Does the LORD God Truly Want To Forgive You?

by Leonard V Johnson

Will all your sins be forgiven? Is forgiving all your sins part of God’s Master Plan… From the Beginning?

Does the LORD God genuinely want you to be saved?

Yes!

Notice what the apostle Paul was inspired to write ──

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made FOR ALL MEN, 2) for kings [for presidents, prime ministers, and the like] and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all goodness and reverence. 3) For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4) WHO DESIRES ALL MEN TO BE SAVED and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-4.

Nearly 6,000 years ago Lucifer (now known as Satan the Devil) began his deception of mankind (cf. Genesis 3:1-4; Revelation 12:9), and from that point mankind was cut-off from the LORD God (the Elohim; the family of God which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) ──

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16) For ALL that is in the world ── the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the PRIDE of life ── is not of the Father but is of the world. 17) And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does THE WILL OF GOD abides forever.” – 1 John 2:15-17.

“Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3) as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4) by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of THE DIVINE NATURE, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” – 2 Peter 1:2-4.

All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory ── Romans 3:23.

And when the time was fulfilled ──

“’ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes [on] Him should not perish but have everlasting life.’” – John 3:16.

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9) If we confess our sins [to God our Father and God our Savior], He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:8-9.

Yes! The LORD God will forgive you if you truly repent and confess your sins to Them!

The’Unpardonable’ Sin

Now is there a sin that WILL NOT BE FORGIVEN?

Our Lord Jesus says, “Yes!”

What is the unpardonable sin? Well, simply put ── it’s the blasphemy against God’s Spirit. Rejecting God’s Spirit. Those who have turned their back on the LORD God, having driven out the Spirit of God out of them ──

“’ Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. 32) ANYONE who [commands] a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but WHOEVER [commands] against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.’” – Matthew 12:31-32.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by [which] you were sealed for the day of redemption [the resurrection of all the saints].” – Ephesians 4:30.

“If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death [speaking of the second death], he will ask, and He will give him life [eternal life] for those who commit sin not leading to death [speaking of the second death]. There is sin leading to death [again, speaking of the second death]. I do not say that he should pray about that [meaning, he should not make a request for this!]. 17) All unrighteousness is sin, and there is sin not leading to death [speaking again of the second death].” – 1 John 5:16-17.

Notice what happens to those who do commit sin leading to death ──

“ …’ He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels … 46) And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.’” – Matthew 25:41, 46.

I cover what is meant, “everlasting punishment” in our Letter to our Friends – July 2, 2021.

The fire is everlasting, the execution is the second death, it’s instantaneous.

The LORD God’s immutable word is clear that They are willing to forgive us our sins ── if we confess our sins to Them and REPENT ── Acts 2:38; 3:19.

But what if you do not repent?

Well...   Satan the Devil told Eve ──

“ …’ You will not surely die. …’” – Genesis 3:4.

Yet, the LORD God says ──

“ …’ Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; 17) but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’” ─ Genesis 2:16.

And, under divine inspiration, the apostle Paul ──

“For the wages of sin is death [speaking of the second death], but THE GIFT of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23.

They are not speaking of a first death ── our physical death that is caused by the second law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of increasing decay. Because, and I’ve mentioned this several times now ── that even if Adam had taken of the tree of life, he was going to die anyway, no matter if they were to choose the tree of life or the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Had they chosen the tree of life, they would still have lived out their days and died. But, like what the apostle Paul wrote, “at the twinkling of an eye,” they would have been resurrected wholly spiritual beings. Have you ever thought of this before? They were speaking of a second death ── a death in which you are not resurrected again. A permanent death.

Again, the LORD God ──

“’ I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you [the very day that you hear His message], that I have set before you LIFE AND DEATH, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, …’” – Deuteronomy 30:19.

“’ Behold, all souls are Mine; The soul of the father As well as the soul of the son is Mine; The soul who sins shall die.’” – Ezekiel 18:4, 20.

On our Statements of Belief page, we wrote ──

Baptism of Fire

The baptism of fire is NOT a baptism to be sought by spiritually begotten children of God – as some teach. It is a baptism that is reserved for the incorrigibly wicked. The Scriptures reveal that the baptism of fire is the eternal destruction of the vile wicked in the “lake which burns with fire and brimstone.” Those who are cast into this lake of fire will NOT be “tormented day and night forever and ever,” but will be burned up. This is the second death – the permanent death – and God’s final judgment for the unrepentant and for those who have committed the unpardonable sin – those who have rejected God’s Way of salvation through Jesus Christ. All who have hardened their hearts in their iniquities and their rebellion against Almighty God and who have committed the unpardonable sin by knowingly resisting and blaspheming God’s Holy Spirit – therefore making it impossible to now be led to repentance. They together will be destroyed (“perish” – cf. 2 Peter 3:9) together in the “lake which burns with fire and brimstone.”

The LORD God gives men time to repent of a sin which does not lead to death. Notice what our Lord Jesus says ──

“ … ‘A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7) Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ 8) But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. 9) And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that, you can cut it down.’” – Luke 13:6-9.

Cf. ──

“’ Nevertheless, I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. 21) And I GAVE HER TIME TO REPENT …’” – Revelation 2:20, 21.

Our Lord and Savior is teaching us that while the LORD God may grant the unfruitful some time to repent and begin producing fruits fitting for God (and this certainly applies to everyone who has been called by Father God), there is a limit to the amount of time that is allotted. We MUST OVERCOME AND PRODUCE FRUIT FITTING FOR GOD!

Notice some additional Scriptures basically teaching us what the unpardonable sin is ──

“Therefore, we MUST give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, LEST WE DRIFT AWAY. 2) For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, 3) HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT A SALVATION, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, 4) God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?” – Hebrews 2:1-4.

“For IT IS IMPOSSIBLE for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and become partakers of the Holy Spirit, 5) and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, 6) if they FALL AWAY, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.” – Hebrews 6:4-6.

So notice that the only sin that will not be forgiven in this age or the age to come is the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit ── which is knowingly and willingly rejecting/neglecting the glorious Holy Spirit, which is gifted after true repentance and true baptism.

Notice this warning for those who have been called by Father God, have properly repented and have been properly baptized, having hands laid upon them, and receiving the glorious gift of the Holy Spirit ──

“For if we sin WILLFULLY after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sin, 27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.

29) Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant [the New Covenant] by which he was sanctified a common thing, and INSULTED THE SPIRIT OF GRACE?” – Hebrews 10:26-27, 29.

While this sounds like an unjust God, notice what God’s living word says ──

“For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT.” – James 2:13.

God’s living word in the Old Testament confirms the living truth of the unpardonable sin ──

“ … ‘if you warn the wicked, and he does not turn from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity [speaking of the first death here]; … 20) Again, when A RIGHTEOUS MAN TURNS FROM HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND COMMITS INIQUITY, and I lay a stumbling block before him, he shall die [speaking of the second death here]; … he shall die in his sin, AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH HE HAS DONE [previously] SHALL NOT BE REMEMBERED; …’” – Ezekiel 3:19, 20.

“’ But when A RIGHTEOUS MAN TURNS AWAY FROM HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND COMMITS INIQUITY, and does according to all the abominations that the wicked man does, SHALL HE LIVE?

ALL THE RIGHTEOSNESS WHICH HE HAD DONE SHALL NOT BE REMEMBERED; because of the unfaithfulness of which he is guilty and the sin which he has committed, because of them he shall die [speaking of the second death here].’” – Ezekiel 18:24.

