The Parallel Between the New Covenant and Being a New Creation in Christ

The Parallel Between the New Covenant and Being a New Creation in Christ

There will be a lot to read in this writing, so if you may need to read it in several sittings. 

This is one of those blogs where I can easily let scripture speak for itself.  Therefore, I will keep my comments brief.

When reading my daily Bible study, I am often inspired to see scripture from a new perspective.  While reading through Colossians a few days ago it was when I suddenly saw the parallel between the New Covenant Jesus Christ created and our responsibility for becoming a new creature when we choose to accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

I know it can be confusing when the Bible says we are not under the law but yet it also says we need to follow the law.  I recently even heard a woman on a "Christian" YouTube video say that we do not need to follow the ten commandments because we are no longer under the old laws.  She was so very wrong and obviously did not read her Bible but was probably just looking for an excuse to sin.  The facts are this: Jesus Christ abolished manmade laws when He died on the cross and shed His blood for our sins.  This does not mean we quit following the laws of God.  Jesus Christ said it Himself.

(Matthew 19:16-21) And, behold, one came and said unto Him, "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" And [Jesus] said unto him, ".. if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments... Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself... give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."

Now let me supply you with a lot of scripture (this is not even all the Bible says, but just a sample), first about the New Covenant and then about our role in honoring Jesus' sacrifice when we choose to call ourselves a Christian. 

New Covenant Scriptures

In this verse you see how it states we must follow Jesus and not the old laws, or we are in danger of falling from God's grace.  Paul even says it is as if Jesus' grace does not affect one who refuses to give up the Mosaic laws. The old ways are a yoke of bondage.  There is more below from Galatians 5 that ties in perfectly with the theme of this blog showing how the new covenant and new creation concepts are so perfectly linked.

(Galatians 5:1-5) Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage... Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

Now it is Peter who reminds fellow believers that the old law is a yoke and a burden, that they should not encourage new coverts to follow.  Our hearts are purified through faith in Jesus and following His ways alone.

(Acts 15:7-11) And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, "Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."

Here Paul is making a comparison between physical circumcision and spiritual.  Paul does an excellent job of showing the parallel between the new covenant and being a new creation in Christ.  The old ordinances were nailed to the cross of Jesus, so let's honor His precious sacrifice by putting off our sins and living a pure life for Him!

(Colossians 2:11-15 & 20-23) In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using; after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.

Paul reminds us that insisting on following the old ways frustrates the grace of God and is the equivalent of that Jesus dying in vain.  That is pretty serious! We are dead to the old manmade traditions because Jesus loved us enough to die for us and set us free.  Not free to sin (see Romans 6:1-2), but free to follow obtainable laws, not more than 600 rules that no one could ever live up to. 

(Galatians 2:14-21) But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

This is a beautiful passage.  It shows Paul's compassion, his honesty, and integrity.  I cannot think of a thing to add here. 

(Romans 10:1-13) Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

New Creation Scriptures

This is probably the most well-known passage about becoming a new creature in Christ, but have you read or heard the verses above it where it reminds us that we will all be judged by Jesus?  What we say and do is so very vital not just before but also after we accept Christ.

(2 Corinthians 5:10-11 & 15-17) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

These two passages remind us that we were once living in dark sinfulness, but when we became saved, we became as new creations, and then Paul goes on to explain what is now expected of us.

(Ephesians 4:17-32) This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not... in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

(Colossians 3:1-14) If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God... Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.  For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him.., Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

This is the continuation of Galatians 5 from above.  Another list of reminders of what God expects from us.  These lists of rules are so vitally important to know and follow as they are so vitally important to where we will spend eternity.  They are not a bondage but, as you will read below, our reasonable service and quite easy to follow.  They are designed to give us joy, peace, and true freedom by not weighing us down with the regrets and consequences that sin brings.  

(Galatians 5:16-26) This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. 

This is another list of examples of how we should act as Christians but also reminds us that once we step out of darkness we should no longer associate with those still living in the world.  Instead we need to walk in the Light of Jesus and step away from dark behaviors in others as well as not participating in the dark deeds.

(Ephesians 5:3-18) But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them... See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise... And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

When we become followers of Jesus we need to learn to love what Jesus loves and hate what Jesus hates.  Even when it is difficult to let go of the past sins and past relationships, the Holy Spirit will always give you strength and victory to walk away and serve Him alone!

