It says a lot. It says that ultimately that Being a Christian is more about RELATIONSHIP than it is about rules or religion. This catchy saying is palatable, but is it biblical?

The least I’m gonna do is find out….

In addition to this there is a very popular video circulating around the internet by a brother named Jefferson Bethke entitled “Why I hate Religion and Love Jesus”  Take a look at it because it is very important to the context of this blog.

CRITICISM OF THE VIDEO

There has been much criticism of the Religion video above. Posted on January 10th, 2012, it already has 6 million views as the date of this post, and already traditional types who are deep in the IC mindset and belief system have criticized the video. I understand some of their points, and knowing how many of them define the term “religion” I might agree to a certain extent. The bible does refer to “pure and undefiled” religion as I will explain below,  and because of this many have concluded that Christianity is indeed a religion. However, I need those who are reading this blog to think a bit deeper than the surface here.

You probably do not know this blog …:::Set FREE From the IC:::…  is all about exposing the false religious system that I call the Institutional Church which I believe has enveloped and put a scaffold around true biblical Christianity, much like the religious sects during and before Jesus’ time on Earth.  These traditions, customs and rituals in this system are extra biblical, and serve as extra burdens to the people of God, and have nothing to do with the worship of our Lord. I believe this is the “religion” Bethke speaks of…. the type of religious outward works which motives are rooted in hiding sin in an individual, and promoting self-righteousness. This is the kind of religion which blinds those who claim to be in the light, and like the bible said about the Pharisees,  they “shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces.” They themselves do not enter, nor will they let those enter who are trying to.

So before you are dismissive of the video or the contents of what is being said, consider the context of what is being said, without getting into semantics about the definition of the word religion, which I will show you below, has different contexts in today’s modern society. It is clear to most believers what the Bethke is speaking of.

Truth be told, I think many religious people are afraid of talk like this. Let’s explore.

QUESTION – Is Christianity a RELIGION, RELATIONSHIP, RULES TO FOLLOW?

The question was raised recently, mainly by Spirit promptings and that little tugging at the soul which never went away … and I think a clarification of terms is necessary before we draw any further conclusions. So to be honest this note is helping me, and I hope it helps you.

SO WHAT IS RELIGION?

So glad you asked!

Merriam-Webster defines religion as:

1a : the state of a religious

b (1) : the service and worship of God or the supernatural

(2) : commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance

2: a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices

3 archaic : scrupulous conformity : conscientiousness

4: a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith

In the bible when the word is used (In particular James 1:26-27)

thrēskeia (From Blue Letter Bible)

1) religious worship

a) esp. external, that which consists of ceremonies

1) religious discipline, religion

The word “religion” in English is used again in Galatians 1:13-14 as Paul talks about his Jewish faith…

Ioudaïsmos (From Blue Letter Bible)

1) the Jewish faith and worship, religion of the Jews, Judaism

In today’s world, and certainly when I refer to it in modern-day terms, religion simply is a set of religious principles, works and ritualistic customs which center around efforts to worship a super human power or (G)od(s), OR these same set of rituals, works and customs to obtain some sort of enlightenment, higher consciousness, nirvana etc.

Religion collectively in this context is seen as a divisive and destructive practice by Christian and non-Christian alike, mainly because each religion has its own assertions about their higher power which logically conflict. Religion is blamed for wars, strife, death, and much suffering throughout the world. Every major religion can name professors of their faiths who have perpetrated bloody, brutal atrocities throughout the centuries in the name of their religion.

The WORLD considers these the main religions: (From About.com 2011)

1)The “Christian” Group – 2,116,909,552

which consists of:

a) 1,117,759,185 Roman Catholics

b) 372,586,395 Protestants

c) 221,746,920 Orthodox and

d) 81,865,869 Anglicans

2) Muslims – 1,282,780,149

3) Hindus – 856,690,863

4) Buddhists – 381,610,979

5) Sikhs – 25,139,912

6) Judaism – 14,826,102

And…

a) Others – 814,146,396

b) Non-Religious – 801,898,746

c) Atheists – 152,128,701

Keeping these definitions in mind is VERY important, especially about how many view religion TODAY, to make sure that when someone makes a slogan like the one pictured, you know where they are coming from.

TRUE RELIGION

As always wanna thank my sister who reminded me today what PURE and UNDEFILED religion is in the scriptures:

James 1:26-27 (NIV84)

If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

1 Timothy 5:4 (NIV84)

But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.

Jesus himself tells of the things we will be commended for when we see him in Heaven:

Matthew 25 (NIV84)

34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.

35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,

36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?

38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?

39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

40 “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

Unfortunately in FALSEHOOD and HYPOCRISY we all have seen too much defiled, and impure religion around us. THIS kind of religion, FALSE RELIGION is the kind of religion which KILLS, which emphasizes rules and regulations vs. genuine right relationship with the Father through Christ. It’s what I believe Jesus came to destroy.When many people think of religion they aren’t thinking of it in terms of pure religion in the scripture but how the world has seen DEFILED AND IMPURE religion… The kind of religion I and others in Christ HATE… hence the confusion over whether Christianity is religion or not. *smile*

IS CHRISTIANITY A RELIGION?

The answer to the question is dependent on which definition you are going to use. Are we talking Merriam Webster? The Bible’s definition? The WORLD’S definition? The answer? Well… I will leave that up to the person who reads this to draw their own conclusions.

So in my effort to renew my mind and make sure that I am embracing biblical concepts, and not just clichéd jargon I learned in the IC, what do I believe? YES Christianity is MORE about your relationship with Jesus Christ, because this is from where TRUE RELIGION… those OUTWARD, EVIDENT, AND EXTERNAL good works which God has prepared for us in advance… flows. Christianity should be to simply follow Christ. To be in Christ is to be reconciled to the Father. That is the best and most edifying relationship… HOWEVER one’s relationship with God can be one of enmity and separation.

RELIGION WHICH FLOWS OUT OF FLESH DAMNS TO HELL

The flesh loves false religion: Man’s vain attempt with customs, practices, and rituals to get closer to God and cover their sin. We have to remember that God has told us in the scriptures that people have done such for centuries, especially in Israel’s history.

