Is the Bible the Inspired Word of God?

Is the Bible the Inspired Word of God?

Originally written in 2015, With New Edits

This blog was motivated by an older cousin of mine.  He made some statements a few days ago that I am sure go through a lot of people's heads.  He does not believe the Bible is really the inspired Word of God, but a mass of confused stories all put together by ordinary men.

It is easy to be confused by the Bible if you do not understand how to read it.

First of all, let me just say that I have no theology degrees, nor do I consider myself an expert in any way, shape, or form.  What I have is 43 years of experience either listening to or having the bible read to me (as of September 11, 2025, it will be 53 years). I was a preacher's kid for the first 12 years of my life, and my Dad has always been a spiritual influence on me (my Dad lost his battle with cancer in 2022 and is now in perfect peace with Jesus).  Since getting married in 2012, my husband became my greatest spiritual influence as well as my fellow student in the Lord's School of Holiness.  I study the Bible almost every day as well as read commentaries and devotionals by others who practice what they preach and do not try to pervert God's Word for gain.  I particularly like to focus on those with a clear understanding of the history of Biblical times, not those trying to promote a specific religion, but whose only goal is to glorify God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

One of the things my cousin pointed out has confused many.  In Exodus 20:13, God clearly commands the Israelites not to kill.  And yet, God expects them to kill their enemies to defend their territory.  Is this contradictory? 

In order to understand this (and most areas of the Bible) we must take a look at history.  There are a lot of wars throughout the Old Testament.  The reason why is because people were not much different then than they are today.  They were very territorial and constantly in a state of claiming land.  It was truly an era of "kill or be killed" or be made into slaves.  In most cases, the wars of Biblical times were a matter of survival since they could not all live peacefully in separate countries.  One nation wanted to rule them all.  God still hated the killing, but also hated to see those serving Him enslaved or tortured if captured,

If you are wondering why God seemed to choose one race over the other, it was not a race issue, it was a holiness issue.  (The Israelites chose to follow the ways of God's commands, while to others chose to spit in God's face and live demented and perverted lives.  They were extremely brutal and loved to torture others.  Some even believed in live human sacrifices, particularly of babies and children.  And remember, the Israelites were not exempt from their own punishments when they sinned.  God punished the Israelites within their own communities as well whenever they recklessly rebelled. 

(Acts 10:34-35) Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him."

(Colossians 3:11) There is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.

Which brings me to another point.  There are a lot of laws and regulations in the Old Testament that seem to have ridiculously harsh punishments.  Not all these laws were created by God.  A lot of them were man-made.  Read through the New Testament and you will continually read Jesus' own words condemning the man-made laws.  You can read more about that issues of Jesus' New Covenant in my blogs "Leviticus, Numbers, & Deuteronomy:  Jesus Made a Surety of a Better Testament" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/06/leviticus-numbers-deuteronomy-jesus.html   & "Matthew 5: Jesus Teaches us a Better Way" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/01/matthew-5-jesus-teaches-us-better-way.html  as well as  this blog by my husband "Understanding  The New Covenant" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2015/12/understanding-new-covenant-written-by.html

There are other issues in the Old Testament that may seem contradictory to God's 10 commandments.  In Genesis 38, Jacob's son Judah promised his daughter-in-law in marriage to his youngest son (after her first 2 husbands, his sons, died).  He later changes his mind.  Tamar tricks him by pretending to be a prostitute, Judah sleeps with her, she steals his signet, bracelets, and staff to later use as blackmail, and she becomes pregnant.  Judah was going to have Tamar murdered for her sin, but she shows him his belongings, and realizes he is the baby's father.  The hypocrite then changes his mind.  My point is that this is just one example of very bad behavior.  Many mistakenly believe that just because a story is in the bible that it is saying the behavior is justified.  Of course not!  The bible is a history book and it is telling us the history of those that lived during those times, the good, bad, and despicable behavior is all included.  It is merely a statement of the facts, not a justification of sin!
  
Now let's explore some of the New Testament that confuses people. 

One of the ways people love to try and discredit the Bible is by saying that it is inconsistent.  One example is that Matthew 27 says that Judas Iscariot (the man that betrayed Jesus) hanged himself out of guilt.  But Acts 1 (written by Luke), says that Judas died when he fell and his bowels gushed out.  Big difference.  
  