(Romans 12:1-2 & 9) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

This is another great reminder of how to please God and not live not in uncleanliness, but in holiness based on the commandments from Jesus.

(1 Thessalonians 4:1-7) Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

Let me leave you with just one more passage that reminds us again that we will all be judged according to how we choose to obey the rules of the New Covenant.

(Revelation 20:11-12 & 21:7-8) And I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

I know this is already a lot to read, but if you want even more information on the New Covenant, feel free to read these other blogs:

 Jesus Made a Surety of a Better Testament: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/06/leviticus-numbers-deuteronomy-jesus.html

Jesus Teaches us a Better Way: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/01/matthew-5-jesus-teaches-us-better-way.html

True Grace, False Grace, and Legalism, Written by my Husband, Mel: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/09/true-grace-false-grace-and-legalism.html

Understanding  The New Covenant, Written by my Husband: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2015/12/understanding-new-covenant-written-by.html

Justification by Faith Alone, Written by my Husband: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2020/08/justification-by-faith-alone-written-by.html

Full Assurance of Salvation, Written by my Husband: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/full-assurance-of-salvation-written-by.html

Merry Christmas: God is With Us (Video)

 

If you are interested, you can view my video titled "Merry Christmas: God is With Us" on my Facebook page (the link will take you directly to the video): https://www.facebook.com/reel/9291696527593934

Are you being a good Christian Example?

 

Are you being a good Christian Example?

I was going through some old papers a few days ago and found this that I wrote in January 2006. 

 (Isaiah 53:6) We all, like sheep have gone astray... 

What exactly does it mean to be "like sheep"?  Well, sheep, though adorable, are very gullible and will follow pretty much anyone anywhere.  As someone who calls him or herself a Christian, we should never be like sheep in this way.

 

(Zechariah 8:16-17) "Speak the truth to each other...  do not plot evil against your neighbor, and do not swear falsely.  I hate this," declares the Lord. 

To listen to someone else's gossip and fall into their trap of lies (especially when the gossip is tearing down a fellow believer) is careless.  It is better to stop and consider all the facts than to blindly believe all you hear.  

Whether you are telling or listening to gossip does not matter.  If you publicly call yourself a Christian, you should not be involved with such.  Gossip is usually full of lies, almost always stems from jealousy, and is hurtful to the victim of gossip.  It creates hard feelings against the target even when the person is innocent.  If you truly have an issue with someone, then have the decency to go to him (or her) her and tell him (preferably in private) rather than talk behind his back!  The Bible prefers us to speak the truth in love, not gossip in lies and spite. 

Key to remember: if you're talking about someone who is not in the room, more than likely, it is gossip!  The dictionary definition of gossip is, "a report (often malicious) about the behavior of other people," & "a person given to gossiping and divulging personal information about others [syn: gossiper, rumormonger]."  Let me repeat that: "often malicious."

(Proverbs 8:13) "I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior, and perverse speech."  

Besides being caught up in the trap of gossip, Christians quite often become involved in raunchy conversation.  Whether it is a dirty joke, insinuation of sexual content, or outright saying what you mean, it is unacceptable.  Especially talking of such things with someone who is not your spouse.  I am not trying to be crude but commenting on someone else's body parts is not only inappropriate but displeasing to God.  Even if you're not involved in the telling of the joke or comment, but you laugh at what is being said, you are condoning the bad behavior. 

(Romans 13:13) Let us behave decently...  not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality, and debauchery, not in dissention and jealously. 

I know there are countless more ways Christians allow themselves to be dragged along, as sheep with the crowd, but I will only bring up one more issue.  Alcohol.  True, the bible does not say you cannot drink, but it does say not to drink to the point of drunkenness.  Talking about enjoying any alcoholic drink implies that you do not have an issue with drunkenness and therefore, it makes you appear as if the rules of conduct in the Bible are meaningless to you.  It's the reflection of your words others will assume are your beliefs.

(Haggai 1:5) Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways."  

Be careful of how you allow yourself to be portrayed.  Non-believers are waiting to tear apart every Christian they see and quickly sneer, "She calls herself a Christian?" as soon as you display one of these behaviors.  They don't care about your so-called good intentions. All they see is that you care more about following the herd than being accepted by them than you do in following the Shepherd himself.

So, please remember, if you use the word "Christian" when referring to yourself, be sure to walk the walk and talk the talk.  Otherwise, you are blowing your testimony, and you will be dubbed a hypocrite.  It only takes a second to turn someone off to the Christian lifestyle, but could take weeks, months, or longer to repair the damage to try and convince others you are a man/woman of God.