Our Friends, Brethren, and Co-Workers in Christ ── those who worry about committing the unpardonable sin, it is most likely that you have not committed it. The fact that you are concerned about it shows that you have not WILLFULLY turned your back on the LORD God and God’s Way!

The LORD God will indeed forgive you if you REPENT and confess your sins to Them.

Truly, truly, the LORD God wants all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth, and does not want anyone to commit the unpardonable sin ── this explains why the LORD God is only calling a few in this present evil age (Matthew 20:16b), while nearly everyone will be forgiven in the age to come! □

Learn To Love

by Leonard V Johnson

There is a famous quote that has once again made its rounds on social media sites, “People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love” ~ Nelson Mandela.

Indeed, we ── as human beings ── must be taught how to love. We are born with the capacity to love. Yet, how we experience love or hate can profoundly shape us throughout our lives. 

We are told by the LORD God ── through the inspired prophet Job ── “’ Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble.’” – Job 14:1.

The LORD God’s (the Elohim; the family of God) Master Plan… From the Beginning involves love. Notice what our Lord Jesus says ──

“’ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17) For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.’” – John 3:16-17.

We have the capacity to obtain the same character attributes as our Creator, such as goodness, creativity, and love. These attributes help us to better understand who God is and why God is. And as to why He created what He has created.

We are also told by the apostle Paul ──

“As it is written: ‘There is none righteous, no not one; 11) There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God.’” – Romans 3:10-11.

Another quote that comes to my mind is from a book entitled The Help ── “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” To me, it emphasizes the importance of encouragement from parents to their children in helping shape their character.

YOU ARE IMPORTANT!

YOU MATTER TO THE LORD GOD!

THE LORD GOD WANTS THE VERY BEST FOR YOU – PERSONALLY! And, the LORD GOD DOES HAVE A PLAN FOR YOU – PERSONALLY!

Something that I want us, brethren, to especially think about is that our tests, trials, and tribulations happen because the LORD God loves us immensely ──

“My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor detest His correction; 12) For whom the LORD loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.” – Proverbs 3:11-12.

Notice also the apostle Paul speaks of this ──

“And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:

‘My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6) For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.’

7) If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8) But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. 9) Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?

10) For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11) Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” – Hebrews 12:5-11.

Yes. As I wrote last January, “I’ve been praying to the LORD God now for a little over a year for the removal of an evil and vile person from my family’s life. “Why?” I ask Father God and our Lord Jesus, “Have You not removed this vile man from our lives?” The answer that I finally received was not the answer I wanted.

Yes. Sometimes we have to endure long and arduous matters to help us in developing love.

Notice what the apostle Peter wrote ── here speaking that we may be partakers of the divine nature ──

“But also for this reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith VIRTUE, to virtue KNOWLEDGE, 6) to knowledge SELF-CONTROL, to self-control PERSEVERANCE, to perseverance GODLINESS, 7) to godliness BROTHERLY KINDNESS, and to brotherly kindness LOVE. 8) For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 1:5-8.

Perseverance is a sign of love.

“Love suffers long …” – 1 Corinthians 13:4.

While we may be enduring trials, tribulations, and tests, let us consider the following ──

“Delight yourself also in the LORD, … 7) Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; … 9) For evildoers shall be cut off; But those who wait on the LORD, They shall inherit the earth.” – Psalm 37:4, 7, 9.

Yes, brethren, we will be rewarded for our perseverance.

Our perseverance in waiting patiently towards the LORD God, but also our fellow man.

Patience and Compassion

It’s not just the LORD God we are to love. We are also to love our fellow man ──

“ … ‘Which is the first commandment of all?’ 29) Jesus answered him, ‘The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one. 30) And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ 31) And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.’” – Mark 12:28, 29-31.

Interestingly, the scribe answered Him ──

“ … ‘Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. 33) And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.’

34) Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’” – Mark 12:32, 33-34.

How do you love your neighbor ── even if your neighbor is “an evil and vile person”?

Brethren, we know that even that “evil and vile person” will be given the opportunity (the gift and blessing) from the LORD God ── someday ── to be a part of the glorious family of God.

With this firmly in our minds, we should be determined not to hurt, harm, or pronounce any curse on our neighbors. And we, of course, should never covet ANYTHING they might have. Our Lord Jesus Christ ── who truly gave His commandments to Israel, spiritually magnified His Law in the New Covenant.

As an example ── the Sixth Commandment, “’ You shall not murder.’” – Exodus 20:13.

Sadly, there was a time when I nursed my anger towards this “evil and vile person” I speak of. As spiritually magnified by our Elder Brother, Master, and Savior, this commandment not only means that we are not allowed to physically murder but we also are forbidden to hate our brother. Notice ──

“’ You have learned that our forefathers were told, ‘Do not commit murder; anyone who commits murder must be brought to judgment.’ But what I tell you is this: Anyone WHO NURSES ANGER against his brother must be brought to judgment. …’” – Matthew 5:21, 22, NEB.

We are to express love toward our neighbors – cf. Matthew 5:43-48. We must always keep in mind that our neighbors will also ── in due time ── have the potential in the LORD God’s Master Plan.

Another example ── the Seventh Commandment, “’ You shall not commit adultery.’” – Exodus 20:15.

Again, not only are we commanded not to commit physical adultery, but spiritual adultery as well ── the lusting and worship of false gods. Our Lord Jesus also speaks of this ──

“’ You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28) But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’” – Matthew 5:27-28.

Think of this ── how can one lust after their neighbor, when the LORD God will prepare them ── someday ── for the glorious family of God?

The Ten Commandments, spiritually magnified by our Lord Jesus Christ, can be divided into two groups of commandments ── love for God, and love for neighbor.

EVERY HUMAN BEING ── whether they be Jewish, Palestinian, Ukrainian, Russian, Yemenis, or Egyptian ── are our neighbors! Keeping and obeying the Commandments of God hinges on always remembering that every human being will one day have the glorious opportunity to be a member of the family of God!

Our neighbors ── even the one that might have cursed you, or hates you, or who has spitefully used you and tried to assassinate your good character ── were also created in the LORD God’s image, according to the LORD God’s likeness, and they too can become God – cf. Psalm 82:6; John 10:34.

Are you beginning to see and hear what the Spirit has to say concerning the IMPORTANCE that the LORD God places on our relationships between all human beings (the “good, bad, and the ugly”) created in the image and likeness of the LORD God? This should come front and center to our minds in how our Lord Jesus Christ dealt with His “enemies” ── the very ones that tried to repeatedly stone Him, and those that would eventually murder Him. He knew their potential upon their repentance. This too must be the underlying premise upon which we base our every thought and deed toward our neighbors. Our Lord Jesus teaches us, “’ And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.’” – Luke 6:31.

Returning again to 1st Corinthians chapter 13, the apostle Paul writes ──

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5) does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not [easily] provoked, thinks no evil; 6) does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7) bears all things, believes all things [that are truthful], hopes all things, endures all things.

8) Love never fails …

13) And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13.

The apostle our Lord Jesus loved also spoke of love ──

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8) He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

And we, in this 21st-century world, cannot help but think of the vicious, vile, and evil Houthis, Hamas, al-Qaeda, ISIS, Hezbollah, the IRGC, and even the Tren de Aragua ── who have no love, therefore DOES NOT KNOW GOD!