Important to also note: One can feed the poor, fatherless, widow, visit those in prison AND STILL GO TO HELL. One can do all of these external acts of righteousness and still have DEFILED RELIGION because as the scriptures teach us, it is not what goes into a man (external) which makes him unclean, it is what comes out. (internally) One can do those works, not to the glory of Christ, but to glorify themselves… It has always been about the heart and motives when it comes to the Lord, and it is only a heart which is devoted to Christ, desires to love him and love their neighbor from which TRUE BIBLICAL RELIGION can flow. I don’t think people realize that God in the flesh came and REPLACED the religious system of the Levitical Priesthood, sacrifice, etc. HE created with HIM. True religion will flow from relationship in HIM. No where else… only in Christ.

Another Important Note: People do not want to accept THE FACT that we have built a false religious system around Christianity… in fact, people have started to confuse that false religious system with biblical Christianity.

This is why false hypocritical religious systems MUST BE CONFRONTED and dealt with, and this is why I LOVE the video in this post. Jesus did it in his day and so should we. Jesus came to set people free from sin, and all things which bound them, including false religious tradition taught as doctrines of men by the religious establishment of his day. Jesus said that these traditions made the word of God to no effect, and make no mistake about it, this is SIN, which is also a WORK OF THE DEVIL.

We have built a false religious system around Christ, and have bound many a saint, without lifting a finger to help them with the burdens we have placed on them. Jesus’ yoke is easy and his burden is LIGHT.

I will gladly let the Lord work in me in his plan to do such. Just another perspective. Grace and Peace to the brethren.

While God looks at our sins individually as believers, there is biblical precedence for God looking at the church as a WHOLE when they refuse to be obedient to his command. Sin is running rampant among the body of Christ in IC’s today, and it must be addressed. This is why this blog exists.

The seven churches in Asia Minor Jesus wrote (Revelation 2 and 3) did wonderful things in his sight, yet for some of those churches, Christ had something AGAINST THEM.

For Ephesus they forgot their first love which is CHRIST.

Pergamum had people who held to the teachings of Balaam (Idolatry and Sexual Immorality) and the Nicolatians, (Authoritarian and controlling doctrines which conquer and destroy the people.)

Thyatira tolerated those who have the Jezebel spirit and enticed people away from God and into serving Idols and Sexual Immorality. (Sound familiar?)

Sardis had a reputation for being a live and active church, but in reality, they were DEAD.

Laodicea worst of all was  LUKE WARM in their faith, neither being cold or hot. They also loved money and thought that money, prosperity, and being RICH made them more spiritual and not in need of the grace of God… God told them that they were REALLY WRETCHED, PITIFUL, POOR, BLIND AND NAKED! The harshest words were for them, God didn’t even commend them on anything GOOD!

The point being: GOD IS NOT PLEASED WITH SIN IN THE CAMP.

You can cry out all you want to God for relief, you can pray, fast, praise, shout… It doesn’t mean anything unless you deal with sin in the camp and obey Christ.

I look at some churches in the news, scandals which have risen this year from within many IC’s this year, and the call for the church is always to “just pray about it,” “don’t judge,”  “touch not mine anointed,” etc.

Forgive my Ebonics here but God ain’t tryna hear dat. The scriptures are PLAIN and instead of obeying God and doing what he has already commanded us to do, we ignore him, yet cry out for relief, not realizing God’s hand is in all of this exposure of false prophets and teachers.

We cry “don’t judge” when God has already judged us, Judgment begins in the house of God… We cry “Touch not mine anointed!” when according to Jude, God has anointed or chosen some to go to blackest darkness because they refuse to REPENT.

I think of an incident in Israel’s history in Joshua 7 where Achan sinned by taking some of the “devoted things” and God’s anger burned against ISRAEL. They went out with 3,000 men to fight a battle with the men of Ai which they should have easily won because there were few men there and got their behinds handed to them. The bible says the people’s heart became like water because they were so discouraged by the defeat.

They cried out to God, got the elders, the people etc. together to pray and fast before the Lord. Israel had NEVER lost a battle under the Lord’s direction… God was ALWAYS WITH THEM since he brought them out of Egypt.

So what was the problem, why didn’t God give them the victory they were wanting?

Joshua 7:10-12 (NIV84)

The LORD said to Joshua, “Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions. That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore UNLESS YOU DESTROY WHATEVER AMONG YOU IS DEVOTED TO DESTRUCTION.”

This cannot be ignored saints, whether it be in our personal lives or collectively as the Body of Christ. Jesus is serious about holiness and righteousness. He is coming back for a bride without spot or wrinkle. What are we doing to obey Christ and remove sin from the camp of our lives? Do we make excuses and say “oh God forgives” or “God understands” or the ever dreadful “God knows my heart?”

The same is true in our congregations. Are we tolerating sin from those who we think are untouchable, ourselves even? Is obeying Christ the most important thing in your fellowship, or have you been sidelined like the folks in Asia Minor?

In light of the New Year, let us examine ourselves more today… what sin have you amongst the camp? What evil have you not purged from among you? What weight have you not laid aside?

BELIEVERS! There is sin in the camp. And God is not pleased. Our Lord God is the same and he changes not. The same holy standard he had for his people Israel he has for believers today. Let’s learn from Israel’s history: These people obeyed God and removed sin from the camp, and as the scripture says God’s anger turned away from them. No let’s not stone and burn the immoral brother or sister in the Lord, but LOVINGLY lead them to repentance God’s way, but DO NOT tolerate their sin. God gave each of the churches in Asia Minor a choice to obey him, and a promise that he would bless them for their obedience. He has given us his Holy Spirit so we have the power to obey him. The ball is proverbially in our court.

Isaiah 1:2-20

Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth!  For the LORD has spoken: “I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows his master, the donkey his owner’s manger, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people loaded with guilt, a brood of evildoers, children given to corruption!

They have forsaken the LORD; they have spurned the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on him. Why should you be beaten anymore? Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted. From the sole of your foot to the top of your head there is no soundness—only wounds and welts and open sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with oil. Your country is desolate, your cities burned with fire; your fields are being stripped by foreigners right before you, laid waste as when overthrown by strangers.

