Tag Archives: Truth

What is Love? Part 2

07 Monday Dec 2020

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When a person declares that they have fallen in love with another, usually the description invokes words that are emotionally charged. Some say that being in love gives one the feeling of butterflies dancing around in their stomach. Others, describe it as a constant state of having the person of affection on one’s mind. There are a myriad of emotions that one may feel concerning being in love from the romantic standpoint. However, what are the key characteristics of love itself?

Before getting into those characteristics, it should be known that love is not based on a feeling. While falling in love, being in love, or loving someone brings with it the emotional side, the primary focus of love is not emotional, rather it is a choice. To prove this, there may be moments when our loved one’s disappoint us or they cause momentary periods of discomfort. That is due to the human condition of being sinful and imperfect. Circumstances in life change, people change, which means if love were based on the emotive state, then many would forgo love altogether. Love is a choice, rather than it being based on one’s emotions.

With love, there are also key characteristics that the Bible shows us in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7:

(NLT) “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”

  • Patience – When a person is operating in love, there is a prominent display of patience for others. Despite the many flaws and challenges that may arise, a loving disposition portrays a steady dose of patience. This means, time will be taken with others, even when they may not be deserving of said patience. However, love suggests that even when others are not patient with me, I will be patient with others.
  • Kindness – Love is also shown through acts of kindness. The world around us has distorted the concept of love. In extreme cases some attribute those who exhibit verbal abuse or even physical violence as being loving. However, neither of those two acts have any correlation to love or kindness. When a person loves another, kindness is revealed.
  • Love is not jealous – When a person achieves something of significance, love does not encompass jealousy or feelings of disdain due to someone else’s accomplishments. Instead, love seeks to celebrate what others have rather than attempting to downplay or minimize their success.
  • Love is not prideful – Arrogance is not a characteristic of love, because one of the primary components to love is that it is selfless. Pride is a position of focusing on oneself rather than desiring to serve others or to put others before self.
  • Love is not rude – This is similarly in tandem with kindness. Insulting others or being rude is not a characteristic of love, because with love, there is a level of care with one’s actions and words. That is because it seeks to truly honor others and promote a sense of respect and admiration unto those who are the target of affection.
  • Selflessness – Demanding one’s own way falls in the category of being selfish or self-centered. Love however, it does not seek to focus on self, but to build others up and seek to fulfill the needs of others.
  • Forgiving and merciful – To keep a record of wrongs can easily be used as ammunition to destroy relationships. Love does not look into the past in an attempt to discredit or use past history against others. Instead, to love is to forgive and to be merciful, despite past sins or imperfections.
  • Focuses on truth rather than evil doing – Another key aspect of love is to discover the truth and to promote it. Love does not center itself on celebrating evil or injustice, but it rejoices in truth being revealed which is often a carrier to justice and fairness.
  • Always faithful – To keep the faith is to be in a state of conviction about a matter. Love always has faith rather than being faithless. It means never losing one’s conviction or belief and always remaining steadfast in said position of faith.
  • Always hopeful – To hope is to have an earnest desire of believing and staying focused on a viewpoint despite physical evidence. In other words, if something has yet to occur, love says that despite not seeing, there is still a solid belief that will be adhered to.
  • Endurance – Despite the circumstances of life, love remains entrenched in the same position, and it endures. It means to withstand and be steady throughout a fiery trial or a periods of challenge. Love remains committed, regardless of external or internal influences that would suggest otherwise.

The list of characteristics that the Bible shows us above is evident when love has taken root in someone’s life. Love cannot encompass the opposite of those characteristics, because then by definition it would not be what love is. However, the primary definer of love is the Lord God almighty. The characteristics as noted above are an extension of who God is, because He is love. Without knowing God through Christ, we cannot adequately love based on His original intention.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? God sent Jesus Christ as His only begotten son to be the sacrifice for humanity’s sins. Only through Christ can you and I know what true love is, and begin to portray it earnestly. Give your life to Jesus today by repenting of your sins and turning your life over to the Lord. For God is love.

Daring Not to Conform to the World

28 Saturday May 2016

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“Truth or Dare?” is a game that many adolescents have played for centuries and continue to play today. Historically, this game is said to have its roots as early as the 1700’s during the era of ancient Greece. Since then, many children and even teens have participated in this game as a way to have fun with their peers.

The object of the game is for one person to ask another to tell an embarrassing truth, or to perform an embarrassing or dangerous dare. More so than not, when a dare is performed it can alter a person’s reputation due to embarrassment or it can prove to be risky in terms of doing something that could have consequences towards one’s health. (e.g. Jumping across a steep canyon)

To dare is to take a chance at ridicule from others because it is out of the norm. However, to conform to the consensus of the majority is to essentially lay down what one believes to be accepted by those going in the same direction. Just as in the game of Truth or Dare, a person is chided into doing something risky. However, the person who is asked, they understand that once they perform the act they are no longer operating in the status quo. Not to do the dare only suggests that they would rather remain in the crowd and settle for taking the easier pathway to avoid public scrutiny should the dare be performed.

The Apostle Paul encourages Christians against the very act of conforming to this world system. In Romans 12 verses 1-2 he says the following:

(NKJV) “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. And do not be 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.”

First, Paul broaches the subject of holiness in terms of being a living sacrifice unto God. What does it mean to be a living sacrifice? To be a living sacrifice, it means that a person has yielded their life and their lifestyle over to God through Jesus Christ. It is the crucifixion or death of one’s flesh or an end to the ways of sin. Paul makes it clear that a Christian should live in an acceptable way unto God.

We are living in a time that does not regard holiness or being a living sacrifice as a high priority. Rather, the way of the world is to live according to fleshly desires. As a result, anyone who attempts to deviate from what the world culture embraces is daring to be different but is also taking a risk for public ridicule.

The life of a Christian is one that is separated from the desires of this world and cleaves to the truth and holiness of God. Paul further encourages Christians not to be conformed to the world. This means, we who profess to be Christ-followers are not to agree with what the world dictates. The time that we are living in has made it so that there must be a clear stance for God’s truth. There is a clear line between God’s truth and Satan’s deception.

The question is, will you stand firm and be willing to go against the world culture? The destruction of the family unit through “gay marriage” and even the proposal of “gender identity” have become a part of the forefront of the assault on all that God calls Holy. This among other sins in our world have become commonplace, but yet Paul says in Romans 12 not to conform to the world.

