A Sad Tale Indeed

1 Comment / May 14, 2024

The other week my husband and I were on the way home when suddenly he pointed to a group of dead trees. “All ash,” he said. What a sad sight. He then went on to point to other dead trees and mentioned that almost all the ash trees in our area were gone now. There was hardly one healthy ash tree left standing in our area.

In 2002 a small beetle called the “emerald ash borer” was spotted for the first time in America. It had hitched a ride from somewhere in Asia and thus began its invasion. Within 20 years it was in 35 states and it was killing off what would become tens of millions of ash trees (according to the USDA website). Whole forests of Ash Trees would disappear.

How was this accomplished exactly?

Here’s how this USDA website explains it–

According to scientists, the adult beetle causes little damage aside from minor leaf feeding from late May through September. It is the larva that does the real damage by feeding on the inner bark of the ash trees disrupting water and nutrients from moving through the tree resulting in its death. Typically, trees die within three to five years of infestation and trees may be infested for a couple years before exhibiting any signs or symptoms.

So the tree actually looks fairly healthy for a few years even though, inside, it is dying. But, eventually, it perishes–all due to what looks like a small, harmless beetle.

This is a striking picture of what used to be biblical churches across America. Strong and solid, they stood tall among the many churches no longer preaching the Gospel. Churches that had fallen much earlier to liberal theology or bad doctrine.

But a tiny seed of false teaching started to make its way through the churches almost unnoticed. I believe it was the seed of worldliness. It came in all shapes and sizes and attractive packages. Here are just a few ways it entered the church–

Witnessing— how will anyone listen to you if you look and act so different from the world? And so we rationalized and reasoned and came up with the man-created idea that we must be “like the world to win the world”. We lost sight of who God is and of His power and began to believe that people coming to Christ was reliant upon us and our methods. Nothing could be further from the truth, as scripture says it is God who draws us to Himself (John 6:44; Ephesians 1:17-18). But this man-made philosophy convinced us that we could have Jesus and the world, too. And, in fact, that we were doing valuable work for God’s Kingdom by embracing the world. Despite scripture’s clear teaching to the contrary (James 4:4; I John 2:15).

Running a Church— Bringing in the business model to the church, it began to be run by pragmatism, which is the practice of basing what we do on “what works”. If the church wasn’t growing, then we were told that we had to make certain sacrifices to make sure it was growing. We are talking about numbers here. No one seemed to care even one bit about growing the believers in holiness or spiritual depth. This brought in a revolution of changes in music, changes in sermon style and length, changes in clothing, and a variety of other ways. But, again, we forgot that a church is not a business. It is God’s house. It is the bride of Christ. It’s not a corporation that can be manipulated to get the results that someone out there tells us we must have in order to be viewed as “successful”. The biblical purpose of the Church all but disappeared in this influx of business idealogy.

Church Focus— As our view became horizontal, rather than vertical, our focus turned from worshiping God and growing more like Christ together as a church body to meeting the needs of the world and fixing societal problems. And, while, of course, helping the poor or standing against abortion (as examples) aren’t wrong in and of themselves, they should never be the core focus of any church–or any Christian, for that matter.

Legitimizing (and Even Promoting) Worldly Entertainment–As a whole generation became obsessed with entertainment and much less enamored with the Word of God, this became a powerful way that Satan bore into the hearts of church-goers and put their eyes on the world. Much of this was done through the avenue of the church, where pastors were told that they would get more attenders if they’d think outside the box a bit.

I remember as a teen having a youth pastor that began to use Hollywood movies to entertain us. Movies I’d never watch as a more mature believer at this point in my life. Why weren’t the more mature believers protecting their teens? It’s a question I’ve always wondered. Now I can see that for what it was but back then it seemed fun and oh, so cool. And, while I doubt every youth pastor knows what he is doing when he points teens to entertainment rather than teaching them the Bible, the damage is substantial. These future church members leave youth group with little knowledge of scripture and an increased appetite for the world. Of course, some churches do try to do both. But that’s a bit like trying to put out a fire while feeding it. Again, scripture makes it clear you just can’t have both (James 4:4).

These changes within the conservative churches began decades ago. It took much longer than the two years it takes the ash borer to kill an ash tree. But the result is the same. Churches that look the same on the outside are spiritually fruitless on the inside. The worldliness has done it’s damage and, for those of us who desire a biblically sound church, the dearth of them is simply astounding.

And it just keeps growing worse and worse. A few weeks ago, I was absolutely shocked to see someone viewed as a “biblical pastor” post something that would encourage people that listening to Taylor Swift falls under that catch-all banner of Christian liberty. One has to wonder if this pastor had taken any time to read the lyrics of any of her songs or to watch any clips of her concerts? For no biblical pastor would ever point his people in her direction. Unless he’s been bitten by the “ash borer” of worldliness.

I find it quite interesting that to even talk about worldliness as a problem in the church is to submit yourself to severe censure, even among what I would consider sincere believers. Years ago, a few raised alarms about the “ash borer” that looked so small. They warned of its deadliness. But their alarms were met with scorn and ridicule. As the damage became more and more evident, those sounding the alarm grew more and more censured, until most just shut up. If they didn’t, they would be ridiculed, labeled, and often times asked to leave their churches. So most just grew silent. And, like the frog in the pot, the church at large became immersed in worldliness.

It’s hard to imagine what a biblical pastor coming from the 1800s or even the mid-1900s would say about their visit to a “biblical church” today. I even wonder what my grandfather, a pastor in the 70s and 80s, would have to say. For it’s hardly recognizable when compared to what church used to be.

What we are seeing is not unexpected if we understand the future of the world, according to the Word of God. The killing of biblical churches is no accident but, rather, a vital part of Satan’s scheme. There has to be few (maybe none?) left in order to make his final plan successful.

SO what to do? Jude, a book that talks about the church of the last days, gives us some guidance. We are to build ourselves up in the faith. We are to pray in the Spirit and keep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of the Lord (for He will continue to shed His mercy on His own in the midst of all the turmoil and wickedness); And as we do these things we are to have compassion and seek to make a difference– saving some from the fires of false doctrine and worldliness, as God gives opportunity.

And then we have the blessed reminder that God is able to keep us from falling. He is able to present us faultless before His presence with exceeding joy! We are His and greater is He that is in us that He that is in the world! (I John 4:4)

So may we keep on keeping on, faithfully serving the Lord in the midst of it all. Running with endurance the race that is set before us (not quite the race we expected, is it?) and looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference:And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
(Jude 21-25)

Who Is Jesus According to Catholicism?

5 Comments / May 8, 2024

In this current age we are living, Catholicism is presented, almost without debate, as a Christian religion. But is it really what it claims to be or is it a counterfeit? It is important that we know the answer to this question, as the calls to imitate and unify with this religion are many and come from all arenas of Christian culture.