Consider this:  Neither Matthew nor Luke were present when Judas died.  What they are writing about was based on someone else's account.  They were both told two different stories, and there were probably many legends going around concerning the man that betrayed the King of Kings.  This does not mean one of them was a liar, or that we can disprove the whole Bible, it simply means one of them unknowingly received the account of Judas' death from a false witness.

And, no, not all four gospels tell the exact same story the exact same way.

Now consider this:  I worked as a civilian in law enforcement for more than 7 years.  Talk to any police officer who receives four different witness statements at a crime scene, and they will receive four different accounts.  One will say the suspect had blonde hair and was short, while another will swear he was tall with brown hair.  No two people see or experience the same incidents exactly the same way.  That does not make one of them a liar.  My husband and I often see colors differently.  He sees blue where I see green.  He sees pink where I see orange.  In our eyes, neither one is wrong, it is purely based on perception.

Consider this as well:  Ever play the game telephone?  It's where you sit in a circle of say a dozen people.  One person whispers, "Bees live in trees" to the person on his left, but by the time person #12 repeats the message he received, he will probably say something like, "Don't put cheese on my keys."  The bible has been re-written and re-translated many, many times.  Not every translation is going to be perfect.  Even the original words hand-written on scrolls were often written by a scribe, not the actual writer.  We will never know this side of heaven what the 100% exact translation should be.  

Also, oftentimes some religions try to tell you the entire Bible was written in Hebrew, and you need to consider the Hebrew meaning only to understand the Bible.  However, most of the New Testament books were originally written in Koine Greek or Aramaic. If you stick with the King James Version, this is historically proven to be the most accurate of them all, and you can pretty much take it as face value without trying to interpret it from a different language or try to find "secret codes" in between the words.  

And remember there are many "religious" leaders who like to change translations of the Bible and add or subtract words to suit their beliefs and to get more money in the offering plate.  Please always read the Bible on your own apart from church. 

(2 Timothy 3:13-16) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

    
Another thing that so clearly confuses people is so-called Christian entertainment.  The popular trend of the past several years has been making so-called Biblical movies.  They are so way far off base, that it is disgusting.  There is nothing wrong with trying to fill in the gaps, but these movies go beyond mere gap-filling, they are blasphemous and confuse those that have never read the bible.  My word of advice: read the book (The Bible), and always, always skip the movie!  

I hope some of this helps clear up a few things.  Asking questions is a great way to better understand the Bible.  Don't take man's word for it (not even mine), do your own homework and really seek the Truth!  Keep reading, keep studying, and pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit!   He will help you understand.   

For more on the Word of God, you can read my blogs "The Power of the Word of God" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2023/09/the-power-of-word-of-god.html  & "The Armor of God, Part 6: The Sword of the Spirit" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/04/the-armor-of-god-part-6-sword-of-spirit.html

The Reason why God's Judgements are Falling, Written by my Husband

 

The Reason why God's Judgements are Falling, Written by my Husband (Mel)

We live in dark times, and most people are very cold hearted and self-centered. God desires for his children to be a set apart people full of love and good works. While most of the world is selfish and consumed with the desire to obtain worldly goods, power, and fame, we should be selfless and desire to meet the needs of others. The Law and the prophets are fulfilled when we love God, as well as others as ourselves. God is the potter, and we are the clay. If you are filled with God's Holy Spirit, you will be transformed into a new creation (born again). However, you must knock, ask, as well as seek after God for His Spirit as Christ taught (Luke 11:9-13). We must yield our will to the Holy Spirit by walking in obedience to the holy scriptures (1 John 2 1-12). Unless we are a set apart people (new creation in Christ) we will be consumed by God's judgments along with the rest of those who also live in darkness. Live and walk in the light and God will both protect you, as well as receive you.

(Luke 11:9-13) And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? 

(1 John 2: 1-12) My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

(Ephesians 5:-14) Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. 1And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light."

(Galatians 5:19-25) 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.

If we Only Love God When He Answers our Prayers, we are Missing the Point

If we Only Love God When He Answers our Prayers, we are Missing the Point

I originally wrote this on February 5, 2022, but due to a conversation with my husband Mel today, I was inspired to post it again.

