Discipline Your Child

Cliff Barrows, song leader of the Billy Graham Crusade ministry, tells a story about his children when they were younger. They had done something he had forbidden them to do. They were told if they did the same thing again they would have to be disciplined. When he returned from work and found that they hadn’t minded, his heart went out to them. “I just couldn’t discipline them,” he said. Any loving father can understand Cliff’s dilemma.

Most of us have been in the same position. He said, “Bobby and Bettie Ruth were very small. I called them into my room, took off my belt and then my shirt, with a bare back I knelt down at the bed. I made them both strap me with the belt ten times each. You should have heard the crying. From them, I mean. The crying was from them. They didn’t want to do it. But I told them the penalty had to be paid and so through their sobs and tears they did what I told them.”
“I smile when I remember the incident,” he said. “I must admit I wasn’t much of a hero. It hurt. I haven’t offered to do that again. It was a once-for-all sacrifice, I guess we could say, but I never had to spank those two children again, because they got the point. We kissed each other. And when it was over we prayed together.” 

To learn more about the proper, Biblical way to discipline your children, please read this article too:

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/03/01/heres-a-switch-use-it/

[1] Discipline: https://www.biblecenter.com/illustrations/family.php

Clear Gospel presentations –

“Bad News & Good News” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Dr. Manfred Kober: https://faith.edu/faith-news/do-we-really-know-the-gospel/

Dr. Ron Shea: http://www.cleargospel.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/English/English-Display-Pkg-2014.pdf

Scripture verses taken from the New King James Version.

Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved.

“What’s A Father To Do?”

Two youngsters were discussing the difference between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. One of them said, “Father’s Day is just like Mother’s Day except you can get him a cheaper gift.” That’s probably true. But today, I’d like to ask the question, What’s a godly, Christian father supposed to do? Let’s take a look at the Book for some answers.

In his letter to some suffering Christians, the Apostle Peter wrote “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Using the word “sober” as an acrostic, I’d like to remind Christian fathers and grandfathers about our roles and responsibilities in life. God wants us to be –

Saved and Secure. Yes, it’s possible for us to know for sure that we have been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; 2 Peter 1:10; 1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16). A godly father’s “eternal, abundant life” should cause his children to want to be saved too (John 10:10).

Obedient to Christ’s New Commandment. Loving your neighbor as yourself was the Old Testament standard (Leviticus 19:18), but loving fellow believers as Christ loved us is a much higher standard for New Testament Christians (John 13:34, 35). Only Spirit filled Christians have this kind of “agape” love (Galatians 5:22, 23).  It needs to be displayed to others at the appropriate times (1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:13), at the proper objects (Ephesians 5:18, 25; 1 John 2:15-17; 3:16, 17), and for the right reasons (1 Corinthians 10:31). A godly father will seek the highest well being of his children even to his own peril (1 John 3:16, 17).

Baptized by immersion. This pictures our death, burial, and resurrection with Christ (Romans 6:3, 4). A Christian father should do this to be obedient to the Lord (Matthew 28:19, 20), to have a good conscience before God (1 Peter 3:21), and to let others know that he is a true believer in Christ (Acts 8:36-38). Being baptized identifies us with Christ (Galatians 2:20). Beware of the fact that it could lead to one’s being ostracized by others and even physical death (1 Corinthians 15:29). We’re not really ready to live until we’re ready to die (Philippians 1:21-26).

Evangelistic. Before ascending back to heaven, Jesus told His disciples that He wanted them to be His witnesses of His death for our sins and His bodily resurrection (Matthew 28:19, 20; Acts 1:8). What greater privilege does a godly father have than to lead his own children to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Knowing and believing the facts alone won’t save us (James 2:18- 20). We must place our faith in Christ alone to save us (Ephesians 2:8-10). Remember, God has no grandchildren.

Resilient. It’s God’s desire that we don’t sin, but all Christians will sin (act lawlessly) from time to time (1 John 2:1; 3:8-10). When we do, we need to quickly confess our sins to the Father and then claim His forgiveness (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13; See Ephesians 1:7).  We also need to confess our sins to those against whom we have sinned (James 5:16). A godly father should acknowledge his sins when he commits them. We all should forgive others as God has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32; See Matthew 18:23-35).

Vigilant. In addition to learning how to live victoriously over our spiritual enemy the devil (1 Peter 5:8; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:10-17), each Christian also must learn how to overcome the temptations that come from his own sin nature (1 John 1:8; Romans 7:15-25; Galatians 5:16, 25), and the present world system (1 John 2:15; 1 Corinthians 7:31; Luke 11:50, 51; Genesis 4:16-24). A godly father will warn his children of physical and spiritual dangers propagated by false teachers (Acts 20:28-31; 1 Timothy 3:1 ff; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 4:3-5; 2 Peter 2:1 ff; Colossians 2:8; Proverbs 1:10).

Questions. Are you a “S.O.B.E.R.” Christian father (1 Peter 5:8)? Saved, Obedient, Baptized, Evangelistic, Resilient, and Vigilant?  Are you living a “victorious Christian life”? Is God abiding (i. e. “feeling at ease”) in you? Do you “feel at ease” with Him (John 15:1-8). If not, what needs to change? If you need spiritual help, we’re here to assist you to the best of our ability. Are you “teachable and willing to change”?

Contact. We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” If this has helped you, we’d like to hear from you and ask you to share this information with others who might benefit from it too.

“Bible Basics – Lesson 9 – Father”

“Rating Your Father”

On a scale of 1 – 10, how would you rate your father?  What do you like or dislike about him?  What caused you to feel the way you do about him?  What do you wish were different about your relationship with him?  What can/should you do to improve it so that both of you can be happier?  Have your thoughts about your human father been transferred over to God the Father?  What mental image do you have of God?  Does it line up with what the Scriptures have to say?  Who is your spiritual father – God or the devil?  Are you sure?  Who would others say your father is? What kind of a legacy will you leave for your children and grandchildren?

Depending on how old you are, you may or may not remember the song that came out in the early 1960s entitled “My Dog’s Bigger Than Your Dog.”  It’s about a little boy who is bragging about his dog, his dad, and his mother.  Today many people don’t brag about their dad because they don’t/didn’t have one in their lives.  Some people hate their dad or their mother.  Maybe you didn’t grow up with a dad or mom in your home.  Maybe you came from a broken or dysfunctional family.  Maybe you have half brothers and sisters.  Perhaps some of your siblings were aborted (murdered) by your parents while they were in your mother’s womb.  Maybe you don’t know or like to think about the 50 million babies in the United States that were murdered this way.  Maybe you had an abusive father whom you hate.  Your thoughts about your father may be very negative. On the other hand, you may have been privileged to come from a loving, two parent home where love was modeled in many ways.

