The second and third lines in Chris Tomlin's song "Good Good Father" state:
But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone
David Crowder's song "He really loves us" has this in the third line
"There is no judgment"
And Danny Gokey's song "Love God Love People" says at the end of the fourth stanza
"Love God and love People" (no brainer).
Finally there is the song "What would Jesus do" states in the 11th Stanza
"What would Jesus do
He would love first..etc."
The first question here is what is God's love? There is nothing in any of these songs that show any differentiation of God's love from that of man. Assuming that God never has anything negative to say goes against the verses that state God chastises anone He loves and we are illegitimate sons otherwise (see Hebrews 12:6; 12:8). To say there is no judgment is only true as to a believer's standing at the Bema Seat Judgment and missing the Great White Throne condemnation. We are judged according to 2 Corinthians 5:10 and be judged as to works done for Him; good or bad. If we aren't one of His own we are judged and condemned already ( John 3:18).
No one should argue as to a Christian demonstrating love and patience; but that doesn't mean that we should stand for hypocrisy within the House of God; or societal evils such as abortion without sounding the trumpet as a watchman to avoid the condemnation warned of in Ezekiel 3:18. But such exhortations seem to be missing entirely in today's Christian songs; whether it is warning of the deceptiveness of Satan or sin itself; or the Tribulation to come or hell itself without repentance. Anyone on this forum who wishes to rebut that statement let me know; perhaps there are some independent artists I should be made aware of that I haven't heard lately.
Thus; artists are idolized saying what people want to hear and are "Christian" by name only.
The Tribulation: General overview of 3 sets of Judgments
There is a clear designation of 3 sets of judgments of 7 individual items in the Tribulation (Seal; Trumpet and Bowl).
Christ Himself opens the 7 SEALS of the book (unnamed). It would austensively contain the trumpet and bowl judgments; with a mysterious scroll eaten by John in Rev. 10:10 similar to the one in Ezekiel 3:3. I will try to study that at some point but it does say it is a mystery in general. We would probably be correct in stating the "birth pangs" of the Tribulation are going on with these seal judgments ( Matt. 24:8 also interestingly shown in Psalm 48:6:7.)
The next group of judgments are generally setting the stage for Antichrist to rise by judging one third parts of the earth; and sea and sun as well as killing one third of men ( Rev. 8:7-9; 12: Rev. 9:15). This is likely highly symbolic of the one third of the heavenly host falling with Satan and probably cast to earth at the time of Revelation 12:4; cross reference Daniel 8:10). This would show the destruction of those in heavenly places; the invisible spritual realm that has affected the course of men since the dawn of man (see Isaiah 24:21-22).
The last section completes the destruction of earth below as seen in Isaiah 24:22). This shows the gleaning of the grape harvest as it were; drawing men in for the final battle by supernatural means as seen in Revelation 19 and also Psalm 2.
As I have mentioned before there is no prayers of the saints appearing as incense in heaven; therefore no tarrying in the inner court with intercession as seen in Revelation 15:8. These verses and the responses of the wicked as compared to the sixth seal show the descent from fear to rebellion which the mark of the Beast seals their fate. There is nothing but contempt toward God; therefore it serves as a warning as to how men will react once IN hell (no desire to serve or worship their Creator).
Jesus is the same yesterday; today and forever. That could be said of the entire Godhead.
Christ has the fullness of the Godhead bodily dwelling within as said in Colossians 2:9. The Spirit was in Him without measure ( John 3:34) and whoever has seen Him has seen the Father ( John 14:9). Nonetheless there is certainly a destinction in terms of roles with Christ being the sin bearer and the Father turning away when He bore our sins at Calvary ( Psalm 22:1). God cannot dwell in unrighteousness; and for that moment it was God's will for Jesus to be crushed ( Isaiah 53:5).
The Holy Spirit isn't given any distinctive appearance except in the beginning of the Gospels ( Luke 3:22 for example appearing like a dove); and with cloven tongues of fire at Pentecost ( Acts 2:3).
Revelation 3:21 indicates Christ overcoming all things; death could not hold Him ( Acts 2:24).
In some sense whether in the Preincarnate form or since His Resurrection He is both in the form of a man (the Man who is the second Adam as it were) who still bears the marks on His body being the first of the Firstfruits resurrected from the dead ( 1 Cor. 15:23) and of course beyond time as the Creator of all things ( Jn. 1:3 and several other verses) fully God. So there is distinction and unity with the "Trinity" as it were. When looking at His glory; we see the fullness of sight and sound (with mighty thunderings with His voice ( Ezekiel 3:12-13; and verses in Revelation; Psalms etc.) We should be aware as believers of our sinfulness (as the Spirit indicates in John 16:8) and we tremble at His presence. This is different than the reaction of the wicked who sense their destruction and love their sin more than God ( John 3:19). Nonetheless it seems that there are "revelations and visions" abounding; but few seem to describe that Holy fear of God of which is the beginning of understanding ( Psalm 111:10). Compare this with much music and preaching today that presents a sappy God without other attributes.
Hi Dgjot. I understand your sentiments on this matter. My own salvation testimony rests, not primarily on God's Love for me but on the volume of my sins that greatly offended God & my deserved punishment as a result. After realising this, I then understood God's Love for me in the Person of Jesus Christ His Son.
I believe that the evangelism of the lost, whether they choose to listen to God's Word or not, whether they're antagonistic towards me or not, needs to continue because both God's Love & God's fury needs to be told. "How shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans:10:14). Yes, I agree many have heard & many have rejected God's gracious offer to them but we aren't privy to those appointed to the Kingdom to whom the Word of God must come, and those who will refuse. Otherwise, the apostles could have easily saved themselves great hardship & persecution by just having a table in the town centre & wait for interested people to come for a 'friendly' chat.
