Springtime Days That the Early Christians Kept

Our Lord Jesus Christ’s faithful in the churches of God will observe the apostle Paul’s admonition to “examine” themselves just before the beginning of this spring’s holy days ── 1st Corinthians 11:28-32.

Sadly, the overall majority within this world’s churches will be observing Easter or perhaps Lent.

Also, the overall majority within this world’s churches realize that our Lord Jesus observed what they consider to be “Jewish” days, yet they have not properly understood nor realized that the faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ kept and observed ‘the feasts of the LORD’ in the first few centuries of true Christianity.

The LORD God’s faithful kept and observed all ‘the feasts of the LORD’ listed for us in Leviticus 23. Notice ── in the New Testament that they kept and observed ‘the LORD’s Passover’ along with the ‘Days of Unleavened Bread.’ ──

“THEREFORE purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. 8) THEREFORE let us KEEP THE FEAST, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” – 1st Corinthians 5:7-8.

They kept and observed ‘the Day of Pentecost.’ ──

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. …” – Acts 2:1-4.

“But I [the apostle Paul] will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost.” – 1st Corinthians 16:8.

They kept and observed ‘the Day of Atonement’ which was called ‘the Fast.’ ──

“Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them.” – Acts 27:9.

They kept and observed ‘the Feast of Tabernacles.’ ──

“but took leave of them, saying, ‘I must by all means KEEP THIS coming feast in Jerusalem.” – Acts 18:21.

They kept and observed what is called ‘the Last Great Day.’ ──

“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.’” – John 7:37.

Also, notice that the glorious fulfillments of ‘the first day of the month, a sabbath-rest, a memorial of trumpets, a holy convocation’ called ‘the Feast of Trumpets’ is spoken of in the New Testament ── 1st Thessalonians 4:15-18; also, be sure to read “Trumpets and Your Future.”

The Roman Catholic scholars understood and realized that these observances were kept as well ──

The connection between the Jewish Passover and the … feast of Easter is real and ideal. Real, since Christ died on the first Jewish Easter Day; Ideal, like the relation between type and reality, because Christ’s death and resurrection had its figures and types in the Old Law, particularly in the Paschal lamb, which was eaten towards the evening of the 14th of Nisan. In fact, the Jewish feast WAS TAKEN OVER INTO THE CHRISTIAN EASTER CELEBRATION; … The connection between the Jewish and the Christian [Easter] explains the movable character of this feast. … Since Christ, the true Paschal Lamb, had been slain on the very day when the Jews, in celebration of their Passover, immolated the figurative lamb, the Jewish Christians in the Orient followed the Jewish method, and commemorated the death of Christ on the 15th of Nisan and His resurrection on the 17th of Nisan, no matter what day of the week they fell. For this observance they claimed the authority of St. John and St. Philip. 1

In actuality, the true and faithful Christians that were in the Orient were keeping and observing the 14th day of Nisan ── not the 15th! But, the basic point I want to make is that the Roman Catholic Church then ── and now ── admits (in publication and behind closed doors) that our Lord Jesus Christ was slain on the 14th of Nisan – ‘the LORD’s Passover.’ Even though they changed the name, “change times and laws” calling it EASTER - a homonym of the pagan goddess Ishtar.

Pentecost … a feast of the universal Church [speaking about the Roman Catholic Church] which commemorates the Descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles, fifty days after the resurrection of Christ, ON THE ANCIENT JEWISH FESTIVAL CALLED ‘the feast of weeks’ or Pentecost (Exodus 34:22; Deuteronomy 16:10) … 2

What is known as Lent was not kept or observed by any early true Christian. However, ‘the LORD’s Passover’ and ‘the feast of weeks’ (Pentecost) were!

In the THIRD CENTURY (referring to the period from AD 201 – AD 300), the Roman Catholic theologian Origen had listed the following as being celebrated by Roman Catholics ──

Chapter XXII. If it be objected to us on this subject that WE OURSELVES ARE ACCUSTOMED TO OBSERVE CERTAIN DAYS, as for example … The Passover, or Pentecost, … 3

It is also very likely that other spring holy days were being kept by the early Roman Catholics, along with the LORD God’s fall holy days.

Notice this from the SECOND CENTURY (the period from AD 101 – AD 200) ──

The most important in this festival was the Passover day, the 14th of Nisan, … in it they ate unleavened bread, probably like the Jews, eight days through. … there is NO TRACE OF A YEARLY FESTIVAL OF THE RESURRECTION AMONG THEM, … 4

Like the faithful apostle John (the last of the original apostles to die; probably naturally), the early faithful true Christians kept and observed the LORD’s Passover, along with the Days of Unleavened Bread!

We in the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries keep and observe (In God’s living word, the concept of ‘KEEP’ and ‘OBSERVE’ is related to following and keeping the LORD God’s holy and righteous commandments, including the ‘feasts of the LORD,’ including the holy Sabbath!) the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day that foreshadows the glorious and powerful soon-coming Millennium!

So, the early true Christians kept and observed what are today known as “Jewish” holy days. And since our Lord Jesus Christ and His apostles kept and observed them, shouldn’t ‘the LORD’s feasts’ be kept annually ── and not Easter, Halloween, and the Mass of Christ (Christmas) ── by true and faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ? Gradually, as more “converted” pagans entered into the Roman Catholic Church, they stopped keeping and observing “Jewish” holy days.

The Roman Catholic John Chrysostom preached antisemitism in AD 387 ──

What is this disease? The festivals of the pitiful and miserable Jews are soon to march upon us one after the other and in quick succession: the feast of Trumpets, the feast of Tabernacles, the fasts. There are many in our ranks who say they think as we do. … If the Jewish ceremonies are venerable and great, our[s] are lies. 5

Now, truly none of this causes a problem for the Roman Catholic Church of today, because they just simply gloss it all over with excuse after excuse – again, ‘changing the appointed times and laws’ – cf. Daniel 7:25. The modern Roman Catholics claim they still keep a version of Passover (of course, under the name Easter) and Pentecost. This John Chrysostom died on September 14, AD 407, and is venerated by the Catholic Church! So, he did not write anything they are too ashamed of ── they too have the idealism of “What is this disease?”

Although his writings are not a part of God’s inspired Word – the Bible – Polycarp, who was a disciple of the Apostle John, spoke of some possible information. Polycarp, who is considered a saint by the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries.

