“What’s For Dinner?”

Crow & Humble Pie

Imagine that you and your family are traveling across the country to “See the U.S.A. in your new Chevrolet.” (Are you old enough to remember that commercial on TV?) Not long after you’ve been traveling, one of your the kids asks, “Are we there yet? I’m hungry. When are we going to eat?” On the side of the road you see a sign inviting you to a restaurant out in the middle of nowhere. So you decide to stop there for a meal.

After sitting at the table, you’re given a strange looking menu. The only thing on it is “Crow & Humble Pie.” [1] You can’t believe it. But since there is nothing else on the menu, and no other restaurants for miles, and you and they are starving, you decide that you’ll try it. Yuck! Without your knowing it, God intended for you to come to this restaurant to eat. He wanted to teach you a valuable lesson about humility.

Instead of crow and humble pie, God once forced a proud king to eat grass like an animal for seven years. After this harsh lesson, King Nebuchadnezzar, the most powerful king of his day, came to his senses and humbly acknowledged that the Most High God rules in the kingdoms of men and gives it to whomever He wants to give it (Daniel 4:17). Never forget this – He is sovereign. But He allows the devil and his children to try their hardest, without success, to overthrow God. (Read about their foolish plan and God’s advice to them in Psalm 2. It may have an application for you if you’re a rebel at heart.)

“These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren” (Proverbs 6:16-19). Read this list again slowly.

Are you, if you’re a Christian, guilty of any of these things? Be honest. If you are, repent (change your mind about what you’ve done), and then confess your sin(s) to God your Father by naming them to Him. Then humbly and gratefully accept His forgiveness (2 Corinthians 7:8-10; 1 John 1:9). With God’s help, don’t keep repeating these things (See Philippians 4:13; Proverbs 28:13).

If you don’t make things right quickly with God and others whom you’ve offended, you could face serious, disciplinary measures. “For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives. If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons” (Hebrews 12:6-8). You could become weak, sick, and even die prematurely (1 Corinthians 11:30; See James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16). You could also be turned over to the torturers and suffer Satanic or demonic oppression (Matthew 18:34; See 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Timothy 1:20; 2 Timothy 2:24-26).

Pharaoh, the unbelieving, rebellious King of Egypt, refused to submit to God’s command, even though he was given ample warnings to let the Jews leave Egypt (Exodus 5-10). “He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy” (Proverbs 29:1). He and his army perished in the Red Sea, and the Egyptians were made aware of the fact that the God of the Jews alone was/is the true and living LORD (Exodus 15:4). Do you believe this and act accordingly? What do you know about God’s character? See the link below. [2]

Are you puffed up and proud? “For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it” (1 Corinthians 4:7)? Are you proud of your race, place, or face? [3] If so, beware; repent – change your mind before you fall and hurt yourself badly (Proverbs 16:18).

Fellow Christian, with God’s help let us walk humbly before Him and through love serve one another (Galatians 5:13; See Micah 6:8; 1 Corinthians 13; John 13:34, 35). “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10).

We’re here to serve and glorify God by trying to make Him known to others and assisting those who are teachable and willing to change for the better (1 Timothy 2:2, 25; 3:16, 17). We have a FREE “Understanding The Times Dispensation Chart” book marker on our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please make a copy for yourself and a few extras for others.

If this article has helped you, we’d like to know how it has. Then please SHARE this with others. If you aren’t sure of your salvation, please read “The Bad News & Good News.” [4] Click on “Follow” to receive future articles as they come out.

[1] “Eat Crow” – To eat crow means to admit a humiliating error one has made, to concede a humiliating defeat. Crow is an unappetizing food, even listed in the book of Leviticus in the Bible as an animal that is not to be eaten. (See Leviticus 11) (https://grammarist.com/idiom/eat-crow/) To eat humble pie, in common usage, is to face humiliation and subsequently apologize for a serious mistake. Doing this, when necessary, can give us a good conscience toward God (1 Peter 3:21).

[2] God’s Attributes – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/11/17/a-caricature-of-god/

[3] Pride – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2013/05/28/pride-of-race-place-and-face/

[4] Bad News & Good News – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Scripture verses taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved.

“The Problem – Sin, Not Skin”

I salute the brave, American NFL player, Benjamin Watson for his comments on one of the cable networks, even though they cut him off short for saying what he did.  He just happens to have skin that is darker than mine.  He said that the problem in the world today involves sin, not one’s skin color. He’s right. (Please refer to the article at the end.) Let’s talk about the problem called “racism.”

Image. Adam and Eve were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26). That image was tainted when they ate the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:6-11). It won’t be restored to be like God’s until the time of the Rapture of the true Church (1 Corinthians 15:49; 1 John 3:3). Do you know the difference between the image of God and the likeness of God?

Slaves. Many people, throughout human history, have been involuntary slaves to other people. This problem still exists in many countries, including our own in perhaps a different form. (One example: Human trafficking) The Jews were slaves in Egypt for hundreds of years (Deuteronomy 6:21; 28:68; Acts 7:19). Even after they got into the land that was promised to them as an everlasting possession (Genesis 15:18-21), they became the slaves of their enemies whom they allowed to continue to live in the land. God had told them to get rid of them when “the iniquity of the Amorites was complete” (Genesis 15:13-16; Leviticus 33:52).

Judgment. God used the Jews to punish the wicked, diseased, and immoral Canaanites who were living in the land that was promised to the Jews forever. Many years later God used the wicked Babylonians to punish the rebellious Jews for violating God’s laws and the Sabbatical years (See Daniel 1:1, 2; Deuteronomy 28:15-68; Leviticus 25:4; 2 Chronicles 36:21; Jeremiah 25:12-14; 29:10).

Opposition. God is opposed to man’s efforts to create a one world government and a one world religion. But He will allow a man (antichrist) to have control over it for seven years just before Christ returns to rule and reign over the earth for 1,000 years (Isaiah 9:6, 7; Revelation 20:1-7). If God let man have control over the earth longer than seven years, no one would survive on earth (Matthew 24:22). During this time, over one half of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:8; 9:15). When Christ returns, He will be the King of kings, and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16). These days may come a lot sooner than most people think. What about you? Are you living in the light of Christ’s imminent return (John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy 4:8)?