That people are going into a Christ-less eternity & our passion for lost souls must drive the Spirit-filled believer into action, should be our motivation. Now, how & when we share this life-saving, life-giving news will be by the promptings of the Holy Spirit to each person. If God hasn't drawn the curtains of His Grace on this World yet, we must know that the work of evangelizing the lost must continue - that more wretched sin-filled souls need redemption & the chance of eternal life. And of course, the personal joy of sharing the Gospel to those inclined to listen, is a great blessing. If there's "joy in the presence of the angels of God when a sinner repents", how blessed it is to be a partner in this great work that all of Heaven is focused on, with the Lamb of God still with the marks of His agony on Him, enthroned before them.
Roman, I agree that we are to preach the law to the unrepentant. They need to know that they have transgressed it and deserve the curse of the law. They need to know that Jesus warned people that unless they believe in Him they will perish eternally in hell. But also, we are to preach in love, with a plea for them to turn from unbelief to faith in Jesus, who alone can save them. some will be pricked to the heart and repent. Others will angrily and hostilely retaliate or mock or scoff at the preaching. We should expect that. And if it is considered hate speech, then so be it. The apostles and disciples who preached to the unsaved faced all kind of persecution and torture. We should brace ourselves to receive similar reprisal. But, as Paul was willing to receive these hellish treatments in the hope that some would believe the Gospel he pleadingly and lovingly preached.
I don't get out much anymore since covid. But I have family members and others I know who still will not repent. I pray for them and willingly speak the truth to them when the opportunity comes forward. I have finally been approved for disability after a two-year process. So, I am limited but hope I can get out more in the future as the Holy Spirit leads me and allows.
I do want to practice what I advise others to do. Believe me. I do think the time is coming where believers will be called to speak up at a high cost. May the Lord prepare us to do so and be willing to bear the cost honorably.
The average unrepentant sinner isn't interested in the love of Jesus. In their mind, Jesus is some sort of bearded, sandal wearing hippie who goes around preaching love, love, love, who will make sure they get into Heaven no matter what they do. So I switched gears and now talk about hell and damnation. I warn people that if they don't repent and seek God while He may be found, and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, they're doomed. Those are the cold hard facts. This is now considered Hate Speech. When I got saved, it wasn't because of the love of Jesus. It was because I was afraid of going to hell. It was years before I understood how much God loves us and how much Jesus loves us. He proved it by going to the cross voluntarily. Then God raised Him from the dead, He ascended into Heaven in front of witnesses and sent His Holy Spirit to the earth to dwell among us. God and Jesus have done everything they can do to keep us from ending up in hell. But people don't listen.
When Jesus walked the earth, WHO was He preaching to??? The Jews. Everything He talked about was directed to the Jews.
How many times did God punish the Jews for their wickedness? How many times were they taken into captivity???
Jesus kept trying to steer them back to The Father, but many would rather live by their own man-made laws. The scribes and pharisees were so sure they were in the right, they made sure that Jesus was taken out.
Jesus taught as one having authority, not like the arrogant, attention-grabbing Scribes and Pharisees. He sent his Apostles to preach the Gospel, giving them authority to heal the sick and cast out demons in His name. Many believed but, even after seeing the miracles, just as many didn't. It's useless to preach to people who don't want to hear it. Remember what Jesus said, "When I return, will I find faith on the earth???"
Amen to you . I have learned that i cannot change anyone but I can always help to the best of my ability and this is what is expected of me as a Christian . Im not responsible for the sins of others but I am responsible for my own and to me , it is a sin to knowingly and deliberately disobey Christ's commandment to show love to every human I come on contact with . If anyone thanks me for a kindness I always say something like : I'm a Christian it's what we do , or , thank God because He made me show you His love for you . All non Christians and sinners we come into contact with are part of God's creation and He loves everyone . They are potential Christians and we must treat them as such . We were all in this life without hope at one point , until we learned the Truth . It's not up to us to judge people , we don't know their hearts , God knows the begining and ending of every individual , He knows who is and isn't His but He knows who isn't His now but will be in the future . We know nothing . If we obey God , that's the best thing we can do in every circumstance , it's our basic duty as Christians .
Your personal experience of being by Jesus is a very powerful testimony of the power of God to change sinners. God has rewarded you for your faith in Him.
For this reason, sharing your faith in Jesus with others who are sinners like you in your old life, will help saved them. You know this is good and pleasing to God, and will glorify his name.
BUT NOW, you've decided not to do good to others, even to others that might insult you out of fear or anger. You're disobeying God, your pride of life has influenced your decision. Two commandments written with Jesus' blood in our hearts: 1. Love God with all your heart, with all your strength, with all your mind; 2. Love others as yourself/ourself.
I PRAY TO GOD, that you change your mind, in JESUS' name.
Oh Dgjot, I think that if we are spirit led, we will know whether to pray for someone or speak Scripture to them, or answer questions they may have. So, I think that it isn't up to us to determine how we will interact (or not to) with others, it is God's call and the Spirit will certainly lead us and help us with what we should say to others. Maybe we are just to do an act of kindness, just because they need kindness. I truly want to follow God's way and not my own way. It is easy to recoil from all the blatant sinfulness and perversion. It is getting worse in our society and its moral fiber is deteriorating very quickly. We should be willing to "catch some from the flames", as Paul has said. I continue to pray that I will be given more compassion by God. It is easy to become hardened to the sad state of others because we are so offended by their wretchedness.
