From Roman Catholic To Christian (My Testimony Of How I Got Saved)

I was born in 1952, in Queens, New York. My family moved to Long Island and lived there for five years before moving back to Queens. While living on the Island I attended a public school. We were permitted to attend “religious instruction” classes once a week at the local Catholic School, and that’s where I was taught the Catholic Catechism.

I was taught that there were two types of sin, one was “mortal sin” (the more serious) and the other was “venial sin” (the less serious). I remember thinking to myself “how can anybody keep up with all of that stuff?” I was taught that it was a mortal sin to miss Mass on Sunday which I had already done, and I knew that I had committed more than my share of “venial sins”, so I started to become a little concerned about my soul. I was taught that there was a heaven, a hell, and another place called purgatory. Purgatory was described as a temporary place of punishment where the Catholic would stay until their love for God was perfect, and then they would proceed to heaven. Even at that young age their was enough conviction within my own heart to block out any thought of going to heaven, and even purgatory looked like a longshot to me. I went on to become an altar boy and being one of nine children I witnessed many “First Communion” and “Confirmation” ceremonies within my family. I must say that I always had a nagging question in the back of my mind, which was “where would I go after I die?”

During the 1970’s I had an insatiable desire to know the truth. I would travel to a shopping mall on Long Island, because there were two large bookstores in the mall. I would head straight to the philosophy and religious section where I would browse through the books, shelf by shelf, from bookcase to bookcase. After the first bookstore I would head to the other bookstore and repeat the same process over again. I wanted to know the truth and I eventually filled a large box with books on a variety of topics. I read books on Zen and I read books on meditation. I bought books on self improvement and how to improve the mind. You name it, I bought it and I read it.

One night in late 1980 I was drinking at a club and around midnight I decided to leave. I headed out to the south shore of Long Island to check out another club. I had been drinking for a couple of hours, and I was tired, but I can remember thinking that I wanted to get my “moneys worth” out of the weekend because it was back to work on Monday. I met my wife Cathy that night, and I remember when I left the club there was a ticket waiting on my windshield for parking on the street after 4AM. That was a typical weekend for me and many others of my age group during that time.

Cathy and I got married in July of 1981 and I still had the same desire and interest to seek out the truth. I read about a free seminar on mind control that spoke about improving ones mind power and memory. The seminar was being given a few miles from where we lived and I convinced Cathy to go with me. At the beginning of the seminar the teacher was talking about relaxation, emptying the mind, and visualization techniques. During this part of the class the teacher forgot what day it was and that just struck my funny bone. I could not stop laughing, to the point of tears, and this made Cathy laugh also. The teacher noticed us but simply smiled. The rest of the class had their eyes closed and they were in “visualization mode.” As I look back on that day I truly believe that it was the Lord who protected us from becoming involved in that sort of thing. I believe when a person starts “emptying their minds” that they can open themselves up to the occult, which in reality is the realm of the demonic.

During the mid 1980’s Cathy and I became aware of the Catholic Charismatic movement. The Mass was livelier and the songs were similar to those sung in Christian churches. We attended “healing masses” which focused on healing and praying the rosary. The rosary contains prayers which are mostly “Hail Mary’s”. At that time we became aware of what was known as the Marian apparitions at Medugorje. The “Virgin Mary” was allegedly appearing before some young men and women and bringing forth a monthly message. We were fascinated by stories of rosary beads changing colors, from silver to gold, when people went to Medugorje.

During this same period we began visiting a church in New York City where the gospel of Jesus Christ was being preached. We heard testimonies of how people’s lives were being changed by the power of Jesus Christ. This fascinated us also because we were so accustomed to the rituals and rote prayers we said every Sunday at the Catholic Mass. As time went on we would attend Mass in the morning and visit the other church in the evening, and the power of God’s Word was bringing us into the knowledge of the truth.

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:31-32)

Cathy told a Christian woman at that other church about the alleged appearances over in Yugoslavia. The woman quoted a verse of scripture to her:

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:14)

This troubled Cathy and she went before the Lord and asked Him to show her the truth no matter what. She prayed before the Lord with an open Bible and an open heart, and began to see many scriptures which contradicted the messages that were coming from the “apparition of Mary” in Yugoslavia. This was very upsetting to her because we were really into this apparition thing. We had purchased videos and invited others to come to our home to view them with us. We also handed out pamphlets which promoted the apparition. We were evangelists for Mary at that time. Cathy was convinced that this whole thing was not of God and she tried to convince me, but I was not willing to listen. This went on for several weeks until one day she came down the stairs with tears in her eyes and asked me to listen to her. Something inside my heart told me to listen, and I did, and I told her that I would pray about it.

I knew that I had a choice to make. It was either the word of God (the bible) or the messages of “Mary” from Medugorje. I chose to believe the word of God. I can remember the day when the Lord lifted the spiritual veil of deception which had covered my eyes. I was reading the gospel of John and it seemed that the words were jumping off the page at me. I knew at that moment that the Lord Jesus Christ was the Son of God who came down from heaven. I knew that the Lord Jesus Christ was persecuted and slain on the cross for my sins. This was “head knowledge” before but now it was revelation truth from heaven straight into my heart. The Lord Jesus Christ had become ever so real to me and I knew that He died for me. A change had taken place inside my heart, and I was born again in the true biblical way. Jesus said this:

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. (John 3:6-7)

Cathy and I researched the messages from Medugorje and it was as if the Holy Spirit had taken a fluorescent hi-liter pen and began to expose the contradictions and falsehoods within those messages. We did the same with the other apparitions of Mary and we found them to contain similar errors.

As new Christians we now believed what Peter said and that we were now part of the “priesthood of believers” (1 Peter 2:9) which encompasses people from every nation on planet earth. We now knew that we did not need the Roman Catholic Mass, which is called the “Perfect Sacrifice Continued” (item 360 Baltimore Catechism p171), and which declares as its purpose “to satisfy the justice of God for the sins committed against Him” (Item 361 Baltimore Catechism p173). We now believed what Jesus Christ proclaimed right before His life expired “It Is Finished” (John 19:30). We now believed what Peter told us in one of his letters:

For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: (1 Peter 3:18)

We now believed what the apostle Paul told us in his letter to the Romans. We saw the value of the blood of Jesus Christ like never before.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. (Romans 5:8-9)

We now knew that the Mass, which declares that Christ through the ministry of the priest is offering Himself to God in “an unbloody manner” (item 357 Baltimore Catechism p168), was not in agreement with the Word of God which tells us this:

For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. (Leviticus 17:11)

We also knew from studying the scriptures that the real Mary was a sinner just like the rest of us:

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. (Luke 1:46-47)

Only sinners need a Saviour, and the Bible tells us that every single one of us has come short of the glory of God.