The reason is because by conforming to the world you perpetuate the process of sowing to the flesh which reaps corruption according to Galatians 6:8. However, the gift of God is eternal life which means that you and I no longer have to reap corruption and spiritual death. Instead, Paul admonishes us to be renewed in our mind. This means we must have the mind of Jesus Christ and we must accept Him as Lord of our lives.

All around us, the world is continuing to erode both spiritually and socially. The culture has changed so drastically that sinfulness has created an unstable atmosphere that threatens the lives of all who want to live in peace. However, it is the peace of Jesus Christ that will provide safety for all who believe. Following the ways of the world is akin to jumping off of a cliff just because others are doing so.

Many are living in spiritual blindness because they are living without Christ. This is why Jesus said in John 18:12 that He is the light of the world. The world is already a dark place, but with Christ the illumination of one’s spiritual condition becomes apparent. It is at that moment that the recognition of a need for a savior is made evident. At the end of verse 2 in Romans 12, Paul finishes by stating that if you and I live with a renewed mind and do not conform to this world, that we will then prove the perfect and acceptable will of God.

It is not God’s will that you and I perish, but it is His will that we have everlasting life through Christ. The way that we do that is in a relationship with Jesus. We also accomplish this by being a living sacrifice on a daily basis. Holiness is a concept that is not addressed as much as it were in the past. The reason is because the attempt to merge Christianity and worldliness has taken root in the world around us.

However, God used the Apostle Paul and others in scripture to give us instructions for Holy living and obedience unto Jesus Christ. Without a standard then we as humans no longer have a measuring tool to discern what is right and wrong. It is dangerous when we as humans create our own standards that are outside of the will of God. In doing so, the erosion of the truth becomes an everyday occurrence which leads to deception. If one becomes deceived then Satan has a stronghold over the very life that God has given to us.

Will you dare to go against the world culture? Or will you follow the crowd toward destruction? Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that you and I would not have to pay the penalty for sin. If you don’t know Jesus, you have an opportunity to know Him today. Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior and avoid conformity to this world system. The world is growing increasingly wicked day by day. You can avoid spiritual death by accepting the gift of God which is eternal life through Christ.

The Unchanging Truth – Jesus Christ

08 Friday Apr 2016

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The world that we live in has always changed concerning the sociological perspective. Various lifestyles and belief systems have evolved over time to accommodate those who feel that they are on the fringes. There are laws that have been instituted in many nations that have become centered around “civil rights” which is proposed with the objective to include all people. With such changes and laws, new cultural norms have become imprinted upon most of the world.

For example, the mass movement of homosexuals seeking “equality” in terms of marriage rights has taken root over the past 5-7 years. There is also the issue of being transgender and wanting to be recognized as the gender that you choose rather than what you were born as. These issues have become the centerpiece of social adaptation and political influence. As a result, a sweeping majority worldwide have assimilated into such societal change. However, there is one fact that remains and that is, despite how much humanity itself changes, God’s truth and His Word does not change.

In the book of Hebrews chapter 13, there are a few key verses which point to the fact that the truth of Jesus Christ and God’s Word does not change.

Verses 7-9:

(NKJV) “Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines. For it is good that the heart be established by grace, not with foods which have not profited those who have been occupied with them.”

In this passage, the writer is speaking primarily to Palestinian Jews while also including the Hebrews of all connected churches in the body of Christ. In this passage, the writer is writing to encourage believers in the faith of Jesus Christ. Verse 7 begins by suggesting that the believers who were the target of this admonishment, should remember those who taught them in the faith.

The writer desires that believers remember the guidance of their spiritual leaders who were responsible for conveying the message of God’s Word. But notice a key point in this passage and that is in verse 8.

Verse 8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Why did the writer want believers in Christ to understand this point? When you look at our world, it is constantly changing as mentioned earlier in this blog post. Daily, humanity continues to grow in wickedness because for one, the End Times are upon us. Secondly, sinfulness has been accepted by our world which means that there is an openness to sin and those who choose to sin.

However, when the writer says that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, he is stating that the truth of Jesus does not change. Jesus Christ is the living Word which means that it is His Word that cannot and does not change. Jesus Christ was given the authority by God to be the truth. Jesus said in John 14:6 that He is the way, the truth, and the life.

What this means is that the truth of Christ does not and shall not change. The author of Hebrews makes that clear when he says that Jesus is the same forever in that, He does not change. It is the truth of Jesus Christ that will remain which means that all of the principles found in the Word of God also remain the same.

In the social climate that we live in, many have deemed the Bible to be either irrelevant or it has become flexible in what it says. Many have now bought into satan’s lies by assuming the position that God’s Word does not mean just what it says. In essence, many have taken scripture out of context, or they have ignored what God has to say about a subject altogether.

However, God’s Word does not change for any person. The truth of His Word which also encompasses Jesus Christ remains intact. Regardless of how the world portrays sin as acceptable and glamorous, the fact is that God is still a righteous judge. This means, that any nation that gives the stamp of approval on sin, it will be met with quick judgment which means destruction.

America and many nations around the world will eventually succumb to the wrath of God because of the disobedience and blatant sin of humanity. One cannot sin and expect to come away without any consequences. It is the job of every Christian to stand firm in the faith as 1 Corinthians 16:13 says to do.

Also, notice, that the writer of Hebrews says in verse 9, not to give in or be carried about by strange doctrine. This means not to be caught up in the wind and influence of teachings that are false. What our society has suggested and continues to impose is a bevy of falsehoods which are completely against the Word of God.

Since God’s Word is the basis for absolute truth, then anything that we as humans attempt to come up with does not meet the standard of truth. Relativism is what our society pushes frequently. At the same time, by imposing relativism, there no longer becomes a basis for absolute truth. This, in turn, means that the line between right and wrong is erased. It becomes a personal conviction of right and wrong, which no longer places God as the standard for all things good or evil.

So, the overall message to every believer is not to be enticed and captured by the changing tide of our time. Whether it is the embracing of homosexuality, murder, lying, stealing, adultery, fornication, or any other sin, the Christian is to remain rooted and grounded in Gods Word. The truth of God will always stand because it is the very thing that shall never perish.

Jesus said in Matthew 24:35, that Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but His words shall not pass away. This means that regardless of what comes and goes, it is the truth of Jesus Christ that will never end. It doesn’t matter what becomes “the law of the land” or what matter of persecution shall come to the body of Christ. We who are the chosen of God and those who have been called out of darkness must stand for God’s truth.