We see this unity happening in the music industry where artists are teaming up for concerts; we see it among evangelical pastors, who give credence to and partner with Catholic speakers and authors; we see it among the Christian population, who have adopted many of the mystic practices encouraged by monks of old; and, most recently, we see it in the apathy held by the church, at large, regarding their “Christian” entertainment, including books, tv shows, movies, videos and podcasts that make no delineation between Catholicism and true Christianity (most recently we see this regarding the Catholic actor who is playing Jesus in the Chosen).

As we continue our study, it is important that we remember the role of God’s Word in converting those caught up in any false system. While researching this particular religion, God led me to a book called The Truth Set Us Free (Twenty-three Former Nuns Tell Their Stories) (link in the bibliography which can be found in attached pdf) and in every single case, God used His Word to convict and to convert. It was without exception. Our only anchor and our only hope is the Word of God—not only for living our own lives but for any attempt to draw people away from deception and false doctrine. All other arguments and debates are useless. May we remember this, even as we proceed on to other religions. The only thing that matters is how do the beliefs of any religion compare to the Bible, God’s Holy Word?

I have learned so much as I have researched the religion of Catholicism, its history, and its beliefs. Much of the heresy began when Constantine made the Catholic church the state religion back in the early 300s. Combining the paganism of Rome with the tenets of Christianity led to a muddled mess. It was at this time that the church was wed to many pagan practices. This helps to explain the goddess worship of Mary that began to make its way into the church, which continued to grow and be developed even up until the late 1800s. It explains the pagan practices of worshipping and praying to dead people they called “saints” (a practice expressly forbidden by God). And it explains why there are so many ungodly practices in the church that are found absolutely nowhere in the Bible—things like purgatory, indulgences, celibacy, the supremacy of church tradition over scripture, the infallibility of the pope, salvation by sacraments, and so many others.

And, while these unbiblical practices clearly condemn this religion as false, today I want to acquaint you specifically with Catholicism’s view of Jesus Christ. I will use both their own catechism and canons from the Council of Trent (the numbered paragraphs correspond with the “Catechism of the Catholic Church”, which can be easily found online. The Council of Trent Canons, found later on in this document, are also easily found. Links for both of these are found in the bibliography.)

What does the Catholic church teach about Jesus, according to their own official documentation?

1. JESUS NEEDS HELP IN REDEEMING MANKIND.

The Catholic church teaches that Mary is “Co-redemptrix” and, in fact, that she has more mercy and kindness than her Son. “Thou, Mary, art my only hope” was written by Liguori in his “Glories of Mary” (an author who was declared to be free from error). In other words, Jesus needs help from his mommy. The belief is beyond sacrilegious and is in absolute contrast to scripture.

Keep in mind that none of this is found in scripture anywhere. What we DO find in scripture are abundant references to Christ’s supremacy and power (Philippians 2:9-11; Colossians 1:13-20; Hebrews 1:1-8; Revelation 1:5-8). Here are some of their beliefs, with the corresponding catechism section–

  • Mary is sinless

#493 The Fathers of the Eastern tradition call the Mother of God “the All-Holy” (Panagia), and celebrate her as “free from any stain of sin, as though fashioned by the Holy Spirit and formed as a new creature.” By the grace of God Mary remained free of every personal sin her whole life long.

  •  She is a perpetual virgin

#499 The deepening of faith in the virginal motherhood led the Church to confess Mary’s real and perpetual virginity even in the act of giving birth to the Son of God made man. In fact, Christ’s birth “did not diminish his mother’s virginal integrity but sanctified it.” And so the liturgy of the Church celebrates Mary as Aeiparthenos, the “Ever-virgin.”

  • She is Christ’s partner in salvation

#964 Mary’s role in the Church is inseparable from her union with Christ and flows directly from it. “This union of the mother with the Son in the work of salvation is made manifest from the time of Christ’s virginal conception up to his death”; it is made manifest above all at the hour of his Passion.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?

Not only can we find no verses to support the above beliefs, but we find verses that go directly against them—

The Bible teaches that ALL are sinners except Christ. This includes Mary.

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. (Romans 3:10-12)

And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. (I John 3:5)

The Bible teaches that CHRIST ALONE is our Redeemer, through His blood—

Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace (Ephesians 5:1-7)

And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; (Revelation 5:8-9)

The Bible teaches that Jesus alone is our only way to salvation—

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3:36)

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)

2. CHRIST IS CRUCIFIED CONTINUALLY THROUGH THE EUCHARIST

In the mass, Catholics take communion with the belief that the bread and wine become Jesus’s actual body and blood through a process they call transubstantiation. Thus, His crucifixion continues on forever. This is why you see that Jesus is often still hanging on a Catholic cross. For they have left Him there with their false doctrine.

  • The Bread and Wine (the Eucharist) become the actual body and blood of Jesus

#1333 At the heart of the Eucharistic celebration are the bread and wine that, by the words of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, become Christ’s Body and Blood. Faithful to the Lord’s command the Church continues to do, in his memory and until his glorious return, what he did on the eve of his Passion: “He took bread. . . .” “He took the cup filled with wine. . . .” The signs of bread and wine become, in a way surpassing understanding, the Body and Blood of Christ…

#1365 Because it is the memorial of Christ’s Passover, the Eucharist is also a sacrifice. The sacrificial character of the Eucharist is manifested in the very words of institution: “This is my body which is given for you” and “This cup which is poured out for you is the New Covenant in my blood.” In the Eucharist Christ gives us the very body which he gave up for us on the cross, the very blood which he “poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

#1375 It is by the conversion of the bread and wine into Christ’s body and blood that Christ becomes present in this sacrament. The Church Fathers strongly affirmed the faith of the Church in the efficacy of the Word of Christ and of the action of the Holy Spirit to bring about this conversion.

#1376 The Council of Trent summarizes the Catholic faith by declaring: “Because Christ our Redeemer said that it was truly his body that he was offering under the species of bread, it has always been the conviction of the Church of God, and this holy Council now declares again, that by the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of his blood. This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation.”

#1413 By the consecration the transubstantiation of the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ is brought about. Under the consecrated species of bread and wine Christ himself, living and glorious, is present in a true, real, and substantial manner: his Body and his Blood, with his soul and his divinity (cf. Council of Trent: DS 1640; 1651).

  • Redemption and forgiveness are carried out through participating in the Eucharist

#1364 In the New Testament, the memorial takes on new meaning. When the Church celebrates the Eucharist, she commemorates Christ’s Passover, and it is made present the sacrifice Christ offered once for all on the cross remains ever present.185 “As often as the sacrifice of the Cross by which ‘Christ our Pasch has been sacrificed’ is celebrated on the altar, the work of our redemption is carried out.”

#1393 Holy Communion separates us from sin. The body of Christ we receive in Holy Communion is “given up for us,” and the blood we drink “shed for the many for the forgiveness of sins.” For this reason the Eucharist cannot unite us to Christ without at the same time cleansing us from past sins and preserving us from future sins:

  • The Eucharist is offered to impart grace to those who have died but were “not yet wholly purified”.

#1371 The Eucharistic sacrifice is also offered for the faithful departed who “have died in Christ but are not yet wholly purified,”193 so that they may be able to enter into the light and peace of Christ:

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?

