Other Works Available by Todd Tomasella

Deceivers & False Prophets Among Us Vol. I (book)

JESUS: Why Did This Man Die on a Cross? (evangelistic tract)
HELL: Dont Go There! (evangelistic tract)
SECRETS from Beyond the Grave (evangelistic tract)

See www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com for the latest resources.

TRIBUTE
In grateful tribute to the God of all creation whose salvation has
appeared to all men through the grace of our LORD Jesus Christ by the
cruel, merciless and undeserving punishment He endured for mankinds
sins and depravity, obtaining eternal redemption for us all. Who was
delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our
justification. (Rom. 4:25) All thanks to Christ Jesus the Messiah for
His unspeakable gift of salvation, and to all who embrace and uphold His
Word as final authority in all matters of faith and practice of the
Christian life. God bless all those in leadership, who authentically and
unceasingly declare His full-counsel Word of truth, laboring with Him,
fulfilling a mission unsurpassed in importance, seeking only His glory
and to be utilized in the care, feeding, protection, and building up of His
saints and eternal kingdom. Truly, our soon coming LORD Jesus has
prepared a place in His Fathers house for all those He knows and loves
(Jn. 14:1-6).
The mercy of God, shed upon us through the blood of Christ our LORD,
is a gift and blessing far too great for this writer to attempt articulating.
May our LORD be thanked for the authentic humility of every Godfearing man and woman who is born again and forthrightly embraces
and upholds the Holy Scriptures as final authority for all matters of faith
and doctrine and practice of the Christian faith, once delivered to the
saints through the Holy-Spirit-inspired holy prophets and apostles of the
LORD.
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour,
and life. Proverbs 22:4

Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as

little children (humble and dependent upon Him), ye shall not
enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall
humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the
kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3-4

NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR

For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God
alone. Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth:
unite my heart to fear thy name. I will praise thee, O Lord my
God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for
evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast
delivered my soul from the lowest hell. Psalms 86:10-13
This writer believes there has never been a man more in need of Gods
all-sufficient grace than this depraved soul whom the LORD has so
graciously found, regenerated, and is daily transforming for His holy,
eternal purposes (Rom. 6-8; Eph.3:11). He has truly and more than
the initial time delivered my soul from the lowest hell. (Ps. 86:13)
For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient,
deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in
malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after
that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man
appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have
done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the
washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our

Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be

made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:37
All comments concerning this book are welcomed. If anyone can clearly
and through the preponderance of Holy Scripture, demonstrate that
anything in this book is not aligned with the mind of Christ as revealed
in the full-counsel of His Word, please bring that valid concern to my
attention so that correction can be made immediately.
todd@SafeGuardYourSoul.com
This writer has been himself deluded due to lack of knowledge and
wishes to assist others in biblically and spiritually discerning that they
might be spared deception and derailment and fully glorify the LORD
who bought them with His precious blood.
Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see
him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full
of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of
your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9
His watchmen are to hear and warn.
So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the
house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my
mouth, and warn them from meTherefore, thou son of man,
say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the
righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression:
as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby
in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall
the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day
that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he
shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and
commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be
remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he
shall die for it. Ezekiel 33:7, 12-13

The LORD told His watchman to hear the word at my mouth, and
warn them from me. Like the prophet Ezekiel, the body of Christ is to
hear the Word of God and warn others of false doctrines which war
against revealed truth, corrupting the image and will of the living God in
the hearts of men, namely His own people. A watchman or overseer in
the body of Christ is to earnestly contend for the faith which was
once delivered unto the saints, declaring, defending and guarding the
divine oracles, and speaking according to them alone (Isa. 8:20; 2 Tim.
4:2-5; 1 Pet. 4:11; Jude 3-4).
The deep concern of this writer and an army of God-fearing men and
women, is that without biblical authority, multitudes are being led to
believe that they are eternally secure no matter how they choose to live
after being saved. Is this a Bible teaching? What did Jesus teach on this
matter and what did His apostles teach? Is the Almighty confused on this
issue? Does the LORD address this subject in His Word? Let us together
explore the answers to these and many more important questions in this
bold, biblically resolute, and poignant volume sure to be an educational
tool for individuals and groups.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks to the friends who helped with the production of this volume.
Thanks to Bill Wegener for the cover design and ceaseless serving of the
body of Christ. Much gratitude to Becky Purcell for her invaluable help with
this writing and the myriad of other things she does to make this ministry
possible. Thanks to Susan Salazar, Brian Ivey, Susanna Clem, Laurie

Selters, Al and Diana Kukk, and Brandee Purcell for their contributions to
this work.

ARE YOU AT PEACE WITH GOD?

To best understand and appreciate the contents of this volume will
require personal knowledge of the One whom this author believes has
inspired this writing. Friend, do you know you are at peace with God?
Are you 100% sure you would go to Heaven to be with Jesus Christ if you
died today? If you are 99.9% or less sure, please go to the rear of this
book right now and make peace with Him. See the Making Peace with
God page at the end of this book (page ???). The LORD wants to bless
you with the forgiveness of all your sins and the assurance of knowing
Him and knowing you are going to be with Him when you leave this earth
which could be this very day.
Take this step now and your life will be changed forever. You will be
eternally grateful to the LORD and Savior Jesus Christ for His gift of
eternal life which He single-handedly purchased for us with His sinless
blood.

FOREWORD
by Jeff Paton

The first lie in the Garden that was proposed by Satan was that if Adam
and Eve were to sin, there would not be a penalty. He told them that they
would not die as God so solemnly warned them (Gen. 3:4).
What is most astonishing to me is how Christians, most of whom know
this very account and this very lie of the devil, respond to this knowledge
by being so easily hoodwinked by the very same lie! It is shocking to see
how people who are educated in the Scriptures and considered to be
representatives of God not only believe the lie of the devil over God, but
they also feel compelled to encourage others to do the same, all in the
name of the Gospel! But this is not new, my friend. Even in the very
beginnings of the Church there was a tendency to use the grace of God
as an excuse for sin and for disbelieving that the wages of sin is death! I
find it fascinating that the same lie that was given in the Garden is
repeated over and over again, without having to be changed! It is obvious
that the singular example found in the deception of Adam and Eve is not
enough to persuade people that sin is always equal to spiritual death, so
much so that God continued to reveal the same frequent and repeated
warnings throughout His Word to validate that nothing has changed!
Friends, the wages of sin is still death, and the horrible sinfulness of sin
has not lost its damning power!
This is the message of this book. By examining Gods repeated
exhortations and warnings, he seeks to remove the fog of Satans lie and
to help Christians see with clarity the message of God once again. If God
was right in what he said to Adam and Eve in the Garden as He always
is, then we must take note of what He says to us today! Eternal
consequences hinge upon whether we believe God and not some wellspoken teacher. We will answer to the LORD on Judgment Day, not to
the myriad of teachers who have assured us that sin is no longer deadly!
God is the only One that sets the boundaries of right and wrong, rewards
and punishments. His way is the only way.

The line of reasoning and thought followed in this writing is not

committed to any particular school of theology that would have any
dominating bias that would rule the interpretation of the Word of God or
cause there to be a theological axe to grind. Gods answers alone, from
Gods Book alone, are what we need. This authors writings are centered
on and driven by Scripture, with an end to save souls. Some may see his
writings as an attack on some doctrine that they hold precious, and
therefore may take his observations as if he is personally attacking them.
At times it is not easy to take an honest look at what the Bible says is
true. Dont assume that there is nothing to learn, for there is a way that
seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death
(Prov. 14:12). I pray that the reader who finds himself in disagreement
with the results of this study will arrive at what God says is true. We
must weigh and question all doctrine and people against Gods Word.
You owe it to yourself to approach such a serious discussion with an
open mind and not just a distant and critical distrust. If you find yourself
troubled and need help or clarification, dont give up or just place the
book on the shelf and wait for another day. Please contact the author
with your concern: eternity is too long to regret a missed opportunity to
know for sure!
In light of the authors character and commitment to the truth wherever
it leads him, I commend this book to you. I pray that Gods hand will
guide the reader into all truth, and that the fruit of this work will find
widespread circulation to the glory of the Lord.
In Christ,
Jeff Paton
www.EternalSecurity.us

T A B L E OF C O N T E N T S
CHAPTER ONE
Lie of the Ages
CHAPTER TWO
The Great Dragon
CHAPTER THREE
The Intruders The Restoration
CHAPTER FOUR
Peddlers of the Lie
CHAPTER FIVE
Trojan Horse Heretics & Heresies
CHAPTER SIX
The Evil Shall Not Overtake Nor Prevent Us Amos 9:10
CHAPTER SEVEN
The Goodness and Severity of God
CHAPTER EIGHT
Quotes from OSAS Teachers
CHAPTER NINE
Proof Texts & Scripture Twisting
CHAPTER TEN
More Proof Texts & Scripture Twisting
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Peace, Peace; when there is no Peace Jeremiah 6:14
CHAPTER TWELVE
Is Your Sin Really Worth Going to Hell For?
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Soul-Damning Sins
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Artificial Assurance

CHAPTER FIFTEEN
What About Judas?
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Justified & Crucified
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Calvinists are Deceiving the Hearts of the Simple
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Did Jesus Die for All Men or Just Some Men?
CHAPTER NINETEEN
Dont You Dare Disturb My Little Eternal Security Party!
CHAPTER TWENTY
God Is Holy & to be Feared
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Doctrine of Balaam
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
License for Sin
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
Ezekiel 33
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
The Book of Hebrews
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
Grace and Faith
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX
Gods Grace In This Present World Titus 2:12
CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN
Doctrine of Grace
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
The Manifold Grace of God 1 Peter 4:10
CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
Can a Believer Stop Believing?

CHAPTER THIRTY
The Exceeding Riches of His Grace Ephesians 2:7
CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE
Holding Faith 1 Timothy 1:19
CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO
Can a True Believer Depart from God?
CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE
Falling From Grace: Is It Possible?
CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR
Latter End Worse
CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE
Are the Believers Present and Future Sins Automatically Forgiven?
CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX
Is Repentance Necessary for Believers?
CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN
Lordship Salvation?
CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT
Rejoicing Firm Unto the End
CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE
IF and AGAIN
CHAPTER FORTY
Penknife Sacrilege
CHAPTER FORTY-ONE
Are Christians to Fear God?
CHAPTER FORTY-TWO
Escape for Thy Life Genesis 19:17
CHAPTER FORTY-THREE
The Message of Christ, His Apostles, & the Early Church
CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR
Smooth Things or Rough?

CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE
Jesus is Knocking
CHAPTER FORTY-SIX
My Doctrine Shall Drop as the Rain Deuteronomy 32:2
CHAPTER FORTY-SEVEN
Doctrine: A Matter of the Heart
CHAPTER FORTY-EIGHT
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth 2 Timothy 2:15
CHAPTER FORTY-NINE
Refuting the Lie of the Ages
CHAPTER FIFTY
Coming to the Light
CHAPTER FIFTY-ONE
What Early Disciples Said Concerning Eternal Security
CHAPTER FIFTY-TWO
The Security Idol
CHAPTER FIFTY-THREE
Church Discipline
CHAPTER FIFTY-FOUR
Victorious Fruit Bearing
CHAPTER FIFTY-FIVE
Apostasy in the Church World
CHAPTER FIFTY-SIX
The Spirit of Holiness
CHAPTER FIFTY-SEVEN
The Laid Down Life

INTRODUCTION
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro,
and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight
of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to
deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him
in all things, which is the head, even Christ. Ephesians 4:1415
We are saved by His grace through faith, but does it end there? We must
be presently teachable to receive a deeper understanding of what His
salvation involves (Prov. 1:5). Many of those who have been genuinely
born again have been taught that they have no further responsibility to
the LORD after they repented and received Christ as LORD and Savior
(Jn. 1:12; Acts 20:21). Is this what the Word of God teaches us?
Do you truly desire to know what the LORD Himself says about this
eternal security matter? From whom did this teaching originate? What
did the prophets write concerning this teaching? What did Jesus and His
apostles have to say about it? Who is teaching it in our day? Is the allknowing God silent or confused about this matter of eternal security?
What does the Bible reveal about such an important subject?
Could it be that there exists a deadly deception so widespread that those
who dont teach it are considered by some in the church world to be
unorthodox? Yet, neither Christ nor His apostles taught such a heresy,
but rather identified it as false and the doctrine of ungodly men who
have crept in unawares. (Jude 3-4)
Regrettably, many who outwardly claim to believe the Bible as Gods
inspired Word to mankind, have spent little time personally studying it,
or they simply aggrandize the words of mere men higher than the
divinely-inspired oracles of Holy Scripture. Tragically, many today trust
what men in leadership have led them to believe about what the Bible
says, instead of finding out for themselves through personal study of the
Scriptures. Christ told us Search the scripturesthey are they which
testify of me. (Jn. 5:39) Jesus also told us that some do not approach
Gods Word with an open, honest and good heart (Lk. 8:12-15), but

rather embrace what they have learned from mere men, even though
those teachings have no root in Scripture, but are many times based
upon subjective analogies, clichs, stories or even fables instead of All
Scripture which is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for
doctrine. (2 Tim. 3:16) Those who do not diligently search and learn the
Word for themselves will be relegated to allow men to spoil them
through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men,
after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (Col. 2:8)
For when they (false teachers) speak great swelling words of
vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through
much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them
who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they
themselves (these false prophets) are the servants of
corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he
brought in bondage. 2 Peter 2:18-19
Many are being or have been overcome by the lies that are being
taught about the grace of God. The lie of the ages is being taught in our
institutions as if it were Biblical truth, when in reality it has no basis in
Scripture other than that it is exposed as a falsehood that originated and
is still being propagated by the enemy of the souls of mankind, the one
Jesus said was a a liar, and the father of it. (Jn. 8:44) Many who
come in the name of the LORD teach this heresy and even claim it to be
an essential part of the Christian faith. This falsehood is no new thing, it
is the original lie. We should always remember that the enemy has no
new thing under the sun to use against mankind, and also that he
utilizes his many times well-meaning yet devouring wolves in sheeps
clothing to propagate the error that leads people to damnation (Eccl.
1:9; Matt. 7:15). The Scriptures tell us that Satan has his ministers
and false apostles who are deceitful workers that are
transformed as the ministers of righteousness. (2 Cor. 11:13-15)
Of these ungodly men in leadership who corrupt the grace of God,
Jude writes:
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own
lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having
mens persons in admiration because of advantage. Jude 16

In objecting, someone might say: But brother I know men who pastor
large name-brand evangelical churches and have graduated from
prestigious seminaries, so how could they possibly be wolves? The Bible
identifies the characteristics of false teachers and their teachings and is
the measure of rule for dividing between the true and the false. In the
modern church we are so far removed from the apostles doctrine.
(Acts 2:42) Today we concern ourselves with how much education a man
has how much he is approved of and by mere men and not that he has
studied to show himself approved unto God. (2 Tim. 2:15) We should
observe Luke 16:15, where Jesus says Ye are they which justify
yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which
is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
There are those who teach this lie of the ages in order to tickle the ears of
men so that they may win friends and influence people as they endeavor
to build their own popularity, financial status and earthly kingdom in the
guise of running a ministry to glorify God and help people. Many of the
people who attend are just happy to be entertained and told that all is
well. But is it really all well?
This writing contains the naked truth from the Bible itself which clearly
answers the age old question, Is salvation eternal and can a saved
person forfeit his salvation? - and be lost after he was once genuinely
saved? The LORD is not silent about this matter in His Word. The
question remains whether or not we truly want to hear what He has to say
in this matter and if we are willing to put aside and do away with any
notion that is contrary to Holy Writ.
The intent of the author is not to spend undo time exposing the errors of
men who have throughout New Testament centuries taught the lie of the
ages or modern men who espouse their teachings, but to simply
investigate what the Scriptures state concerning the security of the
believer, because the Bible is the final authority by which all true
doctrine is established and the holy Standard against which every
teaching must be judged (Jn. 12:48; Acts 17:10-11; Rom. 2:16, 3:3-4; 2
Tim. 3:16). Why waste time with the doctrines of mere men when we
possess the oracles of God which He has magnified above even His own
name? (Ps. 138:2) Why bother with the claims of mortal men when we
have in our possession the oracles of the living God? Is it time now for us

to let God speak for Himself through His own Word? If we truly believe
that divine Writ is final authority for all matters of the Christian faith,
why would we waste our energies on the words of mere mortals?
It is unfortunate that the erroneous teachings of men have been widely
embraced and are still being perpetrated by thousands of misled leaders
today. The intent in this volume is to establish what the Bible states on
the matter of the divine conditions imposed upon men who will be
eternally saved, and thereby imbue the reader with divine truth. This will
equip the believer to divide between the holy and the profane (Ezek.
44:23).
How misled we would be to believe that what we personally believe has
any bearing on the Almighty, His non-negotiable and eternal truth, and
the way He will judge us on that Great Day.
Certain verses and passages will purposely be repeated in this writing. It
is this writers opinion that learning comes from repetition, association,
and illumination.
Furthermore, the aim of this book is not to establish or promote selfrighteousness or legalism in believers, only grace-filled faith and
obedience to the LORD Jesus Christ. This author personally struggles
with temptation to sin as much as any other believer the world over and
has not always succeeded in those temptations. Like all believers, this
one is called by the LORD to sentence to death the deeds of the body and
to be upheld by the true grace of God (2 Cor. 1:9; 12:9-10; Tit. 2:11-12).
In this writing, we will seek to establish what the Word of God reveals
concerning His salvation and what He has chosen to make our personal
responsibility as the recipients of the glorious grace of Jesus Christ
(Rom. 3:23-26; Heb. 13:9).
Todd Tomasella

CHAPTER ONE

LIE OF THE AGES

The First Lie & the Fall of Man

Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field
which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman,
Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit
of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is
in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it,
neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto
the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in
the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye
shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. Genesis 3:1-5
Have you ever wondered what the first lie ever told was? Who told it? Why
was it told? What was the result of it? Can the fruit be seen and felt
today? Can its effects be traced throughout history and even into the
future?
According to the Genesis account, the Garden of Eden was the sanctuary
of the Most High, where He communed with the first man and woman He
had made in His very own image. The Garden was a sinless, guiltless
sanctuary of unimaginable relational bliss between the LORD Almighty
and the man and woman. The Garden of Eden was the place of pure
truth and love - a place where lies were not even suspected.

Enter Satan.
Enter the first lie.
Enter the seduction.
Enter no fear of God.
Enter stolen restraint.
Enter sin.
Enter the fall of man.
Enter alienation from the Creator.

Garden Scene - The First Lie

Do you think this first lie may hold some insight into the work of Satan
and his war against God and His treasured people today?
And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every
tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of
the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in
the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die...(Now
heres what Satan said) But of the fruit of the tree which is in
the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it,
neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto
the woman, Ye shall not surely die. Genesis 2:16-17; 3:3-4

2 Opposing Messages

2 MESSAGES

PURPOSE of each
MESSAGE

THE LORDs MESSAGE:

in the day that thou
eatest thereof thou

The Lord told Adam that

if he ate of the tree of
the knowledge of good

shalt surely die.

and evil, he would

surely
die.
Gods
desire was to protect the
man He made. Such
protection would have
been the result of Adam
and Eve remaining in
obedience
to
their
Maker.

SATANS
MESSAGE:
Ye shall not surely
die.

Satan told the woman

that she would not
die
(be
separated
from the LORD). In this
text, pay close attention
to the enemys words,
especially the one word
he added Ye shall
NOT surely die.

In the book of origins (Genesis) where every major biblical doctrine is

rooted (has its beginning), there can be found the keys and answers to
life. Mankinds Maker, beginning, his ultimate enemy, temptation, sin,
the resulting fall, and the redemption of man are revealed in the first
chapters of this all-important first book of the Holy Bible.
Perhaps there could be no greater occupation than for the student of
Scripture to undertake, pour over, pray over, and dismantle the first
three chapters of the book of Genesis. In this endeavor he will gain
insight into the origins and purpose of creation, pitfalls facing mankind,
divine restoration, and keys to living a victorious life in harmony with his
Creator.

Sin entered the human experience through the temptation and fall of the
first man (Rom. 5). By this the enemy gained a foothold and has warred
with that sole creation made in the image of the Maker Himself. But it is
sin that is mans problem, not circumstance or self-esteem nor any other
diagnosis.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately
wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9
Someone has wisely stated:
The heart of the human problem is the problem of the human
heart.
From the very beginning, Satan has tempted man to
breaking the law of His Maker was not to be feared or
could not harm him. The temptation for man is whether
going to determine truth on his own terms and how it
lifestyle, or humbly accept and obey what God says.

believe that
avoided and
or not he is
fits his own

Cain was a religionist. He refused relationship with the LORD because he

chose to do things his own way instead of Gods (Gen. 4:1-7). In his pride
Cain wanted to make up his own rules he was lawless. Religion is
where men have created a god in their own image and follow those
teachings which render obedience to that false god. The most deceptive
and evil form of religion is that which is close to the truth and uses Bible
Scriptures out of context to make up that doctrine which circumvents
obedience to the plain truth of God (see Jesus rebuke the Pharisees in
Matt. 23).
Who are we going to believe and trust? Whose report will you believe?
Since the LORD and the devil stated something in direct opposition to
each other, we know that one of them is a liar. As He gave the first man
and woman the option, so the LORD gives us the choice to trust and
obey Him or not to. Each of us will decide who it is that is going to be a
liar in our hearts the Almighty, or Satan.

God Said (Gen. 2:17)

But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt
not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof THOU
SHALT SURELY DIE. Genesis 2:17

Satan Said (Gen. 3:4)

And the serpent said unto the woman, YE SHALL NOT
SURELY DIE.
The lie of the ages began in the very cradle of creation. The aim of the
enemy of all souls was the first man and woman who were uniquely
created in the image of the One who made all things. Adam and Eve were
the subjects of Satans deadly lie the first lie ever told. Apparently, this
cunning enemy understood that if he could cause the man and woman to
take things into their own hands and violate the instruction of their
Maker, they would be ushered out of His Garden (presence) and forfeit
their place with Him.
Mankinds enemy led him to believe that he could violate the law of his
holy Maker and still remain within His approval. Like Adam and Eve, it is
readily observed that men naturally internalize this philosophy as I can
sin with no fear of consequences. Is it possible that this lie is still
leading men and women to believe that they shall not surely die if
they live in direct opposition to the LORD? (Gen. 3:4)
Concerning this most insidious and destructive lie of the serpent, the Life
in the Spirit Study Bible states:
YE SHALL NOT SURELY DIEThe first lie proposed by Satan
was a form of antinomianism (lawlessness), denying the judgment
of death for sin and apostasy. One of the basic sins of humankind
is unbelief in Gods word. It is believing that somehow God does
not really mean what He says about salvation, righteousness, sin,
judgment, and death. Satans most persistent lie is that
unrepentant, deliberate sin and rebellion against God will not
necessarily bring separation from God and eternal condemnation.

As he did with the first man and woman, the adversary tells us Ye shall
not surely die. (Gen. 3:4)
Escaping the judgment of a holy God has long been the vain imagination
of depraved men, fueled by the enemy of all righteousness who has come
to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. (Jn. 10:10)
Because sentence against an evil work is not executed
speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in
them to do evil. Ecclesiastes 8:11
Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God? he hath said in his
heart, Thou wilt not require it. Psalms 10:13
Question:
Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God?
Answer:
he hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.
The hearts of those who are not in fellowship with the LORD say The
LORD will not require it of me. He will not bring me into accountability
for my life in this world. After all, He has not done anything to me for my
wrong doing thus far. I am okay in my sins, God will just overlook them.
Lucifers lure capitalizes on the sinful nature of men, preying upon his
desire to be his own god, controlling his own destiny. Somehow,
according to this revelation and others, it is within mans makeup to
believe that because his Creator is not presently executing tangible
judgment for his sin, he believes that God is not going to judge him at all.
So, unregenerate man goes on sinning with reckless abandon, not
realizing that that Great and Terrible Day of Judgment lies just ahead.
The first man and woman bought into the first lie that there is no
consequence for violating the command of the one true God. Such selfdeception is no new thing. Since the first man and woman, people have
sought to define right and wrong on their own terms instead of simply
acknowledging what the LORD says. As the first couple found out, it is a

losing endeavor to determine truth by how it fits ones lifestyle instead of

by Gods non-negotiable counsel given us in His Word (Jn. 17:17; Rom.
3:3-4; 2 Tim. 3:16). Defining truth on ones own terms is buying into the
lie of the ages presented to every man by the evil one who walketh
about seeking whom he may devour. (1 Pet. 5:8)
When men seek to redefine truth on their own terms, they unwittingly
create a god in their own image one who accepts them in their sins with
no judgment. They then migrate to pastors and teachers who will tickle
their itching ears with smooth messages void of the full-counsel
revelation of Holy Scripture (Jer. 5:30-31; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
After Adam and Eve, it was their son Cain who sought to make up his
own way to God on his own terms. He failed. To Cain and to all who seek
through religion, whether self-style or organized, the Almighty would ask:
If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou
doest not well, sin lieth at the door Genesis 4:7
In context, the LORD says to Cain If thou doest well, shalt thou not
be accepted? This simply means If you will do things the way I
prescribed, will I not fully accept you as I did your brother Abel? Cain
hardened his heart and refused to do things Gods way by offering the
type of sacrifice God requires. Due to his own choice to rebel against the
Most High he became so filled with the enemy that he killed his own
brother (Gen. 4).
This is a classic example of how the enemy led a man to believe that he
could make up his own rules, violating the holy Creator and still escape
His holy judgment. Like Cain, millions of faithful religionists today have a
mere formula of godliness while denying the power of a truly surrendered
life to the one true God who sent His only begotten Son as the only
sacrifice for the sins of men.
When he was able to get the first man to violate the command of the
LORD God, Satan gained access to authority by sin. Jesus re-gained that
authority for His highest prize creation and all those who come into
relationship with Him experience the abundant blessings that come
along with being saved by His holy blood (Jn. 10:10; Rom. 5:17).

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world
to condemn the world; but that the world through him might
be saved. John 3:16-17
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, please keep my heart from falling prey to this
same lie that led to Adam and Eves fall. Quicken my heart in the fear of
the LORD and that there are many harsh consequences for disobeying You
by not doing Your holy Word. Convict my heart of sin and I beg You to
make my conscience extremely sensitive to Your conviction. Change my
heart LORD. Grant me a heart of flesh that delights to live in Your presence
and do Your will. Amen.

CHAPTER TWO

THE GREAT DRAGON

Origin of Evil

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called
the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was
cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with
him. Revelation 12:9

Like it or not, you have a sworn enemy. He has drawn a line in the sand.
Fight or be destroyed.
The introduction to the God of all creation and lover of His highest
creation - mankind, is of supreme importance. And so is realizing and
understanding the existence of the most wicked and iniquitous being in
this universe. He is one of the major themes and realities in this record
of mankinds beginning. The Word of our God unveils creations account,
leading to our present day and into the eternal future. What is set forth
in the book of Genesis would set the stage and affect all of history that
would follow.
This book of origins is about that fatal falsehood which emanates from
the Garden where it all began a garden that was sinless bliss and
perfection until the lie was introduced and acted upon by the first two
people.
Of this very arch-enemy of the Most High, from whom all lies originate,
the Word states: Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God. (Ezek.
28:13) The serpent, animated by the vilest of all beings, was allowed to
sliver into the innocence and purity that originally existed in the
sanctuary of creation. This was due to the fact that perfect divine wisdom
has seen fit to allow His creation to have the opportunity of choice
between good and evil (Deut. 30:19; Josh. 24:15; Job 12:16; 1 Cor.
11:19).
Satan has a purpose. Since love is volitional by its very nature, our
Creator has seen fit to permit this evil and beguiling villain to remain
present amidst those professing sanctuary in the LORD. Life on earth is
a test for all all humans are on probation. Love is a choice and so is
rebellion. The Maker of all that is, made man with free moral agency to
be able to choose to love or not to love Him. Among volumes of other
words found in Holy Writ, the following words from on high make plain
the free moral agency of man:
choose you this day whom ye will serve Joshua 24:15
Such a statement would not have been spoken by the LORD if He had
not made man with the ability of choice. Man was created with the ability

to choose every day whom he will serve and this choice is ongoing
while men are upon the earth in this temporal life.
It would be remiss to attempt discussing the very lie of the ages without
opening up the grand subject of the one whom Christ said was the father
(originator) of all lies. Of Satan, the Son of God informed us, as He spoke
to the rebellious religionists of His day:
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye
will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not
in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he
speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the
father of it. John 8:44
All men are born in sin and are by nature the children of
disobedience.
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this
world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit
that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom
also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our
flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were
by nature the children of wrath, even as others. Ephesians 2:2-3
There are this moment only two classes of people in the earth those
who have relationship with the One who made us all, and those who
dont. According to this passage (Ephesians 2), all those who have not
been brought into the kingdom of God through Christ, have as their
father, the devil. The reason the Son of God came to the earth was to
sever the ties and claim of Satan from mankind. He came to deliver men
from this relationship of fear, domination and bondage that is only
enabled by sin.
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light,
and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive
forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are
sanctified by faith that is in me. Acts 26:18
Who (God the Father) hath delivered us from the power of
darkness (Satan), and hath translated us into the kingdom of

his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14
The mission of Christ was to reconcile or restore the relationship that
had been severed by sin. He fully accomplished His mission and is now
seated at His Fathers right hand, enforcing this victory (Heb. 4:14-16;
7:25-26).
From the dawn of the creation and fall of mankind, all evil, tragedy and
pain in history has been caused by Satan and enabled by mans sin
(Prov. 26:2). Only the LORD, the One whose holiness is violated when sin
is committed, can save, restore and heal (Jer. 17:14; 1 Cor. 15:57; Rev.
21:4).
Victory was obtained through the precious blood of Jesus (1 Pet. 1:1819). Being forgiven and released from all sin and its evil effects and the
dominion of Satan, comes through Christ alone. Jesus utterly conquered
His enemy on the cross (Col. 2:13-15; 1 Jn. 3:8). Blessed forgiveness and
spiritual power enables the individual disciple to serve the LORD without
fear and bondage to sin. Sin enables Satans rule and only those who are
free from it by Jesus Christ can rule over His enemies (Ps. 8:6; 17:4; Jn.
8:31-36; 1 Jn. 4:4). Christ triumphed over the enemy of all souls with
His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. Read the
following passage for all its worth:
For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him
to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether
they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that
were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked
works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh
through death, to present you holy and unblameable and
unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith
grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of
the gospel Colossians 1:19-23
The Son of God accomplished complete victory in bringing God and men
back into perfect union by the blood of His cross. (Col. 1:20)

And you, being dead (separated) in your sins and the

uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened (made alive)
together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting
out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which
was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his
cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a
show (sport; spectacle) of them openly, triumphing over them
in it. Colossians 2:13-15
The serpent who was in the Garden of creation and still walketh
about in the midst of the earth, is specifically identified as Satan and
the devil (1 Pet. 5:8; Rev. 12:9; 20:2). This ultimate enemy of all that is
good took control of the serpent in his attack against man. The serpent,
animated by the enemy of souls himself, was used as the instrument
that led to the fall of mankind and the righteous retribution of the holy
Creator. Yet, Jesus Christ accomplished mankinds redemption through
the blood of His cross. (Col. 1:20)

Know Your Enemy

Allow me to parenthetically say here that if one does not personally
believe in a literal devil (Satan) and his insidious work of evil among men,
then perhaps that person will do well to begin to search Gods Word for
the volumes of Scripture which identify and describe him along with
unveiling his wicked purposes. The LORD inspired the Scriptures and
has much to say about His enemy - our enemy. It is interesting to
discover that the word devil appears 57 times in the Bible. The word
Satan appears 50 times. These are the most utilized terms to describe
this darkest of fallen beings, and yet there are several more which
identify this enemy of all souls who is the personification of evil, such as
serpent, and adversary. (1 Pet. 5:8; Rev. 12:9)
And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called
the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was
cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with
him. Revelation 12:9
His goal may be summed up this way: Satans complete and total purpose
that underlies all that he does is to cause men to fall from grace just as he

himself did and was banished from fellowship with the life-giving God.
There is a horrible prison of fire which will be the eternal home of all who
leave this earth apart from a personal and intimate relationship with the
One who died for sinners.
On Judgment Day, that Great and Terrible Day of separation between
the righteous and the unrighteous will include these horrible words
from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away:
And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from
whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was
found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great,
stand before God; and the books were opened: and another
book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were
judged out of those things which were written in the books,
according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which
were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which
were in them: and they were judged every man according to
their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.
This is the second death. And whosoever was not found
written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:11-15
To those whose existence in this temporal life end disconnected from the
only Savior, the following will be the verdict:
Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for
the devil and his angels. Matthew 25:41
Hell is a place of indescribably horrid eternal punishment and was
created by the LORD for his arch enemy and all those who are not His:
Back to the enemy, the one who wants you dead and in hell:
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a
roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 1
Peter 5:8
One may find great intrigue in uncovering this iniquitous fallen foe and
gain much insight into the dark world of demons and deception along

with gaining perception into the real battle in the spirit realm that rages
over mankind.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand
against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh
and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against
the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual
wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:11-12
By the volume of information about His enemy included in His Word, we
know that the LORD intended for us to know our enemy His enemy.
Believers are to give him no place:
Neither give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:27
They are to set themselves against him:
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7
Stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:11
We are to know his scheming goals and ways and avoid them lest he gain
advantage of us:
Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not
ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:11
The devil seeks to trip up, war against, wear out and devour the sheep of
the LORDs pasture. He has come to wreak havoc among the
Lords highest creation:
The thief (devil) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and
to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they
might have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Power Over All the Power of the Enemy

Believers are warned to live in obedience to the Word of God in order to
escape falling into the condemnation of the devil and being caught

in the snare of the devil or giving an advantage to him (1 Tim. 3:67; 2 Tim. 2:26; 2 Cor. 2:11).
The enemy of our souls prospers through the ignorance of Gods people
he is shut out and his work nullified by the knowledge and obedience of
Gods people.
By the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the
destroyer. Psalms 17:4
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall
abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psalms 91:1
Disciples of Jesus are kept from being destroyed by the enemy in obeying
the Word of God. Holy Writ informs us that Jesus came to successfully
destroy the works of the devil and also that greater is he that is in
you, than he that is in the world. (1 Jn. 3:8; 4:4)
Christ promised power to those who are truly His:
And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even
the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said
unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and
scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing
shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice
not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice,
because your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:17-20
Jesus Christ, the eternal Word, became flesh so that He might destroy
the works of the enemy of our souls:
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and
blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that
through death he might destroy him that had the power of
death, that is, the devil. Hebrews 2:14
Believers are told to be of a sober mind and diligent in light of the
proactive and evil plans of Satan to destroy them:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a

roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same
afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the
world. 1 Peter 5:8-9
Heres what the Bible says about Satans work in the last days:
Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe
to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is
come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth
that he hath but a short time. Revelation 12:12
As foretold here, the work of the evil one is accelerating in this late hour
before the destruction of all rebellion and return of our LORD Jesus
Christ.
The Alpha and Omega is coming back and His enemys end is sure:
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Romans
16:20
And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the
Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast
him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal
upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the
thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be
loosed a little season. Revelation 20:2-3
And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of
fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are,
and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
Revelation 20:10

Surrounded & Outnumbered

Elishas servant was brought to the understanding that there are more
angels of God with His children than there are fallen angels who rebelled:
And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and
gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with
horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my
master! how shall we do? And he (the prophet Elisha)
answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than
they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I
pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD
opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold,
the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round
about Elisha. 2 Kings 6:15-17
The one who is following Christ need not fear. LORD Jesus open our
eyes! Nothing has changed - There are more angels of the LORD with
us.than they that be with them (the enemy). The saints of the Most
High are promised protection and His angels are part of that plan.
Are they (Gods angels) not all ministering spirits, sent forth
to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? Hebrews
1:14
The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that
fear him, and delivereth them. Psalms 34:7
In Heaven and in eternity past, two-thirds of the then-angelic beings
remained under the command and blessing of the Almighty, while a third
chose to depart with Lucifer and are forever alienated from the Most
High. Lets take a glimpse into a war that took place in Heaven in eternity
past, a war that has great impact today:
And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought
against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And
prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in
heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent,
called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world:

he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out
with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is
come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God,
and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is
cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the
word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto
the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in
them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for
the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because
he knoweth that he hath but a short time. And when the
dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth Revelation
12:7-13
It would remain difficult to understand this life and present world
system, and the world to come if one were to pass lightly over this war of
wars that occurred (took place) in Heaven. When we begin to delve into
the data given in this matter, understanding comes of the great God and
His arch adversary. Enlightenment and understanding into the 6,000
years of mankinds history open up to us when we know what preceded
this time period. Knowledge into what we are told prophetically is
transpiring before our very eyes. As we are seeing, the holy Scriptures
reveal much about that dark and sinister being called Satan and the
devil who is and will have a large part to play in the fulfillment of
prophecy. Although his rebellion against the Almighty began in eternity
past, the serpents workings among men began in the Garden of Eden.
He crept in to accomplish his wicked agenda. He has seemingly
succeeded for this brief moment, yet the divine promise is that his time is
running short.
The devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because
he knoweth that he hath but a short time. Revelation 12:12

The First Fall-Out: Eternal Termination

We all understand what it means when someone says John and Mark
had a fall-out. This means they were friends or business partners and
then because of some disagreement, they parted company and are no

longer friends. Well, the first fall-out occurred between the Almighty and
Lucifer. The angel Lucifer fell-out of the favor of God and consequently
fell-out of Heaven. Of Lucifers ejection from Heaven, the Son of God
stated:
I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Luke 10:18
The evil one was evicted from Heaven when he turned against God.
Originally he was a good angel, the anointed cherub, who led the
worship of the Almighty, until the day that iniquity was found in him
(Ezek. 28:14-15). Lucifer, who became Satan and the devil, led a third of
the angels of the Most High in rebellion against Him.
And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and
did cast them to the earth Revelation 12:4
Ultimately, all deception and all lies have their origin in this greatest of
all enemies who brought about the sin and fall of mankind and wages
war today against the Almightys highest creation (mankind). Of Satan,
the Son of God said: for he is a liar, and the father of it. (Jn. 8:44)
He also informed us that this supreme adversary has come to do three
things to steal, to kill, and to destroy. (Jn. 10:10) He wages war
against God and His people. He is defined as and called the accuser of
our brethren. (Rev. 12:10)
Satan is a real being. He is not a figment of someones imagination. In
fact, anyone who is convinced of such has already been conquered by his
deception. He is forever the sworn enemy of the LORD and will ultimately
be put away for good, never again to tempt another soul to rebel against
the Maker of all that is.
And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of
fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are,
and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
Revelation 20:10
The one who studies the Word of God will gain priceless insight into the
reasons for the current condition of the world and also into the future
blessedness of all those who know and follow the One who bled to save

us from Gods holy wrath against sin and Satan (Rom. 5:9). In fact, a
divine blessing is pronounced upon all who read and obey the words of
Holy Scripture.
Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of
this prophecy, and keep those things which are written
therein: for the time is at hand. Revelation 1:3
PRAYER: Holy Father in Heaven, bless me to know You more and to be
kept from the evil one and his wicked schemes against Your people. I claim
the blood of Jesus whereby I am blessed to overcome along with the word
of my testimony of how you have washed and delivered me. I say afresh
and aloud, right this second if never before, that Jesus Christ is LORD of
my life and Him alone will I worship and serve. Glory to His precious
name! Amen.

CHAPTER THREE

THE INTRUDERS THE RESTORATION

Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God. Ezekiel 28:13
The evil one had been thrust down from Heaven to the earth for the
iniquity found in him (Ezek. 28:15; Lk. 10:18). This evil foe who had been
ejected from Heavens pristine and perfect premise. He was cast down to

the earth and allowed in the sanctuary of the Garden of Eden because
God gives men a choice to serve or to not serve Him. He created in
mankind the gift of free moral agency. Temptation is ultimately the test
as to whom each individual will love and serve.
for the LORD your God proveth (tests) you, to know
whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and
with all your soul. Deuteronomy 13:3
The serpent slivered among the lush embellishments of the Garden of
Eden. His goal was the fall of the first man and woman who were created
in the image of the One who made all things. He obviously schemed and
strategized as to what weapon to employ in order to accomplish his main
objective to cause the first man and woman to fall from grace by sinning
and consequently be alienated from the LORD. He knew from personal
experience that the Almighty keeps His Word and casts down those who
disobey Him. To this point, Adam and Even knew only righteousness.
They unfortunately didnt yet realize what the evil one knew and had
already been the recipient of (the judgment of God for his sin). A hard
lesson lay ahead and a fallen creation would be left in the wake of their
defiance of the holy LORD and His righteous command.
The enemy of all souls has not changed. His temptations are common
to man (1 Cor. 10:13). Satans goal was and is to interrupt and destroy
the relationship between His enemy, God, and His special creation man. Jesus informed us that the ultimate thief has come to steal, to
kill and to destroy. (Jn. 10:10) This same goal the fall of man - is still
his aim and will be until the LORD Himself puts him away for good (Rev.
20:10).
From the Garden to the modern pulpit, the enemy has lied to mankind.
Satan and his false teachers are the intruders the very enemies of the
Almighty. The serpent has slivered through the garden path of history,
seductively spreading his poisonous seed, causing the fall of many and
now possesses the thoughts and doctrines of an army of deceived men in
ministry.
Ever since the Garden, the lie of the ages dwells among men, especially
in the sanctuary where the LORD is supposed to be reigning the

Church world. As in the Garden of creation, so the enemy specifically

concentrates on the sanctuary of his enemys people. He seeks to molest
purity, beguiling those who are unlearned. Many times he uses their own
leaders.
Today, the pulpits and platforms of modern media are the places that
most people simply do not suspect to be the mediums where falsehoods
thrive, reside and flow. They do not see the serpent lurking among the
trees in the garden of modern Christian pulpits, organizations, and
media. Most are not aware of the wolves in sheeps clothing who, like the
lurking serpent in the garden, lie in wait to deceive. (Eph. 4:14)
As foretold by the prophet Amos, the enemy of souls seeks to alter and
remove the Word of God from the hearing of Gods people (Amos 8:11).
This is what he did in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:17; 3:4). Today this
same enemy uses the most subtle messengers the ones many people
look to for truth. The Holy Spirit forewarned us that in these last of days
men would not remain in the truth but rather that some shall depart
from the faith and that many would corrupt the word of God. (1
Tim. 4:1; 2 Cor. 2:17)
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times
some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of devils. 1 Timothy 4:1
It simply doesnt matter if a leader realizes he is teaching a heresy or not.
If he is teaching anything other than the Word, he is a detractor from the
glory of God and leading others astray. Men of God are to preach the
word and speak only as the oracles (words) of God. (2 Tim. 4:2; 1
Pet. 4:11) This is a non-negotiable command to all who would properly
represent the LORD. No matter the reasoning, one will be found a
deceiver on Judgment Day if he preaches any other message than the
Word of God (Isa. 8:20). One can be sincere and sincerely wrong at the
same time (Prov. 14:12).
Let God be true, but every man a liar Romans 3:4
The holy and Almighty God told us that He is going to judge all men
according to His Word (Jn. 12:48; Rom. 2:16; Rev. 20:11-15).

From the very beginning (Garden of Creation), the beguilers target has
been Gods people. Nothing has changed. His message to men is simple You dont have to worry about obedience, its optional, you can live the
way you choose (not God) and still remain in the grace of God.
Through those men he uses today, the enemy mixes in some truth with
this deadly lie of lasciviousness and poisons the whole pond, leading
many astray into a false gospel and false security. Perhaps it has been
wisely stated that Satan will give you a million pounds of truth to blind
you with that one ounce of a deadly lie which will kill you. In order to
bring in a lie among Gods people, the enemy likes to lead with truth as
his smokescreen in order to bring in that deadly distortion behind the
cover of truth. See Matthew 16:6-12 and 1 Corinthians 5:6.
A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. Galatians 5:9
Why should we be surprised that this ultimate enemy still uses the most
subtle and unsuspecting methods and personalities to communicate
his deadly message to Gods people? After all, his message still works to
cause unsuspecting men to fall out of fellowship with God. Why should
we wonder why the evil one still utilizes the same lie that claimed the
first man and woman? Has this message not captured untold scores of
souls since then? Are we so blindly nave as to believe that there is no
evil or devil? Why should we be surprised to realize that this same evil
enemy of souls is ceaselessly in the midst of our garden today, telling
this same lie by adding to the Word of the Maker?
God said Thou shalt surely die and Satan countered with Ye shall
not surely die.
Are pulpits more sacred than the very Garden of Eden? Obviously not.
There was no sin in the Garden until Satan introduced the lie of the ages
and the man and woman bought it. In the very cradle of creation, the
enemy of God initiated and launched the lie that would fatally wound
mankind, claiming the souls of millions throughout the centuries. This
exact same deadly lie was picked up, incorporated, and perpetuated by
early century church fathers, so-called theologians, whose heresy-laced
writings and commentaries regrettably hold great prominence among

many evangelicals today even though they have no reconciliation with

the Counsel of God, which will be demonstrated throughout this book.
The Bible enlightens us to the reality that Satan is a strategist and has
schemes which believers are instructed not to be ignorant of (2 Cor. 2:11;
1 Pet. 5:8). We are in a war and like any good war general and his staff,
we are to study and know the nature, weapons and ways of our enemy.
The apostle Paul informed us that Satans methods are the same today
as they were from the start - in the Garden.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common
to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be
tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation
also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1
Corinthians 10:13
In this same text, the LORD told us that He makes a way to escape the
re-used lies of the enemy and his temptations.
As can be clearly seen in Genesis, once saved always saved is not a new
doctrine, and its also not the LORDs doctrine. Once saved always
saved is clearly the lie that caused the fall of man. This is the doctrine of
the arch enemy of the Almighty. As in the very beginning, the unholy
serpent himself is still creeping into the homes and gathering places of
believers today and utilizing the same lie to mislead people and cause
their fall from grace. The chief wolf who has come to to steal, and to
kill, and to destroy seeks to devour souls for his kingdom and from the
Chief Shepherd who is come that they might have life, and that they
might have it more abundantly. (Jn. 10:10; Heb. 13:20) Beware!
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a
roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 1
Peter 5:8
The first lie led to the fall of the first man and woman, and is leading to
the fall of masses of people today. Millions in our day are being taught
that they are unconditionally eternally secure in the absence of the

truth about the holiness of the God they will stand before in judgment
and His demand that we be made holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:16).
The pulpits of America have been hi-jacked by men who have crept in
unawares who are teaching a doctrine originated by the enemy of all
souls and calling it Christian. This is paramount to using the name of
the LORD in vain, by attaching His holy name to a teaching of his arch
enemy.

Tracing the Lie

The adversary attacked God through His own creation the Garden, the
fruit, the serpent, the woman and the man.
Does it intrigue you to uncover the very first lie told by the one Christ
warned us of who is the father of all lies? Of Satan, Jesus said: for he
is a liar, and the father of it. (Jn. 8:44)
One 3-letter word not - changed the course of history! Satan told the
woman Ye shall not surely die after their Maker had told them that
they would surely die in the day they disobeyed Him (Gen. 2:17; 3:4).
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:
For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your
eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good
and evil. Genesis 3:4-5
This first and poisonous falsehood, the lie of the ages, is still today the
same deadly venom being injected by the evil one in the battle that rages
for the eternal souls of men. The serpent infused the first man and
woman with this venomous and paralyzing deception, robbing from their
hearts the fear of the LORD which led to their fall from grace.
Consequently, a separation was incurred between a holy Maker and His
creation with a catastrophic curse which fell.
This unconditional eternal security without condition to the recipient is
the very FIRST LIE the devil ever told to mankind. Once saved always
saved (OSAS) is one of the modern labels of the renamed or repackaged
lie of the ages. In this deception in the Garden as well as in our day,
Satan craftily convinces people that they have irrevocable security and

assurance, no matter
command/Word of God.

what

their

actions

against

the

clear

The message of eternal security without condition to the recipient is that

once one has been born again, he has no responsibility to continue to
faithfully obey the Almighty the One who saved him. Those who sit
under this teaching are told that once they have been brought into
fellowship with Him in His garden of salvation through Christ, they can
never die or be separated from Him again, even if they blatantly rebel.
This lie teaches that the person who is saved by Christ, can then choose
to live as he wishes with no fear of consequence or righteous retribution
from the One who is holy, holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8) This is the
very lie that Satan gave Adam and Eve which led to their fall into sin and
separation from the LORD.
Can you see why it is a big score for the enemy of souls when people are
told by their misled leaders that they are once saved always saved no
matter what they choose to do, including revolt completely against the
Most High and go back to the life of sin?
In the sanctity of the Garden, where there was no suspicion, Satan
intruded. Today, in the sanctuary of the pulpits and various Christian
media, his emissaries are intruding where few suspect. He prospers due
to the fact that so many believe that their leaders are guiding them
correctly and yet do not know and obey the Word of God for themselves.
Only those who learn the way of the LORD through His Word can know
and see the enemys work. Those who do not have a life in the Word will
fall prey to deception and ultimately be destroyed (Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29).
Discernment comes from being personally exercised in the Word of God
(Heb. 5:11-14).

The New Garden Restored Holy Bliss

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the
government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be
called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting
Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government
and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David,
and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with

judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The
zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. Isaiah 9:6-7
The Genesis account of creation and the relationship between the LORD
and the first man and woman is an ongoing saga to continue until the
hour of Christs return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. We
are given this record (the Bible) in order to know the LORD and how He
deals with men and who He blesses and who He curses.
From the Garden to the Holy City Genesis to Revelation, the war over
the souls of men rages. The enemy seeks to reclaim those redeemed by
the blood of the one who is the seed of woman (Gen. 3:15). What better
way to undertake such an evil mission than to use those shepherds at
the very helm of the visible church?
Gods account of mans creation and fall is not left without a solution
from the only One who can remedy his alienation. Holy Writ opens up
with the creation and fall of mankind and the promised prophetic
restoration through the Messiah of all who will come to Him as He justly
prescribed (Gen. 3:15). The book of all Books ends with a warning to all
of us concerning making the very same error Adam and Eve made when
they bought into the distortion of His holy words and thereby fell, joining
forces with His arch-enemy.
Revelation 22:12-21 reads:
And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to
give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and
Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may
have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the
gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and
whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever
loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to
testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root
and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that
heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And
whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. For I

testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy
of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall
add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if
any man shall take away from the words of the book of this
prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life,
and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written
in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I
come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of
our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Revelation
22:12-21
In these final words of Holy Scripture, Jesus Christ tells us that He is
coming quickly to reward all according to each persons works. He says
to us that those who keep and do His Word will receive blessings and
have right to the tree of life in the restored holy city of God.
Outside this blessedness will be all who have lived in and justified their
sins no matter what their previous relationship with Him might have
been. Then in the very final words of Holy Writ, there is the warning of
adding to or taking from His words. This adding to or removing of truth
is done first internally, in the hearts of those who do not truly love the
LORD with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. Those who love
darkness rather than His holy light do not wish to come clean under the
light of divine truth (Jn. 3:18-21; 2 Tim. 4:3-4).
This war for the souls of men spans from Genesis to Revelation and the
words of God are pivotal in this most crucial and consequential of
battles. Those who play into the enemies scheme to add unto or take
away from Gods words of instruction will be removed from the book of
life and cut out of the holy city and from all eternal blessings. The lake of
fire awaits.
PRAYER: LORD Jesus please purify my heart and remove all
dissimulation and mixture from me. Rid my life of all secret faults and
presumptuous sins! Father please grant me the blessing of knowing You in
truth and living in Your holy light and will. Jesus please preserve my
eternal soul until the day of soon Your return. Amen.

CHAPTER FOUR

PEDDLERS OF THE LIE

Satans Ministers also be Transformed as the
Ministers of Righteousness

For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming

themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for
Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore
it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the
ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to
their works. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15
Did you notice in this passage that the Holy Spirit of God reveals to us
that Satan himself has his ministers? Do you personally believe
that Satan has people in strategic places who serve him wittingly or
unwittingly? Here the LORD calls the enemys emissaries false
apostles and deceitful workers. How long shall we be so foolish and
nave as to deny the truth and numerous warnings concerning deceitful
workers, false prophets, false teachers and false apostles? How long will
we in cowardice turn a deaf ear and blind eye to those deceivers who
operate large worldwide ministries that are leading millions astray? How
long shall we cover for and defend false prophets who are the enemies of
the One we claim to be serving? How long will we allow self-service and
sinful self-preservation to rule our lives?

Satanic Seduction
In the midst of Gods people is where Satan has strategized and set
himself up in order to seduce Gods saints to give up their eternal
reward for temporal pleasure like Esau (Ps. 74:3-4; Acts 20:29-30; Heb.
12:14-15). Read this following passage carefully and notice just where
Satan and his human agents have entrenched themselves and set up
their evil strongholds:
Lift up thy feet unto the perpetual desolations; even all that
the enemy hath done wickedly in the sanctuary. Thine
enemies roar in the midst of thy congregations; they set up
their ensigns for signsThey have cast fire into thy sanctuary,
they have defiled by casting down the dwelling place of thy
name to the ground. Psalms 74:3-4, 7
The enemy has focused and concentrated his energies
sanctuary or refuge, the safe place of Gods people.

on

the

Make no mistake; it should be a fixed reality in our minds that satanic

seduction is a reality in this age, especially in this late hour as he has
come down with great wrath knowing that his time to deceive is short (1
Sam. 5:8; Rev. 12:12).
For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall show
signs and wonders, to SEDUCE, if it were possible, even the
elect. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.
Mark 13:22-23
These things have I written unto you concerning them that
SEDUCE you. 1 John 2:26
Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because
thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a
prophetess, to teach and to SEDUCE my servants to commit
fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
Revelation 2:20
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times
some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to SEDUCING
spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy;
having their conscience seared with a hot iron. 1 Timothy
4:1-2

But evil men and SEDUCERS shall wax worse and worse,
deceiving, and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13
Notably, in the last days we are told that deceivers, their false teachings,
and their influence will increase. There has long been a war over the
strategic position of the pulpits and media prominence. The pulpit along
with other venues of influence over the thinking of the people are places
of influence. In most circles the selection process for leaders is utterly
out of congruency with the New Testament record (1 Tim. 3). Diotrephes
was a satanic plant among early believers. He was a controller,
strategically and deliberately planted in the midst of the early church to
do harm to Gods saints. He would not give way to the apostle John to
come speak into the lives of Gods people (3 Jn). Simon the sorcerer was
saved at the preaching of Paul then began to operate deceitfully and was
openly rebuked in order to keep sin and deception out of the church
(Acts 8:9-25). In the book of 2nd timothy alone Paul named 8 individuals
by name who were causing divisions and hindering the Gospel contrary
to the doctrine of the LORD (Rom. 16:17-18). (Book: Deceivers & False
Prophets Among Us is available at www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com)

1 Timothy 3:6 reveals that a person who is saved and gets into the
ministry can then fall into the condemnation of the devil. This is
why the Holy Spirit instructed us not to place a novice into the ministry
which is what has been done as the enemy roars among Gods people
(Ps. 74:3-4, 7). The condemnation of the devil is simply the state of
eternal condemnation or judgment that Satan is under by the decree of
the Almighty. Everything of satanic origin is based on pride (Isa. 14:1215; Ezek. 28). Men who are not humbled before the LORD naturally carry
out their ministries undergirded and dominated by their pride of life and
will be eternally damned if they do not repent (2 Pet. 2-3). These same
men will lead others into the worship of self while having a form of
godliness. (2 Tim. 3:1-13) This is the blind leading the blind into the
ditch of destruction (Lk. 6:39). Those who do not have a life in the Word
for themselves cannot discern and are being led to believe they are right
with God and will find out on Judgment Day that they were dead wrong
(Prov. 14:12; Heb. 5:11-14). Pride-filled ministers lead others astray by
spawning and soliciting many evils in others, bringing strange fire into
the sanctuary of the LORD (Lev. 10:1-2).

Remember that the enemy worked in the Garden of creation against the
LORD and His first man and woman. He was a witness of how the LORD
separated them from His holy presence after they believed and acted on
his (Satans) lie (Gen. 2:17; 3:1-24). The enemy of the Almighty works
within the sanctuary of the people of God to allure the saints to deny
Christ instead of self. Satan has ministers and they seek to lead Gods
people into spiritual and physical fornication in order to cause them to
be separated from the LORD who is holy, holy, holy. (Num. 22-24;
Isa.6:3; 2 Cor. 11:11-15; Rev. 2:14, 20; 4:8). His goal is to lead the saints
into sin which separates them from the LORD.
And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing
words. Colossians 2:4
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain
deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the
world, and not after Christ. Colossians 2:8
Jesus came because God is holy! Yes, Christ came to the earth because
God is holy. Any man in leadership who does not hold this cardinal truth
in utmost importance and prominence is utterly beguiled at best. Jesus
Christ came In the body of his flesh through death, to present you
holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight. (Col. 1:22)
The enemys aim is to draw Gods people away from pure devotion to
Him. To do so with the most impact, he must gain strategic positions of
prominence to possess preeminence in the midst of those seeking to
know the LORD (2 Cor. 11:11-15).
Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from
the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto
you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto
yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost
hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he
hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after
my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not
sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise,
speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three
years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of
his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an

inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:2632

Do we not realize that it is outright disobedience to believe every person
or leader who comes in the name of the LORD?
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try (test; examine) the
spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets
are gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1
In 2 Corinthians 11, the apostle Paul speaks of he (any man) that
cometh and preacheth another Jesus. Here the Holy Spirit of God
identifies the enemys messengers of another Jesus, another spirit,
and another gospel who corrupt the image of Christ in us. May the
LORD bless us to possess the purity of Christ.
Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and
indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly
jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may
present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any
means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so
your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in
Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom
we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye
have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not
accepted, ye might well bear with him. 2 Corinthians 11:1-4
Are We Being Bewitched?
No true believer in Jesus Christ would think of going to a sance or
Wicca conference, yet witches and warlocks have infiltrated or crept in
the church world through TV, radio, books and various other media.
These false teachers hold positions of leadership in the church world and
dress and look like true believers, yet they are the prophesied ravening
wolves who have come to devour the sheep of the LORDs pasture
(Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:29-30). These deceivers are presenting a counterfeit
gospel or view of the divine through their false teachings which are not
according to the biblical revelation of the LORD (Isa. 8:20).
O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should
not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been

evidently (clearly) set forth, crucified among you? Galatians

3:1
When Christ has been revealed to our hearts and we then do not obey
the truth, we are said here to be bewitched.
The Leaders
Since the Bible tells us that there is no new thing under the sun and
that the father of all lies uses the same trickery that has been common
to man from the beginning, we can clearly conclude that he still uses
this same deception (re-packaged) in our day (Eccl. 1:9; Jn. 8:44; 1 Cor.
10:13). His purpose is to bring men down and he is accomplishing this
through the most subtle medium our own leaders.
For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they
that are led of them are destroyed. Isaiah 9:16
Perhaps the great beguiler whispers to men individually and then scores
the knock-out punch when those people are told by their own Christian
leaders, inside their church walls, or via some other medium, that they
are unconditionally eternally secure, whether they obey or disobey the
One who made them. In our day Satan is affirming the perverted grace lie
through many Christian leaders. It is the enemys same Garden lie,
where men are told they have a diversity of ways they can choose to live,
its all up to them, and whatever way they choose still leads to Heaven
as long as they made a decision for Christ as some point in their lives.
They are made to believe that there will be no punishment for living
unholy lives, only rewards for the good things they do. Such teaching will
be tested against Gods Word throughout this writing.
They (false teachers) preached pardon for sin but not the
imperative of holiness. Donald Stamps

Nicholas, the Apostate Deceiver

Historians say that Nicholas (Acts 6:5), a deacon in the first century
church, backslid and led his followers to believe that living in sin would
not effect ones relationship with Christ. The term Nicolaitans is said to
come from those who followed Nicholas. Nico-laitans is a compound
Greek word. Nico means to conquer and laitans means the laity. Satan

used Nicholas to conquer his followers through the lie of lawlessness.

The evil spirit of Nicholas lives on today through many lawless leaders
who operate in the church world in this late hour.
Nicholas taught free love. He and his followers taught that the deeds of
believers could not affect their relationship with God. This is
antinomianism, which means lawlessness. The Bible clearly refutes such
a lie as we will witness in our walk through the Holy Scriptures.
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having
this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every
one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 2
Timothy 2:19
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny
him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good
work reprobate. Titus 1:16
The Bible states here that those who profess that they know God and
yet deny himin works are abominable, and disobedient, and
unto every good work reprobate.
By this lie of lawlessness, the enemy of souls conquered the people.
But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the
Nicolaitanes (means conquer the laity), which I also hateSo
hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes,
which thing I hate. Revelation 2:6, 15
Here is some of the modern terminology for this age old doctrine:

Once Saved, Always Saved

Eternal security (unconditional)

Calvinism

In Revelation 2 Jesus Christ tells us that He hates two things the

deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitanes. The Son of God despises
the doctrine that teaches that the deeds of men have no effect upon their
relationship with Him.

The Scriptures continuously reveal the divine hatred for the acceptance
and even doctrinal authorization for living in the sins which the LORD
tells us violate His holiness, reveal a wicked heart, and will prevent one
from entering into the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Rev.
21:8, 27).
The word lasciviousness appears 6 times in the Bible and means lack
of restraint (from sinning); license for sin; licentiousness.
To underscore the utter, divine hatred against this lie of lawlessness, it
should be noted that this is the only place in Scripture where Jesus
Christ Himself states that He hates something.
Though they may vary in packaging, these are all kin to the same lawless
ye shall not surely die lie, which is the lie of the ages.

Does the LORD Keep His Word?

We must ask: Did God keep His Word to Adam and Eve? Did they die
(become separated from Him) as He promised?
Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of
Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he
drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of
Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way,
to keep the way of the tree of life. Genesis 3:23-24
Notice what the Word of God tells us here: Therefore (because of sin)
the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of EdenSo he drove
out the man
Adam and Eve were ushered out of the holy divine presence for their sin.
The unchanging LORD of all creation and Judge of all, is by nature holy.
Satan is the one who works so hard to get mankind to forget this allimportant truth and to pervert the image of God by getting us to live in
sin against His divine attribute of holiness.
How many sins did it take to ruin the precious fellowship the LORD and
His first people were experiencing? Just one, right?

Satans 3-Point Deception

The 3 things the subtle serpent did to derail Adam and Eve in the
Garden:
1) Attempted to get them to doubt God and His Word sought to
foster unbelief in the man and woman, by casting doubt upon the
character of the LORD. He wanted them to doubt that the LORD
was going to do what He told them He would do if they sinned
against Him (3:1-3). The first thing Satan did was to cast doubt
upon the Source God. This deception set up the man and woman
to be deceived with the lie that led to their fall into sin and
consequential curses upon all of mankind to come (Genesis 3:1-3).
2) The enemy subtly inferred to the first family that God didnt really
mean what He said and that they were eternally secure no matter
what they chose to do obey or disobey Him (Genesis 3:4).
3) The adversary told the man and woman they could be as gods
that is, in control of their own lives and destiny after all, he had
just told them that the LORD wasnt going to judge them for their
sin (Genesis 3:5).
Death by addition: One word added to Gods Word to the first man and
woman led to the fall of mankind. One little 3-letter word perverted the
truth of God and altered the course of history. Could it be that this one
little word and what it conveys to mens hearts is altering the eternal
destiny of millions who dont even realize it?
This truth should be sobering to our hearts. Adding to or omitting from
the words of the Almighty carries with it a severe curse (Prov. 30:5-6;
Rev. 22:18-19).

Holy Fear Robbed

Though one may not know it from what he hears in most teaching going
on in Christendom, fearing God is ultra important in the divine economy,
especially in light of the Judgment we will all stand in.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ;
that every one may receive the things done in his body,

according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade
men 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
When a person believes that he is unconditionally secure in relation to
the holy God of all, the restraint from sin is removed. Where the lie of the
ages reigns, the fear of God is stolen from the hearts of men. This was
the enemys goal in sowing this lie into the first man and woman.
Nothing has changed as far as what he intends upon those alive today.
The enemy of all souls knows that when the fear of the LORD is absent,
sin and spiritual separation are inevitable (James 1:14-15).
by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. Proverbs
16:6
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the
snares of death. Proverbs 14:27
Of sinful men who are not possessed and moved with the fear of the
LORD, but rather living after their depraved nature, the Bible says:
There is no fear of God before their eyes. Romans 3:18

Serpents in the Pulpits

Eternal Security is surely Satans masterpiece. This doctrine that
claims that one can be in Christ, while willingly dead in
trespasses and sins, is pure heresy. The doctrine is rooted in
unbelief, seeing that they deny that Christ has any power to deliver
the believer here and now. The Bible tells us that Jesus came to
destroy the work of the devil, and that Jesus came to save His
people from their sins, not in their sins. A Savior who cannot live
up to his promises to deliver us from our sins in this life cannot be
depended upon to deliver us after our death! I am uncomfortably
confident that at the consummation of time, it will be revealed that
this sole doctrine alone will have populated the regions of hell far
more than all other false teachings put together. Those that teach
this heresy have exchanged light for darkness, truth for lies, and
called it the Gospel! - Jeff Paton

The enemy went from using a serpent to using men. Satans lie led to
Adam and Eves sin which caused their fall and separated them from
God. This no-consequence-to-face-for-sin lie removed all restraint from
sinning and the man and woman entered into that which God promised
would cause them to die (spiritual death-separation; see Rom. 8:13;
James 1:13-15). This same lie is being boldly preached today through the
most subtle means - our very church leaders!
It is regretful that the fear of the LORD is rarely mentioned, much less
thoroughly dealt with in the modern church world. The lie of the ages has
so permeated the thinking of our institutions and leaders that there
seems to be very little fear of God among those claiming to know the
LORD Jesus Christ. In the absence of such a pillar doctrine of the Word,
restraint is greatly weakened in the hearts of individuals.
Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take
heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God,
nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts. 2 Chronicles 19:7
The same most insidious serpent who intruded into the Garden, has
slivered his way onto center stage in the modern church. While the LORD
tells us that He desires to teach us the fear of the LORD, such is seldom
instilled in those today who claim to be believers in Jesus Christ.
Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear
of the LORD. Psalms 34:11
Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the
LORD, and for the glory of his majesty. Isaiah 2:10

Spiritual Death
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and
death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all
have sinned. Romans 5:12
Is spiritual death the result of sin? Is the wages of sin still death? (Rom.
6:23) Has the Almighty changed since the Garden of Eden? Is He still
holy? What happens when we blatantly disobey the unchanging God like
the first man and woman? Spiritual death is the result of sin as it was

with Adam and Eve they died spiritually, which means they were
separated from the holy LORD by the sin they committed.
And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned
against me, him will I blot out of my book. Exodus 32:33
Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also
the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
Ezekiel 18:4
Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his
righteousness,
and
commit
iniquity,
and
I
lay
a
stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not
given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his
righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered;
but his blood will I require at thine hand. Ezekiel 3:20
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die Romans 8:13
But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness,
and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the
abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his
righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his
trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath
sinned, in them shall he dieWhen a righteous man turneth
away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and
dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
Ezekiel 18:24, 26
The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in
the day of his transgression neither shall the righteous be
able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth.
When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if
he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his
righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity
that he hath committed, he shall die for it. Ezekiel 33:12-13
Judas by transgression fell Acts 1:25
For the wages of sin is death. Romans 6:23

O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by
thine iniquity. Hosea 14:1
Any person not saved and delivered from living in sin, is not truly saved.
He is facing the penalty of sin eternal death. Genuine justification
always bears the fruit of a sanctified life. Such involves the volitional will
of the recipient of the grace of God.
Beware of any leader claiming to be a representative of Jesus Christ who
does not teach the fear of the LORD and the absolute necessity to utterly
trust God in all things and live obedient to His righteous commands.
Selah.
PRAYER: Jesus, I love You. Imbue my heart with Your holy truth. Please
keep me in Your loving care and safely from the schemes and snares of
Satan which he would use to cause me to offend You with sinful thinking
and living. Cleanse, heal, bless, and deliver me from all evil LORD Jesus!
Amen.

CHAPTER FIVE

TROJAN HORSE
HERETICS & HERESIES
for thy breach is great like the sea: who can heal thee? Thy
prophets (leaders) have seen vain and foolish things for thee:
and they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy

captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of
banishment. Lamentations 2:13-14
The LORD is holy and the result of our sins is separation Him (Isa. 59:2;
Rom. 6:23). Here the Holy Spirit inspires the prophet Jeremiah to pen
these telling words. Israels breach or separation from her Redeemer
was great (wide) and her leaders were not revealing or uncovering her
sins so that she could be cleared and delivered of them before a holy
God.
they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy
captivity Lamentations 2:14
Of this verse, the Life in the Spirit Study Bible notes the following:
THEY HAVE NOT DISCOVERED THINE INIQUITY. One mark of
a false prophet was that his words and visions did not expose sin
among the people. Those in the church who do not rebuke sin,
thereby releasing the convicting work of the Holy Spirit (John 16:811), prove that they are false ministers. Conversely, those who lives
and sincerely cry out against worldliness and sin in the
congregation, just as Christ did (Rev. 2-3), prove themselves to be
faithful ministers of their Lord. P. 1167
Instead of following the LORD and speaking His truth to honor Him
supremely and blessing the people to repent, the men in positions of
leadership were pillow prophets, leading the people to believe that all was
well. Refusing to define and point out sin as described in Gods Word, is
treason. Her leaders were like so many leaders today. They wanted things
to run smoothly so that they could build their own kingdoms while
pretending to build Gods while the LORDs people stood unrighteous
and undone with His impending judgment looming over them.
If we are compelled, therefore, to yield ourselves servants to sin,
and be subject to Satans power, insomuch that we cannot help
but obey him, and really have no choice in the matter, then our
free agency, our volition, destroyed; and to make matters worse,
the devil has more power than God. Satan can make us disobey
God, but alas, God cannot make us disobey Satan. The devil

compels us to be sinners, but God cannot compel us to be

righteous. What kind of doctrine is this?
-Howard W.
Sweeten
When one is not being called to repentance for his sins and learning to
live a life accountable to the LORD for every thought and action, that
person will lose the fear of God.
There is a great breach today. The enemy is running rampant in the lives
of many who claim to know the LORD. This he is accomplishing due to
the widespread lack of the teaching of the fear of the LORD which is an
open door through which he has gained entrance. Access into the gates
of the city of the LORD has opened wide through the false teaching of
lasciviousness license to sin (Jude 3-4). This falsehood either
replaces the true fear of the LORD or vice versa. When there is the
absence of the fear of the LORD, the walls of restraint are broken down
in the hearts and lives of many who claim to be saved. They live in sin
and justify it due to the fact that their leaders have told them that they
are once saved and always saved a mere clich which appears
nowhere in the Bible in word nor in concept.
Someone might say Well the word trinity never appears in the Bible but
it is still true. To this I would reason that the divine trinity is clearly
shown in concept throughout Scripture (Gen. 1:26, 28; Eph. 1:3, 7, 13; 1
John 5:7; etc.). OSAS is never shown in word or concept the Bible other
than to be identified as the message of deceived men (Jude 3-5). In fact,
the myriad of warnings to remain in the will of God completely invalid
such a notion. See Hebrews.
When a person believes the unbiblical doctrine of once saved always
saved, he then possesses no reason to literally adhere to the teachings
of the one he claims as Savior. He then finds no reason to repent of his
sins and stay in fellowship with the LORD Jesus. In some cases no sense
of responsibility to obey the LORD is found in the hearts of those who
have bought this lie. In fact, to those deluded by this lawless lie, the
obedient are viewed as legalistic. How perverse! The Word tells us that
people who do not obey their Maker will not enter into Heaven (Tit. 1:16;
James 2:14-20; 1 Jn. 2:3-5).

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21

Trojan Horse Infiltration

Throughout history, cities were fortified with thick walls in order to
partition and protect those who inhabited them from their enemies.
Whenever the enemy army without could find a breach (break) in the
wall, he would attack and seek to penetrate those city walls. In the case
of the city of Troy, when the adversary could not find an opening in the
walls that surrounded the ancient city, they sent a gift, a large wooden
Trojan horse. Hidden inside that large wooden creation were enemy
troops. The Trojan horse was received with glee by the inhabitants of
Troy and rolled into the gates of the city. After entering the city those
warriors hiding inside the large wooden horse, came out of that wooden
horse and invaded the people from within. It is particularly interesting to
note that the Trojan horse was presented with a smile and to the
inhabitants of Troy as a gift. These maneuvers enabled the emissary to
creep in unawares (unnoticed) and sneak right past any defenses and
conquer the city of Troy.
Isnt this how viruses destroy computers? They come with a subject line
that invites the recipient to open the file and when they do, the virus
invades and destroys data within that computer.
Like the original lie in the Garden, the deadly message of the serpent that
we can sin without consequence, has penetrated the walls of the church
world. This lie has gained full access into the hearts of many of those
who claim to know the LORD. This heresy of sin without consequence
has reached the center of the city of God disguised with and hidden
inside Trojan horse ministers who come with a smile and with the
promise of a gift of salvation that requires little or nothing from the
recipient. The Holy Spirit specifically warned us of these ungodly men
who are crept in unawares. Like the wooden Trojan horse that rolled
unhindered into the city of Troy, these myth-propagating men have rolled
in smoothly and reached center stage in much of Christendom. Their
higher learning degrees and standing among men in the evangelical
community have blinded the eyes of those who may otherwise be more

discerning. These leaders hold positions of great influence, deceiving the

hearts of the simple with their good words and fair speeches. (Rom.
16:17-18) These men are the wolves Jesus warned us about, who wear
sheeps clothing and have been accepted with open arms by the
evangelical church world. They are utilizing various media vehicles such
as books, pulpits, CDs, DVDs, and commentaries, to spread their lies.
This they have done using the name of the LORD (in vain) but yet not
communicating according to His clear teachings. The Son of God warned:
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheeps clothing,
but inwardly they are ravening wolves. (Matt. 7:15)
Jude writes:
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness (license to sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will
therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this,
how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of
Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the
angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own
habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under
darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Jude 3-6
In this key warning passage which we will visit more than once in this
volume, under the direct inspiration of the Holy Spirit of the living God,
Jude warns all New Testament believers to contend diligently for the faith
of the Gospel once delivered to the saints and contained in the Holy
Scriptures. He then brings into the remembrance of all believers under
the New Testament, the historical record of some of the created beings of
the past who were once right with the LORD, then departed from Him
into sin. He starts off with the exhortation to earnestly contend for the
faith which was once delivered unto the saints and then identifies
the doctrine of lasciviousness as one that is taught by ungodly
men. To the honest disciple of Christ, this passage will strike his heart

with a healthy fear of the LORD. These divinely-inspired words, spoken

by Jude, make it difficult for the Gospel-hardened Calvinist to hurdle.
Through His servant Jude, the Holy Ghost here cites two classes of
created beings destroyed by the Almighty after being in His saving grace:
1) Some of the covenant Israelites He delivered out of Egyptian
bondage who then rebelled against Him and were consequently
destroyed (Jude 5).
2) The fallen angels Lucifer and those angels who rebelled with him
and their eternal state of condemnation (Jude 6).
These two classes, who fell from saving grace after possessing it, stand as
an eternal memorial of Gods wrath upon all who would backslide and
not return to Him in repentance to be restored. Romans 11:22 is a key
verse in recognizing this divine truth:
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them
which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, IF thou
continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut
off. Romans 11:22
For some readers, the scriptural truth in this book will be a stark
reminder of the truth that the LORD is holy and will judge sin. Note
carefully the phrase Jude uses in this all-important exhortation: I will
therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this
(Jude 5) It is obvious from his words that the believers he was writing to
here at one time knew and believed that the LORD has and will judge
those who go back into sinful living after knowing Him. There is no
shadow of turning in the Father of lights. (James 1:17)
For I am the LORD, I change not Malachi 3:6
In this warning, the LORD Himself through His servant Jude, clearly and
plainly identifies the false doctrine of lasciviousness which is that
error which grants license for sin. He also identifies those who teach this
falsehood as ungodly men. (Jude 4)

Those who teach that believers may live immoral and unrighteous
lives without jeopardizing their eternal salvation will themselves
face the severe judgment of God. Donald Stamps
In many cases, the premise for belief in a falsehood is the fear and
idolatry of mere men. If and when a person retains an affinity for
historical and even present-day men and sediment for their teachings, he
will find a way to justify them (Mk. 7:6-9). The very Word of God is made
of none effect to that person. When a person genuinely fears the LORD,
Gods Word will hold the place of final and highest authority in that
persons heart.
For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make
the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be
true, but every man a liar Romans 3:3-4
We should always remember that Jesus Himself didn't get through to
the vast majority of religionists of His day. He was rejected of His own
people. This was obviously not due to His insufficiency in expounding
the truth He is the Truth (Jn. 14:6). He was unsuccessful because of
their unbelief, hardened hearts, and how they made God's Word of
none effect by their zeal to keep their own religious traditions (Mk.
7:6-9). Paul warned the people of God of this very evil and how it can
ruin or spoil the one who once believed and was saved, robbing him
of Christ, who is eternal life (Col. 2:4-9; 1 Jn. 5:20-21).
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put
their trust in him. Proverbs 30:5
Knowing and obeying divine truth is the only shield of protection
against the fatal error which brings corruption to the human soul. When
there is no wall of truth surrounding our hearts, it will be vulnerable to be
penetrated by a wolf in sheeps clothing who will bring in damnable
heresies and doctrines of devils. (2 Pet. 2:1-3) The city of our mind
must be fortified with divine truth that the enemy cannot penetrate its
walls through his false prophets and false teachers who operate in
the midst of the evangelical world (1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Pet. 2:1).

