Tag: God

THE MODERN CHURCH PT. 6

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GOD’S CALL FOR UNITY IN THE CHURCH “THE CHURCH OF PHILADELPHIA”

Revelations 3:8 ‘I know your deeds. Look! I have put in front of you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, but you have obeyed my word and have not denied my name.

NO REBUKE FOR THIS CHURCH!

The only one of the seven churches in which the Lord has no corrections! Wow!

What was so great about these Christians that God was so pleased? Is Jesus pleased with you so much that he has no “rebukes” only commendations for you?

Last weekend was a whirlwind of what could have been a cyclone of despair for the nation and the world. But God! And more importantly Thank God that he protected those who were not harmed, and much prayer and warm thoughts of love to the families mourning the loss of a father and husband who died shielding his family. Which is just what our heavenly Father does for us. He is our shield and protector.

We continue in prayer for the family at the bedside of the wounded. We proclaim Christ is King and greater is He, than the enemies of brotherly love.

Timely Message!

Today’s leaders call for unity and God is calling from down through the corridors of time for “Brotherly Love” There is no unity without brotherly love. Drop the divisive identity idols, and take up the work of brotherly love as the Philadelphia church did. He will commend you and not rebuke you.

Read Revelations 3:7-13.

Background/Context: How did they please God? They were not perfect and admittedly had but a little strength.

  • This was the church of brotherly love.
  • They so allowed the Lord to permeate their lives and they had Christlikeness in character of love.
  • They were not just hearers of the word but hearers but doers of the word.

How did the Lord Describe himself on behalf of these Christians, then and even now!

7) … “These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.“

  • He is God!
  • There is none besides Him!
  • Christ calling himself holy He was by very nature claiming to be God!
  • He That is True: He is right in nature and in conduct!
  • He has all authority!
  • He opens the doors and closes the doors.

(Revelations 3:9-10) 9) I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

In Summary: The Lord provides many opportunities for the faithful ones. If he opens doors of opportunity we must work faithfully. If He shuts the doors. we must wait. Above all, we must be faithful to Him and see the opportunities, not the obstacles. If we miss our opportunities we lose our rewards, and this means being ashamed before Him when He returns.

With just a little strength God moved mountains for the faithful. Because He is strength, a little strength made this church totally dependent on God. Perhaps the problem we see in the world and the church today is that many believe in their own strength and power.

The events of last weekend happened because someone(s) thought they had more strength and power than God. But God! Thank God!

Prayer, Lord, give me a heart for you that is so much like your heart, that this week and going forward I will be kinder, peaceful, more loving toward all people, even when I don’t agree with them. My Character will be like Jesus and the Philadelphia faithful Christians. Amen!

THE MODERN CHURCH PT. 4

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HERE COMES THE JUDGE/ THE SON OF GOD!

A MESSAGE TO THE CORRUPT CHURCH/A SEVERE WARNING AND JUDGEMENT

“To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze.” (Revelations 2:18)

If you ever moved to a new community and had to select a new church home, you know how difficult it is to examine and evaluate a church and its ministry.

Impressive buildings may have dying or dead congregations, and be spiritual morgues. While modest structures might belong to strong lion-hearted assemblies on the march for the Lord. The church we think is “rich” may be poor in God’s sight. While the poor church is actually rich.

Only the head of the church, Jesus Christ can accurately inspect each church and know its true condition because He sees the internal, not only the external. The view of many Christians of Christ is narrow because they see him as Savior, as Healer, as Friend, and will call him “Lord” but neglect to see him as Judge. He has to be God-Judge to be God-Justice.

The Supreme Court in the United States is the highest in the land, served by Justices/Judges, and has authority to overrule lower courts. There is a court and Justice that reigns higher than all and has only one Judge/Justice. His name is Jesus Christ!. The nation would be better off if every Supreme Court decision aligned with the world of God. The Ultimate Justice!

The Commendation:

(Revelations 2:19)–  I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.