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.(Romans 3:23)

The last time that I find Mary mentioned in the scriptures is in the book of Acts:

And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. (Acts 1:13-14)

Mary is listed here along with everyone else and she most certainly is not exalted above the others who are mentioned here. Mary was praying along with the rest of the other believers in Jesus Christ unto her God. None of the others are found praying to her as I did for many years and is still done today by multitudes.

One of the most striking things to me was the fact that the second commandment found in the Baltimore Catechism was not the same second commandment found in the bible. The real second commandment is found in Exodus 20 and reads as follows:

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. (Exodus 20:4-6)

In the Roman Catholic Baltimore Catechism the second commandment is listed as “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.” (Baltimore Catechism item number 195, p 100)

How could there still be Ten commandments if the second commandment which dealt with graven images (statues) and which took up three verses in the scriptures is removed from the list?

The answer is found by taking a look at the ninth and tenth commandments in the Baltimore Catechism which are as follows:

9) Thou shalt not covet thy neighbors wife.

10) Thou shalt not covet thy neighbors goods.

(Baltimore Catechism item number 195, p100)

But the Bible relegates only one single verse to this subject which is found below.

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s. (Exodus 20:17)

The Lord really opened up my eyes with this one because statues are found in Roman Catholic Churches all over the world. There are shrines to Mary all over the world. There are statues built to honor “saints” all over the world. I can remember visiting a Catholic shop in search of a statue of Mary because I wanted to have my own little shrine in the attic of my home. A person had a choice of a plain white statue or one which included the colors of blue and white. I was shocked at the prices for even the smaller statues, and I never bought one. It was not long after that visit to the Catholic shop, that I got saved and saw all of these things as nothing but idolatry according to God’s word.

As the Lord continued to open up my eyes about the deception of Roman Catholicism I would share this with others including pastors. I soon found out that this is an issue which most pastors refrain from speaking about. There was so much compromise I did not know where to begin. I have to remind myself that the bible warns us about such things in the following verse:

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (1 Timothy 4:1)

If the Spirit of God, which is the Spirit of truth prophesied of such apostasy then it must certainly happen. Many pastors walk under the disguise of a “love” which is nothing but a counterfeit love which creates a false “unity” of believers in Jesus Christ. They lay aside the truth of God’s word and accept the doctrines of devils which Paul warned us about. On the surface they appear to be “anointed” but in reality they are crafty compromiser’s of  God’s word. Some are very aware of what is going on, but they remain silent because it is not popular to speak out against these things. True love warns people about false doctrine and calls it what it is in order to protect the sheep. True Godly and biblical love can be found in the ministry of the Jewish apostle Paul who never failed to warn the people whom he loved so dearly.

Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. (Acts 20:26-31)

You can also listen to MY TESTIMONY ON AUDIO

THE AUTHORITY OF GOD’S WORD!

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

 

Bible Study Synopsis

 

The New Testament Men Of God Honored God’ Word- The apostle Paul declared that all scripture is inspired by God and is everything we need in the way of righteousness. Peter one of the original disciples of Jesus Christ, and an eyewitness to many incredible miracles of the Lord Jesus Christ, exalted the Word of God above them all. (2 Peter 1:16-21) We can depend upon the Word of God to be a light for our path. (Psalm 119:105) We must not mix the Word of God with man made tradition, psychology, our own opinions or anything else. Any type of mixture will produce a perverted and corrupt Gospel.

 

The Old Testament Men Of God Honored God’s Word — Jeremiah said that it brought a rejoicing to his heart (Jeremiah 15:16) and he compared it to fire and a hammer (Jeremiah 23:29) Isaiah declared that the Word of God was the determining factor of whether a person had “light” in them. (Isaiah 8:20)and that the word of God would never return void. (Isaiah 55:11) Job said that God’s Word (spiritual food) was more important than his necessary (physical) food. (Job 23:12)

 

The Old Testament Prophecies Prove God’s Word True- Micah prophesied the birthplace of Jesus the Messiah in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2/Matthew 2:6) Zechariah prophesied that the King of Israel, just and having salvation, would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9/Matthew 21:1-5) Isaiah prophesied of the death of the Messiah approximately 700 years before the event actually took place. (Isaiah 53:1-12) No other “Holy Book” can make the claim that the Bible makes because no other book has Biblical prophecies with a 100 percent accuracy rate.

 

Jesus Christ Honored The Word Of God – Jesus Christ quoted from God’s Word three different times in fighting off the devil when he came against Him. (Matthew 4:1-11, Deuteronomy 8:3, 6:16, 6:13) and Christ also declared that the very words He spoke would be what judged us in the last day. (John 12:48)

 

The New Testament Men Of God Honored God’s Word

 

The apostle Paul penned those words nearly two thousand years ago and they are just as true today as they were back then. We need not look any further than the scriptures themselves, to find everything we need, concerning the salvation of our soul and how to continue on in our walk with the Lord. It is all found in the Word of God. 

 

The apostle Peter was one of the original disciples of Jesus Christ and as a close companion of Christ he was a witness to the many things that Jesus did.

 

Peter Was There When:

 

Jesus performed many incredible miracles

Jesus cast demons out of the possessed

Jesus raised the dead to life again

Jesus healed the sick of their diseases

Jesus caused a raging storm to cease with three words “Peace Be still”

Jesus was transfigured on a mountain top and spoke with Elijah and Moses about His coming death at Jerusalem

  

And yet after all of those amazing experiences Peter wrote the following words:

 

For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1:16-21)

 

The apostle Peter shows us in this excerpt from one of his letters that he knew the value of the scriptures and he placed them above any of the experiences mentioned above. Peter made a point of writing down the fact that he was there as an eyewitness of the majesty of Christ upon that holy mount (mountain) when the glory of God shone upon Jesus Christ. Peter was referring to the time when he along with John and James saw Jesus Christ transfigured before their very eyes and they saw the glory of God all over Him. They also saw Moses and Elijah talking with Jesus about the death which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:28-31)  I encourage you to read the gospel accounts in Matthew 17:1-13, Mark 9:1-13, and Luke 9:28-36 because there is much to learn there.

 

Peter contrasts that awesome mountaintop experience, described above with the “more sure word of prophecy” which are the scriptures themselves. Peter learned through experience that even after being an eyewitness to such great things that his faith could still be attacked. Do not forget that Peter denied the Lord three times when trouble came his way, and the rest of the disciples also vanished at that same point in time. Peter would eventually learn to trust in the Lord and the infallibility of His Word and stare death in the face. (John 21:18-19).

 

We cannot separate TRUE faith from believing the Word of God. They are absolutely inseparable. If you say that you believe in God then you must believe the words that He spoke! And within the Word of God you will find the right path that God wants you to take.