After warning the Church with tears of the grievous wolves which he
promised would enter in among you, Paul committed believers to the
Word of God, the only purifying protector of hearts (Acts 20:20, 27-32).
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word
of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an
inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:32
According to the Holy Spirit, not only does the word of his grace
protect, it will also build you up and secure for the receiver an
inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
Gods Word is the firewall of protection against falsehood and only
protects or shields the heart that is full with and nourished by it.
Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate
every false way. Psalms 119:104
Being rich in the Word is ultra important to our maturity, spiritual
health and the ability to discern between truth and error (Heb. 5:11-14).
There can be no occupation more valuable to the saint than the
memorization of Holy Scripture (Josh. 1:8; Prov. 4:4).
PRAYER: Precious Master Jesus, I am asking You right this moment to
probe the very depth of my being and root out any iniquity and/or
falsehood that remains! Cleanse me LORD and make me new. Protect me
and help me to discern deeper every day. I love You supremely. Cover my
life in Thy holy truth and preserve me unto the day of Your soon return for
which I look expectantly. Glory to Your holy name! Use me to help others in
the same! Amen Jesus!

CHAPTER SIX

THE EVIL SHALL NOT

OVERTAKE NOR PREVENT US
AMOS 9:10
Evil Attitude of Some Who Claim to Know Christ

All the sinners of my people shall die by the sword, which

say, The evil shall not overtake nor prevent us. Amos 9:10
Note here in this very important verse that the LORD points out an inner
attitude among His very own people (of all generations) that has and is
leading to their undoing and ultimately the eternal damnation of many.
Should we hearken to this warning and learn from history? It is
incumbent upon us that we understand and carefully and
conscientiously heed this warning before it is too late.
The covenant Jews of Amos day said in their hearts that The evil shall
not overtake nor prevent us. This reveals the insolent attitude
possessed by these backslidden Jews. In their hearts they imagined The
evil we are now committing is not going to prevent us from the blessings
of God, including eternal life. These people, like many today, were selfdeceived into thinking they would not receive a just recompense for their
sinfulness. Their whole attitude is one of lightness toward the things of
God and a crass disdaining of His holiness and command to be holy.
All the sinners of my people shall die by the sword, which
say, The evil shall not overtake nor prevent us. Amos 9:10
Of this Amos 9 text, the Life in the Spirit Study Bible denotes:
I SAW THE LORD. In this fifth vision, Amos saw the LORD
beside the altar in His sanctuary, ready to destroy all the
worshipers by bringing the sanctuary down upon their heads.
Those who escaped would be killed by the sword; all the sinners

among the people would die (v10). Likewise, when Christ returns,
He will severely judge all within His churches who are living a
sinful lifestyle; none of them will escape Gods wrath.
Lets look close at what the LORD is saying to us individually here in
Amos 9:10. Please mark this verse in your Bible and make it a matter of
personal study and focus. The Almighty identifies here an attitude among
many who claim to know Him and He hates it. The first thing the LORD
identifies is the sinners among His own people (not the lost) whom
He guarantees will die by the sword which means to be eternally
judged if they dont repent. Why? Because they say (in their hearts)
that The evil shall not overtake nor prevent us. In other words they
vainly imagine in their darkened, deceived hearts that the sin of
worldliness they are living in will not prevent them from going to Gods
holy Heaven because they have been made to believe that they are
eternally secure no matter what they do or do not do. Saints, this is the
manifest fruit of this deadly lie of the ages and how it plays itself out in
the hearts and lives of men who have been poisoned by this arsenic
satanic seed of the serpent.
Isnt this the same darkened hearted attitude we see from Gods apostate
people throughout the history of Israel?
For the house of Israel and the house of Judah have dealt
very treacherously against me, saith the LORD. They have
belied the LORD, and said, It is not he; neither shall evil come
upon us; neither shall we see sword nor famine: Jeremiah
5:11-12
The false prophets of Jeremiahs day were telling Gods covenant people
that No evil would come upon them even though they were living in
sin against the Almighty. The deluded leaders of that hour as well as this
one belied the LORD by telling His people, while they were living in
sin, that they would not experience His holy wrath. Like many today,
these deceivers in leadership positions told those who despised the LORD
in the way they lived that Ye shall have peace with God and not be
judged by Him for your sins:

They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath
said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that
walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall
come upon you. Jeremiah 23:17
This sums up the message of false teachers they assure people of peace
with God without declaring that ongoing love, repentance from sin, an
ongoing relationship of love, faith, and holiness are a must.
The no-condition-for-salvation message (OSAS) is found in the Bible its
the message of deceived men. Those who teach it are identified as
ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 4)
Those who follow such a falsehood, believing they will be going with
Jesus when the last trump sounds, will be shocked when He comes and
goes without them (Matt. 7:21-23; 24-25; Lk 21:34-36; 1 Thess. 4:14-18).
There are conditions to being ready for the return of Christ (Matt. 25:113).
We all fail God - we have all sinned against Him (Rom. 3:10, 23; 1 Jn.
1:8,10) and yet we are required to confess and repent of those offences in
order to remain in fellowship with Christ (1 Jn. 1:7,9, etc.). God is holy,
holy, holy and sin separates us from Him if we do not repent of it (Isa.
6:3; 59:2; Acts 1:25; Rom. 6:23; Rev. 4:8). The truth/fact that the LORD
is holy, holy, holy is so often forgotten in the pursuit of preserving
our own lives in this fleeting world. The desire of sinful men is to justify
themselves, not realizing that the Great and Terrible Day of Judgment
lies ahead (Eccl. 8:11). It's like we have ourselves as the object of worship
and not the LORD Almighty. This is having another god before Him
which means we break the very first commandment and should be
convicted of idolatry (Exod. 20:3-4). In doing this we have fashioned a
god in our own image to satisfy ourselves and justify living in a way
comfortable to us instead of getting base level honest and humbled
before Him and fearing Him and taking Him at His Word and obeying
Him. Many have made up their own theology to suit their own carnal
appetites (Phil. 3:17-20). When we do truly lay down our lives and
commend our spirits into His perfect hands, His grace immediately fills
and undertakes our lives, enabling us to please Him fully and repent
when we sin (Jn. 1:17; Rom. 5:17; 1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9, etc.).

The LORD commands His people to be holy as He is holy and promises

that no unholy person will enter His eternal glory, regardless of any past
relationship they may have had with Him (2 Chron. 15:2; Ps. 73:27; Isa.
1:18-20; Ezek. 33:12-13; 2 Tim. 2:12; Hebrews; 1 Pet. 1:15-16; 2 Pet.
2:20-22; Rev. 3:5; 21:8,27, etc.). What is taught in Scripture is to dig
deep and get rid of all the mud of dishonesty that exists between the
LORD and our hearts (Jer. 1:10; Hos. 10:12; Lk. 6:46-49; 2 Cor. 2:17;
4:2-3). This is the only way Christ prescribed for us to lay the foundation
of our lives upon the only rock that will sustain and uphold us in eternity
with the LORD. All those who cover their sins with an unbiblical teaching
that enables sinfulness, prove that they arent accountable to the LORD
(Prov. 28:13). They are not submitted under His lordship (Matt. 7:21-23;
Lk. 6:46). The LORD who is holy holds us accountable to love and serve
Him, confessing and repenting of our sins. He will not bless us if we don't
(Prov. 28:13; Jer. 5:25; Rom. 2:1-7, etc.). Like David we must cry out to
the LORD and be zealous to repent. (Ps 51; Rev. 3:19)
There is no getting around the truth that sin separates men from God
and no one who persists in sin will be in His holy Heaven/presence (1
Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:5-9; Heb. 12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27). Peace
is only in Jesus and in remaining in Him (Jn. 15:6).
God sovereignly gave man free moral agency and will not drag any person
(against his individual will) into His holy Heaven. The idea that God is
somehow bound and forced to keep the person who though once His, has
since departed into a life of sin and unbelief finds no biblical
reconciliation whatsoever. Such an erroneous notion is no where found
in Holy Scripture.
Were we not warned that we shall not escape the judgment of God if we
slip and slide backwards and if we neglect to obey His Word of
salvation?
Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the
things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slipHow shall we escape, if we neglect so great
salvation. Hebrews 2:1, 3
The most insidious aspect of this whole deadly deception that is
transpiring in our midst is that smiling, comforting men who in many
cases are very sincere (yet sincerely deceived), are teaching this lethal lie
utilizing selected and out of context Scripture texts to communicate it
and make it palatable (acceptable). This they do in the face of Scripture

like 1 Peter 4:17-18, which reveals that only a portion of those made
righteous will escape eternal judgment.
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house
of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them
that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely
be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 1
Peter 4:17-18
Who is the Almighty going to judge? He is starting at the house of God
and promises that the righteous scarcely be saved.
Though many in leadership today deny Christ by making a wide gate
to Heaven, according to the Son of God, only a few who profess to
know Him will enter into the splendid gates (Matt. 7:13-14; 21-23).
The heads (leaders) thereof judge for reward (personal gain),
and the priests thereof teach for hire (money), and the
prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the
LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can
come upon us. Therefore shall Zion for your sake be plowed as
a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain
of the house as the high places of the forest. Micah 3:11-12
Several hundred years before the Messiah was born into the earth, the
covenant people of God were departed from the LORD. Their day was no
different than ours. An epidemic of false leadership identified by false
teaching plagued the professing church world. Here in Micahs day, while
Israel was living in sin, the leaders were teaching Gods people that
none evil can come upon us. They supposed that they were insulated
from any judgment that they were eternally secure. God promised to
judge His people Therefore shall Zion for your (the leaders) sake be
plowed as a field (v12)
For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that
are led of them are destroyed. Isaiah 9:16
For from the prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth
into all the land. Jeremiah 23:15

OSAS is no new doctrine. It is not a new thing taught by those in

leadership, guiding many into delusion and ultimately destruction (2
Thess. 2:10-12). As we have seen, this teaching started in the Garden of
Eden, was first taught by Satan, and is now being perpetrated by wolves
in sheeps clothing in our midst (Gen. 2:17; 3:4; Matt. 7:13-20; 2 Cor.
11:13-15).
These who teach and those who buy into the lie of lasciviousness vainly
imagine that there will be no judgment to come upon them for their sins.
Though some live in sin, they fully believe that they are eternally
secure. But what does the LORD say?
And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord
Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In
flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and
that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be
punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of
the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come
to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that
believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in
that day. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10
According to 2 Thessalonians 1, the two classes of people to be
punished with everlasting destruction are:
1) Them that know not God and
2) Those that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ

This passage in 2 Thessalonians 1 reveals that those who profess

and yet do not possess obedience to the Gospel of Jesus Christ will
be punished with everlasting destruction. Those who know Christ
have the fruit of good works they willingly obey the Gospel of our
LORD Jesus Christ. Ones works reveal his inner heart and faith or
lack thereof (Tit. 1:16; James 2; 1 Jn. 2:3-5).
Any person who is not living in genuine obedience to the Gospel of
Christ, will be damned eternally unless he repents and turns back
to Christ before it is too late (Matt. 7:21; Jn. 5:29; 1 Jn. 2:3-5).

My People Know Not the Judgment of the Lord

Moreover thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD;
Shall they fall, and not arise? shall he turn away, and not
return? Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a
perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to
return (repent). I hearkened and heard, but they spake not
aright: no man repented him of his wickedness, saying, What
have I done? every one turned to his course, as the horse
rusheth into the battle. Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth
her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the
swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know
not the judgment of the LORD. How do ye say, We are wise,
and the law of the LORD is with us? Lo, certainly in vain made
he it; the pen of the scribes is in vain. The wise men are
ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected
the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is in them?
Jeremiah 8:4-9
Many of Gods people whose hearts have been hardened through sin
(Heb. 3:12-15) say with insolence and impudence, What have I done
that would require me to repent!? Or, What did I do to need to repent!?
Can you feel this attitude they exhibit? His people have been blinded and
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. (Heb. 3:13) They are no
longer in touch with the holiness and resulting judgment of the God who

once saved them. but my people know not the judgment of the
LORD. (Jer. 8:7)
The LORD instructed us to be zealous therefore, and repent. (Rev.
3:19) This crass attitude toward the holiness of the LORD and sin is
exhibited by some today who claim to be saved. The lawless myth from
those who are turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness has
fruit (Jude 4). It shows up in the lives of those who believe they are saved
and yet not living in holy communion with the LORD Jesus Christ, but
Jesus asked this rhetorical question And why call ye me, Lord, Lord,
and do not the things which I say? (Lk. 6:46)
The OSAS message ye shall not surely die - insulates people from
their need to be holy (Gen. 3:4). Isnt this what it did to Adam and Eve?
Didnt this lie and the way it affected them lead to the very fall of man?
The same falsehood is being perpetrated upon the church world today
and having the same affect on the hearts and destinies of people.
You may wish to diligently study this passage in Jeremiah 8. There is
much to behold here. We see that Jeremiahs day is the same as our day.
Though they had many seemingly wise men who supposedly knew the
Word of God and were scribes (wrote books), they were totally deluded
and unable to discern that the wrath of God was getting ready to fall
upon them for their unbelief and rebellion against Him who is holy. See
also Romans 1:18.
Concerning this text (in Jeremiah 8:7), Donald Stamps, in the Life in the
Spirit Study Bible, writes:
MY PEOPLE KNOW NOT THE JUDGMENT OF THE LORD.
The people were ignorant of Gods law. Moreover, their leaders so
distorted the Word of God and falsified its message that the people
were assured they could sin without condemnation (v.8). In a
similar manner, the apostle Peter speaks of those who twist the
word of God to their own destruction and to the destruction of
others (cf. 2 Pet. 3:16). We must beware of any ministers who
teach that those who willfully continue in sin and rebellion against
God will still inherit salvation and the kingdom of God (see 1 Cor.
6:9-10).

As was the case in the Garden, the occasion the devil chose to first issue
forth this ye shall not surely die lie, was in the sanctuary of God. So
it is today right in our midst! Beloved, be discerning! Beware! Be
biblical!
In his book The Great Gospel Deception, David Kirkwood writes:
False teachers are very deceptive. They have some exterior
indications of being genuine. They may call Jesus their Lord,
prophesy, cast out demons and perform miracles. But the sheeps
clothing only hides the ravenous wolf. They arent of the true
sheep. How can it be known if they are true or false? Their true
character can be known by examining their fruits.
What are the fruit of which Jesus was speaking? They are the
fruits of obedience to all He has taught. Those who are true, teach
and do the will of the Father. Those who are false, teach what is
not true and practice lawlessness (7:23). Our responsibility, then,
is to compare their teaching and lives with what Jesus taught and
commanded.
False teachers abound today in the church, and we should not be
surprised, because both Jesus and Paul forewarned us that, as the
end approaches, we should expect nothing less (see Matt. 24:11; 2
Tim. 4:3-4). The most prevalent false prophets of our day are those
who teach that heaven awaits the unholy. They are responsible for
the eternal damnation of millions of people. Of them, John Wesley
wrote,
How terrible is this!-when the ambassadors of God turn agents for
the devil! when they who are commissioned to teach men the way
to heaven do in fact teach them the way to hellIf it be asked,
Why, who ever didthis?I answer, Ten thousand wise and
honourable men; even all those, of whatever denomination, who
encourage the proud, the trifler, the passionate, the lover of the
world, the man of pleasure, the unjust or unkind, the easy,
careless, harmless, useless creatures, the man who suffers no
reproach for righteousness sake, to imagine he is in the way to
heaven. These are false prophets in the highest sense of the word.

These are traitors both to God and manThey are continually

peopling the realms of the night; and whenever they follow the poor
souls they have destroyed, hell shall be moved from beneath to
meet them at their coming! p. 164, 165
One of the clearest indications that a leader is false is that he conveys or
teaches the notion that unholy men will go to Gods holy Heaven when
they die. This same fatal falsehood that has echoed through the corridors
of history is alive and well in our day, propagated by those claiming to be
the representatives of the Son of God, who never hinted nor taught such
a doctrine. No, Jesus warned His very own to endure to the end to be
saved and that in your patience (perseverance) possess ye your
souls. (Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Lk. 21:19) When asked to quantify how
many would be saved in the end, Jesus told His own to agonize to enter:
Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved?
And he said unto them, STRIVE (agonize) to enter in at the
strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and
shall not be able. Luke 13:23-24
To equate this lie of the ages, sin-justifying heresy to the grace and
Gospel of Jesus Christ is nothing less than blasphemous! The words of
Christ paint no such picture. The historical recorded words of Jesus
Christ reveal in crystal clear language that He came to take away sin
and save His people from not in their sin. Any person who believes he is
saved and yet is living in sin, is under the judgment of the Almighty. Any
person teaching that one who was once saved is always going to be saved
no matter how he chooses to exercize his will after salvation, is teaching
a false gospel and deceiving the hearts of the simple. (Rom. 16:1718) Beware!
If Jesus Christ came to die and take away our sins, how is it that we
justify remaining in them? See Matthew 1:21; John 1:29 and Titus 2:1114. The one who would believe such an atrocity hath trodden under
foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant,
wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace. (Heb. 10:29)

We must look at Gods grace as something that we do not deserve,

receiving it soberly and never taking advantage of His goodness lest in
the end we be found to be those who have trodden under foot the Son
of God.
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the
knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for
sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery
indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. Hebrews
10:26-27
Did the eternal, self-existent and Almighty God cease to be holy, holy,
holy just because He saved me? What evil pride to imagine such! How
self-centered a notion! How haughty a thought! LORD Jesus please
forgive our wickedness, change our hearts to truly know You! Destroy in
us any such wicked belief about You!
Be not highminded, but fear. Romans 11:20
When one refuses to acknowledge and uphold the holy nature of the one,
true and living God, he denies Him and will be deluded in his belief. In
fact, anyone who does such has espoused the image of a false god in his
heart and is destined for delusion and destruction.
Creating a god in their own image, some vainly imagine that the LORD in
not going to judge them for living in sin and that He somehow
understands and accepts them in their sins. Perhaps the world of sinjustifying psychology has corrupted their minds. The Word of God is the
cure.
While speaking about obeying and abiding in Him, Christ stated:
If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had
sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin. John 15:22
There is no excuse for living in sin after Christ shed His blood to be the
propitiation for our sins and gave us the Word of His Gospel and the
requirements for being with Him eternally.

The original life is embodied in the notion or idea that man can live in
disobedience to his Maker and still remain in His grace. We must deny
emotions and sentiments and lock into and wholly embrace Gods written
revelation of Himself. If not, we will be at risk of being separated from His
presence as the first man and woman and millions upon millions
throughout history have been.

Why Some Believe Osas

In the absence of even one definitive statement of Scripture telling us we
are unconditionally, eternally saved and secure, and with a myriad of
warnings about losing out, we should ask a few questions:

Why do some draw such a conclusion?

Why do some draw the conclusion that once a man is truly saved,
he cannot forfeit his salvation, no matter what sin he continues to
commit and rebellion he chooses to live in?

How is it that an utterly holy God would keep someone who

decides to be unholy?

Three Reasons OSAS is believed:

1) Ignorance
2) Justification of sinful living
3) People are being taught this heresy by deceived men
It is my opinion that there are perhaps three general classes of people
who believe that once a person is truly saved, he absolutely cannot forfeit
his salvation for any reason, no matter what his conduct or attitude
toward God:
1. New believers who are not personally grounded in the written Word
of God and are being taught this heretical doctrine in their local
church and/or through radio ministries, books, friends, etc.

2. Those who are born again people and love the LORD, yet have been
taught OSAS (once saved always saved) from the beginning of
their walk with God and still embrace it due to their lack of
exposure to the preponderance of Scriptural evidence which
refutes such a teaching.
3. Those who have been exposed to large amounts of information for
each position and yet choose to believe OSAS due to their refusal
to repent and live holy before God. They are only deceiving
themselves and will unfortunately regret such a decision for
eternity if they do not turn to God before it is too late. This person
uses this teaching as a license to live as he wishes, instead of truly
seeking how God requires him to live and instead of obedience to
Christ (Jude 3-4; Heb. 12:14). These hide behind this teaching so
as not to disturb their artificial sense of security. Believing this
teaching allows them to live as they desire instead of under the
Lordship of Christ who paid for their sins with His own blood on
the cross of Calvary (Heb. 10:26-39, etc.).
In their flawed unbiblical logic some say that Gods salvation is so great
and glorious that He ceases to be holy and punish sin. Is that what the
LORD has told us in His Word? How does that make sense or reconcile
with the whole of Scripture? It simply doesnt. Then they turn around
and tout their errant version of a grace not found in the Bible as being
that which magnifies the holiness of God, all this while saying sin cannot
separate the saved soul from a holy God! Recently while listening to
Christian radio I heard a local pastor of a very large (more than 20,000
members) say what sin or sins can do away with this so great
salvation? Surely this man has read Galatians 5:19-21 and Revelation
21:8 & 27, right? Yet, the doctrine men have taught him early on in his
life wins out and takes precedence.
After listening to this man speak to thousands over the air waves, the
leader of a very large Christians congregation, it occurred to me why so
many believe this teaching. It has been passed down from generation to
generation from pulpits across American and sold to the people. Many of
those people who have bought this bill of goods have been taught this
perversion of grace and have not yet tested it against Gods Word, so
there is much opportunity to help them realize the error of this grace-

corrupting teaching. Perhaps this writing could be utilized to challenge

such a thought that one can after being saved live in sin and yet his
salvation not be threatened (Rom. 6:1-2, 15).
Jesus said that there are those which for a while BELIEVE, and in
time of temptation FALL AWAY. (Lk. 8:13) Would anyone like to argue
with the Almighty? The kingdom of Heaven (not hell) was likened to how
many virgins? Go see what Christ told us in Matthew 25:1-13. Only 5 of
the 10 made it. Warning! Beware! If one is living in sin instead of faith,
he has no eternal security promise from God. Dare we call the Son of
God a lunatic and liar for warning all of the danger of missing out? See
Mark 9:42-49.
Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before,
beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the
wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. 2 Peter 3:17
Some of what we are calling the hard truths of the Bible include:
1. The utter necessity of personal holiness
2. Judgment to come
3. Denial of the self-life
4. Eternal damnation
Many claiming to be Christians, do not want their false security zone
threatened so they shut out people who dare to talk about the hard
truths of Gods Word (Isa. 30:9-10; 2 Tim. 4:3-4). This they do while
giving token lip service to Gods Word they claim to believe that the
Bible is Gods Word and yet are actually making the Word of God of none
affect (not effectual to themselves) by their own rejection of it to keep
their traditions (Mk. 7:6-9). Those who do not believe that sin can
separate a person once truly saved do not believe the Bible which tells us
that God is holy, holy, holy and that without holinessno man
shall see the Lord. (Isa. 6:3; Gal. 5:19-21; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Heb. 12:14;
Rev. 4:8; 21:7, 27)

For sure, to find out from Scripture that only a few among all those
who profess to know the LORD are going to enter Heaven is shocking yet
nevertheless a Bible truth (Matt. 7:13-14; 1 Pet. 4:18). Honestly, the
truth is at times incriminating, intense, intrusive, and trying to discover
and embrace. The few who will enter have one thing in common they
love the LORD who is the Truth and will not sacrifice it for their own
convenience and comfort (Matt. 22:37:37; Jn. 14:6). The way we respond
to the truth locates where we truly are spiritually (Lk. 8:18). If one is not
willing to die to the self-life but rather shuns divine truth in order to
preserve his sense or feeling of security, God Himself will turn him over
to be deceived and ultimately damned if he doesnt repent (2 Thess. 2:1012; 2 Tim. 4:3-4). Such a person has placed his own self (his own feelings
and well being) above the LORD whose name is Jealous (Exod. 20:3-4;
34:14). Anyone or anything placed above the LORD is idolatry.
Those who claim to be of God and refuse to heareth Gods words
are not of God according to Jesus (Jn. 8:47). The prophet Jeremiah
records the truth about these people who were at one time the very
covenant people of God - they are not valiant for the truth. (Jer. 9:3)
Where are the men of valor who will stand unceasingly valiant for His
truth and earnestly contend for the sacred contents of Holy Writ in a day
when so many leaders have abandoned God, sacrificing the truth on the
altar of popularity and personal gain? Where are those abandoned to the
LORD and His original kingdom plan who have therefore lost any vestige
of their own agenda? Those who wage the war for the truth, fighting the
good fight of faith, who weather the storms of persecutions that come
against the truth they ardently embrace, will become seasoned in the
faith once delivered to the saints and be entrusted by the LORD with
kingdom authority and eternally rewarded.
Living in the presence of His holiness and maintaining correct doctrine is
essential to final salvation (2 Jn. 9).
There are those who want to make up their own way and still believe they
are going to the Heaven inhabited by the One whose Words they thumb
their noses at (Prov. 14:12). But Jesus informed us that in eternity He
will be ashamed of all those who are ashamed of His words (Mk. 8:38).
Speaking about the antichrist and his worldwide system, the Word
foretells that in the final days of this age, only those who love and obey
the truth will escape the wrath of God.

And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that

perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that
they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them
strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all
might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure
in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
Those who receive and obey and love the truth will be eternally saved.
Those who prefer their own temporal pleasure to the truth of God will
be sent strong delusion, that they should believe a lie and be
damned. This is a divine promise and guarantee.

Tucked Under His Holy Wing

The biblical version of salvation is one of initial faith to be justified and to
continue in that faith, accessing Christs grace while abiding in Him and
His teachings. In that place of divine grace is the most precious and
protected place on earth, securing that true believer forevermore.
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall
abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psalms 91:1
Those who abide in His presence are tucked securely under the shadow
of His wings of protection. They have nothing to fear. No devil or
otherwise can touch them. Their God is mighty and infinitely wise and
powerful and no being can penetrate Him to get to His beloved.
Those who elect to abide in Him are protected from the accusations of
the enemy and those who would rise up against them. The LORD Himself
knows them and how He sees them is all that is important in the final
analysis. He alone is and will be their Judge on that great Day.
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect? It is God
that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that
died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right
hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Romans
8:33-34

PRAYER: LORD Almighty, You told us in Your Word that You are going to
judge Your own people and that those who justify sinning will be eternally
doomed. In any way my thinking has been contaminated by the lie that
justifies sin, please do Your transforming work. Forgive and cleanse me
Jesus and grant me a heart of flesh. LORD please purify my heart,
thoughts, actions and life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and Your truth. I
love You Holy Father and look forward with fervency to being with You
forever. Amen

CHAPTER SEVEN

THE GOODNESS
AND SEVERITY OF GOD
Honestly Beholding the LORDs Goodness and Severity

Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I
might be grafted in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken
off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he
also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and
severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee,
goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou
also shalt be cut off. And they also, if they abide not still in
unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in
again. Romans 11:19-23

God is love and full of goodness and those who rebel against Him will
be dealt with according to His severity. Here we have the Holy Spirit
reminding all blood-bought New Testament believers of what God did in
judging His own covenant people (the Israelites) when they sinned and
refused to return to Him in repentance. He is specifically speaking to
Gentile Christians here and warning that just as He cut off His
covenant people for their sins, so He will not hesitate to do to us if we live
in sin without returning to Him in repentance.
Particularly, I want us to make Romans 11:22 our focal point here:
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them
which fell, severity; but toward thee goodness, if thou
continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
Romans 11:22
Commenting on Romans 11:22, one writer states:
It is not hypothetical, its a threat!
Would the LORD threaten His people? The word if always indicates
and denotes the possibility and potential of something. After He saved
them with the spectacular miracle of the Red Sea the LORD warned His
people to remain in Him, their only hope of salvation. To His very own
covenant people, the LORD promised that if they were to forget Him
that He would cause them to surely perish.
And it shall be, IF thou do at all forget the LORD thy God,
and walk after other gods (idolatry; spiritual adultery), and
serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day
that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD
destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye
would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God.
Deuteronomy 8:19-20
Lets consider the threat and pronouncement of the LORD in Jeremiah 6:
Be thou instructed, O Jerusalem, lest my soul depart from
thee; lest I make thee desolate, a land not inhabited
Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath
rejected them. Jeremiah 6:8, 30

Here the LORD calls His own covenant people to be instructedlest

my soul depart from thee. Then He says He has rejected them.
The following passage illustrates the way the LORD deals with His people
if they rebel against Him:
But Jeshurun (Israel) waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen
fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; then
he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the
Rock of his salvation. They provoked him to jealousy with
strange gods, with abominations provoked they him to anger.
They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they
knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers
feared not. Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful,
and hast forgotten God that formed thee. And when the LORD
saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons,
and of his daughters. And he said, I will hide my face from
them, I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very
froward generation, children in whom is no faith. They have
moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have
provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move
them to jealousy with those which are not a people; I will
provoke them to anger with a foolish nation. For a fire is
kindled in mine anger, and shall burn unto the lowest hell, and
shall consume the earth with her increase, and set on fire the
foundations of the mountains. I will heap mischiefs upon
them; I will spend mine arrows upon them. They shall be
burnt with hunger, and devoured with burning heat, and with
bitter destruction: I will also send the teeth of beasts upon
them, with the poison of serpents of the dust. The sword
without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man
and the virgin, the suckling also with the man of gray hairs.
Deuteronomy 32:15-25
As the Creator of all has seen fit, the relationship between Himself and
men involves the exercise of the individuals free will. God deals with men
as they choose to exercise their free will in response to His blessed
salvation (Num. 13-14; Deut. 30:19; 2 Chron. 15:2; Isa. 1:19-20; Gal.
6:7-9; 2 Tim. 2:12).
For them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise
me shall be lightly esteemed. 1 Samuel 2:30

Friend, do we desire to acknowledge more than just one divine attribute

of God or only His goodness? What about the severity of His holy
wrath upon those who sin? Do we desire to obey Gods Word that we
witness with our very own eyes here in Romans 11? If so, we must begin
immediately to embrace not only His goodness but also His
severity. We are warned in this passage and many others that severe
judgment will be upon those who were once His and then go back into
sin.
Two truths concerning the nature of God run parallel throughout the
whole Bible:
1) The sovereignty and grace of God
2) The God-given free moral agency of men (free will)
Whenever either of these truths is violated, neglected, or not considered
with full weight, falsehood is a sure thing. This is why the apostle Paul
instructs us to behold both the goodness and the severity of God
(Rom. 11:22).
As a matter of honesty and personal safety, we should begin to view the
LORD from both of these divine attributes revealed in Holy Writ. This will
not be a popular stance. Seldom do we hear the judgment of God spoken
about in the church world today, yet this makes no less severe and true
His promise to condemn all who live in sin and dont repent.
In Romans 11, while speaking of Gentile believers (v11), the Holy
Spirit issues a sober warning specifically to all Gentile believers of the
New Testament period. Romans 11:22 is an important verse to
memorize for all honest, full-counsel, truth-seekers. Lets read it
again.
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them
which fell, severity; but toward thee goodness, if thou
continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
Romans 11:22
As we see here, the born again Bible student should study the revealed
fullness of the divine nature and attributes of the LORD, including His

goodness and severity. Jesus Christ, the Almighty God, who was and
is and is to come, is shown in the book of Revelation to be the Lamb and
the Lion. The Lamb represents His loving nature and reflects the great
love He showed to us by coming to be our propitiation or sinless, atoning
sacrifice. The Lion nature of Christ relates to His attribute of holy wrath
against sin and how He will soon return to bring untold and horrid
judgment upon all who have not repented and been washed in His blood
and all backsliders (2 Pet. 2:20-22).
Saints, lets ask ourselves a simple question: why would God here use
the term cut off if such were not possible? The term cut off or some
form of it, appears 215 times in Holy Scripture. Doesnt this theme
appear throughout Gods Word?
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. John 15:6
If such a truth shocks us, perhaps we do not have a proper revelation of
the severe judgment of a holy God upon sinners and transgressors. If we
do not acknowledge the severity of His judgment, we possess an
impartial image of the divine in our minds and hearts and do err, not
knowing the scriptures. (Matt. 22:29) Are we not warned that His very
own people will be destroyed for lack of knowledge? (Hosea 4:6)
Concerning the important passage in Romans 11, Donald Stamps, as
seen in the Life in the Spirit Study Bible, states:
THOU ALSO SHALT BE CUT OFF. Paul directs a grave warning to
all Gentile believers, i.e., to all Christian churches, denominations, or
fellowships.
(1) The terrible possibility exists that God will cast away or cut off
any individual, ministry, church, or group of churches if they do
not continue in his goodness and in the N.T. apostolic faith and
standards of righteousness (v.20).
(2) If God did not spare Israel, neither will He spare any particular
church or fellowship (v.21) if it rejects Gods ways and conforms to

the ways of this world (see 12:2). Therefore all Christian churches
are to fear (v.20), keeping in mind both the goodness and severity
of God and making every effort to continue in the apostolic faith
and practice of the N.T. No Christian church or ministry may
presume with confidence that it will never fall under the judgment
of God. With churches as with individuals, there is no respect of
persons with God (2:11).
In other words, if the LORD divorced His own covenant people (Israel),
non-Jewish believers are to fear lest they also be cut off. Many do
not want to accept the Bible reality that we must fear God in truth and
obedience or we will be cut off. Such a truth does not pander to their
idolatrous desire to feel secure in their salvation, while living life on
their own terms. According to the Bible, if we refuse to fear God and
remain obedient to the end of our lives, we will forfeit our place in His
kingdom. What could be clearer in this Scripture text?
This is one of the warnings given to New Testament believers in light of
the unchanging Gods retribution upon His people when they sinned
against Him who is holy and refused to repent.
This is a severe warning to all of His people. According to Romans 11:22
it is indisputable that all who are born again and yet do not continue
in his goodness, living in faithful obedience to Him, will be cut off
from His kingdom and suffer eternal damnation in the lake of fire.
What exact judgments upon the Jews are referred to here? Would you
like to know one specific incident of Gods judgment upon those who
brazenly sinned among His very covenant people? Check out this
account in Numbers 16:
And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all
these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under
them: And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them
up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto
Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to
them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon
them: and they perished from among the congregation. And all
Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for

they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also. Numbers 16:3134

The Bible tells us that hell, prepared for the devil and his angels, is
in the heart of the earth. (Matt. 25:41; 12:40)
In this landmark judgment found in Numbers 16, we see that the LORD
Almighty caused the earth to open up under the feet of the violators and
they were dropped down into the horrible fires of eternal damnation. And
these men are still there today, with no reprieve from the excruciating
torment they are suffering. Here is a sample of what these people, once
the very covenant people of God, are this moment suffering, and so will
all those who depart from Christ under the New Covenant:

Unquenchable fire. Mark 9:45

Eternal damnation. Mark 3:29

Everlasting punishment. Matthew 25:46

A place of everlasting burnings. Isaiah 33:14

Torment with fire and brimstone. Revelation 14:10

A lake (ocean) of fire. Revelation 20:15

No 2nd chance to escape (utter hopelessness). Luke 16:26

Weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 8:12

A place of eternal remorse (regret). Luke 16:19-31

A place of complete consciousness. Luke 16:25

A furnace of fire with wailing. Matthew 13:42

No rest day or night forever (eternal misery). Revelation 14:11

Outer darkness. Matthew 8:12; 22:13

A place of sorrows (seething remorse and despair). Psalms 18:5

A place of everlasting destruction. 2 Thessalonians 1:9

A place of torments. Luke 16:23

The LORD Nearly Killed Moses

And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met
him, and sought to kill him. Then Zipporah took a sharp stone,
and cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet, and
said, Surely a bloody husband art thou to me. So he let him go:
then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the
circumcision. Exodus 4:24-26
Concerning this text (in Exodus 4), Donald Stamps, in the Life in the
Spirit Study Bible, writes:
THE LORDSOUGHT TO KILL HIM. Moses had neglected to
perform the covenant sign of circumcision in the case of his own
son. This was seen as a clear sign of disobedience on the part of
Moses and his wife (vv. 24-25; see Gen. 17:11, note). Evidently God
afflicted Moses with a potentially fatal illness until he had his son
circumcised. This incident demonstrates that Gods election of an
individual continues on as long as he or she remains obedient (see
2 Pet. 1:10, note).
If we are going to live outside of an intimate relationship with Jesus
Christ and with sins not confessed in the sight of a holy God, we should
get ready to experience the above listed punishment and also consider
that hell and all therein will ultimately be cast into the lake of fire (Rev.
20:14-15). Jesus taught us to fear Him who is able to cast both our souls
and bodies into hell and that it would be better to cut off our own hand
or pluck out our eye, than to allow that sinning member to cause our
whole body to be cast forever into damnation (Matt. 10:28; Mk. 9:43-49;
Lk. 12:5).
Like the man who cultivated and had a heart after the LORD, we should
openly and swiftly confess any sin we commit - For I will declare mine
iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. (Ps. 38:18)

Sowing & Reaping

What ever happened to Galatians 6:7-9?
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man
soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh
shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the
Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be
weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint
not. Galatians 6:7-9
In His unfathomable wisdom, the Ancient of Days set up the law of
sowing and reaping which we all live under. Those who obey Him by
sowing to the Holy Spirit, reap blessings now and forever, while the
person who lives in sin soweth to his flesh will reap eternal
corruption.
Paul wrote this letter to the churches of Galatia. (Gal. 1:2) So, the
apostle, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, is addressing here the
Galatian believers, not unsaved people. From this foundation we
conclude then in this passage that the person who is truly saved never
then loses the ability to sow to the flesh and reap corruption. From this
we can clearly understand that the born again person can and will reap
eternal corruption of soul if he sows to the flesh (lives in sin). And the
Bible assures us that such a person will reap corruption which
includes eternal damnation. Such a truth is further made obvious in that
the text says that those who sow to the Holy Spirit will reap life
everlasting. Also, Galatians 6:9 concludes that one who does not grow
weary in well doingshall reap, IF he faint(s) not. Again this is a
conditional promise. Reaping life everlasting is conditional upon the
persevering faith of the individual believer who has received initial
salvation. The LORD requires a living faith in Him, initial and ongoing to
receive final salvation (Matt. 10:22; Col. 1:22-23; Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 10:3639).
Have you ever cried out to the LORD in desperation saying something
like Jesus save me from myself! I certainly have on many an occasion
and He heard me and delivered me as He promised He would (2 Chron.
7:14; Ps. 34:4). As we have all experienced, at times the intense strength

of the sin nature rages in us and when not kept mortified, will wreak
havoc. Have you noticed? His grace is sufficient for us in all things but
only as we cling to Him in utter desperation of heart and soul!
PRAYER: Jesus, take my life. I desire nothing more than You. Cleanse me
of any notion or thinking that is contrary to Your Word and help me to
understand Your goodness and severity. Deeply impact my conscience and
heart with Your holy conviction. I beg You to multiply the precious and
glorious grace You died to provide. LORD, according to Pauls prayer, I ask
You to strengthen me with the might of Your Spirit in my inner man in
order that I might more fully please You. I love You LORD Jesus. Amen!

CHAPTER EIGHT

QUOTES FROM OSAS TEACHERS

And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man,
say unto her, Thou art the land (people) that is not cleansed,
nor rained upon (shown mercy) in the day of indignation.
There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof,
like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured
souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they
have made her many widows in the midst thereof. Her priests
(leaders) have violated my law (Word), and have profaned mine
holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and

profane, neither have they showed difference between the

unclean and the clean Ezekiel 22:23-26
Jude and 2 Peter 2-3 feature lists of historical accounts where the LORD
Almighty severely judged those of and among His own covenant people
who made the choice to live in sin after knowing Him. There are angels,
nations, peoples and individuals included in the list of those damned to
hell for their disobedience to the LORD who is holy. In the face of such
clear knowledge concerning the unchanging God, some still dare teach
the eternal security heresy.
Today there are frightening scores of leaders who are teaching this
license for sin doctrine. Some of the most popular teachers today are
believers in the heresy of OSAS (once saved always saved). Perhaps
they have been made popular by the demand of the populace to hear ear
tickling messages which deal only with surface issues and never probe
and penetrate to the depths of the heart. Though posing as Christians,
these deluded leaders are ignorant of an intimate and personal
knowledge of the LORD who is holy. They are violating the Word of God
by not recognizing that the LORD is holy, holy, holy and making a
clear division between the holy and profane and showing the
difference between the unclean and the clean. See also Psalms
51:10; 139:23-24, Isaiah 6:3 and Revelation 4:8.
Sin had separated mankind from his Creator (Gen. 2-3). Our LORD
Jesus came to this earth because God is holy! Yes, Christ came to the
world because God is holy and cannot fellowship with sin (Gen. 6:5; Isa.
59:2; 64:6; Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Eph. 2:1-7). Without Christ man was
helpless to regain his place of relationship with His Maker (Tit. 3:4-7).
The LORD is holy, holy, holy and man is sinful. Any man in
leadership who does not hold this cardinal truth (mans utter depravity
and Gods absolute holiness) in utmost importance and prominence is
thoroughly deceived at best. According to the whole record of Holy Writ,
the whole reason Jesus Christ came was that we might know God and be
washed from that which separated us from Him sin. He left the glory of
His Father and came In the body of his flesh through death, to
present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.
(Col. 1:22)

Making the holiness of the LORD a light thing and therefore the sins that
violate His holiness, is an extremely fatal endeavor and being perpetrated
by the blind leaders who are leading many astray in this late hour (Matt.
15:14).
To illustrate the prevalence of the lie of lawlessness, one need only
observe that most Bible commentaries come from proponents of this
antinomian heresy and are therefore skewed across the board in their
doctrines. Beware!
Personally, when I am checking out a ministry, there are a couple of
initial things I look for in discerning where they are coming from. One of
those things is whether or not there is an underlying belief in OSAS. If
so, all their other doctrine will be amiss. Specifically concerning doctrine,
the apostle Paul said A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. (Gal.
5:9) When someone has embraced a falsehood, their whole body of belief
will be permeated with that error. The Bible imagery using leaven and
bread is that it takes but a sprinkle of leaven to infuse, pervade, affect,
and expand the whole loaf of bread. So, it takes but a sprinkle of
falsehood to tilt or skew a persons whole belief system.
As we see in Ezekiel 22, with all errant camps, their leaders build upon
one anothers false doctrines and gain momentum doing so There is a
conspiracy of her prophets. (Ezek. 22:25) The conspiracy of these
false prophets is against the LORD and such is discerned by what they
teach which is contrary to the biblical revelation.

Micah 3
As we see in Micah 3, so many leaders today are leading people into
destruction by misrepresenting the LORD. Concerning the prophets
that make my people err the LORD says they hate the good, and
love the evilthat abhor judgment, and pervert all equity. They
build up Zion with blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity. (Micah 3:2,
5, 9, 10)
Note that these false prophets who make the people err by loving evil and
hating His holiness build upJerusalem with iniquity. In other
words they infuse the people of God with the justification of sin and

iniquity and then even have the audacity to lean upon the LORD,
and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us.
(Micah 3:11)
There is a conspiracy of her prophets. (Ezek. 22:25) - False teachers
and prophets are self-driven and directed (Phil. 3:17-19). They are doing their
own thing and have a natural affinity with others in their profession who are
building their own kingdoms in lieu of the kingdom of God. True servants of
Jesus Christ are all His they are not purpose-driven or self-driven, but
rather Holy Spirit led and obedient to the eternal Word above all else. These
who live in the fear of God resolutely recognize that they have nothing good in
themselves but all holy good is in Christ Jesus and His Word (Jn. 3:30; Acts
20:24; 2 Cor. 3:5; 4:5). These men, of whom the world is not worthy, are
agents of the King and declare His truth relentlessly, leaving nothing out
which might make them unpopular. In the fear of the LORD they have died to
their own reputation among men. True men of God uncompromisingly
esteem Christ as their sole and ultimate riches (Heb. 11:26). As He did
with His prophet Ezekiel, the LORD is able to instruct those leaders who truly
know Him as He fills their mouths with His truth (Ezek. 3:4). Take note to
what the LORD says to Ezekiel:
And he said unto me, Son of man, go, get thee unto the house
of Israel, and speak with my words unto themMoreover the
word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Now, thou son of
man, wilt thou judge, wilt thou judge the bloody city? yea,
thou shalt show her all her abominations Ezekiel 3:4; 22:12
As all of the LORDs prophets and apostles do, so Ezekiel exposed the
sins of Gods people in obedience to Him. The people were consequently
able to know where they really stood with the LORD and were given the
opportunity to repent (Isa. 1:18-20; Rev. 2-3).
Those true to the LORD show difference between the unclean and
the clean (Ezek. 22:26) Consider the message of Ezekiel and compare
it to those who lead your life. Such will reveal whether you are being led
into the true way of the LORD or into the ditch of darkness by a blind
leader.

Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord
GOD; Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn
away your faces from all your abominations. Ezekiel 14:6
Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one
according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn
yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not
be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions,
whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and
a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have
no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord
GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. Ezekiel 18:30-32
The LORD is holy and is going to judge His own people for their sins. Those
true to Him warn men unceasingly to repent and be cleansed (1 Cor. 11:3132). Those in the house of the LORD who die in sin will suffer eternal
ruin.
Of the false shepherds of His day Jeremiah said For ye have perverted
the words of the living God. (Jer. 23:36)
While those leaders who remain true to the LORD call men to repent,
counterfeit leaders refuse to. God-fearing leaders communicate His sinexposing truth unceasingly, false teachers embrace and espouse
doctrines that justify sin and downplay the holiness of the living God
while claiming to glorify Him.
For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but
as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in
Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:17
As the biblical revelation makes plain, Satan is very subtle. He is evil and
insidious. Those who teach people the unconditional eternal security lie
(OSAS), do it subtly in most cases. To come out too quickly with
something so contrary to the Scriptures, would set off an alarm in the
minds of those who read their Bibles. So, such a teaching is usually
rolled out gradually, perhaps in a sequence. Lets look at this a little
further.

In his booklet entitled The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer shows

the steps utilized by the eternal security teachers to entice people to
embrace this falsehood:
Three Steps in the Eternal Security Doctrine: The eternal
security teaching is presented in about three steps, occurring in
logical sequence. No one who accepts the first step or presentation
of the issue can avoid the other two that follow, unless he is
awakened to its error. For the believer who has been reading his
Bible and yet has not heard of the eternal security claims, to be
approached with the full eternal security teaching at once, would be
a shock that would result in their rejection. Evidently for this reason,
the eternal security teaching is unfolded a step at a time. The three
steps in their order of presentation to a convert to eternal security
are as follows:
1. If a person is truly born again by the Spirit of God, he will not want
to go out into sin. He is kept by God and is eternally secure.
2. If a person is truly born again by the Spirit of God, he may go out
into sin, but since he is born again, God will certainly bring him to
repentance again before He allows him to die.
3. If a person is truly born again by the Spirit of God, he is saved
eternally, no matter how he lives and how he dies.
Christian people who are satisfied to abide by the Word of God will
have very little criticism for the first step as stated above. The man
who does not want to sin and trusts in the keeping power of Christ
is certainly secure. The weakness in the first step is the fact that
no conditions are admitted in connection with our keeping.
The second step is unscriptural because it throws the
responsibility of the sinning saints recovery on the Lord. Incidents
will be given later on to show that mans free will enters in, and
that God will do nothing in the salvation of sinners and the
recovery of sinning saints that violates this God-bestowed attribute
of personality.

The last step is the ultimate one that believers in eternal security
will hold, if they are consistent with their avowed principles. Newly
won converts do not get the third step teaching in the beginning.
The very thought that a saved man is secure in sin would be
repelling to a new disciple. As one grows in knowledge concerning
the favorite arguments of the eternal security teachers and their
mode of Biblical interpretation, he becomes reconciled to the third
and final form in which this doctrine manifests itself.
The Eternal Security Teaching by J. L. Stauffer, copyright 1933 by J. L.
Stauffer, second edition (revised).

Quotes from some who Teach OSAS

Might the LORD be asking the following question to many today who
recognize this unconditional security teaching for what it is?
Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? or who will
stand up for me against the workers of iniquity? Psalms
94:16
To illustrate just how widespread this unconditional eternal security
teaching is, lets look at some quotes from leaders who have influence
over millions of souls.

Charles Stanley:
As we begin our study of eternal security, we must keep two
definitions very clearly in mind: SalvationDeliverance from
eternal death, and possession of eternal life. Eternal Security
That work of God, which guarantees Gods gift of salvation, once
received, is possessed forever and can never be lost.
What you believe and know about these two terms is vital to your
hope and confidence as a Christian, as well as to your witness for
Christ. Confusion about how you were saved leads to confusion
about how a person might remain saved. www.Intouch.org
With no biblical authority whatsoever, Charles Stanley says that
salvation, once received, is possessed forever and can never be lost. So

he begins with an unbiblical and therefore false premise that one can
never forfeit the gift of salvation once he has truly received it. This he
says in utter contradiction to the Word of God. Then Stanley says that
what a person believes about his (Stanleys) version of unconditional
eternal security is vital to your hope and confidence as a Christian, as
well as your witness for Christ. In actuality the once saved always
saved message clearly robs the fear of God from the hearts of men, as it
did with the first man and woman, so it is error to suppose that such a
security is built on a false idea. This lie led to their sin and fall. The Word
says In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children
shall have a place of refuge. (Prov. 14:26) So Charles Stanley opposes
the clear message of the Bible which states that when we fear the
LORD instead of living on the false presumption that we are eternally
secure, we have strong confidence. Strong confidence or
assurance and deep peace come from fearing God and not from adopting
a doctrine that gives ones heart a false hope and false sense of security.
Stanley also writes:
If you believe that your salvation came about by anything other
than simply believing in what Jesus Christ did for you on the
cross, then you believe that your salvation was in some way related
to your own will and to your own works. If you believe that your
salvation is related to your will and your works, then you will
believe that your will and your works can in some way undo or
negate your salvation.
On the other hand, if you believe that your salvation was based
solely on what Jesus did for you and what the Holy Spirit has done
in you, then you believe that your salvation was a sovereign work of
God. Your part was simply to believe and receive what God provided
and what God promised. The person who believes this must
therefore conclude that since he did absolutely nothing to transform
his old sin nature into a new spiritual nature, he cannot do
anything to cause his new spiritual nature to revert to his old
nature. www.Intouch.org
Charles Stanley, in a classic Calvinistic way, supposes that one gets
saved without his own will involved. This is in blatant contradiction to

volumes of Scripture. He also attempts to smokescreen his false grace

message by insinuating that one who believes he has the choice
automatically seeks to gain salvation by his own works. Then he says
that nothing one can do after being truly saved can negate his
salvation. Jesus said sin will lead one to hell no matter what his
previous experience with God (Mk. 9:43-49). Who shall we believe, Jesus
Christ or Stanley (a mere man)? Paul the apostle of Christ told us that
any one of 17 specific works of the flesh would pre-empt one from
entering the kingdom of God. In fact, he was speaking to the Galatian
believers, not unsaved people, when he told them that they which do
such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal. 5:19-21)
On his website, Charles Stanley further states: since he (the saved
person) did absolutely nothing to transform his old sin nature into a new
spiritual nature, he cannot do anything to cause his new spiritual nature
to revert to his old nature. In stark contrast, the LORD Jesus tells us
that the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and
murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all
liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and
brimstone: which is the second death. (Rev. 21:8) Paul told us that
For there is no respect of persons with God. (Rom. 2:11)
Also, in this excerpt from his website, Stanley continues to insert his
false assumptions by speaking of what God promised. In this he is
speaking of unconditional eternal security as if God ever promised that
a person can live in sin, depart from Him, and still remain in His grace
and be promised to go to His holy Heaven. An absurd and unscriptural
insinuation at best!
It is NOT lying, cheating, stealing, RAPING, murdering, or BEING
UNFAITHFUL that sends people to hell. [emphasis ours] Charles
Stanley, Eternal Security: Can You Be Sure? Oliver-Nelson Books,
1990, p. 70.
Neither do we become unsaved by acting unsaved. Ibid., p. 71.
Charles Stanley

John MacArthur:
The point is not that God guarantees security to everyone who will
say he accepts Christ, but rather that those whose faith is
genuine will prove their salvation is secure by persevering to
the end in the way of righteousness (italics his). The Gospel
According to Jesus, by John MacArthur, 1988, (Chap. 8, p. 97)
Yes, someone says, but cant Christians put themselves outside
Gods grace? What about those who commit ABOMINABLE SINS?
Dont they nullify the work of redemption in themselves? Dont
they forfeit the love of God? CERTAINLY NOT...its preposterous to
think that we can forfeit it [salvation] BY ANYTHING WE DO.
[emphasis ours] John MacArthur, The Love of God, Word
Publishing, 1996, p. 159.
True believers will persevere. If a person turns against Christ, it is
proof that person was never saved. The Gospel According to Jesus,
by John MacArthur, 1988, p. 98
MacArthur here says that a Christian can never do anything that would
put him outside Gods grace. What saith Gods Word?
Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are
justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. Galatians 5:4
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no
man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of
the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up
trouble you, and thereby many be defiled. Hebrews 12:14-15
John MacArthur here shows his brazen disregard for the holiness and
full-counsel of the LORD. We have already addressed how that the Word
tells us plainly that sin does separate us from the LORD God, who is
holy, holy, holy and how that sin not repented of is still on the record
(testifies against) of that person who refused to acknowledge and turn
from sin (Isa. 6:3; Heb. 2:1-3). The LORD will by no means clear the
guilty. (Exod. 34:7) He says here that He will not clear the guilty
without that person touching the blood of the only sacrifice He granted

us - of His beloved and only begotten Son. The LORD delights to show
mercy yet will only do such as there is the fear of God and authentic
repentance (Exod. 34:7; Ps. 103:11).

John Ankerberg:
But CHRISTIANS may still lose rewards in heaven. Indeed, we can
only wonder what some Christians will feel like and experience on
that day when they lose those heavenly rewards because of the
spiritually numbing and other consequences of FORNICATION or
ADULTERY while on earth. It will certainly be an infinitely poor
exchange -- losing eternal rewards in heaven for a few fleeting
moments of sexual pleasure on earth. [emphasis ours] The
Ankerberg Theological Research Institute, News Magazine (Vol. 2,
No. 6), June 1995, p. 4.
What does Gods Word state?
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the
kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor
idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate (feminine men), nor
abusers of themselves with mankind (homosexuals), Nor
thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor
extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were
some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye
are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit
of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

Erwin W. Lutzer:
Recently I spoke to a HOMOSEXUAL who believes he accepted
Christ at the age of twenty, only to plunge into a life of WANTON
IMMORALITY .... Whether or not he was a child of God during
those days of heedless carnality (who of us knows for sure?), he
lost fellowship with his Father. [emphasis ours] Erwin W. Lutzer,
How You Can Be Sure That You Will Spend Eternity With God,
Moody Press, 1996, pp. 131, 132
See 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 above.

But Im convinced that those who have trusted Christ are in

heaven today even if they die with the sin of murder on their
conscience. (How You Can Be Sure That You Will Spend Eternity
With God, Chicago: Moody Press, 1996, p. 101)
God says:
We know that we have passed from death unto life, because
we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in
death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye
know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. 1
John 3:14-15

John R. Rice:
David committed sins of murder and ADULTERY. We must
condemn his sins. They were bad. But Davids sins were under the
blood of Christ, and in the fifty-first Psalm, the prayer of David
shows that HE HAD NOT LOST HIS SALVATION, BUT THE JOY OF
SALVATION. [emphasis ours]. John R. Rice, Can a Saved Person
Ever Be Lost?, Sword of the Lord Publishers, 1943, p. 16
Will we believe Rice or the Almighty?
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these;
Adultery, fornicationof the which I tell you before, as I have
also told you in time past, that they which do such things
shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
Of Rices assertion of Psalm 51, Alan Burns writes:
This author (White) is not reading and quoting this passage found in
Ps. 51:10-12, in its entire context. A text of scripture taken out of
context is a pre-text and is no text at all! He only quotes verse 12 and
builds a thoelogical pre-suppostion on one verse alone, and is
breaking a very important rule of interpreting Holy Scripture. I believe
it is to justify this false concept of eternal security. In my opinion and
in all reality, he left out the two most important verses in this
chapter, which incidently are the two previous verses--verses 10 & 11.

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within

me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit
from me. V 10, 11
Why would David pray something this radical unless he knew he
could very well lose his salvation as a result of committing his gross
sins of murder and adultery? Furthermore, he knows that if God
doesn't give him a stedfast and faithful spirit; he would continue to go
morally astray and then be eternally lost. (if indeed he died in that
sinful condition). It just shows you that David knew and understood
enough of the holiness and character of God that he feared this very
thing could happen. Pastor Alan Burns

Charles Ryrie:
...sin does not cause us to lose our salvation. Charles Ryrie, So
Great Salvation, Victor Books, 1989, p. 143
The LORD says:
And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned
against me, him will I blot out of my book. Exodus 32:33

Arthur Pink
Eternal Security is the teaching that God shall with no
uncertainty bring into their eternal inheritance those who are
actually justifieddelivered from the curse of the law and have the
righteousness of Christ reckoned to their accountand who have
been begotten by the Spirit of God. And further it is the teaching
that God shall do this in a way glorifying to Himself, in harmony
with His nature and consistent with the teaching of Scripture
concerning the nature of those who are called saints. Why is this
important? Why is it important for every Christian to know that
once God has taken him for His own, He will never let him go?
Arthur W. Pink gives many reasons for this in this book on Eternal
Security. For one thing, it is necessary in order to strengthen
young and fearful Christians in their faithby safeguarding the
honor and integrity of God and His Word. And it is also necessary
in order to preserve one of the grand and distinctive blessings of
the Gospel, which to deny is to attack the very foundations of the

believers comfort and assurance. From the Foreword in the book

entitled Eternal Security, by Arthur W. Pink
The theme of this present series of articles is far more than a
theological dogma or sectarian tenet: it is an essential portion of
that Faith once for all delivered to the saints, concerning which we
are exhorted to contend earnestly. In it is displayed, respectively,
the honor and glory of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and therefore they who repudiate this truth cast a most horrible
aspersion upon the character of the triune Jehovah. The final
perseverance of the saints is one of the grand and distinctive
blessings proclaimed by the Gospel, being an integral part of
salvation itself, and therefore any outcry against this doctrine is an
attack upon the very foundations of the believers comfort and
assurance. How can I go on my way rejoicing if there be doubts in
my mind whether God will continue to deal graciously with me and
complete that work which He has begun in my soul? How can I
sincerely thank God for having delivered me from the wrath to
come if it is quite possible I may yet be cast into Hell? Eternal
Security, Chapter 2, Arthur W. Pink
Did you note that Pink never once mentions the holiness of God, sin, the
utter depravity of men, the cross, the necessity of initial and ongoing
repentance, the fear of the LORD or the need to trust God fully in all
things? His words are very insidiously arranged and not reconcilable with
the words of our LORD and His apostles. His framing of words fits what
Paul said of those who are to be marked by good words and fair
speeches (they) deceive the hearts of the simple. (Rom. 16:17-18) In
looking at Pinks words, I scratch my head at the deceitful and
superfluous polemics he uses with very little Scripture included. Pinks
words seem to be an attempt to utilize flowery speech in order to lure
people into the intoxicating lie of the ages.
For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they
allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much
wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who
live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves
are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is
overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after

they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the

knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are
again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse
with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them
not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they
have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered
unto them. 2 Peter 2:18-21
The Holy Spirit inspired Jude to write concerning those false teachers
who mock at the holiness of God and are turning the grace of our God
into lasciviousness. (Jude 3-4) He cites these wolves in sheeps
clothing for using great swelling words to allure and deceive their
hearers with a message of grace that promises a home in Heaven no
matter what vileness and depravity one practices after being saved. Jude
also warns us what to watch for:
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own
lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having
mens persons in admiration because of advantage (self-gain).
But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken
before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they
told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should
walk after their own ungodly lusts. Jude 16-18
Pinks eternal security teaching is specifically and thoroughly refuted at:
http://www.safeguardyoursoul.com/html/the_eternal_security_teaching.html
In the next chapter we will review some of the most popular arguments
offered by the OSAS teachers and proponents.
PRAYER: Jesus please grant me ears to hear what Your precious Holy
Spirit is saying to Your Church. Grant Your holy fear and grace to my heart
to live a life void of offense toward You and others. Bless my life to bring
forth fruit to Your eternal glory. Amen.

CHAPTER NINE

PROOF TEXTS & SCRIPTURE TWISTING

Popular Verses Used by Ungodly men Who Are
Turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness
(Jude 4)

our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom

given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his
epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some
things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned
and unstable wrest (pervert), as they do also the other
scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved,
seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being
led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own
stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and
for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:15-18
Peter says here that some of the apostle Pauls writings are hard to be
understood.
Perverting the Scriptures is here called the error of the wicked which
can cause the believer to fall.
Did you notice here that the twisting of Scripture leads to
destruction? Perverting the clear Word of God is punishable by death
or eternal damnation even when the one perverting the Word of God
prophesies and it comes to pass (Deut. 13). Then there is the warning to
all saints: beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest
ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your
own stedfastness.
Paul told us that in his day there were already many, not a few, who
were corrupting the word of God.

For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but
as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in
Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:17
Should we be surprised that there are those in this late hour who are
bent upon twisting the Words of God to fit their own doctrine, to justify
sinful tendencies and practices, and for their own agenda?
Ye have perverted the words of the living God. Jeremiah
23:36
According to 2 Timothy 4:2-3 and Hebrews 4:12 sound doctrine cuts
to the heart and some do not want to endure it for that very reason, so
they migrate to one of the many false teachers who will tickle their ears
with false doctrine. Sound doctrine calls for men to change and change is
hard and it hurts. The Word of God, in raw form, is alive and piercing. It
sheds light on the darkness in our hearts and we either repent or rebel.
Jesus said that He rebukes and chastens those He loves and that He
desires that we repent and be blessed by His transforming grace (Rev.
3:19).
Men in leadership who are not truly rooted in the Word of God and in the
fear of the LORD, seek to please men and become popular among the
people. So, they seek to create their own brand of Christianity in order to
circumvent the cross the need to die to the self-life and obey the Word
as it is clearly written. This is what occurs when men twist and pervert
the truth of God in order to accomplish their personal agenda of building
their own ministry enterprise.
Paul addressed those who sought to present a twisted message by
adopting false teachings in order to circumvent the offence of the cross
and escape the promised persecution that would come upon them for
teaching the whole truth (Lk. 6:26; Gal. 5:11-12; 6:12).
Satan is the author of the confusion of twisting Gods Word and seeking
to use it to accomplish his own agenda. He is also the master of all who
do it. Remember the lie in the Garden and how he added but one word
and caused the fall of mankind into sin and separation from the LORD?

(Gen. 2:17; 3:4) This was the very first distortion of Gods words and the
resulting sin and separation have been devastating.
Those who will stay faithful to the LORD must endure sound
doctrine, allowing the LORD to circumcise their hearts more and more.
Though it hurts at times, we must receive with meekness the
engrafted word which is able to save our souls. (James 1:21)
Saints, let us with all diligence stay with and earnestly contend for
the faith given us in the original Gospel in written form (Jude 3-4). In
the Galatian church there were those leaders Paul addressed who sought
to adopt false teachings in order to circumvent the offence of the cross
and escape the promised persecution that they knew would come upon
them for preaching the real Gospel (Matt. 5:10-12; 10:22; Lk. 6:26; Gal.
5:11-12; 6:12).
One earnest, truth-seeking Christian recently emailed us the following:
Ive struggled for a while now with the idea of the security of the
believer. I grew up in a Baptist church, learning Baptist doctrine
of course. I personally feel eternally secure in my faith, but I also
believe that I will never completely turn my back on the
Savior. However, I see some that have strayed from the
faith. After reading certain Scriptures in Hebrews and other
books, I fear for their eternal destinationMost people in support
of eternal security rest their case on just 1 or 2 verses, which in
my opinion is not a right dividing of Scripture.
Those who dont learn and know Gods Word for themselves, through
rigorous, daily study, are vulnerable to being led around by the nose by
the false teachers telling them what the Bible says using selected and out
of context verses to the exclusion of the whole of Holy Scripture.
The remainder of this chapter will feature themes and verses utilized and
distorted by the many leaders who corrupt the Word of God with
the doctrine of lawlessness which they blasphemously claim is part of the
Gospel (2 Cor. 2:17). This chapter is not an attempt to present an
exhaustive study of how the prophesied grace-perverters corrupt Gods
truth, yet it examines some of the more popular verses and passages

used to justify this lie of lasciviousness. We are going to assess and

confront these texts and notions directly and do a deeper, more thorough
scriptural investigation in order to apprehend the divine truth intended
(2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16).
Note that this chapter can also be used as a reference guide for the
future when communicating with those who have received and embraced
the lie of the ages.

Predestined, Sealed
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who
hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places
in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the
foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without
blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the
adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to
the good pleasure of his will Ephesians 1:3-5
The saints of the Most High God are blessed...with all spiritual
blessings in heavenly places in Christ. We also read here that He
hath chosen, not forced, us that we should be holy and without
blame before him. Those who are chosen and choose to live unto the
LORD are made holy by Him. If one is not being made holy, it is clear
that he has no part with Christ (Jn. 13:8; 2 Tim. 2:19; Tit. 2:11-14; Heb.
12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27). Gods choosing of us who have trusted in Christ
does not automatically determine that the individual believer will answer
His call to continue to trust Him. According to Revelation 17:14, Christ
will soon return with those who are called, and chosen, and faithful.
God unfailingly does His part and the individual must do his part in
which he will always be granted the enabling grace of God to perform
(Phil. 2:12-13). The human will must never be factored out of the picture or
there will be misunderstanding. Jesus told us that many are called
yet few chosen due to the fact that only a few choose to be faithful
to the LORD (Matt. 7:13-14; 20:16). Without faith it is impossible to
please him and those who draw back unto perdition (destruction),
not choosing to believe to the saving of the soul, will lose out
eternally (Heb. 10:26-39; 11:6).

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being

predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all
things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to
the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye
also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel
of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were
sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of
our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased
possession, unto the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:11-14
One will find that the sealed teaching is prevalent among those who
seek to justify the perversion of the grace of God using His very words.
Their teaching on being sealed is quite the occasion to privately
interpret, twist and misuse the Scriptures. Those who are turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness find much opportunity to
exaggerate what the Bible states and does not state about being sealed
with that Holy Spirit. Upon a closer, more thorough and sober look at
the word sealed and in the context it is written, and of the whole of the
Word of God, a quite different perspective should emerge.
Note here in Ephesians 1 that the Holy Spirit is speaking of those who
have obtained an inheritance, being pedestinated according to the
purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own
will or word. His Word is His will and the fullness of His recorded
Counsel reveals that the Almighty before destined (predestined) that all
be saved and live according to His truth and holiness. Yet, He never
forces any person to believe or obey Him. Is it not the purpose of God
and the way that has been predestined and not the person? The LORD
told us clearly that He wills all to be saved and come to repentance and
that none (not one) should perish in hell (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9). In light
of this fact of Scripture, we know the LORD would not choose some to be
saved and some to be lost. According to His own Word, He clearly has not
predestined some to go to Heaven and some to hell. God so loved the
whole world that He gave His only begotten Son to pay the full price
for the sins of all of mankind not just some (Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 2:2). Only
those who appropriate His gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, by
meeting the conditions He set forth, will spend eternity with Him and His

family in Heaven (Isa. 1:19-20; Jn. 1:12; Col. 1:23; Heb. 3:12-15; 10:2639; Rev. 2-3).
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared
to ALL men. Titus 2:11
Sealed comes from the Greek word sphragizo which is defined this
way: to stamp with a signet or private mark for security or preservation.
(Lit. or fig.) by implication. To keep secret, to attest: - seal up, stop.
A seal can be broken. A sealed envelope can be opened. It is conditionally
sealed. This Greek word, sphragizo, is the same word translated
sealing concerning the tomb in which Christ was laid after He died on
the cross for the sins of the world.
So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, SEALING the
stone, and setting a watch. Matthew 27:66
Christs tomb was sealed and we all know that the seal of Jesus tomb
was broken, and He rose again. It was not a permanent bond that could
not be broken just as the sealing work of the Spirit of God in the believer
is not necessarily a permanent bond. The LORD wants it to be, yet will
not force any saved person to continue to meet the conditions to be
ultimately saved into His holy presence.
As it is that the Father in Heaven alone could have broken the seal and
raised Christ from the dead, so only God can break the seal He has
formed. From His Word we learn that He will break the seal and loose the
person who was once saved from His kingdom, if that person departs
from the faith (Ezek. 33:12-13; Acts 1:25; Rev. 2:5; 3:16).
From the whole of Scripture, we can conclude that it is the divine
intention that the subject be sealed all the way until the day of
redemption and yet no individuals free moral agency has been removed
or diminished. If one begins to rebel, the seal is in jeopardy.
Every believer is sealed when they initially get saved yet this does not
prevent that believer from sinning which grieves the Holy Spirit of God
who is their seal and brings forth spiritual death (Ezek. 18:4, 30; 33:13;
Rom. 6:23; Eph. 1:13; 4:30; Rev. 21:8, 27).

The person who believes in once saved always saved will say When one
is saved he is sealed by the Holy Spirit and no power in Heaven or earth
can break Gods seal!
To this position, Jeff Paton decrees:
There is no Scripture verse in Heaven or Earth that says that we
cannot break Gods seal! Must they prey on the ignorance of their
readers to get them to believe something the Scriptures never say
in order to prove their point? Ephesians 4:30 warns us not to
grieve the Holy Spirit, the very One who is our Seal. A warning that
serves no purpose if there is no danger! Maybe they should take off
their theological glasses long enough so they can stop seeing
things that are just not there!
It should be remembered that the Greek definition, no matter the scholar
rendering it, is never more authoritative than collating the Scriptures in
English on any particular subject matter (Isa. 28:9-10; 1 Cor. 2:13; 2
Tim. 3:16). This must be realized or there is the distinct vulnerability to
deception by leaders who use Greek ad Hebrew to their own advantage.
Concerning this text (Ephesians 1:13-14), Donald Stamps, in the Life in
the Spirit Study Bible, writes:
Holy Spiritthe earnest. The Holy Spirit is an earnest, i.e., a
first installment or down payment, guaranteeing our inheritance.
In this age the Holy Spirit is given to believers as a down payment
of what we are going to have in great fullness in the future. His
presence and work in our lives is a pledge of our future inheritance
(cf. Rom. 8:23; 2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5).
Lets look at the last part of this text, verses 12 through 14.
who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after
that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation:
in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that
holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance
until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the
praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:12-14

Here we observe that in this context, the writer of Ephesians speaks of

those who first trusted Christ and this they chose to do after they
heard the word of truth. Trusting Jesus and His full payment for our
sins is volitional (left as a choice to each individual). Those who believe,
trusting Christ, are then said to be sealed with that Holy Spirit of
promise. The whole context here is that these who are sealed are
trusting in the LORD. The text says nothing of those who depart from
the LORD which is a clear possibility according to the Word (Heb. 3:1214). The Bible has much to say of this and how all who leave the LORD
by not continuing to follow and obey Him to the end of their earthly lives,
will perish. Those who depart from Christ after knowing Him will have a
worse time in hell than if they had never believed and been saved in the
first place (2 Pet. 2:20-22). In this text, the sealing is clearly connected to
ones trust or trusting in the LORD. Carefully notice that the word
trusted appears ahead of (prior to in sequence) the word sealed. In
the divine economy, trusting Christ fully precedes and is a prerequisite to
the sealing of the Holy Spirit. The Scriptures teach that a believer can
stop believing, that sin can separate him from God, and that he can fall
from grace (Isa. 59:2; Lk. 8:13; Gal. 5:4; 19-21; Heb. 12:14-15; Rev. 21:8,
21).
According to Ephesians, the presence of the Holy Spirit is the earnest,
down payment or deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the
redemption of those who are Gods possession. This however does not
promise or automatically conclude that the one blessed to be chosen and
redeemed will continue in the grace of the LORD and be ultimately saved.
The individuals ongoing choice to love and serve God are controlled by
himself and no one else. God will not force the free will of men (Gen. 6:3;
Deut. 30:19; Isa. 1:19-20; Gal. 6:7-9; Rev. 2-3).
Lets look at an equally divinely inspired passage of Scripture equal in
divine authority as Ephesians 1. And we know that the divine Person of
the Holy Spirit would never contradict Himself in His Word. This will also
help to balance and account for the whole divine counsel that we might
apprehend the mind of Christ in this matter. To see that departing from
Christ after trusting Him is possible, lets look at Hebrews 3:6, 12-15:
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we,
IF we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope

firm unto the endTake heed, brethren, lest there be in any of

you (brethren) an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the
living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To
day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of
sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, IF we hold the
beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is
said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts,
as in the provocation. Hebrews 3:6, 12-15
Being sealed in no way exempts the one who has first trusted in
Christ from obedient faith. He must hold his confidence (in
Jesus) stedfast unto the end and not depart from the living
God. The one who endures to the end must remain in the grace of
God, not possessing an evil heart of unbelief, and becoming a
castaway. A castaway is a biblical word for one who is cast away
from God after being with Him. The very apostle who wrote these
words in Ephesians did not believe that he was indelibly sealed into
salvation with no possibility of departing from the LORD (1 Cor. 9:27;
Heb. 3:6, 12-15).
Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in
whom we trust that he will yet deliver us. 2 Corinthians 1:10
No Scripture states that the child of God is locked into salvation. Paul
says here in 2 Corinthians 1:10 that the great LORD has delivered
usdoth (presently) deliver us and will yet deliver us. Those born
again are presently saved, are being saved, and as we continue in His
grace will be saved. This verse 10 must be taken in context with the text,
including the words which precede this verse. Here this apostle of Christ
is speaking of those whose lives are truly in Christ. The words of verse 9
are the following - But we had the sentence of death in ourselves,
that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the
dead. (2 Cor. 1:9) Those who are saved, must continue in grace and if
they do they will ultimately be saved into eternity with the Alpha and
Omega (Rev. 21:6-8; 22:13). According to Gods Word Christ must reign
in the lives of those who will be His now and forever (also see Rom. 6;
Gal. 5:24). In relationship with Christ and by His grace and our own free
will, we must sentence to death the deeds of the body that the

resurrection life of Jesus might dwell in our mortal bodies (Rom. 6; 2

Cor. 4:10-12).
And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. Galatians 5:24
In Ephesians 4:30 we are instructed to grieve not the holy Spirit of
God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. The whole
verse says:
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed
unto the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30
Grieving the Holy Spirit is obviously possible or such a warning would
not appear in Gods Word. In no place does the Bible hint that the seal
cannot be broken. The grace-corrupters assume such with no Scriptural
authority.
The Bible truth that one can depart from Christ after believing makes it
self-evident that Gods sealing does not mean that one who initially
believes is automatically locked into or forced to remain a child of God
and go to Heaven. This truth must supersede the conclusion drawn by
those who insist upon a once saved always saved theology and
therefore seek to make the sealing of the Holy Spirit a permanent thing
without the consent of the individual.
There are those who vainly believe they are sealed in such a way as to
exempt them from personal accountability or responsibility for their sins.
This many times leads to gross irresponsibility. What the Word of God is
communicating here in Ephesians 1 concerning sealing is that the Holy
Spirits presence is in the one who has trusted and is trusting Christ. The
presence of the Holy Spirit in the believer is the earnest or divinelygiven down payment until final salvation has occurred when that person
is in Heaven (Eph. 1:13-14). One must believe to the saving of the
soul and be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation
to be an overcomer and receive the heavenly crown (Heb. 10:39; 1 Pet. 1:5;
Rev. 2-3). There is no hint of an unconditional eternal security in this
Ephesians 1 text where the Bible uses the word sealed, yet when
dishonest men are bent upon convincing themselves and others of

something, they will twist and spin Scripture until they accomplish this.
While violating the text and intentionally excluding the whole Counsel of
the Word of God, these men make up their own doctrine and are leading
many astray. These who corrupt the grace of God for their own purposes,
vainly imagine that they are sealed in a way the Bible never describes or
validates. The sealing they speak of is a sham a sin-justifying lie,
placing their souls in danger and at ease in Zion Woe unto them.
(Amos 6:1)
The OSAS proponents are assuming something without proper biblical
authority. They run with the sealing doctrine and yet cannot prove what
they teach Beware!
Be not deceived when men attempt to hold the Greek over you as if they
have some superior position of understanding with the LORD. This is
where they supposedly prove their error from the Greek. God gave us His
Word in our own language as He promised (Ps. 12:6-7). Knowing the
Greek and Hebrew is far inferior to knowing the full spectrum of
Scriptures in our own language. Collating the Word in our own language
- line upon line is said to determine the divine verdict on any given
subject (Isa. 28:9-10; 1 Cor. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:16). The LORD Himself clearly
breathed His Word to us and had it transmitted to us in our own
language from Genesis to Revelation. Numerous clearly revealed truths
in the Bible overwhelmingly nullify the misuse of the sealed doctrine
peddled among the deluded. In utter defiance of volumes of scriptural
warnings, some convey by what they teach and do not teach that there
should be no thought of eternal danger for the believer who strays into
rebellion.

Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun
a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus
Christ. Philippians 1:6
Some believe that this verse proves an unconditional eternal security.
The promise to be kept and that God will continue to perform His good
work in us does not negate the conditions cited in the New Testament
to remain in His holy grace. One must walk out his love for the LORD by

abiding in Him and His Word and walking in His light (Jn. 15:1-7; 1 Jn.
1:6-10; Jude 21; Rev. 3:15-16). The Word tells us that if one sows to the
flesh (sins) he will reap corruption (Gal. 6:7-8).
Philippians 1:6 must be observed in the context of the whole book of
Philippians and all of Holy Writ. In Philippians 2:12 we discover that
these believers are those who have always obeyed. The promise of 1:6
that the LORD will continue doing His good work in these true believers
was written to obedient disciples and not to the lukewarm who will be
rejected by Christ in the end if they do not open the door to a real
relationship and repent before it is too late (Rev. 3:15-16, 19-20). This
glorious promise of the keeping power of Jesus was being made to these
true believers at Philippi who had actually obeyed God to the point of
suffering for Christ (Phil. 1:29-30). This reveals to us why Paul was so
confident that God was going to continue to perform His good
work in these beloved saints.
Paul possessed confidence in these disciples due to their lives which bore
witness to the possession of saving faith. These saints at Philippi were
bringing forth fruits meet for repentance. Their works proved or were
consistent with real change of life genuine repentance and saving faith
(Matt. 3:7-8; Acts 20:21). These believers who were promised that Christ
would keep them were not some group who had embraced some easybelievism, thinking in vain that they were eternally secure. Jesus
taught that men are known by the fruits of their lives (Matt. 7:15-23).
The apostle Paul said that these authentic disciples at Philippi were the
only ones who financially supported his ministry at that time! (Phil. 4:1019) We know from the historical data given in this record that their
actions were congruent with their profession. These believers at Philippi
whom the Holy Spirit gave this promise to in 1:6 actually lived the
Gospel, unlike so many today who have made a profession of faith and
yet have no visible fruit in their daily lives which is the result of obedient
faith. There is no biblical promise of security given to those who are not
rooted and grounded in Jesus Christ (Jn. 15:1-6).
Okay, as should be our custom, lets look at more of the immediate
context of this verse (1:6). This is essential to gaining a full
understanding of the promise of verse 6 of chapter 1. We are going to
now read Philippians 1:4-6:
Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request
with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day

until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which

hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of
Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:4-6
Notice here that Paul says he prays for these believers who are actually
in fellowship or partnership in the Gospel with him from the first day
until now. Note the words until now. Their partaking of the Gospel
with Paul was current. They were presently living by faith. These people
were authentic disciples, continuing to believe and even to suffer for the
Gospel of Jesus which he promised would be the result of truly following
Him (Jn. 15:20; Phil. 1:29-30; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Pet. 4:12-14). They were the
real deal and it is to them that the divine promise is given that God will
continue to perform it (His saving work) until the day of Jesus
Christ.
It is only the person that possesses a preconceived notion about an
unconditional eternal security who could manipulate Philippians 1:6.
This they do while isolating it from the very text it is divinely set in.

Romans 8:29
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be
conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the
firstborn among many brethren. Romans 8:29
Those who choose to believe are predestined to be conformed to Christs
image. Romans 8:29 says NOTHING about anyone being predestined
(pre-selected, before determined) to salvation. God so loved the whole
world and He intends for all to come to salvation and not just a select
few (Jn. 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9; 1 Jn. 2:2). The Almighty loves all
men. Jesus died for all men, not just some men. The Bible says that
Christ died for the sins of the whole world. (1 Jn. 2:2) Any godless
teaching that even hints of the erroneous notion of Christ dying for a
certain few is false and should be blatantly exposed as such. When taken
synthetically as a whole, Romans 8:29 reveals that the way is
predestined and not the person. The LORD has predestined all who would
repent and believe upon Christ to be conformed to His holy image while
on earth and spend eternity with Him. Repentance and faith in Jesus
Christ brings salvation to all who believe upon Him (Jn. 1:12; 3:16; Acts

3:19; 20:21; Rom. 10:9-13). Those who will be with Jesus Christ in
eternity are called, and chosen, and faithful. (Rev. 17:14) God does
the calling and choosing and when men are faithful to His plan they
appropriate all of His rich blessings. He calls all men to be saved yet only
those who answer His call will be saved (1 Tim. 2:4). Those who will be
with Christ in eternity are said to be called, and chosen, and faithful.
Revelation 17:14 reveals the consistent pattern to be observed
throughout Gods Word. God made man with the ability of choice.
Throughout Holy Scripture we see the initiating grace of God and the
need for the one who will be saved to repent and believe upon the Savior
and then to continue to be faithful to Him alone who is worthy of all
praise. The LORD calls but each person exercises choice in response. In
order to be eternally saved men are required to receive Christ as LORD
and then be faithful to the end, in order to partake of the salvation of
the LORD.

Romans 9-11
Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump
to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?
What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power
known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath
fitted to destruction: And that he might make known the
riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore
prepared unto glory, Even us, whom he hath called, not of the
Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? Romans 9:20-24
The OSAS proponents would have us believe that this passage proves
what John Calvin taught that some people are pre-selected to go to
Heaven and some to go to hell. They make the elementary mistake of
excluding free moral agency and choice from their thinking. Yet the
whole text is never observed or considered in their conclusion. Nothing in
this passage above negates the God-given, biblically revealed truth of the
free moral agency of each individual. According to His Word, the LORD
rewards and will reward each and every individual according to his own
choices and works (Matt. 16:27; 2 Tim. 4:14; Rev. 2:23). Romans
chapters 9-11 contrasts the Jews and Gentiles. In chapter 11 the Word
states:

Thou wilt say then, The branches (Jews) were broken off, that
I (the Gentiles) might be grafted in. Well; because of unbelief
they (the Jews) were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be
not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural
branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. Behold
therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which
fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in
his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. And they
also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for
God is able to graft them in again. Romans 11:19-23
This is a clear warning to fear God and beware lest as He did with His
own covenant people He cut off those who rebel.

John 1:11-13
He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as
many as received him, to them gave he power to become the
sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which
were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the
will of man, but of God. John 1:11-13
The clear indication and inference here is that those who received him
not did not become sons of God and those who received him did. Did
God give man a choice? This passage should make this clear. The eternal
security proponent is taught by his mentors to recognize and
overemphasize verse 13 here without considering the very words leading
up to verse 13. He therefore errs in his conclusion. You see, those who
insist that man has no choice and that salvation is all of grace and does
not involve the one being saved only acknowledge the verses which speak
of the initiating grace of God Which were born, not of blood, nor of
the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (Jn. 1:13) It
is true that no man can come to God without being drawn nor can he will
himself into salvation (Jn. 1:13; 6:37). It is also true that when men are
drawn of the LORD to salvation, repentance, faith, and obedience, they
have a choice in their response as many as received him, to them
gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe
on his name. (Jn. 1:12) According to verse 12 here, when drawn one
must receive Jesus and His propitiation and teachings in order to

become a son of God. After one is saved, the choice to continue to abide
in Christs grace is an ongoing choice of faith.
Lets look at what 2 Peter states:
Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your
calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never
fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly
into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus
Christ. 2 Peter 1:10-11
Those who give diligence and dont fall away but rather endure to
the end, are promised an abundant entranceinto the everlasting
kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (Matt. 10:22; 2 Pet.
1:10-11) Salvation was and is 100% the initiation of the LORD but He
also gave men the option to receive Him or reject His salvation and
blessings (Deut. 30:19-20; Isa. 1:18-20).
One cannot endure to the end out of sheer self-effort and if he could
God would not be glorified in such will worship - (will worship is
worship out of the human will apart from the LORD and self-effort apart
from Him Col. 2:23). Enduring to the end is a volitional, joint relational
venture. It really does take two to tango and we see this dance of love
throughout Holy Writ between the LORD and His people (Deut. 30:19-20;
Jos. 24:15; Isa. 1:18; Rom. 8:13; 2 Cor. 3:18; Phil. 2:12-13; 1 Pet. 1:5).
There are two parts to be played, not one. Persevering to the end is not
automatic it involves volition and choice. It simply means continuing to
love God above self and remaining in intimate relationship with Him who
is our first love and not allowing our love for Him to wax cold (Matt.
24:10-13; Rev. 2:4). We are kept by His power as we continue in
faith to choose relationship with Him over all else (Exod. 20:3; Matt.
22:37; 1 Pet. 1:5). When we love Him supremely we will be blessed not to
deny Him even unto death (Rev. 12:11). Divine grace coupled with
mans faith equal total victory (Rom. 4:16; 5:1-2, 17).

Be it known that one cannot endure to the end out of sheer selfeffort and if he could God would not be glorified in such will
worship - (will worship is worship out of the human will apart
from the LORD and self-effort apart from intimate relationship with

Him Col. 2:23). Enduring to the end is a volitional, joint relational

venture. It really does take two to tango and we see this dance of
love throughout Holy Writ between the LORD and His people (Deut.
30:19-20; Jos. 24:15; Isa. 1:18; Rom. 8:13; 2 Cor. 3:18; Phil. 2:1213; 1 Pet. 1:5). There are two parts to be played, not one.
Persevering to the end is not automatic it involves volition and
choice. It simply means continuing to love God above self and
remaining in intimate relationship with Him who is our first love
and not allowing our love for Him to wax cold (Matt. 24:10-13; Rev.
2:4). We are kept by His power as we continue in faith to
choose relationship with Him over all else (Exod. 20:3; Matt. 22:37;
1 Pet. 1:5). When we love Him supremely we will be blessed not to
deny Him even unto death (Rev. 12:11). Divine grace coupled with
mans faith equal total victory (Rom. 4:16; 5:1-2, 17).
PRAYER: LORD Jesus, sanctify my life in You. Set me apart to love
and serve You supremely. Grant the eyes of my heart to know the
difference between the holy and the profane. Open the eyes of my
understanding to know You and Your truth more intimately. I love
You my LORD Jesus! Thank You for finding and saving me! Amen.

CHAPTER TEN

MORE PROOF TEXTS &

SCRIPTURE TWISTING

More Popular Verses Used by Ungodly men Who Are

Turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness
(Jude 4)

2 Timothy 2:9, 10
A favorite passage of the Five-Point Calvinist is 2 Timothy 2:9, 10:
Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but
the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for
the elects sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation
which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
Of this verse, they would say, You see, mans salvation is according to
election. The Calvinist will further go on to explain, I preach the Gospel,
not to win men to Christ, but because I know the elect out there will
respond! But if that is the case, the elect will respond whether he
preaches the Gospel, recites passages from the Koran, or goes fishing!
Right?
In truth, we can see that this passage is teaching the exact opposite of
unconditional election. Why would Paul endure all things if the elect
would be saved anyway? No, Paul was saying that he must endure those
things in order that the elect might be saved! If he did not suffer
according to the description of his sufferings as he outlined them in 2
Corinthians 11:16-33, then some would not be elected, he felt. His
enduring was that others might obtain the salvation which is in
Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

2 Timothy 2:11-12
It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall
also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if
we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he
abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. 2 Timothy 2:11-13

The person seeking to convince others of once saved always saved will
misquote this text by saying that because he (God) abideth faithful
He would never deny us. This is a distortion. Lets read the verse again
okay. The passage states that if we deny him, he also will deny US.
The Word here tells us that if we deny him, he also will deny US.
Does it get any clearer than this? Being honest with what the Bible says
is essential to a clear conscience and to possessing the mind of Christ
and true doctrine. Again, those who seek to make palatable the
unconditional security teaching can be heard misquoting this text saying
He cannot deny us. Is that what verse 13 says? No. It says He cannot
deny HIMSELF. This passage tells us that He will deny us if we
deny him and that He cannot deny Himself, not us. In this Bible
passage we see that the LORD abideth faithful to Himself and to those
who do not deny Him. Didnt Jesus tell us to deny ourselves and that
if we were ashamed of Him or His words He would be ashamed of
us? See Luke 9:23-24 and Mark 8:34-38.
Below is a classic perversion of this very passage of Scripture. I read this
on the internet. The persuasion intended by the person who wrote this is
to convince people of something the Bible simply never puts forth.
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny
himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 - God wants you to know for sure that
you cannot lose it (salvation) under any circumstance whatsoever,
even in the worse scenario. The first part of the verse above says
that we can come to a state of mind that we do not believe in God
anymore. But, the second says that He will remain faithful if that
happensGod cannot deny what He said, because God cannot lie!
(Hebrews 6:18 KJV AV1611) He promised to keep us eternally
secure and He will remain faithful in that promise even if we
believe not. Another possible way of looking at he cannot deny
himself is that we are one in Him. If He was not faithful in His
promise, He would be denying himself of eternal security, that is,
He would be casting part of himself in eternal damnation in the
lake of fire. Jody Adair
www.purewords.org/sojourner/html/security.htm

First off, if in fact as Jody supposes, God wants you to know for sure
that you cannot lose it (salvation) under any circumstance whatsoever,
even in the worse scenario, then why did God Himself warn His people
throughout His Word concerning the danger of:

Departing from the living God (Heb. 3:12-15)

Losing the reward of Heaven for turning back into sin after being
saved (Ezek. 33:12-13; 2 Pet. 2:20-21)

Falling away (Lk. 8:13; 2 Thess, 2:3)

Having damnation, because they have cast off their first

faith (1 Tim. 5:12)

Being cut off (Rom. 11:19-23)

Being forsaken of Him (2 Chron. 15:2; Ezra 8:22; 2 Tim. 2:12)

Being blotted out of the book of life (Exod. 32:33; Ps. 69:32; Rev.
3:5; 22:18-19)

The fact that God remains faithful in no predicts whether individuals will
partake of His plan of salvation. His faithfulness in no way forces men to
remain faithful, nor does it disable the Almighty from rendering a due
reward of eternal judgment upon those who do not meet His
requirements/conditions. This is a truth completely ignored by those
who embrace the un-scriptural notion of an unconditional eternal
security.
For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make
the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be
true, but every man a liar Romans 3:3-4
All sin will be accounted for one way or the other, and this is the
reason for the Judgment Thrones to come (Exod. 34:7; Rom. 14:12-14;
Rev. 20:11-15). This should shine yet a brighter light upon the glorious
Gospel salvation Jesus Christ wrought for His people and how we can
come boldly with our sins to His holy throne of grace to receive grace
and mercy in time of need (Heb. 4:14-16).

It seems to me, after listening to hundreds of those who believe in an

unconditional eternal security, that some people believe that their
theology is going to change the unchanging, immutable God (Rom. 3:3-4;
James 1:17). The twisting of Scripture, instead of rightly dividing the
word of truth is done to ones own destruction. (2 Cor. 2:17; 2 Tim.
2:15; 2 Pet. 3:16-17) The disciple of Jesus Christ must be intent upon
studying to show himself approved unto God, not men, and therefore
be able to rightly divide the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15) The person
who does not diligently study and know Gods Word, stands to be
deluded by the many false teachings circulated in the church world.
What happens if a saved person does not obey and remain faithful to
God? Those who do not choose to persevere in saving faith:

Possess an evil heart of unbelief (Heb. 3:12)

Depart from the living God (Heb. 3:12)

Cannot and do not please God (Heb. 11)

Depart from the faith through doctrines of devils (1 Tim. 4:1-6)

Turn away their ears from the truth and are turned unto
fables (2 Tim. 4:4)

Cannot enter into His rest or presence (Heb. 3:19; 4:6, 11)

Are broken off from the LORD (Heb. 11:20)

The unbelievingshall have their part in the lake which

burneth with fire and brimstone (Rev. 21:8)

1 John 2:19
They

went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they
had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us:
but they went out, that they might be made manifest that
they were not all of us. 1 John 2:19

Numerous clear Bible truths reveal that a saved person can turn away
from the LORD, so we know that the apostle John could not possibly be
saying that a saved person could never depart from the LORD. In my
opinion, this verse is the best argument the eternal security proponent
has, yet its not enough. There must be two or three witnesses and not
just one (2 Cor. 13:1). After a closer examination of this text, one will find
that verse 19 does not teach or justify once saved always saved. When
any one verse is taken to the exclusion of the whole Word of God, one will
certainly misunderstand the doctrine of the LORD which can only be
apprehended by study. (2 Tim. 2:15) This verse is like any other verse
of Scripture it must be taken in light of the entire Counsel of God. The
context to be considered is 1 John 2:18-29).
In examining the context in which 1 John 2:19 is set, we see that false
teachers whom John calls many antichrists, had come and were
telling these believers that Jesus was not the Christ (v22).
Lets look at verses 18 and 19 together:
Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that
antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists;
whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from
us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they
would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out,
that they might be made manifest that they were not all of
us. 1 John 2:18-19
Note here that it is specifically of these antichrists that John speaks
and says that if they had been of us, they would no doubt have
continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made
manifest that they were not all of us.
Concerning 1 John 2:19, Donald Stamps, in the Life in the Spirit Study
Bible, writes:
THEY WENT OUT FROM US. When the antichrists departed
from their fellowship with true believers, they were not in a saving
relationship with Christ. This allows for two possibilities: (1) They
were never true believers to begin with, or (2) they had once been

in a saving relationship with Christ but afterward abandoned their

faith in Christ.
Right here in verse 24 of this passage we see the doctrine of personal
responsibility to remain in faithful obedience to the LORD or lose ones
place with God (1 Cor. 15:2; Gal. 6:9; Col. 1:23). This is a teaching found
throughout Holy Writ the divine requirement to stay saved or lose all in
eternity, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. (Jude 7)
Let that therefore abide (remain) in you, which ye have heard
from the beginning. IF (denotes condition) that which ye have
heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall
continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the
promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. 1 John
2:24-25
Verse 24 alone tells us that we cannot think that verse 19 means that
someone who is at some point in right standing with God can never
depart from Him and lose out. Also, verse 25 tells us that eternal life
(not just rewards) is at stake and the promise contingent upon the
believer abiding or remaining in that which ye have heard from the
beginning which is the Gospel. Eternal life is assured as long as one
is remaining rooted in Jesus Christ. This is the overwhelmingly
consistent message of Gods Word.
In verse 26 John says These things have I written unto you
concerning them that seduce you. Verse 19 is written about the
deceivers who sought to seduce these disciples John was addressing
and not of true believers.
With all of Scripture in consideration, we can conclude that 1 John 2:19
is a specific example and not a rule of doctrine.
If you truly wish to search out this matter, let me encourage you to
closely examine, break down and study this entire text (1 Jn. 2:18-29). In
order to ascertain truth, one must compare the verse in question with all
other related Scriptures, beginning with the context in which the verse is
set (Isa. 28:9-10; 1 Cor. 2:13).

1 John 5:12-13
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 of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye
have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son
of God. 1 John 5:12-13
According to verse 12 here, only those who hath the Son hath (eternal)
life. Nothing here hints of a guarantee that those who have eternal life
will automatically possess it to the end of their lives. Assurance that one
is saved does not mean he can live with un-confessed sin an still be in
the grace of God. Those who are presently abiding in Jesus, according to
His Word (and not their own way), know that they have eternal life.
Eternal life is a possession yet not un-forfeitable as some suppose.

1 John 3:9 & 5:18

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed
remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of
GodWe know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but
he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked
one toucheth him not. 1 John 3:9; 5:18
The terms doth not sin and sinneth not must of necessity mean
that the person who is born of God and presently abiding in Christ
walking in the light, does not perpetually sin. No, rather he
acknowledges, confesses, repents and forsakes sin and is cleansed afresh
(Prov. 28:13; Ezek. 18:30; 1 Jn. 1:6-10). When taken in context with the
whole of Scripture, this verse cannot possibly be saying that once one is
born of God he will automatically not sin and remain true to God.
Mans ability to choose never ceases while he is on earth. It is the born
again Christians individual, God-given choice to endure or not to endure
to the end of his life in the grace of God. Falling from grace is a biblical
possibility and something to be warned about (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 12:14-15).
Lets look at the surrounding text of this passage. Just following these words
found in 5:18 are the words of warning found in verse 21, which state:
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen. (1 Jn. 5:21) Where

do all who die in idolatry spend eternity? The book of Ephesians is written to
believers and in chapter 5 the Holy Spirit through Paul says: For this ye
know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man,
who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and
of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these
things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be
not ye therefore partakers with them. (Eph. 5:5-7)
According to Jesus in John 15, If a man abide (remain) not in me, he
is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and
cast them into the fire (hell), and they are burned. (Jn. 15:6)
In order to receive final salvation, one must abide or remain in Christ
(Jn. 15:5-6). There is no guarantee that Gods seed will remain in the
person who is born again and later departs from the LORD.
If 1 John 3:9 really meant what the eternal security crowd tries to make
it mean, such would make volumes of Scripture meaningless (Gal. 5:1921; Rev. 21:8, 27). God is holy and He will punish all sin that is not
repented of. Destruction is coming to all who die in sin, regardless of
their previous relationship with the LORD (Exod. 34:7; Ezek. 18:30;
33:12-13; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; Heb. 14:12).

John 10:27-29
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow
me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never
perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My
Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is
able to pluck them out of my Fathers hand. John 10:27-29
First off Jesus identifies those sheep whom He makes the security
promise to. He says My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and
they follow me. In this we see one part divine and two parts the
responsibility of the individual.

I know them the divine part (v27)

Those who are His sheep hear His voice and follow Him
the individuals responsibility (v27)

Those who seek to spread the once saved always saved heresy use John
10:28-29 to their advantage and conveniently ignore the preceding words
of Christ in verse 27. Verses 28-29 are promises of security to those who
are currently hearing His voice and following Him. Many ignore the
previous qualifying words (v27) of Jesus where Christ tells us that only
those who are hearing His voice and following Him are promised that
they are secure and will never perish. There is a condition to being
secure in Christ knowing Him - which requires continuing to abide in
Him, hear His voice and follow Him (see also John 15). In this John 10
passage used by the unconditional eternal security crew to peddle their
wares, some neglect to look closely at verse 27 to see who Jesus was
specifically speaking to when He promised they shall never perish.
They refers to those who hear my voice and follow me.
According to verse 27 the promise of eternal security is conditional.
Assurance of salvation is only to those who are presently following
Christ. In verse 27 we learn that protection from judgment to come is
only to those who are currently 1) hearing His voice, 2) known by Him,
and 3) following Him. This is consistent with the message seen in the
whole of Holy Writ.
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow
me. John 10:27
According to these words of Christ, those who know Jesus and
follow Him are given the promise that they will never perish. As
long as the follower hears His voice and follows Him, they are assured
eternal life.
Those who abide or remain under the shadow of His holy and protective
wing shall remain secure in Him (Ps. 91:1). The Good Shepherd here said
neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. No man can
pluck us out of His protection except ourselves by our own decisions. We
who are abiding are protected from the snare of other men drawing us
away as we remain walking with the Son of God. If youre tucked you
wont get plucked. If youre not tucked under the wing of intimacy with
Jesus, you will, can, and are likely to be plucked out of His holy hand by
your own sinful unbelief. The LORD told us Behold, I come quickly:
hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. (Rev.
3:11)

Jesus taught repeatedly that some would not continue to follow Him and
hear His voice and would consequently fall away. There is record of
some who once believed and then stopped believing (Lk. 8:13; 13:23-30;
Jn. 6:66; Acts 8:14-23).

Hebrews 5:9 - Eternal Salvation

And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal
salvation unto all them that obey him. Hebrews 5:9
The proponent of once truly saved always saved surmises that eternal
salvation means that the salvation God grants brings upon the
recipient an eternally fixed state of justification. But this violates other
known truths and so cannot be concluded by the honest student of
Scripture. There is no argument that salvation is eternal, but is it a
possession that can be forfeited? What condition does God put upon men
to receive and keep His so great salvation? (Heb. 2:3) Did you notice
in Hebrews 5:9 that it is unto all them that obey him that He grants
eternal salvation? Salvation is eternal, yet not an un-forfeitable
possession. Eternal salvation is only promised to them that obey
him. This would include faith and obedience to the end of ones life
(Matt. 7:21, 10:22; Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39).
Some believe that because Jesus died once for man, offering Himself as
the perfect sacrifice, that this automatically cements the saved person
into a state of irrevocable grace and salvation. Paul destroys this
argument in Romans 11:19-23 when he tells us that the Jews who were
chosen and made Gods covenant people, were cut off from Him. The
LORD told us in Jeremiah 3:8 that God divorced His own people for their
sin.
The inspired writer of Hebrews said more about the finished and
completely sufficient work of Christ to redeem men than any other Bible
writer, yet this same book contains numerous warnings concerning
slipping, falling away and losing out on eternity in Heaven with Christ for
departing from the LORD (Heb. 2:2-3; 3:6, 12-15; 6:4-6; 10:26-39; 12:1415). So, Christs finished and perfect work of salvation for mankind does
not automatically mean that one who initially partakes of this gift of
salvation is forced to remain in it. In the face of volumes of Scripture

truth, the Calvinist ardently seeks to force mans will out of the picture,
yet in Gods economy men have the ongoing choice to love and serve Him
or not to. The personal decision of the individual is pivotal and will
determine his eternal home (Rom. 6:16).
The finished work of Christ is a foundational truth of Christianity, but
unrelated to the believers security. Christs perfect work to save mankind
does not change free moral agency.

My Sin Cannot Separate me from God!

First of all, this statement is a brazen and blatant attack against the one
true God who is holy, holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3) How audaciously pompous
to imagine that He who is holy is going to receive and keep one who
retains the stain of sin after all Christ did to remove it all!
The LORD told His own covenant people:
But your iniquities have separated between you and your
God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not
hear. Isaiah 59:2
Sin separates man from God and must be repented of for fellowship to be
restored (1 Jn. 1:6-10). This is the most basic fact of Scripture. To ignore
such is to deny the mission and need for Jesus Christ to come to the
earth (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29).
Did Adam and Eve have perfect fellowship with God before the fall?
Obviously. What broke that fellowship? Sin. Were they automatically
forgiven and restored? No. They had to receive the redemption that the
LORD provided as a prefiguring of the blood of Christ to be shed (Gen.
3:21). Without the shedding of life blood can be no forgiveness or
protection from the wrath of God and without repentance there is no
contact with the divine blood and grace (Lev. 17:11; Rom. 5:9; Heb. 9:22).
Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats
of skins, and clothed them. Genesis 3:21

The eternal security proponent will say Everlasting life is

everlastingeternal life is eternaleternal life can never end. It is
everlasting regardless of the believers behavior.
Is this biblical?
In response to this position, Jeff Paton says: Regardless of behavior?
This is rank antinomianism! (lawlessness) It renders all exhortations to
holiness in the Scriptures to be absolutely useless.
The unconditional eternal security proponent will also suppose that
according to 1 Peter 1:4 that Salvation (the inheritance of it) is
incorruptibleNo one can corrupt something God has made
incorruptible. But they dont seem to acknowledge the very next words
in the next verse. Lets take a look at both verses together:
To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that
fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by
the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be
revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:4-5
What is the prerequisite for receiving this inheritance incorruptible
and being kept to receive it? Who are kept by the power of God
through faith unto salvation We are kept through faith which is
volitional and never forced upon any soul. Those who endure in
faithfulness to the LORD will receive this glorious inheritance
incorruptible.
Of this topic, Jeff Paton says Thank God that the inheritance is
imperishable! We know that it will be there for genuine believers! But
dont miss it! It is there through faith, (v.5) not unbelief! The inheritance
is incorruptible, not our possession of it!
Did Jesus come to save us in or from our sins?
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name
JESUS: for he shall save his people FROM their sins. Matthew
1:21

Why do lists of soul-damning sins appear in the New Testament canon?

If ones eternal life were not in jeopardy if he were to live in sin, why were
these sins cited to believers? Why do these passages end with the
warning that no one living in these sins will inherit eternal life? See
Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Revelation 21:8, 27.

Romans 8:35-39
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? As it is
written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are
accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things
we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I
am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor
principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to
come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be
able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ
Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39
All Scripture must be understood in light of the whole of the Word of
God. Being separated from the love of God is different than being
separated from God. Of his very own free will, the prodigal son was
separated from his father yet not from His fathers love (Lk. 15). When in
rebellion the prodigal son was not secure in his fathers care he was not
eternally secure. He had to repent to be restored or he would have died
outside of fellowship with his father. This is a clear picture of the believer
departing from the LORD. If he returns in repentance he will be fully
restored, but if he refuses to return, he will perish in hell forever.
For this my son was dead, and is alive AGAIN; he was lost,
and is found. And they began to be merryfor this thy brother
was dead, and is alive AGAIN; and was lost, and is found. Luke
15:24, 32
Note here in this Romans 8 passage that the Bible never guarantees
anyone that they are unconditionally eternally secure, but that those
who are truly in the LORD are loved by Him and nothing can separate
them (those who truly know and love Him) from His love. As we back up
in Romans 8 we see exactly whom this promise is written to. The promise

in Romans 8:35-39 of not being separated from Gods love is not without
qualification or condition. It is promised to those who:

Are living according to the Holy Spirit and not after the fleshly
sinful nature (Rom. 8:1)

Mortify the deeds of the body (Rom. 8:13)

Are led by the Spirit of God (Rom. 8:14)

We may be unconditionally loved but not unconditionally saved. As we

see throughout Scripture in Gods dealings with His covenant people
Israel, He will unconditionally love us and even draw us, but He will not
unconditionally save us from His judgment if we persist in sinning
against Him. His Word told us that He will cut off the Gentiles just as
He did the Jews if they do not continue in his goodness. (Rom. 11:1923) The LORD will love us all the way into hell, just as He depicted
Himself in the parable of the prodigal son as the father who longed for
his son to return yet never left his property to go force him to return from
his rebellion. See Luke 15. A Jesus who doesnt punish sin is simply a
false Christ.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the
kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor
idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of
themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor
drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the
kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are
washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name
of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians
6:9-11
When verses 9 and 10 are quoted to the OSAS proponent, he has been
trained to spout off verse 11 as if it negates the inspired words of the
previous two verses. Verse 11 does not undo the fact that all these
classes of sinners are going to hell if they dont repent, even if they had
once been saved. The grace-corrupters seek to make the word were the

pivot. Yet, when the whole passage is read and taken as a whole, one will
note that what is clearly inferred is that the Corinthian believers were
once lost and are now saved. Such a truth in no way precludes the
possibility of going back to sin. The truth here is that those who are
washed and also sanctified and justified do not live in the sins
listed here which Paul states will of a surety pre-empt one from
inheriting the kingdom of God. If a saved person commits any one of
these sins, he is fully and personally responsible to repent and stop
doing that sin or he will no longer be washedsanctified and
justified. Nothing in this passage even slightly hints that it is
impossible for the one who is currently in right standing with the LORD
to depart from the LORD (1 Tim. 4:1-6; Heb. 3:6; 12-15).

Hebrews 13:4-5
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but
whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Let your
conversation be without covetousness; and be content with
such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave
thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:4-5
When looking at the fullness of the Word, one will understand this
promise that he will never leave to be like all divine benefits a
conditional blessing. In light of the whole counsel of Scripture, this
couldnt possibly mean that there is no way to depart(ing) from the
living God. (Heb. 3:12) The same inspired writer of Hebrews renders
these words of warning among others:
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart
of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one
another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made
partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence
stedfast unto the end. Hebrews 3:12-14
In order to understand and possess the mind of Christ on any given
topic, all individual verses of Scripture must be taken in light of the
whole of the Word. 2 Chronicles 15:2 is exactly as divinely inspired as
Hebrews 13:4-5:

And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me,
Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while
ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but
if ye forsake him, he will forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2
It seems inherent in sinful human nature to believe that somehow the
LORD overlooks our sin because we are his pet child, but the Bible says
The LORD is with you, while ye be with him and if ye forsake
him, he will forsake you.
2 Timothy 2:12 is also equally as God-breathed as is Hebrews 13:4-5:
if we deny him, he also will deny us 2 Timothy 2:12
Arneomai is the Greek word which was accurately translated by the King
James committee as deny. According to the Strongs Concordance
Arneomai means to contradict, disavow, reject, deny, refuse. So, to
deny Christ means to contradict His word, reject Him, deny Him
and/or refuse to love and obey Him (Mk. 8:34-38).
The question the OSAS proponent cannot answer is: Why would the Holy
Spirit of God have ever mentioned that believers can deny him if such
were not possible? And what did He say happens when a believer denies
Christ? he (the LORD) also will deny us.
Jesus stated:
Whosoever (means ANY person whether once saved or not)
therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also
before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall
deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father
which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32-33
Do these words of the LORD need explanation?

John 6:37-39
All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that
cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from
heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent

me. And this is the Fathers will which hath sent me, that of
all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should
raise it up again at the last day. John 6:37-39
Verse 37 here says that those who come to Jesus He will not cast
out. In v38 we conclude that those who come to Jesus follow Him
and do not do their own will but His. These are qualifiers for the promise
of verse 39 which says that it is the Fathers willthat of all which he
hath given me I should lose nothing. Gods will is that no human
being should die and go to eternal hell which He created for the devil and
his angels and not men yet more go to hell than Heaven according to
Jesus (Matt. 7:13-14; 25:41). Gods ultimate desired will does not force
the individual to adhere to and receive His blessed promises. Such is left
up to the individual (Deut. 4:9-10; 28:1-68). Those who please Him are
given grace to obey and serve Him (Jn. 14:21-23; Phil. 2:12-13; Tit. 2:1113).
We know from 2 Peter 3:9 that it is Gods will that none should perish in
hell. He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should
come to repentance. (2 Pet. 3:9) God draws men and yet He leaves the
final decision up to the individual to choose or reject Him and to
continue to choose life or turn back to disobedience and death after
being saved (Deut. 30:19-20; Rom. 6:16; 8:13).
According to the LORD Jesus and His holy apostles, it is a full possibility
for the believer to become an unbeliever (Lk. 8:13; 1 Tim. 1:19, 20; 2
Tim. 2:18; Rom. 11:19-23; Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39).
The Word of God unmistakably reveals to us that people who are saved
can depart from the faith, cast off their faith, and that it were better for
them not to have known the LORD and the way of righteousness than
after they have known it, to turn away and back to sin (1 Tim. 4:1; 5:1112; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in
Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Romans 8:1

First off, the new versions chop this verse in half which is an atrocity. As
usual the King James honestly renders this verse. There are two
conditions given here, not one. The pre-requisite for being under the
blessed grace of God and not under His holy wrath or condemnation, is
to be in Christ (born again) and to live in the Spirit not the flesh.
Here are the two conditions essential to being under divine grace and not
under divine wrath:

Being in Christ Jesus

Walking not after the flesh, but after the Spirit

Those who suppose that they are eternally secure by being in Christ or
initially saved, may want to look a little closer at what the whole Word of
God says.
If one is in Christ and living after the Spirit, he is assured that no
condemnation is upon him. If a person is living after the flesh he is
under the wrath or condemnation of the LORD.

John 17:12
While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name:
those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is
lost, but the son of perdition (Judas); that the scripture might
be fulfilled. John 17:12
The fact that one of Christs disciples was lost (Judas) shows that others
can and have been lost. The fact that Judas was lost means that he
was previously found (saved). Judas was promised by Jesus Himself an
eternal throne yet by transgression fell. (Matt. 19:28; Acts 1:25)
Jesus only keeps and promises security to those who continue with Him
and keep His Word (Matt. 7:21; 10:22; 24:13; Jn. 14:15, 21; 15:1-6; 1 Pet.
1:5; 2 Pet. 2:20-22). The fact that Jesus prays for His own does not mean
that all of His own are automatically going to make it to Heaven (Matt.
25:1-13; Jn. 17:12; Heb. 7:24-25). Judas was one of His own and didnt
make it (Acts 1:25). The Son of God Himself gave us a kingdom parable
which taught that some who truly begin with Him and are likened unto
the kingdom of heaven (not hell) will not be in Heaven because they

choose not to remain or abide in communion with Him on His terms (Matt.
25:1-13).
The OSAS proponent will argue that It is Gods will that Christ lose none
of those who come to Him. Of this notion, Jeff Paton states Dont
confuse Gods will with Gods decree. God is not willing that ANY should
perish, but some will. Jesus said that it was not Gods will for Him to
lose any; but yet, he admits to losing Judas. Jn. 17:12. Keep in mind,
one must have something in order to lose it!
PRAYER: Holy Father, please grant me Your discernment through Your
Word and Spirit. Increase the hunger in my heart to know You and Your
Word more thoroughly. I choose to count the study of Your Word as top
priority. Open the eyes of my understanding and teach me to discern
between truth and error. Amen.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

PEACE, PEACE;
WHEN THERE IS NO PEACE
JEREMIAH 6:14
The Message of False Prophets

Beloved (Christians), when I gave all diligence to write unto

you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write

unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for
the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there
are certain men crept in unawares (secretly), who were before
of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness (a license for sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will
therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this,
how that the Lord, having SAVED the people (His people) out
of the land of Egypt, afterward (after He saved them) destroyed
them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their
first estate (no one is forced), but left their own habitation, he
hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the
judgment of the great day. Jude 3-6
These ungodly men Jude warns of here, prevalent in our day, are
those who brazenly deny the multiplicity of historical accounts which
reveal that the eternal God judges His own people and will send to hell all
who do not remain rooted in Him (Num. 16, 25; 2 Pet. 2:20-22). Jude
specifically brings New Testament believers into remembrance of how
the unchanging God judged His own covenant people who sinned against
Him I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once
knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people (His people)
out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed
not. (Jude 5) He will do the same in the future.
Note here that he specifically points out that these believers he was
writing to once knew this truth. There was obviously a reason that
the Holy Spirit was re-addressing this doctrine. Some had forgotten this
truth that God is holy and will judge all sin - and had to be brought
back into remembrance of it. In the wake of these false teachers who
were turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, Jude seeks
to re-ascertain the truth in them and exhort these believers to
earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the
saints.
It is this writers opinion that many have been weakened in their stand
on the biblical truth of a conditional eternal security that one must
abide in Jesus to the end of his earthly life to be saved. This slippage has
in part happened due to the many corrupting false teachers so prevalent

in the church world in this late hour and perhaps because some in
leadership are more interested in pleasing men than the God they claim
to serve. Please allow me to exhort you to embrace and diligently
contend for the truth found in the original Gospel. It is significant to
heed the words of Jude here in this vitally important Bible warning.
Notice here in this passage in Jude that according to the LORD, it takes
an ungodly person to deny the words of Jesus Christ and His holy
apostles while turning His precious grace into a license to sin
(lasciviousness). All believers are exhorted by the LORD here to
earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. The
faith includes a conditional eternal security. An unconditional eternal
security is exactly what is being addressed and exposed by the Holy
Ghost here in this passage.
To underscore the epidemic deception that is being taught to so many,
allow me to relate to you a story that transpired when I was in Bible
College. Once in the mens dorm a telling debate broke out which lasted
for hours, till 2 A.M.. The topic of discussion was the matter of eternal
security. Regrettably only two of the eight men involved knew the Bible
truth of an unconditional eternal security. This is a clear example of the
widespread culture of the teaching of an unbiblical eternal security and
how it is assumed by many to be a doctrine of the Christian faith. Here
were 6 men that had come to Bible College to learn and yet each of them
had previously been taught by their leaders a doctrine that is not borne
out in Scripture (OSAS). The only sense that OSAS is found in the Bible
is as the very first doctrine of the enemy set forth to deceive and damn
the souls of men. How sad! God help us! Well, my friend Steven and I
patiently and with volumes of Scripture communicated the biblical truth
of an unconditional eternal security (2 Tim. 4:2-4). Our hearts desire
was to help these men see the divinely recorded truth in this important
matter so that they would go forth teaching it instead of the very first and
deadly lie of the enemy of all souls. I sure hope Gods Word was fully
received and considered in the hearts of those men, that they go not forth
to deceive others with such a teaching (2 Tim. 3:13). Jesus we beg You to
give us hearts that are noble like those Berean believers in Acts 17!
(Acts 17:10-11) Grant us to love Your truth with no respect to where it
leads, knowing it will bring us closer to You the Truth! (Jn. 14:6)

This same lone disciple and brother who stood in the truth that night,
later told me that the previous year at that Same Bible College, a few of
the older students actually prayed over him to cast out a deceiving

demon. There misguided and delusional belief was that because Steven
believed in a conditional eternal security, that he had a devil and needed
to delivered.
My friend Donnie says: Satan has removed the fear factor from people
who claim to be Christians. The enemy has removed the fear of God from
the hearts of people through the false teaching of this original lie. The
very father of all lies (Satan) tells us that there are no conditions for
getting right and staying right with God.

There are Many Deceivers

For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess
not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver
and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those
things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full
reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the
doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the
doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If
there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive
him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he
that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. 2
John 7-11
First we are warned here of many deceivers who are entered into
the world and to lose not those things which we have. We are then
warned not to join affinity with those who bring not this doctrine
which is that Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the
doctrine of Christ, hath not God. According to 2 John 9, lets ask,
Who does not have a relationship with God? Whosoever transgresseth,
and abideth (remains) not in the doctrine of Christ
This is yet another concrete statement of Scripture guaranteeing that
whoever among the people of God does not abide (continue, remain) in
the doctrine of the LORD, hath not God is lost. When is the last time
your pastor preached this verse just as it reads and without twisting or
denying the plain truth of it? See John 15 where Jesus taught the
essential nature of abiding in Him or being cast into the fire.
Concerning contemporary false teachers, David Kirkwood writes:

The most prevalent false prophets of our day are those who teach
that heaven awaits the unholy. They are responsible for the eternal
damnation of millions of people. David Kirkwood, The Great
Gospel Deception, p. 164
John Fletcher spoke of the prevailing justification of sin from church
pulpits:
How few of our celebrated pulpits are there, where more has not
been said at times for sin than against it? - John Fletcher
In some cases, the false grace teachers prostitute the very grace of God in
order to build their own kingdoms. They use a false grace doctrine and
system which leads to lawlessness to secure new members for their local
church businesses. These who corrupt the grace of God are leading many
to live unholy lives when the Bible guarantees that no person who dies in
a sinful state will enter through the gates of Heaven. Eternal perdition
lies ahead for every such teacher. See Jude and 2 Peter.
What does the LORD think of these false teachers?
A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The
prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their
means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do
in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:30-31
Notice the clear inference to self-serving leaders among the nation of
Israel here the priests bear rule by their means; and my people
love to have it so Also, false teachers among Gods people and those
who hear them are warned here in Jeremiah 5:31 to consider what the
end product will be for their rebellion. Judgment Day is on the way.
For the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; and who
can abide it? Joel 2:11
Concerning the false prophets of his day who were deceiving Gods
people, Jeremiah the prophet is led to pose the question, what will ye
do in the end thereof? What will we do or say on Judgment Day if we
deny the clear truth of the LORD given us in His Word? It is too late for
those who originally heard these inspired words spoken by this prophet,

but its not too late for those who are reading this message to Seek ye
the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his
thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy
upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (Isa. 55:67)
What is at the heart of the defense of OSAS? Could it be that those who
defend this teaching are really seeking to protect their right to live an
irresponsible life? This teaching of lasciviousness pardon from
restraining oneself from sinning supposedly frees them up to live life
unto themselves (on their own terms) and be relieved from daily taking
up the cross and following Jesus. But what will they do in the end
thereof when we stand before a holy God to be judged for every
thought, word, and deed of our whole earthly life?
The lie of lasciviousness (license to sin) is not new. This lawless lie
pretends to free people up to live life unto themselves (on their own
terms) and be relieved from daily taking up their cross and following
Jesus in a real way. This is that lie that started in the very cradle of
creation. There are several warnings in Scripture to those who would
teach this destructive doctrine.
Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and
they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy
captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of
banishment. Lamentations 2:14
False prophets refuse to preach on sin and reconciliation, so those who
hear them are not getting set free, but rather (like their leaders) Ever
learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2
Tim. 3:7)
For the people turneth not unto him that smiteth them,
neither do they seek the LORD of hosts. Therefore the LORD
will cut off from Israel head and tail, branch and rush, in one
day. The ancient and honourable, he is the head; and the
prophet that teacheth lies, he is the tail. For the leaders of
this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them

are destroyed. Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their

young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and
widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and
every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned
away, but his hand is stretched out still. For wickedness
burneth as the fire: it shall devour the briers and thorns, and
shall kindle in the thickets of the forest, and they shall mount
up like the lifting up of smoke. Through the wrath of the
LORD of hosts is the land darkened, and the people shall be as
the fuel of the fire: no man shall spare his brother. Isaiah
9:13-19
Lets look at the elements of the previous passage from Isaiah 9. First we
see that the people do not want to turn to or listen to those who smite
them with the truth (compare Ps. 141:5). These are like those Paul says
will not endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:3) No, instead they will
reject truth speakers and not tolerate sound doctrine but rather
intentionally place themselves under the leadership of those who tell
them what their impenitent sinful nature wants to hear (Rom. 2:1-7; 2
Tim. 4:2-4).
So, like all false teaching, this once saved always saved lie is bought
into by those who profit from teaching it and those who want to hear it in
order to justify living life on their own terms.
Instead of Gods grace being a license for sin, it is actually the divine
enablement to overcome sin and be fully victorious in this life! It is by the
workings of His grace in our lives that we are able to overcome in all
things and become more than conquerors through him that loved
us. (Rom 6:14; 8:13, 37; 1 Cor. 15:10, 57; 2 Cor. 12:9-10)
Donald Stamps, in Life in the Spirit Study Bible denotes:
CONCERNING THE PROPHETS. God longed to lead His people
back to the paths of righteousness and truth, yet the false
prophets cared for none of this. They made the people feel
comfortable in their sinful lifestyles by proclaiming a false hope
and security. Instead of taking an uncompromising stand against
sin among Gods people, they actually encouraged it. Because of

their refusal to lead the people back to Gods ways, the false
prophets would be abandoned by God. Life in the Spirit Study
Bible, p. 1335
God sends the judgment of leanness of soul into those who do not posses
the love of His truth (Ps. 106:15; 2 Thess. 2:10-12). Note closely in the
following passages how that the LORD is going to judge both the false
prophets and those who follow and support them:
Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! surely thou hast greatly deceived
this people and Jerusalem, saying, Ye shall have peace;
whereas the sword (divine judgment) reacheth unto the soul.
Jeremiah 4:10
Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the prophets that
prophesy in my name, and I sent them not, yet they say,
Sword and famine (judgment) shall not be in this land; By
sword and famine shall those prophets be consumed. And the
people to whom they prophesy shall be cast out in the streets
of Jerusalem because of the famine and the sword; and they
shall have none to bury them, them, their wives, nor their
sons, nor their daughters: for I will pour their wickedness
upon them. Jeremiah 14:15-16
Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the
prophets; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make
them drink the water of gall: for from the prophets of
Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the land. Thus
saith the LORD of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the
prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they
speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of
the LORD. They say still unto them that despise me, The
LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every
one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No
evil shall come upon you. Jeremiah 23:15-17
Thus saith the LORD concerning the prophets that make my
people err, that bite with their teeth, and cry, Peace; and he
that putteth not into their mouths, they even prepare war

against him (God). Therefore night (spiritual darkness) shall be

unto you, that ye shall not have a vision (blinded); and it shall
be dark unto you, that ye shall not divine; and the sun shall go
down over the prophets, and the day shall be dark over them.
Then shall the seers (prophets) be ashamed, and the diviners
confounded: yea, they shall all cover their lips; for there is no
answer of God. Micah 3:5-7
They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people
slightly (superficially), saying, Peace, peace; when there is no
peace. Were they ashamed when they had committed
abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could
they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at
the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the
LORD. Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see,
and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk
therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We
will not walk therein. Also I set watchmen over you, saying,
Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will
not hearken. Jeremiah 6:14-17
Like they did in Jeremiahs day, false prophets today promise a peace
with God to those among His people who are living in sin. This is a false
peace and results in the inability to be convicted or ashamed Were
they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they
were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush. (Jer. 6:15) The
LORD promises that they shall fall and be cast down. The Holy
Spirit then exhorts the people of God to stand and to ask for the old
paths of truth which bring a true rest to those who walk therein.
Finally, he says that he has raised up watchmen to sound the
trumphet and give warning before it is too late.
Can you see a pattern here? The unchanging LORD and lover of His
beloved people seeks to lead them out of the sin that is separating them
from Him (because He is holy) and the false leaders are telling the people
by their false teachings that they are okay in their sins and need not
worry about repenting. The LORD gave us the prescription for healing
which includes turning away from our sins in repentance (2 Chron.
7:14). These leaders are saying Peace, peace; when there is no

peace. (Jer. 6:14) When they should be warning they are instead giving
false assurance to people living in sin. The LORDs impending judgment
looms over these false shepherds (Jer. 23; Ezek. 34; Matt. 23; 2 Pet. 2-3).
Here is the LORDs unchanging message to His people today:
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be
willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if
ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for
the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah 1:18-20
Gods people are invited to come and reason and if willing and
obedient they will be made white as snow from their many sins. If
they refuse and rebel they will be devoured by the sword of His
holy wrath.
He that covereth (hides) his sins shall not prosper: but whoso
confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs
28:13
Leaders who are true to the LORD are actually empowered by His Holy
Spirit to uncover the sins of the people so that they might be brought to
repentance by Him and restored to full and blessed fellowship. The
prophet Micah told us that he (as all godly servants are) was divinely
empowered/anointed to show Gods people their sins.
See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the
kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and
to throw down, to build, and to plant. Jeremiah 1:10
But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of
judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his
transgression, and to Israel his sin. Micah 3:8
The LORD told the prophet Isaiah to:

Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and
show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob
their sins. Isaiah 58:1
There is no mystery that we are all daily striving against sin and will
stuggle with it until we get to Heaven (Rom. 6-7; Gal. 5:17; Heb. 12:4). This
is why Jesus told us to take up the cross and follow Him daily (Lk. 9:23).
Yet, when false leaders refuse to obey the LORD by openly identifying the
sins of His people, they cheat the Almighty out of the blessing of granting
repentance, forgiving, washing and restoring those precious souls so that
they can receive the full present and eternal benefits of the salvation
Christ died to grant. The LORD takes this personally and will severely
judge these leaders who misrepresent Him by refusing to deal with sin as
the LORD gave us in His holy Word (Isa. 9:16). It simply does not matter
what excuse the leader makes for not talking about sin just the way the
Bible does, he is false for making the pre-meditated decision to disobey
the LORD by withholding His holy truth (Amos 8:11).
I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not
spoken to them, yet they prophesied. But if they had stood in
my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then
they should have turned them from their evil way, and from
the evil of their doings. Jeremiah 23:21-22
Its real simple: True prophets turn people from their sins to repentance
and complete trust in the Savior (Mk. 1:15; Acts 20:21). Leaders who
refuse to preach biblical repentance identify themselves as false (Lk.
13:3, 5; 24:47; Acts 2:38; 3:19).
In the Absence of Sin Preaching
In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did
that which was right in his own eyes. Judges 17:6
When sin is not dealt with by leadership according to the pattern of
Scripture (not according to the doctrines of mere men), people cloak
themselves behind false doctrine that allows for the sins that a holy God
said He will judge us for. As it was in the days of Israel, so men make
their doctrine fit your own lifestyle when true doctrine is not openly
offered. They create a god in their own image, fashioning in their minds

the image of a god who does not require personal holiness (Heb. 12:14).
When the minds of men are not reminded continually by leadership of
the utter holiness of the Almighty they will turn(ed) the truth of God
into a lie. (Rom. 1:25) When leaders refuse to speak of the wrath of
God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and
unrighteousness of men, a vacuum is created and men change the
truth of god into a lie. (Rom. 1:18, 25)
The Word tells us: He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in
the fear of God. (2 Sam. 23:3) In the absence of authentic God-fearing
leadership who preach in the fear of God, men create a false god in their
own image while rejecting the God who gave us His Word to reveal His
true holy image and nature and ways to us. When leaders do not preach
on sin from the Scriptures, those who listen will not aggrandize the
holiness of God and flee sin and the wrath to come upon all who die in
sin (Ezek. 33:12-13; Eph. 5:5-9; Heb. 10:26-39).

Warning & Refreshing Gods People

Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man. Ezekiel 3:21
It should be noted and embraced that the vast majority of warnings
found in Scripture are to the righteous not the wicked. Gods servant
Ezekiel was instructed to warn both the wicked and the righteous. The
LORD told him:
When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou
givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from
his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die
in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if
thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness,
nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou
hast delivered thy soul. Again, When a righteous man doth
turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a
stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not
given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his
righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered;
but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless if thou
warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he
doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also
thou hast delivered thy soul. Ezekiel 3:18-21

Concerning this text, namely Ezekiel 3:18, Donald Stamps, in the Life in
the Spirit Study Bible, writes:
THE WICKED, THOU SHALT SURELY DIE. Ezekiel was to be a
watchman, warning his countrymen that those who persisted in
sin and rejection of God would be punished with death. If Ezekiel
failed to warn the wicked, he would be held accountable for their
death. (1) Under the new covenant, the faithful minister of God
must likewise warn those in his congregation who are living
unrighteous lives that they will be excluded from the kingdom of
God and salvation if they do not repent (see 1 Cor. 6:9, note; Gal.
5:21, note; Eph. 5:5, note). Those who teach that believers may live
immoral and unrighteous lives without jeopardizing their eternal
salvation will themselves face the severe judgment of God. (2) We
must always remember that God has given us the commission to
go into all the world and proclaim the gospel (Matt. 28:18-20); Acts
1:8), which includes the warning of eternal death for all who refuse
to repent and believe in Christ (cf. Acts 17:22-31). God has thus
made the church a watchman (see Matt. 18:15, note).
All disciples of Christ are to warn their fellow righteous companions
concerning sinning. See also Hebrews 10:24-39.
Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the
righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live,
because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Ezekiel 3:21
We see in this verse that warning the righteous can lead to them not
sinning and continuing to possess and live in the state of spiritual life
instead of death (Rom. 8:13; James 1:14-15; 5:20-21).
From this passage we learn that warning can prevent sinning and also
relieves the faithful messenger of judgment. If he is warned and he doth
not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast
delivered thy soul. (Ezek. 3:21)
The faithful messenger preaches the Word, warns, teaches, edifies,
admonishes, and exhorts the people of God (Col. 1:28; 3:16; 2 Tim. 4:12). As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful

messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his
masters. (Prov. 25:13) In order to refresh the very soul of our LORD and
Master, we must be faithful messengers those faithful to communicate
the pure Gospel with all glory going to Christ and not self. It is He alone
ho died and rose again for us and who will judge us before His holy
Throne. We will soon give account to Him for our faithfulness to Him in
this life (Rom. 14:12; 2 Tim. 4:1-2).
For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of
love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have
ministered to the saints, and do minister. Hebrews 6:10
An eternal reward will be given to those who edify, admonish, and warn
the saints of Christ (1 Cor. 15:58; Col. 1:28-29; 3:16; Heb. 6:10).
Beloved, we are running a race down the narrow road that leads to life
and it is a marathon (Matt. 7:13-14; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; Heb. 12:1-3). We all
need to be refreshed and to refresh fellow saints whom we run this race
with. Jesus promised that those who refresh the bowels of the saints of
Christ will be rewarded for eternity! See also Philemon 1:7, 20.
And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little
ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I
say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. Matthew
10:42
In Ezekiel 3:21 we read that the prophet Ezekiel was commanded to warn
the righteous not to sin. This truth alone should forever cement in our
minds that sin has consequences of which the LORD would not have us
to suffer. Jesus and all of His holy apostles and prophets warned Gods
people not to sin (Mk. 9:43-49; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; Col. 1:22, 27, etc.). When
His saints sin and suffer it causes His heart to grieve (Judges 10:16). So,
while we still have time, let us go about to build up Christs precious
body in His love and truth. Your ministry to the saints Jesus has placed
within your reach offers the blessed opportunity to strengthen the
brethren and so much the more as the day of His return hastens towards
us (Lk. 22:31-32; Heb. 3:13; 10:24). Let us go about to bless His precious
saints, following the example of Philemon, a first century believer who is
now with the LORD.
For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because
the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
Philemon 7

The Holy Ghost through Jude exhorts all believers under the New
Testament era to Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the
mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (Jude 21)

Warning to Those Who Teach Unconditional Eternal Security

Jude 3-7 & 11-13 tell us about the destiny of all false teachers, especially
those who teach lasciviousness (a license to sin) once saved always
saved. Lasciviousness (lawlessness) is another term for the
unconditional eternal security (no responsibility to live holy) teaching:

Jude 3-7 & 11-13:

Beloved (Christians), when I gave all diligence to write unto
you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write
unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for
the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there
are certain men crept in unawares (secretly), who were before
of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness (a license for sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will
therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this,
how that the Lord, having saved the people (His people) out of
the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
And the angels which kept not their first estate (no one is
forced), but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in
everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the
great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about
them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication,
and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example,
suffering the vengeance of eternal fireWoe unto them! for
they (false teachers) have gone in the way of Cain (done things
their own way, not Gods), and ran greedily after the error of
Balaam for reward (tell smooth lies for self gain and ease of
receptiveness), and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These
are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you,
feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water
(spiritual powder puffs who possess no substance or power),

carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without

fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots (had to first be
planted to be plucked up); Raging waves of the sea, foaming
out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the
blackness of darkness for ever (eternal damnation). Jude 3-7,
11-13
Simply look at the beginning of any given book in the Bible and you will
see who the inspired writer is addressing (this is true in most cases). One
will discover that the Bible is especially written to Gods people, not the
unsaved. With this in mind, have you ever read the New Testament
Scriptures for yourself and noted all of Gods warnings to His very own
people to:

Give diligence to make your calling and election sure. (2 Pet.

1:10)

Take heed that no man deceive you. (Matt. 24:4)

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be

accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to
pass, and to stand before the Son of man. (Lk. 21:36)

Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the

things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slip. (Heb. 2:1)

Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest

he fall. (1 Cor. 10:12)

The warning texts are numerous. Why would our loving Heavenly Father
forewarn us to continue to seek His face, trust Him fully, walk in
obedience to His Word, keep ourselves pure, and endure to the end and
be holy, if there were no danger of being ensnared and overtaken by sin
and losing our eternal reward - eternal life in Heaven? Why? Why? Why?
Is He a deceiver? Wouldnt it be deception to warn someone of something
knowing it would/could never happen? Certainly.
In light of the numerous warnings in the Bible to get right and stay right
with God, we must conclude that any leader not warning people of

impending doom upon the wicked (anyone living in sin) is a false prophet.
Any person who leads people to believe that Christ is coming back for
them in their sins and that they will meet Him who is holy in the air, is
blind and a counterfeit. It is to these that Jude writes - to whom is
reserved the blackness of darkness for ever (eternal damnation).
(Jude 13)
It is the false teacher who leads people to believe that he is eternally
secure while living in sin and that they are judgment proof. Nothing
could be further from the truth.
Because with lies ye (Israels leaders) havestrengthened the
hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked
way (repent), by promising him life (eternal life). Ezekiel 13:22
These men in leadership positions were promising eternal life to those
among Gods covenant people who were living in sin the wicked. The
prophet Ezekiel wrote to Gods people not the lost souls of the heathen
nations or peoples. Here in the 13th chapter he addresses the ungodly
leaders who held positions of leadership over Gods covenant people. The
Holy Spirit here cites the false doctrine of unconditional eternal security
(OSAS) that we see so prevalently throughout history and on the increase
in our day. The deceived, false leaders of Ezekiels day were doing the
same thing so many today do when they promise people unconditional
eternal salvation without the necessary condition of living in pure and
holy faith toward the LORD Jesus all the way to the end of their lives.
Make no mistake: Only the LORD can make a man holy and He only
makes holy (sets apart) those who truly trust in Him and obey Him. All
others do not possess saving faith (1 Jn. 2:3-5; James 2; Heb. 12:14).
The Bible clearly tells us that the LORD Jesus is coming back for His
little flock, a pure and spotless bride, one washed in His holy blood
and Word (Lk. 12:32; Eph. 5:25-27; Tit. 2:13-14; 1 Jn. 3:3; Rev, 2-3).
Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That
he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by
the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious
church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but

that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:2527

Any honest Bible student knows that washings, holiness, and
purification is of the utmost importance in the divine economy and all
those who will be with Him eternally must be made holy by His grace and
their own faithful obedience (Num. 19; Matt. 5:8; 2 Cor. 7:1; Eph. 5:2627; Tit. 1:15; Rev. 6:11; 7:9, 13).
The message of the many wolves who occupy leadership positions is that
their false Christ is coming back to accept a people who are spotted by
the world (Matt. 24:24; James 1:27). They are teaching people that the
LORD doesnt require them to be wholly set apart but that He will accept
them as they are, even if they are living in sin. According to 1 John 2:243:3, the remnant disciple who knows and truly loves the LORD Jesus,
purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Why did Jesus come to the earth? Why did the Son of God give Himself
on the cross? Who is He going to soon return for?
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of
the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself
for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify
unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These
things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no
man despise thee. Titus 2:13-15
The Savior came to purify unto himself a peculiar (special) people,
zealous of good works and will soon appear for those who are allowing
Him to purify their lives. The backslider simply will not be ready when
Jesus returns (Matt. 25:1-13; Lk. 21:34-36). If one refuses to repent and
keep his relationship with the LORD current, God will not bring him to
His holy Heaven at the rapture nor in the end of his life (whichever comes
first). He warns His people concerning being ready to enter His eternal
abode?
If Heaven were a sure thing for all believers no matter what they chose to
do after being saved, why would the Holy Spirit of God have inspired
Peter to warn His people concerning the eternal kingdom?

Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,
wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the
elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we,
according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new
earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved,
seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be
found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 2 Peter
3:12-14
It is not Gods will for even one of His children to go astray (Luke 15). The
Bible poses this question to holy brethren - How shall we escape
(Gods judgment), IF we neglect so great salvation? (Heb. 3:1; 2:3)
By this verse alone, we know that it is possible for those once saved to
neglect Gods salvation and be heading for the wrath of the Almighty.
IF we neglect His great salvation, we shall not escape His
judgment. God is not going to force anyone into Heaven against their own
will and HE will certainly not violate His eternal, holy standard. What
OSAS teachers refuse to acknowledge is that God is holy. In fact they
defy Him by minimizing or even completely ignoring His holiness. They
will acknowledge this if asked, but not in doctrine. The OSAS teaching
they propagate is an utter contradiction and mockery of the holiness of
God. See Hebrews 2:1-4; 10:26-39. Personal holiness is a divine
prerequisite for eternal life - without it, no man shall see the LORD (Matt.
5:8; Heb. 12:14).
Many of those who espouse this OSAS teaching dont want the
responsibility of personal holiness which is a divine requirement for final
salvation (Lk. 14:33; Heb. 12:14, etc.). They would rather hear a smooth
message in order that they may have a life of ease without the
responsibility to overcome sin (Jer. 5:30-31; 2 Tim. 4:2-4). These who
love their ears tickled would rather heap to themselves false teachers
who tell them what they want to hear instead of sitting under sober,
honest, full-counsel Bible teachers who consider and communicate the
whole of Gods Word and declare it as the final authority in the power of
the Holy Ghost.
If one is not preaching the full-counsel of God he is guilty as one who
taketh away from the Word and under the curse pronounced in
Revelation 22:18-19.

Many of those who teach this OSAS doctrine dont want the
responsibility of declaring the whole truth to others because it will not be
well received and therefore cause them (the leader) trouble and to lose
people and money and accolades (2 Tim. 4:2-5). Deceivers would rather
teach a smooth message in order that they may win friends to themselves
while they rebel against God in building their own kingdom instead of
His (Lk. 6:26; Gal. 6:11-12). These are not following Christ - they are
men pleasers (Gal. 1:10).
Of those false teachers who mock at the holiness of God and are
turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, Jude writes:
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own
lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having
mens persons in admiration because of advantage (self-gain).
But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before
of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you
there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after
their own ungodly lusts. Jude 16-18
Those who will be pleasing to the LORD must seek Him for total and
complete cleansing of every trace of this antinomian false teaching of
lawlessness (Matt. 7:21-23; 2 Cor. 7:1; 2 Tim. 1:3; Titus 1:9; 2:1). Our
hearts must be purified from this lie of lasciviousness in order to escape
being deceived by the many who teach it.
Our LORD Jesus told us:
Blessed are the pure in heart: for THEY shall see God.
Matthew 5:8
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please circumcise my heart. Teach me Thy
Word that I might learn Thy ways O LORD. Convict me of sin and grant the
eyes of my heart to understand and discern, distinguishing between that
which holy and that which is profane. Jesus I know You are coming soon.
Unite my heart to fear You LORD. I love You heavenly Father and praise
and thank You this moment for every blessing You have bestowed upon
my life. Now I ask You to use me to build up Your people and win lost
souls to Your kingdom. Amen.

CHAPTER TWELVE

IS YOUR SIN REALLY WORTH

GOING TO HELL FOR?
Only You Can Decide

Is the sinful pleasure you now enjoy worth spending forever in hell for?
Jesus Christ made it crystal clear to both saint and sinner alike that any
person who chooses even one sin to be more important to them than
Him, will be doomed to the place He described as a dwelling place of
gruesome, ceaseless torment:
And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that
believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged
about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. And if thy hand
offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life
maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire
that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and
the fire is not quenched. And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off:
it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet
to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:
Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And
if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to

enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two
eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not
(denotes complete consciousness), and the fire is not
quenched. For every one shall be salted with fire, and every
sacrifice shall be salted with salt. Salt is good: but if the salt
have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt
in yourselves, and have peace one with another. Mark 9:4250
In light of these penetrating words of the LORD Jesus, think ahead for a
moment with me: Lets imagine that you died in sin and it was 100 years
into the future. There you are, in hell - experiencing excruciating pain
and isolation (outer darkness - you can see nothing). You are fully
conscious, and reeling in the agonizing remorse of the decision you made
in your brief earthly life to retain your sin instead of repenting and
forsaking it. During your short life on earth God granted several
opportunities for you to turn fully to Him, but you chose to ride the
popular, modern church wave of easy believism and eternal security,
thinking everything was going to be fine because you said the sinners
prayer and attended church services. Yet you retained a sin you knew
God said would endanger your eternal soul (Gal. 5:19-21). You freely
refused to cut off the hand and pluck out the eye of your sin and now
you are trapped forever in incarceration - where the fire is not
quenched. Is your sin really worth spending eternity in hell for? Is the
sin you have chosen to continue in (retain instead of rejecting) really worth
the everlasting pain of damnation in hell, while the righteous rejoice in
sublime, unimaginable pleasure, joy, and bliss in Heaven with Jesus?
Fellow citizen of this world, if you have not been born again and your life
is not currently laid down flat before the LORD Jesus Christ in utter
humility and brokenness for the immeasurable wickedness and depravity
you have committed in the full and plain site of the omnipresent eyes of
His holiness, you have no eternal security with Him. The flames of
eternal damnation which will forever feed upon your separated soul await
your arrival.

Description of the Eternal Home of All Who are not Presently

Living in the Fear of God and in Faithful Obedience to Christ
Violent flames rage like endless waves that roar in a fierce ocean tossed
to and fro by hurricane winds. Deafening voices shriek, hopelessly
tormented in the turbulent fire that dominates their defenseless souls.
One million years have passed and yet there is not a trace of relief from
the horrifying torment that has enveloped their helpless souls. Vivid
memories of their earthly life, when they had precious opportunity to
escape this horrible fate, torment their bitter and remorseful beings.
Welcome to the world of departed souls who died after refusing to apply
the only cure to their deadly disease. Behind the thin veil of life on earth
lies a real world - a forever world. Welcome to a profile of the after life.
There is no pain in this life so cruel nor permanent that can possibly be
compared to what the Son of God described and warned of when he
spoke of hell - that dreaded place of Gods holy wrath. Here is a
punishment profile of what lies ahead for all who die outside the real
Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Unquenchable fire. Mark 9:45

Eternal Damnation. Mark 3:29

Everlasting punishment. Matthew 25:46

A place of everlasting burnings. Isaiah 33:14

Torment with fire and brimstone. Revelation 14:10; 19:20

A lake (ocean) of fire. Revelation 20:15

No 2nd chance to escape (utter hopelessness). Luke 16:26

Weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 8:12

A place of eternal remorse (regret). Luke 16:19-31

A place of complete consciousness. Luke 16:25

A furnace of fire with wailing. Matthew 13:42

No rest day or night forever (eternal misery). Revelation 14:11

Outer darkness. Matthew 8:12; 22:13

A place of sorrows (seething remorse and despair). Psalms 18:5

A place of everlasting destruction. 2 Thessalonians 1:9

A place of torments. Luke 16:23

All is recorded in Heaven (Heb. 4:13). God sees ALL your sins and will
pull the curtains back and roll the tape of your life on Judgment Day.
Every single thought and deed of your life is on file with God. He made
provision to remove and desires to forgive all. If you die without His
forgiveness, you will face the Almighty on Judgment Day in the Supreme
Court of the Universe as a guilty sinner who refused to repent and be
pardoned. In trembling ruins you will stand shameful and without excuse
before a holy God.

Your Sins Include:

Cursing, Lying, Adultery, Hatred, Cheating, Slander, Strife,
Idolatry, Dishonor, Murder, Stealing, Fornication, Unforgiveness,
Not putting Him First, Taking Gods Name In Vain, Etc.
The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil
and the good... Proverbs 15:3
And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was
cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:15

Obedience or Hatred?
Saving faith is always active and obedient. Of every one of those who
claim to know Him and do not practically and daily deny themselves,
take up their crosses of crucifying their earthly lusts, and perform His
will, He foretells their destiny:

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,
Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy
name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many
wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never
knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew
7:21-23
Make no mistake: Hell awaits all who were once right with God and are
now living outside of His complete Lordship over their personal lives:
Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy
people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver
him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of
the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth
from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live
for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. When I shall
say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his
own
righteousness,
and
commit
iniquity,
all
his
righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity
that he hath committed, he shall die for it. Ezekiel 33:12-13
As we see clearly in the above text, the Almighty judges your life by your
current state of heart and all, yes all, of your past righteousnesses are not
remembered if you are not completely bowed down under His holiness and
Lordship at this moment.
Do we still wish to define truth based on how it fits our own lifestyle
instead of how our eternal Judge gave it to us in His Word? What
position is best for the long run?
We all know and can attest to the Bible truth that there is opportunity
to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season and yet she that liveth
in pleasure is dead while she liveth. (Heb. 11:25; 1 Tim. 5:6) Sin
brings spiritual death and righteousness by the blood of Christ and
enabling power of the Holy Spirit brings life and blessings untold now
and forever (Rom. 5:17; 6:23; 8:13-14).

Security Check Point

Still not sure where you currently are with the LORD? Want to know?
The Word says that Without faith it is impossible to please him.
(Heb. 11:6) Heart faith that saves the soul is obedient to the One in
whom its trust fully rests. If you are right with God, you are literally
active and fruitful in the following things He commanded:

Boldly communicating His salvation to others, calling them to

repent and believe upon Him or perish in hell because you love
Him and them more than self (Mk. 16:15-20; Phil. 2:3-5).

You are showing charity and love to all of the LORDs children (Jn.
13:34-35; Gal. 6:10; 1 Jn. 4).

You assist others in any way possible (1 Cor. 10:24; 13:1-8).

You are abstaining from all appearances of evil or temptation to sin

(Rom. 13:14).

You are living a life of godly repentance and the forsaking of any
thought, word or deed that offends His holiness (Ps. 51; Mk. 9:4349; 1 Jn. 1:6-10; Rev. 3:19).

You are fasting, praying and studying His Word (Isa. 58; 2 Tim.
2:15).

You are crying out to Him for brokenness and a clean heart (Ps.
51; 139:23-24; Matt. 5:6, 8; 1 Tim. 1:5).

You give all within your means to further the cause of the Gospel
(Prov. 11:25-26; Phil. 4:15-16).

You are abolishing and staying clear of any idol of the heart as you
burn with flaming love for Jesus Christ (Eph. 5:5-9; 1 Jn. 5:21;
Rev. 2:4-5).

You are currently crying out and looking for the soon return of the
Savior for His few who are on the narrow road that leads to life

(Matt. 24-25; Tit. 2:13-14; James 5:5-7; 1 Jn. 3:1-3; Rev. 22:2021).
The absence of these things from ones life testifies to the backslidden
state of the heart (Prov. 14:14). Such a person is under the judgment of a
holy God who will soon return In flaming fire taking vengeance on
them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord
Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction
from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired
in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was
believed) in that day. (2 Thess. 1:6-9)
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny
him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good
work reprobate. Titus 1:16

According to Gods Word, judgment is always based on a persons

works because a persons works are a clear manifestation of his
inner heart and faith. No person will be judged on his mere
profession of Christ but on the life he lived (Matt. 12:36-37; Jn.
5:29; Rom. 2:1-7, 13; 14:12; 1 Cor. 3:13-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Eph. 6:78; Col. 3:25; Tit. 1:16; Rev. 2:23; 20:12; 22:12).
Who are We Lying to Except Ourselves?
And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his
commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not
his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 1
John 2:3-4

Only a Few Will Make It

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad
is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be
which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is
the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find
it. Matthew 7:13-14

Friend, How many times have you been warned? How long will you
harden your heart? How long will you deny Jesus Christ while
embellishing yourself with temporal pleasure and comforts which have
lulled you into a deadly stupor and sleep? Hell awaits. LORD draw us to
You and grant holy repentance!
Woe to them that are at ease in Zion. Amos 6:1
In the divine economy blessings are conditional. Every blessing,
including everlasting life in Heaven and missing hell, hinges upon the
obedient faith (the only kind of authentic saving faith) of the recipient of
the message.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that
wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and
tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any
thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his
ways. James 1:6-8
If one is not this moment crucified with Christ, he has denied Him
and is serving the false god of self which indisputably incriminates
one as an idolater, worthy of eternal damnation in His holy site. Those
who do not surrender their will to Christ in whole hearted, first love
devotion are not His and are divinely decreed as unworthy of His holy
Heaven:
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let
it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are
not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye
know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor
covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in
the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you
with vain words: for because of these things cometh the
wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye
therefore partakers with them. Galatians 5:5-7
The dismal punishment for choosing the selfish sinful pleasures in this
fleeting life will never end.

And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. Galatians 5:24

No Man
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the
one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and
despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Matthew 6:24
Regardless of his past fellowship with Christ, the one who departs from
the LORD, loses out.
Friend, are you serving Christ or self? According to Jesus, the answer is
either one or the other it is an impossibility to serve more than one
master. Is it really worth it to despise Jesus Christ while serving self
interests? To refuse outright and blatant obedience to Him is to deny Him
and forsake all divine mercy.
They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.
Jonah 2:8
To observe a teaching which supposes that one can live outside of the
will of the One who is Salvation and still go to His holy Heaven is absurd
at best.
Friend, are you going to cover, or confess your sins? Will you forsake,
and flee from sin that which displeases the LORD Almighty?
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso
confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs
28:13
Like the man who possessed a heart after the LORD, we should quickly
confess any sin we might commit - For I will declare (confess) mine
iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. (Ps. 38:18)
Be not deceived: If experiencing the things of this fleeting world is more
important to you than literally fellowshipping with and performing the
will of God, you have denied and defied Him and are in love with the

world and are the enemy of God (1 Jn. 2:15-17). If one loves this present
world and the things in it, he is living in a state of death the state of
spiritual adultery. Such a person will go to the eternal dwelling place of
all those who make themselves the enemy of God regardless of what
one professes with his mouth:
Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the
friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever
therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
James 4:4
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.
If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in
him. 1 John 2:15

Will You Obey The Truth?

One might say Hey I made peace with God long ago. I am secure and
safe, based on that one confession and act of faith toward Christ.
Nonsense! Once saved always saved is a sinful cop-out for moral
cowards! If you will miss hell and be in Heaven, you must trash this lie
like the cancerous plague that it is and march forth unreservedly in
obedience to the soon to return LORD of all lords, whom out of his
mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the
nations: and he shall Rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth
the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. (Rev.
19:15) Neither Jesus Christ nor His holy apostles taught such a license
to sin doctrine. In Holy Scripture, such a teaching is associated
specifically with ungodly men who are turning the grace of our God
into lasciviousness and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord
Jesus Christ. (Jude 4) The Son of God told His own 12: He that
endureth to the end shall be saved. (Matt. 10:22) What explanation
does this statement from the Almighty God need? (Rev. 1:8) I suppose
none to the honest hearted. Any attempt to explain away or around such
would be subversive, sinfully wicked and evil manipulation.
Listen to what Jesus tells the saints at Smyrna:

And unto the angel of the church (not the lost) in Smyrna
writeFear none of those things which thou shalt suffer:
behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye
may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou
faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the
churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the
second death. Revelation 2:10-11
Our LORDs words here are of course consistent with all of Holy Writ.
Also consistent is the complete and purposed ignorance of so many
who have to ignore volumes of texts like this to make their false grace
message palatable. Here are two phrases that especially stand out in
His message of warning to these believers in Smyrna and also His
disciples today. When you read these see if you see conditions here. See
if His blessing of eternal life has conditions attached:
1) be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of
life. (v 10)
2) He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
(v 11)
Why would very believers be warned here by Christ if there were no
possibility of them losing out? Is Jesus a lunatic or did He place
conditions upon the final reception of His salvation?
We must choose to endure sound doctrine and not turn aside to
fables if we are going to be with the Truth Himself in eternity (Jn. 14:6; 1
Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 4:1-4). I know that these truths are hard and yet they
are the very truths of the One we will be judged by on that Day (Isa.
30:10; Jn. 12:48; Rom. 2:16; 3:4). So, we all make the choice to ignore or
wax over these Bible truths, or face them and fall flat upon the mercy of
the LORD we so desperately are in perpetual need of.
Ready or Not Jesus is Coming
Did the very Son of Man not indiscriminately level a severe warning
concerning readiness for His return? Jesus forewarned that all those who
were at one time in His kingdom would not make it to eternal glory:
And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be
overcharged (weighted down) with surfeiting (over indulgence),
and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come

upon you unawares (suddenly, without warning). For as a snare

(trap) shall it come on ALL them that dwell on the face of the
whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may
be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come
to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:34-36
Was the LORD Jesus just filling pages with these words? Why such
severe warning if there were no impending danger of soul for those who
do not take refuge under the shadow of His holy wing by foregoing these
things He warns us of?
If Jesus here warns believers to be ready or miss out, it is more than
obvious that those who are not ready when He returns suddenly like a
thief in the night, will have forfeited being with Him because of their sin.
Isnt this consistent with all of what we learn in Gods Word? (Matt. 25:113; Mk. 9:42-49; Gal. 5:19-21; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; 10:1-12; Rev. 21:8, 27)
Will you be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall
come to pass and to stand before the Son of man? How can you
know if you are ready?
Here are the main elements of this all-important passage in Luke 21:

Take heed to yourselves take personal responsibility for your

life and all that you think and do.

Lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting

(over indulgence) avoid overeating, overindulgence, and
reveling in this fleeting world; fast and pray often. Keep a lose hold
on the things of this world in order to lay hold on eternal life.
(1 Tim. 6:12)

Do not live in drunkenness - be sober and do not become

intoxicated with wine, strong drink, or spiritual deception.

Do not be caught up in the cares of this life count Christ the

supreme Prize of your whole existence and sever yourself from
anything in this world that does not contribute to the allconsuming pursuit of knowing and pleasing Him.

Watch never allow yourself to doze off or fall asleep. Do not

become at ease in Zion. (Amos 6:1) Remain on your post and on
guard at all times and let not any sinful thinking have dominion
over your life (Ps. 19:14; 2 Cor. 10:5; Phil. 4:8; 1 Pet. 1:13).

Pray always ceaselessly commune with the Savior (Matt.

26:41). Live moment to moment in fellowship with Him.

Denying any thought or activity that doesnt draw us closer to Christ is

essential in preparedness for His glorious return.
Gods grace is actually the divine enablement to overcome sin and be
fully victorious in this life! - ...much more they which receive
abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life
by one, Jesus Christ. (Rom. 5:17) It is by the workings of His grace in
our lives that we are able to overcome in all things and become more
than conquerors through him that loved us. (Rom 6:14; 8:13, 37; 1
Cor. 15:10, 57; 2 Cor. 12:9-10)
That overcoming believer who endures to the end of his trial will receive
the blessed crown of His righteousness (James 1:12). Now is the hour.
Today is the day - to throw back the veil that blinds us and binds us to
that chain of darkness! Jesus is coming!
Jesus told us that He came To open their eyes, and to turn them
from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that
they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them
which are sanctified by faith that is in me. (Acts 26:18)
Jesus Christ came to grant us redemption and complete forgiveness,
delivering us from all the power of darkness.
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath
translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we
have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of
sins. Colossians 1:13-14
Make no mistake: If we do not draw nigh to Him in repentance of life and
cultivate a heart after Him, darkness will inevitably overtake our lives.

Be deceived no longer friend, if your life is not laid down before Christ,
your eternity is sealed by your self-serving idolatrous decision to deny
the nail-scarred Savior. If He is truly LORD of your life, He is reigning
supreme in all you think, say and do. He is risen! Rejoice and give glory
to the One who bled for your sins on Calvarys cross and rose from the
dead.
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man
soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh
shall of the flesh reap corruption (eternal damnation)
Galatians 6:7-8
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to
obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto
death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans 6:16
If you havent heard this type Gospel communication, it may be time to flee
for your life and from the wolf in charge of your current local church and
find a true servant of Christ who preaches the Word! We must bathe and
gird ourselves in His holy truth and become surrounded with those who
are fervently seeking His face. There will be no excuse in that Great and
Terrible Day.
Most churches today are mere playhouses for the leaders and those who
attend (2 Tim. 4:1-5). Entertainment is the order of the day, not true
biblical Christianity which seeks to glorify God exactly the way He told us
to in His precious Word.
According to Gods Word to us (Ezek. 33:12-13), all of your past fruit or
relationship with Christ is null and void (forgotten by God) if you are not
submitted fully to His glorious Lordship at this moment. If you refuse to
lay it all down and follow Jesus in truth, on that Great Day of Judgment
He will grant you what you chose on earth to live separated from Him.
The one who lives his earthly life outside of an intimate abiding in Christ,
can expect to be separated from Him for eternity in the lake of fire where
the dense, horrid and ferocious flames of the literal ocean of fire will
torment his helpless, conscious soul forever. Hell is for keeps. This
eternal prison of fire is the point of no return and we should all consider
that damnation is the eternal home of all who are not fully submitted to

Christ, the only One who can rescue the depraved soul from the flames
of the domain of the damned.
If one reading these words is now ready to be fully right with God, he
should bow his head and heart and cry out to the One who loves him
and was crucified to save and bless him. Never mind the slightest
questioning or excuse ARE YOU READY TO LAY IT ALL DOWN? OR,
will you turn away and forsake what is perhaps your last call and
opportunity to make things right with your Maker and Judge? To refuse
to fully come to repentance upon reading these words, is to kiss the gates
of Heaven and turn and militantly march through the gates of hell.
Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him
while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the
unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the
LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for
he will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7

Your Prayer of Complete Surrender and Repentance:

Father in Heaven, I have sinned against You grossly and have no one to
blame except myself. I have rebelled and done things my way and not
Yours. Holy Father, I hasten to repent. I now beg You in this very instant to
forgive me and cleanse my soul of all the iniquity and sin I have
committed. Wash me with Your sinless, holy blood Jesus and make me a
new creature in Christ. From this moment forward I will follow You to the
end of my life! I am ready to suffer persecution for Your precious Name
Jesus, my LORD and my God. I lay my life in Your hands, never to take it
up again unto myself. Father, Into Thine hands I commend/commit my
spirit. From this moment forward I will never be ashamed of You again but
will proclaim Your salvation to others as I eagerly look for Your soon
return. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

SOUL-DAMNING SINS
Are there Sins that will Damn the Soul?

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are THESE;
Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry,
witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife,
seditions,
heresies,
Envyings,
murders,
drunkenness,
revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I
have also told you in time past, that they which do such
things SHALL NOT inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians
5:19-21
If there were a list of deadly sins which are sure to damn your soul to
eternal hell, would you want to know about that list?
Because of His abundant mercy, lists of specific sins that provoke the
LORD to anger are listed in Holy Writ. This is in order to warn men and
bless them to escape His sure judgment to come on those who walk in
such rebellion.
Lets observe a brief definition of the 17 manifestations of the sinful
nature listed here in Galatians 5:19-21 a much neglected text:
Adultery looking on another to lust (in person or via technology);
unlawful relations involving a married person. Any sex outside of
holy matrimony where God designed it to be enjoyed (Heb. 13:4).
Fornication every and all forms of illicit sexual activity, whether
in thought or deed. Any sexual activity outside of holy matrimony.
Uncleanness anything opposite of purity; all forms of sexual
impurity.

Lasciviousness licentiousness, lust, lewdness, unchastity.

Anything promoting or inciting sexual lust; lack of restraint.
Idolatry image worship. This includes anything other than the
LORD upon which the affections are passionately set.
Witchcraft sorcery. The practice of dealing with evil spirits,
magical incantations, casting spells or charms by means of drugs
or potions to inflict harm on another. Witchcraft includes the evil
manipulation or control of others by any means.
Hatred enmity, bitter dislike, malice, abhorrence; tendency to
hold grudges against or be angry with another.
Variance
disputes.

discord,

dissentions,

quarrelling,

debating

and

Emulations striving to excel at the expense of another person;

seeking to surpass or outdo another.
Wrath rage; determined enduring anger; fierce indignation with
turbulent passions.
Strife disputations, strife about words, angry contentions;
vindictive endeavor to repay another evil for evil.
Seditions parties, factions; stirring up strife among people.
Heresies the rejection of truth for fallacy; departure from divinely
revealed truth.
Envyings ill will toward anothers good will.
Murders to kill or mar the happiness of another.
Drunkenness intoxication from the overuse of alcohol.
Revellings rioting; lascivious and boisterous feastings including
obscene music and other sinful activities; carousing.

These are the exact soul-damning works of the flesh the apostle Paul
speaks of in this same passage when he declares that they that are
Christs have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (Gal.
5:19, 24)
Regretfully, in this hour of great apostasy, scarcely do we hear leaders
tend to this divinely-inspired biblical doctrine. Why is this vital part of
the Bible intentionally avoided by so many? Has your pastor taken you
through these lists of defiling sins in Galatians 5 and Matthew 15? Why
would any truth-seeking servant of Christ want to purposely evade such
an important portion of Bible truth? Why would any true undershepherd not want to prepare and warn those he speaks to concerning
the judgment of the Almighty upon all who do not repent of sin?
As a result of such empty leadership, so many today who fully believe in
their own minds that they are saved, will not be in Heaven (Matt. 7:2123; 25:1-3; Lk. 6:46). They want to make up their own rules partly due to
the epidemic of false leadership that refuses to acknowledge this text.
Yet, its interesting because most men in leadership tend to the very
verses following this Galatians 5 passage but refuse to delve into the
divinely-inspired contents of verses 19-21 of Galatians 5. Most men will
read or preach and acknowledge the nine dimensions of the fruit of the
Spirit and yet refuse to deal honestly and openly with the LORD by
tending equally to the works of the flesh in this same exact passage
(Gal. 5:19-23). This is tragic and yet the LORD holds each of us
personally responsible to know and obey the contents of His Word (Hos.
4:6; Jn. 5:39; 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 5:11-14; 1 Pet. 2:2).
If Gods very Word clearly tells us in this Galtians 5 Bible passage that
any person who partakes of any one of these seventeen sins SHALL
NOT inherit the kingdom of God, should we dare question it? Or,
should we simply believe, embrace, and declare this Bible truth? It is
moral cowardess to do anything but receive, believe, and resolutely
communicate this truth - Preach the word; be instant in season, out
of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and
doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves
teachers, having itching ears. (2 Tim. 4:2-3)

Its not fair that this generation be left without the plain truth of the
holiness of the Almighty who they will soon stand before to be judged.
Isnt it only equitable that those who are at variance with the LORD and
going to hell know so? Did He not give us the commission to warn them?
(Ps. 9:17; Matt. 3:7-8; Acts 2:40; 2 Cor. 5:11)
Perhaps so many leaders limit themselves to the scant volume of verses
they learned in their so-called higher learning institutions. Or, many
dont want to deal with this truth because its really not all about Christ
but rather about growing their own name and church business. So, they
deal with self-serving surface issues instead of mans core dilemma for
which Jesus came to die (solve) - sin.
There are many Calvinists today who will dare you to come up with any
sin that can undo the great salvation of God and tie this together with
Christs perfect work of redemption on the cross. This is misguided
thinking at best. This reveals complete denial of biblical truth and
intellectual dishonesty. Jesus sacrifice and redemptive work is a perfect
work and yet the choice is left up to the individual to receive and abide in
His salvation. Did we not just read in Galatians 5:19-21 of seventeen
specific sins that defile and disqualify one from Gods kingdom?
Did Christ Teach that Sin Defiles and Disqualifies?
Jesus and His apostles told us that sin defileth men and even named
those sins which defile out of His love for us - so we would specifically
know what offends His holiness and reveals a backslidden heart (Matt.
15:19-20; Gal. 5:19-21). He has disclosed to us His holy will in intricate
detail and we are therefore without excuse and will be without excuse on
that Great and Terrible Day of Judgment that hastens toward us. Does
sin separate us from the one, true holy God? (Isa. 59:2; Rom. 6:23; Acts
1:25; Gal. 5:17-19; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Rev. 21:8, 27) If sin doesnt separate
men from God then why in the world did Jesus come and do all that He
did? Did the LORD not tell His very own covenant people that their sins
had separated them from Him? (Isa. 59:2) What has changed in that
regard? Nothing! The wages of sin is still death and those who die in sin
will spend eternity separated from He who is holy, holy, holy. (Isa.
6:3; Rom. 6:23; Rev. 4:8; 21:8, 27) Did the unchanging God of perfection
somehow lose His unchanging divine attribute of holiness at the moment
He saved me? If not, why would I vainly believe that my sins cannot
separate me from Him?

Are we so blinded and deluded that we vainly believe that there is some
other way outside what He told us in His holy Word? The way of holiness
is the only way (Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:15-16).
Let us never forget or lose track of the truth that the LORD looketh on
the heart. (1 Sam. 16:7) The LORD taught that sin that defiles comes
out of the heart of man. Of this truth Jesus said Hear, and
understand.
And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and
understand...And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without
understanding? Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever
entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out
into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the
mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders,
adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with
unwashen hands defileth not a man. Matthew 15:10, 16-20
Christ informs us here of seven specific sins that violate divine holiness.
After listing them He says These are the things which defile a man.
The word defile simply means to make unholy or unfit to be in Gods
holy presence. Here in Matthew 15 Christ informs us all that the sins
that might proceed from ones life come forth out of the heart and
defile the man. Jesus lists seven specific sins that He says defile
the man or make him unholy in the eyes of the Almighty:

evil thoughts
murders
adulteries
fornications
thefts
false witness
blasphemies

Now if the very Son of God says these sins defile the man, do you
honestly think a person manifesting these sins from a defiled heart is
prepared to meet Him who is holy, holy, holy? (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8)
Anyone want to argue with the Alpha and Omega Himself? Of these sins
the LORD says These are the things which defile a man: but to eat
with unwashen hands defileth not a man. (Matt. 15:20) In rightly

dividing the word of truth, we observe that some things defile and some
dont. We see here that there are things that do not defile a man,
outward things like not washing the hands or other man made religious
ordinances that do not pertain to godliness as the LORD defines it in His
Word (Matt. 23). And yet, Jesus Christ here names seven sins that
proceed from alienated hearts and defile men so that they cannot be in
His presence or grace unless they return to Him in repentance (Heb.
4:14-16; 8:12; 1 Jn. 1:9).
And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned
against me, him will I blot out of my book. Exodus 32:33
Below is an unfortunate quote from a modern ministry that has
worldwide influence:
When we do sin, God does not reject us or disown us. Our
fellowship with Him may be broken, but our relationship is not;
we are still members of His family if we have truly committed our
lives to Christ. (BGEA Salvation Q & A Index #9, Frequently
Asked Questions, Internet)
Today it seems that the pulpits and Christian media venues are filled
with those who psychoanalyze, water-down, and psychologize
everything while avoiding Bible words and themes like identifying and
calling sin - sin, the necessity of personal holiness, eternal judgment,
and being ready for the soon return of Jesus. When one is in the
ministry to please himself instead of Jesus, he will pick and choose
those things he wishes to reveal to people in light of how it will affect or
influence his audience, instead of pleasing God by declaring His fullcounsel.
The hireling wolf makes himself known by his refusal to lead by openly
acknowledging and declaring the full-counsel of the LORD (2 Tim. 3:10,
13). Such a person is a deceiver who intentionally dodges doctrines and
passages that have a negative nature to the one who is living in
darkness (Jn. 3:19-21). The deceiver identifies himself by not
uncovering the sins of Gods people (Lam. 2:14). Full-counsel Gospel
truth (includes enduring to the end to be saved Matt. 10:22; 1 Cor.
15:2) will not help self-serving leaders win friends and influence people

to their own selfish purposes. By withholding they lead people away

from Christ (Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29). It certainly will not draw the
masses of self-serving counterfeits and fill their houses of
entertainment. Have you seen this pattern and tendency among those
in leadership in the church world in this late hour?
For more information on the antichrist purpose-driven, ecumenical,
seeker-friendly agenda, see the ministry site and sign up to receive
regular emails. SafeGuardYourSoul.com
False prophets, whom Christ warned us to avoid, will not preach on sin,
righteousness, and judgment (Jn. 16:7-8; Acts 24:25). We must beware
of the numerous warnings in Scripture of false prophets among us (Matt.
24:4-5, 11, 24; 1 Tim. 4:1-6; 2 Tim. 3:1-7, 13; 2 Pet. 2-3; Jude 1). Can
we not also acknowledge and agree that each individual believer is
entirely personally responsible to the LORD to acknowledge and obey the
divine fullness of His Counsel given us in His Word? He gave to His
Church His written Word that we might always know when and if we are
not aligned with His truth and be fully pleasing to Him (Jn. 20:31; 1 Cor.
10:11). This passage in Galatians 5 that we are examining in this chapter
which details what fruit pleases and displeases Him, is certainly one of
those definitive and important truth texts He gave to His people (Gal.
5:19-23). The works of the flesh are spelled out so that those who are
doing these things can definitively understand that they are not pleasing
the LORD and in danger of hellfire.
When is the last time your pastor taught through Galatians 5:19-24?
Why did the Almighty choose to specifically list out these seventeen sins
(violations of His holiness)? Was He merely filling space? What was His
purpose? Is it because He is out to get us? Or, is it rather that He is holy
and He so loves us? It is clear that the LORD wanted His children to
know when they were not aligned with Him. Perhaps He desires us to be
so close to Him that if our hearts drift, we can know it by seeing
ourselves in these sins of the flesh and repent and return to Him.
Beloved, lest anyone think that this needy person possesses an undue
view of himself, please know that this writer is a mere man who like
Elijah and Paul is a man subject to like passions and fully and
personally understands the gravitational pull of evil (Rom. 6-7; James

5:17). Temptation to sin is a daily reality (Gal. 5:16-17). That we all sin is
no mystery, but to deny truth and make up our own doctrines and false
god to justify our sins, is treason! The LORD is calling us to be honesthearted disciples who love Him supremely more than ourselves and sin!
Should we consider the Almighty harsh for giving us these lists of sins
that violate Him? Or, do we consider Him to be as He told us He is
holy? Did He not give us ample fair warning that all sin will be judged,
either by repentance now or when it is too late - when one stands before
His holy throne in trembling ruins?
For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through
the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful
flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the
righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not
after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:3-4
Jesus came, not to grant free license to sin, but to the contrary, to
forever judge sin in the flesh, by the sacrifice of His own body and to
grant the blessed power to live in the Spirit and not live in sin. Because
Jesus forever judged sin in the flesh by His perfect sacrifice, He defeated
any and all notions and excuses for sin. There will be no defense when
we stand before Him naked on Judgment Day. Why then would any
person claiming to know Christ teach anything which justifies the sins
that violate His holiness?
What does the Holy Spirit promise will happen to any person who has
the fruit of any of these works of the flesh manifesting in his life?
of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in
time past, that they which do such things SHALL NOT inherit
the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
If committed without repentance, any one of these sins listed in
Galatians 5 will damn the soul or there would be no reason for the
divinely-inspired transmission of this text. The seventeen sins listed in
this Bible passage reveal that the LORD is holy and is warning us of
exactly what offends Him. The fact of the existence of this important
passage reveals that God loves His people. Anyone committing these sins

can plainly know he is out of a pleasing relationship with Jesus and

choose to repent and turn back to the LORD. When the heart is in true
fellowship with Christ, the fruit of the Spirit will be produced as
listed in Galatians 5:22-23.
Like Esau, Judas, and many others throughout history, sin can and will
harden the heart and if not repented of, will result in unalterable
apostasy (Heb. 3:12-15; 6:4-6; 12:14-15).
It is the dishonest heart that can look dead at a Holy Spirit-inspired
Scripture and diminish ought from it (Deut. 4:2). How prideful we are!
How arrogant! What audacity! Taking away from Gods Word brings a
curse (Prov. 30:5-6; Rev. 22:18-19).
Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto
the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may
live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of
your fathers giveth you. Ye shall not add unto the word which
I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that
ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which
I command you. Your eyes have seen what (judgment) the
LORD did because of Baalpeor: for all the men that followed
Baalpeor, the LORD thy God hath destroyed them from among
you. But ye that did cleave unto the LORD your God are alive
every one of you this day. Behold, I have taught you statutes
and judgments (gave you my written Word), even as the LORD
my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land
whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them (the
words of God) Deuteronomy 4:1-6
Here Gods covenant people are specifically reminded by the LORD of
His fierce anger when Israel sinned against Him because of
Baalpeor. See Numbers 25. Remember how 24,000 Israelites were
killed for idolatry, spiritual adultery and fornication? (Num. 25) Here in
Deuteronomy Gods covenant people are reminded of the holy wrath of
the God who saved them and are exhorted to take heed and not
diminish ought from His Word by distorting His clear truth and
making up false doctrines to justify living in sin. The Almighty is
unchanging and will judge His own people for their sins if they choose

not to repent and return to Him fully (Ezek. 18:30; 33:12-13; 1 Pet.
4:17-18; Rev. 3:19).
In verse 4 here of Deuteronomy chapter 4 we are reminded of the
glorious promise of the keeping grace and power of our great God who
preserves His own who remain in fellowship with Him But ye that did
cleave unto the LORD your God are alive every one of you this day.
Saints, do we believe the Word of God? If so, we are obligated by a holy
conviction to embrace all of it because ALL scripture is given by
inspiration of God. (2 Tim. 3:16)
There are those who would pose the question: At what point does the
LORD cut a person off? It is wise to allow Him to answer this question
for Himself by observing what He told us in His Word. All human
reasoning should be crucified and the Word of God honored as full and
final authority concerning this matter. Let God be true and every man
a liar. (Rom. 3:4)
Remember that divine truth is never based upon what a sinful man or
men wish it to be. Instead, divine truth is immutable, unchanging,
binding, and before determined by the Judge of all.
God has magnified His Word above even His very name! Those who truly
serve Him in truth, magnify His Words and not those of mere men or
contrary doctrines. The mark of a true disciple will be that he searches
out and magnifies Gods written Word above all else and allows it to
supersede the voice, notion or teachings of all that does not align (Ps.
138:2; Jn. 5:39; 8:47; Acts 17:11).
The Bible clearly tells us that if one is not in the state of holiness
through intimate relationship with Christ (abiding), that person simply
will not go to Gods holy Heaven when he leaves the earth, whether that
be in the catching away or upon death.
A valid question that the Scripture answers is asked by many and here it
is: Are there certain sins which disqualify a person from Heaven? If so,
which ones? And says who?

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the

kingdom of God? BE NOT DECEIVED: neither fornicators, nor
idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of
themselves with mankind (homosexuals), Nor thieves, nor
covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall
inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
Did you see the 10 sins listed here which will exclude any person living
in them from inherit(ing) the kingdom of God?
According to 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, here are those that the eternal Judge
and LORD says will not inherit the kingdom of God:

Fornicators

Idolaters

Adulterers

Effeminate

Abusers of themselves with mankind (homosexuals)

Thieves

Covetous

Drunkards

Revilers

Extortioners

Overcoming these sins cannot be internally accomplished by self effort

and soul power.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the
lust of the flesh. Galatians 5:16

Again, the question: Do certain sins (sins unto death - Rom. 6:16; 1 Jn.
5:16) disqualify a person who was once in grace, from Heaven/eternal life,
if he doesnt repent?
But the fearful (spiritual cowards, men pleasers), and
unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and
whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall
have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and
brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8
Here is another list of those the LORD tells us shall have their part in
the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:

Fearful (spiritual cowards, men pleasers)

Unbelieving

Abominable

Murderers

Whoremongers

Sorcerers

Idolaters

All liars

Revelation 21:8 lists 8 soul-damning sins. These divinely inspired

laborious lists beg the following question: Why does God take so much
time and effort to give a detailed list of these sins to His very own people if
in fact it only took to believe and be saved at one moment in ones life
and he was eternally secure regardless of what he did after that one
magic moment of faith?
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house we are,
IF WE HOLD FAST THE CONFIDENCE and the rejoicing of the
hope FIRM UNTO THE END. Hebrews 3:6

There are 5 sins that kept Israel (Gods covenant people) out of their
promise land of blessings and will keep us out if we choose to live
separated from the presence of God in sin.
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest
that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself
should be a castaway. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye
should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the
cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized
unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; (represents salvation)
And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the
same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that
followed them: and that Rock was Christ. But with many of
them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in
the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the
intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written,
The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them
committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted,
and were destroyed of serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some
of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and
they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of
the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he
standeth take heed lest he fall. 1 Corinthians 9:27; 10:1-12
Here are the 5 sins that kept Gods people out of His blessings:

Lust

Idolatry

Fornication

Tempting Christ

Murmuring

For the sake of remembrance, let us use the acronym L.I.F.T.M. here.
Each letter corresponds to 1 of these 5 deadly sins which disqualify the
people of the LORD from entering into His resting place ultimately
Heaven.
We all need to L.I.F.T.M. up (these sins) to the LORD in repentance and
for His perfect forgiveness and cleansing. God the Holy Spirit warns us
here through Pauls pen, that Israel and these sins are examples. (1
Cor. 10:6, 11) to all New Testament believers. The clear message here is
that God is a holy Judge and destroys those of his who depart from His
presence and go back into sinfulness (transgressors Ps. 68:21; 73:28;
125:5, etc.). If not ridded out of our lives, any one of these 5 sins WILL
keep us out of our promised land. God is holy.
This simple acronym should help us to remember these sins and remain
separate from these things which displease our Savior. May He bless and
quicken our hearts today to cry out to Him to increase as we decrease
and to grant us the spirit of holiness. (Rom. 1:4)
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the
flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually
minded is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6
Just after he detailed the 17 works of the flesh, the Holy Spirit gives us
the 9 dimensions of the evidence of the LORDs workings in that person
who is truly abiding in Him.
But the fruit (evidence) of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering,
gentleness,
goodness,
faith,
Meekness,
temperance: against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23
Based on whom a person is serving, the fruit or evidence of that entity
will be manifested in his life. Consider the following words from Romans
8:
Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live
after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if
ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye

shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are
the sons of God. Romans 8:12-14
Can you identify the divine promise in the following verse of Scripture?
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the
Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of
God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy,
which temple ye are. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
The following is a divine command:
Keep thyself pure. 1 Timothy 5:22
L.I.F.T.M. up to Christ the Redeemer and Forgiver of the sins of His
people upon repentance.
When we see sinful manifestations of the fallen nature in our lives, we
should recognize that this reveals that our hearts are not right with God.
This is a blessing to us from our LORD in that He gave us exact
knowledge of what He considers to be sin, so that we never need to
wonder, but can always have a measurement of where we are in Him.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the
lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and
the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to
the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But
if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Galatians
5:16-18
More Sin Lists
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth;
uncleanness,
inordinate
affection,
evil
fornication,
concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which
things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of
disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye
lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath,
malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man
with his deeds; Colossians 3:5-9
Here in Colossians 3, the Word informs us that there are 6 sins For
which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of
disobedience.

Fornication

Uncleanness

Inordinate affection (exceeding reasonable limits, excessive)

Evil concupiscence (secret desire for that which is forbidden,

i.e., fantasies, fantasizing of sinful activities)

Covetousness

Idolatry

Ephesians 5:
For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person,
nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in
the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you
with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath
of God upon the children of disobedience. Ephesians 5:5-6
Notice that after the Holy Spirit here lists 4 violations against the
holiness of God (sins), He says: Let no man deceive you with vain
words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon
the children of disobedience. (Eph. 5:6)

Whoremonger

Unclean person

Covetous man

Idolater

He tells us here that no person who is living outside of fellowship with

the LORD and therefore committing these sins, hath any inheritance
in the kingdom of Christ and of God and to Let no man deceive
you with vain words: for because of these things (these sins named)
cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. (Eph.
5:5-6)
He is here telling believers to never be deceived into thinking that any
person practicing these sins has an inheritance in the eternal kingdom of
God. Saint of the LORD, here in this passage, the Holy Spirit instructs us
to never allow any leader to seduce our hearts and convince our minds
that sin doesnt endanger the eternal soul.
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims,
abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. 1 Peter
2:11
Living in temporal sin endangers the eternal soul.
Here are 7 the deadly sins of Proverbs 6:
These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an
abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and
hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked
imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false
witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among
brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19

A proud look

A lying tongue

Hands that shed innocent blood

An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations

Feet that be swift in running to mischief

A false witness that speaketh lies

He that soweth discord among brethren

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us

cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one
according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn
yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not
be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions,
whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and
a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have
no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord
GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. Ezekiel 18:30-32
That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou
mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God
giveth thee. Deuteronomy 16:20
The LORD told us that there would be those who professed to know Him
and yet by their works they deny Him. These works of the flesh which
we have studied here are not according to Christ. They are not the
character of Jesus and reveal a life that is not conformed to His holy
image (Rom. 8:29). These characteristics should never be manifesting in
the life of the disciple of Jesus.
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny
him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good
work reprobate. Titus 1:16
The danger of losing out with God may at this time be a harsh reality to
you. It is nonetheless biblically true. We must crucify emotions and live
by divine truth; letting God be true and any other teaching or emotional
feeling to be the liar (Rom. 3:3-4).
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto
thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him,
and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

The LORD told us to watch and pray that ye enter not into
temptation and to exhort one another daily, while it is called To
day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
(Matt. 26:41; Heb. 3:13) Also: But exhorting one another: and so
much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully
after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there
remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking
for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the
adversaries. (Heb. 10:25-27)
Do we not rather desire to abide in the place of blessing with our LORD?
Do we not long to experience His hand of blessing upon our lives as we
live in harmony with Him?
If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in
prosperity, and their years in pleasures. Job 36:11
For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap
corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit
reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for
in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:8-9
When and if we see any of these sins manifesting in our lives, we can be
sure that there is the sin of unbelief, spiritual adultery, and idolatry
causing a strained connection between ourselves and the LORD. Such a
breach can be remedied by godly repentance which re-establishes the
Lordship of Christ and a fresh drawing near to the Savior, releasing our
whole lives to Him alone who is worthy.
Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus
answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also
my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed
needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and
ye are clean, but not all. John 13:8-10
The LORD would have us to learn how to receive a fresh cleansing and
start that we might serve Him with clear conscience. Contacting the
blood of Christ makes such possible! How much more shall the blood

of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without

spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the
living God? (Heb. 9:14) He desires to separate us from the stain of past
sins that we might serve Him in the fullness of His love and Spirit.
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one
thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching
forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark
for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 3:1314) Note here that in order to be able to reach forward unto those
divinely ordained things which lay before us and press toward the mark
of knowing Christ more, we must first and foremost deliberately choose
to forget those sins which He has forgiven upon our confession.
May our precious LORD help us to learn to be blessed with His holy
grace in washings on an ongoing basis as we confess and forsake our
sins and are cleansed afresh by His blood.
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that
ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship
is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus ChristBut if we
walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one
with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth
us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive
ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he
is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us
from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned,
we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. My little
children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if
any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus
Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins:
and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 1:3, 7-10; 2:2

The Place of Blessedness

Quoting Davids words in Psalm 32, the apostle Paul writes:

Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man,

unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and
whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord
will not impute sin. Romans 4:6-8
The blessed place to be is where we have a real walk with God, one
that is faith-filled, accountable, repentant, and obedient. As we do, we
are in His holy light and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us
from all sin!
PRAYER: O LORD Jesus, bless me to abide in Thee that I may live
pleasing to You in all my ways and never walk after the deeds of the
fleshly, sinful nature but bring forth fruit unto eternal life while eagerly
looking for Your soon return. Give me the spirit of holiness. At this
moment I commend my spirit into Your holy care. I lay my life in Your
hands Jesus. I love You my LORD and Master. Holy Father, let Your grace
flood my being and I will guard my heart against any seducing spirit,
deceiver or false teaching that would seek to convince me that it is okay to
live in sin or that someone living in sin is eternally secure. Thank You
Father for bringing me to the blessed place where you do not impute
iniquity to me but that all sins are confessed and relinquished. Amen.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

ARTIFICIAL ASSURANCE
Message of the False Prophets

ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the
LORD, and so wrath come upon you, and upon your brethren:
this do, and ye shall not trespass. 2 Chronicles 19:10
In 2 Chronicles 19:10 the LORD instructed king Jehoshaphat to warn
His people not to trespass against Him so that wrath would not
come upon them. By this and the whole of Holy Scripture, we know He
gave us His Word to protect us from the wrath sure to come upon all
those who violate His holiness and refuse to return to Him.
It is the belief of this writer that throughout the 6,000 years of history
leading up to this present hour, millions upon millions of souls have
been claimed for hells kingdom via this lie of the ages which disregards
numerous biblical doctrines including the necessity of a living and
sincere, obedient faith, real repentance, the holiness of God, and the fear
of the LORD.
According to this passage (2 Chron. 19:10) and the whole counsel of God,
we observe that the enemy of all souls seeks to devour the souls of men
from strategic angles. His wicked aim is:

To get Gods people to sin against the LORD that they might
receive His judgment, and,

To make Gods people believe that they have security and

assurance in their relationship with the LORD even if they choose
to live in sin.

The devil has cleverly lied to man from the beginning, convincing him
that he would not surely die or incur divine judgment if he disobeyed.
Look at 2 Chronicles 19:10 again:
ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the
LORD, and so wrath come upon you 2 Chronicles 19:10
The evil one knows that God keeps His Word and that those of His
covenant people who return to sinning trespass, will receive His holy
wrath. Satan knows that Gods people are not secure while living in
sin. Remember, this is the former Lucifer, the anointed cherub, who
received the judgment of the Almighty for his own iniquity (Ezek. 28).

Are you beginning to see this picture? And how the evil one works from
both sides of the relationship between God and His people and through
many in leadership?
False assurance is deadly. Many today believe and teach that those
Christians who are living in sin are still going to Gods holy Heaven.
The inferred message that any person living outside of holiness is going
to Heaven is lethal.
The false gospel of OSAS (once saved always saved) does not demand a
changed life, instead it says that there is no need for a changed life which
is contrary to the true Gospel (Matt. 3:7-8). Wrong beliefs provide a
comfortable place for the deceitful heart to flourish and go unchecked.
The false teaching of OSAS cloaks the sinful heart behind a veil of
deception and false assurance. Any person in leadership who does not
preach the original Gospel, calling for repentance and a holy life, is
perpetrating a false gospel. The true Gospel calls for repentance and
complete change. The LORD calls for fruit that proves there is holiness
and a changed life (Matt. 3:7-8; 2 Cor. 5:17-18).
In his book entitled The Disciple-Making Minister, David Kirkwood writes:
When ministers assure people of their congregations who act like
goats that they are saved, they are telling them the exact opposite
of what God wants them to be told. That minister is working
against Christ. He is taking sides against what Jesus wants such
people to be told according to what he said in Matthew 25:31-46.
The entire point of what Jesus said there was to warn the goats.
He doesnt want them to think they are going to heaven. p. 5
It is no new thing that deceivers today preach a judgment-proof message
to those who have been saved. This message lands on the hearts of those
who are living in holiness as well as those who are living in sin. Look
closely at what the LORD cited the false prophets of Jeremiahs day for.
They gave assurance to those who were not living fully sanctified to the
LORD.
Thus saith the LORD unto this people, Thus have they loved
to wander, they have not refrained their feet, therefore the

LORD doth not accept them; he will now remember their

iniquity, and visit their sins. Then said the LORD unto me,
Pray not for this people for their good. When they fast, I will
not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and an
oblation, I will not accept them: but I will consume them by
the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence. Then said
I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the prophets say unto them, Ye shall
not see the sword (judgment), neither shall ye have famine;
but I will give you assured peace in this place. Then the LORD
said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent
them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake
unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and
divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their
heart. Jeremiah 14:10-14
Though they had the outward appearance or form of godliness, these
people were living in sin and the false prophets among Gods covenant
people were teaching them that they shall not see the sword of divine
judgment, even though they were living unholy lives. This was the same
lie told to Adam and Eve in the Garden Ye shall not surely die.
(Gen. 3:4) Satan told the woman that she would not be separated from
the LORD if she disobeyed Him. We all know what happened and that
God kept His Word and cut man off, ushering him out of His holy
presence (Gen. 3).
In Jeremiah 14:10-14 the Bible says that the false prophets were
promising life and peace to those who:

Loved to wander (v10)

They have not refrained their feet (v10)

The LORD doth not accept them (v10)

He (the LORD) will now remember their iniquity, and visit

their sins (v10)

Instead of these leaders warning these sinning people of certain

judgment, they promised them assured peace. (Jer. 14:13) How

tragic that some people do not love and seek out divine truth for
themselves and are therefore misled by false leadership (2 Thess.
2:10-12; 2 Tim. 4:3-4). This is the false vision given by deceived
leaders (Jer. 14:14).
They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people
slightly (superficially), saying, Peace, peace; when there is no
peace. Jeremiah 6:14

Liars
Testifying concerning his walk with the LORD and how he was initially
misled by his then leaders, Brian Ivey writes:
I was saved in my home church at the age of 12. I knew then God
had been speaking to my heart and went down the aisle and said
the prayer and repented and received Jesus. My life was clearly
changed as I had been born again. Then, after being saved, I was
immediately told by those same pastors that I was once saved
always saved. I believed this and though knowing I had been
saved, I went right out and continued living a sinful lifestyle. Since
I was once saved always saved I reasoned why should I change
my ways? Well, being a brand new believer in Christ, I took these
leaders and their teaching literally. Following this I grew older and
was faced with many temptations and I followed those temptations
and did not resist them, thinking I was once saved always
saved. While living in sin I knew full well I was in the wrong. I
remembered what I was told, once saved always saved, and
continued believing this for about 7 years. Then, I went to a
friends church one night and the leader was talking about
salvation and that once saved always saved was a lie from the
devil. At the hearing of this truth my heart was convicted again of
my sins and I repented afresh and went thru a discipleship
program on how to walk with God. Since then I have often
wondered how many people have been led astray to believe once
saved always saved who really think that they are eternally secure
no matter how they live. This is very disturbing. I was headed for

destruction and didnt know it, but God intervened and saved me
again. My prayer is that people will have the chance to know the
whole truth about salvation before its too late.
Was Brian offered biblically blessed assurance or blessed presumption?
Brian was told that God loved Him yet there was no hint to what the
LORD required of him (Micah 6:8; 1 Pet. 1:15-16). Brian was never told
that the LORD wanted him to choose to love God with all of his heart,
mind and strength (Matt. 22:37-39; Jn. 14:21). Was this new believer
(babe in Christ) led to believe he could presume upon and take
advantage of Gods grace? (see Rom. 6:1-2, 15; 2 Cor. 6:1). Was Brian
told about denying the self-life and lifting up Jesus in all things, fearing
God, the essential of personal holiness, living his life by faith, the danger
of falling away, trusting and fully obeying the LORD in all things He
commanded, etc.? Was Brian instructed to desire the sincere (pure)
milk of the word to grow as a believer and that Gods Word is final
authority and to be studied and obeyed? (Ps. 119; Lk. 4:4; 1 Pet. 2:2)
Was this new believer informed about nurturing intimacy in his new
relationship with Jesus? Was there any hint of personal responsibility
and accountability communicated to this new saint in order to help him
to walk at peace with the LORD? Or, was Brian given mans blessing to
be presumptuous upon the grace of God and a license to be as
irresponsible as he wished?
Brian is like millions today who have been lied to by their very leaders to
believe something the Bible never teaches an unconditional eternal
security (Isa. 9:16).
Of the deluded religious leaders of his day, the prophet Ezekiel says:
Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous
sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened the hands
of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way,
by promising him life. Ezekiel 13:22
Ezekiel the prophet cites the false teachers of his day for doing two evil
things:
1) With lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad

2) Strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not

return from his wicked way, by promising him life
The Holy Spirit reveals here that the heart of the righteous remnant
is made sad by the false prophets who with lies strengthen the
position of those who while claiming to be followers of Christ, live in
unrepentant sin.
Those who teach unconditional eternal security lie against the truth
(James 3:14). In the LORDs eyes, they are liars.
Only a deceiver would give hope to a Christian who is living in sin. It
doesnt matter if one believes he is a deceiver or not, if the Word of God
reveals that we are teaching falsehood, such is obvious (2 Tim. 3:7, 13;
Tit. 1:10-12, 15-16).
Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say,
Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Every one that
doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth
in them; or, Where is the God of judgment? Malachi 2:17
How had Gods people wearied the LORD? When they said that
Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he
delighteth in them. Did you catch this? The LORD said that it wearied
Him when His people that were sinning people (in the church) were said
to be good in the sight of the LORD and that He (the LORD)
delighted in them. God is holy and unchanging and does not see
sinning people as good or delightful, regardless of whether or not that
person served the LORD in the past. The Word instructs The Lord
knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the
name of Christ depart from iniquity. (2 Tim. 2:19)
He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the
just, even they both are abomination to the LORD. Proverbs
17:15
Did you note here that those who justify the wicked are an
abomination to the LORD? The word abomination is one of the
strongest words of detestation in the Bible.

It is utterly presumptuous for men to promise to others an eternal

security that God Himself never promised to any person who does not
continue in obedience to Him. Perhaps this is Satans most effective tool
in rendering powerless those whom the LORD saved. Immediately upon
receiving Christ, they are told to take it easy and enjoy your salvation.
Kick back for you are eternally secure no matter what you do or dont do,
because your salvation is all, 100% of Gods grace. You have no part in
it!
After going to the altar, those who made a confession of faith are then
given a false security - one we never find on the pages of Scripture. These
men are offering a guarantee and assurance that the Bible simply never
offers or promises, especially not to anyone who does not endure or
continue in the faith to the end of their earthly lives. As we see in the
tragic testimony of Brian Ivey, after going up to get saved the new convert
is basically told Youre now eternally secure no matter what you choose
to do with your life because once you are saved you are always saved, so
all you need to be concerned about is just being a good church member
and everything will be okay. This is a clear example of the men the Bible
warns us are turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness and
by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
(Rom. 16:17-18; Jude 3-4)
What deception! What a lie! This is the same message Satan himself gave
the first man and woman in the Garden. He told them they had no need
to obey God, because they would not endanger their relationship with
Him if they didnt obey Him. The first man and woman believed the lie
and soon found out that the LORD kept His Word He removed them
from His presence and they had to choose to be reconciled to Him before
their relationship was restored.
Oh the blessed privilege of knowing Him! Those who truly love Him abide
in Him, and are secure.
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon
us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the
world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now
are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we
shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be

like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that
hath this hope (of His return) in him purifieth himself, even as
he is pure. 1 John 3:1-3

A False Vision
The picture we get through the preponderance of Scripture is that in His
infinite wisdom, the Almighty lays life and death, Himself and Satan,
before all who dwell upon the earth.
As we see in Jeremiah 14, the message of the false prophets then and
now, whom the LORD has not sent and who prophesy lies in my
name, is that Ye shall not see the sword (judgment), neither shall
ye have famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place.
In Jeremiah 14, listen to what the LORD says of false prophets who give
false assurance and security to those living in sin:

Prophesy lies in my name

I sent them not

Neither have I commanded them

Neither spake unto them

They prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a

thing of nought

They prophesythe deceit of their heart

Under the direct inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Jeremiah says that this
false assurance was a false vision. It was then, and it is now. In the
economy of the unchanging God, living in sin disqualifies any subject of
His kingdom, causing them to forfeit their place with Him until restored
(if they choose to be). Millions today have been and are being given this
exact same false vision. Like the people of God in Jeremiahs day,
millions today are being assured peace no matter how they choose to
live their lives. These prophets whom he said prophesy lies gave little
or no warning to Gods covenant people to live holy and yet they sought

to assure them of an eternal security the LORD Himself never promises

to any person who is not clearly set apart to the LORD. The LORD tells
us here that this is a false vision or false doctrine, and is the message
of false teachers who are turning the grace of our God into
lasciviousness. (Jude 4) Jude foretold of this same lie emanating
through ungodly men in the very last days.
The Holy Spirit foretold that there would be those in the last hour, who
would heap to themselves false teachers, in order to confirm them in
their sins (2 Tim. 4:2-4). These deceivers use the holy name of the LORD
in vain by putting His approval upon that which He condemns. In doing
this they are turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness
(license to sin). (Jude 3-4) Compromisers seek to create a false security
zone for themselves so they can continue to soothe their consciences
while living in sin - hence the once saved always saved fable - And he
(Christ) said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before
men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly
esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. (Lk. 16:15)
I have personally discussed this subject with hundreds of people who
claim to be Christians and maintain that they love God and His Word. I
am not necessarily doubting each one of these individuals sincerity, yet
one can be sincere and at the same time, be sincerely deceived (Prov.
14:12). Yet, when shown, through volumes of Scripture that the Bible
continually warns of Gods judgment upon His very own people who
depart from Him to live in sin, and that the Scriptures nowhere teach or
hint of an unconditional eternal security, they push away. Many of these
people are so taken back and offended by the divine truth they now have
seen with their own eyes, that they do not want to hear it again and will
even avoid the messenger who brought the truth to their attention (Amos
5:10). Many simply do not want to endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim.
4:3) After looking Gods holy Word straight in the face, they still refuse to
change what they believe, even when they have now witnessed firsthand
that it does not align or agree with divinely-given truth.
Unfortunately, most people who believe in the unscriptural teaching of
once saved always saved do not have a comprehensive knowledge of
Gods Word. They themselves certainly didnt find such a teaching in the
Bible, because it is not there to be found. No, instead, they were taught

this doctrine by men and therefore have tainted glasses on when they
read Scripture, forcing Gods Word to say what it simply does not say.
One must realize what is at stake in order to understand why many
believe the myth of once saved always saved. What is at stake is those
souls that are deluded with the message of a false assurance that leads
them to believe they are in right standing with the LORD while living
outside His will. That Great and terrible Day of Judgment is coming.
Many are intoxicated with the wine of the fornication of this false
assurance teaching. The same people who have taught them this myth
are rarely heard teaching the biblical doctrine of personal responsibility
(Lk. 21:34-36; Heb. 12:14-15; Rev. 2-3). Many of those deceived by this
myth, do not want their false security zone threatened and therefore do
not want to hear any truth from Scripture that demands real
holiness, without which no man shall see the LORD. (Heb. 12:14)
As is abundantly clear in Jeremiah 14, it is the message of deceived men
to teach a false assurance to those of Gods people who are living in sin,
or to teach it at all due to its ability to lead to sin and apostasy as with
the first man and woman. Leaders who truly know the LORD warn their
listeners of His wrath to come upon all sin:
Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.
2 Corinthians 5:11
Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning
every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we
may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I
also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh
in me mightily. Colossians 1:27-29
In the absence of doctrines like the holiness and fear of the LORD,
naming and defining what sin is, and divine judgment to come,
spiritually blind leaders give a false sense of security in their messages,
whether blatantly or subtly.
The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo,
they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is
in them?...for every one from the least even unto the greatest

is given to covetousness (greedy for self-gain), from the

prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For
they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people
slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace (false
assurance). Were they ashamed when they had committed
abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could
they blush: therefore shall they fall among them that fall: in
the time of their visitation (Judgment Day) they shall be cast
down, saith the LORD. Jeremiah 8:9-12
Of the false prophets, the LORD said: For they have healed the hurt
of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when
there is no peace (false assurance). (v11) Here we see that the false
teachers had convinced the people of God that they could have peace
and not fret the judgment of God for their sins. Essentially, they were
taught an artificial assurance or security. This is what Satan himself
taught the first man and woman and it led directly to their fall from
grace.

True Assurance
Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I
go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto
you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is
come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness,
and of judgment. John 16:7-8
Jesus assures us here in the John 16 passage above that the
Comforter or divine Person of the Holy Ghost, will come unto you
and reprove or convince the saint of righteousness. That is, He, the
Person of the Holy Spirit, living inside of the person who is currently
trusting fully in Jesus, will give confirmation of righteousness and
sonship to that believer.
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are
the children of God. Romans 8:16
In contrast to mans futile attempt to give assurance to those who
listen to their fabrications and distortions, the abiding Holy Spirit

alone can give assurance and confirmation of sonship in the heart of

the child of God.
For the which cause I also suffer these things:
nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have
believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that
which I have committed unto him against that day. 2
Timothy 1:12
True assurance of salvation only comes from the Holy Spirit as the
individual chooses to abide in Jesus. If a person freely chooses to cease
from living in the light with Christ, the assurance will depart. And this
is where the grace corrupters come in to subvert the truth and teach
their artificial brand of assurance. No mere man can give assurance to
his own heart much less another mans heart. Leaders can seek to
deceive the minds of their hearers with false teaching, but divine peace
only accompanies obedience to divine truth in the hearts of Gods
people (Ps. 119:165; Jn. 14:21, 23; Rom. 8:13-16).
Concerning His people and sinning, the LORD says: Were they
ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were
not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore shall they
fall among them that fall: in the time of their visitation they shall
be cast down, saith the LORD. (v12) Here we see that the people didnt
blush when they sinned because they had bought into the lie of a false
peace, which brought an artificial assurance. Because of the deceptive
message of their leaders, the people believed they were judgment proof.
Were they going to escape the judgment of the LORD? Therefore shall
they fall among them that fall: in the time of their visitation they
shall be cast down, saith the LORD. (Jer. 8:12) Damnation awaited
those who did not repent from this crass attitude toward the holiness of
the LORD.
Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the prophets say unto
them, Ye shall not see the sword, neither shall ye have famine;
but I will give you assured peace in this place. Then the LORD
said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent
them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake
unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and

divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their

heart. Jeremiah 14:13-14
The message of false teachers is the same as their father the devil. From
the Garden till now there message is You are judgment proof Ye
shall not surely die. (Gen. 3:4) False prophets teach sinning people
they are safe and secure (Lam. 2:14). The hirelings of today refuse to
inform people that their inheritance can be discontinued and will be if
they rebel.
And thou (Gods covenant people), even thyself, shalt
discontinue from thine heritage (inheritance) that I gave
theefor ye have kindled a fire in mine anger, which shall
burn for ever. Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that
trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart
departeth from the LORDO LORD, the hope of Israel, all that
forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me
shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the
LORD, the fountain of living waters. Jeremiah 17:4-5, 13
Refusing to warn believers to beware lest they be spoiled (ruined;
shipwrecked) is equivalent to blatantly teaching a falsehood. Warning
saints not to depart from the LORD and thereby be in danger of losing
the inheritance God gave, is the divine mandate placed upon all undershepherds (Col. 1:18; 2:8). Any man who does not warn believers to
Save yourselves from this untoward generation is not being true to
Christ and should immediately be left unsupported by the remnant of
Gods people (Acts 2:40).
Always remember that its not only what a man teaches, but also what
truth he chooses to leave out of his messages. When a leader
intentionally leaves out essential Bible doctrines, he is not a servant of
Christ (Prov. 30:5-6; Acts 20:20, 27; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 4:1-5; Rev. 22:1819). Deceivers purposely omit to preach doctrines like the fear of the
LORD, the holiness of God, judgment to come for all unrepentant
sinners, the necessity of personal sanctification, the depravity of man,
the soon return of Christ, eternal hell, etc.

Godly Leaders Uncover Sin and Call People to Repentance

Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and
they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy
captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of
banishment. Lamentations 2:14
As we witness here in Lamentations 2:14, one of the earmarks of a false
leader is that he teaches on vain and foolish things while refusing to
preach the full-counsel of Gods Word, which includes specifically
identifying what God calls sin and the need for repentance for the
remission of sins (see Lk. 24:47; Acts 3:19; 1 Jn. 1:7-9). In doing this,
the beguiler keeps Gods people in bondage to their sins (2 Pet. 2:19). The
LORD says of deceivers that they have not discovered (openly
exposed) thine iniquity, to turn away thy captivity (bondage). (Lam.
2:14)
Virtually all modern day limelight leaders do not mention sin (Lk. 6:26).
To do so would cause them to lose their audiences which give them
affluence and dollars. These hireling deceivers account for some of the
false prophets foretold in the last days and certainly are a fulfillment of
the great falling away we know is occurring in this late hour (Matt. 24:35; 2 Thess. 2; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
Those who do not preach on sin, by name, do not serve Christ at all.
They refuse to discover or uncover the sins of Gods people and help
them turn from iniquity and be delivered from the judgment of God.
Ezekiel the prophet warned: Repent, and turn yourselves from all
your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away
from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and
make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house
of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth,
saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. (Ezek.
18:30-32)
Like today, in Jeremiahs day (the writer of Lamentations), there was no
warning from the leaders of judgment to come upon all who didnt truly
worship the LORD supremely. Those who had heart idols were heading
straight for eternal damnation and their leaders could care less because

they were more interested in their little religious programs and business.
Instead, these leaders of Israel were teaching the people that they had
nothing to fear since they were covenant children. The idea conveyed was
that same notion communicated by many today that there is no
divinely-given requirement to live holy. A big surprise laid ahead for
those in Israel who did not repent before it was too late, and the same
eternal terror lies ahead for all those alive today who have left their first
love and are living in sin. True godly leaders openly warn of the terror
of the LORD. (2 Cor. 5:11; Col. 1:28; 2:8).
There was no warning of danger and judgment concerning turning
back to sin (Lam. 2:14). There was no voice of truth among these
leaders of Gods covenant people. Gods Word is replete with warnings
about the peril of returning to sin after being made righteous.
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast
destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. Psalms 73:27
The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek
him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will
forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2
Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, thou art gone
backward: therefore will I stretch out my hand against thee,
and destroy thee; I am weary with repenting. And I will fan
them with a fan in the gates of the land; I will bereave them of
children, I will destroy my people, since they return not from
their ways. Jeremiah 15:6-7
The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him;
but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake
him. Ezra 8:22
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end
is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better
for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than,
after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment

delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according

to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again;
and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. 2
Peter 2:20-22
I will destroy my people, since they return not from their
ways. Jeremiah 15:7
Here was the teaching of the false prophets in Jeremiahs day. They gave
a false vision of assurance of peace between the people and God, even
though these people were living in sin. Like many today, these false
teachers were painting a picture on the hearts of their hearers of a false
god. They were using the age old message that subverts the truth of the
holiness of the one true God revealed in Holy Writ. These false prophets
eliminated the fact that God is a holy Judge and will punish all sin. They
fancied themselves in the concoction of a god who would allow his people
to do as they will because they were his covenant children. In their
message there was therefore no need of ongoing repentance and obedient
faith. This is contrary to the divinely-given revelation of who the LORD is
and what His requirements are for His people. Make no mistake: This
message of false assurance is not new. It started in the Garden of
creation and is the exact same eternal security or once in grace always
in grace message of many of those in leadership today and of most Bible
commentaries in print. It may dawn a new veneer, but it is the same
diabolical and deadly lie as was in the Garden. Beware! It is extremely
unfortunate and regretful that most of those leaders who have been
made popular by todays media technology have bought into, espouse
and teach this same unfounded myth.
When these fraudulent leaders were assuring sinning people of
eternal security, the Holy Spirit breathed this rebuke concerning
them:
Thus saith the LORD unto this people, Thus have they loved
to wander, they have not refrained their feet (from sinning),
therefore the LORD doth not accept them; he will now
remember their iniquity, and visit their sins. Jeremiah 14:10
All sins not repented of, will be visited by the judgment of the Most High.

As we see in this verse, the false prophets were promising assurance to

the same people the LORD said that He doth not accept them and
will now remember their iniquity and visit their sins. The LORD is
holy and was getting ready to judge those who sinned among His people,
while their leaders were assuring them that they were secure and
possessed immunity from divine retribution.
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according
to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah
8:20
One of the traits that define a false teacher is that He doesnt speak what
the unchanging God has told us in His Word. Instead, many evil workers
who occupy leadership platforms today contradict the Almighty. Here in
our central text from Jeremiah 14, we see that the LORD said He did not
accept those among His covenant people who were living in sin, and yet
their leaders were saying there was no coming sword of judgment to
fear from the LORD.
Has anything changed? No. Deceived men today teach this same
message, and in some cases are so deeply deluded, that they attempt to
make it a doctrine of the Christian faith.

Leaders Who Fear God, Uncompromisingly Teach His Word

In contrast with the message of the false teachers, the message of the
true servant-leader of Christ is this:
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law,
but under grace? God forbid. Romans 6:15
Like Jesus apostle Paul, all genuine servants of Christ who lead, seek to
prepare His people in holiness to meet Him. Listen to the divine truth,
the heart of Paul, and observe the goal of this true servant of Jesus:

Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach,

WARNING every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom;
that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working,
which worketh in me mightily. Colossians 1:27-29
Why did Paul tell us he preached, warned, and taught Gods people?
that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
In stark contrast with the methods and message of the false prophets,
Paul labored with deep conviction to present every man perfect in
Christ Jesus. We see here in Colossians 1, that this apostle of Jesus
didnt labor to give assurance to Gods people, but rather as he stated to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his
sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not
moved away from the hope of the gospel... (Col. 1:22-23)
The LORDs Word never speaks of an assurance apart from present
abiding in Christ.
In contrast to false teachers today, the holy prophets, Christ, and His
apostles gave no assurance to any person who was not wholly
sanctified to the LORD. Listen to the words of the apostle John:
And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall
appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before
him at his comingMy little children, let us not love in word,
neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we
know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts
before him. 1 John 2:28; 3:18-19
When the born again believer loves in word and deed, in seeking God and
doing good to all men, he reaps a clear conscience and assurance in his
heart (1 Tim. 1:5; 1 Jn. 3:18-21). Divinely granted assurance and
security comes from authentically walking with God being a doer of His
Word. The conscience is thereby blessed and assured. All other promised
assurance is artificial and cannot fill the heart but only deceive the mind.
Forsaking all voices that attempt to give an assurance apart from holy

living in the Holy Spirit, is the first step in severing ourselves from this
delusion.
PRAYER: Jesus, sanctify my life in You. Strip me of all false doctrine and
false security and strike my heart with the fear of God. Cause me to
discern the false from the true and to remove my life from those men and
teachings which would seduce my soul to live in sin. Probe the depths of
my being and root out all that doesnt align with Your holy Word. Plant and
build into my heart Your eternal truth and keep me in the way everlasting.
I love You Jesus, my LORD and Savior. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

WHAT ABOUT JUDAS?

The Son of Perdition Exposed

If once saved always saved is true, then what about Judas?

That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from
which Judas BY TRANSGRESSION FELL, that he might go to
his own place (hell). Acts 1:25
How did Judas fall away from the LORD? Can we let the One he fell
away from answer that important question? Judas
BY
TRANSGRESSION FELL. Note here that Judas did not fall because he
was predestined to fall by some divine pre-selection, but because he

made the deliberate and ongoing personal decision to live in sin against
a holy God. The idea, as supposed by the Calvinistic mindset, that the
Almighty chose Judas to transgress and betray the Son of God is
obliterated by numerous Scriptures, including James 1.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:
for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he
any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away
of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived,
it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth
forth death. James 1:13-15
This statement of divine authority clearly and forever establishes that the
LORD never leads a person to sin. The LORD may turn the unrepentant
transgressor over to be deluded, but that is only after that hardened
offender has intentionally lived in contempt against His holiness (2
Thess. 2:10-12). The glorious grace of God, provided through Christs
costly sacrifice, is not a license for sin. Divine grace is rather the blessing
of God for His people to enable them to fellowship with Him and to please
Him fully and be fruitful in His holy kingdom. The Saviors grace is
supplied in ample and sufficient supply to those who truly choose to love
and serve Him.
First and foremost, Judas was not chosen beforetime to betray the
Son of God, but rather was one of Christs twelve, chosen to love and
to serve Him. Judas was pre-selected to be one of only twelve men
Christ would pour His life into (during His 3.5 year ministry on earth)
in order to lay the foundation of the New Testament Church. I believe
that it is highly offensive to a holy God for any person claiming to be
His to indict Christ for purposefully bringing into His ministry a man
who was a devil (originally, when chosen). The fact that Jesus knew
from the beginning whoshould betray him in no way alleviates
God-given free will. Judas never lost the divinely-given freedom of
choice - to choose and to continue to decide whom he would serve.
But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew
from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who
should betray him. John 6:64

Jesus knewwho should betray him. Such divine foreknowledge

does not affect the moral agency He granted to every man to exercise
himself for or against the LORD (Rom. 6:16). Faith is always a choice
and a privilege. There are those who believe and those who believe
not. Believing and rebelling in unbelief is a divinely-granted choice
and each brings its own reward from the One who made man with the
ability to choose. Those who exercise their faith toward the LORD
please Him and those who dont, displease Him (Rom. 1:16-18; Heb.
3:12-15; 10:34-39; 11:6). In the case of Christs original twelve, eleven
chose to initially and continually trust Christ through much
tribulation and one freely chose to betray Him.
Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one
of you is a devil? He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon:
for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
John 6:70-71
Of Judas, Christ told His twelve: One of you is a devil. Was Judas a
devil because God created him to be a devil or because he by
transgression fell from grace and became a devil? Nowhere does the
Word tell us that Judas was from the beginning a devil but rather that
Christ knew from the beginning (in His divine foreknowledge) that Judas
would betray Him. Jesus says here that one of you is a devil. At the
time of this statement, Judas had already betrayed Christ in his heart
and was therefore a devil. The fact that he was a devil at that point
does not mean he was always a devil.
The Almighty inhabiteth eternity and therefore knows all past,
present and future (Isa. 57:15). Such divine foreknowledge (all-knowing)
does not affect the free moral agency He granted to every man to exercise
either for or against Him.
How could Judas always have been a devil if he was Jesus own
familiar friend and sent forth to represent Him in ministry? Satan
entered Judas at the end of Christs ministry which proves he was not
always an agent of the devil or a devil from the beginning.
Lets peek into the scenario on the very night before our Jesus was
crucified and observe how things unfolded:

Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called

the Passover. And the chief priests and scribes sought how
they might kill him; for they feared the people. THEN entered
Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of
the twelve. And he went his way, and communed with the
chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto
them. And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money.
And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto
them in the absence of the multitude. Luke 22:1-6
THEN entered Satan into Judas - It was only then - after the
religious leaders sought to kill Jesus that Satan entered into Judas.
Heres the same account from the Gospel of John:
Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that
his hour was come that he should depart out of this world
unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the
world, he loved them unto the end. And supper being ended,
the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot,
Simons son, to betray him; John 13:1-2
Judas betrayal of the Son of God did not come in an instant. His
hardened heart of unbelief was a process (Heb. 3:12-15). Judas
backsliding and heart-hardening sin was of his own doing. Like every
individual, Judas made decisions in his brief earthly life which had
and have eternal consequences. His refusal to believe and obey and
continue to experience relationship with Christ, came through hours,
days and months of unbelief which hardened his heart. Such unbelief
gave way to the infiltration of Satan (Jn. 6:70-71; 13:2; Heb. 3:12-15).
And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the
heart of Judas Iscariot, Simons son, to betray him. John
13:2
Please re-read the above verse and ask the essential question who it was
that put into Judas heart to betray Jesus. Was it God or Satan? Note:
the DEVIL (not the LORD) having now put into the heart of Judas
Iscariot, Simons son, to betray him.
God cannot be tempted with evil. James 1:13

The enemy was able to put into the heart of Judasto betray Christ
due to Judas choice to live contrary to Him. The same potential remains
true for all.
Like every believer in the Son of God, Judas was predestined to be
conformed to the image of Christ and to be glorified with Him, yet his
free moral agency was never removed (Rom. 8:29-30). Many of those
who have espoused an unbiblical grace do so because they have
elevated certain Scriptures above other Scriptures and yet All (not
just some) scripture is given by inspiration of God. (2 Tim. 3:16)
One of the erroneous beliefs of Calvinism is that it elevates and
aggrandizes Romans 8:29 above Romans 8:13. This is the classic
reason for the belief of false doctrine conclusion of a matter without
a full investigation and faith in the full-counsel of Gods Word (2 Tim.
2:15; 3:16-17).
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the
Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall liveFor
whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be
conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the
firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did
predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them
he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also
glorified. Romans 8:13, 29-30
God loves all people and has predestined each to be washed in the blood
of and conformed to the image of the Son of God and to be glorified with
Him eternally. Yet, He leaves that ultimate choice up to the individual.
The God who is love has provided sufficient and glorious grace for each
to love and obey Him and to overcome. His grace truly is sufficient to
those who exercise their faith in Him. Every blessing of the saint was
provided through Christs one and perfect sacrifice on the cross (1 Cor.
1:30-31; 2 Cor. 1:20).
Just because a father desires and leads his son or daughter to become a
doctor, does not guarantee that such will happen. The fact that the
LORD, who is love, desires for all those created in His image to be with
Him eternally, does not guarantee that will be the case (Matt. 7:13-14;
25:41).

choose you this day whom ye will serve. Joshua 24:15

The Reason Hell was Created

Those who choose to believe Him and are doers of His Word will be
with Him eternally in Heaven (Rev. 2-3). Each individual is the servant
of the one he chooses to serve self or Jesus (Rom. 6:15-16). Those
who freely choose to betray Christ as Judas did by not loving and
serving Him in deed and in truth, will spend eternity with the rest of
Gods enemies in a place called hell which will ultimately be cast into
the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10-15).
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart
from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the
devil and his angels. Matthew 25:41
The original divine intent for this horrid place called hell was the
divine justice of everlasting punishment for the devil and his angels
(those who depart from the LORD due to their iniquity Matt. 25:46).
The purpose for hell did not include one precious eternal human soul
spending forever there. Yet, because men have free moral agency and
some will choose to live contrary to the divine Judge, they must be
imprisoned eternally as rebels (2 Thess. 1:5-10).
There are a few different schools of thought in the Calvinistic camp.
Some tout the teaching they call the perseverance of the saints while
others term their belief once saved always saved. In each case those
who have been taught these doctrines of mere men violate the biblical
truth that men have free will and never lose the free will to choose while
on earth. Any time one removes the Bible truth that God never forces
men to do His will, they inevitably err.

All Scripture Must be Considered

All (not some) scripture is given by inspiration of God and is
profitable for doctrine 2 Timothy 3:16
The one who believes in and teaches a no-responsibility salvation, does
not adhere to All scripture, but rather isolates a certain verse or two

here and there to make his point. This is the way heresy and false
doctrine is propagated in the church world. All Scripture must be
taken in context with the whole of the Word of God in order to apprehend
the mind of Christ (2 Tim. 3:16; Isa. 28:10; 1 Cor. 2:13). Error is
inevitable when clear Bible truths are excluded (Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29; 1
Cor. 2:13). Precept upon precept; line upon line learning is essential
to sound biblical doctrine (Isa. 28:10).
Judas, a man selected by the very Son of God to hold the highest office in
the Church (Apostle), and promised an eternal throne, by transgression
FELL. See Matthew 19:28. The Bible tells us that Judas was a man who
was Christ's own familiar friend, in whom I (Jesus) trusted. (Ps.
41:9) Jesus not only chose Judas as one of His twelve, but trusted
him so much so that He made Judas the treasurer of His ministry. Dare
we insinuate that Jesus Christ, the very Righteousness of God, chose a
devil or an evil man to be part of His ministry? Judas was originally fit
for the ministry and a man of God, before He chose to turn from Christ.
Judas Iscariot is now in his own place (hell) because he refused to
move into and experience an intimate relationship with Jesus. This very
disciple of Jesus neglected to cultivate the soil of his heart and chose to
live in disobedience to the clearly known will of God. Judas, like all
believers, never lost his ability to choose life or death (Josh. 24:15; Deut.
30:19; Isa. 1:19-20, etc.).
The life of Judas is a nemesis to those who pervert, twist, and maul the
true grace of God revealed in Holy Scripture. The grace corrupters are
forced to downplay the apostleship of Judas and his relationship with
Jesus in order to make their unconditional eternal security teaching
palatable. For this same reason, they must overplay the prophetic
fulfillment of the son of perdition, not acknowledging that such a divine
foreknowledge did nothing to remove Judas free moral agency.
Concerning this, Wayne Jackson writes:
Another important fact that must be recognized is that
foreknowledge does not demand predetermination. God foreknew
that Judas, exercising his own freewill, would betray his Son.
These passages, therefore, reflect Heavens foreknowledge, but not
a predetermined action over which the betrayer had no control.
Even Presbyterian scholar Albert Barnes, in commenting on John

13:18, wrote: It does not mean that Judas was compelled to this
course in order that the Scriptures might be fulfilled...
A further illustration of this principle is seen in the fact that Christ
was delivered up to death by the determinate counsel and the
foreknowledge of God (Acts 2:23), and yet the ones who were
involved in the Saviors crucifixion were held accountable for their
evil deed (23b; cf. 36-38).
The frequent rationalization, I cant help what I do; I was
predestined to do it, is a false notion, but one that finds ready
acceptance in a modern world that seeks to escape from personal
responsibility. The Scriptures teach that men will give an account
on the day of Judgment for their own conduct (Rom. 14:12; 2 Cor.
5:10) - not for actions thrust upon them by God. The very idea of
such is an affront to the Almighty. (Notes on Luke and John,
Grand Rapids: Baker, 1954 Edition, p. 320).
Judas made volitional decisions. The LORD sovereignly created man with
free moral agency the ability to choose his way. Judas made choices to
deny Christ and betray the Son of God. There was no divine influence
whatsoever upon Judas to make him sin.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for
God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any
man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his
own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it
bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth
death. James 1:13-15
The unchanging, eternal God had nothing to do with Judas turning away
from Him and to sin. God is love and God is holy and He leads no man
into sin and to imagine such is to lie against the truth (James 3:14). The
Almighty told us that He is not willing that any should perish, but
that all should come to repentance. (2 Pet. 3:9)
Of God the Word tells us:

Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the
knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to
ALL men. Titus 2:11

12 Not 11
It is undeniably on record that Jesus Christ promised Judas an eternal
throne in Heaven.
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye
which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of
man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon
TWELVE (not 11) thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Matthew 19:28
Was Judas one of the twelve original apostles of Jesus Christ? It is
irrefutable that the Son of God promised his twelve, not eleven,
eternal thrones in His heavenly kingdom. Judas, who was one of the
twelve, was promised an eternal throne, yet by transgression fell
and went to hell. Judas kissed the very Gate of Heaven, and turned and
went to hell, given over to and driven by demons he ended his own life.
Judas was chosen by Christ Himself as one of His very twelve, yet Judas
wasnt hell-proof. Judas wasnt once saved always saved. Judas was
not given a spiritual asbestos suit.
Judas is now in hell and yet was once a disciple of Christ - promised by
the Son of God an ETERNAL throne in Heaven (Matt. 19:28). Judas was
once in grace but not always in grace.
In Matthew 10 the very Son of God sends Judas and the other eleven
forth to cast out devils and do ministry, then He tells them that only
those who endure to the end (remain faithful to Him) will be saved (Matt.
10:1-22). Jesus sent Judas to cast out devils which can only be done by
the Holy Spirit of God indwelling a person further proving Judas Iscariot
was right with God till he turned away (Matt. 10:1-8; 12:22-29).

As we see in the life of Judas, there is a qualification to the promise of

God, initial and continual faith to the end.
Did Christ pray all night and knowingly bring an evil man (Judas) into
His ministry? Or, did Judas become evil by choosing not to love and obey
Christ and to rebel and live in sin? The answer is obvious to the honest
and noble student of Holy Scripture. As is the obvious case with all
human beings, Judas retained the choice to go on serving or not serving
God with his whole heart (Deut. 30:19-20; Joshua 24:15; Isa. 1:18-20).

Ye Are Clean, But Not All

In John 13, we are given insight into the differences between Peter and
Judas. Such is a fascinating study and lesson. The differentiation
between what both of these men chose to do holds eternal consequences.
We must not miss this eternal distinction! Though both were equally
divinely chosen as part of the original twelve, Peter chose to be humble,
teachable and obedient while Judas chose to be prideful, unteachable and
disobedient. Peter wisely elected to answer the call of Christ to be initially
and perpetually washed of his sins which sustained His relationship with
Jesus Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but
also my hands and my head. Peter possessed genuine saving faith
which manifested in obedience to Christ. Unlike Judas, the one Christ
refers to here when He asserts but not all (are washed), Peter
answered the LORDs call to be washed initially and continually. Could
this not be said to be the difference between Peter and Judas? Is this not
the reason that only one of these two men is in Heaven and the other is
in eternal damnation?
Not all (are washed) as it was among the original twelve, so it is
today in the church. Some have been initially washed and remain
washed to this hour, yet some who were initially washed are not
submitting to the Lordship of Jesus and are not receiving His ongoing
washings from their sins. Do you wash your clothes only one time? No,
you buy that article of clothing and then you wash it. You then wash it
repeatedly after wearing it to keep it clean and ready for use. Right?
Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That
he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by

the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious

church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but
that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:2527
Why did Jesus give His very life for His Bride? That he might present
it to himself a glorious church, not having spot (stains of sin)but
that it should be holy and without blemish.
God wants His children without blemish and such is only possible by
humbly submitting our lives to the LORD to be cleansed.
Through the preponderance of data available to us in Holy Writ, it must
be concluded that this villainous character named Judas, was chosen
and chose to be initially elected and initially washed by Christ, yet did
not (like Peter) choose to be perpetually washed and cleansed by Jesus.
He (Christ) riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments;
and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth
water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples feet, and
to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then
cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord,
dost thou wash (clean) my feet? Jesus answered and said unto
him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know
hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my
feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part
with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only,
but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is
washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every
whit: and ye are clean, but not all. John 13:4-10
If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Did you hear the
definitive nature of Jesus words here? Christ speaks of initial and
perpetual washings. Peter is no different than each and every child of
God we need to be initially and continually cleansed of our sins. This
cleansing must be willingly submitted to and is not an automatic process
as we see here with the reference to Judas ye are clean, but not all.
Eleven of the twelve original apostles of Christ elected to be initially and
perpetually washed by the Master sin cleanser. One didnt.

By nature a bride prepares herself for her bridegroom. As we behold in

this very important passage in John 13, Jesus Christ is the initial and
perpetual cleanser of our hearts, hands and feet. In Scripture, clean
hands and feet speak of asking and receiving washings from the sins we
commit with the members of our bodies (transgressions). See Psalms 24
and Romans 6. First and foremost, we must be apprehended by Him,
receiving the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy
Ghost. (Titus 3:4-7) As Peter learned and we are taught here, in John
13, every child who is initially washed, must then submit to the Lordship
of the Washer in order to abide in relationship with Him (Jn. 15). As
Peter learned, so the Bride of Christ must learn to rejoice in and be
perpetually washed by Christs precious and holy blood and the
washing of water by the word. (Eph. 5:26)
According to 1 John 1:7, we can know when we are walking in His light
as we are being honest towards Him who sees all, and humbly
acknowledging (not hiding) our sins and experiencing the ongoing
cleansing of His precious blood. By this unspeakable gift we have clear
conscience and are enabled by His grace to serve Him with no
consciousness of sin! See Hebrews 9:14 and rejoice! What a gift the
divine blood has procured for all New Covenant saints! Dare we not
appropriate such blessed benefits? forget not all his benefits. (Ps.
103:2)
Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not
now (do not yet understand); but thou shalt know hereafter. (Jn.
13:7) Hereafter or here forward and after you have walked in (been
obedient to) what I am showing you here, you will understand. Those
who choose to live in obedience to Christ are the ones He chooses to give
understanding. In the divine economy, we must first obey in order to be
granted understanding. Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine
is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he
shall know of the doctrine (Jn. 7:16-17)
Lucifer Chose His Own Path
Lucifer like all the angels of God, was given a choice. If such were not the
case, how would one-third of the angels have departed from the LORD
and two-thirds freely chose not to become apostate? From this we know

the angels, a distinct class of Gods creation, have free moral agency also.
See Revelation 12. Lucifer was in the grace of God, holding one of the
higher offices in Heaven, until he volitionally chose to sin.
Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast
created, till iniquity was found in thee. Ezekiel 28:15
Judas, chosen by the LORD and promised an eternal throne in Heaven
(Matt. 19:28), wasnt faithful to the end, so he fell away into sin and is
now in hell (Acts 1:25). Judas, like Lucifer, was clearly (at the time Jesus
chose him as one of His very twelve) in right standing with Jesus till
iniquity was found in him (Ezek. 28:15). Recall that like the arch
enemy of mankind, Judas fell by his very own transgression which is
always the result of choosing to be out of fellowship with the LORD of all
creation (Acts 1:25). Beloved, any time we have fallen from the grace of
God, it has been the direct result of our own transgression. May God be
praised that He is ready (postured) to forgive as we turn to Him in
repentance (Ps. 86:5, 15).

Sin Separates God Is Holy

That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from
which Judas BY TRANSGRESSION FELL, that he might go to
his own place (eternal hell). Acts 1:25
The wages of sin is still death (separation from the Lord - Rom. 6:23). Even
before Adam and Eve fell by their own transgression, the angel Lucifer,
who apparently held the highest office in Heaven among His angels, was
cast down for his sin of pride (Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:11-19; Luke
10:18).
Was Judas without free will? Was he helpless? Was Judas sin forced
upon him by the foreknowledge of God? Or was it volitional? Did
Judas make a choice to betray Christ? Was Judas, as the Calvinist
asserts, a pawn of the evil dealings of a wicked deity? What god does
the Calvinist serve since he refuses to gain his theology from the one
true God who gave us His precious Word?