The Bible speaks directly against the Eucharist and the assertions of its purposes.

The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ’s work was finished on the cross–

Jesus died once and rose again victorious over sin and death. As already proven by verses above. I would also add these two important verses to refute Catholic doctrine–

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. (John 19:30)

For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. (Romans 6:10)

The Bible teaches that those who are redeemed go immediately to be with Christ–

We also know that when a redeemed child of God dies they are immediately present with the Lord. There is no purgatory, no praying for a soul that has departed this life, and no ritual that can be performed to determine their eternal destiny. What an insidious lie.

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:8)

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:(Philippians 1:23)

3. THE POWER OF THE CHURCH (and PRIESTS) TO FORGIVE SINS

The Catholic church asserts that the priest’s are given the divine power to forgive sins, as stated in their catechism.

#976 The Apostle’s Creed associates faith in the forgiveness of sins not only with faith in the Holy Spirit, but also with faith in the Church and in the communion of saints. It was when he gave the Holy Spirit to his apostles that the risen Christ conferred on them his own divine power to forgive sins: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

#983 Catechesis strives to awaken and nourish in the faithful faith in the incomparable greatness of the risen Christ’s gift to his Church: the mission and the power to forgive sins through the ministry of the apostles and their successors:

#984 The Creed links “the forgiveness of sins” with its profession of faith in the Holy Spirit, for the risen Christ entrusted to the apostles the power to forgive sins when he gave them the Holy Spirit.

#986 By Christ’s will, the Church possesses the power to forgive the sins of the baptized and exercises it through bishops and priests normally in the sacrament of Penance.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?

The Bible teaches that Christ is the only One Who has the power forgive sins.

Nowhere in scripture do we find Him delegating this task to any human. Consider the pride and arrogance that leads to such a belief!

But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. (Matthew 9:6)

Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. (Colossians 3:13)

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:7-9)

4. THE UNBIBLICAL ROLE OF PRIESTS

Along with forgiveness of sins, priests are bestowed with other divine attributes. Attributes that are never given or assigned to any human being in scripture.

  • Priests are considered to have the power to act on Christ’s behalf

#1548 In the ecclesial service of the ordained minister, it is Christ himself who is present to his Church as Head of his Body, Shepherd of his flock, high priest of the redemptive sacrifice, Teacher of Truth. This is what the Church means by saying that the priest, by virtue of the sacrament of Holy Orders, acts in persona Christi Capitis:

It is the same priest, Christ Jesus, whose sacred person his minister truly represents. Now the minister, by reason of the sacerdotal consecration which he has received, is truly made like to the high priest and possesses the authority to act in the power and place of the person of Christ himself (virtute ac persona ipsius Christi).

  • Priests serves as mediators between God and man

According to the St. Aquinas Seminary Website: Catholic priests serve primarily as mediators between God and man, linking the human and divine realms through the person of Christ. They are, in the words of St. Paul, ministers of Christ and the dispensers of the mysteries of God, taken from among men, yet appointed for men in the things that pertain to God. Priests thus form an indispensable bond uniting Heaven and earth.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?

The Bible teaches that Christ is our only High Priest and Mediator.

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; (Hebrews 3:1)

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:14-15)

 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (I Timothy 2:5)

5. THE ANATHEMAS OF THE COUNCIL OF TRENT

The Council of Trent, held in the 15th century, upheld certain anathemas (a person or thing accursed or consigned to damnation or destruction) that pronounced the biblical gospel as heresy. The Council of Trent has continued to be upheld by the Roman Catholic church and has never been rescinded. From these canons, we see that Catholic church does not believe that Christ’s work was finished on the cross and they assert that more is needed than just His sacrifice for our salvation. Please review the following canons that were confirmed at this Council—

Grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone is simply not enough.

Council of Trent, Sixth Session Canon 9-If any one saith, that by faith alone the impious is justified; in such wise as to mean, that nothing else is required to co-operate in order to the obtaining the grace of Justification, and that it is not in any way necessary, that he be prepared and disposed by the movement of his own will; let him be anathema.

COT, Sixth Session, Canon 12. -If any one saith, that justifying faith is nothing else but confidence in the divine mercy which remits sins for Christ’s sake; or, that this confidence alone is that whereby we are justified; let him be anathema.

Good Works contribute to and are necessary for our Salvation.

COT, Sixth Session, Canon 24 -If any one saith, that the justice received is not preserved and also increased before God through good works; but that the said works are merely the fruits and signs of Justification obtained, but not a cause of the increase thereof; let him be anathema.

Christ’s sacrifice is not enough to save us from punishment—either in purgatory or eternally.

COT, Sixth Session, Canon 30. If any one saith, that, after the grace of Justification has been received, to every penitent sinner the guilt is remitted, and the debt of eternal punishment is blotted out in such wise, that there remains not any debt of temporal punishment to be discharged either in this world, or in the next in Purgatory, before the entrance to the kingdom of heaven can be opened (to him); let him be anathema.

Christ’s grace is conferred in Baptism.

COT, Fifth Session, Canon 5.  If any one denies, that, by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is conferred in baptism, the guilt of original sin is remitted; or even asserts that the whole of that which has the true and proper nature of sin is not taken away; but says that it is only rased, or not imputed; let him be anathema.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?

The Bible teaches that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.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. (John 3:14-16)

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. (Romans 10:9-10)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

The Bible teaches that Christ’s work was finished on the cross.

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. (John 19:30)

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. (I Peter 2:24-25)

IN CONCLUSION—

We can clearly see that the Catholic Jesus is not the real Jesus, for that false Jesus did not accomplish salvation on the cross but, according to Catholicism, merely began the process; that false Jesus experiences his death over and over again through the eucharist; that false Jesus needs help from His mother (who has been declared sinless) and from human beings that go by the titles of Pope, Bishop, and Priest; that false Jesus is not powerful enough to keep us from eternal punishment; and that false Jesus demands our good works to help us merit salvation.

Praise God, we know the Bible teaches the complete opposite! Oh, praise God, no one needs to wonder if they’ve done enough good works to merit salvation, because Jesus accomplished all that was necessary for our salvation through His sacrifice on the cross. No good works necessary.

I have focused here on who Jesus is according to Catholicism. However, in my studies, I came across innumerable beliefs about many other topics that, when compared to scripture, easily identify Roman Catholicism as a false religion. But the single thing that always must be asked: What do they do with Jesus? For this is always the crux of the matter.

In conclusion, Catholicism does not teach the truth about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Attempts to unify with them are impossible, since they do not worship the Jesus of the Bible but some man-made concoction who is called by the same name. The Catholic church has had enormous success in confusing and deceiving people throughout the ages. The discerning believer who holds to the inerrant, inspired, and infallible Word of God will recognize it for what it is: A counterfeit religion that scorns biblical truth.

What does the Bible actually teach about Jesus? Find out at this link. You can find the rest of this series at this link.

PLEASE NOTE: Find a printable pdf of this post in its entirety HERE. You will find a bibliography and list of resources used on the last page of the pdf.