Some of this information speaks of the Sabbath, the LORD’s Passover, the Days of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day. And the book ── The Life of Polycarp ── endorses keeping and observing them ──

In the days of unleavened bread, Paul, coming down from Galatia, arrived in Asia, considering the repose among the faithful in Smyrna to be a great refreshment in Christ Jesus after his severe toil, and intending afterwards to depart to Jerusalem. So in Smyrna he went to visit Strataeas, who had been his hearer in Pamphylia, being a son of Eunice the daughter of Lois. These are they of whom he makes mention when writing to Timothy, saying; Of the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois and in thy mother Eunice; whence we find that Strataeas was a brother of Timothy. Paul then, entering his house and gathering together the faithful there, speaks to them concerning the Passover and the Pentecost, reminding them of the New Covenant of the offering of bread and the cup; how that they ought most assuredly to celebrate it during the days of unleavened bread, but to hold fast the new mystery of the Passion and Resurrection. For here the Apostle plainly teaches that we ought neither to keep it outside the season of unleavened bread, as the heretics do, especially the Phrygians, nor yet on the other hand of necessity on the fourteenth day: for he said nothing about the fourteenth day, but named the days of unleavened bread, the Passover, and the Pentecost, thus ratifying the Gospel.

22) And on the sabbath, when prayer had been made long time on bended knee, he, as was his custom, got up to read; and every eye was fixed upon him. Now the lesson was the Epistles of Paul to Timothy and to Titus, in which he says what manner of man a bishop ought to be. And he was so well fitted for the office that the hearers said one to another that he lacked none of those qualities which Paul requires in one who has the care of a church. When then, after the reading and the instruction of the bishops and the discourses of the presbyters, the deacons were sent to the laity to enquire whom they would have, they said with one accord, 'Let Polycarp be our pastor and teacher.' 6

So, there is an ancient book that says that Polycarp did indeed keep and observe the holy Sabbath, along with all ‘the feasts of the LORD’! And, of course, as we’ve shown you here in this article, other various sources also support this fact!

Polycrates ── who actually did not accept what the Roman Catholic Church taught ── who was bishop of Ephesus, wrote this around the year AD 195 ──

Chapter 24. The Disagreement in Asia.

We observe the exact day; neither adding, nor taking away. For in Asia also great lights have fallen asleep, which shall rise again on the day of the Lord's coming, when he shall come with glory from heaven, and shall seek out all the saints. Among these are Philip, one of the twelve apostles, who fell asleep in Hierapolis; and his two aged virgin daughters, and another daughter, who lived in the Holy Spirit and now rests at Ephesus; and, moreover, John, who was both a witness and a teacher, who reclined upon the bosom of the Lord, and, being a priest, wore the sacerdotal plate.

He fell asleep at Ephesus.

And Polycarp in Smyrna, who was a bishop and martyr; and Thraseas, bishop and martyr from Eumenia, who fell asleep in Smyrna.

Why need I mention the bishop and martyr Sagaris who fell asleep in Laodicea, or the blessed Papirius, or Melito, the Eunuch who lived altogether in the Holy Spirit, and who lies in Sardis, awaiting the episcopate from heaven, when he shall rise from the dead?

All these observed the fourteenth day of the Passover according to the Gospel, deviating in no respect, but following the rule of faith. And I also, Polycrates, the least of you all, do according to the tradition of my relatives, some of whom I have closely followed. For seven of my relatives were bishops; and I am the eighth. And my relatives always observed the day when the people put away the leaven. 7

Praise be forever for our mighty LORD God ── this shows that Polycrates and others (who are considered to be saints by the Roman Catholic Church) kept and observed the LORD’s Passover ON THE 14th of Nisan. So, there is no doubt that the feasts that are called by a great many today as “Jewish” were still being kept and observed by the true and faithful Christians there in Asia Minor and elsewhere centuries after the death and glorious resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ!

What WAS NOT BEING KEPT OR OBSERVED ── until at least the 4th century (the period from AD 301 – AD 400) ── by the Roman Catholic Church or even the Eastern Orthodox churches, was CHRISTMAS! Nor what is known as Lent, or Valentine’s Day, or Halloween, that multiple millions keep and observe today.

The LORD God’s feasts are still observed by the faithful true Christians around the world in this 21st century!

Do you follow the commands of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, or are YOU BUT A TRADITIONALIST? □

1 Wynes, J.J., The Catholic Encyclopedia Volume V, “Easter”, 1909, pgs. 224, 225.

2 The Catholic Encyclopedia Volume 15, “Whitsunday,” Knights Of Columbus Special Edition, 1914, pg. 614.

3 by Tertullian, Part Fourth; Minucius Felix; Commodian; Origen, Parts First and Second, Ante Nicene Fathers, Vol 4, 2000, pg. 1513.

4 by Gieseler, Johann Karl Ludwig, 1792-1854, A text-book of church history, “§ 53. ECCLESIASTICAL LIFE.” 1857-80, pg. 166.

5 John Chrysostom, Against the Jews. Homily 1, https://www.tertullian.org/, HOMILY I § 5, VI § 5.

6 Lightfoot, J.B., Pionius, Life of Polycarp (1889) from J. B. Lightfoot, The Apostolic Fathers, vol. 3.2, pp.488-506. LIFE OF POLYCARP.

7 New Advent, Church History (Book V), Chapter 24, § 2-6.

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Are You Dull of Hearing?

by Guy C. LaMar

The LORD God’s living word talks about people that are “hard of hearing” ── Matthew 13:15; Hebrews 5:11.

I have experienced this so many times ── when people are offered the SIMPLE truth of the LORD God (the Elohim, which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus) through the living word of God, they REFUSE to listen or accept it.

Sadly, most people love to hold onto their ready-made religion. A religion they were born into.

The overall people of this present evil age (those who are NOT being called out of this world at this present time) absolutely REFUSE to open their eyes or their ears to the living truth of God.

They deny the LORD God’s awesome and beautiful Master Plan that is set before us by God Almighty!

The people of this present evil age would rather go along (because it feels comfortable to them) with their “emotionally driven religions” rather than the TRUE RELIGION OF JESUS CHRIST ── which causes them to embrace the false religions of this world. Along with the aegis of false Christianity.

All of which ARE LIES!

This world’s false Christianity is a falsehood created and influenced by Satan the Devil!

Today at work, a discussion was brought up concerning the eating of pork meat.

I grabbed God’s living word and turned to several Scriptures on this topic, yet this one man just bickered and DEFENDED HIS SIN!

I told him unequivocally that a man lying with another man is just as guilty in the eyes of God as if they were consuming pork meat!

Ponder on this a moment.

God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ never change ── cf. Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8.

Our Lord Jesus was the God of the Old Testament, as John 1:1 shows us ──

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (NKJV).

