How to Discern - The Biblical Way
4 July, 2008 — Deborah Permission received by Anton Bosch to use his article: ‘How to Discern’. This is an excellent article, please read it very carefully.

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<H2 style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">How to Discern - Part 1</H2><H2 style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">How to Smell a Rat</H2>A toddler will eat anything. It does not matter if it is nutritious or poison, it has no ability to discern between food and poison.

As Christians mature in the faith they should learn to discern between spiritual poison and spiritual food. “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14). The problem is that the vast majority of modern-day “Christians” are either not born again or have been kept in a perpetual state of babyhood, and are thus unable to discern the difference between truth and error. Because of this, and because we have a new generation of church-goers who do not know the Bible, false teachers have multiplied, and millions believe anything these preachers say.

Discriminating between truth and error is really not that difficult as long as we abide by a few basic principles. The first of these is that truth is absolute. I use the term “absolute” as the opposite of “relative.” For most people – Christian and non-Christian - truth is relative. We hear:

• “Truth is relative to one’s own experience, background, culture and environment.”
• “What is true for one person may not be true for someone else.”
• “What was true in Jesus’ day or a hundred years ago, is not necessarily true today.”
• “What is true in the jungles of Africa is not true in the concrete jungles of America.”

But truth is absolute. It is unchanging and it is equally true in every time, culture, or environment. God’s truth does not change or have a different meaning in a different environment.What is truth? Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6). The Truth is first a person – Jesus Christ. His Word is Truth. Jesus said: “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17). Truth, the Person, never changes: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Truth, the Word, never changes. “For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:18-19).

The second principle is that the Bible is complete. Many people think that God continues to give new revelation through prophets, preachers and visions. But that is a lie from Hell to move people away from the foundation of the Word. Hebrews 1:1-2 says, “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son….” Note that God has spoken. The Greek is very specific, this is past and complete. God does not continue to speak. Yes, we refer to “God speaking to us,” but what we actually mean is that God is reminding us of what He had already said in His Word. Jude 3 says: “I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” This translation is accurate in that the faith was delivered once and for all (eternity). It is not continually being delivered.

Theologians speak of “progressive revelation.” Unfortunately some preachers do not understand what the term means and assume that it means that God is continually revealing more and more of Himself. No. He gave us the whole revelation in Jesus Christ which has been written down in the form of the New Testament, and that’s it. The next time we will get any more information is when we see Him face to face. We can be absolutely sure that there is no further revelation between the Revelation given to John and the revelation of Jesus at His return.

Anyone who claims to have additional information that is not contained in the 66 books is a charlatan and a heretic. In fact, the Bible several times pronounces a curse on any who add to, or subtract from God’s Word. (Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, Proverbs 30:6, Matthew 15:6-13, Revelation 22:18). If a preacher is willing to subtract or change the smallest part of the Bible (a jot or tittle), then you need to be careful. If he will subtract in one area, he is capable of subtracting or adding in other areas. Once you undermine the smallest part of the Bible, then you may as well throw the whole thing out.

The third principle is that God does not change His mind. What God has said is forever established and will never be altered in any way. “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven” (Psalm 119:89). (Settled means established, firm and unchanging.) “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” (Matthew 24:35). “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good” (Numbers 23:19). So, to suggest that God has a different plan for people today to what He described in His Word, or that He changed His mind, or that He is making up His plans as He goes along makes God a liar and a man. He is neither. His plans were established from before the foundation of the earth. He knew all the twists and turns that man and history would take from the beginning. He does not adjust or tweak his purpose as time unfolds.

If we can accept that God has no other plan, purpose or will for us than which is revealed in the Bible, and that any deviation from it in deed, word or principle is heresy, we will easily be able to recognize most of the error that goes around.

Don’t be fooled when men tell you that only the educated can understand the Bible. We can all understand it. It does not matter how clever the argument is presented. If its conclusion is contrary to the plain teaching of the Bible, it is error. BUT there are a few simple rules that we must apply when we interpret the Scriptures. It is often these rules that are broken in order to arrive at a teaching which is erroneous. I know that not everybody knows these rules or how to apply them. But every believer who faithfully reads his Bible will know enough to smell a rat and to be on guard.