9) In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10) In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation [the Atonement] for our sins. 11) Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

12) … If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 13) By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. …

20) If someone says, ‘ انا احب لله !,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21) And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.” – 1 John 4:7-11, 12, 20-21. □

ON WHOSE AUTHORITY?

The LORD God places ALL of our leaders in power, regardless of whether we agree with them. They are in control for the purpose which the LORD God (the Elohim; the family of God which at this present time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) has for them.

by Guy C LaMar

“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” – Romans 13:1.

The LORD God also exhorts us to pray for our leaders. The proper prayer would be for guidance in the Way of God.

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2) for kings [presidents, prime ministers, governors, mayors, etc.] and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3) For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-3.

The Eternal God places them in office ──and out of office, for His purposes. Notice –

“And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise And knowledge to those who have understanding. 22) He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, And light dwells with Him.” – Daniel 2:21-22.

Now, many are called ── but, this doesn’t mean all. Only a few are chosen. The few are the ones that are obedient and dedicated to the will of the LORD God.

“’ For many are called, but few are chosen.’” – Matthew 22:14.

Most ── and I do mean, most ── who have lived, and who live now, and those who will live in the future, are not going to have any knowledge of the LORD God’s will. It’s not their time. Their time will come either in the Millennial Reign of our Lord Jesus Christ or immediately after the Great White Throne Judgment!

When one preaches the glorious kingdom of God ── one needs to properly understand what they’re preaching.

Preaching and teaching the kingdom of God is also preaching the Law of God, which is the Way of God.

We should be preaching REPENTANCE. But, we should properly know what we are to repent from. THE BREAKING OF GOD’S LAW ── summed up with the Ten Commandments. See: 1 John 3:4.

It’s not repenting of your own personal and emotional hangups.

It’s repenting of breaking the Law of God ── the righteous Law of God!

It means turning away from your old self, of the one who is breaking the Law of God, and turning to the LORD God, the will of God, and being obedient in following and keeping the Law of God ── correctly. By the examples given to us by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Kingdom Means Government

Government is run by laws.

Laws are the way that one conducts themselves.

And, the kingdom of God is God’s Way.

And, God’s Way is shown to us by the Law of God.

Our Lord Jesus Christ gave us the perfect example of how to live perfectly in the Law of God. He filled

it up to the max by showing us how to properly conduct ourselves obediently in the Law of God as a mortal human being. So that we can look unto Jesus and have the perfect example of how to conduct ourselves in the Way of God. Again, this is the Law of God.

The LORD God designed the Law of God for mankind ── for the love of mankind. It’s for showing the love that the LORD God has for mankind.

And, mankind, by obeying (and abiding) God’s Law shows the LORD God their love towards “the God of gods.”

But when mankind rejects the Law of God then mankind is rejecting the LORD God! Thus, we earn the tag of “sinner.”

Christian Means Follower of Christ

The majority of all political leaders are placed in power under the rule of so-called Christians ── themselves not being a true Christian.

Now, they may claim this title, but they do not live the life of a true Christian!

Christian means follower ── emulator of Jesus Christ.

So often people get obsessed over their political leaders to the point where they make them idols. In this modern present evil age of political idolatry.

When a “Christian” church makes the emphasis of their messages wrap around political leaders then they have disconnected themselves from our Lord Jesus Christ, the kingdom of God, and the Way of God. They have conformed themselves to the ways of this world. Becoming unknowing servants for Satan the Devil ── who is “the god of this age” – 2 Corinthians 4:4.

Satan the Devil has beguiled the whole world. There’s not a person that lives, or has lived, on planet Earth that at some point or another hasn’t been beguiled by “the wicked one” – 1 John 5:19. See also: Revelation 12:9 and John 8:44.

The “Christian” churches that have embraced political idolatry have become subject matter for Satan the Devil. Now, they may appear as “ministers of righteousness,” but are ── even unbeknownst to themselves ── ”false apostles, deceitful workers” – 2 Corinthians 11:12-15. See also: Galatians 1:6-9.

So, don’t get bent out of shape when you see “Christian” leaders ── or for that matter, political leaders ── that don’t have “Christian values” about them.

They’ve not been allowed to gain the knowledge to properly understand. Now, they might have a portion of understanding in certain areas where leadership is needed in this corrupt and vile world, but not in the LORD God’s will or the Law of God. Now, some may embrace some of the Law of God ── but nearly none have yet to embrace all of the Law of God in this 21st-century world.

Praying Always For Our Leaders

We should be praying always for our leaders that the LORD God will allow them to have a proper portion of knowledge for understanding in the LORD God’s Way ──to help lead us as a nation.

And this goes for whoever is in office ── whether you personally like them or not. No matter what side of the political fence you are on.

Sadly, a great many so-called Christians ── those who say they fear God ── will awaken each day and begin to spew utter vile, disgust, and hatred, for their political leaders ── all because of their political idol worship towards a different political leader. It is truly disheartening. A great many people just live in their tiny box of religiosity. They can’t allow themselves to live outside the box to see the light of their own deeds. They refuse. Because they have built up a haughtiness. They have clouded themselves with self-denial.

They certainly want to focus and pay great attention to any perceived wrongs (past or present) of a political leader ── when their attention is focused wrongly. Their focus should be seeking first and foremost the kingdom of God and His righteousness! – Matthew 6:33. They should not be focused on a world that is decaying around them, they should be focused on the glorious soon-coming kingdom of God! Which is of the Law of God, the will of God, the Way of God!

True Christians, in Romans 13:1-7, are instructed to obey the laws of the land as long as they do not contradict the Law of God; meaning that if a civic law from a government goes against a command of God’s, one should prioritize the LORD God’s Law instead.

As an example: In this modern present evil age of perversion, a time when the U.S. government was trying to claim that there are more than only two genders and that men can give birth to babies ── that is all influenced by Satan the Devil. The LORD God’s begotten children should abhor evil, stand against evil, speak out against wrongdoings, and seek truth and righteousness!

Satan the Devil has his evil hooks fully in our modern Democratic Party far more than our modern Republican Party.

That is why I have personally labeled the modern Democratic Party as the political party of Satan the Devil. Because, more than any other party, they have promoted untold abominations as a way of life. They cause the citizens of the United States of America to commit abominations against the LORD God! Thus, revealing themselves as the political party of Satan the Devil.

Now, that is not to say that the Trump Administration is a “saintly” administration. It is, however, far more on track with the will of the LORD God than the Leftist lunatics! (Have you watched Selena Gomez lately?).

We should vote for and then follow the political leader who is displaying a greater portion of God’s Way – which comes from the Spirit of God.

So, keep this always in mind ── the LORD God places our political leaders in office. The LORD God allows them a portion of knowledge for understanding. 

Don’t ever think any political leader of this present evil age is wrapped around the LORD God ── because they are not. Now, that is not to say that the LORD God won’t work with them to a certain extent, because They have ── and They will continue to do so. □

Commentary: Does God Accept Lies?

by Guy C LaMar

“’ You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.’” – Exodus 20:16; Deuteronomy 5:20.

Does the LORD God (the family of God, which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) accept lies!?

NO!

In fact, the LORD God calls “lying lips an abomination to the LORD” – Proverbs 12:22.

So, never think that substituting customs and days that were originally founded by paganism something that the LORD God is going to accept.