And, verse 14 confirms just who the Word was ──

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, …”

The word “homosexuality” is not found in the Authorized Version of God’s living word, yet everyone knows what “’ You shall not lie with a male as with a woman” means! – Leviticus 18:22-23. Everybody knows what “effeminate” means, what “abusers of themselves with mankind” means. Effeminate: having characteristics and ways of behaving traditionally associated with women and regarded as inappropriate for a man. Abusers of themselves with mankind: It is a translation of the Greek word “arsenokoitēs,” which is a compound word meaning “one engaging in homosexual acts.” (Strong’s #733).

In the New Testament of God’s living word, it emphatically states that people who engage in sexual immorality (such as homosexuality), and those who do such things ── those very things that the LORD God disapproves of ── will not be a part of the glorious kingdom of God! Notice ──

“Do you not know that the unrighteous WILL NOT inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals [a catamites; a boy kept for homosexual practices], nor sodomites [The meaning of SODOMY is anal or oral copulation with another person; especially: anal or oral copulation with a member of the same sex], 10) nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, NKJV.

Certainly, if the Lord GOD says that something is an abomination unto Him, then that means He intensely abhors it!

So, why would the Lord GOD change His mind on something which He intensely abhors!?

I explained to this man how the eternal Law of God is still very relevant and alive.

Sadly, this man confused the old Levitical priesthood laws with the glorious holy, just, and good Law of God ── that all mankind are required to obey and keep.

The LORD God’s ordinances and statutes regarding His physical and sexual laws are for the benefit of all mankind. They are not grievous.

Our Lord Jesus Christ says to us, “’ For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven [the atmosphere] and earth pass away [a reference to Revelation 21:1], one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law TILL ALL IS FULFILLED.’” – Matthew 5:18. Showing us that no part of His Law has been “done away with,” or “nailed to the cross.”

“TILL ALL IS FULFILLED” means when He ‘makes all things new’ and when “’ It is done!’” – the glorious establishment of the kingdom of God on planet Earth!

Our Eternal God doesn’t change.

“’ For I am the LORD, I do not change; …’” – Malachi 3:6.

Yet, sadly, in this modern present evil age of religiosity, most of mankind claims ── either our Lord Jesus Christ disagreed with His Father and changed His Law, or that He “nailed” His Father’s Law to the cross, or that He “fulfilled” all the Law so that we didn’t need to keep them!

They preach, teach, and proclaim to the world that “God said it’s alright to commit what He once called an abomination because Jesus came and ‘did away’ with all those laws.” As far as homosexuality, they claim, that is one abomination that will never go away because it is as old ── they claim ── as the “oldest profession.” Often claiming that homosexuality has emerged through evolution as a normal variant that confers survival benefits to the family! 1

Sadly, their reasoning is twisted ── and as the comedian Ron White often says, “You can’t fix stupid!” ── the majority completely DENY that the Holy Bible is the inspired living word of the Creator of the known universe!

Those that are professing Christians in this world continue to claim they are now allowed by the LORD God to consume pork meat ── and therefore (by that same reasoning) are now allowed to be a homosexual if they so desire! Without any issues from God.

Yet, the overall majority of those who claim to be a Christian DO NOT know what the definition of sin is ── defined by the LORD God! It is defined as breaking the Law of God!

“Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.” – 1 John 3:4.

The LORD God is clear and does not change! When the LORD God makes a rule, you can bank on that rule. Because if the LORD God abhors something, They are not going to suddenly like it down the road! If God abhors it, then He abhors it!

Our Lord Jesus clearly said that ’Men shall live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God’ – Matthew 4:4.

The Lord GOD has declared that consuming pork meat (which is pig, swine, hog – all of which are of the genus Suidae) is an abomination unto Him.

“’ Also the swine is UNCLEAN FOR YOU, because it has cloven hooves, yet DOES NOT chew the cud; you SHALL NOT EAT their flesh or touch their dead carcasses.’” – Deuteronomy 14:8.

“’ For behold, the LORD will come with fire And with His chariots, like a whirlwind [speaking of the Day of the Lord!], To render His anger with fury, And His rebuke with flames of fire. … 17) ‘Those who sanctify themselves and purify themselves, To go to the gardens AFTER AN IDOL in the midst, Eating swine’s flesh and the abomination and the [rodent], Shall be consumed together,’ says the LORD.” – Isaiah 15, 17.

I tried to explain the appalling filthiness of pigs to this man.

Interestingly enough, the animals of choice that our Lord Jesus chose to send the demonic spirits into were swine – cf. Matthew 8:28-34.

The worst insult to be called in first century Jerusalem was a “Samaritan.” Jews called the Samaritans a ‘herd, ’ not a nation. A widely used Jewish proverb stated that “a piece of bread given by a Samaritan is more unclean than swine’s flesh.” 2

The Law of God is love.

The LORD God made the physical and sexual laws for mankind out of Their love for mankind ── that if mankind abided and obeyed those physical and sexual laws, then they would not only be closer to the LORD God, but would remain healthier in life.

When mankind embraces and obeys those physical and sexual laws, then mankind is not only showing their love for the LORD God, but will also remain healthier in life.

But sadly, on the whole ── those that claim the title Christian ── do not even know what the word means.

Christian is defined as “a follower of Christ.” It means to emulate the Way of Jesus Christ.

Our Lord Jesus lived a life perfect in the Law of God ── the only person who ever accomplished that! He gave us the perfect example to follow.

Our Lord Jesus admonished us to strive to “’ be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.’” – Matthew 5:48.

If you are a true Christian, then you are going to follow His example!

Did our Lord Jesus Christ consume unclean meats, i.e., pig meat?

The unclean meat-eating people of this present evil age identify them as unwitting servants of Satan the Devil.

Why do I say this?

Because they’re actually doing the will of a devil.

They’re doing what Satan the Devil desires them to do, not what the LORD God wants them to do.

They’re going against the LORD God!

They’re embracing something that the LORD God intensely abhors!

As we are told in Revelation 12:9, Satan the Devil has deceived the whole world!

And, as our Lord Jesus has said, Satan the Devil is “’ a liar and the father of it.’” – John 8:44.

He also called those that worship Him in vain, hypocrites! “’ And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrine the commandments of men.’” – Matthew 15:7-9.

The ideologies and doctrines of these worldly religions are all based upon the deception and influence of Satan the Devil.

Any denomination or faucet of Christianity that okays the consumption of unclean meats, i.e. pig meat ── is not of God, but is unwittingly working for Satan the Devil!

In Acts 15, in which a letter was sent to the Gentiles who were turning to God, in which they were being told by some who went out from among the apostles, troubling the Gentiles with words and upsetting them, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the Mosaic laws” ── in which the apostles gave no such command. It’s NOT talking about the consuming of unclean meats at all, but rather one should “abstain from things [anything] offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.”

