Perhaps you’re not familiar with this teaching that is very popular in some churches today. Do you know the difference between “Lordship ‘In Exchange For‘ Salvation” and “Lordship ‘Because Of” Salvation”? Which one do you believe is Biblical? It’s important that you know what God’s Word teaches because your eternal destiny in heaven or hell depends on it.
Some people add to and others subtract information from the Gospel message. Warnings: Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Corinthians 11:3, 4; James 3:1.
Tares In The Church. “The subject of Lordship salvation has become popular and prevalent in Christendom. I am sorry to say that evangelical Christendom has been divided concerning how one is saved by those who hold the Lordship [in exchange for] salvation view. The more important question is whether one who sincerely believes in Lordship [in exchange for] salvation is truly saved. I am convinced that this teaching produces more tares in professing Christianity than any other teaching concerning salvation. The Lordship [in exchange for] salvation proponents often speak of the “Gospel” yet in their salvation presentations they rarely present the “gospel” by which (or through the agency of which) one is saved. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 is rather clear concerning what the gospel is and the title “Lord” isn’t even used of Jesus Christ in this central passage.” – Professor David K. Spurbeck, Sr. [1]
Important. While it’s important for Evangelists, and Pastor-teachers, Missionaries, and other Christian workers to know what the Scriptures say about this teaching, it’s also important that every Christian understands it too in order to detect what it truth and what is error (1 John 4:1).
“All Scripture is [God breathed], and is 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). Admitting that we’ve been wrong isn’t easy, but it’s necessary when God the Holy Spirit, through the Scriptures, convinces us otherwise.
If you are uncertain about your salvation and your eternal destiny, we’re here to help those who are teachable and willing to change and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Contact us here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please LIKE and SHARE this with others.
The Gospel for our salvation: “For I [the Apostle Paul] delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ [alone], and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).
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We invite you to click on the links below to learn more about this misunderstood teaching which is confusing many people about the right way to be saved. [2]
Scripture taken from the New King James Version
Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.
“Imagine there’s no heaven / It’s easy if you try / No hell below us / Above us only sky / Imagine all the people / Living for today… Aha-ah…” – John Lennon (Please read what Jesus said in Luke 16:19-31 to discover what J. L. may be thinking now that he is dead and the warning he may be wishing he could send back to lost unbelievers on earth.)
I don’t know about you, but I choose to believe what Jesus said about heaven and hell (John 14:1-6; Matthew 25:41 46; See Revelation 21:8). I don’t want to end up with the devil and his angels/demons in the lake of fire to suffer forever and I don’t want that to happen to you either. You might ask, “What do I need to do to be saved from hell and gain heaven (Acts 16:31)? Can I be sure?
What have you heard in church, on the radio, or TV? Pray. Confess all the sins you’ve ever committed in your life. Stop sinning. Repent and make Jesus the Lord and Master of your life. Believe and do good works. Say the sinner’s prayer. Come forward and confess Christ publicly. Repent and be baptized. Deny yourself and take up your cross. Follow Jesus. Ask Jesus to forgive you, etc. [1] Beware of false teachers ( 2 Corinthians 11:3:3, 4, 13-15; 2 Peter 2:1 ff; Jude 1:8-13). [2]
Are you confused? I used to be until someone shared the truth from God’s Word with me and God the Holy Spirit illuminated my mind to it (1 Corinthians 2:10, 11; 1 John 2:20, 27). “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32; 14:6; 17:17).
The “Gospel” for our salvation is the same for Jews and non-Jews (Romans 1:16). It is that Christ died for our sins…, was buried for three days and nights, and then rose again bodily from the grave on the third day… (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; See Luke 24:33-43; Romans 10:9-13).
Merely knowing and agreeing with these facts of the Gospel won’t save anyone. We must believe – transfer our faith and trust from ourselves and our good works over to the Lord Jesus Christ alone if we are to be saved. We aren’t saved by our good works or by our faith plus our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
Questions: Are you absolutely sure that you will go to heaven the moment you die? Why should God let you into His heaven? If you believe that you are saved, is there anything you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation? If so, what would it be?
Help. We’re here to assist you and others if you want additional information. We want you to be assured of your salvation so you can share what you have with others (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:11-13; Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please SHARE this with others who could benefit from this information.
Listen Up! When one of God’s prophets [1] spoke, the people needed to pay attention to what he had to say. “The word of the Lord came again to me [the Prophet Ezekiel], saying: ‘Son of man, when a land sins against Me by persistent unfaithfulness, I will stretch out My hand against it; I will cut off its supply of bread, send famine on it, and cut off man and beast from it. Even if these three [righteous] men, Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it, they would only deliver themselves by their righteous,’ says the LORD God” (Ezekiel 14:12-14 NKJV; See Genesis 18:22-33; 2 Peter 2:6-8).
Who? In this context God was about to judge His chosen people, the idolatrous Jews (See Exodus 20:1-6), and send them into captivity to suffer for 70 years at the hands of King Nebuchadnezzar and the cruel Babylonians (Jeremiah 25:11, 12; 29:10; Daniel 1:1, 2; 9:2; See Isaiah 28:11; 1 Corinthians 14:21). Later, during the reign of King Cyrus of Medo-Persia (current day Iran), the Jews were allowed to return to the land that God promised to give to them (Genesis 15:18-21; See Romans 4:13) so they could rebuild their Temple and the walls around Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 36:22, 23). But not all of the Jews went back to their land (Ezra 2; See Book of Esther).