If you are reading this and you don’t know Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins, then you are in darkness. The Bible says in Romans 6:23 that the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life. If you don’t know Jesus, you have an opportunity to accept the sacrifice of Christ on the cross for you. He came to die and be resurrected so that you could be saved from destruction. Accept Jesus Christ, and obtain salvation. To those who are in Christ, remain steadfast in the faith and know God’s truth rather than accepting the lies of the world.

Do You Know Jesus?

15 Monday Feb 2016

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Most of us know what it is like to have a friendship or even a romantic relationship as it relates to daily personal life. It is the connection to one or more individuals that creates a sense of acceptance, emotional attachment, and intimacy. Only those who are closest to you, have a place reserved in your life as opposed to those who are only acquaintances who would be left standing on the outskirts.

It is the relationship and connection with those who are closely held to your heart, that creates a significant bond that is difficult to shatter under negative circumstances. In such relationships that are built, there is a commonality in addition to understanding one another. However, if one does not maintain a steady connection with those who are deemed important, there is a great potential for a loss of said connection which means the relationship no longer thrives.

As a result, any relationship whether familial, friendly, or romantic begins to suffer from a breakdown which can ultimately lead to a relational demise. This means that in order for one to have relationships that are built to thrive, there must be a continual connection and growth in each interpersonal relationship.

In the book of John chapter 8, the principle of knowing God through Jesus Christ is shown in verses 12 – 19. Jesus is speaking to Pharisees who were religious individuals who believed that life was better lived according to the Mosaic law rather than deviating from the law. Throughout scripture, the Pharisees can be seen challenging Jesus on various issues, however, Jesus would always bring them back into accountability and God’s truth.

Verses 12-13 in John chapter 8 says the following:

(NLV) “Jesus spoke to all the people, saying, “I am the Light of the world. Anyone who follows Me will not walk in darkness. He will have the Light of Life.”The proud religious law-keepers said to Him, “You are talking about Yourself. What You say about Yourself is not true.”

In verse 13, the Pharisees challenge Jesus regarding His statement that He is the Light of the world. One reason as to why the Pharisees misunderstood and believed Jesus to be a liar is because they were so caught up in their allegiance to the Mosaic law. The scripture in this translation refers to the Pharisees as “proud religious law-keepers.” This suggests that the Pharisees were arrogant and they bought into the lie that religion was superior to following the words of Christ.

Even in our world today, there are many who have placed much emphasis on worldly knowledge and human wisdom that there isn’t a reverence for the things of God. There are religious zealots who proclaim that what they believe is the truth, however, anything that stands outside of the truth of Jesus Christ is following in step with satan’s deceptions. The proof of this is that Jesus says in verse 12 that anyone who follows Him will not walk in darkness.

This means, that without Christ one cannot live in this life and navigate successfully because only Jesus is the light by which we have guidance to the path that God desires for humanity. Regardless of other religions or even those whose choose not to believe, Jesus Christ is the only way, the only truth, and the only way to life. (John 14:6)

Jesus continues in the next few verses:

Verses 14-17:

(NLV) “Jesus said, Even if I speak of Myself, what I am saying is true. I know where I came from and where I am going. You do not know where I came from or where I am going. You say as a man would say if people are guilty or not guilty. I am not saying anyone is guilty. But even if I did, it would be true. I am not alone. The Father Who sent Me is with Me. It is written in your Law that when two men agree about something, it proves it is true. I speak for Myself and the Father Who sent Me speaks for Me.”

Essentially, Jesus further states to the Pharisees that He is speaking the truth, but His truth is validated by God Almighty. Jesus says that He speaks for Himself, but it is God the Father who sent Jesus and speaks for Him. This makes it so that Jesus’ words are the final authority because it is God who has given Him the authority to speak with such truth.

However, notice that Jesus says in verse 14 that the Pharisees do not know where Jesus came from or where He is going. Verse 19 says:

(NLV) “The proud religious law-keepers asked Him, “Where is Your Father?” Jesus said, “You do not know Me or My Father. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.”

Jesus’ words make it clear that the Pharisees did not have a relationship with Jesus Christ. As John 14:6 states, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Without a relationship with Jesus, there isn’t a way to have a relationship with God the Father. The Pharisees did not know Christ in obedience or in following Him, which is why they never understood Christ’s words. If they were followers of Christ, then they would have known God for themselves.

The question that all of us must answer is whether or not, we know Jesus for ourselves. With all of the deception that exists in our world, it is very easy to think that one can have true peace, joy and understand love without knowing Jesus Christ. It is Christ who gives us the opportunity to know God because Christ is the only way to God.

The world we live in promotes all inclusive religion. One can worship Buddha or Allah and it still lead back to the same source. However, this notion is false and it is one of the many lies that satan uses to distort the clarity that God offers. Without having a relationship with Jesus Christ, then there is a loss in connection to God the Father.

God desires to know each human being in intimacy. Sin is what separates us from having an unhindered relationship with God. It was God’s plan that Jesus Christ would die on the cross as the atonement for the world’s sins. Without the shedding of Christ blood, there would be no other way to remove the stain of sin. There would also be a relational gap between humanity and God.

This means that because of Christ, we have an opportunity to know God. However, it takes a decision to know God through Jesus Christ. How do you do this? The first step is to come to the acknowledgement that you are a sinner and need a savior. If you don’t know Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins, then you are living in sin. Once you have acknowledged that you are a sinner, and you have repented from your sin and turned away from your sin, it begins the process of a relationship with Christ.

For those of us who are in Christ, we must seek God daily through prayer, reading scripture, and worship. To know God is to have an ongoing and intimate relationship with Christ. It doesn’t just happen overnight as some may believe. Just like any human relationship, it takes time to experience growth and connection. The more you spend time with God, the more you begin to know Him and the more your life exemplifies who God is.

It is only through Christ that we are able to show love to a dying world, and to give sinners an opportunity the receive the invitation to know God through Christ. Regardless of what our world promotes today, the overarching truth is that Jesus is the only way to have everlasting life. He is the only way to know what love is, and how to love others. Do you know Jesus?

 

 

The One True God – (Part 2)

30 Wednesday Sep 2015

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We are living in a time in which the world around us is searching for answers but also searching for the truth. Many want to see clear evidence of a matter so that their thirst for understanding and even a rational conclusion is grasped. There is a popular idiom or phrase that has been used for quite some time. The phrase, ‘Show me the money’ is used to denote one of two things.