The Daughter of Zion is left like a shelter in a vineyard, like a hut in a field of melons, like a city under siege. Unless the LORD Almighty had left us some survivors, we would have become like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah.

Hear the word of the LORD, you rulers of Sodom; listen to the law of our God, you people of Gomorrah! “The multitude of your sacrifices— what are they to me?” says the LORD.

“I have more than enough of burnt offerings, of rams and the fat of fattened animals; I have no pleasure in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats. When you come to appear before me, who has asked this of you, this trampling of my courts? Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is detestable to me. New Moons, Sabbaths and convocations—I cannot bear your evil assemblies. Your New Moon festivals and your appointed feasts  my soul hates. They have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.

When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood; wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.

“Come now, let us reason together,”  says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land;  but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.”  For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

 1 Corinthians 5:12-13
What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” – Deut. 17:7; 19:19; 21:21; 22:21,24; 24:7

While adamantly denying she was a “witch” but a “witch for Jesus,” Oyedepo then called a woman who was kneeling as part of an altar call a “foul devil” asking her “do you know who you are talking to?” then slapping the woman in the face in plain view of the entire congregation. The woman clearly denied being a witch. Oyedepo then dismissed the woman, telling her “You are not set for deliverance, and you are free to go to hell.”

Wow… if that’s not a WWJD moment?

Would Jesus do this? To add insult to injury, Oyedepo one year later then brags about the incident in front of his congregation to applause. Oyedepo claims the woman came back to him and begged him for forgiveness. Manipulation at its height.

Wikipedia reports that David O. Oyedepo, affectionately called “Papa” by members of his church congregation (born September 27, 1954) is a Nigerian Christian author, Preacher and the founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church World Wide also known as Winners Chapel and its affiliated International churches known as Winners Chapel International, with headquarters in Ogun State, Nigeria. He is also the senior pastor of Faith Tabernacle, a 50,000 seat church auditorium reputed to be the largest church auditorium in the world by the Guinness Book of Records.The Winners Chapel network of churches is present in over 300 cities in all states of Nigeria, as well as in over 63 cities in 32 African Nations, Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.Oyedepo has been seen as one of pioneers of the Christian charismatic movement in Africa and has been referred to as one of the most powerful preachers in Nigeria.

Much like the Salem witch hunts in early American history, it is quite popular in Africa to abuse, humiliate, and sometimes even kill suspected witches and warlocks, and this behavior is embraced amongst some professing Christians there as well.

Again, we have a case of another wolf who we have allowed to creep in amongst us. The behavior of this man is reprehensible, and no where do I see in the scripture Jesus violently dealing with anyone who was demon possessed. I can’t help but mourn over the mass deception concerning the Word of Faith movement, especially since there seems to only be few which benefit from the falsehood, including Oyedepo who is reported worth $150 Million,  and much like his counterparts Creflo Dollar & TD Jakes,  Kenneth Copeland etc. who fly around in their own private jets, and live like worldly kings. The video is gaining worldwide popularity and criticism and people are calling worldwide for action against the pastor.

Just another day in the IC where authority is abused through false systems. Incidents like this will continue to happen when one man is set as an controlling authority over people… I mean how many times must something like this happen…. and the people love it so?

To the Shepherds, and the Scattered Sheep of Israel I hope these scriptures serve as a warning, or comfort as it applies.

With so many Christians fleeing from apostasy in today’s American church, where do you point the multitudes to? How can we counsel these ones who have been hurt and burned by a false church? How can we as Christians whether we belong to the Institutional Church or not, show them love and compassion?

This video will cover those questions as best I can and much more, how Christians are leaving IC’s and going into aberrant teachings and cult groups who are leading them farther away from Christ and godliness.

My heart is heavy as I write concerning the recent death of the well known Televangelist and Preacher Zachery Tims, who was recently found dead in the W Times Square Hotel in New York City. The media has reported that there was a “white powdery substance” found in his pockets, and he was found lying face up on the floor of his hotel room. What make this more tragic is that he was only 42 years old.

Now this blog is not to speculate or gossip concerning the final moments of his life, because that is yet to be determined, however, as I look at the life of this man, from what he has written about himself in the book It’s Never Too Late, he describes how he as a “teenage criminal” who was addicted to cocaine was convicted of attempted murder and was incarcerated for two years in juvenile facilities as a child. He says he overcame this by becoming born again, and finding his “divine destiny,” becoming a successful businessman, and founding the church he of which he was Senior Pastor, New Destiny Christian Center.

According to the report in Charisma Magazine, Pastors Zachery and wife Riva Tims ended their 15-year-marriage in late July 2008, two years after it was discovered that Zachery Tims had an affair with an exotic dancer he met in Paris. He released a statement to Charisma magazine on August 14, 2009.  Zachery Tims stated, “I submitted myself to an ecumenical council  of clergy that came into my ministry and ran the spiritual operations while I submitted myself to a counseling and ministry facility for several months out of state.” Tims said it was never his intention to hurt his family, “It was never my intention to hurt anyone, and over this reality I have spent many days seeking God’s grace.   I am grateful for the love my family continues to extend to me as an individual and as a child of God.” He returned to the pulpit three months later, after beginning counseling with a group of ministers. His ex-wife Riva then began Majestic Life Church where she is the pastor.

Tims was extremely charismatic in his preaching. He had his own television program which appeared regularly on Christian television networks entitled No Limits, and his Church, New Destiny Christian Center, had over 8,000 participants.

His wake and funeral, attracted “superstar” Mega Church preachers. T.D. Jakes preached at his funeral, Jamal Bryant, and other mega church leaders such as Paula White, who Tims called his “Spiritual Mother,” were in attendance as well.

Is “Sitting Down” The Proper Biblical Approach to Sin?

Many churches are quick to “sit down” leaders who are caught in public sin only to put them back in roles the bible disqualifies them from assuming. When someone has been involved in some scandal or sin revealed publicly, or at least amongst members of the church,  church leaders tell the spiritual leader or ministry member take a “hiatus” from assuming their role either in leadership or other positions, and usually go through some counseling or waiting out the cause of reproach. (such as a pregnancy out of wedlock, shacking up etc.)