The Devil. He’s a cruel taskmaster and wants to take as many people as he can to hell with him. There is no salvation offered to him or his angels/demons. Christ only died for the sins of mankind (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 2:2). This includes all men, not just a select few (1 Timothy 4:10). We don’t believe in “limited atonement.”

Voluntary Slavery. When people in the Old Testament times were enslaved to other Jews to pay off their debts, some of them found their masters to be kind and generous. When the time came for them to be set free, some of them chose to remain as slaves. To demonstrate their voluntary submission to their master, they had their ears bored with an awl. This left a scar that identified them as someone’s slave (Exodus 21:6).

Employment. In our country we usually have the freedom to choose for whom we will work in exchange for pay. Some people have good employers and others don’t. Regardless of what kind of boss you have, a Christian employee is supposed to do what the boss wants done so his product and/or service will bring in customers who will be willing to pay for them. The masters/owners/employers of the business also have responsibilities and are accountable to God (Ephesians 6:5-9). Every Christian is called upon to present his/her body to God as a living sacrifice so that God can use them for His glory and their happiness (Romans 12:1, 2). If you’re a believer, have you done this? If not, why?

Pride. There is the pride of race, place, and face. Believe it or not, there is just one race – the human race (Acts 17:26). We all go back to Adam and Even (Genesis 1, 2) and then through Noah and his three sons and their wives who didn’t die in the universal flood (Genesis 7, 8). The ethnic groups began to take shape after the flood when the Lord came down and changed their one language into many languages. Thus the work of building the Tower of Babel came to an end (Genesis 11). This is also the time when the continental shift began to take place and the topography of the earth changed (Genesis 10:25; See Isaiah 40:4). As the people with the same languages spread out, they began to intermarry and certain traits began to develop. Some people are proud of own accomplishments and their place/station in life. Still others are proud of their bone structure and facial features. All such pride is an abomination to God (Proverbs 6:16; 8:13). Learn about Lucifer’s problem with pride in Isaiah 14:11-15 and in Ezekiel 28:17. After all, what do you have that you didn’t receive (1 Corinthians 4:7)? “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:7).

Flesh. We all have a sin nature (disposition) that we inherited from our parents (1 John 1:8; Psalm 51:5). No parent has to teach his/her child to be bad. It comes naturally. It causes us to distort good things into evil things that can lead to a premature, physical death (James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16). Are you committing the “sin unto death” (1 John 5:16)​​? Do you know what it is? Hatred of other people can lead to murder as it did in the case of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4). But the Christian who is filled by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) and who walks by the Spirit can’t/won’t fulfill the strong desires (lusts) of the flesh/sin nature (Galatians 5:16-25).

Conquer. Strife and unscriptural divisions are works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21; See 2 Corinthians 6:17). The devil can take advantage of this to destroy people and nations. He hates God and His people, the Jews and the true Christians. Don’t confuse these two groups (1 Corinthians 10:32). God is dealing with the true Church now, but His time clock with the Jews will begin again when the man of sin (antichrist) signs a 7 year peace agreement with the Jews after the true church has been raptured (See Romans 11:25; Daniel 9:27; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 5:9; Revelation 3:10). We hope you won’t be “left behind.”

Anarchy. Today lawlessness (sin) abounds everywhere (1 Timothy 4:1-5; 2 Timothy 3:1-5). It’s going to get worse until Christ returns after the Seven Year Tribulation (Daniel 9:27) when 21 judgments are poured out on the inhabitants of the earth (Revelation 6-19). He will put an end to it when He comes and crushes His enemies with a rod of iron (Psalm 2:9; Revelation 19:11-16). His love for mankind (John 3:16, 18, 36) doesn’t keep Him from displaying His righteous anger and wrath toward wicked people, the devil, and his angels/demons (Revelation 6:16; 19:20, 21; 20:1-6).

Interpretation. We take God at His word. We believe that God means what He says and says what He means. Most Bible commentators take the Old Testament and the prophecies that were made about Christ’s first coming literally. But when it comes to Bible prophecy, many of them interpret it allegorically and twist the Scriptures (2 Peter 3:15). We believe that this is dishonest and makes God out to be a liar. He can’t/won’t lie (Titus 1:2; John 14:6; 17:17). We are not free to change the normal rules of interpretation just because we don’t like something that goes against our thinking or feelings. All of God’s attributes are in harmony with each other.

G.W.T. The Great White Throne judgment will be for all unbelievers. They will stand before Jesus, the righteous Judge (John 5:22; 2 Timothy 4:8). He will judge each one according to his/her works to determine his/her degree of suffering in the lake of fire forever (Revelation 20:11-15; Matthew 10:15; 25:30, 41, 46). We hope that you won’t be one who will be separated from God forever.

Gospel. The Good News that leads to salvation is that Christ died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Anyone who believes on Him alone will be saved (Acts 16:31). We’re not saved by our good works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). We don’t believe in the universal salvation of all men and the devil and demons.

Final Solution. The injustice of “racism and slavery” won’t come to an end until Christ returns to this earth to rule as the King of kings, and the Lord of lords (Revelation 18:13). There is coming a day when all mankind will admit that Jesus is Lord (the God-man) to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:11). This verse does NOT teach “universalism” and that everyone will eventually be saved. “Now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Are you truly saved? Do you have assurance of your salvation? You can.

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this articles has helped you, we’d like to hear from you and ask you to share it with someone else. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

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“Our Dependence On God”

A roving reporter came up to a man on the street and said, “Do you know what the two biggest problems in America are?” The pedestrian said, “I don’t know and I don’t care.” The reporter said, “You are absolutely right.”  Far too many people are unaware of what is really happening around them and the sad part is, they don’t really care until it’s too late.