The believers were very busy! They involved themselves in a sacrificial ministry for the sake of others. Their work was increasing, Characterized by faith, love, and patience; They were not guilty of religious activity.

NINETY-NINE AND A HALF WON’T DO!

(Revelations 2:20) “Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.”

  • The sin of the church is they tolerated with corruption! Yes, God holds you accountable for tolerating sin and compromise.
  • You are doing a great job with most things that please God, but what is that one or two things, he has against you?
  • What are you tolerating just because you are comfortable where you are?

Accusation:

(Revelations 2:19) Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.

The church was permitting a false prophet/prophetess to influence the people and lead them into compromise with the Roman religions and the practices of the “Guilds” (unions, syndicates, federations, fraternities, sororities, coalitions, and associations) So that the Christians would not lose their jobs or their lives.

Where ever these guilds were found idolatry and immorality, the two great enemies of the church were almost always found.

Does this sound familiar? Are you staying with an assembly or job that you know contradicts every thought of God, but you tolerate it for the same purposes the early Christians did? Maybe you joined a group or association so that your resume will be boosted but, overlooked the anti-Christian principles of the company association.

The church became too tolerant of false doctrine. Speaking the truth in love is the biblical balance.

(Ephesians 4:14) Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ

Good News! Repentance!

(Revelations 2:22) So I will cast her (the prophet) on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. (The prophet was unwilling to repent) Have mercy on the prophets who refuse to repent today!

Repentance/ Gk. Metanoia: Is composed of two parts: meta, meaning change, and noia, meaning mind.

As it is today, Everyone in the assembly was not unfaithful. The faithful separated themselves from the false doctrine and compromising practices. He admonished the faithful to hold fast in their resistance to evil. “Till he comes!” referring to Christ’s return for his people, at which time he will reward them for their faithfulness.

Action Steps: If you find yourself in a corrupt situation follow God’s plan.

  1. Separate yourself from the evil.
  2. Repent of your sins. (Change; mind) results in change actions.
  3. Remain faithful “Till he comes”
  4. If staying around the evil is pulling you into compromising, “Get Out” with your Soul in tack!
  5. Always, pray and ask God to deliver you out of it or give you strength to remain faithful.

Summary Reflection:

Years ago Rev. Billy Graham was stopped for driving over the speed limit. He pleaded guilty. The judge was friendly, and embarrassed for Rev. Graham to be in court. The fine was ten dollars. Rev. Graham stated, “If he let me go free, it would have been inconsistent with justice. The penalty had to be paid either by me or someone else!” Judgement is consistent with love. A God of love must be a God of justice. It is because God loves that He is just. His justice balances His love and makes His acts of both love and justice meaningful.

THE MODERN CHURCH: “WHAT NOW?!”

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PASTOR STEPS DOWN DUE TO PAST SINS

LEAD PASTOR RESIGNS

HEADLINE NEWS: CHURCH SCANDALS! WRONG DOING! SIN! ALLEGED CRIME!

Last year my beloved mother transitioned to heaven at the age of 94 years old. One of her go-to responses whenever she learned of unexpected or impending unpleasant news, whether it was family news, or on the global stage. She always responded, “What Now!”

Lately, we are getting rapid news of not-so-good news about modern church leaders and practices. The news is difficult to hear whether it is alleged or true. Each exposure makes you want to say, “What now!”

A story was told: of a popular Megachurch pastor’s conversation with one of the elderly mothers of the church, “Mother, we no longer have to say what Peter told the lame man, with oozing pride he spoke, “Silver and gold have I none.” The Elderly-mother in an uneasy stare gazed at the pastor and replied, yeah but Pastor, neither can you say like Peter, “rise up and walk.”

Followers of Christ, Be Encouraged, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:9)

Read the message to the church in Pergamum! It is relevant for today! Know your real enemy! To the Angel of the Church (the Lead Pastor) of the Church of Pergamum/and all churches!.(Paraphrase)

(Revelations 2:13) “I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.”