Because it is A LIE!

Xmas is A LIE!

It is not the birthday of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

It is, however, the supposed birthday of the Pagan sun god──Mithra.

Substituting a pagan god for our Lord Jesus is an abomination.

It is a rotten stinkin’ lie perpetrated by our physical and spiritual enemy──Satan the Devil.

Now, does the overall majority of our peoples actually care?

NO!

They would rather live according to their traditions than the living truth of the Eternal One!

Thus, whether you believe it or not, in the authority of Jesus Christ, those people have DISQUALIFIED themselves as being true Christians.

Now, a person can surely claim they are a Christian──until they are blue in the face──but, that does not make them a true Christian.

Because they’re NOT FOLLOWING JESUS CHRIST.

They are, however, following “the god of this age” ── Satan the Devil and his deceiving way! – cf. 2 Corinthians 4:4.

Now, should we as true Christians, just sit on our hands and not care what this world does? Or, should we DO WHAT THE LORD GOD’S LIVING WORD SAYS! And, ‘Cry aloud, spare not; Lift up [our voices] like a trumpet; Tell [the LORD God’s] people their transgression, AND THE HOUSE OF JACOB THEIR SINS’!? As the LORD tells us we should do! TELL THE HOUSE OF JACOB THEIR LIES!

Doing anything that is not pleasing to the LORD God disrespects the LORD God!

And it’s especially worse when you’ve been shown the living truth of God, and you outright reject the LORD God’s truth──because you would rather be a part of the Babylonish system and fit in.

Well, did our Lord Jesus Christ “just fit in”!?

Absolutely not!

God’s living word tells us NOT to “be conformed to this world,” ── to the ways of this world. – Romans 12:2.

Because, if we love the ways of this world, the love of God is not in us. – 1 John 2:15.

Thus we are a fraud if we DO NOT obey the LORD God, but rather accept the ways of this world──which is ruled by Satan the Devil.

As for me and my household, we will serve the Eternal One. □

Additional Commentaries to Consider

Do Not Despair. When week after week things are thrown at our peoples that make them more and more weak─ to the point that they become exceedingly fragile, then it is at that point that they are on the very edge of all things.

The Anointing of Cloths. Just after the New Testament Church of God was built, the apostles and the evangelists continued the HEALING OF THE SICK, as well as preaching the true gospel!

Familiar Traditions. People are used to holding onto their religious traditions over truth and facts because familiar traditions are comfortable to people - but regardless, it doesn't make it truth.

Religiosity. The LORD God established the languages that we speak.

The Covenant Day. IN accordance with the promises that God gave to Abraham, as recorded in Genesis 15:3-6 and Genesis 22:15-18, our Lord Jesus Christ began the New Covenant on Passover day. Therefore the 14th of the 1st month - Passover day - can rightly be called the Covenant Day.

Conspiracy Theories. In this commentary, I’d like to address conspiracy theories – and the largest findings in this area are the politically-based forms of conspiracies.

Some Food For Thought. HERE is just some food for thought.

An Abomination to Eat Pork!

pixabay/aitoff

by Guy C. LaMar

The LORD God (the family of God, which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) emphatically tells us that it is an abomination to eat pork.

The consumption of a pig is an act of rebellion AGAINST the LORD God!

Now, that is not just my opinion, that’s not just my take on things──that is the living word of God. The instruction of the Lord our God.

But, sadly, our peoples of this present evil age would rather fulfill their own lusts and desires than obey the commands of the LORD God.

It’s the same as homosexuals, they justify their homosexuality by telling themselves “no one can judge me, except God.” They substitute their satanic lusts for what they call love.

Folks, here’s the deal──absolutely NO ONE under heaven has a true connection with the LORD God unless they are obedient to the LORD God! And this truth is found from Genesis to Revelation in God’s living word.

Unfortunately, this world is filled with Satan-influenced and Satan-led people, and they aren’t even aware of it. They claim that God and them “have a connection.”

Yet, God’s living word──the Holy Bible──completely debunks that.

Indeed, it is truth that the LORD God is no respecter of persons. However, your opinion to the LORD God does not matter. The LORD God’s Way has been established since time immemorial──before the foundation of the world.

The LORD God’s Way is perfect.

All throughout God’s living word, the LORD God instructs us not to consume swine – which is a pig.

Anyone who is “cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars” ── and yes, all who partake in the consumption of pork (cf. Isaiah 66:17) is committing an abomination in the eyes of God ── which means that without heartfelt repentance they will “have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” – Revelation 21:8.

So, if you want to do something that makes the LORD God hate what you do──then, by all means, do those abominable acts.

No matter how hard one tries, no one can justify sin.

It continues that people try to pervert and twist Scripture so that they can justify their acts.

In 1st Corinthians 10, the apostle Paul speaks about “All things are lawful for me” (NKJV). What did he mean? Are all things permissible for a true Christian? Can we do anything we want? Here is the whole verse –

“All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify” (NASB).

Brethren, freedom in our Lord Jesus Christ is truth that the apostle Paul constantly emphasizes. As in, “So Christ has made us free. Now make sure that you stay free and don’t get all tied up again in the chains of slavery to Jewish laws and ceremonies. … For, dear brothers, you have been given freedom: NOT FREEDOM TO DO WRONG, but freedom to love and serve each other” – Galatians 5:1, 13, NLT. We are “not under the law, but under grace” – Romans 6:14. The apostle Paul makes it clear that “we have been delivered from the law [the Mosaic law], having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter” – Romans 7:6.

There in ancient Corinth──as a great many people are today──they were saying, “All things are lawful for me,” repeating this mantra to cover their sinful behavior. In my New International Version, there are even quotation marks to truly bring out the understanding that it was the Corinthians that was saying this: “’ Everything is permissible’” ──but not everything is beneficial. ‘Everything is permissible’──but not everything is constructive” – 1 Corinthians 10:23, NIV.

GRACE is not a license to sin. True Christians are not to live as if “I have the right to do anything.” The LORD God’s living word makes it crystal clear that freedom in Christ does not equate to freedom to sin.

In the Appendix of The Holy Bible In Its Original Order by Fred R. Coulter, he says, “Contrary to the belief of many professing Christians, the New Testament does not nullify God’s laws of clean and unclean meats. … The apostle Paul upheld the laws of clean and unclean meats as a requirement for Christians. He described the meats that Christians are permitted to eat as those “meats, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by the faithful, even by those who know the truth [the Word of God is Truth──John 17:17]” (I Tim. 4:3). Paul was clearly showing that some meats were created to be eaten, and others were not created to be eaten. Paul continued, “For every creature of God that He designated for human consumption is good, and nothing to be refused, if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is sanctified [set apart] by the Word of God [as revealed in the Scriptures] and prayer” (verse 4).” 1

Anyone who is truly obeying the LORD God──from the beginning until now──would not dare partake in the consumption of pork! It is just pure Common Sense 101. 2

Yet, there are multiple billions of people claiming to be Christian who will not acknowledge the fact that “Christian” means a follower of Jesus Christ.

And, our Lord Jesus Christ was and is the God of the Old Testament – cf. John 1:1-3, 14.