Concepts.  Perhaps you’ve been led to believe that God the Father is an abusive, vindictive, hateful God with whom you want nothing to do.  Perhaps your view of Him has been tainted by the thoughts and words of acclaimed atheists (Psalm 14:1) like Richard Dawkins and others who call God all kinds of bad names and mock Christians who believe in the God of the Bible.  Maybe you’ve also adopted the theory of evolution as a fact because you want to try to escape the responsibility for your lawless behavior (John 3:19; Psalm 10:11; 1 John 3:4). After all, if you’re just an advanced animal, why not act according to your nature?  Maybe you don’t want anyone telling you how to live your life (Psalm 2). 

Antichrist.  But if you have such a rebellious attitude it could end up in your being deceived and subjugated voluntarily or involuntarily by the “Man of Lawlessness” known also as “the Antichrist” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).  With the world stage being set up as it is right now, our generation might be the one that sees him rise to power to rule over the whole world (Revelation 8:1; 13:1-18).  When he comes he will bring a temporary peace to this troubled world but it won’t last long before war breaks out and over half of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:1-8; 9:14; Daniel 11:21, 34).  Those who refuse his mark (the mark of the beast – Revelation 13:18) won’t be able to buy or sell without it.

Cults.  Many of the cults have also contributed to a distorted view of God the Father.  The Mormons believe that God the Father was once a man like we are but eventually became a god.  The Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that God the Father (Jehovah) created God the Son (Jesus) who in turn created all others things.  The Romanists believe that the virgin, Mary is the “Mother of God” and is more sympathetic than her son Jesus and so they pray to her.  The Modernists believe that God the Father is a “dirty bully” for sending His Son to earth to die for the sins of mankind.  The Muslims don’t believe that God had a son.  Orthodox Jews believe in God but not in the deity of Jesus.  Some people believe that God the Father is an old man whom they can conjole into giving them whatever they want regardless of whether or not it’s good for them.  They like to ask the “Why…?” questions. If they don’t get an answer immediately from Him that satisfies them, they get angry at Him and want others to join them in their revolt against God (See Psalm 2; Revelation 20:7-10).  

The True God.  What are your honest thoughts about God?  Consider with me what God the Father is really like and how these thoughts can/should affect your daily life.  We’ve pointed out in our previous studies that all three Persons in the Godhead have the same attributes: Good, Righteous, Omniscient, Omnipotence, Truth, Holiness, and Love.  All three Persons share the same essence and are considered to be just one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; See John 15:26).  Yes, I know that this concept is hard to grasp, but it is what the Scriptures teach and we accept it as truth from God (John 14:6; 17:17).

Decree.  Before creating anything, we understand that the three Persons in the Godhead got together and considered creating spirit beings (Job 38:7; Ezekiel 28:13, 14), the heavens and the earth, plants and animals, and human beings (Genesis 1, 2).  They decided to give our first parents (Adam and Eve) a free will and give them an opportunity to obey or disobey God’s simple instructions (Genesis 2:15-17).  The three Persons in the Godhead had various options as to what they would do and when they would do certain things (See Mathew 11:21-24; Galatians 4:4).  But once they decided what they would do, it became known as “God’s decree” (See Ephesians 1:11).  This involves the determinative will of God and no one can thwart it (Romans 9:19).  God also has a desirous will for us that we may choose to obey or disobey but not without certain consequences (See Genesis 2:17; Deuteronomy 28; Galatians 6:7-9; John 3:16, 18, 36; 1 Timothy 2:4; Romans 12:1, 2; 1 Peter 3:15).

Relationships.  Let’s consider briefly God the Father’s relationships to Creation, to God the Son, to God the Holy Spirit, and to New Testament Christians. 

To Creation. The Scriptures teach us that God the Father is the originator, and source of all things. “…there is one God, the Father, of [Greek – “out of”] whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live” (1 Corinthians 8:6). The Father was the planner. “[He] predestined us [believers] to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His [desirous] will, to the praise of the glory of [the Father’s] grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:5).

To God The Son. It is our understanding that at the time of this “Decree” in eternity past, God the Son volunteered (Hebrews 10:5-9) to be the One who would manifest the Godhead to us humans on earth (John 1:1-18; See Galatians 4:4). He added to His deity a true human nature (but not a sin nature – Hebrews 4:15) and a real body (Philippians 2:5-11; 1 John 4:2; 2 John 1:7). During His earthly ministry Jesus glorified the Father (John 17:4) and then asked God the Father to glorify Him by letting humanity know that He (Jesus) was/is the God-man (John 17:4, 5) who shares an absolute equality with the Father in His deity (Colossians 2:9). One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess (admit) that Jesus is Lord (the God-man) to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:11; See John 1:1-18; 5:17, 18; 10:30). This isn’t teaching “universal salvation.” (See Matthew 7:21-23; 25:41, 46; Revelation 21:8)  God the Son and God the Holy Spirit will remain subordinate to God the Father until the “Decree” (i. e. God’s Plan For Time – The Dispensations) is completed (1 Corinthians 11:3; 15:24-28). In eternity future there will be no subordination of the Persons in the Godhead to the other Persons.

To God The Holy Spirit. Once Jesus ascended back to heaven after dying for our sins…and rising again bodily from the dead, Jesus and the Father sent God the Holy Spirit to earth to reside in the bodies of true believers (John 14:16; 15:26; Acts 2:4). The believer’s body becomes a Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). At the time of the Rapture of the true Church (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), the Holy Spirit will remove His residence from earth back to the third heaven (2 Thessalonians 2:7). The apostate church and unbelievers living on earth at that time will enter the Seven Years of Tribulation (Revelation 6-19). We hope that you won’t be in this group. Ask for help if you’re not sure.

To New Testament Believers. Among the many things that God the Father did was to choose some from among mankind to be the special recipients of His grace (Ephesians 1:3-6; See John 6:37, 44; 15:16). Upon believing in/on Christ as one’s personal Savior, God forgives the believer’s sins (Ephesians 1:7). This is a judicial forgiveness which frees true believers from condemnation (Romans 8:1, 35-39). Family forgiveness is granted to believers who confess their sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9). At the time of salvation, the believer is transferred out of the devil’s family into God’s family.  God becomes his/her Father (Romans 8:15-17, John 8:44; Colossians 1:13, 14; 1 John 3:9, 10). God the Father also enables believers to participate in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4; John 3:3-6) so they can begin to do things that please Him (Romans 8:8; 2 Corinthians 5:9; See Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19). The Scriptures also tell us that God the Father also indwells every believer (Ephesians 4:6), disciplines His unruly children (Hebrews 12:5-11), and hears their proper prayers (John 16:23, 26; James 4:1-3).  Meditate on these truths (1 Timothy 4:15).