 

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalms 119:105)

 

A fatal trap that many people fall into is when they start to MIX the Word of God with something else and therefore pollute the scriptures and come up with a mixture that will lead them astray.  Beware of those who add their own books and place them alongside the Bible and tell you that they are on an equal par with God’s Word.  The Lord does raise up people to teach and help others understand His Word but we are not to ADD or TAKE AWAY from His Word.

 

It is NOT the Word of God plus the traditions of man

It is NOT the Word of God plus man made psychology

It is NOT the Word of God plus man made opinions

It is NOT the Word of God plus something else

It is JUST the Word of God!

 

The Old Testament Men Of God Honored God’s Word

 

Jeremiah the prophet said this regarding the Word of God

 

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. (Jeremiah 15:16) Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? (Jeremiah 23:29) 

 

Isaiah the prophet said this regarding the Word of God

 

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11) To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. (Isaiah 8:20)

 

Job the man of God said this regarding the word of God

 

Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. (Job 23:12)

 

The Bible has something that every other “Holy Book” does not have and that is prophecy.  There are scores of prophecies that are found in the Bible and many of them deal specifically with Jesus Christ.  This is not one of those tabloids that you buy in January that makes some predictions, most of which never happen but these are prophecies that were spoken hundreds of years beforethe evnts actually took place. Can you name ONE other “Holy Book” that can make that claim? Do not think too hard because there are NONE! Here are just a few references that you can check out for yourself.

 

The Old Testament Prophecies Prove God’s Word True

 

Micah, the prophet declared that the Messiah, the one who was “from everlasting”, meaning eternal, was to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) and that is the very place where Jesus Christ was born. (Matthew 2:6)

Zechariah the prophet prophesied that the King, who is just, and having salvation would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey (ass). (Zechariah 9:9) and Jesus Christ, the King of the Jews rode into Jerusalem on a donkey (ass) just as Zechariah declared He would! (Matthew 21:1-5)

Isaiah prophesied of the death of Christ almost 700 years before the event actually took place. (Isaiah 53:1-12) and Christ, the Messiah, died just as he prophesied. (John 19:30)

There are absolutely scores of other prophecies in the Bible and I encourage you to take the time to study them for yourself.

 

Jesus Christ Honored God’s Word

 

Jesus Christ Himself used the Word of God to refute the temptations and the liesof the devil when he came to tempt him in the wilderness. Three different times the Lord quoted from the book of Deuteronomy , and He preceded each of those quotations with the words “IT IS WRITTEN!” (Deuteronomy 8:3, 6:16, 6:13) refuting the DEVIL at every single point with the scriptures. (Matthew 4:1-11)  If the Lord Jesus Christ found the Word of God to be that important, how much more do we need to know and use the Word of God ourselves? Not only that but Jesus told us that the very words that He spoke would be what would judge us in the end:

 

Have Ye Not Read?

 

At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him; How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? (Matthew 12:1-5)

 

The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, (Matthew 19:3-4)

 

But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.(Matthew 22:31-32)

 

And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner: (Mark 12:10)

 

The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. (Psalms 118:22)

 

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. (John 12:48)

 

Preach God’s Word

 

It is the Word of God that makes all the difference and it is the Word that needs to be preached to the lost souls all over the world. The pulpit is the place where the Word of God is to be preached and expounded on because it is the truth that sets people free. It is not a crime to have a healthy and sanctified sense of humor but when that becomes the rule and jokes become too common it can cheapen the gospel and send off the wrong message to the listeners especially when souls are at stake.

 

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. (2 Timothy 4:1-5 )

 

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Elaina commented    “Keep spreading the Good News!!!! I have gained so much from this!!!!”

 

 

HOW DOES A PERSON BECOME A SAINT?

A May 11, 2007 New York Times article entitled “Pope Canonizes Brazil’s First Native-Born Saint” by Larry Rohter and Ian Fisher, Sao Paulo, Brazil, said this:

“After canonizing Brazil’s first native-born saint and receiving a bracing dose of Brazilian-style religious fervor at an outdoor mass here today, Pope Benedict XVI called for more forceful evangelization efforts throughout Latin America to counter growing conversions to Pentecostal Protestant groups.”

I did not realize until I was born again of the Spirit that the biblical way of becoming a saint is diametrically opposed to the Roman Catholic way of becoming a saint.

In the Roman Catholic Church it is the Pope who ultimately has the authority to “canonize” a person and make them a saint.  It is is based upon what they have done in their life and other strict qualifications of the Church.

In the bible we learn that the term “saint” is applied to living believers in Jesus Christ.  In his letter to the Corinthians Paul wrote the following:

Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:1-3)

We can see how Paul relegated the title “saint” to “… all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord …”

Paul wrote this to the church at Ephesus:

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: (Ephesians 1:1-3)

Once again Paul is referring to living believers in Jesus Christ.  Paul writes “… to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus…”  Paul was simply referring to people who had placed their faith in Jesus Christ and continued to follow Him.

We must not forget that Paul was once a severe persecutor of Christians ” …breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord…” (Acts 9:1) until the Lord Jesus Christ spoke to him out of heaven. (Acts 9:1-6)

This Jewish apostle of Jesus Christ, by his own admission, consented unto the death of Stephen who was a faithful man of God. (Acts 8:1, 22:20)  We can therefore justly say that Paul was an accomplice to his murder.  So now we have a former murderer preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, and writing letters to other believers whom he refers to as “saints.”

The point that I am making is that every person in this world has the opportunity to become a true “saint” of God, by repenting and believing the Gospel. (Mark 1:15)  That is true biblical faith.

The true story about Paul should be an encouragement to all of us that our God is truly a God of  love and mercy. 

A person cannot truly come to Christ and become a “saint” until they see that their sin separates them from a holy and righteous God.

 The Bible makes it clear that there are “none righteous” (Romans 3:10) and every single one of us falls short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)  That is the very reason why we need a Saviour and that is the very reason why Jesus Christ came to this earth.  That is the very reason why Jesus Christ went to the cross and shed His perfect sinless blood for people like us.  (Romans 5:8-9) 

The Jewish apostle Paul wrote this many years after he came to Jesus Christ:

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. (1 Timothy 1:15-16) 

Are you a saint yet?

YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN!

By Bill White

John Wesley was an evangelist who often preached on the necessity of being born again.  Someone asked John why he preached so often on that subject, and he replied “because You must be born again.”

This is an excerpt from a conversation that Jesus Christ had with Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.  Jesus had just told him that he needed to be born again and the conversation continued as follows:

Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. (John 3:4-8)

Every single one of us has been born in the flesh, which simply means to be born physically into this world, but Jesus stressed the importance of being born again of the spirit.  In other words Jesus was talking about a “spiritual birth” which must take place for a person to “see” the Kingdom of God.