The Tangled Mess

Leave a Comment / May 7, 2024

I was crocheting a blanket and the time had come to use a new color. I grabbed the end from the center of the bright yellow ball of yarn. Things went fine…for awhile. But soon I found that every time I’d try to pull the yarn it would inevitably get tangled with the other end. Somehow the two ends were both coming from inside the skein (usually one is wrapped around the outside) and it was taking a lot of the joy out of my relaxing hobby.

I finally cut the yarn end from the project and decided to roll the skein into a ball. That should make it much easier to work with. But rolling it into a ball was no easy task. It was the strangest thing. While I would occasionally be able to roll up a long piece of the yellow yarn, I would soon find myself foiled by that aggravating end over and over again. The two ends were so entwined with one another that even rolling it into a ball was a difficult task that took much time. I did contemplate just buying another skein but here was this perfectly fine yarn in front of me. How silly to purchase more! At this point, it was the principle! I worked on it for several hours but finally, late last night, I groaned with frustration.

“What’s wrong?” asked my husband. I held up my yarn and told him how frustrating this task was. Never one to back down from a challenge, he told me to let him try. I most gladly handed the whole tangled mess over to him.

In a few minutes, he, too, agreed that it was an impossible task. The yarn was so snarled that it hardly seemed worth it. He did work on it for a while, making the ball of yarn a bit bigger. But, finally, he gave it to me and asked if I thought this was good enough. You can see from the photo above that there is quite a bit of yarn left but…well, life is just too short for some things!

As I sat there rolling that yarn, I did a lot of thinking. The whole situation reminded me an awful lot of life and our attempts at creating something useful and beautiful from an unorganized, sinful mess. The end that kept getting in my way and causing all of the problem was like my sin. Just always there, tripping me up, making life harder. Once in awhile, I would grab one of my needles to help me with an especially difficult knot. This reminded me of the living Word of God that pierces between joint and marrow and is a discerner of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). What my own fingers found as an impossible task, the needle not only made possible but even rather easy.

After I had given up, I realized that the tangled skein of yarn is like my life without Christ. I can work and work and work at it on my own and, perhaps, even have a time of smooth sailing and even be able to make some positive life changes. But without Christ, it is all in naught and I will eventually be beaten by my sin. If not in life, then in death. Sin will win, if Christ isn’t called upon.

The yarn also reminded me of how lost I would be without the Bible, which was given as a gift by God to us, His people. For where else do we learn of Who Christ is? Of what sin is? Where do we find true comfort? Just as my fingers couldn’t undo many of those knots in the yarn, so, too, our human vain philosophies and theories can’t provide any help in the midst of the temptations and trials we face. I needed that needle and we need the Word of God.

Lastly, I was reminded of how much sin gets in my way. Oh, how those sins we wrongly call “minor” knot up our lives. Sins like complaining; self-pity; being offended; loving the world and the things of this world; striving for popularity or wealth or health more than we are striving to grow in Christ; and so many others. They all keep us from being who we have been called to be by God. Denying self and its lusts, we must take up our cross and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23) All too often, we want to indulge self rather than deny it and this has its consequences in our lives.

I can walk away from that bright yellow ball of yarn. But I can’t walk away from my life. Because I am human, I will always struggle with sin, with wanting to love the world, and with a life that is messy and tangled, at some level. But intentionally confessing my sin, turning from the world, and working, through the help of the Holy Spirit, to be more Christlike and holy each and every day will yield much fruit in my spiritual life.

The other day I was talking with someone about how hard it is to follow the truth of God’s Word–all of it, not just the easy, comforting parts. The Bible tells us things our flesh doesn’t like–such as asking us to not be a friend of the world, denying self, and calling us to be holy and separated as a people. It reminds us to expect suffering for our choice to live for Christ. And while submitting and obeying God’s Word may lead to a more difficult outward life (the ridicule and persecution is real)–our ball of yarn (our inward life) unwinds so much more smoothly and easily. God really does keep His promises and those who follow His truth–all of it and no matter the cost–will find that the blessings that come from that are worth the ridicule, the suffering, and the persecution. God truly does bless those who seek Him.

Who knew unraveling a ball of yarn could be so thought-provoking?

Far Better

1 Comment / April 30, 2024

Sometimes in life, our faith is challenged beyond our expectations. Tragedies happen and our hearts and minds can’t make sense of them. We want a reason. We want to understand.

This past weekend, our community experienced a tragedy which resulted in the death of a young man. But this was not just any young man. He was a loving husband, son, father, and friend. Most important of all, he was a vibrant believer and trusted in Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness of his sins and he lived a life that gave evidence of this belief. My son was his good friend and the two of them spent many hours discussing the things of the Lord. He will be so greatly missed by all who knew him.

When something like this occurs, we naturally ask why? Our faith is tested. Do we believe what we have always said we believe? Or don’t we? We have to face these questions, either way, whether we choose to walk in faith or we choose to walk in doubt. Which will we choose? If we choose to walk in faith, then we turn to our Bibles for strength and for comfort.

I have just finished studying the book of Philippians and the passage at the end of chapter one has taken on deeper meaning this past weekend–

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better (Philippians 1:21-23)

Paul tells us that to be with Christ is far better. We read these verses. We may even memorize them. But when death comes, we reflect upon them in a whole new manner. We can have confidence that, if a believer passes away, what they are experiencing is far better than anything they experienced on this earth. And, while this doesn’t take away the overwhelming grief and pain of death, it does bring a measure of comfort.

What about those who don’t know Jesus Christ as their Savior? Those who have lived only for self, never becoming a new creation in Christ? (2 Corinthians 5:17) What they experience after death will not be far better. And, in fact, it will be far worse.

Oh, if you do not know Jesus Christ as your Savior today, I pray you would turn to him before it’s too late. Death can come at any moment, calling our name. We dare not put off getting right with God. And the only way to do that is through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus Himself said–

 …I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)

And Paul reminds us that there is nothing any of us can do to be saved–

 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

We can do nothing–nothing at all–to merit salvation. Our righteous works are as filthy rags in God’s eyes (Isaiah 64:6). Only through Jesus Christ can we stand right before God. Jesus is the only way.

And, if we have truly put our faith and trust in Christ alone, then we are no longer spiritually dead but we have been made alive. We have passed from death to life. Jesus says this in John 5:24–

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

And because we are spiritually alive through Christ, we can be confident that we, too, will experience something far better when God calls us home to heaven.

Do you know Jesus? Without Him, you are dead in your sins and your future is hopeless and bleak. But Jesus Christ died for you and rose again, victorious over death! With Him, forgiveness and life is offered to you! Oh, won’t you turn to Him today?

While we can be confident that this young man is with the Lord, it is accompanied by such deep grief. May I ask you to pray specifically for his family, as the Lord lays them on your heart? We feel so helpless in these situations, and yet prayer is the best thing we can do. It is such an incredible privilege that all who know Christ are able to approach God’s throne with confidence and we are invited to do so in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

Who Is Jesus According to the Bible?