Our Response. As a believer grows in the sphere of grace and experiential knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18), his/her relationship and fellowship with God the Father can grow greater and his/her joy can become fuller (John 15:11; 16:24; 1 John 1:4; 2 John 1:12). Having been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, each and every believer can/should share the Gospel with lost people, as the Holy Spirit leads him/her (Romans 8:14), so they too can hear the clear Gospel and be saved (Ephesians 2:8, 9; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Acts 16:31; Matthew 28:19, 20; Romans 10:9-17). If you’re a believer, are you doing these things? If not, why should God keep you here on earth?  Our primary purpose is/should be to glorify Him by making Him known to others (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2). If this article has helped you, we’d like to hear from you. Please share this with someone to is also teachable and willing to change. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

God The Father http://kelseypeach.com/Bible_Basics/The_Father.pdf

A Father’s Legacy http://www.allprodad.com/a-fathers-legacy/

Clear Gospel:  http://www.cleargospel.org/wp-content/uploads/English-Display-Pkg-2014.pdf

“A Tribute To Teachers”

One of the most noble professions in all the world is that of being a teacher. “I touch the future. I teach.” So said Christa McAuliffe, an American teacher from Concord, New Hampshire, who was one of the seven crew members killed on January 28, 1986 in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.

Profession. I can’t think of a more noble profession than that of being a teacher, and more than that, a Pastor/teacher. It carries with it a tremendous responsibility and a warning to false teachers (James 3:1; See 2 Peter 2:1ff; Jude 1:13), but it also has some of the greatest rewards in this life (3 John 4) and in the life to come when a Pastor/teacher (Ephesians 2:11) receives the “Crown of Glory” from the Lord Jesus Christ at the Bema Seat Judgment for doing his job as the Chief Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ wanted him to do it (1 Peter 5:4). As a shepherd under Christ, this involves feeding, guiding, guarding, healing lives, and other responsibilities that aren’t always pleasant at times but are necessary (Acts 20:28-31; See 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; 4:2-4).

Teachers. Every day all of us (including babies) are involved in teaching others something about ourselves, what we know or don’t know, how to do or don’t do things, and what is most important to us by what we say and how we spend our time, talents, and treasures. By watching and listening to a person and, if possible, looking at his/her day planner and check book, we can learn a great deal about a person. Some people have more free time than others. Some people are self employed while most people work under others. But to make a living, even the self employed must serve others and provide a product and/or service to get paid.

Master Teacher. The Greatest Teacher is God Himself. Jesus Christ, the God/man, was the Master Teacher from whom we all can/should learn how to teach and touch the lives of others. He is no longer with us bodily on earth, but after returning to heaven, He and God the Father sent God the Holy Spirit to dwell on earth in the bodies of true believers (John 7:39; 14:16, 17). We are His temple and we must treat our bodies as such (1 Corinthians 6:19; 9:25).

Illumination. He wants to illuminate the Word of God to Christians who are teachable and willing to change (1 John 1:8, 9; 2:20, 27) by opening their spiritual eyes to see, know, understand, and appreciate the things that the unsaved person or carnal Christians can’t see (1 Corinthians 2:14-3:4). He is not giving to mankind new revelation or information today (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). Beware of those who claim to receive new messages from God (Galatians 1:6-9). They often preach another Christ and another Gospel (2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15). They confuse revelation, illumination, and inspiration. Only the 66 books of the Scriptures are God breathed (inspired) and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

Gradual. While God the Holy Spirit doesn’t illuminate all of the Word of God to a Spirit filled Christian (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16, 25) as soon as he/she is saved, but rather a little at a time as he/she puts such truths into action (James 1:22; 2:18-20), we, on our part, must study the Scriptures carefully and rightly divide the Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). All of it is to be believed, but not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9; Romans 6:14; Galatians 5:1). See our “Dispensations Chart” for more information. It could be used to transform your life as it has many people’s lives.

Potential. Every Christian has the potential to know intellectually and experientially the Word of God (1 John 2:20, 27; Philippians 3:10). Sadly, most Christians are attracted by the “fools gold” of this world and chase after things that are passing away (1 John 2:15-17; 2 Peter 3:10-12). The spiritual Christian will discern the things that have eternal value and love what God loves – people for whom Christ died and especially fellow Christians (1 Corinthians 2:14-16; John 13:34, 35; Galatians 6:10). We, like the Apostle Paul, should be willing to lay down his lives for the salvation of God’s elect (2 Timothy 2:10; Hebrews 1:14) and the well being of fellow Christians (1 John 3:16, 17). The Spirit filled Christian will set his deeper reflective thinking on things above that pertain to his position in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12, 13; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:2) and the spiritual possessions and riches he has (Ephesians 1:3).

Others. Maturing Christians should be involved in teaching other teachable people the things of God (Hebrews 5:12-14; 2 Timothy 2:2). Fathers in Old Testament times were to teach their children the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 6:4ff). Christian fathers today should also teach their children how to be saved (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4) and then how to live the Christian life under “Grace Truth”. They should practice what they preach (Ephesians 6:4). When a Christian father was not in the picture (Acts 16:3), a godly mother and grandmother took on the responsibility to teach young Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15). Do you know what God’s Word says about the roles and responsibilities of older Christian women teaching younger women but not Bible doctrine to men (Titus 2:2, 3; 1 Timothy 2:12-15; 1 Corinthians 14:34)?

Influence. To one degree or another, we’re all involved in teaching others. We’re “selling” ourselves and our ideas to them all the time. We’re having an impact on them. Sometimes it’s good and at other times it is evil and detrimental to them. As the song writer has said, “Out in the highways and byways of life, Many are weary and sad; Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife, Making the sorrowing glad. Make me a blessing, make me a blessing, Out of my life may Jesus shine; Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray, Make me a blessing to someone today.” – Ira B. Wilson

Family. If you’re not a Christian, why not enter God’s family today? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for your sin…and rose again bodily from the grave on the third day. To demonstrate your faith in Him, get baptized (immersed) right away (Matthew 28:19, 2). It will enable you to have a good conscience before God (1 Peter 3:21) and possibly influence others to trust Christ as their Savior too (Acts 8:36-38). With God’s help and the leading of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16; Romans 8:14), carry out the purpose that God has for your life to glorify Him (1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 2:10).