The Problem: Ignorance About And Apathy For –

God. There are many false ideas about God in our world. Atheists, who boldly say, “There is no God” (Psalm 14:1) are fewer in numbers than they would like for us to believe. Some of them are often very aggressive in their attempts to try to force their beliefs on others. Atheism and communism have been responsible for millions of deaths around the world. But disproving the existence of God is nearly impossible in view of the fact that not one of us has been everywhere in the universe where God might be. Agnostics are more honest when they claim not to know if there is a god or not. Many people do not believe that God is truly knowable. They have been misled by false prophets and teachers who claim to know the truth. In the midst of all this, there is the truth about God, who is the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Genesis 1:1; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16, 17). And yet, because so many people love the temporary pleasures that go along with spiritual darkness rather than light (John 3:19; Hebrews 11:25), they make excuses for not coming to the Light of the world (John 8:12). He also claimed to be the [only] way, the [absolute] truth, and the [giver of eternal] life (John 14:6; See Acts 4:12; 16:31). Being the truth Himself, He also had/has the power to set us free (John 8:32, 36) from our enslavement to our sinful passions (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 2 Peter 2:19), and from the overwhelming power of the devil who wants to take humanity with him to his eternal destiny in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:10).

Ourselves. The reason Jesus told Nicodemus, the religious Jewish teacher in Israel, that he needed to be born again from above (John 3:3-5) was due to the fact that all of us, without exception, are born into this world with the devil as our spiritual father (John 8:44; 1 John 3:9, 10). We also have a sinful nature (i. e., a lawless disposition) that was passed down to us from our parents (Psalm 51:5; 1 John 1:8; Romans 7:15-25). The devil tempts people to be proud of their race, face, or place in life (1 Timothy 3:6; See Ezekiel 28:17; 1 Corinthians 4:7), and to act independently of God (Genesis 3:5; Isaiah 14:14). Any human being can get out of Satan’s family simply by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for his/her sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Salvation is by grace alone (It’s totally undeserved). It’s through faith alone in the Christ of the Scriptures alone, and not in the Christ of the cults. It is not of works on our part lest we should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). A Christian can overcome the sinful passions that come from his sin nature when he learns how to walk by means of the Holy Spirit and when he is filled with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18). We can overcome the temptations to be proud and to act independently of God by putting on the whole armor of God, while focusing our attention of the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:10-17; See 1 Peter 5:8; James 4:7). Our self righteousness is unacceptable to God (Isaiah 64:6). Without Christ’s righteousness put to our account, we cannot enter heaven (John 16:10). It is imputed to us at the moment of our salvation (Romans 4:3-6, 22-25). No longer does the Christian have to obey his old boss, the devil. Submitting voluntarily to God is the only reasonable and logical thing for a Christian to do once he/she has been saved. If you’ve been saved, have you presented your body to God as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1, 2)? Are you yielding the members of your body to God each day for Him to use you for His glory and your good (Romans 6:11-23)?

The Spirit World. Fiction seems to rule the day as many children and even adults are enamored by sorcery, witchcraft, and the supernatural, unseen world. It must delight the devil’s heart to know that so many people grope around in spiritual darkness and are not able to identify him and his agents, the fallen angels (demons). Did you know that behind the wicked rulers of this world there are spirit beings who manipulate them like puppets (Daniel 10:13; Ephesians 6:12; 2 Corinthians 4:4). They also use false prophets and teachers to dispense doctrines of demons to humanity (1Timothy 4:1). Secular humanism and evolution are two examples. Some of their other teachings are so close to the truth that they are almost undetectable to some believers (Matthew 24:24) and the average person who doesn’t know the truth from God’s Word.

The Solution: Bible Doctrine And Compassion

Our Need To Study. This involves hard work that many people don’t want to do. It involves studying the Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17), meditating on it (1 Timothy 4:15), memorizing it (Psalm 119:11), interpreting it correctly (Titus 1:9), and applying it properly (James 1:22; 4:17). Spiritual growth can be painful at times as our faith is tried (James 1:2; 2 Peter 3:18). But the rewards of studying God’s Word are immense. The truth can set us free from the tyranny of the devil and our sin nature (John 8:32, 36).

Our Need To Love. “God [the Father] so loved the world [you and me] that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have [eternal] life” (John 3:16). God’s love is produced in the lives of Spirit filled Christians who are walking by means of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16, 22, 23). We care about other people because God cared about us and His love has been poured out in our hearts (Roman 5:5). We are told to direct it toward the right objects at the right time (Galatians 5:13; 1 John 2;15-17). So we beg you on Christ’s behalf – If you’ve never done so before this, put your faith and trust in Him alone before it’s too late. Once you’ve been saved, start growing in the Lord (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18).  Learn to serve the Lord and others with gladness (Psalm 100:2; 1 Peter 4:10).  Reproduce yourself (Matthew 28:19, 20).

Our Need To Warn. Today could be your last day on earth before you enter eternity. Don’t boast about tomorrow (Proverbs 27:1). Our lives are like a vapor that appears for a little while and then it vanishes away (James 4:14). Live like today might be your last day on earth.  You’ll live a more productive life.

Paradigm Shift

Perhaps for the first time you’ve been made aware of truth concerning “God’s Simple Plan Of Salvation” for mankind. The Lord Jesus Christ, the God-man, came to reveal the Godhead and His plans to/for us (John 1:1-18). God is knowable through His inspired, written Word (2 Timothy 3:16 17), and through the living Word, the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:1-18). No matter how sinful you’ve been, if you’re alive physically, there is hope for you (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). The only unforgivable sin today is the sin of unbelief in Christ (John 16:9; 3:18, 36). If you die in unbelief without Christ as your personal Savior, you will be lost forever and suffer with the devil and his angels (demons) in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46). If you die as a true Christian, your future is as bright as the promises of God (John 14:1-3). We’d love to have you join us in heaven some day.

Help. Having read this, you will no longer be able to say, “I don’t know how to be saved and go to heaven.” We have done our best to share with you the truth from God’s Word on how you can be delivered from the clutches of the devil and from your own sin nature. If you need additional information, we invite you to contact us here or through our website: http://www.kelseypeach.com.  If this article has helped you, we’d like to hear from you.  Please share this with a friend in need.

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“Independent Living?”