1 Comment / April 25, 2024

How can one fully do justice to Jesus and Who He is, according to scripture, in one short blog post? I think we can agree that this is completely and utterly impossible. So what you will find below is an overview of sorts, with lots of scripture to verify.

Please take some time and look up the verses; study them, reading them in context. Don’t trust me or anyone else but learn to know who Jesus is for yourself from your Bible. As you familiarize and immerse yourself in the truths regarding Jesus from God’s Holy Word, you will find it easier and easier to discern between true and false religion. We can’t overestimate the importance of knowing Who Jesus is, according to scripture.

This is, of course, most critical for our own understanding of absolute truth. What the Bible tells us about Jesus (and whether or not we choose to believe it) means eternal life or eternal death for us all.

But what we learn about Jesus is also important information as we move forward into studying specific religions that use His name. For we will quickly discover that the Jesus these religions promote and worship is NOT the Jesus of the Bible.

I was sharing with someone just yesterday how eye-opening this has been for me already. It’s gloriously clear that these religions are not worshiping the same Jesus after even just a bit of study. I believe that most Christians accept that there are no differences simply because this is what they are being told. The entertainment industry we listen to and watch, the “Christian” books we read, the personalities we follow on social media, the popular preachers we listen to, and, ofttimes, even our own churches are telling us that these religions are like ours and we can unite in our worship of Christ.

But nothing could be further from the truth. I hope you will see this for yourself over the course of the next few weeks. These religions may use the name of our precious Savior but they are referring to a very different god.

Below I have in list form the claims that Jesus makes about Himself, as well as certain other things we can know about Him from other parts of scripture. If you believe, without a shadow of a doubt, that the Bible is true and is God’s inspired and inerrant Word, then I believe you will find this very helpful.

(I do want to thank my father-in-law, retired pastor, Jerry Allebach, and especially my brother, Pastor Dean Good, for their help in putting this together. Their help was such a blessing!)

Here is what the Bible says about Jesus (this list is certainly not exhaustive!)

JESUS IS FULLY GOD

Jesus claims to be God and this is confirmed over and over again in the Old Testament and the New Testament.

He is God (Isaiah 9:6; John 10:30; Philippians 2:6-8; Colossians 2:9-10)

Only Begotten Son of God (John 3:16; John 6:38-40; Galatians 4:4; I John 4:9)

He is part of the Trinity (Genesis 1:26; Matthew 28:19; John 10:30; Hebrews 1:1-4)

He is Eternal (Micah 5:2; John 1:1; 17:5, 24)

He is Creator (Genesis 1:26; John 1:1-5; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:2, 10)

JESUS CAME TO EARTH AS A MAN

Jesus became flesh. He was the only perfect man to ever live.

Conceived of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35)

Born of a virgin (Matthew 1:18-24; Luke 1:26-38)

He was made flesh (John 1:14; Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:6-8; Hebrews 4:15)

He was without sin (I Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15)

He was Son of Man (Matthew 16:27; 18:11; Mark 9:31)

He was the Second Adam (I Corinthians 15:22; 15:45; Romans 5:12-21)

JESUS IS THE MESSIAH PROMISED IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

God promised Israel a Messiah. Jesus IS that Messiah.

Born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:35)

He would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1)

He would be called out of Egypt (Hosea 1:11; Matthew 2:14-15)

He would be David’s offspring (2 Samuel 7:12-13; Matthew 1:1-17)

He would be despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:6; Luke 4:28-29)

Jerusalem will rejoice as her Messiah comes riding on the foal of a donkey (Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:1-9)

His death described (Psalm 22:16-18; John 19)

JESUS’S MINISTRY ON EARTH

His first coming was not to bring peace to the kingdoms of this earth but rather to the hearts of men (Matthew 10:34-35; Luke 12:51; John 14:27)

He came to save the people from their sins (Matthew 1:21)

He came to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45)

He came to bear testimony of the truth (John 1:14, 17; 3:11-13)

His miracles proved his testimony (John 10:30-38)

His own (Israel) received Him not (John 1:11)

He spoke the truth, even if it was unpopular or confrontational (Matthew 16:6; 21:12-13; 22:16-18; 23:13-39)

The world hated Him and many of His followers left Him (John 15:18-19; John 6:64-66)

He loves and cares for His disciples; both those alive during His ministry on earth and those who would follow Him in the future (which includes us!) (Matthew 11:28-30; John 13:1, 34; 15:9, 12; Galatians 2:20; Revelation 1:5)

JESUS IS OUR SAVIOR

Jesus came to pay for our sins. He offers us complete redemption and offers us the only way to be reconciled with God and have eternal life with Him.

He offers the only way for us to be reconciled to God (John 14:6)

He is the only mediator between God and man (I Timothy 2:5)

He cleanses us from sin through His blood (Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 9:12; I John 1:7; Revelation 1:5)

He forgives sin (Matthew 9:1-8; 26:28; Acts 2:38; 10:43; Ephesians 1:7; I John 1:9)

He is our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-15; 6:20; 8:1)

He alone gives us permanent right standing with God (Romans 3:21-24; 5:1)

He saves us by His grace through faith alone; there is nothing we can do to merit salvation (Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-9)

He finished the work of redemption; it is not an ongoing process (John 19:30; Romans 6:23; I Peter 2:24)

He is our penal substitution (Jesus took the punishment we deserve for our sins on the cross) (Col. 2:13-14; Titus 2:15, 1 Pet. 2:24)

He is our propitiation (satisfied the wrath of God that was due us) (Romans 3:23-26; I John 2:2)

 JESUS IS OUR KING

Jesus is not only our King but is the King over all things; At His name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. (Phil. 2:10-11)

He will return to earth to reign eternally over all things (Matthew 24-25; Philippians 2:9-11; Revelation 19-22)

He is King of kings and over all (Philippians 2: 10-11; I Timothy 6:14-16; 2 Peter 1:11; Hebrews 1:8; Revelation 17:14)

He reigns victorious over death and hell (I Corinthians 15:54-57; Revelation 1:18)

OUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST

When we believe that Christ has died for our sins and rose again in victory and lives today, we become a new creature in Christ, old things are passed away and, behold, all things are new (2 Corinthians 5:17). This life is described in great detail throughout scripture.