It can suggest to the person in question that a payment of some sort is requested, but it can also mean that there is a request to be shown evidence. It is the question of evidence that many are looking for. Whether it be evidence of what their politician promises to do once sworn into public office. Or the evidence that one’s life can be turned from tragedy or misfortune into positivity and blessings. For many, the constant quest to prove the evidence of God’s existence is still at the forefront of their mind.

However, despite what the world looks to for its evidence, God shows us what is the truth and what is a lie. Looking to God who is the one who holds everything in place is where you and I should find the answer to life’s questions. In the book of 1 Kings chapter 18, there is a passage of scripture which will help us to see that God is indeed the one and true God.

In this chapter, Elijah who is a prophet of God was sent to King Ahab to deliver an important message to him. In verses 1-16, Elijah meets a man by the name of Obadiah who is King Ahab’s house manager. Throughout these 16 verses, Elijah and Obadiah have an exchange of words which later results in Elijah meeting with King Ahab. A few of the important verses to focus on are verses 18 and 19 in which King Ahab and Elijah finally meet.

(NKJV) “Then it happened, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said to him, “Is that you, O troubler of Israel?” And he answered, “I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, in that you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals. Now therefore, send and gather all Israel to me on Mount Carmel, the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal, and the four hundred prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table.”

It is important to note that in verse 2 of 1 Kings chapter 18 Samaria which is located in Israel experienced a drought. Throughout the Bible, droughts were signs of God’s judgment against a particular nation or group of people. Such judgment was the result of sin within the land. There was idolatry that occurred throughout the land of Israel which Elijah eludes to in verses 18 and 19.

He uses the term ‘Baal’s’ which signifies idol worship. Baal was the main god that the Canaanites worshiped in the Old Testament. However, Elijah says that King Ahab has committed idolatry by worshiping false gods. In the next few verses, Elijah then asks to meet with the children of Israel at Mount Carmel. The children of Israel were guilty of following Baal which was idol worship.

Verses 20-22:

(NKJV) “So Ahab sent for all the children of Israel and gathered the prophets together on Mount Carmel. And Elijah came to all the people, and said, “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people answered him not a word. Then Elijah said to the people, “I alone am left a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.”

Verses 23-24:

(NKJV) “Therefore let them give us two bulls; and let them choose one bull for themselves, cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, but put no fire under it; and I will prepare the other bull, and lay it on the wood, but put no fire under it. Then you call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.”

So essentially, Elijah wanted to prove that the Lord God was indeed the true God compared to the Baal’s that were the false gods. It is important to note that even in our society today there are many who are serving false gods. Whether it be the god of money, clothing, or even erecting other humans as gods, idolatry has run rampant in our world. However, these things mentioned are considered to be false gods because they are illegitimate or non-functioning.

However, the Lord God is everlasting and living compared to other idols that exist in our world. For centuries, even those of other religions have created statues and images which were then worshiped as if they were living and able to breathe. However, notice what happens in verse 26:

(NKJV) “So they took the bull which was given them, and they prepared it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even till noon, saying, “O Baal, hear us!” But there was no voice; no one answered. Then they leaped about the altar which they had made.”

In verse 27, Elijah mocks them by saying that their god must be asleep or he is busy because it seemed the more the individuals cried out to their god the more silence and inactivity there was. In verse 28, it became so much of an issue that the people who worshiped and called out to their god began to cut themselves to the point in which they began to bleed – and yet they did all of that to no avail.

The interesting point about those who committed self-inflicted wounds is that they did so at the allegiance and worship to their god. Many today are worshiping different things and even other people, and yet it is causing self-destruction or self-inflicted wounds. When you and I worship other gods instead of the Lord God, then our lives begin to suffer from being led astray and we destroy ourselves in the process.

In verses 30-35, it was then Elijah’s turn to pray to his God who was the Lord God. In these verses, Elijah re-builds the altar with 12 stones which represented the 12 Tribes Israel and he has the altar and the burnt sacrifice drenched with water twice. In verses 36-37, Elijah prays to God and asks that His presence and truth be known to the people. Essentially, Elijah wanted the reality and the evidence of God to be known based on the altar being burned by fire.

Verses 38-39:

(NKJV) “Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench. Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, “The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!”

At the end of the day, Elijah and those who witnessed it saw the evidence of God and saw the truth for themselves. The fact is that regardless of other gods that may exist, none of them are true, but rather they are false. Anything and anyone can be a god, but there is only one God who is everlasting and who lives.

The world that we live in today has been built to showcase idolatry just as it was in the Old and even the New Testament of the Bible. Idolatry is not a new phenomenon, but rather it has continued throughout human history. However, it is a sin to commit idolatry and in every instance, God shows His righteous judgment.

There will be a day in which the world shall be judged for the allowance of idolatry. However, even after that day comes, God will prove Himself to the world and even after you and I pass away from this Earth we will know that God is indeed the truth and that He lives. The sad part about idol worship is that many serve gods that cannot speak, cannot hear, nor do they have life.

However, worshiping God who lives, speaks, listens, and is the giver of life is a better option than to worship something or even someone who is dead. Even if someone decides to create an idol out of a living person, such an act is still illegitimate because a mere mortal does not have the power to create or to have dominion over everyone and everything.

Only God Himself is the true God who desires to be known and He desires to know us. The only way to know Him is through having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Do you know God for yourself? Have you accepted this gift of life through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? If not, then you are missing an important part of what it means to experience life. Also, you will not have a chance to experience eternal life. Only through Christ will you taste the majestic and glorious power of God. Accept Christ and know who God is for yourself.

The One True God (Part 1)

30 Wednesday Sep 2015

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There are two terms that can be used to describe the authenticity of a subject matter. ‘Fact’ and ‘Fiction’ are words that create a line of distinction between what is true and what is false. For example, a film or a book that is classified as ‘fiction’ is one that is based on events that are inherently false or imaginative which means that it did not actually occur. On the other hand, information that is based on a fact or facts is undoubtedly true in its origin.

Facts cannot be disputed because at the root of existence lies the very essence of veracity which results in failed attempts to prove a falsehood. Regardless of how much one would try to prove that water is not wet, the fact is that water in its very nature and molecular structure creates the moisture which characterizes water as we know it. One can desire to suggest that something is not false, but the truth is found in its fiction or lack of evidence to support the basis for claimed truth.

For many centuries, humanity has participated in heated debates regarding the existence or even non-existence of God. Atheists have long since held to the belief that we as humans do not have staunch evidence to prove that God exists. Agnostics believe that there is a mystery behind the existence of God which means that it cannot be known. Even those who ascribe to other religions such as Hinduism, Islam, or even New Age beliefs, hold tightly to what it is that they believe to be true about life and God as they see Him to be or not to be.