I believe that no one can get into error by simply believing and practicing the Bible. God gives us enough information for each stage of our growth to protect us. Eve did not know the whole counsel of God, but she knew that God had forbidden eating of the tree. But, she got into trouble when she listened to the Devil’s version of what God had said. If only she had stuck to the simple truth God had given her, she would have been safe.

Every believer can ask this easy question: “Show me where it says so in the Bible.” If the teacher cannot do so, or has to contort your mind or the Scriptures to get a square verse to fit into a round hole, then run for your life – he is dangerous.

God’s word is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). It enlightens and leads us. It does not bring us into darkness, confuse or mislead us. Trust His Word and if man contradicts His word “let God be true but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4).

Folks,

It is my prayers and hopes that we can discuss this topic calmily while we continue to seek the truth. Christians who understand and are able to discern good prophets from false teachers/prophets have much work to do in the coming days. As each day passes we stand one step closer to seeing the Lord again. One step closer to the Returning of our Holy and Loving God. One step closer. Can't you feel the tension in the air? demons are trying to steal as many Christians away from Christ as they can. Can't you feel their frenzy? The devil knows that his time left on this earth is short and with swift steps he is trying to draft as many false prophets/teachers as he can to cause confusion and in this confusion, people will turn to the teacher of the me generation...the feel good generation....the death culture generation. We need to learn how to discern.

The Word of God never changes....God is the same today as he was yesterday. If someone comes preaching a God that changes with the times...pretty sure bet that that person is preaching a cracker jack Christianity without the prize included.

Here is some scriptual advice:

"Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but a God of peace."
1 Corinthians 14: 29-33

"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God."
Philippians: 1: 9-11

"Do not put out the Spirit's fire, do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil."
1 Thessalonians 5: 19-22

It is really important that we begin to discern and sort out the laundry, and begin to do some really deep housekeeping. Precious souls depend on it. "God will move the mountain if we bring the shovel."

Gods Blessings,

Al

Interesting article. I believe the Holy Spirit gives interpretations to the parables and symbolic verses in scripture though. Even to seemingly straight up verses, He gives us understanding into. He will guide you into "all" truth.



Things interpreted by the HS should line up, yes. Doesn't mean everyone will believe them though, lol.

There is also the gift of discernment of spirits. That would be supernatural from the HS, and manifest in various ways.

My favorite question as of late is this;

If you knew Abraham when he was alive, and, he told you that God told him to kill his son, what would you have said?

Tough one aye..

If we only use our mind, I believe we will run into trouble. We have to employee the HS, who tells us things as the Father orders them to be told.

And, we should very acquainted with His voice.

Researcher,

You bring up some valid points. Discernmnet is amongst spiritual gifts but isn't it possible for those Christians without that particular gift to still distinguish between a teacher that teaches truth and the teacher that teaches untruth? God cared for His children so much that words of warnings and wisdom are written down..........."thus saith the Lord." I am concerned when a Christian becomes disenchanted with the Bible or else that Christian depends on another person to interprete Scriptures. I get a little concerned when an individual is all ears to one particular individual while bypassing the WORD. Many of an innocent kid find themselves in a cult. Some of the false teachers are masters of deceptions and masters of brainwashing their victims...and the brainwashing begins immediately.

Gods Blessings,

Al

John.19
[28] After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.
[29] Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.

I dont get it so fill me in.

Jealousy and hatred cause the bitterness that is on the Lord lips as vinegar.

Does not the Word make that very clear as He commanded us to practive love and forgiveness?
Yeah even unto our enemies should we extend the Love of our God, so that they might see?

Then hear now, or the voice of our Lord will pass by from those who did not turn.

Hmm, interesting question. I think on the basics, most should be able to discern, but, even in Paul's day, people were being led astray, why, I dunno.

Gal 3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth

Of course, when God told Peter to preach to the Gentiles, some people didn't believe that new order, or revelation, until after it was fully explained

Act 11:2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,
Act 11:3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.