One of the subtle temptations that comes from the devil is the notion that we can live our lives independently of God even though Jesus said, “Without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Having to go to God and humbly ask for wisdom (James 1:5) and direction for daily living (Romans 8:14; Proverbs 3:5, 6) seems so humbling and unnecessary for many people. Perhaps this was part of the temptation to Eve when the devil said to her through the serpent, “…God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5). In other words, “You won’t have to rely on God to make such seemingly insignificant decisions.”

Pride. Did you know that “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6)? Being omniscient, He knows the best course of action that we should take. He has graciously given us His Word (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). He knows that the regular intake of Bible doctrine is necessary for us to mature in Christ (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18). The Holy Spirit is the One who can illuminate the mind of one who is rightly related to Him (John 16:13; 1 John 2:20, 27). He and God the Son make intercession to the Father on our behalf and ask Him to bring into our lives what we need to become spiritually mature (Romans 8:26, 34). Sometime these things come into our lives through trials and tests (James 1:2) or through other people who act like chisels, hammers, and saws to shape us into Christ’s image (Galatians 4:19). Thank God for them (1 Timothy 2:1). The temptation to act in a proud manner also comes from the devil (1 Timothy 3:6).

Dependent. From the moment of birth all of us are dependent on our parents or someone else to care for our needs to be fed, changed, and bathed. This is often repeated when we get very old and incapable of taking care of our own personal needs. But in between these times we can/should do some things to take care of ourselves and others who are dependent on us (1 Timothy 5:8). However, we should never forget that our ability to earn money, with which to secure things or services, also comes from God. “For what do you have that you didn’t receive” (1 Corinthians 4:7). “Every good and perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights” (James 1:17). But don’t forget that Satan’s offer to make one healthy, wealthy, and worldly wise comes with a high price tag that is often ignored (Matthew 4:9; James 3:15; Revelation 13:2). “There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

Independent. “Many Christians live most of the time without any thought of God, except to give thanks at a meal time, occasionally studying the Bible, praying and attending church services. The little daily activities are performed without regard to God. People attempt to make plans and then ask God to bless them. If God were included in making the plans, there would be no need to ask for God’s blessing.” – Dr. H. L. Schafer, “Maturing In Christ,“ p. 166

D.V. The Lord’s half brother James said it well. “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away“ (James 4:14). My friend, don’t leave God out of your decision making. Having to supplicate, intercede, or ask in Jesus’ name may not seem like the best course of action to take, but it can save us a lot of trouble down the road. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord” (Psalm 37:23). But have you ever thanked God for stopping you and keeping you from danger?

Thanks. “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Unless a believer is filled with/by God the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18), he’s not likely to do this. But if and when we do this, we will be expressing our confidence in God’s ability to do far more than we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). How big is your God? The Psalmist said, “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together” (Psalms 34:3). It starts in our minds and expresses itself through our words and actions (Psalm 150:6). Everything we do should be to glorify God – to make Him known to others (1 Corinthians 10:31). Are you doing this in your life?

Victory. To overcome the temptation to act independently of God, the Christian needs to put on the whole armor of God and focus his attention on the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14). Without Christ as our personal Savior, we have no righteousness that can make us acceptable to God (See Isaiah 64:6; Romans 4:3-5; Ephesians 1:6). We have no reason to act independently of God or to be proud. At the moment of our salvation God puts Christ’s righteousness to our account (Romans 4:3-5, 22-25; James 2:23). Without it we can’t enter heaven (John 16:10). Have you done the right thing 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)? If not, why not now?

More? If you’d like to learn more about how to become a Christian or how to live the Christian life, we invite you to contact us or join us on Wednesdays from 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. (Pacific Time) for live lessons at the Grace Baptist Church in Paso Robles, CA or by means of a phone hookup. For more information, call 805-238-3549.

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God’s Simple Plan Of Salvation in 24 languages. http://www.kelseypeach.com/goodnews.htm

“Spiritual Warfare”

Do you ever struggle with disappointment (Job 3:3, 10), discouragement (Job 19:7-12), and doubt God and His Word (Genesis 3:1)? Are you tempted to act independently of God (Isaiah 14:14; Luke 4:1-13) and think you can handle things on your own? Think again (John 15:5; Acts 17:28). Do you ever freeze up and get afraid or timid (2 Timothy 1:7; Luke 22:31-33) when you try to share your faith with others? Are you tempted to be proud (1 Timothy 3:6) of your own accomplishments rather than giving the credit to God (1 Corinthians 10:31)? Are you short with others who have wronged you? Do you ever have a bitter, unforgiving spirit (Hebrews 12:15; 2 Corinthians 2:10, 11)? Are you tempted to take/steal (Ephesians 4:27, 28) from others what doesn’t belong to you? Do you ever lie or twist the truth (Acts 5:4-6)? Are you busy with the things that you want to do but when it comes to spiritual matters and doing God’s will, are you spiritually lazy? Do you ever gossip or engage in tale bearing? Are you a busy body (1 Timothy 5:13-15)? Are you tempted to use filthy, inappropriate speech from time to time ((Ephesians 4:29)?

All these temptations that come from the devil are designed to interrupt your relationship with God and keep you, as a Christian, from doing the things that God wants you to do (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10). But God has provided a defense against these fiery darts (Ephesians 6:16). The armor of God needs to be put on mentally each time we are attacked so that we don’t end up being defeated by the devil or his angels/demons (Ephesians 6:10-17). Do you know how to use these pieces of the armor to defend yourself? Could you share this information with other believers who may be struggling with a bad attitude that could lead to sinful conduct (2 Timothy 2:2)? What are you doing to bear other people’s burdens (Galatians 6:1-5)? Do you know the difference between the temptations that come from the devil/demons and those that come from your own sin nature (Galatians 5:21, 22), and the ones that come from the present world system (1 John 2:15-17; 1 Corinthians 7:31; Genesis 4:16-26)? There are different ways to counteract these three sources of temptations.

Satan is God’s enemy and wants to destroy God’s people and Bible believing local churches. But your faithful attendance at such a church each week, can enable you and others to be strengthened through the teaching of the Word of God. Are you teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17)? Are you edifying others (1 Thessalonians 5:11)?

