Matthew 4: 1-11: The Temptation of Jesus

 

 

Matthew 4: 1-11: The Temptation of Jesus

When Jesus was "led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil," He was fully prepared.  He did not need to call on angel armies to force the devil to flee.  Instead, Jesus was fully armed with the words of His Father.  He rebuked the devil by quoting scriptures.  He battled Satan with wisdom.

We must also know the words of scripture so intimately that we can always cause the devil to flee by quoting it.  

James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."  Of course, submitting to God and His holy ways is the key!

May I always be armed enough to cause the enemy to flee!

(Matthew 4:1-11) Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 

And when the tempter came to Him, he said," If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread."

But He answered and said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."

Then the devil taketh Him up into the holy city, and setteth Him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto Him, "If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone."

Jesus said unto him, "It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

Again, the devil taketh Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto Him," All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me."

Then saith Jesus unto him, "Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."

Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

The Ministry of John the Baptist

 

The Ministry of John the Baptist

Because I posted about John the Baptist yesterday, I thought I would reshare this today.

In Part 3 of the "Profile of the Doubter", I wrote about John's father, Zacharias,  you can read that writing here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/profile-of-doubter-part-3-zacharias.html    Because I mentioned it in my post about Zacharias, I will not get into the miracles surrounding John's birth, but I will explore his life as an adult and the message that he was born to share. 

In the four gospels, John is only mentioned in two or three chapters per book. In other words, his story is brief.  And yet, he is such an important part of Jesus' story.   

His message was so simple, yet timeless and perfect for his time and much needed for every generation until today. He was the one mentioned in Isaiah 40:3, The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord."   

And his father Zacharias said of John:

(Luke 1:76) And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, to give knowledge of salvation to His people by the remission of their sins. 

As I said, his message was simple:

(Matthew 3:3) “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”  

(Mark 1:14) “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” 

 (Luke 3:8-9) [Jon said,] "Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance... And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” 

It's pretty clear, isn't it?  The one preaching repentance was the one whose ministry was foretold in Isaiah, whose birth was announced by an angel, whose conception was miraculous (as his mother was past the age of childbearing), who was filled with the Holy Spirit in the womb, and was the cousin of Jesus Christ. Yes, Jesus' death on the cross was a free gift of grace and salvation to us, but does John ever say there is grace for all sins whether we repent or not?  No, we still need to ask for forgiveness for our sins and then put down those sins in order to serve Jesus. He preaches that we must repent and bear good fruit or be cut off from heaven and thrown into hell.  Jesus says the exact same thing. 

(Matthew 7:17-19) [Jesus said,] "Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." 

We need to repent of our sins and bear good fruit.  Bearing good fruit is not just about doing good works and treating each other with love and kindness, it is also about pursing holiness and doing our very best to daily (Luke 9:23) put down sins.  Pretty simple.

(Galatians 5:19-26) Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. 

In spite of John's success as a preacher (he had many disciples as well), he never allowed anyone to glorify him and always pointed them to Jesus.  He tells his followers that he is not the Messiah and humbly states: 

(Matthew 3:11) "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." 

May we have the same desire as John, to lead people to Christ, teach them to repent of their sins, and bear good fruit.  May we always be bold enough to speak the Truth as John did, even if it means respectfully disagreeing with false religious teachings. And may our goals never, ever be about exalting ourselves, but to point to Jesus as the true teacher, and the only way to Salvation through repentance.  

(John 3:27-30 ) John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him...' Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.  

Even Jesus spoke good things about his faithful messenger. I pray Jesus will also find me doing my best to be a "burning and shining lamp" that points to Jesus and that my "witness" bares only "the Truth"!  

(John 5:31-36) “If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true. There is another who bears witness of Me, and I know that the witness which He witnesses of Me is true. You have sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Yet I do not receive testimony from man, but I say these things that you may be saved. He was the burning and shining lamp, and you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light. But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me."

Matthew 3 & 4: John the Baptist & Jesus

Matthew 3 & 4: John the Baptist & Jesus

The message of John the Baptist and Jesus was the same. They both had the message of repentance. Becoming a follower of Jesus Christ is more than just believing and even more than being baptized. You must repent of your sins and change your ways. You cannot continue to live in sin.

