great witness for Jesusto win others to Him.
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The reason or purpose is for being effective as a Christian. One of the evidences that youve received the
baptism with the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongueslanguages of men and languages of angels.
Question: Do you have to speak in tongues to be lled with the Holy Spirit? Of course not. Ive heard
of some ministers shaming people by implying they dont have the Holy Spirit unless they speak in
tongues. Thats error. Love is the chief barometer of being lled, not tongues.
I heard about the baptism with the Holy Spirit while attending St. Cloud State University. I stumbled
onto a couple of books browsing through some Christian literature. One was called, Theres more
and another called The Holy Spirit and you by an Episcopal priest named Dennis Bennett. I was at a
place where I was really hungry for the things of God. For me, the experience of being baptized with the
Holy Spirit was quite like when I got saved: I asked for it and I got it. (Luke 11:13) I simply exercised
child-like faith. There were no reworksthere was no lm soundtrack playingno apparitions. A
peace came over me, I knew that I had received a promise and had advanced in my walk.
The rst dozen attempts at speaking in tongues were pretty funny and denitely awkward because no
one had trained me or taught me what to expect. (I almost blew it off) The babblings that were coming
out of me sounded very inarticulate and simple. Like millions of others before me, I thought, This
is stupid. What am I doing? Im just making this stuff up. Forget it. Just what Satan, unbelievers,
unbelieving believers and my natural reasoning wanted me to think
Youve just concocted this yourself.
Youre playing with the devil by speaking in tongues.
That was just for the disciples timeall thats past away.
(FYIReading Pat Boones book, A New Song, helped a lot. I wholeheartedly suggest you read that
book for his insights) As I was diligent to exercise this new prayer language, it got more uent and
more intense. It became like it says in John 7:38, out of his belly (spirit/heart) will flow rivers of living
water. You control this ow so dont think youre in a trance or something. God wont force you to
pray a certain way nor will He just all of a sudden take over your vocal chords, your lips, your tongue
and start rattling off.
So many think and say, Lord, if its your will for me to be baptized with the Holy Spirit and to speak
in tongues, well, do it Lordjust make me. Thats your part, friend, not Hisits the faith part. Look
at John 7:39 for a minute.
John 7:39 (But this He spoke of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive: for the Holy
Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) (Bold mine)
Notice it says that you should receive the Holy Spirit not that you would receive Him automatically, in
baptismal measure. You have to ask Him for it (Luke 11:13) and you have to obey Him.(Acts 5:32) I
became fully persuaded that it could not be me making this language upthat it was indeed God, in and
through, me. The wavering in my mindIs this or isnt this the Lord?became a non-issue.
In Matthew 3:11, John the Baptist said, I indeed baptize you with water to repentance, but He who is
coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry, He will baptize you with the
Holy Spirit and fire.
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PowerDont Leave Home Without It
Thats where we get our phrase, Theyre on re for God or Theyre red up. The Greek word
for re is pur. (#4442 in Strongs Concordance) This re, when tempered with wisdom, love and
patience is the most powerful tool for being a witness. Thats what Pentecost was all aboutequipping
and preparing all those people for soul winning and discipling. Its a dangerous place to not be Spirit
baptized and continually lled with the Holy Spirityoure more vulnerable to demonic attacks, trust
me. Circumstances can potentially cripple you.
Matthew 12:43 When an unclean spirit (a demon) goes out of someone, he goes through dry places,
seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, I will return to my house from which I came. And when he
comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits
more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that person is worse than
the first.
At Pentecost, there were 120 people waiting on God for this power thing that Jesus had spoken of.
In Acts 2:2 it says, And suddenly(I like that part)there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing
mighty wind and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided
tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began
to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
A typical American church service? UhI dont think so.
Let me pose some questions to you:
When was the last time a rushing mighty wind hit around your church service where people look drunk
and are speaking in other languages?
When was the last time you welcomed the Holy Spirit?
Has He ever been? Do you wait for Him to lead the service?
Whats more important: God moving in your midst or programs?
*A side note for all my Catholic brothers and sisters in Christ. Mary, the one youre told to pray to, was
in the upper room at Pentecost.
Acts 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary
the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples,
and said, the number of names together were about 120. Acts 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was
fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven
as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared to
them tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit
and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Mary was there among the 120. She was in one accord with them. She witnessed that suddenly
thing. She was one of those who got zapped and was speaking in tongues. Mary, with all due respect,
was an on-re, tongue-talking, radically saved, believer. The same Jesus she gave birth to, later saved
her and lled her with His Spirit.
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Peter, one of the 12 disciples, the only one who walked temporarily on water and later denied Jesus three
timesafter this suddenly thing hit him in the upper room, then got up, preached and 3000 people got
saved. (Acts 2:41) Good fruit, eh? Again, this was after he was baptized with the Holy Spirit, not before.
You think youre a soul winner now, just wait until you ask for this promise of the Father.
Heres a common statement of reaction: Well, I got all the Holy Spirit I need when I gave my life to
Christ.
Well, if thats so, why would Jesus have told His disciples to wait for the promise of the Father? After
all, they were the ones who ate with Him, watched all the miracles take place and saw Him personally,
scourged, crucied and raised from the dead. Id say they knew Him. If they were commanded to get
baptized with the Holy Spirit, how much more do we need to? If we got all the Holy Spirit we need at the
time of our conversion, wouldnt have the disciples? Werent all of them saved before Pentecost? Hadnt
Jesus gone to the cross and been resurrected before Pentecost? Well sure. Yet Jesus said wait and get the
power before you go out. In Acts 19:2, Paul the apostle asks this question: Did you receive the Holy
Spirit when you believed? (Uh ohI thought we get all we need at conversion)
So they said to him, We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit (Theres that poor
denominational teaching thing)
And he said to them, Into what then were you baptized? So they said, Into Johns baptism. Then
Paul said, John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should
believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they had heard this, they were
baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came
upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. (Theres that tongues deal, again. Settle it, it
is scriptural)
Most of us run out of things to pray abouteven after an hourpraying for our leaders, our church, our
pastor, our spouse and children, our nances, the lost, etc. It says this in Romans 8:26:
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we
ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Uttered here means intellectually understood. When I pray in the Spirit (tongues) generally I dont
know what Im saying. I occasionally get some specic direction or piece of information revealed to me,
or an interpretation, something that Im supposed to know about or inform another of. Im also praying
out those divine mysteries for my life and ministry.
Additionally, I know that Im pumping up my faith. Sort of like a Arnold Schwartzenegger regiment,
for your spirit.
(Jude 20) But you, beloved, build up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.
It says in I Corinthians 14:4, He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself. Let me give a weight lifting
illustration. When I was in Greco-Roman and college wrestling, I would work on my pecs (chest) every
other day. Id do bench press, incline bench, yes and bar dips. When I missed a workout or two, Id
pay the penalty by being sore for 2 or 3 days longer than I had to. I shouldnt have missed the workout
and I knew it. Diligence is a God ordained principle. Similarly, when you pray in the Spirit i.e. tongues,
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PowerDont Leave Home Without It
youre pumping up your faith. I also know that Im praying out Gods will for my life. And again, I
am praying out mysteries.
(I Corinthians 14:2) For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one
understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.
Mysteries, in the Greek is musterion (#3466 in Strongs concordance) which means secrets. All of
Gods personal things (His secrets) for me, my family and our ministry, are available and attainable.
Speaking in tongues is but one way to ascertain thema code that Satan cant decipher. We do this at
our house church gatherings, as well as, the other ministries I work with. Nothing will happen until you
pray fervently, unless God moves sovereignly.
Every time you pray, youre honoring God by seeking Him through faith and trusting that He cares and
is listening. Each prayer meeting that I hold or at the ones I attend, a ow takes on a life of its own.
Someone will be praying for direction or the leaders of the world and next thing you know, well nd
ourselves being directed by the Spirit into uncharted waters. (Its a ride, for sure) Sometimes we cry.
Sometimes we laugh. Sometimes we just sit there, quietly in awe of who were communicating with:
the Creator of all.
Question: Why do you suppose the devilthrough the traditions of menhas come against speaking
in tongues so hard?
Answer: He knows the results of fervent prayerboth in your understanding and in the Spirit. Satan
fears the Christian who prays fervently and Ive noticed hell distract and try to get you to avoid it.
Some have said, Well, Ive heard that speaking in tongues should only be done in a church service and
only then if there is an interpretation. This is referring to I Corinthians 14:27. This is the public use
of tongues, not private. It says just prior to that verse that tongues are a sign to unbelievers and were
not to forbid people speaking in tongues. (I Corinthians 14:39) Paul is saying it is more profitable for
a demonstration of tongues to be interpreted in a public setting, otherwise, people who havent been
taughtor are non-believerswill all think youre nuts. (I Corinthians 14:23) So, it will benet those
groups of people, if there is an interpretation that accompanies the tongues given. A prophesy, on the
other hand, will benet the whole church. (I Corinthians 14:3)
Paul says to desire spiritual gifts, (I Corinthians 14:1) that things should be done in an orderly fashion,
(I Corinthians 14:40) and that if you speak in tongues but you dont have love being displayed, you are
a clanging cymbal (I Corinthians 13:1)in other words, youre just making a loud noise. An irritating
one, at that. So many have been turned off to the things of the Spirit because some Christians havent
been acting in love and were arrogant about the level of truth they have.
But know this: the power is crucial. The gifts of the Holy Spirit have most certainly NOT passed
away. Only when Jesus Christ comes againthe Second Comingwill they cease. (I Cor.
13:10)
The Great Commission will impact the world but its only through the power of the Spirit. So, the gifts
and the fruit, working together with the fruit being far more important. If a guy gives a word for people
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or gives out personal prophecies but at home, mistreats his wife and kids or is in secret sin, they are
hypocritical and deceived.
The gifts of the Spirit:
1.
the word of wisdomrevelation or understanding given for a specic situation or problem.
2.
the word of knowledgereveals information for or about someone and/or their circumstance.
3. faithnot faith given to cause someone to come to the Lord but rather an enabling faith for the
miraculous.
4. gifts of healingsthis is a supernatural moving of Gods Spirit to impart healing virtue, for His
purposes and glory.
5. working of miraclesSupernatural demonstration of Gods power altering nature or stopping
Satanic activity.
6. prophesythe supernatural gifting of any believernot just the prophetfor a special needed
word.
7. discerning of spiritsthe God given ability to determine or distinguish prophesies or spirits. Holy
Spirit radar.
8. speaking in tonguesdo all speak in tongues? Again this refers to public tongues as a sign to
the unbeliever.
9.
interpretations of tonguesall public tongues must be interpreted to validate the word brought.
The fruit of the Spirit:

1.
loveGod-given caring for another that talks and acts.
2.
joynot a happy feeling but a glad knowing Gods for you.
3. peacethe quiet calm deep within that trusts Him. Not absence of conict but assurance in a
storm.
4.
patience-Endurance or persistence. (Double dose, please)
5.
kindness-The Good Samaritan in action.
6.
goodnessa passion for truth and purity. To walk the talk.
7.
faithfulnessan unmovable loyalty to God and His people.
8.
gentlenessTruth with grace. Sensitive and tender. Meek.
9.
self-controlRestraining your mouth, lusts and/or eshly passions.

The Holy Spirits power is the real deal, dont leave home without it.
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Chapter Six
THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN AND PROTECTION

(The tithe)
Matthew 23:23 Yes, woe upon you, Pharisees, and you other religious leadershypocrites! For you
tithe down to the last mint leaf in your garden, but ignore the important thingsjustice and mercy and
faith. Yes, you should tithe, but you shouldnt leave the more important things undone. (The Living
Bible)
Very simplytithe means a tenth. 10% of your income, in this context, is the way that God reveals
Himself to you, with regards to your nances ourishing and a special protection He promises. The
subject of the tithe is a very touchy topic because of the abuses in the past about money. But the tithe
really is a meat and potatoes, basic Bible doctrine. There are few things that bring out the worst in people,
as talking about how they spend their money. It certainly challenged me and I almost dismissed the
whole deal. It was truly one of the hardest tests in our faith walk, as well as, our marriage (you know
joint checking) but we stepped out in faith and began to tithe.
Few Christians understand the principle of the tithe. They think it is a Twist the armget on your knees
with a gun against your head type of fundraising deal. (Something they probably learned from their
traditional Catholic or Protestant upbringing.) No, as one pastor put it, Tithing is a New Testament get
to not an Old Testament have to. If you want to obey and worship God, you should bring your tithe to
the storehouse (your local church, home group or ministry that spiritually feeds you) with a grateful
heart. We get the privilege of bringing this holy thing called the tithe before the Lord.
Holy Greg? How do you gure its holy?
Well, in Leviticus 27:20 it says, And all the tithe of the landit is the Lords: it is holy to the Lord. (Its
a principle that hasnt changed with the New Covenant)
So rst of all, it is a pure, undeled thingthis 10% dealand secondly, but more importantly, it is not
ours to spendit belongs to Him. Here, let me show you how I came to that conclusion
In Malachi 3:8, the Lord says Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me. But you say, How have we
robbed You? You have robbed Me in tithes and offerings.
The word rob here doesnt mean steal or thievery. (Thats #1589 ganab) Rob is #6909 qaba which
means to defraud, deprive, or cheat Him of the opportunity to bless you. Its not a bill we owe Him
but rather it is His money in the first place. We have simply been entrusted with money as a steward but
the rst part of itthe rst 10%is His. Firstfruits is what its called.
Wait a minutewhat does God need with my money?
Well, He doesnt. He doesnt need it in the sense of giving Him a loan or anything. No, He is quite well
off, thank you very much. Hes got quite a few planets, galaxies, stars, etc. Knowing the benets of
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tithingbecause Hes the designer of itHe gives everyone an opportunity to prove or test Him. The
only way you ever grow, spiritually, is to stretch your faith.
In Malachi 3:10, it says, Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in my house,
and prove me now herewith, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and
pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer
for your sakes.
Before I go on, let me address something. I highlighted meat and devourer because God gave me
an insight into why most churches, ministries and believers arent experiencing more of Him and His
blessings. I ask you to consider it.
The word meat is the Hebrew word, tereph, which is used only one time in the whole Bible. (Its like
God was saying, Listen up because I am only going to tell you this once) It simply means provisions,
food, and/or natural resources. In other words, your daily bread. It also includes nances, as well as,
the tools it takes to advance the Kingdom of God. It also implies the meat of the word that Paul talked
about in the New Testament meaning the deeper things of God being taught to you by a pastor or others
in ministry.
The word devourer is also only used once in the whole Bible. That word is akal, which literally
means, meat-eater.
Boom! There it is.
The Bible says this about our enemy:
1 Peter 5:8 Be alertbe vigilant, because your adversary the devil, walks about as a roaring lion,
seeking whom he may devour.
Soin other words, if the devourermeaning Satanisnt rebuked for your sake because of your
rebellious, deant, willful disobedience, (after youve been given the opportunity to tithe) the enemy
will be allowed to be a provisions eater. A resources eater. A deeper Bible revelations eater. So,
come on ministerspreach the tithe. If theres no teaching on the tithe from the pulpit,building or
street cornerpeople wont know to be obedient. And if theres no obedience to bring the tithe with
a heart of worship to the storehouse, there will be limited blessings and protection. Thats the Word of
God.
If the Bible promises that God Himself will rebuke the devourer if well simply prove Him through
worshipping Him with our holy tithe, in His ordained system of nancing the propagation of the Gospel,
why would anyone say no to it? Receive His blessings and His protection for simple obedience? Only
a fool would pass on that.
The reason why most believers arent ourishing to the degree that they could is because some of the
spiritual leaders that have been too sheepish, apprehensive or just plain scared about teaching this area
of nancial obedience because other ministries have abused the teaching to manipulate or hoard. So,
in response, theyve gone to the other extreme and have kept silent. But by throwing the baby out with
the bath water, theyve limited the success and prosperity of their own people. (Sorry, to step on some
of your toes but those are the facts) And by not knowing the Word for themselves, through their own
ignorance, people get boxed into a corner, where the only bail out, will literally be a miracle.
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The Windows Of Heaven And Protection
The fear of man is a snare. (Proverbs 29:25) It is knowing the truththe whole truththat sets people
free. This meat and meat-eater revelation really opened my eyes.
Back to the teachingrst of all, it says bring all the tithes into the storehouse implying that some were
bringing less than the whole 10%. (Hes also talking prophetically to most American Christians here.
Less than 20% statistically are faithful tithers) If you make $800. per week, your tithe is $80. If youre
self-employed, what you pay yourself after youve paid your business expenses, thats what you tithe
on.
The next part is the part that attracted me. It says to prove Me. In other words, Check Me outtry
Meput Me to the testI wont disappoint you in this tithe deal. Come on, use that faith I gave you.
And as far as the windows of heaven goes, wellDenise and I have personally experienced what it
means to experience His blessings
blessing1293. Berakah, ber-aw-kaw; by impl. prosperity:blessing, liberal, pool, present.
You wont have room enough to receive it. (Malachi 3:10) Its true! The blessing that God pours out
when His windows of heaven are opened to you through your faith and obedience basically means Hes
going to give you and cause you to have favor. With favor comes prosperity. Remember, prosperity
isnt synonymous for money. It includes money to bless your family and promote the Gospel but
nancial provisions arent the thrust of the windows of heaven being opened for you through tithing.
It means youll get more breaks, deals on things and the true riches.Youll be blessed with a great
spouse whos supportive, wonderful children, close and loyal friends, peace of mind, to name a few. Life
wont be perfect but it will be more blessed. If those things elude you, Id consider your ways.
When some people hear about the Biblical principle of tithing, they think somehow that Gods going to
take His heaven size wheel barrel full of $100s or $1000s and dump them off the side of His throne,
through the windows of heaven and all they have to do is collect the dough. Sorry, it doesnt work that
way. So Im clear, the promise of those windows of heaven being opened DOES NOT mean that God
is going to give everybody a Rolls Royce, a Jaguar, a Porche, a mansion in Edina or Minnetonka
afuent Minneapolis citiesa Rolex watch, ten million in T-bills, a yacht on Lake Minnetonkamy
hometownor any other high ticket luxury item. No waythats a false teaching.
It doesnt mean He wont or cant but what Hes talking about here, again, are the true riches that Jesus
talked about in Luke 16:11. Salvation, long life, health, awesome marriage bed, Biblical prosperity
meaning that you will succeed.
The prosperity or health and wealth doctrine as its been commonly called can be dangerous. All
teachings must be based on Scripture. The word prosperity isnt in the New Testament but prosper is.
Its only used once. Again, it simply means to be to succeed or to be successful on your journey.
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul
prospers.
prosper2137. euodoo, to help on the road, succeed in reaching; to succeed in business affairs:(have
a) prosper (-ous journey).
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Haggai 1:6 You have sown much and bring in little; you eat but you have not enough; you drink but you
are not filled with drink; you clothe yourself but there is none warm; and he that earns wages, earns
wages to put it into a bag with holes.Thus says the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.
Its a clear caution from our Maker. Consider your ways.
Success is relative. Any millionaire whos lonely, will tell you that. Personally, Id rather have my
wonderful wife with our marriage intact, children who are safe and healthy, our small ministry ourishing
and great friends, than great wealth, fame or national TV exposure, if it meant giving up my wife, family,
friends and ministry.
Actually, having Jesus alone is worth it all. It says so in Colossians.
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of
men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him (Jesus) dwells all the fullness of
the Godhead bodily. And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
Complete in the Greek means satised, supplied and furnished. I like that. Too many have strayed
from the inspired writing of Paul to the young pastor, where he says to be happy with the basics.
1 Timothy 6:8 And having food and clothing let us be content.
Let me talk here about a popular yet false teaching that many have been exposed to and possibly duped
by regarding the 100 fold return on your giving. Your guaranteed harvest.
The 30, 60, 100 fold return that Jesus talked about is not money. The 100 fold return is the Word of
God. (Matt. 13:3-8, 18-23, Mark 4:3-8, 10:29-30) It basically boils down to the harvest on the seed
plantedthe planting of the Word of God in the good soil of peoples hearts (Mark 4:15) and reaping
the harvest of their reception of the Gospel. (Watching and rejoicing that people get saved) It does
address what God will bless you with, as you sacrice for the sake of the Gospel but remember, with
those blessings come persecutions. (Mark 10:30) Most preachers usually gloss over the persecutions
part. (It doesnt sell as many tapes or books nor get many Amens)
The error of that teaching is that if you give God $25, Hes somehow obligated to give you:
$25 x 30 fold=$ 750.
$25 x 60 fold=$1500.
$25 x 100 fold=$2500.
Thats wrongly dividing the Word of God.

However, because God is an extremely generous giving God, let me give you at least three more
applicable scriptures in the area of money to stand on:
II Corinthians 9:6 But this I say, He who sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he who sows
bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Bountifullythats a good thing.
sows4687. speiro, spi-ro; to scatter, i.e. sow (lit. or g.):sow (-er), receive seed.
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reap2325. therizo, ther-id-zo; from G2330 (in the sense of the crop); to harvest:reap.
sparingly5340. pheidomenos, -dom-en-oce; stingily:sparingly
bountifully2129. eulogia, yoo-log-ee-ah; by extens. benet or largess:blessing (a matter of) bounty
(X -tifully), fair speech.
Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think,
according to the power that works in us.
exceeding5228. huper, hoop-er; a prim. prep.; over, i.e. (with the gen.) of place, above, beyond,
across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the acc. superior to, more than:(+ exceeding
abundantly)
power1411. dunamis, doo-nam-is; miraculous power (usually by impl. a miracle itself):ability
Proverbs 19:17 When you help the poor you are lending to the Lordand He pays wonderful interest
on your loan! (TLB)
God keeps His wordHe just may bless you way beyond a 100 fold returnits not a guarantee,
however. Sowing seed is not a multi-level marketing scheme nor is it a get rich quick lottery. Remember,
faith is just one item in the equation. Love is the stronger force, after all thats what gets the whole deal
moving. Galatians 5:6faith works by love. (Treat people good or your blessings will be plugged up)
There is a tendency in a lot of church meetingsusually part of the Word of faith movement ow
to preach exclusively on wealth and reaping your harvest. Some in this Prosperity camp, in my
humble opinion, have gone way too far and to extremes with money, money, money. Theyve lost their
focus with the context of what that scripture was addressing, namely salvation not big checkbook.
Look at the scripture for yourself. Let me rightly divide the word for you:
Romans 10:8The word is near you, even in your mouth, and in your heart: that is, the word of faith,
which we preach; That if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that
God has raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
NOWCAN IT BE ANY CLEARER?
ITS ABOUT BEING SAVEDNOT LOADING UP YOUR
BANK ACCOUNTS.
Many are duped into thinking that the Biblical sowing and reaping principle is a quick trip ticket to
paradise, easy street and a big bank roll. Most of these prosperity teachers are deceiving people with
things that tickle their fancy.
2 Tim 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall
they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears And they shall turn away their ears from the truth,
and shall be turned unto fables.
Some of the prosperity excesses are indeed that: fables.
There is a clear danger regarding greed or covetousness.
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1 Tim 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having
food and clothing with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and
a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the
love of money is the root of all evil: for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and
pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
The cautions and warnings continue:
Rev 3:17 (Jesus speaking) Because you say, I am rich and increased with goods and have need of
nothing but dont know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked.
2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of
their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
covetous5366. philarguros, l-ar-goo-ros; fond of silver (money), i.e. avaricious:covetous.
proud5244. huperephanos, hoop-er-ay-fan-os; appearing above others (conspicuous), i.e. (g.)
haughty:proud.
Know this: you cannot be a bondservant for Christ and chase money at the same time. Again, the
chasing is more like a multi-level scam.
Luke 16:13 No servant 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. You cannot serve God and mammon.
serve1398. douleuo, dool-yoo-o; to be a slave to.
God2316. theos, theh-os; of uncert. afn.; a deity, espec. (with G3588) the supreme Divinity.
mammon3126. mammonas, mam-mo-nas; of Chald. or. (condence, i.e. g. wealth)
Notice the word serve? Its a strong denition. Being a slave to money, even through a prosperity,
100 fold return, harvest for all in faith, Name it and claim it camp, postures you for falling into a trap
and becoming a slave to the chase. Seek the Kingdom, rst.
The true riches that Jesus talks about? Id focus on those, not the kind that is eeting, deceptive and
probably will leave you hurt, abused or wounded, once you see that youve been duped. You may lose
your family or wind up in bankruptcy court because youre confessing the word and giving all your
money to the church.
Well, Im just standing on the word and believing God for my wealth. I have a covenant so therefore
Im ENTITLED to my millions. If you dont want it, Ill take yours. Im just going to keep on thanking
God for my jet plane, Mercedes, millions, etc. I dont need to ask Him for that stuff: its mine! MONEY
COMETH!
Whoa! Look out, friend. Youre in trouble with that arrogant position. Now then, God certainly does
bless with money. Weve experienced His wonderful hand of generosity in our life. BUT you do not
tell or order God around. You ask Him in humility and condence but the notion that you somehow
command Him is the ultimate pride.
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Again, Id simply do the wordthe real deal, word. Herelet me illuminate to you the best scripture
in this line of teaching is this:
Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be
added to you.
The true riches that Jesus talks about certainly include these things shall be added to you. BUT dont
think that everything youre confessing is something God will allow you to possess or steward.
Denise and I have experienced true riches because of our obedience to tithe and give offerings. We
cannot contain all that He has doneand doesfor us, specically salvation, protection and good
health.
One of the biggest controversies in the Christian community is whether the tithe is for today. Its spelled
out in scripture so well, it shouldnt really even be an issue. Churches and religious leaders throughout
history, however, have mistaught about the tithe, money, giving, obligations, etc. and they have misused
the authority God gave them as those leaders by forcing, eecing or guilting people to give. God loves
a cheerful giver (II Cor. 9:7)not a resentful one.
The Protestant reformationmeaning to proteststarted by Martin Luther, took place because of the
previous actions of the Catholic church. (Im not going to church bash. I know many Catholics who
truly love the Lordwhy the reformation took place is simply a historical fact) A monk named Joseph
Tetzel implemented indulgences. If you gave to the church, you could get your loved ones out of
purgatory faster. (Purgatory is sort of a holding tank between heaven and hell that the Roman Catholic
church teaches. Its not found in the Bible, however) Luther found out about this indulgences policy as
a Catholic monk and thats when the whole thing started. (The love of money is most denitely the root
of all evil)
Today, we are not without our heresies i.e. false teachings and policies, as well, like sending out collection
notices/demands for pledges made in faith or paying for your healing by making a donation. (Real
morale buildersNOT) Then there are, of course, the newsmakers in the TV ministries. So it goes.
The tithe is found all throughout the Biblethe Old Testament and the New Testament. The principle of
withholding really started in the Garden of Eden when God said, Do not touch the tree of the knowledge
of good and evilwithhold from itrefrain from it. (Genesis 2:17) As a good FatherHe set up
parameters. Boundaries with rewards or consequences. Obedience is rewarded and disobedience may
bring calamity upon yourself. Adam and Eve got kicked out because they wouldnt listen to God. Eve
listened to Satan and usurped her husbands authority. Adamwho knew what God had instructed him
to do then failed as a husband to exercise his headship as spiritual leader and priest of the home. (the
garden)
The reason or motive behind the tithe shouldnt be getting all the blessings you can out of God or
receiving all His protectionalthough those are wonderful. You should tithe because you love Him, you
want to honor Him and worship Him with the firstfruits that you work hard for.
I see the tithe as Gods way of nancing the Gospel. In the Old Testament, the tithe was one of many
taxes you had to payone of them being paid to the Levite priests. Today, the new age movement
brings in 50 to 100 times the amount of revenue that the body of Christ does. (Yes, Christians have been
poorly taught but a lot of them can be just plain tight)
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Heres how we got convinced that the tithe was Gods wayHis nancial planof blessing and
protecting us. I had been reading some ministers books late at night during the winter time after getting
home from my gigs. (Nightclubs and recording studios) He was stirring, challenging and daring me to
step out of the boat and trust God with my money. Something we had obviously not been doing.
One night at my desk, while balancing the checkbook, I said a prayer: O.K. Father, you know where
Im at. We want to serve you and obey you by tithing but you see these bills. I know you see these bills.
Now then, (good tone, huh?) if you want me to tithe, I will but Ill be in the hole. So, please show me
if Im on the right track here. I ask you now for your wisdom. Thank You, Lord. In the mighty name of
Your Son, amen.
Not any sooner than I had nished praying, the phone rang. It was a booking agent with a one niter in
Bloomington that not only would cover the amount I was shy but it brought me in a lot of extra, much
needed Christmas money. I laughed and prayed, O.K. O.K. I get it. I was thinking, Man, Hes quick.
Whoa!
Thats been a number of years now and tithing is simply one more brick laid in Denise and my foundation.
Theres no pain involved anymore regarding bills. We know, by experience, that by tithing, the bills
wont ruin us. I keep track of how much weve given in an 8 column ledgerboth the tithe (10%) and
our offerings (anything over the 10%)along with the money that has come in that wasnt planned
on and all the blessings that have occurred. The harvest is always higher than the seed. And the
blessings? Well, were over the #200 mark. Things that shouldnt have happened but did (for our benet)
and things that could have happened (to our detriment) but didnt. (Again, safety and health being the
best benets)
Some people say, The tithe was just a form of taxation under a theocracy in Israelwe live in a
democracy. Well, Jesus said, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Luke 11:3) Do you think
in heaven that God takes a vote? Doubtful. No, Im quite sure that heaven is a theocracy. (A form of
government where God rules)
Then there are those that say that the tithe was under the law during Moses day. Well, Abraham paid tithes
to Melchizedek 400 years before Moses was even born and the law was given. In the New Testament,
Jesus rebuked the religious leaders for tithing but forgetting weightier matters. He commanded them to
tithe but to remember the more important things, (Matthew 23:23) namely justice, mercy, and faith.
In Hebrews, Jesus is called our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek. Melchizedek received tithes
from Abraham and conferred blessings on him. Well, Jesus, as our High Priest who receives our tithes
personally, presents them to the Father, and then confers blessings on us. (Hebrews 7:1-8)
Is the tithe for us today as Christians?
Yes.
Does God desire to bless us if we walk uprightly and obey His word? Yes. (Mercy and grace happens
sometimes even when we dont.)
Will the 90% left over after bringing the 10%, go much farther than keeping the whole 100%? Yes. *By
the way, tithe could have meant half rather than tenth, if that helps.*
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If youre wise, youll start to tithe today. Dont depend on what youre feeling led to do, youve got
Gods word on itthats all you need. (You dont pray because you feel led to. You pray because the
Bible says to) Keep track of the resultsitll build your faith. The tithe, for us, was a life changer. It was
the real deal in our life, marriage and checkbook. You cant afford not to tithe.
Some noted tithers are: Mr. J.C.Penneyowner of the J.C.Penney stores, Mr. Kraft of Kraft Cheese Co.,
Mr. A.A. Hydeowner of Mentholatum, Mr. Heinz of the Heinz Ketchups, Mr. Proctor of Proctor and
Gamble (Ivory soap), Mr. Hershey of Hershey chocolate, Mr. Kellogg of Kelloggs cereals, Mr. Crowell
of Quaker Oats, William Colgate of Colgate shaving cream and toothpaste, and John D. Rockefeller
who began to tithe at the age of eight. His comment was, I could have never tithed on my rst million
if I had not tithed on my rst salary which was $1.50 a week.
The Lord watches how you use what Hes given you.
Mark 12:41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the
treasury:
Jesus knows.
Here are just a few things that have occurred since we started to tithe:
.First, and most importantly, was the preservation of our marriage. Absolutely nothingbesides eternal
lifecompares in the pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it
department as being with my Denise.
.We received a $5000. grant from a couple who simply wanted to bless us and remove some debt.
.Doors were opened and have remained opened regarding two inventions God gave me. (Were working
on the patents now)
.Having gone through three full audits by the IRS, we greatly desired a break. Remember, protection is
part of the tithe promise of His.
.Many bills got paid off much sooner than expected and some were simply canceled, released or
forgiven.
.Many music gigs came my way that shouldnt have.
.People started coming into our lives who helped mature our walk with God and to bless our family.
.Our family as a whole started getting interested, collectively, in the things of God.
.Denise and I both got new jobs we wanted with nancial rewards and benets.
.People out of the blue (windows of heaven blue) started giving us things, causing great savings and a
deep appreciation of the kindness of people and Gods goodness.
.Our daughter, Piper, took a fall on the driveway during the winter time that should have left her with a
concussion, at the least, and yet was up and running shortly after. Another time, while visiting a music
store in St. Paul, we got caught in a street shooting. I was in the store waiting for a speaker and was
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keeping an eye on Piper, ve yards away in the car, locked up. When the shooting started, Piper felt
something i.e. someone, push her down to the oor mats. (Angelic protection) Thank you, Lord.
.My recording studio started getting more clients and a good name for itself and me, as a producer,
songwriter and session pianist.
.Divine appointments started happening left and right. One, for example, was when I was coming back
from a gig in Duluth about 2 a.m., my Honda broke down on Hwy. 35. A guy named Roger who had
a at bed towing truck came and picked up my car and drove me home. (AAA goldgood purchase)
Roger picked me up around Cambridge, so we had a good amount of time to talk. He proceeded to tell
me of his challenges in their marriage, getting serious about the Lord and how we are to treasure our
wives as the gift that they are from God. I left his tow truck shaking my head and smiling thinking Lord,
you are so cool. (God always goes the extra mile)
.Graduating from Bible College with a straight A average and getting ordained as a minister. Two things
I thought Id never see.
.Favor with my mortgage companygoing from 12% to 5% on our home.
.I found two extremely gifted individuals in the graphic design area of a church that gifted me their
time to create the J card/cassette insert on one of my tapes. A $2000. savings. The list goes on and on.
He has been so good. Once you start to tithe and give offerings, dont look back and dont quit! You
wont regret it.
Remember this: Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the LORD, it makes rich and He adds no sorrow with
it. (Its much better His way)
Galatians 6: 6-9: v.6) Those who are taught the Word of God should help their teachers by paying them.
(The Living Bible) v.7-8) Dont be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants; he will
harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring peopleignoring God!harvests a crop of weeds.
(The Message Bible) v.9 And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a
harvest of blessing if we dont get discouraged and give up. (The Living Bible)
Let me share a quick story about after a while we will reap Early on in my ministry experience, I
was promised a wonderful salary as an Assoc. Pastor. However, after four months of no weekly checks,
I concluded that Id been presumptuous in thinking that every pastor keeps their word. I had to remedy
the situation and provide an income for my family. (Thankfully Denise was working so we had somewhat
of a nancial base)
Well, knowing that even Paul the apostle, had to tentmake for a season because some didnt have the
wisdom yet of nancially supporting him and he didnt want to burden anyone, I decided to take a job
that was low maintenance yet paid a decent wage. I found myself delivering Trading times newspapers
all over Minneapolis. God honored that because I did not get tired of doing what is right and brought
a different ministry position to me and rescued us, nancially.
He also kept me humble in the experience: I came home one day thinking Im Mr. Hot Shot Minister and
my young, precocious daughter says, Dad, youre a paper boy? YeahReverend paper boy. (Hey
Im not too proud to do what it takes to feed my family)
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I once was working with a church where the pastor actually taught, Dont tithe until you can afford to.
That was a very poor teaching. Most people will rationalize and never start tithing because they cant
afford to. In the words of Nike: Just do it! You cant afford not to.
Worshipping God with our tithe literally changed our walk with the LordWere far more dependent on
Jesus now. Bringing your rst 10% is the real deal to your blessings and protection.
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Chapter Seven
THE HEM OF HIS GARMENT