When we go through difficult times, such as the death of a loved one or an illness, it is easy to fall into the trap of being angry with God because He did not answer our prayers the way we expected Him to.  If we only love God when He answers our prayers, we are missing the point of what it truly means to be a Christian. There is an old saying that states God will always answer your prayers; sometimes it is "yes," sometimes it is "no," other times it is "wait."  This is a basic concept, but still true.  What is most important to remember is that God will only answer according to what is best for us, according to His perfect will, not ours.  I know it sometimes takes more faith to believe than our bruised and wounded hearts can muster, but it is true, nonetheless. If all we have is faith the size of a mustard seed to believe, it is enough (see Matthew 17:20). 

1 John 4:19, sums up all I will to say so very simply, "We love Him, because He first loved us." Combined with John 3:16, "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," we really need no other reason to love and serve God! 

We love Him because only He created the universe and all that is in it, and only He is worthy of all power and praise. Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Revelation 4:11 & And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. Revelation 5:9 & 12 

I know that the simplest of ideas can become very complicated when we are suffering.  We make it so by our unbelief. We overcomplicate God's love because we cannot see around our own hurt. The deeper and fresher the pain, the harder it is to remember that God's love is enough to sustain us.  

Bad things happen because Adam and Eve chose their own selfish wants over fellowship with their Creator (see Genesis 3).  We live in a fallen world because God chose to give us free will.  Adam and Eve betrayed this gift and chose to listen to the serpent’s lies rather than God’s warnings simply because the serpent’s lies were more appealing than God’s Truth.  This is why we live in a world full of death and tragedy, not because God is cruel, but because man chose to alienate us from God by using his free will out of the desire of wanting to be like God.  Humans do not want fellowship with God, nor do they want His advice, protection, or correction, they want to be gods!  They want to be independent.  They want to use their free will to do whatever they so please, then cry out, “God save me,” when it’s convenient.  Or curse at God even though they have made no effort to live a holy life and only pray when they want something. Therefore, “He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45) not because He is cruel, but because man chose to defy God.  Man caused this fallen world and wel all suffer because of it. 

Jesus said in John 16:33, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." He honestly tells His disciples they, and us too, we will all have hard times.  But He gives us the good news that we can find perfect peace in Him, and that He has overcome the world! In the light of eternity, this life won't matter much.  What matters is that Jesus freely died for our sins.  When we make Jesus the Lord of all our actions and choose to walk down paths of righteousness, we can live with Him eternally in Paradise. Amen, that is more than enough!

People who believe God will prevent bad things from happening end up hating God.  Christians can walk around with joy in their hearts, in spite of tragic circumstances because we have a hope of eternal happiness. For no matter what “we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)   We know God grieves with us and does not intend for bad things to happen.  Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) states, “'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"  Does that mean God does not have any control? No, this means we will never fully know why things are allowed to happen because there is a war going on we cannot comprehend.  “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Ephesians 6:12

My favorite verse is 1 Corinthians 13:12, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." This means that we cannot understand why things happen as they do because we cannot see the big, eternal picture, but when we get to heaven, it will all be crystal clear.  This senseless world will make sense.

My message s brief today, but just a reminder to you, as well as to myself, that loving God only when things go our way is not truly loving the Lord. Remember that God does not stop loving you when you do not do what He expects. Romans 5:8 says, " that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Yes, our actions can absolutely keep us out of the kingdom of Heaven (see Galatians 5:16-21 & Revelation 21:8), but God's love for us will never wane.  It is His profound love that sets rules because He does not want any of to go to Hell (The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9)  Romans 8:38-39 reminds us "that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  Since God will not stop loving us, how dare we be so arrogant as to say we will stop loving or serving Him when we face loss, illness, or other tragedy? 

Awake, you sleeping giants!

 

Awake, you sleeping giants!

A dream my husband had in 2014 inspired the artwork I made for this blog.  The dream was as follows: As far as Mel could see, giants slept in ditches spanning the vast landscape (the giants represent today’s churches).  A large lion soon appeared and began approaching each of the giants.  He threw his head back and roared an ear-shattering rumble.  Yet, no matter how loud The Lion of Judah (Jesus Christ, see Revelation 5:5) roared, the giants would not wake.  A few sleepily opened their eyes, but none of them arose from their ditches.  A group of people dressed as construction workers then appeared.  They were impatient for the giants to awaken because they had a lot of work to do.  The angels in Mel’s dream did not have wings as I drew, but the angels in his dreams are often dressed as builders, police, firefighters, etc., so it was easy to interpret that these construction workers ready to build for the Kingdom of God, were angels.  The angels long for genuine followers of God’s Truths to join them and work side by side, not lukewarm Christians asleep in their sins.

