James 3:1-12: The Power of the Tongue, Written by my Husband

 

James 3:1-12: The Power of the Tongue 

Written by my Husband (Mel)

The tongue of man is capable of great evil, as well as of great kindness. Verse two, says that we all stumble in many things, and if anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. At times, I can be outspoken, and I often remind myself of this teaching of James. The control of the tongue is a very difficult thing to be mastered. James compares the small tongue who boasts of great things, with bits put into horses' mouths, as well as a rudder on ships, in order to show how the tongue steers the direction of the body. It is very true, that relationships are both formed, as well as, destroyed by our words. As ambassadors for Christ in this fallen world, it is important for us to reflect his light to others. You may be the only lifeline to Heaven that someone has in their life, and your words may lead them to Christ.

James also compares the tongue to a little fire capable of starting a forest fire, as well as an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. I have met many people that consider Christians to be offensive, because of words they spoke, that reflected vanity, arrogance, or cynicism. I have also known people who claimed to know Christ, but used all forms of swearing, as well as profanity, and that will most certainly push people away from Christ. God’s Word speaks against filthy talk, course jesting, and swearing. James states that bitter water cannot come from the same spring that produces fresh water. God’s Word also states that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Even in jesting, many people reveal how they really feel about someone, and have damaged relationships.

The Lord gave me a dream recently, about those who claim to know Christ, but swear like a sailor. I dreamed that I was standing in an office building lobby, and there were around a dozen elevators that led to Heaven, but only two were in use. There was a man standing there that was using God’s name in vain, as well as, cussing like a sailor. He walked away and then was replaced by a lady, who represented the modern church. I told the lady, that if this guy does not repent of his swearing he will go to hell. She said, that this man was saved, and his salvation was secure, but his swearing would cut him off from the Holy Spirit. I told the lady that the grace message that is being taught by most churches, is way out of bounds, and does not line up with the Word of God. I also told her, that holiness preaching has been replaced, by a lukewarm message. As I walked away from her, she exclaimed in a loud voice, “ Thank you Lord for your grace!” and she repeated herself several times. I then was walking through the lobby in a large crowd of people, who were following a famous evangelist, who has been preaching the eternal security doctrine for many decades. The large crowd of people refused to take the two elevators that led to Heaven, and were content to follow this evangelist to Hell. Although there were twelve elevators, the two that were functional, were symbolic of the few churches left that preach holiness. There is grace for those who repent of their sins, as well as turn from them, but grace is not automatic. The Lord has given me many dreams, as well as visions, concerning how serious sin is in the life of the Christian. The Lord shows me people wearing clothes covered with spots and wrinkles, as well as their skin covered in layers of dirt. The Lord then tells me to instruct people to take a spiritual shower and get their lives in order. Without holiness, no man will see the Father.

The words that we speak, will also reflect the level of faith that is in our lives. The old saying that misery loves company is very true. I have known people that are continually pessimistic, and their words reflect the fear that consumes them. God’s Word says that perfect love will cast out all fear. Even when we feel faithless, we need to speak words of faith, as well as stand upon the promises that are in God’s Word. Regardless of how we feel, or what we are going through, God’s promises for us will remain true. When we are under spiritual attack, we need to quote scripture with faith, because God’s Word is the sword of the Spirit. I have entered homes after family members have quarreled, and you can feel a tense atmosphere within the home. An evil tongue that attacks others, is an open door to demonic spirits. I have also entered homes with anointed praise and worship music playing, and you can feel the presence of the Lord, for the Lord inhabits the praises of his people. If a person needs a breakthrough from the Lord, or is in need of healing, speak words of faith, combined with scripture. Don’t claim your illness or distress, because words produced from fear are the opposite of faith. Fear will empower the enemy in your life, but faith will move the hand of God.  

(James 3:1-12) My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.

James 1:21-27 & 2:20-24: Putting Works in Action

James 1:21-27 & 2:20-24: Putting Works in Action

I know I just posted on being a doer of the Word, but I wanted to also repost this writing of mine I wrote around 6 years ago, as it is written on another angle.

Before I get started, I just want to make it very clear that I do believe we are saved by our works, but only through the blood of Jesus Christ!  We cannot earn our salvation by our works, but we can be in danger of losing it by our lack of works. Now onto the post:  

It's funny how none of the images I searched online for the phrase, "Be doers of the word," included verse 21 from James, chapter 1 (which was why I made my own graphic). So, let me include those verses now, in fact reading verses 21-27 really helps one understand these verses better:

(James 1:21-27) Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. 