“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much more as you see the Day [Rapture] approaching” (Hebrews 10:24, 25). Perhaps Today! Are you ready? If not, ask for help!

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12). How much do you love God and His people?

We’re here to assist those who want to be sure of their salvation, and for those believers who want to grow spiritually.  Contact us through our website: http://www.kelseypeach.com or through our FB page.

To receive future articles as they come out, click of “Follow.”  If you are helped by one of our articles, please share it with someone else and let us know too.

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Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

The Armor Of God – Part 1 – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/08/13/the-armor-of-god/

The Armor Of God –  Part 2 – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/the-armor-of-god-part-2/

The Gospel Mandate

Friend, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for all our sins (once and for all) …and rose again bodily on the third day, and you will be saved from hell to heaven (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

If you’ve never done this before, do it NOW! Once you’ve done this, contact us for more information so we can help you grow spiritually.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

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

“The Boisterous, Belligerent Bully”

Who do you think you are anyway? Do you think of yourself more highly than you should think? To whom do you compare yourself? You can always find someone whom you think is inferior to you without realizing that there are a lot of people who are superior to you in many areas. God transcends everyone. He alone is God and there is none like Him.

Story. Consider the apocryphal story that was reported to be the actual radio conversation of a US naval ship with Canadian authorities off the coast of Newfoundland in October, 1995. Radio conversation released by the Chief of Naval Operations 10-10-95.

Americans: Please divert your course 15 degrees to the North to avoid a collision.

Canadians: Recommend you divert YOUR course 15 degrees to the South to avoid a collision.

Americans: This is the Captain of a US Navy ship. I say again, divert YOUR course.

Canadians: No. I say again, you divert YOUR course.

Americans: THIS IS THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS LINCOLN, THE SECOND LARGEST SHIP IN THE UNITED STATES’ ATLANTIC FLEET. WE ARE ACCOMPANIED BY THREE DESTROYERS, THREE CRUISERS AND NUMEROUS SUPPORT VESSELS. I DEMAND THAT YOU CHANGE YOUR COURSE 15 DEGREES NORTH, THAT’S ONE FIVE DEGREES NORTH, OR COUNTER-MEASURES WILL BE UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THIS SHIP.

Canadians: This is a lighthouse. It’s your call.

Reality. The American captain of the aircraft carrier thought he was so important he could demand that a Canadian crew change its course to avoid a collision. When he finally learned that the “Canadian crew” was some guy tending a lighthouse, things took on a whole new perspective.

Examples. God humbled proud King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon by causing him to go insane and eat grass for 7 years until he learned who God was/is (Daniel 4). For taking credit that belonged to God alone, King Herod died a gruesome death and was eaten by worms (Acts 12). The arrogant Antichrist and the False Prophet will be cast into the lake of fire after their 7 year rule over the whole earth (Revelation 19:20). At the same time God will humble His adversary the devil. He will use a lowly and inferior angel to confine Satan in the abyss (in the heart of the earth) for 1,000 years as Jesus reigns as the King of kings and Lord of lords on this earth (Revelation 19:16; 20:1-3). After this Satan will be released for a short period of time to gather all the rebellious people on earth as they make one final attempt to overthrow God. It will fail and all of them will be cast into the lake of fire to suffer forever (Revelation 20:7-15). We hope you won’t end up there with them (Matthew 7:21-23; 25:41, 46).

Pride. If not checked, it can lead to a fall from which we might not ever recover (Proverbs 16:18). Do you know which piece of the armor of God the Christian must use to overcome pride (Ephesians 6:14)? Are you committing “the sin unto death” (1 John 5:16; James 5:19, 20)? Pride led to Lucifer’s fall (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:12-19). As His creatures we should humble ourselves before God, the Creator (James 4:10; Genesis 1:27). Are you proud of your race, face, or place in life? What do you have that you didn’t receive (1 Corinthians 4:7)?

Tools. Metaphorically speaking, God has a “tool box” in which are chisels, hammers, saws, sand paper and various other things. He can/does use these on His children to remove the undesirable elements so we can become more like Jesus in our walk and talk (Hebrews 12:5, 6). God can use adversarial people, unpleasant circumstances, or the loss of the material things that have become an idol to us (1 John 5:21).

Basics. God wants His people to always do what is right in His sight, to be compassionate to those who are suffering, and to walk humbly before Him (Micah 6:8). “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5).

Help. We’re here to help those who want to know how they can be sure that they will go to heaven when they die and those who want to know how He wants Christians to live. (Ask about our FREE “Dispensational Chart.”) No, we don’t have all the answers to the questions in life, but what we have we gladly share with those who are teachable and willing to change when presented with the truth from God’s Word (2 Timothy 2:2; 3:16, 17; John 17:17). We can be reached at 805-238-3549 or through our website at www.kelseypeach.com. If you’ve been helped by this article, we’d like to hear from you. Consider sharing it with someone else too. Click on “Follow” if you’d like to receive future articles as they come out.

“Curse God And Die?”

It’s hard for us to imagine that a godly man’s wife would suggest such a thing to her husband. But she did (Job 2:9). After all, she and her husband had just suffered terrible losses in a moment of time: 500 oxen, 500 female donkeys, 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, plus all of their 10 children who were killed tragically when a house collapsed on them (Job 1). Try to imagine their grief and pain.  (My wife and I had one of our four children taken from us unexpectedly.)

Blame. The messenger who brought the report to the patriarch Job was mistaken about the cause of the tragedy. He thought it was the “fire of God” that had done it when in reality it was the devil who was responsible for the calamity (Job 1:16; Contrast 1 Kings 18:24, 38; 2 Kings 1:10-12). By the way, did you know that the devil had authority over death in the Old Testament times unless God restricted him as he did with Job (Hebrews 2:14)? Today Jesus holds the keys of death (Revelation 1:18) and no one can take the life of a believer without God’s permission. Jesus turns the key and opens the door for believers to enter heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14). There are no “back doors into heaven” as some “churches within Christendom” are teaching today. Ask about this false teaching that brings terrible grief to the living.