Then Judas, which had betrayed himSaying, I have sinned

in that I have betrayed the innocent blood...went and hanged
himself. Matthew 27:3-5
Judas chose to sin and therefore fell from grace. Concerning this matter,
Wayne Jackson writes:
Some would suggest that Judas was but a helpless pawn, unable
to resist the invasion of Satan into his life. That certainly is not the
case, as even Judas himself conceded. He never pled: I could not
help myself; Satan made me do it! Rather, he confessed: I have
sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood (Mt. 27:4). It is a
remarkable oddity when modern man, twenty centuries removed
from the event, can profess to know more about the situation than
the culprit himself!
SIN SEPARATES - God told His own covenant people: But YOUR
INIQUITIES HAVE SEPARATED between you and your God, and your
sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. (Isa. 59:2)
Of His own people who had gone back into sin after being brought out of
Egypt (type of salvation through Christ), the LORD said: And the LORD
said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot
out of my book. (Exod. 32:33)
Not only is divine grace not a license to sin, New Testament believers are
under greater responsibility to live unto the LORD than Old Testament
saints were (see Heb. 10:26-29). This is such an elementary truth of
Scripture that it boggles this believers mind that there would be those
who call themselves Christian teachers and theologians who will not
teach this truth and give notion that unholy living will enter the gates of
His holy Heaven! What treason is this!
Like Lucifer, Judas is a prime example in all of history that the allknowing God forces no one of His children to continue to serve Him.
Judas betrayed Christ and never repented so went to his own place
the place justly and divinely reserved for all who turn back from following
the LORD and do not return in repentance. In contrast, Peter betrayed

Christ and returned and is now in eternal glory where he will forever
reign with His LORD and Savior.
Judas kissed the Gate of Heaven, the very Son of God, then turned and
marched deliberately into eternal hell, where he will forever be.
Perhaps Judas expected the Messiah to come the first time as a
conquering King. Like many of the Jews, he had misguided expectations,
which caused his heart to misfire as the Savior came the first time as the
suffering servant and sacrificial Lamb (Isa. 52:13-53:12). Christ will
return the second time as the conquering Warrior and KING OF KINGS,
AND LORD OF LORDS. (Rev. 19) Judas failed to discern the difference
between the first and second coming of the Messiah as many in Israel
did. This led to unfulfilled expectations. Like all false teaching and
believing, this may have had a profound and negative effect on Judas.
Jesus came as a suffering Servant the first time but will come as the
conquering King the second time.
The LORD is a merciful and loving Savior (Ps. 86:5, 15). Jesus wanted
to restore Judas to a right relationship with God. Christ even called
Judas His friend in the Garden of Gethsemane all the way at the
point of being taken to be crucified having been betrayed by the son of
perdition (Matt. 26:49-50). Having been betrayed by Judas for a small
amount of money, Christ still held out hope of redemption for him,
but Judas refused the divinely-extended grace and betrayed Heavens
King for a small amount of earthly money.
Now he (Judas) that betrayed him (Jesus) gave them a sign,
saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him
fast. And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master;
and kissed him. And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore
(why) art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on
Jesus, and took him. Matthew 26:48-50
Jesus called Judas Friend all the way to the end. There is a significant
truth here. In this perhaps we see that Gods love will pursue us all the
way to hell if we choose, after knowing Him to betray Him and refuse to
turn back to Him in repentance. Might this indicate that one is not
separated from Gods love and the opportunity to repent until he leaves

the earth? Romans 8:38-39 is written to those who are truly sons of
God and are living according to the Holy Spirit and not the deeds of the
flesh (Rom. 8:1, 5; 13-14). It is when one is abiding in the presence of the
LORD that he has assurance and is secure in the love of God and not
separated from Him who is love.
Matthew 10:1-5 THE ORIGINAL TWELVE OF JESUS
All John Calvins 5-point TULIP teaching stands or falls on Judas. The
Calvinist loses his whole argument if Judas was saved as the Bible
clearly shows he was.
Lets look a little deeper into Holy Writ to find out what really
happened with this most dastardly character named Judas Iscariot.
And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he
gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out,
and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first,
Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the
son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and
Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the
son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was
Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and JUDAS ISCARIOT, who
also betrayed him. These TWELVE (not eleven) Jesus sent
forth, and commanded them, saying, Go Matthew 10:1-5
According to the Holy Bible here in this passage found in the Gospel of
Matthew, who were the original twelve disciples or apostles of the
very Son of God elected and chosen and sent forth to represent Him and
do His work, spreading His Gospel to the world? Lets enumerate who
these twelve special men of God were whom the infinite and eternal and
Almighty God Jesus Christ of Nazareth specifically chose to represent
Him:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)

Peter
Andrew
James
John
Philip
Bartholomew
Thomas
Matthew

9) James
10) Labbaeus
11) Simon
12) Judas Iscariot
These twelve men were elected and answered the call to the highest office
of the church apostleship. Can there remain any doubt whatsoever that
according to the historically accurate record and documented account of
the life of Jesus Christ that Judas Iscariot was one of His twelve chosen
original disciples and that He sent Judas and the other eleven forth to
preach His Gospel and do His ministry?
He (Judas) Was Numbered With Us
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the
disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about
an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture
must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the
mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was
guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us,
and had obtained part of this ministry. Now this man
purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling
headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels
gushed out. Acts 1:15-18
Jesus Christ had died and rose again completely propitiating for mans
sins. He had instructed His apostles not to go forth yet but to wait in
Jerusalem until they receive the fullness of the Holy Ghost which they
would need to do His work (Lk. 24:49; Jn. 16:7; Acts 1:4-8). This would
be the actual birth of the New Testament Church! Here they are,
gathered together waiting for the promise of their Savior (Acts 1:4-8).
Wow! While the 120 disciples gathered to await the promised Holy Spirit,
the apostle Peter stands in the midst and of all things, is Spirit-led to
speak of this prophecy found in the Old Testament that Judas would
betray the Son of God. He says that such a prophecy must needs have
been fulfilled. It had to be fulfilled, not because God foreordained and
wanted Judas in hell or because the God of Heaven needed a pawn to use
then destroy, but rather because the LORD Almighty cannot lie and knows
the end from the beginning (because He alone is all-knowing). He knows
all things past, present and future, yet such infinite knowledge does
nothing to influence or alter the God-given moral and volitional nature
and decision-making process of any individual. Such a notion paints the
picture of an evil being, which must be Satan and not God who is love.
(1 Jn. 4:8) To attribute such evil and iniquitous intent to the Almighty is
a blasphemous atrocity at best. To claim that He would create any
person just for the purpose of exploiting and then damning that person

to an eternity of conscious torment, would be completely unbiblical and a

wicked accusation to make against the LORD who cannot be tempted
with evil, neither tempteth he any man. (James 1:13) Of Him the
Word says Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not
look on iniquity... (Hab. 1:13). Such is the doctrine of the devil and his
agent John Calvin and many today who mislead others to worship at the
alter of a false god (2 Tim. 3:13).
Forget John Calvin and any other heretic in church history - What does
the Holy Bible say concerning this matter of Judas Iscariot?
Note here in Acts 1 (shown above) that the apostle Peter says that the
Holy Ghost through king David had hundreds of years before foretold
the betrayal of Christ Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I
trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against
me. (Ps. 41:9) This was going to be fulfilled, not because God is
ruthless or had it in for Judas No! But rather because His
foreknowledge and understanding is perfect and infinite. (Ps. 147:5)
Now thats a case for the sovereignty of God and not (the very opposite)
that He would create a human being, a man in His own image - Judas or
any other person - just to mislead, relegate and damn him to eternal
suffering. How erroneous, ludicrous and evil a thought!
Take close notice of verse 17 here in Acts 1 he (Judas) was numbered
with us (the original twelve), and had obtained part of this
ministry.
Judas:
1) was numbered with us - one of the twelve apostles of Jesus.
2) had obtained part of this ministry all twelve (not just eleven)
were appointed and sent forth by Christ to represent Him and do
His ministry work.
Another of the original twelve is speaking here Peter. Peter was a
firsthand eyewitness. He was present with Judas and the other ten when
his very ears heard and eyes beheld the Son of God promise an eternal
everlasting throne in Heaven to each of the twelve of them, which
includes Judas Iscariot And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto
you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the
Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon
twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matt. 19:28)
At the time of this divinely-given promise, it is more than abundantly
clear that Judas was eternally secure, otherwise Christ would have never
given this promise to the twelve which includes Judas Iscariot. It is

only after this that Judas allowed iniquity in his heart and by his own
deliberate will fell by his own iniquity (Acts 1:25; Heb. 3:12-15).
If Judas Iscariot, one of Christs very twelve, was not unconditionally
eternally secure, then why would anyone else be since there is no
respecter of persons with God. (Rom. 2:11) Did Judas not lose out?
Yes! Its too late for Judas but not for us (1 Cor. 9:27).
Now lets look at Acts 1:18 in this revealing and detailed passage about
the apostle Judas - Now this man purchased a field with the reward
of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and
all his bowels gushed out. How did Judas fall from grace after being
chosen by Jesus Christ as one of His very twelve original apostles and
sent forth to heal sick people, cast out devils and preach His eternal
Gospel? The Bible tells us here that Judas purchased his own destiny
which means he deliberately brought it into his own bosom by his own
resolve to reject (after possessing) and live outside of a relationship with
the LORD. This word purchase here is strong and even more clear
evidence that Judas made full provision for and utilized his full faculties
and expended the energies he was given to do what he did in betraying
the Son of God. The wages of sin is still death and Judas reaped spiritual
and eternal death (separation from God in hell) for his sinful betrayal of
the Messiah and refusal to turn back to the LORD before it was too late,
which he was free to do even to the end.
If someone jumps off a building, was that what was supposed to happen?
Was that Gods will? No, it was the will of the one who chose to jump.
Judas went to hell because he rebelled against the only Savior, not
because God wanted him there. Judas refused to repent and turn back
to the LORD after being given ample opportunity to do such.
We have record that Judas was quite right with God but was in the end
left out of the eternal blessing of Heaven. Of the apostle Judas, the Word
says For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this
ministry. (Acts 1:17) This forever settles the issue and silences the
critics who argue (without basis) that Judas was never right with the
LORD. Judas Iscariot certainly was chosen to the highest office in the
Church and as an integral part of the very ministry of the Son of God
and yet turned against Him, betraying Him to death for a small sum and
forfeiting his place in the eternal kingdom of God after being promised it
(Matt. 19:28). Such a clear example alone makes it more than
abundantly clear that falling from grace is utterly possible as the
remainder of Holy Scripture unmistakably testifies to.
Holy Father please grant our hearts grace to be convicted and repentant
that we be never hardened through the deceitfulness of sin! (Heb. 3:12-15)

Judas End
That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from
which Judas BY TRANSGRESSION FELL, that he might go to
his own place (eternal hell). Acts 1:25
In the booklet The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer offers these
thought-provoking words concerning Judas Iscariot:
It should be noted that the statements that our Lord made about
Judas being a devil, were made toward the close of His ministry.
Note some Biblical facts:
1. Christ chose twelve apostles, including Judas Iscariot. No
intimations are made at the time of choosing the twelve that Judas
was not a true believer the same as the others. See Matt. 10; Mark
3; Luke 6. Reference to Judas Iscariot as the traitor is made by
several writers of Scripture, long years after the incident of his
death to distinguish him from the other Judas. It is a mark of
identification and in itself throws no light upon the character of
Judas Iscariot when he was chosen by our Lord. We have a similar
designation regarding Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, which made
Israel to sin, which throws no light upon Jeroboams character at
the time the prophet Ahijah brought him the message from the
Lord. (I Kings 11:26:40.)
2. If Judas was a devil from the beginning as some claim, then you
have the startling fact to face that our Lord chose a devil as an
apostle.
3. Our Lord foreknew who should betray Him from the beginning, but
Judas had the same teaching, call, environment, and opportunity
to make good as did the others. Divine foreknowledge does not
interfere with mans free moral agency.
4. If Judas was a devil from the beginning, then such terms as were
prophesied of him are hard to reconcile with the other teachings
and principles of the Master. Yea, mine own familiar friend in
whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel

against me (Psa. 41:9). Would Jesus, knowing Judas was a devil,

trust in him or call him His own familiar friend? A devil is an
adversary and enemy; but if, as some eternal security teachers
think, Psalm 55 is a prophetic Messianic psalm of which
Ahithophel turning traitor to David was a type of Judas turning
against the Lord, then we have a second witness from the Psalms
that it was not an enemy that reproached me. It was a man mine
equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel
together, and walked unto the house of God in company (Psa.
55:13-14). Certainly this language does not describe one who was a
devil from the beginning, as eternal security teachers affirm.
5. If Judas was a devil, while the other eleven were ordinary men,
then you have another contradiction; viz., Satan casting out Satan,
because the apostles (Judas included) were sent out two by two to
heal the sick, cast out devils, and preach the Gospel. There is no
intimation in the Gospel records that Judas was a misfit on this
missionary journey. Other emissaries of Satan, when they tried to
cast out a demon by the use of the name of Jesus, were not at all
successful. (See Acts 19:13-17.) Christ made it clear that Satan
does not cast out demons. See Matt. 12:2526; Luke 11:15-18.
6. It was not until at the last feast that the devil entered into Judas,
although Christ towards the close of His Galilean ministry (John
6:70-71) announced that one of the twelve would betray Him.
Christ was omniscient and knew all events that would be
connected with His life here on earth. Covetousness, greed, love of
money, were doubtless the besetting sins of Judas and despite the
warnings of our Lord against covetousness and the deceitfulness
of riches, these sins got the upper hand of Judas and he finally
went to the chief priests, and of his own free will bargained about
the sale of our Lord for silver.
7. John 17 does not say that Christ only received eleven apostles
from the Father. He chose twelve at the beginning of His ministry
that they might be with Him, and Christ was unable to keep one.
Not because of a lack of power on Christs part, but because Judas
was unwilling and this limited Christs keeping power. Those that
thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them (that thou gavest

me) is lost, but the son of perdition; that the Scripture might be
fulfilled. The literal Greek of part of John 17:12 is and none of
them is lost, but the son of perdition that the Scripture might be
fulfilled. This implies that Judas was once saved with the rest, but
not fulfilling the conditions for Christs keeping perished
spiritually. The Scriptures prophesied that there should be a
betrayer and God foreknew that Judas would be he, but God did
not foreordain Judas to be the betrayer of his Lord. If Judas,
against his own will, was foreordained to be the betrayer, then the
one who foreordained Judas would be responsible because Judas
could not have helped it.
8. Last, Judas by transgression fell (Acts 1:16, 17, 25). Judas was a
man into whom Satan entered. He was no demon incarnate. If
there were no erroneous doctrine to defend, the various references
about Judas Iscariot would present no difficulty at all to the
eternal security teachers. The Judas episode would be simply a
clear case of apostasy from the truth.

11 Kept - 1 Lost
...that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given
himWhile I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy
name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them
is lost, but the son of perdition John 17:2, 12
The Father gave eternal life to the twelve whom He had given to Christ.
Jesus kept them and they were safe except one who chose not to be kept.
The fact that twelve were given Him of the Father and only eleven made it
to Heaven is telling.
It is abundantly clear in Scripture that Judas was given to Jesus by the
Father (as one of His very own) and then lost due to his own decision to
sin in his heart and betray the Son of God (Acts 1:25). Jesus said He
kept all except one Judas. The fact that Judas was one of His and yet
was not kept tells us that the LORD doesnt keep everyone who is at one
point His own child. Judas was the LORDs friend. (Ps. 41:9) We are
kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be

revealed in the last time. (1 Pet. 1:5) Man has his God-given personal
responsibility to continue in faith in order to be kept by Him.
Saint of the LORD, a study of the life of Judas is a lesson for each of us.
We are all predestined to be conformed to Christs image and to be with
Him eternally and do His work, but the LORD leaves it up to the
individual as to whom he will choose to serve. Such will determine the
eternal destination of each person.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please bless my heart to be like David and
Peter repentant and after Your heart. Stir my heart to hunger and thirst
after You as I continually take personal responsibility for my own thoughts
and actions confessing and forsaking my sins daily. I love You Jesus!
Please bless me with more of Your perfect grace today my LORD. Glory to
Your holy name LORD Jesus. I desire more and more of You as I look for
Your soon return. Amen.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

JUSTIFIED & CRUCIFIED

And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. Galatians 5:24
Notice the definitive nature of this statement that those who are
Christs are those who have crucified the flesh with the affections
and lusts. One day a friend spoke this verse out of his memory and my

heart was stricken with the fear of God. Personally, this truth has done
wonders to my life. It has cut off any and all excuses in my heart for
compromising with sin. The word have which is past tense, struck me
deeply. This truth lays an axe to the root concerning self-deception. It
levels the justification of sin and the use of an unbiblical grace as a
license to live in sin. According to this Holy Spirit inspired revelation, if
we are Christs, which is an ongoing choice, we must crucify the desires
of the sinful nature in us. Yes, instead of hiding behind or creating any
teaching to justify our sinfulness, we are to crucify our sinful nature by
His grace, counting our relationship with Christ more important than
that which He specifically told us offends Him.
Would you mind if I insert one more element of where this follower
believes this all starts? The following is one of the most profound
prayers I believe our LORD has ever breathed into my heart into
thy hands I commend my spirit. Here is one of the seven things
Jesus prayed on the cross while shedding His sinless blood for our
sins:
And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father,
into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he
gave up the ghost. Luke 23:46
This is divinely breathed Holy Writ (recorded in the Bible), and O what
enormous benefit there is in praying Gods Word! Into thine hands I
commend my spirit is what our LORD cried on the cross, as He gave
up the ghost and went back to be with His Father.
Notice that Jesus cried with a loud voice. Have you ever noticed that
there just seems to be something powerful about externalizing praise or a
desperate prayer to God? In this earnest prayer of commending our
spirits to our LORD in Heaven, do we not release our whole life force
spirit - into the hands and care of the Father of spirits? (Heb. 12:9)
Personally, I have never prayed this prayer, releasing my heart to the
One who made and redeemed me, without an immediate lifting of any
and all burdens I was currently carrying. Most importantly, when we cry
out to the LORD, issuing into His perfect hands our lives, we release
control to Him who is our Comforter and His Holy Spirit fills us so that
we no longer live but He lives in us (Gal. 2:20).

It is through the initiating and enabling power of the Holy Ghost and the
grace of God that the believer lives fully pleasing in the sight of the LORD
(Rom. 6:14; 8:13-14). Like John the Baptist we should cultivate in
ourselves the deep desire for Jesus to increase and ourselves to decrease
(Jn. 3:30).
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through
our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 15:57)
Gods enabling grace blesses the saint to overcome sin, be fruitful, and
fully victorious in this life! Those who seek His holy face are filled with
His Spirit of grace and overcome the things which violate His holiness
and produce kingdom fruit for His glory - ...much more they which
receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall
reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. (Rom. 5:17) It is by the workings of
His holy grace in our lives that we are able to overcome in all things and
become more than conquerors through him that loved us. (Rom
6:14; 8:13, 37; 1 Cor. 15:10, 57; 2 Cor. 12:9-10) His grace is only
accessed by faith (Rom. 5:1-2).
There is no mystery that each of us struggles daily with temptation and
sin (Gal. 5:17; Heb. 12:4). Yet, when one is dead and buried, Christ lives
His life in and through that person in resurrection power to bring about
the fruit and works of God (Rom. 6). In the long run, we each choose to
do something about our sinful nature and the temptation we are now
subjected to. Either we:
1) Deny ourselves, striving against sin, crucifying the flesh in
fasting and prayer and thought life, or we:
2) Adopt pet doctrines like once saved always saved to justify our
sins, so we no longer have to battle fiercely and daily with the lusts
of the flesh.
In the direction we go, we reveal that we are either victorious overcomers
in Christ, or those who faint due to choosing a lack of communion with
Christ (Matt. 26:41; Lk. 18:1).
Modern psychology is the futile attempt of sinful man to build up self
and aggrandize that which the LORD says is deceitful above all

things and desperately wicked. (Jer. 17:9) There is even the

unbiblical industry of Christian psychology (no such thing in Gods
economy) that has crept in unawares and positioned itself as having
the diagnosis and answers for men while shunning and replacing the
very Word of God which He told us contains all things that pertain
unto life and godliness. (2 Pet. 1:3-4) According to the Word, those
who trust in man, including self, are cursed.
Thus

saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in

man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth
from the LORDThe heart is deceitful above all things, and
desperately wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:5, 9
Though I be justified by His blood, I also must, of necessity, be crucified
by Him.
We must learn to fear our own wisdom. Trust in the LORD with
all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding.
(Proverbs 3:5) Paul says to believers: If any man among you
seemeth to be wise...let him become a fool, that he may be wise. (1
Corinthians 3:18) When Scripture tells us that they that are
Christs have crucified the flesh (Galatians 5:24), this includes the
understanding of the flesh, the fleshly mind of what Scripture
speaks. In the crucifixion of self, I give up my own goodness, my
own strength, my own will because there is no good in it. I look to
Christ by the power of His life to give me the goodness, the
strength, and the will which is pleasing to God. Andrew Murray,
Power for Your Life, p. 185
Overcoming sin is an ongoing toil (Gal. 5:17). At the core of our daily
struggle is self-idolatry. This battle rages as we fight the good fight to
remain crucified to the sinful nature and to keep Jesus as our first
love. (1 Tim. 6:12; Rev. 2:4-5) So the true disciple of Christ must
commend his spirit into the hands of God daily and never allow the ye
shall not surely die lie to fester its arsenic deceit in his thinking.
Cloaking our sinfulness behind the thin veneer of a doctrine that is
contrary to the Word and holiness of God is not wise. Does the Almighty
not see the innermost thoughts and motives of our hearts? The Son of
God commanded that we love the LORD our God with all of our hearts,

minds and strength (Matt. 22:37). An all-consuming passion for Christ

Jesus, our first love, should kindle and burn deep within (Rev. 2:4-5).
Due to the epidemic plague and teaching of this lie of the ages, to many
who claim to be Christians today Jesus is more like a fringe benefit to
them than their all-consuming first love. Many who have been
schooled into this deception in vain believe they can have Jesus as their
Savior when they have refused His Lordship (Matt. 7:21-23; Lk. 6:46; Tit.
1:16).
Millions today vainly believe they are eternally secure while living in
sin the sin of self-idolatry and therefore the denial of the Lordship of
Jesus. What could be further from the whole and plain truth of the
eternal Word? Doesnt the Bible tell us that Jesus came to the earth to
taketh away the sins of the world and save his people from
their sins?
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name
JESUS: for he shall save his people from (not in) their sins.
Matthew 1:21
Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the
world. John 1:29
The Word tells us that the Son of God came to save his people from
their sins and take away the sins of those who, moved upon by His
grace, repent and receive Him as LORD and Savior. The words from
and taketh away are especially important to observe here. The Bible
didnt say that Christ came to save us in our sins but rather from
our sins, which means when we get right with God we are separated from
living in sin.
Justifying instead of crucifying the deeds of the sin nature is the exact
result intended by the enemy using his original lie. It worked with the
first man and woman and it works today. The enemy of all souls desires
Gods people to believe they are eternally secure, judgment-proof, while
living in sin, and that it is not essential to continue to be cleansed of sin
by the blood of Christ. Read 1 John 1:6; 2:2 for the truth of this matter

and importance of receiving perpetual washing in the blood of Christ, our

Propitiation.
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
Our fellowship with the LORD is volitional (a choice). The actual
appropriation of the continual cleansing of our sins is contingent upon
our obedience to Him in living in the light with Him. As we walk in the
lightthe blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
Jesus warned:
Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and
KEEPETH his garments (clean and washed), lest he walk
naked, and they see his shame. Revelation 16:15
Accoriding to His very own Word, the LORD sees us as washed in the
holy blood only as we choose to be in His light. Those who remain in the
darkness of their sins have forfeited the cleansing river of His precious
blood, a clear conscience, protection from His wrath, and all the other
blessings of the blood (Jn. 3:19-21; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 1 Jn. 1:6-2:2).
Gods rescuing power is only promised to the godly. 2 Peter 2:9 says:
The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and
to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.

Jesus Is Coming Ready or Not

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be
diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot,
and blamelessWherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for
such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace,
without spot, and blameless. 2 Peter 3:12-14
The LORD told us that He will soon return for a people who are in
communion with Him, and being washed by His Word and cleansed That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having

spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and
without blemish. (Eph. 5:27) This means that those who are ready are
those who are preparing for the Bridegroom (Jesus) by dealing with
anything in their lives that does not align with His holy nature and His
holy Word. This is the remnant Church Christ will return for. All others
will forfeit their place in His kingdom unless afforded another
opportunity in the Great Tribulation (as some see the end time events).
Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That
he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by
the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious
church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but
that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:2527
Jesus is going to return for a people who are looking for Him and
looking to Him as their LORD, in faithful obedience and as the first
and foremost love of their lives. Nothing else is more important than
the very divine Person of Jesus to this special people. They are
consumed with Him and His precious love, joy and peace fills their
hearts and lives.
So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto
them that look for him shall he appear the second time
without sin unto salvation. Hebrews 9:28
Do you know what the Bible says will happen to those who cover or try to
hide their sins?
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso
confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs
28:13
The Psalmist was open and transparent in his relationship with the
LORD. He said For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my
sin. (Ps. 38:18) King David chose to have a heart after God. Like David,
we should speedily confess any sin we might commit.

The one who will be preserved in Christ should never buy into the
temptation of thought to adopt any teaching that violates or contradicts
Gods Word which reveals His demand for holiness. The believer in Jesus
Christ must allow the law of truth to slay him as unholy, that he might
fall upon divine mercy and receive His compassions, which fail not to
those who fear Him (Lam. 3:19-22; Ps. 103:11).
Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree,
that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by
whose stripes ye were healed. 1 Peter 2:24
Those justified by Christs perfect sacrifice are mandated to be crucified
with Christ. Those who have corrupted the truth about Gods grace,
speak only of the justification, never the essential of sanctification and
crucifixion of the deeds of the sin nature (Rom. 6-8).
Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh,
arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath
suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer
should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of
men, but to the will of God. 1 Peter 4:1-2
Do you know what the Word of God tells us concerning those who do not
love the truth?
Those who deny Gods Word will be turned over by God Himself to
believe a lie, all the while believing they are serving Him. Now thats
scary! Look closely at this:
God (not Satan) shall send them strong delusion, that they
should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who
believed not the truth 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12
Any notion, mindset or teaching, which seduces our minds to diminish
ought from the holiness and judgment of God, is of diabolical origin. The
eternal security teaching we hear so much about today has been
repackaged and perpetuated by a whole new army of leaders, but it is the
same satanic lie told by the serpent in the Garden. The thinking of whole
denominations has been imbued with this doctrine.

As we observe in Jeremiah 14:13-14, there is no assurance of eternal

salvation to any person living in sin, even though he may have previously
been a covenant son (Ezek. 33:12-13). In fact, we see that this is the very
message of the false prophets of Jeremiahs day and our day.
Any teaching which leads the believer in Jesus Christ to view the LORD
in a light other than that He is Holy, holy, holy, should be avoided at
all cost (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8). This deceit of thought, if discovered to be in
our thinking, is to be rooted out and over-ridden with Gods Word.
Strongholds like this cause Gods people to forget His name and His ways
and those who lead others to believe them are under the judgment of
God as false shepherds (Jer. 23:27).
Are we so deluded as to so vainly imagine that the eternal and Almighty
God ceased to be Holy, holy, holy just because He saved us? Think
about this! Is He not a God who is holy and will judge His own people?
Yes and Yes. How absurd and wicked a notion! How pride-centered!
To refuse to fully believe and embrace the holy nature of the one, true
LORD and God, is to deny Him. Anyone who does such has espoused the
image of a false god in his heart and is destined for delusion and
destruction. This is exactly what the Holy Spirit was revealing about
those ungodly men who teach the lawless lie of lasciviousness. He
says that they are denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus
Christ. (Jude 3-5)
Creating a god in their own image, some vainly imagine that the LORD in
not going to judge them for living in sin and that He somehow
understands and accepts them in their sins. Perhaps the world of sinjustifying psychology has corrupted their minds.
Is your heart and mind infected with the lie of the ages? Are you truly
Christs? If so, it is on His terms and not your own. So many today have
deluded themselves, largely due to the OSAS teaching, into believing that
they are safe and secure and yet there is no evidence (fruit) in their lives
that witnesses to an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ. In this
they have vainly set the condition for being with the Almighty upon their
own terms. Absurd! Delusional!

Are you Christs? Lets look afresh:

And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. Galatians 5:24
Note the past tense here of have. If you have crucified the life of the
flesh which is at enmity with God, you are His.
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not
subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they
that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:7-8
Complete joy and the restoration of all things await those who freely
choose to love and serve the LORD Jesus. There is no fathoming the
blessedness of what He has prepared for those who love Him. He is going
to heal all, right all wrong, make whole, and eternally reward those who
truly know and love Him in truth.
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither
have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared for them that love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9
PRAYER: Father fill me with Your grace and Spirit afresh. Thank You for
justifying me from all of my offenses by the blood of my LORD Jesus Christ
a gift that I do not merit nor deserve. Into Thine holy hands I this moment
commend and release my spirit. I lay my life in Your hands my LORD
Jesus. You are the Almighty God! Consume me with Your holy presence,
granting me the spirit of holiness to please You in every way. Teach my
heart to love Your truth and to violently forsake and expose all that
contradicts it. Live through me Jesus. Amen.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CALVINISTS ARE DECEIVING THE

HEARTS OF THE SIMPLE
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause
divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have
learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our
Lord
Jesus
Christ,
but
their
own
belly
(selfish
desires/appetites); and by good words and fair speeches
deceive the hearts of the simple. Romans 16:17-18
In the Greek the term fair speeches here in Romans 16:18 means fine style of utterance giving the appearance of reasonableness.
Gods true representatives are known by their purity of doctrine and
character and will not use their words as tools to manipulate others for
their own selfish purposes, but rather have circumcised hearts and utter
things consistent only with Gods precious Word of truth (2 Cor. 2:17;
4:2; 2 Tim. 3:16-4:4; Titus 2:1, 7, 8, 10-14; 1 Pet. 4:11). These men
genuinely honor the LORD and their meticulous attendance to and
diligence to know and communicate His truth is the fruit of their love for
Him (Job 23:12; Ps. 119; Jer. 15:16; Mk. 8:38).
Beware of the many who are perverting the Word of God for their own
purposes:
For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but
as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in
Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:17
Note this phrase contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned.
(Rom. 16:17) Paul is saying here that all teaching that does not find its
root in the doctrine of the LORD Jesus and that of His apostles and
prophets (which makes up the canon of Scripture), is to be marked as
false and so are those who teach it. False teachings are shown here to be
something emanating from the belly or carnal minds of men who have

(using falsehood) created a god in their own image, after their own
likeness and due to their un-crucified sinful nature.
Specifically speaking of false prophets and false teachers among
the people, Peter writes that While they promise them liberty, they
themselves are the servants of corruption. (2 Pet. 2:19)
These are wells without water (void of truth), clouds that are
carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is
reserved for ever (eternal damnation). For when they speak
great swelling words of vanity, they allure (seduce) through
the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that
were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they
promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of
corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he
brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the
pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and
overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the
beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known
the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to
turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 2
Peter 2:17-21
In response to an article we posted on the topic of eternal security, a
former Calvinist writes:
Amen, Amen, Amen! I believe that the OSAS doctrine is what is
spoken about in Jude 1:4 - That there will be those who change
the grace of God into lasciviousness. In every institution I attended
that taught this doctrine of devils, the people lived like heathens.
John Calvin died an unrepentant murderer....enough said! Now all
you proud Calvinist keep all your well trained arguments I don't
buy it anymore. Signed former Calvinst.
Using the ministry as a means to personal gain is the menacing curse of
the modern church. Ministry positions across the western front have
been hi-jacked by seminary-trained, professional, self-serving marketers
who do not possess the heart or mind of Christ as is clear when

comparing their lives to His and those of His holy apostles (2 Cor. 2:17;
Phil. 3:17-19; 2 Tim. 3:10). These men who occupy positions of influence
possess little or no passion for the relational holiness of God which flows
out of the broken-hearted who fear God and trust fully in Jesus Christ.
Many in leadership today are in the professional ministry industry (a
business to them - hirelings) attempting to perpetuate their own career
and build their own dynasty and local church business.
The unbiblical unconditional eternal security teaching is a central and
profitable doctrine among the hoards of deceivers who plague the church
world in this late hour. It defines sin and righteousness on its own terms,
instead of honestly and soberly taking what God said it is in His holy
Word. This no-responsibility teaching attracts the masses and draws
people with the lifestyles of modern Laodicean Christians. Such people
are never shown the essential nature of the crucified life in modern
church houses. So many who do not authentically follow Christ, migrate
to teachers who tell them what they wish to hear, that which feeds the
carnal nature (2 Tim. 4:2-4). The false shepherd reciprocates by tickling
ears in order to help him build up his local ministry business. A
Christian life of ease and once saved always saved is a big and
lucrative lure.
But there were false prophets also among the people, even as
there shall be false teachers among you, who privily (secretly;
stealthily) shall bring in damnable heresies (lies that damn
souls), even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring
upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow
their pernicious (destructive) ways; by reason of whom the way
of truth (Gods Word) shall be evil spoken of. And through
covetousness (greed for self-gain) shall they with feigned
(fictitious) words make merchandise of you (exploit you for
your money)For when they speak great swelling words of
vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through
much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them
who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they
themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man
is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after
they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the
knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are
again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse
with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them
not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they

have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered

unto them. 2 Peter 2:1-3; 18-21
Wow! There are so many things to discover in this passage in 2 Peter!
Make this a matter of personal study. Dig into the treasure chest of Gods
precious Word. Here is one nugget in this passage in 2 Peter: by
reason of whom the way of truth (Gods Word) shall be evil spoken
of. The testimony of Jesus Christ is being poisoned in the minds of
many of the unsaved masses due to the damnable heresies of those
who are denying the LORD with false teachings such as once in
grace, always in grace which teaches people to live in sin. This teaching
removes the fear of God from the hearts of those who embrace it and
makes holiness of life optional and not a necessity. Look at what Paul
says concerning our preserving of the good testimony of the Gospel of
Jesus and those who know Him:
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not
blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers
of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in
distresses 2 Corinthians 6:3-4
Always remember that a doctrine is not true because of how smoothly it is
presented, but rather by what the Bible says from Genesis to Revelation.
There are many educated, convincing and charismatic speakers today who
by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
This they do by teaching an unbiblical view of salvation (unconditional
security). These deceivers would include numerous mainstream media
personalities, pastors of large congregations, and authors of books. Gods
Word is the final authority for all matters of true Christian doctrine and
practice and any persons doctrines which do not align are to be identified
and marked as heresy by the true church of Jesus (Rom. 16:17-18; Gal.
1:6-9).
Once saved always saved, irresistible grace, and every other aspect of
an unconditional eternal security is contrary to the doctrine which ye
have learned. If you have studied and embraced the Word of God you
know this to be completely false. We must then obey the divine mandate
here to mark them who teach such.
Take note again of this phrase in Romans 16:17 - contrary to the
doctrine which ye have learned. The doctrine the Holy Ghost is

speaking of here is that doctrine which came through Jesus Christ, His
apostles and prophets and is recorded in the Bible. Anything that doesnt
align is contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned or can learn
in Gods Word and is to be marked and exposed as false. This begs the
question as to where Jesus or His holy apostles ever even hinted that the
truly saved person is automatically (whether he wants to or not) going to
Heaven even if he walks away from God. Is this a doctrine of the Holy
Word? After all, there are 27 books which comprise the New Testament
canon, so if God wanted us to believe we are once saved always saved,
why didnt He just come out and tell us so?
If Christ didnt simply and plainly tell us we are unconditionally (no
matter what we choose to do) bound for His holy Heaven, then how in the
world can people teach this as if it were divinely authoritative? How
brazen!
One has to be taught by men an unconditional eternal security
because it is nowhere to be found in Holy Scripture as a doctrine of
the Christian faith. It is the job of the false teacher to prove his false
teaching and he is only able to deceive those who are not founded in
the truth (Gods Word). And he will even use Scripture to prove
such. In over two decades of ministry to people who have been taught
this unconditional eternal security lie, I have found not one who
personally discovered this doctrine in the Word of God. Rather they
have been taught by men, without sound and contextually true Bible
revelation, that unconditional eternal security is a doctrine of the
Christian faith. Any honest student of the Word who diligently
searches the Scriptures, can testify that such a doctrine does not
exist in the Bible other than as a teaching that is an abomination to
the LORD in that it leads His people to violate His holiness and
become separated from Him who is holy.
There never was or ever can be a born Securist. You reader, or
any other truly born again Christian, cannot read Eternal Security
verses and get Eternal Security out of them. The only way that
Eternal Security can be attached to these verses is to read it into
them. This proves that Eternal Security is an extra-Biblical,
external philosophy, seeking Biblical sanction. People are

educated into Eternal Security, just as truly as atheists are

educated into atheism. Henry Schilling
Concerning the matter of being tarnished with the lies of Satan and
Calvin, in his book entitled The Disciple-Making Minister, David Kirkwood
writes:
Near the end of his booklet, Piper quotes legendary Baptist
preacher Charles Spurgeon, who said that he began as an
Arminian (Arminians disagree with all five points of Calvinism), like
everyone else. This is a telling remark because it is so true. No one
begins as a Calvinist. They only become Calvinists as they are
taught Calvinism. Pipers own testimony is no different. He admits
many years of struggle (p. 1, prgh. 4) before he was able to accept
Calvinism. Perhaps even more difficult than the struggle to accept
Calvinism is the struggle to reject it after one has struggled so hard
to accept it. But it can, and has, been done. See
www.ShepherdServe.org.
Though commanded by God and recorded in His Word, today the whole
notion conveyed by some is that obedience is optional to anyone who has
genuinely been made a new creature through the divinely granted
miracle of being born again. Wow, what unabashed mockery! What a
travesty these men are perpetrating against the Most High! The LORD
told us to mark these men, For they that are such serve not our
Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly (selfish desires); and by good
words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. (Rom.
16:17-18)
The apostle Peter warned sternly of going back into sin and of the end
being worse than it would have been if that person had never known the
way of righteousness (2 Pet. 2:20-21). Under the Spirits direction, Peter
also commanded: Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and
pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. (1
Pet. 2:11) Note the resolute and potent divinely-inspired words of Peter
here. There leaves no room to wonder when we read these precious and
divinely-breathed words of Holy Writ. In this late hour so many who have
been elevated to the status of Christian celebrity, deceive the hearts of
the simple with their flowery and deceptive doctrines and language. No

such evil persuasion came from the mouths or pens of the apostles of
Christ.
In the complete absence of even one example of the God of the Bible
ever forcing any person to serve Him, these false teachers forge ahead
with their good words and fair speeches deceiving the hearts of
the simple. (Rom. 16:17-18) They convey the notion and even
blatantly teach that those who are born again will automatically
persevere in obedience and fellowship with Christ. But the Word of
God always presents the choice to Gods people to continue to walk
with Him or to turn from Him in rebellion. Choose you this day
whom ye will serve. (Josh. 24:15) Serving God is a blessed and
daily decision (Deut. 30:19; Isa. 1:18-20; Lk. 9:23). A cursory look at
Israel in the Old Testament Scriptures reveals this as clear as the
light shining as the noon day sun. In their own self-will, those who
teach this no-personal-responsibility heresy, ignore clearly revealed
divine truth, giving preference to their doctrine of devils, and in so
doing, serve their own belly and carnal desires. See also Philippians
3:17-21.
And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing
wordsBeware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and
vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of
the world, and not after Christ. Colossians 2:4, 8
Beware of the modern day deceiver who works to cleverly articulate his
Calvinistic and poisonous points of theology, using myth and human
reasoning while violating revealed divine truth in the very Word of God.
This is a grave evil being perpetrated from pulpits, books and other
media across the world, leading millions to the worship of a false god.
These are deceivers. They do not honor God and His Word.
For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but
as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in
Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:17
In light of the numerous passages which clearly demonstrate that
salvation can and will be forfeited by any born again person not
remaining in faithful obedience to Christ, it is clear that many have

misunderstood the message of Gods Word on how Christ and His

glorious salvation must be abided in (Jn. 15). Some fail to understand
that salvation must be maintained by an ongoing faith in Christ alone
and that is a choice, never forced. This one fact alone that God never
forces man to do anything causes the intertwined 5 points of Calvinism
to crumble. The notion that one is automatically going to persevere to the
end if he is truly saved, is completely unfounded no where to be found
in Holy Scripture. Like much of John Calvins heretical teachings, this
doctrine of deceit violates volumes of known truth and does not take into
account the whole of the LOGOS (written Word). Regrettably, many today
hold Calvins teachings as their final authority and dont even realize it.
They bend even the Bible to fit Calvins heresies, instead of discarding
these lethal lies when they realize how they grossly contradict Gods
Word. Many a person who is deluded by this irresistible grace heresy
seems to be inoculated from scriptural truth. Even after being shown
numerous Bible texts which clearly reveal Calvins teachings to be
erroneous, some of these people crassly dismiss the divine truth they
read with their very own eyes, vainly believing that somehow God didnt
really mean what He plainly stated. Like all cults, it seems like these lies
inoculated them from truth. Yet, when asked, these men claim to follow
Christ and honor Gods Word. In reality they are following the doctrines
of mere men and devils and in most cases have no clue they are doing so.
Should we be surprised in light of what our LORD said concerning this to
the religionists of His day? (Mk. 7:6-9)
John Calvins 5 points are a masterminded diabolic system to pervert the
grace of our God and to defy the holiness of the LORD, justify sin, and
bring Gods people into the depth of depravity and ultimately damnation
all the while thinking they are once saved always saved. Those who
have embraced these blatant and biblically defying lies have no idea who
is behind this system of deceit. They think this is the truth of Jesus
Christ and yet it is actually the lies of the dark lord of damnation who
has come to steal, kill and destroy (Jn. 10:10).
Annihilating one of Calvins 5 points, Robert Shank says:
But we must protest that a god who, while rescuing some, simply
passes by others in the same lost circumstance is so little like the
Good Samaritan in our Lords parable and so much like the priest

and the Levite that he cannot be the God who desires to have all
men saved and none to perish. Such a god constitutes a total
contradiction to the spirit of the words of James, To him who
knows to do good and does it not, to him it is sin (4:17)...A god so
heartless and so arbitrary cannot be the God who so loved the
world that He gave His only begotten Son to exile, sorrow,
suffering, shame and death. He cannot be the God who cries with
sorrowing heart and infinite compassion, Look unto me and be ye
saved, all the ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is none
other (Isa. 45:22). He cannot be the God whose grace has
appeared for the salvation of all men (Tit. 2:11). Such an arbitrary
god is not the God we worship and adore, the God in whom we
trust. (Robert Shank, Elect in the Son, p.193)
Friends, in this writers opinion and that of many others, John Calvin
was the worst heretic in church history. He picked up and re-launched
the very original lie Satan told the woman in the Garden. He grossly
corrupted the holy image of the one true God with his evil and
blasphemous teachings. Calvin set forth heresies that live on today in the
minds of many deceived people, some who are well-meaning. LORD, bless
us to love and embrace Thy truth, which establishes who You truly are
and reveals the doctrines of men and devils to be evil tools to lure away
the righteous to perdition. Amen.
Below are shown the Five Points of Calvinism which are used in an
acrostic - T-U-L-I-P. As one should notice, these doctrines clearly twist
and grossly distort the divine attributes of God, the true nature of man,
and the Holy Scriptures.

The Five Basic Tenets of Calvinism

The five basic doctrines of Calvinism are represented by the acronym TU-L-I-P. As you read through these, weigh them against the Scripture
you know to test their validity. Here are John Calvins doctrines:

T = TOTAL DEPRAVITY: At birth all men are depraved wholly and

totally. They are in this sinful condition because they have
inherited it from their parents.

U = UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION: God, before the foundation of

the world, arbitrarily chose to save some people and destroy others
and nothing can be done to change Gods sovereign decree.

L = LIMITED ATONEMENT: Christ died only for the ones God had
unconditionally chosen to save. (Isnt it amazing that all who
believe in limited atonement just happen to personally be a part
of the special, privileged, elite ones to whom God has limited His
salvation to? How convenient and amazing!!! How telling! How
incriminating!) Gods Word says that Jesus died for the sins of the
WHOLE world. (1 Jn. 2:2) Jesus Christ died to pay the price for
all the sins of every man - In this truth alone Calvinism is found to
be completely false.

I = IRRISISTABLE GRACE: An unregenerate person cannot

voluntarily believe in God. But once God determines to save him,
that same individual cannot overcome or resist the power of God
no matter what he may desire.

P = PERSEVERENCE OF THE SAINTS: Since man can do

nothing but evil on his own, Gods unconditional election is
required to save him. Consequently, one needs to do nothing to
remain saved. If ones salvation depended on himself in any way,
the miraculous work of God in saving him would be overthrown.

As I review these profane points, it is almost comical and yet seriously

alarming to think that some actually believe these rank heresies. Any
time I have ever read Calvins five points, Scripture upon Scripture comes
to mind refuting these diabolical lies. It is an absolute impossibility to
believe Gods Word and John Calvins doctrines simultaneously.
Those who concocted these doctrines and those who embrace them
create a god in their own image a cruel god who would choose one to be
saved and another to be damned. The god of these teachings came all the
way to earth from the glory and infinite riches of Heaven to die and
pardon only some and leave the rest to suffer eternal ruin. The truth
clearly reveals this to be heretical (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9). The false god of
this system of theology possesses a grace which goes far beyond that of
the God of the Bible who requires men to fear and love Him supremely

and live in faith and obedience to Him or lose out eternally (Exod. 20:2-4;
Matt. 7:21; 10:28; Tit. 2:11-12; James 1:22; 1 Jn. 2:3-6; Rev. 2-3). The
false grace system of this culture of belief grants license to live in the sin
Jesus Christ came to earth to die and set men free from.
In a written response to a Calvinist concerning the belief in an
unconditional election, Jeff Paton writes:
So why do you recoil from God knowing whom He would elect
from before the foundation of the world? I dont, I believe it! God
only has one Church, one Bride who is elect before the foundation
of the world, not millions of individuals mysteriously elected before
the foundation of the world! Ephesians 1:4, According as he hath
chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we
should be holy and without blame before him in love: notice who
is US in the passageit refers to BELIEVERS, the Church. Who
has God chosen? Believers. How? In Christ (the Gospel). That was
and has always been Gods plan. No election from eternity here for
a single individual to salvation. Revelation 17:8, The beast that
thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the
bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the
earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of
life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast
that was, and is not, and yet is. - Once again, the passage says
NOTHING of election to salvation BEFORE or AT the foundation of
the world! It says in English FROM the foundation of the world.
The Greek does not, and cannot mean AT or BEFORE and
therefore gives no support to the notion that God has chosen or
elected anyone by anything other than faith in Christ. You can
create difficulties that are just not there. There is not one passage
that suggests or states that any individual is elected to salvation
from eternity, or any other time.
Lots of questions, but answering one or all of them will not
substitute Scripture, and especially your lack of any Scripture that
asserts your assumed theology. All too many are willing to be led
around by the nose by philosophy and sophistry, but I find it quite
unconvincing until I have a reason from Scripture to believe it. The

obvious fact is, you have no Scripture, just arguments and leading
questions designed to arrive at your presuppositions.
The Calvinist has been taught a system of theology that is foreign to Holy
Writ. To illustrate just how unscriptural and deceptive Calvinistic
teachings can be, lets look at what seems to be the center point belief of
the Calvinist the theology of what they call the sovereignty of God. It
is disturbing to observe that in the theology of Calvinists they have
nearly deified the sovereignty of God when the word sovereign or
sovereignty never appear in Scripture. Due to the fact that the word
sovereign appears no where in His Word, we can unmistakably
conclude that the LORD obviously did not want His people concentrating
on how sovereign He is. These masters of manipulation completely ignore
the holiness of the LORD when the word holy and holiness appear
nearly 600 times in the Bible. Numbers dont lie. Those who will be in
relationship with the Almighty are commanded and required to be ye
holy; for I am holy. (Lev. 20:7; 1 Pet. 1:15-16) Are the people of God
commanded to believe that He is sovereign? No. We do know from His
Word that experiencing His real holiness is a prerequisite for Heaven
(Matt. 5:8; Heb. 12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27). Now this complete over-emphasis
of a non-essential and brazen ignoring of an essential truth about the
very core nature of the one true God is an evil tragedy which is deluding
and damning millions today. This is a classic case of deceivers working
within Christendom teaching perverse things which are contrary to
the doctrine of the Bible and are turning the grace of our God into
lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus
Christ. (Acts 20:29-31; Rom. 16:17-18; Jude 3-4) In denying His
attributes and grossly over-emphasizing a characteristic His Word never
does, these false teachers clearly deny the LORD.
There is a cleverly crafted premise and sequential order here. In this
system we witness a layered order of beliefs. Each layer is carefully built
one upon another. One point has to be embraced before a person can be
deluded into believing the next ones. In order to convince one that he is
without condition absolutely eternally secure regardless of any choice he
may make, requires that the person believe that God sovereignly saved
him and will sovereignly keep him with no responsibility on the
recipients part. The false god of Calvinism says the individual has no

say-so and that he is forced to go to Heaven or hell. In this system of

theology the LORD pre-selects some to be saved and some to be lost and
no one has a choice. This is an evil and diabolical set of beliefs that defy
the Word of the living God, inevitably deluding those who embrace them.
If a person does not purposely develop the love of the truth he will
absolutely be turned over to deceiving spirits to be deluded and
ultimately damned (2 Thess. 2:10-12).
Surely the LORD is sovereign, yet it is deception to divorce such a divine
attribute from the wholeness of His Person and attributes. He who
magnified His wordabove His own name sovereignly chose to
tell His people in His written Counsel that holiness is indigenous of who
He is and a requirement for those who will know and be with Him (Lev.
19:2; Ps. 33:11; 138:2; Heb. 12:14).

The Cult of Calvin

In my personal opinion and from decades of observation, it appears to be
evident that those in ministry who teach Calvins doctrines were
subverted by those who taught them before they ever personally learned
Gods Word themselves. They were taught this lie growing up and/or in
the seminaries they attended before they had studied unto the LORD and
gained a foundation in His Word (2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16-17). Like most false
doctrines, Calvinistic teachings have an inoculating effect upon those
who have been deceived by this teaching.
Beholding John Calvins abominable heresies should come as no
surprise to the Bible student who has studied Calvins personal life. By
many documented facts surrounding his life, John Calvin was a very
arrogant man who reigned as a king over the city of Geneva Switzerland
and did not honor Gods Word. His English Geneva Bible, created
between (1560-1611) featured extensive commentary notes in the
margins which clearly disregarded and superseded the very Scriptures,
instead of simply rendering a literal explanation of the Bible text. Calvins
notes were full of his own twisted philosophies about God. The
Scriptures warn specifically about this evil and the deceivers who
propagate such (Col. 2:4, 8; 18-19; Jude 3-4; Rev. 22:18-19). Also
incriminating upon Calvin and his Bible, was that his brother-in-law,

William Whittingham, assisted in the translation of John Calvins Geneva

Bible and is said to have possessed a theological bias which caused him
to make changes in the text.
There was a reason that Calvin invented his own Bible. Those who read
John Calvins Institutes (his own distorted religious commentaries) could
not reconcile his teachings with Holy Scripture, so Calvin cleverly created
his own English Bible translation with notes in the margin in order to be
able to twist and manipulate the clear and literal meaning of the Word of
God. In this evil endeavor, Calvin fits the description of those false
prophets who deceive the hearts of the simple with their good
words and fair speeches. (Rom. 16:17-18) According to the Holy Spirit,
men like John Calvin and those who teach his heresies today are to be
marked as false teachers.
Mind if we review the passage this chapter began with?
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause
divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have
learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our
Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly (selfish desires); and by
good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the
simple. Romans 16:17-18
The historical information being discussed here played out in the 16th
and 17th centuries and has had an enormous impact on what we know
as the church today. Of this historical sketch and scenario, which was
the formation of the cult of Calvin prevalent in todays church world, Kent
R. Rieske writes:
The Geneva Bible and the doctrines of John Calvin spread across
Europe as church leaders used the margin notes as the basis of
their lectures and preaching. King James I (1566-1625) was
opposed to Calvinistic Presbyterianism and some claim he was
infuriated by the Geneva Bible because the marginal notes allowed
disobedience to the King. This claim can be largely dismissed
because Calvin ruled as King of Geneva and allowed absolutely no
disobedience. King James was requested by Dr. John Reynolds of
the Puritans in the famous Hampton Court Conference to

authorize the printing of a new Bible without the marginal notes.

King James agreed. He authorized work to begin on the new Bible
in 1604 with a team of fifty-four theologians and scholars, and it
was printed in 1611. The Bible was to be a new translation from
the Greek. The King James Version of the Bible was prepared from
the Textus Receptus as well as many of the other 5,000 Greek
manuscripts. It is known as the 1611 Authorized King James
Version and held by many as the only Inspired Word of God.
Calvinism: False Doctrines of the Pope of Geneva, by Kent R.
Rieske
and
Bible
Life
Ministries.
See
http://www.biblelife.org/calvinism.htm
Among other items in the life of Calvin, it should be noted that John
Calvin had Michael Servitus murdered because Servitus did not agree
with Calvins heresies and vigorously opposed them.
John Calvins modern-day disciples are false teachers. To propagate the
very original lie of the enemy of the Almighty is to identify ones self as
one of Satans ministers and be placed in the category of a wolf in
sheeps clothing (Matt. 7:15-20; 2 Cor. 11:13-15). It doesnt matter how
sincere or charismatic or educated a leader may seem. It doesnt even
matter whether or not a leader realizes that he is teaching what Calvin
taught. Any person teaching that there is no possible way to lose
salvation after truly receiving it, is in defiance of the Counsel of God, a
heretic and to be rejected (if he refuses to repent after being
confronted with the Word) as such according to Titus 3:10-11. These
men who teach Calvins heresies are teaching doctrines which are
clearly contrary to the Word and deceiving the hearts of the
simple. (Rom. 16:17-18) The truth is to be earnestly contended for,
specifically when this lie of lasciviousness is being taught (Jude 3-4).
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine,
receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil
deeds. 2 John 10-11
Helping a false teacher is a serious offense against a holy God. Grave
consequences are attached. Those who do anything to further the
ministries of false prophets or false teachers become equally guilty before
the LORD (Judges 5:23; 2 Chron. 19:2; Prov. 17:15; 24:24; Isa. 5:20-24,
etc.). Helping the cause of a wolf is a deadly undertaking. Any person
who does such makes himself the enemy of God (Matt. 12:30). The LORD

clearly showed us in His Word that He will have no mercy upon false
prophets if they choose not to repent before it is too late (Jer. 48:10; Acts
1:25; 2 Pet. 2-3; Jude; Rev. 18:4, etc.). Those who in any way help
deceivers bring harm to Christs body are accessories to the fact and will
suffer the same judgment as the wolf himself. For he that biddeth
him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (2 Jn. 11)
Below are resources for further study into the life of one of the most (if
not the most) prolific false teachers in New Testament church history,
whose evil doctrines against the LORD are still being spread by modern
day deceivers. (Please know that we cannot validate or endorse the entire
scope of what these ministries may be teaching, yet thought it profitable
to include their resources concerning Calvinism. As usual, we should
always be discerning like the Bereans Acts 17:11.)

www.wholesomewords.org/etexts/freeman/pfcalvin.html

www.biblelife.org/calvinism.htm

www.biblebelievers.net/Calvinism/kjcalvn4.htm

www.thesoulwinner.org/calvinism.htm

Of the feedback received concerning his expose of John Calvin, Kent R.

Rieske of Bible Life Ministries, reports:
Many pastors have written directly from their church website with
insulting, hate mail after reading the truths presented here. These
pastors are obviously not born-again, Spirit filled Christians. They
are fake Christians. Calvinistic preachers are our modern day
Pharisees that put Jesus on the cross. They are wolves in sheeps
clothing preaching another gospel that the Apostle Paul warned
us about. They are in the ministry for power, control and money.
They are certainly destined to spend eternity in hell. Their letters
have revealed their corrupt hearts to the Holy Spirit. Kent R.
Rieske or Bible Life Ministries, http://www.biblelife.org/calvinism.htm
PRAYER: Holy Father, I praise You for Your goodness this moment! I
repent of ever believing any doctrine contrary to Your Holy Word and/or

promoting any person who teaches such. Please purge every false notion
from my heart and mind and clearly illuminate Your Holy Truth in my
heart that I might know You and Your true attributes and not be misled to
the worship of a false god. I seek to know You through the purity of Your
Holy Word. Grant me Your wisdom, teaching me to discern keenly, and
keep me from being deluded as I with thanksgiving set my affection upon
You and not on the things on the earth. Your Word is final authority and I
choose to embrace Your full-counsel Jesus. Amen.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

DID JESUS DIE FOR ALL MEN

OR JUST SOME MEN?
Who will have ALL men to be saved, and to come unto the
knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4
Is this unconditional eternal security teaching not why we have an
American people, the vast majority who when surveyed claim to be saved
(according to the Gallup Poll, etc.), and yet there is a gross lack of the
spread of the true Gospel to be heard in our streets and our church
houses have been hijacked by self-serving hirelings? Is this why
countries like England, Scotland and other lands once knew and
experienced the Gospel of Jesus in a sweeping and powerful way and
today are apostate? Was the fear of God lost in the hearts of the people
due to the poisonous leaven of this false teaching of unconditional
eternal security that John Calvin and others spread? An objective
historical sketch may be in order. For six thousand years of history this
Lie of the Ages has bee robbing the fear of God from the hearts of men

and causing them to fall as it did the first man and woman. Also, from
the standpoint of the kingdom, Why preach to all men if Christ only
died for some? Do you see the diabolical effect Calvinism has on the true
Gospel of Christ and the Great Commission He gave? Jesus said:
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his
savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for
nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of
men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill
cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under
a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that
are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they
may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in
heaven. Matthew 5:13-16
It utterly amazes me how some can so crassly ignore the myriad of
warnings issued forth in the Word of God to remain or abide in fellowship
with Christ or be lost. The numerous warnings to remain in the fear of
God alone prove that an unconditional eternal security is an
impossibility and a farce.
Recently I was blessed to be engaged in a conversation with two lovely
Christian ladies who believed in OSAS. Their icons and authority for this
teaching came from the likes of John Calvin and John MacArthur. John
Calvin can be credited as the man who did more to make the Lie of the
Ages popular than any other man in New Testament history. John
MacArthur is a modern teacher who teaches this same lie with no
contextually sound biblical authority (there is none). I encouraged both
of these Christian ladies to go to the Word alone and forsake men. John
Calvin and MacArthur have no authority at all in the kingdom of God. All
kingdom authority comes from the King of the kingdom and through
those holy apostles He ordained to pen His precious Word as we have in
the New Testament (Jn. 5:39; 10:35; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21).
In our conversation one of the ladies cited John 10:28 where Jesus
gives this promise to those who are truly His sheep: And I give unto
them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any
man pluck them out of my hand. I asked this precious lady if any of
the leaders like MacArthur or anyone else had ever bothered to point
out verse 27, the preceding words of the LORD. She had no idea what
verse 27 contained since these men conveniently avoided these words
of our Savior because they dont play into their private interpretation
and desire to create a god in their own image and likeness. Yet when
we look at the complete text in John 10 it places a whole new light and

more complete picture of divine truth. In verse 27 our LORD qualifies

exactly whom the promise of verse 28 is for My sheep hear my
voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (v 27) So, who is this
promise to be kept eternally given to here? My sheep Jesus says and
they are those who hear my voice and He says I know them, and
they follow me. The Master clearly qualifies who it is who will be kept
from another man plucking them out of His hand here. The promises of
God are conditional upon the recipients faithful obedience to the
LORD, the Giver of the promise s(Deut. 30:19-20; Josh. 24:16; Matt.
10:22; Lk. 21:34-36; Rom. 8:1, 13-14; 11:19-22; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; 11:67; Rev. 2-3). Such is a foundation and self-evident biblical truth.
Beloved, be not deceived: Any person not following Christ presently
does not have the promise of being kept from any man plucking them
out of Jesus hand. Such a promise was given by the Master to those
He qualified and identified as His true sheep who are presently
following Him - I know them, and they follow me. (Jn. 10:27)
The conversation with these two ladies continued..
As we talked I shared with these ladies that one basic Bible truth alone
completely annihilates most or all of John Calvins teachings in one
swoop. Here is that truth:
God so loved the whole world that He gave His only begotten Son!
(Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 2:2) This simply means that God gave His Son as a
sacrifice to atone for the sins of all men and not just some!
And he is the propitiation (atoning sacrifice) for our sins:
and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole
world. 1 John 2:2
Jesus Christ died for the sins of the WHOLE world. (1 Jn. 2:2)
Calvins whole false gospel and all of its associated heresies are slain in
this one biblical phrase of divine truth!
Only an evil pagan deity would be so ruthless and cruel as to not
include all who will and leave some out which is the limited and
damning scope of Calvinisms false gospel. Make no mistake - that such
a theology does not emanate from the one true God who has no
respecter of persons (Rom. 2:11). The eternal and immutable God of all
that is does not cease to be holy, holy, holy just because He was
merciful enough to reach down and redeem a depraved and sin-sick
soul! What hideous arrogance and pomp to think such a vain and evil
thought! Who did the Son of God come and die for?

God our Saviour; Who will have ALL men to be saved, and
to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one
God, and one mediator between God and men, the man
Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be
testified in due time. 1 Timothy 2:3-6
V3 Jesus Christ who is God is our Saviour the only Savior!
V4 His desire is that ALL MENbe saved from eternal
damnation and into His holy Heaven.
V5-6 There is only ONE MEDIATOR between God and men
and His name is Jesus and He gave himself a ransom for all,
to be testified about to all men that they might be saved.
Jesus included all men in His precious and unspeakable
sacrifice on that cruel wooden cross! Christ bled for all men, not
just some men.
Also, 2 Peter 3:9 drives another death nail into the coffin of John Calvins
diabolical heresies:
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men
count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing
that ANY should perish, but that ALL should come to
repentance. 2 Peter 3:9
God is not willing! Did you catch what the Holy Ghost told us here? Is
the Word of God the highest authority of your life? Or are the teachings
of mere sinful men? Watch this The LORD isnot willing that any
should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Does this
Bible statement need any explanation?
In Titus 2:11, who does Gods Word tell us Jesus Christ died for? Some
men or all men?
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared
to ALL men. Titus 2:11
As we see here in Titus 2, the verse we began this chapter with also told
us plainly that the Son of God came and died for all men and not just
some men.
Who will have ALL men to be saved, and to come unto the
knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4
Who is John Calvin or Charles Spurgeon? These men and all other
leaders in history have absolutely no authority in the divine kingdom!

Only Christ does All power in Heaven and earth is given to Him
alone! (Matt. 28:18) Jesus told us that the scripture cannot be
broken. (Jn. 10:35) The highest authority is in the very words of God
given us through the prophets and apostles of Jesus Christ Himself
which means that all other writings and teachings of men must be
closely scrutinized against the holy Standard which has be lifted up and
magnified above even the name of the LORD (Ps. 138:2). To the true
disciple of Jesus, all extra-biblical writings must become subservient to
the Holy Scriptures.
There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against
(above) the LORD. Proverbs 21:30
Do these foundational Bible truths not make it crystal clear that Jesus
Christ came and died for the sins of ALL men and not just some men?
What a God! What a Savior! What a glorious Gospel of peace! Thank You
Jesus!
Saint of God, when we begin to love the truth, we will despise lies and
give no credence to mere men, no matter how much others may
aggrandize them! Isnt it time we got excited about the Word that was
given to us by the living LORD and God of all that is?! If we do not
become righteously indignant against that which does not align with
divinely revealed truth, it is only because we do not yet possess the
love of the truth. (2 Thess. 2:10; Ps. 119:104, 128)
O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the
dayThrough thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I
hate every false way Therefore I esteem all thy precepts
concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.
Psalms 119:97, 104, 128
The Psalmist and Job esteemed the recorded words of the LORD above
their necessary physical food and to be their highest authority and
therefore hated every false way.
I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my
necessary food. Job 23:12
PRAYER: Holy Father thank You so much for sending Your only begotten
Son to die for the sins of the whole world every single person - and to
die for me! Stir and quicken my heart to love You more and to serve You
by obeying the Great Commission You gave me to help others come to
know You. Open the hearts of those whom Your body communicates Your
Gospel to and Jesus bless sinners the world over to repent and believe

as You blessed me to do! Thank You Jesus that the floodgates of Your
glorious salvation are wide open to all who will repent and believe! You
are love heavenly Father and with You is no respecter of persons! Selah!

CHAPTER NINETEEN

DONT YOU DARE DISTURB MY LITTLE

ETERNAL SECURITY PARTY!
Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book,
that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever: That
this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will
not hear the law (Word) of the LORD: Which say to the seers,
See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right
things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Isaiah
30:8-10
In this Isaiah 30 text we see a startling revelation of the Holy Spirit of
God. He has His prophet here record this warning, to alert His people of
the threat of smooth talking deceivers who lead His people astray. This
warning would cover the whole span of the history of mankind, leading
up to and including the return and ultimate reign of Jesus Christ. The
LORD told his prophet Isaiah to write these things that it may be for
the time to come for ever and ever. By this alone we know that the

danger of these smooth talking counterfeits is for our day. So let those
who have ears to hear, hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to our hearts
in this late hour.
So many today, claiming to be Gods children, do not endure sound
doctrine when confronted with the authentic preaching of the Word (2
Tim. 4:2-5). Instead of hearkening to the truth their ears hear, they cry
Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things,
prophesy deceits.
To illustrate the point here, lets ask ourselves a few simple and very
important questions:
1) Do I love Gods Word and hunger and thirst for more and more of
it?
2) Am I in the Word daily?
3) Have I surrounded myself with those who love the Bible and are
consequently comfortable and desirous to talk Scripture?
4) Am I involved in a group or local church that is merely following
the latest evangelical fad book or leader or movement?
5) Do I migrate to leaders (Bible study or otherwise) who truly honor
and lead directly into and through the Holy Scriptures?
Unfortunately there are a very minuscule few who truly preach the Word
in our day. Most preach the words of mere men their own or others
programs. But when Gods Word is preached, men are warned to flee
from the wrath to come (Lk. 3:7). It seems that so many who are
woefully at ease in Zion flee the truth and instead, intentionally
migrate to one of the scores of smooth talking local church builders of
our day who preach the gospel of ease in order to draw in and retain
supporters (Amos 6:1). It is heart-rending that these man-pleasing,
smooth talking deceivers litter the landscape of the church world in our
day. Does this not reveal that every man desires to do what is right in his
own eyes and not die to self and do the will of the Father in Heaven? See
1 Kings 17:6; Matthew 7:21; 12:50; John 4:34; James 1:22; 4:4-10.
As foretold several times in the New Testament, very few people love the
truth in this late hour (1 Thess. 2:3; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:1-7).
Regrettably, most would rather exalt mere men and their teachings above
God who has lifted His Word above His own name (Ps. 138:2). In their
hearts they say hurt not the oil and the wine (pleasure and ease)!

They say Dont you dare mess with my Laodicean playhouse! (Rev. 3:1419; 6:6) I want my cake and to eat it too! Like the Laodiceans who were
carnally fat and spiritually skinny, many in this last hour want a life of
ease, not realizing that in Gods eyes they are wretched, and
miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. These Laodiceans refused
to endure sound doctrine, and those whom Jesus warned would be
spewed from Him (vomited out of His mouth/body; rejected). Many today
say in their hearts We dont want to hear the hard truths of God! Dont
you dare interrupt the flow of ease and pleasure! Give us the promise of
eternal security without personal responsibility! If you do, we will find
one of the many leaders who will not teach on sin and righteousness and
the full-counsel of the Word! Entertain us or we will pick up our toys and
go play somewhere else!
Beloved, beware of community churches and the emergent church
movement which are sweeping the evangelical world and littering the
landscape of Laodicean America! Beware of cotton candy pseudo
Christian books and works that focus on being purpose-driven instead
of pure and Word and Holy Spirit-led! Beware of writings that center on
being wild of heart and not holy in heart! Beware of wannabe local
pastors who dont have their own identity in Christ and their own life in
the Word of God and therefore follow sheep-clothed, wool-cloaked wolves
who have national influence! Rebuke them sharply and expose them and
depart unless they repent! (Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Tim. 4:2-5; Tit. 1:13)
Far more dangerous than the mass murderous ministries of Jim Jones
and David Koresh, are men today who are deceitfully leading their flock
into spiritual darkness and death with their deadly and insidious lies.
This is the epitome of what the LORD Jesus described as the blind
leading the blind into the ditch of eternal destruction (Matt. 15:14).
These leaders are doing these things for 2 reasons:
1) They serve themselves and not Christ and therefore refuse to
instruct their people in the full-counsel of the LORD (Acts 20:20,
27, 32; Phil. 3:17-21).
2) The people they lead, like so many among us, do not personally
study and know the Word of God, so cannot discern these leaders
as false. (The people who do not know and obey Gods Word will be

destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29; 2 Thess.

2:10-12).
False teachers reciprocate the sinful desires of unsaved, unsanctified
men. Beguilers tell the people what their depraved hearts wish to hear,
instead of naming sin and calling them to repentance before a holy God
(2 Tim. 4:3). This is what Christ and His apostles did (Matt. 4:17; Lk.
13:3, 5; Acts 3:19).
The landscape of the modern church world is littered with
entrepreneurial CEO type moguls who use various marketing schemes
and entertainment gimmicks to farm their communities for unearned,
un-cleansed souls whom they never call to repent from living a life of
rebellion. Below is a partial list of essentials that govern and drive todays
beguilers who seek to grow their church businesses in our communities.
Every single mainstream evangelical leader who is teaching OSAS is dead
wrong. Many do such due to being taught of mere men while rejecting
the written counsel of the One they claim to be representing.
Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt
thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest (pervert)
judgment. Exodus 23:3
It simply doesnt matter the size of their audience, opulent ministries,
influence, or charisma, etc. Gods Word is final authority and never hints
of an unconditional eternal security. Lets take it one step further: Every
leader not warning and exhorting his audience of the essential of
enduring to the end in obedient faith toward Christ, is not fulfilling His
calling and will receive judgment for such (Col. 1:28; 2:8; 2 Tim. 4:1-2).
The only security Gods Word promises is in abiding or remaining in full
relational trust in Christ.
The Word of God annihilates any and all possibility of there existing an
unconditional eternal security. If OSAS existed in the mind of the
Almighty He would have simply transparently come out openly and told
us in His Word (Ps. 33:11). The thoughts of his heart have been
transmitted through His holy apostles and prophets and recorded to all
generations in His Word and there is no hint of an unconditional eternal
security found therein (Ps. 33:11).
ESSENTIAL COMMANDMENTS OF FALSE LEADERS
The Unspoken Creed of Modern Deceivers

Cardinal Rule #1:

Thou shalt not obey Jesus Christ and preach repentance. This is what
He prescribed in order that He might grow His true Church as He wills.
Ignore the severe truths of the Bible because it wont make you
successful in mens eyes and maximize your monetary earning potential
in this life. Instead, seek out popular men who can tell you how to be a
good church growth student and farm your community to grow your
church business.
Cardinal Rule #2:
Thou shalt not teach people that God is holy, that sin separates men
from Him, and that without exception He requires all who will be
eternally saved to be ye holy for I am holy.
Cardinal Rule #3:
Thou shalt tend only to the light fanfare of fun and entertaining things
like coping, financial prosperity, physical healing, getting blessed, pop
psychology, and light things catering to building up the self life which
Jesus commanded men to deny.
Cardinal Rule #4:
Thou shalt entertain sinful goats who think they are saved and not feed
sheep. Only say things that make the largest segment of society feel
comfortable at all costs. This is how you will be able to build a large
church business. Never ever, ever tell the people that Jesus Christ
requires them to deny themselves, take up their cross daily and really
and truly follow Him or they are not His.
Cardinal Rule #5:
Thou shalt make people feel like they are a part of a community. Make
them feel like they belong and that they are accepted without question or
exception and that God okays them in their sins whether they repent or
not.
Cardinal Rule #6:
Thou shalt be friendly and sensitive to seekers while ignoring the need to
fear God and preach the undiluted full-counsel of His Word. Oh, make
sure you use one of the many artificial, corrupt new versions of the Bible
that are supposedly easier to read and have removed and distorted the
central doctrines of the Christian faith. Beware because using the real
English Bible (KJV) would convict people of sin and might actually cause
people to have to learn new English words, increasing their vocabulary
and making them smarter and wiser and able to discern who you really
are (Ps. 19:7; 119:99-100).

Cardinal Rule #7:

Thou shalt not preach on the vivid reality of hell and eternal judgment to
come and how Jesus spoke more about hell than Heaven. This might
make people feel uncomfortable in their sins and not patronize or pay
you to continue to lead them astray.
Cardinal Rule #8:
Thou shalt purposely ignore and dodge all the myriad of Scriptures that
deal with crucifying the self life, denying sinful pleasure in this life and
truly following Jesus. This would offend and alienate people from your
cause.
Cardinal Rule #9:
Thou shalt not preach any convicting word that brings shame on sinful
consciences. If so you would run some off and they would no longer help
you build your local church business.
Cardinal Rule #10:
Thou shalt act as if you believe the Bible is Gods Word and yet dont
really spend much time getting directly into it. Rather, bring in fad books
written by best selling authors who do not exalt Jesus Christ by
declaring His Word - undiluted. If you want to grow your own financial
portfolio, do not preach the full-counsel of Gods Word - holiness,
repentance, being born again, hell, denial of self, judgment to come, etc.
Make sure you do not make one of Gods 66 glorious divinely-inspired
books the text book for smaller group studies. People might get convicted
of their sins, repent, and begin to personally learn Gods Word for
themselves and wont allow you to continue to mislead them and will not
see the need for you (Pastor Wonderful) to tell them what to believe.
Cardinal Rule #11:
Remember that your whole goal is to look successful in the eyes of men
and to grow your congregation numerically and not spiritually. Thou
shalt not specifically and by name preach on sin and call men to repent
of their life of iniquity. The blessed and ancient altar call must be
removed. Since you wont be preaching repentance from sin before a just
and holy God and Judge, you will not need an altar call. Obeying Christ
by calling men to repent is not conducive to your own personal cause
and popularity among men and may cause people to get truly saved and
begin serving Christ and having an eternal perspective and not buying in
to your selfish interests to build your entertainment club disguised as a
church. Be careful to remember that people who truly know and fear God
do not support false prophets and if you truly preach the Word some will
repent and see who you really are and leave your circus act.

Cardinal Rule #12:

Thou shalt completely ignore the New Testament book of Acts and the
baptism in the Holy Ghost which would empower and make His disciples
true witnesses of the KING of all kings and draw their allegiance to Jesus
and advancing His eternal kingdom which would take away their heart
affections and energies from your own self-serving program and cause.
Cardinal Rule #13:
Thou shalt not truly and ceaselessly preach the Word of God since that
would make true disciples. If so they might realize they really dont need
you but rather the nail-scarred risen Savior and LORD and go forth
doing His bidding ministry - building up the saints and winning the lost which would lessen your own importance and position.
Cardinal Rule #14:
Only deal with surface issues like self-esteem, relationships, coping, and
things pertaining to selfish interests. Make sure those in your little bless
me club are comforted in their sin and believe they are eternally secure
no matter what filth and wickedness they get into after their initial
profession of faith. This will tickle their ears and embolden them to
continue to live in sin and enjoy being led to believe that God will still
accept them into His holy Heaven. This is another good way to get people
to feel good and continue to come and give their money to your little
entertainment club. Do not preach Gods Word as Paul told Timothy to
do. Most people want to be told ear-tickling lies and so in order to have a
large following, you must be selective about what you preach.
Cardinal Rule #15:
Jesus told you that you must lose your life in this world to gain it. If you
were to obey what He said, you would then lay it all down and truly be
Christs and serve Him and no longer be a deceitful worker and pawn of
Satan (2 Cor. 11:12-15; Phil. 3:17-19). Also, be aware that if you truly
repent you will no longer be a hireling wolf who preys upon people, using
them as a means to your own selfish end. If you were to really get right
with the LORD you may lose the riches of this fleeting world and begin
laying up eternal treasure.
You know when you have been to an entertainment house instead of a
New Testament church when you have heard no heart-circumcising,
convicting, word charged with the fear of the LORD. Inherent in the very
words of the original Gospel is the fear and love of God. When it is
communicated in the Holy Spirit, hearts are changed. God-fearing men
are infused with and infuse those who hear their messages with the
divine Person of Christ who reverberates in their hearts through the
preached Word (Jn. 5:39; 2 Tim. 4:1-4). If one leaves a church gathering

having had nothing substantial deposited in his heart, yet has been
entertained, he can be sure that he was not at a true New Testament
gathering of faithful remnant saints (Acts 2:42-47; 9:31; 20:27-32).
If one seeks to be entertained it is because he is bored due to not
having an authentic, living, breathing relationship with His very
Creator.
In a message titled That Dreadful Day No One Wants to Talk About,
David Wilkerson writes:
"How is the body of Christ responding to these (last days)
warnings? In many churches, there is no mention of atrocities, of
terrorism, of tragic pandemics. Instead, the messages being
brought forth from those pulpits are comprised of motivational pep
talks, jokes, entertainment. It's all spiritual baby food, with no
word spoken about coming judgments." World Challenge Pulpit
Series, February 5, 2007
Dont Spoil My Little Party!
Some do not wish to endure sound doctrine but rather seek ease of
life and so migrate to those leaders who will tell them what their unpurged hearts wish to hear instead of the hard truths of Gods Word
(Amos 6:1; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
Whatever we sow we will reap and this includes what we choose to hear
and how we hear and process the words of our LORD (Matt. 7:21-29; Mk.
4:24; Lk. 8:18; Gal. 6:7-9). Just as falsehood robs the fear of God from
the hearts of men, conversely the truth when fully embraced steals
and dissolves the excuses, self-deception and compromise right out of
our hearts! Lie not against the truth but rather receive with
meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
(James 1:21; 3:14)
Some see the crystal clear biblical doctrine of a conditional eternal
security as a threat to the sinful, worldly lifestyle they are accustomed to
living. When some who have been taught this lie of the ages initially hear
the piercing Word of God taught and the Holy Spirit begins to convict
their hearts, they react with: Oh please dont spoil my little party! Dont
ruin the god I have created to suit my own whims and the lifestyle I wish
to live! I dont want to really have to die to myself and take up my cross

and genuinely walk with Jesus! Did He really mean we had to? I just
want to have a fire insurance policy please dont bother me with
Scripture that commands me to truly obey Christ!
It is a deadly occupation to determine truth by how it fits ones lifestyle
instead of by what God defined it as in His Word (Jn. 17:17; Rom. 3:3-4).
Judgment Day is coming and it will be too late to go back and relive this
brief earthly life. We are only given one chance to live this life and yet
how we choose to live it will determine our eternity. Many who today
claim to know Jesus Christ and even call Him LORD will be shocked to
be terminated by Him into the bowels of eternal fire on that Great and
Terrible Day (Matt. 7:15-26; 25:40-46). Isnt it time to get transparent
and authentic?
They Claim That God Isnt Fair
Here is a very telling passage of divine truth where the hearts of those
who espouse this no-responsibility-for-sin teaching is found:
Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not
equal (fair): but as for them, their way is not equal. When the
righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth
iniquity, he shall even die thereby. But if the wicked turn from
his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall
live thereby. Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. O ye
house of Israel, I will judge you every one after his ways.
Ezekiel 33:17-20
Just like today, in Ezekiels day, many of the people were saying that
Gods way was not equal (fair) because He had told them earlier on and
here that those righteous people who turn back to sin would perish and
have no security. The people simply didnt like that the LORD said that
When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and
committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. Like many today,
these people who were among the people of God, wanted to remain living
their lives as they wished and not truly submitted to the LORD. They
were living in a mythical fairytale like salvation plan which required no
change of life or their lifestyles of comfort. And they wanted the comfort
of knowing they were secure no matter how they lived.