Most professing Christians continue to claim that God’s living word says that one can now consume any meats that were deemed “unclean.” But THIS IS NOT TRUE!

The people in first century Jerusalem knew not to consume things that were considered “unclean.” Note: “In Ancient Mesopotamia, differently from what happened in some neighboring cultures (particularly the Jewish society), there were no explicit and permanent avoidances of specific foodstuffs, to be observed constantly by everyone. 3 So therefore, since we are told by the Lord our God, Jesus Christ, that “salvation is of the Jews,” and the apostle Paul stating ── under divine inspiration ── “What advantage then has the Jew, … 2) Much in every way! Chiefly, because TO THEM were committed the oracles of God.” – Romans 3:1, 2. Including the oracle from the LORD God that mankind is prohibited to consume “unclean” meats!

Those items (e.g., swine or rodents) were not considered food to be consumed by human beings!

A great many claim that Romans 14:14 says that there is nothing unclean of itself. Be sure to read or listen to Minister Leonard Johnson’s Think About This… What is meant, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat’? which goes into the truth concerning Romans 14:14.

Many people are ignorant of the proper Greek words used.

The people of God of the first century knew what were considered “clean” and “unclean” foods to be consumed. So, therefore, the statement, “eat anything” ── as far as food stuff ── truly means, eat anything that is considered allowed by the LORD God.

It’s throughout this present evil age that people, “did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not proper.” – Romans 1:28.

Truly, from cover to cover of God’s living word, pig meat (which includes swine, pork, and hog) was ── and continues to be ── an abomination unto God to consume.

Those who are desiring to do so might want to take a moment and consider their actions! Is it pleasing to God, knowing that He said it is an abomination?

I suppose they can continue to be like the Leftist “fruitcakes” ── the D.E.I. and Woke ideologists ── who take it upon themselves to claim (without any scientific validation) that there are more than two sexes of a human being! Or, like the author I quoted earlier, “Male homosexuality appears to have arisen via human evolution.”

Trying to be a shyster with the living word of God!

I tried the best I could to get across to this man that he is placing himself in very dangerous waters.

Now, he brought this subject up to me; I didn’t bring it up to him. Yet, as God’s living word says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and ALWAYS be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and [reverent] fear; 16) having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.” – 1 Peter 3:15-16.

Also, God’s living word says, “Test [or, prove] all things; hold fast what is good.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

I witnessed unto him.

Most do not properly understand that God’s living word is to be read and studied like putting together a picture puzzle. A little here, a little there ──

“’ For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little.’” – Isaiah 28:9-13.

This is the Way of the LORD God for us in learning His Holy word ── where His grace and knowledge is imparted to us gradually, like a child that is learning.

Also, let us take note: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the Sabbath, taught from the Books of the Bible! And, guess what, friends! He also taught from the Books of the Old Testament!

The OLD TESTAMENT is indeed God’s living word! The NEW TESTAMENT is indeed God’s living word! They complement each other!

Sadly, the overall majority of people will continue to hold onto their religious traditions over the living truth of God. This is part of how Satan the Devil retains control of the people. Our Lord Jesus warned of this very thing! ── Mark 7:7-13.

Of course, here in the United States of America, everyone has the freedom of religion! And let us always thank Almighty God for this! They have the freedom to stay in their sin.

Now, one should think HARD ── when you are resurrected, and you are kneeling before our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ during the “Great White Throne Judgment” (cf. Revelation 20:11-13), is the risk worth it?

Is the lust of the mind, tongue, or flesh more important than eternal life in the glorious kingdom of God?

Once a person has the living truth of God presented to them, and they DENY this truth, then the guilt is on them.

God’s living word is clear ── trying to twist and turn to stay in sin, to give yourself over to the desires of the belly and flesh, the lust of taste, equates to the destruction of your future.

Consuming something that the LORD God has called an abomination is allowing a curse within your body ── defiling the physical body that the LORD God has blessed you with.

We must work really hard on ourselves. We must repent. We must overcome ── while we still have years of life ahead of us.

I have witnessed that the overall majority of the people on Earth DO NOT CARE WHAT THE LORD GOD HAS TO SAY ON ANY GIVEN SUBJECT!

They would only rather play religion. They would rather have “a form of godliness” in the eyes of others but “deny the power of God!”

Now, they can do all the good deeds they want for others, but if they’re rejecting the living truth of God and His Way, then they are simply rejecting the LORD God altogether!

Oh yes, a great many “religious” people can talk a good talk ── and many of them may even look like a grandfather figure while wearing a baseball cap, knowing a great deal of God’s living word ── but if they are not doing the will of God, they are nothing more than a ‘sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.’ They are not righteous in the eyes of God!

“(for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the DOERS of the law will be justified.” – Romans 2:13. □

Narcissism Is A Sin

by Guy LaMar

Narcissistic people WILL NOT admit that they are wrong for being self-absorbed. They can’t seem to see past THEMSELVES.

Someone who cannot or will not admit that they’re wrong will not repent.

They self-glorify.

Everyone is inferior, except themselves.

They’re the professional “victim” in life.

If we closely PAY ATTENTION to how they speak and act then we can easily recognize a narcissistic person. Personally, I try to stay clear of them.

Now, there is a difference when someone──being a comedian──mimics someone with this flawed trait. As in the famous late comedian Bob Hope. He made a hilarious career doing just this.

Sadly, however, there are a great many people within church groups──and this applies to all forms of churches──who are narcissists.

There are politicians, lawyers, actors, police officers, judges, and even ministers who are some of the worst egomaniacs. But for religious leaders──they can be some of the worst types of narcissists that you could ever encounter!

Yet, we are told by the LORD God to be humble──cf. 1 Peter 5:6; Matthew 23:12; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Colossians 3:12.

If you have even a small portion of the Spirit of discernment (1 Corinthians 12:10), then it’s easy to discern if a person displays the characteristics of narcissism. A person that does not bear the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). A person who is a fraud, a fake, a liar, a shyster within the Church of God.

They will lie about you──and they will begin to believe their own lies!

Yet, when they are exposed. They will shut down and have no response.

Truly, if you just ignore a narcissistic individual, it will eat away at them with jealousy and hatred──knowing the fact that you have gotten along without them. And, oftentimes, they will begin to spew venom against you and make lies against you.

And, I would hazard a guess, that if we were to closely examine many ministers throughout the world, there are probably a great many──that are self-glorifying, demeaning of others, eccentric, and exceedingly odd.

We, as true Christians, need to be on guard against those who are narcissistic ── especially if they claim to be ministers of God. When we knowingly invite narcissistic people into our lives we are asking for trouble.

Make no mistake about it──hardly any narcissistic person will ever see you in a good light.

Narcissism is a personality disorder. Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy) with a mental health professional.