Although Mel did not see a pile of secular items surrounding the giants in his dream, I added those to my drawing because the churches no longer teach such things are immoral.  Watching and reading items infused with witchcraft will separate you from the Lord, as well as addictions to pornography, alcohol, and cigarettes or other drugs.  In other words, if you refuse to give up such vices, you are sleeping to the will of God.      

In our dreams God often shows both Mel and me people we know sleeping, and one or both of us is trying to wake them.  They are asleep to the Truths God so desperately wishes to share with all His children.  They are shown to us as sleeping with their backs to us and refusing to wake up, just as the giants refused to wake. Some sleep in lazy ignorance because they refuse to study the Bible on their own, but most choose to sleep to the Truths of what the Bible teaches because they are filled with stubborn pride. I know that sounds harsh, but it is what God wanted me to write. 

Most people are so steeped in their religious boxes and misinformed theories that it is a struggle to attempt to wake them.  I used to have a deaf roommate whose alarm clock would go off for an hour or longer before she would hear it and get ready for work.  Because she had some hearing left, she would eventually hear the alarm, rise, and go to work.  We must be like an alarm clock for those who are spiritually deaf.  Somewhere deep down they can still hear what we say and want to know the Truth.  It will eventually sink in, and they will be ready to rise and go to work for the Lord.  We must not cease praying for God to open their eyes and soften their hearts, so they are receptive to hearing the Truth. 

It is very difficult for anyone to swallow their pride and admit they have been wrong for many years, especially if this person sees him or herself as a leader or expert.  We must pray for patience and understanding for these people.  As a former preacher’s kid, I was once one of those too stubborn to listen to alternate theories.  I thought I knew it all.  Ultimately, my daily Bible study opened my eyes to the many contradictions taught in most churches.  I was at a point in my life where I was spiritually sensitive enough to hear God’s voice and accept correction.  My Bible studies continue to keep my eyes wide open to the Truths in the Bible rather than sleeping in man's so-called wisdom.  A typical prayer for me is that God will reveal any errors in my theologies so I may adjust them.  I pray you will also have an open heart to hear all that God wishes to teach you. 

In today's modern church, pastors have quit preaching lessons of repentance and holiness.  I am not saying every single pastor out there is preaching a lukewarm message, but sadly, the majority are. 

They are preaching feel-good sermons that are putting the church to sleep.  I am going to briefly touch on some of the dangerous, but common messages taught.

Even the once on-fire holiness preachers have begun speaking less on righteousness and more on praying and feeling blessed.  While prayer is vital to our walk with God, our actions outside of the prayer closet matters even more.   

(Ephesians 5:8-14) For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light… finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore, He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” 

The first topic I would like to touch on is the issue of the rapture.  My husband, Mel, has pretty much said what I would have said in his blog, "The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ." https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2022/08/the-truth-about-second-coming-of-christ.html   Here is an excerpt from that blog, but I encourage you to read the entire blog:

"There is much controversy as to the timing of the rapture, but God’s Word is very clear on this subject and we will explore what it really teaches. This is not a subject that should divide us, but it is critical that we be informed of the truth. The pre-tribulation rapture viewpoint is very dangerous because it teaches people that there is no need to prepare for the tribulation, or hard times ahead, because God is going to rapture you up to Heaven for seven years, then return again to establish His kingdom. This man-made doctrine is contrary to God’s Word, and was created by taking scripture out of context, as well as making scriptures jump through many hoops in order to bring about a man- pleasing belief.

"The Lord Jesus Christ himself told us exactly when he will return, as well as when he will send forth his angels to gather the elect. Christ said that immediately after the tribulation of those days he would return and gather his elect unto himself.

(Matthew 24:29) Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.  Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.  And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.  

"Christ said what he meant and was not speaking metaphorically. The pre-trib doctrine teaches that this passage is in reference to the second coming of Christ, seven years after the ingathering of the saints, but Christ said that at this time, he would send out his angels to harvest the elect. This passage alone is enough to establish that the rapture and the second coming of Christ are the same event and that this will occur immediately after the tribulation...