Think about this for a moment: Many today who balk in their hearts at
the requirements for salvation (real faith that is evidenced by good
works), have expended much effort, time and money to earn their
educational degrees and other accomplishments in this fleeting life.
Many of these same people never think twice about exerting whatever is
required of them to obtain their temporal prize, yet murmur at the
thought of the divinely-given conditions set forth to remain in fellowship
with Him (Matt. 10:22; 1 Jn. 1:7, etc.). Its like they dont want to be
bothered with any of the details of walking with the LORD and yet want
to believe they still have eternal life due to their one little sinners prayer
and church affiliation, etc.
While being accused of being unfair, the LORD said to His people in
Ezekiels day that their way wasnt equal/right. The reason some people
then and now do not like the way of the LORD is:
1) They are not submitted under the Lordship of Christ, but while
professing to know Him have a mere form of godliness while
denying the true surrender to His Lordship (2 Tim. 3:5; Tit. 1:16).
2) These people do not want to believe there is any consequence for
their actions. They would rather follow a false clich (OSAS)
instead of truly dying to self that Christ might live in and through
them, making them holy and ready for His soon return (Lk. 21:3436).
3) They dont want to acknowledge that their soul is in the balance,
hinging upon their obedience to the LORD, and that they are not
unconditionally eternally secure so as to grant them assurance
and comfort while living in sin.
I have personally met and spoken with numerous people who while
claiming to be Christians, absolutely did not want to imagine that the life
of a disciple of Christ can be treacherous and painful at times. In
hundreds of conversations with those who want to feel eternally secure
in their life of ease, most of these people have revealed that they do not
want to believe that by divine mandate, they truly have to live holy and
face, confess, and forsake their sins or they will forfeit their place with
the LORD.

When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and

committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. Ezekiel 33:18
WARNING: ...Lay hold on eternal life... (1 Tim. 6:12) LAY HOLD on
eternal life or it may get away from you if you leave your first love.
Doesnt this all boil down to having or not having Christ as first love
the One we truly love the most? Jesus warned the Ephesian believers:
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou
hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou
art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will
come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out
of his place, except thou repent. Revelation 2:4-5
Jesus had somewhat against many of His very own people at
Ephesus. Friend, if the Son of man sat down with you this day to discuss
your relationship to Him, would Christ warn that you have left your first
love? Would He reveal that in reality He wasnt truly the One you loved
the most above all others and things, including yourself?
Each individual must choose. We all do choose. If Jesus is not my first
love, I have no one to blame but myself for making the deliberate decision
to place other things or people in front of Him.
Jeremiah 7 Are We Truly
Delivered to do all these Abominations?
Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Will ye
steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and
burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye
know not; And come and stand before me in this house, which
is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these
abominations? Jeremiah 7:8-10
The LORD here tells His people that they trust in lying words, that
cannot profit. He cites them for the sins of stealing, murder (hatred of
any kind), adultery, lying, and idolatry. Yet He says that while living in
and justifying these offences to His holiness, they come before Him as if
all their sin doesnt matter and that none of their sins can hinder their
relationship with Him who is holy - And come and stand before me in

this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to

do all these abominations?
Basically these people who once walked with the LORD claimed
immunity from divine judgment due to their embracing of the lie of the
ages. They vainly believed they were eternally secure and yet were under
the judgment of a holy God. Like many today they deceived themselves
into believing that God was love, He would never condemn them for their
sins. They refused to behold His severity on those in the past who
fell and were cut off. (Rom. 11:19-22)
He cites them for the sins of stealing, murder (hatred of any kind),
adultery, lying, and idolatry. Yet He says that while living in and
justifying these offences to His holiness, these people come before Him as
if all their sin doesnt matter and that none of their sins can hinder their
relationship with Him who is holy. - And come and stand before me in
this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to
do all these abominations?
Are we truly Delivered to do all these Abominations? In other
words, are we now free to sin because we are saved by His grace? Isnt
this exactly what the Holy Spirit warned and answered once and for all
times in Romans 6? What shall we say then? Shall we continue in
sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead
to sin, live any longer therein? (v1-2) Okay, lets break this truth
down:

The Question: Shall we continue in sin, that grace may

abound?
The answer: God forbid.

Any person not saved and delivered from living in sin, is not saved from
the penalty of sin eternal death damnation.
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to
obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto
death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans 6:16
Those who yield themselves to obey God are His servants and will reap
righteousness. Those who obey the sinful nature are sinning unto
death or spiritual separation.

Are we reasoning and leaning to our own understanding by thinking the

Almighty doesnt see all of what we think upon and do? Are we vainly
believing He will automatically excuse these sins? Is it time to find out
what He has told us plainly about un-confessed sin and the
consequences? Are we diligently studying and listening to what the
LORD told us in no uncertain terms?
Like the people of Jeremiahs day, millions today are fulfilling the last
days prophecy found in 2 Timothy 3. Many today have a form of
godliness and yet are denying the power of Christs authority in
their personal lives. Power here refers to Lordship, Rule and reign.
Those who claim Christ as Savior and have not submitted themselves
under His Rule and reign, where He truly consumes their lives, have only
an outward formula of godliness. Many have been led to believe that they
can mix a little easy believism and Sunday morning church service into
the activities of their lives and everything will be fine. If ones supposed
faith in Christ does not translate into a complete life change from the
inside out, he should fall afresh upon the mercy of God in deep
repentance and trust (Matt. 3:7-8; 2 Cor. 5:17-18). Masses have been
taught that because they went down to some church altar at some point,
they are eternally secure (OSAS) and yet are not living unto the LORD
and are therefore not ready to meet Him. If ones daily fruit or works
deny Christ, he is not of God (Matt. 3:8; Tit. 1:16). Also, once one is
saved, he is mandated to continue to seek God and be transformed in his
thinking and lifestyle or he will fall away from the LORD (Lk. 8:13;
Heb. 3:12-15; 10:26-39). One truly may have confessed Jesus Christ as
LORD and been saved, but the recipient of salvation is required by the
One who gave the gift to continue in the faith grounded and settled,
and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel. (1 Cor. 15:2;
Col. 1:22-23; Heb. 3:6)
There is never the promise of an unconditional eternal security not
once. It was never a part of Gods agreement with man. In fact, right in
the midst of the clearest definition of the gospel He told us that we
must keep in memory what we have learned and been blessed with in
His salvation, or we will lose out (1 Cor. 15:1-4).

When confronted with Bible passages which refute these heretical beliefs,
some are faced with the reality of having to actually crucify the deeds of
their sinful nature. Sadly, many run in defiance of this truth. They
scurry and remain in hiding behind the thin, temporal veneer and false
comfort zone of a supposed license to sin. Isnt this exactly what God
said of the people of the prophet Jeremiahs day? (Jer. 7:8-10) This is
tragic and has been established in the hearts of many by those who
claim to be Christian leaders who continually reinforce and foster such a
lie.
Quite frankly, the Bible truth of a conditional eternal security can be
scary to some, especially at first, but the fruit of embracing this divine
truth will always ultimately yield the fear of the LORD which is clean,
and the fruit of holiness and clear a conscience. Be sure of this: those
who are the remnant of Christ in our day are not afraid of what He
plainly told us in His Word. They face His truth with humble, honest and
open hearts and seek His face to change any and everything in their lives
which do not align with the Master of their souls Jesus Christ, their
first love.
Those who fear and obey the LORD are blessed with His comfort and not
a counterfeit comfort which will ultimately lead to eternal damnation.
After obeying the LORD against much opposition, the early Church was
blessed:
Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee
and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the
Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.
Acts 9:31
As we see in this insightful passage in Acts 9:31, the fear of the
LORD is a blessing and will always ultimately result in the comfort of
the Holy Ghost. It is ultra important for those who will trust Jesus to
the end, to remove from their lives all false teachers who do not teach the
fear of the LORD, the need for personal holiness, and to believe to the
end to be saved. If one desires to truly follow Christ, he must dethrone
any and all of his favorite teachers idol Shepherds - and look fully
and solely to the LORD Jesus Christ and His precious Word (Zech.
11:17).

Jesus wants to save us from the lie of the ages which says that as Gods
people, we are free to live in sin. Such is the first falsehood told to man
which led to the fall of man into sinful separation from His Maker.
Saints, the wages of sin is still death in Gods unchanging economy and
His people are never to forget this (Rom 6:1-2, 15, 23).
Some who read this will feel hopeless to overcome certain sins in their
life which in part have been enabled by the its-okay-to-live-in-sin
lie. But please allow me to encourage you to keep pressing toward the
mark of knowing Jesus more and more - you are going to look back
and be so eternally glad you endured in His grace and overcome (Rev.
2-3). No sin or sins are any match for His infinite power and grace!
(Rom. 6:14) Get back under His glorious grace! Lay it all down saint
and watch the wonderful grace of God make you free to love and serve
Him in all your thoughts and ways as you fervently await His soon
return.
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims,
abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. 1 Peter
2:11
A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his
feet. Proverbs 29:5
Beloved of the LORD, do not buy into these lies which are of the evil one.
His plan is to seduce your soul into disobedience as he did with Adam
and Eve - which will lead to the serving of self-interests and lusts and
cause you to fall away from the LORD. Seduction is accomplished with
flattery not rebuke. Reject these lies and live a life of rejoicing, fasting,
prayer, Bible study and witnessing. Give thanks and declare the Good
News in light of the soon return of the Son of God.
PRAYER: Jesus fill me with Your love and grace and a deep conviction for
Your holy truth. I rejoice in You alone Jesus and have no confidence in the
flesh. Bless my heart to be honest and obedient to You heavenly Father
and never hide behind a lie that justifies my sin. Strike my heart with the
fear of the LORD and grant me Your anointing to help others in the same.
Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY

GOD IS HOLY & TO BE FEARED

The Wages of Sin is Still Death

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all

manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of
persons judgeth according to every mans work, pass the time
of your sojourning here in fear: Forasmuch as ye know that ye
were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold,
from your vain conversation received by tradition from your
fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb
without blemish and without spot. 1 Peter 1:15-19
It is obvious that most of us do not live holy at all times in thought, word
and deed, but why is it that some want to try to pervert Gods holy Word
to cover or hide sin that which offends the one, true, and holy God? (1
John 1:8-10) This perversion of truth is disturbing and He says it angers
Him (Rom. 1:18; James 3:14). Why would we attempt to alter the standard
instead of simply being honest about it and acknowledging that we are
falling short? (Isa. 62:10; Prov. 28:13) When we begin with honesty, we
can then be filled with His Spirit and grace through intimate fellowship
and fulfill His will (Rom. 3:31; 8:3-4, 13-14; 2 Cor. 3:18; Gal. 5:16).
It must be firmly instilled in our hearts that God is holy and that our sin
displaces our relationship with Him who is holy (Exod. 25:8; Jn. 17:3). He
made us and we exist to get to know Him and such a relationship as He

desires cannot be experienced outside of holiness, which requires initial

and ongoing cleansing of sin (1 Jn. 1:3-2:2). The LORD made complete
provision for all He desires and requires for His children through the blood
of the cross of Christ our LORD (Col. 1:14; 20; Heb. 4:14-16).
The LORD is Holy
Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and
say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am
holy. Leviticus 19:2
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth
eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy
place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to
revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the
contrite ones. Isaiah 57:15
Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no
man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:
to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. 1 Timothy
6:16
How can one honestly say that he loves God and live outside of His will?
How can we neglect to diligently remove any and all barriers that stand
between ourselves and the LORD we claim to serve? The Lord
knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the
name of Christ depart from iniquity. (2 Tim. 2:19) Who would want to
live in an offence against the One they claim to love? Perhaps some today
believe they can use the LORD to go to Heaven, yet dont want a
relationship with Him. Such cannot and will not happen (Matt. 7:21; Tit.
1:16). The LORD came to gain the affections of the hearts of His people
and not just be a convenience to save them from hurt and hell (Isa. 64:7;
Jer. 30:21; Matt. 22:37-39; Col. 3:1-3).
Remember that no individuals personal moral performance is the
measure of doctrinal truth, although ultimately, what a person believes,
will predictably determine the conduct of his personal life. What is first
important is to establish the divine standard so that we know what the
LORD requires and desires (Micah 6:8). We can then receive His

abundant grace to fulfill His will and be perfectly pleasing in His sight (1
Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9-10).
And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the
LORD... Isaiah 23:18
Holiness to the LORD is the will of our Maker in the lives of each of
those who name His holy name.
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having
this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every
one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 2
Timothy 2:19
Naming the name of Jesus Christ and departing from iniquity should go
hand in hand. Kelly Gallagher relates the following personal experience:
For 30 years I have been blessed to be saved and a student of the
Word of God. One of my brothers is still unsaved and at some point
had a girlfriend living with him at his house (fornication). I talked to
her and found out that she had left her husband out of state and
decided to live with my brother. This woman claimed to be saved and
was reading the book, Eternal Security by Charles Stanley.
She told me that committing adultery and fornication did not cause
her to lose her salvation. This lady felt that since she was eternally
secure, God would not punish her for any sin committed after
salvation. I told her that if she died in the state of adultery she was in,
she would go to hell, but she did not believe it. The book by Charles
Stanley gave her false comfort and destroyed what little, if any, fear of
God remained in her.
The teachers of once saved always saved are leading weak Christians
into damnable sins and giving them a false license for sin. Those who
teach this doctrine have suicides, adulteries, apostasies, and even
murders on their hands committed by those who have heard their
teachings and taken them to their logical conclusion; sin does not
reap eternal punishment to the Christian. The blood of many will be
on these false teachers hands and God will not allow these men into

heaven themselves because their condemnation was before of old

ordained because they turn the grace of God into lasciviousness, an
old english word meaning license for sin. God help us to expose
these false prophets in the church and undo the damage their
teachings cause. Souls are at stake!
What we can observe around us today and throughout history, is how
men so easily forget the all-important nature of the divine holiness.
God is holy. This is His divine nature and an attribute never to be
forgotten by His saints (Ps. 89:7). Whenever His people forget (do not
uphold) the attribute of His holiness, the justification of sin will
inevitably set in. It seems clear that the lie of the ages, the unconditional
eternal security teaching, is the enemys tool to divorce men from the
holiness and the fear of God.
Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine
house, O LORD, for ever. Psalms 93:5
My sins testify to my great need for Gods perpetual mercy and grace.
Jesus precious blood provided the full and free access of each of His
saints to come boldly and be cleansed over and over (Heb. 4:14-16).
So, if I retain sin, it could only be because I have not come boldly and
received of His precious cleansing grace and mercy.
What offends Him who is holy is clearly spelled out in His Word and
when His holiness ceases to be heard and sin is not mentioned among
His people, the divine standard is removed and eventually so is His
presence. I need Him! You need Him! He gave me my existence and is my
every breath, the very Sustainer of everything that He made alive in my
spirit, soul, and body. Stop for a moment to imagine if He had never
chosen to create you. You would not be but He did! He breathed into
you the breath of life and you exist and breath because of it!
I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the
truth, which thou hast showed unto thy servant. Genesis
32:10
Holiness is the command of God and what is found among the true
people of the LORD. We are promised that this life would be difficult for
those on the narrow road that leads to eternal life (Matt. 7:13-14; Acts
14:22; 2 Tim. 3:12; Heb. 12:4). The Bible truth is that Jesus came into
the world to do something about sin and therefore there is no

justification for His children living in it (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29; Tit. 2:14; 1
Jn. 3:5). His blood, mercy, and grace is our escape route.
In the face of a historical litany of examples of angels and men who
sinned against the LORD after being in relationship with Him, some still
have the gall to teach that first and diabolical lie of the ages which the
Almighty condemns. The books of Jude and 2 Peter give specific
examples of the judgment of God which came upon those who were
rooted and grounded in His kingdom and then chose to transgress
without repentance. I want to strongly encourage anyone reading these
words to take a fresh look at the books of Jude and 2 Peter 2-3.
Due to this false teaching and the many who do not know the Word for
themselves, there will be millions in eternal hell with no chance to escape
who played upon (took lightly) the grace of God. These are those who
currently live their daily lives thinking in vain that the Judge of all is not
going to punish their evil doing. The Bible tells us that God has a cut off
time the door was shut. (Matt. 25:10; Gen. 19) According to the
Bible, millions who claim profusely to be saved will spend eternity in the
inescapable torment of hell (Matt. 7:15-23).

Holiness vs. Sovereignty

It is interesting to note that those who embrace the unconditional eternal
security or OSAS teaching seem to rarely make mention of the holiness of
God. Such an indispensable divine attribute is cleverly and crassly
overlooked. They speak often of the sovereignty of God and even
capitalize the S. The Calvinist grossly over-emphasizes, redefines and
distorts the sovereignty of God while completely ignoring that He is
holy, holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8). In doing this he fashions a god in
his own wicked image.
What about the holiness of God? Where is the essential Bible doctrine of
holiness to be found among those who are turning the grace of our
God into lasciviousness? (Jude 4) The words holy and holiness
appear 595 times in the Bible. The words sovereign or sovereignty
appear 0 times in the Bible. Numbers dont lie. So in using the
sovereignty of God term and making far too much of an emphasis of it,
we see that many are perverting the nature of the Almighty. The remnant

believer who is to be preserved to the end, must of necessity take Him at

His Word which speaks of His holiness nearly 600 times.
Where did God command us to believe He is sovereign? But does He
command us concerning His holiness? Yes, on hundreds of occasions in
His Holy Word.
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all
manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16
Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear,
and let him be your dread. Isaiah 8:13
If any person (whether previously saved or not) dies outside of a holy (set
apart) relationship with the one true holy God, hell awaits (Gal. 5:19-21;
Heb. 12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27). Believing God is sovereign will not save one
from hell. Such is not an essential tenet of the Christian faith. Believing
He is holy and this is why Jesus came is an essential (1 Tim. 1:15). He
came to take away our sins to save us from them not in them (Matt.
1:21; Jn. 1:29; Tit. 2:14). The LORD requires all who will be eternally His
to get and remain wholly washed in the precious blood or He will not
save them from eternal damnation (1 Jn. 1:7).
And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill
the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul
and body in hell. Matthew 10:28
And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill
the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I
will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he
hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you,
Fear him. Luke 12:4-5
Only one of His divine attributes is listed with triplicate rapidity in
exalted praise, and that is Holy, holy, holy. His people must never
discount, but rather always dwell upon the holiness of the LORD.
And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the
LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:3

Holiness is beautiful.
O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before
him, all the earth. Psalms 96:9
Holiness is splendid and beautiful and not drudgery to the one who has
a living, breathing relationship with the Savior. To that person who
walks in communion with Him, holiness is beautiful and accomplished
by the grace of God laboring in him and his own volitional submission
to the fear and will of God (Eccl. 12:13; 1 Cor. 15:10). Father in
Heaven, grant us to fear before You and bless us to experience Your
precious grace and to be possessed with the spirit of holiness.
(Rom. 1:4; Heb. 4:14-16)
It is manifestly improper to speak of a believer who sees nothing
desirable in holiness. A man who can say, I have no desire to be
holy, cannot be a true experimental believer in Christ. Jesse T.
Peck
The grace-perverters of our day work in league with the enemy of souls to
cause men to fall from grace, all the while believing they are eternally
secure. They cause Gods people to forget His holy name and nature
through their false teaching. This is exactly what the prophet Jeremiah
told us concerning the false pastors who operate in the ministry (wolves
in sheeps clothing). The Holy Spirit here cites these false shepherds as
those Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their
dreams (false vision and doctrines) which they tell every man to his
neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal. (Jer.
23:27)
What is the fruit of the lie of lasciviousness? Isnt it interesting that
through their false teachings these modern grace teachers rob the fear
of God from the hearts of those who buy into their message and put them
on the road to backsliding? While to the contrary, the LORD tells us
plainly that His Word teaches us to fear Him (Deut. 17:19).
Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy
God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the
people together, and I will make them hear my words, that
they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live

upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.
Deuteronomy 4:10
It is amazing how anyone can read the Scriptures and teach this
unconditional security lie. False teachers have and are leading millions
astray by teaching them to trust in an eternal security without
condition, purposely rejecting the Bible doctrines of the holiness of God,
fearing God, and the severity of God. (Rom. 11:19-23)
Why do some insist upon rejecting truth while promoting and defending
this unfounded myth which is not only unscriptural but rather refuted
repeatedly by Gods Word?
For those who study to show themselves approved by learning the fullcounsel of God will be the reward of keen discernment. The person who
gains a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the Word will
not be blown about by a beguiler who tries to sell him on the notion of
Calvins lies. They simply do not stand the acid test of Gods Word and
should be diligently opposed and exposed as being against the Almighty
(Rom. 16:17; Jude 3-4).
These deceived men turn from the holy commandment to their own way,
any easier way, but a way with a different eternal destination. They set
aside the truth of God for their own doctrines. In the face of Gods Word,
which clearly contradicts their erroneous beliefs, they put aside the truth
in order to keep their doctrinal tradition and change the truth of God
into a lie. (Rom. 1:25) These men do the same things Christ revealed
that the Pharisees did. Of the religionists of His day, Jesus stated:
This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is
far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for
doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the
commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the
washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye
do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the
commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.
Mark 7:6-9

We must hearken to Gods Word over our own emotions, opinion or

preconceived beliefs or doctrines, and let Gods Word be true final
authority (Rom. 3:3-4). We must never lean to our own understanding
but in all our ways acknowledge the LORD Almighty as true, and refuse
to be intoxicated with lies which make excuse for sin instead of dealing
with them in transparent truth (2 Cor. 4:2-3).
True grace is not an excuse for sinning but rather an enablement to
resist and overcome that which displeases and offends the LORD who is
holy. Satan has set forth his emissaries to teach this perverted grace
message and lead the saints to believe it is okay to live in sin and that
God will somehow overlook it and not judge them for it (Jude 3-5).
Satan knows sin separates men from the holiness and presence of the
LORD, so temptation to sin is his tool to cause men to stumble and fall
out of the grace of God.
If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die. Romans 8:13
Has the Almighty changed? See Malachi 3:6. Has He ceased to be holy?
Does He now overlook our sins without our repentance? Or, did He
provide some better way for them to be forgiven? Do we not have a
complete salvation through a perfect Savior, accessed and appropriated
through a living and obedient faith? Somebody rejoice!
God is love and so that no reader gets the wrong idea, I think it good
to insert something here concerning the holiness of God, written by
Becky Purcell, who says:
What exactly does it mean to be HOLY? One thing it is not is to
think of God as unapproachable, unreachable, unloving, like
someone uppity. We have to realize that since He is holy, He is all
of these things and more, loving, reachable, approachable.
Adam and Eve experienced the fellowship of the LORD and died
spiritually when they sinned. Once the believer sins, he is ushered from
the garden of the presence of God. Yes, the wages of sin is still death and
by transgression men still fall, and the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
(Rom. 6:23; Acts 1:25; Ezek. 18:4) Those who live after the fleshly nature

are promised spiritual death (Rom. 8:13). The LORD immediately and
completely forgives all who repent and turn to Him (Isa. 44:22; Lam.
3:19-22; Ezek. 33:12-13; 1 Jn. 1:9).
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Matthew 5:8
If we do not grasp this simple and eternally consequential truth that
sins contaminates and separates - we do not yet understand the holiness
of the LORD and that without His holiness manifesting in our personal
lives, we cannot see Him (1 Pet. 1:16; Heb. 12:14). Saints, this is no
game. The eternal God will judge all who die in an unholy state (Rev.
21:8, 27; 22:11).
When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and
committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. Ezekiel 33:18
Like the first man and woman, when men are taught they have a license
to sin without consequence, when they are weak (and at some point we
all are), there will be sinfulness the violation of the holiness of God. The
fear of God is hereby robbed out of the hearts of those who believe this
lie, leaving them to sin when weak and then justify such with this false
teaching. Yet, the unchanging God states the following warning to His
own people:
For the LORD thy God walketh in the midst of thy camp, to
deliver thee, and to give up thine enemies before thee;
therefore shall thy camp be holy: that he see no unclean thing
in thee, and turn away from thee. Deuteronomy 23:14
There is a great need for disciples of Jesus to gather in honesty and have
a safe place of accountability to bring to the light the sins that hide in
the dark recesses of their hearts. The person who deals honestly and
transparently with sin, confessing and forsaking them all, shall have
mercy and grow in grace and in truth (Prov. 28:13; 2 Pet. 1:3; 3:18).
The godly will openly confess and and forsake their sins.
For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.
Psalms 38:18

Do we not realize that He knows all?

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,
and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every
secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Gods Word teaches us that He is all-seeing and that He commands us to
fear Him and keep all of His commandments which are not grievous.
(Eccl. 12:13-14; Jn. 14:15, 21; 1 Jn. 5:2-3)
When the child of God has un-relinquished sin, he is morally weakened
and will not be able to obey God and stand against the devil and his
relentless attack. When a man named Achan partook of sin amidst the
covenant children of Israel, here is what the LORD said:
Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their
enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because
they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more,
except ye destroy the accursed from among you. Joshua 7:12
Any notion or teaching which weakens this divine truth and the resolve
toward personal holiness in the hearts of His saints is of diabolical origin
and deadly.
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,
and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man. Ecclesiastes 12:13
Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and
in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on
the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the
LORD. Joshua 24:14
But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which
after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say
unto you, Fear him. Luke 12:5

We are to acknowledge our sin and not create or buy into any teaching
that justifies that which is not pure in the eyes of the Savior who is holy
and came to save us by His grace and purify unto himself a peculiar
people, zealous of good works.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared
to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly
lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious
appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who
gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity,
and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good
works. Titus 2:11-14
Titus 2 is a Bible passage the OSAS grace-corrupters refuse to
acknowledge. If they do, they will find a way to Calvinize it, explaining
away and perverting the plain truth revealed therein. Yet this passage in
Titus 2 is equally as divinely inspired as the book of Ephesians or any
other place divine grace is spoken of, qualified and defined.
We have every one of us sinned after salvation, yet the LORD calls us to
be zealous to repent like David, the one who had a heart after the LORD
(Ps. 51; Acts 13:22; Rev. 3:19).
Gloria Rey makes a thought-provoking and important point when she
asks; If God understands and excuses our sin, why did Jesus have to
come and die on the cross for our sins?
How is the one who is taught OSAS to think it even important (much less
a necessity) to call upon the LORD to be holy, if he is taught that such is
not necessary? No, instead when tempted and weak, this person will give
way to the sinful nature and its relentless depravity. The one taught an
unconditional eternal security will then have reason or validation to live
in sin, justifying it in his mind. The man who is said to be a man after
Gods own heart cried out to the LORD to create in me a clean heart
and take not thy holy spirit from me. (Ps. 51:10-11) David didnt
take sin for granted. This man after the LORDs heart cried out to Him in
repentance for his sins.

Saint of the LORD, please allow me to encourage you to read Psalms 51

before this day is over. In order to capture and fully soak in what you are
going to study and uncover in this important chapter, get out your pen,
pencil, colored markers and index cards. Mark the Word, cross-reference
to other like Scriptures, and write a few of the verses on index cards with
references in order to memorize and meditate upon (Prov. 4:4; Jer.
23:18). In this Psalm of repentance, you will behold that after he sinned
with Bathsheba, king David returned to the LORD, calling upon Him for
mercy, acknowledging his sins and asking to be purged, cleansed,
restored, and filled again with the oil and joy of His salvation.
Keep thyself pure. 1 Timothy 5:22
The LORD loves His people and instructs His saints to be quick and
zealous to repent.
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore,
and repent. Revelation 3:19
We should wear out a path to the throne of grace that we might
perpetually receive grace and mercy, grow in Him, and be washed
continually by His holy and precious blood.
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the
first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the
earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in
his own blood. Revelation 1:5
PRAYER: LORD Jesus, please cleanse me afresh. Thank You for loving me
and coming to the earth to wash me in Your sinless blood. I love You
Jesus! At this moment, and if never before, I lay my life in Your hands. My
heart will pant after Thee my God. Please purify my heart and mind afresh
and with Your holy blood. Take away all my sins and cleanse my
iniquities. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

DOCTRINE OF BALAAM
Stumbling Blocks of Iniquity

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there
them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to
cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat
things
sacrificed
unto
idols,
and
to
commit
fornication.Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly,
and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the
churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the
hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the
stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he
that receiveth it. Revelation 2:14-17
Here the Son of God warns the church at Pergamos of the doctrine of
balaam which is the casting forth or down of a stumbling block before
the people of God. Satan has no new trick and Jesus here pulls from
what and how the enemy of souls operated in the days of His people
Israel. The devil seeks to trip up the LORDs people. The adversary can
be counted on to do the same things to Gods people in our day because
there is no new thing under the sun and There hath no
temptation taken you but such as is common to man. (Eccl. 1:9; 1
Cor. 10:13)
The enemy walketh about seeking whom he may devour and yet
finds no place in those who know how their LORD defines what violates
His holiness (sin). They love Him and walk close with Him, casting all
their cares upon Him in full reliance (1 Pet. 5:7-8).
The way Satan accomplished the fall of Gods covenant people was to get
them to sin against the One true holy God (Num. 22-25). His strategies
have not changed and we are not to be ignorant of his devices (1 Cor.

10:13; 2 Cor. 2:11). Satan knows God is holy and will not permit sin in
His presence. He himself was evicted from Heaven when he violated the
holiness of God (Lk. 10:18).
God made mankind alone in His holy image and Satan has come to
pervert that image by leading men into sinful thoughts and activities (sin)
that violate divine holiness and cause a breach. This is what the evil one
was able to do leading up to the flood of Noah. Of the generations of men
before the flood, the Bible says:
And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the
earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart
was only evil continually. Genesis 6:5
From the beginning, the enemy of souls has known that in order to bring
separation between God and men, he need only lure the man into that
which violates the holy nature of the Most High. After all, think about
this: Satan was previously Lucifer who violated the holiness of God and
is forever vanquished from being in relationship with Him. In 1 Timothy
3:6 we get a little insight into the fixed state of the adversary of all that is
good and godly:
Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the
condemnation of the devil. 1 Timothy 3:6
The elders of the entire New Testament era are being warned here not to
elevate a novice into a position of public leadership in light of the
potential and propensity toward pride that was found in Lucifer and
resulted in his banishment from Heaven and his eternal state called here
the condemnation of the devil.
The devil was the first to fall from grace and so he knows so well what it
takes to be ejected from the presence of the Most High. He now leads all
rebellion among men, ruling the unredeemed by fear and the legal
ground of their iniquity.
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of
this world, according to the prince of the power of the air

(Satan), the spirit that now worketh in the children of

disobedience. Ephesians 2:2
He who has come to steal to kill and to destroy is able to work in our
lives if we disobey the One who is our only protection (Ps. 91:1; Lk.
22:31-32; Jn. 10:10). Repentance and the consequent fresh cleansing of
the blood closes the door on the enemy.
Satan is in the eternal state of condemnation and seeks to devour
every soul he can by luring men into sin which breaches their
relationship with Christ (1 Pet. 5:8).
The Word reveals that the enemy can gain advantage on Gods people
if they live in un-confessed sin - Lest Satan should get an advantage
of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. (2 Cor. 2:11) In 2
Corinthians 2 Paul the apostle is speaking of forgiving the fornicator
whom he dealt with in his previous letter to the Corinthian believers (1
Cor. 5). He exhorted them to completely forgive that man because he had
repented and he warned them that if they didnt forgive him, they would
be in sin and Satan would gain an advantage into their lives.
In the Garden of creation, the serpent, animated by Satan himself, was
used as the instrument of temptation that led to the fall of mankind and
the righteous judgment of God on His creation. He blinds the minds of
men through the lure and the deceitfulness of sin and the
stumblingblock of iniquity. (2 Cor. 4:4; Heb. 3:13; Rev. 2:14)
A stumbling block is simply a block to cause one to trip, stumble and
fall. The imagery given in Gods Word by the very nature of this word
stumblingblock - is perhaps that of a sporting event or gladiator
battle, when one of the warriors, sworn to fight to the death, would seek
to trip up his rival, using a stumbling block thrown in his enemys path
to make him trip, stumble, fall, and lose his life.
Hunters have long laid snares for their prey. Laying a trap that catches
and traps the foot or hoof of their prey is a common and painful trap of
hunters to capture their prey.

We are in a real life or death war and our enemy seeks to cause us to
stumble, to trip up the saints of the Most High, disabling them from
fellowship with Him who is holy. What could we name here as specific
sins that are temptations and potential stumbling blocks in this late
hour when Satan is come down unto you, having great wrath,
because he knoweth that he hath but a short time? (Rev. 12:12):

Hatred (not loving ones neighbor)

Unforgiveness

The lure of lust as seen in modern media

Loving the things of this world

Pornography

Materialism

Deceitfulness of earthly riches

Cares of this world

Coveting what is anothers

As can be observed in the Bible, a stumblingblock is something that

halts the progress of another - Something thrown in the way of another
to trip them up and cause them to fall. Sin besets believers and this is
why the enemys work thrives upon causing Gods people to stumble.
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a
cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin
which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the
race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and
finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him
endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the
right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that
endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye
be wearied and faint in your minds. Hebrews 12:1-3

More on the Tripping Stone

Perhaps the following verses may give us a sense of understanding
concerning the use of the term stumblingblock in the Bible:
Do not cause the deaf or blind to stumble: Thou shalt not curse the
deaf, nor put a stumblingblock before the blind, but shalt fear thy
God: I am the LORD. (Lev. 19:14)
Greed and covetousness are sinful stumbling blocks: They shall cast
their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their
silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of
the wrath of the LORD: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill
their bowels: because it is the stumblingblock of their iniquity.
(Ezek. 7:19)
Specific warning: But take heed lest by any means this liberty of
yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. (1 Cor. 8:9)
Please allow me the liberty here to mention that in over two decades of
being privileged to be in the kingdom of God, I have not even one time
heard a message about the doctrine of Balaam taught even though
Balaam appears 60 times in the Bible. If God has it in His Word, we
need to discover why, correct? If a topic appears this many times in the
Word, it obviously has significance to be learned and applied by believers
(Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:6, 11). If you wish to see the prophetic reason why
we hear little or nothing about this doctrine and numerous other vital
components of Holy Writ - read Isaiah 56:10-12 and Philippians 3:17-20
for starters.
To even the casual onlooker, it is abundantly obvious that most men who
hold ministry positions are in it for their own good and not the LORDS.
If a man truly lives to serve Christ, he will preach the word and
thoroughly dispense to His sheep the full-counsel given us in His holy
Word (2 Tim. 3:16-4:4). Every leader will be brought before the Judgment
Throne of the Most High to be examined as to whether or not he did or
did not preach the full-counsel of God.

Balaam Taught Balak (same as Balac)

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there
them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to
cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat
things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
Revelation 2:14
Do you know about Balak and how he cast the stumbling block of
iniquity (sin) before Gods people, causing them to fall under the
judgment of the unchanging God? (Num. 25; 31:16; 2 Pet. 2:15; Jude
11)
New Testament believers are warned to live the right way and to
beware of following the way of Balaam. Notice the contextual setting
here as we read these following words about this false prophet (Balaam)
as the Holy Spirit breathed through the apostle Peter:
Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray,
following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the
wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity:
the dumb ass speaking with mans voice forbad the madness of
the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are
carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is
reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of
vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through
much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them
who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they
themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man
is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after
they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the
knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are
again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse
with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them
not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they
have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered
unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true
proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the

sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. 2 Peter

2:15-22
The way of Balaam is unrighteousness and is taught by those who
are described here as wells without water who speak great swelling
words of vanity, to allure through the lust of the flesh. If you have
ever wondered who the Holy Spirit is here warning the Church against,
wonder no more. Look at how this passage concludes. It reveals the
teaching of Balaam and warns about those who would teach such
falsehood, promising liberty while they themselves are the servants of
corruption.
Does it get any clearer than this? Notice verses 20 and 21:
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end
is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better
for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than,
after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment
delivered unto them. 2 Peter 2:20-21
I want to humbly suggest that each believer reading this book would
consider memorizing these two verses (2 Pet. 2:20-21).
Essentially, what we are being warned of in this important passage, is to
beware of the message of Balaam which teaches men they can sin and
still remain in the grace of God (which is essential for spending eternity
in Heaven). Those who are enticed back to living in sin and are AGAIN
entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them
than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have
known the way of righteousness, than, AFTER they have known it,
to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. (2 Pet.
2:20-21)

Moses Infuriated
And Moses was wroth with the officers (leaders) of the host,
with the captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds,

which came from the battleBehold, these (leaders) caused

the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to
commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and
there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD.
Numbers 31:14-16
Moses was righteously indignant against these leaders who were
officers over the children of Israel, who caused the children of
Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against
the LORD. The result of Gods people sinning was that there was a
plague among the congregation of the LORD.
Like Moses, those who truly fear God in this late hour, must cry out
against the false teachers and teachings which are leading the people of
God astray and into sin for which they will be judged. In 2 Peter, just a
few verses beyond the ones we just looked at, Peter writes:
Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before,
beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the
wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace,
and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To
him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:17-18
The spirit behind Balaam, who taught Balak (his student) to lead others
into sin and come under the judgment of God, was obviously demonic.
Jesus told us that the evil one has come to steal, kill and to destroy (Jn.
10:10). So we know this doctrine of Balaam which leads people to believe
that it is okay to live in sin is a doctrine of devils and causes people
to depart from the faith. (1 Tim. 4:1-3)
Just as Balaam taught Balak to lead Gods people into sin, causing them
to stumble, so today men and certain organizations teach their
understudies to believe and teach the same lie. Gazing over history, we
find one man who has done more to promote this license for sin doctrine
than any other. This man is none other than John Calvin. He
championed Satans original lie of the ages more than any other. John
Calvins 5 points are an insidious, cleverly crafted, diabolical, yet
unbiblical system to justify sin, bringing Gods people into the depth of
depravity and ultimately under the eternal judgment of God. Calvins

doctrines of devils are the doctrine of Balaam who taught the children of
God to sin. For this they would incur His holy wrath there was a
plague among the congregation of the LORD. (Num. 31:16)
Like Balaam, many of our so-called higher learning centers (seminaries,
Bible colleges, etc.) have been infiltrated and are raising up and teaching
young Balaks to cast a stumbling block before Gods people by leading
them into sin by teaching that faithful obedience to the LORD is optional
and not a necessity. See Matthew 7:21; 1 John 2:3-5.
Those who teach that believers may live immoral and unrighteous
lives without jeopardizing their eternal salvation will themselves
face the severe judgment of God. Donald Stamps
Why do you personally believe America can have more than eighty
percent of its citizens claim to be Christian and yet there are many of our
neighborhoods that do not reflect this percentage? Could this be due to
the death of personal responsibility that comes with this teaching? Is the
fear of God not robbed from the hearts of those who believe that there is
no further condition or requirement to the one who has been at some
point saved?
The largest denomination in America is in the business of leading
millions to believe that they are unconditionally eternally secure once
they make a simple profession of faith in Christ, even if they do not abide
in Christ and continue in the grace of God. This is the doctrine of
unconditional eternal security which is the doctrine of Balaam. This false
teaching robs the fear of the LORD from the hearts of men, leading them
into sin, and causing them to frustrate the grace of God and be
separated from Him (spiritual death). Remember, this is exactly what
transpired with the first man and woman in the Garden.
In this doctrine of Balaam taught by many well-known leaders in our
day, the holiness of God and the offence of sin are mocked. These men
speak eloquently. They paint this picture of a god who does not exist in
Holy Writ. He is a god who does not require holiness from His own
people. His grace covers all their willful sinning, even though they dont
bother to confess and forsake it. Listen again to the words of Peter who
describes these men:

For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they

allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much
wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who
live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves
are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is
overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. 2 Peter
2:18-19
Among those who teach this once saved, always saved heresy, personal
repentance and holiness are positioned as optional, rarely spoken of
much less stressed, and therefore scorned as out of date, instead of
necessary for final salvation.
Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is
favour. Proverbs 14:9
As is clear from our biblical look into the doctrine of Balaam, when
someone is justified by Christ, the enemys goal is to get that person into
the offence of sin, so that he will lose out with the LORD - both now and
forever. This is exactly how the Scriptures define the doctrine of Balaam.
Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his
righteousness,
and
commit
iniquity,
and
I
lay
a
stumblingblock before him, he shall die. Ezekiel 3:20
Here we see that the LORD lays a stumbling block before those who were
previously righteous and then departed from Him in their iniquity.
The LORD knew that this false teaching, propagated by false teachers
like Balaam, would be a threat to His people in these last days and
therefore warned us through Jesus, Peter, Jude, John and others. This
evil lascivious teaching which opens wide the door for Gods people to
sin, is alive in the Church world today. It is placing a stumbling block in
the path of the LORDs people to cause them to violate His holiness. This
destructive doctrine leads people to sin and incur the judgment of a holy
God. Beware!

Larceny at the Highest Level

Is hiding the truth about the biblically named sins paramount to casting
a stumbling block at the very feet of the children of God?
Think about how rare it is today to hear the Bible message of
repentance, confession of sins, and the literal naming, defining, and
reviewing of the sins listed in Holy Scripture. In the modern church
world, it is becoming increasingly rare to hear a message from a man
who is possessed by the fear of the LORD. One characteristic of a leader
who is true to the LORD is that he will Cry aloud, spare not, lift up
thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression,
and the house of Jacob their sins. (Isa. 58:1) Conversely, of false
prophets, the Word says: Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish
things for thee: and they have not discovered thine iniquity, to
turn away thy captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and
causes of banishment. (Lam. 2:14)
The prevalent self-serving, self-help messages we hear today are more
about living your best life now. The goal of these popular and yet false
messengers is not holiness but happiness. The goal of the LORD is
personal holiness for each believer without which no man shall see
the Lord. (2 Cor. 7:1; 1 Tim. 1:5; 2 Tim. 2:19; Heb. 12:14) These false
teachers and their teachings, largely identified by what is purposely left
out, are nothing new. They are not in line with Christs or His apostles
teachings which are about knowing and fearing God, and living in holy
obedience to Him. Christ taught His people to lay the axe to the root of
sin or lose ones soul (Mk. 9:43-49). Most leaders today wont even name
sins as the Word does repeatedly because it would hinder their own
success by ridding their gatherings of those who do not truly want to
serve the LORD. They dont teach on sin much less that one must
overcome living in sin through intimately abiding in Christ or be
disqualified from receiving the heavenly prize. Modern day deceivers
capitalize upon the insatiably sinful nature of unregenerate and
unsanctified men. They allure the fleshly nature, enticing people to be
ambitious in seeking out their own good and not dying to self and all of
its evil desires so that Christ might reign supreme (Rom. 6-8). Instead of
calling or labeling sin the way the Almighty defines it repeatedly and

specifically in His Word, we hear a new theology the shaping and

fashioning of a god in the image of sinful men.
In the absence of clear biblical teaching, men are left to believe that their
sins do not affect their relationship with the LORD who is holy.
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all
manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of
persons judgeth according to every mans work, pass the time
of your sojourning here in fear. 1 Peter 1:15-17
God is holy and sin must be defined exactly the way the LORD identified
it in His Word. We are told here that He will without respect of
persons judge us all before His holy Throne. The Bible instructs leaders
to lift up a standard for the people. (Isa. 62:10) If the holy standard
of Gods Word is not elevated in detail for the people of the LORD to
observe and understand what the divine requirement is, sinful living will
always be the result. Remember Proverbs 29:18 which says Where
there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law,
happy is he. Disclosing the full-counsel divine vision from the Word
is a mandate and duty essential to faithful disciples of Jesus. In
particular, what He told us displeases Him (sin) is to be tended to in
detail (Gal. 5:19-21).
Poor lifestyle choices is a term I overheard a pastor use. Can you
believe this? When a married person has sex outside of marriage, does
the Bible identify such as an affair, or adultery? Does the Bible say
this is a poor lifestyle choice or the sin of adultery in the eyes of a holy
God?
The false prophet Balaam was predecessor to the army of hireling
deceivers we see today who refuse to call out sin by name and let Gods
Word identify what it is. In withholding these truths, they withhold the
divinely-ordained knowledge and message that would otherwise bring
conviction of sin. Such a travesty consequently leaves people without the
conviction of sin and unhindered from continuing to justify themselves in
unholy living.

Balaam didnt preach on sin. No, instead he taught that living in sin was
okay for Gods covenant people. The Bible identifies those who refuse to
preach on sin as false prophets:
Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and
they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy
captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of
banishment. Lamentations 2:14
Like Gods prophet Isaiah, who was instructed to show my people their
transgression, andsins, true servant-leaders are called to do such
today. Men who are true to God announce the sins of their generation,
especially among the professing church. God commanded Isaiah:
Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and
show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob
their sins. Isaiah 58:1
Crying out concerning that which offends the LORD is the opposite
message of Balaam. Identifying what transgression is prevents and
inhibits the stumbling blocks of iniquity. Where are the Isaiahs of our
day who will cry out against sin and obey the LORD when He commands
show my people their transgression, andtheir sins?
Balaam withheld the true divine message in order to obtain ill-gotten
gain. He, like all who are false, had a personal agenda. Though hidden to
the eyes of many people, this evil motive is not hidden from the eyes of
the LORD.
Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran
greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the
gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity,
when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear
Jude 11-12
Notice the key words here which identify the motive of false prophets:

Ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward

Feeding themselves

Balaam is used in the New Testament to identify the self-serving nature

of those who have leadership positions and yet are hirelings (those who
are in leadership for their own selfish purposes and not out of the pure
motive of truly glorifying the LORD).
Micah was anointed by the LORD to announce the sins of His people
(Micah 3:8). Today men claim to be anointed to do nearly any and
everything in their ministries except unveil what sin is and the sins of
Gods people so that His people can be set free. Isnt that interesting?
The person who has been saved and yet is living with un-confessed sin,
is little threat to Satan, so the devil has the victory in that persons life.
Yet, in most cases in America, this same person who is living in sin can
attend fellowship gatherings week after month after year and never hear
a convicting word and call to repentance.
God is calling to repentance all who are misleading their audiences by
withholding the truth.
And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take
up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people. Isaiah
57:14
If you are reading these words and have been in any way leading people
to believe that they are eternally secure whether or not they are living
in sin, God is calling you to repentance. He is calling you to forsake the
way of Balaam and the false prophets and join the ranks of the prophet
Isaiah and the true remnant of God-fearing leaders who preach the Word
alone (2 Tim. 4:2-5).
The ultimate end of those who lead Gods people into sin is judgment.
Balaam also the son of Beor, the soothsayer, did the children
of Israel slay with the sword (judgment) among them that were
slain by them. Joshua 13:22
Those who support such false teachers are equally guilty before the
LORD. The people who receive this teaching of Balaam, instead of
rejecting and refuting it, are just as guilty as those who teach it. The
un-purged lusts of men cause them to heap to themselves those

who will tell them what their unholy hearts want to hear instead of
what the message of the eternal and divine Judge clearly states in His
unchanging Word.
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season;
reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to
themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall
turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned
unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions,
do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy
ministry. 2 Timothy 4:2-5
The people of God are also to be continually warned to remain faithful to
the LORDs Word.
Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his
righteousness,
and
commit
iniquity,
and
I
lay
a
stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not
given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his
righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered;
but his blood will I require at thine hand. Ezekiel 3:20
Any leader who is not with regularity warning the saints to abide faithful
in and to Christ is simply not following the Great Shepherd and the
apostolic faith given us in the original Gospel. Paul did three things to
prepare believers to meet the LORD preach, warn, teach. See
Colossians 1:27-2:8.

My People Love to Have it So

So many today who claim to be saved, place themselves under the
ministries of those who tell them what they want to hear, instead of the
divine truth and full-counsel of Holy Scripture. These are they which
have chosen to harbor their iniquities and not to endure sound
doctrine, but rather heap to themselves those who teach things
which scratch their itching ears. These false teachers feed their lusts

instead of declaring that the LORD is holy and that He insists that the
sinful deeds of the body be put to death (Rom. 6; Gal. 5; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
The prophets (leaders) prophesy falsely, and the priests
(pastors) bear rule by their means; and my people love to have
it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31
Note the reason deceivers are funded and effective - My people love to
have it so. Those who will be preserved in the truth and unto eternal
life, must resolve to live a laid down life of repentance, fully embracing
and enduring sound doctrine in the fear of God and never allowing
anyone to lead them astray from their God.
In Jeremiah 5:31, notice what the LORD asks us here as witnessed in
the words of this prophet of God - what will ye do in the end
thereof? What will we do when we stand before the throne of the
Almighty to give account of our lives after we went the way of ease and
iniquity instead of treading upon the difficult yet eternally rewarding
narrow road?

They are all Estranged from Me Through Their Idols

Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart,
and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face:
should I be enquired of at all by them? Ezekiel 14:3
Do we really expect the LORD to grant us His holy presence and answer
our prayers while we live in sin and justify such with our eternal
security lie? The covenant people who followed this teaching through
Balaam and Balak found out that judgment is the result of living in sin,
not blessing.
We just read Ezekiel 14:3. Lets look at the ensuing words from the
prophet Ezekiel where we see the LORD pronouncing a due reward to
both those who teach His people to sin and his people who refuse to give
up the iniquities of their hearts:
Therefore speak unto them, and say unto them, Thus saith
the Lord GOD; Every man of the house of Israel that setteth up
his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his

iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet; I the

LORD will answer him that cometh according to the multitude
of his idols; That I may take the house of Israel in their own
heart, because they are all estranged from me through their
idols. Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the
Lord GOD; Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and
turn away your faces from all your abominations. For every
one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth in
Israel, which separateth himself from me, and setteth up his
idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his
iniquity before his face, and cometh to a prophet to inquire of
him concerning me; I the LORD will answer him by myself:
And I will set my face against that man, and will make him a
sign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of my
people; and ye shall know that I am the LORD. And if the
prophet be deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the LORD
have deceived that prophet, and I will stretch out my hand
upon him, and will destroy him from the midst of my people
Israel. And they shall bear the punishment of their iniquity:
the punishment of the prophet shall be even as the
punishment of him that seeketh unto him; That the house of
Israel may go no more astray from me, neither be polluted any
more with all their transgressions; but that they may be my
people, and I may be their God, saith the Lord GOD. Ezekiel
14:4-11
Those among the people of God who allow iniquity to remain in their
hearts by not enduring and obeying the sound doctrine of the Word, will
be turned over to a deluding spirit and if they are not recovered before it is
too late, will suffer eternal damnation (2 Thess. 2:10-12).
Isnt our sin rooted in our idolatry of self? Wasnt the first sin, found in
Lucifer, rooted in self-idolatry? He wanted to be the object of worship and
so many today are willing to oblige false teachers and to idolize those
false prophets who feed their sinful nature by telling them they are
approved by God even while living in sin against Him. In reality, those
who have not laid down their lives that Christ might take it up, are
worshipping at the altar of self and will migrate to leaders who tell them

what they want to hear that which feeds their sinful nature instead of
calling them to repentance before a holy God and Judge before it is too
late.
Balaam taught what Satan taught in the Garden. He taught that God
would not forsake one of His own if they went back into sin. He was
wrong. The very same ye shall not surely die lie that Satan used in
the Garden is being taught from church, TV, and radio pulpits across
America today. In the beginning Satan used the most subtle
messenger to do his bidding - the serpent (Gen. 3:1). As he did in the
Garden, the sworn and evil adversary of God is still using the most
subtle messengers to teach the original lie the lie of the ages. He is
using ministers, many who are very popular, but dead wrong. These
are emissaries and pawns of the evil one and identified by their refusal to
truly preach the fullness of Gods Word (2 Cor. 11:13-15). What makes
these men and their poisonous message so subtly deceptive and
insidious is that much of their overall teaching is biblically accurate, and
people simply do not suspect that these men who come in the name of
the LORD would teach lies (Mat. 16:6, 12; Gal. 5:9). Many who listen to
their teachings take everything they teach wholesale. In other words,
they do not test everything taught by these men against Holy Scripture.
The worst detriment though is that many people who claim to be born
again simply do not diligently study the Word of God and are therefore
greatly lacking in the personal knowledge of divine truth. They are
consequently left wide open to be deluded by falsehood (Heb. 5:11-14).
The message of ease is the message of deceivers (Amos 6:1; Rev. 3:1415). The message of the fear of the LORD is the message of all true
prophet leaders:
They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath
said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that
walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall
come upon you. For who hath stood in the counsel of the
LORD, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath
marked his word, and heard it? Behold, a whirlwind of the
LORD is gone forth in fury, even a grievous whirlwind: it shall
fall grievously upon the head of the wicked. The anger of the
LORD shall not return, until he have executed, and till he have

performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall

consider it perfectly. Jeremiah 23:17-20
We have all been warned about the doctrine Satan and Balaam taught.
The wrath of God is coming in judgment. Beware of those who say that
there is peace between God and men in the absence of holiness wrought
by Christ in the surrendered life.
They (the false prophets) say still unto them that despise me
(people who live in sin), The LORD hath said, Ye shall have
peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the
imagination of his own heart (lives in sin), No evil shall come
upon you. Jeremiah 23:17
PRAYER: Holy Father in Heaven, God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, bless
my heart to authentically know You. I this moment repent of self-idolatry.
Father I lay my life in Thine hands. Make me holy as only You can. Search
my heart and know my thoughts Jesus. Purge all evil motives and iniquity.
Make me Your real disciple. Thank You for the keeping power of Your
blessed grace through faith. Help my unbelief. Purify my heart and
thoughts. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be
acceptable in Thy sight my precious LORD! Root out any false teaching
and forgive me for leading others astray. Glory to the name of Jesus Christ
forevermore.

CHAPTER T WENTY T WO

LICENSE FOR SIN

Turning the Grace of Our God into Lasciviousness

(License to Sin)

Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the

common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares (secretly), who were before of
old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness (license to sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude
3-4
How far-reaching is this prophetic revelation found in Jude? Could the
continuity of divine thought, seeded in Genesis (book of origins), be here
evidenced at the very end of the New Testament canon? Could the Holy
Spirit have been warning the last hour Church here through Jude of the
severe danger of believing the deadly first lie ever told to mankind? Could
He have been warning His saints of the prevalent nature and looming
threat of this lie of the ages? We also see here in Judes words the
impending divine judgment to be meted out upon those who teach this
falsehood. Of this text, David Kirkwood writes:
These false teachers literally deny (notice the titles Jude used) the
only Lord God (Jude 4). Because obedience is, in their minds,
optional for those on the way to heaven, Jesus need not be ones
Master and Lord. Thus they deny that He is who He is by their
teaching and lifestyles.
To the undiscerning, the slogans of the false grace teachers sound
scriptural, taken from Pauls own writings (and ripped from their
biblical context): Were not under law, but grace. Praise God for
the liberty we have in Christ! And, Even if we are faithless, He
remains faithful! Their twisting of Pauls words is as old as Pauls
letters The Great Gospel Deception, David Kirkwood, P. 231

According to Jude 3 & 4, those who teach this lie of lasciviousness fall
into the category of ungodly men. Through Jude the Holy Spirit here
defines the deceiver by what he teaches (license to sin). Some who now
teach lies once held to and taught the truth. Divine truth is an essential
commodity that must be continued in. What one chooses to believe
(doctrine) is very important to the LORD.
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth (remains) not in the
doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth (remains) in
the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
2 John 9
Here at the end of the New Covenant canon of Holy Scripture, the divine
Person of the Holy Spirit warns His beloved people of the danger of those
men who have crept in among us, undetected to most and are
teaching another gospel, in this case, the false gospel of lasciviousness
(license to sin). The Good Shepherd, zealous to protect His sheep from
the devouring wolves among us, warns here that such a doctrine is being
taught right in our midst and must be earnestly contended against
because it does violence to that true Gospel once delivered unto the
saints. (Jude 3-4) The true Gospel of Christ has as a requirement, the
denial of self in holiness to the nail-scarred risen Savior. Jude warns of a
false gospel, peddled by ungodly men which is one of
lasciviousness, supposing to grant license for lawless living. Those
whom the Holy Spirit warns about here dont deal with the holiness and
fear of God and do not stress the importance of personal holiness.

For from the prophets of Jerusalem (leaders within the church

world) is profaneness gone forth into all the land. Jeremiah
23:15
The masses of people claiming to know the LORD who believe this OSAS
myth underscores the epidemic of false teachers who have sown their
heresy (Satan's Garden lie) in the hearts of men. Here is but one example
of someone who was saved, then walked away from Jesus and then was
blessed to be restored. Karen Wegener relates the following:

I was saved and water baptized as a young lady and then backslid
after being told I was eternally secure or once saved always saved
in the Baptist church I grew up in. The LORD blessed me to be
restored and I never again backslid after being brought back to
Christ in a Holy Spirit filled environment and began learning the
fear of the LORD.
As you discern the true and false leaders operating in the midst, always
remember that its not only what is being taught, but that which is not
being taught that can be most deadly. What a leader is not teaching can
be as deadly as that which he is propagating.
Concerning Jude 4 which speaks of contending against those false
teachers who are turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness,
Donald Stamps, in the Life in the Spirit Study Bible, writes:
GRACE OF OUR GOD INTO LASCIVIOUSNESS. Lasciviousness
means unrestrained vice or sexual freedom. Jude denounces
certain persons who teach that salvation by grace allows professed
believers to indulge in serious sin and yet not be condemned by
God. They may have taught that God will freely forgive those who
continually engage in sexual lust, or that those who presently live
in moral filth are eternally secure if they have trusted in Christ
sometime in the past (cf. Rom. 5:20; 6:1-2). They preached pardon
for sin but not the imperative of holiness.
The LORD here warns that these men who teach this doctrine (in our
day) have crept in unawares. In other words, these men come to us as
men of God, some in long-established and widely accepted pulpits and
denominations and with all the right credentials. Because of this most
do not suspect them to be deceivers. But the Holy Ghost says there are
ungodly men who are denying Christ and His teachings by teaching a
license for sin (lasciviousness). The specific reason cited here that
these deceivers are to be identified as false is their lascivious teachings due to the fact that in their teaching they are turning the grace of our
God into lasciviousness. In teaching this lawless falsehood, these men
actually deny the LORD God and LORD Jesus Christ, because they are
teaching contrary to His holy nature and teachings.

So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Romans 8:8
The unconditional eternal security teaching appeals to the fleshly nature
of men which find pleasure in sin instead of dying to it that Christ
Himself might be glorified in their lives (Jn. 3:30; Rom. 6; 8:1-14; Gal.
5:24; 2 Thess. 2:12; 1 Tim. 5:6; 2 Tim. 4:3). Men who shun the light will
justify their sins and even intentionally place themselves under the
teaching of deceivers who refuse to declare that God is holy and demands
His people be the same. This they do while ignoring the clear words of
Scripture. Some of these people were at some time in the past genuinely
born again.
Jesus Himself invented the term fall away. (Lk. 8:13) If such were not
possible, why would the Son of God use the term?
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive
the word with joy; and these have no root, which FOR A
WHILE BELIEVE, and in time of temptation FALL AWAY.
Luke 8:13
Once saved always saved (OSAS) is a mere man-made, sin-justifying
clich and not a truth found in the Bible. Friends, is our theology
(knowledge of God) built on a clich or the Word of God?
According to the holy Scriptures, there is no security to those who arent
truly and completely following Christ in their personal life. Anyone who
teaches that men are unconditionally eternally secure is a false teacher
and should be avoided.
Those who teach this OSAS error communicate that because of Gods
grace we have a license to sin, or, we are not held responsible as those
under the Old Testament were. To the contrary, the Bible teaches us that
because of Gods grace manifested through Jesus we are MORE
responsible to the Lord than those who lived under the Old Covenant
Christ (Rom. 3:24-26). His very blood has now been shed for us, which
leaves those who have been born again with no excuse to live in sin.
Want to see what Im talking about?

He that despised Moses law (under OT) died without mercy

under two or three witnesses: Of how much SORER (worse;
more severe) punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought
worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath
counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was
sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the
Spirit of grace? Hebrews 10:28-29
Here Gods Word says that we have a better covenant, ratified with
the very blood of Jesus (Heb. 8:6). Greater judgment will come upon
those who despise the blood of Christ given to us in this New Testament
era. With His sinless blood has been provided great grace to live in the
holy presence and will of our Savior (Acts 4:33).
Gods grace never enables or condones sinful living but rather enables
the recipient to live free from sin. A grace that would forgive without
demanding change would make God an accomplice to evil.
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for
repentance. Matthew 3:8

(consistent

with)

When one has truly repented and turned his whole life over to the LORD,
his life will bear fruits consistent with that repentance.
In many evangelical circles, the "grace" of God supposedly frees the one
who has been granted salvation from his responsibilities before God. Is
that what Christ meant when He said the truth would make men free?
No! To those who have believed Jesus says If ye continue in my word,
then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and
the truth shall make you free. (Jn. 8:31-32) The LORD frees people
from sin and to serve Him. In the false grace camp, obedience becomes
optional. The recipient of salvation has the choice to obey or disobey the
LORD and yet "eternal life" is retained no matter how that person
chooses to live. To the OSAS proponent, the "grace" of God allows the
"chosen" and elect the license to live any way they choose and still be
saved to Heaven at death, even if that person died in the depth of
depravity and sin. So this would mean that because of an authentic onetime profession of faith, the town drunk or prostitute may be saved and

on their way to Heaven, even though they have no present relationship

with the LORD of Heaven.
To the honest-hearted Bible student, such a license to sin grace is
completely foreign (Rom. 6:1-2, 15). The grace of God has made us free to
serve Him, not free to be irresponsible or sinful.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace
may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin,
live any longer therein? Romans 6:1-2
As is evident throughout Holy Scripture, the liberty granted by God in
salvation, is anything but a freedom to live in sin.
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that
ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1
For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not
liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one
another. Galatians 5:13
As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak
maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 1 Peter 2:16

of

The working of the true grace of God is to bring the recipient under the
Lordship of Christ. Because of Gods grace, we are now made free from
sins power and made ready and able/equipped to serve Him whose
sinless blood bought our otherwise wicked and hell-bound soul. We are
not our own, but bought by the price of the blood of Christ (1 Cor. 6:1920).
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not
under the law, but under grace. Romans 6:14
According to Titus 3:7-8, by the grace of God, we are made heirs
(inheritors) of eternal life, made ready for Heaven and to do good works
NOW on earth.
Gods grace actively works in the true believer:

But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which
was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more
abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which
was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:10
The Lords Word doesnt reveal a human responsibility without the
accompaniment of His grace. In Scripture, there is always Gods part and
mans. Here is one such example:
Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in
my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work
out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God
which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good
pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13
Isn't it utterly amazing how clear a picture we see of the real grace of God
and our personal responsibilities, when simply looking into God's Word for
ourselves as Jesus intends for us to do? We also begin to see how the
false teachers, who turn the grace of God into lasciviousness (a license to
sin), have taught a perverted grace that has no biblical reconciliation
whatsoever (Tit. 2:11-12; Jude 3-4). They teach a no-fear-of-God "grace"
which fosters irresponsibility and sinful living, instead of the fear of the
LORD. Holiness and circumspectness of life are not tended to but rather
a false grace in which volumes of Scripture is intentionally left out of
the equation. These deceivers are easy to detect once Gods holy Word
begins to take root in our hearts through personal study. Many of the
false teachers we hear go on and on and on and on with little Scripture,
much less in-depth and true contextual Bible exegesis (expounding).
They are clearly preaching another gospel and according to the Holy
Ghost, utterly accursed. (Gal. 1:6-9; 2 Cor. 11:1-3) These men so
blatantly leave out certain Bible texts and verses which paint a far
different picture than they wish to paint. For example, watch closely at
how they purposely leave out verses like this:
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Jude boldly cites such who
teach this lie of lasciviousness, as being false teachers who are ungodly
men. As you can see by now, this Jude passage is the theme text of this
writing. I suppose we all could use some catching up. Dont you? We
have heard all the other verses on grace for so long at the expense of the
whole of Gods Word.
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness (license to sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude34
The phrase it was needful for me to write unto you clearly reveals a
real and present danger.

Satans Masterpiece!
Concerning what he termed The Fruits of Cheap Grace, John Wesley
wrote:
For wherever this doctrine of easy grace is received, it leaves no
place for holiness. It forbids all such exhortations as might excite a
desire for holiness. Nay, it makes men afraid of personal holiness,
afraid of cherishing any thought of it. For they fear that any step
toward holiness might be a denial of the faith, and a rejection of
Christ and His righteousness. So that, instead of being zealous for
good works, good works are a stench to their nostrils. In short,
they are infinitely more afraid of the works of God, than the works
of the devil.
Here is Satans masterpiece! We are to believe that men are holy,
without a grain of holiness in them! Holy in Christ, however unholy
in themselves. They are supposedly in Christ, although they have
not one jot of the mind that was in Christ. They are complete in

Him, although they are as proud, as vain, as covetous, and as

lustful as ever. They think they can continue in unrighteousness
because Christ has fulfilled all righteousness.
O ye simple one, do not be deceived. For as surely as the Lord
lives, neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor
homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor
drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom
of God. Such indeed were some of you. But you are washed, but
you are sanctified, as well as justified, in the name of the Lord
Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God (1 Cor. 6:9-11). You are really
changed! You are not only accounted as righteous, you are made
righteous.
The inward power of the Spirit has made you freereally, actually
freefrom the law or power of sin and death (Rom. 8:2). This is
liberty, true gospel liberty, experienced by every true believer. This
is not freedom from the law of God, or the works of God, but from
the law of sin and the works of the devil. See that you stand fast in
this real, not imaginary, liberty. Take heed that you be not
entangled again, by means of these vain boasters, in the yoke of
that vile bondage of sin, from which you have cleanly escaped.
(Gal. 5:1)
I testify unto you, that if you still continue in sin, Christ shall
profit you nothing. That Christ is no Savior to you, unless He saves
you from your sins. And that unless it purifies your heart, faith
shall profit you nothing. Oh, when will you understand, that to
oppose either inward or outward holiness, under color of exalting
Christ, is directly to act the part of Judas, to betray the Son of
man with a kiss?
What? Make Christ destroy His own kingdom? Set Christ against
holiness? Talk of Christ as saving His people in their sins? It is no
better than to say, He saves them from the guilt, but not from the
power, of sin. Will you make the righteousness of Christ a cover for
the unrighteousness of man? So that by this means, the
unrighteous of every kind shall inherit the kingdom of God! Stop!

Consider! What are you doing? Who has corrupted you from the
simplicity of Christ, from the purity of the gospel?
You did know, He that believeth is born of God: And whosoever is
born of God sinneth not (1 John 3:9). O come back to the true, the
pure, the old gospel! That which you received in the beginning.
Come back to Christ, who died to make you a holy people, zealous
for good works (Tit. 2:14). Remember from whence you are fallen,
and repent, and do the first works (Rev. 2:5). For wilt thou know,
O vain, O empty man, that faith without works is dead (Jas.
2:17)?
Do not stupidly and senselessly call holiness legalisma silly,
meaningless word. Be not afraid of being under the law of God.
Rather, fear being under the law of sin (Rom. 7:23). Love the
strictest preaching best. That which most searches the heart, and
shows you wherein you are unlike Christ. That which presses you
most to love Him with all your heart, and serve Him with all your
strength.
As Wesley so clearly refutes and contrary to the clear counsel of God,
these myth-propagators teach a grace without responsibility - just as
Satan did in the Garden. If we are going to go by Gods Word, then we
should conclude that their teachings alone identify these men as Satans
ministers. (2 Cor. 11:13-15) Those who have bought this lie view the
obedient as legalistic. Wow! This is the lie of the ages and its evil fruit.
There is no new thing under the sun. (Eccl. 1:9) The enemy of our
souls is still successfully using the same lie to seduce souls, causing
some of those who are saved to stumble and lose out on the blessings of
living continually in faith (now and forever) and obedience and unity with
Christ and His saints (Heb. 6:11-12; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
Grace does not facilitate sin. Divine grace has enabled the forgiveness of
our sins through Christs perfect sacrifice and teaches those who truly
possess it to overcome sin, remaining pure in preparation for the return of
Jesus Christ the One who made that grace a reality (Rom. 3:23-26; Tit.
2:11-14). Grace grants no license for sin, but rather the ability to overcome
it to become completely victorious over it. Divine grace enables holiness of
life and for the saint to be abundantly fruitful to Gods glory. We are

instructed not to receive Gods grace in vain or in other words take

advantage of Him using the very grace He provided to save us and
sanctify or whole lives (2 Cor. 6:1). By the grace of God Jesus died to
deliver us from all sin and not to sin (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29).
Make no mistake: When you hear the subtle no-human-responsibility
teaching, you have encountered a false teaching. As we have seen in the
Scriptures listed thus far, grace demands and enables change and
personal responsibility. The LORD doesnt force this, it is volitional.
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that
ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1
If there were no possibility of receiving the grace of God in vain, why
would the Holy Spirit have inspired this Bible writer to record such?
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, please cleanse my heart of all lasciviousness
(lack of restraint) and cultivate and bolster in my heart humility and the
fear of the LORD and a fearful reverence of Your utter holiness. Multiply to
me Your holy grace, that I might be fully fruitful and pleasing to You as I
fervently look for Your soon return. Take away from my inner life, any
notion that You approve of any sinful thought, word or deed. Make me holy
as You are holy LORD Jesus. Please teach me about Your true grace my
LORD. Glory to Your precious name Jesus. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE

EZEKIEL 33

Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no

pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn
from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for
why will ye die, O house of Israel? Therefore, thou son of man,
say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the
righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression:
as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby
in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall
the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day
that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he
shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and
commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be
remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he
shall die for it. Ezekiel 33:11-13
The LORD Most High instructed the first man:
But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt
not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt
surely die. Genesis 2:17
Satan added just one word to Gods Word in the Garden. He told the
woman that their would be no penalty for disodience.

Ye shall not surely die. Genesis 3:4

With great success due to audiences of people who do not know Gods
Word for themselves, Satan has added and propagated the unfounded
doctrine of unconditional eternal security in the church world. There is
no sound biblical reconciliation to such a teaching. Those who buy into
it, do so in the absence of any such teaching in Holy Writ. Amazingly,
this unconditional eternal security heresy has been made a cardinal
doctrine among many in the evangelical world, all who claim to be
following Gods Word. Astounding!
If the man and woman had fully embraced the promise of truth their
Maker gave them, there would have been a fortress of grace to uphold
and strengthen them under the duress of the temptation. The same is

true for us today. If we fully become rooted and grounded in Gods Word,
we will be strengthened against the day or hour of temptation.
In his writing entitled The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer offers
these words concerning the meaning of the eternal security teaching
(which is OSAS and the perseverance of the saints teachings):
What is meant by the eternal security teaching? Some ministers
and Christian workers speak against it, others defend it. Those
who hold it, claim for it a Biblical foundation. Those who oppose it
do so with the Word of God. Is it a harmful or helpful doctrine?
Will the acceptance of this teaching by Christian people result in
strengthening or in weakening convictions on the all things of the
Word of God? Will it aid or hinder Christian people in appreciating
the so-called unpopular principles taught by Christ and the
apostles that are so generally ignored by people professing
godliness? Will sin look more hateful or less so to the one who
embraces the teaching of eternal security? These thoughtstimulating queries should cause us to desire the truth on this live
issue.

The Eternal Security Teaching Defined

There is perhaps no teaching that at first sight has a greater
appeal to some than this doctrine. There are expressions of the
greatest loyalty to the Word of God. There is no teaching that
apparently at first sight exalts Jesus Christ more than this does.
The thought that we are eternally secure and as sure of heaven as
if we were already there is inspiring, to say the least.
In other words, the teaching may be summarized in the following
way: that eternal life once received can never be forfeited by any
act or determination of the human will; that eternal life is a gift
and cannot be withdrawn; that if you deny eternal security, then
you assert that salvation is by works, by means of human merit,
and not by grace; that to deny eternal security is to belittle the
finished work of Christ; that since believers become ministers of
Christs body, if you deny eternal security, then Christ will have a
mutilated body throughout eternity; that Christians may backslide,

imperil their reward, lose their fellowship with the Master, but can
never lose their salvation or go into apostasy.
The true Christian is highly shocked when an obvious cult teaches its
followers that there is something else on the same level of authority as
the Holy Bible. The Catholic Church teaches that their tradition,
hierarchy, and early church fathers are on the same level of authority as
the Bible when it is crystal clear that they contradict Gods Word. The
Mormons have added the Book of Mormon, a book that is elevated to the
same level of authority as Holy Scripture. True followers of Christ know
these things. The religion of Calvin is no different than the Mormon or
the Catholic religions in that it has elevated the teachings of a mere man
to the same level of authority or above the very Word of God. The
Calvinist has elevated the unscriptural teachings of John Calvin, a mere
sinful man, to a place of equal authority as Holy Writ. Jesus Christ, and
His holy and Spirit-inspired apostles Peter, John, nor Paul used words
like Calvin did. Calvins teachings are clearly irreconcilable with the Word
of God.
The following is taken from Jeff Patons article entitled 200 Reasons Why
You Should Not Believe in Eternal Security:

Seven Reasons Why Eternal Security Is False

It cheapens Gods estimate of sin

It is not taught in scripture

It renders all exhortations to holiness to be irrelevant

It must explain away the vast majority of scripture

It encourages sinful living and false assurance

It results in false conversions that weaken the true church

It is the most destructive and deceptive lie of Satan

Twenty Lies Not Found In Scripture

1. Once saved always saved.
2. Christians are no different than other sinners, except they are saved.
3. God cannot see the Christians sin because they are covered by the blood
of Christ.
4. We can be filthy as a barnyard in body and still be saved and holy in spirit.
5. We all sin in word, thought and deed, every moment and every day.
6. All who have ever fallen away were never saved in the first place.
7. That when one comes to Christ, their sins are paid for past, present and
future.
8. You can only lose fellowship with God and not salvation.
9. God would never disown or damn one of His own children.
10. A sheep cannot become a goat.
11. If we sin we only lose fellowship and not relationship with God.
12. Salvation is unconditional.
13. If salvation cannot be earned it cannot be lost.
14. God will not begin a work that he will not finish.
15. Repentance is not required for salvation.
16. Christians who say we must remain faithful to stay saved preach a works
salvation.
17. We can be Sinning Saints or Backslidden Christians and still be saved.
18. Only at death can we ultimately be saved from sin.
19. Christians are still sinners.