(Healing: questions, answers, controversies and mysteries)
Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel
of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
Hebrews 6:12 That you not be slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the
promises.
1 Cor 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then
shall I know even as also I am known.
This will be a pretty lengthy teaching because it is close to Gods heart that you know and understand
His will with regard to healing and all the avenues He uses, His timing, His plans, the whys, the
questions that remain, as well as, some teachings out there that need addressing. The strongest points I
want to make in this chapter are these:
#1) Jesus is alive and still healingI am convinced of that.
#2) Good people get injured, sick and/or dieits a fact.
#3) Gods timing and ways are not oursits true.
#4) God definitely uses doctors and medicine to heal through.
Jesus said, The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they
might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
Christ is the healeryou need to settle that in your mind. He gives life. Satan, however, is a thief.
Good health is a gift from God. He wants you well. Satan, however, hates mankind and certainly does
not want you well, especially if youre a zealous Christian promoting the Gospel. Hell order all kinds of
assigned demonic activity to try to take you out. If you dont believe that, study any great Christians
life. Youll discover that theyve had far more trials, attacks, heartaches and even deaths around them to
discourage or destroy their witness.
Again, Satan is a thief. So, what does a thief do? They take things that arent theirs. Right? They dont
ask; they intrude and plunder. Health and divine healing are blessings from the Creator that the devil
tries to steal from you or your loved one, either directly or through ignorance regarding diet, exercise,
lack of moderation, bad habits, addictions, etc. Hes not just a thief but a crazed, ruthless, murderous
thief. Hes well aware of the fact that his season of destruction, is almost up.
Revelation 12:12for the devil is come down to you, having great wrath because he knows that he has
but a short time.
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Like you, perhaps, Ive had to watch loved ones die, the hardest being my dad, who went to be with
the Lord in October of 1994. Next to Jesus, my dad was the man I most respected, loved and admired.
I have an empty place in my heart since he died. An ache within my soul that surfaces periodically and
unexpectedly. He basically was my hero in most areas of life, especially integrity.
We all had to watch him struggle with the news of cancer, months of aggressive chemotherapy, a
regiment of medications, hair loss, a heart attack from the chemotherapy and nally, take his last breath
at Abbott/Northwestern hospital. Not fun. We were all standing for a miracleGod healing him of the
cancerbut it didnt happen.
My dad was not in agreement with our prayers, in my opinion. He was tired of the whole ordeal,
understandably, along with the fact that somehow he didnt deem himself worthy of such a miracle. The
traditions of some denominations, poor teachings and some Elmer Gantry types left him wondering if
it could or would happen for him. He knew it could happen for others but wasnt convinced it was going
to happen for him. Dad got baptized with the Holy Spirit the last month of his life in his hospital room. I
know because I personally walked him through that prayer of inviting Gods power into his lifein his
case, the power to let go and trust Him.
The morning that Dad died is one Ill never forget
I was at Hopkins Honda getting my car xed, when for some reason I felt led to phone Mom and check
in on Dad. He had experienced a very rough night and was in a lot of pain, so they chose to go to the
hospital to do some tests. When Dads physician, Dr. Ray Scallen, who was also his friend, informed us
that it didnt look too promising, we all knew it was very, very serious, this time. My sister, Heidi, ew in
from Atlanta the following morning and I went to pick her up from the Minneapolis airport while Mom,
my brother Bret, and my wife Denise, stayed at the hospital.
On the way to the hospital, Heidi and I talked of God, heaven, healing, miracles shes seen, as well as,
elusive answers to posed questions of the Lord. Although, I thought I was prepared for a turn for the
worse, I would nd out very soon, I wasnt. When I got off the elevator and stepped onto the Intensive
Care oor with a cup of coffee in my hands, Heidi and I saw ashing blue lights in Dads room. There
was a whole team of people there with one guy hitting Dads heart. Mom was losing it and I thought,
Oh no! Here we go. Not now! Not yet!
We went in, as Mom was ushered out by Denise for an attempt at emotional re-grouping. As Heidi and
I circled Dads bed, she looked at him, then looked up at me and said, PRAY! (We did) Not sensing
anything of a miraculous event occurring, I stepped back for a moment to get my composure and think
about all that Id read in the New Testament and been taught by my ministry mentors and peers. I was
considering Whats next?
Dr. Scallen hugged me and softly said with a voice of experience, love and deep sadness, Hes not
going to make it, kiddo. Although I know God heals, nothing within me disagreed with his assessment.
I had total peace that this was his time to go, as much as we all wanted him not to.
Dads heart attack was very severe. At that point in the scheme of things, he was basically brain dead.
I had no compulsion to jump up and down, pray down re, commission angels, etc. I calmly told myself
that the man I call Dad, was soon to be gone out of my life.
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The Hem Of His Garment
We surrounded him: Mom, Denise, Bret, Heidi and me with Dr. Scallen just off to the side, ready
to comfort us. As I put my head against his head, I moaned in deep agony and loss as Dads body
was expiring. Ive never made a sound like that before. Even as Im typing this, I feel it and am very
emotional. This is the hard part of life, even for the believerletting go. The ache is still resident. Im
not sure if it will completely ever go away. Between Gods comfort, family and friends to lean on, we
dealt with it.
But ushering my Dad into glory was awesome. My mom calls it crossing the great river. Its incredibly
painful but wonderful at the same time. Because I know where he is, namely Heaven, it can only hurt so
much. For some, that may be hard to understand. Dr. Scallen, the nurses and hospital staff were all super.
They made the whole process tolerable by their understanding and compassion.
Personally, I like doctors. Yes, my wife and I are those kind of Christians who believe in Gods power and
modern medicine. Our family physician at Park Nicollet, Dr. Greg Lehman, is great. Being a Christian
himself, I know that he uses all the natural knowledge available to him but I also knows that he prays
about us and for us.
As I said, God uses doctors to bring healing in many cases, so dont go throwing away your medicine if
thats the route Hes using. (Matthew 9:12, Colossians 4:14) God just may use surgery as your avenue,
even for the strongest of believers who know Scripture inside and out. Dont allow condemnation, guilt,
false teaching or pride, to snafu Gods plan for your healing, especially when prayers dont seem to be
working. God alone, ultimately, is the source of all healingnaturally or miraculously. There are
many highly effective medicines and drugs found in plants (forests, trees)God put them there for us.
Revelation 22:2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life,
which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were
for the healing of the nations.
We must do everything we can, naturally speaking, to keep our bodies in sync. Just because Jesusthe
Lord of Glorydied for our sins and is the healing Savior still, doesnt give us a right to misuse, abuse
or neglect ourselves.
Yes, yes, its true that the devil is a thief who comes to steal, kill and destroy you, (John 10:10) he does
walk about like a lion looking for whom he may devour, (I Peter 5:8) and is a crazed, wrath lled,
murderer because he knows he only has just a little more time and very few opportunities left to persuade
people not to accept the free gift of salvation. (Revelation 12:12)
BUT to blame the devil for every sickness and disease is simply a cop out. While I believe, some
sicknesses and diseases like cancer, heart disease or AIDS can be a direct assault on people, especially
children, by Satan, many have simply been exposed toor over exposed togerms, viruses, pollution
in the air, food and water or have genetic pre-dispositions for certain sicknesses. Unfortunately, many
get sick or even die because of the consequences of toxic poisons brought about by the greed of a few.
(A Civil Action, a lm starring John Travolta is a good case in point of how money took priority over
peoples health through the lack of proper safeguards not implemented thus lives were ruined through
water contaminants)
Additionally, excessive and not moderate amounts of fat, sugar, salt, alcohol, etc. along with minimal
or no exercise have also contributed greatly to poor health. And of course, good old American stress i.e.
the rat race, money chasethe great killer. Jesus said, Do not worry, yet many do.
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The lusts of the esh, the lusts of the eyes, and the pride of life(I John 2:16), all are contributing factors
to our lack of good health. If youre going to be a follower of Jesus, you must yield to His words. He is
all wise. If you quarrel with His words, you quarrel with Him.
Doctors and nurses are a gift. But doctors and modern medicine, on their own, only can do so much. (II
Chronicles 16:12, Mark 5:6) They will be the rst to tell you that, if theyre honest. Chemotherapya
modern medicinein my dads case, zapped his energy, along with his will to live. Dad wanted to be
done. He chose at age 71 to go to heaven and God rescued him. My mom describes Gods rescue, as
the ultimate healingI agree.
Psalms 91:14 Because he has set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high,
because he has known My name.15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him: I will be with him
in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My
salvation.
My dad loved the Lord, therefore God was with him throughout the whole process. God denitely
honored him and did indeed give him a great, full life. Dad had a quiet faith, evangelism wise, but
witnessed daily through his integrity, character, passion and generosity.
Traditionally, Psalms 91 is taught that God will intervene in exactly the way we want Him to, when we
want Him to and show up like the Cavalry and there will always be a Its a Wonderful Life happy
ending. (The happy ending is comingour reunion in heaven)
I believe as a Christian and a minister, that Christ is the healer but Ive also learned that He knows far
more than we do and therefore He must be trusted, as hard as that can be at times. Take another look at
those two operative words in Psalms 91
trouble6869. tsarah, tsaw-raw; adversary, adversity, afiction, anguish, distress, tribulation,
trouble.
deliver2502. chalats, khaw-lats to pull off; hence (hntens.) to strip, (reex.) to depart; by impl. to
deliver, equip (for ght); present, strengthen:arm (self), (go, ready) armed (X man, soldier), deliver,
draw out, make fat, loose, (ready) prepared, put off, take away, withdraw self.
A rendering of this in my Dads case could read, Bill, call upon Me, in your day of affliction and
tribulation (loss of weight, feeling puny, nauseousness, fear, being tired, weary, frustrated and defeated)
and I will loose you from this anguish (cancer battle) and take away your pain by strengthening you with
My arm. Ill come and rescue you from all of it, My son.
Dad cried out for His help and he got just exactly that.
My dad found the strength to go see a well known national minister. Rather than praying for him,
laying hands on him and anointing him with oil; his wife taught for 3 hours in something called, Healing
school. No offense to her but my Dad wanted a special touch from Jesus not faith lessons. He had
faith but left upset and frustrated. After that he did not want to go see someone whos known for God
using them to heal like a Benny Hinn or Oral Roberts. No, Dad wanted out. (He didnt put much
stock in people like thathed read Elmer Gantry too many times and had a skeptical view of healing
evangelists. Dad told us, No thanks, there just not my cup of tea). With all the ministry scandals, we
understood that.
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Oral Roberts, Benny Hinn or anyone else cant heal anyone anyway. Theyll be the rst to tell you that.
God simply chooses to use them, as well as, other believers to bring about healing and deliverance. God
can and often uses any believer to bring healing, in His way and His timing, as they step out in faith
and obey Mark 16:18. However, after long and intense battles with an illness, the war can simply be
overwhelming. I wont debate the issue of quittingIve never been in their shoes, therefore, I dont
know the degree of assault or pain. Those who offer opinions in these matters are off to do so.
We should never judge those who dont get healedever!
Why some are healed and some arent is quite complex and will probably remain a mystery on this side
of heaven. Even when you have all the data compiled, the facts are in, people are standing in prayer for
the sickpeople still die. Its sadbut death is a part of life.
OK, if God is so merciful and is the healer, some people say, Why do some people not make it?
Why must children die?
If God is the Creator, didnt He create the evil of sickness and disease?
Why is He allowing Satan to run rampant, anyway?
These are fair questions, to be sure. In the past, the limited knowledge and experience I had in this area
would have caused my rst and last response to be with shrugged shoulders: Got me. However, I
now know that the Bible, prayer and speaking with others whove experienced the move of God, brings
increased illumination and hope in this area. From what I see in scripture, healing, like forgiveness, is
something Jesus freely gives, when He chooses to. He is the giver of blessings and miracles.
There is not one scripture where He denied anyone that came
to Him for healing.
Some preachers teach that physical healing is a guarantee of the Atonement on the cross and He is
not going to come back and get re-ogged, re-crucied, die and then rise again, a second time to heal
you because after allthey sayHe said, It is finished. (When Jesus said that in John 19:30, it meant
the penalty for our sins was now paid for)
Others simply believe and teachlike methat because He always forgave and healed and because He
is risen and is the same yesterday, today and forever, He is still forgiving and healing. (Hebrew 13:8)
Whatever youve been taught, you should know that forgiveness is always available because of Jesus.
Calvary is a done deal and thats where Jesus settled the forgiveness of sin issue. That is the Gospel,
in a nutshell: Christ died for sinners. Regardless of your perspective on healing, God forgave and
forgives and God healed and heals.
Well, what about people like Joni Eareckson Tada?, some have said. She is a popular speaker on
Christian radio who was involved in an diving accident and is now a quadrupalegic. She has a ministry
that reaches out to disabled people all over the world. She has won many people to the Kingdom and
is a great witness when testifying of how He kept her alive and she is today, a wonderful singer, gifted
painter, strong witness for Jesus Christ and is still full of joy.
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Many people believe that their assigned seat or lot in life is permanent. They sometimes unwittingly
intimate that God is responsible for their situation. She wrote in a tract Its hard to think about heaven
when it seems so far away. Besides, weve got to die in order to get there. Who wants to think about that!
And so God gives us a little help in getting our minds on the hereafter. Thats just what God did for me
when He sent a broken neck my way.
I love her, as my sister in Christ but I disagree with the assessment that God caused her broken neck. He
obviously allowed itfor some reasonbut Jesus doesnt break womens necks, to get their attention.
For many that communicates, Serve Me or Ill hurt you. I believe that she can be healed, walking
and even running (Mark 9:23) and I pray for that miracle to happen, maybe even on live T.V. (Im sure
shed admit that if Jesus personally came out of heaven and laid His hands on her, shed walk again but
I also know that lives are changed by her testimony. Either way, God knows best) I totally back her on
evangelism because God has used the accident she had to witness to others who are handicapped, just
as He said he would: He used it for good.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God: to those who
are the called according to His purpose.
good18. agathos, ag-ath-os; a prim. word; good (in any sense, often as noun):benet, good (-s,
things), well.
Whats the good or the benet from her getting hurt and sitting in a wheelchair? How can there be
good from that?, you may ask.
#1: By her own admission, she was under-appreciating Jesus (and Heaven) when she dove into shallow
water, breaking her neck. She was saved but not ready. The accident was tragic, of course. The Lord
allowedNOT CAUSEDthe circumstances to take place. But, had she not been injured, her impact
on the world could have been greatly diminished. Joni is like Paul: Used by God and through a tragedy,
was given a unique opportunity to inuence others to surrender to Him.
You can go to heaven sick or injured but not lost.

#2: There are millions of injured, maimed, deformed, diseased, bound or handicapped people who love
Jesus Christ. The good comes as a witness and example to those considering an abortion. It makes the
statement that there is perfect love toward God in imperfect bodies and aws. Those are cases of all
things work together for good. When healing doesnt come, it doesnt mean its not Gods will to heal,
however. He knows all things and has His strategies and purposes of how to best utilize situations to get
their or others focus with regard to making their decision for His Son. A big issue relating to healing
is both the whys and waiting. (Remember, its His timing)
Some have misinterpreted the following scriptures to accommodate their belief regarding, Healing and
miracles stopped with the apostles thus they usually pray, Lord, if it be your will to heal me.
James 4:15 Instead, you ought to say, If is the Lords will, we will live and do this or that.
This speaks of making plans, decisions and directions NOT being healthy or being healed.
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Gods will for all people, is to accept Jesus as Lord. Many werent healed in the New Testament, I
realize, yet Jesus is still the healer. Focus on that, not who didnt get healed. Can you be healed? Oh
yeah.
When people pray, Lord, if you still heal today, they really are being what the Bible calls, double
minded.
Jesus half brother, James, said it this way:
James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven
with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double
minded man is unstable in all his ways.
A double minded person is someone who ISNT convinced.
double minded1374. dipsuchos, dip-soo-khos; two-spirited, i.e. vacillating (in opinion or purpose):
double minded.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning
you.
Notice something, please, thats very important about that. It does not say, For everything, it says,
In everything. Dont thank God for cancer, AIDS, divorce, bankruptcy, prison, death or anything else
terrible. Yes, thank Him in the wilderness or the valley of the shadow of death because you know He
will bring you through but dont thank Him for it. Its a huge distinction. Here, look at this for a moment,
itll help:
Mark 12:17 And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesars, and to
God the things that are Gods.
In other words, give God credit for His wonderful blessingslife, breath, food, water, family, friends.
Blame the devil for sickness, evil, destruction and attacks on your loved ones, when you know its
coming from Satan and not just an accident or a u bug.
With regard to healing, like many other ministers, I believe that there are hindrances, roadblocks, detours
and brick walls that people run intoeven strong believers. Some of the truths in this chapter may rattle
you but please stay with me. We have been duped by the traditions of our ancestors via the enemy.
Like I said in Chapter One, Gods people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge. (Hosea 4:6) The word
destroyed in the Hebrew is damah. (#1820 in Strongs Concordance)
Damah means to perish, fail, to cease, to be cut down or cut off, to be silent. The church, as a whole,
has done a miserable job of teaching about Gods healing power today. Many men and womenleaders
and lay peopleare so wrapped up, caught up and hung up with their own denominations or nondenominations traditions, ows or personal agendas and ministry growing, that they dont know truth
from deception, in a majority of cases. (Certainly not all but too many)
Thats why Gods people are destroyed. A lack of knowledge, teaching, correction, instruction, handson training and equipping. True ministersthe ones who are called not just hired or self-appointed
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are having to play catch up in the teaching arena, especially regarding tongues, tithing and divine healing.
(These true ministers, by the way, are the most persecuted and attacked)
Again, the Bible says that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) I believe He
is alive and still healing. He is either a dead Jew or He is the risen Messiah. No grey area here. All of
Christianity is based upon the prophesies in the Old Testament regarding the Messiah. Jesus being raised
from the dead on the third day after His crucixionResurrection day commonly called Easteris
crucial to Him meeting the criteria for the Messiah. Had He not been raised from the dead, wed all be
in deep trouble. Everything in our Christian faith is hinged upon His resurrection!
However, because He lives, Hebrew 13:8 is trueHe is the same.
He saved then and He saves today.