But yeah, there are a lot of deceitful things going on out there. When in doubt, stick to the basics? Then of course, there could be spirits behind incorrect teachings, or, just someone who misunderstands some things. If there are spirits involved, that would probably make it harder to break away and to see the deception.

continued...........
Written by Anton Bosch
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H2 style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">How to Discern - Part 2</H2><H2 style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">How to Understand the Bible</H2>

Many people will agree that the Bible is the authoritative Word of God. The problem however is often how it is interpreted. How can we be sure that our understanding is the right one?In discerning truth from error, we must begin by understanding Truth for ourselves. Many people try to discover the Truth by analyzing and dissecting error. You simply cannot do that. It is like someone trying to drive a car by looking only in the rearview mirror while trying to move forward. You cannot see where you are going by looking where others have gone wrong. So before we try to judge error or someone else's doctrine, we need to be sure about what we believe. I agree, that many are prompted by the rise of some error to study truth. But, if you want to learn the truth on some matter, you will only learn it by studying the Bible, not by studying the mistakes of others. So what must I do to understand?

First I must ask God for wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5). The same Spirit Who inspired the men to write the Bible (2Timothy 3:16, 1Peter 1:21), is available to help us understand what is written. The Bible is not an academic book which can be studied in an intellectual way only. Yes, the Bible is logically sound and intellectually deep, but it is primarily a spiritual book in which God speaks to His people. And His Spirit will lead, guide and counsel us so we may come "into all truth" (John 16:13). Studying the Bible is both an academic and spiritual exercise. Read it in a "spiritual" way without applying sound reasoning and you will not discover the Truth. But study it as academic literature without the Spirit's help and you will most certainly end in error. Pray David's prayer: "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law" (Psalm 119:18).

Second, the reader must be in a right relationship with the Lord. When we are disobedient, in habitual sin or rebellion, we will always read into the Bible what we want it to say. This is the most dangerous way of handling the Word of God. Countless errors have been "discovered" when the reader looked into the Bible for justification for his disobedience or sin. If the Lord has been convicting you about something, you must be obedient to Him first else your reading will always be distorted and you will not see clearly. David was able to say "I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts" (Psalm 119:100). Obedience leads to understanding, disobedience leads to error.

Third, we must be open and willing to change our views if they are proven to be wrong. When our prejudice or preconceived ideas overwhelm sound thinking, we will inevitably end with a distorted view of Scripture. We grossly underestimate the power of tradition and preconceived ideas to keep us from discovering the truth. Our traditions invariably are a filter through which we read and which colors the teaching of the Bible. Just think about the word "church." Every person who reads has an established view of what that word means, even before they begin to read and so when one reads, he sees the Roman Church, or one of a thousand denominations. Others see a building of a particular shape while others see two or three believers agreed and in the name of Jesus. The same word – many different meanings – but only one can be right!

Paul says: "But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2Corinthians 3:18). By "unveiled face" he was referring to the veil which Israel put over Moses' face to filter the glory of God's revelation and to deliver it in a form with which they were comfortable. But we must come to the Word without a veil or filter. We need to be willing to be open-faced in order to absorb the full impact of God's revelation. The same revelation transformed Moses and blinded Israel. Come to the Word with an open face and it will transform you. Try to veil, limit or modify it and it will blind you (2Corinthinas 3:14).

Sometimes we actually need to suspend what we believe on a particular subject while we do an in-depth study of God's Word on it. If we don't do so, we may continue to build on bad foundations. I have found it invaluable, at different times in my life, to actively put all my experience, training and tradition on hold while I seek to understand some aspect afresh. Only the fool keeps going down the wrong road without checking from time-to-time if he is indeed on the right way. Even Paul felt the need to check (Galatians 2:2).

Fourth, we must turn to the Bible first. Many people will turn to their pastor, guru, commentary or Internet before going to the Bible. (Some will only go to these sources and never get to the Bible). If we go to any source outside the Bible first, it will invariably color and bias or thinking, more than it already is. In order to understand a particular subject, you need to enlist the aid of a concordance (preferably computerized) and search for every part of the Bible that speaks to that subject. Then you need to read those sections – not just the verses, but the entire passages. Note down the ones that make a specific point. Only once you have read the whole Bible (Old and New Testaments) on a particular subject, and have collated all the information, can you begin to come to some conclusions. Only after having searched the Scriptures, and have come to some conclusion, should you to turn to other sources. (More about that next week.)