However, there is one immutable and overarching fact that trumps what belief systems exist and that is that God is the only true God. The Bible gives us clear facts to God’s existence and His presence throughout history. Genesis 1:1 says the following:

(KJV) “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

This one verse of scripture is perhaps one of the best starting points as it relates to understanding God’s existence. This scripture says that in the very beginning God created Heaven and the Earth. The world around us did not just occur out of happenstance. One type of argument that well-known Atheists such as Professor Stephen Hawking use is that the universe was created by ‘spontaneous creation.’ This belief is meant to suggest that what we see was simply created out of an explosion which ties into the theory of the big bang.

However, such belief does not account for creation because with every creation there is a creator. The Bible was written by men who were inspired by the Spirit of God. All of the trees, the oceans, the birds of the sky, and the atmosphere around us was created by God. Even we ourselves were created by God as the book of Genesis chapter 1 and verse 27 points out in the creation of the first human. Adam was created in the image of God as this scripture says.

Even after Adam was created and Eve was later taken from the rib of Adam, she too was created to be in the likeness of God. The story of creation is one that only God is responsible for. The question of whether or not God exists has been the topic of discussion for many centuries. The bigger question to be asked is, ‘If God does not exist then why is it that the same question continues to be asked?’

Why are arguments still a part of today’s discussion? The fact is that the existence of God is all around us, and there is only one true God. Humanity may come up with other ‘gods’ or ways to determine human existence but the very essence of life is built off of one creator who is God. He isn’t only the ‘God of the Old Testament’ as some would say, but He is God of both the Old and the New Testament.

Satan desires to obstruct and cause we as humans to denounce the existence of God because he does not want you and I to experience the presence and awesome power of God. His majesty is all around us and the fact that life, as we see it could not be created by human hands, is more than enough evidence to show that God is indeed the truth. Some of the greatest minds both past and present were deluded into thinking that God did not nor does He exist.

Individuals who were quite brilliant believed that since there is no physical evidence, then God cannot be proven to exist. Rather, the existence of life was explained by asserting philosophical and even scientific arguments. However, the first part of verse 1 in Psalm chapter 14 says:

(KJV) “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.”

It is the person who says that God does not exist who is foolish. They are blinded by their own sinfulness which means that they cannot understand who God is or even understand that He exists. Even those who choose to believe in other ‘gods’ or another ‘god’ they too are operating under a deception.

In our social climate, it is unpopular to speak out against other religions and even those who choose to deny God’s existence. We live in a global society in which it is considered ‘intolerant’ to erect a bulwark against someone else’s belief. We are in a ‘live and let live’ system. However, we who are Christians are tasked with the responsibility of speaking God’s truth and telling those in their sin that there is an alternative.

Jesus Christ was sent to Earth to die on the cross for the world’s sin. That means that if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, your destiny is Hell and destruction. However, your destiny can be changed through Jesus Christ. God is indeed the only true God and He does exist, but it is up to you and every person to believe or not. God will not force Himself upon us, but He wants us to voluntarily believe and love Him with our whole heart.

When we do, there is an indescribable joy that comes from knowing the creator of the universe. How great would it be to know that the universe, the world we live in, and our very lives were not created by chance but that each creation that is not man-made was done with a specific purpose? The evidence of God is all around us, but for the truth to be revealed, there must be an acceptance of Jesus Christ in order to have one’s eyes illuminated to God’s truth. There is only one True God and none other like Him.

There is Only One Way to God – Jesus Christ

22 Tuesday Sep 2015

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ID-10071822The world that you and I live in is diverse in its population. There are various belief systems, cultures, religions, and ethnic groups. With such diversification, there has been an introduction of what resides within our world’s culture. In our modern day, it is nearly impossible to live in a nation that has not seen some sort of diversity in one form or another. While there are nations that are considered to be autocratic or heavily opposed to diverse thinking and living, most nations and the people within them have become exposed to some degree. Much of the reason for that is because of technology and how it has become a global means for communication.

With all of the diversity within our world, many have begun to become more open to the idea of ‘global unity.’ This means that there has been a concerted effort to unify humanity regardless of one’s background or belief system. It has even come to the point in which some have even made the statement that ‘there are many ways to God.’ This belief and false doctrine has been one of the many tools that satan has used to deceive even those who claim to be in Christ. However, God’s Word gives you and I the basis for absolute truth.

In John chapter 14, Jesus is speaking to His Disciples as He admonishes them not to be troubled but to have faith in God. It was at this point in which Jesus was explaining to His Disciples that He was soon to be crucified but that He would later return. The Disciples were in a quandary about where Jesus would be going, but He gives them comforting words throughout this chapter. In verses 1-4 of John chapter 14, Jesus says the following:

(NLT) “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”

What Jesus is saying in these verses is that He is leaving in order to prepare a place of residence for those who follow Christ as He told His Disciples. He says to the Disciples that they already know the way and to where Jesus is going. The ‘way’ that Jesus mentions is the path to His crucifixion and ascension into Heaven with God the Father. However, Thomas did not understand this which is evident in His question in verse 5. Jesus says to Thomas in verse 6:

(NLT) “Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

The answer to Thomas’s question about the way to the place where Jesus would eventually go (which was to Heaven with God the Father) was and is through Jesus Christ. Jesus makes it clear in verse 6 that He is the only way to get to God. Our world has presented a multitude of lies which come directly from satan himself.

We are living in a time in which you can believe what you desire, and it can be taken as absolute truth. Now, there is a movement in which the embrace of various religions has become more of the norm. If you are a Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, or of any other belief outside of Christianity it is now seen as morally and socially acceptable. However, the interesting fact is that slowly but surely, those who are truly in Christ are becoming marginalized.

Jesus says in John chapter 15 in verses 18-19 the following:

(NLT) “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.”

What Jesus says here should be the way that we who are in Christ approach the subject of ‘global unity.’ The emphasis of such unity is for satan to get everyone who will, to agree with his agenda as long as it does not include the truth of Jesus Christ. Basically, it is satan’s goal to get the world to embrace every sort of sin and belief outside of God’s Word. We who are in Christ should keep in mind that we are not to be accepted or embraced by this world. We should also understand that we who are in Christ are not to accept or believe in the false doctrine of those who are apart of this world system.

If we are hated or scorned by the world, then we are in such a position because Jesus Christ was hated first. Our world is now pushing forth the lie that there are many ways to God or to salvation. However, Jesus Christ is the only way. Satan has used the media to indoctrinate both today’s youth and even adults into believing that you can and should accept the various ways that exist in this life.