He taught then and He teaches today.
He healed then and He heals today.
He is the same. He is God in the esh and God does not change.
IF THAT DOESNT EXCITE YOU, NOTHING WILL!
When Jesus went to His home town, He could barely do anything because of their unbelief. (Matthew
13:58)
Who does this guy think he is? God? (Yup) We know him. Hes Joseph and Marys kid. Hes a
carpenter not the Messiah.
It wasnt that they just had doubts about Him because they knew Him. No, they were in unbelief. As a
matter of fact, the Bible says that Jesus marveled at their unbelief. (Mark 6:6) By the way, it doesnt
say He would not do mighty works there, it says He could not so dont be surprised if your family or
friends doubt your call. This tells me at least three things:
1.
God is always willing to healon His clock, in His way.
2.
God has His part and we have ours.
3.
Traditions of menvia Satanare a killer.
In third world countries, miracles happen with much more frequency than they do here in America because
when preached to, with the simple message of the Gospel. Why? They have nothing to unlearn.
Again, Jesus healed all who came to Himor were brought to Him by others in faithbelieving He
could heal and would heal. He said in Matthew 8:3, I am willing. (Do you really think Hes now
unwilling?)
He also gave His disciplesthats usthat same power to heal.
Luke 9:1 Then He (Jesus) called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over
all devils, and to cure diseases. And He sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.
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This is one of the best scriptures in examining the teaching in some circles that Jesus not only died on
the cross for our sins but also physical sicknesses, diseases, pains and ailments. Notice this:
He gave the disciples authority over all devils and were empowered to cure diseases and heal the
sick long before he went to the cross. Jesus was always the healer. He is risen therefore He is still the
healer. Old Testament or New Testament, God heals.
After studying healing and then praying for insight, I believe, teach and maintain this: Hebrews 13:8,
Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever. He healed then and He heals now. He delivered
then and delivers today. I cant be persuaded otherwise.
But if He not only died for our sinswhich is in itself truly amazing considering the torture involved
with His deathbut also sicknesses, then why would Jesus tell us that part of the signs that would
follow those who believe is that they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover? Why
would He commission us that way? Why would scripture say to anoint people with oil, pray and trust
the anointing of the Holy Spirit to move in someones life? Why would there be the need for gifts of
healings? (I Cor.12:9)
Yes, we are called and commanded by Jesus to lay hands on the sick. Again, thats what He said
believers would do.(Mark 16:18) Ive heard it said by one radio minister, We should change the
WWJD bracelets (What Would Jesus Do?) to DWDD (Do What Jesus Did) Jesus preached, taught and
healed. Were called to do the sameevery believer.
Well, if thats true Brother Greg, why did my loved one die?
The denitive answer is, God knows why. Its not a cop out to say, I dont knowI dont have all the
answers, its the truth. The whys are tough. We do look through a glass darkly in some areas. But
having chopped wood and chewed up the scriptures relating to this topic, especially since Dad died, I
know that there are some insights to the why question.
Ive observed that most people believe God is able to heal them but isnt necessarily willingfor a
variety of reasons. So, the foremost point I want to make is from reading every case of healing by Jesus
in the New Testament, I believe that it is Gods will (eventually) that you are whole, well and living
a long, healthy life as a Christian to witness about His love. Thats His best for you. (See Job 42:12,
Phillipians 2:27)
Psalms 91:16 With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward youthoughts of peace and not of evil, to
give you a future and a hope.
Matthew 8:3 And Jesus put out His hand and touched him, saying, I am willing; be cleansed. (Bold
mine)
Question: Why would He heal then and now stop? Why would He be willing then but not now? The
truth is this: He is willing today.
I cant express enough, this fact:
Jesus is alive and has not changed.
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How do we know that Jesus is still the healer? Because He is the expressed will of God the Father, who
healed all through the Old Testament.
John 6:38 For I came down from Heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of Him that sent me.
Acts 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, who went about doing
good and healing all who were oppressed of the devil
Remember, the greatest miracle is spiritual (receiving Jesus as Savior and Lord) and not physical. If
for some reason(s), healing doesnt happen and you cross over to glory, know that Heaven is a place
where pain ceases. BUT, dont stop believing that healing is available either. It can happen for you!
He healed to demonstrate mercy, grace and love and to restore people back to where God originally
intended them to be: walking in divine health, as long as they can. He always healed when approached.
ALWAYS. Again, He never changes.
So lets look at His ministry as our example.
Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel
of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
Jesus ministry consisted of three main areas:
l. teaching1321. didasko, did-as-ko; a prol. (caus.) form of a prim. verb dao (to learn); to teach
2. preaching2784. kerusso, kay-roos-so; of uncert. afn.; to herald (as a public crier), espec. divine
truth (the gospel):preach (-er), proclaim, publish.
3. healing2323. therapeuo, ther-ap-yoo-o; from the same as G2324; to wait upon menially, i.e. (g.)
to adore (God), or (spec.) to relieve (of disease):cure, heal, worship.
Why teaching? Teaching helps destroys unbelief.
Mark 6:1 And He went out from there, and came to His own country; and His disciples followed Him.
And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were
astonished, saying, where did this man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to
Him, that such mighty works are performed by his hands? Is this not the carpenter, the son of Mary, the
brother of James, and Joseph, and of Judas, and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us? So they
were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country,
among his own relatives, and in his own house. Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He
laid His hands upon a few sick people, and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief.
Then He went about the village in a circuit, teaching.
Why preaching? It gives people the opportunity to believe.
Romans 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? 10:15 And
how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach
the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and
hearing by the word of God.
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Why healing? Its His desire to. Hes good all the time.
John 5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek
not mine own will, but the will of the Father who has sent me.
I John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will,
He hears us. Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we
ask or think
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword,
piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner
of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
These statements may be hard for some to embrace but they are true:
1. Sin is a result of Adam and Eves disobedienceit is a curse and were all guilty thus we need
a Savior.
2. Sickness, disease, labor pain in childbirth, toiling the soil in farming, and dying are all a
byproduct of that disobedience. (Genesis 3:16-19) A return to paradise is a future event. (Revelation
21:1-4) Satan was allowed to reek havoc on this world before Jesus came and dethroned him.
3. Our pollution of the planet has brought sickness and disease upon ourselves. We have not
been good stewards. Weve created many carcinogens through our pollution and greed.
Sometimes peopleboth the young and the oldare needlessly assaulted, attacked, or killed, due to a
lack of observing what God has commanded us to do; namely stand on His word, take authority over evil
and sickness and steward your bodies. Also, the absence of proper prayer cover over family members
and/or friends can, and indeed does, bring the hedge of protection down. Not praying invites trouble.
Living rightGods wayis but one way
to unclog the healing that is available to us.
Psalms 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good
thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
walk1980. halak, haw-lak; a prim. root; to walk
uprightly8549. tamiym, taw-meem; integrity, truth:without blemish, complete, full, perfect,
sincerely (-ity), sound, without spot, undeled, upright (-ly), whole.
Exodus 15:26 And said, If you diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is
right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these
diseases upon you, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that heals you.
hearken8085. shama, shaw-mah; a prim. root; to hear intelligently (often with impl. of attention,
obedience, etc.
do6213. asah, aw-saw; to do or make,
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right3477. yashar, yaw-shawr; just, meet (-est), + pleased well right (-eous), straight, (most) upright
(-ly, -ness).
commandments4687. mitsvah, mits-vaw; a command, whether human or divine (collect. the
Law):(which was) commanded (-ment), law, ordinance, precept.
The curse of the law means obtaining salvation through works. (The curses in Deut. 28, only
applied to Israel for that time.)
Galatians 3:13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is
written, Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree:
redeemed1805. exagorazo, ex-ag-or-ad-zo; to buy up, i.e. ransom; g. to rescue from loss (improve
opportunity):redeem.
curse2671. katara, kat-ar-ah; imprecation, execration:curse.
Before I move on, lets examine the controversial teaching I mentioned earlier. The question of divine
healing in theological circles and church leaders is this: Is healing in the atonement? The answer is,
of course. I Peter says by whose stripes we were healed. So better questions that are more precise and
denitive would be:
Is physical healing guaranteed as a Christian?
Did Jesus die for our sins and sicknesses?
Does healing in the Greek and Hebrew always mean physical?
Ive heard some preachers use the verse in I Peter 2 to say conclusively that physical healing is your
covenant right as opposed to a blessing and a generous gift from the Lord of grace. They quote verse
24 of I Peter 2 to support this view:
I Peter 2:24by whose stripes you were healed.
stripes3468. molops, mo-lopes; (black eye) or blow-mark:stripe.
healed2390. iaomai, ee-ah-om-ahee; to cure (literal or figurative.)heal, make whole.
Some teach that not only were we forgiven of our sins at the cross but were also physically healed and
are assured perfect health.
I Peter 2:24 in context, however, is addressing forgiveness of sins not guaranteed health. Jesus
eradicated the sin issue at Calvary, on the cross. Were we healed by his stripes? You bet. The healing
is spiritual, however, i.e we can be whole. Vines Expository Dictionary concurs with this truth.
Healed is the Greek word, iaomai, which is used in this scripture, as spiritual healing not physical.
In Matthew 13:15, the word heal is the same word that is translated healed in I Peter 2:24.
Matthew 13:15 For this peoples heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes
they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should
understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
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This is talking about the condition of your heart not your body.
Iamoai is used 22 times as physical healing and 5 times as spiritual healing. In Luke 4:18, its used this
way: heal the brokenhearted.
When examining scripture, you always need to back up far enough to get a running start at the ow and
then keep reading several verses to get the full meaning of whats being addressed. So, look at the rst
part of I Peter 2:24 and then verse 25, that is too often omitted:
I Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might
live for righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed. I Pet 2:25 For you were as sheep going astray;
but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
bore399. anaphero, an-af-er-o; to take up (lit. or g.):bear, bring (carry, lead) up, offer (up).
sins266. hamartia, ham-ar-tee-ah; from the Greek #264; sin (prop. abstr.):offence, sin
The Holy Spirit wrote that the Lord Jesus bore our sins not sicknesses and diseases. (Sickness and
disease dont separate you from the Lord: sin does) He certainly could have included sicknesses and
diseases in this text. He didnt, by choice. You dont go astray by being sick. (I Cor. 15:3 says, Christ
died for our sins according to the scriptures.)
Another interpretation is that the stripes mentioned in I Peter 2:24 is talking about the scourging Jesus
received before being crucied.
However, the word stripes in I Peter 2:24 is not the same Greek word that scourging is referred to in
all the other texts in the New Testament, like when Paul was ogged/scourged for example.
2 Cor 11:24 Of the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one.
Stripes4127. plege, play-gay; a stroke; by impl. a wound; g. a calamity:plague, stripe, wound (ed). (Scourging noted 8 times)
I Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins,
should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed.
Stripes3468. molops, mo-lopes; bruise or blow-mark:stripe. (Other words for scourging are
phragelloo and mastigoo NOT molops)
Vines Expository Dictionary explains this spiritual healing or Atonement issue in I Peter 2:24 and
stripes this way: literally, in the original, by whose bruise, not referring to Christs scourging,
but figurative of the stroke of divine judgment administered vicariously (in place of someone else) to
Him on the cross
The teaching that Jesus not only died for our sins but also sicknesses is usually taught by those who
believe that Jesus didnt nish the atonement for our sins on the cross (though He said It is finished)
but had to go to hell to be further punished and be born again Himself.
Sothe question I have to that line of teaching is this: Well, which is it? He died for your sicknesses on
the cross but not your sins? You were physically healed but not forgiven? Sorry, but that simply is a
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false doctrine. Hopefully by showing you these scriptures in context, it will persuade you not to listen to
popular teachings but trust the word of God.
Jesus said this, John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you might have peace. In the
world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
tribulation2347. thlipsis, thlip-sis; pressure (lit. or g.):aficted, afictions, anguish, burdened,
persecution, tribulation, trouble.
Another word for tribulation is afiction. Theyre synonymous. Paul used this in II Corinthians 4:1617.
Therefore do not lose heart though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is being renewed day
by day. For our light affliction, which but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory
afiction2347. thlipsis, thlip-sis; pressure (lit. or g.):aficted, afictions, anguish, burdened,
persecution, tribulation, trouble.
perish1311. diaphtheiro, dee-af-thi-ro; to rot thoroughly, i.e. (by impl.) to ruin (pass. decay utterly,
g. pervert):corrupt, destroy, perish.
If we were physically healed not just forgiven, why would Paul say that all of us are getting old and
our bodies are decaying? Yes, forgiveness is yours when you confess and repent but a promise or
surety of perfect health in a fallen world just isnt scriptural. No, truly Bad things happen to good
people, like sicknesses, diseases and injuries. However, it doesnt change my belief that what the Lord
did then, He continues to do today. Im fully persuaded that Christ is the Healer not was the healer. The
intimation from He physically healed us 2000 years ago, in addition to dying for mankinds sins, is
that Hes not active in your healing today. Hes done all Hes going to do. That kind of rhetoric, in
my experience from watching people respond to this teaching, has the effect of yoking them with the
responsibility of receiving their healing by faith or else NO healing. People can embrace the teaching
of Jesus is the healerHe hasnt changed much, much easier than He healed you 2000 years ago.
Next point in this examination: One of the Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament (Isaiah 53) thats
referenced to in the New Testament that some preachers use as an argument that Jesus not only died for
our sins but also our sicknesses and pains, is found in Matthew 8. I want you to know and be convinced,
that it is very important to examine scripturesFOR YOURSELFin context:
Isaiah 53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid
as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isa 53:4 Surely He has borne
our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
griefs2483. choliy, khol-ee; malady, anxiety, calamity:disease, grief, (is) sick (-ness).
sorrows4341. makob, mak-obe; anguish or (g.) afiction:grief, pain, sorrow.
This foretells of the ministry of Jesus, namely healing the sick and casting out demons thus relieving
people of their pain and torment.
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But, it goes on to say that Jesus took the penalty for our sins: Isaiah 53:6 and the LORD has laid on
him the iniquity of us all. The Hebrew word for iniquity is avonmeans punishment for sin. In
my study, as well as, reading commentary after commentary on both sides of the fence regarding divine
healing and the atonement, Ive come to the conclusion that this scripture, along with others, addresses
Jesus forgiving us of ours sins NOT a guarantee that wed never catch a cold, never get the u, get a
headache, never get a disease or live life without pain or injury. Its simply not Biblical.
Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the
chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.
wounded2490. chalal, khaw-lal; to wound, to break, slay (slain), sorrow, stain, wound.
transgressions6588. pesha, peh-shah; a revolt (national, moral or religious):rebellion, sin,
transgression, trespass.
bruised1792. daka, daw-kaw; to crumble; to bruise (lit. or g.):beat to pieces, break (in pieces),
bruise, crush, destroy, smite.
iniquities5771. avon, aw-vone; perversity, i.e. (moral) evil:fault, iniquity, mischief, punishment
(of iniquity), sin.
healed7495. rapha, raw-faw; or ra-phah, raw-faw; to mend (by stitching), i.e. (g.) to cure:cure,
(cause to) heal, physician, repair, X thoroughly, make whole.
See it? What was Jesus wounded for? What was He bruised for? Yes, it was our rebellion, transgressions,
trespasses, faults and iniquity. The sins weve committed: thats why He came. To pay for them.
In the New Testament, some use Matthew 8:17the scripture referring to Isaiah 53as a proof text that
Jesus removed our diseases and sicknesses, so we should never have them.
Matthew 8:17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, Himself took our
infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
infirmities769. astheneia, feebleness (of body or mind); by impl. malady; mor. frailty:disease,
inrmity, sickness, weakness.
sicknesses3554. nosos, nos-os; of uncert. afn.; a malady (rarely g. of mor. disability):disease,
inrmity, sickness.
If you only read those passages alone without taking the text in context, I can see how some come to
their conclusions based on these two scriptures to denitively make the case that Jesus died for our sins
and our sicknesses. But again, in context, Jesus was healing people long before He even was arrested,
brought before Pilate and then executed. Under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, Jesus healed all who
came to Him. (Isaiah 53 was fullled in Jesus healing ministry)
When you allow scripture to interpret scripture in contexthermeneuticsyoull be rightly dividing
the word to share with others. In context, Jesus had just healed Peters mother-in-law and cast out a
whole slew of demons. It wasnt addressing the means, the time nor the place as to when the healing
issue would be settled. It simply addressed what He was doing: healing and delivering. Again, it doesnt
even mention Calvary i.e. the cross, in that text:
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Matt. 8:14 And when Jesus was come to Peters house, He saw his (Peters) wifes mother laid, and sick
of a fever. And He touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered to them. When
the evening had come, they brought to Him many that were possessed with devils: and He cast out the
spirits with His word, and healed all that were sickand then it mentions v.17That it might be fulfilled
which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
My position, which Im condent is the Biblical one, is this: Jesus healed and He hasnt changed,
therefore, He still heals, period. As I said, earlier, He always had the power to heal and He gave the
power to heal to His followers long before the cross. (Luke 9:1-6)
So I say this: Denise and I are totally persuaded that Jesus Christ died for our sins. We have forgiveness
because of the nished work on the cross. We choose to believe that healing is available because Jesus
always healed anyone to approached Himor was brought by others to Himbelieving for a miracle.
He is risen and is the same. He never once turned down or denied anyone a healing, who was seeking
one.
The main problem with this guaranteed teaching, in my humble opinion, is that its not rightly dividing
the word of truth. Some hear it, dont study it out thoroughly yet preach it. Many simply have heard this
taught by great preachers with charisma thus conclude it must be so.
When I got back into my walk with the Lord, for years I heard that taught and to be truthful, I just bought
the teaching because the preacher or the man of God said so. (Who wouldnt want a Gospel where
youre guaranteed millions and youll never get sick? Wellobviously a lot. There are many cookie
cutter believers)
Then God convicted me to study for myself and seek Him. I simply cant teach something contrary to
Scripture. (I dont compromise the Word) The Spirit leads and guides into all truth, not men.
Secondly, the teaching that Jesus died for your sins 2000 years ago, as well as, physically healed
you and you just need to receive your healing, has the affect of putting a great deal of pressure
on the aficted person. If and when healing doesnt manifest, the guilt that the persons somehow
done something wrong, consumes them. (Ever tried to bench press 400 lbs. when youve got the u?
Thats the effect this teaching often has on people who are sick) It implies that getting healed is all up to
themto appropriate their healing by faith or it wont happen. That is works righteousness. (Faith
is but one element. An important one but not the only one)
Brother, you just need to get more faith.
Friend, you must be in sin if youre not healed.
Why sister, you simply need to confess more of the word.
Healing will manifest when you saturate yourself with these tapes.
Dont ask God for your healingHes done all Hes going to do.
Again, those are works. You cant earn healing by the dos.
Youve got to do this
You need to do that
You just need to believe more. Its all up to you
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These comments can be insensitive and sometimes lack grace. Often they are made by people who
havent personally been down the hell road of a serious sickness that requires the 15 round mentality.
Some have been indoctrinated, some have been poorly taught and some dont get out enough to see what
goes on outside the four walls of their church. These kind of yoking words generally cloud the issue
of healing, as well as, confuse far too many believers, mainly baby Christians. (Were to train babys up
to become warriors)
YES, standing on the word is necessary to ght the good ght of faith and YES, listening to tapes or
reading the Bible about how Jesus healed builds faith. Thats all needed. But its through faith and
patience that you inherit the promises of God. Its in the journey of seeking Jesus, that you discover a
whole new level of love and need for Him. Hes trying to teach us that lessonto trust, depend and rely
on Him.
So, when good health isnt evident or healing isnt showing up: dont give up nor yield to guilt or
condemnation from others. Continue your ght of faith because the Lord said Hell be with you through
the battle. Jesus came to destroy Satans power. He did just that. It is finished means Satans power
has been defused.
1 John 3:8 He that commits (continues, lifestyle) sin is of the devil; for the devil sinned from the beginning.
For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
Its sort of like Superman II, when the top 3 criminals from Krypton put Superman in this booth that
willthey thoughteliminate all his power. In fact, it was a bait and switch. As he was in the booth, all
of their power was eliminated. Busted! Satan got people to yell Crucify Him. Had he known he was
sealing his own fate, he wouldnt have.
But with regard to healing not showing up quickly, dont point the nger at God. No offense but maybe
you have been part of the problem. (Maybe you havent been but maybe you have) God may be resisting
you because of some pride, sin or foolishness resident in your life. That is a very real consideration.
John 5:14 (Jesus speaking) See, you have been made well. Stop sinning or something worse may come
upon you.
James 4:6 God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
You may have brought on cancer by smoking cigarettes. You may be grossly overweight and have
developed a heart condition because of your refusal to change your eating habits and consider exercise
a waste of time. Perhaps your work environment is slowly killing you like being around asbestos, coal
mines or working with toxic chemicals without enough protection, unknowingly or knowingly. Maybe
your 60+ hours per week on the job, in your estimation, is more important than your long term health.
Stress is a killer, literally.
There are many considerations here about the whys?. Finishing up about the teaching Ive addressed,
the Bible is clear about why Jesus came: It was to save sinners, period. Abundant life means you can
now have a relationship with the Father because of Jesus.
Abundant life does not mean youre guaranteed riches or never experience sicknesses, disease or attacks.
Sorry but that is the Gospel truth. (Maybe its time to spring clean your tape and book collection)
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Romans 5:8 But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for
us. Look at that word sinners:
sinners268. hamartolos, ham-ar-to-los; from the Greek 264; sinful, i.e. a sinner:sinful, sinner.
It doesnt say that while we were yet physically ill. No, it addresses the problem with mankind, namely
a sin problem. Sinners and sins are from the same Greek word which simply means to miss the
mark. That was Jesus mission from the beginning: to restore us to the Father. To get us back hitting
the mark. That is what redemption is and that is the nished work of Calvary. (Atonement in the New
T. means exchange)
Q. So, is Jesus the healer?
A. Absolutely. He hasnt changed.
Q. But can you simply claim your healing like putting in an order at McDonalds by making a
positive confession and quoting scriptures out of context and then expect your healing to manifest
immediately without conferring with the Lord about His plan and His timing in this trial and afiction?
I want, what I want, when I want it!!!
A. No. Thats presumption. The Bible says without Jesus, you can do nothing.(John 15:5) The Lord and
His word are one. His ways are indeed higher than ours. He always has a plan and a greater good. Have
you considered that? Id simply advise you to ask Him this:
Lord, is there something Im missing here? Do you have a temporary detour for me regarding this
healing? Do you have a greater plan, evangelistically, for people around me concerning this healing or
the apparent lack of? Fatheram I in pride or sin? Lord, I hand this over to you. Jesus, I surrender
this to you.
Hell honor that prayer more than
Ive got rights! Covenant rights! Honor Your word! It says, by his stripes I was healed, SOwheres
my healing!? This doesnt look good to those Im preaching to!
Im a Kings Kid! Cant you hear me confessing these scriptures? Cant you see all that Im doing?
I was told to just thank you and not ask you anymoreso thats what Im doing.
Look. I can tell you emphatically, thats a haughty, self-seeking prayer and position to take. Dont be
surprised if you get silence. As someone once so aptly and profoundly said, Maybe Hell say, Youll
get, what I got, when I give it!!! Its a good point. You dont give God orders.
Examine this one:
Psalms 103:2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your
iniquities; who heals all your diseases; Who redeemes your life from destruction; who crowns you with
lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfies your mouth with good things; so that your youth is
renewed like the eagles.
benefits1576. gemuwl, ghem-ool; from H1580; treatment, i.e. an act (of good or ill); by impl. service
or requital:+ as hast served, benet, desert, deserving, that which he has
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heals7495. rapha, raw-faw; or ra-phah, raw-faw; a prim. root; prop. to mend (by stitching), i.e.
(g.) to cure:cure, (cause to) heal, physician, repair, X thoroughly, make whole.
all3605. kol, kole; or (Jer. 33: 8) kowl, kole; from H3634; prop. the whole; hence all, any or every
diseases8463. tachaluw, takh-al-oo; or tachalu, takh-al-oo; from H2456; a malady:disease, X
grievous, (that are) sick (-ness).
Of course the Lord is our healer. But various diseases afict multitudeseven the strongest of believers
and often they dont get healed and everyday, they die. Soisnt that a contradiction?
No, it simply means the unpredictable variables that occur in life i.e. spiritual attacks, medical disorders,
sin(s), poor diet, lack of exercise, dangerous environments, lack of knowledge, etc. still plague humanity.
(While theres still sin around, there will be sicknesses) Only the person and the Lord know for sure,
what was really going on in their lives, as to their walk with Him. Again, dont blame God. (God is good
but Hes also the ultimate justice)
There are myriads of reasons why healings are slow or evasive. Perhaps those sick, are just putting on a
good front for those around them from a charismatic corner who trust in works and confession, more
than Jesus specic plan. Perhaps they just want to quit and die. Unrepentant sin may be playing a huge
block. Unforgiveness, for example, will choke the ow of Gods healing anointing.
My counsel? Approach God with condence and honesty when you pray. Yes, its good to call those
things that are not as though they were but saying youre not sick, when you are, is really just lying to
yourself.
Seek medical help, get prayed over, have hands laid on you, get anointed with oil by believers you trust
who dont waver, stay humble and then rest in the fact that healing is available. Dont stop asking Jesus
according to Luke 11:5-10. (Persistence is Godly)
If you believe Phillipians 2:9Therefore God has exalted Him (Jesus) and given Him the name that is
above every name.then all things are possible for you and/or your loved one who is standing rm that
God is willing and able to heal you or them.
Look at it this way: Aids is a name. Cancer is a name. Lupus, infections, glaucoma are all names.
Spinal cord injury is a name. The name of Jesus is far above these names. I believe that and have seen
the miraculous. If you want to ght, Hell be there. If you want to put up the white ag, as a believer
and say Lord, Im tired. Will you please come get me? He will honor that too. He wont leave you nor
forsake those who want Him. You have His promise on that.
If physical healing was a covenant right i.e. guarantee, as opposed to a God privilege and you
could simply call down Gods power at your every whim, there would be no hospitals, doctors, nurses,
pharmacists, researchists, emergency medical people, 911 folk or any other medical professional. They
would be obsolete. Isnt that right? Youd never die, which contradicts Hebrews 9:27: And as it is
appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. (Unless Christ comes in our lifetime, we
all will die)
The danger in the line of teaching that you are a little god or little christ, is that you may start to think
too highly of yourself and be elevated in your own sight with God, as being equal with God. Look out!
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Thats what Satan thought. He got the permanent, quick boot out of Heaven. Stay condent (in Christ)
but stay humble. (before Christ)
Jesus said in Matthew 28:18, All power has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. He has been
given authority by our heavenly Father and has given that authority to usthe churchover demonic
activity. That power is a gift like any other God blessing. We need to at least get that active in our life
during the ght of faith for healing without getting arrogant as to think we can tell God what to do, when
to do it, how to do it and in what manner to do it.
In Matthew 10:1 it says, And when He had called his twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over
unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sicknesses. (Before the cross)
This word translated, power, in the Greek is exousia, which literally means authority.
In Acts 10:38, it says, How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who
went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil for God was with Him.
Sickness and diseases clearly are oppression. It doesnt come from God. It comes from pollution,
ignorance, sin, poor diet, lack of exercise, lack of sleep and of course, stress. Ultimately it comes from
the fall of man by yielding to Satan.
In Luke 13:16, Jesus said that a daughter of Abraham had been bound by Satan for eighteen years. Bound
means to be tied up. Satan did it, not God. In John 10:10, it says that Jesus came to bring us abundant
life but the thief (Satan) comes to steal, kill and destroy. It doesnt say he willit says he comes to. He
can be stopped.
Satan can be stopped for sure but unless God intervenes there are some diseases that can kill if not
detected early. If you refuse to see a doctor after praying, welldont blame God if Hes using that route
for you. Again, its through faith and patience that people inherit the promises of God. Following Jesus
means doing things the way He operated, after all, Hes our model:
Luke 4:38 And He (Jesus) arose out of the synagogue, and entered Simons house. And Simons wifes
mother was taken with a great fever; and they sought Him for her. And He stood over her, and rebuked
the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.
rebuked2008. epitimao, ep-ee-tee-mah-o; censure or admonish; by impl. forbid:(straitly) charge,
rebuke.
See it? This is how we minister. With regard to demons and sickness, you rebuke them (talking directly
to them) with the authority He has given you and dont ask the Father If it be your will. Lifelong
sickness isnt His will for any child of God. The Father is expecting you to exercise the authority that He
has given you through His Son, over the sickness. You take charge over it, in the spirit realm, if thats
the source of the sickness. (It may be medical but it might not be)
So, when youre praying for someone who needs healing and they have lets say, cancer; you rebuke the
cancer. You address it. My prayer in these situations goes something like this:
Jesus, thank you for your healing power. Help us, Lord. As you rebuked the fever, I rebuke this cancer
now, in Your name so disease, I take authority over you and command you to leave this body now in
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the mighty name of Jesus Christ. I stand in the gap for this precious one. Be whole. Be restored. Be
healed.
I then pray, Father, you are the God of the universe. I ask you to move now by the anointing of your
Spirit and touch this person. Have mercy on them, Lord and show them Your compassion and great
power. We know Youre willing to heal and that Youre able. We thank you ahead of time right now, God,
for Your goodness. Help our faith not to waver. We ask you this with confidence, Lord, and release this
to You. We love You and thank You for Your son, our savior: Jesus. Amen. (After this, we wait)
When praying for healing, it takes a real toll on my emotions and afterwards I get pretty emotional. But,
if a Christian doesnt want to be healed, isnt agreeing with what youre praying and they just want to
let go to get it all over with; dont be too surprised if they die and go to be with Jesus. Its hard, I know.
The whys arent easy. Remember, God says that His people perish from a lack of knowledge. A
lot of us have been taught that God tests or punishes His children with sickness and disease. Thats
heresy (false teaching). Would you ever do that to your kids? Of course not and God is a much better
parent than well ever be. James 1:13, says that God tempts or tests no one with evil and sickness can
be an evil assignment.
James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with
evil, nor does He tempt anyone.
tempt3985. peirazo, pi-rad-zo; from G3984; to test (obj.) i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline:
assay, examine, go about, prove, tempt (-er), try.
Back to healing and health. Do we deny the sickness symptoms? Of course not. Thats what Christian
Scientistsand other cultssay, not followers of Jesus. I actually know Christians who havent seen
a doctor in years, even after their forty where an annual check up is simply prudence. They think its a
lack of faith and unnecessary.
.Do we never cast a broken bone?
.Do we ignore technology like X-rays, MRIs or surgery?
.Do we stop taking prescribed medications?
.Do we stop going to the doctor or dentist?
.Do we stop wearing our glasses/hearing aids?
.Do we stop brushing and ossing our teeth?
.Do we never take an aspirin for a headache?
.Do we never take cough syrup or suck on a Halls?
.Do we never give our kids Tylenol?
.Do we cancel our health insurance policy?
.Guys, do you never have your prostate checked?
.Gals, do you never see a gynecologist?
Of course, not! Dont be reckless, foolish or presumptuous, friend!
The whole point to preventative medicine is early detection and God will certainly use a doctor and/or
a nurse to help you in that detection process. Believing that Jesus is the healer and going to see your
doctor regularly are not in conict with each other, so do not listen to someone who says youre out of
faith by doing so.
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Although people like Jerry Lewis, Katie Curic and others who dont, that Im aware of, recognize the
Lordship of Jesus Christ, I greatly applaud their efforts to nd new cures to the diseases that they have
dedicated their lives too. I pray that through this process, Jesus will become real to them as the healer,
as well as, the source of all knowledge and wisdom with respect to M.D. in Jerry Lewis case and colon
cancer in Katie Curic case.
Only pride, fear and/or presumption would keep someone from going to a doctor for early detection
and preventive medicineChristian or not. From what Ive read, Charles Schultzthe Peanuts/Snoopy
cartoonistresisted going to the doctor, even though he knew of the colon cancer history in his own
family. Had he gone to get a simple test, chances are hed still be alive. If you catch certain diseases in
time, with the help of the medical communitywho are inuenced by the Spirit of God whether they
know it or notand before a benign polyp turns into a malignant tumor, youve exercised prudence.
I would never counsel anyone to stop seeing their doctor unless they were being told, Theres no hope
for you. Youre going to die for sure. At that point, Id help you get to another doctor who believes in
prayer and miracles, along with modern medicine. I would also direct you to a minister or any other
Christian that God chooses to heals through.(They will totally be convincedJesus is still the healer)
Believers dont deny the sickness or disease exists
but they should deny that healings not possible.
In Exodus 15:26 it states, If you will diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord your God, and will do
that which is right in His sight, I will put none of these diseases upon you, which I have brought upon
the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that heals you.
Dr. Robert Youngs Analytical Concordance has an interesting slant on this. He states that the original
King James people wrongly translated the Hebrew verb, put, in the causative tense. In his opinion,
had it been accurately translated in the permissive tense, it would have given the correct picture of
what happened: God permitted it or allowed itnot caused it. The correct translation should read, he
contends, like this: I will not permit any of the diseases to be put upon you which I have permitted to
be brought upon the Egyptians, for I am the Lord that heals you.
Its interesting but scripture certainly does point out multiple times when God sent, plagues, oods,
pestilences, etc. as judgment on people who refuse to obey Him as Lord and Master. That is the Bible.
In the account of Job, however, God allowednot sentthe attack by Satan. The devil was the predator
and is still our adversary. But the mandate is clear to us as true believing Christiansthe remnant
Mark 16:17 And these signs will follow those who believe; In my name they will cast out demons;
they will speak with new tongues, they will take up serpents (alludes to Satan); and if they drink anything
deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.
Its not your responsibility to gure it all out. Just do what Jesus said to do, trust Him to move and
release the end result to Him. We are to cast out demons, speak in tongues, rebuke Satan and lay hands
on the sick expecting them to be healed by Gods power.
.We are not to be afraid.
.Who cares if you get kicked out of your denomination.
.We should obey God not man. (if they conict)
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.Dont let disappointments rule you or slow you down.

Anyway, recover is a very important word, here in Mark 16. Very important! Most healing miracles, at
least in America, are not immediate. To recover simply means the beginning of the healing process.
The recovering time frame is different for everyone.
Theres a lot of talk out there, in certain camps, about faith alone. But the patiencewaiting
perseveringenduring deal, wellthats sort of conveniently omitted. No, God is not a slot machine
put in the coin and instant results. (Expect immediacy but exercise patience is the real deal in healing)
It is our responsibility to do Jesus work today: teach, preach and heal. (DWJD) He said wed do greater
works because He goes to the Father. (John 14:12) Greater meaning in numbers not in magnitude. (Its
doubtful if well ever create a universe so dont getting squirrelly about the greater work text)
greater3187. meizon, mide-zone; larger (lit. or g., spec. in age):elder, greater (-est), more.
THE PROBLEM?
There is a devil loose
l. He steals the wordMark 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when
they have heard, Satan comes immediately, and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts.
2. He attacksJob 2:7Satan went out from the presence of the LORD, and struck Job with sore boils
from the sole of his foot to his crown.
3. He killsJohn 8:44 You are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do. He was
a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he
speaks a lie, he speaks of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
4. He oppressesActs 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power:
who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him.
5. He possessesMatt. 4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought to him all sick
people that were taken with various diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils,
and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and He healed them.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY?
Do the Word, trust Jesus and then wait.
1. Get Gods thoughtsRomans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul
prospers.
2. Acquire knowledge2 Pet 1:3 According as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain
to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that has called us to glory and virtue:
3. Know the truth (get to know Jesus)John 8:32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall
make you free.
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4. Worship the Lord with your tithe and offeringsMalachi 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet you have
robbed Me. But you say, When have we robbed you? In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse:
for you have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring you all the tithes into the storehouse, that there
may be meat in My house, and prove me now, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows
of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will
rebuke the devourer for your sakes.
5. Get water baptized as a believer even if you were sprinkled as an infantActs 22:16 And
now why are you waiting? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the
Lord.
6. Ask to be baptized with the Holy spiritActs 19:2 He said to them, Have you received the Holy
Ghost since you believed? And they said to him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any
Holy Ghost. Acts 19:3 And he said to them, To what then were you baptized? And they said, To Johns
baptism. Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people,
that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. Acts 19:5 When
they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his
hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied.
7. Pray in tongues dailyJude 1:20 But you, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith,
praying in the Holy Ghost,
8. Take communion often1 Cor 11:24 And when He had given thanks, he broke it, and said, Take,
eat: this is My body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me. After the same manner also
he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do you, as
oft as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you
do show the Lords death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of
the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself,
and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and
drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body. For this cause many are weak and sickly
among you, and many sleep.
*Again, not discerning the Lords body simply means not giving full worth or value to what Jesus has
accomplished.
9. Call for elders in the church and confess your sinsJames 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call
for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
James 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have
committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one
for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
10. Praise Him and worship HimPsalms 117:1 O Praise the LORD, all you nations: praise him, all
you people. For His merciful kindness is great toward us:
Matthew 15:25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.
11. Pray protection over you and your familyEphesian 4:26 Be angry, and sin not: let not the sun
go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.
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Keep strife, discord, selshness and unforgiveness OUT of your house. Youll be keeping things better
protected against attacks.
12. Exercise patienceMany lessons are learned in the healing processespecially concerning
humility, trust and character.
Hebrews 6:12 That be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the
promises.
ROADBLOCKSDETOURSHINDRANCESCLOGS
1. Lifestyle of sin/unconfessed sinJohn 5:14 (Jesus speaking) See, you have been made well. Stop
sinning or something worse may come upon you. (Please dont ignore this oneits grace in action)
James 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have
committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another,
2. Demonic oppression and bondageLuke 13:11 And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit
of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. Luke 13:12 And
when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said to her, Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.
3. Fear/worry/panic/anxietyPhillipians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, by prayer and petition,
with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Mark 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things
entering in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear: because fear has torment. He that
fears is not made perfect in love.
4. DisappointmentsMark 5:24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged
him. Mark 5:25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, Mark 5:26 And had
suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, but instead of getting better,
she grew worse.
John 5:5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty eight years. John 5:6 When Jesus
saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been in that condition a long time, He said to him,
Do you want to be made well? John 5:7 The sick man answered him, Sir, I have no man to put me
into the pool when the water is being stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.
John 5:8 Jesus said to him, Rise, take up your bed and walk And immediately the man was made
well
5. Good intentioned peopleMark 10:46 And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with
his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway
side begging. Mark 10:47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say,
Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. Mark 10:48 And many rebuked him and told him to be quiet:
but he shouted all the more, Son of David, have mercy on me.
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6. Unbiblical teachingMark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition,
which you have delivered: and many such like things do you.
7. UnbeliefMark 6:2 And when the Sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and
many hearing him were astonished, saying, Where did this man get these things? and what wisdom is this
which is given to him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? Is not this the carpenter,
the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here
with us? And they were offended at him. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honour, but in
his own country, and among his own relatives, and in his own house. And he could there do no mighty
work, except that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk and healed them. Mark 6:6 And He marvelled
because of their unbelief. And He went round about the villages, teaching.
Mark 9:19 He answered him, and said, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long
shall I put up with you? Bring him to Me.
8. Not giving full value to Calvary1 Cor 11:29 For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and
drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lords body. (Unworthily means not appreciating Him
dying for you)
9. IgnoranceHosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:
10. Husbands mistreating their wife1 Pet 3:7 Husbands, likewise dwell with them with understanding,
giving honor to the wife, as the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your
prayers may not be hindered.
(This is a huge deal guys! Dont mistreat Gods daughter.)
11. Craving the forbidden1 Pet 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims,
abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
lusts1939. epithumia, ep-ee-thoo-mee-ah; from G1937; a longing (espec. for what is forbidden):
concupiscence, desire, lust (after).
(If youre dealing with fear or panic, examine your sexual cravings)
12. Pauls thorn in the flesh2 Cor 12:7 To keep me from becoming conceited because of these
surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment
me.
Pauls thorn was a demonic attack in the form of pain, sufferings and/or sickness. It was, as it says, a
messenger of Satannamely some demon(s) assigned to harass him because of his promoting Jesus.
13. Envy or a root of bitternessProverbs 14:30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the
rottenness of the bones.
rottenness7538. raqab, raw-kawb; from H7537; decay (by caries):rottenness (thing).
bones6106. etsem, eh-tsem; from H6105; a bone (as strong); by extens. the body; g. the substance
Hebrews 12:15 See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause
trouble and defile many.
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deled3392. miaino, me-ahee-no; perh. a prim. verb; to sully or taint, i.e. contaminate (cer. or
mor.):dele.
This is obviously a concise list of things that can stie the healing process. Please, dont make demands
for your healing from God as your rights. Ask Him in faith, speak to the sickness, disease or injury
as the mountain in your way (Mark 11:23), take authority over it and any demonic activity, see a
Christian, miracle believing doctor, wholl examine both the medical elements, as well as, have others
pray over you. Then rest and dont worry. Give the burden of the illness to the Lord and then take
comfort in knowing youve done all you know to do and youre doing what the word says to do.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, dont lean on your own understanding, acknowledge
Him in all your ways and He will direct your paths.
In this case, your pathway to your healing. It may be the healing that is available for some reason
doesnt show up this side of Heaven. Nothing you can do about that. You can ask questions when you
get there but make sure you get there. Again, you can go to Heaven sick but not lost.
The four main ways I see in Scripture for healing to come are these:
#1 The laying on of hands (Mark 16:16)
#2 The gifts of healing as the Spirit wills (I Cor. 12:9)
#3 Calling on the elders to pray and anoint you with oil (James 5:14)
#4 Seeking out respected ministers of Jesus (Acts 5:15-16, I Cor. 12:30)
You may ask, What does my healing have to do with someone who lived almost 2000 years ago? Well,
everything, actually. Your question helps locate the possible problem: the person of Jesusthe Lord of
allis whom you are to focus on, not your ailments.
.Dont seek your healingseek out the Healer who still heals.
.Dont seek deliveranceseek out the Deliverer who still delivers.
.Dont seek salvationseek out the Savior who still saves.
Well, why does a child have to die?
Its not fair to be cut off in your teens.
Where is God in the middle of this cancer?
Isnt He big enough to just take it away?
How could He let this happen!?
This is a severed spinal cordnot even God can x me.
ARE YOU UP THERE!?
As I said, this is a fallen planet. If you get anything out of this book, get this: Dont blame God. Hes not
your problem unless youre in complete deance. You may have brought on yourself some of your poor
health, through this rebellion. You may be reaping a bad crop. Gods not your enemy but youd better
know you have one. Like I said, Satan is a ruthless, malicious, lying, murdering thief wholl cut your
throat if he can and then laugh as you bleed to death. If you dont believe that, keep on living. Press in to
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God and youll see the arsenal against you come out. I so testify but Satans no match for the Lord Jesus
Christ. (Theyre not even in the same league) One is Almighty God, the other is defeated.
Lets say you walked into your house late at night. You put the key in the door, open it and turn on
the light only to see a masked man standing in your living room with an ax in his hands about to walk
down the hallway to your wife and kids. Would you run away? I dont think so. No, youd attack,
aggressively.
Satan, or one his subordinates, is the one in that scenario. Prepare now for this confrontation because,
sooner or later, youll have to address it. Dont prepare in the middle of the ght. (Good preparation,
health wise, begins with studying the Word, prayer, a nutritious diet, rest, consistent exercise and a safe
work placethe basics) You can address all the spiritual issues you want but if you ignore the natural
areas, you just may need a physical healing.
If you have lost a wife, husband, father, mother, child, family member or close friend, I grieve with you.
I know that heartache, rsthand. I know what its like to see loved ones die before your very own eyes.
Emotions are re-lived alot. The roller coaster of feelings surface. The hospital scenes are re-played.
Watching Dad die was agonizing. (One wonderful blessing to us and a great benet for someone was
knowing that Dad was an organ donor. Someone can see because they now have my Dads eyes. Thats
awesome!)
Although grief is natural and appropriate, for a season, you need to begin to move. Inactivity, after a
death has occurred, will isolate, and potentially, paralyze you. From my experience with Dad, with our
good friend, Pete Bucek in the summer of 96, my Nam vet buddy Dave Adams in 99 and recently with
my dear friend Eric Bischoffs dad passing, I know God helps you adjust to the blow of the death of a
loved one and He certainly does comfort. Its one of the things I lean on Him most for, especially when
death comes along, as it periodically does and will to continue to.
Let me talk briey about one of these experiences with sickness, healing, prayer and the crossing over
of a loved one that weve experienced. Pete Bucek was a dear friend of ours. He was married to one of
my wifes closest friends, Rita. Shes one of the those rare, once in a lifetime pals that goes the second
mile for her friends and family. Shell give you her house to stay in if you need it, shell borrow money
to those in a crunch, shell pray for you and just be a great of example of the love of Christ. We treasure
her.
Pete, Rita, Denise and I were out on Lake Minnetonka one hot summer day. We found a little bay where
Pete could cast a few. (He loved shing) In his great form, he showed us all the art of casting, reeling,
timing, patience and just plain old fun. Three weeks later he was dead. When we got the news that he
was in the 4th stage cancer, we could hardly believe it. We all prayed and like Dads case, we simply
trusted the Lord to move on his behalf and stood in faith. Pete too was believing for his miracle and yet
he was making plans with Rita and the kids, just in case. To many of us, however, the just in case
was saying he really doesnt want to go the distance with this battle and would rather head towards
Heaven than ght the war ahead. It was understandable by all of us. Its a very, very tough battle.
The night he died, we were all up on his oor at North Memorial waiting, praying, laughing at times to
break the tension and weeping quietly. He had a few delirious episodes from the morphine, which scared
us a bit but he came out of it and seemed to taper off. After that, Pete seemed to be stable, so around 11
pm, Denise and I went home to get some rest. But, as it often turns out, we got a phone call a few hours
later from Rita with the news, hed taken a sudden turn for the worse. When we got there, he was already
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gone. Tim Burt, a fellow minister, along with yours truly all joined Rita in prayer and asked the Lord that
if Pete wasnt quite sure about checking out yet that we were all wonderfully expectant of a miracle
and welcomed his spirit to return to his body but that was not to be.
Rita believes that Jesus gave Pete a picture of the future, showing him how things will be if he chose
to let go and die. Knowing that his wife and kids would be OK, he said Sure Lord, Im ready. We all
agree with that assessment.
Again, you can go to Heaven sick but not lost. Pete had personally accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior,
therefore Heaven awaited him. We miss him but all things considered, its a wonderful thought that
hes out of pain and enjoying his new life with the Creator and others who have gone on before him.
All the whys will just have to remain unanswered for a time. We live with that and dont debate the
choices nor judge those with an agonizing disease. There is a pain at rst that is almost devastating but
it subsides with time.
Yes, the pain of when a loved one dies does go away but the ache seems to re-surface, periodically.
Kodak commercials are brutal, you know what I mean? A certain song will play, a date will come up, a
cologne or perfume will trigger a memory. A Touched by an Angel episode will hit on the emotions
all over again. It takes about 5 seconds for me to lose it, especially when the story line revolves around
cancer and intensive care units. Its good to cry. Thats how you heal. God designed you that way. Just
dont live in grief. Itll consume you and lead you down a path of depression, possible addictions or
worse.
I truly believe Jesus is the Healer. I am fully persuaded of that. I cannot be convinced otherwise. God
has promised Hell be with you, even in the midst of death and if you choose to say, I want to be done,
Lord. Come. Take me. My dad, Pete, my buddy Dave, to name a few were all Christians but they all
were dealing with cancer at various ages and simply were overwhelmed with the ordeal and the thought
of keeping up the ght.
Faith is but one issue. Many have confessed healing scriptures, listened to tapes of the rights of the
believer, called for the elders of the church, got drenched with oil as others laid hands on them and
believed with all their heart that healing was a sure thing yet many have died and gone home to be with
the Lord without a physical healing.
As a Christian, youre guaranteed this: Heaven, eternity with God and then a glorified body.
You need to know that a lack of faith IS NOT always the dening reason for a healing block, as some
preachers imply. People have been guilted, tragically, all too often with this line of thinking. Oh, they
must have not had enough faith or been in some sort of sin. Thats why they died or havent received
their manifestation.
Friend, that is prideful, insensitive and cruel, if untrue. God is the only judge. Faith is a big issue so dont
discount it but it is not always the issue.
In John 5:2, a man who had been sick for thirty eight years was frustrated because he could not get to the
pool where an angel was anointing the waterrst guy in gets the healing. This guy wasnt in faith.
When Jesus showed uphe was bumming and kvetching. But the Lord worked around his state of mind
and his poor confession of faith and He healed him, anyway.
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The teachings on faith are needed but faith is not always the cure all.
My brother, Bret, has a phrase he uses often in his tax preparation and nancial consulting business: Its
a combination of issues.
With regards to healing and the recovery process, that truth certainly applies. A lack of faith is denitely
a consideration. Again, dont dismiss it but often times when people arent healed its because they just
wanted out and to go home. Yes faith is our victory (I John 5:4) but its faith in the Lord Jesus not
faith in our faith.
For example. Matthew 9:28 And when He (Jesus) had come into the house, the blind men came to Him:
and Jesus said to them, Do you believe that I am able to do this? They said to Him, Yes, Lord. Then He
touched their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.
Again, its your faith in what Jesus can and will do with no wavering about the fact that He is willing and
able yet He is also sovereign. That is the thing to focus on not having faith in what you can do.
A dear friend of mine who pastors a church in the Twin Cities, specically Hastings, did an interesting
study once on the how, when and why questions regarding healing.
1.
In different instances, 12 people came to Jesus to be healed.
2.
6 times, Jesus initiated the healing miracle, not the person.
3.
Only 5 times, did the individual demonstrate healing faith.
4.
6 times, someone other than the recipient demonstrated faith.
5.
10 times, no apparent faith was expressed other than Jesus.
6.
2 times, no conclusive indicators as to whose faith was used.
7.
Jesus healings were instant, except once.
8.
7 times, He healed on the Sabbath.