(Matthew 3:1-2 & 5-6) In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan. And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

(Matthew 4:17) From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

John the Baptist and Jesus Christ also preached the same message about bearing good fruit and the evidence of it. As Christians, we need to bear the good fruit of the teachings of Jesus or be cast into the fire. We need to reflect the love of Jesus Christ or risk being cast into hell. (For a list of the Fruits of the Spirit read Galatians 5:16-26)  

If you want to read more about John, you can read my writing, "The Ministry of John the Baptist" here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/the-ministry-of-john-baptist.html

(Matthew 3:8 & 10) [John the Baptist said:] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:  And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

(Matthew 7:17-19) [Jesus said:] Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

A Quick Note About 2026

A Quick Note About 2026

With a new year starting next week, I am going to go back through the Bible. First from Matthew to Revelation, then Genesis to Malachi.  I am going to repost the writings from my Bible journal as well as other writings as they apply to the book of the Bible being posted, with edits as needed. Unlike last year, I am not going to repost my not so good artwork from that journal, but if you are interested, you can use the search bar at the top of this blog site to search book by book for the artwork (or just scroll through the pages).  You can, of course, also use the search bar for looking for specific topics. 

Thank you for reading, and may God greatly bless your New Year with a great fire for knowing Jesus and His Word!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

 Merry Christmas from our family to yours! 

(Isaiah 9:6) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

(Matthew 1:21 & 23) And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save his people from their sins.  Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

(Luke 2:11-14) For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

(John 3:16-17) 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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.

Do you find it difficult to believe that Jesus came to be your personal Prince of Peace?

Do you find it difficult to believe that Jesus came to be your personal Prince of Peace?

When you hear someone wish you a "Merry Christmas," do you find yourself thinking, "Not possible"? There have been times in my life when I have had this same attitude. I may not be able to exactly relate to what you are going through, but I do know that when your heart is broken, when you are living with an illness (explained or unexplained), when you feel lonely and unloved, when you have to choose between paying bills or buying food, when past Christmas memories bring more pain than joy, when someone you love is dying, when you face fear every day either from abuse or other circumstances, when you feel like God just doesn't care, how could one day a year suddenly be merry when all the others are steeped in misery?

(Isaiah 9:6) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

You may fully grasp the concept of the miraculous virgin birth of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:23 "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us.") and even accept that Jesus was born to die for all of our sins (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.), yet you still wonder if God truly loves or cares about you as an individual. You may find it difficult to believe that Jesus came to be your personal "Prince of Peace."

If God loves us so much, then why is life so full of pain? How do we find the kind of peace mentioned in Philippians 4?

(Philippians 4:7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Because I have experienced these things, I absolutely promise you that you can be in the midst of grieving over a lost loved one, have a mysterious neurological condition that doctors give up trying to diagnose, be facing homelessness, or be laying in extreme pain in a hospital bed after a second cancer surgery, and yet still find God's perfect peace in the middle of the storm. By surrendering my heart, mind and will to Jesus Christ, He has been my Prince of Peace. He continues to be my strength and joy.

(Psalm 34:18) The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit.

In order to allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with His peace, we need to realize that God never promised us a perfect life, but He did promise we could still "be of good cheer," if allow Him to be Lord of our life.

(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.

People who believe God will prevent all bad things from happening to them or their loved ones end up hating God. They cannot find joy in the midst of suffering or trust in their hearts God is always good. They have difficulty trusting in the love of God. (1 John 4:8 ...God is love. & 1 John 4:19 ... He first loved us.)

Not only does God care about our pain, He grieves with us, He intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. & Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.). God IS fighting for us, but we tend to sabotage His plan, and the perfect peace offered to us when we live in rebellion.

Yes, sometimes God uses negative circumstances to test our love for Him, but in general, God does not intend for bad things to happen to His children. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” God wants only the best for us. Does that mean God does not have any control? No, this means we will never fully know why bad things are allowed to happen because there is a war going on we cannot comprehend.

(Ephesians 6:12) We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

1 Corinthians 13:12 (For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.) reminds us 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.

If we cry out to God, He will hear our pleas. He wants to protect us and save us. It may seem like evil is winning, and I do not believe that this world will ever improve. In fact, I know it will only get worse. Man’s desire for independence corrupts him more and more. The mentality of not wanting to be told what to do is only getting worse. It is up to you to surrender yourself to God as well as your independence. It is up to you to choose to live right and separate yourself from this world. Only then will the Holy Spirit flood you with peace.

Humble yourself and admit you have done wrong. The free gift of salvation begins with repentance and admittance of sin. Then you must begin to and continually walk in holiness to please God (Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.).