20. I am secure because Jesus paid my sin debt in full.

Jeff Patons website is: www.eternalsecurity.us
Always remember that a doctrine is not true simply because of how
articulately or smoothly it is presented or woven or how true it may sound.
It is also not true just because Scripture is used to prove it. True,
sound doctrine is built exclusively, wholly, solely, and entirely out of
Gods Word (2 Tim. 3:16).
Those who pervert the grace of God build their whole teachings upon
feeble and misdirected private interpretations misusing doctrines such as
adoption, sonship, sealing, grace, and predestination. Certain parts of
Gods Word are acknowledged to the exclusion of the whole of the
Scriptures, a practice which always leads to errant conclusions.
In this clever adulteration of Gods truth, a god is made in the image of
those who craft this falsehood, giving license to live as one wishes and
still be saved, imagining that the Almighty will somehow excuse this
deceit on that Great Day of Judgment. Unsubstantiated, endless and
empty polemics, reasonings, stories, analogies, and self-willed
interpretations are offered to justify this teaching. This is done in lieu of
simply and humbly hearkening to the holy Word which deliberately
informs us that we do not have a license for sin and if we depart from
faithful obedience to the living God, we perish, regardless of any past
relationship we had with Him.
Lets look at this very important Ezekiel passage closer. The divine truth
revealed here is essential to balanced biblical theology:
Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no
pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn
from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for
why will ye die, O house of Israel? Therefore, thou son of man,
say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the
righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression:
as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby
in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall
the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day

that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he

shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and
commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be
remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he
shall die for it.If the wicked restore the pledge, give again
that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without
committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die.
None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned
unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall
surely live. Ezekiel 33:11-13, 15-16
First off, some will deceitfully and without validity, dismiss this Ezekiel
33 passage of divine truth as not relevant because it is found in the Old
Testament Scriptures of Gods Word. Did the LORD change? For I am
the LORD, I change not. (Mal. 3:6) Under the New Covenant we are
now on the other side of Christs perfect sacrifice and nothing has
changed concerning the holiness of God and His requirement and
condition for men to be holy. As expressed in this above text and in the
whole of Gods Word, the Almighty judges people by their present state
with Him and not their past state.
Gods desire for our present, living, obedient, and saving faith is key to
observe in this Ezekiel 33 passage. In living such a life, we are secure in
Him. The LORD always emphasizes our present relationship with Him
and not the past Now faith is (Heb. 11:1) When is saving faith
effectual? Now!
Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my
soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who
draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the
saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:38-39
A life lived by faith is distinct from a faith that lasted for a time then was
put away by the recipient which led to them falling away (1 Tim. 5:12;
Lk. 8:13).
To His very own people the LORD warns and beckons repentance so they
will not perish: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye
die (be separated from Me), O house of Israel? (v11)

Here in this Ezekiel 33 text, we see that regardless of ones past

relationship with Christ, if he turns away from God and lives in sin, he
loses out on all of the covenant blessings. The righteousness of the
righteous
shall
not
deliver
him
in
the
day
of
his
transgressionWhen I shall say to the righteous, that he shall
surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit
iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his
iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. (v12-13)
An honest reading of this text, with no preconceived notions, reveals that
the righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day
of his transgression. If a person who was once made righteous begins
to trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his
righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that
he hath committed, he shall die for it.
I Know You Not Whence (where) Ye Are
Consider the words of the LORD when asked if there are few who will be
saved:
Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved?
And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for
many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be
able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath
shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock
at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall
answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then
shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy
presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall
say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me,
all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing
of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and
all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves
thrust out. Luke 13:23-28
When asked are there few that be saved? Jesus answered Strive
(agonize) to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will
seek to enter in, and shall not be able. It seems clear from these

words that many who believe they are going to Heaven will not be
permitted to enter. When they in shock begin to say, We have eaten
and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets the
LORD will answer I know you not whence (where) ye are; depart
from me, all ye workers of iniquity.
Apparently these are people who ate and drank in Gods presence which
dwells among His people. They communed and partook of Him and yet
died outside of a relationship with Him due to not continuing to agonize
or strive to enter into His eternal presence (and so they fell away). This
should be considered alongside the many Scriptures where Christ warns
us to watch and pray lest ye enter into temptation. (Matt. 26:41;
Lk. 21:34-36) He warns that we will enter into temptation if we do not
vigilantly and diligently watch and pray. The neglect of our relational
fellowship with the LORD can be eternally fatal. See Luke 21:34-36.
Saints of the LORD, there is not one promise to be found in Holy
Scripture assuring the salvation of any person who is not currently living
in communion and obedience to Christ.
All their wickedness is in Gilgal: for there I hated them: for
the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of mine
house, I will love them no more: all their princes are revolters.
Ephraim (Gods covenant people) is smitten, their root is dried
up, they shall bear no fruit: yea, though they bring forth, yet
will I slay even the beloved fruit of their womb. My God will
cast them away, because they did not hearken unto him: and
they shall be wanderers among the nations. Hosea 9:15-17
Unlike the prophets and apostles of our LORD, so many leaders today
want people to feel comfortable, even if it is in their own sin and at the
expense of their own eternal souls. These men serve themselves and not
Christ and therefore they do not issue forth His clear truth and warning
of judgment to come upon all who do not obey Him regardless of any
past relationship (2 Cor. 5:11; Phil. 3:17-21). Deceivers who hold
positions in the church world do not want to suffer the persecution
associated with preaching the original Gospel, so they carefully choose
out the things which will not offend their hearers. Such a posture is

completely foreign from the Holy Spirit anointed ministries of Christ,

John the Baptist, and the original apostles of our LORD.
Everything in Gods kingdom economy works through His divine mercy,
grace and mans faith and obedience. When coupled or enjoined with a
mans unwavering faith, Gods grace makes all things possible (Mk.
10:27).
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your keeping power, as I am
blessed and enabled to follow Your Word in truth while being empowered
by Your Holy Ghost. Fill me afresh LORD Jesus and live Your life in and
through me. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR

THE BOOK OF HEBREWS

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart
of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one
another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made
partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence
stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear
his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.
Hebrews 3:12-15

This magnificently, divinely-inspired writing is clearly directed to all

believers under the New Covenant. In verse 1 and 12 of chapter 3, Holy
BRETHREN (not the unsaved) are addressed and warned to beware of
unbelief and un-confessed sin which will harden the heart and prevent
one from continuing stedfast unto the end. The book of Hebrews
reveals the most vivid insight into the throne of grace and invites all
believers to come and be washed continually in the precious blood of the
New Covenant due to the Great Intercessor who sits at the right hand of
the Father (Col. 3:1; Heb. 4:14-16; 7:24-26).
According to the Word here in this passage; can a believer depart from
the LORD? Take heed, BRETHREN, lest there be in any of YOU
(brethren) an evil heart of unbelief, in DEPARTING from the living
God. (Heb. 3:12)
In Hebrews 3:12-15, true, genuine believers are warned not to depart
from God and be lost again.
Speaking of the Messiah, Hebrews 1:9 says:
Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity;
therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil
of gladness above thy fellows. Hebrews 1:9
Our LORD is our ultimate example and the One we follow. This
prophetic Scripture, spoken by the Psalmist in 45:7, foretold the
character of the LORD:

loved righteousness

hated iniquity

Jesus loved righteousness and hated iniquity because pleasing

His Father was of supreme importance (Jn. 5:30). He was therefore
anointedwith the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

An Insurmountable Hurdle
Hebrews is a book offering numerous warnings to Christians concerning
slipping, letting sin harden the heart, falling away, and trampling under
foot the blood of the Son of God after once knowing Him. As we know,

there are some who believe that once saved, a person is in a fixed state of
salvation and can never go back (depart from the LORD) even if he wants
to. Against the full-counsel of Holy Writ, some vainly believe that a saved
person cannot return to his vomit (sin). Upon an honest read and study
of the book of Hebrews, these should be ashamed of such a heresy and
turn to the LORD in repentance (1 Cor. 11:19; Gal. 5:20; 2 Pet. 2:21).
Instead, many of these theological circus actors are bent upon
acrobatically proving their perverted pet doctrine.
The one who has espoused the OSAS teaching believes that the retreated
person was never saved in the first place. The eternal securest believes
that if a person is living a life of blatant sin after confessing Christ as
LORD, it proves that such a person was never saved in the first place.
Nonsense! Hebrews alone annihilates such a position. The numerous
warnings in the book of Hebrews clearly extinguish the possibility of
such a falsehood.
Masses of people have naively believed what a man or men have told
them to believe, i.e., OSAS. This they have done without personally and
studiously studying and learning Gods Word for themselves. So, when
confronted they say Well I believe that once a person is saved they are
always saved. This they do with no scriptural authority whatsoever.
Their belief is not built by Scripture but rather upon the sinking sand of
the words, stories and clichs of mere men as we will once again see as
we review Hebrews. In the book of Hebrews is found the largest
concentration of divine truth to refute OSAS found anywhere in the
Bible. It is the mother lode that when read by one who currently
espouses OSAS, either transforms a teachable heart or launches the
staunch eternal securest into the mode of a private interpretation circus
act conductor.
According to the Word, those who refuse to study to show themselves
approved unto God will inevitably be misled (Matt. 22:29; 2 Thess. 2:1012; 2 Tim. 2:15). It is extremely costly to refuse to have a deep love for
divine truth destruction is promised to all who are not possessed by a
love for the truth (Hos. 4:6; 2 Thess. 2:10-12).
One has to get extremely dishonest to deny the numerous warnings and
severe threats found in the book of Hebrews. Intellectual dishonesty is

required in order to pervert the truth found in these divinely-inspired

passages.
As we are observing, this book of Hebrews contains warnings galore:
Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the
things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and
every transgression and disobedience received a just
recompense of reward; How shall we escape (eternal judgment),
if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be
spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that
heard him. Hebrews 2:1-3
Since we know that Hebrews is written to all holy brethren (3:1) of the
entire New Testament era, we must acknowledge that this book is not
written or intended for the unsaved.
The real live danger is identified in verse 1 here Therefore we ought
to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard,
lest at any time we should let them slip. The threat of not giving
earnest heed, full attention and heart affection to the Gospel of the
One who saved is identified here. The plain implication here and in this
whole book of Hebrews is that those who dont take full heed to the
LORD and continue to hear and obey His voice, will slip and fall.
Note verse 3 here in chapter 2: How shall we escape (eternal
judgment), if we neglect so great salvation. Obviously, a saved
person can neglect his responsibilities to the Lord and come under His
judgment or this warning would not have been inspired by the divine
Person of the Holy Ghost and would certainly not be found written in
Gods Holy Word.
No one merits or can earn Gods grace and yet obedience to His Word is
the evidence that one possesses it (Tit. 2:11-12).
As are all divinely given promises, those made by the LORD in the
book of Hebrews are shown to be conditional upon the continued
faithful obedience of the individual recipient.

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we,
IF we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope
firm unto the end. Hebrews 3:6
The word if found throughout Scripture is the undoing of the theology
that insists that once a person is genuinely saved, he can never lose it.
For we are made partakers of Christ, IF we hold the beginning
of our confidence stedfast unto the end. Hebrews 3:14
Christ said that He that endureth to the end shall be saved. (Matt.
10:22; 24:13) So, the security promise is only to those who die in faith
and not those who have initial faith and then fall away in the sin of
unbelief (Matt. 10:22; Lk. 8:13; Heb. 3:6, 12-14). We are commanded to
fear God and behold His holiness and severity. (Matt. 10:28; Rom.
11:22) Divine wrath will be severe upon all who die in sin - regardless of
their past relationship with Him (Ezek. 33:12-13; Rom. 1:18). Do not the
words of the apostle Peter concur with those of the inspired writer of
Hebrews?
For IF AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, the latter
end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been
BETTER for them not to have known the way of righteousness,
than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy
commandment delivered unto them. 2 Peter 2:20-21
Hebrews 4
And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest,
but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not
enter in because of unbelief. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise
being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to
come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as
unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being
mixed with faith in them that heard itLet us labour therefore to
enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of
unbelief. Hebrews 3:18-4:1-2, 11

Here are yet more warnings and exhortations. We are instructed to enter
His rest and such takes labor on our part and simply does not happen
automatically or accidentally. Those who refused to believe and walk with
the LORD could not enter in, instead they came short of it. Again
this begs the question: Why such warning if there were no possibility of
losing out?
Those at ease in Zion who are not fighting the good fight of faith,
keeping full their lamps, pressing into the kingdom of Heaven and
overcoming, will not make it (Amos 6:1; Matt. 11:12; 25::1-13; 1 Tim.
6:12; Rev. 2-3).

Hebrews 6:4-6
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and
have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of
the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and
the powers of the world to come, IF they shall FALL AWAY, to
renew them AGAIN unto repentance; seeing they crucify to
themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open
shame. Hebrews 6:4-6
The words IF they shall FALL AWAY is found here in verse 6. The
very fact that these words appear here assure us beyond any doubt
whatsoever that to fall away is possible. Dare we call the Almighty a
liar by claiming such cannot happen?
The grace-perverter is forced to become a very talented interpretational
acrobat in order to overcome the clear revelation of this text. Among
other things, let us review a few points in this passage. This people who
would end up crucifying the Son of God afresh or again, are said to have
been:

Once enlightened

Tasted of the heavenly gift (eternal life)

Were made partakers of the Holy Ghost

Have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of

the world to come

The lie-embracing manipulator of truth must seek to twist this Holy

Spirit-inspired text because it annihilates the lies he espouses. He has to
try to make this look as if the anointed writer of Hebrews is speaking to
lost people, lest a death nail be driven into his pet doctrine or
theologian which he has enthroned in his sin of idolatry. In this Bible
passage, we see undeniably that one who has tasted of the heavenly
gift of salvation can later fall away. The Greek word for tasted is
geuomai which means to experience, or to eat. When one tastes in their
mouth and eats of something, digesting it down into their bodies, they
have become a partaker of that food. That food is then all the way inside
them and part of them. This truth clearly reveals even more evidence
that the LORD is speaking here of someone who was truly saved by the
blood of Christ and threatens that such a person can fall way. Jesus
said to the church (saints, not the lost) of Laodicea that He will spue or
vomit from His body those who backslide and do not hold Him as their
first love, but rather become lukewarm. (Rev. 2:4-5; 3:14-22)
According to this text, it is obvious that a saved person can leave the
LORD and even become a reprobate and to the point where he cannot be
renewed again to repentance. This writer suspects that this means that
such a person has blasphemed the Holy Ghost (Matt. 12:31-32).
To the honest student of Gods Word, these numerous warnings found in
Holy Scripture, and the truth that one can lose his salvation, shine the
light upon the dark twisting of Scripture done by the OSAS crowd. Why
the warnings if losing out were not a possibility? All the manipulating
persuasions of the eternal security crowd fall dead when heard by the
one who is enlightened by Gods truth alone.
It is interesting and undoing to take note that the word taste or
tasted is found 3 times in the book of Hebrews and in each case
originates from the exact same Greek word geuomai - which is defined
in the Strongs Concordance this way a primary verb; to taste; by impl.
to eat; fig. to experience (good or ill): - eat, taste.
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels
for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that

he (Jesus) by the grace of God should TASTE (experience)

death for every man. Hebrews 2:9
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and
have TASTED (partaken) of the heavenly gift, and were made
partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have TASTED (experienced)
the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If
they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance;
seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and
put him to an open shame. Hebrews 6:4-6
There are some who try to make tasted to mean that the person only
tasted but didnt actually partake of the heavenly gift of eternal life. But
according to Hebrews 2:9, Jesus Christ literally tasted or physically
experienced death for every man He died in our place. That was an
actual experience, a real death, a true crucifixion on a wooden cross on
Mount Calvary. It was not simulated or virtual it was actual and literal.
The hands and feet and side of the Son of God were pierced and His life
blood ran down. In the same way, the person or people who have
tasted (experienced; literally partaken of) of the heavenly gift
(eternal life), and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have
tasted (experienced) the good word of God, and the powers of the
world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto
repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God
afresh, and put him to an open shame. (Heb. 6:4-6)
Just as Jesus actually tasted death on that wooden cross for us, so
people who have once literally tasted of the salvation of Christ can
fall away and be lost again (Heb. 6:4-6).
If the tasted spoken of here in Hebrews 6:4-6 was not literal and actual,
neither was the death of Jesus who according to Hebrews 2:9 tasted
death for our sins.
The people who have tasted of salvation in Christ and afterward turn
away to sin are in danger of not being renewed again unto repentance;
seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put
him to and open shame. (Heb. 6:6)

Commanded to Fear
Any teacher or teaching that does not promote the fear of God (implicitly
or explicitly) is simply not of Him.
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering
into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of itLet
us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall
after the same example of unbelief. Hebrews 4:1, 11
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet,
moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house;
by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the
righteousness which is by faith. Hebrews 11:7

Hebrews 10
Please allow me to exhort you to honestly read this following text from
Hebrews 10 for all its worth, putting aside all preconceived notions.
These words should be self-explanatory.
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the
knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for
sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery
indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that
despised Moses law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall
he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of
God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith
he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite
unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said,
Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the
Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful
thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But call to
remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; Partly,
whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and
afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them
that were so used. For ye had compassion of me in my bonds,

and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in

yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring
substance. Cast not away therefore your confidence, which
hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of
patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might
receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall
come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by
faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no
pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto
perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
Hebrews 10:26-39

Hebrews 12
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no
man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of
the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up
trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any
fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of
meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward,
when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected:
for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it
carefully with tears. Hebrews 12:14-17
Is this Old Testament story found in the New Testament canon by
accident? Obviously not. Esau chose to rebel and was rejected: for he
found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with
tears. How could the Almighty reject a person who was not first in His
family? Was not Esau also the son of Isaac and heir to the promises of
the everlasting covenant? (Gen. 17) New Testament believers are
warned here of failing the grace of God by living in sin instead of holy
faith without which it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6).
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that
cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6
PRAYER: Heavenly Father I choose to exercise honesty in all matters of
my thinking and as I study Your holy Word. I repent of all self-deception

and justifying of my sins and espousing of any false teaching. Please

increase my faith and bless my conscience to be extremely sensitive to
Your every impression, pricking, conviction and leading. Let not sin have
dominion over me lest my heart be deceived and hardened and unable to
respond to You in repentance and faith. Bless me to live unto You in faith
and patience, exhorting others as the coming of Christ nears. Thank You
for granting me to inherit all of Your precious promises and especially
Heaven. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE

GRACE AND FAITH

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that
cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6
There is no possibility to please God except by faith. Anything less is an
indictment upon the perfection of His divine character. Coming to the
LORD in any sense, requires that the one approaching believe that He
(God) is the Provider of that which is going to be requested by the saint.
The person who diligently seeks Him demonstrate real faith and will
always rewarded with blessings. Blessed be the Lord, who daily
loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. (Ps. 68:19)
Saving grace is only accessed by ones faith and that faith is volitional (by
choice). So, any teaching which does not allow for and recognize that God

gave men free will to choose to believe or not to believe, is not based
upon the bedrock of Bible truth.
But without faith it is impossible to please him. (Heb. 11:6) Could
there be any other way to please God than by faith? No. It begins with
believing on Christ as LORD and Savior after one is brought to the place
of realizing his own utter depravity and helpless state as a sinner against
the one true and holy God.
Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on
the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy
house. Acts 16:30-31
Salvation is instantaneously born in the heart of the one who wholly
repents and places his faith in Jesus Christ, the One whose redeeming
sacrifice is honored as full payment for all sins.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of
yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man
should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ
Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that
we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10
According to the record given us in Gods Word, after the first sin
committed in history, man became utterly and sinfully depraved in
his now fallen state (Gen. 6:5; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 1-3; 5:12). Before He
destroyed all but eight souls (Noah and his household), this is what
the LORD said He saw among mankind which led to His holy wrath
being poured out:
And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the
earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart
was only evil continually. Genesis 6:5
After the fall, the holy law was given to define what sin is. Remember the
Ten Commandments?
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin
is the transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4

by the law is the knowledge of sin. Romans 3:20

After the fall, the God of restoration immediately foretold of the
redemption He would accomplish in Christ, the eternal Word who was
slain before the foundation of the world (Gen. 3:15; Rev. 13:8). He told us
that the seed of the woman (Christ) would crush the head of the serpent
(Satan).
But God commendeth (exhibited) his love toward us, in that,
while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
The salvation of mankind came through the love and mercy of God who
was made flesh in the Person of Jesus Christ to redeem mankind. He
shed His sinless blood which completely paid the price for our sins which
separate us from His holiness and life (John 19:30; 2 Cor. 5:21; Rom.
3:23-26, etc.).
How can one escape from the wrath of the Almighty which includes the
penalty and punishment of eternal damnation? How does one
appropriate such a saving blessing as the complete forgiveness of all
sins?
In His perfect wisdom, God has given man only one condition to receive
His pardon - Faith (Eph. 2:8-9; Rom. 4:4-5; 5:1-2). Why? Because He is
the only One who can justify the ungodly (includes all of us). This He
accomplished through the perfect, completed, redemptive work of His
Son (Jn. 19:30; 2 Cor. 5:21). Faith in Christ (includes full repentance)
connects the believer with the Father and births the believer into the
body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13). Listen to this passage in Romans 4:
Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace,
but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him
that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for
righteousness. Romans 4:4-5
Genuine saving faith includes repentance from the life of sin and total
and complete trust in the divine Person of Jesus Christ. Saving faith
produces a life of seeking the Lord with ones whole heart, thereby
producing Christ-like holiness in daily living (Acts 20:21; Lk. 13:3, 5;

Phil. 2:12-13; Tit. 2:11-14). The fruit of the Spirit is the earmark of all
true Christians Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness,
goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance. (Gal. 5:22-23)

Divine Grace Only Accessed by Faith

The believer should become intimately familiar with what divine wisdom
has set forth concerning the accessing of grace. According to Holy
Scripture, Gods grace and justification is accessed by faith (Romans 5:12).
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access
by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope
of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2
Catch these two phrases here in Romans 5:1-2:
1. Therefore being justified by faith
2. We have access by faith into this grace
What grants the sinner access into the grace of God? Faith.
For BY GRACE (Gods favor) are ye saved THROUGH FAITH;
and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works,
lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Divine Grace to Obtain and Grace to Maintain

Although most Christian circles seem to stop right here at the obtaining
of initial salvation through faith, the Bible certainly doesnt stop there.
According to the faith once delivered to the saints, the same faith that
initially appropriated Gods grace must be continued in to the end of ones
life, or eternal life will be forfeited. Though eternal life is eternal, the
possession of it is not - necessarily.
By faith are we saved, and by faith we stay saved. E.M. Bounds

Eternal life is eternal, yet the possession of it is not necessarily eternal.

Were there not ten virgins likened to the kingdom Heaven (not hell) and
only five of the ten made it into the marriage with the Bridegroom? (Matt.
25:1-13) Eternal life must be obtained by faith and maintained by
ongoing faith or it will be lost.
Concerning the argument that eternal life is eternal and so it cannot be
lost, Jeff Paton writes:
Eternal also means that it has no beginning! If you had to gain it,
you dont have eternal life according to this argument! This
argument ignores the conditions of present tense belief (John 3:15)
and present tense hearing and following (John 10:25-28) in these
verses. It fails to understand that the life is eternal, and not our
possession of it.
Yes one is absolutely saved when they repent and believe the Gospel and
as long as they believe they remain saved (in the grace of God). To believe
is to truly embrace the Person of Jesus Christ and all of His words fully
in heart and in obedience, rendering repentance initially and in an
ongoing life of holiness (1 Jn. 1:6-10; 2:3-6). Anything short of such is
not saving faith.
In his booklet entitled The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer
speaks about the overplaying of the word eternal in the phrase eternal
life.
Eternal security teachers play on the word eternal. They say that
which is eternal cannot cease to be. But eternal life had a
beginning in the believer. It is the life of God. It is the result of
union with Christ. Eternal life adds nothing to the duration of the
believers existence. All men have eternal existence. Scofield says:
Eternal life is a phrase of quality of life, rather than of duration
merely. Can this quality of life end in the believer? Has God given
free moral agents something unconditionally that He cannot
withdraw? The eternal security teaching so affirms. We believe the
Scriptures state otherwise. Saints are always dependent upon God,
even after receiving eternal life.

One cannot please God without faith and faith is an ongoing choice.
When one ceases to believe (which will drive him to holiness), he falls
away and will lose the heavenly reward unless he turns back to the
LORD as his first love (Lk. 8:13; Heb. 10:36-39). We are saved, are being
saved and will be eternally safe if and as we live by faith, not wavering
nor putting away faith, departing from the LORD (1 Tim. 4:1; 5:12; Heb.
3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39).
Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in
whom we trust that he will yet deliver us. 2 Corinthians 1:10
It is a lie to believe that man can obtain or maintain his own salvation
without God. In fact, nothing could be more of a falsehood (Rom. 4:4-5).
It is of divine grace that we are saved and kept through faith. The
grace-giver requires our faith involvement, initially and continually
thereafter (Rom. 5:1-2; Eph. 2:8-9; Col. 1:22-23; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; 1 Pet.
1:5).
Again, is this a works-salvation or is it the true and divinely instituted
salvation plan revealed in Scripture? The work of salvation was
accomplished by Christ Himself on the cross 2,000 years ago. All those
who repent and believe receive eternal life (Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Lk. 13:3, 5;
Jn. 6:47).
This follower would challenge anyone who is reading this book to
demonstrate purely from Scripture that the saved person can live any way
he wishes after being genuinely saved and still go to Heaven. The Bible
will yield no hint of such a supposition. In studying Scripture alone, one
will find such a teaching to be an unfounded myth. See Revelation 21:8;
27.According to the whole of Scripture, the state of sonship is not
necessarily a forever fixed state in this earthly life. Without faith it is
impossible to please the LORD and no person is forced to continue to
believe (Lk. 8:13; Heb. 11:6). In His infinite wisdom the LORD has
chosen to give men free moral agency (ability to make choices) and
made faith the essential requirement to obtain and maintain ones place
of relationship with Him. To abide in Him is to remain in Christ and
anyone who does not continue in justifying faith in Jesus will ultimately
be cast into the fires of eternal damnation (Jn. 15:1-6). Faith is
volitional and never something forced upon any person by the LORD.

Without it no one can please Him. Faith worketh by love and love by
its very nature is volitional, never forced (Gal. 5:6).
Read what the unchanging God of salvation said to His very own people
in Isaiah 1:
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be
willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if
ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword
(judgment): for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. How is
the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment;
righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers. Isaiah 1:18-21
As we just read, Gods people departed from serving Him and were living
in sin at this point in Israels history. The LORD tells His own covenant
people here through Isaiah that He desires to reason with them and
forgive their many sins and rebellion against Him. The LORD loves and
seeks to draw back in the backslider. Note here in this exchange that
there is the complete absence here of the LORD saying that His people
were still going to be saved though living in sin, as some erroneously
teach today. He sets the condition for their restoration IF ye be
willing and obedient. The word If denotes that there is a condition
for receiving their blessing in this case pardon from their iniquities and
restoration of relationship with their Savior. In Gods economy, all
blessings, including Heaven, are conditional upon the faith and
obedience, initially and ongoing, of the recipient. In this Isaiah 1 text, the
LORD promises to judge (sword) His people if they refuse and rebel.
The IF condition is found throughout Scripture and is the 2-letter
nightmare of the unconditional eternal security message because it
reveals plainly that man has free moral agency and is never forced to
have saving faith nor continue to believe to the end of his earthly life.
The LORD longs to and delights in blessing His people abundantly (Ps.
35:27; 84:11). As He has seen fit, His blessings to men are conditioned
upon the willing obedience of His people. Such a truth is seen from
Genesis to Revelation and can be observed by any honest-hearted

student of Holy Scripture (Gen. 4:7; Deut. 30:19). Here is but another
sample of how the LORD has set before His people the ability to obey or
rebel, the choice of life and death, and blessing and cursing:
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I
have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing:
therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou
mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him:
for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest
dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to
Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. Deuteronomy
30:19-20
There will be some who may employ one of the typical smokescreens by
saying that this message is one that sets forth a system of works to earn
salvation. Nothing could be further from the truth! The concept of a
works salvation is never used in such a fashion in this volume nor is
any works-based salvation plan to maintain salvation ever insinuated.
The Word clearly demonstrates that He saves men by His grace and that
mans requirement to obtain and maintain His saving grace is faith (Rom.
5:1-2; Eph. 2:8-10; Col. 1:22-23; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; 10:34-39).
An OSAS respondent sent this to us:
Now what you are saying is, 'if I keep all these rules you have
stated, and all the other commands found in the Bible then I will
be right with God.' If I can do that then why do I need Jesus? If I
can keep all these commandments and be right before God, or
Righteous then I don't need a redeemer and Jesus' dying on the
cross was in vain. God murdered His Son for nothing, if my
righteousness is based on my performance. O foolish
Galatians...This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by
the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish?
Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
'For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for
it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things
which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no
man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The

just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, The man
that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from
the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written,
Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of
Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that
we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Brethren,
I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's
covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth
thereto. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He
saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed,
which is Christ.' So, Is Salvation by works, or by faith? Is a work
begun in faith made perfect by the works of the flesh? And if one
must be Born Again according to Jesus Christ in order to see the
kingdom of God, how does one become un-born again? Does God
practice spiritual abortions? We are justified in Christ Jesus
because of HIS finished work of salvation and we are declared
righteous by God by grace through faith in Christ alone. We are
saved unto good works, not by good works.
Our Reponse:
There is no argument against us being saved by His grace through
faith. You have correctly stated that We are justified in Christ
Jesus and yet we must remain in Christ to continue to be
justified by His grace (Jn. 15:6; Col. 1:23; Heb. 2:1-3; 3:6, 12-14;
10:26-39; 2 Jn. 9, etc.). We are only saved by His grace and our
faith is required to (Rom. 5:1-2; Eph. 2:8-10). You stated We are
saved unto good works, not by good works. This is truth and yet
those who are truly saved have the fruit of such grace (Tit. 2:1112). The fruits of their lives testify to their possession of His
saving grace (Matt. 7:16, 19-20). The Son of God told us that those
who do not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown out of His
vineyard Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire. (Matt. 7:19) Those who truly have
His justifying grace are His workmanship and do not have a license
for living in sin (Eph. 2:8-10; Jude 3-4). Gods grace actually
enables them to overcome sin and to live fully pleasing to Him. To
those who truly possess it, His saving grace is Teaching us that,

denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly,

righteously, and godly, in this present world. (Tit. 2:11-12) They
are given over to Him and He is fashioning them into His own
image (Rom. 8:29). If not, one does not possess the divine, saving
grace (Tit. 2:11-12). We must not reason instead of being honest
about the Word of the God. We must refuse self-willed arguments.
They are human reasonings and pander to the flesh, to justify
living this life as we wish instead of how God has commanded. The
Bible tells us we are not our own if we have been bought by the
blood of the LORD Jesus (1 Cor. 6:19-20). If we live as WE wish
instead of how the LORD commanded us to, we are lawless and
will be found on that Day to be workers of iniquity (lawlessness)
and told by Him to Depart from me. The lawless will be cast into
eternal damnation with no second chance to escape (Matt. 7:2123). So, those who justify themselves through human philosophy
and the tradition of Calvinism, have been spoiled or ruined and are
in big trouble (Col. 2:8). Jesus and His holy apostles told us that
sin defiles men and even named those sins which defile out of His
love for us - so we would specifically know what offends His
holiness (Matt. 15:19-20). He has disclosed to us His holy will in
intricate detail and we are therefore without excuse and will be
without excuse on that Great and Terrible Day of Judgment that
we all hasten toward. Does sin separate us from the one, true holy
God? What does the Word tell us? (Isa. 59:2; Matt. 15:19-20; Rom.
6:23; Acts 1:25; Gal. 5:17-19; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Rev. 21:8, 27) Jesus
is Coming, Todd www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com
Beloved, be sure that saving faith will produce good works in all those
who truly possess it (James 2).
We should also be sure from Gods own Word, that faith to the end of
ones life is a divinely instituted requirement for Heaven. So many who
believe the truth about initial salvation being received through faith, do
not realize what further truth the Scriptures teach concerning the
necessity to continue in that saving faith.
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the
end, to him will I give power over the nations. Revelation
2:26

Note the words of Christ keepeth my works unto the end. The term
unto the end appears throughout the Word of God and not by
accident.
The Bible model is for the believer in Christ to work out (not for) his
salvation with fear and trembling while God works in him to will and do
of His good pleasure. The unchanging God will always do His part. Men
individually choose to obey or disobey. See Philippians 2:12-13.
In his book entitled Life in the Son, Dr. Robert Shank pens these words:
John warns his dear children in the faith against the efforts of
apostates to lead them astray through false doctrines, exhorting
them to Let that therefore abide (remain) in you, which ye have
heard from the beginning [the true Gospel]. If that which ye have
heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall
continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise
that he hath promised us, even eternal life. (1 Jn. 2:24-25, II Tim.
3:13-15, Col. 1:21-23).
It is the testimony of our Savior and the New Testament writers that
an initial reception of the word of the Gospel must be followed by
faithful retention, if men are to continue in the saving grace of Christ
and the eternal life of God. (Shank, Robert Lee, Life in the Son,
Bethany House Publishers, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 1960. pp.33-34)
Note here in this 1 John 2 text that Dr. Shank notes the Bible truth, that
the continued possession of the promise of eternal life is conditioned
upon the recipient abiding in the true Gospel. This once again reveals to
us that eternal life is not necessarily kept by all who initially receive it.
The enemy seeks to thwart this divinely instituted process with the
crippling lie of the ages. This lie of Satan convinces the believer that after
initial salvation, he has no required responsibility to obey God, yet he
still remains in the grace of God which supposedly covers him no matter
how vile his sinfulness. Somehow, in this scenario, the LORD ceases to
be holy and therefore overlooks the un-holiness of that person who has
once placed his faith in Christ for salvation. This perversion of grace is
perhaps the greatest hindrance to people truly fearing and walking with

the LORD in a sanctified relationship, daily taking up the cross and

following Him through good times and bad. What utter robbery is
transpiring in our churches! And this is all happening at the hands of
those who should be feeding and protecting the sheep of the LORDs
pasture with His full-counsel, pure truth the counsel of His holy Word.
The LORD requires the free will offering of perseverance and only those
who do continue in saving faith to the end will ultimately be with Him.
Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great
recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that,
after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the
promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will
come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if
any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of
them that believe to the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:35-39
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man
soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh
shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the
Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be
weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint
not. Galatians 6:7-9
Even when promising persecution in all who would truly follow Him, the
Son of God warned that only those who endure in willing perseverance,
abiding in Him and not denying Him, would be in Heaven:
And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake: but he
that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:22
Regardless of how this makes one feel, it is a divinely given
instruction and to be adhered to by that remnant of disciples today
who love Jesus in truth. Those who truly love Him love the beauty of
His holiness and deeply desire yet more and more of it. Those who
love Him are not looking for an excuse to justify their sinfulness but
rather are swift to admit their sins and cry out to the LORD for
forgiveness (Rev. 3:19). In fact, Christ taught that those who obey Him

are the only ones who truly love Him (Jn. 14:21). Some pretend to love
Him and prove that they truly dont because they do not love and do
His words (Mk. 8:38; Jn. 8:47; 14:21).
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
your own selvesBut whoso looketh into the perfect law of
liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful
hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his
deed. James 1:22, 25
Theres that word continueth again! How telling! How clear is the
Word of our God!
Any person who dies outside of the grace of God, which is only
appropriated by faith through an obedient, and real relationship with
Jesus, will not be in Heaven.
Those who live in faithful obedience to Him possess the priceless gift of a
clear conscience.
PRAYER: Holy Father, touch Your people with Your holiness. Bless us to
live in Your grace and to walk by faith. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY SIX

GODS GRACE
IN THIS PRESENT WORLD
TITUS 2:12

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to

all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly
lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world. Titus 2:11-12
This so great salvation (Heb. 2:3) that hath appeared to all
men was wrought for us by the grace and life blood of the Son of
God (Lev. 17:11; Rom. 3:23-26). We were down and out having no
hope and when we were yet without strength, in due time
Christ died for the ungodly. (Rom. 5:6; Eph. 2:12) We were
without strength! - In other words we had no ability in and of
ourselves to get back to the one true God we were separated from due
to being born in sin (Isa. 59:1-2; Rom. 5:12). Yet, while we were yet
sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom. 5:8) He saved us to be made
progressively more free and to please and serve Him with joy in the
Holy Ghost. He is our Salvation and enabler in all things. We truly
CAN do all things through Christ which strengtheneth us! (Phil.
4:13)
No gift could possibly be so great. See Hebrews 2:3. It is to Jesus
Christ the LORD of all lords that we as vile and depraved sinners,
owe all thanksgiving and have the immeasurable, grand and blessed
privilege to worship. There is no fathoming the magnitude of the
blessing, of the grace and mercy of our God poured out to us
through the blood of his cross. (Rom. 11:33; 1 Cor. 2:9; Col.
1:20; Tit. 3:5-6) His grace truly is amazing and yet He is holy and
righteous and will not permit sin into His presence.
By him (Christ) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to
God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to
his name. Hebrews 13:15
The apostle Paul, the divinely inspired grace teacher, stated here in our
theme verse (please re-read Titus 2:11-12 above) that when Gods grace

is genuinely at work in a person, that person is being taught and

learning certain things. Lets go to the divine source, Gods Word, to
discover what these things are:
According to Titus 2:11-12, just what does Gods grace teach one who
possesses it?

To deny ungodliness...in this present world

To deny...worldly lusts...in this present world

To live soberly...in this present world

To live...righteously...in this present world

To live godly, in this present world

If a person claims to be saved (secure for Heaven) and yet is not

denying
ungodliness
and
worldly
lustsliving
soberly,
righteously, and godly, in this present world, he is simply deluded.
See also Matthew 7:21; Titus 1:16; James 1:22; 4:4 and 1 John 2:3-6.
If you dont mind, I am nominating Titus 2:11-12 as that place in
Scripture believers think of when they think of the grace of God. Do you
think that saints and/or those who claim to be saints might take on a
whole new level of responsibility if such were the case?
The person who currently possesses and is living in the grace of God can
be assured of eternal life (Heb. 12:14). One can know or verify whether or
not he truly possesses the grace of God by reading closely this
enlightening theme passage of Titus 2:11-12. The authentically saved
person I abiding in Christs grace Denying ungodliness and worldly
lusts and living soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present
world (life).
If these things are not manifesting in our lives, be sure that we are not
presently living in the grace of God and should immediately repent before
the LORD (James 4:6). In verse 11 of Titus 2, the Word states that it is
the grace of God that bringeth salvation. And then Holy Writ reveals

how those who truly and currently possess this essential grace live their
lives - in this present world.
For whom ye yield yourselves, servants to obey, his servants ye are
to whom ye obey. (Rom. 6:16) If we are compelled, therefore, to
yield ourselves servants to sin, and be subject to Satans power,
insomuch that we cannot help but obey him, and really have no
choice in the matter, then our free agency, our volition, is destroyed;
and to make matters worse, the devil has more power than God.
Satan can make us disobey God, but alas, God cannot make us
disobey Satan. The devil compels us to be sinners, but God cannot
compel us to be righteous. What kind of doctrine is this? -Howard
W. Sweeten
In America, the vast majority of those who are called evangelicals do not
even realize that this Titus 2 text exists. The masses have never had this
text pointed out to them and expounded upon by their leaders. What is it
these leaders are afraid their audiences will discover if they unveil this
text? Some leaders just simply do not teach the Word (2 Tim. 4:2-4). This
alone makes them false. For the Calvinistic leader I must ask: What are
they hiding? What are they afraid people might find out? Why are other
Bible passages on grace spotlighted and not Titus 2? Why is this Bible
passage purposely neglected and avoided? What are our leaders afraid
will be revealed to the people they communicate to? Do these leaders fear
that the divine truth revealed in Titus 2 will contradict what they are
teaching? Do they fear offending people by communicating what the
evidences (fruit) of true grace and salvation are?
Speaking of A Foreign Grace, David Kirkwood, in his book The Great
Gospel Deception, says:
It is not only the fruit of peoples deeds that mark them as false
teachers, but also the fruit of their words. If they teach what is
contrary to essential New Testament doctrine, they are false
teachers.
Of course, no teacher in the church is going to stand up and
declare that he is teaching what is contrary to the New Testament.
Rather, he will neglect certain important scriptures and twist

others to persuade his constituency that he is teaching the truth.

This is being done today by many very popular and influential
teachers who teach about a grace that is foreign to the Bible. The
grace they proclaim is not the true grace that leads to holiness
How is it possible that people who denied the only Master and
Lord, Jesus Christ, could have crept in unnoticed? The answer is
that they were not standing in front of congregations declaring, I
deny Jesus Christ. Rather, they were denying Jesus Christ
through their false teaching about grace, turning it into
licentiousness.
Their message could be summarized as follows: Isnt Gods grace
wonderful? Because our salvation stems from His grace and not
from our meritorious works, holiness is not essential for salvation.
Because of Gods wonderful grace, all who believe in Jesus are
saved, even if they continue practicing sin. p. 230, 231
As David Kirkwood points out, the false teacher is not going to stand up
and announce that he is a wolf. It is the individual believers
responsibility to discern leaders by the fruit of their teaching. What is not
taught (left out of the message) can be more deadly than what is taught.
What we dont know can kill us. My people are destroyed for lack of
knowledge. (Hos. 4:6) To be able to discern one must study the Word
diligently and be exercised therein (2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16; Heb. 5:11-14).
This gross lack of knowledge among some who claim to know the LORD
is also an indication that many have not diligently studied the Word of
God for themselves, but rather have relied upon their leaders to tell them
what God has said. Consequently, so very many have been deluded with
a false gospel.

Saints of the LORD, let us allow Jesus Christ to become important

enough to our hearts to learn for ourselves what He has stated to us in
His Word. Is the LORD truly your first love? Are you actively and
fervently memorizing Scripture His very words? Let me encourage you
to do so from the Authorized Version (KJV). See Proverbs 4:4 and Psalms
119. Index cards are a great way to do such.

In This Present World - Holiness Now Or Then?

If we do not possess His grace in this present world, evidenced by our
denial of ungodliness and holy living here and now, then how can we
deceive ourselves into thinking we are truly His? If not now, the then
(eternity) is surely eternal damnation. According to Gods Word, without
holiness, no person will be with Jesus Christ in eternity (Matt. 5:8; Heb.
12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27). Think with me for a moment of how many people
who are at this very instant, residents of the domain of the damned
hell. What is their unalterable and horrible future? These eternal souls
will shortly be cast into the lake or ocean of fire (Rev. 20:11-15). Why?
These people were given the choice and willfully and deliberately chose in
their brief earthly life to make something else more important than the
LORD and doing His will (Exod. 20:3; Matt. 7:21; Eph. 5:3-6; 1 Jn. 5:21).
Pretty simple, yet the consequence is forever fixed They have reached
the point of no return. Hells eternal occupants who have gone before us
to damnation will, after a million years of excruciating and conscious
torment, have not one less second to spend there.
Is it worth it? Is living apart from life-giving fellowship with Jesus in this
short life worth eternity in torment? Is justifying instead of crucifying the
sins of the body worth spending eternity in the prison of fire? Jesus told
us we must abruptly cut off the hand and pluck out the eye that causes
us to offend the one true and holy God with our sin, that we might be in
Heaven (Mk. 9:42-50). Ready or not Jesus is Coming!
The Fruit of True Grace: Grace that is not taught with responsibility and
the fear of the LORD is not Biblical grace at all. Be not deceived! (Tit. 2:1114) According to Titus 2:11-12, true grace produces a specific fruit. Gods
grace is active. When it truly abides in a person, it has specific earmarks
of its possession while grace without this fruit is shown to be no saving
grace at all. This is a sham that so many believers today have been

taught. It is the bill of goods that is being sold from pulpits across
America every week. Comprehensive grace includes the fear of God which
alters the lifestyle and causes the recipient to live a holy life. The
adherent is led into intimate fellowship with Christ and from living in
habitual sin that would disqualify him from the prize of eternal life. The
good news is that there is the precious blood of the Savior available at
the throne of grace to grant us all a fresh start! This believer, who is
less than the least of all saints, has had enormous reason to rejoice in
that he has fallen short so many times, only to be drawn back in by the
LORD to receive mercy and grace afresh! This priceless grace, purchased
with the blood of Christ, is available at all times to those who are born
again. We therefore have no excuse to have any sin remaining on our
account (Heb. 4:14-16; 1 Jn. 1:7, 9). We are blessed to have EVERY sin
washed away in His holy blood as we simply go before His precious
throne of grace and cry out in repentance and receive His priceless mercy
which we do not deserve yet was merited by Christs blood. This truth
makes me want to shout for joy!
What a rich blessing it is that Gods grace empowers the believer to fulfill
what its Author demands. Through the apostle Paul the Holy Ghost tells
us that sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under
the law, but under grace. (Rom. 6:14)
PRAYER: LORD Jesus thank You for Your saving grace which enables
me to experience relationship with you and live completely pleasing in
Your holy sight in all things. Right this moment I denounce all
dissimulation and self-deception, lies and excuses. LORD I beg You to
make my heart pure Jesus! Thank You that sin shall not have dominion
over my life as I remain in fellowship with You, forsaking all thoughts
and deeds that offend You. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

DOCTRINE OF GRACE
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to
all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly
lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world. Titus 2:11-12
First off, we are told that Gods gracethat bringeth salvation hath
appeared to all men. The Gospel and His wonderful salvation have
been universally made available to every single soul upon the earth. God
so loved the whole world that He gave us His only begotten Son who
came not to condemn but to save those who would believe (Jn. 3:16-17;
1 Jn. 2:2). The Gospel is inclusive and not exclusive. All who will are
invited to Come. (Matt. 11:28; Rev. 22:17)
Charis is the Greek word for grace and is defined in the Strong's
Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible as the divine influence upon the
heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude, joy, and liberality.
But is this the most reliable definition of divine grace?
Those who pervert the precious divine grace of the nail-scarred risen
Savior have to somehow subtly divorce it from the Word of the very One
from whom all grace originates. Or, they twist His words. Did He not tell
us that only those who do the will of His Father in Heaven will be in
Heaven? (Matt. 7:21)
In one of the most chilling passages found in all of Scripture, Matthew
7:15-23, Jesus Christ foretold of His future severe judgment specifically
upon leaders who operate among His people and those who think they
are His people. These are men who did many wonderful (ministry)
works in their earthly life seemingly for Him and in His name. These
men teach a different Jesus, one not found in the Bible - one who will
not someday punish those who live in sin after He came and shed His
precious blood to deliver them from it (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29; 2 Cor. 11:14; Tit. 2:14). He is going to say to these wolves in sheeps clothing on the
Final Day: You did not truly know Me. Rather, you knew and preached
another Jesus and another gospel and led many to eternal

destruction by despising my Word and leading them to believe they did

not need my Lordship in their personal lives. If you had truly known Me
you would have honored what I told you in my Word and taught it to
others! Depart from me into everlasting damnation I never knew
you! (Matt. 7:15-23)
These will be all those men who today are in positions of leadership who
do ministry and lead others to believe that they are eternally secure while
living in sin and dont charge them to live holy and separated lives unto
the LORD Jesus Christ.
It is not enough to simply say we have Him as our LORD and Savior if
His transforming life is not presently at work changing us and
conforming us to His holy image, we simply do not know Him. True
Gospel grace actively works inside those who possess it and the fruit of it
is seen in the daily life (Rom. 6:14; 1 Cor. 15:10). The saved and eternally
safe believer is known by the fruit of love, joy and peace in His life
because he abides in a life of intimate daily communion with Christ (Jn.
15; Gal. 5:22-23).
Lets dethrone the false god of our hearts which has been constructed
out of something other than Holy Scripture, and erect the image of the
one, true God with what He states about Himself in His Word.
The following is an excerpt from a book titled The Perversion of Grace by
Dr. Robert B. Thompson. This clearly identifies what grace in many
evangelical circles is defined as.
Grace, as Currently Defined by Many Believers:
The term grace is used in our day to represent a waiving of Gods
requirements concerning mans behavior, an alternative to them.
Christ is seen as coming to earth primarily to forgive the moral
shortcomings of the believers so they may go to Heaven when they
die.
This grossly lacking definition of grace doesnt go beyond the point of
initial salvation. This creates a gross distortion and is leading millions
into eternal damnation (2 Pet. 2:1-3). This limiting and incomplete

definition is truly an epidemic plague upon the church world. A false

balance is abomination to the LORD. (Prov. 11:1) Yet, this is what
grace is defined as by many today. Nothing is taught concerning the
enabling power of His grace as is clearly seen in Romans 6:14, 2
Corinthians 12:1-10 and Titus 2:11-12. These passages are leaped over
and completely ignored by those who hasten to perpetrate
lasciviousness upon the people of God has Satan did in the Garden
upon the first man and his wife (Jude 3-4). God is holy and He gave us
His grace to save and grant power to influence the heart and cause the
recipient to overcome without which no man will see Him in His eternal
kingdom (Heb. 12:14; Rev. 2-3).
How does the Bible define grace? The question is not what have men in
leadership defined it as but rather what does a line upon line study of
the Holy Scriptures reveal authentic grace to be? Remember that mere
men can stretch and manipulate Scripture and their Greek definitions
according to their own whims, but the fervent Berean believer must allow
the words of Holy Writ to define what grace truly is (Acts 17:10-11).
One verse the corrupters of grace use is Romans 8:30:
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and
whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified,
them he also glorified. Romans 8:30
Yet, they conveniently ignore the 17th verse in this chapter and passage,
which reads:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with
Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also
glorified together. Romans 8:17
Did you catch the condition of receiving this blessing of eternal
glorification? - IF so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also
glorified together. The death of the self-life is what we suffer as we
choose to make Jesus and His will the first and foremost love of our lives.
Judas was justified and called into the ministry by Christ Himself. The
very Son of God chose Judas Iscariot to do His Gospel work. He was

ordained into the ministry to cast out devils, preach the Gospel and heal
the sick, yet he fell by his own decision to depart from Christ, and is now
in eternal hell where he will spend eternity for the ongoing decision he
freely chose to make concerning his relationship with the Son of God
(Matt. 10:1-8; Acts 1:25). Jesus promised Judas an eternal throne in
Heaven, yet he is now in hell (Matt. 19:28; Acts 1:25). So, this would
mean that the teaching which attempts to guarantee ones eternal
destiny based on Gods predestined will and plan for every man, is false.
The divine desire to see all men saved in no way negates mans personal
responsibility or free moral agency. As biblical history (and otherwise)
clearly reveals: just because the LORD ordains or intends or desires
something for a man or mankind, doesnt necessarily mean it will come
to pass in every case because He sovereignly gave men free will to
choose or reject His will for their lives. Did God desire that Saul rebel?
What about Esau and Judas? Like Cain, did the LORD not give these
men ample opportunity to repent and do things His way? (See Gen. 4:7)
The LORD from Heaven gave us His Word so that we could be sheltered
in His truth from the lies of these who have crept into our midst and are
turning divine grace into an authorization to sin. Even though those who
teach this myth usually dont readily acknowledge that they are teaching
this doctrine of lasciviousness, these men are and such must be
discerned. In the divine economy, the true grace of God is dispensed into
the hearts of all His people as they are in obedience to Him, and in order
to empower them to live as He clearly instructs in His Word. As the
follower of Jesus lives in His presence, he will experience divine grace
and not vainly imagine that he has permission to remain in sin (Rom.
5:17; 6:14). So be it LORD Jesus! Bless us to sit at Your feet and love
You more!
According to the Bibles definition of grace, men who are born again,
have been given so great salvation which enables them to live
victoriously (Heb. 2:3). There is success over sin when we truly abide in
Christ.
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye
continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye
shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you freeJesus
answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever

committeth sin is the servant of sinIf the Son therefore shall

make you free, ye shall be free indeed. John 8:31-32, 34, 36
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through
our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye
stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the
Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in
the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58
There is no better definition of any given biblical truth than the Holy
Scriptures themselves. Through studying a preponderance of Bible
passages on any given subject, the reader gains the mind of Christ
concerning that specific topic and matter. This truth applies to the study
and proper understanding of the grace of God. The Scriptures define and
resolutely transmit and communicate the doctrines of God and not
scholars who are mere men and in their very best state are
altogether vanity. (Ps. 39:5). There is a universal curse pronounced
upon all who trust in men while simultaneously departing from the
LORD Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh
his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. (Jer. 17:5)
Until we begin to make the important decision to genuinely trust the
LORD Himself who gave us His precious Precepts, repenting and dying to
trusting the leading and notions of mere men, we cannot understand the
things of God (Jn. 5:41, 44; 7:17; 1 Cor. 2:13-14). Every saint should
seriously consider putting away every scholar or church father and
begin listening intently (hearing) the voice of Jesus Christ speaking to
our hearts through His Word (Jn. 5:39; 10:35). He is calling you and I to
die and truly let Christ reign upon the throne of our hearts denouncing
the reliance upon and fear of man which bringeth a snare. (Prov.
29:25) We should relinquish the propensity to being prone to live in the
idolatry of upholding and aggrandizing the teachings of mere men, some
who are doctors of deception and use the Greek to concoct a grace
foreign to the Bible and therefore a false god in their own image.
Until we esteem the words of God more than our necessary food, we
cannot enjoy the full benefits and prosperity He longs to grant us (Josh.
1:8; Job 23:12). To apprehend and benefit from the full spectrum of
divine truth given to us, we should embark upon the diligent and
rewarding study of the whole of Scripture (Ps. 119:104, 128; Acts 20:20,

27, 32). A full-scale investigation and study of the Scriptures will yield
priceless dividends of understanding and much more (Ps. 119:72, 162;
Jer. 15:16; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16-17). Through the desire of the Word the
babe in Christ grows into the full stature and measure of maturity
intended by the Savior (Heb. 5:11-6:3; 1 Pet. 2:2).
The divine truth concerning the essential topic of the grace of God can
only be apprehended by the individual through a rigorous reading of the
whole of what the LORD said about it in His Word. The whole of Holy
Writ must be considered concerning any doctrine in question and not
just a few isolated verses. Error is inevitable when all Scripture is not
considered before drawing a conclusion (Prov. 18:13; 2 Tim. 3:16).
When the individual believer begins to learn the Word for himself
through daily study of Gods Word, he will not be left to follow a mere
mans line through Scripture, which many times does not take into
consideration all that the Word says about the subject in question.
The most imperative method of biblical interpretation is not Greek and
Hebrew, but rather to study the Word diligently and prayerfully and
allow the Holy Ghost and God's Word to define all things (Ps. 119; Isa.
28:10; 1 Cor. 2:13). God gave us His Word in our own language, namely
the Authorized Version (KJV). The most reliable way to apprehend truth
or understand the mind of God is by collating Scripture upon Scripture
and not be delving into the Hebrew or Greek (Isa. 28:10; 1 Cor. 2:13).
The Scriptures themselves must take full precedence and final authority
over any individuals private interpretation using Greek, Hebrew or
otherwise (2 Pet. 1:20-21). Has He not magnified His Word above even
His own name? (Ps. 138:2)
When collated line upon line and precept upon precept the words of the
LORD clearly define His mind in any given matter. Upon reading a
number of Scriptures on any given biblical topic, the reader is able to be
taught of the LORD Himself and have that particular doctrine defined in
his heart and mind and thereby protected from the corrupt and deceptive
twists and teachings entrenched in the midst of the evangelical church
world today. With this understanding, what do you see concerning grace
when reading the Bible verses below? Do you see a license to live in sin?
Or, do you see the divine mandate and individual responsibility of

everyone who has initially believed unto salvation to continue to trust

Christ fully and receive His enablement (grace) to live holy in this present
world?

Romans 6:1-2, 14-15

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace
may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin,
live any longer therein?For sin shall not have dominion over
you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then?
shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under
grace? God forbid.
Rhetorical question: What shall we say then? Shall we continue in
sin, that grace may abound? Answer: God forbid.
Enabling divine grace: For sin shall not have dominion over you: for
ye are not under the law, but under grace.
Another rhetorical question and answer: What then? shall we sin,
because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
The ensuing words in this important Romans 6 passage read this way:
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to
obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto
death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be
thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed
from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of
righteousness. Romans 6:16-18
V16 - Know ye not (do you not know), that to whom ye yield
yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye
obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto
righteousness?
According to the Word, any person not saved and delivered from living in
sin, is not saved from the penalty of sin eternal death damnation.

The soul that sinneth, it shall die. Ezekiel 18:4

First off, we observe that the way one lives is left up to him because in
the divine economy Faith which worketh by love (relationship).
(Gal. 5:6) While the Spirit of God who lives in every disciple will
initiate and enable godly living, the decision is left up to the individual
to move in obedience (Jn. 14:21; Heb. 11:7; James 1:22, 25; Rev. 2-3).
Each saint is a free moral agent, and yet, he will reap what he sows
and receive consequences for his decisions to either yield himself to
Christ or live in sin against His holiness (Gal. 6:7-9). One who lives in
unrepentant sin will be brought to death which is spiritual
separation from the LORD (Rom. 8:13). If a person chooses to live in
violation to the holiness of the Most High, he will ultimately descend
into the bowels of hell, that is, if he does not repent before it is too
late (Rom. 6:23; 8:13; Isa. 1:18-20; 55:6-7). While he is alive he
retains the blessed opportunity to freely receive full pardon at the
throne of His glorious grace (Heb. 4:14-16). So we observe in Gods
Word that Christ has made us free to serve Him and not free to live in
sin. He came to redeem us, forgiving all sins and empowering His
children to live free from the power and penalty of sin and yet He will
not force one against his free will to continue in such a blessed
salvation. Those who serve sin (live in sin) will receive death and
those who serve in obedience to the LORD receive
righteousness. (Rom. 6:16)
V17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin,
but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which
was delivered you.
When embraced, the biblical doctrine of the grace of God pleases Him
who loves us and brings freedom from sin - freedom not to sin.
V18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants
of righteousness.

Serving God in the blessing of His holy grace makes one free from
offending the holiness of the LORD and freed up to serve Him fully and
not be enslaved to sin and all of its horrid consequences (now and later).
Ready or not - Jesus is coming!

Cowardly Cop-Out
Excuses, lies, and sin-justifying false teachings are crippling to the
spiritual life. Moral cowardice is rampant among those who claim to be
serving Christ. Many have been seduced by deceiving spirits and
doctrines.
We who are His must flee from any person teaching a grace that doesnt
inspire, require and enable obedience and holiness. God has identified
this person as false (Jude 3-4).
If you have ever been out on the streets witnessing, you can testify of
how many saved people are out living just like the world and yet in
their minds they are once saved always saved and eternally secure.
The son of a preacher recently told a friend of mine: I'm just living by
grace, I'm living by grace. A friend and another Christian were
communicating the Gospel when he met this man who said he was
relying on Gods grace. This man in his early 20's was out getting drunk
in a district dedicated to immoral partying. The two believers present
wisely and obediently quoted to him Titus 2:11-12 and told him that he
didn't currently possess the grace of God. They shared with him that if
he were truly saved by grace, he would be living godly in this present
world and not out befriending and doing what the world does (James 4:4;
1 Jn. 2:15-17). Obviously there is forgiveness for all who confess and
repent of sin (Heb. 8:12; 1 Jn. 1:9).
I must say that inevitably, while out ministering on the streets in
numerous cities in America, I have personally encountered the same
delusion. There has rarely been a time while communicating the Word on
the streets that this believer has not met those who claim to be saved by
the grace of God and yet have no intention to live a separated life (2 Cor.
6:14-7:1). Each of these people claimed to be eternally secure. This
lifestyle, which lacks the fruit of a true believer, is the evidence of the
OSAS myth being taught from books and pulpits and various media in
our world. Numerous Christian witnesses concur with this finding. The

grace-corrupting message of unconditional eternal security is bearing evil

fruit and is tragically epidemic in its reach.
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having
this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every
one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 2
Timothy 2:19
There is no sin that cannot be overcome by drawing close to God in
prayer and fasting, that He might increase and the sinful nature be
subdued and crucified (Jn. 3:30; 1 Cor. 9:27). There is a deliberate
decision being made in the life of every person who names Christ as their
Savior. We are either loving and obeying Him and denying the self life, or
we are obeying the dictates of the sinful nature. What a blessing it is that
His precious grace is far greater than any sin that may presently have
hold of our lives!
One concerned believer wrote to us saying:
Ive read with interest (your article on) once saved always saved?
I must admit that I know of at least one person in the small church
I attend who claims to be saved, but exhibits none of the fruit a
Christian should have (chronically late for work, inconsiderate, a
people user, irresponsible with her money and expecting others to
pay her way, greedy, wasteful, materialistic, self-serving). I had
understood that we cant judge a persons heart, but I also knew
that Gods Word says by their fruit we shall know them. I guess I
always figured that she was put in my life as a challenge to keep
mine on the straight and narrow, but its really been a
discouragement to me since I really want to serve the Lord. I think
you are the first Ive come across that dares to question the
doctrine of eternal security, and is brave enough to stand in
opposition to it. I really do believe it needs such a look in this age
where grace has effectively become cheap to most people who
think they can continue in their old ways (sins). Thank you so
much, and may it be a wake-up call to the church!

We Were Forewarned About These Grace-perverters

The Holy Spirit through Jude levels a stern caution concerning those who
are come to pervert the doctrine of the grace of God once delivered to the
saints in the Bible:
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before
of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness (license to sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude 4
Jude here warns and foretells us of those infiltrators who would
gradually permeate the Church world and teach people that they can be
saved (bound for Heaven) and yet at the same time possess the freedom
to live their lives as they wish, with full personal autonomy and no
personal responsibility to love and obey Christ supremely. In this
prophetic warning lasciviousness means without restraint and this is
the lifestyle promoted by those who have seeped into our midst and teach
this once saved always saved heresy. The primary and insidious
objective of Satan through these deluded men and their message of
perverted grace, is to define grace as a license to live as they wish.
Either blatantly or directly, their teachings give authorization for sensual
living instead of teaching the biblical grace which grants the divine
enablement to live holy in all manner of life while denying ungodliness
and worldly lusts and living soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world. (Tit. 2:11-12)
Grace empowers us to do what truth demands! Jeff Marshall
These grace-perverters of our day re-define grace as so all-encompassing
that it pre-empts the very holy nature of the Almighty and any need for
personal holiness in the individual believer. The perversion of truth has
blanketed the world of Christendom and is causing the fall of many. The
message is justification to sin rather than justification from sin, and is
not only not a doctrine of the Christian faith (as they teach it is), it is
rather a direct affront to a holy God and Savior who came and died to
free us from sin, not to sin (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29; 2 Tim. 2:19; Tit. 2:1114; 1 Jn. 3:5). Beware: this false teaching denies Christ and His demand
for personal holiness in all His people (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1). Perhaps those

who teach otherwise deny Christ in their own personal lives and
ministries. It was foretold that those who do such will be more prevalent
in this late hour than in any other time in human history (Matt. 24:11; 2
Tim. 3:13; 2 Pet. 2:17-21; 1 Jn. 4:1; Jude 3-4).
These ungodly men who have crept into our midst unnoticed by
most, operate among us under the pretense of being educated scholars,
theologians, elders, and pastors. As the Holy Spirit foretold, some in this
late hour stretch and manipulate the basic definition of Gods grace and
how He defines it in His Word (Jude 3-4). They teach things about grace
that the Holy Scriptures simply do not intimate.
Sin as He defines it, will always be an offense to a holy God (Rom. 7:725; 1 Jn. 3:4). He who is infinitely holy does not dispense grace to cover
unrepentant sin but rather to empower the recipient to fully overcome as
he fervently watches and prays and awaits the soon return of His LORD
and Savior (Prov. 28:13; Lk. 21:34-36; Tit. 2:11-14; Heb. 9:28).
Grace is precious. Grace was costly. Christ shed His sinless blood on
a cross to obtain it for us (Rom. 3:24; Tit. 3:7; Heb. 2:9). In the
biblical view, heavenly grace was given, not to justify the sin but
rather to justify and pardon the repentant sinner from the wrath of a
holy God, empowering him to please the One who redeemed Him for
good works. Those who live in His holy presence are empowered by
His grace to be fruitful in His kingdom harvest of souls and the
building up of his saints.
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption
that is in Christ Jesus Much more then, being now justified
by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
Romans 3:24, 5:9
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of
yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man
should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ
Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we
should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10
In the modern church, it is widely taught and believed that the way one

lives has no bearing on his present or eternal state and place with God.
See Romans 6:1-2, 15.
Jesse Morrell writes:
The topic of Christian freedom is one which every Christian must
know about. I fear that Christian freedom has been twisted today
to become the exact opposite of what it was meant to be. Christian
freedom is not freedom to sin, but it is freedom from sin. We need
a fresh revelation of the grace of God. The grace of God does not
enable us to sin. Rather the grace of God empowers us to live free
from sin Heb 12:14 - Follow peace with all men, and holiness,
without which no man shall see the Lord. Its a sad truth that the
world is lost, but even sadder is that many of those who sit in
Church are lost. Many preachers dont preach holiness as they
should. This generation is being cheated. We need to wake up.
Those who sit in our church buildings may be going to hell and our
preachers are driving the bus there! Jesse Morrell
Friend, please allow me to encourage you to make Romans 6 a place you
regularly study, pouring over these God-breathed words, soaking them
into your heart and thinking.
This continual biblical teaching of personal holiness takes in so much of
the message of the New Testament. The early Church was taught to look
for the return of Christ. Look at this verse specifically speaking of the
return of Jesus and the consequent life posture of the true disciple:
And every man that hath this hope in him (of the return of
Jesus) purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3
Concerning the deceivers which abound, especially in the late hour in
which we live, the Holy Spirit warns:
Let that therefore abide (remain) in you, which ye have heard
from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the
beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the
Son, and in the FatherThese things have I written unto you
concerning them that seduce youAnd now, little children,

abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have

confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If
ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that
doeth righteousness is born of him. 1 John 2:24, 26, 28-29
John the apostle here warns of those in his day that were seducing
believers in Christ to live at ease and as they wished and not in the fear
of God. The message of a grace that enables living unto ones self is very
seductive and yet it comes with an eternal and horrible price tag because
God is holy and the wages of sin is still death and all souls who live in
sin shall surely perish in hell (Ezek. 18:4; Rom. 6:23). Johns response
here in 1 John 3:3 was that believers who were truly walking with Christ
were purifying all sin from their lives in light of His eminent return.
These authentic disciples didnt want anything to jeopardize their
relationship and eternity with their first love Jesus.
PRAYER: Jesus, my LORD, empower me by Your glorious grace to live
pleasing and evermore fruitful to You. Please reveal any deception in my
life, namely that which would exploit the precious grace You died to grant.
Father in Heaven, never allow me to be seduced by the lying spirit that
seeks to lead Your people to believe they have no responsibility to live in
holy communion with You after being saved. Purify my heart LORD and
change me from the inside out. I love You and into Your holy hands I now
commit my spirit afresh. Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT

THE MANIFOLD GRACE OF GOD

1 PETER 4:10

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the

same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace
of God. 1 Peter 4:10
There are many facets to Gods grace it is manifold. The victory of
Calvary is the greatest manifestation of divine grace ever to be poured
out upon mankind (Jn. 3:16). The cross is the most popular and glorious
aspects of His grace - The truth that while we were yet sinners the
sinless Savior came and died for us to take the blow of death in our place
(Rom. 5:6, 8, 19; Heb. 2:9). We owe a debt we cannot pay and He paid
the debt He did not owe! With His one, perfect sacrifice, Christ by
himself paid for and fully expired the need for any more payment for
sins (Mk. 15:38; Jn. 1:29; 19:30; Heb. 1:3; 10:12). When He decreed It
is finished on the cross, He was openly declaring to the whole world
that His sacrifice was the final sacrifice to propitiate for the sins of all
men and that it forever ended the need for any more sacrifices (Jn.
19:30; Book of Hebrews; 1 Jn. 2:2). Christs perfect sacrifice supersedes
all Old Testament sacrificial offerings which were a mere shadow of what
He became the substance of (Col. 2:14-17; Heb. 6-9). What profound and
immeasurable grace!
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto
himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath
committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians
5:19
Before the foundation of the world the Lamb of God was slain for us all
(Rev. 13:8; 17:8). While we were yet sinners (Rom. 5:6, 8). By the
blood of his cross we were all granted grace beyond measure and yet
there are prerequisites set up by the God of all grace. (Col. 1:20; 1
Pet. 5:10) The grace of Calvary was done deliberately with no guarantee
to Him that even one person would believe to eternal life. Yet He did it!
It is finished! (Jn. 19:30)
To satisfy the claims of His holy Justice, God the Father poured out upon
His only begotten Son the sins of the then present world and the entire
population to come (Isa. 53; 1 Jn. 4:9, 19). He who is holy, holy, holy
and cannot fellowship with sin, personally came to pay the entire price
for the sins we have committed against Himself (Jn. 3:10, 23; 5:6, 8; 1
Tim. 1:15). Jesus came to satisfy the sin debt and settle the issue of
salvation and complete forgiveness (Col. 1:14). This is the unfathomable
wonder of the grace of His salvation and the granting of free pardon and
eternal life. In this free gift of His grace we witness that He who is holy
hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 5:18) On the
cross He redeemed or bought back His fallen creation. The first man

Adam, had sinned and by His sin death passed upon all men and yet
Christ came and single-handedly bought us back with the price of His
own blood (Matt. 26:28; Rom. 5:12, 19). Yes, the LORD be praised that
God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself. (2 Cor. 5:19)
He has by His glorious grace granted full pardon by purchasing us back
from sin unto Himself In whom we have redemption through his
blood, even the forgiveness of sins. (Col. 1:14)
Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet
(able) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath
translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we
have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of
sins. Colossians 1:12-14 (it should be noted that the new
versions of the Bible, which are taken from corrupted manuscripts,
have removed through his blood from this verse 14 and are
thereby should be condemned as an abomination Rev. 22:18-19)
This following passage paints the picture of our sinfulness and His grace:
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour
toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we
have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the
washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our
Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made
heirs (inheritors) according to the hope of eternal life. Titus
3:4-7
What sin we have committed! What blood He has shed! What forgiveness!
What a Savior! What a salvation! This is the One Jesus - Whom
having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet
believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (1
Pet. 1:8-9)
There is more than one aspect to divine grace it is manifold and
Gods people should seek to behold a fuller spectrum of it revealed in His
Word (Acts 20:32). Gods grace goes far beyond initial salvation deep into
the life of every one of His saints. Initial salvation is merely the beginning
of His specific, personal work in ones life. Salvation grace is to fuel and
consume the life experience of the saint.
Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the
knowledge of God, and of Jesus our LordBut grow in grace,

and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To

him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 1:2; 3:18
For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace
(Heb. 13:9) We are to grow in grace and also in the knowledge of
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2 Pet. 3:18) Such grace is
revealed in the word of his grace and as we walk with the LORD in
the power of His Holy Spirit (Lk. 4:14; Acts 20:32; Rom. 8:14; 15:19).
We should endeavor to search out, survey, embrace, and speak out the
truth of His grace in more aspects than its initial role in the life of the
found sinner. The initiating grace of God that found and saved us is
essential in the daily life of the believer. Gods grace is to be multiplied to
the believer (2 Pet. 1:2; 3:18). Such a multiplication should be sought by
every believer. Saints should pray daily for His grace to be increased in
their lives. What a distinct and substantial privilege given us! - Ask,
and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. (Jn. 16:24) Ye
have not, because ye ask not. (James 4:2) Also, the Word says that
we must (in our walk with Jesus) through much tribulation enter
into the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:22) His grace is more than
sufficient to bring us victoriously through all persecutions, tribulations,
trials, and toils in this life - But the God of all grace, who hath called
us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered
a while, make you perfect (mature), stablish, strengthen, settle you.
(1 Pet. 5:10)
Among other things that it is to New Testament believers, Gods grace:

Grants justification to eternal life (Rom. 3:24; Tit. 3:7)

Is bountiful and abundant and through Christs blood grants
forgiveness of sins, according to the riches (abundance) of his
grace (Eph. 1:7)
Grants great power to bear witness of the resurrection of the
Lord Jesus (Acts 4:33)
Grants enabling divine power through sufferings (1 Pet. 5:10)
Grants power to overcome sin and live pleasing to God in this
earthly life and be ready for Christs soon return (Rom. 6:14; Tit.
2:11-14)
Causes the saint to abound and have all sufficiency in all
things (2 Cor. 9:8)
Grants empowerment to operate in the giftings He has placed in
our lives (Eph. 3:7; 4:7; 1 Pet. 4:10)
Has made saints fit to be made heirs according to the hope of
eternal life (Tit. 3:7)



Enables the believer to minister grace as he speaks the truth in

love (Eph. 4:15, 29; Col. 4:6)
Grants open access to the throne of His grace to receive
blessings untold through the blood of Jesus (Heb. 4:14-16)
Enables ones heart to be established (Heb. 13:9)
Grants power to wax strong in spirit and be filled with divine
wisdom (Lk. 2:40)
Blesses believers to sing with grace in their hearts to the LORD
(Col. 3:16)
Grants everlasting consolation and good hope (2 Thess. 2:16)
Enables the disciple to receive grace upon grace (Jn. 1:16)
Teaches those who posses it to deny ungodliness and worldly
lusts and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world; Looking for that blessed hope (Tit. 2:11-14)
Enables us to reign in life by one, Jesus Christ as we have
received abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness
(Rom. 5:17)
Grants one the ability to serve God acceptably with reverence
and godly fear (Heb. 12:28)
Given freely to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:5)
Is where all saints stand (1 Pet. 5:12)
Will be multiplied to saints as they seek and serve Him (2 Pet.
1:2)
Will be brought to remnant saints when Jesus appears (1 Pet.
1:13)
Is to be grown in (2 Pet. 3:18)
Labors in the life of the one who is serving God (1 Cor. 15:10)
Is sufficient to bless, deliver, help, and grant favor to the
believer in times of trouble (2 Cor. 12:9-10)

Gods grace permeates the life of the believer who seeks Him. It is multifaceted manifold and this volume is set forth for us to endeavor to
observe and acknowledge the whole of what the LORD communicated to
us of His grace in the word of his grace. (Acts 14:3; 20:32) For our
knowledge of God, we should look exclusively to His Precepts alone,
which is the true Word of the true grace of God. (1 Pet. 5:12) As we
search the scriptures we will not be misled to believe things that go
contrary to or beyond the parameters of what the LORD has given to us
in His Word. There is a written will. It is the Bible, Gods Holy Word. Its
contents define the inheritance we have received by virtue of Christs
sacrifice and resurrection (Acts 20:32). We are called to study and to
rightly divide the Word of truth and to by this be good stewards of the
manifold grace of God. (2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Pet. 4:10)
When we begin to unearth the golden nuggets of His truth, we will
discover that there is the other side of grace, the side we seldom if ever

hear mentioned or preached about. I am talking about the full-counsel

word of his grace and not the limited version and skewed or grossly
exaggerated version we see depicted in books, preaching, and other
media venues (Acts 14:3; 20:32). Gods grace can reach to the lowest
place of degradation to find us and yet, He says it can be frustrated,
fallen from, received in vain, done despite to, and failed (2 Cor. 6:2; Gal.
2:21; 5:4; Heb. 10:29; 12:15). Have you ever heard that part of grace in
your local church or from your favorite author or radio communicator?
In some circles it seems that grace is depicted as something lavished
upon us from a god who has as his ultimate goal to just bless us no
matter what our hearts and actions and who forces his love on us as if
he is needy and created us solely because he was bored and needed
someone to love. Nonsense! That is the image of a false god being etched
upon the minds of the masses by the psycho-babblers and grace
corrupters of our day (Jude 3-4). This is all the more reason to run to His
truth and to let our heart be established with grace directly from
the word of his grace. (Acts 14:3; 20:32; Heb. 13:9)
We are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is
in Christ Jesus and yet the Word of God also tells us that His glorious
grace does not automatically or indiscriminately remain in the life of one
who has at some point received it. We access and are kept by the
power of His grace through our faith (Rom. 5:1-2; Eph. 2:8-9; 1 Pet.
1:5). In Gods economy, faith opens the door to divine grace - It is of
faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be
sure to all the seed (Rom. 4:16) The promise of eternal life is made
sure as the recipient of salvation continues to access the grace of God
that initially saved him (Rom. 5:1-2).
Though we have been justified freely by his grace, we see also
throughout Scripture that saving grace is not an un-forfeitable
possession. Once in grace, always in grace is a farce. Its not that Jesus
did an imperfect work on the cross, but rather that man has been given
by Him free moral agency and is therefore not forced to remain in
relationship with Him (Deut. 30:19; Isa. 1:18-20; Ps. 73:27; Ezek. 33:1213; Jn. 15:5; 2 Pet. 2:20-21). The holiness of the Almighty is never
lessened or diminished due to His grace (Rom. 11:19-23). He came to
save us by grace because He is holy. There are no contradicting
attributes in His eternal and infinitely perfect divine nature. Contrary to
what some would have us believe, Gods grace cannot be divorced from
His other attributes. Those who persist in violating His holiness are not
covered by His grace.
He had a deeper purpose in redeeming us and this is the joy that was
set before him that caused Him to triumph as He endured the cross,

despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne
of God. (Heb. 12:2-3) In light of this, we are instructed to look unto
Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. (Heb. 12:2) He risked that
we would love Him in return of His initiating love (Jer. 31:3; 1 Jn. 4:9-10;
16, 19). He came and died to supply us all the enabling grace we would
ever need in this life with no guarantee that any one of us would love
Him supremely.
He has informed us that His spirit shall not always strive with man.
(Gen. 6:3) He will not force any man to love Him and to serve Him. The
kingdom of God is based upon love and relationship and that is by
nature always volitional faith worketh by love. (Gal. 5:6) Trusting
the LORD is due to our love for Him. Our faith in Him is based on His
love in us and our love for Him (1 Jn. 4:9-10, 16, 19).
Gods grace actually enables us to love and please Him in holiness and
receive His forgiveness as we seek Him in repentance and faith in fervent
expectancy of the soon return of the One we have a relationship with Christ the LORD (Tit. 2:11-14). God has seen fit that divine grace is only
imparted as one believes. It is not indescriminately granted. The same
requirement for initial salvation remains throughout the life of the one
who has at some point in the past repented and believed. When faith
ceases, so does grace. - Therefore being justified by faith, we have
peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we
have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in
hope of the glory of God. (Rom. 5:1-2)
This truth of the enabling grace of God is ignored and left out of the
message of a false grace propagated by many today (Jude 3-4). Grace
simply doesnt grant license to sin but rather victory over it! Study
closely Romans 6:14 and Titus 2:11-12.
His grace is sufficient for those who fear and seek Him and not to those
who dont. The life of David illustrates the grace of God which worked in
this man after Gods own heart (2 Chron. 11-12; Ps. 51; Acts 13:22).
After being saved, this believer has personally been rescued by the
LORDs grace numerous times and can only give thanks to Him for such.
His grace surely is sufficient to find and rescue us as He did the
prodigal son (Lk. 15; 2 Cor. 12:9-10). LORD, thank You for Your great
love and grace toward us! Without You we have and are nothing!
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being
justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in
Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation
through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the
remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of

God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he

might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in
Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of
works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude
that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Romans 3:23-28
No man can possibly understand the depths of the manifold fullness
of the abundance of grace bestowed upon mankind by Christs perfect
sacrifice and yet, His Word has much to say concerning His grace. The
believer should learn and remain within the parameters and bounds of
His written revelation to us and not inflate His grace into something not
made evident in Holy Writ. We must beware of the good words and fair
speeches of leaders and authors who are painting a picture of grace
that is not according to the fullness of what Scripture reveals (Rom.
16:17-18). These are they that we are warned about who are turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord
God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 3-4) Those who paint a false
picture of Gods grace deny the LORD Jesus (Isa. 8:20; Tit. 2:11-12).
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it
is a good thing that the heart be established with grace
Hebrews 13:9
Here we read of the doctrine of grace and are warned not to be carried
about or deluded by the strange doctrine of false grace. A strange
doctrine is one that is foreign to or not derived from the very Word of
God. We must ask the LORD to establish our hearts with the true,
original version of His holy grace and not be carried about with strange
doctrines which paint the picture of a false grace that somehow doesnt
teach us personal holiness and claims to cover the sins of the
unrepentant (Tit. 2:11-12; Heb. 10:16-39; 12:14-15; 13:9). When we
learn the word of his grace we will know the true grace of God
wherein ye stand and not be misled by the grace corrupters (Acts
20:32; 1 Pet. 5:12; Jude 3-4).
This grace was provided by and is continually dispensed by Christ. What
He died to provide He lives to freely dispense and bestow upon the lives
of His saints on earth.
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that
come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make
intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who
is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made
higher than the heavens; Hebrew 7:25-26

PRAYER: Thank You Father for sending Jesus to die and shed His blood
to grant Your undeserved grace to all of mankind and to me. Establish my
heart in Your grace and teach me. Grant to my heart the understanding
and full experience of Your grace in truth as You have ordained under the
New Covenant. Strike my heart to fear Your name and to know You LORD.
Amen.