Absolutely the Lord Jesus did not consume pig. In fact, He makes several references to this disgusting creature that is a pig. When our Lord Jesus encountered a couple of demon-possessed men in the countryside of Gergesenes, He cast them out into a herd of swine. It was fitting that these demons would be cast into creatures that are “disgusting.” To note: “As a General Rule, a pig will eat anything, which means it eats unsavory things such as dead animals, rotting garbage, and even human feces.” 3

Sadly, our peoples defile their own flesh when they go against the LORD God and consume pork. And even more so──when they are taught and shown from God’s living word His truth, and they continue in their refusal to accept this truth. Because they want to continue in their lusts and desires.

It’s their lust in the heart to continue in their rebellion against the LORD God, justifying their sins. They continue to interpret God’s living word to fit their lifestyles.

I have been through these many years teaching and showing God’s living truth concerning this vital subject. I have great sadness in watching our peoples continue their refusal of God’s TRUTH all because it will cause them to change their lifestyles.

Note:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are You of God, or the god of this world?

Pork──is it a Sin to Eat?

Is God’s Biblical Food Laws Still In Effect?

It certainly shows that TRUE REPENTANCE is something they have no understanding of.

God’s living word shows us that unless you have truly repented from your past sins──which is the breaking of God’s holy and righteous Law (1 John 3:4) ──and indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you, then you are not His (Romans 8:9-11).

Yet, the peoples of this present evil age, who proclaim to be Christian and are not led by the Spirit of God, are just that──of the world.

2nd Corinthians 4:4 – shows us that the minds of the majority are blinded by the “god of this age” ── Satan the Devil.

Yes. Friends, such people, in reality, have substituted the Almighty and Eternal God with the “god of this age”!

Truly, every time a person partakes in the consumption of pork, they are pleasing the evil one──and it is displeasing to our CREATOR GOD.

Whether one realizes it or not, when peoples partake in the consumption of pork they become servants of Satan the Devil──because they’re serving his pleasure in furthering their destruction. □

Bibliography

1 Coulter R. F., The Holy Bible In Its Original Order A New English Translation, Appendix M, XXVI. Clean and Unclean Meats, York Publishing Co., © 2009, pg. 1305.

2 Andrei, M., Why is pork bad for you — a look at what the science says, ZME Science, 14, Sept. 2023. Retrieved 15 Nov. 2024.

3 Gaines, G., 31 Foods: What Do Pigs Eat Anything and Everything? (2024), Farm Animal Report, 10 Jan. 2024, Retrieved 15 Nov. 2024.

Rejoice in Thanksgiving to God!

by Leonard V Johnson

There’s a beautiful hymnal song that comes to mind this year! It’s called “Give Thanks and Offer Praise!” It’s in our hymnal on page 41. It’s based upon Psalm 50──

“The Mighty One, God the LORD, Has spoken and called the earth From the rising sun to its going down.

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God will shine forth.

Our God shall come, and shall not keep silent; A fire shall devour before Him, And it shall be very tempestuous all around Him.

He shall call to the heavens above, And to the earth, that He may judge His people:

‘Gather My saints together to Me, Those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.’

Let the heavens declare His righteousness, For God Himself is Judge.

Selah

‘Hear, O My people, and I will speak, O Israel, and I will testify against you; I am, God, your God!

I will not rebuke you for your sacrifices Or your burnt offerings, Which are continually before Me.

I will not take a bull from your house, Nor goats out of your folds.

For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills.

I know all the birds of the mountains, And the wild beasts of the field are Mine.

‘If I were hungry, I would not tell you; For the world is Mine, and all its fullness.

Will I eat the flesh of bulls, Or drink the blood of goats?

Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High.

Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.’

But to the wicked God says: ‘What right have you to declare My statutes, Or take My covenant [even now the New Covenant] in your mouth,

Seeing you hate instruction And cast My words behind you?

When you saw a thief, you consented with him, And have been a partaker with adulterers [even spiritual adultery; the worship of false gods and goddesses].

You give your mouth to evil, And your tongue frames deceit.

You sit and speak against your brother; You slander your own mother’s

son.

These things you have done, and I kept silent; You thought that I was

altogether like you; But I will rebuke you, And set them in order before

your eyes.

‘Now consider this, you who forget God, Lest I tear you in pieces, And

there be none to deliver:

Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; And to him who orders his conduct

aright I will show the salvation of God.’

                                                                  ──Psalm 50:1-23.

O’ let us indeed praise always our LORD God – the family of God, which at this present time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ! And, certainly, those of us who do rightly understand God’s Master Plan – From the Beginning, should be THANKFUL for God the Father calling us out of this present evil age! We are reminded to always offer thanksgiving and praise to the LORD God here in the Book of Psalms, as well as the inspired words of the apostle Paul ──

“Rejoice always, 17) pray without ceasing, 18) in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 2 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Our Lord’s living words ── the Holy Bible ── is full of admonitions to give glory, praise, and THANKSGIVING to the LORD God! Here are a few glorious passages ──

“Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.” – Psalm 30:4.

“I will praise the name of God with a song, And I will magnify Him with thanksgiving.” – Psalm 69:30.

“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. 3) For the LORD is the great God, And the great King above all gods.” – Psalm 95:2-3.

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. 5) For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.” – Psalm 100:4-5.

It is the LORD God’s will that you praise God! And, it is good that you praise and thank His holy name ──

“It is good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; 2) To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night.” – Psalm 92:1-2.

Notice this from the apostle Paul – again, inspired by the Mighty One, God the LORD ──

“To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

2) Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3) I THANK MY GOD upon every remembrance of you, 4) always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.” – Philippians 1:1, 2-3.

And I ──THANK THE LORD GOD every morning for Their lovingkindness and mercy, and every evening for Their faithfulness and forgiveness!

Let us always and forever give thanks and praise to the Mighty One, God Most High!

We have a sermon on our YouTube channel entitled “The Love of God.”

Truly, God is love (1 John 4:8, 16). The loving Master Plan ── From the Beginning will come to fruition! □

Is There A Gender to the HOLY SPRIT?

by Leonard V Johnson

Do you know the grammatical facts concerning Koine Greek?

God’s living word – the Holy Bible – let's begin in the 2nd Book of Acts ──

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

Notice it was when the Day of Pentecost had fully come. The Bible is clear that the events that follow were directly related to the fact that the Day of Pentecost had fully come. And the apostles were all observing it together.

Here is what happened:

“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven [the sky], as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3) Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues [languages], as the Spirit gave them utterance.” – Acts 2:2-4.

They received some of the power of God’s Spirit. The Roman Catholics, the Eastern Orthodox, the greater majority of Protestants, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the Church of God all believe that this was the beginning of the New Testament Church of God. And rightly so. The Holy Spirit (be sure to watch “The Truth Concerning the Trinity Explained” in which Minister Garrett explains from God’s Word the Holy Spirit) was gifted at a certain time (the same time that many Jews observed Pentecost).

Many may not realize that Pentecost represented more than just the gifting of the Holy Spirit and the beginning of the New Testament Church of God.

So, we see that God’s Spirit was given and that it looked like licking flames of fire.

There are many languages around the world ── including Koine Greek, the very language that the New Testament was originally written in ── use what is known as grammatical gender.

The very word for “fire” is πῦρ (or rather, pur – pronounced poor). It is a noun and is neuter.

However, the overall majority ── millions if not billions of people ── consider the Holy Spirit a male.

Nearly every translation of the New Testament into the English language uses the pronoun “he” in relation to the Holy Spirit, as well as the relative pronoun “who.” But, neither of these pronouns are supported by the original Koine Greek.