"God did not rapture Noah out of the earth, nor did he build the ark for him, rather he instructed him how to build the ark.  Noah was obedient to God and although it took him 120 years to build the ark, he did not give up. Because of Noah’s obedience to the Lord, we are here today. Like Noah, we need to be making preparations for the soon coming tribulation. I believe that the Lord is instructing people to prepare communities in remote wilderness areas for the time of trouble ahead. We all need to be seeking the Lord with much fasting and prayer concerning where to relocate. The cities, as well as populated areas are destined for judgment. This is not a time for fear but action. If we trust God as Noah did, then we will be obedient to him and follow his voice."

I would like to add that the church also uses Luke 17 to explain that these verses refer to a rapture.  But if you read the entire section, you will see this does not mean people are being raptured, but the opposite, they are being killed.  It was reading the book of Luke during a personal bible study in 2012 when I came to the conclusion that I had been misled all my life.  No one had to explain it to me, but daily Bible study opened my eyes.  That is why it is so important to read your Bible every day. 

I am not going to include all the verses, but please read all of Luke 17.

( Luke 17:34-37) I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left. “Where, Lord?” they asked.

He replied, “Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather.” 

If you want more info, you can read more on this subject from my blog "Questions & Answers about the Rapture" here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/questions-and-answers-about-rapture.html

The bible warns against not preaching about holiness. Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to make sure their followers are striving to live holy lives. Paul even predicted that there would be a time when people would refuse to listen to the Truth.  Pastors, wanting to be popular, have begun to tell the people what they want to hear so they do not lose their offerings.  It is not about souls being saved, it is all about the amount of money that goes in the plate.

(II Timothy 4:1-5) I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 

Another popular message of the church is that there is grace for everything, without ever repenting of your sins. (Romans 6:1-2)  Yes, God is full of mercy, love, and grace, but we must ask for forgiveness, repent of our sins, give up habitual sins, and make the daily decision to continue to walk down paths of righteousness (Luke 9:23).  Salvation is more than a simple sinner’s prayer.  It is the beginning of a wonderful walk with the Lord, but, as with any relationship, we must nurture it and work at producing good fruit.  We must continually make the effort to put down our sinful nature until we cross the finish line at the end of this life. (Philippians 2:12)

Some people may never set foot in a church, but they will listen to Christian music or at least attend a concert.  Therefore, Christian artists (as well as authors who market themselves as “Christian”) have the same responsibility as pastors to preach sound doctrine in their songs. There are many Christian artists I enjoy; they are talented singers and songwriters with what appears to be a genuine desire to serve the Lord.  However, very few songs are about holiness.  The word “grace” is more likely to appear in their songs than the word, “repentance.”  They also care more about being popular and making money than convicting people of their sins.  

The theory of eternal security is a lie of the devil in order to put Christians to sleep.  When we think there is grace for everything, and that our actions suffer no consequences because our salvation is guaranteed with one simple prayer, we can easily slip into a life of sin and comfortably stay there.

It is very true that Christ accepts us as we are and He gave His life on the cross for our sins so we can have eternal life.  Yet it is also very true that, though we may come just as we are with all our faults, God expects us to change.  Jesus is a loving Father who readily forgives our sins as long as our repentance is sincere and we do not continue to live in sin. He is holy and it is His desire that we live holy lives if we are to follow Him.  That does not mean we have to be perfect, but we must seek out to destroy our sinful nature.

Let's be honest, the devil loves it that the church has been spiritually put to sleep.  He loves that they are teaching that there is no devil and/or Hell.  Therefore, and this goes along great with the greasy grace message, there are no consequences for your actions

There are too many references in the bible on Hell to list them all, but reading all of Revelation 20 reveals a lot.  Please read the entire chapter.

There are several more topics that come to mind as far as what the church is teaching to put people asleep.  However, as I am writing this, I feel God is telling me, that instead of listing all the areas in one blog, I am to write about these issues individually in separate blogs.  Therefore, I will do my best to continue to write God's Truths as they are laid upon my heart.  These are not my self-righteous theories, but topics inspired by God by reading His Holy Word.

So how do we arise from our sleep?  As I mentioned above, studying God's Word daily is a wonderful start, or at least once a week.  Really devouring what you read and making sure you understand it will help you avoid falling for false teachings.  When you know what the Bible says on a certain subject, then you are less apt to fall for man's doctrines. 