(Galatians 2:12) By their hypocrisy... [he] was led astray. 

If you truly cannot remove yourself from gossip, filthy talk, and boasting about the alcohol you drink, then please do not label yourself a Christian, and turn others astray.

(Psalm 34:13) Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking lies. 

I know no one is perfect, but perfection is not the goal.  Trying to be a good Christian example and trying to emulate and glorify Jesus Christ, in spite of your humanness, is the goal.  Controlling your tongue is just one way to achieve this.

And don't be a sheep and follow along just to be accepted.  Trust me, it is far better to be rejected because you removed yourself from an ungodly environment than it is to be likes by people quick to stab you in the back as soon as it is turned.  Sheep are not loyal to one another, but the Shepherd gave His life for all His sheep.  Which would you rather follow?

(Ephesians 5:1-10) Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. 

Who do you say that He is? Written by my Husband

 

 Who do you say that He is? Written by my Husband, Mel

Who was this babe born over two thousand years ago in Bethlehem of Judea? Many claim that he was a prophet, a great teacher, or just a good man. However, who do you say that He is?

There is one God, who is revealed in three distinct persons, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father sent the son, to bring redemption to fallen mankind. Through the death of Christ upon the cross the free gift of salvation has been provided to all who will put their faith in him.

Christ said, that before Abraham was, I AM. Christ declared himself to be the Great I AM, by making this statement.

(John 8:57-58) Then the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”     

The prophet Isaiah wrote that the future Messiah would be called, the Mighty God and Everlasting Father!

(Isaiah 9:6-7) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. 

(Matthew 1:23) “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”  

John chapter one, as well as Colossians one, reveal that Christ is indeed God, the creator of all things visible and invisible. He is the image of the invisible God. All things were created through him and for him.

(John 1:1-5 & 10-14) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.  

(Colossians 1:15-18) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.  

Let us remember that Christmas is not about the mythical Santa Claus or reindeer. Jesus is the only reason for the season! 

The Dangers of Pornography, Written by my Husband & Me

The Dangers of Pornography

Written by my Husband (Mel) & Me (Julie)

*This is a sensitive subject, but we did our best to be tasteful.  As all ages and both genders fall prey to pornography, this topic can be applied to a large audience, but reader discretion is advised. *

 This article is about the dangers of all pornography. For more information about the sins against children, feel free to read Julie's blog "Will you stand against pedophilia in Hollywood? here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/will-you-stand-against-pedophilia-in.html

First, we want to make several things clear:  we do not believe adult men are the only offenders, but as stated above, people of all ages and both genders have been proven to be addicted to porn.  That brings us to the other thing we want to make clear: we do not see pornography as just naked pictures online or in a magazine, but sex scenes in movies and books can be pornographic as well.  People can be just as addicted to smutty novels as to visual nudity.

Society will tell you it is the spouse’s fault if his/her mate looks at pornography.  Julie once read a statement that said something like, “your husband looks at pornography because you are not properly arousing him and you must work harder to do so.”  The was from an article about sex myths in marriage. The writer of the article just wrote a BIG LIE!  Just like it is not your fault if your spouse cheats, it is not your fault of he/she looks at porn! It is the offender who needs deliverance from sin. 

You may think you would never actively be sexually impure outside of marriage, have an affair, or harm a child, but even looking at such images in a sin in the eyes of Jesus. 

(Matthew 5:28) [Jesus said,] “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Also remember that we will all be judged on what we think about, not just what we act upon. Even viewing porn one time will create a vicious cycle of thoughts turned into spiritually dangerous actions.  Your mind will linger more and more on impure thoughts as the images will stay in your mind. These thoughts will lead to more action as you seek out more filth.  For more on this subject, you can read Julie's blog "Is the abundance of your heart dark and crooked?" here:  https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/is-abundance-of-your-heart-dark-and.html

Pornography is not a victimless sin.  Your family will always suffer if you allow viewing such filth to corrupt you. If you make it clear that you do not see anything wrong with looking at naked women to whom you are not married, you are teaching your children it is okay to demean women and that their mother is not enough for you. The same works for both genders as a woman drooling over other men not her husband teaches her children that marriage is not sacred.  You are raising your children to be disrespectful of women and see women as only sexual objects.  Either spouse not lusting after another person outside their marriage sends a very negative and ungodly message their children about marriage. 