Also, the Koine Greek word for “Spirit” is πνεῦμα ( or rather, pneuma – pronounced pnyoo'-mah). Again, it is a noun and is neuter. The word is neither masculine nor feminine.

But, what about in the Old Testament ── which was originally written in Hebrew ── are the words “fire” and “Spirit” masculine or feminine?

Let’s see.

The word “fire” is אֵשׂ (or rather, esh – pronounced aysh). An example we can use is Genesis 19:24 – “Then the LORD rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah, from the LORD out of the heavens.” I also confirmed this with the Theological Wordbook of the Bible, which states that ‘esh appears over 375 times in the Bible. It is a noun and is feminine.

The word “Spirit” is רוּחַ (or rather, ruach – pronounced roo'-akh). Definition is wind, breath, spirit. It is a noun and is feminine.

Unfortunately – despite the original writers of the New Testament surely knowing the Koine Greek language, along with a little Aramaic, the overall majority of people know better than they ── they continue to portray the Holy Spirit as male. Notice this from the Jamieson Faussett and Brown Commentary in regards to Genesis 1:1 –

“God – the name of the Supreme Being, signifying in Hebrew, ‘Strong,’ ‘Mighty.’ It is expressive of omnipotent power; and by its use here in the plural form, is obscurely taught at the opening of the Bible, a doctrine clearly revealed in other parts of it, viz., that though God is one, there is plurality of persons in the Godhead── Father, Son, and Spirit, who were engaged in the creative work.”

Is this correct? No!

They continue to propagate the false doctrine of a Trinity. Neither the Old Testament or the New Testament supports the idea that the Holy Spirit is a male── or for that matter a separate being!

As I was saying to a person on Facebook concerning painting graffiti on someone’s private property── because I had originally commented, “It's very good work, and he's very talented, but unless he owns that property or got permission, it's called vandalism.” 😔

A person commented back, “would you speak up if someone did that to your property???? Not me!!!!! I would say Thank you . Your work is amazing!” 💓💓💓

My response to her ── “You're entitled to your own opinions, but not the facts.” Graffiti without permission is still a crime in the United States. And there can be legal consequences. The owner of the property could, of course, refuse to press charges and absolutely LOVE HIS WORK! God's living word - the Holy Bible - says a lot about the fact that we should not do something bad for a good cause (cf. 1 Thess. 5:15).

Instead of resorting to illegal actions, it’s often more effective to seek lawful and ethical ways to achieve positive outcomes.”

I’m sure I’ll be attacked! But, the point I want to make is that calling the Holy Spirit a “she” or a “he,” or even a “who,” doesn’t negate the fact that the original Koine Greek has what is known as grammatical rules. There are laws, there are rules. And scratching “John 3:16” on the wall of a public restroom (at least in the state of Florida) falls under the crime of vandalism, codified in Florida Statute Section 806.13.

Even though many translations of the Word of God improperly used the pronoun “he” when referring to the Holy Spirit ── it’s interesting to note that the 1611 King James Version – which was produced from the Latin Vulgate – also would correctly translate a text as “it” when referring to the Holy Spirit. But, then, would incorrectly add “self”! Notice –

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” – Romans 8:16.

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” – Romans 8:26.

The English pronoun “it” is appropriate.

Just What is the Holy Spirit?

• It is the power of God. “ … ‘Not by might nor by power [of any human], but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts” – Zechariah 3:6. “But truly I am full of power by the Spirit of the LORD, And of justice and might, …” – Micah 3:8.
• It is the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear (reverent fear) of the Lord (Isaiah 11:2).
• It is a gift. After baptism, you are to receive ‘the gift of the Holy Spirit’ (Acts 2:38). And, it is poured out – “’ And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; …” – Acts 2:17. “ … the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also” – Acts 10:45.

And these were the beliefs “which was once for all delivered to the saints” – the early Christians. The oldest known complete Christian sermon which has survived is erroneously called The Letter of 2 Clement. It was given perhaps a year or so after the Apostle John’s death, and begins with: “Brothers, we must think about Jesus Christ as we think about God, as about the Judge of the living and the dead … So my brothers, let us do the will of the Father who called us, that we may live; …” – 2 Clement 1:1; 10:1.

So, the oldest surviving sermon outside of the Bible says to think of Jesus Christ as God and that the Father is God – but never indicates nor mentions the Holy Spirit.

The Trinity was formally adopted at the Council of Constantinople in A.D. 381 – though many in the Roman and Orthodox churches believed in different versions of it prior to this – even in 381 it was not exactly the same trinity doctrine as now understood by the vast majority of this world’s churches.

In one of the best versions of God’s living word ever translated is Minister, Author, Translator, and Teacher Fred R. Coulter’s New English Translation in its original order. HE TEACHES THE TRUTH CONCERNING THIS MISUNDERSTOOD SUBJECT!

 Notice –

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

The word “which,” referring to “the Spirit of the truth,” is correctly translated from the neuter pronoun o. In John 14:17, the translators of the KJV had incorrectly rendered this neuter pronoun as “whom.” However, in John 15:26, they have correctly rendered the neuter relative pronoun o as “which.”

The descriptive noun “the Comforter” is correctly translated from the masculine Greek noun ο παρακλητος ho parakleetos. While this masculine noun is used to describe a vital function of the Holy Spirit, it does not designate the Holy Spirit, or “the Spirit of the truth,” as a person. A descriptive noun never changes the gender of the principle noun. For example: Jesus said that He is “the true vine” (John 15:1). The Greek word translated “vine” is the feminine noun ἡ ἄμπελος, he ampilos. The use of this feminine noun to describe Jesus Christ does not change His masculine gender to the feminine gender. In exactly the same way, the use of the masculine noun ο παρακλητος ho parakleetos to describe a function of the Holy Spirit does not alter the fact that the Holy Spirit is neuter. Because the Holy Spirit is neuter in gender ── not masculine ── there is no basis in the New Testament Greek text for mistranslating and interpreting the Holy Spirit as a person.” 1

Now, while nearly every major Protestant Christian group claims to believe in all of the Holy Bible for their doctrines as opposed to the councils of men ── the overall majority of them have outright accepted the traditions of the Roman Catholics and Orthodox churches relating to the Holy Spirit.

Let us not fall for any false traditions that claim that the Holy Spirit is masculine or a separate person, because Scripturally and grammatically ── that is false. □

1 Coulter R. F., The Holy Bible In Its Original Order A New English Translation, Exegesis for the Translation of “The Holy Spirit” York Publishing Co., © 2009, pg. 1283.

Are You "Called"?

by Leonard V. Johnson

God’s living word gives us the surprising answer to this so often misunderstood question!

THIS question is misunderstood like no other! And it’s a question that all true Christians should know BEYOND ANY SHADOW OF DOUBT! Because ── unless all doubt is removed ── we may not be able to withstand this growing onslaught of attacks from Satan the Devil within ‘this generation’!

All true Christians are divinely called! This is a living truth from God’s living word – the Holy Bible. Yet, millions upon millions just assume that it is but a matter of “choice.”