The following conclusions were made:
Q. Was the persons response to ministry a criteria for healing?

A. No.
Q. Was positive confession before, during or after a requirement?
A. No.
Q. Did any response on the persons part invalidate their healing?
A. No.
Q. How many were touched?
A. 15
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Q. How many were touched on the forehead?

A. None
Q. How many were slain in the Spirit?
A. None
Q. Did Jesus preach or teach on healing?
A. No, He just did it.
So, the name it and claim it routine isnt the end allJesus is. Id trust Him for health and healing; I
have and I do. It is clear that we dont have all the answers regarding the why questionwhen you
say that you do; youre in pride. Dont go there.
As I said before regarding money, I wouldnt suggest telling the Lord your rights. I recently had to
mildly admonish a sister who was counseling a brother that he doesnt have to ask the Lord for
anything. He simply needs to thank Him for his blessings. I said respectfully but rmly, Asking the
Lord for something, even repeatedly is Biblical. (I then gave her the scriptural story)
In Luke 11:5, Jesus tells a story of a man who had company come into visit him and he needed some
food. He banged on the door of a friend (the Lord) for this need. The owner said, Go awaymy family
and I are all in bed. Jesus goes on to say that the owner of the house didnt get up and help this guy
because he was a friendthough he wasbut because of the guys persistence in addressing the issue in
desperation, he got up and met his need.
Therefore, ask (in the Greek, this means keep asking) and it will be given to you; seek (meaning keep
seeking) and you shall find; knock (and keep knocking) and it will be opened to you.
No, asking the Lord is most denitely protocol not just thanking Him for things. If your teenager walked
in the house and said, Thanks Dad for the car keys, Ill be using your ATM card, Ive got your cell
phone and Ill be home late. Wellmy guess is youd have a little heart to heart talk, right? That would
be disrespectful on their part to just thank Dad for all the stuff. (Most likely, theyd get a yes, if they
ask)
You dont demand from God your perks as a New Testament believer. Otherwise, you may wind up
getting lectured like Job
Are you telling me?
Where were you when I made?
Can you make?
A friend of mine and ministry peer pointed out to me, the way to look at Isaiah 45:11, is that God was
lecturing saying, Are you commanding me? (Sort of like the Robert DeNiro line: You talking to
me?)
No, go to God with a humble, grateful and thankful heart. Thank Him for Jesus and His healing and
delivering power. If healing doesnt come right away, stand your ground and dont let the devil or any
good intentioned family member or friend talk you out of Gods miracle working power, even if its
not immediate and keep pursuing the Lord with your requests. It may take years for something dramatic
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to occur for a number of reasons, some of which Ive covered. Other times, it might never take place this
side of Heaven. You may have to wait. (Romans 8:23, Phil. 3:20, Rev. 21:4)
But by all means tell the devil to back off. When he starts to whisper lies to you, tell him that you have a
covenant with the Healer and you wont nor cant be persuaded otherwise. Healing miracle or no healing
miracle: youre trusting Jesus. Just like when the Lord talked to the demon in Mark 1:23; tell him to
muzzle it.
Mark 1:23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, saying, Let
us alone; what have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you
are, the Holy One of God. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.
Hold thy peace5392. phimoo, fee-mo-o; from phimos (a muzzle); to muzzle:muzzle. (Basically
this means, SHUT UP!)
Final point: As, Ive said repeatedly, you can go to Heaven sick but you cant go lost. If you or your
loved one doesnt receive their healingfor whatever reasonknow this: heaven is theirs, if Jesus is
their Lord and Savior. Lean on that and on Him for comfort. Let the know it alls preach what they
want. Many have mistakenly put off seeing a doctor until the damage was done. The presumption that
Healing belongs to us has caused many to dig themselves in deeper in self-condemnation if healing
doesnt manifest and died frustrated and confused by what preachers told them was guaranteed.
The apostles in the Book of Acts and other scriptures moved in the power and the anointing of the Holy
Spirit. Should we model them? Id suggest we shouldtheyre our examples.
Acts 3:1 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayerat three in the
afternoon. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where
he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about
to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, Look at
us! So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
Then Peter said, Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ
of Nazareth, walk. Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the mans feet and
ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple
courts, walking and jumping and praising God
Sowhat did they say? They didnt say, Sorry man, but we cant help you. No, they declared healing
because they were fully persuaded Jesus would back them up with signs, miracles and wondersand
laid hands on this guy. (Peterwho wrote I Peter 2:24laid hands on the sick)
Were called to do the same.
Acts 3:9 When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same
man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and
amazement at what had happened to him. V. 12 When Peter saw this, he said to them, Men of Israel,
why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made
this man walk?
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V. 16 By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus name
and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.
Heres another example of how the apostles went about healing:
Acts 28:8 There was an estate nearly that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed
us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. His father was sick in bed, suffering from
fever and dysentary. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him, and healed him.
When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured.
Wow! Know this: Healing is available for you. Youll have to ght the devil off with the Word of God
your swordand maybe some of your friends and family for your breakthrough to show up. Include the
medical community in your prayers. Remember, All things work together for good for those who love
the Lord(Romans 8:28) Maybe theres someone who needs to hear the Gospel while youre in getting
surgery or chemo! Consider that. (Getting saved is a bigger miracle than getting physical healed)
Imagine having a female bleeding problem for 12 years. This account gives a great illustration of
pressing in:
Matthew 9:20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came
behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: For she said within herself, If I may but touch his
garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of
good comfort, your faith has made you whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.
whole4982. sozo, sode-zo; from a prim. sos (contr. for obsol. saos, safe); to save, i.e. deliver or
protect (lit. or g.):heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.
This woman was one determined person! She was convinced.
Mark 5:29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her
suffering.(NIV) Mark 5:30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him,
turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?
virtue1411. dunamis, doo-nam-is; from G1410; force (lit. or g.); spec. miraculous power
Jesus still has that virtue. Lean on Him for your healing. The hem of His garment is still the real deal.
Consider it.
Solet me ask you a question: If its really not Gods will for you to be healthy and maybe even His
will that you are sick, injured or even dying, why would you go to the doctor? Wouldnt that be ghting
directly against the Lord? Sure it would. See how ridiculous that kind of thinking is? The fact is, God
loves you. If youre sick, keep seeking Jesus.
By the way, 1st Century martyrs are not the norm. The Lord chose Paul, the apostles and other missionaries
to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. His unique plan is just that: unique. Peter, for example died much
earlier than John on the island of Patmos. While He desires all to be saved, His directions and length of
life, are not all the same. (However, well all suffer persecution for sure as Christians)
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Jesus said, I have come to bring you life abundantly but not a perfect life. A life full of adventure
but yes, trials. If youre in need of healing, seek out the Master who heals because He hasnt changed.
Remember this in the battle:
Patience is vitally important in the area of healing and recovery.
When I was getting Piper, our daughter, comfortable with swimming, I had her lay face up on her back
with her arms spread out looking towards the ceiling. Like most kids though, I had to re-assure her that
I wasnt going to let go. Let that settle in your heart with regards to the Lord. Yes, He wont let you
drown.
Heres my healing testimony: At 43, I went in for my annual check up. Dr. Lehman did some blood
work, a chest X-ray and of course the old prostrate check. (Im praying for a new way of testing to come
to the medical community, other than the rubber glove deal) Dr. Lehman called me to say hed found a
spot on my lung and ordered another X-ray. Again the spot. (He used a different technician on the second
test) After conferring with a radiologist, he called me and thought it needed immediate addressing. He
said if it turns out to be the start of a tumor, hes sure it would be benign but he set up an appointment
at North Memorial Hospital for a CT scan. (A wonderful Christian woman from Church of the Open
Door helped me relax a bit, as I was a little apprehensive) Dr. Lehmans nurse called a few days later
and said the results were normal. Normal? I thought. Does that mean whatever was there is benign?
Does that mean it was scar tissue from years of weight lifting? So I called Dr. Lehman to discuss it.
He told me the spots that were originally on both the X-rays, according to the CT scan had somehow
disappearedDisappeared!
Jesus is well able to heal, desires to heal, responds to faith, frequently supersedes a lack of faith with grace
and He alone ultimately decides how and when to administer physical healing. If youre a Christian
good health or bad healthheaven awaits you. Amen!
A better rendering of I Peter 2:24 would be; by whose punishment, we have been reconciled.
That punishment for our sins, which certainly included ogging, also included getting mocked, beat up
beyond recognition, a crown of thorns dug deep into His head, carrying an extremely heavy wood cross
and nally being crucied.
If healing doesnt show up for you this side of Heaven, will you still love Him for dying for your sins?
Will you trust Jesus, no matter what?
Denises pathway was different than mine. She got diagnosed with breast cancer. We prayed, laid
hands on her, anointed her with oil and then waited. With no apparent change occurring, we talked and
prayed with our doctor and collectively agreed that a lumpectomy, chemo and radiation was her pathway.
We dealt with fear and it was the hardest six months of our lives yet our trust in Jesus and compassion
for others, has increased greatly. The whys? Well learn about those later. Jesus is your healer but Hes
also the sovereign Lord. Like I said, Gods timing and ways, are not ours. To quote my mentor, God is
more interested in your character not your comfort. That is the real deal.
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Chapter Eight
ONCE SAVEDALWAYS SAVED?

(Eternal security vs. personal apostasy)
Galatians 5:21 as I have also told you in time past, that they which do (practice) such things shall
not inherit the kingdom of God.
This may be tough for some to embrace but it is totally scriptural. To be a good minister, I must teach
you this. (I Tim. 4:1-6)
There are many things in the Bible that are cloudy
(I Cor. 13:12) For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but
then shall I know even as also I am known.
Some things only God knows
(Duet.29:29) The secret things belong to the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed
belong to us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.
But in the area of salvation the Word is clearyou certainly cant lose your salvation but you can most
assuredly forfeit or walk away from your eternal security. It is very difcult but it is possible. In most
cases, it would happen progressively through great disappointments, esh hankerings, depression and
false teachings.
If someone claims they are a Christian and yet refuses to give up a lifestyle that is clearly forbidden
in Scripture and theyve been warned repeatedly through all the avenues that God uses to admonish,
theyre jeopardizing their salvation. Perhaps their invitation or decision was not sincere and therefore
their conversion was not valid to begin with if they refuse to repent.
I John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God does not commit sin; for his seed remains in Him: and he cannot
sin, because he is born of God.
That word commit, in the Greek, is poieo. It means to remain in. It doesnt mean Christians cant
sin (we all do at times) but rather they wont stay in sin, wont abide there, wont continue in sin, as a
lifestyle.
II Timothy 3:1 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of
themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,
without natural affection, truce breakers, slanderous, without self control, brutal, despisers of those that
are good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of Godhaving a form of
godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
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A form of godlinessthat could describe many American churches today. Going through the motions.
A religious exercise that many participate in out of habit, guilt or a works righteousness.
Two scriptures that seem to contradict each other are Romans 10:13 and Matthew 7:21. Once you rightly
divide the word of truth (II Timothy 2:15), however, youll see that they are in harmony:
Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Matthew 7:21 Not every one that says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.
The thing to remember is that God knows you. You cant fool Him so dont try. Be honest with Him. I
wouldnt suggest working the angles.
I Samuel 16:7 for the LORD sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but
the LORD looks on the heart.
You cant play head games with the Creator. Will everyone be saved who sincerely cries out to God for
mercy and salvation? Absolutely.
Is everyone sincere who call on His name? No, tragically.
The word call in Romans 10:13 is interesting. Look at it:
Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Its one of my
favorite scriptures, rightly divided)
call1941. epikaleomai, ep-ee-kal-eh-om-ahee; to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision,
etc.):appeal (unto), call (on, upon).
A different rendering might read, For whoever shall ask for the Lords aid in, and with, their life,
whoever chooses to worship Him, whoever wants to have a good testimony then share about what Hes
done and doing for them and whoever makes a decision for Him: those are the ones who will have
everlasting life and are saved.
Keep in mind, demons know Jesus. As a matter of fact, they are called knowing ones (Mark 1:34)
but they certainly have made a decision NOT to follow Him, serve Him or worship Him.
John 3:16 is true
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him
should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Demons believe that Jesus is the Holy One but theyre certainly not saved nor will be and they are
most denitely afraid of Him and His power. They dont, however, believe in Him, as it says in John
3:16.
James 2:19 You believe that there is one God; you do well: the demons also believe and tremble. tremble
5425. phrisso, fris-so; appar. a prim. verb; to bristle or chill, i.e. shudder (fear):tremble.
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Once SavedAlways Saved?
In this examination, there are some operative words I want you to look at, concerning inheriting and
maintaining, eternal life:
1.
endure/ end
2.
deny
3.
have not known/ turn
4.
do
5.
inherit/ enter
6.
sin/ wages
7.
depart/ strayed/ fall away
8.
willfully
9.
take away
Matthew 10:22 And you shall be hated of all men for my names sake: but he that endures to the end
shall be saved.
1. The rst operative word in this verse is endure: (hupomeno #5278 in Strongs concordance) which
means to stay under, to remain, persevere, and abide. And secondly, the end: (telos #5058 in Strongs
Concordance) which means to the conclusion, to the limit.
In other words, you need to abide and remain in Him (serving and trusting Jesus) until the conclusion of
your life. Jesus, the Savior of the world, is well able to keep you, if you choose to allow Him.
I John 4:8 He that loves not knows not God; for God is love.
The choice always is yoursHe is not a controller or dictator. Lovers dont force or insist on their own
way, do they?
John 10:29 My Father, which gave them to Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them
out of my Fathers hand.
No one, especially Satan, can take you out of Gods hand but you can walk out, if youre so determined.
He will permit it. The same way you invited Him into your life you can say Get out of my life. That
would be the biggest mistake a believer could make.
2. The next word is deny: (#720.) arneomai, ar-neh-om-ahee; to contradict, i.e. disavow, reject,
abnegate:deny, refuse.
Matthew 10:33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, Him will I also deny before my Father which
is in heaven.
This applies both to the person who rejects the Gospel and to the person who invites the Lord into their
life but later through circumstances, trials and a greater desire to sin (usually pride, sexual sin and greed)
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than to serve the Lord. After the point of grieving, resisting and putting out the re of the Holy Spirit,
you can nd yourself with such a hard heart that you disavow your faith and say NO to God. Thats
a sad day.
3. The next words are known and turn:
known1921. epiginosko, ep-ig-in-oce-ko; to know upon some mark, i.e. recognize; by impl. to
become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge:(ac-, have, take) know (-ledge, well), perceive
turn: 1994. epistrepho, ep-ee-stref-o; to revert (lit., g. or mor.):come (go) again, convert, (re-) turn
(about, again).
II Peter 2:20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of
the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is
worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of
righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them.
The inference is you know what youve doneyoure well aware and fully acquainted with your
invitation. Then you elect to turn away. Not smart.
4. The next word is do: (very important word, do.)
Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness,
lasciviousness,20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,21
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also
told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
The word do here in the Greek is prasso, which simply means to practice, i.e. perform repeatedly or
habitually.
This word implies to live in sina lifestyle or lifetime of sin.
So, my counsel to you is NO PRASSO, my friend. Stay out of the old stuff, the familiar territory,
the same old pile, sin thing. If you really think that a holy God is going to allow this practicing i.e.
prasso, deal to remain, you need to keep reading His book.
So my conscious is clear and there is no confusion about these lifestyle sins, Ill show you each one
listed:
adultery3430. moicheia, moy-khi-ah; adultery. An illicit lover of a married person.
fornication4202. porneia, por-ni-ah; harlotry (includ. adultery and incest); g. idolatry:fornication.
Voluntary sexual intercourse between two unmarried persons or two persons not married to each other.
uncleanness167. akatharsia, ak-ath-ar-see-ah; impurity (the quality), phys. or mor.:uncleanness.
lasciviousness766. aselgeia, as-elg-i-a; licentiousness (sometimes including other vices):lthy,
lasciviousness, wantonness. sexually unrestrained.
idolatry1495. eidololatreia, i-do-lol-at ri-ah; image-worship (lit. or g.):idolatry.
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witchcraft5331. pharmakeia, far-mak-i-ah; medication (pharmacy), i.e. (by extens.) magic (lit. or
g.):sorcery, witchcraft. (Spells, curses, manipulation, control, domination)
hatred2189. echthra, ekh-thrah; hostility; by impl. a reason for opposition:enmity, hatred. (Better
listen up all you bigots who call yourselves Christians)
variance2054. eris, er-is; of uncert. afn.; a quarrel, i.e. (by impl.) wrangling:contention, debate,
strife, variance.
emulations2205. zelos, dzay-los; prop. heat, i.e. (g.) zeal (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an
unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband (g. of God), or an enemy, malice):emulation, envy (-ing),
fervent mind, indignation, jealousy, zeal.
wrath2372. thumos, thoo-mos; passion (as if breathing hard):erceness, indignation, wrath.
strife2052. eritheia, er-ith-i-ah; faction:contention (-ious), strife.
seditions1370. dichostasia, dee-khos-tas-ee-ah; disunion, i.e. (g.) dissension:division, sedition.
heresies1370. dichostasia, dee-khos-tas-ee-ah; disunion, i.e. (g.) dissension:division, sedition.
envyings5355. phthonos, fthon-os; ill-will (as detraction), i.e. jealousy (spite):envy.
murders5408. phonos, fon-os; (to slay); murder:murder, + be slain with, slaughter.
drunkenness3178. methe, meth-ay; an intoxicant, i.e. (by impl.) intoxication:drunkenness.
revellings2970. komos, ko-mos; a carousal (as if a letting loose):revelling, rioting.
I Corinthians 6:9 Dont you know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not
deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves
with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit
the kingdom of God.
fornicators4205. pornos, por-nos; (libertine):fornicator, whoremonger. Practicing fornication
voluntary sexual intercourse between two unmarried persons or two persons not married to each other.
idolaters1496. eidololatres, I-do-lol-at-race; an image- (servant or) worshipper (lit. or g.):
idolater.
adulterers3432. moichos, moy-khos; a (male) paramour; g. apostate:adulterer. An illicit lover of
a married person. Practicing adultery.
effeminate3120. malakos, mal-ak-os; a catamite:effeminate, soft. A boy kept for pederastic
purposes. Pederasty is sexual relations between two males, especially when one is a minor.
abuser of themselves with mankind733. arsenokoites, ar-sen-ok-oy-tace; a sodomite:abuser of
(that dele) self with mankind. One who practices sodomy; unnatural, especially anal copulation. (This
and effeminate is where the word, homosexuality, is derived from)
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thieves2812. kleptes, klep-tace; a stealer (lit. or g.):thief.