However, Jesus talked about how bad people would become in the last days. ( Luke 21:8-28) It's just like Sodom and Gomorrah out there. And Paul talked about it too. ( Romans 1:18-32)
Don't cha know that quoting scripture is the new Hate Speech????? People want to sin and not feel bad about it. These people have been given over to a reprobate mind and their hearts are hardened. Everything evil is considered good, and everything good is considered evil. They don't want to hear the Gospel. Meanwhile, the Christ-deniers are setting themselves up to be the good guys. Millions of people are being deceived.
All we CAN do is pray for people, 'cause talking to them is like talking to a brick wall. So if I don't warn someone in person & verbally- am I still responsible??: "his blood will I require at thine hand".
Yes, people from just about every tribe, tongue, and nation have been saved by the gospel of Jesus Christ over the centuries. And the Bible is in print in many languages. So, we can pray that God will draw unsaved people to those who are saved in their community so they can hear the gospel spoken to them. We can pray for God to call people to be missionaries in various ways. We can pray that we will be willing, equipped, and bold enough to share about Jesus and the gospel with those we meet who are unbelieving. But I do not think that we are to throw up our hands and write off those around us as being undeserving of hearing the gospel. We, too were undeserving, but God reached out to us through the people who brought the witness and truth of Jesus and His work to each of us.
As a former teacher, I have overheard conversations among students where one person will talk about Jesus and the other will ask, "Who is Jesus". So, there are many who haven't heard whom God has softened their hearts to receive the gospel.
And there are those who will see our godly life and speech. and may ask why we live the way we do. We should want to share with them our hope in Christ when they ask us.
Also, we are to love those who are undesirable to us, even those who live disgusting lifestyles. They are to be pitied and we should understand how darkened their souls truly are. so, if we do not feel compassion for such people, we should definitely pray to become more compassionate and willing to interact with those people who repel us so much.
But, I get you in that our society is so devoid of moral goodness and so many people flaunt their rebellion against God. It is concerning and difficult to partake of much of what society values. But we can always do what is morally right, kind, loving, and Spirit-led among those who come our way. This, in fact, is what we are called to do-be salt and light. Even if we are instrumental in only turning one person to Christ.
" Ezekiel 3:17 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.
18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand."
This is God speaking to Ezekiel about warning the "House of Israel".
This is where a lot of Christians get the idea to take to the streets and preach Christ.
Since we're living in the age of Grace, and the Gospel has been preached in every country and every language around the world,and there's the Word of God in print, not to mention radio and television broadcasts-
why should Christians be afraid about, "his blood will I require at thine hand".
For years I heard' "Jesus saves." "Jesus saves." "Jesus saves". But I never understood what it meant. Jesus saves what????? It wasn't until years later that I understood. God had mercy on me and didn't let me die in my sins. But this is 2022, where Jesus is mocked and slandered and rejected. (Just like the Pharisees, Scribes and Elders who yelled, "Crucify him" when Pilot wanted to set Jesus free.) Why should I waste my time or have any compassion on rebels like idol worshippers and sodomites???? You can't talk about the saving grace of Jesus to people who have hardened their hearts and have no intention of repenting. They made their bed. Let them lie in it.
Okay, no problem,,, I have to go to work but I can start with this.
Ezekiel 3:1 Moreover He said unto me, Son of Adam, eat that thou findest; eat this scroll, and go speak unto the house of Israel
3:3 And He said unto me, Son of Adam, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness.
14 So the spirit lifted me up, and took me away, and I went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the LORD was strong upon me.
Revelation 10:8 And the voice which I heard from heaven I heard speaking with me again, saying, "Go and take the Book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth."
9 And I went unto the angel, ... saying to him, "Give me the Book." And he saith to me, "Take it, and eat it up [receivethe knowledge]; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.
It was the knowledge of the book that caused them bitter.
The belly reference is a figure of speech, the word is koilia and the Usage: is belly, abdomen, heart, a general term covering any organ in the abdomen, e.g. stomach, womb; met: the inner man.
The Great City (Babylon) is symbolic for confusion whereby peoples, nations, and tongues are the wave of, and it's where God's Election Prophecy, whether during the Great tribulation, or during the Millennium.
When Jesus Seeks Ministers Who Can See the Lost - In Reply - 2 years ago
Your concern leads me to wonder if Jesus is calling you to evangelize the lost. You need to seek God in much prayer.
A Love for lost souls would be a requirement. Certainly The Lord desires for us to reach out to the lost: in sin, confused with drink or drugs; visual sins.
Or, you may be called to be an intercessor: one who stands between the evil and the Lord, and prays heaven down to earth to save that soul.
John 22
14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
>This depends upon our willingness to follow Jesus in the work that he performed upon earth. Jesus is part of the Godhead ( Romans 1)
We are called by reading the Word of God, the Bible. I was at a private home, praying with others
The room was ablaze with the fire of faith, at work in ordinary Christians
Indescribable fire came up through my legs to my head. I sorta slumped.
The leader in the room gave me a slip of paper with this scripture: with Ezekiel 3:19, Acts 20:26
I pray continuously for the Church, wherever they are. The Holy Ghost knows. I pray for Israel daily. I've seen the Orthodox Jews with their rituals, much books of doctrines etc. I pray for their release.
God is alive and in search of prayer warriors. Learn Eph.6
Ezekiel 24:6 Ezekiel is a Prophet of GOD ALMIGHTY as proclaimed Ezekiel 1:1-3, & verified because his prophecies happened. Seething means boiling.