Help. We’re here to provide spiritual help to those who are teachable and willing to change. We can be reached at 805-238-3549 or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Share what you have learned with others.

 

“To You Jesus Is _______”

 John 7:10-25

Ask the average person what he/she thinks about Jesus and you will probably get a lot of different answers. But if we are to make it into heaven, it is vital that our faith is resting in the Christ of the Scriptures, not the Christ of the cults or in any other religious leader or in our good works. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (See John 14:6). The Apostle Peter said, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The Apostle Paul said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).

One Way. Contrary to what people are being told today, there are not many paths to God. We don’t all worship the same God.  Not everyone eventually goes to heaven (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:15; 21:8). Atheists are people who don’t believe in God (Psalm 14:1).  How sad (Psalm 19:1ff; Romans 1:12-32). Some people don’t know if God exists (agnostics). The Apostle Paul rebuked the demon possessed girl for proclaiming that Jesus was “a way” of salvation (Acts 16:17). The “Christs of the cults” don’t measure up to what the Scriptures teach. They derive their concepts of God and Jesus Christ from the extra Biblical teachings of false teachers.

False Christs. Are you trusting in the “Wafer Jesus” who didn’t finish the work of salvation? Is your Jesus the “Brother of Lucifer” or “Michael the Archangel”? Perhaps you’re trusting in the “Universalist Jesus” who won’t send anyone to hell.  The “Modernist’s Jesus” wasn’t born of the Virgin, Mary? Are you trusting in the “Prosperity Jesus” who promises wealth to the contributors, or the “Self Esteem Jesus” who never calls men sinners?  Maybe you’re relying on the “Charismatic Jesus” who says, “Let’s put on a show”, or the “Contemporary Jesus” who says, “Let’s all get together.”  If you haven’t noticed it, there is a big push for all religions to get together and form a “One World Church.”  It’s the “Harlot, Apostate Church” described in Revelation 17, 18.  Don’t be a part of it if you’re a true Christian (2 Corinthians 6:14; Revelation 18:4).  

Warning. Before going to the cross Jesus warned about the false Christs that would come (Matthew 24:5; See 2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15). Anyone who denies the Lord Jesus Christ’s full Deity (John 1:1-18; 5:18; 10:30; Colossians 2:9), His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15), His bodily resurrection, and His coming back to earth with a real, glorified body of flesh and bones (but with no blood) is an Antichrist (2 John 1:7; See Luke 24:36-43; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 50).

Children. We aren’t all the children of God either. All of us start out in this life in the devil’s family. This is why Jesus said that we all need to be born again from above (John 3:3-7; 1 Peter 1:23).  He said these strong words to some religious leaders, “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He is a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for his is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44). The Apostle John made it clear that all unsaved people are children of the devil (1 John 3:8-10).

Descendants.  Yes, we all came from Adam and Eve and then through Noah and his three sons (Genesis 4:1ff; 8:15ff). The ethnic groups and languages came about after the universal flood of Noah’s day (Genesis 6-8) and as a result of God’s confusing the languages at the tower of Babel (Genesis 11:7). The continents came into existence during the days of Peleg (Genesis 1:9, 10; 10:25).  This is when the high mountain were formed.  Folks, we didn’t come through the evolutionary process (Genesis 1:26, 27; 2:7). (We invite you to watch this video: http://www.evolutionvsgod.com) 

Nature. We all have a sinful nature (disposition) that was passed down to us from our first parents, Adam and Eve (Romans 5:12; Psalm 51:5). However, those who get transferred out of the devil’s family into God’s family still retain their old sin natures and will have it until they die or the Rapture takes place (1 John 1:8; 3:2). This is why there is a struggle that Christians have between their two natures.  Even the Apostle Paul admitted to having this problem (Romans 7:15-25). But believers receive a new nature from God when we place our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (2 Peter 1:4; Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).  With this new nature we can please God (Romans 8:8; 2 Corinthians 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:1).  Do you know how to overcome your old sin nature  (Galatians 5:16, 25; Ephesians 5:18; Romans 6:11-14)?

Views. There are a lot of wrong views about Jesus. Some people of Christ’s day believed that He was just a good man and teacher (John 3:1; 7:12). But if He wasn’t fully God in human flesh (John 1:1-18; Philippians 2:5-11), how could He be a good man and claim what He did about Himself? “He claimed that the Old Testament was written about Him (John 5:39, 46). He claimed to be the bread of life, who could satisfy the hunger of all who come to Him (John 6:35). He claimed that whoever believes in Him would have rivers of living water flowing from his innermost being (John 7:38). He claimed to be the Light of the world (John 8:12). He claimed that before Abraham was born, He existed (John 8:58). No good man, who was not God in human flesh, could say such things without being considered a deluded megalomaniac.” John Stott

Other Views.  Other people believed that He was a deceiver who misled the common people (John 7:12). The Jewish leaders were surprised that Jesus knew so much of the Old Testament Scriptures without having gone through their schooling (John 7:15; Luke 2:47). Those who hated Him called Him demon possessed (John 7:20; 8:49). John the Baptist was also accused of having a demon (Matthew 11:18). Many people then and now don’t believe that Jesus Christ was/is equal to God the Father. One of cults today believes that Jesus was the first One whom God the Father created and from whom all other things were created. This cult adds the word “other” to the text in Colossians 1:16. No, all the fullness of the Godhead resided in the Lord Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:9). In no way was/is He inferior to God the Father or God the Holy Spirit. There is only one God who exists as Three Persons. They share the same essence and attributes (Matthew 28:19, 20; John 5:18; 8:58; 10:30).

Words/Works. Jesus made some bold statements. He told the people that His doctrines (teachings) came from God the Father (John 7:15). He said and did everything that God the Father wanted Him to say and do (John 5:19). His words and works were designed to glorify God the Father (John 7:18; 17:4). Because He said and did only what the Father wanted Him to say and do, the religious leaders wanted to kill Him (John 7:1, 19, 25) and stone Him (John 8:59). However, it wasn’t in the plan of God for Jesus to be stoned to death. He was to be crucified as the prophet David foretold (Psalm 22; Philippians 2:8). He would die as the Just One for us, the unjust ones (1 Peter 3:18; Romans 5:8).