It is against the LORD God to be a narcissist. But, the person can get help!

God’s living word is clear on so many levels──we should always present ourselves with the glorious fruits of the Spirit!

Silence is a strong rebuttal to foolish people.

“Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” – Proverbs 17:28.

You should never dignify a response to a foolish person ── with their foolish complaints about you. It will only puff them up further with their braggadocious tough guy speech. In reality, they are but cowards and jealous of others.

Often, a narcissist will love to tell stories about his/her great adventures of “being tough .” When in reality, those stories have been fabricated and boasted up on steroids to make them appear what they are not.

It’s like the famous quote from Smokey and the Bandit ── “Seems like a legend and an out-of-work bum look a lot alike, Daddy.” Legends tend to grow over time into something that never was.

On social media, we witness these types all the time ── “keyboard tough guys.” They sit around hiding behind their computer analyzing everyone ──which is a form of judging others. A great many of these types ──those who call themselves ministers ──get up on their “soapbox” or their “high horse” and they ramble on and on about how great they are in biblical knowledge! And, pay close attention to how many times they use the words, “Me,” or “I” ──and will always bring any subject back to talking about themselves. And, some actually will make their whole message about themselves!

Brethren, I implore you, to stay clear of people that portray narcissistic characteristics. They can eventually become a burr under your saddle.

The apostle Paul warns us that as we get ever closer to the end of this present evil age ──perilous times will come ──

“For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3) unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4) traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5) having a form of godliness but denying its power. And FROM SUCH PEOPLE TURN AWAY!” – 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

An increase of lovers of themselves, boasters, the proud, blasphemers, the unloving, the unforgiving is a sign of “the last days”! The self-centered, PRIDE of this modern era is on full display for all to see!

The queer community and the narcissists ── on full display! Notice the queers use the term “pride”!?

God’s living word speaks of pride (which can also be considered as narcissism), and that pride will be destroyed ──

“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” – Proverbs 16:18.

We are told, brethren, to “look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” – Philippines 2:4. The narcissist routinely disobeys this command.

Sadly, a fool will make his own rules, will scoff at any right rebuke, and disregard the harm of his actions upon others. The same goes for the narcissist.

A narcissist is a fool.

Throughout the Book of Proverbs, we are told how to deal with those who are foolish. We are told not to believe their charming speech, to avoid confronting them, and to disengage when necessary. To be cautious, discerning, and to understand that a fool (and a narcissist) will blame, shift, and think that they are always right. The best way to handle a narcissist (before they seek help) is to avoid them. Ignore them, and stay clear of them.

Can they change?

Yes. Again, treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy) with a mental health professional.

But, note ── a narcissist in almost all probability is a very unrepentant person. They can not see or hear God’s Way. They will analyze biblical passages to fit their way ──if they are claiming to be a Christian.

Narcissistic people can be some of the most dangerous people to be around. They can be most vile and evil. Unfortunately, as we get ever closer to the end of this present evil age, we will come across more and more of these types of people.

Have you noticed more and more people around the world are taking “selfies” with their iPhones!? They create album after album of “selfies” ── self-promoting. It’s like each person is running their own fan club!

Many so-called ministers will hate on others while completely going AGAINST God’s living word ──so they can justify their own evil within them.

Narcissists appear to surround themselves with “yes men.” People who make the narcissist feel more important. To make himself/herself feel more intelligent. Often, a narcissist is intimidated and jealous of others who are truly being blessed by the LORD God (i.e. the opening of doors to the ministry).

Now, it may be that some of us have (or had) at one time or other characteristics of a narcissist ── but the LORD God will humble us to help us continue through the narrow gate – cf. Matthew 7:13-14. If we are always seeking the Way of the LORD God! – cf. 1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalm 63:1.

We must always realize and understand that it is the LORD God’s Way or Satan the Devil’s way (cf. Deuteronomy 30:19). We must always have a humbling spirit and character to rightly serve the Lord our God. But if we become all puffed up, then we are but serving the evil one.

It is often that it is a narcissist that commits horrendous mass murders. Also, often a narcissist will commit violent crimes. They can be very dangerous and perverted. They often cannot love past themselves. They see the world only through their eyes ── of how something should be or not.

The LORD God’s true servants are quiet, self-controlled, loving, concerned for the well-being of others, gentle, kind, friendly, caring ── and always completely focused on Jesus Christ and His teachings. On His will. A true servant of Christ will not look for a speck in someone else’s eye, because they understand that they surely have a plank in their own eye.

A true servant of Christ will always try to help others when possible. They will always examine themselves (2 Corinthians 13:5). And, they will never go around with seething hatred for others and the belittlement of others.

Because that is what Satan the Devil does.

Our Lord Jesus has told us, “’ You will know them by their fruits.’” In other words, their character, their actions, their deeds.

We are told that Satan the Devil has ministers that appear as “ministers of righteousness.” – 2 Corinthians 11:12-15. Make no mistake about it, Satan the Devil knows God’s living word forwards and backward. He is called the great beguiler. So, his servants are very capable of beguiling.

We are told that true ministers of God are to be “blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; 3) not given to wine [alcoholism], not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous, 4) one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence … 6) not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7) MOREOVER he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” – 1 Timothy 3:1-4, 6-7.

Be sure to also refer to the Books of Titus and 1st Peter.

So, as we serve the Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ, we must always be careful and not allow a narcissist ── who believes they have pulled the wool over people's eyes ── to stop us on our journey to receive our glorious crown. Our own personal call of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ!

Never. Absolutely never, allow a very easy-to-see evil and vile person to live rent-free in your mind. Avoid them. Stay clear of them. Pay them no attention.

A narcissist that hates you will only destroy themselves as they go on accusing you of lies ──they are inspired by the evil one. And, he desperately hates the joy and happiness of true Christians. He hates to see a true Christian successful. A narcissist will hate what they cannot obtain.

A narcissistic minister will often spew messages of hate against those who ignore them. Workers for Satan the Devil under the aegis of Christianity. This is why, brethren, we should always have on the armor of God! – Ephesians 6:10-18.

The LORD God will help handle our tribulations ── always turn to God in these matters. Let us always continue in our responsibility as true Christians to follow the teachings of the holy word of God and stay clear of evil doers in sheep’s clothing. □

What Is A True Christian?

by Leonard V Johnson

It excites me to tell you that this subject that I want to speak about in this article is one I’ve been wanting to speak about for some time. We do have A Morning Bible Study──God's Definition of a TRUE CHRISTIAN which will certainly complement this article.

WHAT IS A TRUE CHRISTIAN? 

What is true Christianity?