Ezekiel 24:2 Jeremiah, Isaiah & other Prophets warned Israel & Judah that if they didn't do away with oppression, holding back wages of hired, justice, judgement for widows & fatherless children then they would be captured by Babylon.
& to stop worship of other false gods: Jeremiah 7:18, Isaiah 58,
Jeremiah 34:7-22,
During this GOD talking with Ezekiel, Ezekiel 24:1-14,
Ezekiel 24:15-19, GOD tells HIS Prophets to do very difficult things at times. "tire = headress, turban ' then explains why & what that meant : Ezekiel 24:20-25
Ezekiel 24:26-27 is amazing because from, Ezekiel 3:26-27, Jeremiah seems to be unable to speak, until chapter 6. & possibly from & apparently from Ezekiel 24:27, until Ezekiel 33:21-22, therefore fulfilling the Prophecy.
Sometimes studying much reveals much & more difficult questions sometimes take longer for understanding.
Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
2 Thessalonians 1:5
Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
Romans 2:5
But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
1 John 3:7
Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
Ezekiel 3:21
Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Matthew 10:41
He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.
Matthew 23:28
Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
John 5:22
For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
Once I got busted by Jesus for judging. We were street ministering; and all the Catholics would drive by the Catholic Church, tip their beers and holler out the priests names. honk the horn at us :/
The Holy Spirit leaned on me and said quietly but no nonsense..DO NOT JUDGE !
You need to read Revelation chapter 22; of the King James Bible.
You are dangerously close to becoming a candidate for what's written in
Revelation 20:12-13
Revelation 22:18-20
John 21:31
Galatians 1:8-9
2 Corinthians 11:13-15
THE APOCRYPHA IS NOT PART OF THE CANONIZED BIBLE.
Read Ezekiel chapter 2,
Then Ezekiel 3:17-27
These scriptures are a warning from God. Is this relevant in the year 2021. from someone who was pulled out of the snake pit of hell; so be wise and don't go near writings that aren't in the Bible.
Astrology is not even a science. It's a religion. The only sign that Christians have, is the BLOOD OF JESUS. Same goes for Apocrypha.
Please, please, may we all quit dabbling in and around the evil that inhabits these things...so as to give a comment on them.
There are many more people WHO WANT TO HEAR THE TRUTH. They need to be saved. They've heard Jesus knocking on the door of their hearts. The Harvest is here, now.
Even for us Christians, we need to read those Ezekiel verses. This is going to come up at the BEMA seat judgment of Christ. Rewards or no rewards. Everything we do has to pass through the fire.
I have a question for us all. How do you think world governments are going to pay for all this destruction and disasters in the great nations of the world? Billions and Trillions of dollars?
The one world system of money is advancing.
* The white horse of the Apocalypse represents religious deception; money system
* The red horse of the Apocalypse represents wars.
* The black horse of the Apocalypse represents famines.
* The pale horse of the Apocalypse represents pestilence (disease epidemics and pandemics) and Disasters and death.
We do not truly love someone if we see destruction coming and neglect to warn them of the dangers of God's eternal judgment. We are the watchmen for our day called upon by God to warn those who are in danger of eternal damnation.
--Lynn Cooper
"Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.
"When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand."- Ezekiel 3:17,18.
This translation of Ezekiel 3 is not translated totally correctly nor clearly. It is a very clear text by Artscroll.
Ezekiel chapter 3, verse 21 by Artscroll Stone edition Tanach: But you, if you did warn him, the righteous man, that the righteous man SHOULD not sin and he DID NOT sin; he will surely live because HE WAS CAREFUL. And as for you, YOU WILL HAVE SAVED YOUR SOUL.
Basically your past good deeds will not be remembered if you start to act corruptly and die because of it. If you turn away and stop sinning, you will save yourself. The righteous man does not sin. It will take a long time to learn not to sin any longer, but it is possible and has been done by many.
A person, who often sins is corrupted and not a righteous man. It is terrible if you murder somebody daily basis! You should stop murdering completely and murder no longer! Seriously! That was an example from a sin and I can not call a man righteous who keeps murdering people even though as rarely as once every year. I expect a righteous man not to murder a single person ever again!!!
Of course it is hard to learn to sin no more and to stay righteous especially if you are not careful and if your upbringing was all wrong and nobody is supporting you and forcing you to sin with them like what happens in so many religious communities. It takes time to learn the righteous ways. And because so few believe in righteous life, so few even try to learn it let alone be careful not to sin any longer, but it is not impossible. Remember Enoch. At least I have faith and believe that one day I will learn to live fully righteously. It is a command to live righteously and to stop daily and constant sinning.
English is not my language so I do not fully grasp it yet. Sorry for mistakes in the text.
Either way.Of coarse there are slight changes here and there, in the Scriptures, as it is interpreted. As you know it is still the living Word of God. I myself was lead to Jesus Christ from some new "translation" of the Holy Bible. It still lead me to the Lord who is the way the, the truth, and the life.
I think judging can be perceived two ways. One is to judge someone and think "that's it, no hope for him" and curse them. The other is to judge what is right from wrong, truth from lies, and try to help others by telling them their faults. Now of coarse don't be a hypocrite and tell someone not to do something you also do. Of coarse the one Judge over all is Jesus Christ and we are all to be judged, by what we have done, in the end. Though we who follow Jesus Christ are the body of Christ. As He uses us as He pleases to do His Will.
About this life. A simple view is that this life is God's field and it is a place for testing of hearts and souls. Given in many parables by the Lord. The entire reason why God made us to live here, and whatnot, only God can answer. As it is probably not to be known while we are here. It is God's Will that shall be done not ours.