Worse. To make things even worse, in the next wave, Job was stricken with boils from his head down to his feet (Job 2). This tells us that Satan can cause and cure diseases and create life if God allows him to do so (Exodus 8:7). During the seven years of Tribulation (that may soon be here) the devil will empower the Antichrist and the false prophet to replicate and imitate the miracles of Christ and His disciples (2 Corinthians 12:12; 2 Thessalonians 2:9; Revelation 13:2, 11-15). We have many false teachers today who seem to be engaging in such things through their “miracle healing meetings”* (Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Peter 2:1ff).

Why? If such terrible things were to happen to you as they did to Job, how do you honestly think you might respond? Would you fall apart and ask, “Why me?” Would you feel sorry for yourself? Did you know that self pity is a form of pride that comes from the devil? Would you become disappointed, discouraged, and even doubt God and His Word? What pieces of the armor of God should you (if you’re a Christian) put on mentally to counteract the devil’s temptations (Ephesians 6:10-17)?

Blaspheme. People have cursed and blamed God for far less than that which happened to the patriarch Job. Consider what some people will do during “The Tribulation” days on earth (Revelation 16:10, 11). Hopefully you won’t be here on earth when all this occurs. Do you know how to avoid those awful days? If not, ask.

Heavenly Drama. Without Job’s knowing it, there was a conflict going on in heaven between God and Satan over him. When Satan and other good and evil angels reported to God in heaven one day, God taunted the devil into considering the righteous man Job. Satan responded by saying that the only reason Job served Him was because God had blessed him. If God were to take away all of Job’s material blessings Satan thought he would curse God (Job 1:6-12).

Purpose. God wanted to prove him wrong and he did, but Satan wouldn’t repent (change his mind) and never will. Don’t fall for the false teaching that eventually everyone, including the devil and demons, will be saved. Some people hate God and His children (Psalm 2:1-3; 10:3-13; 14:1; John 15:18). They would feel miserable if they were forced to go to heaven against their will. This false teaching is sometimes called “Universalism.” **

Challenge. God Himself was not willing to strip Job of his possessions, but He allowed Satan to do it. He didn’t let him lay a hand on Job in the first round. But when Satan said, “Skin for skin! Yes, all that a man has he will give for his life” God went even further and allowed the devil to afflict Job’s body too. The only restriction was, “Spare his life” (Job 2:6).

Test. God may allow you or me (as Christians) to be tested in a similar way as Job was. When we’re tempted, we’re given a special opportunity to display to God, human beings, and spirit beings (Daniel 4:17; Hebrews 1:14) our love for God rather than our love for personal pleasures that come from sinning (Hebrews 11:25). If sin had no pleasures associated with it, we wouldn’t pursue it and engage in it. Think about that for a moment. Christians who endure the test successfully, with God’s help (Philippians 4:13), will be given the “Crown of Life” at the Bema Seat Judgment (James 1:12; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15).

Caution. Contrary to what some people are being taught, crowns, rewards, and praise from God must be earned after we’re saved. Not every Christian gets them (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 John 1:8; Revelation 3:11). Do you know how many crowns a Christian can earn and how they must be earned?  Salvation is received by grace alone, through faith alone, in the Christ of the Scripture alone (Ephesians 2:8, 9). Beware of false teachers who want you to place your faith in a false Christ and another way of salvation (Matthew 24:5; Acts 4:12; 16:31).

True Love. The Apostle John warned maturing Christians by writing, “[Stop] loving the world [system] or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love [for] the Father is not it him” (1 John 2:15). You can’t love (agape) God and the present world system at the same time (Luke 16:13). Christians may and must use the world system while we’re here on earth, but we’re not to abuse it (1 Corinthians 7:31).

Knowledgeable. Now, unless you know what makes up the present world system, and who devised it and why he did it, you won’t know what it is that you’ve not supposed to love. Without your knowing it, your misdirected (agape) love of the present world system might be the problem that you’re having in your relationship with God? Does God abide (feel at ease) with you; do you abide (feel at ease) with Him (John 15:1-14)? We have three distinct spiritual enemies that want to disrupt our fellowship with God and make us ineffective in our service to God. Don’t blame the devil for everything.  Our biggest problem is our own sinful nature that tempts us to sin and engage in the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

Security. True Christians can’t lose their salvation (John 10:28, 29), but we, like King David, can lose the joy of our salvation when we sin (Psalm 51:5; Philippians 4:4-6). Beware of those who say Christians don’t have a sin nature that causes them to sin.*** If you need and want further help, and you’re teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2), contact us.

Treasures. Perhaps in response to our natural desire to cling to earthly, material things rather than to God, William Cowper may have written this song entitled “Treasures.” The words go like this: “One by one He took them from me, / All the things I valued most. / Until I was empty-handed; / Every glittering toy was lost. / Then I walked earth’s highway grieving, / In my rags and poverty; / ‘Til I heard His voice inviting: / Lift your empty hands to me. / So I held my hands toward Heaven, / And He filled them with a store / Of His own transcendent riches, / ‘Til they could contain no more. / Then at last I comprehended / With my stupid mind and dull, / That God could not pour out His riches / Into hands already full.”

Questions. What do you value most? How do you spend your time and money?  What do you know about the spiritual blessings that God gave to every Christian at the time of his/her salvation (Ephesians 1:3)? What do you know about your “position in Christ” and your “possessions in Christ”? Without knowing these things, you are more than likely to live like a pauper than a kingly priest (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6), an ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20), and a joint heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).

Contact. I hope this information has been helpful to you.  If you have questions/comments, you may reach us here or through our website at www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

Share. If this article has helped you, may we count on you to SHARE it with someone else in your circle of influence? Together we can reach many people for Christ. It’s not necessarily who you know, but whom others know. Imagine where you might be today if no one had reached out to you with the Good News concerning Christ that pointed you to Christ.

Clear Gospel in 30 languages. www.cleargospel.org

The Gospel

* Faith Healers http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/charis06.htm

** Universalism http://www.gotquestions.org/unitarian-universalism.html

***Sin Nature http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/1natjm01.htm

Dangers to avoid: http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/dangerso.htm

Which Jesus Saves? – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2015/01/07/which-jesus-saves/

“Satan’s Fiery Darts” Part 2

God’s adversary, the Devil, has within his tool box all kinds of things to try to ruin the true believer’s life while he is here on earth. Satan knows that he can’t take a believer’s salvation from him, but he can/does take the joy out of living for many believers who succumb to his enticements.