"As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby" (1Peter 2:2). It is the pure milk that causes us to grow. If it is diluted with the words, thoughts and traditions of men, it is no longer pure. If it is sugar coated by the eloquence and stories of the preacher, it is also no longer pure. What I am writing here is not the pure milk of the Word – they are my ideas based on the Word. And while my thoughts may help some to understand a few things, it can never have the same effect as when you read, study and understand the Bible yourself.

Finally, we must study the Scriptures with a specific goal in mind. This goal is not to increase our knowledge, or to prove that someone else is wrong, or to justify your own actions. The only valid attitude is to allow God to speak to us through His Word. The reading and study of the Bible is first, foremost and primarily a personal issue. The Lord does not use the Bible to speak to others through us, unless, we have heard Him speak to ourselves first. We can only approach it with trembling hands and with the prayer of Samuel: "Speak, for Your servant hears" (1Samuel 3:10). Only if we truly want to hear and obey, will its truths begin to unfold.

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened" (Matthew 7:7-8

Great post, and very important. In my own lifetime, I have seen the rise and fall of many false teachers and wolves in sheeps clothing. I believe that the New Testament teachers that Apostle Paul referred to as "a prophet" or "prophetess" were actually teachers of the Word before the days of printing presses. I am cautious about dreams and visions and how they might change the meanings of Biblical concepts.

For instance, The Mormans in Utah, were not allowed to join the Union of the United States because of polygamy, so..... lo and behold, the leader of the Church had a "dream" that prohibited the practice of multiple spouses, and thereby, the State of Utah was allowed to join the Nation. Blacks were also not allowed to be members of the Mormon cult, even though they were allowed to attend. When the leader at the time, discovered they could not qualify for tax exemptions because of discrimination, there was another "dream" by thier leader, that told them black people could now be accepted into the Mormon Cult. How convenient!

I realize that some have gifts to help interpret scriptures, and they seem to be valid ways of bringing attention to a Biblical Concept that is needed at a given time. However, every dream and vision must be measured against the words in the Bible, and if they do not line up with The Truth that has been Delivered, then the dream or vision is not valid.

Good points Sharon...
I agree about being cautious with our spiritual experiences...not to despise them...but to be cautious.
There are a lot of dreams and words I see posted which I would classify as "pizza" ...fluff or distractions that have no pertinent bearing upon a person's life or specific direction to a specific person. It reminds me of the story of the boy who cried "Wolf!" one too many times that by the time the real wolf showed up, nobody would believe him. Lack of discernment is rampant within the body of Christ and it's doing a large dis-service because when the time does come for clarity; it very well could be missed due to the people at large being over-filled with confusion.

God bless you,
Kim

Very good thread, Adeline!


Reminds me of this verse:

Hebrews 5:12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.


In His Love,
Suzanne

Instead of continuous putting labor into hampering God's servants, why are ye not on the way of spreading the Word of Love and Forgiveness?

Or have ye been appointed to sit on God's Throne? Ye wish, but ye shall not.

It may be that they are not God's servants at all.

The standard by which we judge false teachers is the Word of God.

2 Timothy 3:16 "All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness"

Forgiveness for what... spreading a false gospel. God forbid... we are commanded to reprove and expose evil.

Ephesians 5:11 "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them]."

Well, the same said the Pharisees to Jesus.

Where??

In the Gospels, all four of them. You can not miss it, for they do it about every 20 lines?