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ explains to us what a true Christian is like. Sadly, throughout this world and its professing Christianity, it’s extremely difficult to find the qualities that our Lord Jesus describes should be present in a Christian.

As an example──and this is something I recently witnessed on Fox News immediately after the resident Joe Biden commuted the sentences of 37 of the 40 men on federal death row. Tim Timmerman, whose daughter was killed by one of the men whose sentence was commuted on Monday, said in an interview with Fox40, “You couldn't imagine someone that deserved it more than Mr. Gabrion. He killed at least five people. Where's the justice in just giving him a prison bed to die comfortably in?” I also heard one woman say, ‘They didn’t show any mercy to their victims. They deserve no mercy!’ Surely, there is nothing more central to Christianity than mercy. One of our Lord Jesus’ teachings in the “Sermon on the Mount” which is recorded for us in Luke chapter 6, “’ But I say to you WHO HEAR: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28) bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.’” – Luke 6:27-28, NKJV throughout, unless otherwise noted. 

We, as true Christians, are to have MERCY.

We are told by the apostle Paul that “in the last days perilous times will come.” Including a severe lack of forgiving others – 2 Timothy 3:1-5. And, I am not saying that I do not believe in capital punishment. But a person who blatantly says that a person does not deserve mercy──that person is not a true Christian. I speak concerning capital punishment and does God ever use capital punishment? In a Personal From… 2022.

This command to those WHO HEAR certainly is not being followed by a great many professing Christians around the world. Are you able to witness this command from our Lord being implemented in your neighborhood? What about at your Sunday church gathering? What about the multiple thousands you walk by on the streets of America──a great many of who claim to be Christian?

Surely, to truly love your enemy, you must know WHY HE IS HERE ON THIS PLANET. The same as WHY IS MAN? Because truly the grandest of Golden Rules is, “’ Just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.’” – vs. 31. Our Lord Jesus did not just suggest this for us──we are to live by this.

And I do understand, because it did happen to our beloved Lord Jesus ── how it could be very difficult to forgive and have mercy on a person who murdered a member of your family. Yet, Our Lord Jesus is the Law Giver. And He commanded His followers to abide by this Law. To apply it to their daily lives.

Why Have Mercy?

Our Lord Jesus continued here, “’ Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. 37) … Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.’” – vs. 36-37.

Having mercy on others is not for their benefit──it’s for yours.

Sadly, gossip, condemnation, and backbiting are at the forefront of even many so-called Christian sermons. And even in private conversations. It’s in our movies, television shows, books──even in the majority of children’s television programs──it dwells on the idea of condemning and seeking revenge.

Truly, when you witness genuine mercy from one human being toward another it is remarkable and marks within your mind an indelible memory.

Our Lord Jesus’ command surely encompasses the lack of consideration for others regarding: blaring car radios, annoyingly loud motorcycles, loud barking dogs, littering, damaging public property, and spraying permanent graffiti without authorization. Acts of inconsideration to others that make life unpleasant.

So, it is so commonplace──the infringements of the command that our Lord Jesus Christ gives us──it certainly should make us wonder: and I have spoken of this several times ── Remember Abraham’s plea!? “Suppose there were fifty righteous within the city; would You also destroy the place.” And the LORD said, “If I find in Sodom fifty, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.” And then Abraham said, “Suppose there were five less than the fifty righteous?” And then, forty, and thirty, and then twenty, and finally ten. And the LORD said, “I will not destroy it for the sake of ten righteous people.” And we know the result. Abraham’s nephew, Lot, couldn’t even convince his own family to leave. It was only his wife and his two daughters who were still living at home who left Sodom. Those five cities on the plain of Jordan were allowed to be destroyed because there weren’t even ten righteous people in that city. And, brethren, let us not sell ourselves short – but we should ponder – is it that Almighty God is holding back the utter destruction of the United States of America, the United Kingdom and her Commonwealth of Nations, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and Judah (the little nation known today as Israel) respectively – because there are maybe ten in one-million righteous people still within these nations!? It should make us wonder: WHERE ARE THE TRUE CHRISTIANS? As I’ve spoken to my sister about, along with Minister Guy LaMar, “Within a fifty-mile radius from me, where are my true brethren?” They are difficult to find.

Christianity In Decline

Our America in this 21st Century faces ever-greater threats than even during the American Revolutionary War. Illegal immigrants crossing our borders soar to record highs – “The unauthorized immigrant population in the United States grew to 11.0 million in 2022. … In addition, through December 2023, about 500,000 new immigrants were paroled into the country through two federal programs – the Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan (CHNV) program and the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U). Groups like these have traditionally been considered part of the unauthorized immigrant population. … While these new arrivals probably increased the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population, it remains to be seen how much.” 1 How many potential terrorists are illegally coming to America!? Our beautiful and blessed land is becoming polluted with filth! Even the food we eat, the water we drink, and even the air we breathe are highly polluted! A crime surge is occurring in America! The homicide rate in some large US cities rose by 30% in 2020! And it is showing no sign of slowing. Derek Thompson of The Atlantic wrote, “Americans are experiencing a crime wave, unlike anything we’ve seen this century. … Americans can no longer say, as we could 10 years ago, that we are living in the safest time in our nation’s history.” 2 In the article he had spoken with Patrick Sharkey, a sociologist at Princeton University, who had argued that intensive and often “aggressive” policing and incarceration policies “probably” helped reduce crime in the past few decades, to the great benefit of low-income neighborhoods. Immorality and sexual licentiousness are completely filling our land. Divorce and broken homes are rampant.

Truly, America needs President Donald Trump! God’s living immutable word shows us what a society becomes like when the LORD God’s true religion ── and God’s word defines religion this way, “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” – James 1:27. Again, much of what this world considers to be the religion of Christianity──church on Sunday, reciting prayers, lighting of candles, etc. ── are nothing more than human traditions that give the appearance of devotion, but ultimately have very little to do with any salvation of the participant.

Christianity is in decline in North America. According to AJ Willingham of CNN, “By 2040, Islam could be the second-largest religion in the US.” 3 And, according to a Pew Research Center poll, “Over the past three decades, the total number – or stock – of people living as international migrants has increased by 83%, outpacing global population growth of 47%.” 4

So, as our Lord Jesus was speaking──and even as He has asked, “’ Nevertheless when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?’” (Luke 18:8), and certainly not only the faith of Christianity, but faith in even a Creator──He knew that at the close of this present evil age that there would be multiple billions who would be calling Him their ‘Lord,’ and who would be professing that they belong to Him, but who would not be obeying Him.

He says to them, “’ But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?’” – Luke 6:46. Indeed, a ‘lord’ is a master──one who is to be obeyed. In other words, our Lord Jesus is saying, “If you DO NOT obey Me, DO NOT call Me Lord!”