I obviously did not look at every image or read every sermon, but from what I found, most people interpreted the words, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only," as doing kind things for people as Jesus commands. While I whole-heartedly agree with that sentiment as well, that is not only what these verses are about.  However, I will explore that issue as well.

The book of James was written by one of Jesus' half-brothers. If you jump ahead to the second chapter, you can better find the meaning others are searching for in chapter one.

(James 2:14-24) What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. 

Again, other people tend to leave out the holiness message in these verses and focus just on doing good deeds.  And, of course, most modern pastors leave James 2 out of their sermons altogether! But yes, make no mistake, faith without works is dead! And works without righteousness is in the grave right next door!

Back to James 2:15-16.  How often do people who call him/herself a believer do the exact same thing? They see someone in need and say, "I'll pray for you," but simply walk away. Praying for people is a powerful act, but when we have the ability to help and do nothing, then those prayers are hypocritical.  Do not drive past the same beggar on the street every weekend and refuse to offer him your extra coat or buy him a burger for lunch!  Do not see a lonely widow weeping for her husband and refuse to find time in your busy schedule to take her to dinner or simply visit her in her home and chat for a while.  Do not watch a struggling mother try to afford daycare and work and refuse to babysit for free or slip her some money.  There are so many, many ways we can help people!  It does not have to cost you any money.   Homeless shelters need blankets and clothing, donate what you don't use. I am by no means a wealthy person, but I can (and do) still find ways to help to the best of my abilities and resources.  And, there is still so much more I can do.

I think you get the idea, so I'll move on.

Let's go back to James 1, verse 21. James encourages us to "lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word."  Becoming a Christian is much, much more involved that saying a simple sinner's prayer.  We must continually give up our sinful ways and embrace the Word of God and the principles of Jesus Christ.  I so love James' illustration in verses 23 & 24.  When we read the Word of God and maybe even weep over it and feel guilt for our sins, but then walk out the door and start swearing, going to movies, get drunk, look at pornography, etc., we are just as foolish as someone who forgets his/her own reflection. Why bother reading the Word of God or going to church (or better yet, listening to a true holiness preacher on YouTube), if you have no intention of following God's rules?  When James called the Word of God, "the perfect law of liberty" in verse 25, he did not mean (as most of the preachers now falsely teach), that we are at liberty to sin!  When one obeys God's laws one is liberated and free because he is not bound in chains by sinful actions. That is true liberty! When you sin and disregard the ways of the Lord, there is no liberty except in your own rebellious mind. The truth is, your sins are dead weights holding you back. Now don't pretend you don't feel that way when your guilt make you feel shame.  You can read more when shame is healthy at my blog, "When is Shame not shameful?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/08/when-is-shame-not-shameful.html The only way to be free is to repent of your sins and then do your best not to repeat them! Make Jesus Lord of your life and do your very best to walk down paths of righteousness! 

I could probably write for another several hours on this topic, but I will wrap this up.  Please reread the above verses from James 1 & 2 and let his message sink in.  Yes, it is absolutely our duty...  Let me rephrase that: actually, it is our privilege and honor to help others in need, so find at least one person or organization you can help this week.  Moreover, if you truly consider yourself a Christian, your works must be backed up with a righteous lifestyle combined with compassion for others. 

James 1:21-25: Being a Doer of the Word

James 1:21-25: Being a Doer of the Word

Are you waking the walk and talking the talk (James 1:22 -But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.)?  When you have had a soul stirring Bible study but then have to go to an ungodly environment at school or work, do those Words stick with you?  Do you remember that you are called to be a witness and testify of God's greatness (John 16:15 - And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.).  Do you remember what the Bible says about morality and refuse to participate in the things you know God hates (1 Corinthians 15:33-34, AMP -Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals. ”Be sober-minded [be sensible, wake up from your spiritual stupor] as you ought, and stop sinning;)?  Or do you conveniently "forget" all you read in the Bible about right and wrong and just do whatever you feel is right regardless of the eternal consequences.  Do you become a hearer only and not a doer?

You may have just had a spirit filled prayer and worship time and felt God move in your heart.  But as soon as you say "amen", you are faced with rude people saying and doing heartless things that test all nine Fruits of the Spirit.  Do you remember the power of God you so recently felt and call upon His power to help you forgive the cruel people and show kindness to all whether they deserve it or not (John 15:12 -This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.)? Or do you only care about what makes you happy and not care about what is expected of you by the only King of Kings, Jesus Christ? Do you become a hearer only and not a doer?