Jesus compared this “spiritual birth” to the wind that blows, because you cannot see the wind but you can hear it.  We may see the effect of the wind upon the trees as they sway back and forth, but you do not see the wind.  When a person has been “born again” of the Spirit you will see the effect of the Spirit upon that person and you will hear a testimony about Jesus Christ.  When I was born again of the Spirit it was if an internal light was turned on inside my heart and I knew that Jesus Christ was real. That was the Spirit of truth at work inside my heart and I could not put the bible down.  My testimony is on this site.

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: (John 15:26)

The Spirit of God is called the comforter because He comforts the weary soul and points them to Jesus Christ, the one who came to rescue us. Nicodemus could not understand the words of Jesus and he said this:

Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? (John 3:9-10)

Nicodemus was obviously a very religious man, but he was also a man in need of salvation.  That described myself and millions of others who were “religious but lost” until we were truly born again of the Spirit.  Jesus left us with a promise regarding the Holy Spirit:

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (John 16:13-14)

Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would “… not speak of Himself” and that the Spirit “… shall glorify me….” Once again we see the focus is put on Christ.

There are probably millions of people who have their names on church rolls but they do not have their names on God’s roll, which is the Book of Life.  Many are trying to earn their way to heaven or sacrament their way to heaven but that is an impossible task.

This is an excerpt from an article from entitled “Pope Assails Marxism and Capitalism” By Victor Simpson (Associated Press Writer) APARECIDA, Brazil (AP)

“… Benedict, speaking in Spanish and Portugese to the bishops, also said Latin America needs more dedicated Catholics in leadership positions in politics, the media and at universities.  He also said the church leaders must halt a trend that has seen millions of Catholics turn into born-again Protestants or simply stop going to church.”

Whenever I read something like this it really makes me wonder what is going on in Evangelical circles and it’s compromise with Roman Catholicism.  The big crusaders work side by side with the Roman Catholic church and remain silent about their false teachings while the Pope has no problem speaking his mind.  The Pope flat out told the bishops to halt the trend of people becoming born-again Protestants!

Where is the prophetic voice within the church today?  How can they remain silent in times such as these? How can they sign documents such as the ECT (Evangelicals and Catholics Together) document of 1994 when statements such as the one from Pope Benedict XVI are made?

This warning from the Jewish apostle Paul is becoming clearer and clearer as the days grow darker and darker:

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (1 Timothy 4:1)

IS JESUS CHRIST GOD?

“… What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:41)

My purpose in this Bible study is to show you, that it can be proven through the scriptures, that without doubt Jesus Christ is God.

Bible Study Synopsis

The Testimony Of John The Baptist - John was the “voice in the wilderness” (John 1:22-24, Isaiah 40:3) who prepared the way of the Lord Jesus Christ. John knew that Jesus was preferred before him because He was before him. (John 1:15,27) even though Jesus was physically born after him. John referred to Jesus as the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

The Testimony Of Jesus Christ - Jesus referred to Himself as the “I AM” which was the name that God Himself used when He spoke to Moses out of the burning bush (John 8:56-59, Exodus 3:13-14). The Jews sought to stone Jesus because they thought that He was guilty of blasphemy (John 8:59, Leviticus 24:16). Jesus claimed to be the First and the Last (Revelation 1:11,17-18,2:8) which is a name that God claims for Himself (Isaiah 44:6). Jesus also claimed to be the Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8,11) and the Almighty (Revelation 1:8).

Many inferences can then be made about Jesus Christ as we examine scripture with scripture. Since we know that the Word of God which was made flesh (John 1:14) spoke of Jesus Christ then we also know that Jesus Christ is the Word who created all things (John 1:3). Consider the fact that in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1) and that the Word who is Jesus Christ was also there in the beginning (John 1:2). We will then naturally conclude that Jesus Christ is God. We learn through Isaiah the prophet that God made all things alone and by Himself (Isaiah 44:24) which is in perfect agreement with John 1:1-3 and Colossians 1:12-16. If God did everything alone and by Himself it lays to rest those within the cults who insist that God created Jesus Christ and then used Jesus Christ to create everything else.

The Works Of Jesus Christ - The works that Jesus Christ did during His time on earth are more than ample proof that Jesus Christ is God. Jesus cast demons out of the possessed, He healed the sick, He had power over nature, He raised the dead , He forgave sins, causing His enemies to say “… who can forgive sins, but God only?” (Mark 2:7). Jesus also raised Himself from the dead.

The Testimony Of John The Baptist

John the Baptist was the son of Zacharias, a Jewish priest, and his wife Elizabeth. John was born to this couple after they had been without children for many years. John was born exactly as promised to Zacharias by the angel Gabriel. (Luke 1:5-25) The scriptures also tell us that John would be filled with the Holy Ghost and that he would turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. And that he would go forth in the “spirit and power of Elias (Elijah) … to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:17). It is not surprising that John the Baptist attracted the attention of multitudes. Many people wanted to know who he was. The Pharisees, a Jewish group, sent people to question him:

Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias (Isaiah). And they which were sent were of the Pharisees (John 1:22-24).

Please keep in mind that John was questioned by the people because they wanted to know if he was in fact the promised Christ (Messiah) or if he was some other prophet (John 1:19-21). John responded to their inquiry by quoting from the Old Testament book of Isaiah. Here John makes a very revealing statement not only about his own identity, but the true identity of Jesus Christ also.

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God (Isaiah 40:3).

John let them know that he was that “voice in the wilderness” that the prophet Isaiah had spoken about. Now it is obvious that the voice was representative of a person with a message and the message was this:

to prepare the way of the Lord

to make straight … a highway for our God

So given the fact that John identified himself as THAT “voice in the wilderness” we can say without question that John was preparing the way for the Lord God.

The Hebrew word for Lord that is used in this verse is YHWH

The Hebrew word for God that is used here is ELOHIYM

We also know from the contents of the New Testament that John the Baptist was the very one who prepared the way for Jesus Christ. So we can rightly say, without shame and without fear, that the titles of Lord and God most definitely apply to Jesus Christ.

Here is another testimony from John regarding the deity of Jesus Christ:

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water (John 1:29-31).

In this passage of scripture John identifies Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God, and the one who came to take away the sin of the world. John also declares that Jesus was preferred before him because he was before him. It is most interesting when you look at the gospel account in Luke and find that Jesus was born at least six months AFTER John was born. (Luke 1:34-37). So we can conclude that John knew full well, by the Spirit of God, that Jesus Christ existed long before He was incarnated as a human being on this earth.

The topic in this study is of utmost importance. The claim that Jesus Christ is God is more than a mere theological debate between those who endorse the position of His deity (divinity) and those who do not. Why? Because if it can be proven through the scriptures (and it can) that Jesus Christ is in fact God, then we must take a closer look not only at the words that Jesus spoke while He walked this earth but also at the words that the Lord spoke to the children of Israel in the Old Testament. We can learn a great deal when we truly understand that this Christ whom we know as Lord was the very same eternal Lord who created all things, and who came to this earth and partook of our own human nature.