Sharon,

You raised some really good points. You mentioned the Mormon religion? Many in the Mormon Religion claim to be Christian and I have little reason to doubt their claim, after-all they claim to worship Jesus Christ our Messiah. But, I do question some of their beliefs such as their belief that Jesus and satan are brothers. The Mormons also seem to hold higher esteem to the words of Joseph Smith than they do the bible. (Just my opinion.) But, I have many internet friends who are Mormons and their Christianity shines through. I am learning that a false prophet is on a hunger trip ready to devour as many weak people as they can. False prophets always go after those that are weak in biblical knowledge, that is why it is so important that Christians first show Christ and then slowly interwine the bible into our converstations. Heaven forbid that I should ever hit someone over the head with the blble and because of my zeal lost a potential soul for Christ. A starting place in to just tell people to Run towards Jesus. First Grace must be shown to people and way down the road we can begin to teach law. And yes the time will arrive when these babes in the Lord are ready to learn about the Bible. We just need to be patiient. We must remember that satan is continually looking for false prophets to sway the warm Christian away from Christian family and friends. And yes I'll say it; a good Christian church offers a deep foundation that is needed to keeping false prophets at bay.

Sharon we are in a spiritual fight and so many souls are at risk. So many cults are attempting to enter our communities, churches and lives. Do you remember Jim Jones? Such a charismatic and likable minister. Heck, if I personally met him, he may have persuaded me of his Christian intentions. Jim Jones breathed and taught Christ to his new converts. Than he became powerhungry and his intent turned to the darker nature. He began to slowly twist scriptural words. His converts really did not notice that he began to turn Christianity away from Christ, and towards Jim Jones. The converts began to love Jim Jones more then they did Christ. A dangerous game with a terrible conclusion...the koolaide drink. Such a shame and such a waste of human potential.

Sharon, my son just went off to college. I am concerned for he is young. He was brought up in a Christian church but even so at his tender age he is still an easy target. I was very happy to hear that last Sunday he found a Baptist church to worshp God in with 9 other kids from the college. I was happy that he joined "Youth for Christ." In order to keep the wolves at bay it might be necessary to surround oneself with Christians while they continue learning Biblical truths. The whole truth (The Bible) and not half truth as presented in the manuscripts by Mr. Smith or any biblical teacher that just turns the truth a little to the left away from God.

Sharon, thanks again. Discerning is so important for all of us.

In Christian Love,

Al

Suzanne,

Thanks for your reply. Just a thought with the scriptures you posted? Do we as Christians attempt to make someone a mature Christian by using a timetable. For example- We assume someone is mature in the faith at age 50 when in all actuallity that individual is spiritually an adolesent. Sometimes by feeding them so much meat at such a tender age (spiritually) we could actually be making them ill and in their illness they turn away from Christ. But if we could just start them on a soft diet than those individuals keep coming back for more and more substance.

Gods Blessings,

Al

I forgot to mention this in my earlier post: discerning is not judgement. I get tired of people using the "Do not Judge" scripture in Matthew 7, to shut Christians up for trying to send them to the Truth. Only Jesus can Judge, but at one time, The Levitical Tribe retained the right to sit in the "Judgement Seat of Moses." The common people like us, cannot judge anybody, but we have an obligation to "discern" what is good and what is evil, what is from God, and what is from satan.

Yes, sad to say, I remember the Jim Jones saga. Those brainwashed victims were turning over their entire Social Security checks to him, and he was filling himself up with drugs. Like many of satan's angels before him, drugs make it easy to commit mass murder and justify it.

Annie,



Many of a false prophet will try to woo and love a group of individuals into a false security. This false prophet will teach about another god (not Christ) and try to take advantage of the naive. The false prophet also relies on feellings and emotions while bypassing the truths in the WORD of God. Sometimes our feelings/emotions lie to us but the WORDS of our Lord never lie to us. Confusion, contention and emotions are what the false prophet/preacher relies on and feeds on. And one more thought? satan also causes dreams to occur in people and yes, we must always test the Spirits.

Gods Blessings,

Al

PS- Every so often I need to post again that I refuse to show any respect to our enemy by capitilizing his first initial in his name.

Al

Kim,

The sad thing is this: Souls are at risk because Christians are lacking discernment. What does everybody say? Can discernment be learned or is discernment a Spiritual Gift?

Gods Blessings,

Al

I agree somewhat, but I do think it depends upon the person. I know that once I realized that God's Word was addressing "me", personally, I was sure that there were plenty of things He had been saying to me, all along, but I had just not cared to hear. So then my desire was to go back and read His Word and come to understand who my Father Is! I loved hearing Him, through His Word, because It was making sense.....especially after I began to obey It! Then, it really made sense and my faith began to grow consistently.