God wants all of us to access His power by overcoming the bondages of sin (Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.) and wants to enable us to be doers.  He gave us His life-changing words through Godly writers to remind us to call upon the Holy Spirit to help us combat temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.) as well as giving us peace in the storms (John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.).  

I am horrible at memorizing anything not put to music, so I may not always remember where the Bible says a certain thing, but because I try to read every day, I can tell you what the Bible says on almost any subject.  It helps to access the Word of God from my heart so I can remember to be a doer of His Word (Psalm 119:11 - Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.), and so also helps me stay calm in the midst of cancer or the loss of a loved one (Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.).  It also helps me remember how I should treat others.  When I should stand up against a false message or walk away from someone God does not wany me to be unequally yoked with.

When we study God's word regularly, it makes it possible for us to discern right from wrong; it makes us wise in all areas of our lives.  2 Timothy 3:1-13 (not posted) warns against false teachers that will try to lead us astray from God's Truths.  This is why Paul is reminding Timothy to recall all he has learned.  He also reminds that scripture, not man's false doctrines, will help us know how to live righteously. 

(2 Timothy 2:15) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

(2 Timothy 3:14-17) 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.

Nothing is equal to the power of the Word of God and time spent praising Jesus, therefore, remaining in a state of holy reverence will help us spiritually and mentally be capable of being a doer of God's Word and not hearers only.

(James 1:21-25) Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

Hebrews 11:24-26: Sin for a Season

 

Hebrews 11:24-26: Sin for a Season

Hebrews 11:23-29 gives us a brief account of Moses.  I want to focus on verses 24-25.  I love this passage that says that Moses chose "to suffer affliction with the people of God," rather "than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season."  Moses realized that "Christ's... riches" were greater "than the treasures in Egypt."  

I pray I always have the heart to choose the path Jesus Christ has set before me.  Even if it is different than the ones I have chosen for myself.  I pray I will also always have the courage to say no to the temptations of the world's paths that offer ungodly pleasures and riches obtained by immoral means.  May I never choose to sin for even one season. 

 The world offers only temporary pleasures full of danger, pain, fear, loneliness, and consequences full of misery.  As long as you stay on the straight and narrow ways, Jesus offers safe and happy paths full of love, peace, and joy.  (Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.)

Living for God is longer than a season, it is a lifetime of spiritual joys and eternity with Jesus Christ.  That is a much better offer! 

(Hebrews 11:23-29) By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.

By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. 

Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

Hebrews 6:13-15 & 18-19: God Keeps His Promises

 

Hebrews 6:13-15 & 18-19: God Keeps His Promises

As with Abraham (and his wife Sarah*), there are often times we have to wait for God's promises to be fulfilled.   

In verse 18 it reminds us that it is impossible for God to lie (see also Titus 1:2).  So when God says He is going to do something, He is faithful to fulfill all promises.  

We know Abraham waited many years for this promise of children.  After he had patiently endured, he then obtained God's promise.  

I wonder if the more patiently we wait, the bigger the blessing?  Either way, whenever we must endure waiting, let's not get discouraged or lose faith in God.  Trust in God's perfect timing and remember He never lies, and He will take care of His faithful children! 

*If you want to read my writing on Abraham's wife Sarah (Profile of a Doubter, Part 1: Sarah), you can do so here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/profile-of-doubter-part-1-sarah.html

(Hebrews 6:13-15 & 18) For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, He sware by Himself, "Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee."

And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil.

Philemon, Verses 17-20: Put That on my Account

 

Philemon, Verses 16-19: Put That on my Account 

Philemon is not one of Paul's instructional books on Godly living.  One might even wonder why it is included with his other letters.  Yet, every book in the Bible is important.  Even this seemingly irrelevant book taught me a valuable lesson. 

In verses 8-21, Paul speaks of his fellow believer Onesimus.  In verses 16-19, Paul mentions that Onesimus owes Philemon money.  Paul shows compassion for his friend and "brother" in Christ.  He says to place all of Onesimus' wrongs and financial obligations on his own account.  He is willing to take on His friend's debt.

May we all have such compassion and do what we can to "Bear... one another's burdens" (Galatians 6:2).

(Philemon, Verses 17-20) If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

How much more so Jesus took on our debt of sin out of His amazing love for us!  He paid our price with His precious blood and death on the cross!  Because of this, those who repent of their sins and continue to live clean lives will be spared the punishment of hell.    