What about men of all ages viewing underage girls. I know this writing is specifically about porn, but how many men and women are lusting in their hearts over some cute young thing that is young enough to be their child?  If you have/had a daughter, how would you feel if men were ogling her the way you lust over someone else’s child, especially when you delve into the deep dark sin of child porn?   

(Jeremiah 23:24) Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the Lord; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.

Do you really believe that all the people in the magazines and web sites are there by their own choice? That young-faced adult could very easily be a child forced into the sex trade very much against his/her will. When you support smut, you are often supporting sex trafficking and robbing children of their innocence.  Do you think those viewers ever think of that?  They would if suddenly their missing child showed up on a pornography site.  This does not just happen in foreign countries; sex trade for underage children is a very real problem in this country too.  In fact, even adults are kidnapped and forced into such abominations as well.     

(Mark 4:22) For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.

It is a proven fact that pornography creates serial killers and rapists.  Ted Bundy is probably one of the most notorious serial murder/rapist that admitted his addiction to porn is what piqued his interest in killing.  We are not saying all who are addicted to porn become killers and/or rapists, but it is a very, very real trend.  Just as an alcoholic starts to need stronger and more alcohol to get him drunk, so the smut addict needs more and more provocative images to turn him on.  He searches out other types of porn, often leading to live performances, and when he cannot get satisfaction, it is a very real possibility he will take it by force.

Pornography has become so acceptable that men and women of all ages are walking around continually seeking visual stimulation.  The way women dress becomes more and more obscene every year. Women and even children dress in shorts so short their rearends hang out, their tops are see-through, and they have no problem bending over in a skirt so short you know what color underwear they have on.  There is very little modesty left in our society.  It makes it very difficult for those who choose to dress modestly because men have been trained to believe that all women want is to be drooled over and gawked at.  This makes Julie’s skin crawl as she does not know what these strange men are thinking as they very openly stare in a way that is not innocent.  It has gotten to where she hates going out in public at all and very rarely goes alone.  Julie dresses very modestly, but it is because men are so full of lust, they see every woman as a sexual object and have no problem making her feel uncomfortable.  And it doesn’t matter if the offender has a wife with him or if we are together as a very obvious couple!

Pornography is also a huge problem with Christians because the church has the culture well ingrained within it. Mel was shocked by a comment made by a leader of a home Bible study group.  He asked the people, “Do you know why over 50% of Pastors view some form of pornography?”  Then he remarked, “Because they are human that’s why.”  This man is the product of the modern-day lukewarm church that tolerates everything. God’s Word teaches us that we must repent of our sins and be born again in order to be saved. To be born again means to put off our old sinful nature and to become a new creation in Christ.  God’s Word is clear that we must not touch what is unclean!

(2 Corinthians 6:17-18 & 7:1) "Touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters," saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

 (Note, these are older stats as this article was written in 2014, so the numbers are likely more staggering today.) Here are some startling statistics:  The photograph was invented in 1839, and in just 11 quick years the word “pornographer” was seeded into our dictionary. Pictures of prostitutes were sold at an alarming rate. When surveyed, 53% of men who attended Promise Keepers said they viewed pornography that week. More than 45% of Christians admit that pornography is a major problem in their home. An anonymous survey conducted recently by Pastors.com reported that 54% of pastors admitted viewing porn within the last year. In an online newsletter, 34% of female readers of Today’s Christian Woman admitted to intentionally accessing Internet porn. One out of every six women who read Today’s Christian Woman say they struggle with addiction to pornography. 

The problem is that the churches are failing to preach on repentance, as well as holiness and have replaced the truth with their form of perverted grace doctrine. There is not grace for un-repented sins. Christ’s atonement on the cross is only for sins that we repent of, as well as sins committed in ignorance.

(Romans 6:1) What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

Let us leave you with hope that there is ALWAYS victory over sins, no matter how long you have been addicted.  Please remember what Corinthians 10:13 says, " No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."  

The Holy Spirit will always give you the strength to walk away if you obey His voice.  There is always a way out and the opportunity and to say no and walk away.  There are no excuses. If you really cannot stop, there is no shame in seeking Godly professional help as well.  Also, get rid of your sources that cause you to sin.  Your salvation and where you spend eternity is more important than your Internet and TV. God will give you the strength to walk away, but as long as you allow ungodly perverted images before your eye gates, you will never defeat Satan.   Utilize the power of the Holy Spirit and in His strength, get rid of your TV and Internet!  