covetous4123. pleonektes, pleh-on-ek-tace; holding (desiring) more, i.e. eager for gain (avaricious,
hence a defrauder):covetous.
drunkards3183. methusos, meth-oo-sos; tipsy, i.e. (as noun) a sot:drunkard.
revilers3060. loidoros, loy-dor-os; (mischief); abusive, i.e. a blackguard:railer, reviler.
extortioners727. harpax, har-pax; rapacious:extortion, ravening.
Heres my advice if youre caught up in any of these as a lifestyleSTOP! Youre at great risk.
5. The next words are inherit, inheritance, and enter:
I Corinthians 6:9 Know you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not
with mankind,10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit
the kingdom of God
inherit2816. kleronomeo, klay-ron-om-eh-o; from G2818; to be an heir to (lit. or g.):be heir,
(obtain by) inherit (-ance)
Ephesians 5:5 For this you know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is
an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain
words: for because of these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
inheritance2817. kleronomia, klay-ron-om-ee-ah; heirship, i.e. (concr.) a patrimony or (gen.) a
possession:inheritance.
Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication,
uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions,
heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I
have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
inherit2816. kleronomeo, klay-ron-om-eh-o; to be an heir to (lit. or g.):be heir, (obtain by) inherit
(-ance)
Matthew 7:21 Not every one that says to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he
that does the will of my Father which is in heaven.
6. enter525. eiserchomai, ice-er-khom-ahee; to enter (lit. or g.):X arise, come (in, into), enter in
(-to), go in (through).
To be so foolish as to continueto prassoto stay in a lifestyle that is forbidden by God and thereby
forfeit your own salvation is tragic. Again, the Bible says that sin means missing Gods mark and that
the wagesthe paymentof sin is death. Both sin and the wages of sin, as far as God is concerned,
have been PAID IN FULL. Thats how we got the song Amazing gracehow sweet the soundthat
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saved a wretch like me. The gift of God of eternal life through Jesus is free. Just take it and say thank
you. Come out of your Egypta lifestyle of bondageand dont look back. Its not a good option.
7. Depart/ erred/ fall awaykey words relating to salvation.
I Tim. 4:1 Now the Spirit speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving
heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Hebrews 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from
the living God.
depart868. aphistemi, af-is-tay-mee; to remove, i.e. (act.) instigate to revolt.; usually (reex.) to
desist, desert, etc.:depart, draw (fall) away, refrain, withdraw self.
I Tim. 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.
erred635. apoplanao, ap-op-lan-ah-o; to lead astray (g.); pass. to stray (from truth):err, seduce.
I Tim 6:21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith.
erred795. astocheo, as-tokh-eh-o; to miss the mark, i.e. (g.) deviate from truth:err, swerve
II Tim. 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and
overthrow the faith of some.
erred795. astocheo, as-tokh-eh-o; to miss the mark, i.e. (g.) deviate from truth:err, swerve.
II Thess. 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a
falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
falling away646. apostasia, ap-os-tas-ee-ah; defection from truth (prop. the state) (apostasy):
falling away, forsake.
Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and
a)
have tasted of the heavenly gift,
b)
and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
c)
And have tasted the good word of God,
d)
and the powers of the world to come
If they shall fall away, to renew them again to repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of
God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
fall away3895. parapipto, par-ap-ip-to; to fall aside, i.e. (g.) to apostatize:fall away.
This is one meaning of the phrase the unpardonable sin.
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8. willfullyHebrews 10:26 For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the
truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins,27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery
indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
willfully1596. hekousios, hek-oo-see-oce; voluntarily:willfully, willingly.
9. blot out/take awayJesus strongest admonitions!!!
Revelation 3:5 He that overcomes, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his
name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
blot out1813. exaleipho, ex-al-i-fo; to smear out, i.e. obliterate (erase tears, g. pardon sin):blot
out, wipe away.
Revelation 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall
take away his part out of the book of life,
take away51. aphaireo, af-ahee-reh-o; to remove (lit. or g.):cut (smite) off, take away.
The real deal about salvation is live holy, pure and blameless. Stay in His protection. If you sin, confess
it right away and ask Him to help you overcome that area of your life.
Dont get yourself in the position that others have found themselves in, where God regretfully instructs
his intercessors to stop praying for you because of a hard heart and a reprobate mind.
I John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not to death, he shall ask, and he shall give him
life for them that sin not to death. There is a sin to death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
Whoa! You can get so entrenched in a lifestyle of sin that you no longer care what God thinks about what
youre doing, or His word, or the consequences of that lifestyle.
Should your life expire and you ignored the clear warnings in Scripture, and from believerslike me
trying to help you, you would discover the reality of Hella place you scoffed about your whole life.
God will not be there with you, unfortunately. You will forever live with regret. It says in Romans 6:23,
For the wages of sin is death
That word deaththe Greek word, thanatosin this text, according to Vines Expository Dictionary,
means a conscience existence in separation from God, as opposed to life meaning a conscience
existence in communion with God.
Hell is a literal place where you are tormented by what you could have had and now cant. There are
no exit signs. I realize youve heard that hell is hot from Fire and Brimstone guys. Yes, hell is hot but
primarily it is regret that will torment you not temperature.
Look at the original text and concentrate on the operative words Ive highlighted:
Luke 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared
sumptuously every day. But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at
his gate, desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich mans table. Moreover the dogs
came and licked his sores. So it was, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abrahams
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bosom.(commonly called paradisethe upper part of hell where Old Testament saints went because
Jesus hadnt died for the sins of mankind yet)
The rich man also died, and was buried. And in hell, he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and saw
Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then 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. But Abraham said, Son, remember that in your lifetime received your good
things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and you are tormented.
hell86. haides, hah-dace; Hades or the place (state) of departed souls:grave, hell.
tormented3600. odunao, od-oo-nah-o; to grieve:sorrow, torment.
flame5395. phlox, ox; (to ash or ame); a blaze:ame.
remember3415. mnaomai, mnah-om-ahee; (through the idea of xture in the mind or of mental
grasp); to bear in mind, i.e. recollect; by impl. to reward or punish:be mindful, remember, come
(have) in remembrance.
To punish by remembering. Fixed in your memory. Constant regret. That is Hell. The torment
includes great discomfort, for sure but this story that Jesus illustrated predominantly shows the soul
(the mind and emotions) is what was being tortured. For the rich man, it was too late. For you its not
obviously youre alive because youre reading this book.
Having said that, I need to show you something incredibly sobering in scripture: It is when God has to
release someone out of His hand of protection because of what they refuse to give up and gives them
over to a reprobate mind. (Romans 1:24-28)
This is probably one of the strongest cautions in scripture. The Lord is forced by His own standard to
release you out of His hand of protection. According to Strongs Concordance, the original Greek word
for reprobate basically means rejected.
reprobate96. adokimos, ad-ok-ee-mos; unapproved, i.e. rejected; by impl. worthless (lit. or mor.):
castaway, rejected, reprobate.
Websters denes reprobate as beyond hope for salvation. In other words, Too late. You had multiple
chances to return to the Lord but chose not to mainly because of your own esh desires.
In Romans 1, the focus of the Holy Spirits warning through Paul the Apostle starts with sexual sin
specically homosexualityand then lists other lifestyles, that if continued and unrepented from,
will cause a cancellation of your free gift of salvation. When you knowingly trade truth for a lie to t
and justify your lusts and your agenda; youre in deep trouble. Anything thats against scripture, against
Bible, against what Jesus taught is anti-Christ.
Like I said, the admonishment addresses lifestyles of depravity that originate in sexual sin. Im going
to examine this scripture knowing that its a touchy, controversial topic today. If you wanted a heated
topic, talk about prolife vs. prochoice and homosexuality as sin vs. homosexuality by birth. There
are few subjects that will get the blood boiling in some which usually just clouds rational, intellectual
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conversation. Denise and I are quite tuned to when the discussion of these subjects are going to be
effective and when to just be quiet.
The people Ive met, and/or know, who are currently in or experimenting with the gay lifestyle,
generally are like most people:
Usually friendly, conversationally civil and smart. They have strong opinions concerning their lifestyle
and how it relates to the Bible. Many are successful and from the worlds perspective, quite prosperous.
Some that I know, however, have an edge to them and can at a moments notice, become combative
and hostile.
Its become a very fashionably, trendy lifestyle for a myriad of reasons. Trendy or not, it is clearly
forbidden by scripture. If youre truly serious about Jesus Christ, His word, Heaven and Hell, as well
as, the warnings all throughout the Bible, youll stay open to these next examinations of Gods word,
although it will surely challenge your mind set and teachings you may have heard, as well as, the
positions of those close to you whom you thought you could trust as reliable sources. Absolute truth
has been relegated to relative.
The homosexual lobby in Washington is a very powerful, well funded and organized political machine
that claims intolerance of their lifestyle is equal to discrimination of races. The debate? Born that
way or choice. The minority are the militant gay voicesthe loud, caustic, abrasive, argumentative,
deant, resistant, arrogant, radically protesting ones that demand special rights not equal rights.
To be fair, on the other side of the spectrum, bigoted, racist, mean-spirited, gay bashing, abortion
clinic bombing, right wing extremists who call themselves Christians, are also a minority. Misled,
misguided, deceived, hostile so called Disciples of Christ, turn off the very people theyre trying to
win to Him. They are counterproductive in promoting the Good News and I tell them that. Remember,
Jesus died for all sinners. His heart is always mercy over judgment. He died for heterosexual sinners
and homosexual sinners.
Sinners are just that: sinners. Jesus died for the elite, the famous and the unknown. From Billy Graham
to the local plumber, Jesus own mother (Mary) to your next door neighbor. The Pope, Mother Theresa
and of course, you and me. Name the person and Jesus died so their sins could be forgiven, should they
choose to admit it. It was a universal salvation plan He accomplished.
But for all mankind there is 1 John 1:9, which says this:
if we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
That is truly is Good news. The bad news is, Jesus cant forgive the sins that youre unwilling to confess
and then repent from. Both the ongoing practices of homosexual sins or heterosexual sins i.e. adultery,
fornication, are forbidden. An unrepentant lifestyle of either jeopardizes your eternity. (If that seems
harsh to you keep in mind that if you challenge Gods perfect design of marriageone man with one
woman, for lifeyou challenge Him)
Although homosexuality is totally contrary to Gods plan, I am convinced and have come to the
conclusion, that most people caught up in the gay lifestyle, havent been given up to a reprobate mind.
(Remember, God desires that none perish. II Peter 3:9) His mercies (when you repent) are new every
morning. They arent depraved, wicked, malicious, evil homosexualstheyre just misinformed. (Ive
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talked with enough to knowthe open ones, that is) That is simply where the depravity and the road to
a hardened heart like Pharaoh begins: with sexual sin. Let me show you the exact passage from the
Living Bible to help you understand the gravity of this beginning down the wrong road.
Romans 1:24 So God let them go ahead into every sort of sexual sin, and do whatever they wanted
toyes, vile and sinful things with each others bodies. Instead of believing what they knew was the truth
about God, they deliberately chose to believe lies. v. 26 That is why God let go of them and let them do
all these evil things, so that even their women turned against Gods natural plan for them and indulged
in sex sin with each other. And the men, instead of having a normal sex relationship with women, burned
with lust for each other, men doing shameful things with other men and as a result, getting paid within
their own souls with the penalty they so richly deserved.
So it was that when they gave God up and would not even acknowledge Him, God gave them up to doing
everything their evil minds could think of. Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness and sin, of
greed and hate, envy, murder, fighting, lying, bitterness and gossip. They were backbiters, haters of God,
insolent, proud, braggarts, always thinking of new ways of sinning and continually being disobedient
to their parents. They tried to misunderstand, broke their promises, and were heartless, without pity.
v.32 They were fully aware of Gods death penalty for these crimes, yet went right ahead and did them
anyway and encouraged others to do them, too.
Again, this whole process of hardening heart starts with sexual sin, specically prohibited lusts. Most
people I know, have spoken with and/or counseled, who have embraced the gay lifestyle have been
pulled in by their own curiosity, past hurts, abuses, disappointments or anger, confusion, recruitment by
others, and/or lusting after forbidden fruit. There is a fallacious intimacy thats prevalent in the gay
community. A misconception of what appears to be acceptance is the biggest hook.
The reason the issue of sexual sins, as it relates to someone saying theyre a Christian, needs to be
addressed and talked about frankly is because there is so much deception and confusion in the minds of
many from false teachers. Tens of thousandsmaybe hundreds of thousandsare under the wrong
presumption that theyre OK with God while still maintaining their practice or lifestyle of sexual
sin. Its quite troubling and sad thus this book.
So Im crystal clear and not misquoted, Im not talking about a believer who has had an occasional
sexual exploratory temptation, hankering, then yields to it only to discover it was completely wrong for
them to experiment with and they ask for forgiveness. That is NOT the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit,
(commonly called the unpardonable sin) its your curiosity and esh.
Nor am I talking about a believer who has patterns of behavior with some sort of sexual craving,
feels bad, confesses, falls back into it, confesses it, days go by, gets the craving, yields to it, feels bad,
confessesand so on. This repeated cycle is simply one of a defeated Christian who just doesnt have
the victory yet. (They have Jesus as their Savior but not their Lord) Theyre not unsaved theyre just
carnal, frustrated and still under construction. (Guys deal with this a lot. Its every mans battle)
The warning in Romans 1 is to those professing Christ who are willingly entrenched and are living
and plan on continuing to livein a state of forbidden sexual practices. This postures God to release
them.
If Once savedalways saved is true, why all the warnings in scripture contrary to it? The danger is
you can easily arrive at this: Well, Im saved so I can do what I want. Im eternally secure. No, the
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Once savedalways saved teaching is terrible. Sothe reason why Im personally hitting this so
hard is for two reasons:
1. I know many who are deceived in thinking that they can be in a completely contradictory lifestyle
with the Bible and be saved.
2. I have a healthy working knowledge of Hell, therefore I warn.
The unpardonable sin i.e. the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit really consists of two points:
#1) It is the rejection of Jesus Christ as Lord.
#2) It is when you are so caught up in your lifestyle of sin, that you no longer care about the Lord, your
heart becomes hard and ultimately out of your own rebellion, carnality and deance, God has to release
you from His protective arms.
Let me show you the usual order of how this hard heart progression takes place. On earth the third
person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, is always at work but you can ignore Him and this is how its
listed in scripture:
A. Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God
grieve3076. lupeo, loo-peh-o; to distress; reex. or pass. to be sad:cause grief, grieve, be in
heaviness, (be) sorrow (-ful), be (make) sorry.
B. 1 Thess. 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
quench4570. sbennumi, sben-noo-mee; a prol. form of an appar. prim. verb; to extinguish (lit. or
g.):go out, quench.
C. Hebrews 3:8 Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in rebellion
harden4645. skleruno, sklay-roo-no; from G4642; to indurate, i.e. (g.) render stubborn:harden.
There are many false prophets in the church community like an Episcopal priest named John Shelby
Spong (A Bishop Rethinks Sexuality) who enable this process by actually espousing and endorsing
the gay lifestyle as God ordained thus the deception continues. Many denominational churches today,
actually have non-celibate gays on staff and are proud of it. (Acceptance and tolerance have limits)
Often, the pastor and/or the elders are just plain scared to address them out of fear theyll lose their
salary and job.
True Christians dont want to sin. If they sin, they can be forgiven and cleansed, as I said. Thank God
for grace. (I John 1:9) Most people have not been taught what sin is and what sin isnt, as taught in the
Word. Many, however, simply refuse to accept truth, as the truth. Calling evil, good and good, evil.
But you must know that the God of love, mercy and grace,
is also the God of judgment.
What some do under the deception of You were born that way i.e. it must be God ordained, should
not even be talked about.
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Ephesians 5:12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
shameful149. aischron, ahee-skhron; a shameful thing, i.e. indecorum:shame. Filthy, indecent,
dirty, lewd, obscene, repulsive. (According to Websters, repulsive is where we get our slang word,
icky) Obviously, Jerry Springer doesnt get it yet.
K.D. Langa great vocalistsings about a Constant craving that has always been. It has been
embraced, by some, as the lesbian anthem. What has been misconstrued, however, as an insatiable
longing for another woman, is really the hunger to know and experience, Gods love, joy, forgiveness,
acceptance and grace. That void cannot be lled by another person. If you at one time in your life asked
Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, and you are involved in a forbidden lifestyle, please allow God to
penetrate your heart now as you examine scripture. I showed you initially this in the Living Bible. Now
look at it in the New King James, which is a more literal translation.
Romans 1:24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts to dishonor
their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshipped and served
the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
gave them up3860. paradidomi, par-ad-id-o-mee; to surrender, i.e. yield up, intrust, transmit:
betray, bring forth, cast, commit, deliver (up), give (over, up), hazard, put in prison, recommend.
uncleanness167. akatharsia, ak-ath-ar-see-ah; impurity (the quality), phys. or mor.:uncleanness.
lusts1939. epithumia, ep-ee-thoo-mee-ah; from a longing (especially for what is forbidden):
concupiscence, desire, lust (after).
dishonor818. atimazo, at-im-ad-zo; to render infamous, i.e. (by impl.) contemn or maltreat:despise,
dishonor, suffer shame, entreat shamefully.
exchanged3337. metallasso, met-al-las-so; to exchange:change.
truth225. aletheia, al-ay-thi-a; truth:true, X truly, verity.
lie5579. pseudos, psyoo-dos; a falsehood:lie, lying.
Romans 1:26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the
natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman,
burned in their lust for one another; men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in
themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
vile819. atimia, at-ee-mee-ah; infamy, i.e. (subj.) comparative indignity, (obj.) disgrace:dishonor,
reproach, shame, vile.
passions3806. pathos, path-os; a passion (especially concupiscence):(inordinate) affection, lust.
natural5446. phusikos, foo-see-kos; physical, i.e. (by impl.) instinctive:natural.
use5540. chresis, khray-sis; employment, i.e. (spec.) sexual intercourse (as an occupation of the
body):use.
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nature5449. phusis, foo-sis; growth (by germination or expansion), i.e. (by impl.) natural
production
leaving863. aphiemi, af-ee-ay-mee; to send forth, in various applications (as follow):cry, forgive,
forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone,
committing2716. katergazomai, kat-er-gad-zom-ahee; to work fully, i.e. accomplish; by impl. to
nish, fashion:cause, do (deed), perform
shameful808. aschemosune, as-kay-mos-oo-nay; an indecency; by impl. the pudenda:shame, that
which is unseemly.
penalty489. antimisthia, an-tee-mis-you-ah; requital, correspondence;recompense.
error4106. plane, plan-ay; fraudulence; subj. a straying from orthodoxy or piety:deceit, to deceive,
delusion, error.
due1163. dei, die; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding):behoved, be meet,
Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a
reprobate mind, to do those things which are not fitting. Who knowing the righteous judgment of God,
that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same, but also approve of
those who practice them.
reprobate96. adokimos, ad-ok-ee-mos; unapproved, i.e. rejected; by impl. worthless (lit. or mor.):
castaway, rejected, reprobate. (Strongs Concordance) *A depraved, unprincipled, or wicked person;
rejected by God and beyond the hope of salvation. (Websters Dictionary*)
mind3563. nous, nooce; the intellect, i.e. mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by
impl. meaning:mind, understanding.
do4160. poieo, poy-eh-o; to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct):abide, +
agree, appoint, X avenge, bring (forth), cast out, cause, commit, + content, continue
practice4238. prasso, pras-so; a prim. verb; to practice, i.e. perform repeatedly or habitually (thus
differing from G4160, which prop. refers to a single act)
deserving514. axios, ax-ee-os; deserving, comparable or suitable (as if drawing praise):due
reward, meet, (un-) worthy.
approve4909. suneudokeo, soon-yoo-dok-eh-o; to think well of in common, i.e. assent to, feel
gratied with:allow, assent, be
Again, these are some of the most clear warnings

in the Bible.
It breaks the Fathers heart that some are rebellious and refuse, deantly, to give up that which He has
forbidden. He must, by His word, give them over to a reprobate mind.
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Romans 8:13 For if you live after the flesh, you shall die: but if you through the Spirit do mortify the
deeds of the body, you shall live.
Because everyone in Sodom and Gomorrah was involved in homosexualityboth young and old
they were judged and the result was annihilation. This wasnt just rape as some imply but complete
homosexual depravity. Lot even sexually offered his own daughters to those men and boys, to no avail.
II Peter 2:6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction,
making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly;
example5262. hupodeigma, hoop-od-igue-mah; an exhibit for imitation or warning
Jude 1:7 And dont forget the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns, all full of lust
of every kind including lust of men for other men. Those cities were destroyed by fire and continue to be
a warning to us that there is a hell in which sinners are punished. (The Living Bible)
Jude 7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over
to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of
eternal fire.
The homosexual lust quoted in the Living Bible is described as strange esh in the King James
Version.
strange2087. heteros, het-er-os; of uncert. afn.; (an-, the) other or different:altered, else, next
(day), one, (an-) other, some, strange.
As Ive said before, the gay lifestyle, according to the Word of God is forbidden. If you disagree
with that, you disagree with Scripture. When preachers, Christian counselors and those with any other
God appointed platform, addresses the fact that the gay lifestyle is ungodly, it isnt ignorant: its
a loving warning.
If your loved one is headed down a road that isnt completed yet and you know theyll drive off a cliff,
youd warn them, right? This may be difcult for you to embrace or even irritate you, yet truth is truth.
The Word of God is the only truth on the planet. If youre dealing with this as a participant in the gay
lifestyle, please consider these words and this study as your wake up call. Along with other ministers,
Im loving you enough to tell you the truth about this trap the enemys laid. Its hardly homophobic to
help someone out of a deceptive lifestyle.
Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among
the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and
teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Warning3560. noutheteo, noo-thet-eh-o; to put in mind, i.e. (by impl.) to caution or reprove gently:
admonish, warn.
Because the Holy Spirit has gifted many of us ministers with the willingness to convey truth, in love,
without compromising, we obey Him and warn people when theyre heading the wrong direction down
a one way street with a head on collision as the only imminent future.
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Most people know about sexual sin, either in their thought life or acting on the fantasies and temptations
available. None of us are exempt from sin: we are all sinners. Paul, the great apostle, dealt with his esh
and thoughts just like you and I do.
Romans 7:19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
In the Living Bible it puts it this way:
Romans 7:19 When I want to do good, I dont; and when I try not to do wrong, I do it anyway. Now if I
am doing what I dont want to, it is plain where the trouble is: sin still has me in its evil grasp.
Ever felt that way? Are you stuck in a lifestyle of doing what you dont want to doeither out of habit
or curiosity or weakness? Confessing the same sin over and over and over?
Only Paul and God knew what the area of struggle for him was. Whatever the sin was, it bothered Paul
a lot. He was frustrated. But if he hadnt known that the Lord was the only hope for his deliverance, he
would have gotten even more depressed.
(Its a medical fact that depression left unchecked can and oftentimes does lead to suicide)
If this is speaking to you right now, if youre caught up in sexual sin, either pornography, adultery,
fornication or the gay/lesbian lifestyle and if your heart is being softened; confess your sin, (ask the Lord
to forgive you) repent, (simply meaning to change and turn around) and then ask Him to show you
His perfect will for your life; romantically, passionately, sexually and maritally. He will. He has such a
better way for you.
If youre in the gay lifestyle and you supposedly are two committed individuals to the union but
prior to the relationship you had asked Jesus to be your Savior, chances are you privately deal with and
struggle over reconciling your Christianity with a lifestyle of sexual sin. Know this: The Lord is not
requiring you to stop loving your partner but He does require you to stop being involved with them;
romantically and sexually. That is, if you truly want to follow Jesus and be His disciple.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a
living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
A living sacrice; thats what He requires. (Romans 12:1) Ending a long relationship may be the hardest
thing you ever have to do but you will never regret gettingand stayingright with God. The Lord of
all creation designed you to be emotional, spiritual and yes, physicalincluding orgasmicbut in the
ordained protection of the marriage bed, designed for man and woman. He has a great husband or wife
for you. Remember, Father knows best.
Practicing homosexuals, usually have very deep-seeded hurt, rejection, anger, control issues and an
unfulfilled need for intimacy. As Ive said before, false intimacy, under the auspices of acceptance,
is usually the biggest hook along with a craving for the forbidden. God has so much more for you than
that.
Some have said that Jesus never talked about the gay lifestyle being off base, so it must be good.
Actually, Jesus addressed this subject head on by way of design.
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(Mark 10:6) From the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man
shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh; so then
they are no longer two, but one flesh.
One esh is the Lords stamp of approval on the husband and wife covenant. Dont allow some
religious authority to tell you different.
However, what Jesus died for (sin); He will not live with. (sin) Remember this
II Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,
for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
The warning in Romans 1, is just as inspired as John 3:16.
Homosexuality, as well as, the heterosexual immoral are but a few of many lifestyles that are off limits
for the one who wants to follow Jesus and maintain their being saved status. Others include living a
lifestyle of a thief, the greedy, being a drunk, abusive, extortioners, witchcraft, hatred, (again, consider
this all you who have unforgiveness in your heart or are bigoted) wranglers and contentious quarrelers,
divisive people, the spitefully jealous and envious and murderers. Youre jeopardizing your salvation if
you dont repent from these.
These are all listed in I Corinthians 6:9 and Galatians 5:19 as lifestyles of sin that exempt you from a
place in the Lambs Book of life if unrepented from. Strongly, seriously, soberly consider these words,
as I have, and ask for forgiveness then leave them behind. His love for you is truly unconditional but the
salvation that He freely offers requires you to make this choice: serve Him or serve yourself. Its really
up to you, not God. He doesnt force.
You can certainly call yourself a Christian, believer, follower of Christ, disciple all you want
but Jesus said this about that:
Matthew 7:17 Even so every good tree brings forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bring forth evil fruit.
Every tree that doesnt bring forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
The process of forfeiting your salvation not losing it goes something like this: You sin, you like your
sin more than your relationship with the Lord Jesusif you have oneand you make a decision to
follow your esh, your lover, your friends and yourself and basically say I dont want to follow Him
anymore.
Hebrews 6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly
gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Spirit. And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers
of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify
to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
You see, God will allow you to go so far. Hell caution you, warn you and literally confront you face to
facethrough people and scripture. If you wont repent and are determined NOT to obey His word and
His commandments, wellyoure on your own.
Well Greg, doesnt it say that Hell never leave us nor forsake us?
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Yes, that is one scripture. But it is the whole counsel of God we need to stick with. When you are in
Him, in Christ, abiding in Him, you are saying, Lord, whatever you saywhatever you want; Im
yours. Ill do it. Im happy to do it. Ill obey your Word.
The Bible was not written by men; it was simply dictated to men. (Guys as secretaries i.e. scribes
hows that for role reversal, ladies? Sounds good, right?) Yes, God wrote the Bible not men.
John 8:31, If you abide in My word (the Bible), you are My disciples indeed.
John 14:23, If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word.(the Bible)
John 15:10, If you keep My commandments (the Bible), you will abide in My love.
If Jesus is truly your Savior and Lord, youll want to obey His wordone flesh in marriage is His plan.
Forbidding to marry is unbiblical!
As Ive said before, demons believe in the sense, they know Him because they used to be angels who
are now fallen angels. So, are demons saved? No, of course not. As most Bible Scholars that truly
know Scripture, would say, To believe doesnt mean you know of Jesus. It means you know Jesus. You
trust, depend and rely on Him for everything. I concur. So, are demons going to share eternity with true
believers in heaven? Of course, not!
he who believes in Him, as it says in John 3:16, means you accept Jesus rightful Lordship. Demons
believe that Jesus is Gods Christ but they now refuse to bow their knee to HimSatan is now their
Lord.
Theres a story in John 8 of a woman caught in adulterya capital punishment crime back then. (Its
in Mels lm) Jesus, rst addresses the ones who caught her and wanted to stone her to death. (The
mentality of too many believers today. He is all about forgiveness) As they came with their accusations,
Jesus ignored them and wrote in the ground with His nger. (Some have speculated that He was writing
the name of the man involved, as well as, those who were watching the sexual act itself; thus coparticipating in it) Jesus then looked up and said, He who is without sin, let him cast the first stone.
That shut them up. (It forever settles that we are not the judgeHe is) There she wasall alone with
the Lord of the Universe. Then Jesus said, Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one
condemned you? She said, No one, Lord.
Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.
Can you imagine how she must have felt? I can go? Really? Are you kidding? You mean, Im free?
Youre pardoning me? Jesus! Lord Jesus, thank you! With tears owing down her face, she says Thank
you, Master! Thank youBlessed be Your name!
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound. That saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now Im found.
Was blind but now I see.
The only one who could throw a stone at her was standing alone with her. He never sinned yet He
forgave her and released her with the warning, Go, and sin no more. Embrace that!
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There are many who say, Well, Im a ChristianI can do whatever I want!! The Bible says there is
no condemnation. Well, thats partly true. You do have liberty but to be in Christ means youre not
fullling the lusts of your esh. People stop at the no condemnation partthey need to keep reading
the rest of the verseRomans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ
Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (bold mine)
Again, dont get yourself so entrenched in sin that people are instructed by God to stop praying for you
because it is too lateyouve gone too faryouve crossed the line and you refuse to come back home.
The earnest in II Corinthians 1:22 that has sealed believers is partial. Its a down payment. If you want
God out of your life, Hell leave. He loves you enough to choose.
2 Cor 1:21 Now He who established us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, is God; Who has also
sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
Earnest728. arrhabon, ar-hrab-ohn; a pledge, i.e. part of the purchasemoney or property given in
advance as security for the rest:earnest.
Seek God for your deliverance because thats His heart for you. Stay clear of sexual traps. I know full
well how many there are out there. (There are no stones in my hands. Ive been forgiven much, so I
love much) The secret sins you think are harmless are paralyzing you as a follower of Jesus. If you
want Him, youll seek Him about getting out of a lifestyle of sin, especially sexual sins.
If youre in the gay lifestyle and really want out, need help, are privately praying for God to send you a
lifeline: get in touch with organizations like Exodus International headed up by Bob Davies.
Other ministries that reach out to those in the gay community are people like Joe Dallas or Dennis
Jernigan, a well known worship leader. Their ministries are geared for the one who is indeed crying at
night out of shame and frustration.
Theyve been down this road personally and have found freedom. Heres your hope scripture: Romans
5:20 Where sin abounds, grace does more abound. His love and forgiveness is so much more
powerful than your sin, if youll give it to Him.
Ill certainly talk with you and pray with you anytime. If you seek deliverance and compassion, you have
it from us. Call or write. Whatever your vice, God is able to deliver you from it. My number and e-mail
address are in the back of the book.
So, get saved and stay savedeternity with Him is the real deal.
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Chapter Nine
THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH

(Gods design for passion and intimacy)
Mark 10:6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall
a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And the two shall be one fleshso then they
are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no man, separate.
Being married is hard work. It may be the hardest thing well ever do. If you want a great marriage,
youre going to have to be giving, seless, transparent, vulnerable, accommodating, as well as, learn
and implement communication skills with someone who is wired differently than you. If you want an
average marriage, just be selsh, dont open up, have separate checking and do your own thing. Youll
reap what you sow. Average marriages dont know one esh.
One of the areas that too many church folk avoid talking about or deny its importance is SEXthe
s word. Its through lovemaking, romance, affection, passion and intimacy that one esh begins.
Im an intimacy proponent because I know the Lord is. Heres how I feel about Gods design for passion
and intimacy: its a gift. I try to share that truth with as many men as I can because usually they dont
know it, get it or want to recognize it, for a number of reasons. Yes
One flesh in marriage is a gift.
After the Lord, your spouse is supposed to be the most important person in your life. If you dont believe
that, you havent read your Bible. The order is this: God, spouse, kids, everything else. Period. Passion
and the intimacy that comes through talking, prayer and lovemaking, are two of my favorite topics.
Again, the main reason is because they are some of Gods favorite topics and I like talking about what
He likes talking about. As Ive said, He designed men and women to be intimate and passionate, as
husband and wife.
Passion means:
. powerful or compelling emotion or feeling
. strong affection or love
. strong sexual desire
. extravagant fondness
Intimacy means:
. a close, affectionate, personal, loving relationship
. detailed knowledge
. deep understanding
. private
. inmost
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As I get closer to the Lord, I invariably get closer to my wife, Denise. Conversely, in the occasions when
were wandering or distant from Him, Denise and I scrap more, were more irritable, less patient with
each other and overall more frustrated. We aspire not to go there.
In Genesis 2:22, it says the Lord brought Eve to Adam, personally. God is a giver of good gifts. (James
1:17)
I remember as if it were yesterday when God personally brought Denisemy Eveto me. I was still
playing nightclubs and hotels with my band, UP FRONT, back in 1980 at what used to be the Steak and
Ale on Hwy. 394 in a suburb of Minneapolis. We were in the middle of set when she walked in. (I darn
near fell off my Yamaha baby grand!) I had a mixing board back then where I could bring down the fader
yet talk to my drummer wearing headphones.
I said, Robbie, oh my goshdo you see who just walked in!! He quickly said, in Rob style, Yeah
youre too short for her. (Denise and I are both 57) I jabbed back with Youre too old for her. We
both laughed. However, Gods quiet voice gave me an insight, as to who this pretty blonde really is:
She is the one.
As carnal of a Christian as I was in 1980, God still talked to me and worked with me at my level. (If you
only knew how patient Hes been with me. Well, actually, now that I think about it, maybe you do know
me and therefore know how patient God has been with me)
The Lord showed me just a few weeks after I met Denise, that not only would she be my wife but also
when wed get married, as well as, the number of children wed have together. He gave me a word of
knowledge and it was quite specic.
It says in Genesis 2:21 and 2:22, that God was alone with Adam before Eve was around and He was
alone with Eve before hooking up with Adam. (During his deep sleep.) The Lord prepares usequips
usinstructs us about commitment, true love, prioritiesindividually, rst with Him, long before He
lines us up with each other.
The way He did it with me was by His still, small voice over the years, commonly called an inward
witness, the Word of God spoken to me by other Christians, my conscience and nally by the example
set by my dad and mom. (They had a rare marriagenot perfect but rare)
Did they ever argue? Sure. Ever want to quit? Probably. But like Denises mom and dad, they understood
the word, vow. Far too many people today, dont. A vow in the Hebrew and Greek simply means to
promise.
The one thing I admired most about my dad was that he was a man of integrityif he gave his word on
something, you could bet your life on it. It is my life long goal to walk in that admirable quality. After
twenty ve years of marriage, Denise and I understand well our vow. We walk in it better every day
because were grateful for who Jesus is and all Hes done for us.
The covenant I have with Denise is based on Gods word. She is rstas a Christiana daughter of
God. I must treat her that way or I hear about it. I certainly dont want my plans and requests shelved.
This is by far the biggest reason, Ive noticed, for strife in the home and men not achieving more.
Strongly consider it.
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The Two Shall Become One Flesh
I Peter 3:7Likewise, you husbands dwell with your wives with understanding, giving honor to her as
weaker and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers arent hindered.
The words I highlighted are key
dwell-4924. sunoikeo, soon-oy-keh-o; to reside together (as a family):dwell together.
understanding1108. gnosis, gno-sis; knowing (the act), i.e. (by impl.) knowledge:knowledge,
science
honor5092. time, tee-may; a value, i.e. money paid, or (concr. and collect.) valuables; by anal.
esteem (espec. of the highest degree), or the dignity itself:honour, precious, price, some.
weaker772. asthenes, as-then-ace; more feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, weak (-er, -ness,
thing).
heirs together4789. sugkleronomos, soong-klay-ron-om-os; a co-heir, i.e. (by anal.) participant in
common:fellow (joint) -heir, heir together, heir with.
hindered1581. ekkopto, ek-kop-to; to exscind; g. to frustrate:cut down (off, out), hew down,
hinder.
So, in other words Guyslive with your wife and press in to really know herthe good and the
not so goodtreat her as someone precioussomeone with a priceless value recognizing she is not as
strong as you physically but yet she is equal with you in the sight of the Lord. Do this so when you ask
God for the things you desire, He will respond and wont put your prayers on hold.
Through all my years as a Christian counselor, I am thoroughly convinced that this is why most married
Christian men who are frustrated, disappointed, angry, broke, sick, carnal and anything else not Godlike, continue to stay that waythey arent dwelling right.
God has given me a healthy perspective of passion and intimacy. Not just a wonderfully passionate sex
life with Denise but a life with her full of communication, openness, vulnerability, sharing and true
riches. Passion and intimacypracticed Gods wayis the only way to be fullled as a husband or
wife. We tried marriage our waywithout Jesus as Lordand it nearly failed. Weve learned to say
sorry more, too.
So, let me share more of this one esh topic. Itll help.
Can you imagine how Adam must have felt when he rst saw Eve? (Women are so beautiful) As
awesome as the Garden of Eden must have beenthe trees, sky, waters, varieties of animals, etc. it
still paled by comparison to the beauty of his other halfAdams intelligent, voluptuous, free-spirited,
paradise woman. Thats why he had NO problem cleaving to her: she wasWhoa! Adam and Eve had
no problems until Satan came along. Life was paradise.
Look at that word cleave:
cleave1692. dabaq, daw-bak; to cling or adhere; g. to catch by pursuit:abide, fast, cleave (fast
together), follow close (hard, after), be joined (together), keep (fast), overtake, pursue hard, stick, take.
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Trust me, as often as I can I try to do everything possible to cleave, cleave, cleave
to cling to (I am very affectionate with her)
to follow close (I love hanging out with my wife)
to be joined together (thank you Jesus)
to pursue hard and to take (the two shall become one)
Passion and intimacyits a God thing.
Look at the Song of Solomon for a minute. This is the epitome of what husbands and wives should
desire. It is the example. Just as Jesus is the Lord of lords and King of kings, Song of Solomon is the
book of books on passion and intimacy.
The womans desire
Song 1:2 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for your love is better than wine.
Notice kisses? Its plural. Lots of kissesnot just a quick peck here and there. Passionate, soul kisses,
cultivate strong marriages. Yes indeed, passionate kisses are crucial in maintaining and cultivating
your marriage. Look at the difference in denitions:
peckto kiss briey and casually.
kissto touch with the lips, as a sign of sexual passion or affection.
Making outits a God thing.
Then the mans desires and observations are voiced
4: 2 Your teeth are like
4: 3 Your lips are like
4: 4 Your neck is like
4: 5 Your two breasts are like
4:10 How fair is your lovemy spouse!
4:11 Your lips, O my spouse, drop as the honeycomb: honey and milk are under your tongue;
7: 2 Your navel is like
Then she voices her observations
5:11 His head is as
5:12 His eyes are as
5:13 His cheeks are as
5:14 His hands are as
5:15 His legs are as
5:16 His mouth is most sweet: he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend,
Get the picture? Doesnt sound like Ward and June Cleaver to me. (Leave it to Beaveryou know, the
separate beds deal) No, it sounds more like Adam and Eve to me rolling around in the garden.
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People usually remember, like typical church folk, the short comings of Adam and Eve but initially they
were the perfect husband and wife with fellowship with the Lord. Paradise, youd better know, included
great love making, long talks, strolls around the creation and then great love making again.
Song 7:7 Your stature is liken to a palm tree and your breasts to clusters of grapes. I said, I will go up to
the palm tree, I will take hold of the boughs thereof: now also your breasts will be as clusters of the vine,
and the smell of your nose like apples; And the roof of your mouth like the best wine for my beloved, that
goes down sweetly, causing the lips of those that are asleep to speak. I am my beloveds, and his desire
is toward me.
God ordains husband and wives to be hot for each other!
The snafu with passion and intimacy becoming polluted is when couples allow the voice of the enemy
and/or religious people to penetrate their covenant. By religious I mean, rules, regulations, negative,
performance minded folk. You know, Pharisee thinking. For that very reason, the Bible tells us in Romans
12 to Renew our mind. You cant get sucker punched if you know who you are in Gods eyes. Dont
blame Satan for your affair or your marriage ending. Oh, the devil made me do it is an excuse. The
only thing he can do to you is what he did to Eve
1. Get you to question Gods Word:
Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtle (cunning) than any beast of the field which the LORD
God had made. And he said to the woman, Has God indeed said, You shall not eat of every tree of the
garden?
2. Give you another word:
Genesis 3:4 And the serpent said to the woman, You shall not surely die:
3. Attempt to deceive you thus giving him an opportunity to steal, kill and destroy you: (John
10:10)
Ephesians 4:27 Neither give place to the devil.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Notice before he eesyou must submit to God. First things rst. The only way to hold your ground in
your marriage against the attacks of the devil is to obey Gods word in all areas.
As far as others in your life inuencing youwell, if youre not praying together as husband and wife,
you will be far more susceptible to tainted opinions, poor advice, bad counsel and allurements thus
allowing a crack in your marital fortress. (Irreconcilable differences is a cop out)
As a pastor and Christian counselor, Ive discovered that most Christian husbands and wives dont enjoy
intimacy in the prayer department. Most of them, spend more time at Cub foods in the produce section
(5 minutes) than they do holding each others hands and seeking God together.
Lets talk about another s word for a minute: submission. This has been one of the most mistaught
Bible subjects I know of. Submit simply means to yield, to surrender and to obey.
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Do we have to submit to each other? Yes.

Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
I Peter 5:5Yes, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resists the
proud and gives grace to the humble.
submitting/subject5293. hupotasso, hoop-ot-as-so; to subordinate; to obey:be under obedience
(obedient), (be, make) subject (to, unto), be in subjection to, submit self unto.
Does the wife have to submit to her husband? Yes.
Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the
head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and He is the saviour of the body.
Does the husband have to lay down his life for his wife? Yes.
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for
it; So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loves his wife loves himself.
That is the balanced teaching in submission:
.mutual love
.order
.respect
.honor
.separate but equal
.giving
.seless
There is not a woman on the planeta woman who loves God that isthat wont submit to her husband
if she is convincedthrough knowledge and experiencethat he is willing to do anything, including
die for her. That doesnt necessarily mean literally dying. It could mean putting to death his selsh
ambition, destroying his carnal pursuits or just killing his bad attitude. (Dr. Phil on regular, weekly
television addresses these issues, head on. Bravo Phil!)
Denise yields to me because she trusts God. Similarly, I give myself to her as instructed. (My confession
is Its Denise or nothing. God honors that and she is thankful for it)
Submission is traditionally taught as being subservient, inferior or slave-like. That is not what the Bible
teaches. God does, however, consider a gentle and quiet spirit in a woman as a precious quality.
I Peter 3:1 Likewise, you wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word,
they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;But let it be the hidden man
of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in
the sight of God of great price.
He has created males and females as equals with different roles and job descriptions. Wives do not,
however, have to submit to something ungodly like
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getting drunk
watching porno icks or perverted sex
abusive language
violence of any kind.
I have counseled couples to sometimes separate, if needed. It can be benecial for the health of the
marriage and/or safety. (Only if one was an unbelieverand was determined to stay that waywould I
ever consider counseling someone to get divorced)
Back to passion
Too many womenchurch womenGodly womenunfortunately, have a heritage of fretting, worrying
and/or complaining about lifes many challenges and chores, so they often miss out on important
thingslike romance. Taking walks, holding hands and talking, sometimes gets set aside because of
the daily drudgery, a busy schedule and past issues that arent being addressed and let go of. When
communication breaks down, the old tapes can start playing and the next thing you know, strife shows
up. Kindness is then replaced with bitterness, resentment or hostility. Then the love language changes.
They locate their heart by their words, which is something Jesus said would happen. (Matt. 12:34)
Sodont dismiss the Oh, nothings wrong comment.

When you hear that, something is wrong. If left unchecked, resentment will turn loving couples into
opponents, even amongst believers.
Wivesthere is a huge difference between reminding your husband about something and nagging him
to do something. Look at this:
remindto cause a person to remember.
nagto torment with persistent demands or complaints.
Torment? OUCH! Proverbs 21:19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and
an angry woman.
Come on ladiessee the difference? Walk in love. Women who understand Gods priorities, He
commends.
Luke 10:38 As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named
Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lords feet listening to
what He said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Him
and asked, Lord, dont you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help
me!
v.44 Martha, Martha, the Lord answered, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one
thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.
Jesus is saying to Martha as He shakes His head, Sister, would you please relax. You know I love you
and I appreciate you cleaning the kitchen and making the meals but Mary has her priorities straight. (A
common tactic of Satan is to stress out the wife. Ill bet Marthas hubby prayed daily for patience)
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Sex begins in the kitchen is a best selling book. The inspired truths in that book came to the author,
Dr. Leman, by revelation fresh from the throne room of God. The best way to help your wife to stay
away from the Martha Martha syndrome is to assist her. So all you husbands, provide for your family
and ease the strain nancially but dont spend 60-80 hours a week doing it on top of bringing your work
home with you and/or ignoring your precious wife. Let me suggest
do your fair share of the laundry
go grocery shopping occasionally
scrub the toilets without her asking
vacuum
wash the dishes or load the dishwasher
mow the grass
anything else she asks you to do, within reason
alleviate as much stress off her as possible
In other words, all the things you can do for her that are, reasonable expectations: do them, joyfully.
She will be ever so grateful, trust me. Her energy level for giving you attention, affection, a listening ear,
passion and intimacy will be greatly increased if she isnt drained doing the daily duties, all by herself.
Do you want her to recognize you more? Pay attention more? Desire you more? Respond? Wellthen
listen to her hearts cry more. Give her more notes, more cards, more love letters scotched taped to
the steering wheel of her car, more dates, more prioritizing the marriage above everything else, other
than your relationship with the Lord. Do all that and watch the rewardGods hand moving in your
marriageunfold before your eyes. I so testify.
Loving your wife by helping her around the house,
along with praying together, is the closest thing there is
to a guarantee for great passion and intimacy.
When shes moody, dealing with stress, the house, kids, nancial crunchs, hormones, etc. remember
you are to lay down your life for your wife. Learn to read between the lines, rather than dismissing it as
PMS or ignore it by retreating to the TV, the guys or any other escape. Dont think Im outta here.
Youre just running away.
All too often, men get locked into the bad habit of making their job, sports, the boys or outside projects
their priority over their spouse. (Fellas, Im cautioning you, listen to your wife and love her or someone
else might) Wives are a precious gift from the Lord. Guys, use this book as a wake up call, if youre
needing it to be that. I have a great marriage and you can experience the same joy we do if youll retrain
your thinking and make her the focus.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father
Like I said, one esh in marriage is a gift. It is a good and perfect gift. The countless times God
has soothed and healed our emotions through making love are very precious. Walls come down,
communication is re-established, wounds are mendedYes, lovemaking i.e. sexGods wayis a
gift.
That is why Satan has done his best to pervert it. Hugh Hefner, Bob Guccioni and others have inadvertently
helped him.
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II Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the
pulling down of strong holds;)5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself
against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
This word imaginations in the Greek literally means fantasies. That is the whole thrust of Playboy,
Penthouse and all the other magazines, videos, adult channels, Internet sites and gentlemans clubs.
The objective it to get you to look at and embrace the fantasy of women they are presenting as something
you want and deserve.
In case you hadnt noticed guys, most women are not 39D-24-36. In fact, most of the women in those
magazines or videos arent what they appear to bethat is the whole lure of a fantasy. They are, shall
we say, modied. The Wonder bra, breast implants, hair coloring, computer augmentation and air
brushed photography all aid in the enemys persuasive inuence to get you hooked on fantasizing, a
secret lifestyle of masturbation and your attention off your wife. If not dealt with, fantasies can damage
or destroy your marriage bed and always gives permission for the kingdom of darkness to attack your
mind.
I Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which
war against the soul;
If youre troubled, angry, confused, fearful, quarrelsome, edgy, and/or depressed; you might want to reevaluate what youre looking at and doing. When you get caught up in the esh stuffthe magazines,
the phone, the computer, the movies or the Internet and then yield to the self-gratication of your esh,
you invariably feel condemned which is just where the enemy wants you: defeated. An affair is just
that: defeat.
As long as you feel unworthy, you wont do much for the Kingdom of God. Good strategy. Satan will
throw anxiety and lust at you and next thing you know, youll be dealing with panic attacks, which is
simply an irrational fear that hits you out of the blue. Panic attacks paralyze multitudes. (Certainly not
all are caused by a sex focused pre-occupation but the truth of I Peter 2:11 is valid, for many)
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love (God, in other words) casts out fear: because fear
has torment.
Anyone thats ever dealt with the crippling nature of panic attacks, knows that this is true. They are
tormenting. Again, not all panic attacks are a result of sexual sin. Some are from a chemical imbalance
correctable through medication and/or prayer but millions deal with them. A massive amount of
prescribed anti-depressants will only numb the issue but it wont eradicate it. For many, the root of the
problem is usually in the soulish realm and shows up physically in your body.
Another reason for panic attacks is that you havent forgiven someone in your life. Let me illustrate.
Matthew 18:23 The Living Bible (Jesus speaking) The Kingdom of heaven can be compared to a king
who decided to bring his accounts up to date. In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed
him $10,000,000. He couldnt pay, so the king ordered him sold for the debt, also his wife and children
and everything he had.
But the man fell down before the king, his face in the dust, and said Oh sir, be patient with me and I will
pay it all. Then the king was filled with pity for him and released him and forgave his debt. But when the
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man left the king, he went to a man who owed him $2000 and grabbed him by the throat and demanded
instant payment. The man fell down before him and begged him to give him a little time. Be patient and
I will pay it, he pled. But his creditor wouldnt wait. He had the man arrested and jailed until the debt
would be paid in full. Then the mans friends went to the king and told him what had happened.
And the king called before him the man he had forgiven and said, You evil-hearted wretch! Here I
forgave you all that tremendous debt, just because you asked me toshouldnt you have mercy on
others, just as I had mercy on you? Then the angry king sent the man to the torture chamber until he
had paid every last penny due. So shall my heavenly Father do to you if you refuse to truly forgive your
brothers.
In the King James the torture chamber is called the tormentors. God will allow demonic torment
if you refuse to forgive. This is a very strong warning to everyone.
The only true freedom from fear, like any other attack, comes from allowing the Lord to handle the
situation. You do that by admitting your weaknesses, confessing your sins, forgiving those whove
wronged you, repent and then trust Him to work it out.
John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.
free1658. eleutheros, el-yoo-ther-os; unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e. (as a citizen) not a slave
free, at liberty.
indeed3689. ontos, on-toce; really:certainly, clean, indeed.
However, non-abstinence from lusts, invites trouble.
James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with
evil, neither tempts he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust,
and enticed. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bring forth
death.
lust1939. epithumia, ep-ee-thoo-mee-ah; a longing (especially for what is forbidden):concupiscence,
desire, lust (after).
In lm, music and other medias, Satan has inuenced those in key positions to pollute Gods gift of sex.
His goal is to distort and poison that which is holy and ordained. (Frankly, hes succeeded) Especially
through voyeurism, erotica and pornography.
Voyeurism is compulsively gaining sexual gratication by invading others privacy, which certainly
includes adult Internet sites. An example of being a peeping Tom in scripture is when King David was
watching Bathsheba bathe herself. (He should have just gotten something to eat and gone to sleep) The
man of God fell because he kept looking.
.He committed sexual sin with a married woman.
.He killed her husband by sending him out in battle.
.He lost the son that he and Bathsheba had from their sex.
As a consequence to all his sins, he repented and nally wrote this:
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Psalms 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes:

wicked1100. beliyaal, bel-e-yah-al; evil, naughty, ungodly (men), wicked.
Being tempted isnt a sin. Acting on the temptation, is. Had David seen Bathsheba bathing and then said,
Lord, help me to think pure thoughts towards her he would have avoided all that heartache. But he did
nally get the revelation of watching what he looks at.
In America today, were barraged with sex stuff.
Erotica, is commonly called soft core. Publications like Playboy magazine, movies like Striptease,
the ever increasing popularity of Gentlemans clubs, as well as, the private adult sites on the Internet,
are all designed to arouse. They are usually geared towards fantasies of sexual love, thus it appeals to
your emotions and not just your esh, which is why a lot of men get hooked. They long to be desired
and pursued, too.
Pornography, commonly called hard core is material that is absolutely obscene, grotesque, vulgar
and depicts graphic sexual acts including perversions, deviancy and violence. They are all bondages
and traps that can let evil in. (Ted Bundy was hooked on porno)
All these pollutants are Satans twisted perversion of Gods perfect design for passion and intimacy
husband and wife. The Lord wants you free and has provided the way of escape, should you desire
that freedom. Ask anyone who has spent years addicted to pornography or those who have come out of
an affair or the gay lifestyle after recognizing the deception and emptiness of it, and theyll tell you that
true passion is only found in a Christ-centered marriage.
Most people hooked onnot just exploringmagazines, videos, adult lms or the Internet are trapped
because they just dont know how much better passion is, Gods way. They dont knowor havent
experiencedthat He has designed them to be sexually expressive and free with their covenant partner
in the environment of safety and pleasure called the marriage bed.
Often times, because of poor, little or no communication, there is a pattern of rejection that re-surfaces
in one person that triggers an old tape in the other that says, I will not be turned down! So the
cycle continues. Yes, the esh is weak and the strongholds in many peoples thinking can be very
destructive. Deance or rejection usually is the impetus for sexual sin. Sometimes its loneliness but for
the most part, some button was pushed and then the person reacts rather than maturely responding to
the situation. (I call those buttons pushed, triggers)
So, you cannot say you follow Jesus totally and be in sexual sin at the same time. Youre deceived if you
think you can. It is an impossibility.
1 John 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not know
the truth:
Does the Lord love you? Absolutely. Is He holy? You bet. So, does He require something of you, sexually?
Yes, simple obedience to His word. Its so much better His way.
I Corinthians 7:2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every
woman have her own husband.
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fornication4202. porneia, por-ni-ah; from G4203; harlotry (includ. adultery and incest); g.
idolatry:fornication. Voluntary sexual intercourse between two unmarried persons or two persons not
married to each other.
How much clearer can He be?!

Look at Genesis 39:7
One day at about this time Potiphars wife began making eyes at Joseph, and suggested that he come
and sleep with her. Joseph refused. Look, he told her, my master trusts me with everything in the
entire household; he himself has no more authority here than I have! He has held back nothing from me
except you yourself because you are his wife. How can I do such a wicked thing as this? It would be a
great sin against God.
But she kept on with her suggestions (Basically, she was intent on seducing Joseph) day after day, even
though he refused to listen, and kept out of her way as much as possible. Then one day as he was in the
house going about his workas it happened, no one else was around at the time (the erotic, illicit secret
sin deal) she came and grabbed him by the sleeve demanding, Sleep with me. He tore himself away,
but as he did, his jacket slipped off and she was left holding it as he fled from the house. (Because she
was a desperate woman scorned, when her husband came home, she concocted a story that Joseph tried
to rape her, which ticked off Potifar and Joseph was thrown in jail) But Joseph put the pedal to the metal.
Notice the word, fled? Like in Jurassic Park when Jeff Goldblum was being chased by the T-Rex.
Must go faster! Sexual sin can potentially trample you then chew you up.
Paul says in I Corinthians 6:18 to flee fornicationwhich means literally to run away from. In other
words, get out of there!!! Think of sexual sin as a burning building or a sinking ship. It is life threatening.
Yes, it is that serious. Reconsider where youre at, if this is talking to you. Remember, this is one of a few
lifestyles that can keep you out of Heavenprofessing Christian or not. (I Corinthians 6:9, Gal. 5:19-21,
Ephesians 5:5) Hell is not worth great sex, erotic fantasies or acceptance. No way.
It is true that nothing can separate us from the love of God. But there are certain forbidden lifestyles
in Scripture that can separate you from His presence. Again, that is what spiritual death isseparation
from God. Dont go there. Sexual love in marriage is God sanctioned. What you decide onthe
menuis between you two. (The strongest craving is response)
What about French kissing?
What about oral sex?
What about?
Look what the word of God saysHebrews 13:4 Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled:
but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
marriage1062. gamos, gam-os; nuptials:marriage, wedding, ceremony, social event.
bed2845. koite, koy-tay; a couch; cohabitation; the male sperm: bed, chambering, X conceive.
undefiled283. amiantos, am-ee-an-tos; unsoiled, i.e. (g.) pure:undeled.
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Nothing in the marriage bed is weird or perverse if it is agreed upon between husband and wife. Now,
dont go getting squirrelly. Dont think, Alright! I get to play out all my fantasies and they have to agree
to all of it. No, agreement is voluntary! There is something called frustrating gracedont push the
carnal stuff that you picked up on as an over-curious, testosterone driven, 16 year old going through one
of your friends secret stash of magazines, onto your spouse.
If its God, youll talk about it, pray about it and eventually agree on it. Otherwise, one will feel used,
impure or alienated. The other will feel deprived, isolated and may begin to manipulate their spouse or
look elsewhere for satisfaction. (Satan will accommodate you) Neither bring out Gods best. And that is
what youre looking for, right? The Lords best in your life, your marriage and your marriage bed.
Come to terms with the fact, that both of you have needs and that you are to meet each others needs. God
designed us to express our love for one another, as husband and wife, often so that love will be cultivated
and the marriage will ourish.
Robbing one another of love making is very dangerous!
I Corinthians 7:3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to
her husband.4 The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise
the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. 5 Do not deprive one another
except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together
again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
Lets look at some of the key words here. This is where millions of Christian husbands and wives, are
missing it.
1. render591. apodidomi, ap-od-eed-o-mee; to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc. (in various
applications):deliver (again), give (again), (re-) pay (-ment be made), perform, recompense, render.
2. affection2133. eunoia, yoo-noy-ah; kindness; conjugal duty:benevolence, good will.
3. authority850. exousiazo, ex-oo-see-ad-zo; to control:exercise authority upon, bring under the
(have) power of.
4. body4983. soma, so-mah; the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, lit. or
g.:bodily, body, slave.
5. deprive650. apostereo, ap-os-ter-eh-o; (to deprive); to despoil:defraud, destitute, kept back by
fraud.
6.come4905. sunerchomai, soon-er-khom-ahee; cohabit (conjugally): to convene,accompany,
assemble (with), come (together)
FYI Come references regular sex. Mutual arousal and sexual release.
7. tempt3985. peirazo, pi-rad-zo; to test (obj.) i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline:assay,
examine, go about, prove, tempt.
8. self-control192. akrasia, ak-ras-ee-a; want of self-restraint:excess, incontinency.
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So you could read it like this:

Give to one another by performing sexual kindnessyour love-making benevolence for each other.
You no longer have the right to control your body but rather you must give of yourself freely, gladly
and sexually to your mate. Dont deprive your spouse what they long for and need. And after a season
of seeking God, return to your marriage bed and make love again and again and again. That way, the
enemy cant entice your carnal old nature. Youll be safe.
So many manipulate and control their spouse by cutting them off, or tuning them out or turning them
down. One of the best quotes Ive ever read was by Dr. Gerald Dahl, a Christian marriage counselor
here in Minneapolis. He said in his book, Why Christian marriages are breaking up:
Nothing is more destructive to a person
than repeated rejection.
A brilliant insight by Dr. Dahl. It is so true. People risk less because the rejection theyve gotten is so
painful. Rejection comes when reasonable expectations are dismissed. One of the many rights that
husbands and wives have with each other but is often denied in the connes of Gods design for passion
and intimacy is this: access. Interesting word, access. It means permission to approach and enter.
Hello! (Access plus response promotes one flesh)
Most people are pre-programmed by the Almighty for numerous accesses and responses, weekly.
Even more so with menits a medically proven and documented fact. (God wired men that way) Most
people desire their spouse to be available, which means readily accessible. Dr. Dahls statement implies,
ACCESS DENIED! Denied means to refuse, to recognize or acknowledge.
It also means to withhold access. Uh ohsounds like the depriving thing again mentioned in I
Corinthians 7. One more area you can give place to the devilwitchcraft (control/manipulation) in
the bedroom. Rejection is not of God. Words can be insensitive, very hurtful, debilitating and even
destructive. Words like
What are you doing?! Dont!
Move your handknock it off!
Im not in the moodstop it!
these are marriage bed killing words. Rejection fosters depression, wandering, straying, irting,
impotence, entertaining fantasies, self-stimulation or even unfaithfulness. Of course, you must understand
your spouse does get tired or sometimes doesnt feel well. Nevertheless, scripture does teach that we no
longer have control over our body but our spouse does.
Walk in understanding and wisdom. Remember husbands, dwell Remember wives, yield Both,
respond.
Again, with me its, Denise or nothing. When she wants meshes gets meanytime/anywhere.
Similarly, she makes herself accessible to me because she both desires me and wants to please me.
This reciprocating love, mutual yielding and responding, well, its wonderful! Weve discovered the
bliss of one esh.
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Proverbs 5:15 Drink waters out of your own cistern, and running waters out of your own well. Let your
fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets. Let them be only your own, and not
strangers with you. Let your fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of your youth. Let her be as
the loving deer and graceful doe; let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and be ravished always with
her love.
Drink waters from your own cistern simply means your wife is to be your one and only source of
romantic and sexual fulllment. With regards to your wifes breasts (everybody say breastscome on
nowits a Bible word)you are to be satised at all times. All times is a lot of times! And the
guys said, AMEN.
But the main point from this scripture I want to make involves the words satisfy and ravished. Look at
these denitions in the original text and languages. The Hebrew word for satisfy is ravah.
satisfy7301. ravah, raw-vaw; a prim. root; to slake the thirst (occasionally of other appetites):bathe,
make drunk, (take the) ll, satiate, (abundantly) satisfy, soak, water (abundantly).
The Hebrew word for ravished is shagah.
ravished7686. shagah, shaw-gaw; a prim. root; to stray (caus. mislead), usually (g.) to mistake,
espec. (mor.) to transgress; by extens. (through the idea of intoxication) to reel, (g.) be enraptured:
(cause to) go astray, deceive, err, be ravished, sin.
LOVEMAKING SHOULD BE INTOXICATING!
PASSION SHOULD BE INEBRIATING!
Oh, if more Christians would get a revelation of the way God planned them to be as husbands and
wives, theyd be so happy. The only way that you can achieve the one esh bondthe relationship
and communication that God desires in your marriageis after you talk, together spend time in prayer,
foreplay, lovemaking, holding each other and while youre there naked before your Creator, give thanks
to Him. Guystreasure your wife. Wiveshelp your husband.
Gen 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him an help
mate for him.
The wifes role is that of a helper, an aid, a protector.
Help mate5828. ezer, ay-zer; an aid:help. To surround, to protect, a succor. (A succornot
suckergives assistance and relieves difculty, in times of need or distress)
So wives, honestlyAre you relieving the difculty in your husbands life or adding to it? Are you
assisting in meeting your husbands needs or are you creating new ones? Is the distress in his life being
assisted and aided or is the weight of it getting heavier? Get honest with God about it and watch how
Hell help you, help your husband.
Husbands, if the wife is the glory of you, (I Cor. 11:7) what is she reecting back? What do others see
in her? A loving husband? Consider it. God wants you to be passionate and intimate with each other to
promote your marriage. (Youll be far more inclined to share the Gospel with someone if you know it
works for you) Give your marriage, rst attention, even before your children.
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Too many put their kids needs above the needs of each otherit usually creates resentment, hurt and/or
anger. Far too many married couples make the mistake of allowing their children to argue with them.
Godly parents use discipline just as God disciplines us. (Dads dont ride or belittle your kids though
or theyll get discouragedCol.3:21) Additionally, many parents make the mistake of not keeping a
unied front with regards to that discipline, house rules, curfews, responsibilities, etc. When a parent
sides with a child in front of that child while the other parent is somehow caught in the middle, you have
a house thats out of order.
You didnt marry your child. Your spouse comes rst. After the needs of your spouse are met, then
cultivate the relationship with your childrenbefore work, before ministry, before church activities,
before hobbies, before sports or before anything else that would put a demand on your time with them. I
start with Denise, rst, then Jonathan and Piper and then ministry. Sowhats my point? After ministering
to the Lord, your rst ministry is your family. Those who pray together really do stay together! Consider
these equations:
.Effort + love= commitment
.Commitment + passion= intimacy
.Intimacy + faith= one-ness
.One-ness + prayer= a great marriage
.A great marriage + children=Gods design
The early days.
1. God
2. Marriage
25 years later
3. Children 4. Everything else
That is the real deal Divine priority list.
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Chapter Ten
THE WINE QUESTION

(AbstinenceTemperanceExcess)
I Corinthians 9:25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things.
Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.
Ive observed, that a vast amount of people, including Christians, have a tendency to go to extremes.
After hearing a message or teaching, there are many who embrace itand claim itas theirs, before
they test the message, to see if its valid. Its fair to say that basing conclusions on someone elses
upbringing, tradition, denominational teaching(s), perspectives or life experiences can be premature,
foolish or even dangerous.
Too many churches, camps, ows, streams, rivers, special meetings, denominations or
non-denominations havein their own eyesa greater dimension of illumination, on doctrine. Its
basically arrogance.
Theres the Baptist slant, the Charismatic opinion, the Catholic infallible teaching, the Prosperity/
Name it and Claim it indoctrination, the Church of God perspective, the Lutheran tradition and on it
goes. From the liberal extreme to the legalistic extreme. From Anything goes to Nothing goes.
Legalists can be ruthless. They denitely have their take and if you dont line up with that take, they
infer youre rebellious, independent, maybe a wolf in sheeps clothing, probably in sin, out of faith or
maybe even apostate. This legalism is religious thinking. Pharisee heresy.
Christians, remember Jesus warning to beware the leaven of the Pharisees. Religious thinking is
prevalent. The only One thats got it right, doctrinallythe real dealis the Lord of glory, Jesus. Take
His advice and leave everybody elses opinion at the door, if it doesnt line up with the Word or what the
Spirit is showing you. Remember you have the anointing in you if youre a child of God. (I John 2:27)
Please, stick to the Bible and follow the Spirit!
We are instructed and encouraged in the Bible to study. As I have said numerous times in this book,
we are to rightly divide the word of truth (II Timothy 2:15) for ourselves rather than trusting someone
elses opinion(s). The only thing Jesus wants us to be extreme about is Him, His Fathers Kingdom
and reaching out to people. That is the real deal about extremism, thus this chapter on drinking
addresses that, head-on.
Money is the root of all evil, for example, is often how people misquote what the Word says, when in
actuality the Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil. (I Timothy 6:10)
Similarly, the misuse and/or abuse of wine, or any intoxicant, is what has damaged or destroyed lives, not
a temperate use. (I went to St. Cloud StateI know the difference between All things in moderation
and PARTY TIME DUDE!) Quite a contrast. Now obviously, there are people who have addictive
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tendencies, genetic predispositions for chemical dependency or simply dont have a handle on their
feelings, words or actions, especially anger.
Some people should never drinkever.