Here are some verses for you, about "judging" others. Not condemning others. To help them if able, not to curse them. Are we not to know, or judge, even a false prophet by their fruits? A tree is known by it's fruit.
Your questions do come at a very appropriate time, particularly as we see so much of what God's Word speaking of sins & wrongs we commit, being treated as normal, acceptable behaviour in society. And yes, wherever possible Christians should speak out against abortion, homosexuality, easy pardon for criminals (being let out into society to inflict more pain & death on innocent people), and many more.
If the world doesn't hear our objections to these wicked acts of men, then they will have nothing to alert them or deter them from their wicked course. Most likely our stand will 'fall on deaf ears', but as the prophets of old had to declare God's warnings, so should we make His Word & Will known wherever & whenever we can. See Ezekiel 3:17-21 for the heavy burden that was upon Ezekiel to warn the people & the consequences that came to him if he did not do so. Some use placards on streets or in front of abortion clinics, or through articles in media or advertisements, or just in conversation when the subject comes up. Our witness for righteousness must be clear even if it means that our words are considered as foolish & against society's wishes. Our words, lives & actions will never resemble the world's, nor should they ever come close - we are children of God & not of the World.
Yes, it would be wrong to vote for leaders who support abortion, homosexuality, & a host of other evils, but one has to decide whether the fitness of that leader or the party he/she represents is also worthy of your vote. This is a very difficult decision to make especially for believers, especially in light of the upcoming U.S. elections, with some Christians refusing to vote on those grounds or even opting to support a Christian party, even these often don't fall in line with God's requirements, especially in this area of abortion.
I hope you get some other useful thoughts on this important subject.
The second and third lines in Chris Tomlin's song "Good Good Father" state:
But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone
David Crowder's song "He really loves us" has this in the third line
"There is no judgment"
And Danny Gokey's song "Love God Love People" says at the end of the fourth stanza
"Love God and love People" (no brainer).
Finally there is the song "What would Jesus do" states in the 11th Stanza
"What would Jesus do
He would love first..etc."
The first question here is what is God's love? There is nothing in any of these songs that show any differentiation of God's love from that of man. Assuming that God never has anything negative to say goes against the verses that state God chastises anone He loves and we are illegitimate sons otherwise (see Hebrews 12:6; 12:8). To say there is no judgment is only true as to a believer's standing at the Bema Seat Judgment and missing the Great White Throne condemnation. We are judged according to 2 Corinthians 5:10 and be judged as to works done for Him; good or bad. If we aren't one of His own we are judged and condemned already ( John 3:18).
No one should argue as to a Christian demonstrating love and patience; but that doesn't mean that we should stand for hypocrisy within the House of God; or societal evils such as abortion without sounding the trumpet as a watchman to avoid the condemnation warned of in Ezekiel 3:18. But such exhortations seem to be missing entirely in today's Christian songs; whether it is warning of the deceptiveness of Satan or sin itself; or the Tribulation to come or hell itself without repentance. Anyone on this forum who wishes to rebut that statement let me know; perhaps there are some independent artists I should be made aware of that I haven't heard lately.
Thus; artists are idolized saying what people want to hear and are "Christian" by name only.
There is a clear designation of 3 sets of judgments of 7 individual items in the Tribulation (Seal; Trumpet and Bowl).
Christ Himself opens the 7 SEALS of the book (unnamed). It would austensively contain the trumpet and bowl judgments; with a mysterious scroll eaten by John in Rev. 10:10 similar to the one in Ezekiel 3:3. I will try to study that at some point but it does say it is a mystery in general. We would probably be correct in stating the "birth pangs" of the Tribulation are going on with these seal judgments ( Matt. 24:8 also interestingly shown in Psalm 48:6:7.)
The next group of judgments are generally setting the stage for Antichrist to rise by judging one third parts of the earth; and sea and sun as well as killing one third of men ( Rev. 8:7-9; 12: Rev. 9:15). This is likely highly symbolic of the one third of the heavenly host falling with Satan and probably cast to earth at the time of Revelation 12:4; cross reference Daniel 8:10). This would show the destruction of those in heavenly places; the invisible spritual realm that has affected the course of men since the dawn of man (see Isaiah 24:21-22).
The last section completes the destruction of earth below as seen in Isaiah 24:22). This shows the gleaning of the grape harvest as it were; drawing men in for the final battle by supernatural means as seen in Revelation 19 and also Psalm 2.
As I have mentioned before there is no prayers of the saints appearing as incense in heaven; therefore no tarrying in the inner court with intercession as seen in Revelation 15:8. These verses and the responses of the wicked as compared to the sixth seal show the descent from fear to rebellion which the mark of the Beast seals their fate. There is nothing but contempt toward God; therefore it serves as a warning as to how men will react once IN hell (no desire to serve or worship their Creator).
Compare this to the VICTORY of the saints.
Christ has the fullness of the Godhead bodily dwelling within as said in Colossians 2:9. The Spirit was in Him without measure ( John 3:34) and whoever has seen Him has seen the Father ( John 14:9). Nonetheless there is certainly a destinction in terms of roles with Christ being the sin bearer and the Father turning away when He bore our sins at Calvary ( Psalm 22:1). God cannot dwell in unrighteousness; and for that moment it was God's will for Jesus to be crushed ( Isaiah 53:5).
The Holy Spirit isn't given any distinctive appearance except in the beginning of the Gospels ( Luke 3:22 for example appearing like a dove); and with cloven tongues of fire at Pentecost ( Acts 2:3).