Brothers. Jesus’ half brothers didn’t initially believe on Him during His earthly ministry (John 7:5). But when Jesus made a personal appearance to James after His bodily resurrection, he became a true believer in Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:7). He wrote the Epistle of James to some Jewish Christians. His other brother Jude also wrote a short letter to believers.

Salvation.  Growing up with Jesus, as His half brothers and sisters did (Matthew 12:46; 13:55, 56), or in a Christian home and knowing Bible stories won’t save you or anyone else. God has no grandchildren. Each person must decide for himself/herself to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as his/her personal Savior through the message of the Gospel. Have you done this yet? If not, why not now?

Hope. Is your hope of gaining entrance into heaven based on your good works, or your faith plus your good works, or in anyone other than through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Scriptures (Romans 4:5)? If so, STOP! Get saved God’s way today (Acts 4:12; 16:31)).

Evidence. If you’re sure of your salvation (Romans 8:16; 2 Peter 1:10; 1 John 5:13), do other people know that you are a Christian by the way you live and talk? Have you been baptized/immersed (Matthew 28:19, 20)? Would others say you are growing in the Lord (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18)?  Do they see the“Fruit of the Spirit” being displayed in your life (Galatians 5:22, 23)? Are you serving God by serving others in a Bible believing local church first (1 Peter 4:10; Galatians 6:10; John 13:34, 35)? Are you assembling with other believers regularly (Hebrews 10:24, 25) and edifying them (1 Thessalonians 5:11)? Are you sharing the Gospel with unbelievers so they can be saved (Acts 1:8)? If not, what needs to change?  When?  Please read James 4:17.

Help. If you need spiritual help, you can reach us at 805-238-3549 or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” We invite you to listen to some of our messages on the Internet too.  Thanks for telling your friends about the articles that help you.

“Who’s Your Daddy?”

Have you ever had an identity crisis? Have you ever wondered where you came from, why you’re here on earth, and where you will go when you die? Have you ever tried to trace your ancestors back several generations? If so, did you discover some things you didn’t really want to know? Did you find some skeletons in the closet? Have you ever wished you could have had different parents and ancestors? Do you ever feel hopeless and helpless? Would you be interested in a new identity? Let’s consider –

Our Human Fathers. The Scriptures tell us that our first parents were Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:7, 19; 1 Corinthians 15:45, 47; Romans 5:12). All of us are also descendants of Noah and his three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japeth who survived the universal flood (Genesis 6:10; 10:1-32; 1 Peter 3:20). When their descendants refused to scatter out over the whole earth, God came down and changed their languages so they couldn’t keep building the Tower of Babel (Genesis 9:1; 11:1-9). He also divided up the land into many continents (Genesis 10:25) and set up the boundaries of nations (Acts 17:26). He’s opposed to the “One World Government” that sinful men will set up in opposition to God. It seems like the stage is almost set for the events recorded in Revelation 6-19 to occur.  It will only last for seven years (Daniel 9:27). Do you know why (Matthew 24:22)? Then the Lord Jesus Christ will destroy it when He returns to earth to rule for 1,000 years (Daniel 2:44, 45; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Revelation 19:11-20:10).

Our Spiritual Fathers. Whether we want to admit it or not, we all started out in this life with the devil as our father (Psalm 51:5). He holds the unbelievers in spiritual darkness (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:13; 1 John 3:9, 10). If we want to avoid the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46) and go to heaven (John 14:1-3), we need to be born again from above (John 3:3-8) so that we can enter into the kingdom of the Son of His love (Colossians 1:13). At the moment of salvation, the believer participates in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) and is enabled to do things that are pleasing to God (2 Corinthians 5:10). Until then, “…we are all like an unclean thing, and all our [righteous works] are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Even “the plowing of the wicked is sin” in God’s sight (Proverbs 21:4). That is because he does it independently of God as Lucifer did (Isaiah 14:12-14).

Our Secular Indoctrination. The devil is the biggest liar (John 8:44). He wants us to believe that we evolved from slime and lower animals but that somehow we can evolve upward and eventually become gods (Genesis 3:5; Romans 1:25; 1 Thessalonians 2:11). Evolution* is being taught in the public schools as a fact and not as a theory. Repeating a lie over and over doesn’t make it truth. Satan also wants us to shift the blame for our sinful conduct over to others (Genesis 3:12, 13). Do you do this yourself?  He wants people to believe that they can earn their way to heaven by their good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Our Biblical Indoctrination. The Scriptures are clear. We’re all sinners with a sin nature that constantly opposes God (Romans 3:10; 7:15-25; Jeremiah 17:9). We inherited it from our parents (Psalm 51:5). We don’t lose our sin nature when we get saved (1 John 1:8). We will have it until the day we die or when the Rapture takes place (1 John 3:2). Christians, who are carnal (1 Corinthians 3:1-4), have the potential to do all the sinful things they did prior to their being saved (Galatians 5:19-21). The unbelievers to be born again from above (John 1:13; 3:3-8). All of us need to have the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Savior (Acts 16:31). We can’t get into heaven on the merits of our parents.  We must believe the Gospel that Christ died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day if we want to be saved (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Luke 24:39). Every true Christians can have assurance of salvation before he/she dies (1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16). Do you have it?

Our Personal Application. Are you are true child of God?  Have you been born from above (John 3:3; Acts 16:31)? Are you acting like a child of God or the devil (1 John 3:7-10)? Are you spiritually sick and about to die physically (1 Corinthians 11:30; 1 John 5:16)? Are your known sins confessed to God and others whom you have offended (1 John 1:9; James 5:16; James 5:19, 20)? Are you displaying the Fruit of the Spirit properly toward the right objects at the right time (Galatians 5:22, 23; See 1 John 2:15-17). Are you sharing the Good News concerning Christ with others (Acts 1:8)?

Our Help. We’re here to help those who are teachable and willing to change when they are presented with the truth from God’s Word and are convinced by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 2:2, 15, 3:16, 17). Be like the Bereans and check things out for yourself (Acts 17:11).  We can be reached at 805-238-3549 or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this article has helped you, we’d like to know how it has. You can help us reach others by sharing this with others. Click on “Follow” if you’d like to receive future articles as they come out. 

*www.evolutionvsgod.com

“Fathers, Rise & Shine!”

Two youngsters were discussing the difference between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. One of them said, “Father’s Day is just like Mother’s Day except you can get him a cheaper gift.”