(II Timothy 2:15) Be diligent [work hard] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  

I never want you to take my word for anything.  Study on your own.  I am overly logical and highly skeptical on most subjects; I always want second and third opinions on everything.  There are a lot of very cunning and manipulative people that will try to force you to believe their way is the only way.  I am not one of those people.  God's way is the only way, so read His words and really let them sink in. Pray before and/or after you read the Bible that God will reveal His Truths to you.  Also, if you attend church, do the same.  God has revealed to both my husband and me when there are false doctrines being taught by spiritual leaders as well as individual people in our lives.  Although Mel is more gifted in prophecy that I am, God speaks to both of us through dreams and visions.  If your heart is pure (you don’t have to be perfect) and you are humble and willing, God may speak to you as well, so be willing to listen.  

The Junk Food Gospel, Written by my Husband

 

 

The Junk Food Gospel, Written by my Husband (Mel)

We are living in the last days and the great falling away from the truth is here. Most Christians will not endure sound doctrine but prefer to have their ears tickled with man pleasing doctrines. The biggest deception is the greasy grace doctrine. Churches are serving up spiritual junk food to their congregations and people demand it. I have met many people who claim to be saved, however they told me they were living with their partner unmarried. They would also use the worst profanity, and some would even use God's name in vain and tell dirty jokes while claiming to know the Lord. Sadly, this is not a few, but many.

The churches have replaced the teaching of true grace with greasy grace. Preaching against sin and teaching holiness has been replaced with the grace for everything without repentance doctrine. We are not to be joined to the harlot (Mystery Babylon), but to be faithful to Christ. Salvation begins with repentance of sins. This means that you have a change of mind and heart in regard to your old sinful lifestyle. Christ accepts you just as you are, and if you put your faith in him and make him Lord you will be saved. When we are truly saved and baptized for the remission of sins we receive the free gift of the Holy Spirit. However, there is a second act of grace known as the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. The Baptism in the Holy Spirt also known as being filled with the Holy Spirit is when you are immersed in power with spiritual gifts given. It is only through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit that you can be transformed into a new creation.

When a person is truly saved, they are born again. Your sins are 100% forgiven and your slate is wiped clean. Your spiritual garments are washed clean and made white by the blood of Christ. You are saved by grace alone according to the finished work of Christ who made atonement for your sins. You walk perfectly before him because of the blood of Christ. In regard to salvation the righteousness of Christ is imparted to you. HOWEVER, God's Word teaches us that we must keep our garments clean, and they can become defiled through unfaithfulness to Christ. God's word also states that our names can be blotted out of the Book of Life. A lukewarm church will be vomited out of God's mouth (Revelation 3). Without holiness no man shall see the Father, according to Hebrews.

When a person is truly saved God gives them grace to grow in him. A new believer takes baby steps at first and grows with the nurture of the Holy Spirit. God is patient and gives us grace when we fall down and scrape our knee. God picks us up and carries us when we cannot walk. However, you must keep your faith until the end and walk in the light. God spoke to me once and said, "My grace is sufficient for the morning light."  When it is dawn, the sky has a little light, the light becomes brighter as the morning progresses until the sun shines brightest at noon. God gives grace to those who have a little light as they grow with the help of his Holy Spirit. However, God does Not give grace to those who love darkness and are apathetic toward righteousness. The Unconditional Eternal Security Doctrine (once saved, always saved doctrine) is a doctrine of demons and is responsible for sending many to Hell.

(Revelation 3:1-6) And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.:

(2 Peter 2:17- 22) These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

The Lord of the Harvest, Written by my Husband & Will You Answer the Call? Written by Me

 

The Lord of the Harvest, Written by my Husband (Mel)

(Luke 10:1-2) After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

The entire world is a mission field and if you belong to Christ then you are called to share your faith with those who are perishing. You do not need to be a pastor or have a degree in theology to be a missionary for Christ, only faith. The Lord is looking for willing hearts who will be vessels that he can work through. God is not pleased with manmade denominations or seminaries, because they tend to stifle the work of his Holy Spirit. God is looking for humble people who will reflect the love of Christ. Peter and John were uneducated men but they were vessels that God's Spirit could speak, as well as work through. 

(Acts 4:13)  Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. 