(Colossians 2:13-14) 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.

Around a year or so ago, I was listening to the song, "Sinner saved by Grace" sung by The Gaither Vocal Band.  I was praising God with my eyes closed.  When the words, "I'm just a sinner save by grace" were sung, I saw Jesus holding a large red, heart-shaped box that said "Grace" on it.  He was handing it to me and said, "Handle with care." Then they sang, "When I stood condemned to death, He took my place." I clearly saw myself with a crowd of people ready to arrest me for my sins, but Jesus was there and stood between me and the crowd with his nail-scared hand stretched out, protecting me.  He said, "Take me instead."  The tears streamed down my face, and I can still feel the emotions of that vision every time I hear that song.   

I drew a VERY rough sketch of what I saw because I never wanted to forget it:

This side of Heaven, I don't know if we will ever be able to fully grasp that Jesus took our place when He became sin on the cross. But we can always praise Him for His sacrifice.

May we never take Jesus' precious gifts of grace and salvation for granted and never abuse them (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?).  And may be show this same mercy and compassion to others as Jesus would want us to do.  

I don't remember which version of this song I was listening to when the Holy Spirit gave me the vision, but here is one version of the song.  I also love The Cathedrals' version, but since I was listening to the Gaither Vocal Band at the time, I thought I would share this one. "Now I GROW and breathe in freedom!"

Titus 1:14-16, 2:11-14, & 3:5-9, & 14: The Message of Both Grace and Works in a Nutshell

 Titus 1:14-16, 2:11-14, & 3:5-9, & 14: The Message of Both Grace and Works in a Nutshell 

Reading Titus can seem contradictory. In fact, Paul often seems to go against his own teachings and appears to go back and forth saying we need no works to be saved and then, yes, we do. 

However, reading Titus quite a few years ago suddenly clicked for me.  Paul is not contradicting himself - we must read each verse in its entire context! God does save us by His grace simply out of His love for us.  We do not have to earn His love with works.  But it does not end there.  Once saved, we must "maintain good works" to remain saved.  Works produce good fruit and righteous living.  

God will never cease loving us, be we cannot live unholy lives if we want to spend eternity with a Holy God! That is the message of both grace and works in a nutshell!  

(Titus 1:14-16) Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

(2:11-14) For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

(3:5-9& 14) Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

And let our's also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

2 Timothy 4:3-4: Itching Ears to Hear a False Gospel, Part 2 Written by my Husband

 

2 Timothy 4:3-4: Itching Ears to Hear a False Gospel, Part 2

Written by my Husband (Mel)

Truly saved believers are those who walk in the light of Jesus saving grace and not in darkness. Scripture states that God's Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. 1 John 2:1-12 states that if you claim to know Christ and keep not his commandments you are a liar, and the truth is not in you.

However, those who keep His word the love of God is perfected, and we know we are His. To walk in the Spirit is to walk away from sin through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Unless you yield to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit you will remain in darkness. Living in obedience to scripture is necessary for spiritual growth. You must be indwelt/baptized/filled with the Holy Spirit to be truly saved. The Kingdom of God dwells within us. If you are not filled with the Holy Spirit, you are not part of the Kingdom of God.

(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.

True Grace is for those who walk in the light and not for those who love darkness and are apathetic toward righteousness. Many profess to know Christ but refuse to give up the darkness in their lives. There is no grace for the majority of television shows and movies that people watch, God Himself spoke this to me more than once. Television shows, pornography, adultery, fornication, substance abuse, homosexuality, lying etc. are examples of darkness that will lead to damnation. However, God will forgive these sins if you repent and turn away from them. 

Cheap grace or greasy grace is a term used to describe the junk food gospel being taught in many churches today. Most churches are teaching their people that there is grace for all of their sins and the need to be transformed (purified by the Holy Spirit) is not necessary because we are all sinners. Repentance, as well as holy living is not taught due to the fear of losing church members and big tithers.

 Another false doctrine is the unconditional eternal security doctrine; this belief teaches that a saved believer cannot lose their salvation. This doctrine is contrary to scripture and leads many people to Hell. Hebrews 10:38-39 states that a believer can drawback unto perdition (Hell) if they do not remain in the faith. Revelation chapters 2 and 3 state that if you return to sinful living your candlestick may be removed from its place or you may be vomited out of God's mouth. There are Christians who have lost their faith and died as atheists, Buddhists, agnostics etc. these will not enter the Kingdom of God. 