The Testimony Of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ: He is the “I AM”

It has been said very often by those who do not believe that Jesus Christ is in fact God, that He never made that claim for Himself. That is not true. In the New Testament book of John we can read the following scriptures.

Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM. Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by (John 8:56-59).

I highlighted the words of Jesus Christ in red letters to make it easier to see when He is speaking. In this passage of scripture Jesus was in a confrontation with the Jewish religious people, and He told them that He Himself was the “I AM.”

I would like you to note that His enemies took up stones to throw at Jesus, which means that they wanted to kill him. The reason that they did that was because they thought that he had committed blasphemy in declaring Himself to be the “I AM” and that he was “living” before Abraham ever existed. The Old Testament book of Leviticus shows us the reason for their actions:

And he that blasphemeth the name of the LORD, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him: as well the stranger, as he that is born in the land, when he blasphemeth the name of the LORD, shall be put to death (Leviticus 24:16).

This shows us that his enemies knew full well what Jesus was declaring when he claimed the name “I AM” for Himself. This also shows us that Jesus most certainly made His deity clear on different occasions. What was Jesus trying to tell those who were in opposition to Him? Jesus was telling them that He was alive long before Abraham ever existed.

There are millions of people who only see Jesus Christ as a person who was born about two thousand years ago, lived a short life, did some good things and then died. The purpose of this Bible study is to show you the reader that Jesus Christ is more than a man. He is part of the eternal triune Godhead. When Jesus used the words I AM, He was using the very same words that were used by God when He spoke to Moses out of the burning bush. Moses was intrigued by that burning bush when it was not consumed, and when he approached the bush this is what happened:

And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God (Exodus 3:5-6).

The voice that spoke out of that burning bush identified Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Moses was afraid to even look upon God. The point that I want to make here is that it was God who spoke out of that burning bush. Further down in that very same chapter we find the following:

And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you (Exodus 3:13-14 ).

Here we see that God told Moses that His name was “I AM THAT I AM” and that was what Moses was to tell the children of Israel. Am I trying to say that Jesus Christ was the very same person that spoke to Moses out of that burning bush? Yes, that is exactly what I am trying to say and there is further proof in the scriptures to make that point.

Jesus Christ: He Is The First And The Last

Now I would like to go to the new Testament book of Revelation to further prove the deity of Jesus Christ.

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Revelation 1:17-18).

In this scripture verse John listens as the risen Christ declares Himself to be the FIRST and the LAST. Not only that, but He tells John that He was DEAD but now He is ALIVE forevermore! I do not think that the Lord could have made His deity any clearer than that. We all know that it was Jesus Christ who was slain for our sins and who rose from the dead. The title of the FIRST and the LAST is a title that is unique to God and Him alone, and here the glorified Christ claims it for Himself. Let’s take a look in the Old Testament to see how it is used.

Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God (Isaiah 44:6).

In the book of Isaiah we learn that the Lord is the King of Israel and also calls Himself the FIRST and the LAST. There are not several FIRST and LAST’s but only ONE. Not only that but this verse tells us that there is no other God beside Him. If Jesus called Himself the FIRST and the LAST then the title of God belongs to Him.

Jesus Christ: He Is The Alpha And Omega

Jesus Christ: He Is The Almighty

Back in the first chapter of Revelation we see that the First and the Last is also the Alpha and Omega “… I am Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last…” (Revelation 1:11). When we look back at verse eight we find out that the Alpha and Omega is called the Almighty:

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8).

So we learned in this first chapter of Revelation that Jesus Christ is:

The First and the Last

The Alpha and Omega

The Almighty

The One who was dead but is now alive forevermore

He holds the keys of Hell and Death

He is the one which is, which was, and which is to come

In chapter two of Revelation the fact that the FIRST and the LAST was dead is mentioned again:

And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; (Revelation 2:8)

And in the last chapter of that book and the Bible itself it tells us this:

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last (Revelation 22:12-13).

The Alpha and Omega, who we have now learned is Jesus Christ, is the very one who will judge every man on the last day. He is the one who is coming again.

Jesus Christ: He Is The Creator Of All Things

I want to leave you with some scripture references to study regarding the attributes of Jesus Christ.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:1-3).

In the scripture passage above we learn that the Word is a Person. That Person was WITH God, WAS God, and ALL things were made by that same Word. The Word in this passage is describing the Person of Jesus Christ. This can be proven by the passage of scripture below.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. (John 1:14-17)

This passage tells us that this very same Word was made FLESH, which means that this Word took on a physical body and became a human being. That’s what happened when Christ was born of the Jewish virgin Mary in Bethlehem, fulfilling a prophecy of the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 7:14). It also tells us that He was the only begotten of the Father, and the same One that John the Baptist declared existed before He ever did. The bottom line is that this Word is describing the eternal Son of God and the One that has always been with the Father in Heaven. If you take a look at the very first verse in the Bible you will find this:

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth (Genesis 1:1).

The Hebrew word for God here is the word ELOHIYM which is the plural form of the word God, and within that Godhead was the person of Christ. A little further down in that chapter we find this:

And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them (Genesis 1:26-27).

In the passage above we learn that God used the words “…Let US make man in OUR image…” which is quite interesting. Who was God talking to? The cults will try to explain this verse away by telling you that God was talking to the angels. That argument falls to the ground because the passage tells us that God created man in HIS own image, with no mention of angels anywhere. Then the cults will tell you that God first created Jesus and then Jesus created everything else. But if you take a look in the book of Isaiah you will find a verse that refutes that way of thinking:

Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself; (Isaiah 44:24)

The Bible tells us that the Lord made “ALL THINGS” and that He did this “ALONE” and “BY MYSELF” thus refuting another attack against the deity of Jesus Christ. In the passage below we see that the Father Himself referred to the Son as God, and as the one who laid the foundation of earth and heaven.

But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: (Hebrews 1:8-10)

The Works Of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ Cast Demons Out Of People

Luke 4:31-36: Jesus cast a demon out of a man in the synagogue. The demons recognized Christ as the “holy one of God”.

Luke 4:41: Jesus cast demons out of many. The demons knew He was the Christ (Messiah).

Mark 5:1-20: Jesus cast a legion of demons out of a man who had been possessed for many years. The demons recognized Jesus to be “the Son of the most high God”. The demons asked if they could enter into a herd of swine after they were cast out. Jesus allowed this and when they entered the swine who then charged into the sea and drowned themselves.

Jesus Christ Commanded “Mother Nature” To Obey HIM

Mark 4:35-41: Jesus rebuked a raging storm at sea with three words “Peace, be still”. The wind ceased and there was great calm.

Jesus Christ Commanded Dead People To Come Back To Life

Luke 7:11-17: Jesus raises a young man from the dead as the man was being carried in a funeral procession.