While I do believe that certain offenses and reproach can be removed from those in leadership and they can return to their role, was three months sitting down enough time for Tims to get over the pain and circumstances of his divorce and get back into the responsibilities of being an elder? Should Zachery Tims have been able to return to the pulpit looking at the qualifications if 1 Tim 3? What was the reasoning for him returning so quickly? Was it because Tims was THE face of NDCC? Was it his persona and charisma, for he was quite the dynamic and charismatic preacher? Was it the fact that the people demanded that he eventually return, or was it his desire solely to return to the role that outweighed all other dissent at the time?

In the aftermath of all of this, I wonder about how his soul was cared for in the church. What were the men who counseled him thinking when (and if) they recommended he return after such a short time? Was there ever time set aside for him to try to reconcile his marriage after adultery? As they say in certain parts “Somethin’ in the milk ain’t clean,” but the truth of the matter is clear to me:  Zachery Tims should have never been allowed to operate in the role as an elder after the news of his adultery was aired publicly. The bible is clear about elders being above reproach, having a good reputation with outsiders, and being the husband of one wife, and this scandal concerning his infidelity disqualified him from assuming the role of an elder. I can’t help but to think that the very leaders who preached and attended his funeral themselves have been revealed in infidelity, (Paula White and Jamal Bryant) and continue to preach yet they are not qualified due to public scandal of their own.

The Church for decades have ignored the warnings from scripture when it comes to dealing with brothers and sisters caught in sin. Whether repentance is present, or blatant unrepentant sin is evidenced, Matthew 18:15-20 clearly tells us how to deal with saints concerning sin, as well as Gal 6:1-2, 1 Cor 5, 2 Cor 2:5-11,  And passages in 1 Tim 5:1-2, 19-20, tell us how to specifically deal with pastors in the same context.

Zachery Tims and his wife Riva Tims

Family is the FIRST Ministry

It is obvious from pure observation that members of NDCC, especially the elders amongst them, should have had an active role in protecting their pastor and their congregation from further scrutiny. YES, not only is your pastor to care for YOU, but the body of Christ is to care for their pastor for he is a brother in the Lord. Amidst the charisma, flash, shouting, praising etc., there should have been SOMEONE to speak up and say “NO Pastor, you need to get your married life in order, you need to take some MORE time to mend fences with your wife and family.” If someone did step up, this man’s sin seems to have been glanced over as if it were some small thing that three months of sitting down could supposedly fix. It is never that simple.

No one knows all the details concerning what has happened in Tims’ marriage, but infidelity is a SURE SIGN THERE WERE PROBLEMS. Did someone care about this man’s soul? Or were we too busy wanting to be entertained by him to notice his marriage was falling apart? The church has certainly forgotten that the first ministry ordained on earth was that of marriage and the family. Today it is more about “ministry” and building big buildings and organizations. This monster of man’s creation, known as the Institutional Church turns men into idols and people into idolaters… and we know what God does to idols and those who worship them right? He utterly destroys them.

God Is Speaking: Are We Listening?

“God has something sobering to say to us through the death of this popular preacher.” – J. Lee Grady contributing editor of Charisma Magazine

When a preacher with the popularity of Tims dies at such a young age, there are always lessons to take from his life.  While there were points of doctrine and practice for which I have disagreements with Mr. Tims,  I do respect the fact that he did lead a congregation, but that is neither here or there. None of that matters now being that he is passed on.

What I do see today is God exposing darkness to the light, and sending shock waves through the church.  Over the last few decades or so, God has been exposing false teachers and preachers very publicly for who they are. The question remains, are his people listening? Do the sheep hear God’s voice or are we still yet asleep?

In our permissive culture we’ve lost the will to confront. God’s commandments have become suggestions. Accountability is viewed as legalistic. Morality has been redefined. And we’ve dropped holiness from our vocabulary.

As a result of our spiritual laxness, congregations not only tolerate but celebrate leaders who are unrepentant about their moral failures. As long as adulterous preachers tickle ears and soothe guilty consciences with empty words about prosperity, big crowds will keep the offering plates full. This fake religious game is a mockery of all that is decent and godly.

I won’t win any popularity contests for saying this. But I believe the Lord is speaking a sobering message to us through the death of Zachery Tims. God will not be mocked. As in the days of Isaiah, the Lord is saying to His people: “I’ve had enough!” (Is. 1:11, NASB).

The Lord is weary of our religious games. He’s going to close down the show. Judgment begins in the house of God. The fire of His holiness is going to be unleashed on the American church. Ministries that have been built on personality, pride, hype, charlatanism, fakery and compromise are going to crumble.

Leaders who strut on the stage, pretending to be men of God while hiding gross immorality, are on a collision course with the same God who struck Ananias and Sapphira dead in the book of Acts. We who celebrate God’s kindness must also know His severity. We who love to preach about His mercy must also know “it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God” ( Heb. 10:31). We who sing about heaven must also warn people about hell. – Oretha Winston Elev8.com Blog

A Message for Pastors, Leaders and The Congregation: Don’t Cover Sin!

Hindsight is 20/20 in the face of this tragedy. I do hope that there is someone reading this blog who takes heed. Please know that exposing sin publicly is the LAST RESORT for God concerning those who remain unrepentant. Go to a brother/sister who cares about you and let them win you over to the truth. Those in trouble and in sin with seemingly nowhere to turn, please remember the demise of Zachery Tims. Please know that if you need help don’t hide it, but go to someone in the body of Christ.

Listen to Him:

Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

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

The church has covered up sin for too long. David said he acknowledged his sin to God and did not cover up his iniquity. The Proverbs tell us that He who covers his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Find mercy in the forgiveness of God… you don’t need a big ministry, lots of money, fame, prosperity etc. You need the mercies and love of God. He is the only one who can make it right.