Romans 6:1-2 tells us God's free gift of grace is not to be manipulated and abused for our own selfish will (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?). Grace is not an excuse to live however you want because you are a “Christian.” The opposite is true. We need to have a holy desire to please our Creator and live a truly Christian lifestyle. We need daily self-evaluation and repentance.

(Luke 9:23 ) Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

(1 Corinthians 15:31) I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die [to sin] daily.

Daily very simply means we must crucify our flesh every day, not just once. Furthermore, you could claim Psalm 139: 23-24 as your daily prayer: Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.

Bottom line here is when we quit using the difficult circumstances of life as an excuse to refuse to do what you know goes against the Word of God, we can truly believe that God's Word is true. First evaluate your heart and actions to see if you are going against His will so He cannot help you. Then learn to focus on the eternal picture and see how much God loves you and allow Him to be your Prince of Peace!

Merry Christmas: Why did angels appear to shepherds? (Video)

 

 

Merry Christmas: Why did angels appear to shepherds? 

If you are interested, you can view my video titled "Merry Christmas: Why did angels appear to shepherds?" on my Facebook page (this link will take you directly to the video): https://www.facebook.com/reel/1490624925049731

The In-between Times

 The In-between Times

Over the past year or so I have become a fan of the Gaither Homecoming videos (especially those made in 2003 and before).  I have seen almost every one of them at least twice in less than a year, and I am currently running through them a third time.  I have fallen back in love with many of the songs I grew up with.  The Happy Goodmans (especially Vestal Goodman), The Cathedrals (and now Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Legacy Five, and Greater Vision).  It is the old-fashioned values that these older videos seem to promote and a worship and reverence for God that modern day music lacks.  I am not naive enough to believe all the singers have or are practicing what they sing about, but there is no denying that many (not all) the videos bring about a spirit of true worship.  

If you have ever watched one of these videos on YouTube or another platform, then you know to what I am referring.  You know that it is often the times in-between songs that are the most special moments in the videos.  Testimonies are given of deliverance from alcohol and drugs, stories of healings, people sharing how God gave them strength during difficult times, powerful prayers from Vestal Goodman and Gloria Gaither, and even demonstrations of relationships being restored.  Real emotions are on display: grief, vulnerability, hope, joy, and a love for Jesus.  As much as I adore most of the music and I love worshipping Jesus along with them, those tender moments when I cry and laugh along with those long gone and those still living are the ones that stick with me the most.

It got me to thinking that this is like our spiritual walk.  It is so very vital that we read the Bible, pray, and praise Jesus every day, yet it is the in-between times where those activities will make or break our walk with the Lord.  Whether seeped in mind-numbingly boring tasks or bombarded with too many overwhelming to dos.  Whether struggling through grief or an illness or celebrating all the blessings God has given.  Whether alone or in a crowd.  Every moment matters.  

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;)?

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.)?

 For me, I know that in the in-between times, it so vital that I recall all I have read and sang about.  If not, then what is the point?  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.).  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 me during my in-between times to pull out the Word of God from my heart so I will not sin (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.

I just happened to be reading 2 Timothy today and the below verses in chapter 2 and 3 beautifully sum up my writing. 

(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.

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. 

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 survive the in-between times.  

Where is the discernment? Part 2, Written by my Husband

 

Where is the discernment? Part 2

Written by my Husband (Mel) 

There are also many counterfeit revivals going on, where God’s Holy Spirit has been replaced by demonic manifestations. People are laughing uncontrollably, as well as making different animal sounds. They are hissing like snakes, mooing like cows, roaring like lions, howling like wolves, as well as barking like dogs. These same manifestations occur within Kundalini Hinduism, as well as other forms of occultism. In a congregation in Boston, the pastor crawled on his hands and knees like a dog, barking, and his wife led him around on a leash fastened to a dog collar around his neck. The wife then said, “Where he leads, I will follow!”

People also claim to be drunk in the spirit; they display symptoms of physical drunkenness. After leaving one of these revivals in Florida, numerous people were pulled over by law enforcement officers for drunk driving. They all passed their breathalyzer tests, because they were made drunk by an unholy spirit. God’s Word is clear that God hates drunkenness, and no drunkard will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Satan is the lawless one, and he is making a mockery of God, within these revivals. After leaving this flesh fest, people were also seen displaying drunk behavior in local restaurants. They were falling on the floor in the restaurants, laughing hysterically. God is a God of order, and not foolishness. God will not make a person drive drunk or embarrass them in public. Where is the discernment? Why can’t Christians see that an unholy demonic spirit, is at work in their churches?