Revelation 3:21 indicates Christ overcoming all things; death could not hold Him ( Acts 2:24).
In some sense whether in the Preincarnate form or since His Resurrection He is both in the form of a man (the Man who is the second Adam as it were) who still bears the marks on His body being the first of the Firstfruits resurrected from the dead ( 1 Cor. 15:23) and of course beyond time as the Creator of all things ( Jn. 1:3 and several other verses) fully God. So there is distinction and unity with the "Trinity" as it were. When looking at His glory; we see the fullness of sight and sound (with mighty thunderings with His voice ( Ezekiel 3:12-13; and verses in Revelation; Psalms etc.) We should be aware as believers of our sinfulness (as the Spirit indicates in John 16:8) and we tremble at His presence. This is different than the reaction of the wicked who sense their destruction and love their sin more than God ( John 3:19). Nonetheless it seems that there are "revelations and visions" abounding; but few seem to describe that Holy fear of God of which is the beginning of understanding ( Psalm 111:10). Compare this with much music and preaching today that presents a sappy God without other attributes.
I believe that the evangelism of the lost, whether they choose to listen to God's Word or not, whether they're antagonistic towards me or not, needs to continue because both God's Love & God's fury needs to be told. "How shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans:10:14). Yes, I agree many have heard & many have rejected God's gracious offer to them but we aren't privy to those appointed to the Kingdom to whom the Word of God must come, and those who will refuse. Otherwise, the apostles could have easily saved themselves great hardship & persecution by just having a table in the town centre & wait for interested people to come for a 'friendly' chat.
That people are going into a Christ-less eternity & our passion for lost souls must drive the Spirit-filled believer into action, should be our motivation. Now, how & when we share this life-saving, life-giving news will be by the promptings of the Holy Spirit to each person. If God hasn't drawn the curtains of His Grace on this World yet, we must know that the work of evangelizing the lost must continue - that more wretched sin-filled souls need redemption & the chance of eternal life. And of course, the personal joy of sharing the Gospel to those inclined to listen, is a great blessing. If there's "joy in the presence of the angels of God when a sinner repents", how blessed it is to be a partner in this great work that all of Heaven is focused on, with the Lamb of God still with the marks of His agony on Him, enthroned before them.
I don't get out much anymore since covid. But I have family members and others I know who still will not repent. I pray for them and willingly speak the truth to them when the opportunity comes forward. I have finally been approved for disability after a two-year process. So, I am limited but hope I can get out more in the future as the Holy Spirit leads me and allows.
I do want to practice what I advise others to do. Believe me. I do think the time is coming where believers will be called to speak up at a high cost. May the Lord prepare us to do so and be willing to bear the cost honorably.
When Jesus walked the earth, WHO was He preaching to??? The Jews. Everything He talked about was directed to the Jews.
How many times did God punish the Jews for their wickedness? How many times were they taken into captivity???
Jesus kept trying to steer them back to The Father, but many would rather live by their own man-made laws. The scribes and pharisees were so sure they were in the right, they made sure that Jesus was taken out.
Jesus taught as one having authority, not like the arrogant, attention-grabbing Scribes and Pharisees. He sent his Apostles to preach the Gospel, giving them authority to heal the sick and cast out demons in His name. Many believed but, even after seeing the miracles, just as many didn't. It's useless to preach to people who don't want to hear it. Remember what Jesus said, "When I return, will I find faith on the earth???"
For this reason, sharing your faith in Jesus with others who are sinners like you in your old life, will help saved them. You know this is good and pleasing to God, and will glorify his name.
BUT NOW, you've decided not to do good to others, even to others that might insult you out of fear or anger. You're disobeying God, your pride of life has influenced your decision. Two commandments written with Jesus' blood in our hearts: 1. Love God with all your heart, with all your strength, with all your mind; 2. Love others as yourself/ourself.
I PRAY TO GOD, that you change your mind, in JESUS' name.
However, Jesus talked about how bad people would become in the last days. ( Luke 21:8-28) It's just like Sodom and Gomorrah out there. And Paul talked about it too. ( Romans 1:18-32)
Don't cha know that quoting scripture is the new Hate Speech????? People want to sin and not feel bad about it. These people have been given over to a reprobate mind and their hearts are hardened. Everything evil is considered good, and everything good is considered evil. They don't want to hear the Gospel. Meanwhile, the Christ-deniers are setting themselves up to be the good guys. Millions of people are being deceived.
All we CAN do is pray for people, 'cause talking to them is like talking to a brick wall. So if I don't warn someone in person & verbally- am I still responsible??: "his blood will I require at thine hand".
Yes, people from just about every tribe, tongue, and nation have been saved by the gospel of Jesus Christ over the centuries. And the Bible is in print in many languages. So, we can pray that God will draw unsaved people to those who are saved in their community so they can hear the gospel spoken to them. We can pray for God to call people to be missionaries in various ways. We can pray that we will be willing, equipped, and bold enough to share about Jesus and the gospel with those we meet who are unbelieving. But I do not think that we are to throw up our hands and write off those around us as being undeserving of hearing the gospel. We, too were undeserving, but God reached out to us through the people who brought the witness and truth of Jesus and His work to each of us.
As a former teacher, I have overheard conversations among students where one person will talk about Jesus and the other will ask, "Who is Jesus". So, there are many who haven't heard whom God has softened their hearts to receive the gospel.
And there are those who will see our godly life and speech. and may ask why we live the way we do. We should want to share with them our hope in Christ when they ask us.