The truth of the matter is that you and I are free to choose what path we shall take and what we will believe. However, with such choices there are either positive or negative consequences. Choosing to abide by the false doctrine of believing that there are many ways to God will lead to destruction. Jesus Christ is the only way to God and the only way to salvation.

Many have now said that America is a pluralistic society which in many respects is absolutely true. As a nation, America has embraced just about any sort of sinful lifestyle and belief system that you can think of. However, with such a pluralism, there is a degradation and moral decay that exists. Many cannot understand how it is that crime continues to increase, and why we see tragedies that occur daily.

It is because America as a nation and even the world around us has embraced moral relativism and even more so our world has embraced sin in its very embodiment. However, the answer to our world’s problems is Jesus Christ. Christ is the way to receive eternal salvation. Hell is a place that is reserved for those who choose not to follow Christ but to accept sinful living. However, the gift of Jesus Christ is everlasting life.

There are many choices that you and I can make in this life. The world continues to offer the perceived way to happiness and to salvation. However, the way of a world that is in darkness is the way that leads to spiritual and moral decadence. What the media has said and continues to suggest is nothing more than false doctrine. The truth of Jesus Christ and God’s Word is what will last and it is the only truth to stand on.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior? If you are not in Christ, then you are on a path that leads to a life of uncertainty and a destiny that leads to destruction. However, Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that you would have life and have it abundantly. Confess your sins and believe in your heart that He is Lord. For those of us who are in Christ, we must ensure that we are not deceived and that we know God’s Word and that we have the Holy Spirit to teach us how to navigate through the world’s deceptions. Jesus Christ is the only way to God.

Tools to Equip Every Believer

11 Friday Sep 2015

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ID-100169199A toolbox is a container that houses various assortments of instruments used to repair broken items. Each tool is designed to address a specific need with the intent to incorporate a solution to a problem. For example, a hammer is used to drive nails into a particular surface. If you need to tighten a loose nut or bolt, then a wrench would be useful. Or you may need to turn or even remove a screw which would mean using a screwdriver. Every tool that is available provides efficiency for the task at hand. Without the appropriate tool, then the issue that you may be facing will be unresolved until there is an intervention.

In the life of every believer, there are various tools that God has given to you and I as we journey through this life. The world continues to show us just how sin and a lack of morality have become the culture that many have embraced. If you turn on your television or even if you visit a website dedicated to the latest news you will see just how wicked and perverse our world has become. The fact is, the times that we are living in require a keen focus into who God is and what He desires for our lives. It also means that there must be the utilization of the spiritual tools that God has made available to every believer. This is so that we can be equipped to battle against satan as he continues to attack God’s people every day.

In scripture, there are various verses that we can examine to show us what tools we have available and also how such tools can be used so that we will be armed against the enemy’s schemes. The following are at least five tools that we who are in Christ have at our disposal. These tools are also taken from key verses of scripture to show you that God’s Word gives us all of the answers that we seek regarding life and how to live.

1. The Holy Spirit – The role of the Holy Spirit is to be our comforter and our helper. John chapter 14 and verse 26 says:

(NLV) “The Helper is the Holy Spirit. The Father will send Him in My place. He will teach you everything and help you remember everything I have told you.”

In this scripture, Jesus is talking to His Disciples, and He gives them the promise that the Holy Spirit will be sent to comfort them after His death on the cross. Basically, Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will be available once Christ leaves the Earth. Notice the key words in this scripture which are ‘teach’ and ‘helper.’ The Holy Spirit is available to every believer which gives you and I the ability to live triumphantly. The Holy Spirit which is one of the 3 in the Trinity (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit) is here to teach us. With the increasing level of deception in our world, we need the Holy Spirit more than ever.

The role of the Holy Spirit is to guide us into all truth so that we would not be deceived and destroyed. Secondly, the Holy Spirit is here to help us. He helps us to avoid the snares of the enemy in addition to giving us the supernatural power to do battle against our enemy. We obtain the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit through seeking God’s presence in prayer and in worship.

2. Pastoral Leadership – Unfortunately, there are some who are in Christ who choose not to find themselves in corporate worship or under the leadership of any Pastor. We are living in a time in which church attendance has dropped precipitously which aligns with the ‘Great Falling Away’ that the Apostle Paul talks about in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. However, God has designed Pastoral care and leadership for the well-being of believers who are not called to serve in that capacity. Every Christian who can should find a Pastor who speaks God’s truth and can teach them the principles of God’s Word.

Titus chapter 1 verses 5-9 mention the characteristics that a Pastor should exhibit. The Apostle Paul encouraged the institution of Elders (which is also aligned with what Pastors are meant to do which is to oversee believers in Christ) within churches. Verse 9 of this chapter says:

(ESV) “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

The role of a Pastor is to give instruction to believers. Someone who is in Christ who does not have a Pastor to teach them in the ways of the Lord is someone who is without protection. The role of the Pastor which is also mentioned in Ephesians 4 verse 11 is one that God put into place for the purpose of leading believers and furthering the discipleship process. It is the role of a Pastor that buffers the enemy so that one’s soul is not left unattended and without sound instruction.

3. God’s Word – We are living in a time in which deception is increasing every single day. While it is important that we who are in Christ have the Holy Spirit, we also need to know God’s Word. It is knowing His Word and taking it as absolute truth that will spare us from being caught in the web of lies that satan puts forth. So many are now accepting what satan has given as truth instead of seeing God’s Word as the truth that is infallible and immutable.

Hebrews chapter 4 verse 12 says,

(NLV) “God’s Word is living and powerful. It is sharper than a sword that cuts both ways. It cuts straight into where the soul and spirit meet and it divides them. It cuts into the joints and bones. It tells what the heart is thinking about and what it wants to do.”

This scripture clearly states that God’s Word is ‘living and powerful.’ It is so powerful that the writer says that it is sharper than a sword that cuts both ways. Basically, it is God’s Word that convicts and brings the truth of God to our mind and our heart. It is the truth of God that cannot be changed despite how much the world around us changes. Using God’s Word as a filter allows you and I to avoid the lies that the world promotes to us daily. Knowing God’s Word and having it in your heart is what will give you knowledge and a baseline for conviction.

4. Prayer – Prayer is one of the most important weapons that we can use against the enemy. When we pray, we are establishing an open line of communication unto God which creates a relationship. Not only are we talking to God, but in prayer God talks back to us. It is like having a relationship with a person which is to say that constant communication builds the relationship. Through prayer, we have safety in addition to receiving the blessings that God desires for us.