The United States. Are we, as a nation, headed for destruction and about to lose our freedom because of our worshipping “American idols” or things (homes, automobiles, bank accounts, etc) rather than the true and living God? These Jews were sacrificing their babies in the fire to the pagan god Molech (2 Kings 23:10). What about the millions of abortions that have taken place in our country? Is this not an abomination to God? See Jeremiah 32:35.
God’s Judgment. Is God about to bring us down as He did other nations? Why isn’t the United States mentioned in Bible prophecy? We need to know that it is God Who sets up kings (rulers) and nations and also brings them down according to His plan (Acts 13:21, 22; Ephesians 1:11; See Daniel 2). He is the one who determines the boundaries of nations (Acts 17:26). He often allows the basest of men to rule over others (Daniel 4:17, 25, 34-37). Consider many politicians. But God has also been gracious to save those rulers who place their faith and trust in Him alone as King Nebuchadnezzar did (See 1 Corinthians 1:26-29; Proverbs 21:1). Contrast him with Pharaoh, King in Egypt (Exodus 8:15, 32; Romans 9:7).
Our Duty. The Apostle Paul wrote: “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4; See Romans 11:2). When was the last time you communicated with God this way?
Time. God is also the one who determines the number of our days here on earth. They are like a vapor that appears for a little time and then they’re gone (James 4:14). We all have “potential years” and “actual years.” Sin (lawless behavior) can result in God’s children being chastened (Hebrews 12:5 ff) or dying prematurely (1 Corinthians 10:6-13; 11:30; James 5:19, 20). Some believers commit the “sin unto death” and we’re told not to pray for them (1 John 5:16). Are you one of then? “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31; See Hebrews 12:5 ff). “The [unsaved] wicked shall be turned into hell, And all the nations that forget God” (Psalm 9:17). What are you doing with the time and life that God has given to you (Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5)? Are you glorifying Him by making Him known to others (1 Corinthians 10:31)?
Christ’s Work. The Lord Jesus Christ spent about 33 years here on earth. During that time He accomplished all that God the Father planned for Him to do (John 17:4; Hebrews 10:7, 9). Then He died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day. He was seen over a 40 day period of time by over 500 witnesses before He ascended back to heaven where He now sits at God the Father’s right hand until He returns to claim His Bride, the true Church (also referred to as the spiritual “Body of Christ” – 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13; Ephesians 1:20; 5:25-27).
Christ’s Bride. These are the ones whom God the Father has given to God the Son (John 6:37, 44; Revelation 22:17). The true “Church” (not the “apostate church”) will become Christ’s Bride at the time to the Rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Old Testament believers or those who will be saved during the 7 years of the Tribulation and during Christ’s millennial reign over the earth have a different relationship to God (See Daniel 9:27; 12:1-3; Matthew 24:14; 25:1; Revelation 6:9-11; 7:4-17; 20:1-6; Hebrews 12:22-24 ). We do NOT believe that the Church has replaced Israel (See Romans 11). [2]
Requirement. To become a part of this unique group, the future “Bride of Christ,” you must believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). We are saved by God’s grace (unmerited favor) through faith in the Christ of the Scriptures alone (not the Christ of the cults – Mathew 24:5). We are not saved by our good works, or by faith plus our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). [3]
Not Enough. Knowing and agreeing with the facts of the Gospel won’t save anyone (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; James 2:19; See Matthew 7:21-23). A transfer of trust from ourselves and our good works over to Christ alone will result in our being saved from having to spend eternity with the devil and his angels in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46). Where will you spend eternity? Are you sure (1 John 5:13)? If not, seek help immediately!
Baptism. Every true Christian should display his/her faith before other people by being baptized (immersed). Doing this will enable us to have a good conscience toward God (1 Peter 3:21), provide a testimony for others to learn about our sincerity and intent to live in newness of life (Romans 6:4; Acts 8:36), and to demonstrate our obedience to Christ who commanded believers to be baptized (Matthew 28:19, 20). This pictures our death, burial, and resurrection with Christ (Galatians 2:20). If you’ve been saved, have you been baptized? If not, why not now?
New Birth. Only after we have been born spiritually into God’s family and have eternal life (God’s quality of life) can we begin to live a life that pleases God and truly blesses others (John 3:3-8; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 5:11-13; 2 Corinthians 5:9). How does your life measure up to His standards? Are you using your spiritual gift from God with love (1 Peter 4:10; Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12-14; Ephesians 4:11-16)?
Help. Are you a believer or a non-believer? We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.
If this has helped you, we’d like to hear from you. Please SHARE this with others.
[1] God sent many prophets in Old Testament times (Luke 11: 47-51) and in the early days of the church to instruct and/or to warn people who needed to hear what God wanted said. There have been and there are many false prophets and teachers today (2 Peter 2:1 ff; Deuteronomy 18:20-22). God isn’t giving out new revelation/information today (1 Corinthians 13: 8). We have all we need for life and godliness within the 66 Books of the Bible (2 Peter 1:3). After the Rapture of the true Church God will have additional information to dispense to the people on earth through His prophets (Joel 2:28; Revelation 11:3). Study it and apply what you should to your life (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; James 1:22). All Scripture is for us, but not all of it is addressed to us (See Titus 1:9). See our “Dispensations Chart.”