I just think that God's Word/Jesus, are so vital to our walk....that you cannot say you love Him without wanting to hear His Words to you, personally!


In His Love,
Suzanne

I think the writer accidently turned this sentence around.
Well, the same said the Pharisees to Jesus.
If you read it as, "The same said Jesus to the Pharisees," it makes a world of sense.
I'm just guessing on this, and the writer will let me know if I am mistaken, but the Pharisees in Jesus time had become cold-hearted legalists who were sticklers to the "letter of the Law" even though they broke it every single day in secret.

If you read Matthew chapters 21, 22, and 23, you will see that the most scathing rebukes that ever came from Jesus" lips, were to these religious leaders, who were known to "bind heavy burdons on others" though, they themselves would not follow them. Jesus was the Lord of the Sabbath, yet He broke it time after time... in order to heal people and do other miracles. It seems that the things Jesus hated the most were false piety, religious pretense, and religious hypocracy. His kingdom was one of kindness, love toward each other, forgiveness, mercy, life here and now, and life that shall never end.

The writer is pretty smart, and I have many many mistakes and turned words around that I didn't mean to, because I was tired when I wrote the post. I think we all do it every now and then. Thank goodness, this program has a way to edit our goofs.

Not to get off on a tangent, but don't misunderstand the TRUE problem regarding the Pharisees. The term "hypocrite and hypocrisy" were the defining factor that Jesus stressed....not that they were teaching the law, but that they were speaking one thing and doing something totally different when not in sight, and sometimes, even when they were in sight. Their hearts were not sold out to the Lord.


Matthew 23:1 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2 "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. 3 So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.


He/Jesus used the term hypocrites 6 times within that particular chapter alone....not to mention how many other times He used it in the Gospels.


In His Love,
Suzanne

...but we don't want to come across as a Pharisee....right?

Sharon,

Again, I have no idea what you mean. Because others copy from what other people wrote, this means they are not being like a Pharisee? This isn't making any sense. Please explain. Using other's written text is saying you don't have an opinion, that's all I meant.

The Pharisees were the religious leaders who eventually put Jesus on the cross...and used the Roman Government to do it. They were wealthy and greedy and were looking for a rich King who would give them all the land and property for as far as they could see and travel. Instead, the Messiah was born in a manger, to a poor family, and preached the Kingdom of God as being a spiritual, Heavenly one, and not a rich King who would give them everything on this Earth. Because of this, they hated Jesus, and sought to destroy Him.

Please Read those Chapters in Matthew (21,22, and 23) where Jesus calls them a "den of vipers" and exposes them for what they really are. Also, remember, that He never spoke this way to the common person and the sinner, and never, did He call them hypocrites. This is better reading, with more truth and drama, than anything you will find on TV, in books, or in Blockbuster Video. You will pretty much get the jist of it by the time you are finished with these three chapters.

So, to answer your question, because Jesus was not highly critical of people who are trying to learn and teach, and because He did not call common people hypocrites, we don't either. We are obligated to discern what is right and wrong and to learn the Truths that are taught in the Bible, but we look silly when we point our finger at another and say, "you bad, naughty, sinful drudge.....why do you do this and do that?" there are so many better ways to represent the teachings of Jesus.

Also, it's ok to quote from the work of others, and especially quoting from The Bible. The only thing is: you don't want to try to make money off of somebody else's works because you could get into legal trouble. Hope this helps.

You will this day be blessed to go o see Heaven and enojoy the marvelous Revelation will have in store as mankinds surprise, Remembrance, your name is written in my heart, let us go and testify before His Throne!

Blessed are those that stand in the gap with me. I praise my God Yahweh for sending me these awsome warriors to fill the ranks, as I was preparing to face satan head on alone.

Once again, God, you have truely humbled and amazed me!
May my sould forever belong to You!

I have noticed that most people do give credit to the Author and publication, and I have allowed others to use my own work, as long as it's used to admonish and uplift and not handed over to satan for his own purpose.