There are many counterfeit revivals producing demonic manifestations occurring worldwide. The Toronto blessing, Pensacola outpouring, Lakeland revival, Kansas City IHOP, Bethel Church in Redding Ca, Hillsong church etc. are but a few examples. False Ministeries to avoid, Rodney Howard Brown, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Copeland, Trinity Broadcasting Network, Creflo Dollar, Jesse Duplantis, Joyce Meyers, Paula White, as well as all other prosperity gospel preachers, and those that teach the unconditional eternal security doctrine.

In some, so-called Christian rock concerts, many of the young people are going into trances, where they display tribal dancing. These are but a few of the demonic manifestations going on worldwide. The late pastor David Wilkerson warned the church about this invasion of demonic activity, as well as the need to return to holiness preaching, but most will not listen. It is time for the church to start using discernment and realize that something has gone wrong. God is withdrawing his Spirit from many churches, because they will not endure sound doctrine. If the churches will return to teaching and living in holiness once again, then maybe God’s Spirit will return!

Many of the leaders of these false revivals have been caught in adultery, as well as homosexual relations. I believe that in many cases physical perversion is a manifestation of spiritual perversion. A false prophet from Florida who led a well-known revival, has a tattoo of a Japanese goddess on his arm. He claims that this goddess is really an angel by the name of Emma who accompanies him during his kicking sessions at his so-called revival. He claims that Emma has instructed him to hit or kick people in need of healing, as an act of obedience. The revival was shut down when it was revealed that he was having an affair during the entire time of this revival. This wolf in sheep’s clothing, divorced his wife and married his mistress. Now he is back at it again. A false prophet from Kansas City, claims that this same angel Emma came floating into his church to usher in their false revival. His church later removed him from his ministry position due to sexual misconduct with church members. Another false prophet from his church admitted to being a practicing homosexual. I could go on and on with examples of how perverted these revivalists are, but this should suffice.

Many of the television evangelists, as well as mega-church leaders, have also had their share of scandals. A well-known television evangelist, who wears a white suite, and has a healing ministry, has much darkness surrounding him. Channel six news from Orlando featured an expose on this minister. They showed on film a group of men sitting at a table together, and the evangelist handed a bong to his lead singer, as well as another man at the table. Both of these men smoked the bong. One of the men who smoked the bong, died later from a heroin overdose. While this married evangelist was in Rome, he was filmed walking and holding hands with a female television evangelist, who was wearing very short shorts. They both admitted to a friendship when the pictures were released but denied their obvious affair. In spite of this wickedness, their supporters chose to forgive them. If Christians would wake up and stop supporting these apostate ministers, they would shut them down overnight. God’s anointing is not on these reprobates, who use God for dishonest gain. Hell will be full of those who fleece the flock.

Many Christians are afraid of supernatural experiences because of the demonic manifestations. However, we need to allow God’s true gifts to be in operation within the church. It is not good to quench God’s Spirit, or to be afraid of it. For God does give visions, dreams, work miracles, heal the sick etc. (1 Corinthians 12). It is crucial that we pray over experiences, as well as use sound judgment. The reason for this unholy spirit which has invaded the church is a false grace message that promotes loose living, as well as other false doctrines. God gives Grace to those who repent and walk in the light, but NOT to those who love darkness.

Baby Jesus, Sermon from David Wilkerson

 

Baby Jesus

Sermon from David Wilkerson

This short message is actually not titled Christmas Hypocrisy, but Baby Jesus. It is only 30 minutes long. It is about not just celebrating Jesus as a baby but honoring that Jesus is part of the Holy trinity and is God (John 10:30 [Jesus said,] "I and my Father are one."). We need to make Jesus Lord of our everyday lives, not just sing a few pretty songs at Christmas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Covenant Scriptures

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

I did not post Hebrews 7, 8, or 9 because there are too many verses to post, but please read all from those chapters as well.

(Hebrews 10:8-10) He said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law," Then said He, "Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Creation Scriptures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Jesus Made a Surety of a Better Testament: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/06/leviticus-numbers-deuteronomy-jesus.html

Jesus Teaches us a Better Way: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/matthew-5-jesus-teaches-us-better-way.html

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

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

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

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