The covid19 virus, which seemed to come suddenly out of nowhere, has been responsible for thousands of deaths and will continue to kill many more people. It has had a devastating effect on the whole world and has altered people’s lives in many ways. (If you or someone you know has been affected by it, please let us know about it. We’d like to pray for you and/or for them.)
There is a billionaire “mad scientist” who thinks he can solve this pandemic problem with a vaccine that he wants everyone in the world to take. If one doesn’t take his vaccine voluntarily, he/she may be forced to take it for the “good of humanity.” As a eugenicist he also wants to play the role of God and decide who gets to live and who dies. How much more draconian and distorted can things get?
But he and all the rest of us need to made aware of a much deadlier, latent virus lurking in everyone of us. It’s known as the “tsumi virus.” (It’s not the “tsunami” virus). Maybe you’ve never heard of it. It has far greater and never ending consequences unless the proper “antidote” is taken. Without our knowing much about it, this “virus” has been passed on to us from our parents and grandparents and we, in turn, are passing it on to our children and grandchildren. It’s in our genes. It can flare up at any moment. If you happen to know a Japanese person, ask him/her about the “tsumi virus.”
This particular virus can cause people to engage in disgusting and perverted behavior which might shock most people. It can lead to an early and painful death. Sadly, more and more degenerate people think it’s an acceptable life style and they even approve it. Do you? (Read Romans 1:18-32)
Some people who claim to be “spiritual/religious health care professionals” deny that we all have this “tsumi virus” or say that it can be eradicated during our life time. It can’t be. (Read 1 John 1:8; Romans 3:10-23; 6:23; 7:15-25.) So what can we do about this virus and how do we escape the devastating consequences?
First, we need to know what the “tsumi virus” is. Tsumi, in the Japanese language, means “sin.” But what is sin? The Bible defines it for us. “Sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4). It is acting contrary to God’s instructions to us. God’s Word tells us how to be delivered from everlasting condemnation. He also tells Christians how He wants us to live and overcome this virus (Romans 8:1; 1:16, 17). We are saved/delivered/rescued from hell“by [God’s] grace, through faith, [in the Christ of the Scriptures]… and not [by our good] works” (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). The Lord Jesus Christ is “the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through [Him]” (John 14:6; See Acts 4:12).
God has a very simple solution/antidote to counteract this virus: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). But many people say that this is too easy. So they add their good works to their faith. But this is not acceptable to God (Isaiah 64:6). [1] Others refuse God’s offer of salvation because they love darkness rather than light and because their deeds are evil (John 3:19). They prefer to engage in the passingpleasures to sin (Hebrews 11:25).
While there are many sins (acts of lawlessness) we commit often, there isone sin that will keep a person out of heaven. It is the sin of unbelief in Christ (John 3:16, 18, 36; 5:24; 16:8-11). All other sins are forgivable (See 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Ephesians 1:7). Here is what happens once we’ve placed our faith and trust in Christ alone to save us. God’s Word tells us that we acted right by dying for our sins in the person of our Substitute. At the same time God puts Christ’s righteousness to our account so we can enter into heaven (Romans 4:22-24; 6:23; Galatians 2:20; James 2:23).
While Jesus was hanging on the cross, at high noon, God the Father placed the sins of all mankind on His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ and forsook Him for three hours (Isaiah 53:6; Psalm 22:1 ff; Matthew 27:46; 1 Peter 3:18). By the way, God the Father is not “a dirty bully.” Jesus (the God-man) volunteered to do this to provide deliverance from hell for us (Hebrews 10:7, 9). Furthermore, God, being omniscient (Isaiah 46:10), could look into the future and see all the sins we’d ever commit and take them also and place them on Christ so He could pay the debt we owed to God (Romans 6:23).
We know that God the Father was satisfied with the sacrifice/payment that His Son (1 John 2:2), the Lord Jesus Christ, made for our sins because He raised Jesus’ body from the dead on the third day as predicted (Psalm 16:10; Matthew 12:40; John 2:19). When He ascended back to heaven, Jesus was accepted by God the Father. Then Jesus sat down at His right hand where He is right now as the only Head of the Church (Romans 4:25; 1 John 2:2; 4:10; Acts 2:33; Ephesians 1:20-23). Contrary to what the Romanists teach, it was a once and for all sufficient sacrifice (Romans 6:10; Hebrews 7:27; 9:12) and there is only one Mediator between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5). Mary is the mother of Jesus’ humanity, not the “Mother of God.”
If you refuse to believe in/on Him as your personal Savior, and accept His payment for your sins, you will be separated forever from God in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 21:8). Your degree of suffering there will be determined by Jesus (John 5:22) at the Great White Throne according to the works you did on earth (Revelation 20:10-15). We don’t want you or anyone else to be separated from God forever.
Have you placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone to save you? If not, why not now? You can be assured of your eternal destiny in heaven (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13). Once you’ve been saved, we want to help you grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18), use your spiritual gift with love (1 Peter 4:10; Ephesians 2:10), and to reproduce yourself (Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:19, 20).