Salvation begins with repentance of sins. Repentance is a change of mind and heart in regard to the old sinful lifestyle, as well as a desire to become a new creation in Christ Jesus. To be truly saved, you must hunger and thirst for righteousness and turn away from the old rebellious life you once knew.  When you repent and put your faith in the finished work of Christ upon the cross you are saved from perdition (damnation) and have been given eternal life. We are justified by faith alone and saved by grace alone (unmerited favor). Christ will wash you clean and remove all of your sins and grant you a clean slate. Because of Christ's atonement made upon the cross you walk perfectly before him as long as you remain in the light. God gives us grace to grow in him. We come to him as babes on milk and learn to walk by his Spirit.

If you are truly saved, then you are clean as long as you remain in Christ. You do not need to repent over and over because you are given the power of the Holy Spirit to live a sanctified (set apart) life. When you were saved bankruptcy court occurred, and you were declared debt free! Yield to the Holy Spirit and give him the reins of your life. Make him the governor of your life and he will produce good fruit. You cannot produce good fruit apart from the vine of Jesus Christ (John 15). The love of Jesus will be poured into your heart by the Holy Spirit. To walk in the Spirit is to walk by faith and walk away from sin.

(2 Corinthians 6:17) Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and 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.

(2 Corinthians 7:1) 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.

(John 3:5-7) Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again."

(Revelation 12:13-17) Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.  So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.  But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.  And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

(Romans 10:9-13) that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

(1 John 1:9) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

(1 Timothy 6: 11-12) But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

(2 Corinthians 7:10) For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

(Luke 15:7) I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

(1 Corinthians 6:9-11) Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.

(1 Peter 4:7-8) But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 

(Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

(John 15:1-4) “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

(Hebrews 10:38-39) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 

(Galatians 5:4 NKJV) You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.

 (Romans 7:4 NKJV) Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. 5 For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death. 6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter. 

2 Timothy 4:3-4: Itching Ears to Hear a False Gospel, Part 1

 

2 Timothy 4:3-4: Itching Ears to Hear a False Gospel, Part 1

One of the common themes pastors love to preach about is a great revival, or a great awakening.  They love to preach this message because it makes you feel good about yourself and makes you happy.  The happier the congregation, and the less convicted you feel about your sins, the more money you will place in the offering.  Will a mass amount of people come to or return to the Lord before the end?  I will answer this not by my theory, but by scripture.  However, let me quickly state that before you think this is a negative post, please read all the way through to know I am offering you a message of hope, not of doom and gloom! 

(2 Thessalonians 2:3, 10-12) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 

2 Thessalonians clearly tells us that there will be a great "falling away" before the Anti-Christ comes, not a revival.  It says people will be easily deceived by the evil leader (or leaders) because they love unrighteousness and have failed to follow the Truths of God.  The more people rebelliously say they don't want to be told how to morally live their lives, the less they will follow any of the rules of Jesus Christ.  Therefore, the farther they will fall away from the true gospel. (NOTE: I wrote this several years ago, but today, in 2026, I fully believe we are in those last days as exactly as Paul described.)

Believers and unbelievers alike have solidly plugged up their ears to the holiness message of daily repentance (see Luke 9:23).  If they do not think there is no need to change, then revival is not possible.  Because they have itching ears to only hear a false gospel, one that makes them feel comfortable in their sins, they are blocking the Holy Spirit from sending a true revival. 

(2 Timothy 4:3-4) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 

True revivals are more than singing pretty songs, crying and hugging.  True revivals involve repentance and changing your ways and allowing the Holy Spirit to help you stay a "new creation" (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). 

(1 Timothy 4:1-2) Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; 

1 Timothy also states Christians will "depart from the faith" and give into the "doctrines of demons." What are these false doctrines leading people astray?  

(Jude 1:4) For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. 

This means that false teachers have perverted the Truths about holiness taught by Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, Jude, and others and have twisted it to a false grace message.  They say we only need to say just one single prayer and never again need to repent for any future sins.  Salvation and grace are absolutely free gifts, but we need to quit using it as an excuse to sin (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?) We need to give up habitual sins and live for Jesus, not for self.  

If people believe we never need to repent, then how could a revival even be possible?  People will no longer listen to the holiness message and call all of us who preach about righteousness judgmental or legalistic.  They said the same of the aforementioned Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, Jude, and others.