Many have difculty controlling their emotions, diet, a caustic disposition, volatile or violent behavior
and depression. For some, even one glass of wine or a beer, spells trouble. That is why there are so
many treatment centers like Alcoholics Anonymous, Hazelden, Betty Ford and the like: wrong thinking
and out of control behavior(s). Some addiction problems have at the root a physical element, namely
an adverse reaction to alcohol. But more often than not, addictive problems have its root in the soul
realm. We should help these people by introducing them to the Lord to nd freedom before its too late.
Past hurts generally lead to destructive behavior, if not addressed.
Im thankful for, appreciative and nancially supportive of, a ministry run by Rev. Rich Scherber called
Teen Challenge here in Minneapolis. For those who go there, the Towing the line, boot camp and Bible
study discipline may be the only thing they have, that will get them back on the straight and narrow. Its
a unique ministry unlike other 12 step programs and the like. It is for what some would call extreme
or hopeless cases. (Theres always hope with God)
I have to take issue with the confession of Im a recovering alcoholic. No, when Jesus sets you
free from the bondage of something, youre free indeed. (John 8:36) That word free in the Greek is
eleutheros which means you have liberty.
free(Greek) #1658. eleutheros, el-yoo-ther-os; prob. from the alt. of G2064; unrestrained (to go
at pleasure), i.e. (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (gen.) exempt (from
obligation or liability):free (man, woman), at liberty.
Libertyits a good thing. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is this one:
II Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
liberty1657. eleutheria, el-yoo-ther-eeah; from (Greek)#1658; freedom (legitimate or licentious,
chiey mor. or cer.):liberty.
Notice that free and liberty are derived from
the same Greek word.
Not free to sin but free to be who God created you to be. To enjoy life fully, which includes a life full of
all things in moderation.
Another comment I take issue with is Alcoholism is a disease. If thats so, then why would the Spirit of
the Lord list it as something that will keep you out of the Kingdom of God if you continue to practice?
Living a lifestyle of a drunkard, is the lifestyle mentioned, to be specic. (Galatians 5:19)
Now, cancer or diabetes, clearly are diseases but they wont keep you out of heaven. You can acquire
liver disease by your lifestyle of drunkenness, yes. There are severe consequences to lifestyles of sin.
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The Wine Question
By denition, an alcoholic is someone who is addicted to intoxicating liquor. Im certainly happy for
people who once misused or abused alcohol only to nd sobriety through treatment centers but to arrive
at the conclusion that a drunkard is a diseased person is simply error.
People can get legalistic even with something like coffee. I actually had a sister rebuke me once for
drinking coffee at church. Why, its nothing but a drug. (Denise and I both love good, strong coffee)
Yes, caffeine can be addictive but God made coffeewhich is a fruitas His natural anti-depressant.
(He knew wed have the devil and Pharisees to deal with. Sometimes coffee helps) Back to the topic.
One time at a local ministers meeting that meets once a month, I was sharing with a group of my
ministry peers about a Lutheran pastor that used to come out to hear me play the piano at the Anchorage
restaurantmy tentmaking while nishing up Bible collegethat seemed to need a couple of drinks
just to unwind. I was concerned about his stress, his load, his marriage, his congregation and his life,
in general. (My concern was that of a true shepherds heart. I had compassion) As the story unfolded, a
fellow ministerobviously a legaliststated emphatically, He drinks because hes not saved. My
heart sank and my blood pressure boiled as I thought, Are you his judge? In his book, Judgment
triumphs over mercy which is just the opposite of scripture.
Not too long ago, one of my favorite preachers was explaining how it is possible to forfeit your
salvation. As he was talking, he pretty much outlined the message as I have explained it in Chapter 8.
You guys out there cheating on your wives and stuck in your secret adulterous affair. You really think
youre not flirting with your destiny?
Then he proceeds in with his indoctrination. And you sipping saints out theregot your little glass
of wine or beer
Lumping the two sentences together, the inference was drinking a glass of wine will somehow put you
in Hell. The Jesus of the New Testament, hates that condemning and shaming stuff.
Some ministerial associations that license and ordain those called, will actually require or mandate
complete abstinence from wine as a criteria for validating someone in ministry or theyll be turned down.
Jesuswho drank winewouldnt be accepted, licensed or ordained by some for ministry? Whoa.
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made you free and do not be
entangled again in a yoke of bondage.
Anybody that is trying to disciple and mentor by guilting or yoking you with something that is
controlling, manipulative or uses unscriptural qualications, is not speaking for God, at that time.
God is trustworthy and when youre around a mature minister that God has sent as a gifta true
shepherdto help you; youll be, and feel, safe in their care. (Beware of the controller, condemner or
legalist. Too many of my peers, unfortunately, are stuck in this)
For example, when people are delivered and set free from a sexual addiction, a good minister wouldnt
tell them they can never experience what God has ordained in marriage. That would be a doctrine of
devils. (I Timothy 4:1-3) Youd simply instruct them in the proper purpose for romance, lovemaking and
intimacy. So let me show you my study about the wine question.
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The word wine is used 37 times in the New Testament. All but one time, the Greek word used is,
oinos.
Wine(Greek) 3631. oinos, oy-nos; a prim. word (or perh. of Heb. or. (H3196)); wine(lit. or g.):
fermented wine.
It is from the Hebrew word, yayin, which is a fermented, intoxicating wine.
Wine(Hebrew) 3196. yayin, yah-yin; from an unused root mean. to effervesce; wine (as fermented);
by impl. intoxication:banqueting, wine, wine (-bibber).
When the Holy Spirit wanted to talk about unfermented wine, or grape juice, in the Old Testament,
He used the word, tiyrowsh.
Wine8492. tiyrowsh, tee-roshe; or tiyrosh, tee-roshe; from H3423 in the sense of expulsion; must or
fresh grape-juice (as just squeezed out); by impl. (rarely) fermented wine:(new, sweet) wine.
Jesus rst miracle was turning water into wine to celebrate someones marriage. The wine that He
made as His rst miracle at Cana was oinos. (John 2:9)
Jesus turning ordinary water into good wine (fermented)
at a public wedding was a miracle!
John 2:10 And he said to him, Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests
have well drunk, then the inferior: You have kept the good wine until now. This beginning of signs
(miracles) Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him.
He was accused of being a winebibber because He was seen drinking wine (oinos) with the wrong
crowd. (Matthew 11:18-19)
Matthew 11:18 (Jesus speaking) For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He has a
demon. 19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Look a glutton and a winebibber, a
friend of tax collectors and sinners.
winebibber3630. oinopotes, oy-nop-ot-ace; from G363. A tippler:winebibber. A habitual or
excessive wine drinker; chronic.
Jesus was always challenging the religious mind set. He only got ticked off at arrogant, high minded,
holier than thou, sanctimonious, Pharisee thinking. The only time in the New Testament where oinos
isnt used is in Acts 2:13 where Peter used the word, gleukos, which can be either sweet wine i.e. grape
juice, or an intoxicant under the fermenting process.
Wine(Acts 2:13)1098. gleukos, glyoo-kos; akin to G1099; sweet wine, i.e. (prop.) must (fresh juice),
but used of the more saccharine (and therefore highly inebriating) fermented wine:new wine.
When the Holy Spirit wants to speak specically about Welchs grape juice, He uses the phrase fruit
of the vine. (Matthew 26:29, Mark 14:25, Luke 22:18)
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The Wine Question
There are some in the body of Christ who say that drinking a glass of wine or one beer at a meal makes
you unholy and unrighteous because they are unclean substances and because we are the temple of the
Holy Spirit, we should not dele it.
First of all, we are saved, made holy and righteous only by what
Jesus has accomplished at the cross and the resurrection
any addition is works.
Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all
spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:4 According as he has chosen us in him before the
foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
II Corinthians 5:21 that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of
God:
Secondly, the Bible says there is nothing unclean in, and of, itself.
Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but
to him that esteems anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
nothing3762. oudeis, oo-dice; includ. fem. oudemia, oo-dem-ee-ah; and neut. ouden, oo-den; from
G3761 and G1520; not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e. none, nobody, nothing:
unclean2839. koinos, koy-nos; prob. from G4862; common, i.e. (lit.) shared by all or several, or
(cer.) profane:common, deled, unclean, unholy.
Thirdly, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. We do not, however, defile it with what we drink
or eat.
Matthew 15:10 And He (Jesus) had called the multitudes to Himself, He said to them, Hear, and
understand: Its not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man; but that what comes out of the mouth,
this defiles a man.
defiles2840. koinoo, koy-no-o; from G2839; to make (or consider) profane (cer.):call common,
dele, pollute, unclean
Matthew 15:16 So Jesus said, Are you still without understanding? Do you not yet understand that
whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed
out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts,
murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a
man
Fourthly, it is sexual immorality that defiles your temple,
not food or drink.
I Corinthians 6:13 Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the
body.
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v. 18 Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual
immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit
who is in you, whom you have from God and you are not your own?
I Corinthians 7:2because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman
have her own husband.
The unclean thing talked about in II Corinthians 6:17, is not wineit is immorality.
II Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be separate, says the Lord, and touch not
the unclean thing; and I will receive you,18 And will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and
daughters, says the Lord Almighty.7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse
ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh.
unclean thing169. akathartos, ak-ath-ar-tos; from G1 (as a neg. particle) and a presumed der. of
G2508 (mean, cleansed); impure (cer., mor. (lewd) or spec. (doemonic)):foul, unclean.
filthiness3436. molusmos, mol-oos-mos; from G3435; a stain, i.e. (g.) immorality:lthiness.
Finally, when we pray over our meals, it is to bless the food and drink and to purify it.
I Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with
thanksgiving:5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
nothing3762. oudeis, oo-dice; includ. fem. oudemia, oo-dem-ee-ah; and neut. ouden, oo-den; from
G3761 and G1520; not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e. none, nobody, nothing
sanctied37. hagiazo, hag-ee-ad-zo; from G40; to make holy, i.e. (cer.) purify or consecrate; (mentally)
to venerate:hallow, be holy, sanctify.
(Dont go getting squirrely on me with this scripture of nothing to be refused so you can justify
smoking pot, doing lines of cocaine, or shooting up heroine. Were to obey the laws and ordinances of
the landthose substances are illegal. And yes, while tobacco is legalit is a veriable killer)
Now, as I said in the Once saved-always saved? chapter, there are warnings about staying in sin,
practicing sin as a lifestyle, and refusing to give up sin.
So we are crystal clear on thisgetting drunk is sin.
There were people actually getting drunk at communion. Oinos was obviously the wine used not fruit
of the vine at the Lords table.
I Corinthians 11:20 When you come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lords
supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is
drunken.(Again, this was at communion)
drunken3184. methuo, meth-oo-o; from another form of G3178; to drink to intoxication, i.e. get
drunk:drink well, make (be) drunk
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The Wine Question
I Corinthians 6:9 Know you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not
with mankind,10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit
the kingdom of God.
Being a drunk puts your eternity at risk, professing Christian or not. This is an absolute Bible truth.
(Ask the Lord for His deliverance)
drunkards3183. methusos, meth-oo-sos; from G3184; tipsy, i.e. (as noun) a sot:drunkard.
Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication,
uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions,
heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I
have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
drunkenness3178. methe, meth-ay; appar. a prim. word; an intoxicant, i.e. (by impl.) intoxication:
drunkenness.
do4238. prasso, pras-so; a prim. verb; to practice, i.e. perform repeatedly or habitually (thus
differing from G4160, which prop. refers to a single act)
When you know that your lifestyle is sin and you choose to live in sin, youre denying Jesus His
Lordship and you are saying I will do it my way. Its my life. I do not care what God thinks or what the
Bible says. That was Satans mistake, as well. (Isaiah 14) When you harden your heart to the point that
you depart or fall away from your faith, youre jeopardizing your salvation, if it was truly there to
begin with. God knows when youre sincere and when youre playing games. Again, remember these
warnings:
James 4:17 Therefore, to him that knows to do good, and does not do it, to him it is sin.
Hebrews 6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly
gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers
of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again to repentance; seeing they crucify to
themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
I John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not to death, he shall ask, and he shall give him
life for them that sin not to death. There is a sin to death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
Phillipians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now
much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
As I have said, being a true believer, doesnt mean you cant sin or wont sin but you wont stay there
and sin wont have power or dominion over you. (I Cor.6:12)
I John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God does not (commit) sin; for his seed remains in him: and he cannot
sin, because he is born of God.
commit4160. poieo, poy-eh-o; appar. a prol. from of an obsol. prim.; to make or do (in a very
wide application, more or less direct):abide, + agree, appoint, X avenge, + band together, be, bear, +
bewray, bring (forth), cast out, cause, commit, + content, continue
159
Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under grace.
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
dominion2961. kurieuo, koo-ree-yoo-o; from G2962; to rule:have dominion over, lord, be lord of,
exercise lordship over.
Youll daily confess it, if need be. As often as you confess, youre forgiven and clean. Put I John 1:9
into practice until youre free!
I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.
cleanse2511. katharizo, kath-ar-id-zo; from G2513; to cleanse (lit. or g.):(make) clean (-se),
purge, purify.
Back to the issue of drinking
Is it sin? It is not.
Is getting drunk sin? It is.
There are two laws here: the law of liberty and the law of love.
The law of liberty:
I Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with
thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
II Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
The law of love:
Romans 14:21 It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother
stumbles or is offended, or is made weak.
stumbles4350. proskopto, pros-kop-to; to strike at, i.e. surge against (as water); spec. to stub on, i.e.
trip up (lit. or g.):beat upon, dash, stumble (at).
offended4624. skandalizo, skan-dal-id-zo (scandalize); from G4625; to entrap, i.e. trip up (g.
stumble (trans.) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure):(make to) offend.
made weak770. astheneo, as-then-eh-o; from G772; to be feeble (in any
sense):be diseased, impotent folk (man), (be) sick, (be, be made) weak.
We are called to bear one anothers burdens which includes being aware of, and sensitive to, someones
cravings, weaknesses, potential downfalls, and/or addictions.
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The Wine Question
Romans 14:21 is usually the scripture that some pull out to inict or mandate abstinence from wine as a
New Testament precedent. But that word, offended in Romans 14:21 is the same word that Jesus used
in Matthew 18:6 when Hes giving a serious warning to those who offend or cause these little ones to
sin. That Greek word, skandalizo, is where is we get our English word, scandal.
It literally means to be willfully, maliciously and/or intentionally trying to get someone to sin. Having a
glass of wine with your spouse hardly falls into the category of trying to get someone to sin.
Another word in Roman 14:21 is the word stumble. Its the same word that is used in I Peter 2:8 where
it says that people will even stumble with scripturethe Bible itself.
1 Pet 2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word.
stumble4350. proskopto, pros-kop-to; from G4314 and G2875; to strike at, i.e. surge against (as
water); spec. to stub on, i.e. trip up (lit. or g.):beat upon, dash, stumble (at).
Soif youre never to do anything that would ever cause your brother or sister to stumble, are you
going to stop preaching the Gospel? Going to stop praying? Stop tithing? Stop being a witness? Stop
showing people Bible verses that relate to their life? No, of course not, even though some will stumble
over those things.
You could go to many extremes in this nor do anything deal
.Your overeating and being way overweight may cause some others to stumble and be a gluttona
sinso are you going to stop eating? Doubtful. (Maybe you should change your eating habits and
exercise routine though)
.Should we throw out our televisions simply because there is some real questionable stuff on the air?
(Thats what alarmists do)
.How about telephones? Why, dont you know about some of the phone sex out there? (This is
legalistic panic)
.Going to stop driving because of some who were killed?
.Going to stop swimming because some have drowned?
.Sell our computers and rid ourselves of all Internet because of some of the lth thats available?
The list could go on and onah legalism, its so prevalent. But, as Ive said, this is a fallen planet.
Theres sin down here. No surprise.
Simply take this one scripture, Romans 14:21, as a caution: Be careful of what you do, where you do it
and who you do it around.
Question: Well, I thought to be a minister, according to I Timothy 3, youre not to be given to
wine?
A fair question. This speaks of the criteria of an overseer/ bishop/ pastor.
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A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to
hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine
At rst glance, without studying it out, it would appear to indeed say any drinking is forbidden. But
digging in, we see the truth.
The word in the Greek for not given to wine is paroinos.
not given to wine3943. paroinos, par-oy-nos; from G3844 and G3631; staying near wine, i.e. tippling
(a toper):given to wine.
(A toper isnt a social drinker or as some call it a sipping saint but rather a hard drinker/chronic
drunk. Tippling is drinking intoxicants habitually and to the point of excess. It means to be addicted
to wine)
I Timothy 3:8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine
given1402. douloo, doo-lo-o; from G1401; to enslave (lit. or g.):bring into (be under) bondage,
X given, become (make) servant.
much4183. polus, pol-oos; includ. the forms from the alt. pollos; (sing.) much, large amounts
wine3631. oinos, oy-nos; a prim. word (or perh. of Heb. or. (H3196)); wine (lit. or g.):wine.
Question: Well, doesnt it say we are to be sober in I Thessalonians 5:6 and I Peter 5:8?
Yes, we are. But the Greek word for sober, nepho, is used as a gure of speech for being morally
attentive and watchful. (II Timothy 4:5) When you study out that word watchful in the Greek original
text, youll discover it is figurative not literal. Vines Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New
Testament words: (page 667) nepho#3525 to abstain from wine is used metaphorically of moral
alertness and translated to watch.
3525. nepho, nay-fo; of uncert. afn.; to abstain from wine (keep sober), i.e. (g.) be discreet:be
sober, watch. A metaphor.
The point is, to be self-controlled or what the Bible calls, temperate. (Galatians 5:22)
temperate1466. egkrateia, eng-krat-i-ah; from G1468; self-control (espec.continence):
temperance.
Studying out the originals text in the original language brings illumination and the truth. So many are
wrongly dividing the word of truth and making up doctrines and establishing erroneous rules.
So the admonishments, warnings and correction are these:
Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit
drunk3182. methusko, meth-oos-ko; a prol. (trans.) form of G3184; to intoxicate:be drunk (-en).
excess810. asotia, as-o-tee-ah; prop. unsavedness, i.e. (by impl.) proigacy:excess, riot.
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The Wine Question
If we go back to the law of the Old Testament and break even one of them, were guilty of breaking
all of them.
James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet fails in one point, he is guilty of all.
So, dont be rules and regulations oriented:
Galatians 3:23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up to the faith which should
afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be
justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
stand4739. steko, stay-ko; from the perf. tense of G2476; to be stationary, i.e. (g.) to persevere:
stand (fast).
free659. eleutheroo, el-yoo-ther-o-o; from G1658; to liberate, i.e. (g.) to exempt (from mor., cer. or
mortal liability):deliver, make free.
entangled1758. enecho, en-ekh-o; from G1722 and G2192; to hold in or upon, i.e. ensnare; by impl.
to keep a grudge:entangle with, have a quarrel against, urge.
bondage1397. douleia, doo-li-ah; from G1398; slavery (cer. or g.):bondage.
The Message Bible says it this way:
Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of
slavery on you. I am emphatic about this. The moment any one of you submits to circumcision or any
other rule-keeping system, at that same moment Christs hard-won gift of freedom is squandered.
YES AND AMEN!
Thankfully, were not under the law but grace. Its true that Jesus said He did not come to abolish the law
but fulll it. (Matthew 5:17) So, how is the law fullled? Love.
Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; You shall love your neighbour as
yourself.
Regarding drinking wine, this may be hard for some to swallowno pun intendedbut Melchizedek
brought to Abraham, bread and wine as he received Abrahams holy tithe. Yayin (fermented wine) not
tiyrowsh (unfermented wine).
Dakes study Bible teaches, inaccurately, that fermented wine was not used in the receiving of tithes.
(page 152) You need to be careful about study Biblessome opinions simply are erroneous.
163
Genesis 14:18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of
the most high God.19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor
of heaven and earth:20 And blessed be the most high God, which has delivered your enemies into your
hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
wine3196. yayin, yah-yin; from an unused root mean. to effervesce; wine (as fermented); by impl.
intoxication:banqueting, wine, wine (-bibber).
Jesus is our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek who receives our tithes and then confers blessings
on us. (Hebrews 6:20)
.Wine (yayin) was used in commerce.
Ezekiel 27:17-18 Judah, and the land of Israel, they were your merchants: they traded in your market
wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.18 Damascus was your merchant in the
multitude of the wares of your making, for the multitude of all riches; in the wine of Helbon, and white
wool.
.Wine (yayin) was used to make you happy without getting intoxicated.
Ecclesiastes 9:7 Go your way, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God
now accepts your works.
.Wine (yayin) was used in rejoicing.
Deuteronomy 14:26 And you shall bestow money for whatsoever your soul lusts after, for oxen, or for
sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever your soul desires: and you shall eat there
before the LORD your God, and you shall rejoice, you, and your household,
.Wine (yayin) was not to be consumed by Nazarites for a season.
Numbers 6:1 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,2 Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them,
When either man or woman shall separate themselves to vow a vow of a Nazarite, to separate themselves
to the LORD:3 He shall separate himself from wine and strong drink, and shall drink no vinegar of wine,
or vinegar of strong drink, neither shall he drink any liquor of grapes, nor eat moist grapes, or dried.
In the case of a Nazarite vow, it was a temporary restriction or command.
Numbers 6:20 And the priest shall wave them for a wave offering before the LORD: this is holy for the
priest, with the wave breast and heave shoulder: and after that the Nazarite may drink wine.
In the Old Testament, Aaron was commanded not to drink before he went into the temple.
Leviticus 10:8 And the LORD spoke to Aaron, saying,9 Do not drink wine nor strong drink, you, nor
your sons with you, when you go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest you die: it shall be a statute
for ever throughout your generations: 10 And that you may put difference between holy and unholy, and
between unclean and clean;
Apparently, he had been drinking and didnt catch what his sons were doing. Back up to verse one.
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The Wine Question
Lev. 10:1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein,
and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.
strange fire2114. zuwr, zoor; a prim. root; hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; spec. (act. part.)
to commit adultery (In other words, sex in the templeforbidden)
Strange is the same word the Holy Spirit used in Proverbs 23:31 to describe a strange womana
harlot to commit adultery with.
He couldnt do an effective job as a minister because he was under the inuence. He was not able to
distinguish between what people were bringing in, or doing in, the temple. Whether it was holy or
unholyclean or unclean. God got ticked, thus the mandate.
Can you imagine your pastor having 3 or 4 brewskies before Sundays service? Doubtful. In other words,
ministers are not to be tipsy while ministering i.e. on duty. (See Naves topical Bible) The phrase, put
difference in Lev. 10:10 simply means to know whats going on.
put difference914. badal, baw-dal; a prim. root; to divide (in var. senses lit. or g., separate, distinguish,
differ, select, etc.):(make, put) difference, divide (asunder), (make) separate (self, -ation)
Question: What about in Proverbs when it says when you drink wine it can lead you into all kinds of
trouble or temptation?
Proverbs 23:31 Dont look upon wine when it is red, when it gives his colour in the cup, when it moves
itself aright. At the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like an adder. Your eyes shall behold strange
women, and your heart shall utter perverse things.
strange women2114. zuwr, zoor; a prim. root; to turn aside (espec. for lodging); hence to be a
foreigner, strange, profane; spec. (act. part.) to commit adultery:(come from) another (man, place),
fanner, go away, strange woman.
Yes, your inhibitions go down when you consume alcohol. Thats why were told to renew our mind,
so our thought life is pure. The thought is the father of the deed. But if youve been contemplating or
entertaining some fantasy, chances are youll succumb to it, wine or no wine. Youll be looking for it.
Again, you need to take all the text, in context. Take a running start before the verse being looked at, as
well as, verses after, to get the bigger picture. Look at verse 30. Youll see the operative word.
Proverbs 23:30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
tarry309. achar, aw-khar; a prim. root; to loiter (i.e. be behind); by impl. to procrastinate:continue,
defer, delay, hinder, be late (slack), stay (there), tarry (longer).
The warning speaks to needing to catch a buzz, addictive drinking or getting

intoxicated.
Wine (oinosfermented wine) was used medicinally. The suggestion came from the great apostle, Paul
to a young pastorTimothy. (A seasoned man of God approving of moderate wine use)
I Timothy 5:23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for your stomachs sake and your often
infirmities.
165
little3641. oligos, ol-ee-gos; of uncert. afn.; puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value);
espec. neut. (adv.) somewhat:+ almost, brief (-ly), few, (a) little, + long, a season, short, small, a
while.
wineoinos, oy-nos; a prim. word (or perh. of Heb. or. (H3196)); wine (lit. or g.):wine.
infirmities769. astheneia, as-then-i-ah; from G772; feebleness (of body or mind); by impl. malady;
mor. frailty:disease, inrmity, sickness, weakness.
Between a possible ulcer (your stomachs sake/frequent sicknesses) and/or the polluted watereither
from alkali or poor sanitationPaul recommended to Timothy drink some wine. Oinos (fermented
wine) not fruit of the vine. Today, it is a medical fact noted in J.A.M.A. (Journal of American Medical
Association) publications that red wine aids in digestion, blood circulation, cardio-vascular health and
boosts HDL (good cholesterol) which we as Americans need to consider with heart disease being the
number one killer. (The antioxidants combat free radicals)
Because of red wines medicinal benets, it actually adds to your life, used properly; namely moderately
and temperately. I discussed this with our family physician, Dr. Greg Lehman. He concurred and
reassured us the facts about wine are accurate. (Ethyl alcohol and resveratrol, benet)
We need to rightly divide the word when studying not adding 2 and 2 and getting 5. We need to daily
search the scriptures. Otherwise, whole doctrines and denominations are created. We surely dont need
another doctrine or denomination popping up. We need to simply obey the word when it says to be
sanctified with truth, your word is truth. (John 17:17)
Dancings a sin, for example, is a doctrine in some camps. Fortunately, we have the Word that shows
us to dance. (Kevin Bacon in Footloose, was right)
Psalms 149:3 Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises to him with the timbrel and
harp. For the LORD takes pleasure in his people:
Psalms 150:4 Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs.
Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him on the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that has
breath praise the LORD.
So, in conclusion to the wine question, I would agree with my brother Dan Schaeffer, a highly respected
pastor in Tulsa, who said the following:
The Bible teaches temperance and the only way to guarantee temperance is abstinence.
That, of course, is the safest route. Obviously, youll never have a drinking problem or get drunk, if you
abstain. However, if you know your limit and maintain self-control in every situation, you are free to
pray over, and enjoyin moderationa glass of wine or a beer. You are not under the law. You have the
New Testament liberty to do so.
Ill let you into our world for a minute. At the Haage home, we drink a lot of water, orange juice,
apple juice and 1% milk. We also likein moderationPepsi and strong french roast coffee.(Mmmm,
cappuccinos. Its one of the things Im known and loved forbrewing a strong cappuccino then sitting
down to study and pray)
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The Wine Question
With some meals, lets say a pizza, Denise and I like an ice cold Pepsi but we also very much enjoy a
Killians Red beer. (It tastes good)
We have a family traditionsome traditions are goodwhere we bond and regroup from the day
as a family over dinner. We debrief, settle in, talk, laugh, discuss issues, discuss the ministry, talk about
the Lord, pray and just hang out.
Denise and I occasionally enjoy a glass of Australian Shiraz red wine as we share this special time
together, especially with Italian food, such as spaghetti, lasagna or fettucini with garlic toast. (Husbands
and wives, its very important to spend time this way) Its one of the best things we do as a married
couple. (Talk, listen, bond, dream build and relax)
To be honest with you, one of the best examples of a follower of Jesus is my wife. She is sharp as they
come, compassionate, mercy motivated, hates hypocrisy and legalism and has a passion to see others,
understand who Jesus is. She is steady and a unique witness. In no way does her enjoying the blessings
of Godincluding a glass of wine or an occasional beer, compromise that witness. Shes great.
One of the elders on my UP FRONT Ministries board, Craig Olson, has the same sort of incredible
witness to others and he too enjoys a glass of wine or quality beer. As a matter of fact, he owns a wine
import business and is a constant source of Kingdom insights to a lost and dying world. I wouldnt
trade my wife, my dear friend or anyone else who has proven their love for Christ, loyalty to me and
generosity to others, for anything. They are true riches, for sure.
When Denise and I have fellowship gatherings or have others over for dinner, we try to be gracious hosts
and offer people things to drink but are very sensitive and conscious about NOT tripping up someone
who has had or still has a drinking problem. We ask them what theyd like or if they would have a
problem if others have, wine lets say. Thats simply being courteous and doing the word by not causing
someone to fall back into an addiction.
We need to get away from the legalistic stuff, whatever the topic. Jesus said, My yoke is easy
Legalism is a heavy yoke. Its anti-Christ.
However, Jesus also gave a stern warning of not causing people to sin, in this case, getting drunk. Paul
admonished us Dont cause your brother or sister to stumble by what youre doing.
For example, as an ordained minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, when I serve communion as Pastor
for UP FRONT Fellowshipour house churchand I know that someone has had a problem with
alcohol, Ill offer them out of courtesy, Welchs grape juice rather than wine. They appreciate that. I
certainly am empathetic towards and agree with the message of If you drink: dont drive! M.A.D.D.
have our support.
Heres a good barometer. If you cant have just one glass of wine or a beer, Id suggest you abstain.
(You might have a problem)
*There may come a time when your spouse, employer or even the Lord, requests you to Lay it down,
pleaseput it away, for now. Be prepared to respect and honor that.* A point of caution: If you nd
yourself needing to have a glass of wine or a beer, youd better seriously examine yourself. Something
is up, so take time to regroup, pray for wisdom and talk with those whom you trust.
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The right teaching about the wine question

is the balanced Bible teaching.
Please, dont be a legalist. Subtle or overt, theyre in all camps. Ive noticed there are even Spirit-lled,
Charismatic, tongue talking, tithing, radically saved, legalistsmaybe the worst kind. They can be
cruel, dominating, controlling and brazen. There are some that dont know how toor refuse towalk
in mercy or grace. They teach youre responsible for someone else sinning by virtue of your liberty.
Look, scripture says that the Lord Jesus is well able to keep you from stumbling and every situation
where youre being tempted to get drunk, He provides the way of escape for you.
Jude 1:24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling
Stumbling679. aptaistos, ap-tah-ee-stos; not stumbling, i.e. (g.) without sin:from falling. (See it?
Trust the Lord to keep you)
1 Cor 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who
will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able; but with the temptation will also make the
way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Way of escape1545. ekbasis, ek-bas-is; an exit (lit. or g.):end, way to escape.
Not all that long ago, I watched on a Christian TV station, one of the most powerful sermons Ive ever
heard. Rick Godwin, a pastor in San Antonio, was addressing from his book, Exposing witchcraft in
the church. He kicked over many sacred cows that multitudes of us have been thinking about but not
addressing for years. Manipulationdominationintimidation.
It was so freeing to hear the Holy Spirit, through Rick, address this trusting in the law again mentality,
as well as, the legalism that is pervasive, especially in Pentecostal, Charismatic and Spirit lled circles.
Way to go, Rick!
Truly, the letter kills but the Spirit gives life. As Rick would say, Knock off the law. Satan doesnt
have to work very hard in many church gatherings because too often theyre is guilting, shaming,
backbiting, devouring and/or wounding going on. Not good.
But dont go off the deep end with Ive got my liberty, so anything goes. No, its all about
moderation.
Maybe for you, any kind of moderate drinking wont work. Having a glass of wine for you may be off
limits. Refraining and abstaining for some, is the only safe route and thats good that you recognize it.
I Corinthians 6:12 (NIV) Everything is permissible for me but not everything is beneficial. Everything is
permissible for me but I will not be mastered by anything.
Mastered in the NIV is not brought under the power ofAmen.
Temperancethats real deal about the wine question.

(I Cor.9:25)
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Chapter Eleven
#1 MILITARY STRATEGY
(Know your enemy)
2 Cor 2:11 lest Satan should take advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.
Whether you know it or not and whether you like it or not: there is a war going on today on planet earth.
No, not just in the Middle East, in inner cities and not just in gangs: theres a war going on for souls. It
is the oldest war known to man namely the war between good and evil i.e. God and the one who wanted
to be.
Every good military commander knows the strengths and weaknesses of his own troops but also his
opponents. If theyre ignorant of the game plans of their enemy, theyll be at an extreme disadvantage
and in great peril. So, lets examine ours
In the Old Testament (Hebrew), Satan means the arch enemy of good, adversary, opponent and the
New Testament (Greek) it means, the accuserthe devil. Hes the crafty, resourceful type.
He was originally, however, one of Gods greatest creations named Lucifer. He basically was one of the
chief angels in heaven. Its been taught that he led the Praise and Worship.
Ezekiel 28:13 You were in Eden, the garden of God; your clothing was bejeweled with every precious
stoneall in beautiful settings of finest gold. They were given to you on the day you were created. I
appointed you to be the anointed guardian cherub. You had access to the holy mountain of God.
anointed4473. mimshach, mim-shakh; from H4886, in the sense of expansion; outspread (i.e. with
outstretched wings):anointed.
cherub3742. keruwb, ker-oob; of uncert. der.; a cherub or imaginary gure:cherub, (plur.)

cherubims. Angels.
In other wordsan enormously big angel with glorious wings who protected Gods stuff. He was part
of the ministry staff.
v.15 You were perfect in all you did from the day you were created until that time when wrong was found
in you. Your great wealth filled you with internal turmoil and you sinned. Therefore, I cast you out of the
mountain of God like a common sinner. I destroyed you, O overshadowing cherub, from the midst of the
stones of fire. Your heart was filled with pride because of all your beauty: you corrupted your wisdom
for the sake of your splendorv. 18 You defiled your holiness with lust for gain
lled with pride (lifted KJV)1361 be lofty; g. to be haughty:exalt, be haughty, be (make) high
(-er), lift up, mount up, be proud, raise up great height.
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Satan fell because of his clout and appearance. He got cocky, ambitious and arrogant. He tried to take
over heaven. Thats when he got the boot down to earth. Notice the I wills
Isaiah 14:12 How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how you are cut down to
the ground, which did weaken the nations! For you have said in your heart, I will ascend into heaven,
I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the
sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet you
shall be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see you shall narrowly look upon you, and
consider you, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms?
Jesus was around when he got the left foot of fellowship
Luke 10:18 And he said to them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.
Remember the gap theory I spoke of? Some scholars speculate that Satan ruled the earth long before
the re-creation of the planet in between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2. They say he ruled during the
dinosaur and Cro-Magnon man days until something destroyed the planet. A meteor shower, pre-Noah
ood, atmospheric calamity, world wide volcanic activity or global earthquakeits a very interesting
theory/perspective. (Personally, I speculate that when we get to heaven, well all take History #101)
Notice, however, it says in Isaiah 14:12 that Satanthen Luciferdid weaken the nations. It looks as
if Satan had a role in the destruction of earth past. Look at the words in the Hebrew:
weaken2522. chalash, khaw-lash; a prim. root; to prostrate; by impl. to overthrow, decay:discomt,
waste away, weaken.
nations1471. gowy, goee; rarely (short.) goy, go-ee; a foreign nation; hence a Gentile; also (g.) a
troop of animals, or a ight of locusts:Gentile, heathen, nation, people.
His number one strategy, however, is deception. Plain and simple. Then destruction. He is quite capable
of signs and lying wonders. (II Thess. 2:9) Sohave you ever wondered why there are so many
religious sects, denominations and world religions? Here are two insights:
James 3:16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
Matthew 12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them, Every kingdom divided against itself is
brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:
If you can get people scrapping, arguing, debating and ghting about God then Satan doesnt have to
stick aroundhe can leave and stir up trouble back in Israel. (Start the ght and split) Satan absolutely
hates any kind of unity. (Ever notice that Middle East peace treaties dont last?)
Regarding this deception, we need to remember the one thing that Christians must be in unity about:
Jesus died for sins, period.
John 3:16 applies to everyone or it means nothing. God so loved the worldthe drug dealer, the
murderer, the mass murderer, the Muslim, the Jew, the Hindu, the new ager, the atheist, you and me. Yes,
God demonstrated His love for all of us as sinners.
While I know that we wont come into agreement about doctrines down here, followers of Jesus must
band together and say collectively, Jesus is Lord or the world will just scoff.
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#1 Military Strategy
At one of the Promise Keepers meetings, Max Lucado demonstrated this principle well. He said At the
count of three, everyone shout out the name of your denomination or afliation. It, of course, sounded
like loud garble. (Pretty much what the world hears)
But then he said, At the count of three, shout out the name of our Lord and Savior. 40,000 men then
declared together and boldly, JESUS! He made his point
.The Baptists
.The Catholics
.The Episcopalians
.The Methodists
.The Lutherans
.The Pentecostals
.The Charismatics
.The Presbyterians
.The Non-denominational
.The Messianic Jews
all saying the same thing. Pretty powerful.
That is why strife is such an effective strategy for the enemy. It works if we remain ignorant. His main
thrust is through mind assault i.e. spiritual warfareget you to listen to and embrace his agenda and
another word. If he can successfully keep his strongholds erected in your thinking, hes beat you.
Abortion, for example. Mother Theresa once said A nation is in its nal stages of moral decay when
they destroy the fruit of the wombs. Well, were there. Over a million babies a year. Abortion has one
of its roots in the environmental movement. Some promoting it say that the planet is over-crowded
and therefore we must love our Mother earth by keeping it from being over stressed by checks
and balances i.e. millions of abortions. That is just about as sick and ludicrous, as it gets. Abortion is
horric.
It is mainly, however, Satan inicting his revenge on women. Remember the Garden?
Genesis 3:14 And the LORD God said to the serpent, Because you have done this, you are cursed above
all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon your belly shall you go, and dust shall you eat all the
days of your life:15 And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her
seed;
enmity342. eybah, ay-baw; from H340; hostility:enmity, hatred.
Satan hates usespecially women. One of the best ways to assault them is get them to destroy
themselvesspiritually, mentally, physicallyand their children.
Make no mistake about it, abortion is evil but God is the Judge, not us. Violence begets violence.
Clinic bombers are not God sent.
Romans 12:17 Repay no man evil for evil.
James 1:20 The wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God.
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Always remember, however, Gods promise of forgiveness:

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.
Abortion is forgivable, like any other sin.
Another form of deception is the idea of the counterfeit. Notice nobody ever counterfeits monopoly
money. Why is that? Because its worthless. They counterfeit the original. There are many Christian
counterfeits out there. Unfortunately, the average Joe doesnt know what the Bible says, therefore, they
get duped and sucked into heresy or a false system of authority.
II Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the
apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is
no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness;
David Koresh, Jim Jones, Charles T. Russell (Jehovahs Witnesses), Joseph Smith (Mormons), Heavens
Gate, and the like, all did what is forbidden by scripturethey added to it and took away from it. They
all knew the Bible, talked the talk, looked the part, however, they were false apostles and deceitful
workers. The blind leading the blind.
Revelation 22:18 If any man shall add to these things, God shall add to him the plagues that are written
in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take
away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in
this book.
Youre safe when you leave the Bible as it is, namely inspired and holy. It is Satans greatest desire to
keep you from knowing who you are and what you have, in Christ.
We are told what to do in Ephesians 6
11 Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For
we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers
of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take to you the
whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith,
wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation,
and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
If you dont put these six items on and keep them on, youre open game. Youre as vulnerable as you can
get. Some are metaphors.
1. truththe loins is your procreative area. In this analogy, Paul is spiritually speaking of your ability
to reproduceother believerstherefore, pass on God to others. So, Paul is saying protect yourself
and that ability to duplicate by wrapping this sensitive area in Gods Word, which is Jesusthe Living
Word.
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Jesus said I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father is except by Me. (John 14:6)
So, surround yourself with JesusHes the One with all the answers.
2. righteousnessthe breastplate in Rome covered the vital organs. Our protection in frontal assaults to
these vital organs by the enemy is knowing that we are the righteousness of God in Christ. (Phillipians
3:14) Dont let anyone tell you different.
3. gospel of peaceRomans 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?15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet
of them that preach the gospel of peace,
In other words, be a witness wherever you godo the work of an evangelist. (II Timothy 4:5) Every
Christian has a testimony. Share it. Thats how you overcome. (Revelation 12:11)
4. Shield of faithnotice it says in this verse, above all. Faith is crucial. I once heard someone say
that demons dont listen to weak Christians. You must know and exercise your authority or youll get
chewed up. When you have this shield of faith up, notice it says youll be able to extinguish all the ery
darts of the devil.
Do you know what this word, all, in the Greek means? It means, all. Very interesting. The Word means
what it says and says what it means. I like that accuracy deal.
5. Helmet of salvationProtect your headyour brainyour mind by knowing, Hes for you. You
can be in Him. Not hopingnot thinkingnot maybebut knowing that if you are in Christyoure
saved. Period. You cant get talked out of something youre convinced of, isnt that right? So, be fully
persuaded about your eternal life with Him. Stay away from the sin lifestyle thing.
6. The sword of the Spiritthis is the only offensive piece of the armor. The Word you know and use
is the deciding factor in your victory or defeat.
Remember, John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If you continue in my word,
then are you my disciples indeed; 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
This word, know is ginosko, which means you understand, you know experientially and youre sure
of it. Its settled.
So many believers arent free because they arent convinced that His promises apply to them. Healing,
deliverance, protection, prosperity are Gods best for you. Know it.
Satan is many things
.He is limitedhe is not omnipresent (he can only be one place at a time) Isaiah 14:16, nor
omnipotent (he has only so many weapons at his disposal) II Cor. 10:4, nor omniscient (he
cannot read your mind) I Cor. 2:11.
.He is a self-promoterhe exalts himself. (Isaiah 14:12)
.He is deceived and is crazy. I Cor. 2:8
.He is a tempter. Matthew 4:1
.He is a possessor. Mark 5:15.
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.He is the father of evil. John 8:44

.He is an oppressor. Acts. 10:38
.He is a condemner. I Timothy 3:6
.He lays traps. I Timothy 3:7
.He is resistible. James 4:7
.He is a devourer. I Peter 5:8
.He is a sinner. I John 3:8
.He is a contender. Jude 1:9
.He is a deceiver. Revelation 12:9
.He is ruthlessly, viciously angry. Revelation 12:12
.He knows the Bible. Matthew 4:6
.He is a Scripture twister. Luke 4:11
.He has a kingdom of his own. Luke 11:18
.He is a master of disguises. II Cor. 11:14
.He has a place where he lives. Revelation 2:13
.He has depthsome things up his sleeve. Rev. 2:24
*Most importantly, however, he is defeated and only has power in your life if you give it to
him.*
I John 3:8 For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the
devil.
Revelation 1:18,18 I am he that lives, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and
have the keys of hell and of death.
Colossian 2:15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing
over them in it.
You are not just a conqueror but you are more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens you.
(Roman 8:37) I Peter 5:8 says to be vigilant. That simply means heads up. Be alert. Stay sharp.
Dont let your guard down. For example, with regards to the Y2K deal, many thought it was reasonable
to do some mild preparation in the form of extra food and water storage, as well as, some miscellaneous
supplies. Prudence is ne but its inappropriate for a Christian to live in fear or panic. Satan tried to use
that computer bug to get some to freak out and it worked.
Again, in Genesis 3:11, God asked Adam, Who told you?
The Father is still asking that of us. Dont let Satan talk you into anything. He is defeated but you must
still contend with him until were out of here. Dont underestimate him but dont fear him either. Just be
wise to his pungy pit hidden deadly traps.
As in any good military, soldiers have to learn how to obey orders. In the army of God, your battle
plans and combat directions are clearly spelled out in the New Testament. Besides knowing the military
strategy of your enemy, you need to know whom youre ghting with, so cultivate friendships with your
allies in a united front against the adversary: the forces of darkness.
Unlike what some teach, the devil CANNOT read your mind:
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1 Cor 2:11 For who knows the things of a man, except the spirit of man which is in him?
Be assured, Satan or his demons only know what youre thinking by what you say and do, so dont lose
sleep over it. Just be wise to his tricks. Being a good soldier involves knowing your enemy. Its a big
part of the real deal.
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Chapter Twelve
JESUS IS GOD, SPARKY!

(The Deity of Christ)
John 10:30 I and my Father are one.

John 8:58I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.
Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour
Jesus Christ.
I guess Id better explain the title
When I was nishing up Bible college and bringing my career as a professional musician to a close, I
prayed and started looking around for employment opportunities.
In my search, I called a local church and inquired about the congregation, nances, leadership and music
style. Having told the pastorand I use that title loosely with this guythat my background was
Non-denominational and Biblically conservative, he said sheepishly but unapologetically, Wellyou
might not like our praise and worship here. I said, Really? Whys that?
He replied, Well, for example, we dont worship Jesus. I paused and stated curiously, OH? Well,
uhwho do you worship?
He said, God. I immediately wanted to break out my spiritual baseball bat and say, Jesus is God,
Sparky. (Thus the title)
However, self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. So, I said, Well, youre right. We probably wouldnt
be compatible and got off the phone thanking God for protecting me from such akiness. (As you can
tell from my thoughts through my writing, Im a very passionate individual. Restraining my passion,
sometimes is needed)
How some miss the truth in scripture that Jesus is divine and the clear teaching of the Godhead i.e. the
Trinity, is absolutely astonishing to me. (One God in three personsnot three Gods)
Like I said earlier, in the creation story, God (Elohim) is pluralFather, Son, Holy Spirit. Jesus was
addressed inclusively when Elohim is mentioned in the Old Testament as the Savior.
Isaiah 43:3 For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour: (God here is Elohim)
The demons certainly knew and recognized Jesus as God and were freaking out that He was now on
earth.
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Mark 1:23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, Saying, Let
us alone; what have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know you
who you are, the Holy One of God.
The same voice that told Moses I AM (Exod. 3:14) was now walking around on Planet earth.
John 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.
John 5:8 Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.
Jesus has always beenHe is the eternal
Colossians 1:16 For by Him (Jesus) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth,
visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were
created by Him, and for Him.
Jesus is Godnot the Father nor the Spirit but God
Revelation 1:8 (Jesus speaking) I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, says the Lord,
which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
We sing a Christmas carol, What Child is this. Who is this Child? Well, He was prophesied about for
hundreds of years before being born into a body of esh.
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder:
and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty GodI the LORD speak righteousness,
I declare things that are right
Isaiah 45:21and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
(God here is Elohim)
Jesus is God
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The
same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing
made that was made. v.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.
Jesus is the Christthe MessiahGod in the form of manEmmanuel (God with us)
Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the
chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have
gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of
us all.
Jesus is Godequal with the Father and the Spirit
John 10:30 I and my Father are one.
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Jesus Is God, Sparky!
one1520. heis, hice; (includ. the neut. [etc.] hen); a prim. numeral; one:
Not the same but one. One in direction, purpose, unity and doctrine. Sameness isnt oneness.
(According to Vines Expository dictionary heis is used metaphorically of union i.e. complete unity)
Peter addressing the religious leaders of the day said this:
Acts 3:13 The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers glorified His Servant Jesus,
whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go.
But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you and killed the
Prince of life
Jesus is Godthe Holy One, the Just, Lord of all, Lord of glory
Acts 10:36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: he is
Lord of all:
1 Cor 2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained
before the world unto our glory: 1 Cor 2:8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they
known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
About to be stoned, Stephen locates his heart, his loyalty and his faith:
Acts 7:58 And cast him (Stephen) out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their
clothes at a young mans feet, whose name was Saul. Acts 7:59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon
God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.
Now honestly, would anyone who thought Jesus WASNT alive, call on Him to bring them to heaven?
No way! Yes, Jesus is God. Heredo a little comparing of Old Testament and New Testament:
Psalms 23:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
John 10:11 John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.
Ezek 34:11 For thus says the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them
out.
Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Did His deity get addressed in scripture? Absolutely.
To the blind man:
John 9:35 Do you believe in the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe
on Him? And Jesus said to Him, You have both seen him, and it is He that is talking to you.
To the Jews:
John 10:28 And I give to them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them
out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them
out of my Fathers hand. I and my Father are one.
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To Peter:
Matthew 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. And
Jesus answered and said to him, Blessed are you, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood has not revealed
it to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
To the high priest:
Mark 14:61 Again the high priest asked Him, and said to Him, Are you the Christ, the Son of the
Blessed? And Jesus said, I am:
Christ5547. Christos, khris-tos; from G5548; anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:
Christ.
The whole Jewish population was looking for Messiahthe deliverer of their people. When He appeared
in a form different that their perception of what Messiah should look like, some could not embrace Him
but Jesus is just that: the Messiah.
Mark 16:15 And He (Jesus) said to them, Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believes and is baptized (into the body of Christ) shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be
damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; (demons)
they shall speak with new tongues;(natural and prayer language)
They shall take up serpents; (Satan not snakes) and if they drink any deadly thing,(unknowingly not
willingly) it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then after
the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And
they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with
signs following.
As the Good News is preached, Jesusnot usperforms miracles.
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, All authority has been given to Me in heaven
and on earth. Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you:
and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
This is a promise to sink your teeth intoif you are His discipleJesus is always with you. He is
omnipresent thus He is God.
John 14:23 Jesus answered and said to him, If a man love me, he will keep My words: and My Father
will love him, and We will come to him, and make Our abode with him.
God the Father and Jesus the Savior by the power of the Holy Spirit lives in you, if youve asked
Him to.
Hebrews 13:5 I will never leave you, nor forsake you.
This God is a friend, as well as, the Lord and Savior of mankind.
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Proverbs 18:24 and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.
John 15:15 I no longer call you servants; because a servant does not know his masters business. Instead
I have called you friends, for everything that I have learned from my Father I have made known to
you.
friends5384. philos, fee-los; prop. dear, i.e. a friend; act. fond, i.e. friendly (still as a noun, an associate,
neighbor, etc.):friend.
I so testify that Jesus has been with me since I asked Him to. Never has He let me down.
Well, Greg, how come I cant see Him?, you may ask.
First of all, we walk by faith not by sight. We are blessed because we believe and have not seen. He said
so. (John 20:29)
Secondly, you have to start overbe born from aboveborn againclean the slatethe do over
dealbefore you can even get a glimpse of what the Kingdom is about.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he
cannot see the kingdom of God.
see1492. eido, i-do; to see (lit. or g.); by impl. (in the perf. only) to know:be aware, behold, X can
(+ not tell), consider, (have) known (-ledge), look (on), perceive, see, be sure, tell, understand
Simply say, O.K. Lord, I invite you into my life and mean it. Watch what Hell do for you.
Jesus is the only person who meets the criteria prophesied throughout the Old Testament of who this
Messiah is. Here are but a few:
.Born in Bethlehem(Micah 5:2 and Luke 2:4)
.Born of a virgin(Isaiah 7:14 and Luke 1:26)
.Flight to Egypt(Hosea 11:1 and Matthew 2:14)
.The way prepared(Isaiah 40:3 and Luke 3:3)
.Declared as the Son of God(Psalms 2:7 and Matthew 3:17)
.Ministry in Galilee(Isaiah 9:1 and Matthew 4:13)
.Sent to heal the broken(Isaiah 61:1 and Luke 4:18)
.Rejected by His own people(Isaiah 53:3 and John 1:11)
.Priest after Melchizedek(Psalms 110:4 and Hebrews 5:5)
.Triumphant entry(Zechariah (9:9 and Mark 11:7)
.Betrayed by a friend(Psalms 41:9 and Luke 22:47)
.Betrayed for 30 silver coins(Zech. 11:12 and Matt. 26:14)
.Silent to accusers(Isaiah 53:7 and Mark 15:4)
.Piercedhands and feet(Zech. 12:10 and John 20:27)
.Soldiers gambling for clothes(Ps.22:17 and Matt. 27:35)
.Bones not broken(Ps. 34:20 and John 19:32)
.Side pierced(Zech. 12:10 and John 19:34)
.Resurrected(Ps. 16:10 and Mark 16:6)
.Ascension to Gods right hand(Ps. 68:18 and Mark 16:19, I Cor. 15:4 and Ephesians 4:8)
181
Colossians 2:9 In Him, dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is
the head of all principality and power.
Again, Godhead is where we get our Trinity reference i.e. Father, Son, Holy Spirit. (The actual word
Trinity isnt in the Bible but neither is the word Bible) As I said earlier, they are not the same
but they are one. There are some sects called Jesus onlymost are part of a ow called United
Pentecostalthat actually teach that Jesus is the Father and that Jesus is the Holy Ghost. When you
look at scripture, that simply is a ridiculous conclusion. Look at how that would change the Lords
prayer: Me, who art in heaven. Hallowed be my name. My kingdom come, my will be done. (That
sounds like Satans prayer)
Or John 5:30, I did not come to do my will but my will who sent me.(Sounds schizophrenic)
Look at Mark 1:11
And it came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John
in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit
descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, You are My beloved Son, in whom
I am well pleased.
Soif Jesus is the Father, who was Jesus praying to in the Garden for help? If Jesus is the Holy Spirit,
who was descending on Jesus like a dove while Hes getting baptized? Himself? No, The Jesus
only doctrine is deception. One yessame no. They are one in unity but not the same persons.
Different roles, assignments, and functions but one in purpose. Like a football teamCoach, Quarterback,
Receiver. Godthe Father, the Son, the Holy Spiritagree on everything.
I John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and
these three are one.
All throughout scripture, the deity of Christ is solidied but the distinction of the separate persons of
the Godhead is clear
Mark 13:31 (Jesus speaking) Heaven and earth shall pass away: but My words shall not pass away.
Mark 13:32 But of that day and that hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but
only the Father.
John 3:34 For He (Jesus) whom God has sent speaks the words of God: for God gives not the Spirit by
measure to Him. The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. He who believes in
the Son has everlasting life: and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God
abides on him.
John 5:22 For the Father judges no man, but has committed all judgment to the Son: That all men
should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that doesnt honor the Son doesnt honor not
the Father who has sent Him.
John 6:44 No man can come to Me, except the Father who has sent Me draw him: and I will raise him
up at the last day.
Well doesnt God say I will make man in my own image? Actually no. It says, Us and our
182
Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:
King David in the Psalms said it this way: The LORD (The Father) said to my Lord (Jesus), Sit at my
right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.(Psalms 110:1)
They are one but not the same. (Look again carefully at page 12)
The Godhead (the Trinity) will be cloudy until we see them, face to face. Ive heard different takes on
explaining. The eggit has a shell, has a yoke and it has a white but theyre all egg. Or waterwater
is steam, water is liquid, water is icebut theyre all water.
Like I said, I like movies. The easiest way for me to think of it is like the end of Star Wars 3. When Yoda,
Obie One and Darth Vader are all in spirit form. They are separate but onethe force, etc.
Phillipians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God,
did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of
a bondservant (a slave) and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He
humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.
There is something called hypostasis that only describes Jesus. By denition, hypostasis is the
one personality of Christ uniting the human and the divine. So, like most students of the word and
theologians, I believe Jesus is 100% God and 100% man. This is commonly called the hypostatic
union. While Jesus was always God when He walked the earth, He left his power in heaven but not His
deity. He did none of His miracles until He was water baptized and then subsequently empowered by the
Holy Spirit, as a man. Had Jesus done miracles as God, then He couldnt have expected nor commanded
us to continue His ministry by doing not only the same miracles He did but greater works as it says in
John 14:12. As the Spirit empowers us, He can do miracles through us. The truth that He was God and
man is totally supported by scripture. Let me summarize:
Jesus as God
Cannot be tempted by man.
(James 1:13)
Jesus as Man
Was tempted as a man.
(Matt. 4:1, Hebr. 4:15)
Was known to Moses as I AM.

(Ex. 3:14, John 8:58)
Had limited knowledge.

(Mark 13:32)
Was worshipped.
(Matt. 2:11, 8:2)
Gloried the Father.

(John 17:1)
A pre-incarnate Jesus was seen as God in the Old. Test.(Ex. 6:2-3, 24: 9-11, Num.12:6-8) yet God (the
Father and the Spirit) has not been seen. (John 1:18) Later they will be seen. (I John 3:1-2) Jesus prayed
to the Father (John 17:1) yet Jesus is the Creator. (Coloss.1:16, Eph. 3:9, Heb. 1:2) Jesus as God is
eternal yet Jesus as a man, physically died. (John 19:30) Jesus as God is a Spirit (John 4:24) yet Jesus as
a man Has esh and blood.(Luke 24:39) Hypostasis is deep stuff yet it is the absolute truth.
Yes, Jesus is God. He is the Almighty. He is the real deal.
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Chapter Thirteen
WHOOSH KABOOMWHERED THEY GO?

(The Rapture and the Second Coming)
I Thess.4:16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel,
and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain
shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always
be with the Lord.
I dont know how people can miss the truth of whats commonly called the Rapture but they do. There
is nothing, prophetically speaking, that has to happen in order for Jesus to come for His church. All
things are in place and right on schedule. But when?
Matthew 24:36 But of that day and hour knows no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father
only.
God knows specically when. Of course, you should be aware of cults and date setters but watch the
stories on the evening news i.e. wars, terrorism, etc. and you can only conclude that somethings up.
In verse 17 of I Thessalonians 4 the word caught up is harpazo.
caught up726. harpazo, har-pad-zo; from a der. of G138; to seize catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take
(by force).
It will be powerful and sudden. Those who are ready and waiting for Jesus, will go. Those who are
playing church and are unwilling to leave their lifestyle of sin, will stay.
Matthew 25:1 The kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out
to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took
their lamps and took no oil with them but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while
the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was heard: Behold,
the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!
Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, Give us some
of your oil, for our lamps are going out. But the wise answered, saying, No, lest there should be not
enough for us and you: but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to
buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door
was shut.
Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us! But he answered and said,
Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you. Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour
in which the Son of man is coming.
My counsel simply is this: Be ready.(Matt. 24:44)
185
Regarding the rapture/catching away, there at rst will be chaos, of course, when millions of people just
vanish. CNN folk will be on this story like white on ricethose CNN folk who werent ready for this
catching away, that is. There will be pundant after pundant giving their take as to what happened to
these people. You think the O.J. case, the Clinton scandal/impeachment or Presidential elections got air
play: just wait. This event will dwarf those cases.
They were upducted by aliens
They were destroyed by God for being false prophets
and so on and so on
Its my belief that Gods faithful will be protected from the bowls of judgment talked about in the book
of Revelation. Im what you call a pre-wrath Christian. I believe Gods own will be protected from the
Great Tribulation. We will be rescued.
I Thess.1:10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which
delivered us from the wrath to come.
I Thess. 5:9 For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.
wrath3709. orge, or-gay; violent passion (ire, or [justiable] abhorrence); by impl. punishment:
anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath.
Im certainly not in a hurry to get out of here. I dont share the escapist mentality many have. My
spiritual bags are packed. Anytime Lord, is ne with me. Not me. I have witnessing to do and personally
Id like to see my kids married with kids. But His will be done with that.
The controversy amongst Christians usually stems around time table theories. And thats all they really
are because nobody knows the specic time. These theories are commonly called pre-tribulation,
mid-tribulation and post-tribulation. Though I believe Christians will have tribulations in life
because Jesus said we would (John 16:33), I also believe that will be caught up before the period of
Gods wrath being poured out occurs.
Luke 21:36 Watch you therefore, and pray always, that you may be accounted worthy to escape all these
things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
Many believe, including me, that the Holy Spirit is the restrainer holding back the undiluted attack of
evil presently at work in the world. When His restraining is removed and were caught up with the
Lord, thats when all hell will eventually break loose.
(II Thess. 2: 6-8) And now you know what is restraining that he may be revealed in his own time. For the
mystery of lawlessness is already at work: only He (the Holy Spirit) who now restrains will do so until
He is taken out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with
the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is
according to Satan, with all power, signs and lying wonders and with all unrighteous deception among
those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
After the initial shock of multitudes disappearing, during this time on earth3 and yearsthings will
become peaceful as this new leader emerges on the scene. (This is referenced in Daniel 9: 25-27, Rev.
186
Whoosh KaboomWhered They Go?
11:1) This first three and one half years is what people are referring to when they talk of the tribulation
not the Great Tribulation. There will be great evangelism on earth by two incredible men. After theyre
killed, God raises them up and the whole world sees it. (Probably on CNN and Fox)
Some say that this new world leader gure will appear out of whats now called the EUthe European
Union. They speculate that he will be extremely gifted in speech, highly intelligent, possess a genius
military mind and will be incredibly charismatic. He will be a ruthless killer, however, and the world will
discover this the hard way, especially those who receive Christ during this second three and one half
years time period called the Great Tribulation. He is the Antichrist i.e. the beast.
He gets what looks like a mortal head wound (Revelation 3:13) but is brought back to life giving the
appearance of a miracle. He establishes himself as the world leader. After this apparent miracle and
time of peace, his true colors show up and basically, martial law is implemented. If youre unfortunate
enough to nd yourself on earth during this time, you wont be able to buy or sell anything unless you
take his brand of ownership. Actually, the Bible says theyll be many martyrs then. You may lose your
head.
Rev 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb,
and he spoke as a dragon. And he exercised all the power of the first beast before him, and caused the
earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he
does great wonders, so that he makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And
deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the
sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast,
which had the wound by a sword, and did live.
Rev 13:15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should
both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And
he caused all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand,
or in their foreheads: And that no one might buy or sell, except those that had the mark, or the name of
the beast, or the number of his name.
It wont be a fun time here on earth and basically will be The Third Reich to the 100th power. Hitler was
nothing compared to this guy.
Back to the teaching
Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and puts forth leaves,
you know that summer is near: So likewise you, when you shall see all these things, know that it is near,
even at the doors. Truly I say to you, this generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
The g tree, in this scripture text, references Israel. Israel became a nation again in 1948. In 1967, the
Jews regained their land. Some said, If a generation is forty years, (Numbers 32:13) add 40 to 1967 and
subtract 7 years for the Great Tribulation and you come up with the year 2000.
It was interesting but all it was, was speculation. Again, dont trust the date setters because only the
Father knows. There are too many variables with how long a generation is, when to begin counting
from and the differences of the Gregorian and other calendar starting dates. We do indeed look through
a glass darkly, here.
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Just be ready at all timesa lifestyle of readiness

Matthew 24:37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in
the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage,
until the day that Noah entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away;
so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and
the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch
therefore: for you know not what hour your Lord comes.
We certainly are in the times as of Noaheating, partying, sexual perversion, wickedness and
lukewarmness, everywhere. Denitely.
If youre a committed Christian, you have a great living arrangement awaiting for you after this catching
away. A living quarters personally built by Jesus, Himself. (Remember He was a carpenter)
John 14:2 In My Fathers house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to
prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to
myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
Alright!
Dont confuse the Rapture with the Second Coming. He rst comes, for us, (I Thess.4:16) and then
returns, with us, and establishes His 1000 year reign. (Revelation 19:7-16)
The rapture will come as a thief in the nightunexpectedly. The whole world, however, will witness the
Second Coming:
Matthew 24:29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon
shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be
shaken: 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the
earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great
glory. 31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his
elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
Before the Rapture and the Second Coming occur, the Bible teaches there will be a falling away i.e.
apostasy, which means defection from truth, by many professing Christ. And there will be, of course,
people making fun of those who talk about Jesus returning.
II Peter 3:3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own
lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of His coming?
scoffer1703. empaiktes, emp-aheek-tace; from G1702; a derider, i.e. (by impl.) a false teacher:
mocker, scoffer.
Pretty much the inference today Jesus is coming back again, yeah right. We have on Oprah, Geraldo,
Larry King, CNN and other shows, so called Biblical scholars and great theologians explaining to
the world the inaccuracy of the Bible, the dead sea scrolls being fake or incomplete or the legitimacy
of the lost Gospel(s). Again, the blind leading the blind. Again, I would strongly recommend reading
188
Whoosh KaboomWhered They Go?
the book called, Storm Warning. It will illuminate these truths in a way that truly is life changing and
accurate. Dont miss your opportunity to get right with your Maker. Carpe Diem (seize the day)
What about Jews? They have a covenant with God and true Jews i.e. Israel, will be saved (Romans
11:26) though many will go through the Great Tribulation, should they not receive Jesus before the
Rapture.
As Ive said, all of this was prophesied thousands of years ago. With regards to these so called Biblical
experts giving their slant, dont get sucked in. The more true studying you do, youll nd the Bible to
be amazingly accurate with no errors. Difficulties in the Word arent contradictions. Its a weave that is
perfect.
The real deal all comes down to thisJesus is alive and He is Lord. If you dont believe that, you are
deceived and lost. (No offense)
Revelation 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
God loves you. That is the truth. The clock is ticking. That is the truth. Eternity is not worth gambling.
Dont trust your intellectyoure not that smart. (Again, no offense)
Jesus is the Living Word. HE is the one and only way to heaven. Follow Him with freedom but
also with truth. Youll enjoy the adventure of His lordship.
Jesus? Hes the real deal.
189
In closing:
I mentioned the do over earlier. Some have said that we need more of the terror of the Lord. That
word terror in the Greek is phobos, (fob-os) to be put in fear, alarm or fright:be afraid, + exceedingly,
fear, terror. Its where we get our word, phobia. Going into eternity without Jesus is just that: fearful.
However, after you accept Him, Jesus tells us NOT to be afraid, otherwise we wont approach Him with
condence and boldness.
Rev 1:17 And when I saw Him, (Jesus) I fell at His feet as dead. And He laid his right hand on me and
said, Do not be afraid.
Terror and afraidthey are derived from the same word. Youre safe after Hes your Lord, once
youve said Yes, come in and stay. When you get into His presence, youll respect and reverence Him
but you shouldnt be afraid of Jesus. Hes for you, trust me. So, If you havent done this surrender/ reset/
do over/ deal, wont you do it now? You can settle the issue of heaven, forever. Ive prayed that He be
drawing you at this very moment, so say this from your heart and mean it and youll have a miracle:
God, Ive sinnedI know it and admit it. Im choosing to accept You as my Father, Your Son
as my Lord & Savior and Your Spirit as my guide, comforter & helper because I now believe. So
Lord Jesus, please come into my life. Ill live for you. Lord I thank you for saving me. Amen.
There, youre saved. Done deal. Real Deal. Now, go out into the world and impact it with Gods love
through Jesus. You know, Salt and light. Help people wherever and whenever you can, especially if
youve been equipped to do so. Again, love is a verb.
1 John 3:17 Whoever has this worlds goods,(nances, money, etc.) and sees his brother in need, and
shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
191
About the author:

Rev. Greg Haage was raised near Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota. He has a Bachelors degree (B.E.S.)
in psychology with a marriage counseling emphasis from St. Cloud State University, a Masters degree
(M.A.) in Biblical Studies and Theology from Minnesota Graduate School of Theology. He is a Bible
College graduate, as well as, being an ordained minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He is a music
minister, pastor, psalmist, worship leader, songwriter, recording artist and author.
In 1977, Greg received a word of knowledge stating Gods desire for him to sing a new song and to
proclaim the Lord to the multitudes. In 1995, he nally yielded and went into full time ministry.
His 26 years in the music industry, live performances and recording studio experiences, are now being
utilized for the glory of God.
Greg and his wife, Denise, have been married 25 years. They have two childrenson, Jonathan and
daughter, Piper.
He has an uncommon zeal for seeing Christian marriages restored and ourishing. Like the Lord, hes
big on cultivating the intimacy and passion element between husbands and wives.
They promote market-place ministries. The Lord demands fairness in every business deal. (Proverbs
16:11) The Living Bible
UP FRONT Ministries
Rev. Gregory Haage
PO 22421 Minneapolis, MN. 55422
763-522-8156
E-mail: ghupfront@aol.com
Web site: www.UpFrontMinistries.com

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THE REAL DEAL

(Following Jesus 101)

Rev. Gregory Alan Haage

2008 Rev. Gregory Alan Haage. All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America

Dedication and Special thanks:

In memory of my dadBill Haage.

SURRENDERING AND PUSHING RESET .................................................1

BURYING YOURSELF .....................................................................................59

POWERDONT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! ...................................65

THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN AND PROTECTION ...................................71

THE HEM OF HIS GARMENT .......................................................................83

ONCE SAVEDALWAYS SAVED? ..............................................................117

THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH ............................................137

THE WINE QUESTION .............................................................................153

#1 MILITARY STRATEGY ............................................................................169

JESUS IS GOD, SPARKY! ..............................................................................177

WHOOSH KABOOMWHERED THEY GO? .........................................185

O.K. What does the Word say?

SURRENDERING AND PUSHING RESET

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Surrendering and Pushing Reset

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Surrendering and Pushing Reset

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Surrendering and Pushing Reset

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

(Do I have to listen to that pipe organ again?)

Surrendering and Pushing Reset

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Surrendering and Pushing Reset

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

JESUS AND NICODEMUS by Harry Antis

As someone thinks in their heart, so are they. (Proverbs 23:7)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Look at that word in the Greek

anera man #3391

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

#4292 proistemito maintain, to provide

#2398 idiosones own, private, home

15.) not a novice:

#2570 (Strongs concordance) kalosgood

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

A red flag should go off when you see

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Lord is a God of order.

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Who told you..?

Who told you..?

Who told you?

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Beware of the controller.

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)

Passing judgment on others:

The Real Deal (Following Jesus 101)