Sharon,

Maybe I have not read enough topics, but the ones I have read even though they give credit, they still copy it and what is the point of that if you don't have an opinion but someone else's? That is wrong unless you ask the person first.

And ThisWind, thank you for the welcoming PM. I am happy you feel blessed. I have many thoughts but will be posting in the near future.

You wicked lot, those who will listen to and exhalt every word as long as it it is not the Word of God, now I shall demonstrate that the only living God is perfectly able to speak.

And ye shall not know where it is coming from. But I will perfectly warn you, and give you the keys to your Salvation as well. When ye resist and reject, than let it be written in stone, your choice. For it will be made to your own indulgance.

ThisWind, you sound like a prophet of God. Raw, but surefooted and clear. I like when someone proclaims the word of God in a very bold way. It shows how much they love God.

Do you have to come on here and start problems. I think you have been here before and if you have than you are a liar. I am so so tried of this.
A newbie doesnt just come on here and start this junk. 81 post in five hours and you joined today!
I ask you in the name of God to stop pretending.

Jeremiah 28

[5] Then the prophet Jeremiah said unto the prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests, and in the presence of all the people that stood in the house of the LORD,
[6] Even the prophet Jeremiah said, Amen: the LORD do so: the LORD perform thy words which thou hast prophesied, to bring again the vessels of the LORD's house, and all that is carried away captive, from Babylon into this place.
[7] Nevertheless hear thou now this word that I speak in thine ears, and in the ears of all the people;
[8] The prophets that have been before me and before thee of old prophesied both against many countries, and against great kingdoms, of war, and of evil, and of pestilence.
[9] The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the LORD hath truly sent him.
[10] Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke from off the prophet Jeremiah's neck, and brake it.
[11] And Hananiah spake in the presence of all the people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Even so will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all nations within the space of two full years. And the prophet Jeremiah went his way.
[12] Then the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah the prophet, after that Hananiah the prophet had broken the yoke from off the neck of the prophet Jeremiah, saying,
[13] Go and tell Hananiah, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Thou hast broken the yokes of wood; but thou shalt make for them yokes of iron.
[14] For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him: and I have given him the beasts of the field also.
[15] Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah; The LORD hath not sent thee; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie.
[16] Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the LORD.
[17] So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month.

Dont get it!

Neither do I

Jeremiah - true prophet with bad news
Hananiah - false prophet with good news

got it!

Al, I'm thrilled that your son has found a Church that he likes and has the support of other young Christians. I have always been leary about peer pressure with my kids too, especially in schools and colleges where even the teachers are so liberal and don't believe.

One of the big surprises in my life, was the discovery that my kids learned how to defend the faith by listening to me. It surprised me, because I didn't know they were even listening. You've just got to trust this guy, and keep in mind that, when they have to defend something.....they love that something more than they ever did. Things will occur when you are no where around that will build his faith even stronger, and when and if, you finally get to hear about it, you will be astounded. I consider this a great move on your son's part!

I would suggest that you begin your own thread instead of becoming bored by reading someone else's work. I begin to question a poster when they claim to know the new testament inside and outside. Anyone that can make such a claim, usually believes they know everything, and that there is little to learn and hence they need little growth. It's very difficult for know it all's to Spiritually grow...possible with the guidance of the Holy Spirit but difficult.

I post and cut and use the authors name in order to begin a conversation. Someone with more teaching and writing skills than I can best teach this course. The articles are starting points in deeper conversations. This topic is on discerning and by your comments you really need the class. But hey, go learn on another site if you will.

As always I am attempting to learn in order to fend off false prophets/teachers from our newbie Christians.

Kim, this is not a newbie poster, she is just on this thread to put this wind on a pedestal. BTW- This wind is Justice who is back on this forum. All doubts will be removed and the poster unmasked if there becomes any sort of contention in this thread. And I am staying out of trouble...with the help of God I will ignore certain posters but I will not ignore GOD'S words.

Gods Blessings,

Al

I know Al. Ya know I wonder if they dont have anything better to do with their time. Man we got people on here that are really strange and needs God help fast. Dont they have children or jobs or something to keep them busy? Are they so far out of it their not seeing what they are doing here?
Ladies I am sick of it. Go find a hobby or one of your children must need you sometime. Why come on here and share your miserable life with us.