John 11:39-45: Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead after Lazarus was dead and stinking for four days.

Jesus Christ Healed All Sorts Of Diseases

Mark 7:33: Jesus healed a deaf and dumb man.

Mark 8:23: Jesus healed a blind man.

Matthew 8:14: Jesus healed Peter’s mother-in-law.

Matthew 9:2: Jesus healed a paralyzed man.

Luke 17:12: Jesus healed ten lepers.

Jesus Christ Forgave People Of Their Sins

Mark 2:1-12: Jesus had the power to forgive sins.

Jesus Christ Was Worshiped By Others

John 9:35-38: Jesus was worshiped by a blind man that He healed.

REVIEW

We return to the question “Is Jesus Christ God?” We can affirmatively answer with a resounding YES to that question. We have seen through the use of the scriptures that:

Jesus Christ Is the Lord God whom John the Baptist prepared the way for (Isaiah 40:3, John 1:22-24).

Jesus Christ is the “I AM” who was alive before Abraham ever existed, and the same God who spoke to Abraham out of the burning bush (John 8:58, Exodus 3:13-14).

Jesus Christ is the First and the Last (Revelation 1:11,17,18, 2:8, Isaiah 44:6).

Jesus Christ is the Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8,11).

Jesus Christ was the one who was dead but is now alive forevermore (Revelation 1:17-18,2:8).

Jesus Christ is the one who is coming to judge all (Revelation 22:12-13).

Jesus Christ is the creator of ALL things (John 1:1-3, Genesis 1:1,26-27, Hebrews 1:8-10, Isaiah 44:24).

Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world and was raised from the dead just like He said He would. The words of the apostle Thomas also declare the deity of Christ:

The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name (John 20:25-31).

HELL: ACCORDING TO JESUS CHRIST!

Jesus Christ was without question, the most loving, merciful and kind person to ever walk this earth, and yet he did not hold back the truth about this place called hell.  Jesus Christ declared the following:

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

With that thought in mind, I want you to think about something for a moment. Did Jesus Christ tell the truth about Hell?  Do you think that maybe he was trying to deceive us about this place of torment, or was He trying to warn us about an eternal place that is very real?  Of course I believe the latter and there is not a doubt in my mind that Hell is as real as the ground that you and I walk on.

The words below are the words of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He is also known as the First and the Last and the Alpha and Omega. (Revelation 1:11)  Every single person who is reading this blog will stand before him one day and give an account for their life.  If you declare yourself to be a believer in Jesus Christ then you must also believe his words.

There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead. (Luke 16:19-31)

Lessons Learned From Jesus Christ

Hell is real

People are conscious in Hell

People can hear in Hell

People can talk in Hell

People can remember in Hell (they remember their lives on earth)

People cannot escape from Hell

People are tormented in Hell

People in Hell do not want their relatives to end up there

People need to believe the scriptures

People need to repent and get right with God

DO NOT BE FOOLED: HELL IS REAL FOLKS!

The word that is used for HELL in this passage of scripture is the Greek word HADES which can be defined as the place of departed souls.  Remember that Jesus Christ is the one that is telling the story here. It is very interesting that Jesus Christ, who was the most compassionate human being to ever walk this earth went into such extreme detail here in describing the torment that the “rich man” in HELL was experiencing.

Jesus actually told us that the “rich man” was begging for a drop of water on his tongue.  Can I accuse Jesus of being  too harsh for using such language?  Can I accuse Jesus of being too hard for telling us about the impossibility of the “rich man” escaping the torment that he was in?

People often accuse Christians of using scare tactics, or of preaching “fire and brimstone” messages to scare people, but I use Jesus Christ Himself as my example. In other words, I will speak the words that are recorded  in my Bible.  If Jesus Christ preached about HELL then I will also preach about HELL.

After Jesus rose from the dead He encouraged His disciples to preach the gospel to the whole world. Jesus told them that the believers would be saved and the unbelievers would be damned.  (Matthew 16:15-16)  What does it mean to be DAMNED according to Jesus Christ?  Listen to Him for yourself!

Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? (Matthew 23:33)

Do not use vague terms such as telling people that  they are going to a “Christless Eternity” because that would be like heaven to them. They do not want Christ now, and they just might figure that they are alright without Him in eternity also.   Tell them the truth about HELL the same way that Jesus told them.  Take my word for it on this one.

God will honor you for doing that simply because God  always honors His Word,  even ABOVE His own name, and don’t you ever forget that.

I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. (Psalms 138:2)

It is the obligation of EVERY true bible believing Christian to preach the gospel and to warn the sinners about the damnation of HELL. How can we stand by and not warn the souls who are perishing all around us?  In fact I pity the minister who stands in the pulpit Sunday after Sunday and never warns the people about HELL.  That is not the LOVE of God at all.  God is LOVE and  Jesus Christ is God, and Jesus Christ preached often about Hell, and we need to do the same.

At another time Jesus declared that when the Son of Man (Himself) comes in His Glory, He will separate the sheep from the goats. The sheep are placed on the right hand and the goats are placed on the left hand. (Matthew 25:31-33)  The “sheep” (God’s people) inherit the Kingdom prepared for them.  But Jesus declared that there would be a different fate for the “goats” who did not follow the Lord.

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: (Matthew 25:41)

JUDGMENT DAY

Ultimately the place called HADES will be cast into the “lake of fire” and that will be the place of   ”everlasting fire”  and  ”everlasting punishment.”   You can choose to reject the teachings of the Word of God if you so desire, but the words will always remain true. but the words of Jesus Christ will never pass away according to Jesus Himself. (Matthew 24:35)  You can call HELL a myth if you so desire, but I tell you in love, that you are in for the shock of your death.

You will NOT be annihilated and exist no more.  There is no second chance either.  Jesus NEVER spoke about a place called Purgatory and it is not to be found in the Bible.  Jesus NEVER spoke about being reincarnated and it is not to be found in the Bible.

And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before GOD; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is THE BOOK OF LIFE: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and HELL (HADES) delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and HELL (HADES) were cast into the LAKE OF FIRE. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:11-15)

I do not believe for a moment that the people who are presently in HELL (HADES) are having a BIBLE STUDY wondering whether they are in SHEOL, HADES, or the LAKE OF FIRE.  Not for a moment. They are in absolute torment according to Jesus Christ.

The very SAME Jesus Christ who spoke so clearly about HELL is the very SAME Jesus who laid down His life upon the cross for us.  Jesus Christ died as a substitute in our place.

THE “GOOD PERSON” TRAP

Many  people fall into the fatal trap of thinking that they are a “good person” and when they die they hope that their own “goodness” or their own “good deeds” will outweigh their “badness” or their own “bad deeds.”   They are hoping  that the eternal “scales of justice” will weigh in their favor, when the truth of the scriptures has already proclaimed them GUILTY!