One last thought: Remember, Jesus is ALWAYS watching, so would you still view what you are viewing if He was physically sitting next to you?

(Philippians 4:8) Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

The Beginning, Middle, and End

 

 The Beginning, Middle, and End

Every good story has a beginning, a middle, and an ending, right? Well, this same concept applies to our walk with the Lord. I am not speaking Genesis to Revelation, but our individual relationships with Jesus Christ.  

Your story as a Christian began before you were born.  John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "The world" means every person who has or will ever live on this Earth.  Therefore, Jesus died for your sins before you were born.  Salvation is a free gift you do not have to earn.  This is the beginning for all of us.  However, from there it is up to you to decide what will happen next.

As with any gift given to you, you have the free will to accept it or throw it in the garbage.  And even if you accept it, you again have the free will to fully use it as intended, only use it when it is convenient for you, or put it on a shelf and ignore it entirely.  In other words, we must actively choose the precious gift of salvation by making the decision to repent of our sins and ask Jesus to come into our hearts. It is also an active decision to keep walking the walk and daily repenting of your sins lest you lose your salvation. 

To be clear, I do not believe we are saved by our works, again, God's salvation is a free gift we could never earn. However, we must show the utmost respect for this gift and as it states in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" In other words, we are not to abuse the grace of God and use it as an excuse to sin.

If you do not continue striving for holiness and following the principles of Jesus Christ, you put yourself at great risk of losing the precious gift of salvation. I am not talking about every little mistake you make, but willful rebellion, the active choice to go against what the Bible says and refusing to repent. 

We need to continue to grow in our walk with the Lord and make a daily decision to give up our sinful habits. Jesus said in Luke 9:23 "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross DAILY, and follow me."   Daily literally means daily, not just denying your sinful nature when you feel like it or are asking God for a favor.  This also means choosing to follow Jesus and His ways of righteousness. It requires daily self-examination and repentance.  For Jesus also said in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." And 1 John 2:4 makes it abundantly clear, "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."  

In doubt of what is right or wrong, read the Bible. If God (not man) says something is wrong, it is as simple as not doing it. Here are some examples (see also Revelation 21:8 at the end of this writing):

(Matthew 19:16-21) And, behold, one came and said unto Him, "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" And [Jesus] said unto him, ".. if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments... Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself... give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."

(Galatians 5:19-21) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance [quarreling], emulations [jealousy], wrath, strife, seditions [rebellion], heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings [drunken parties], and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 

I think that list is pretty clear for what we should do our very best to avoid as long as we live on this Earth that God so loves.  No one is or ever will be perfect, but the key is to strive for holiness, this is what pleases the Lord.

(Luke 13:23-27) Then said one unto Him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" And [Jesus] said unto them, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open unto us;'... But He shall say, 'I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.'"

As with every story, the plot must develop and grow lest the storyline become stagnant. In fact, the middle of our stories is really the key to how it will end. Wasn't that point above? Well, yes and no. Aiming for a pure life is vital, but God wants us to do more than just try to avoid sin. We need to grow in Him by reading the Bible and praying, as well as treating others with love and kindness. 

(Hebrews 5:13-14) For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 

This is essentially telling us that we need to do more than just understand the basics of salvation (milk) but to grow in the Lord by studying His Word as much as we can and seeking to know the will of God (meat). The more we study and ask the Holy Spirit to help us understand what we read, the more discernment we will have and the more we will desire to please the One who willingly endured torture on a cross for us.

Now we come to the end of our story. But do we? For Christians who have not merely read the Words of the Lord, but obeyed them as well (James 1:22 - But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.), there is no end. There will be an end to this Earth and our mortal bodies as they now exist, but there will not be an end to your existence.  This is why the beginning and middle are so very, very important. If you want to spend eternity with Jesus, you must press forward in attempting to always do the right thing, or your end will be in the lake of fire, not in paradise forever.

(Revelation 21:1-8) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

 And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And he said unto me, "Write: for these words are true and faithful."

And He said unto me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son."

"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." 

Merry Christmas: Now is the Time to Seek the Lord (Video)

 

If you are interested, you can view my video titled "Merry Christmas: Now is the Time to Seek the Lord" on my Facebook page (the link will take you directly to the video): https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=881048843350680