Also, we are to love those who are undesirable to us, even those who live disgusting lifestyles. They are to be pitied and we should understand how darkened their souls truly are. so, if we do not feel compassion for such people, we should definitely pray to become more compassionate and willing to interact with those people who repel us so much.
But, I get you in that our society is so devoid of moral goodness and so many people flaunt their rebellion against God. It is concerning and difficult to partake of much of what society values. But we can always do what is morally right, kind, loving, and Spirit-led among those who come our way. This, in fact, is what we are called to do-be salt and light. Even if we are instrumental in only turning one person to Christ.
Even if they have given up God was patient with until the day you understood so.
Psalms 19:7
The word of God powerful making the wise simple and so we preach the gospel to all the ends of the world as we have been commanded.
18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand."
This is God speaking to Ezekiel about warning the "House of Israel".
This is where a lot of Christians get the idea to take to the streets and preach Christ.
Since we're living in the age of Grace, and the Gospel has been preached in every country and every language around the world,and there's the Word of God in print, not to mention radio and television broadcasts-
why should Christians be afraid about, "his blood will I require at thine hand".
For years I heard' "Jesus saves." "Jesus saves." "Jesus saves". But I never understood what it meant. Jesus saves what????? It wasn't until years later that I understood. God had mercy on me and didn't let me die in my sins. But this is 2022, where Jesus is mocked and slandered and rejected. (Just like the Pharisees, Scribes and Elders who yelled, "Crucify him" when Pilot wanted to set Jesus free.) Why should I waste my time or have any compassion on rebels like idol worshippers and sodomites???? You can't talk about the saving grace of Jesus to people who have hardened their hearts and have no intention of repenting. They made their bed. Let them lie in it.
Ezekiel 3:1 Moreover He said unto me, Son of Adam, eat that thou findest; eat this scroll, and go speak unto the house of Israel
3:3 And He said unto me, Son of Adam, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness.
14 So the spirit lifted me up, and took me away, and I went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the LORD was strong upon me.
Revelation 10:8 And the voice which I heard from heaven I heard speaking with me again, saying, "Go and take the Book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth."
9 And I went unto the angel, ... saying to him, "Give me the Book." And he saith to me, "Take it, and eat it up [receivethe knowledge]; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.
It was the knowledge of the book that caused them bitter.
The belly reference is a figure of speech, the word is koilia and the Usage: is belly, abdomen, heart, a general term covering any organ in the abdomen, e.g. stomach, womb; met: the inner man.
The Great City (Babylon) is symbolic for confusion whereby peoples, nations, and tongues are the wave of, and it's where God's Election Prophecy, whether during the Great tribulation, or during the Millennium.
I agree, we do not know how John died, Selah!
The Son of man is Jesus Christ based on Matthew 26:24, Mark 14:21, and John 12:34.
Just what to confirm my understanding on these verses.
Thank you.
A Love for lost souls would be a requirement. Certainly The Lord desires for us to reach out to the lost: in sin, confused with drink or drugs; visual sins.
Or, you may be called to be an intercessor: one who stands between the evil and the Lord, and prays heaven down to earth to save that soul.
John 22
14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
>This depends upon our willingness to follow Jesus in the work that he performed upon earth. Jesus is part of the Godhead ( Romans 1)
We are called by reading the Word of God, the Bible. I was at a private home, praying with others
The room was ablaze with the fire of faith, at work in ordinary Christians
Indescribable fire came up through my legs to my head. I sorta slumped.
The leader in the room gave me a slip of paper with this scripture: with Ezekiel 3:19, Acts 20:26
I pray continuously for the Church, wherever they are. The Holy Ghost knows. I pray for Israel daily. I've seen the Orthodox Jews with their rituals, much books of doctrines etc. I pray for their release.
God is alive and in search of prayer warriors. Learn Eph.6
Pray Luke 4:18-20
We are The Minister.
However
Ezekiel 33:8, Ezekiel 3:18,19,
Ezekiel 24:2 Jeremiah, Isaiah & other Prophets warned Israel & Judah that if they didn't do away with oppression, holding back wages of hired, justice, judgement for widows & fatherless children then they would be captured by Babylon.
Exodus 22:22, Deuteronomy 24:17, Isaiah 1:11-25, Jeremiah 7:3-7, Jeremiah 22:3-22, Ezekiel 22:7, Zechariah 7:8-11, Malachi 3:5-
& to stop worship of other false gods: Jeremiah 7:18, Isaiah 58,
Jeremiah 34:7-22,
During this GOD talking with Ezekiel, Ezekiel 24:1-14,
Ezekiel 24:15-19, GOD tells HIS Prophets to do very difficult things at times. "tire = headress, turban ' then explains why & what that meant : Ezekiel 24:20-25
Ezekiel 24:26-27 is amazing because from, Ezekiel 3:26-27, Jeremiah seems to be unable to speak, until chapter 6. & possibly from & apparently from Ezekiel 24:27, until Ezekiel 33:21-22, therefore fulfilling the Prophecy.
Sometimes studying much reveals much & more difficult questions sometimes take longer for understanding.
Hopefully this is helpful.
** John 7:24 **
Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
2 Thessalonians 1:5
Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
Romans 2:5
But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
1 John 3:7
Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
Ezekiel 3:21
Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Matthew 10:41
He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.
Matthew 23:28
Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
John 5:22
For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
Once I got busted by Jesus for judging. We were street ministering; and all the Catholics would drive by the Catholic Church, tip their beers and holler out the priests names. honk the horn at us :/
The Holy Spirit leaned on me and said quietly but no nonsense..DO NOT JUDGE !
All you can do is fall down and say YESSIR!!!