Notice what our Lord Jesus Christ said to His disciples then ─ and what He is saying to us brethren today –

“And the disciples came and said to Him, ‘Why do You speak to them in parables?’ 11) He answered and said to them, ‘Because IT HAS BEEN GIVEN TO YOU to know the mysteries of the kingdom [from] heaven, but to them IT HAS NOT BEEN GIVEN. 13) Therefore I speak to them in parables, …’”

Par▪a▪ble \ ‘par-ǝ-bǝl \ n [ME, fr. MF, fr. LL parabola, fr. Gk parabolē comparison, fr. paraballein to compare, fr. para- + ballein to throw ─ more at DEVIL] (14c) : EXAMPLE; specif : a usu. short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle. 1

“ … ‘because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14) And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: ‘Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, And seeing you will see and not perceive; 15) For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and TURN, so that I should heal them.’” – Matthew 13:10-15.

And, this weekend I was trying to let the LIGHT OF CHRIST show forth before some relatives when I spoke up and told them, “You will get to see your mother once again!” Sadly, their mother died this past week. 

Our Lord Jesus reveals to us here that only a few in number were (and are) being given a true understanding of His living word – the Holy Bible – at this time. It is simply NOT the LORD God’s (the family of God; which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) intention to convert everyone at this time!

Our Lord Jesus also says, “’ No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; … 65) … Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.’” – John 6:44, 65.

The Apostle Paul – under the inspiration of the Spirit of God – says exactly the same!

“For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.” – 1 Corinthians 1:26.

These are but a few biblical examples. But it is plain to see that ONLY A FEW are being called and converted during this present evil age.

As a whole ─ especially in this present evil age (see Galatians 1:4; Revelation 12:12) ─ humanity feels no need for the LORD God. This generation's overall belief ─ this weekend ─ glared brightly in my face! “You’re allowed to believe whatever you want to believe! Just leave me alone!” Sadly, they fail to spiritually see and spiritually hear what is really wrong with this world and just who is to blame! They are spiritually blinded!

Truly understanding the living word of God, the truth of God, and the ultimate Plan of God IS THE RESULT OF BEING CALLED! True Christians ─ those that have been called by Father God, properly repented, properly baptized, and have had hands laid upon them ─ receiving the glorious gift of the Spirit of God ─ have received a DIVINE CALLING!

Calling Alone Is Not Conversion

One of the most difficult things for a human being to admit is that they are wrong. Self-justification is an insidious habit that can lead us down a dark path. It’s a form of lying to yourself, preventing you from growing. 2 Our minds tend to excuse misdeeds and seek “making right” what one knows in our heart is wrong. A great many dangerously assume that since they haven’t been converted, then they haven’t been called. This blindness of responsibility ─ like crossing the street while witnessing someone being beaten up and doing nothing to help ─ is DISOBEYING THE LORD GOD! You’re pretending to only be a bystander! Like Sgt. Schultz on Hogan’s Heroes, “I see nothing! I hear nothing! I know nothing, nothing!”

Truly, the calling by Father God doesn’t convert anyone! CONVERSION IS THE RESULT OF HEARING HIS CALL AND ACTING ON THAT CALLING! Not being converted doesn’t mean that you haven’t been called.

God’s living word tells us that every human being has a “carnal mind” and has “enmity against God” until converted. We are called while we are yet unconverted. Conversion is a process ─ a process of growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus and growing in the fruits of the Spirit. Becoming more like the LORD God!

We are all born automatically contrary to the Law of God ─ speaking of the Ten Commandments. “As it is written: ‘There is none righteous, no not one; 11) There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God. 23) for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.’” – Romans 3:10-11, 23.

So, since we all have been a part of this world, a DIVINE CALLING is necessary to reveal just what sin is! Recall the Apostle Paul – “ … I would not have known sin except through the law …” – Romans 7:7-8. And that we MUST REPENT OF THIS SIN! ─ “’ The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. REPENT, and believe in [obey] the gospel.’” – Mark 1:14. And in the same manner our Lord Jesus says to us – “’ I tell you, no; but unless you REPENT you will all likewise perish.’” – Luke 13:1-5.

Whether or not conversion takes place as a result of our being called out of this world is OUR RESONSIBILITY! We were given free moral agency! Our Lord Jesus says “’ those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13) … For I did not come to call the righteous [in other words, the “self-righteous”], BUT SINNERS, to repentance.’” – Matthew 9:12-13.

True Repentance ─ along with true baptism and the laying on of hands and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit ─ is the FIRST STEP that we must take in heeding God the Father’s call. Then, with and through the power of God’s Spirit, we begin to struggle and overcome the power of Satan the Devil, our human nature, and of this world. We MUST OVERCOME!

Recall again the Apostle Paul –

“Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin LEADING TO DEATH, or of obedience LEADING TO RIGHTEOUSNESS? 17) But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet YOU OBEYED from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. 18) And having been SET FREE FROM SIN, you became slaves of righteousness.” – Romans 6:16-18.

Let us be renewed daily in the spirit of our mind, and “put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” – Ephesians 4:23-24.

The Apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, speaks of Demas ─ who was called by Father God, been blessed with having knowledge and understanding of God’s living word, truth, and plan ─ yet, TURNED FROM THE LORD GOD! Our Lord Jesus WARNS us – “’ No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.’” – Luke 9:62.

The Apostle Peter tells us to give due diligence ─

“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, …” – 2 Peter 1:10.

And he lists things we should do so that we never stumble ──

“ … add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.” – 2 Peter 1:5-7.

And, once God the Father decides to call an individual, never will the LORD God change Their mind –

“For the gifts and THE CALLING of God are irrevocable.” – Romans 11:29.

But sadly, an individual can “grieve the Spirit.” Our Lord Jesus WARNS us ─

“’ Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. 32) Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, EITHER IN THIS AGE OR IN THE AGE TO COME.’” – Matthew 12:31-32.

We also receive a stern WARNING from the Apostle Paul ─

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by [which] you were sealed for the day of redemption.” – Ephesians 4:30.

What does it mean to ‘grieve the Holy Spirit”?

Minister Michael C. Garrett ─

… a lot of you have been on job sites, construction sites, maybe in the military, even watching movies, where you hear God’s name ‘taken in vain’ on a regular basis. And yet, speaking profanely against the name of God or Jesus Christ – that is not a sin which cannot be forgiven. Because once you get old enough – mature enough – and to have God’s blessing and God’s calling you will come to understand, ‘Oh, I never should have done that!’ And you will cry out for forgiveness and you will be forgiven. But what is the one sin which cannot be forgiven!? Verse 32 – “ … ‘but whoever speaks [commands] against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.’” Well, what is He talking about!? To ‘blaspheme’ – from the Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible – their definition is: # 988 - βλασφη μί α, blasphémia, n. GK: 1060 [ → 987]. Blasphemy, slander, malicious talk. The Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines blasphemy: \’blas-f ǝ-mē\ n. pl – mies (13c) 1 a: the act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God b: the act of claiming the attributes of deity 2: irreverence toward something considered sacred or inviolable. Now, what is blaspheme against God’s Spirit!? …

Now, a lot of people over the years, I heard say, ‘Oh, I think I’ve committed the unpardonable sin!’ Well, if you are fearful or uncomfortable that maybe you have done something wrong – you have not committed blaspheme against God’s Spirit. Because if you’ve committed blaspheme against God’s Spirit you wouldn’t care. Blaspheme against God’s Spirit is commanding it – driving it out of you – out of your heart and out of your mind. In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, Paul wrote the following – “Do not quench the Spirit.” Don’t restrict it – don’t squeeze it off. Don’t tie off the flow of God’s Spirit.”