If you have questions and/or comments and need additional assistance, we can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this has helped you, please let us know how it has. Then SHARE this with others too. Together we can accomplish much more for God’s glory and the good of others.
It was a popular TV program several years ago. Perhaps it caused many of us to recognize that we are vulnerable to the real possibility of our being killed or dying at any moment. In spite of this, many people keep on engaging in bad habits and dangerous lifestyles. The Scriptures are clear, “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we willgo to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away’”(James 4:13, 14). “Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring forth” (Proverbs 27:1). “… it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27).
Deaths. Every day thousands of people all around the world die, and most of them are dying without the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. It might be from the corona virus, seasonal flu, malaria, suicide, traffic accidents, HIV/AIDS, smoking, hunger, or tragically, by the abortion of innocent babies. We believe that when the body (not the person) dies, the soul and spirit leave the body. At the time of the unbeliever’s physical death, he/she enters the “second death” (which is irreversible) and will end up in the lake of fire forever. Physical death will be reversed when the Lord Jesus Christraises everyone who has died, each in his/her own order. Do you know in which resurrection you will participate?
Dead. We’re all born into this world “spiritually” dead in trespasses and sin. We inherited a sinful nature from our parents that goes all the way back to our first parents, Adam and Eve. Thankfully this spiritual death (separation from God) can/will be reversed the moment a person places his/her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. This is the Good News (Gospel) that one has to believe in order to be saved. “And He [Jesus] said to them [His disciples], ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature’” (Mark 16:15). Have you placed your faith in Christ alone yet? If not, why not now? If you’ve been saved, are you sharing the Gospel with others as God opens doors for you and as you are led by the Holy Spirit?
Helpless. Some people argue that those who are spiritually dead can’t do anything. This is why God must provide the initial, necessary faith for us to believe in/on the Lord Jesus Christ so we can trust in Him alone and be saved. We are saved by one act of faith, but a believer is supposed to continue to live in an attitude of faith. “For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake” (Philippians 1:29). “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one?” (1 Corinthians 3:5). We believe that God has provided salvation/deliverance from the lake of fire for all mankind but not for the devil or fallen angels/demons who believe in God and tremble. “And this is the condemnation, that the light [i.e. Christ] has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19).
Faith. In his excellent book, “Maturing In Christ,” Dr. H. L. Schafer points out four uses of faith: 1) The gift of faith for salvation, 2) the spiritual gift of faith, 3) the measure of faith, 4) the attitude of faith. “The gift of faith for salvation, which comes from [God] the Holy Spirit at the point of salvation. The hope involved, based on a promise of God, is salvation (1 Cor. 3:5; 15:1-4; Eph. 2:8; Phil. 1:29). The initial act of faith obtains the thing hoped for (salvation) and from that time on it is no longer needed or used, since faith has become a reality. Once a believer is saved he no longer needs to use this act of faith again because he now possesses the thing he hoped for – salvation (Titus 3:5). This very act of faith was not a work on the part of the person, but was a gift (Rom. 4:5).” [1]
Confusion. While many self righteous people believe that they haven’t been bad enough to deserve to be eternally separated from God in the lake of fire, others are hopelessly convinced that God cannot possibly forgive them because of some heinous sin(s) they’ve committed. I’ve met both groups of people. But both groups are wrong.
Clarification. Dr. Paul Reiter has clearly and simply summarized the Scriptural teaching on this issue. FOR WHOM DID CHRIST DIE? HE DIED… 1. For all (1 Tim. 2:6; Isa. 53:6). 2. For every man (Heb. 2:9). 3. For the world (John 3:16). 4. For the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2). 5. For the ungodly (Rom. 5:6). 6. For false teachers (2 Peter 2:1). 7. For many (Matt. 20:28). 8. For Israel (John 11:50-51). 9. For the Church (Eph. 5:25). 10. For “me” (Gal. 2:20). [2]
It’s Urgent. The Apostle Paul wrote, “…Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved”(Romans 10:1). Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). “[God] desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4).
Assurance. Do you have it? The Apostle John wrote: “And this is the record, that God hath given to us [the true believers in Christ] eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name [i.e. His person and work on our behalf] of the Son of God; that ye may know[not wish, hope, or think] that ye have eternal life, [as a present possession]…” (1 John 5:13). Why do so many of those who believe in “limited atonement” or in “Lordship in exchange for salvation” lack assurance of their salvation? We we believe in “Lordship becauseof salvation, not in exchange forsalvation”. [3] There is a big difference.
Help. We are here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change. Please contact us if you aren’t sure about your eternal destiny or if you have other questions. Once saved, we want to help you grow spiritually, and serve God effectively, as you share the clear Gospel with others. We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this has helped you, please let us know how it has, and then SHARE this with others.
Be honest. Would you rather serve others or be served by them? On a scale of 1-10, how interested are you in fame, fortune, power, and pleasure? What if there was no one to admire you? What if you had a million dollars but had no one to serve you when you went to the store or out to eat? What good would it be if you had power but there was no one you could boss around? Who would entertain you and bring you pleasure if you were alone on a desert island? What if everyone else were blind and couldn’t admire, or even covet the things you claim to “own” (Colossians 3:5)? What do you have that you didn’t receive from someone else’s labors (1 Corinthians 4:7)? Who is the One who gives you life and breath (Acts 17:28)? Who said, “Without Me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5)? Here is what Jesus said to the church that thought they had it all. “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked…I will vomit you out of my mouth’”(Revelation 3:16, 17 NKJV). What an awful indictment from the Lord.