A Father. “He is forced to endure childbirth without an anesthetic. He growls when he feels good—and laughs very loudly when he’s scared half to death. He never feels entirely worthy of the worship in a child’s eyes. He’s never quite the hero his daughter thinks, never quite the man his son believes him to be—and this worries him, sometimes. So he works too hard to try and smooth the rough places in the road for those of his own who will follow him. He gets very angry when the first school grades aren’t as good as he thinks they should be. He scolds his son though he knows it’s the teacher’s fault. He gives his daughters away to other men who aren’t nearly good enough so they can have grandchildren who are smarter than anybody’s. He makes bets with insurance companies about who’ll live the longest. Though he knows the odds, he keeps right on betting. And one day he loses.” – Adapted from Paul Harvey

Contrast. We’re been told that in 1855 the United Sates was recognized as the most law-abiding nation in the world. Today, according to the American Bar Association, it is the most criminal. And the moral fiber of our nation is the lowest in its history. Multitudes of boys and girls are growing up without any spiritual training of any kind. This information could cause us either to get discouraged or take positive action. Christian fathers and grandfathers should rise up to protect themselves, their wives, and their children from physical and spiritual harm. Did you know that Christians have three spiritual enemies, not just one?

Devil. While many people deny his existence, the devil and demons are real and want to have control over human beings (1 Peter 5:8). All unbelievers are his children and do his bidding (John 8:44; 1 John 3:9, 10). But the devil and demons can’t indwell true Christians (1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:14-16). But they can/do tempt believers to act independently of God, be disappointed, discouraged, doubt, act cowardly, to lie, be proud, have an unforgiving spirit, steal, use filthy speech, be spiritually lazy, be talebearers and busybodies, and to be bitter. These strong desires (lusts) must be overcome by putting on the whole armor of God each time we’re tempted by the devil or his demons (Ephesians 6:10-17).

Sin Nature. [1] Unlike the devil who must attack a believer’s mind from the outside, and only when he has permission from God (Job 1:12; 2:6; Luke 22:31, 32; Ephesians 6:13), the Christian must be aware of the fact that he still has his old sin nature even though he’s been born again from above (1 John 1:8; John 3:3). A Christian is a partaker in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). (Note: He doesn’t become a god.) Those who deny that they still have a sinful nature are simply deceiving themselves and the truth with reference to it is not in them (Romans 7:15-25). Rather than taking personal responsibility for their own sinful conduct, many of them will try to blame someone else. Are you doing this yourself? Do you know what the lusts of the flesh are (Galatians 5:19-21) and how we can overcome them (Galatians 5:16, 25)?

Present World System. In an effort to control the debase aspects of the works of the flesh (i.e. sin nature), the devil devised a diabolical system after Cain had killed his brother, Abel (Genesis 4:16-26; Luke 11:50, 51). “It refers to the order or arrangement under which Satan has organized the world of unbelieving mankind upon his cosmic principles of force, greed, ambition, and pleasure. It is the society in which we live which is often outwardly religious, scientific, cultured and elegant, but is dominated by Satanic principles.” H. L.Schafer.  It’s lusts (strong desires) appeal to our flesh, our eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-17). We can overcome this spiritual enemy by not loving it with the “agape” love that God the Holy Spirit produces in our lives (Galatians 5:22, 23). The Christian must use the present world system, but he is not to abuse it (1 Corinthians 7:31).

Treasures. Some homes have expensive things in them that can be stolen or destroyed in a fire. But the real treasures include the Word of God. It can serve as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). A godly wife and mother is of great value and her worth is far above rubies. Her children will rise up and call her blessed, and her husband will praise her (Proverbs 31:10-31). Children are a gift from God (Psalm 127:3). They are temporarily on loan from God to us. We should do our best to train them from God’s Word (Proverbs 22:6) to counteract the erroneous philosophies of the world (e.g. secular humanism, evolution etc.) that are opposed to God’s truths (Isaiah 55:8, 9; Colossians 2:8; John 17:17).

Example. Even by his honest work ethic, a Christian father can/should set a good example for his children to follow. When he realizes that his ultimate boss is the Lord Himself, it enables him to do his work for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) and for the benefit of his employer and the customers who pay his salary (Ephesians 6:5-8).

Church. The church is not the building but the Christians who are assembled together to stimulate each other to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24, 25). This is why it is so important for believers not to forsake the assembly meetings of the church. No church is perfect because it is made up of imperfect people. Hopefully they want to learn how to live righteous and holy lives (1 Peter 1:15, 16). Do you faithfully attend church and pay attention to God’s Word so that your life can be transformed (Romans 12:1, 2)?

Parents. God established marriage between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:22). The marriage of two spiritually maturing believers should serve as an illustration of the future relationship that Christ will have to the true Church, His Bride (Ephesians 5:32). Although mothers have a tremendous impact on their children (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15), fathers have God given responsibilities too (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

Questions. If you’re a father, are/were you a godly leader in your home? Do/did you chasten your children as God does (Hebrews 12:5-11)? Do/did you provoke your children to wrath or did you bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:7)? Are there some wrongs that need to be made right with God and with them (1 John 1:9; James 5:16)? If you’re a grandfather you can/should influence your grandchildren by praying for them, communicating and/or spending time with them, listening to and advising them, and by living a godly life before them. What actions do you need to take (James 4:17)? If you’re not sure of your own salvation, read [2] or listen [3] to the “Clear Gospel.”  Don’t delay; Do it today!

Contact. If you have questions/comments, we can be reached at 805-238-3549 or through our website:  www.kelseypeach.com. If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Can we count on you to help us get God’s truth out to others? 

[1] The Sin Nature – http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/1natjm00.htm

[2]Clear Gospel: http://www.cleargospel.org/wp-content/uploads/English-Display-Pkg-2014.pdf

[3] Audio: http://www.duluthbible.org/filerequest/9415

 

“In Memory Of Dad”

“A successful businessman had what he considered to be his greatest stroke of luck: an angel visited him and promised to grant him one wish. The man asked for a copy of the business news one year in the future. As he received it and began to pore over the stock market pages, he drooled as he thought of the killing he would make with his insider knowledge of the future. Then his eyes happened to glance across the page to see his own name–in the obituary column! His perspective and goals for the coming year were suddenly changed as he realized his own mortality.” – Steven Cole, “Epitaph Of A Truly Successful Man”

      Certainty. Someday we who are fathers will exit the stage of life and leave behind a legacy for our children. A few children will be left with great fortunes while others will be left with debts that need to be paid. Some of us will die in disgrace and full of regrets while others will pass away with dignity and happy memories. Everyday that we live, we or others are writing a page that will become a part of our autobiography or biography. God is also keeping a record of everything we think, say, and do (Revelation 20:12; Romans 14:12). He’s omniscient (Isaiah 46:10; John 2:24). Would you want Him to include your story in the pages of the Scriptures – warts and all?