Peter and John were not trained with the theology of man, but by the Master himself. God's Word teaches us that we need to study to show ourselves approved, a workman not ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. This means that we are not to only just read God's Word, but to study it, so that we may interpret the scriptures correctly and teach others sound doctrine. We should consume God's Word, because it is spiritual food that will teach us God's ways and lead us to Christ, our only hope of salvation. If a person is truly filled with God's Holy Spirit, then his Spirit will teach us his ways and open up our minds to understand scripture.

 (John 14:25-26) “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 

All a person needs is the Holy Spirit to teach them God's Word, not the schools of manmade doctrine which are Spiritless. 

If you pray for divine appointments, God will bring people to you so that you may share your faith with them. I have witnessed to people in Wal-Mart, on hiking trails, as well as to my neighbors. If you make the most of every opportunity to share your faith when engaged in a conversation, you may plant a seed of faith in someone. You may plant the seed, then God may raise someone else up to water the young plant, then yet another person to reap the harvest. God's Word teaches that everyone who sows faith into another's life will share in the reward for their salvation. 

I have noticed that people get very defensive, as well as sometimes hostile, when you share your faith with them, this is because their conscience is being pricked by God's Spirit. Quite often you are getting through to them when they become agitated, so don't be discouraged by their reaction. We are living in a lost and dying world, and you may be the only reflection of Christ that someone will see, so always keep this in mind when someone is being offensive. 

If you were on a boat and saw someone drowning, wouldn't you throw them a life preserver, or even possibly dive into the water to save them? Or if you saw a young child playing in the middle of the road and a semi-truck was heading their way, wouldn't you try to save them? True love warns people of danger even if they don't want to hear it. People all around us are dying spiritually, and it is up to us to share our hope of salvation which comes only from a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ with them. So, I encourage everyone who is born again, to become a worker in the fields of the Lord, for they are truly ripe for the harvest!

Will You Answer the Call? Written by Me (Julie)

How many of us pray, "Here I am, Lord, use me?"  Now really be honest; how many mean it?  If God said, "Wonderful, now go serve Me in homeless shelters and retirement homes," would you do it?  If God asked you to go overseas on a mission trip, would you quickly pack your bags?  Not so easy to literally answer the call, is it?  The harvest being "truly great" means the whole world is our mission field.  Schools, workplaces, grocery stores, and the Internet are all places we can witness to people.  But what about spending time with the homeless, incarcerated, and mentally ill?  What about telling the homosexuals their lifestyles are wrong, but non-judgmentally tell them that God loves them and wants to see them repent, change their sinful ways, and come to His Kingdom?  Are we willing to be bold for Christ and go against the popular opinion?  Would you travel to Africa (or other countries) and risk your life to witness to the starving people whose lives are terrorized by war?  

Here's the truth: God will not call you to a place you are unwilling to go.  What He will do is soften your heart and gently try to encourage you to go where He needs you to serve.  God is a gentleman; He will not make you go anywhere you feel uncomfortable.  If you really have zero desire to go overseas, chances are that is not where God wants you to go.  We are not all called to be missionaries in foreign countries.  We can and should minister right where we live.  I am very shy.  Therefore, it is not likely God will call me to public speaking.  However, I can write for the few that read my blogs as well as serve dinners for the homeless and work with children.  I can show the love of Christ to co-workers and even strangers.  However, If God did call me to a more outspoken ministry, I am certain He would gift me with boldness.  My husband has been involved in street ministries in New Orleans during Marti Gras as well as ministering on the streets of Kansas City, MO and Little Rock, AR.  He is also a gifted pastor and preaches bold sermons.  

Ministry does not have to involve money. At the moment, I am not able to bless others monetarily, but I would if I could. What I can give is my time.  

Therefore said He unto them, "The harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few: pray ye the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest."  Luke 10:2

There are many examples in the bible where God called His children, and they answered the call.  I am not using myself as an example to follow, but these Godly saints.  Here are just a few:

When Mary was called to be the mother of Jesus Christ, it is easy to assume she was terrified.  Yet, she said, "Behold the handmaiden of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word."  (Luke 1:38) She had one of the greatest responsibilities in the world, and yet she said was willing to serve.  She did not question the reality of a virgin becoming pregnant with the Son of God.  Her faith was truly great as she was quick to be willing to serve God.