We have died with Christ and have risen with Christ (Romans 6:1-11; Colossians 3:1-4; Galatians 2:20)

We are loved by Christ and can never be separated from that love (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 8:35-39)

We will repent and obey Christ’s commands when we truly desire to follow Jesus (Matthew 9:13; Mark 2:17; Luke 9:23; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:1-4)

Through Christ alone can we find peace, joy, and hope  (John 14:27, 15:11, 16:22; Romans 5:2-5; Ephesians 2:14-17; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 1:20, 27, 3:15; Titus 3:7; I Thess. 1:3; I Peter 1:3, 8)

Jesus gives us a new, transformed life (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:10; I Peter 1:3)

God has given us an anchor for our faith and a guide by which to grow as a believer, which is the Holy Bible (Psalm 19; Psalm 119:105; Isaiah 40:8; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12)

We are victorious over sin and death (Romans 8:1-2; I Corinthians 15:55-57)

We are called to be holy as God is holy (I Peter 1:13-16)

We are to testify to God’s grace and goodness (Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 10:2; Philemon 1:6; I Peter 3:15)

He gives us eternal life (John 3:14-16; John 10:28; Romans 5:21; Romans 6:23; Titus 3:7; I John 5:11)

THE I AM STATEMENTS OF JESUS

Jesus makes the followings statements about Himself in the Gospel of John. Each of these could be studied in great detail but, for now, I just want to familiarize you with these “I AM” statements–

I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35, 41, 48, 51)

I am the Light of the World (John 8:12; 9:5)

I am the Door (John 10:7, 9)

I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11, 14)

I am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)

I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)

I am the True Vine (John 15:1, 5)

I hope you will find this very helpful as we move forward in our study of religions that use the name of Jesus. I may come back and add to this, as I learn more in my own personal study. I hope that you will be able to use this as a reference for yourself and, perhaps, even for friends or family who are steeped in false religion, so that they, too, can compare what the Bible has to say to what their religion says.

The next post will be: Who Is Jesus According to Catholicism? Not making any promises as far as when, at this point, although I have hope that it could be as soon as next week…

(Find the entire series at this link. )

Strength for What? (Life Lessons from Philippians)

1 Comment / April 23, 2024

I remember years ago seeing a photo on Instagram that showed someone working out at the gym with a verse from Philippians 4 written below it. I also remember being vaguely affronted about this. I didn’t think this was quite what that verse meant. But I never really went to the Bible to study the context and life continued on.

But this week, I find myself in Philippians, chapter four (and you do, too, if you are participating in the Growing4Life 2024 Bible Reading Challenge) and I am finding out that this specific verse does have some context we should consider.

The verse was Philippians 4:13. Let’s be reminded of what this says–

 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Before writing this specific verse, Paul fills us in a bit on what has happened in his life and how He has been learning to be content, no matter what state he is in. He is able to be content in difficult circumstances because Christ gives him what he needs. And he is able to be content in wonderful circumstances because Christ gives him what he needs. Whether the need be material or it be an attitude–such as patience or humility–Christ supplies it. This is why Paul concludes this section with “I can do all things through Christ“. It is Christ who enables us to be content and to do the good works He has planned for us (Ephesians 2:10), no matter our circumstances.

Lehman Strauss, in his commentary on Philippians, puts it like this–

This is no idle boast nor is it the voice of one telling us that he always gets his own way. Rather it is the testimony of a godly man to the power of the indwelling Christ.

This verse is not a self-centered life verse that will enable us to do what we want. This seems to be where so many end up when they pull this verse out of its context. Instead, we must realize that this is about being able to do all that Christ has for us to do.

Again, Lehman Strauss, puts it so well–

But what does Paul mean by “all things”? Not all things we might like to do, but all the things we ought to do. If you have never taken lessons in flying an airplane, do not get into the cockpit and take off. I doubt very much if you would have a right to expect the Lord to give you a happy landing. I refuse to jump into water that is over my head, simply because I cannot swim. But in those things we know are required of us, we must learn to tackle them in Christ’s strength. Whatever we need, we must turn to Christ for its supply, and He will be in us the Power to do and be. To the weak He is Strength; to the ignorant He is Wisdom; to those lacking courage He is their courage; to the proud He is their Humility. Paul could be wanting for food and shelter without bitterness or complaint, but only through Christ. On the other hand he could be abounding in an oversupply of this world’s goods and not be conceited or proud, but only through Christ. The ability of Christ knows no inability; why not trust Him?

I’ve been thinking quite a bit about this self-centered “Christianity” that makes everything about US. No matter what subject we are discussing or what good work we are doing, we somehow almost always end up with “How will this affect me”? (Make me feel valued, give me self esteem, fulfill my dream, bring me glory or popularity).

One of the best things we can do for our Christian walk is to move from that kind of thinking and, instead, ask ourselves “How will this affect God”? (Will this bring Him praise and glory? Will it show His value? Will it esteem Him? Is this His will?)

God makes some really special promises to those who desire to live a life that is God-centered rather than self-centered. Philippians 4:13 is one of these promises. He will enable us to do what He desires us to do. He will enable us to live the way He wants us to live.

But this promise is not for the one who lives a self-centered life who treats God like a genie in the sky, believing He can be manipulated to give them their own way. This kind of life will only lead to heartache.

And, therein lies the beauty and uniqueness of the true and dedicated Christian life. When God is placed at the center, we are our happiest and most joyful selves. Serving God is what we were created to do. And, as Paul shows us in this chapter, this fills us with a contentment as no other thing can do. God has abundant promises and blessings for the one who seeks Him. These promises are throughout scripture and they are amazing and TRUE.

But these promises are only for those who want to live out the Christian life as God has laid down clearly in His Word. He desires we live a life of submission to His will and obedience to His commands. And, if we long to do this (although we will never do this perfectly), then we can be confident that God will give us the strength from day to day through Christ for all He has for us to do. It’s a beautiful promise and it will not go unfulfilled, for those that seek the Lord.

Who Is Jesus According to…? A Study of Religions (Before We Begin)

2 Comments / April 19, 2024

I’ve spent the last few weeks really studying who Jesus is in God’s Word and comparing this to a specific false religion that uses His name. As I’ve been studying, I realized that there are two key points that need to be shared before we can really get started on this series. The first one will be extremely helpful in ascertaining whether or not a religion using the name of “Jesus” is true or false. And the second point is beyond important as we continue on. Please don’t miss it.

FIRST KEY POINT:

It is critical to remember that, to God, there are only two religions: True Religion and False Religion. God has given us all we need to know to worship Him as He desires in His Holy Word. It is there we find true religion. Any religion that doesn’t submit to or abide by His Word is a false religion.

Now, I recognize that some may ask how is the Bible different from any other “Holy Book” and why is Christianity so special? Why is THIS the only (and exclusive) religion? While it is not the point of this post to delve too deeply into this question (which can be clearly answered, by the way), I would like to share the one thing that was rather an “Ah-Ha” moment for me personally regarding this specific question.

Did you know that Christianity is the ONLY religion where you don’t have to DO anything? There is nothing YOU can do to merit salvation. Heaven is a free gift, given by God because He loves us (John 3:16). It has nothing to do with works in any way (Ephesians 2:8-9).

All false religions, whether they use the name of Jesus or not, rely on good works at some level to merit eternal life. THIS is HOW Christianity is different. And THIS is why it’s the only true way.

God, in His amazing grace, reached down to sinful man and offered the free gift of salvation to those who seek Him. It’s an awe-inspiring and critical difference.

So this is how you know if a religion is true or false.

NOW, I would like to add here that there is a false religion that relies on a “decision to accept Christ” that has a heretical view of God’s Grace and true biblical faith. This, too, is a FALSE religion. To declare that one is saved simply because of a sentence that was said when moved emotionally and then yet to go on living the same sinful, worldly life is NOT true Christianity. We know this because the Bible tells us that such a change is wrought in the true child of God that they can’t help but be transformed in some way! We become a “new creature” as Paul puts it (2 Corinthians 5:17) As we are changed into the image of Christ, we all change at different rates and we must have grace for one another. But the Bible clearly shows us that if we aren’t changed at some level, then we aren’t saved. The difference is this: Our holy lives and good works aren’t the means of our salvation, they are the evidence of it.