As for the rest of you, who continue to put your pastors and spiritual leaders on pedestals so high the thin air up there suffocates them, God is going to hold you accountable for YOUR ACTIONS.  YES your pastor IS HUMAN. NO your pastor is NOT PERFECT.  YES your pastor will have to give an account for his own life, but we cannot continue to use these things as an excuse when they fall into sin. You cannot exalt your leaders to demigods and then cry “He’s not perfect!” or “He’s just human!” when your actions demonstrate to him that he is not. You ignore his sin, persecute those who point it out, treat him like a king, and try to protect him from the consequences of his sin even when he is dead wrong. The of exalting and idolatry of leadership and denominations has proven to be destructive.

Lord may we all learn something from this tragedy. PLEASE.

I promised myself I would answer his questions honestly, and I thought it would be best to put them in a blog setting.

The best place to start is where he addresses qualifications for pastors, how pastors are chosen, and how they are to conduct themselves. I do not need to reinvent the wheel here…

“How does an elder or pastor become a pastor?”
For one the desire has to be put in the heart of one. According to 1 Tim 3 he who desires to be a bishop desires a noble task.

“How is he appointed? Who appoints him? What distinguishes him to feed the rest of the flock and how is that distinction recognized by the others. How does a group of people know someone has been called to lead them?”
Your question comes with the assumption that an elder is appointed… I happen to believe that is true, because elders should be recognized amongst the community they are part of. When Paul instructed Titus concerning appointing elders, he was to appoint elders in every city. These men were already living out the character requirements in 1 Tim 3, and are already worthy of respect. These elders were to be godly men who has their families in order and blameless character. This is what Paul gave us in the scriptures to look for.

“What areas does can the pastor speak to in the life of a believer specifically. You list specifics in the negative but not the positive.”
Concerning this blog, I wouldn’t agree that I only list the negative concerning the role of pastors, I make it a point to make sure that people know for sure how to determine what elders should NOT be doing. I made it clear that I believe that God has given elders the authority in Christ to rebuke, exhort, teach, encourage, and lead the body of Christ in many areas which promote holiness and godly instruction.

“What areas ? How is a wolf exposed ? By whom ? How do I know you are not a wolf in sheep’s clothing ? Are you wolf or sheep ? If you say you are a sheep why should I believe your answer.”
That is interesting…  The bible says that you will know his disciples by their love for one another. Obviously since I don’t know you I don’t know if you have this love, nor can you determine for the most part if I possess it.  The bible also says you will know them (false prophets, his people, wolves, sheep etc.) by their fruit. If the fruit you have to examine is this website, by all means do so. Thankfully only God knows the heart.

“Is is not obvious from Scripture that a true godly leader is also the servant of all. Would not a true shepherd in God’s kingdom diligently examine his heart and motives continually to make certain his doctrine is sound and his character and heart are pure.

“And having done that how does he know with absolute certainty that he is sound on all levels ? Does he decide within himself ? Does the give himself the seal of approval by virtue of his own sense of authority ? What is he is deceived or in error ? Who corrects him ? How can he know he is deceived or correct ? To whom is he accountable ? For that matter to whom are you accountable ? How can I verify you are a man who speaks for God other than your own word for it. How can I verify your references are trustworthy ?”

I feel like I am on trial. LOL.  It is very obvious from the scriptures. The leaders amongst us are the greatest servants of all. Even with all examination, and due diligence a leader (or anyone) may exhibit, there is need for accountability on all levels. Anyone who does anything by their own authority will use fleshly ways to maintain that authority, and that is exactly what Christ condemns in the Pharisees and others who do the same.

As far as accountability, I take great pains to try the content of a post before I post anything on this blogsite. I am part of a fellowship of believers who hold me accountable to what I say. I make it a point to share many of my writings with them. To verify the trustworthiness of what I have said you don’t have to go to anyone. Be a Berean, and search the scriptures to see if what I have said is the truth and the Spirit will confirm. As the bible says, we only know and see in part. I do not write this blog as one who has all of the answers, but as one who knows what they know and has been given to share. God has given me the authority to speak on these matters. Who gave the prophets the authority to speak on behalf of God? Who told John the baptist to speak and baptize in the name of God, or who gave Jesus the authority to preach and teach? I think you know the answer…

“The scripture says that that role of spiritual leaders is to equip the saints unto maturity (Ephesians 4)
Wouldn’t any true leader have the goal of building people up so they can by the direction and inspiration of the holy spirit be “spirit led” and be able to by the spirit govern their affairs. Would he want to play the role of the Holy Spirit substituting himself as the as the foremost authority in the life of a Christian?”
You are absolutely right about spiritual leaders bringing the saints into maturity, however, I would challenge openly your assumption that leaders act as the Holy Spirit on behalf of the believer. That attitude is ANTICHRIST. You cannot be the Spirit in anyone’s life, because you are not God. Honestly this is why this blog exists, to counteract the exact attitudes that many in the body seem to have concerning their leaders being able to substitute themselves for God.

“If he is corrupt is it necessarily because he is part of an “institution” . Does the structure make him corrupt or his own black heart ? Can’t a man who is not part of an “institution” but considers himself a teacher also be corrupt ? How do I know you are not corrupt in some form ?”
I can tell my blog really bothers you. The last question you asked, your condescending tone etc. says it all. But I will press through to answer you.  The Institutional structure was born out of the evil heart of man. It’s the part of man who wants to have lordship authority over people. It is amazing that you cannot see this in yourself via your last comment concerning substituting for the Holy Spirit. Anyone who has an Antichrist spirit is qualified to be taken in their own corruption.

“Are you not through this blog establishing yourself as some kind of authority ? Who appointed you to write blogs teaching Christians at large ? Who are you that we should trust of believe you ? The title of your blog suggests you are someone burnt by pastors and churches ? How do we know you are not some kind of unteachable rebel what drove your pastor mad with frustration ?”
I didn’t know I needed permission to write blogs about anything. I have to ask you the same question… by what authority do you have to question the writings of these blogs I write? If you cannot answer that, I have no obligation to tell you by what authority I write these things.