You are dangerously close to becoming a candidate for what's written in
Revelation 20:12-13
Revelation 22:18-20
John 21:31
Galatians 1:8-9
2 Corinthians 11:13-15
THE APOCRYPHA IS NOT PART OF THE CANONIZED BIBLE.
Read Ezekiel chapter 2,
Then Ezekiel 3:17-27
These scriptures are a warning from God. Is this relevant in the year 2021. from someone who was pulled out of the snake pit of hell; so be wise and don't go near writings that aren't in the Bible.
Astrology is not even a science. It's a religion. The only sign that Christians have, is the BLOOD OF JESUS. Same goes for Apocrypha.
Please, please, may we all quit dabbling in and around the evil that inhabits these things...so as to give a comment on them.
There are many more people WHO WANT TO HEAR THE TRUTH. They need to be saved. They've heard Jesus knocking on the door of their hearts. The Harvest is here, now.
Even for us Christians, we need to read those Ezekiel verses. This is going to come up at the BEMA seat judgment of Christ. Rewards or no rewards. Everything we do has to pass through the fire.
I have a question for us all. How do you think world governments are going to pay for all this destruction and disasters in the great nations of the world? Billions and Trillions of dollars?
The one world system of money is advancing.
* The white horse of the Apocalypse represents religious deception; money system
* The red horse of the Apocalypse represents wars.
* The black horse of the Apocalypse represents famines.
* The pale horse of the Apocalypse represents pestilence (disease epidemics and pandemics) and Disasters and death.
--Lynn Cooper
"Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.
"When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand."- Ezekiel 3:17,18.
What a powerful reminder for all of us!
Ezekiel chapter 3, verse 21 by Artscroll Stone edition Tanach: But you, if you did warn him, the righteous man, that the righteous man SHOULD not sin and he DID NOT sin; he will surely live because HE WAS CAREFUL. And as for you, YOU WILL HAVE SAVED YOUR SOUL.
Basically your past good deeds will not be remembered if you start to act corruptly and die because of it. If you turn away and stop sinning, you will save yourself. The righteous man does not sin. It will take a long time to learn not to sin any longer, but it is possible and has been done by many.
A person, who often sins is corrupted and not a righteous man. It is terrible if you murder somebody daily basis! You should stop murdering completely and murder no longer! Seriously! That was an example from a sin and I can not call a man righteous who keeps murdering people even though as rarely as once every year. I expect a righteous man not to murder a single person ever again!!!
Of course it is hard to learn to sin no more and to stay righteous especially if you are not careful and if your upbringing was all wrong and nobody is supporting you and forcing you to sin with them like what happens in so many religious communities. It takes time to learn the righteous ways. And because so few believe in righteous life, so few even try to learn it let alone be careful not to sin any longer, but it is not impossible. Remember Enoch. At least I have faith and believe that one day I will learn to live fully righteously. It is a command to live righteously and to stop daily and constant sinning.
English is not my language so I do not fully grasp it yet. Sorry for mistakes in the text.
Have a great day :)!
Eliana
Is this my brother in Sverige?
Either way.Of coarse there are slight changes here and there, in the Scriptures, as it is interpreted. As you know it is still the living Word of God. I myself was lead to Jesus Christ from some new "translation" of the Holy Bible. It still lead me to the Lord who is the way the, the truth, and the life.
I think judging can be perceived two ways. One is to judge someone and think "that's it, no hope for him" and curse them. The other is to judge what is right from wrong, truth from lies, and try to help others by telling them their faults. Now of coarse don't be a hypocrite and tell someone not to do something you also do. Of coarse the one Judge over all is Jesus Christ and we are all to be judged, by what we have done, in the end. Though we who follow Jesus Christ are the body of Christ. As He uses us as He pleases to do His Will.
About this life. A simple view is that this life is God's field and it is a place for testing of hearts and souls. Given in many parables by the Lord. The entire reason why God made us to live here, and whatnot, only God can answer. As it is probably not to be known while we are here. It is God's Will that shall be done not ours.
Here are some verses for you, about "judging" others. Not condemning others. To help them if able, not to curse them. Are we not to know, or judge, even a false prophet by their fruits? A tree is known by it's fruit.
Leviticus 19:17
Proverbs 9:7-8
Proverbs 12:1
Proverbs 17:10
Proverbs 19:25
Ezekiel 3:17-21
Matthew 18:15
Luke 17:3
Colossians 3:16
God Bless
If the world doesn't hear our objections to these wicked acts of men, then they will have nothing to alert them or deter them from their wicked course. Most likely our stand will 'fall on deaf ears', but as the prophets of old had to declare God's warnings, so should we make His Word & Will known wherever & whenever we can. See Ezekiel 3:17-21 for the heavy burden that was upon Ezekiel to warn the people & the consequences that came to him if he did not do so. Some use placards on streets or in front of abortion clinics, or through articles in media or advertisements, or just in conversation when the subject comes up. Our witness for righteousness must be clear even if it means that our words are considered as foolish & against society's wishes. Our words, lives & actions will never resemble the world's, nor should they ever come close - we are children of God & not of the World.
Yes, it would be wrong to vote for leaders who support abortion, homosexuality, & a host of other evils, but one has to decide whether the fitness of that leader or the party he/she represents is also worthy of your vote. This is a very difficult decision to make especially for believers, especially in light of the upcoming U.S. elections, with some Christians refusing to vote on those grounds or even opting to support a Christian party, even these often don't fall in line with God's requirements, especially in this area of abortion.
I hope you get some other useful thoughts on this important subject.