Servanthood. Not too many people are interested in “servanthood” and being at the disposal of others and helping them. But “The human needs in our world today are indescribable, innumerable, and (if you have a tender heart) almost unbearable. You and I can’t do everything but we can do something and that something is the ministry that God has called us to fulfill.” – Warren W. Wiersbe, “On Being A Servant Of God” Did you know that God pre-planned certain works for each Christian to do once we were saved (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10)? Do you know how to find out what they are? If not, ask us for help.
Purpose. “…the Son of Man [Jesus] did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). Why did He do this? He did it to glorify His Father (John 17:4) and to provide salvation for you and me because we are incapable of saving ourselves from having to spend eternity with the devil and his angels/demons in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46).
Service. We all serve someone. It might be ourselves, other people, or even the devil himself without our realizing it (Romans 7:5, 15-25; Galatians 5:13; John 8:44; 13:34, 35; Ephesians 2:2; 2 Timothy 3:2). Most people find a way to do what they really want to do and carry out the secret, sinful passions that come from their deceitful hearts/natures (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 1:18 ff; 6:14; 7:15-25; 8:6; Galatians 5:19-21; 1 John 1:8). Carnal Christians often act like unsaved people. But engaging in sinful behavior could lead to a premature death (Proverbs 14:12; Romans 6:23; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16). “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”(Romans 6:16)? NKJV
Relationships. When the Apostle Paul’s authority was being challenged by carnal Christians in some of the churches he started, he often would begin his letters to them by referring to himself as “Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 1:1; Galatians 1:1; et al). His authority as an Apostle came from the Lord Himself, and not from men (Galatians 1:1, 12). Note: Beware of those who are a part of the “New Apostolic Reformation.” [1] But with the believers in the church in Philippi, he didn’t have to pull rank on them since they weren’t challenging his God given authority. They had a very cordial relationship with him. He referred to himself as a “bondservant of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:1) and was modeling for them a servant’s heart as he sought their highest well being with love (John 13:34, 35; 1 John 3:16, 17; Galatians 6:10; Philippians 2:5 ff; 1 Corinthians 11:1).
Slaves. Throughout human history there has been unjust enslavement of others to do the “dirty work” for others. Some were/are paid and others weren’t/aren’t. Many people have been kidnapped and sold as slaves. In the Old Testament times kidnappers were to be put to death (Deuteronomy 24:7). Sometimes there were people who were enslaved to others to pay off their debts. [2] Believe it or not, there were some generous and kind masters who took good care of those who served them. When it came time for them to be freed during the 7th year, some of the servants expressed a desire to remain as “bondservants” for life to the one who had been their masters (Deuteronomy 15:12). To identify themselves as another man’s “bondservant,” they would have their ears bored through with an awl (Exodus 21:11-6; Deuteronomy 15:16, 17). [3]
Reasonable. When a Christian truly loves and appreciates all that the Lord Jesus Christ did to secure his/her deliverance from the lake of fire to heaven (Matthew 25:41, 46; John 3:16; 14:1-3), and Who has promised to take care of us throughout our lives (Philippians 4:19), it seems only logical for a Christian to voluntarily submit to Christ’s Lordship over his/her life (Romans 12:1, 2; 1 Peter 3:15). We must not confuse “Lordship because of salvation” with “Lordship for salvation.” There is a big difference. [4] Our salvation is by God’s gracealonethrough faithalone in the Lord Jesus Christ of the Scriptures alone, who died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day. The false Christs of the cults can’t save anyone (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Matthew 24:5; Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Our salvation is notbased on our good works or our faith plus our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). How you answer this question will determine whether you enter into heaven or not. Why should God let you into His heaven?
Convicted? True believers in Christ are called “Christians” (Acts 11:26). If you claim to be a Christian and were placed on trial for being one, would there be enough evidence from your life to convict you? Are you a “Convenient Christian” or a “Committed Christian”? Is it your primary purpose in life to glorify Godby making Him known to those whom you encounter along life’s path (1 Corinthians 10:31)? Are you growing spiritually (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18), and serving God by serving others with love (1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:13; 6:10)? Are you sharing the “Clear Gospel” with lost people as the Holy Spirit leads you to them (Romans 1:16, 17; 8:14)? [5]
Assurance. Are you sure of your salvation (2 Peter 1:10; 1 John 5:13)? Once saved, do you believe that there is something you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation (Ephesians 2:9; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:35-39)? If so, what would it be?
Help. We’re here to assist you and others who desire to learn more about the true and living God and how to live the Christian life. Are you teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15: 3:16, 17)? We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. We invite you to join us on Facebook and on Youtube for our Bible studies. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
Recently during my “Devoted Time” with the Lord, I came across a comment that Dr. Charles Ryrie had in his study Bible. “Salvation is by grace…through faith. Faith involves knowledge of the gospel (Rom. 10:14), acknowledgment of the truth of its message, and personal reception of the Savior (John 1:12). Works cannot save (Eph. 2:9), but good works always accompany salvation (v. 10; Jas. 2:17).”I’d like to develop this thought a little further.