Philippians 4:6 says,

(ESV) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

God wants to know what is on your heart and He wants us to trust Him to the point that we rely on Him through prayer. Some may contend that if God already knows what we need or desire that there isn’t a reason to pray. However, when we pray it is the dialogue that we have with God that creates a closer relationship. Having daily times of prayer institutes a greater sense of who God is what He is able to do.

5. Fellowship with other believers – Knowing others who are also in Christ and having relationships with them establishes a mode of strength and accountability. In this individualistic society, it becomes so easy for us to be self-absorbed into our own thoughts and lifestyles. However, God created us to be relational which means to have relationships with others.

Hebrews 10:25 says,

(KJV) “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

The writer of this scripture wants us to understand that we must not take for granted that we can and should come together in the faith. Exhortation which also means to build each other up is an important part of the process. Weekly interaction with fellow believers gives you a sense of hope and also a sense of connection. This is also why it is important to be connected to a body of believers through regular church attendance.

The overall message is that we must be equipped through Jesus Christ. All of these tools are available to those of us who are in Christ, but to those who are not in Christ these tools cannot be manifested appropriately. If you don’t know Jesus, today is a great day to accept Him as your Lord and Savior. He wants to be your King and He desires that you have access to the tools listed above. In doing so, your life will be enriched and you will have the necessary means to address all of life’s circumstances. This is God’s promise to the believer and those who wish to know Him through Christ.

Rejecting the ‘Truth’ of Today’s World – Accepting God’s Truth

11 Tuesday Aug 2015

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If you are old enough to remember you can recount the education or principles that you received at a young age.  For example, simple mathematical principles such as 2+2 = 4, or reciting historical facts were a part of the development that you and I encountered. There were many educational tools that perhaps you were exposed to as a way to create an environment of learning so that you would grow older to use what you learned later in your life.  The point of many of the principles is that many of them remained true in their context.

No one can suggest to you that 2+2 = 16 because mathematically the answer is incorrect. If someone were to suggest to you that George Washington was the 15th President of the United States, they wouldn’t be able to do so with a valid argument because historically George Washington was the 1st President of the United States.  The point is that there are certain aspects of our lives that are not open for discussion and cannot be changed because they are immutable and factual.

Unfortunately, we are living in a time that the word ‘truth’ has taken on a different connotation.  Basically, there are various aspects of our global society which now lends itself to creating one’s own truth. Essentially, our world has now instituted the aspect of relativism.  This means that one can have a version of their truth while someone else can believe what they wish and it is true.  The problem with this belief is that only one side can be correct.  In the book of 1 Corinthians chapter 3, the Apostle Paul actually warns against accepting worldly wisdom or the wisdom of this world.

In chapter 3, the Apostle Paul is addressing the church of Corinth.  It was a church that was known to have issues with spiritual immaturity in addition to various sins that were present among many in the church.  In verses 1-4 of chapter 3, Paul addresses the spiritual immaturity and division that was apparent among the congregants. He even gives them instruction regarding their role in the body of Christ in verses 5-9. In verses 10-15, Paul even mentions the aspect of building the appropriate foundation of one’s life which is Jesus Christ.

In verses 16-17, Paul then addresses the principle of remaining Holy unto God since our body is the temple that the Holy Spirit resides in. Based on this chapter it is apparent that the church of Corinth needed words of truth and encouragement as it related to growing in spiritual maturity. However, in verses 18-20, the Apostle Paul warns against embracing worldly wisdom.

(NKJV) “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”

If you read further until verse 23 of this chapter you will see that the context of this portion of scripture admonishes those in the church of Corinth not to brag or think more highly of themselves as they ought to.  However, the focus of this post is to highlight what Paul says in verses 18-20.

Looking at those verses Paul says that the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. What does Paul mean when he makes that statement? If you look at those who think that they are wise in their own merit, they are under the deception that they themselves have all of the answers. In our world today, there is an abundance of those who are deceived.  It has been decided that you can invent your own truth and believe as you see fit. However, there is a consequence that comes with perverting God’s truth and creating a falsehood or a lie.

Paul says at the end of verse 19 and in verse 20, For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” In other words, Paul is saying that God ensures that those who believe themselves to be wise by worldly standards are the very individuals that meet an unpleasant end. Paul says that the thoughts of the wise are futile. This means that those who have embraced worldly wisdom are unable to accomplish what they have set out to do in their own thoughts. 

The way of this world is to invoke pride in oneself and to change absolute truth into relative truth.  The deception is that there are absolutes that cannot be changed, yet we live in a world where many have embraced the wisdom of this world. If you look at homosexuality and even the lifestyle of changing your gender, there are certain truths both morally and spiritually that cannot be changed. When such behaviors or lifestyles are embraced by the masses it comes at a high price which is always negative.

However, satan who is our enemy has deceived the minds of many to believe that you can redefine what was never yours to define in the first place.  The reason why we must guard against accepting ‘the truth’ of this world is because it is based out of human wisdom. A person’s life that is based out of human or secular wisdom is a life that is destined for failure.  The only wisdom and truth that will create stability is that of God’s Word.

The Bible or God’s Word was written via the inspiration of God unto the men who wrote it. As much as our world changes, the fact is that God’s Word will always be true. There is so much confusion and chaos in our world today because many have adopted the wisdom of this age. ‘The Truth’ is now what you choose to believe rather than what is fact. You can invent what you wish as long as you are not hurting anyone else.

As a result, many of the behaviors that were once thought detestable have now become accepted and common as a part of the world’s culture.  Isaiah 5:21 says,

(NLT) “What sorrow for those who are wise in their own eyes and think themselves so clever.” In this chapter, the Prophet Isaiah is speaking to the Kingdom of Judah.  At that time, the people of Judah were sinful individuals who had rejected God. However, this verse only shows to serve as a reminder that those who think of themselves as wise in their own eyes will meet an unfortunate demise just as those in Judah did. 

The overall point is that you and I must embrace God’s truth instead of what the world proclaims to be ‘the truth.’ Even if our society continues to decay morally and spiritually, God’s word will stand forever. You can see the confusion and instability of a world that believes in the creation of ‘your own truth.’ The only foundations that are concrete are upon Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? The truth of God can only be known and fully accepted when you are living a life that is surrendered unto Christ. Confess your sins before Him and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord. As for those of us who are in Christ our basis for truth should be none other than God’s Word.  The media and those of the world can change various facts to be ‘true’ but in reality it is only false. However, God’s Word will always be true regardless of what is said. Don’t be deceived by accepting worldly wisdom.  Only God’s truth will stand.