You hijacked my threads for five days, now you will sit out the same. Period.

I have been gone for hours and came back to check the weather status, and to see what news there was and this comes up. I don't like being accused of things I have not done, or if you have mistaken me for another, then I'm sorry if I appear that way, but I am certainly not here to put nobody on a pedestal but Jesus. He is the only one worthy. To agree with someone is not a crime. I apologize if your thread has been overwhelmed, please allow me to stay out of the way of any problems. I only met ThisWind today while posting and there are many good points that he/she made that were so bullseye to what I was feeling in my spirit. I will make another topic if this is what you want. I don't know the protocol. Aren't you allowed to post in any topic you want? I will not do it whatever it seems is upsetting you. I asked a question which was relevant and when I came back a few minutes ago to check the new posts, it feels like I had gotte run over by a truck. I don't know what I did that made everyone here feel so hostile toward me, and no, I'm not a newbie to forums, maybe just to this one, but never was treated like this. I will not post on this thread anymore since it seems there are those who would rather I did not like a particular person here. Why? I don't know. But I will allow the Lord to give me insight if need be. I am going, sorry to bother you. And Kim, I am not miserable, have had hobbies my whole life and was here to learn more about the bible codes and for fellowship. I found a friend and I am being cast away because of it? I am not understanding anything anyone is saying today. Maybe it's just not my day, but I am new here, but not new to forums by any stretch. My children are grown and moved away. And yes, I have plenty of time to take care of my grandkids when asked. I have been reading this forum for a long time but have not registered. Since I am interested in the latest hurricane I had some questions today and happened to make a friend in the process. Maybe I will start another thread. Did not mean to tread on your toes.

To Our Forum Family,

I have put "This Wind" and "Remembrance" on my ignore list. I am really eager to continue learning on this subject and I look forward to reading your posts. In these last days it is imperative that we learn how to discern between the good guys/bad guys. The demons are coming in the last days to cause disharmony and confusion. Be on your guard. We need the truth in Gods words to keep on exposing untruth in false prophets. I am interested in hearing from all of you, with the exception of two because I am not going to participate in a forum food fight again. I am soaring with the eagles and refusing to feed with the turkeys . Isn't it great to soar with the words of God in our ears?

In Christian Love,

Al

One of my favorite songs:

"Don't go riding on that long black train."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gybGXnciig

Folks in these days we can't afford to substitute truth for untruth for the sake of peace. And be at peace for there is "Victory iin the Lord..."

Oh, so I understand now. You don't like Thiswind, so you don't like me. I suppose this is the games people play here? I've seen it played on many other forums too. It doesn't bother me if you associate me with someone else. Maybe your wounds run deep and you need some balm of Jesus. I will pray for your unnecessary hostility.

Al....

I've put Jutice, i.e. The Wind and Remembrance, i.e. IrishRose, on my ignore list.

But for some reason....I am still seeing their posts.

Anyone know why that is?

Cindy,

It is confusing; I know. Did you put them on your PM ignore list or the ignore list with all posts? I have chosen to ignore them in my PM's and on the posts they authored. BTW- I have reported them both....again. But need I remind anyone that with all the bad stuff happening in Davids life that this is small potatoes? So Justice and Rose...behave yourselves for your self serving posts are nothing in comparison to what David and his family are undergoing at this very moment. Can we all be in prayer for them?

Cindy, pleeze keep ignoring them. The more you feed trolls the more meat they crave. Don't allow trolls any sort of control in your life. BTW- Rose your easy to spot....always have to have the last word! And Justice is also easy to spot...always have to hex somebody with a cuss but then at the end of a day Justice and Rose hang with one another.


This study on discsernment will resume tomorrow.

In Christian Love,

Al

For whatever curses they proclaim on others.....they will get it back ten fold.

Just a matter of time.

And how does one put them on ignore completely, where you cannot see or get anything from them...EVER!?! That is what I want.

It will also put them in danger of the Judgement. Putting curses on a brother or sister is not to be taken lightly.