Knowledge
When you consider the seven billion people on planet earth today, most of them know little or nothing about the Lord Jesus Christ as to who He is and what He has done for them. They don’t know that He died for their sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). This is the Good News that is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16). They haven’t been told that they can be saved from having to spend eternity in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:42, 46), simply by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior (Acts 16:31). Most people think that salvation and entrance into heaven involves their good works or perhaps their faith plus their good works. The Scriptures are clear. We aren’t saved by our good works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
There is no excuse for anyone who hasn’t heard about Christ in that, through nature, God has revealed to him/her that there is a God who is powerful (Romans 1:18-20). Merely believing in God won’t save anyone. But if one desires to know more, God has the ability to get the clear and unadulterated Gospel message to that person through another person, a Gospel tract, or perhaps through a radio or television program that presents the Gospel clearly and in its entirety. Many people leave out the bodily resurrection of Christ (Luke 24:33-43).
It’s indeed sad that so many “preachers” fail to present the Gospel clearly. Many of them add other conditions for salvation: baptism, church membership, Lordship in exchange for salvation, discipleship, confession of all sins, turning from sin and promising not to sin anymore, and other good works.
Acknowledgment
There are many people in “Christian churches” who would tell you, if asked, that they believe and agree with the facts of the Gospel. They can recite the “Apostles’ Creed” or some other creed. But merely knowing and agreeing with the facts of the Gospel can’t save anyone. One lawyer thoroughly investigated the facts of Christ’s death and resurrection and said that there was undeniable proof of them, but he said that he didn’t want to place his faith in Christ alone to save him.
Reception
My friend, have you transferred your faith from your good works over to the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ alone for your salvation? If not, why not now? By one simple act of faith you can be saved. Once you’ve done this you can have assurance of your salvation from God’s Word (1 John 5:13; John 3:16, 18, 36) and from God the Holy Spirit who dwells in believers (Romans 8:16). After you’ve been saved, you can begin to live a life that is pleasing to God (2 Corinthians 5:9). You can learn how to live victoriously over your spiritual enemies: the devil, your own sin nature, and the present world system. You can earn crowns, praise, and rewards from God someday (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). The true Christian’s future is as bright as the promises of God.
Help
We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this article has helped you, we’d like to hear from you and ask you to share it with others. Christians can earn the “Crown of Rejoicing” by leading others to Christ for salvation (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20). If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Join us on “Facebook” and “Youtube.”
Additional Helps
Dr. Manfred Kober, “Do We Really Know The Gospel?”
Do you remember seeing this Wendy’s commercial on TV? If you’re too young to remember it, watch it below [1]. Most people are concerned about the material and temporal things of life and give very little time and attention to the spiritual side of life which is far more important (1 Timothy 4:8). Maturing Christians are told not to love the world system that is passing away (1 John 2:15-17). We may use it, but we are not to abuse it (1 Corinthians 7:31). We’re citizens of heaven and we’re just passing through earth to heaven (Philippians 3:20; John 14:1-3).
Where’s The Evidence?
Perhaps you claim to be a Christian. If so, where’s the evidence for it for other people to see? While God doesn’t require good works from us for us to be saved, other human beings do. James, the Lord’s half-brother, doesn’t contradict what the Apostle Paul taught. He pointed out that we’re saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in the Christ of the Scriptures alone. But good works will come after one has been saved (Ephesians 2:8-10). James, on the other hand, said that faith that doesn’t result in good works will not convince other human beings that you are truly saved (James 1:22; 2:18-20). Abraham was saved when he agreed with God and believed that God would give him a son in his old age (Genesis 15:6). No one knew that he was saved until many years later (perhaps 20 years) when he offered his son, Isaac to God as a sacrifice (James 2:21-24). Rahab, the harlot, displayed her faith in the God of the Jews, when she took the two Jewish spies in and hid them (Joshua 2:1 ff; James 2:25). Believe it or not, she even became an ancestress of Christ (Matthew 1:5; Hebrews 11:31). Is your life all messed up? Are you saved? If God could save her, he can save you too. Read 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 to see the kinds of people whom God saved and changed. There is hope for all living human beings, including you and me. Don’t let the devil convince you into believing that you have committed “the unpardonable sin.” Do you know what it is (John 16:9)?
Lordship For Salvation?
Some people are being taught erroneously that in order for a person to be saved, he/she must make Jesus the Lord and Master of his/her life. They take the requirements for spiritual growth (or what they call “discipleship”) and make them conditions for salvation. Many of Christ’s disciples followed Him and wanted Him to be the “Welfare King.” He refused their offer (John 6:15). When He spoke to them about their spiritual condition and what they needed to do to be saved, they turned away from Him (John 6:28, 29, 66). Judas was a disciple, but he wasn’t saved (John 17:12). Are you confused by this false teaching? I was for a long time until God opened my eyes to the truth. If your are wondering about this yourself, I’d like to refer you to the links below. [2] If you are teaching this false way of salvation to others, stop! God holds preachers and teachers more responsible (James 3:1).