Being a Student of God’s Word – Knowing His Truth for Yourself

06 Thursday Aug 2015

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ID-100159550 (1)Most who have experienced any sort of education did so in the context of studying a particular subject.  A classroom setting has been one of the most common forms of education in a public setting.  Students gather to receive instruction from their professor or teacher in order to be educated about a specific topic.  Surrounding the topics are various exercises that each student must complete in order to rehearse and ultimately prove their level of ascertaining the material.  Once such exercises are complete, students are usually tested in order to ensure that they have retained the material.

Such tests are given grades and are used as a measuring tool to examine a student’s aptitude in a subject. If the student does well throughout his/her course, then they will be rewarded with a passing grade.  If not, then the student will suffer a failure of the course and will not be permitted to move to the next level of learning.  However, the most important aspect for every student who encounters an assignment or a lesson plan is that of their study. For a student to be successful there must be a regimen which involves either self-study or corporate study with other students.  Without a measured amount of study, there will be a loss of information which results in a failed attempt to obtain knowledge and succeed in the course.

Spiritually speaking it is important for all who desire to seek the righteousness of God and His ways to study God’s Word.  Whether it be studying on your own time or doing so in a corporate setting, the education of God’s Word is invaluable to the life of every believer. In the book of Hosea chapter 4, the account of the prophet Hosea who is speaking to the people of Israel is recorded.  Throughout this chapter, Hosea like other prophets in the Old Testament is seen giving words of judgment and rebuke against those who are in sin.

Verses 1-3 state the following:

(NLV) “Listen to the Word of the Lord, O people of Israel, because He has something against the people of the land. “They are not faithful or kind, and no one in the land knows God. There is swearing, lying, killing, stealing, and sex sins. They are always hurting others, and there is one killing after another. The land is filled with sorrow. Everyone who lives on it wastes away, together with the animals of the field and the birds of the sky. Even the fish of the sea are taken away.”  

In these 3 verses, Hosea is telling the people of Israel what God has given him to say. These were words of rebuke and it was a direct testament to the reality of sin that was occurring among the nation of Israel at that time.  If you look at what Hosea says, you can see a parallel between what happened then and what is happening in our world today. The fact is, there has been an abundance of sin that has swept through our world.

Just by looking at your local, national, and international news networks you can see the same if not worsened acts of sin that Hosea names in this chapter. It is because of humanity’s sinfulness that our global society is in the condition that we see.

In verses 4-5, God speaks through Hosea when he mentions the fact that both the Priests and the people of Israel will fall or as other translations such as The Message Bible uses the word ‘stumble.’ The reason why both sides stumble is because they have essentially turned their back on God to revert to sinful lifestyles.  However, an additional reason is because both the Priests and the people of Israel have forsaken the knowledge of God.

Verse 6:

(NLV) “My people are destroyed because they have not learned. You were not willing to learn. So I am not willing to have you be My religious leader. Since you have forgotten the Law of your God, I also will forget your children.” 

God says through Hosea that His people (meaning those of Israel and the Priests) are in the condition of being destroyed because they have not learned.  The New King James Version translation says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The prognosis of those in Israel along with the Priests was that they were in danger of being utterly destroyed because they lacked knowledge.  What was it that they lacked knowledge of?  If you read further in verse 6 you will see that God says that they along with the Priests had forgotten the Law of God.

Basically, the Law or Laws of God are the unchanging principles and commands that God has set into place.  The people of Israel as a whole had abandoned the study and adherence to God’s Word.  In addition, the Priests who were called by God to teach the people had forsaken His Word as well. As a result, the Priests were no longer chosen to be representatives of God in the capacity of being Priests.

In looking at this scripture there are a few things we should take note of:

1. We must know the truth of God through His Word – The Bible contains both the Old Testament and the New Testament but both books are relevant with commands and principles for every generation. One reason why there is so much chaos and sin in our world is because there is a lack of knowledge concerning God’s Word.  Especially as it relates to many churches and those in the body of Christ, there has been a watering down of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The fact is that everything that has been prophesied to occur throughout scripture concerning the End Times is coming to pass.  The answers to the questions that those in sin are asking such as, ‘What is happening in our world?’ can be found in God’s Word. However, because there is a deviation from God’s knowledge and obedience unto His principles, humanity perishes because of a lack of learning.  We who are called must know God’s Word and understand that it is absolute truth.

2. There is a penalty for turning away from God and His precepts – The fact is that blatant sinfulness will always have a penalty.  The notion that one can continue in sin (whether Christian or non-Christian) without a consequence is completely debunked when the light that God’s Word provides is shed on the very thought.  The Word of God and truly knowing it will convict you and it will provide a clear path to every problem or question you will have.

The body of Christ today has shown many examples of church leaders who either do not know God’s Word or have excluded certain parts of it in order maintain their church membership. However, whenever you and I forsake God’s Word and obedience unto Him then there is a price to pay.  Israel during the time of Hosea paid a price for their disobedience and not knowing God’s Word.

3. The truth of God cannot be changed – If you look further through the book of Hosea, chapters 9 and 13 show that Israel is judged for its blatant sinfulness. In fact throughout the Bible there were prophecies of judgment against any nation that sinned and turned away from God.  Each prophecy turned out to be true with swift judgment falling on any ungodly nation.  The fact is, God’s word will always be true.

Despite what society claims to be true, moral, and acceptable, it is not the ultimate authority. What our world politicians have established and the media has stated as relative truth cannot stand against God’s absolute truth. Relativism is essentially the way of life as we know it today.  It basically means that one can have their own version of the truth rather than abiding by moral and even spiritual absolutes.  God’s Word will always trump what humanity attempts to change as a new and appropriate version of the truth. Regardless of how much the world changes, God’s Word will never change.

For all of us who desire to be in Christ, it is paramount that you and I take the time to study God’s Word and seek the revelation of it from the Holy Spirit. In today’s time, it is necessary more than ever that we hide God’s Word in our hearts.  Satan distorts the truth and many believe his falsehoods. However, only those who stand firm in God’s Word and take it as the truth will be saved.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior?  If not, you are currently under the deception of satan.  The lies that he has fed you are embedded in your heart.  However, accepting Jesus Christ and learning God’s Word will wash away the sin and the confusion. Take the time today and accept the gift of life that Christ offers.