What does Jesus know about the church? Jesus knows all about what we do individually, and collectively. He knows where we are, even if it isn’t much to know. This church was in the stronghold of Satanic power. It was in the political center of the worship demands of Roman government.

The above passage reveals that Jesus was pleased that the church of Pergamon did not deny his faith. It is always important to make sure that the faith we hold on to is the faith that belongs to Jesus.

(Revelations 2:14-15) “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality.  Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans

Contextual Background: Read Scripture Reference Revelations 2:12-17)

The Nicoliatan (The name means rule the people, conquer the people) infiltrators, a doctrine that Jesus hated, (Rev. 2:6) because they believe in lording over the people and compromising their faith with other occults, religions, and doctrines. “It’s okay to bring practices into the Church from the world because the church needs all the help it can get!” Sounds familiar.

Teachings of Balaam (The True Priophet prostituted his gift to earn money and led Israel into idolatry and sexual immorality.)Balaam also means lord of the people.

Summary:

After the believers would not say, “Ceasar is Lord” and pledge their allegiance. A believer was killed, but the other believers stayed true to their faith. A stretegy of infiltration became the next play of Satan.

When Satan could not accomplish his goals by using persecution, He tried to accomplish his goals by using deception. (He uses the same tactics today.) He first used violence, persecution, then through infiltrating a group of compromising people an alliance was established.

It was a difficult environment, however difficulties never justifies compromise in the name of “We need all the help we can get.” No church then, or today needs that kind of help. The church began to look like the world. (The doctrine of Nicoliatan) Compromise! Worldly worship became the norm.

Self Reflection

  • Can you think of any area of your life where you have allowed yourself to be compromised by the world? If so, has that compromised hindered the power of God from operating in your life?
  • Do you know any believers who thought they could live with one foot in the church and another foot in the world, but in the end the world ensnared them and they backslid into a life of sin?
  • If you know someone who is on the verge of backslliding, what do you think the Lord would have you do to help bring that person back to where he or she ought to be?

Action Steps: What Now?

  1. Repent- a call to all Christians, not only those who first come to Jesus
  2. Hear what the word of the Lord teachers- Obey the word of God
  3. Examine your place of worship- False teaching and immorality is still a problem today.
  4. Make Jeus the main attraction for all you do! Know the word for yourself.
  5. Seek wise counsel.

Pray: I don’t want to allow any spirit of compromise in my life! I don’t want to live with one foot in the church and another foot in the world. I want to break free completely from the world and its influence so I give myself completely to your cause! I want to live in a way that pleases you and, to experience your power in my life. Today I am renewing my commitment to you all over again! I turn from the world, and I am running to you! I pray this in Jesus’ name! Amen!

Related Readings: Numbers 22-25

THE MODERN CHURCH

On By glendarouseIn Devotional, Uncategorized1 Comment

IS JESUS LORD? IS CHRIST KING? DEVOTIONAL II

Have you noticed the headlines, lately? The world has always been wild and crazy! However, I believe it was King Solomon who said, “Nothing is new under the sun.”

Please examine yourself as you read the messages to the Church in Revelation 2. The message to the Ephesian Church in Revelations 2 emphasizes God’s requirement of passion and love for Christ, the passion that makes God first in all things. 

Many Churches today, like the Church of Ephesus, individually and collectively, have all the boxes checked, except the main box of maintaining and growing an intimate relationship with Christ. How about you are all your boxes checked, also?

Even the phrase, “Christ is King” has been made a controversy by worldly standards. Are you able to maintain your peace amid all the lies, false narratives and, “Christian” persecution?

The attacks of the enemy are never his first rodeo. His tactics are the same. As you read the scripture try to find yourself and the church today. Do you see yourself? Do you see the modern church crisis’? The word of God is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore.

Read Revelations 2:8-10

9 I know how much you suffer and how poor you are, but you are rich. I also know the cruel things being said about you by people who”Claim to be God’s people.” But they are not really God’s people. They are a group that belongs to Satan.