Carnal Christians
Some people who have been saved were abandoned by those who led them to Christ. They weren’t taught how to live the Christian life. [3] So they keep on yielding to the temptations that come from the devil, their own sin nature, or the present world system that was devised by the devil to control certain aspects of the sin nature. Those Christians who deny that they still have a sin nature are simply deceiving themselves, not others (1 John 1:8; See Romans 7:14-25). The sin nature is the source from which most of our temptations come. When a Christian walks by means of the Spirit, he can’t/won’t yield to these temptations (Galatians 5:16, 25). But he also needs to be mindful of the temptations that come from the devil (1 Peter 5:8; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:10-17) and the present world system (1 John 2:15-17; 1 Corinthians 7:31).
Victorious Living
God has provided for Christians everything that we need for life and godliness within the pages of His Word (2 Peter 1:3). He doesn’t want us to sin but He knows that we will sin periodically (1 John 3:8-10) This is why we have an Advocate/Lawyer with the Father to help us (1 John 2:1,2; 4:10). The problem is that many (perhaps most) Christians seek the wisdom and philosophy of this world and know very little about how to live a life that pleases God (See Romans 8:8; 2 Corinthians 5:9). They integrate the worldly, demonic, self-help philosophy and psychology of the world with the Bible (Colossians 2:8; James 1:5; 3:14-17). [4] No wonder there are so many dysfunctional Christians who turn to unsaved men for counsel rather than turn to Godly men and women of God who could provide assistance from the infallible Word of God (Psalm 1:1; 2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; Titus 1:9).
Help
Is your life all messed up? Are you absolutely sure that you will go to heaven the moment you die? [5] Do you believe that you have to go to Purgatory after you die to be cleansed further before you can enter heaven? (The Scriptures don’t teach this false doctrine.) Any purging that needs to take place in the life of a Christian is done in this life alone (Ephesians 5:26; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Timothy 4:5). Why should God let you into His heaven? Is there anything you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation? If you need spiritual counsel and are teachable and willing to change when you see what God says in His Word, we invite you to contact us for additional help. We can be reached through our website at www.kelseypeach.com or you can read helpful articles at www.kelseypeach.wordpress.com. Join us on Facebook and Youtube for our Bible studies. If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on Follow.
Try to imagine how you might feel if, after working hard your whole life to do what was right in your own eyes, you discovered that all of it was in vain and you lost everything you were hoping to gain. (See Judges 21:25; Proverbs 14:12). What does it mean to “believe in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:2)?
Consider what is going to happen to a group of people who prophesied in Jesus’ name, who cast out demons, and who did many wonders in His name. Jesus will say to them on judgment day, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness” (Matthew 7:21-23; 10:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:9). Where will false prophets and teachers spend eternity (Jude 1:13)?
Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24, 25). In this speech, just before He went to the cross, Jesus talked about the Tribulation (7 years), His second coming (not the Rapture), and the Judgment of the sheep (believers) and goats (unbelievers) that will follow His return. He told them what He is going to say to those on his left hand (goats – unbelievers), “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” Why? “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it [i. e. good works] not to one of these [My brethren – the 144,000 Jewish evangelists], you did not do it to Me” (Matthew 25:41-46; See Revelation 7:4-8).
Good Works. The good works that these people did (feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, taking in the stranger, and clothing the naked among the 144,000 witnesses) during the Tribulation were the outward evidences (See James 2:18-20; Ephesians 2:10) that they had believed in Christ and the Gospel message concerning His coming kingdom that had been postponed because of the unbelief of most of the Jewish people in Christ’s days on earth (See Matthew 16:20 ff; 23:37-39; 24:14; John 1:11, 12). No one is ever saved by his/her good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
Welfare King. The Jews wanted someone who would heal the sick, feed the hungry, and raise the dead (John 5:1-18; 6:1-15; 11:43, 44). They wanted a political Messiah who would deliver them out from under Rome’s heel. But they weren’t interested in a Savior from sin (See John 1:29; 6:66). This is the basic problem that most of the Jews (and non-Jews) have today too. Today the Jews have a judicial blindness that God alone can remove when the Gospel has been presented to them (Romans 11:25; See 1 Corinthians 2:14; 2 Corinthians 4:4). Don’t let their spiritual blindness keep you from sharing the same Gospel with them as you would to non-Jewish unbelievers (Romans 1:16, 17). Some Jews believe that Jesus was a good Rabbi, but not God manifested in human flesh (John 1:1-18; 5:18; 10:30, 31). In order for a Jew to be saved today, he/she must believe in the Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ who died for his/her sins…and who rose again bodily from the dead on the third day (Romans 1:16, 17; 10:9; John 5:18; 10:30; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). They aren’t saved by their good works or by keeping the Mosaic Law with its 600 plus commandments found in Exodus through Deuteronomy (See Romans 4:1-16; Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
Social Gospel. The “Red Letter Christians” and other false teachers twist the Great Commission and the Gospel (Matthew 28:19, 20; 1 Corinthians 15:3 4) and add good works to God’s simple plan of salvation. Their message goes something like this: “Go ye into all the world and feed the hungry, clothe the naked, build homes for the poor and care for the sick, become politically and socially active in order to eliminate the great social problems of our day and to impose Biblical standards upon society. Change the world for Christ by bringing lost people to church.” [1] These misguided people have the mistaken idea that they can/must convert the people of the world to Christ first so they can usher in His kingdom on earth. They tend to believe that the world is somehow going to get better and better through their efforts. This “Post-millennial” view of Christ’s return is not taught in the Scriptures. The conditions and the people on the earth are going from bad to worse (1 Timothy 4:1 ff; 2 Timothy 3:1 ff). The darkness will turn to light after Christ subdues His enemies (Psalm 2:9) and sets up His literal, millennial kingdom on/over this earth (Isaiah 2:4; 9:6, 7; 11:1 ff; 35:1 ff; 42:16; Daniel 2:44, 45; Revelation 20:1-7).