In Mark 1:16-20, Jesus meets Simon (Peter) and Andrew, and asks them to follow him.  Verse 18 says, "straightaway they forsook their nets, and followed Him."  Then Jesus meets James and John.  When Jesus asks them to join, verse 20 says, "they left their father... and went after Him."  In Mark 2:13-14, Jesus calls Levi (Matthew) who, when Jesus asked Him to follow, Matthew "arose and followed Him."  Notice there was no hesitation in these first five disciples that were called. 

In Exodus 3, God dramatically calls to Moses from a bush that is on fire but does not burn.  When God says, "Moses, Moses," he says, "Here am I," but then argues with God that he is not worthy to serve God due to being poor of speech.  Perhaps he was shy or stuttered, we don't know.  What we do know is that although God was angry with Moses' impertinence, He agrees to send Moses' brother Aaron as his mouthpiece.  God chose Moses (as He chose all before and after) because God sees a broken vessel willing to be used by and for God.  God would not take no for an answer, and reminded Moses that He would be with His servant and Moses would be more capable than he could ever imagine.   God knew Moses was the right man for the job not just to go before Pharaoh to demand he free the Hebrew slaves, but also to be the leader of those he helped escape from Egypt.

Also consider the prophets that were willing to prophecy even after being badly mistreated: Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, (etc.) as well as Paul, Silas, Peter, and Barnabas (etc.).  They were all willing to answer the call even though they did not all see their predictions come to fruition in their lifetime.

There are so many others I could name that willingly said, "Here I am Lord, use me," such as Samuel, David, and John the Baptist, (etc.) in some form or another, but for the sake of time, I will move on.

God does not demand perfection.  What He expects is one who is willing to be obedient not only to what he/she is called to do, but to follow the laws of Jesus Christ.  No matter how willing you may be to serve, God wants vessels that are clean inside and out. 

And the Lord said unto them, "Now do ye make clean the outside of the cup and the platter, but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness?  Ye fools, did not He make that which is without make that which is within also?"  Luke 11:39-40

In other words, wearing a three-piece suit and sporting an expensive haircut are not requirements for serving the Lord.  Having the lifestyle to back up the words you want to preach is much more important.  I have many flaws, but if I try to tell you not to cheat on your spouse while lusting after a man not my husband (which I would never, ever do), I am merely a hypocrite and have no place writing a blog.  Why do you think the false "grace for everything without repentance" message is so popular? Sadly, it is because so many that stand behind the pulpit are into pornography and other habitual sins of which they do not want to let go.  We must clean up our act before serving the Lord.  And not just by our moral actions, but by our attitude.  Don't walk into a homeless shelter and sit at a table with them and witness about the love of Christ than walk outside and insult the people inside.  Most of us are all one or two paychecks away from being in the same situation, so please do not judge them for losing their homes.  Do not go into the inner cities if you cannot love your fellow man no matter what color his skin is. 

Don't minister with a condemning heart, but with a heart of compassion and a goal as a healer, not a criticizer.  I see my job as attempting to lead people down paths of repentance while making a daily choice to continue down the roads of righteousness based on the teachings of Jesus, not based in the teachings of Julie or anyone else.  I want people to understand God's grace and salvation are free, but we still need to keep our garments clean less we fall away and wind up in Hell.  (Backsliding away from salvation is in the Bible, readers, these are not my theories.) I want to see my fellow man in heaven worshipping at the feet of their Maker, not tormented by flames. 

If your goals have anything to do with fame or money, then shame on you!  Serving God is all about bringing glory to God.  We should want to decrease so God can increase.  When I pray that God would empty me of me and fill me with Him, I am sincere in my prayers.  I do not want to shed the light on what I have done, but on the Love of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.  Obviously, if you are behind a pulpit, you will receive a lot of attention.  If you publish books or end up on the radio, or television you may get some semblance of fame.  As long as you use your notoriety for God's kingdom and do not heap riches on yourselves as the television evangelists do, God very well may bless your life with wealth.  But keep the focus off yourself and keep your ego in check.  Give glory where glory is due.  It is difficult for me to put it into words so this paragraph makes sense, but I think it's pretty obvious there are lines that can be crossed when we preach, write, or serve just to get attention and make ourselves look holy. 

If you are willing to answer the call to be a servant of Christ, serve God with a pure heart, pure motivations, and pure lifestyle.  Whatever your motivation is to serve, God knows your heart, always keep that in mind.