(Garrett, M.C, What Is “The Unpardonable Sin”? 8 Nov. 2019 PDF).

If God the Father CALLS US out of this present evil age, we only have one opportunity for eternal salvation. For our Lord Jesus tells us, “ … ‘For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; …’” – Luke 12:48.

How Does God the Father Call?

Does God call with an audible voice!? Does God call by accidents, incidences, or superstitions? Or, does God call when the hairs on your neck stand up!? What is the truth?

God’s living truth is simple.

“ … God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13.

MANY are being called ── but few are chosen!

God the Father through Jesus Christ [who are the Spirit – see 2 Corinthians 3:17) CALLS many individuals hearing our sermons, or reading or listening to our articles. And, perhaps some will be called through our example and witness. Yet, in each case, each individual is called by the LORD God THROUGH SANCTIFICATION BY THE SPIRIT!

What Is “Sanctification by the Spirit”?

“God [speaking of God the Father] FROM THE BEGINNING …” Recall that God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ have known us from before we were in the womb!

In prayer once I was reminded of the time when our Lord Jesus' disciples had asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” And as tears were streaming down my face – the eureka moment when it was revealed to me that the LORD God knew before I was born that I would be born with transposition of the great arteries so that  – like He tells His disciples in this instance, “ … ‘that the works of God should be revealed in him.’” That the LORD God would gift me with sight!

Speaking to the Prophet Jeremiah, our LORD God said ──

“’ Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I SANCTIFIED YOU; …’” – Jeremiah 1:5.

God FIRST sanctifies ── or sets each one apart ── by means of the Holy Spirit.

Also, back to the latter, “and BELIEF IN THE TRUTH.”

The Spirit of the truth; for “it will lead you into all truth because it shall not speak from itself, but whatever it shall hear, it shall speak. And it shall disclose to you the things to come.” – John 16:13, NET. A Faithful Version by Fred. R. Coulter.

The Spirit of God which reveals TRUTH ── which sanctifies an individual to make him or her an heir of salvation.

God’s living word – the Holy Bible – is truth!

Notice –

“On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to HEAR THE WORD OF GOD.” – Acts 13:44.

What were they hearing?

They were hearing the Holy Scriptures!

“Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.” – Acts 13:48.

As in “predestination.”

“Moreover whom He predestined, THESE HE ALSO CALLED; whom He called, these He also justifies; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.” – Romans 8:30.

THESE HE ALSO CALLED believe the living word of God!

THERE IS NO DOUBT IN THEIR MINDS! They know the Holy Scriptures are the living words of the LORD God! THE HOLY BIBLE!

Unlike the Book of Mormon which was first published by Joseph Smith in 1830. Also, unlike the Koran which Islamic tradition stipulates Muhammad wrote in 610 BC.

Now, there are a great many reasons today why men do not believe God’s living truth. And why the vast overall majority of professing Christians do not understand the Holy Bible! The LORD God has allowed mankind to be deceived, yet the LORD God has called many and chosen a few. It is the Spirit of God that enables us to comprehend the LORD God’s basic principles of understanding.

Let us Understand These ‘Basic Principles’

This past weekend I was told, “The Bible was written by men, and then transcribed over and over!” That is accurate to a point ── but let us understand it was manifested by and through God’s Spirit working upon and through men’s minds.

FIRST: “ …’ Man shall not live by bread alone, but by EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.’” – Matthew 4:4.

To truly understand the living word of God it is necessary to LIVE BY EVERY WORD OF GOD ── not just by one passage or one verse, or some tradition or doctrine. Sadly, the overall majority of this world’s Christian churches (except for a relatively small percentage of Bible truths) are walking in ERROR! They DELIBERATLY REJECT all of God’s living word except a small portion which has no effect on their personal lives! THE LORD GOD gives understanding to only those who are willing to LIVE BY EVERY WORD OF GOD!

SECOND: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16.

No one can truly believe God’s living word if one feels that a portion of the Bible is uninspired. However, this is exactly what the majority of professing Christians do today!

Here are a few examples ─

“’ If you love Me, keep My commandments.’” – John 14:15.

“ … ‘If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; …’” – John 14:23.

“’ Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth ── ’” – John 5:28.

“’ No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.’” – John 3:13.

“’ And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the Law to fail.’” – Luke 16:17.

Meaning – what do the majority of professing Christians do with these (and other) passages!? Do they mark them out with a marker!?

Then there are a great many that only regard the Old Testament that is inspired. Others, only the New Testament! Then there are still others who believe the Book of Revelation is nothing more than the writings of a man who smoked a lot of peyote. Others obsess over the “lost scriptures” that are not in the inspired canon. WHAT HOGSWALLOP!

THIRD: “To the Law and to the testimony [the Word of God!]! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’” – Isaiah 8:20.

The Law of God and the Testimony of that Law. The revelation of the LORD God by His prophets. Recall – Hebrews 1:2 – “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2) has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, …”

Sadly, the overall majority of mankind has rejected the Law of God! And every conceivable argument has been made in the attempt to do away with God’s Law ─ the Ten Commandments.

FOURTH: “ …’(and the Scripture CANNOT be broken), …’” – John 10:35. Meaning – God’s living word DOES NOT CONTRADICT ITSELF! And unless you approach God’s living word with this truth, you cannot hope to grasp the full meaning of God’s word.

FIFTH: “knowing this FIRST, that PROPHECY OF SCRIPTURE IS OF ANY PRIVATE INTERPRETATION, 21) for prophecy NEVER came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” – 2 Peter 1:20-21.

Sadly, the overall majority of humanity has not understood God’s living word simply because they will not believe the fourth ‘basic principle.’ They suppose that contradictions occur because men interpret the Bible in whatever way they choose. They do not allow God’s living word to interpret ITSELF! One can rightly understand more difficult passages and verses in the light of other passages and verses. We are told in the Old Testament ─

“For precept [rule] must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little.’” – Isaiah 28:10.

These five principles can serve as a guide in enabling you to believe the truth. Sadly, complicated theological theories of men have been substituted for the simplicity that is in Christ Jesus.

Called By the GOSPEL

Notice again ─ “ … God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, 14) to which He called you BY OUR GOSPEL, …” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14.

Now that our minds and hearts have been changed, the active means that the LORD God uses for us to obtain “the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” is the gospel.

Throughout the world – again, overall – mankind has not grasped the gospel message. Because they have not received the vital ingredient that makes understanding crystal clear – the Holy Spirit. As a result of having been gifted the Holy Spirit, the living word of God becomes a personal message to you. Hearing the TRUE GOSPEL is vital! The gospel message is the “preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, …” – Acts 28:31. It’s not just a message about Jesus the person. It’s a message about the LORD God’s kingdom ─ government ─ which currently is made up of the very family of God! Our Heavenly Father and His Heavenly Son!

And the LORD God calls on all people everywhere to repent!

“Therefore, since WE ARE THE OFFSPRING OF GOD, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. 30) Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, BUT NOW COMMANDS ALL MEN EVERYWHERE TO REPENT.” – Acts 17:29-30.

1) Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition, Merriam-Webster, Incorporated, Springfield, Mass., © 1996, pg. 841.

2) Betancourt, A., Be Wary of the Common Behavior of Self-Justifying Your Actions, 5 Nov. 2022.