Coward. Whatever mental images you may have about the Apostle Peter, you should know that he was a very sincere man who told the Lord that he would never deny Him. Being the self confident man that he was, the Lord told him that the Devil wanted to sift all twelve disciples but He (Jesus) would only allow Satan to tempt Peter at that time (Luke 22:31-33). We all know that Peter ended up denying His Lord three times (John 18:15-17, 25, 27). Self confidence rather than confidence in God can/will lead to a fall (1 Corinthians 10:12).

Timothy. One of the Apostle Paul’s travel companion, Timothy, also yielded to Satan’s temptation to act in a cowardly manner while he was in Ephesus. The believers in Asia had forsaken Paul (2 Timothy 1:7-15; 2:2-5) and Timothy felt that his life was in jeopardy. So he kept his mouth shut.

Paul. On one occasion Paul himself was fearful when he came to the city of Corinth without his travel companions. His philosophical method that he had used in Athens didn’t result in a local church’s being established there. The Lord appeared to Paul in a vision to encourage him and to remind him that if he’d proclaim the Gospel in Corinth many people would be saved (Acts 18:9, 10; John 6:37). If you’re a Christian, perhaps you’ve faced a similar temptation to act in a cowardly manner when you tried to tell others about Christ. Do you know which piece of the armor you need to put on to counter this attack from Satan (Ephesians 6:17)?

Lying. We know that the Devil is a liar (John 8:44). He lied to Eve in the garden (Genesis 3:4). He tempted Ananias and Sapphira to lie to the Holy Spirit about the amount of money they received from the sale of some property that they owned (Acts 5:1-4). They wanted the same approbation that Barnabas had received for his generous gift to meet the needs of the Jewish believers in Jerusalem at that time (Acts 4:32-37). This incident was not one that should be used to promote socialism or communism that doesn’t work well.

Capitalism.  God is not opposed to capitalism even though many people have abused it (Ephesians 4:28). By the way, do you know what the best form of government is and when it will be established on earth (Revelation 19:16; Isaiah 9:6, 7)?

Deception.  While we don’t have to tell others everything they may want to know, it is a sin to tell a half truth with the intent to deceive others. Have you ever been guilty of this? Do you exaggerate? Do you know which piece of the armor is needed to overcome the temptation to lie (Ephesians 6:14)?

Pride. This temptation also comes as an attack from the Devil. It is an attitude that God hates (Proverbs 6:17; 8:13). When a new Christian, with the spiritual gift of a Pastor-teacher (Ephesians 4:11), is placed in a local church as a bishop (overseer), he is much more prone to be attacked by the devil to become proud (1 Timothy 3:6). Before he accepts such a position, he should be given some time to grow in the sphere of grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18).

Qualifications. Those in leadership positions, whether bishops (overseers) or deacons, need to have the Biblical qualifications found in 1 Timothy 3:1-13. Don’t follow an under-shepherd who doesn’t have them. He may be a hireling in the ministry for the money (John 10:11-13; 1 Timothy 6:3-10; 2 Peter 2:15).  James, the Lord’s half brother warned, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment” (James 3:1).

Expectations. What does God say a Christian should expect in this life (2 Timothy 3:12)? What was the Apostle Paul’s experience (2 Corinthians 11:22-33)? Some people find their way into leadership positions to gain control over the church. Diotrephes, who loved to have the preeminence in the church, was such a man who even opposed the Apostle John (3 John 1:9-11).

Shepherds. They are to lead by example (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 2:5-11), not dictate from the rear (1 Peter 5:1-5). His job includes feeding, guiding, guarding, and healing the flock of God (Acts 20:28-30). He is not to “tickle people’s ears.” He is to convince, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and teaching. Many of his listeners will not endure sound doctrine. They will want smooth talkers who tell them what they want to hear rather than the Word of God and what they need to hear (2 Timothy 4:1-4).

Questions. Have you yielded to these temptations? Would you like to live victoriously over your spiritual enemies: the Devil, your own sin nature, and the present world system? Are you teachable and willing to change if you can be shown from Scripture what God says (2 Timothy 2:2, 15, 24-16; 3:16, 17)?

Help. We’re here to show people how they can have eternal life as a present possession and a home in heaven by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (1 John 5:13; Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians s15:3, 4). You may call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our website at www.kelseypeach.com for more information.

“Decision Making” Part 3

In a rut? “Years ago when the western U. S. was being settled, roads were often just wagon tracks. These rough trails posed serious problems for those who journeyed on them. On one of these winding paths was posted a sign which read: ‘Avoid this rut or you’ll be in it for the next 25 miles!’” – Source unknown

Ivy. Paul Van Gorder wrote, “On a road not far from my home are some trees that are slowly being destroyed by huge coils of ivy. The vines wind themselves like snakes around the trunk. At this point it is impossible to untwist these runners because they are so firmly embedded into the trees. They are literally strangling the life out of those helpless giants. But there was a day when the ivy was a small plant just seeking a little support in climbing. Had the trees resisted these tiny tendrils, they would not be in the state they are today.” To help us make the right decisions, let us consider –

The “Slave” Test. Believe it or not, we are the slave of the one to whom we yield (Romans 6:14-18). Most people, including many Christians, love and serve themselves (their sinful nature) or the devil (2 Timothy 3:2; Ephesians 2:2, 3; John 8:44). Others love the world system and abuse it (1 John 2:15-17; 1 Corinthians 7:31). During the early years of his Christian life, the Apostle Paul admitted that he had a real struggle with his sin nature just as we do (Romans 7:15-25; 1 Corinthians 10:13).