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:19-20)

The Law of God absolutely silences every single man and woman on earth from justifying themselves before a holy and righteous God. If you want to look for an  ”axis of evil”  you need not look any further than your own heart.

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9)

Do you understand that you are spiritually DEAD in the sight of Almighty God?  Do you understand that God is offering you SALVATION and ETERNAL LIFE in His Son Jesus Christ?

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. (Romans 5:8-9)

You do not have to end up in Hell like so many billions that have lived before you. The Gospel of Jesus Christ has been mocked for centuries and those that mock the gospel in modern times are no different than those that went before them.

Jesus Christ said “…repent and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15)

My friend, please remember that these words about Hell were spoken by Jesus Christ Himself, the very creator of all things. Do not gamble with your soul as the rich man did in this true story.

Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? (Matthew 23:33)

For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek (Gentile): for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:12-13)

THE REALITY OF HELL AUDIO HERE

DISCERNING THE SPIRIT OF ANTICHRIST!

The apostle John left us with a guideline for discerning and understanding what it means to be of an “antichrist spirit.”  Listen to his words here:

And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (1 John 4:3)

It is important to remember that the word “Christ” literally means Messiah.  When we talk about Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh we are saying that Jesus came down from above, He became flesh, and He is is the Messiah. There are plenty of people, in fact billions of people, who do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the One sent by the Father to this earth as the Messiah, Saviour and Redeemer.  I have shared the gospel with many people who believe that Jesus was nothing more than a good man.  There are others, including the people of Islam, who believe that Jesus is a prophet, but not the Son of God because they believe that God has no Son.  The majority of Jewish people do not believe that the Messiah has come and are still waiting for His “first coming.”  There are thousands of religions throughout the world who do not believe that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh and according to John they are of an “antichrist spirit.”  John goes on to say this in another letter:

For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. (2 John 1:7)

Here John now puts that same class of people into the category of deceivers and he tells us that there are many of them.  This is in agreement with what John declared in his first letter:

Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. (1 John 2:22)

If you deny the Son, then you also deny the Father.  It is a package deal.  We need to be aware of the hour in which we are living ladies and gentlemen, because John penned those letters nearly two thousand years ago.  Things have gotten much worse since then.  If God’s Word calls this deception and falsehood then you better call it the same thing if you have your sights set on heaven.  If you are of the mindset that these things really do not matter, then I tell you that you are already deceived.  It is important that we take heed to the words that John spoke all those years ago because it is a matter of life and death.  It is a matter of heaven or hell.

 Listen to the  message  Jesus Christ: The Only Hope Of Israel at  THE ONWATCH RADIO PODCAST

I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL

There’s still one thing that’s certain in this unsettled world in which we live, and that is the gospel of Jesus Christ. It still remains true and that will not, and cannot, change. Here is an exposition from the New Testament book of Romans which was written by a Jewish man named Paul. Paul experienced a powerful conversion after the risen and exalted Jesus Christ spoke to him out of heaven. (Acts 9:1-31)

Romans 1:16  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

This gospel (good news) is offered to everybody and that includes both Jew and Gentile (non Jewish, heathen, nations). It really does not matter where you live, what color you are, or what language you speak.  Paul was not ashamed to give the gospel to the people, and he was not ashamed to tell people that Jesus Christ was the only way for both Jew and Gentile.  Salvation is found in Jesus Christ, and in HIM alone, and to say anything else is to soft soap the gospel.  To hold back this vital truth is to be ashamed of the gospel.

Romans 1:17  For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Salvation comes by faith and it is not for sale.  The same apostle Paul spoke about the LOVE of God and the fact that Christ died for us “while we were yet sinners” (Romans 5:8) and that we are “justified by HIS blood”. (Romans 5:9)  Salvation is available to every single person on planet earth, no matter what their past may be.  If the Lord can save a man like Paul (formerly Saul), then the Lord can save you too.  Do not forget that Paul was formerly a severe persecutor of Christians, even unto their death. (Acts 8:1, 22:4,20) In other words, Paul could be called a murderer, because he was a participant in the murder of Christians.  Without the mercy of God, Paul was an unsaved wretch who was no different than anybody else in the world.  A person can be homeless and dying of AIDS yet God still offers that person salvation through Jesus Christ.  

That is the beauty of this glorious gospel of Jesus Christ, because God offers it to everybody.  Take a look at the man named David Berkowitz (the “Son of Sam” killer) from New York City.  I was living in New York in 1977 and I remember that summer like it was yesterday.  The city of New York was paralyzed with fear because nobody knew where “Son of Sam” was going to strike next.  David Berkowitz was eventually arrested and is now serving out his life term in prison.  But something happened in David’s life many years later.  The Lord  gloriously saved that man in his prison cell after he read from the scriptures and called upon the Lord for mercy.  That is the power of God unto salvation!

We can look at the horror of his crimes and declare that he deserves to be in prison (and he does), but we often forget that each and every one of us deserves the wrath of God without the mercy offered in Jesus Christ.

Romans 1:18  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

This is the part of the Bible that few want to hear about and sadly few pastors are willing to preach about. If the scriptures tell us that God’s wrath is against all ungodliness then it must be true.  This truth amplifies the mercy of God that is found in Jesus Christ.  In fact the apostle John wrote this on the subject of God’s wrath: 

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

This scripture is telling us in the simplest manner that every person that is a believer in Jesus Christ has everlasting life.  It also tells us that those who do NOT believe in Jesus Christ have the wrath of God abiding upon them (already).  We can see that the deciding factor between those who have everlasting LIFE and those who have God’s WRATH upon them is the person of Jesus Christ! 

Romans 1:19  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

Romans 1:20  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

The scriptures tell us that there will be no excuse for anyone because God has revealed Himself to all by His creation.  I find it both sad and humorous when I hear people mock the gospel and the Biblical account of creation.  The absolute beauty of God’s creation makes me wonder how anyone could think that way.  The Psalmist David had this to say regarding God’s creation:

Psalms 19:1  The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 

What does the Bible have to say about the incredible beauty of  human life especially a baby in the womb.

Psalms 139:13  For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.

Psalms 139:14  I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Listen to those beautiful words of the Psalmist. A human life is an absolute miracle and anyone who has ever seen a newborn child can testify to that, especially the mother who carried that child in her own womb!

 Romans 1:21  Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Romans 1:22  Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

This answers the question as to how people can reject the counsel of God that is found in the scriptures.  When a person fails to recognize and glorify God, their heart becomes darkened and the Bible describes that as foolishness.  Basically a person is turning their back on God, their very creator, the very one who wants to save them from destruction.

Romans 1:23  And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

People will often turn and worship created things including animals instead of giving the worship to God, the only one who deserves our worship and praise.