      Purpose. One of the purposes of the Old Testament was to give us hope (Romans 15:4). Since God kept His promises to the Jews, we can count on Him to fulfill all the promises that He has made to us too. Do you know and claim them and are you enjoying the Faith/Rest life right now (Hebrews 3, 4)? Do you have the peace of God (Philippians 4:6, 7)? Are you trying to claim the ones that were given exclusively to the Old Testament believers? If you are, you’ll be disappointed.

      Change? Most of us fathers probably believe that if we had to do it all over again, we’d do some things differently. But that isn’t possible. We can’t change the past but we can do something about today and tomorrow if God allows us to live another day on this earth. If we’re saved, perhaps we need to begin by confessing our known sins to God and then claiming His forgiveness (1 John 1:9) and, if necessary, confess our sins and shortcomings to our children too (James 5:16). If you’re not saved, begin by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). He’ll forgive you and make you a part of God’s family (Ephesians 1:7).

      Examples. Within the pages of the Scriptures we have many examples of fathers who did well and others who failed miserably. Even if we feel like we’ve done poorly in the past, we can/should do our best to make whatever time we have left here on earth good days, months, or years that will bring glory to God and joy and blessings to others (1 Corinthians 10:31; 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

      Success. “Success is the continuing achievement of becoming the person God wants you to be and accomplishing the goals God has helped you set.” – Charles Stanley. Let’s consider the life of Joseph whom most of us would say was successful in what he did in life (Genesis 30-50).

      God’s Will. He grew up in a dysfunctional family and was hated by his brothers, who sold him as a slave. Then he was imprisoned unjustly for crimes he didn’t commit, and forgotten by one to whom he had shown a favor. But he maintained his faith in God and served Him and others well (Genesis 39:20-41:14; Acts 7:9-14).

      Used. God used him to preserve the lives of the Hebrew people (Romans 9:27). He gave special promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  The Jews needed to be kept separated from their pagan neighbors in Canaan and Egypt (Genesis 45:10; 47:1). Keep in mind that God also gave some promises to the sons of Ishmael and his descendants (Genesis 16:7-12; 17:20; 25:12-18). The Arabs are very wealthy today and possess much territory because of God’s promises.

     Marriage. Even though Pharaoh gave to Joseph a wife who was the daughter of the priest of On (Genesis 41:45), Joseph, no doubt, taught her and their sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, about the true and living God and the promises that He had made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Joseph enjoyed his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and lived to be 110 years old.

      Forgiveness. Realizing that God had a greater plan, Joseph was willing to forgive his brothers for the evil that they had done to him (Genesis 45:5-7; 50:20). Since God has forgiven us the huge debt we owe to Him, believers should be ready and willing to forgive others when they ask for forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32). Even if others never admit their guilt, don’t take vengeance into your own hands. Leave that to God. Jesus, as the God-man, is the righteous Judge (John 5:22; Romans 12:19; 2 Timothy 4:8).

      Hope. Joseph made it clear that the Jews were not to leave his body in Egypt, but were to take it with them back to the land that God had promised to them (Genesis 50:24, 25; Hebrews 11:22). When the Jews finally left Egypt, they took Joseph’s coffin with them to demonstrate their faith in God’s promise (Exodus 13:19). Even though the Jews are temporarily set aside by God and this time (Romans 9-11), God is not done with them as a nation. The Church has not replaced Israel. He will give to the believing Jews (Zechariah 12:10; 14:1-21; Matthew 23:39) all the land that was promised to them (Genesis 15:18-21; Matthew 5:5).

      Vapor. Since we don’t know how much time we have left on earth, let’s treat each day as though it were our last day. Our lives are like a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away (James 4:14). If God keeps us alive on earth (Acts 17:28), there are things that He wants us to do to touch and influence the lives of others. Don’t forsake the church’s assembly meetings (Hebrews 19:24, 25). Attend them to be blessed and to bless others.

      Inheritance. What will you pass on to your children? Are you more concerned about their physical or spiritual well being (1 John 2:15-17)? How much time do you spend with God in His Word, in prayer, and with other believers (Psalm 1:2; 1 Timothy 4:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)? How are you spending the resources that God gave to you (1 Corinthians 4:2, 7)? What kind of words come out of your mouth (Psalm 19:14; Ephesians 4:29)? How do you treat your wife and your children’s mother (1 Peter 3:7; Ephesians 5:25)? How do you handle the trials of life – with faith or fear (Hebrews 11:6; James 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:7)? Would you be happy if your children mirrored your life (1 Corinthians 11:1)? Do your actions match your words (Matthew 24:51)?

      Change. It is possible with God’s help (Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 3:20; 1 John 4:4). Will you trust in the Lord with all your heart? Will you learn on yourself or on God to direct your path (Proverbs 3:5, 6)? “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

      Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15). You may contact us at 805-238-3549 or visit our website at http://www.kelseypeach.com.

“The Wannabe Teachers”

“Though their bodies lie cold and dormant, the grave cannot contain the influence that seven men have had on today’s world. They include Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, John Dewey, Sigmund Freud, and others. Their ideas pervade our schools, businesses, even the church.” – Dave Breese, “Seven Men Who Rule The World From The Grave”

Caution.  The Apostle Paul warned, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8).

Teachers.  Perhaps you remember the words of Christa McAuliffe, a school teacher, who was one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986.  Among other things, she said, “I touch the future.  I teach.”  Teaching is a wonderful profession.  In some ways, we all teach.  But when it comes to the Scriptures, some people definitely shouldn’t be teaching it.

Unbelievers.  They are condemned already because they have not believed in the name [person and work] of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:18). They have a natural and Satanic blindness (1 Corinthians 2:14; 2 Corinthians 4:4). False teachers proclaim another Jesus and another gospel (2 Corinthians 11:4; Matthew 24:5). For them is reserved the blackness of darkness forever (Jude 1:13; Matthew 25:30, 41, 46). We must guard ourselves against them (2 Peter 2:1-22; 3:16).

Hypocrites.  They teach one thing but live another way and make no attempts to change. They are eager to take a speck out of someone else’s eyes but have a plank in their own eye (Matthew 7:5). Jesus had some sharp words for those who were leading others to hell with them (Matthew 23:13-16).