I may actually feature this false religion that people view as “Christianity” later on in this series, as it seems that so many people have been deceived by this false teaching which has eternal consequences.

SECOND KEY POINT:

As I have been praying and thinking more about this upcoming series, I was struck by something rather profound. As we take some time to take a look at these religions that are using the name of our precious Savior in erroneous ways, it may be tempting for us to grow angry at those who are deceiving others or to be frustrated with family members or friends who just can’t see the truth.

It is critical to realize that it is the system that is false and, yes, even satanic. The people—no matter their role, whether leader or follower—well, they are, to put it simply, deceived.

They are our mission field. They are not our enemy.

According to scripture, our enemy is not flesh and blood. Our enemy is the devil. (Ephesians 6:11-12) He may use, manipulate, and deceive people. But the people are not our real enemy. They are simply deceived tools in the hands of our enemy.

How essential to keep this in mind as we continue on in this study. Our hearts should rightly be filled with righteous anger as we contemplate the deception that has robbed these lost souls of joy and peace and hope and we should weep for them.

It is my prayer that this series will be of great help to you in your conversations with those caught up in these false systems but find themselves seeking the Truth. And that, through the Holy Scriptures, you will be better equipped to reveal the errors that they have believed and point them to the light and life and freedom that can only be found in the true Jesus, the Jesus of the Bible.

Next week, we will lay the foundation for the rest of the series and answer the question: Who is Jesus, according to the Bible?

Beware and Press On (Life Lessons from Philippians)

1 Comment / April 16, 2024

Yesterday I was watching a video that was showing clips of several (very familiar) contemporary Christian music artists on the church stage of a well-known false teacher. On that stage they sang the false teacher’s praises and joined in the false worship.

I was reminded of the first few verses and the several last verses of Philippians 3, where Paul tells us to beware. He tells us in those first few verses to “watch out for” dogs (biblical usage: a man of impure mind; an impudent man), evil workers, and for those that would turn salvation into a works-based accomplishment.

Then in the last few verses of the same chapter he clearly states that there are many enemies of the cross, whose God is their belly (we will unpack this phrase next), who glory in the wrong (evil) things, and whose minds are on earthly things.

What does Paul mean “whose God is their belly”? If you look up the Greek word for “belly” (Strong’s G2836) we come across this biblical usage–

the innermost part of a man, the soul, heart as the seat of thought, feeling, choice

So I think we can safely say that those whose God is their belly value their own feelings and choices above what pleases God. In essence, they follow their hearts. Doesn’t this sound so familiar? This is the theme song of not only Disney but of much of modern day religion that is called Christianity (but IS NOT).

What does Paul say? He says to watch out for and he says he weeps over these people. In Romans he tells us to avoid them (Romans 16:17) Please note that he does not tell us to unify or to join hands with or to ignore or to tolerate. True unity of God’s family is centered around belief of the Gospel as presented in scripture and is only possible through a united love for and a submission to God’s Holy Word. There is no other unity.

It is important to note here that Paul tells us in verse 17 to be sure to follow the proper examples. It is so important that the Christian examples we set before us are godly, holy men and women who love the Lord and His Word. I fear, all too often, we are beguiled and dazzled by popularity and charisma and leave our guards down.

False teachers (as well as “false” musicians” and false “authors”) are not going to announce their arrival. And, in fact, the really effective ones are going to be “almost” right, causing their followers to veer just a bit off that narrow path they seem to be traveling on.

I say “seem to be” because I think what we are seeing is the evidence that many people say they are traveling on the narrow path but really are not. Secretly, they, too, are serving their “bellies”. It’s a temptation for us all, but we find out in the middle of chapter 3 that true believers, while tempted and perhaps even deceived for a time, will never give up on seeking God. And God is faithful. In fact, later on in his books to the Thessalonians, Paul reminds us of this–

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

How can we be sure we are seeking God and not our own desires? Let’s take a look at what Paul says in chapter 3–

–We recognize that our only merit to reconcile us to God is the blood of Christ shed for our sins. There is nothing I can do or be to be saved (v 9)

–We understand that all of the things we are tempted to value so highly (education, money, popularity) are but “dung” when compared to the excellency of knowing Christ. (v 8)

–We desire to know Him above all else and we are willing (or we want to be willing) to follow Him into discomfort and suffering (v 10)

–We PRESS ON toward the mark for the prize of our high calling, forgetting those things that are behind and reaching forth towards what lies before us (v 12-14)

–We choose godly examples who are of the same mind and on the same narrow path (v 16-17)

So, while Paul tells us to beware the many false teachers that are going to surround and do their best to invade the true Church, he also gives us much insight into how to avoid being deceived. May we beware and press on as we walk the narrow way.

Shining As Lights (Life Lessons from Philippians)

1 Comment / April 9, 2024

I was outside and, as my eyes moved towards the trees that are to the south, I noticed some bright white. Ahh, I had forgotten just how beautiful the blooming wild pear trees look among all of the leafless branches. The other trees would soon be full of the bright green leaves of summertime, but during this short window of time the pear trees would shine brightly in the midst of the trees still wearing their winter garb.

I was reminded of this beautiful view when I read these verses in Philippians this morning–

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (Philippians 2:15-16)

As believers, we are to be like those trees, standing strong and pure and white in the midst of a dark, wintry world. We represent life and light to those who are perishing. How exactly do we do this?

This can only be done by standing out as different from the dark world around us. If we look like all of the other wintry trees, we will blend in with the rest of the world and never shine as a light. Paul actually gives us several ways we can accomplish this “looking different” earlier in the chapter.

First, we find that we will look different by desiring true biblical unity with fellow believers–

 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. (Philippians 2:2)

Biblical unity with fellow believers is only possible when we are unwilling to argue or debatae over things that have no biblical consequence, by forgiving easily and never holding grudges, and by being filled with grace and mercy for our fellow believers.

Paul then goes on to write, in verses 3-4–

 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

We shine as lights through our humility. We esteem others better than ourselves. Have you noticed how these verses are in direct contrast to the messages we hear from the world? But we know that pride and self-focus quickly eclipses the light we should be shining as a redeemed child of God. Pride also causes incalculable damage to relationships.

Paul continues– Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus…

He goes on to give this marvelous description of Christ, which deserves a post, in and of itself. If you haven’t read Philippians 2:5-11 for awhile, I hope you will consider reading it right now. It is an amazing passage that tells us about our Savior. And Paul says that we are to strive to have the same humble and obedient mind as Christ.

Paul then tells us we are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. This does not mean we can lose our salvation nor does it mean that our salvation is dependent upon us.