Yes I have been “burnt”  by the IC, and no it is not a place I will be going anytime soon. God has taken me a long way from the resentment and hurt I once felt being pushed to the side as a member and made to feel less than nothing. These structures are not about the sheep at all, they are about keeping the system, and those in power in those systems, sustained.

As for the charge that I am an unteachable rebel, my fellowship would deny that. I will receive a word from anyone who has one in context from God. Of course these assumptions are being made about me based on my writings and not by actually knowing me… but I digress.

“What precisely do you mean by the institutional church?”
This information and much more can found in my “Definition of Terms” Page on the Website.

“Are you a home church advocate? Or a maverick Christian pontificating on the state of the church ? Other than writing blogs what are you doing to invest yourself toward the restoration of the church ?”
I’m an advocate for the Church period. You can call me Maverick all you want in your questions phrased as insults, as if I am alone in my thoughts on the church. The church need not be restored. She is already operating in the call of God she has been given. I am resting in Christ. I need not do anything but the works my Father has prepared in advance for me to do. As he leads me I will do. If you think the work you do for the Father is greater, then so be it.

“Are you yourself some kind of self appointed authority
who speaks about submission but is in no way in submission yourself ? I am not being sarcastic. I really want to know . Because you criticize those who assume unwarranted authority where they have none. How do we know you are not one of these ? Other than yourself who do we consult ?
I can tell you are a pastor… your phrases are loaded with assumptions,  sarcasm and false humility. I’m sorry it is hard to take you seriously, but I will press on. I have no authority than what has been given to me.  As long as the Lord wills I will continue to post blogs on this site. You assume that I am not under “authority,” and I know the kind of authority you speak based on your previous responses… unfortunately the authority I walk in need not be forced or proven.  Again IF YOU believe that the things I write here on this blog are not authoritative, you are free to write your own for your own edification.

“How are you a member of the body of Christ ? Does that exclude sincere believers and true shepherds who ARE part of the local church on the corner ? What precisely are you a member of and how is that “membership” manifested in your life ?”
Very simple. I hold to the testimony of Jesus Christ, his life, death, and resurrection.  I see my life unfolding as a life called onto God in works, deeds, and practice as I continue to endure till the end. My ways have been reformed, and I am a new creature in Christ. Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God. If anyone holds the same testimony they are part of the body of Christ. Notice that on this blog I make no charge to the people who remain in institutions, I do not question the salvation of anyone who remains a member there.

“Since you are a self confessed fallible individual why should anyone listen to you ? Who are you exactly ?
What is your story ? You don’t identify yourself. Why not come out in the open and tell us who you are ?
Maybe we can check you out and find some of the answers to the questions I have been asking about you.”
You want to know who I am? Those who know need to know. I mean it is really not hard… plus I don’t take well to threats.

“How should the church practically function ? Where should it meet ? How should it meet ? What should we do when we meet ? Who should lead? Someone? No one? Everyone? And when we meet do we meet regularly with the same people or as the “Lord leads” and with whomever we happen to run into who is a brother or sister. How do we determine they ARE brothers or sisters ? What is the responsibility of brothers and sisters toward one another and how is that responsibility practically carried out ?”

Finally good questions.

The church is led and headed by Christ in the most practical and spiritual of ways.  The question of “who” leads a gathering of believers is of no consequence, because those gifted to lead in the body will do so.  There is no specific place believers should meet, nor is it required that believers meet in a place called the church with a steeple. There is no requirement that believers NOT meet there either. It is a matter of preference. The institutional church does not merely consist of a building. It is the way of which an organization is run, and you can have the institutional mindset in a house meeting as well.

How we should meet is described in scripture. I would start with Acts chapter 2

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.

44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.

45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.

46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,

47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

This is what the 1st century church did with joy. They had TRUE Koinōnia Fulfilling Hebrews 10:25. It wasn’t about everything centering around a weekly service with the pastor’s sermon being the focal point, it was about believers who had all in common who exercised their spiritual gifts amongst each other, for the goal of edification, and allowing God to ADD TO THE CHURCH DAILY. We should “do” what the Spirit leads believers to do: equip one another in Christ with the tools needed to overcome sin and remain free from the pollution of the world. This is done by biblical teaching and Christian fellowship in the assembling of saints in decency and in order. God established that order for his church through his Apostles. However please make no mistake, the reason I write this blog is that many institutional structures prevent THESE VERY THINGS FROM OCCURRING.

Believers can meet at any frequency they choose, whether it is weekly, daily, bi-weekly etc. There is no prescribed formulas as to how much. I do not believe fellowship needs to be with the same people all the time, but there also should be established relationships with others in the body of Christ, and that will come naturally through believers wanting to be together. You know believers by their fruit, and the testimony of Christ they hold. I have answered some of these questions in responses above.

“Though I may seem sarcastic I am not. These are sincere questions. These are questions that the body of Christ has been trying to answer for 2000 years.”
Really, because I thought you could find many of these answers in the scriptures.

“There are great churches and lousy churches . Some are independant . Some are institutions . Others are not . Some meet in church buildings others in rented halls and even living rooms…Some are part of a formal denomination and others are not. …There are good pastor and lousy pastors…Great leaders and terrible leaders. Mature christians and immature…..I am certain one is not better than another and it is the heart that determines what glorifies God and what doesn’t…”

I would agree. This blog is not to condemn those who attend institutional churches, like the title says, there is a lot of bondage,  tomfoolery and issues with the ways many institutions are run which cause the issues I highlight in this blog. 

“This response is more for others who read this blog than for you. Your experience is obviously of one who has been deeply hurt and disillusioned by what you call the “institutional church” Not all of us share that experience.”
Pastor, don’t assume that there aren’t those who cannot relate to this blog. One of the ways people try to discredit what I write here is through relegating it to one person’s experience only. “Oh they are just hurt by church…” as if the concerns are any less valid. Don’t worry, there are plenty of others like me who have been freed from the oppression of legalism and ungodly control of those in many institutions, and we will continue to share our stories.