Heretics.  These carnal people are governed by their sin nature (1 Corinthians 3:1-3; Galatians 5:19-21) and often twist the words of Scripture to fit their preconceived ideas to accommodate their sinful behavior (2 Peter 3:16). They don’t rightly divide the Word of truth and fail to point out the different sets of rules (Dispensations) that are found in the Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15). Apostates are those who made a profession of faith from which they departed (2 Peter 2:21). They never were true believers (Matthew 7:21-23).

Truth.  Jesus referred to Himself as the only way to God, the absolute truth, and the One who gives eternal life to all who believe on Him (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). He said God the Father’s Words were also truth (John 17:17). Who can/should proclaim truth to others that can set them free (John 8:32)?

Pastor/teachers.  When He ascended up to heaven after His bodily resurrection, Jesus gave spiritual gifts to the church (Ephesians 4:11). These individuals can/should be rightly related to the Holy Spirit (John 3:6; Titus 3:5) so they can shed light on God’s Word for the benefit of other believers (2 Timothy 4:2-5) and those who are lost without Christ as their Savior. They must be led by God the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14), walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 25); and be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). They must not grieve or quench Him (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).

Elders.  Believers with a relative degree of spiritual maturity (1 John 2:13, 14) and with an experiential knowledge of God can/should have a part in teaching younger Christians in the faith (Hebrews 5:12; 7:7, 17). But there are some limitations to this that need to be observed (1 Timothy 2:12; 3:6; Titus 2:3, 4; James 3:1).

Parents.  Obviously godly parents should have a vital part in the lives of their children (Proverbs 22:6). They are a gift from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). God wants fathers to teach their own children in the ways of God (Deuteronomy 6:7; Ephesians 6:4). Mothers can/should also assist in the development of their children (2 Timothy 1:5, 6; 3:15). “The greatest treasure a man can leave his children is an intimate knowledge of God.” (Philippians 3:10)

Judgment/Rewards.  Those who fail to handle God’s word correctly and with care will come under the judgment of God (James 3:1). But those believers who faithfully teach it to others and lead by example will be rewarded with the crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4).

Questions/Comments.  We invite you to communicate with us by calling us at 805-238-3549 or by visiting our website at www.kelseypeach.com.  If you were helped by reading this, tell someone else.  Click “Follow” to receive additional articles as they come out.

 

“Making Wise Decisions” Part 3

  Years ago when the “wild, wild west” was being settled, many roads were nothing more than wagon trails.  Some of them posed a real problem for those who traveled on them.  On one of these winding paths a sign was posted which read:  “Avoid this rut or you will be in it for the next 25 miles.”

  A Paradigm Shift.  Do you ever feel like you are in a deep rut?  Are bad habits dragging you farther and farther down?  Have you given up and resigned yourself to failure?  Perhaps you need a paradigm shift. This doesn’t mean that you transfer two dimes from one hand to another.  It involves a change in your pattern of thinking or following a different model.

  A Renewed Mind.  The Apostle Paul wrote:  “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.  And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:1, 2).

God’s Thoughts.  You aren’t able to think God’s way or understand the deep things of God until you accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior (1 Corinthians 2:14).  He is the One who died for your sins… and rose again bodily on the third day.  God’s thoughts and His ways are far above ours (Isaiah 55:8, 9).  Furthermore, without a clear understanding of the distinctive sets of “House Rules – Dispensations” [1] found in the Scriptures, even a Christian could be caught up in a heresy.

Our Daily Bread.  Have you ever given much thought to the food you eat?  Why do you eat?  Do you eat to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31)?  Do others learn anything about God by your eating habits?  Do you bow your head and give thanks for your food before eating it at home or in a restaurant (Ephesians 5:20)?  Do you eat to stay alive or do you simply live to eat?

Choices.  We are given many choices to make about the food we eat.  Consider the types of food you have available to you, the amount you choose to eat,  the spices you put on it, the number of times you chew your food, and what you do while eating.

Meal Time.  Do you argue and fight with others while eating?  Do you watch depressing news?  Someone wrote, “Current events are so grim that we can’t decide whether to watch the six o’clock news and not be able to eat, or the eleven o’clock news and not be able to sleep.”  Why not replace the disturbing things with pleasant conversations with others?

Growing Up.  I grew up as a missionary kid in Japan.  We used to hold hands and sing songs in English and/or Japanese before we ate.  Then we thanked God for our food.  During the meal we learned Bible verses in English and Japanese. When we were done with our meal my dad read a portion from the Bible and a devotional book and closed our meal with prayer.  Novel?  Not really.  You might want to try something like this with your family.  See what a difference it could make in your home life.  Wouldn’t you prefer harmony over cacophony?

Water.  Did you know that there are about 9 different kinds of water?  Today, most of them are harmful to our health. We’re told that water makes up over 70 % of our bodies.  It is needed to keep our bodies hydrated and to regulate our body temperature.  We also need water to flush out the dead cells in our bodies.  Consuming pure water is probably one of the best things we can do to stay healthy and/or recover from an illness.  Do you know how much you should drink each day?

Wormwood.  During the coming “Seven Years of Tribulation” the drinking water in the rivers and springs will become so polluted that many people will die from drinking it.  It might come as a result of  a nuclear bomb or some other disaster (Revelation 8:10, 11)?  Think back to 2011 when the 9.0 earthquake and tsunami hit Japan.  Two of our children lived and taught there during that time.  They tell us that there were over 1,500 aftershocks too.

Bible Prophecy.  Don’t ignore it!  At the time it was written, about one fourth of the Bible was prophetic.  It is to be interpreted literally, not allegorically where the meaning is totally changed to suit the person interpreting it.  It seems like the stage is being set for the “Seven Years Of The Tribulation” mentioned in the Scriptures (Daniel 9:24-27).  [2]

Spiritual.  In addition to the physical food and drink we consume, we need spiritual food and drinks from the Word of God to nourish our spirits and souls.  We need “living water” to give us God’s quality of life and to keep us morally clean (John 4:10; 7:38; Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 5:26).

He Knows And Cares.  Yes, God is concerned about everything we eat and drink.  We will be held accountable for our eating and drinking habits (Romans 14:12).  He reminds His children to cast all their cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).  Are you one of His children?  Not everyone is (John 8:44; 1 John 3:10).

Anxious?  If you’re a Christian, you can/should memorize this verse.  “Be anxious for nothing [Stop worrying], but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6, 7).

  Help.  We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually.  If you need additional spiritual help, contact us here or through our www.kelseypeach.com.

[1]  FREE Dispensations Chart:

Click to access 08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[2]  The Order Of Coming Events:  https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.