Victory. Victory over the sin nature came to him when he learned how to walk by means of the Holy Spirit and let Him kill the strong desires (lusts) that came from his (Paul’s)  sin nature (Galatians 5:16-25). Those who deny that they have one are only deceiving themselves and are proud (1 John 1:8; 1 Timothy 5:3-5).  God wants every Christian to live victoriously over all three of our spiritual enemies. He doesn’t want us to keep on sinning even though He knows we will sin sometimes. That is why we need an Advocate – Jesus Christ (1 John 2:1, 2; 3:7-10).

Methodology. Here, briefly, is what God tells us to do with reference to each of our three spiritual enemies: Our sin nature – Galatians 5:16-26; Romans 6:11-14; Satan – 1 Peter 5:8; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:10-17; Satan’s world system – 1 John 2:15-17; 1 Corinthians 7:31. Would you like to live a victorious Christian life? If you’re teachable and willing to change, there is hope for you (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; Romans 12:1, 2).

Ensnared. If not, you may become a “Satanically ensnared Christian” (2 Timothy 2:26), or a “carnal Christian” who is about to die prematurely (Romans 8:6; 1 Corinthians 3:1-4; 11:30). Those who defy God and act lawlessly may have their days on earth shortened by committing the “sin unto death” (1 John 5:16; James 5:19, 20). Your “actual years” may not equal your “potential years.” “It is a fearful thing [for a disobedient Christian] to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31). “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives” (Hebrews 12:6). Are you a true son or daughter of God? Make sure of it (2 Peter 1:10; 1 John 5:13).  Don’t be one who “believes in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:2; Matthew 7:21-23).

Confess. It you’re a Christian who is out of fellowship with God, repent (change your mind about what you are doing – 2 Corinthians 7:9, 10), and then confess your sin(s) specifically to God, and He will forgive you (1 John 1:9). Then make sure that you accept His forgiveness, and learn from the Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15), and perhaps through a more mature Christian (1 Corinthians 11:1; Hebrews 13:7, 17), how not to keep on doing the things that break your fellowship with Him and make you miserable (1 John 1:7).

Victory. “Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin – Each victory will help you some other to win; Fight manfully onward, Dark passions subdue; Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.” – Horatio R. Palmer. Read and believe 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Help.  If you have honest questions/comments, contact us through our website at http://www.kelseypeach.com.or through our FB page.   If this article helped you, let us know how it did.  Share it with someone else who is teachable and willing to change.  Click on “Follow” to receive future articles as they come out.

Some material and ideas in this article have been adapted from George Zeller, http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/christia/67tests.htm

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Additional material 

Sin Nature: http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/1natjm01.htm

Three Spiritual Enemies – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/tested-and-tried-daily/

“Maturing In Christ” by Dr. H. L. Schafer http://www.xulonpress.com/bookstore/index.php?keyword=maturing+in+christ+&searchtype=title&qfunction=search&x=0&y=0

The Gospel Mandate

Friend, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for all our sins (once and for all) …and rose again bodily on the third day, and you will be saved from hell to heaven (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

If you’ve never done this before, do it NOW! Once you’ve done this, contact us for more information so we can help you grow spiritually.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

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

“Immature Or Maturing?”

                From the time of our new birth from above (John 3:3, 6), when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, by believing that He died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the grave (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4), each believer finds himself at a certain state/level of spiritual maturity.  Some Christians are new babes in Christ; many are carnal and walking according to their sinful nature (1 Corinthians 3:1; Romans 8:5-8).  Carnal Christians are in danger of dying prematurely (1 John 5:16).  Yes, there is such a thing as “the sin unto death.”  And then there are those who are maturing spiritually (1 Corinthians 2:15; Romans 8:14).  These people actually please God (2 Corinthians 5:9).

                Prayer.  “The immature Christian prays that God will withhold pain and suffering, seeing these things as evil. The mark of a mature Christian is that he can look back on his life and see that God can take the pains and pressures of life and cause them to work together for good in his life and ultimately draw one near to Himself through them. The immature shun suffering. While the mature do not seek it, they come to savor it in the light of how beautifully God uses it to bring us into intimacy with Himself. When knowing God is the ultimate good, suffering is not too high a price to pay to obtain it:  [The Apostle Paul wrote]: ‘… that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; …’ (Philippians 3:10).”  Bob Deffinbaugh  “The View From The Graveyard” Genesis 48 Commentary

                Trials.  How do you handle them?  Do you count it all joy when they come into your life (James 1:2)?  Do you ever think of your adverse circumstances and abrasive people as those whom God can use to help conform you into Christ’s image (Romans 8:29)?  Like hammers, chisels, saws, and sandpaper, our trials can be used by God for His glory and our advantage.  The Apostle Paul wrote: “For I consider the sufferings of this present time and not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18).  “Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (2 Timothy 2:10).  Would you like to be instrumental in the deliverance of someone from hell to heaven?  There is the “Crown of Rejoicing” awaiting those who lead others to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).

                Beyond.  On the other side of the grave the believer has the happy anticipation of spending eternity with God in heaven (John 14:1-3).  “And God will wipe away every tear from [the believer’s] eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.  There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away…But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (Revelation 21:4, 8).

                Questions.  In which group will you be found?  It’s all based on one act of faith.  “He who believes in Him [the Lord Jesus Christ] is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believe in the name of the only begotten Son of God…He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on Him” (John 3:18, 36).  Would you like to enter God’s family?  If you’re already in it, do you act like a child of God?  If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?  Are you yielding to temptations that come from the devil, your own sin nature, or the present world system?  To live victoriously, we must know how to react to each of these enemies. 

                Victory.  The devil’s 14 identifiable temptations must be overcome by putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17).  The temptations that come from our own sin nature must be overcome by walking by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25), and the temptations from the present world system must be overcome by our refusal to love the devil’s world system (1 John 2:15-17) but at the same time using it without abusing it (1 Corinthians 7:31). 

                Sinless Perfection?  Not in this life.  God doesn’t want Christians to sin and has made it possible for us not to sin (act lawlessly), but He knows that we will sin periodically (1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 John 2:1; 3:9, 10).  When we do, we must be quick to confess our sins to God (1 John 1:9) and to those whom we offend (James 5:16).  If the person forgives you, ask him/her not to hold it against you as a club.  Let our forgiveness of others follow the example of God (Ephesians 4:31).

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