“I myself am a pastor and I must confess that the issues you bring up confront me everyday. But I believe in the local church and its pastors and overseers because there is no way to escape it :This is the Biblical model. I too am grieved over what it has reduced itself too but I am convinced it can be restored. We are by the grace of God “striving ” in our hearts to be Christlike and be a body of believers that is pleasing to Jesus and lays down our lives for the sake of others.”
Your conduct in your questions have been less than stellar brother. There has been nothing but assumptions and attacks in your questioning , and only few of your questions were actually substantive.

I understand. Your view of the church would cause you to defend it this way. I have seen it time and time again. What you do not see is that the “local church” you describe is not the functioning the bible describes, therefore it cannot be legitimately called “the church” at all. This is why you are so grieved, because we have gone so far away from what God prescribes for the local church that you look toward the false church as if something has gone wrong in the body.

“Your comments will force to ask questions that will make us better…and try to avoid producing people that carry the hurts and disappointments you must have experienced.”
Pastor, if you truly mean what you say, I pray you read this response to you, and with all diligence, practice letting God lead his church. You cannot be anyone’s Holy Spirit, nor can you act in the capacity of God. You can also practice some humility too… The structure of many IC’s today exalt a man to an Antichrist position where he is considered God. Isn’t that exactly what the bible says the Antichrist spirit is which is already in the world? God told us in advance the apostasy which would come, and it is here… full blown. It is up to us to either continue to feed into the apostasy or come out from among it.

My choice is clear… yours is up to you.

Reading this MSNBC article entitled “Narcissists make bad leaders; here’s why” made me think about leaders in the churches exhibiting the same characteristics.

Although narcissists have leadership-related qualities, such as confidence, authority and high self-esteem, their self-centeredness ultimately prevents them from partaking in the creative exchange of information and ideas, which is crucial in group decision-making situations, the researchers at the University of Amsterdam said.

Narcissus by Caravaggio. Narcissus gazing at his own reflection.

It makes perfect sense. Though narcissists are often charismatic, charming, assertive, confident, and seem like the perfect candidates for leadership, this study concludes what the scriptures have known all along about the conceited arrogance which blinds them from making decisions which are best for the group, and in this case, the body of Christ.

An experiment in the journal of Psychological Science, took 150 people and placed them in groups of 3 to choose a job candidate, where one person in each group was assigned as the leader who was ultimately responsible for choosing the candidate.  They shared unique information with each participant about the candidates as well as common information with everyone. If all information was shared with the group in the decision-making, they would choose the right candidate for the job. Participants also indicated how much information they knew, indicating the level of sharing that went on in the group. GUESS WHAT? The persons who were tested and shown to be the biggest narcissists, all chose the WORST CANDIDATE for the job.

I found this quote to be very interesting:

“The narcissistic leaders had a very negative effect on their performance,” study researcher Barbora Nevicka said in a statement. “They inhibited the communication because of self-centeredness and authoritarianism.” But despite their poor performance, group members rated the most narcissistic leaders as the most effective. “Narcissists are very convincing,” Nevicka said.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a condition that is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, the need for admiration, extreme self-involvement, and lack of empathy for others.  Individuals with this disorder are usually extremely self-assured, proud, and arrogant. They expect to be noticed as superior to everyone else. Many successful individuals may be seen as narcissistic, but this disorder actually disables an individual to function in a healthy manner in society and can cause great harm to those who love them if they interfere with their narcissistic supply.

Narcissus, while being the mythical figure for which NPD is named, really reflects those characteristics of that ancient serpent, the Devil himself.  Satan in his arrogance and conceit wanted to be like the Most High God, and his rebellion is well documented in the scriptures. Those who are in the flesh often exhibit these tendencies as well, so we must ALL guard against narcissism and things which feed those tendencies in our Christian walk.

Narcissistic Leaders – Be On Your Guard Saints

If anyone has been part of an abusive church where charismatic leaders who exhibit narcissism have been present, these findings are not surprising at all. The issue with narcissists is that it matters not to them how they feed their narcissistic supply, whether they are loved or feared, whether they seek love through positive relationships with the people of God, or by authoritarianism and intimidation. They put up a “very convincing” front that they are effective spiritual leaders, but in reality, these hirelings are simply looking to fulfill themselves, and care nothing for the flock of God.

There are many narcissist personalities amongst us who have crept in unawares in pulpits today, projecting false authority, and the appearance of having things all together,  but in their arrogance, they suppress all communication, sharing, and criticism from their congregations. Demanding accountability and dissenting against their authority will result in a narcissistic leader doing anything to keep that false air of confidence and power. They will destroy and scatter the sheep, and use controlling manipulative doctrines to do it. Like it was quoted earlier, their self-centeredness blinds them to the needs of the people they are supposed to be leading to Christ, mainly because they have created their own world (usually their own church building, structure, etc.) where they are preeminent in all things, and everyone else must bow, or suffer the consequences.

Concerning Controlling Narcissistic Pastor/Leaders, if there is a spiritual leader amongst you who exhibits many of these characteristics, tread very lightly with them, for these people because of their insecurities will try to destroy you emotionally, spiritually, physically etc. They will use scriptures out of context, they will guilt trip you into thinking you are disobeying God if you do not submit to them, they will induce trauma and indoctrinate with numerous improper fears and phobias aimed at keeping you reeling in diffidence and an over-dependence or co-dependence on them, and will not stop till they have satisfied themselves. You have to guard your heart because people like this, do not care about you, or the God you serve or His sheep.

Deleting this blog out of existence was certainly on my mind concerning recent events in my life. Why do you ask?  Mainly because I have became flabbergasted recently concerning the behavior of some of those who have claimed to have left the Institutional Church (IC), YET are exhibiting the same ways, practices, and tactics, of those they negatively speak of. They left the IC but the IC hasn’t LEFT THEM. We do the same things we accuse those in the institution are doing. I have personally forgotten my first love, and for that I am in deep sorrow.

Hurt People, Hurt People: Have We Become What We Once Despised?

Many of us who have left false churches which have controlling tactics and ways know how it feels to experience “church hurt.” (I term I HATE but seems appropriate for this blog) We know how it feels to have people who claimed to love you use controlling tactics, authoritarianism, false doctrines and scripture twisting, shaming, suppression of differing opinions, etc. resort to creating cliques, sowing discord, and exhibiting the most ungodly behavior of which they refuse to be corrected for against you. We saw it, and God told us to come out from among them and be separate.