10 Don’t worry about what you will suffer. The devil will throw some of you into jail, and you will be tested and made to suffer for ten days. But if you are faithful until you die, I will reward you with a glorious life. (Gk. crown of life)

11 If you have ears, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. Whoever wins the victory will not be hurt by the second death.

Context & Cultural Background:

The Smyrna culture was deeply committed to idolatry and worship of the Roman Emperor. (Government) The evidence of their worship was political allegiance and civic pride. (Socialism) They were required to burn incense and say “Caesar is Lord” to receive a certificate that they had performed their religious duty. They could then go away and worship as they pleased.

However, the true-to-faith Christians determined they would give no man the name “Lord” because that name is reserved for “Jesus Christ” alone. The faithful refused to conform to the culture.

Are you conforming to the pressures of the culture today? Is Christ King? Is Christ Lord?

As a result of not conforming the True Christians of Smyrna knew poverty because they were robbed and fired from jobs in persecution for the gospel. This kind of economic persecution was one important reason why Christians were poor. Even today across the globe it’s happening! Find yourself yet?

The Blessing to Christians who remain True to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Are you rich?

Rich in spirituals; rich in faith; rich in grace; rich in good works; rich in bonds and deeds; of gifts;: rich in hope: rich in reversion;

When God’s people are impoverished for the sake of Christ and a good conscience, God makes all up to them in spiritual riches, which are much more satisfying and enduring, eternally.

Gospel of Jesus Christ vs Gospel of Satan?

Those Christians in name only were really the synagogue/church of Satan. (Rev. 2:9)

15 Watch out for false prophets! They dress up like sheep, but inside they are wolves who have come to attack you. (Matthew 7:15)

They were doing the bidding and work of Satan, then and now. Have you seen anything in churches that look less like Christ and more like Satan, lately? As Christ has a church in the world, “The Body of Christ”, so Satan has his church. Those assemblies which are set up in opposition to the truths of the gospel. They promote and publicize fake gospel news.

Their gospel is set up in opposition to the purity and spirituality of gospel worship according to the scriptures, They promote and multiply the narcissistic inspiration of men and their rites, rituals, and ceremonies that never entered into the thoughts of God.

Have you seen any Satan Churches disguised as Christian Churches, lately?

Synagogues/Churches of Satan carrying on, where Satan presides over them, he works in them, and his interests are served by them. God is greatly dishonored when his name is made use of to promote and patronize the interests of Satan. He will take revenge on those who persist in it.

Sadly, many followers don’t know the truth, because the pure word of God is not spoken. It just feels good and right to them. An emotional rollercoaster! Religious modification and no transformation!

(Rev. 2:10) Don’t worry about what you will suffer. The devil will throw some of you into jail, and you will be tested and made to suffer for ten days.

Question: Why couldn’t the Christians stop the attack? Rebuke the Devil, Right?

Answer: God had a purpose in their suffering, so he allowed it. In their suffering, God proved the true riches of the church.

God has a Promise:
(Rev. 2:10b) …But if you are faithful until you die, I will reward you with a glorious life. (Gk. crown of life)

What is in your treasure chest of Riches? Does your faith journey align with the Smyrna Church?

Action Steps: Study the scriptures to ensure your faith aligns with the gospel of Jesus Christ and not Satan’s gospel. God’s Church and not Satan’s church. Are you attending a church where Jesus Christ is the main attraction? Check yourself daily!

THE MODERN CHURCH

On By glendarouseIn Devotional, UncategorizedLeave a comment

I WANT YOU BACK”

A SEVEN (7) PART SERIES DEVOTIONAL

What is the Church? Who is the Church? Has the definition and expectations of the church changed since its inception?!!!

Many authors and theologians compare the church to a hospital for the spirit, soul, and body, caring for those wounded by life.

What about you and your church assembly affiliation? Do you agree with the theologians’ comparison? Examine yourself and your church assembly. Is quality care, provided for the whole person, with evidence of visible growth and spiritual development?