So often we hear a plethora of people──especially this time of year──talk about “the Lord,” or “the little Lord Jesus asleep in the manger,” when they don’t have the foggiest understanding of who the REAL JESUS actually is! Our Lord Jesus announces to us, “’ Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom [from] heaven, …’” – Matthew 7:21.

Here are some simple and easy-to-understand teachings from our Master on what makes a person a true Christian –

“’ My mother and My brothers are these who HEAR THE WORD OF GOD AND DO IT.’” – Luke 8:21.

“’ You are My friends IF YOU DO WHATEVER I COMMAND YOU.’” – John 15:14.

“’ If you love Me, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS.’” – John 14:15.

It’s clear that only a person who does what our Lord Jesus Christ commands has the right to call Him ‘Lord.’ That is the LORD God’s definition of a true Christian.

True Christianity Is A Way of Life

Christianity is not just merely believing. It’s not just joining a church. It’s not something to be paraded about one day a week or at differing times. It is a Way of life. In fact, true Christians call it, “the Way of the Lord” – Acts 18:25. Our Lord Jesus Christ says, “’ I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.’” – John 14:6. No one can follow what our Lord Jesus taught without truly experiencing a change in life and in one’s lifestyle.

This truth can be illustrated by the wealthy man who once came to our Lord Jesus and asked, “’ Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?’” Because the man knew that he had to do something to follow Jesus. Sadly, the majority of people TODAY would answer: “You don’t have to do a thing. Just believe in the Lord and you will be saved.” But, our Lord Jesus answers us quite differently! “’ But if you want to enter into life, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.’” And He made it crystal clear that He was speaking of His Ten Commandments and not any laws of the Sanhedrin──or even the Code of Hammurabi. And, to this crystal clear answer, the wealthy man responded, “’ All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?’”

Whether a person is wealthy or what society considers poor, our Lord Jesus requires His followers to have a true depth of CONVERSION. He knew that that wealthy man was not keeping the true intent of His commandments regarding loving the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. As well as loving your neighbor as yourself ──cf. Mark 12:28-31. So our Lord Jesus boldly told him, “’ You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven, and come follow Me.’” So, only after that could he be a true Christian.

Sadly, like the overwhelming majority, he was unwilling to CHANGE in life and in lifestyle.

Maybe you think──and as my oldest brother, and now my wife has said to me──that all you need to do in life to find salvation (whatever that may be to you) is to “be the best person you can be”!? Or, maybe you believe in all your heart that you are keeping the Ten Commandments. If you don’t believe that they were “done away with,” or “nailed to the cross.” Well, let’s go over the Ten Commandments. And I want you to be honest with yourself and see whether you could use some improvement in keeping them in your life.

1) “’ You shall have no other gods before Me.’”

I humbly come before you as a servant of Jesus Christ, empowered by God’s Spirit, to warn you this day of growing idolatry within Jesus Christ’s Church! Many may ostracize me – even many brethren – but Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ are sending a message to you via an often despised man, often a foolish man, a weak man – nothing more than a conduit of the good news for all of you. The greatest sin by far is the sin of idolatry. Idolatry is when we violate the FIRST COMMANDMENT! It is when we put something or someone first in our life, BEFORE the living and true God. And, idolatry is the root cause of all other sins.

2) “’ You shall not make for yourselves a carved image──any likeness of anything …’”

The SECOND COMMANDMENT should be crystal clear to all. NO LIKENESS OF ANY KIND OF THE LORD OUR GOD! This includes the famous and most popular painting of “Jesus” with long hair and feminine features – “The Head of Christ,” also known as “Sallman Head” painted in 1940 by American artist Warner Sallman (1892–1968). Throughout the United States of America ── and the world beyond, a great many “Christians” have this famous painting somewhere in their home!

3) “ ’You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.’”

The THIRD COMMANDMENT applies to so much more than just using our Lord Jesus’ holy name in vulgarity. The word “take” in Strong’s Concordance means “to bear, carry.” 5 “The Qal form of this root is used almost six hundred times with basically three separate meanings: ‘to lift up’; ‘to bear, carry, support’; and ‘to take, take away.’ … The meaning ‘to lift up’ is used both literally and figuratively in many phrases. ‘To lift up the hand’ in taking an oath (Deut. 32:40; Ezek. 20:5, 6. 15, etc.).” 6 So, truly the meaning is that the LORD God does not like it when people make an “oath” to be a Christian, yet are doing things that make the true religion of God look bad.

4) “’ Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.’”

Let us never forget that the LORD our God made the SEVENTH DAY holy time. But, what does ‘holy’ time mean!? In several articles on our website, I have shown you in God’s living word that we are not to do any work, our own pleasure, speaking our own words, on God’s holy Sabbath day. We are to keep the Sabbath day holy. So, you shouldn’t be spending a lot of time in worldly visiting or what is often called “just shooting the breeze.” When the LORD our God said that we are to put the Sabbath day to holy use, He meant that we should be happily employed in doing good things prescribed for that day. To keep the Sabbath positive. Use the Sabbath as a day of rest from our labor, to get closer to God in prayer and Bible study. Take time to do good to others, to care for the sick, to visit the afflicted. Assemble – if possible – with other true Christians on the Sabbath. Then you will truly be a light unto the world! Friends, the holy Sabbath separates true Christians from this world’s churches with their pagan holidays and their “day of the sun.”

5) “’ Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.’”

What does it mean to “honor”? The word “honor” in Hebrew is surprising. It is the word kābēd, meaning “be heavy, grievous, hard, rich, honorable, glorious.” It is the word for glory. It means to be weighty. In one respect it is bearing a burden of a weighty issue. In other words, honoring our parents goes far beyond childhood. It also takes us into their old age where we bear the burden when they are unable to carry their burdens. The word kābēd in all its beauty also means that we should always recognize the importance of our parents ── no matter whether we feel they are good or bad parents. They have a connection with us and we should recognize their importance to us. And it involves always showing them respect just as we show the LORD God respect.

This is one command that has a promise as part of it. And there are so many reasons why honoring our parents will result in a long life. For me, their instructions kept me away from many of the dangers of life. My Father’s echoing words, “Don’t do as I do, do as I say.” Now that I have entered into five-and-a-half decades of my life ── and thinking back to my childhood ── they certainly kept me from a path of criminality. I was there standing by her side when my Mother took her last breath – April 12th, 2013. It took a lot out of my wife and me taking care of her towards the end, but I wouldn’t trade that for the honor we showed her. My parents planted a love for God and a respect for authority in me that has helped lead to a longer life in the land in which the LORD God has blessed me to be born.

6) “’ You shall not murder.’”