I find that many who have left IC’s are doing the same things. They have formed cliques, they indiscriminately shut out the voices of those who disagree with them, and engage in gossip, slander, character assassination, and many other tactics of which many apostate churches have done in order to shut out the voices who speak truth against the current behaviors, doctrines, and practices they engage in.

I find this phrase to be so true in this case… Hurt people HURT PEOPLE. Saints I implore you to please examine yourself to see if you are in the faith on this matter, (2 cor 13:5) because many of us have become what we have despised in the institution.

When I talk about the Institutional Church, many people assume that I speak of every organized church in existence. I assure you I am not speaking of everyone, or do I think every organized fellowship fits the categories of which I speak of in this blog. The institution is a mindset and a structure of ungodly control and hierarchy of which God has not established.

So when I speak of those coming out of many institutions, you have to realize that people make the institution run, and it is their mindsets, attitudes, and personalities make it work many times pushed forward by selfish ambition and the desire to have the preeminence. Unless we as saints allow God to renew our minds from what we learned from those places, and crucify the flesh daily, we will continue to exhibit the same characteristics and bring those tendencies into any fellowship we choose to be part.

The Matter is the Heart – The Building is NOT the Issue

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV84)
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Matthew 15:19-20 (NIV84)
For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.These are what make a man ‘unclean’; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him ‘unclean.’

A very wise woman once said to me that the building and all that goes on there isn’t necessarily the problem in and of itself,  it is the HEART OF MAN, AND THE SINFUL NATURE which breeds and continues to support the IC structure and mentality. The heart and all of it’s evil ways must be dealt with, and for believers this is part of crucifying the sinful nature and all of the evil which comes with it.

Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV84)
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

It all made perfect biblical sense. The BUILDING WAS NOT THE ISSUE, the ISSUES are the false doctrines, teachings, practices, which originate from the sinful nature and are expressed in the heart. These things manifest themselves in the way many IC’s are established and run. So you have people who have escaped the ranks of many apostate churches around the world, but where do you point them to, or in this case WHO do you point them to? Looking at my experiences over the years,  it is a vain and unprofitable endeavor to tell people to escape the false institutions and not lead them to CHRIST who is the LIVING GOD and the express glory of the Father. Our focus should never be to just to blindly attack institutions and the members therein… it defeats the purpose if Christ is not the one we will point those scattered believers to.

Church Hurt + Unforgiveness = Roots of Bitterness

Hebrews 12:14-15 (NKJV)
Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;

I find that many who have left IC’s carry with them a lot of hurt and pain, and rightfully so in many instances. It may be emotional, as well as some physical wounds for many. These people need to be ministered to, cared for, and counseled so that their relationships with the Lord Jesus can remain strengthened and not be affected by the actions of those in their former IC. This is an IMPORTANT STEP, and for pastors out there please be sensitive to this. I wrote a blog entitled “Dealing with Residual Anger” which deals with some aspects of this. If you are Christian who is reading this, please reach out to these wounded brothers and sisters who either remain, or have come out of those fellowships in love to see the truth.

Church hurt may have been very real, but because many have not forgiven those who have hurt them, they have allowed a root of bitterness to spring up in their hearts, leaving them ANGRY, vengeful, and filled with malice and contempt for anything they know as the IC… even those who are LEGITIMATELY BROTHERS AND SISTERS who are still members. Saints who may be reading this, please forgive them! Many of them do not know what they are doing.

As for me I REFUSE to leave a matter unsettled and hold some aught against my bro/sis.  That is a weight I cannot bear. PLUS I want my Father to forgive me.

Matthew 6:15
But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Where is the Love? Do Not Become a Pharisee

Matthew 24:9-13 (NIV84)
“Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.

Please do not allow your love for your brothers and sisters to grow cold. Stand firm till the end! How could anyone ever consider anything we say if we do not love them, we will be like sounding brass and tinkling cymbal. Without love we are NOTHING. For we should be determined not to know any thing among us, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. Let us make sure that in all of our contending and defending the faith that we not forget LOVE the weightiest matter of the Law. If we lose that, all we do is in vain. Choose the most excellent way.

If we lack love, care and wisdom in how to deal with our brothers and sisters in Christ and everyone else for that matter, it will show up in our prideful spirits, arrogance, and in our ability to never find fault in ourselves. We become overly critical fault finders… many of us know our doctrine, but just like the Pharisees, we forgot the weightiest matter of the law. God hates pride, arrogance, and those who sow discord among brethren, and we must be careful to guard ourselves from selfish ambition and watch our conduct and motives.

A love that builds up our brothers and sisters is not only a witness to encourage them, it also gives God glory, for it pleases him. Love never fails, but knowledge will eventually pass away. So if Jesus considered loving the Lord, and loving our neighbor to be the greatest of the commands for us as Christians, why is it we are missing the mark?

These evil last days have even this blog writer in despair, even as I type this I feel myself getting more numb and my heart getting harder, I don’t know if I have it in me to do anything further.  I’m experiencing a “new” kind of church hurt, which didn’t take place in any institution. I am a wounded soldier seeking healing right now… and it hurts more that our brothers and sisters in the Lord cannot even display Godly love toward one another. It hurts even more that I am guilty of the same. It is discouraging, and has has left me in a state of hopelessness, but as I hear the Spirit minister to me: “You are not like those who have no hope.”

I covet your prayers.

The world system puts people in ranks, subordinates people based on titles, and puts importance on performance, shows favoritism, and  shuts the voices of the least of those. Not so with the body of Christ, those who desire to lead shall become servants in his kingdom, and if we follow the Son of Man, who came not to be served but to serve, it puts the kingdom of God, the Government of Christ in perspective for all the saints.

I’d rather show you my views than tell you…

The Supremacy of Jesus Christ

NONE of them seem to love bestowing those titles, authority, or supremacy to the One who has demonstrated without a shadow of a doubt that he ALONE deserves the glory, honor, and praise that these titles bring: The man Christ Jesus.

Malachi 1:6
“A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me?