Imagine if you will, a mine of precious gems. The gems are there but it takes work to find them. Our Christian walk is similar to this. When God redeems us as His child, we are given the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14), along with all we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). But we don’t just know everything immediately. Our sanctification and growth takes work. This is the work Paul refers to here. And why do we fear and tremble? Lehman Strauss (Devotional Studies in Philippians, p. 122) puts it better than I ever could–

     Now here in Philippians he is telling them to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, not fear and trembling lest they lose their salvation, for not truly saved person will be lost, but because of the weakness of the flesh, the ways of the world, and the wiles of the devil.
     We need to fear the flesh since it is weak and will fail us every time. We need to fear the world because it is ready to let loose its criticism at our failures. We need to fear Satan because he is ever seeking to break down our resistance that we might fall into temptation. We can do with some of this reverential fear and holy trembling before God to serve as a bulwark against trusting in ourselves…

A person who will shine as a light in this dark world is intentionally learning and growing in the things of the Lord.

And, finally, Paul gives us a simple command regarding something that so many of us struggle with–

 Do all things without murmurings and disputings (Philippians 2:14)

A person who will shine as a light in a crooked and perverse world will not be known for their constant complaints or their tendency to quarrel over everything.

So, in quick summary, if we want to shine as lights for God we will–

  1. Strive to live in biblical unity with our Christian siblings
  2. We will esteem others more than ourselves
  3. We will be known for our humble and obedient mind
  4. We will be always learning and growing more like Christ
  5. We will not be known for complaining or for arguing

In this world, where easy is better and people can get instant food, instant fame, and much reward without little effort, thinking about this may feel a bit overwhelming. But, since the fall, man has had to work to eat, work to live, and, yes, work to mine those gems that are his in the Lord, if he is a redeemed child of God’s.

The gems are there, but they must simply be mined and polished. And as we do this, we sparkle brighter and brighter in a world that is so full of darkness.

And as we consider this idea that we are to shine as lights in this crooked and perverse world, we must remember that there are those who hate that light. We must not be dismayed or discouraged if people are angry with us for Christ’s sake. John puts it like this–

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. (John 3:19-20)

And so as we endeavor to shine our lights for Christ, may our guideline and litmus test for doing so be the Bible and not the responses of others to our efforts.

So let’s shine our lights for Christ! Don’t give up and don’t give in! And, in doing so, we will point people to Jesus Christ, the only answer in this dark and dying world. He alone can give LIFE. He alone can save from sin. Oh, that we may be shining examples of His grace and His mercy that completely and utterly transforms the sinner who has been a slave to self into an eternally saved child of God that desires to serve Him.

He’s Still Working on Me (Life Lessons from Philippians)

8 Comments / April 5, 2024

Before I begin today’s post, I do want to give a bit of explanation as to what’s ahead on Growing4Life as related to last week’s post. When I gave the introduction for the Religions Study last week, I had no idea the scope of what I had undertaken. As I started to dig into the first part on Catholicism, I found so much information that I began to realize that this will take much time to sort through it all and determine what is most important to include in a single post.

I am considering writing up a longer, more detailed pdf version for each religion featured. Would this be something any of you would appreciate? I could attach the more detailed pdf to the posts, if it would be helpful. My decision to do this will be partially based on your response. I am also considering writing up a “Religion at a Glance” pdf to attach. Would this be helpful? Your responses would be most appreciated as I try to determine the best way to go about this study. I love to hear your thoughts.

As I have begun my study, I have come to understand that this is a HUGE subject and I desire to give it the attention it deserves. I am not sure how quickly I can accomplish this with my other life responsibilities. But I do want to let you know that I am committed to this series, no matter how long it takes. I will add them to this page, as I write them.

I also wanted to apologize that you received two of the same post last week. I was having trouble with the WordPress platform and, in order to fix, it I needed to delete and repost the post. In the process of doing that, I never even thought about the fact that you would receive the same post twice. Please accept my apologies.

Okay, on to Philippians.

This month, the Growing4Life Bible Reading Challenge is taking a break from Revelation and heading over to Philippians. It is a welcome break after the heaviness of Revelation (which, by the way, has been an incredible study!). As I’ve been listening to and reading the first chapter of Philippians this week, many, many thoughts come to mind. Thoughts of application to my own life and also thoughts of what God is saying through Paul in this short letter as compared to modern day “Christianity”. I thought I may share a few posts dedicated to these insights and thoughts throughout the upcoming month. I hope they are a blessing, particularly for those who are participating in the 2024 Bible Reading Challenge this year.

Today, I’d like to focus on just a short verse from Philippians, chapter one:

Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (verse 6)

There is nothing like a break from “normal” to remind me how inadequate and, yes, sinful, that I still am. My husband had the second surgery on his schedule (you will remember that last summer he had his back surgery and now last week, he had his first knee replacement, with a second still to come) and so I find myself once again in the role of caregiver. I am trying so hard to be the best caregiver I can be, but I realized the other day how woefully short I fall.

For example, I am just not natured to be a caregiver. While I love my family so very much, I would never make a good nurse. The other day, I accidentally handled my husband’s leg more roughly than I should have and someone made a sarcastic remark about my lack of care. I almost started crying. I truly didn’t even think of it (oh, how I wish I was someone who DID think of these things. I hate that I am not more thoughtful and careful). The comment filled me with so much disappointment in myself because I so badly want to be the best caregiver I can be. And yet, while I can improve, this will never be my natural bent and I will always have to work much harder than many of you at doing this well.

And then there is the fleshly response to not sleeping through the night. Isn’t it so much harder to be godly and patient and humble when you aren’t sleeping? These kinds of times are tests and our responses show our true hearts.

We can get a bit proud and then something jerks us out of routine and we realize that, while God has certainly changed us, we have much more changing to do. After I have time to process these humbling moments, I find myself thankful for them because they remind me of why I need a Savior so desperately and also help to release my grip on this world, as I contemplate the perfection that will be mine in the life to come. Oh, I can’t even imagine not struggling with sin. Can you??

This change in routine and the subsequent humiliation/humbling that has come as a result is why I found verse six of Philippians very encouraging as I read it this morning.

Let’s read it again–

Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ

Paul is reminding the Philippians that Jesus Christ began a good work in His redeemed children and will continue that good work until He returns.

While caregiving may not be my natural bent, scripture makes it clear that we are to lovingly and thoughtfully care for one another and so Christ will continue to help me grow in this area of my life. And my normal sinful responses will slowly grow less and less–even when I am unable to sleep.

And, thankfully, as I mature in the faith, I do realize that my responses to frustrations and my tendency towards selfishness has improved at some level. Last night, just as we were ready to go to sleep, a cup of water was spilled, which meant a change of clothing (not an easy task at this particular stage of surgery). When it happened, I was frustrated but I was able to be more patient and didn’t say a word. That was definitely not how I would have reacted in the past. Isn’t it nice when we can see the sanctification process taking place? These things encourage us as we grow in the Lord.

If we are a redeemed child of God, then we are not left to our own devices. We are being sanctified day by day, through the truth of God’s Word (John 17:17) and through the work of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5) in our lives. God is completing a good work in us and He will continue this work until He returns. And that is something for which we can be truly thankful!

Scroll to Top