Make no mistake, God will remove your candlestick from heaven as well as vomit the lukewarm church out of His mouth (See Revelation 2:5 & 3:15-16).  

God has and will continue to give mankind many chances to repent and return to Him.  The signs are all around is that this world is coming to an end.  Yet, people say Mother Nature is responsible and refuse to acknowledge the power of Almighty Father God.  Revelation 9:20-21 tells us that even in the midst of the terror of the tribulation, that people will still refuse to change (And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.)  The same theme continues in Revelation 16:9 & 11:  And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory. And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.

Pretty brazen and foolish behaviors to still refuse to repent when God's power is so obvious, and yet it is happening today.

With all this said, does this mean I believe a worldwide revival is unlikely?  Only God knows the answer to that, but the Word of God says more will fall away than repent. However, I am not saying that we should assume all are lost to the Truths of the gospel message.  I am not saying we should cease praying for individual revival for our friends and family.  The word revival essentially means "an awakening," and I strongly believe we should never cease praying for those we love to have their eyes opened and ears unplugged. 

(Acts 6:4) But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 

I also very strongly believe that we need to focus on our own personal revival.  Even if you daily lay down your cross and repent of your sins, there is always room for growth in your walk with the Lord.  We need to pray the prayer of King David, and work at actively changing our "wicked ways."

(Psalm 139:23-24) Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. 

Bottom line is that I am saying that the Bible predicts there will be a great falling away in the last days, not a great revival.  However, we can still have hope and pray for individuals as well as for the condition of our own souls.  I will leave this post with Psalm 51, that we can also use as a daily prayer. 

(Psalm 51:1-17 ) Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest... Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee... O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise. For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. 

1 Timothy 3:2-3 & 6:9-11 & 17-19: The Love of Money

 

1 Timothy 3:2-3 & 6:9-11 & 17-19: The Love of Money

One of the biggest idols in people's lives is money. The majority of television evangelists are obsessed with it. They are not doing the Lord's work; they are heaping riches upon themselves while very little money goes to help the poor. Their messages are watered-down feel-good sermons that never make one uncomfortable because they want happy listeners to write big checks. If they told you the Truth that one must remain grafted in the vine (Jesus) lest they risk losing their salvation (see John 15:1-10), they would lose viewers who do not want to be condemned for their sins. More importantly, they would not be able to afford their material possessions. Why do they deceive the masses? Simple: they worship money, not God. 

There are a lot of verses in the bible warning about the love of money. Jesus clearly tells us in both Matthew 6:24 & Luke 16:13, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."  Could it be clearer? If one loves money, he will hate God because God wants us to give money to those in need, not keep it all for ourselves.

 There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a beautiful home, nice vehicle, nice clothes, etc.; God often blesses those that genuinely serve Him with wealth and the good things in life. The problem is not being wealthy, but when we ignore the needs of those literally and spiritually starving, we are not using that money to glorify God. I am currently very far from wealthy, but if I was ever to obtain wealth, I would donate to charity before buying the things I wanted. Yes, I would also have some nice things, but materialism will never prevent me doing my best to honor God with a clean lifestyle, and I would still work for God. The balance is not to become obsessed with inanimate objects over people's souls.

I am not just speaking of false evangelists, but also of people who embezzle, steal, run business that sell immoral products, cheat, etc. When one compromises their beliefs or goes against the principles of the bible to unethically or illegally obtain money, it is also an affront to God.

When you worship money while attempting to serve God, your heart is divided between God and greed. Paul says it so much better than I do, so remember his words, not mine. In 1 Timothy 3, when Paul lists the qualities of a deacon, he says that he "must not [be] a lover of money." (verse 3) That goes for all wanting to be leaders but is also great advice for non-leaders as well. 

Paul goes on in 1 Timothy 6:9-10 to warn, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds if evil. Some people eager for money have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." And for those who are wealthy, Paul says in verse 17 of the same chapter, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth which is uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything." Paul continues in verse 11 with a list of things we should pursue rather than money: "righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness." Amen!

Hebrews 13:5 says, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have." And in 1 Peter 5:2, Peter says that the "shepherds of God's flock" should "not [be] greedy for money, but eager to serve." Additionally, Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived says in Ecclesiastes 5:10, "Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income." I would go on to add that loving God may cause you to feel like you can never be in His presence enough, and yet loving and serving God will always leave you satisfied.

(1 Timothy 3:2-3) A bishop then must be blameless... Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre [money]...

(1 Timothy 6:9-11 & 17-19) But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.