The overall majority of humanity has not physically murdered anyone. But nearly everyone has committed murder in their heart at one time or another. Our Lord Jesus Christ says, “’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of [gehenna fire].’” – Matthew 5:21-22. He elevated the Law to a spiritual plane. That even if you have murderous thoughts in your heart, then you’ve committed an act of murder. And, murder and killing can mean two different things.

Murder: the crime of unlawfully killing a person with malice and aforethought. Killing can mean not deliberate.

7) “’ You shall not commit adultery.’”

As we’ve pointed out before, the word “adultery,” in part refers to the physical sin of adultery. Sex outside of marriage. Breaking the bonds of loyalty. But, a more spiritual aspect, when you see the words adultery, fornication, whoring ── and you read and study the whole passage ── it is the LORD God’s pronouncement against people who are engaged in false religions.

8) “’ You shall not steal.’”

Again, many reading this will wholeheartedly claim that they do not steal. But I want you to be aware of this: If you teach, preach, or propagate ─ and you don’t have to be a minister to teach false doctrines ─ or, let’s say that you are parents who teach your children that placing a tooth underneath their pillow, they will receive money from a Tooth Fairy – (in the US, the average tooth fairy payment is $4.57 per tooth, adjusting for geographical location, family traditions, child’s age, and inflation), or you teach your children about a Santa Claus that delivers presents to all the good children all around the world on Christmas Eve, or about an Easter bunny that lays chocolate or multi-colored eggs, or teaching them to beg for candy on Halloween ── if you teach them all that folderol, you are STEALING from your children or your grandchildren the truth of the living God! Because if you want to teach the children the living truth of God ── you will properly teach them what the LORD God actually says in the pages of THE WORD OF GOD!

9) “’ You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.’”

As in accusing somebody of doing something they did not do. Well, there are a whole lot of people who claim to be Christians who have broken this commandment. Spiritual crimes against true Christians. As an example: a former mentor found out that a fellow servant could no longer afford (nor have the time) to develop and upload his sermons, and instead of having understanding and compassion ── he instead bashes and trashes the poor soul who has become the object of his hate. I know about that!

10) “’ You shall not covet.’”

The apostle Paul said in Colossians 3:5 and in Ephesians 5:5 – ‘that covetousness of physical things [including people] is a form of spiritual idolatry and is a sin, and unrepented of is worthy of death.’ And so yes, the Ten Commandments have a more practical everyday physical meaning, but the Ten Commandments have a mighty powerful secondary spiritual meaning! Covetousness is perhaps the major form of national idolatry in America. And covetousness rears its head in many ways in the United States of America. Take - as an example - TV shows such as American Idol or I Am A Singer (which is popular in South Korea), or even The Voice. Watch one if you get a chance. The contestants sometimes become so mentally incapacitated with lust that it's so very sad. They gibber, or their eyes bulge out, and gasping, they hug and kiss the show’s host; they jump up and down at the prospect of owning a fantastic new sports car just on the other side of the curtain. “Come on down! You're the next contestant on The Price is Right!” The lust, greed, the vanity is certainly palpable. In the United States today, we worship people, automobiles, money, and the status that money brings - material possessions. The prophet Isaiah, under great inspiration from God's Spirit, wrote: “Their land is also full of idols; They worship the work of their own hands, That which their own fingers have made” - Isaiah 2:8. In actuality, this grave manifestation of this modern idolatry is perhaps the greatest and most serious sin in the United States of America.

Notice the Ten Commandments begin with idolatry, and it ends with idolatry?

True Conversion

As I said earlier ── Christianity is not just merely believing. It’s not just joining a church. It’s not something to be paraded about one day a week or at differing times. It is a Way of life.

We need to continue working at: that every activity, every conversation, every goal and plan ── we are representing the family of God! WE ARE AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST! – cf. 2 Corinthians 5:20. That our Lord Jesus Christ has revealed to us His Law that bears on every facet of our life. With Almighty God helping us to cast down “arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing EVERY THOUGHT into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.

Surely, to this world what our Lord Jesus asks of us sounds extreme. Many might think that true Christians are much like monks in Buddhism or Catholicism. No. The apostle Paul was only repeating what the LORD God’s living word tells us time and time again. Remember, we are told, “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” – 1 Corinthians 6:20. There is a price to pay ── complete and unwavering faith and obedience. “ …’ keep the commandments’” – Matthew 19:17. And, “to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8. And for a great many that price may be too high. The ultimate price is to surrender YOURSELF to Christ Jesus!

“’ Let the wicked FORSAKE HIS WAY, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the LORD, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.’” – Isaiah 55:7.

A true Christian follows and obeys our Lord Jesus Christ, His thoughts, and His will. What the prophet Isaiah is describing is true repentance. When a crowd asked the apostle Peter ‘What shall we do?’ The apostle Peter responded with the same answer! – Acts 2:36-39.

‘God gave them a spirit of stupor’

Our Lord Jesus tells us that many are trying to get salvation through a wide gate ─ a broad way that leads to destruction. – Matthew 7:13. NARROW IS THE GATE! Sadly, the majority of our peoples are looking for an easy street. They begin to see that being a true Christian is difficult. They begin to say to themselves: “I believe in God. I speak with God. There’s no need to go to a church. All you really need to do is to be the best person you can be.” Yet, they don’t have much of a concept of an afterlife. They sing the song by Doris Day ──

Que sera, sera

Whatever will be, will be

The future’s not ours to see

Que sera, sera

What will be, will be

Our Lord Jesus Christ really means what He says ── in keeping the commandments to inherit the LORD God’s free gift of eternal life! He meant exactly what He said. The multiple billions who have throughout the generations professed Christianity (along with all other religions) without ever truly understanding what it really means to be a true Christian (Acts 4:12) ── a follower of Jesus Christ ── will eventually have their opportunity to truly understand in the second resurrection. That period is shown to us in the Book of Revelation 20:11-13. □

Bibliography

1 Passel, J.S., and Krogstad, J.M., What we know about unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S., Pew Research Center, 22 July 2024.

2 Thompson, D., Why America’s Great Crime Decline Is Over, The Atlantic, March 24, 2021.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2021/03/is-americas-great-crime-decline-over/618381/. Retrieved 26 Dec. 2024.

3 Willingham A.J., By 2040, Islam could be the second-largest religion in the US, CNN, 10 Jan. 2018.

4 Kramer, S., and Tong, Y., The Religious Composition of the World’s Migrants, Pew Research Center, 19 Aug. 2024.

5 Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Strong, James. Zondervan, 2001, #5375, pg. 5394.

6 Harris L. R., Archer, L. Gleason, Jr., and Waltke K. Bruce. Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, 1980, #1421, pg. 600.