Seemingly, the words “Church” and “Christian” mean different things to people in this modern world. The terms are used very loosely, today. The world’s view of “church” and “Christian” is quite different from God’s view, according to the Bible, which is God’s written view.

The best answer to questions and frustrations about the church’s past, present or future is to go to the source, The Bible, as it is written.

(I Corinthians 12:12) Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.

(I Corinthians 12:27) Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

This is a scriptural reminder that in the Bible the church never refers to a building, it always refers to people, as followers of Jesus Christ. What is God saying to the modern church? First, remember the church lies within each individual who follows Christ.” The church is the body of Christ, with many members.

Why is there so much frustration with the modern church today? You probably know someone who has totally stepped away from it. Largely, due to misconception and frustration. Because, many churches today have fallen for the influential cultural schemes of the world’s view, better known as “Church Hyper-Activity Disorder!

“What is God saying to the church today?

In Revelation Chapter 2, we will examine each message to the Church. “He that has an ear to hear, let him hear. This is an individual and collective indictment. Churches are made up of individuals and it is individuals who determine the spiritual life of the assembly. So, as we ponder God’s word apply it personally and examine your heart.

The Ephesian Church:

God”s Commendations: (which ones fit you)

  1. Hardworking
  2. Perservering in the works of the church
  3. No tolerance of evil wicked people
  4. Test those who claimed to be apostles but are false apostles
  5. Endure hardship for my namesake.
  6. You hate the Nicoliatans (Those who compromise with worldly practices in the church)

God’s Rebuke: Reflection: (Is this your (1) only rebuke, too or do you have more) Write them down!

  1. You have forsaken the love you had at first. (Revelation 2:4-5)

God’s Remedy: Reflection (God’s plan + Your obedience)

  • You must consider how far you have fallen. (Check your list)
  • You must repent
  • You must return to doing the things you did at first.

Personal Alert! Consequences for Disobedience: Reflection (Your light will no longer shine but be destroyed) You will Stumble in darkness!

(Revelation 2:4-5) Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.  Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.

Self Reflection: Are you able to find yourself in the Ephesian Church? Remember. Churches are people, and human nature has not changed so much from earlier centuries, unfortunately!

Over the next couple of weeks, contemplate, which Church mirrors your heart and actions? Next week we will dive into the church in Smynar! Another mirror reflection!

Next Steps: (Read Revelation: 2: 8-11)

Conclusion: God rebuked them because they abandoned the love they had at first. First love always involves passion. There was no passionate pursuit of an intimate relationship with Christ. They merely followed a program. Duty had replaced devotion. They had correct doctrine, but not a correct heart. Question: What is the condition of your heart?

First, is the keyword, not love. They had stellar leadership. How easy it is for a church to become proud and forget that pastors and teachers are God’s gifts which may be taken away at any time. Be cautioned to worship the Lord and not the pastors and teachers! Question: Are you a man/person pleaser or a God pleaser?

All those good qualities were not motivated by a love for Christ. What we do is important. However, so is why we do it! Labor is not a substitute for love; neither is purity a substitute for passion.

Take Action: (This is not optional for God!)

  1. Repent
  2. Confess your sins to the Lord
  3. Restore your original fellowship through (Prayer, Bible Reading, Meditation, Obedient Service and Worship), consistently.

Self Reflection: What will you do about your areas of rebuke discovered this week? Disobedience? or Obedience?

Take Action: Related Reading: The Book of Ephesians

  • Humbly rejoice in your commendations from God!

Pray: Lord, I confess that I have some areas of rebuke. Thank you for the reminder to prioritize my relationship with you before all other things, including service. Search me Lord I repent of anything that has offended you, known and unknown. I thank you for forgiving me. Now, help me to keep the main thing the main thing. You are number 1 in my life. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Share this devotional lesson with others, especially those who may be questioning what’s happening in the church, and need to see God’s rescue plan, one follower at a time. Praying that the readers will be encouraged to make life changes and persevere in the Kingdom of God. I would love to hear your church experience and thoughts.