Romans 1:24  Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

Ultimately it is a judgment because God allows them to go their own way.  It is a downward spiral that will lead a person into all sorts of debauchery. Here is an example of that from the Bible:

And he let it fall in the midst of their camp, round about their habitations. So they did eat, and were well filled: for he gave them their own desire; They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths, The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel. For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works. (Psalms 78:28-32)

Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

 They exchanged the truth of God for a LIE!  They glorified the creation of God instead of  giving the glory to God Himself.  Be Blessed in Jesus Christ.
 

JESUS CHRIST: WHO IS MY MOTHER?

There is a very interesting portion of scripture in the gospel according to Matthew.  In this passage of scripture, the Lord Jesus Christ showed us that he did not elevate His natural family above His spiritual family.  Here is the passage: 

While he (Jesus) yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. (Matthew 12:46-50)

Jesus was informed by someone that His mother (Mary) was outside with her other children and they wanted to speak with Him.  Jesus then took that opportunity to show the people that His spiritual family were those who did the will of His Father.  Jesus specifically  asked the question “Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?” and then He answered His own question by stretching forth His hand toward those who were sitting before Him, those who were listening to him teach.  Jesus took that opportunity to make it clear that not even His own family (in the natural) were to be elevated above those who followed him and did the will of the Father.  Every single person has the opportunity to join the family of God by believing in Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus Christ is not a respector of persons and this passage of scripture has made that very clear. I became part of that very same family of God when I was born again of the Spirit in 1989. You can read my testimony on this blogsite or you can listen to the audio version at THE ONWATCH RADIO PODCAST

THE LORD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH!

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalms 46:1 )

One of the reasons you see so many basic doctrinal messages on this website is because it shows us who Jesus Christ is in truth. As we study the word of God our faith will be strengthened because we know Him for who He truly is, and not merely as a name on a piece of paper. If I know that the Lord is the creator of all things then that brings great comfort to my heart. The Lord is in total control of everything, although it may not seem that way at times. Sometimes I find myself saying inwardly “Lord can’t you see what is happening here?” but then I catch myself and realize how foolish it is to think that way. The Lord is fully aware of the most intimate details of our lives and we must not forget that He is on our side. God is the one who will give us the strength to carry on in this “…present evil world …” (Galatians 1:4) and He wants to be the refuge for our souls in the time of trouble also.

In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. (Psalms 62:7-8)

The one lesson that the Lord is teaching every single one of us, is to trust in HIM at ALL times. It is a good thing to open up our hearts before Him, whether it be in private or as we go about our daily duties. God is a good listener and He desires that we open up our hearts before Him in truth.

MOSES AND ELIJAH TALKING WITH JESUS CHRIST

Did you ever hear about the time that Moses and Elijah spoke with Jesus Christ?  I am not making this stuff up folks. It is recorded in the Bible and here is Luke’s account of that meeting:

And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he (Jesus) took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias (Elijah) : Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he (Jesus) should accomplish at Jerusalem. But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias (Elijah) : not knowing what he said. While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen. (Luke 9:28-36)

This is a most incredible event which took place upon that mountain top.  Jesus took three of his close followers to come up there with Him, and He knew full well what was going to happen when they got there. There were three present to establish what happened there as truth, the truth of God’s word (Deuteronomy 17:6, 19:15, Matthew 18:16, 2 Corinthians 13:1).

In this passage of scripture we learned that the countenance of Jesus Christ was dramatically changed because the glory of God was shining upon Him.  Matthew declared in his account that the face of Jesus “did shine as the sun” and His clothing “was white as the light” (Matthew 17:2). This must have been an awesome experience for these three disciples of Christ, and it became even more exciting when Moses and Elijah arrived on the scene and started conversing with Jesus the Christ (Messiah).  We do not know how they were able to discern that it was Moses and Elijah who were talking with Jesus,  considering the fact that they walked the earth long before Peter, James and John were ever born.  The one thing that you need to see here is that Moses and Elijah were ALIVE and talking!  The only thing that matters is that the scriptures recorded this meeting for a reason and it is the Bible truth.

Moses and Elijah were two very well known people in the history of the children of Israel.  It was Moses who was called by the Lord to bring God’s people out from the bondage of Egypt (Exodus 7:16) and it was Moses who received the Ten Commandments fom the Lord (Exodus 20). We can remember the story in the Bible where the prophet Elijah confronted the 450 false prophets of Baal, and where he called upon the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the Lord proved Himself to be the true God before them all. (1 Kings 18:21-40)  I want you to see that Moses and Elijah were known to the children of Israel through their very own scriptures.

So here are these two pillars of the faith having a conversation with Jesus on the top of a mountain.  What were they talking about?  They were talking about the upcoming death of Jesus Christ at Jerusalem, which we know took place upon the cross.  They knew that Jesus was going to be KILLED very shortly, so the death of Christ was not unexpected but was written about by the prophet Isaiah 700 years before it actually happened. (Read Isaiah 53:1-12.)  Everything that has been written in the Old Testament, including all of the prophecies, pointed to the person of Jesus Christ.

Peter in his own excitement sought to make three tabernacles (tents) for each of them (Moses, Elijah, and Jesus), but the Father spoke from heaven saying This is my beloved Son: hear him. Moses and Elijah were not equal to Jesus Christ and the Father wanted the disciples to know that. Yes it is true that the Lord used Moses and Elijah for His own glory but ultimately they were simply created human beings like each and every one of us.  Moses and Elijah were sinners in need of a Saviour just like each and every one of us.

The Bible tells us that the apostle John was another disciple who sought to give glory to another created being who happened to be an angel, but the angel stopped John from doing it as is recorded below:

And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. (Revelation 19:10)

The angel of God was basically telling John that the whole prophetic word was pointing to Jesus Christ. The angel told John that he was merely his fellow servant.  The true servant of God will always point you to Jesus, and they will recognize that they are nothing without him.

The apostle Peter did something similar to what the angel did to John when he rebuked Cornelius for paying homage to him as it is recorded in the scriptures:

And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. (Acts 10:25-26)

So the lesson for today is that we need to worship God and Him alone. The scriptures show us that the Old Testament prophets pointed to Jesus Christ.  There is only ONE plan of salvation for both Jew and Gentile.  The word that the Father gave to the disciples on that mountain top still stands true and they are meant for every single one of us:  This is my beloved Son: hear him.

The words of Jesus Christ still stand true today. The Father calls us to listen to the Son through His word.  The apostle Peter exalted the word of God above his experience on that mountain top, referring to the scriptures as a “more sure word of prophecy.”

For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1:16-21)

The question for today is this: Do you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour? Do you worship Him and Him alone? Do you worship false “gods” such as the ones that Elijah put to shame when he called upon the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?

There is neither Jew nor Greek (Gentile), there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3:28-29)

But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek (Gentile): for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:8-13)