Gospel. Do you really know the unadulterated Gospel that leads to salvation? Could you share it with others in 25 words [2]? Are you confusing the conditions for spiritual growth with the conditions for salvation [3]? Are you “believing in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:2)? You are if you are adding or subtracting from the Gospel or changing it (See 2 Corinthians 11:3, 4, 13-15). Did you know that it is possible for a person to know and believe the facts of the Gospel and still not be saved (James 2:19)? Not until someone transfers his/her faith and trust over the the Lord Jesus Christ alone through the message of the Gospel is he/she truly saved. Our faith must rest in the Christ of the Scriptures, not in the Christ of the cults.
Assurance. Are you 100% sure you’re saved and that you will go to heaven the moment you die or do you believe that you have to go through Purgatory first? Is there anything you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation? If so, what would it be? Do you know that it is possible for you to know for sure that you’re headed for heaven? (See 1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16)
Uncertain? If you have doubts about your salvation they could be coming from the devil, or because you’re a carnal Christian, or maybe because you’re not really saved. Please make sure (2 Peter 1:10). “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul” (Mark 8:36)?
Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this article has helped you, please let us know and SHARE it with others too. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Join us on Facebook and Youtube.
Recently one of the listeners to my talks wrote to me expressing her concern for her father who is an unsaved man. Obviously, she wouldn’t be concerned about his spiritual condition if she believed in “universalism” which teaches that eventually everyone goes to heaven. Some folks believe in heaven but not in hell. Jesus taught both (John 14:1-3; Matthew 25:41, 46). Many people believe in the annihilation of the wicked or in reincarnation. Others believe in Purgatory, which teaches that those who haven’t committed “mortal sins” must go there first before entering heaven by the back door (See 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21-23). Such a heresy diminishes the work of Christ who died for all our sins, once and for all (Hebrews 10:10), and then rose again bodily from the dead on the third day to prove to us that God the Father had accepted His subsitutionary death on our behalf (Romans 4:25; 6:23; 1 John 2:2).
Mass. In the Mass, the Romanists believe that Christ is re-crucified and that the priest can magically change the bread and wine into the actual body and blood of Christ. This is called “transubstantiation.” We believe these elements are only symbolic and that they have no saving value when they are consumed. This is NOT how one receives Christ as his/her personal Savior (See John 1:12; 3:16, 18, 36).
Responsibility. The afore mentioned lady wants to know what she can/should do for her father so he can be saved. If you listen to Christian programs on TV or radio, you will discover that many of the speakers talk about the Gospel without ever telling people what the Gospel (Good News) actually is. Many of them teach “Lordship in exchange for salvation.”[1] In other words, it’s as though God would be saying, “If you want to be saved, you must make Me the Lord and Master of your life before I will save you. You must repent of all your sins (i.e. turn away from sin and stop sinning),confess your sins (But what if a person can’t remember every sin he/she has committed in his/her life?), you must be baptized in our church, give 10 % of your money to the church, and do other good works, etc.Honestly now, how could anyone have assurance of his/her salvation if such things were requirements for someone to be saved. Thankfully, this isn’t what the Scriptures teach.
K.I.S.S. Why not “Keep It Simple Sir”? [2] Please notice the Apostle Paul’s simple response to the jailor’s question, “What must I do to be saved?” He said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:30, 31). Why? Because Christ died for our sins, was buried for three days and nights, and then rose again bodily from the dead, and was seen by over 500 witnesses over a forty day period before ascending back to heaven in the presence of His disciples (1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Acts 1:9-11). He didn’t “front load the Gospel” and tell a person to do a lot of good works to be saved (See Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5). Paul knew that the Gospel was/is the power of God unto one’s salvation, whether he/she is a Jew or not one (Romans 1:16). So he proclaimed it faithfully and clearly to unbelievers. Don’t add or subtract from it or change it as false teachers do (2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15; See Revelation 22:18, 19). Consider their dreadful fate forever (Jude 1:13).
Receive/Reject. Upon hearing the unadulterated Gospel, a person will either receive (believe on) Christ as his/her personal Savior or reject Him. Sadly, most people don’t think that they are bad enough to need a Savior. They will accept a “False Gospel” that says, “Christ died for you because you are such a wonderful person with great value.” Please read Romans 3:10-23 to discover what God’s Word says about us. Others reject Him because they love darkness rather than light (John 3:19).
Hope. We believe that as long as a person is living, moving, and breathing, there is hope for him/her. As opportunities arise, and as the Holy Spirit leads us, we should lovingly keep on sharing the Gospel with unbelievers so they can be saved (Acts 1:8). I’ve seen people saved on their death bed. We need to be sure of our own salvation (1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16; 2 Peter 1:10), and have our known sins confessed (1 John 1:9, James 5:16), so we can be clean, usable witnesses of God’s amazing grace.
Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this article has helped you, we’d like to hear from you and ask you to share this with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Join us on Facebook and Youtube.
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