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE

CAN A BELIEVER STOP BELIEVING?

Is Faith a Choice?

They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, RECEIVE
THE WORD with joy; and these have no root, which for a while
BELIEVE, and in time of temptation FALL AWAY. Luke 8:13
Can a person who is born again, that is, they have believed upon the
LORD Jesus Christ and been saved, stop believing? WHAT DID JESUS
TEACH? They on the rock are they, which, when they hear,
RECEIVE THE WORD with joy; and these have no root, which for a
while BELIEVE, and in time of temptation FALL AWAY. (Lk. 8:13)
Do we have the slightest record in all of history of God forcing any person
to repent and place their trust in Him? The answer would be a
resounding No. If not, then why would He force any person to continue
to believe in Him? Many in leadership today have painted a picture of
grace that is simply not found in Holy Scripture.
Some vainly suppose that the believer is forced to remain in the state of
faith toward God once he has been brought to repentance and has

initially believed upon Christ. Does the believer lose his ability to choose
once he has at one point placed his trust in Christ? If so, where might we
find this in Gods Word?
According to the Son of God, there are those who believe and are saved,
yet when times and trials get tough, they fall away.
Many who believe and therefore come to a saving faith in Jesus
Christ, do not continue to trust Him due to persecutions, trials, love for
the things of this world, greed, idolatry, etc., and consequently will not be
eternally saved, because they have fall[en] away. (Lk. 8:13) Notice here
that Jesus Christ, the very Author of salvation, is the One who first used
the term fall away. Why would the very Son of God use this language if
such were not possible?
Dare we indict the LORD and Savior Himself as a liar, by denying the
possibility of falling away? If the Master Himself used the term fall
away, dare we argue with Him or question whether such is possible?
While many only acknowledge 3, Jesus spoke of 4 types of heart soil in
the parable of the sower. It is intellectual dishonesty to deny such. Study
Luke 8:12-15 and count the 4 heart soils Christ spoke of. Find where
you are and change to the 4th. The 2nd heart type is the one who believes
for a while then falls away (Lk. 8:13).
Is Jesus Christ a deceiver? Why then would He warn us of falling away
from the faith if such were not possible? He simply wouldnt. In John 6
Christ said:
From that time many of his DISCIPLES went back, and
walked no more with him. John 6:66
The prodigal son rebelled against his father. After long being in his
fathers house, he went into a life of sin. When the prodigal son repented
and came back, his father, who represents the Heavenly Father, said:
For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost,
and is found. And they began to be merryIt was meet that
we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother

was dead, and is alive AGAIN; and was lost, and is found.
Luke 15:24, 32
The son who left his father stopped believing and being in his fathers
care. One may argue that he was still a son, but another may rightfully
argue that he lost all of the benefits of being a son while he was in
unbelief and would have perished if he had not returned to his father.
Please look at the above Bible text again and note some basic things
that are irrefutable:
1) my son sonship (represents a saved person; a person who
has a father/son relationship with the heavenly Father)
2) was dead as Jude speaks of, a person can be twice dead,
plucked up by the roots. (Jude 12) Twice dead simply refers
to the apostate person who was initially born dead (separated) in
sin (Rom. 5:12) then got saved and fell away again. How could
a person be plucked up by the roots from a place he wasnt
already planted? Impossible.
3) alive AGAIN need we explain that again means for a second
time?
4) my sonwas lost after being a son of his father, he become
lost again.
5) thy brother this is yet another clear reference to sonship.
One could not possibly be a brother if he is not first a son.
Faith is all about relationship and this son freely chose to loose himself
or distance himself from his relationship with his father. He then
returned to his father of his own free will. Some never do.
The son who left his father stopped believing. One may argue that he was
still a son, but another may rightfully argue that he lost all of the
benefits of being a son while he was in unbelief and would have perished
if he had not returned to his father.
There is no valid assurance of election and final salvation for any
man, apart from deliberate perseverance in faith. Robert Shank,
Life in the Son (Springfield, MO: Westcott Pubs., 1960), pg. 293.
In Romans 11, why would the apostle Paul dare to use the covenant
relationship between the LORD and His covenant people Israel as an
example and warning to the SAVED Gentiles (us) if such were not

applicable? Ludicrous thought! Is our relationship with the LORD not

based upon a covenant? (Matt. 26:28; Heb. 8:6-13) Are there not binding
laws of responsibility governing every covenant? Are not both parties
responsible to act within the laws of agreement set forth in the covenant
they agreed upon? Cannot those laws be broken if one of the parties so
chooses? Of course.
And say thou unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel;
Cursed be the man that obeyeth not the words of this
covenant. Jeremiah 11:3
In a response to SGYS of the Bible position of a conditional eternal
security, one man defending unconditional eternal security stated: I am
talking as one who was dead and is now alive unto Christ. I'm not talking
about a Sunday church goer, I'm talking about a Redeemed, Born Again,
heir and joint heir with Christ. Our Response: Where did you get the
term heir from? You got it from the book of Romans, right? Yes, the
word heir(s) appears in Romans 4:13-14; 8:17. Which was written to
the VERY EXACT heirs of salvation the Holy Spirit is specifically warning
(in Romans) to Fear lest they also be cut off as the covenant Jews
were (Rom. 11:19-23). You asked Show me in the Scriptures where a
son is cut off from the Father. Ready? Here we go For this MY SON
son was dead (separated by sin), and is ALIVE AGAIN; he was lost,
and is found. And they began to be merry. It was meet (good) that
we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead,
and is alive AGAIN; and was lost, and is found. (Lk. 15:24, 32) The
son who left his father stopped believing, ceased relationship with, and
departed from his fathers care. One may argue that he was still a son,
but another may rightfully argue that he lost all of the benefits of being a
son while he was in unbelief and would have perished if he had not
returned to his father. Like Israel and the prodigal (wayward) son, all
blessings will be lost in the lives of those who do not return home to the
Father in repentance including the reward of Heaven. Twice dead
(Jude 12) is the state of alienation from God and not one soul who dies
outside of fellowship with He who is the very Gate of Heaven, will enter
therein and there is no respect of persons with God. (Rom. 2:11;
Rev. 21:8, 27; 22:11). The loss of full inheritance is a real possibility
according to the Holy Word of God. It is an undeniable biblical fact that
Israel was put away and given a bill of divorce by their Maker and
Redeemer (Jer. 3:8). Gods covenant people were cut off. (Rom. 11:1922) The individual Jew and Gentile believer loses all inheritance that was
part of that covenantal union and agreement if he violates that
agreement, unless he repents and returns home (Rom. 11:23).

And they also (backslidden Jews), if they abide (remain) not

still in unbelief (sin), shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft
them in AGAIN. Romans 11:23
Upon repentance and re-placing ones trust or faith in Christ, the LORD
grafts that person back into the vine of His eternal family again. The
LORD is a God of restoration and the possibility of the wayward being
restored is just as real as the possibility of being cut off if one chooses
not to remain in relationship with Christ. In fact, coming home is a
celebration the likes of which we cannot comprehend. In the very
presence of the holy angels of the Almighty is great rejoicing which
means its the LORD Himself celebrating the return of one of His own (Lk.
15 this chapter is all about Gods restorative love).
According to 1 Timothy 5:12, saving faith can be disposed of by its
possessor:
Having damnation, because they have cast off their first
faith. 1 Timothy 5:12
Eternal damnation will be the result of all who cast off their first
faith which initially facilitated the saving of their souls (Rom. 10:9-10,
13). The New Testament record simply never hints that those who are
born again can live in sin while maintaining a security for Heaven. No
spotted garments of un-holiness will enter Gods holy Heaven and those
who choose their sin over Christ have ceased having saving faith and
demonstrate their idolatry disqualifying themselves from eternal life (Rev.
21:8, 27; Gal. 5:19-21; Heb. 12:14). Seeing ye put it (the Word of God)
from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life. (Acts
13:46) Those who do not make their calling and election sure will neglect
the great salvation Christ purchased and suffer eternal fire (Heb. 2:3; 2
Pet. 1:10). Those who put away the Word of God dont mix it with faith toss eternal life to the wind (Heb. 4:1-2).
How Shall We Escape?
Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the

things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let

them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and
every transgression and disobedience received a just
recompense of reward; 3How shall we escape, if we neglect so
great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the

Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him.

Hebrews 2:1-3
LESTWE SHOULD LET THEM SLIP. One reason the writer of
Hebrews emphasizes the superiority of Gods Son and His
revelation over that of prophets and angels is to stress to those
who have experienced salvation that they must take with intense
seriousness the original witness and doctrine of Christ and the
apostles. Therefore, we must give close attention to Gods Word,
our relation to Christ, and the leading of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:1625). (1) Neglect, carelessness, or unconcern is fatal. A believer who
because of negligence, allows the truth and teachings of the gospel
to slip, is in great peril of being swept along downstream past a
fixed landing place and of failing to gain its security. (2) Like the
recipients of this letter, all Christians are tempted to become
indifferent to Gods Word. Because of carelessness and unconcern,
we may easily begin to pay less attention to Gods warnings (v. 2),
cease to persevere in our struggle against sin (Heb. 12:4; 1 Pet.
2:11), and slowly drift away from Gods Son, Jesus Christ (Heb.
12:1-3; 6:4-8; 10:31-32; see Rom. 8:13, note). Life in the Spirit
Study Bible, p. 1942
How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? This is a
question posed to His own people by the LORD. The LORD has done His
part He made the ultimate sacrifice and he is able also to save them
to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth
to make intercession for them. (Heb. 7:25) The key is in coming in
true faith and continuing to come before Him in saving faith. His
salvation plan is perfect and accomplished through His sinless blood Now what remains to be seen is who will appropriate so great
salvation. At this point one might say But this sounds like a works
salvation. Does it? Does the LORD Jesus and His holy apostles not tell
us that only those who obey Him will be in Heaven? (Matt. 7:21; 1 Jn.
2:3-5) Didnt He warn us to Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait
gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be
ableBut he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are;
depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping
and gnashing of teeth (Lk. 13:24, 27, 28)
In Matthew 25 we read the words of Jesus in His parable of the ten
virgins. The 5 wise virgins continued steadfastly in relationship with the
bridegroom while the foolish virgins simply neglected their relationship
with the bridegroom to be and missed out the door was shut and they
were left outside (Matt. 25:1-13). Grave eternal consequence lies ahead of
all who become born again and do not make their calling and election
sure. In another place the Son of God taught that it was the cares of

this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other
things that disqualify one from being fruitful and entering His eternal
kingdom (Mk. 4:19).
Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your
calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall
never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you
abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and
Saviour Jesus ChristLooking for and hasting unto the
coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire
shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent
heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new
heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be
diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot,
and blameless. 2 Peter 1:10; 3:12-14
Denial or Endurance?
Disobedience is denial, and IF we deny him, he also will deny us. (2
Tim. 2:12)
Notice that the Bible tells us here that IF we deny him, he also will
deny us. (2 Tim. 2:12) What could be plainer?
Guy Duty stated:
We have seen that Gods salvation covenant is a continuing
covenant. And it is a monstrous deception to teach that the
continual sinner will be saved by a continued covenant that
demands his continued obedience. Guy Duty, If Ye Continue
(Minneapolis: Bethany, 1966), 65, 169.
According to the Bible record, final salvation is conditional upon the
continued obedience of the recipient. Salvation is received initially by
obedient faith and also maintained by an ongoing trust in Christ.
One is saved when he places his full trust in Jesus Christ and remains
justified as long as he continues to believe.
Do you know what Hebrews 5:9 says of eternal salvation? Lets look:

And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal

salvation unto all them that obey him. Hebrews 5:9
Did you notice that eternal salvation is only for them that obey
Him?
An integral part of the Gospel is obedience and so is suffering. The two
will always be interrelated. The one who truly loves and obeys the LORD
Jesus Christ will always encounter persecutions and sufferings as our
LORD did (Jn. 15:20; Acts 14:22; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Pet. 2:20-23; 4:1, 1214).
Some read only part of Romans 8 without acknowledging the whole
chapter. Every word in Gods Word is as inspired as the next (Prov.
30:5; Lk. 4:4). In Romans 8, some take verses 37-39 concerning the
truth that the LORD will never take away His love from those who are
His. And yet, in this very chapter and throughout Scripture, we learn
that there are conditions to remaining in Christ and those who walk
away from Him are no longer His.
Romans 8:1 says:
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are
in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the
Spirit. Romans 8:1
Romans 8:12-14 tells us:
Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live
after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if
ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye
shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are
the sons of God. Romans 8:12-14
Note here in this passage that if we, the saint of God, lives in the sins of
the flesh, he will die or be separated from God by his sin. Also, it is those
who are currently led of the Holy Spirit who are the sons of God.
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with
Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also
glorified together. Romans 8:17

To one writer who espoused the misconception that Romans 8:38-39 is

dealing with salvation, Jeff Paton writes:
Your conclusion that Pauls statement that he wished to be
accursed was somehow an affirmation that a believer cannot fall
away is to say, absurd! It is ASSUMPTION to say that Romans
8:38-39 asserts that a believer cannot fall away or lose their
salvation. Salvation is not even the object of the passage! People
have read salvation into it so much that somehow they see
something that is not even there! One cannot make Pauls
statement of desiring to save people by being accursed to be an
affirmation of the impossibility of departing from salvation,
especially when it is hinged upon a verse that has nothing to do
with salvation, but Gods love in times of persecution! You said, As
Scripture confirms, this relationship is not one that can be
broken. Scripture NEVER states, affirms, suggests, implies or
even confirms this! We would never be in the predicament that
we are in if this were true, for Adam and Eve would not have been
separated from God and the Garden. While your argument is more
subtle than ours, it is no less dogmatic! Those passages that talk
about falling away either refer to those who did not truly accept the
entire message, thus were not truly rooted in Christ, While this
may be true in SOME cases, it is certainly not in ALL cases. The
dogmatic assertion or implication that ALL these verses must be
seen with the view that these are not true believers is a mere
ASSUMPTION! Reading such an assumption into Scripture verses
only makes most of these passages to speak of absurdities. One
cannot fall away from that which they were never part of! Yet you
convolute the issue even further by claiming that falling away can
be described as stumbling. It seems that in those passages where
you cannot dismiss the subjects of the warning by saying that they
were always unbelievers, you must read stumbling into the
passage so it does not look like Christians can fall away. Without
an ASSUMED doctrine that a believer cannot leave the faith, there
is no reason to minimize the gravity of Gods warnings, or to read
things into Scripture that way. Whole religions are erected on this
flawed method of eisegesis; look at Universalism. Upon the thesis,

God is love, and therefore He would never send anybody to hell,

people develop all kinds of tactics just as yours to avoid accepting
what Scripture has to say (at face value). Ask a true Universalist!
They will explain away every Scripture that you can come up with
as either not applying to people, or reinterpreting the words to
soften the horrendous danger that awaits the unrepentant!
Whether one runs with the idea of Gods love, Gods sovereignty, or
even free will at the expense of whatever else is revealed in
Scripture, it will inevitably lead them to imbalanced and false
doctrines.
Christ warned us that there is going to be a great trying of the faith of
His people, especially in the last hour of this age in which we live. He
also gave His people the condition for making it to Heaven. See if you can
find it in His words:
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one
another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets
shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall
abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall
endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Matthew
24:10-13
So if Jesus said to us that we must endure or persevere to the end to
be ultimately saved, this means there is an individual choice and
decision to be made. So from this alone we can conclude that the
believer, who was initially and is now not forced to continue to believe,
can stop believing. If the believer must continue in obedient faith to
the end of his life to be saved, it is obvious that he also can choose not
to endure or believe to the end. According to the whole counsel of the
Word of God, if the individual believer once engrafted into the vine
doesnt continue to choose to have a living faith in Jesus Christ,
continuing to the end, he will not be in Heaven.
The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to
fall into the hands of the living God. But call to
remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; Partly,
whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and

afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of

them that were so used. For ye had compassion of me in
my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods,
knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and
an enduring substance. Cast not away therefore your
confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye
have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of
God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while,
and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now
the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my
soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them
who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to
the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:30-39
Personally, I cannot understand why the above text would need any
explanation to the honest heart, unless that person had been taught to
twist what the Word plainly states.
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the
ungodly and the sinner appear? 1 Peter 4:18
If the RIGHTEOUS will scarcely be saved then we know that there
is the possibility of being made right with God (made righteous) and
then not making it in the end due to being disqualified by sin. Amongst
those who had once been made righteous, only a few will be saved into
eternal glory.
Note the verse below and especially that which is underlined, which is
the divinely-given condition for remaining in the grace of God:
..to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in
his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and
be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have
heard, and which was preached to every creature which is
under heaven Colossians 1:22-23
No believer is forced to continue to believe. Such saving faith is the
choice of the recipient and not forced upon any man by a God who is
love. One must choose to persevere in Gods grace to the end to receive
final salvation upon death or at the return of Jesus Christ.

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we,
if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope
firm unto the endTake heed, brethren, lest there be in any of
you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any
of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we
are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our
confidence stedfast unto the end. Hebrews 3:6, 12-14
The Bible clearly reveals to us that people who are saved can cast off their
faith, depart from the faith and that it were better for them not to have
known the LORD and the way of righteousness than after they have
known it, to turn away and back to sin (1 Tim. 4:1; 5:11-12; 2 Pet. 2:2022).
With volumes of Holy Scripture clearly revealing the essential nature of
continuing in faithful obedience and enduring to the end of ones life, we
can resolutely conclude that such is the mind of the Savior concerning the
reception of final salvation (1 Pet. 1:5; 2 Pet. 1:5-11).
Remaining in the Blessed State of Faith and Forgiveness
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man,
unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and
whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord
will not impute sin. Romans 4:6-8
This passage in Romans 4 reveals the blessed state of life to be
experienced by every saint and yet this isnt the only verse in the Bible
and all Scripture is to be taken in context with the whole of the Word of
God. The Word also tells us that we are to experience an ongoing and
increasing relationship walk in the light as the LORD is in the light and
have fellowship with Him in order to continue to receive the washing of
our sins in His precious blood (1 Jn. 1:3-2:2). Such a life of ongoing
and obedient faith is a requirement for final salvation and entrance into
His eternal kingdom. Anyone in leadership not teaching this Bible truth
does a disservice to the LORD Almighty (see 2 Pet. 2:20-22 and Jude).
The Bible tells us in Romans 2 that those who are impenitent
(unrepentant) treasure up divine wrath against themselves
condemnation to come on Judgment Day. And yet in this same passage

the Holy Spirit tells us that there will be glory and honour and
immortality, eternal life to those who by patient continuance in
well doing seek first the LORDs kingdom.
And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do
such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the
judgment of God? Or despisest thou the riches of his
goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing
that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But
after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto
thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the
righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man
according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance
in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality,
eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not
obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and
wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that
doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory,
honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the
Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of
persons with God. Romans 2:3-11
The fact that He ends this particular passage with the truth that there is
no respect of persons with God further proves that the Almighty will
not automatically dismiss the sins of those who were at some previous
point in their lives truly born again and forgiven of their sins. The
condition given here for obtaining everlasting glory and honour and
immortality, eternal life is the same one given throughout His Word
to persevere in patient continuance. Treasuring up wrath against
Judgment Day requires the refusal and despising of the goodness of
God by not living by faith and repenting on an ongoing basis for all that
does not please Him in our lives. Crying out to the LORD like the
Psalmist is a sure way to maintain a tender heart of flesh and ward off a
stony heart. We must ever believe and realize our utter need for the
LORDs continuing grace and forgiveness. Here is just one of Davids
prayers:
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret
faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let
them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and
I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words
of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in
thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalms
19:12-14

Saints, let me encourage you to locate and memorize those key prayers of
the man who had a heart after God and make them an integral part of
your own life and thinking. See Psalms 51 and 139:23-24.
PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for Your grace to please You fully, endure to
the end and spend forever with You. Make my heart to simply adhere to
and obey Your truth and not buy into any lie which would weaken my
resolve to keep You as my first love. I love you my precious Savior and
LORD. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY

THE EXCEEDING RICHES

OF HIS GRACE
Ephesians 2:7

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith
he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened
us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath

raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly

places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might
show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness
toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved
through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of
God. Ephesians 2:4-8
Here are a few phrases from Scripture concerning the beautiful grace
wrought by Jesus Christ for all who will come and take of the water of
life freely:

the glory of his grace (Eph. 1:6)

the exceeding riches of his grace (Eph. 2:7)

the inheritance of the saints in light (Col. 1:12)

Do you realize what you have?

Oh My! What unfathomable riches have we been given in this so
GREAT salvation? (Heb. 2:3) Do we even begin to realize that in
Christ ALL of our sins and iniquities have been and are forgiven as we
have and do come before His holy throne of grace!?
Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet
(fit) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath
translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we
have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of
sins. Colossians 1:12-14
In Gods Word and eternal kingdom economy, the forgiveness of sins is
always accompanied and surrounded by divine initiating grace and the
personal responsibility of each person to appropriate the salvation
provided for us in Jesus Christ.
Of Gods grace, the Bible says that it:

Came through Jesus Christ (Jn. 1:17)

Brings salvation (Tit. 2:11)

Is abundant (Acts 4:33)

Is rich (Eph. 1:7)

Is glorious (Eph. 1:6)

Establishes the heart (Heb. 13:9)

Is manifold (1 Pet. 4:10)

Is sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9)

Is to be multiplied in believers (Jn. 1:16; 2 Pet. 1:2; 3:18)

Is a teacher and enabler (Eph. 3:7; 4:7; Tit. 2:11-12; 1 Pet. 4:10)

Labors in us (1 Cor. 15:10)

The servant of Christ and student of Holy Scripture should pray for and
search out balance (Prov. 11:1; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). Sound doctrine is
something to attain to and be nourished up in (1 Tim. 4:6, 13). That one
who hungers and thirsts for His righteousness should not exercise his
heart in such a way as to shun or neglect the severe verses of the Bible
lest he be imbalanced in his doctrine (perspective/view of God). We
should let the LORD speak for Himself and honestly and objectively
observe and embrace all of His counsel with impartiality (Acts 20:20, 27).
We should endeavor to rightly divide the Word of truth and behold both
the goodness and severity of God toward men and not just focus on
His grace and goodness. This is the tendency of some theology camps
that have spread an imbalance in the hearts and minds of men who do
not have a life in the Word for themselves (Rom. 11:19-23; 2 Tim. 2:15).
By refusing to behold the full-counsel of God one creates the image of a
false god in his own heart and those he instructs (Ps. 33:11; 119:104,
128; Hos. 4:1, 6; Mal. 2:9; Matt. 22:29; Rom. 11:22; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). The
offering of polluted bread upon Gods altar is paramount to being
partial in the law and is the work of false leadership (Mal. 1:7; 2:9).
The LORD is a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering,
and plenteous in mercy and truth and yet He is terrible out of thy
holy places and greatly to be feared in the assembly of the
saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.
(Ps. 86:15; 68:35; 89:7)
In His plan of redemption for mankind, He who is perfect and initiated
our restoration has also instituted certain prerequisites for the
appropriation of His salvation (Isa. 1:18-20; Jn. 1:12; 3:15-16; Acts
3:19). If such were not the case all would be saved automatically and
we know that isnt truth (universalism heresy). Though He desires all to
repent and be saved, out of His sovereign nature the LORD told us that
he has allowed men to make the choice (Deut. 30:19; Josh. 24:15; Isa.
1:18-20; Gal. 6:7-8; Rev. 22:17).
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to
become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his
name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the
flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13

Note in this vital passage in John 1 that those who make the choice to
receive Jesus as the Messiah He grants them the right (power) to
become His sons. At that point of repentance and trust in Christ, the
LORD causes that individual to be born of Him.
GODS PART

He initiates a relationship with and causes the one who

receives Him to be born of God (Jn. 12-13; Rom. 5:6, 8; 1 Jn.
4:9, 19; 5:1)

The purchase of His Church through the redemption that is in

Christs divine, shed, and sinless blood (Matt. 26:28; Col.
1:14; Heb. 7:26; 1 Jn. 2:1-2)

The glorious provision of the riches of His precious grace

(Rom. 3:24-25; Eph. 1:7; 2:7; Tit. 3:4-7) G.R.A.C.E. = Gods
Riches At Christs Expense

The good pleasure of God and his goodness toward

mankind (Ps. 86:5, 15; Lk. 2:14; 12:32; Eph. 1:5-14; 2 Thess.
1:11)

The provision and invitation to come to the holy throne of His

grace to receive abundance of mercy and grace in times of
need initially and continually (Heb. 4:14-16; 7:25)

MANS PART

Repentance toward God, and faith toward our LORD

Jesus Christ (Acts 3:19-21; 20:21).

Fearing God (Ps. 2:11; 103:11; Prov. 14:26-27; Matt. 10:28;

Lk. 12:5-6; Acts 9:31; Rom. 11:20)

Beholding the goodness and severity of God (Rom. 11:1923)

Transparency the act of openly admitting and confessing sin

out of a humble and broken heart and the outright refusal to
deny that which we have done which violates the one, true a
holy God (Ps. 32:5; 38:18; 69:5; 51; Prov. 28:13; 1 Jn. 1:9)

Obedience to the faith - Willingness and literal

unashamed obedience to the Word (Isa. 1:19-20; Mk. 8:38;
Rom. 1:5, 16; James 1:22)

Specific confession and accounting of our sins (Ps. 32:1-5;

Heb. 2:1-3; 1 Jn. 1:9)

Engaging in fellowship/relationship with the LORD (Jer. 30:21

Jn. 17:3; Phil. 3:10; 1 Jn.1:3-2:2).

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption

that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a
propitiation (atoning sacrifice) through faith in his blood, to
declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are
past, through the forbearance of God. Romans 3:24-25
Have we not all had the everyone else is doing it notion and believed
that somehow the holy LORD and Judge was going to somehow
overlook our sins when all is said and done? Well, be sure He will not
pardon those who do not fall upon His mercy before it is too late (Exod.
34:7; Isa. 55:6-7; Ezek. 33:12-13; Lk. 13:3,5; Acts 2:37-40; 2 Cor. 5:11;
Rev. 21:8, 27). Yet, all sins are washed away completely in the very
instant the believer confesses and forsakes them (Ps. 103:2-3; Prov.
28:13; Isa. 44:22; Micah 7:19; 1 Jn. 1:9; 2:1-2).
What we must realize is that all things work according to His divine
wisdom and on His terms and not our terms. Neglecting or refusing to
know, understand, and embrace His Word (terms of the covenant) will
result in shunning the grace and salvation of Christ and the loss of
ones soul (Heb. 2:1-3). Altering or ignoring His clear terms, revealed in
His Holy Word, is the beginning of the creation of a false god in our
hearts. Separation, despair, delusion, and damnation will always be the
result of disobeying the One who is worthy of all our praise (Deut. 28).
We should decide not live dishonestly but rather live a life fully open,
honest, truthful, and transparent in His holy site (2 Cor. 4:2-3).
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word
of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an
inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:32
The inheritance of our so great salvation and the exceeding
riches of his grace is discovered in the word of his grace. We see
in this blessed passage that the disciple of Jesus Christ is introduced
to, strengthened, and matured in the divine inheritance of His
salvation as he desires and devours the word of his grace.
The terms and conditions of the covenant inheritance purchased by the
very blood of our Savior are contained in the canon of Holy Scripture
the Holy Bible. Saint of Christ, have you embarked upon the rewarding
task of mining the golden truths out of the word of his grace? (Acts
20:32) If not, how can you know His nature and covenant blessings
and the terms of agreement? How shall we appropriate the myriad of
rich benefits which include the exceeding riches of his grace, if we
do not open the treasure chest of His precepts? (Ps. 119; Eph. 2:7)
LORD Jesus, please bless us with an ever-deepening hunger and thirst

to know You more and to unearth the golden nuggets You have given us
in Your Word! Amen.
As remarkable and unfathomable the sacrifice of Jesus is, and the
exceeding rich grace that was provided through it for us, He has left the
appropriation of His blessings up to the individual. An initial one-time
reception of His grace does not forever seal the individual indelibly (Lk.
8:13). Initial and ongoing obedient faith is required to receive and
remain in His salvation (Jn. 15:1-6; Rom. 5:1-2; Eph. 2:8-9; Col. 1:2223; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; 10:36-39).
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The false security gospel that seeks to exploit the LORD by overemphasizing and redefining His grace, has blanketed our land through
misled men. This is a lucrative message to them because it gives the
people what they want and yet is not the truth (2 Tim. 4:2-4). This
insulating and inoculating message is readily received by those who do
not know Gods Word for themselves and/or those who are not willing
to lay down their own lives to serve Jesus (Lk. 9:23-24).
Loving God is commanded and yet it is also left up to the individual to
engage in a relationship with Him (Matt. 22:37-39). If one is to do so, it
must be under His non-negotiable conditions and not on ones own
terms.
It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall
also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him:
if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he
abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. 2 Timothy 2:11-13
Note here what Gods Word tells us. It is only IF we choose to be
dead with him that we shall also live with him. It is only IF we
suffer with Him and for His holy name and Gospels sake that we
shall also reign with him. And perhaps this following portion of the
Bible text is a real clincher if we deny him, he also WILL deny us.
Some tout the last part of this text while ignoring the whole passage.
They will say yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. Ah
lets talk about this. The LORD says he cannot deny himself but He
doesnt anywhere tell us that He cannot deny us! In fact this very
passage says if we deny him, he also WILL deny us. Could the
Almighty have said it plainer? This passage alone crushes the ancient
and popular unconditional eternal security teaching.
The individual disciple must enjoin the LORD in His desire and will and

choose to abide in Christ and be conformed to His holy image in vital

relational union (Rom. 8:29). We know the LORD will do His part He
is working in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Isa. 59:1-2;
Phil. 2:12-13). What remains to be seen is whether the individual
believer will do his part. Choose ye (you choose) this day whom you
will serve (Jos. 24:15) He has called His people to keep the white
garments of His righteousness spotless and to do such one must
choose to remain in a faith-filled, obedient relationship with Him (2
Cor. 7:1; Eph. 5:25-27; Rev. 2:4-5; 3:5, 18). The fear of the LORD is
necessary (Ps. 2:11; Prov. 14:27; Eccl. 12:13; Rom. 11:19-23).
It is important to seize the opportunity to fear God, deny self, repent,
and live holy before it is too late lest we miss the hour of our visitation
(Isa. 55:6-7; Lk. 19:44).
Have you ever contrasted people in the Bible who feared God and those
who didnt? Such a study is telling. For example, Cain, Esau, king
Saul, and Judas chose not to repent when each of them was given by
God the same ability and privilege as their counter parts. The fact that
the LORD granted each of the eight persons in question the exact same
opportunity is best summed up in Genesis 4:7 when the LORD spoke
to Cain:
And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth (mad)? and
why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou
not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the
door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule
over him. Genesis 4:6-7
Why get mad? Why not do things Gods way and get glad? Why get bitter
instead of better? You have a choice. The LORD said to Cain If thou
doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? In other words the LORD said
to Cain: Will I not accept you fully if you will do things my way? Cain,
My desire is to bless you and not hurt you and I will accept you just as I
accepted your brother Abel, if you will simply forsake your own way and
do things My way as he does.
Cain had the exact same opportunity as Abel to get right and stay right
with the LORD. This Bible fact alone disproves Calvins false
presumptions and premise. Each of these brothers made a choice. Abel
joyfully served His Creator and rejoiced to do things just as He asked him
to. Cain refused to turn to the LORD from a humble heart and do things
on His terms. He then slew his brother Abel. See Genesis 4.

David and Abel and Peter and Jacob all had many struggles with the
sinful nature just as we do daily. Yet each of these men chose to
continue coming before the Savior, approaching boldly to His holy throne
of grace (not condemnation) for help and forgiveness (Matt. 11:28-30;
Heb. 4:14-16). These God-fearing men chose to have hearts after the
LORD of love. They each continued to make the decision to seek His holy
face and not allow anything to derail them from intimacy with the LORD.
Precious Jesus bless us to keep You as the first and foremost love of our
lives!
God never intended for any person to rebel and go to hell and yet He is
holy and just in all of His dealings with men. If He sends someone to hell
it is because that person freely chose to not believe and obey Him.
Unfortunately the majority of people will end up in the unalterable and
conscious state of eternal damnation (Matt. 7:13-14). Its a choice made
by each individual human by how they live their earthly life. Remember
that the LORD never separates what we do from what we believe (Prov.
20:11; Matt. 7:21-23; 25:40-46; Jn. 14:21; James 1:22-25; 1 Jn. 2:3-5).
There will be no second chance to do things Gods way and not our own.
You my reader friend, will never be granted a second opportunity to obey
God - And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this
the judgment. (Heb. 9:27) As we die so shall we remain throughout
eternity (Eccl. 11:3; Rev. 21:8, 27; 22:11). If you choose not to literally
love Him supremely and place your full trust in Him and perform His
holy will in this life, His divinely-executed and just punishment will be
the result.
Should this truth cause us to do a serious self-examination to find out
where we really stand with the LORD and not where we think we stand?
(2 Cor. 13:5) Doesnt the Bible warn us that it is entirely possible that we
can be and that many are presently self-deceived? (Matt. 7:21-23;
James 1:22) Make no mistake: Those who genuinely fear the Most High
trust and obey Him in their daily lives. Didnt He forewarn us all that
what we do and do not do to His people is the way we are actually
treating Him? In this we can see a crystal clear and true picture of our
literal spiritual state. See Matthew 25:40-46. What is the revelation and
end of those who do not bless Gods people? What is the clear state of
those who do bless His people? Go see for yourself in this Matthew 25
passage.
Friend, since you and I can read these very words we know we have the
privilege to make the needed adjustments and be forgiven - which is
Gods will for us. We all have equal opportunity to love and serve God
and such is proven by how we treat His people. Consider this:

Cain had the same opportunity as Abel.

Esau had the same opportunity as Jacob.
Saul had the same opportunity as David.
Judas had the exact same opportunity as Peter.
Cains love of self and hatred for God was manifested in the way he
treated his brother Abel (he killed him). The same is true for how Saul
treated righteous David (he attempted to kill David 21 times). What did
Judas neglect to do for the other eleven? Think with me for a moment Each of these four men who chose to rebel instead of repent have been in
the excruciating, conscious torment of hell for thousands of earthly years
while their counterparts are in the bliss and glory of Heaven with the
One they chose to trust and obey in their brief earthly life.
Remember the story Jesus told about the certain rich man and
Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31? Didnt their state flip flop in eternity? What
do we know about the earthly life of these two men and what led to their
eternal placement? Investigate Luke 16:19-31.
The Bible tells us that the LORD is holy, and just, and good and His
desire and ability to redeem and bless have not diminished (Rom. 7:12; 1
Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9). Jesus Christ came to the earth to set men free and
yet if we continue to live in sin it will cause us to be alienated from Him
and deprived of His delivering power (Lk. 4:18; Jn. 8:31-32, 36; Isa. 59:12).

Choosing the Greater Riches of Christ

(Moses) Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of
God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming
the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt
(the world): for he had respect unto the recompense of the
reward. By faith he forsook Egypt (the worlds ways), not fearing
the wrath of the king (mere men): for he endured, as seeing him
who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the
sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should
touch them. Hebrews 11:25-28

Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God,

than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season Moses
counted the affliction associated with serving the LORD a light

thing in light of the One he loved supremely and therefore sought

to please above all others including self. V25
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the
treasures in Egypt (the world) This man of God made a
decision to esteem (count more important) Jesus as his greater
riches. He therefore forsook the treasures of Egypt (this
worlds lures, pleasures, and trinkets). v26
By faith he forsook Egypt (the worlds ways), not fearing the
wrath of the king (mere men): for he endured, as seeing him
who is invisible. Forsaking the world while fearing God above
all and enduring to the end is the life of the true wise virgin
believer (Matt. 25:1-13). v27
he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that
destroyed the firstborn should touch them Moses kept
being sprinkled or washed by the blood let destruction come upon
Him. v28

His Wife Hath Made Herself Ready Revelation 19:7

Willing Participants
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the
marriage of the Lamb is come, and HIS WIFE HATH MADE
HERSELF READY. Revelation 19:7
Those who appear at the marriage of the Lamb will be those who
make themselves ready by becoming and remaining in relationship with
the Bridegroom and cleansed by His blood and Word (1 Jn. 1:7, 9; Eph.
5:25-27). The true Bride of Christ identifies herself by her willing
obedience to sit at His holy feet and work in cooperation with her
Bridegroom. See also Matthew 25:1-13.
According to the whole counsel of Scripture the LORD initiates the
relationship with the individual and the individual chooses to or not to
respond affirmatively to His grace (divine influence upon the heart). See
John 1:12. He left the final choosing up to the individual. Contrary to
false teaching today, no unwilling participant is in or will be in the
kingdom of Christ. Every single individual who is in and will be in the
eternal kingdom, has and will have chosen to willingly and freely agree
with and obey the Truth Himself (Jn. 14:6; 15, 21). Everyone else has or
will have chosen the path of unbelief and denial of Christ the Truth.
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of
the LORD: Proverbs 1:29

Sin separates men from the LORD even those who have been His
covenant people (Isa. 59:1-2). God is holy and only those who choose to
allow Him to forgive and wash away their sins are fit for His family. There
of necessity must be a mutual agreement and alignment in any good
relationship. There is the sense that the LORD initiates and man
responds. This continues to hold true throughout the life of the one who
has been initially saved freedom to choose does not end when one is
saved (1 Cor. 9:27). Jesus told us plainly that only those who are
converted (born again) and become humble and dependent upon Him
like little children, will enter His eternal kingdom (Matt. 18:3).
Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD
of hosts. Zechariah 4:6
The saint has no chance of pleasing the Savior outside of the initiating
and essential work of the Holy Spirit of God. The spirit of grace
endeavors to work His perfect will in the lives of all who have been
brought to salvation and yet He will never force one to participate (Zech
12:10; Heb. 10:29).
Pleasing God can never come by self-effort (will worship) alone but
only by the all-sufficient grace of our God working in the abiding saint
(Col. 2:23; Gal. 2:21; Phil. 2:12-13; 1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9-10).
Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one. Job
14:4
Make no mistake, the individual believer is not fit to cleanse himself
initially nor ongoing. He has no ability to change his filthy rags to
righteous garments (Job 14:4; Isa. 64:6; Rom. 3). No, such is a miracle
only possible by the Almighty. The sinner must fall upon and continue to
collapse upon the mercy of the LORD to be continually cleansed (Heb.
4:14-16; 1 Jn. 1:7, 9). Coming continually to His throne of grace is
essential to remaining in Christ He is ever interceding and willing are
we willing?
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that
come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make
intercession for them. Hebrews 7:25
Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us because initial and
continual cleansing from sin are essential (Heb. 7:25). Perpetual
cleansing from sin is a kingdom reality something essential to final
salvation according to the Word Himself. Jesus Christ warned us:

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and

KEEPETH his garments (clean and washed), lest he walk
naked, and they see his shame. Revelation 16:15
We are to walk in the light in order to have fellowship one with
another with Him and as we do the blood of Jesus Christ his Son
cleanseth us from all sin. (1 Jn. 1:7) The blood is initially applied
when the LORD births a sinner into His kingdom. His blood that is
initially applied must be continually applied (Rev. 16:15). As mud soils
our clothes, so sin stains the garments once made white by the blood of
Jesus. This is the imagery given in Scripture. Lets peek into what Jesus
told the church (saved people) at the city of Sardis:
Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled
their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they
are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in
white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book
of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and
before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the
Spirit saith unto the churches. Revelation 3:4-6
What we know from this passage (Rev. 3:1-6):

The people Jesus is addressing have been born again the

church in Sardis v1
Garments of righteousness can be stained and remain that way till
washed afresh/again Thou hast a few names even in Sardis
which have not defiled their garments v4
Of the few whose garments were not defiled by unrepentant
sin He promised that they shall walk with me in white v4
He told us that only those who continue to repent and have their
garments washed from the stain of sin in the blood of Christ are
worthy v4
Condition for Heaven given - He that overcometh, the same
shall be clothed in white raiment v5
He gave a promise to all those once saved who keep their garments
washed in the blood of Jesus through abiding in Him - I will not
blot out his name out of the book of life v5
To those who overcome and are found washed in the blood of
Christ at the end of their lives I will confess his name before
my Father, and before his angels v5
Warning to hear His voice and fear Him He that hath an ear,
let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches v6

The Son of God uses the word few here which means that perhaps a
majority of those who once had a walk with the LORD had succumbed to
the call of the world and were now living in a cold state of heart (backslid
Prov. 14:14). The word few here is key. Doing a study on the word
few in the New Testament Scriptures can be very fruitful to ones
understanding of the divine economy and should promote the fear of the
LORD in the student of Scripture. Do you recall that when He spoke
about Heaven Christ said it was a narrow path that leads there and
that few there be that find it? (Matt. 7:13-14) Conversely He told us
all that wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to
destruction (eternal hell), and many there be which go in thereat.
Why? Because He created all men with the choice and foreknew that
most will not choose to fear and obey Him even though such is His desire
(Jer. 29:11).
Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and
keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his
shame. Revelation 16:15
To His very own people Jesus Christ warns here of the necessity of
keeping ones garments, lest he walk naked. The dreadful threat of
walking naked or uncovered is clearly inferred here. The fact that He
spoke these words to His own people (not the lost) makes it crystal clear
that the possibility exists that one once washed has the personal
responsibility to keep(eth) his garments. And, the one who chooses
not to will be found naked and shamed before the LORD which
simply means he is not covered by the blood of Christ. The Almighty set
forth conditions which must be met in order for the individual to be
saved and remain saved. Initial and ongoing faith (includes a contrite
and penitent heart), willingness, and obedience are the conditions (Ps.
34:18; 51:17; Isa. 1:19-20; Jn. 1:12; 3:16; Rev. 2-3).
To the Corinthian Christians Paul wrote these telling words:
And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among
you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already,
and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and
lasciviousness which they have committed. 2 Corinthians
12:21
The opposite of uncleanness is cleanness. One who is cleansed is
adorned with garments washed white in the precious blood of Jesus.
Obviously there were those believers in this assembly who had repented

of their uncleanness and sin they were washed fresh and clean! Yet
regrettably the Holy Spirit had revealed to the apostle that many in
that church gathering at Corinth had not turned back to Christ (repented
of sins) and still retained their sins and were under divine condemnation
until they repented (see Romans 8:1 in the King James Version this
verse is astoundingly chopped in half in the new versions).
I dont know about you, but this believer never ceases to be grateful for
the fount of His precious blood in Heaven which is accessible to all of His
people 24/7. I have worn a path to His holy throne of grace, crying out
again and again and afresh for the cleansing of the blood of Jesus Christ.
He has blessed me to obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of
need on innumerable occasions and for that I am eternally grateful! See
Hebrews 4:14-16. Come boldly and rejoice!
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the
marriage of the Lamb is come, and HIS WIFE HATH MADE
HERSELF READY. Revelation 19:7
In case one is still not yet sure about whether mans will is involved and
remaining washed pure is essential, lets look at two additional passages
below. Friend, please read these words for all they are worth and in the
knowledge that these are Gods words, not mans:
we know that, when he shall appear (Hes coming soon), we
shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man
that hath this hope (the return of Jesus) in him purifieth
himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:2-3
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and
what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord
hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth
with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God
with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God
hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be
their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out
from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and
touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be
a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters,
saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises (that
God will punish all who are not separated in holiness unto
Him), dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all
filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear
of God. 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1

Willing and Obedient

IF ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the
land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the
sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah
1:19-20
If here denotes choice. Each of us continues to choose to be either
willing and obedient or to refuse and rebel. I dont know about
you, but this believer is ultra glad for the lovingkindness of the LORD
and how He is a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering,
and plenteous in mercy and truth. (Ps. 86:15)
The Father in Heaven requires that men be willing participants in His
Gospel program in order to receive the benefits of the salvation He freely
provided through Christs blood (Deut. 30:18-20; Isa. 1:19-20; Jn. 3:16;
Rev. 3:20; 19:7). All those who believe and remain in Him, will receive the
fullness of His blessings and those who dont place themselves under His
judgment.
I denounce unto you this day, that ye shall surely perish, and
that ye shall not prolong your days upon the land, whither
thou passest over Jordan to go to possess it. I call heaven and
earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you
life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that
both thou and thy seed may live. Deuteronomy 30:18-19
PRAYER: Holy Father, thank You for sending Your only begotten Son to
die for my sins on the cross and for raising Him from the dead. Cleanse
afresh all my sins! Thank You for loving and finding and saving me, an
otherwise helpless and lost soul. Please help me to understand Your plan
and submit humbly to Your Word whether my heart understands or not. I
trust You Jesus and ask You this moment to infuse my heart with Your
holy fear and bless me to love and trust You fully as I seek Your face this
hour. At this moment, I lay my whole being and future in Your infinite
hands and trust You fully resting the whole weight of my existence and
future upon You alone! Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY ONE

HOLDING FAITH
1 Timothy 1:19

HOLDING faith, and a good conscience; which some having put

away (such is obviously possible) concerning faith have made
shipwreck (Greek: smash, crash, be ruined). 1 Timothy 1:19
Many who teach unconditional eternal security state that there is no
reason for the believer to hold on to their first love or walk in the fear of
the LORD because God is holding on to the believer and will never let go,
regardless of what that individual chooses to do. This essentially teaches
that the believer has no responsibility to trust and obey the Lord
(compare Matt. 7:21). Is this the Bible truth? Lets let the LORD answer
this question for Himself by looking again at His words in 1 Timothy:

HOLDING faith, and a good conscience; which some having put

away (such is obviously possible) concerning faith have made
shipwreck (Greek: smash, crash, be ruined). 1 Timothy 1:19
Note in this verse that it is possible to put away...faith. If so, how can
we be so naive as to believe that once one has initially believed and
subsequently been born again, he is forced to believe forever, remain in
fellowship with the LORD, and required to go to Heaven? Will Heaven be
filled with unwilling participants? Did Jesus chase down or alter His
message after the rich young Ruler made the personal decision not to
follow Him? No. Did the LORD force His people Israel to serve Him? Or,
did He invite and call them to return to Him and leave it to them to
choose? Did the father of the prodigal son pursue his wayward son or did
he allow him to volitionally choose to return? These are but a few
examples which plainly prove that mans will is fully involved in his
salvation. Though he cannot initiate relationship or choose God before he
is drawn by the initiating grace of God, the LORD leaves the final
decision to the individual (Isa. 1:18-20; Jn. 1:12-13). Every person in
Heaven will have chosen to be there by counting the LORD Jesus Christ
as their first love and relentlessly seeking Him and not allowing the cares
and riches and pleasures of this fleeting world to draw him away.
Through these tribulations, temptations and trials the disciples faith in
and love for the Savior is forged.
The theme verse of this chapter (1 Timothy 1:19) reveals also that the
believer can make shipwreck of his faith which again reveals that one
must first possess saving faith to be able to cast it off. The imagery used
here of making shipwreck of ones faith means that the saved person
who doesnt continue in obedience to Christ, but rather puts away his
faith, will have his faith destroyed like a wooden ship slammed against
the rocky shoreline by violent winds and waves of a turbulent ocean.
How can one possibly be justified by the grace of God without genuine
saving faith? God requires mans faith in order to access and continue to
appropriate His saving grace (Rom. 5:1-2; Tit. 2:11-12).
In this same letter, the Holy Spirit instructs those with ears to hear to:
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto
thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before
many witnesses. (1 Tim. 6:12)

Notice that we are called to eternal life, yet must Fight the good
fight of faith and lay hold on eternal life (because if you dont it
could get away from you). Why must we lay hold on eternal life if
there were no possibility of it getting away from us if we return to our
sinful life? Why such a command? Was the LORD just filling space in His
Book here or was He lovingly warning us to beware of the eternal danger
of slipping away?
Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the
things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and
every transgression and disobedience received a just
recompense of reward; How shall we escape (eternal judgment),
if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be
spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that
heard him. Hebrews 2:1-3
The once saved always saved deception is an extremely dangerous
teaching that denies what Holy Scripture teaches about being saved and
remaining (abiding) in the saving grace of God. Such a notion is totally
foreign to Biblical theology. This author believes that this false teaching
has claimed the souls of millions who died believing they were eternally
secure, yet went to hell due to the un-confessed sin they were taught was
automatically forgiven. God is holy and un-confessed sin still separates
men from Him.
Hold On to your faith in Jesus! The biblical cure for this diabolical,
lascivious and insidious lie is to: Get a grip on Jesus! And, Keep a grip
on Jesus! Look unto Jesus unceasingly! He alone is the very Author and
Finisher of your faith which means that as you lay aside your sins for
the love of Him, He will keep you! (Heb. 12:1-3; 1 Pet. 1:5)
This lie of the ages teaching robs the fear of the Lord from the
individual's heart. This is a very seductive falsehood and it subtly
dismisses the believer from the obedient faith required for final salvation.
Paul exhorted believers with: If ye continue in the faith grounded and
settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel. The
Holy Ghost then warns And this I say, lest any man should beguile

you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am
I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the
stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received
Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in
him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding
therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through
philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the
rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (Col. 1:23; 2:4-8)
In stark contrast to those who teach a false grace today, in this Bible text
Paul says that those who are saved by Gods grace must continue in
the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the
hope of the gospel and not be beguiled with enticing words, but
remain in the stedfastness of your faith in Christ and walk ye in
him: Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith and to
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain
deceit.
The mind and heart can be seduced to partake of this, the original lie, if
not guarded by diligent attention and obedience to divine truth. Saint, let
me encourage you to beware, guard your heart and mind, and be
established in the truth. Get into the Word of God for yourself so that
you will be built up in the faith which was once delivered to the
saints and will not be vulnerable to accept any doctrine you havent
personally seen on the pages of Scripture and been taught by the Holy
Spirit (John 8:31-32; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16). This is the way to remain in the
saving grace of the glorious Savior. The first battleground to contend
for the faith is ones own heart and mind.
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you
in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the
Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt,
afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels

which kept not their first estate, but left their own
habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under
darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Jude 3-6
The Faith
The term the faith appears 44 times in the New Testament Scriptures
and refers to the faith that saves which is built upon the biblical record
of what God has revealed to mankind in His Word. So the basis of the
faith is the Word.
At the very end of his life on earth, the apostle Paul said that he kept
the faith and that there was therefore laid up for me a crown of
righteousness. (2 Tim. 4:7-8). A crown of righteousness awaits all who
are saved and keep the faith to the end.
Did you realize that saving faith which is the faith that saves the soul,
can be cast off?
Having damnation, because they have cast off their first
faith. 1 Timothy 5:12
The faith that saves works through divine grace. The knowledge of the
LORD through His Word and having His Spirit in us, makes us sound
and sure in the faith. The roots of the faith grow deep in the person
who drinks in, believes, embraces and obeys what He reads in the
divinely inspired Holy Scriptures. Here are some of the things the Bible
communicates concerning the faith:

As the Word increases, the faith multiplies (Acts 6:7)

To be preached (Acts 24:24; Gal. 1:23)

To be held in a pure conscience (1 Tim. 3:9)

To be obeyed (Rom. 1:5)

Brings perfect soundness (Acts 3:16)

Non-negotiable, unalterable (Rom. 3:3-4)

Some are weak in the faith (Rom. 14:1)

To be preached (Gal. 1:23)

Grants divine justification (Gal. 2:16)

To be lived by (Gal. 2:20)

Grants boldness and access to God (Eph. 3:12)

To bring believers into unity (Eph. 4:13)

To be strove together for by believers (Phil. 1:27)

Brings the divine imputation of righteousness (Phil. 3:9)

Must be continued in to the end (Col. 1:23)

To be established in (Col. 2:7)

To be stood strong in (1 Cor. 16:13)

Brings Gods grace, mercy and peace (1 Tim. 1:2)

Can be departed from (1 Tim. 4:1)

Can be denied (1 Tim. 5:8)

Can be erred from (1 Tim. 6:10, 21)

Can be overthrown (2 Tim. 2:18)

People can become reprobate concerning (2 Tim. 3:8)

Is to be kept (2 Tim. 4:7)

Makes one Gods elect (Tit. 1:1)

To be sound in (Tit. 1:13)

Those in the faith are to be greeted in a special way (Tit. 3:15)

Brings love for all those who have it (James 2:1)

Enables one to resist the devil and overcome him (1 Pet. 5:8-9)

To be earnestly contended for by all of its adherents (Jude 3)

When coupled with patience (especially in the last days) will bring
eternal blessings (Rev. 13:10; 14:12)

The Forward Motion of Faith

Listen to these words of Holy Scripture:
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one
receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every
man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.
Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an
incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I,
not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and
bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have
preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1
Corinthians 9:24-27
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have
kept the faith: Henceforth (consequently) there is laid up for
me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous
judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto
all them also that love his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:7-8
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king:
for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27
let us run with patience (endurance) the race that is set
before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our
faith Hebrews 12:1-2
By faith let us fight the good fight of faith, forsake the lures of this
fleeting life, and run with endurance the race set before us to obtain the
prize of everlasting life.

As a matter of example, the apostle Paul was in an all-out sprint when he

crossed the finish line of his earthly life. Previously he said But I keep
under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means,
when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (1
Cor. 9:27) At the very end of his life he revealed that I have fought a
good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which
the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to
me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (2 Tim. 4:78)
The believer (one who is presently believing) is kept by Gods power (1
Pet. 1:5). The individual exerts the faith while the LORD Himself keeps
Him. The LORD is perfecting that which concerns His saints (Ps.
138:8). Those who are living in genuine faith in God are His saints
and abide under His holy and infinitely secure wing and are the
recipients of His grace and blessings which He loads them with daily
(Ps. 91; 68:11). He calls us his sons and we therefore have so much to
rejoice over!
Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let
us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with
reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:28-29
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon
us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the
world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 1 John 3:1
PRAYER: Father, thank You for bestowing upon me Your grace through
Your only begotten Son. Thank You kindly for blessing Your people to be
called Your very sons! Jesus, this moment, I cling yet more and more to
You. I love You. Into Thine hands I commend my spirit and ask You to fill
me with Your Holy Spirit afresh and cause me to serve You acceptably and
in godly fear. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY T WO

CAN A TRUE BELIEVER

DEPART FROM GOD?
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart
of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one
another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made
partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence
stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear
his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For
some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that
came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved
forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose
carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that
they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed
not? So we see that they could not enter in because of
unbelief. Hebrews 3:12-19
All New Testament brethren are here warned to harden not your
hearts which can be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin
and that we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning
of our confidence (faith) stedfast unto the end. The word If
denotes the condition of being an eternal partaker with Christ.
Take heed, BRETHREN, lest there be IN ANY OF YOU (brethren) an
evil heart of unbelief, in DEPARTING FROM the living God.
Hebrews 3:12
Here we see that it is possible for brethren to backslide and have an evil
heart of unbelief while departing from (leaving) the living God. It is
important that we ask that if it were not possible for a brother to depart
from God, why the warning? Also, how could a person depart from
anyone they werent already joined with? This would obviously not be

possible. Also, here the LORD is specifically addressing holy brethren.

(Heb. 3:1, 12)
Warning: Utilizing the example of those covenant Israelites who were cut
off, Hebrews 3 tells us that those whose carcases fell in the
wilderness did not enter into his rest because they believed not
and could not enter in because of unbelief.
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly (clearly), that in the latter
times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to
seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils. 1 Timothy 4:1
Note here that the Bible states that some SHALL depart from
(leave) the faith. It didnt say that some might depart but that
some SHALL depart from the faith. As foretold of the final days,
do we not see this happening around us? Depart from would
clearly mean to LEAVE the faith which means to become an apostate
(one who leaves what he once believed and embraced). Departing from
the faith would be impossible unless that person had saving faith to
begin with. The same inspired book of the Bible goes on to say:
...Lay hold on eternal life... 1 Timothy 6:12
Regardless of the modern-day, smooth-talking corrupters of Gods grace,
the person who will be eternally with Christ and not lose out, must heed
the numerous warnings the Bridegroom gave us. Laying hold upon the
blessed Savior of our salvation is essential to remaining a spotless bride,
enduring to the end, ready for His soon return (Jn. 15).
While growing up in church nobody was bold enough to espouse
and profess that someone could lose their salvation. From a young
boy, I knew in my heart that the wages of sin is death. Sadly, I
dont remember anyone from the pulpit saying that you can lose
your salvation. Salvation is conditional. You have to finish the
race. If you lose your faith you cant rely on a confession you made
15 years ago. As a young man I sinned after being saved. I lived in
the sins that the lost live in. The only thing that saved me was the
prayers of my parents. God heard those prayers and drew me back
in and rescued me again. God was not obligated to keep me alive
and save me outside of the prayers of my parents and
grandparents. Tim Hicks

If someone deliberately forsakes Jesus, abandons the faith, speaks

against Christ, and worships other gods, how can the holy and perfectly
pure God of the Universe possibly allow that person into His sin-free
presence - Heaven? Is this not a blasphemous notion or thought? The
Almighty, who is eternally the same, did not allow it with Lucifer (Ezek.
28; Lk. 10:17-20; Rev. 12:9-12). He didnt allow sinfulness with His
covenant people Israel and warned New Covenant believers of also being
cut off if they did not fear and obey Him (Rom. 11:19-23). The LORD
did not overlook sin in the Old Testament or in the New, and He will not
allow it to occur without rendering retribution in our day nor at any time
in the future (Rom. 2:1-7; Jude; 2 Pet. 2-3).
In his booklet entitled The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer spoke
of the many warnings to Gods people in His Word:
Reader, what about the many danger signals and Scriptural
warnings found in the Word of God and addressed to believers?
Does God warn where there is no danger? Is God less consistent
and reliable than our state highway department? To accuse God of
such folly is unthinkable.
It was written to Christians, if ye live after the flesh ye shall die
(Rom. 8:13). How can Christians continue to live after the flesh and
remain secure in their standing before God?
But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord that we
should not be condemned with the world (I Cor. 11:32). Here the
purpose of chastisement for sin is stated. The object is to keep
believers from being condemned with the world. If the chastened
ones do not repent and turn from their sins, they will be
condemned with the world. If eternal security were true then these
believers would be as sure of heaven in their sin as if they were
already there, whether they repented or not.
That ye receive not the grace of God in vain (II Cor. 6:1). Here lies
a possibility. Here is a warning to believers. Eternal security
virtually denies that a believer can receive the grace of God in vain.
Was Paul wrong?

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of

unbelief in DEPARTING from the living God (Heb. 3:12). Is this an
empty warning? Is there no possibility of departure here? Certainly
one who knows not God, could not depart from the living God
through an evil heart of unbelief. A sinner with an evil heart knows
not God and is already far from God by nature. This warning was
addressed to holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling
(Heb. 3:1).
For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of
our confidence steadfast unto the end (Heb. 3:14). Then follows an
actual historical incident that is held up to us as a warning, Heb.
3:15-19, cf. I Cor. 10:1-12.
The excommunication of the sinning believer in I Cor. 5 was
designed for his repentance and restoration. Eternal security
teachers declare this man would have remained saved, even though
he would not have confessed his sin and forsaken it. Then we are
face to face with the words that follow in the sixth chapter, verses
9 and 10. (1) If this man would have been saved without repenting
of his fornication, then God would have had a fornicator in glory
despite the testimony of about a dozen Scriptures to the contrary.
(2) Or we will have to decide that fornication is no longer
fornication when committed by a saint, and then Paul was wrong
in so designating it. (3) Or we are faced with the fact that this man
needed to confess and disown his sin or be condemned. We are
thankful he did the latter, according to II Cor. 2:3-10, and again
came into fellowship with his Lord.

If Once Saved Always Saved Is True, What About Eli?

Eli was promised an eternal place with God, then this blessing was
revoked due to his continual sin (omission).
Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that
thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me
for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them
that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall
be lightly esteemed. Behold, the days come, that I will cut off

thine arm, and the arm of thy fathers house, that there shall
not be an old man in thine house. And thou shalt see an
enemy in my habitation, in all the wealth which God shall give
Israel: and there shall not be an old man in thine house for
ever. 1 Samuel 2:30-32
Like the Laodiceans Christ addressed in Revelation 3, Eli is told that in
the midst of prosperity (wealth), an enemy would be in his
habitation. In the modern church world, there is the wealth of more
commentaries, technology, media venues, and books than in any other
time in history, yet there is also the gross lack of Bible substance and
therefore fatal deception lurking within. Throughout history, whenever
Gods people forsook His Word (law), destruction followed and sometimes
it was in the midst of material prosperity.
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou
hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt
be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy
God, I will also forget thy children. Hosea 4:6
As we see here in 1 Samuel 2, Eli departed from the faith by his sin as he
refused to fully obey the LORD. After being given a divine promise of
walking before me for ever (assurance, security), the LORD said Be
it far from me and cut off Eli, revoking this promise.
The nature of God must be honestly observed from His Word and
fearfully respected. Listen to this:
Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and
transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the
guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children,
and upon the childrens children, unto the third and to the
fourth generation. Exodus 34:7
The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving
iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the
guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children
unto the third and fourth generation. Numbers 14:18
In both these verses we see the LORD speaking to His own covenant
people. He uses the phrase will by no means clear the guilty.

Frightening isnt it? In context with the whole of Scripture, we know this
means that God simply will not clear or forgive the sins of those who do
not return to Him in true repentance, forsaking that which displeases
Him.
Cut Off
Still not sure someone grafted into the LORD can be severed from Him or
cut off as the Bible puts it?
It is utterly amazing that without any real and contextually true biblical
proof, some die-hard Calvinists will cling to the false teaching that a
person once genuinely saved can never be lost. For those reading this
who fit into this category, let me once again introduce you to a Bible
phrase your favorite OSAS teacher must have somehow forgotten to tell
you about Cut off. (Jn. 15:5-6; Rom. 11:19-22)
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them
which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, IF thou
continue in his goodness (a must for eternal salvation):
otherwise thou also shalt be CUT OFF. Romans 11:22
If (daily decision) a man abide (remain) not in me, he is cast
forth as a branch (cut off and throw away from the Vine), and
is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. John 15:6
Note here that Jesus, the Vine, tells us that when a person who knows
Him does not abide or remain in relational obedience to Him, the
LORD will cast him forth as a branch or in other words cut him off
and throw him away from Him. Then the LORD promises that that
backslider will be castinto the fire, andburned. What could be
plainer?
According to Jesus, people who choose an idol over Him as their first
love, will die in sin and go to hell to be eternally burned. Past
relationship with Christ will profit zilch if one dies outside of a
relationship with Him strong enough to be repentant and not justifying of
sin (Ezek. 33:12-13; Heb. 12:14). All previous righteousness is forgotten
by God when one of His people depart from Him in rebellion and unbelief
(Ezek. 33:12-13).

What About Demas?

For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present
world, and is departed unto Thessalonica 2 Timothy 4:10
Demas forsook the LORD and therefore the ministry, because he chose to
turn away from Christ and love this present world more than God
which made him the enemy of the LORD (James 4:4; 1 Jn. 2:15).
Concerning Demas: Dare we foolishly accuse the apostle Paul of bringing a
lost man into his ministry? Did Paul the apostle of Jesus join himself with
an unsaved man to do the ministry of Christ the LORD after instructing
believers to: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what
communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ
with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And
what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the
temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and
walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the
Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And
will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters,
saith the Lord Almighty? (2 Cor. 6:14-18)
Such a thought that this great apostle of Christ would bring an
unredeemed man into his ministry would be utterly absurd to insinuate.
It would be as ridiculous as accusing the very Son of God of bringing a
devil (Judas) into the highest office in the Church as one of the twelve
original apostles! Like Judas, Demas became a devil by his decisions to
depart from Christ as first love and love this temporal world.
Concerning sovereignty of God ad irrevocable salvation, Jeff Paton
responds:
I believe the point being made is not that God is not sovereign, but
that some worship Sovereignty with a capital S. It is that many set
out to define sovereignty, and then force everything into
submission to the definition of God they have created. Sovereignty
is not revealed as Gods primary attribute, or something in which

we can make God the Divine puppeteer. The Scriptures do not

make sovereignty the focal point by which everything Scriptural
must bow to or hinge upon. So many, without a single passage to
prove or assert it, ASSUME that since God is (S)overeign, He
always gets His way, and therefore we have no part in anything.
This notion assumes that God has no interest in man being free to
love or worship Him, therefore, if you are saved it is because God
has determined it to be that way, and nothing else. This results in
ignoring many passages that show that God does not operate that
way, and that it forces meaning upon passages to make them say
something they do not say. Irrevocable salvation is just one
example of this assumption. Something must be in Scripture in
order to be Scripture; not what one reads into Scripture.
No redeemed man is forced to continue with Jesus and if he does not
abide, he will ultimately be cast into hell.
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. John 15:6
Beloved, I pray that you read all of the Scriptures carefully, that you
really take each of them seriously, and rely on what the Word states. Ask
the Holy Ghost for guidance to understand this message.
In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy
and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue
in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from
the hope of the gospel, which ye have heardChrist in you,
the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and
teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every
man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving
according to his working, which worketh in me mightilyAs
ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in
him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith,
as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain
deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the
world, and not after Christ. Colossians 1:22-23; 27-29; 2:6-8

Paul is again indiscriminately warning every man to continue in the

faith and to be grounded and settled and not moved away from
the hope of the gospel. He then states that it is possible to be
spoiled by being lured away by false teachers and their philosophy
which is not after (according to) Christ, the living Word and Head of
His one true Church (Col. 2:18-19).
The apostle Paul was intense about teaching the whole Word and
guarding the flock of the LORD from being spoiled by the lies of the
enemy.
For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of
God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock,
over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to
feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own
blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous
wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your
own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw
away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember,
that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one
night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you
to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you
up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are
sanctified. Acts 20:27-32
This passage in Acts clearly reveals that the sheep of Gods pasture can
be lost to grievous wolves who teach falsehood. If there were no
danger of the sheep of the LORDs pasture being lost, then why would
the apostle Paul have ceased not to warn every one night and day
with tears about those whom he foresaw would arise, speaking
perverse things? Paul shed tears in deep concern for these believers at
Ephesus whom he knew would be infiltrated with false teachers.
Regrettably, some people in leadership take the little they learn at
seminary or Bible college and go to seed with it. Many of them buy into
the whole package given them and do not continue in the diligent study
of the Word and into the fullness of the kingdom and Spirit (Jn. 8:31-32;
Rom. 15:29; 2 Tim. 2:15; James 1:25). Pray for those you know like this,
that Jesus will open up their hearts to His whole counsel. Get them a

copy of this book and give it to them. I have done this and seen leaders
changed. Others are doing the same thing. One man I know goes to a
First Baptist church in his city and showed a copy of this book to his
pastors and they immediately hearkened to the biblical truth and even
had a meeting to make sure no one was teaching the lie of the ages in
their midst.
Like many in leadership, these men just needed a concentrated dose of
the truth on this important subject to enlighten the eyes of their hearts.
As a result of them getting a copy of this writing, they are now making a
potent impact on many with the divine truth contained herein.
When the LORD starts to open up our eyes with His truth we sometimes
become frustrated that our leaders are not walking in the full-counsel of
the Word (3 Jn. 4). Saint of the LORD, don't give up. Labor in Christ's
love (2 Tim. 4:1-5). Be encouraged. One particular pastor whom I gave
the Deceivers & False Prophets book read it and Gods Word contained in
it has changed his life and ministry. He started preaching the Scriptures
in it! Recently I gave the same man this Lie of the Ages book and he is
reading it. Soon after, the scriptural truth contained in this volume has
begun to come out of his mouth. Do you know a leader that could benefit
from this truth? May God be praised forevermore His truth is marching
on!
Its not enough to only believe Jesus died and rose again to justify us.
The LORD told us much more in His Word. The belief that Jesus
Christ is the nail-scarred risen Savior is the beginning and nothing else
happens until we are born again by Him. Yet, check out the passage of
Holy Writ that actually defines the Gospel and notice verse 2 - right
smack in the center of the definition of the true Gospel is the warning
to keep in memory or lose out. Initial saving faith in Jesus Christ is
in vain if one departs and becomes unbelieving (1 Cor. 15:2; Heb.
3:12-15; 4:1-11; 2 Pet. 2:20-21). See 1 Corinthians 15:1-5.
IS A PERSON ETERNALLY SECURE BECAUSE OF HIS PREVIOUS
SAVING FAITH IN JESUS?

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man
FALL AFTER THE SAME EXAMPLE OF UNBELIEF. Hebrews
4:11
This is a clear warning not to fall. How could one fall from
something he wasnt on/in?
Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest
he FALL. 1 Corinthians 10:12
Again, why all the warnings to Christians not to FALL if such were not
possible?
BRETHREN, if any of YOU (brethren) do err FROM the truth,
and one CONVERT him (bring him back to God); Let him know,
that he which CONVERTETH THE SINNER from the error of his
way shall SAVE a soul from death (eternal separation from
God). James 5:19-20
The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in
the day of his transgression ... neither shall the righteous be
able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth.
When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; IF
he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his
righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity
that he hath committed, he shall die (be separated from God)
for it. Ezekiel 33:12, 13
Obedience is always the evidence that one currently possesses saving
faith (James 2:14-26). Anything short of continuing faith that renders
obedience to God and produces personal holiness is damnable unbelief
and rebellion (Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Lk. 6:26; 8:13; 9:62; Matt. 7:21; Tit.
1:16; Heb. 4:1, 11; 10:26-39; James 1:22; 1 Jn. 1:7; 2:3-5).
Ongoing saving faith produces a life of holiness without which NO man
shall enter Heaven, regardless of his past relationship with God (Ezek.
33:12-13; Heb. 12:14; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
Think about this: According to Gods Word, without holiness there can be
no entrance into Heaven and without repentance there can be no holiness.

According to the New Testament record, saving faith can be:

Cast off - But the younger widows refuse: for when they
have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;
Having damnation, because they have cast off their first
faith. 1 Timothy 5:11-12

Put away and Made shipwreck of - Holding faith, and a

good conscience; which some having put away concerning
faith have made shipwreck. 1 Timothy 1:19

Denied - I know thy works and where thou dwellest, even

where Satans seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and
hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas
was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan
dwelleth. Revelation 2:13

Denied - But if any provide not for his own, and specially
for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is
worse than an infidel. 1 Timothy 5:8

Departed from - Now the Spirit speaketh expressly (clearly),

that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith,
giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 1
Timothy 4:1

Failed - But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not (if
this were not possible, why would Jesus have prayed?): and
when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Luke
22:32

Overthrown - Who concerning the truth have erred, saying

that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith
of some. 2 Timothy 2:18

Erred from - For the love of money is the root of all evil:
which while some coveted after, they have erred from the
faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 1
Timothy 6:10

Erred from - Which some professing have erred concerning

the faith 1 Timothy 6:21

Fallen Away from: One can fall away from his believing/saving
faith - They on the rock are they, which, when they hear,
receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a
while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. Luke 8:13

PRAYER: LORD Jesus I know You love me. I love You. Strike my heart
with Your holy fear. Root and ground me in Your grace and truth. Establish
my heart in a state of sound faith in You and help me to walk closer to You
this day while making me fully pleasing in Thy sight. Thank You for Your
Word to build up, direct, and protect Your true Church. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY THREE

FALLING FROM GRACE;

IS IT POSSIBLE?
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before
of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you
in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the
Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt,
afterward destroyed them that believed not. Jude 4-5

These promised certain men who have crept in unawares are in

our midst and here cited as ungodly men who are turning the grace
of our God into lasciviousness. In response to their teachings which
seek to grant license to sin among Gods people, Jude reminds us of how
the LORD, the Great Judge of the earth, saved the people (His
covenant people) out of the land of Egypt and then afterward
destroyed them that believed not. They believed not means that
they did not continue to believe or fully trust in the LORD. The LORD
had previously saved these covenant people out of the land of
Egypt, which represents the lost condition of mankind (slavery to sin).
He brought them through the Red Sea with His mighty hand, washing
them and delivering them from the bondage of Egypt.
This passage alone should forever instruct us that His salvation is
conditional upon the recipients choice to continue to believe, and that
initial saving faith (belief) does not force the believer to continue to live in
a state of saving faith. The Holy Spirit then speaks through Jude using
the example of how another class of created beings kept not their first
estate.
And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their
own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under
darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Jude 6
The phrase kept not their first estate simply means that some of the
angels of God did not remain in the grace of God, but rather, like Lucifer,
iniquity was found in them (Ezek. 28:15). These angelic beings did not
keep in memory the goodness and unchanging holiness of God and
therefore their previous state in His grace was in vain, or no longer valid
(1 Cor. 15:2). It was revoked.
Remember that Lucifer and two-thirds of the angels in Heaven were
thrust out for their rebellion. Were they not previously in right standing
in the grace of God? Of course they were (Ezek. 28).

Falling from Grace

What did the true grace teacher, the apostle Paul, have to say concerning
falling from Gods grace? Through Paul, the Holy Spirit told the believers

at Galatia: Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you

are justified by the law; YE ARE FALLEN FROM GRACE. (Gal. 5:4)
Beloved, how could someone possibly fall from something they werent
already on/in? This would obviously be impossible. Is All scripture given
by inspiration of God? If so, why in the world would the Almighty tell
these Christians that they had fallen from grace if such could not
happen? After reading this verse alone, it would be utter unbelief and
defiance to say that one cannot fall from grace.
Speaking to believers holy brethren (Heb. 3:1) - the writer of
Hebrews says; Looking diligently lest ANY MAN FAIL OF THE
GRACE OF GOD... (Heb. 12:15)
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive
the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while
believe, and in time of temptation fall away. Luke 8:13
Why would there ever exist the mention of falling from grace in Holy Writ
if such was not a distinct possibility?
So far we have witnessed that JESUS Christ used the words Fall away
(Lk. 8:13) and the great apostle used the term fallen from grace. (Gal.
5:4) The divinely inspired writer of Hebrews, when speaking to
brethren, used the term Fail of the grace of God. Please tell me
why this phrase would be used by the very Son of God and be found
recorded in divinely inspired New Testament Scripture, if such were not
possible?

More on Falling:
For IT IS IMPOSSIBLE for those who WERE ONCE
ENLIGHTENED, and HAVE TASTED OF (experienced) THE
HEAVENLY GIFT (eternal life), and WERE MADE PARTAKERS
OF THE HOLY GHOST, And HAVE TASTED OF THE GOOD
WORD OF GOD AND THE POWERS OF THE WORLD TO COME,
IF (the if word denotes that it is possible) they shall FALL
AWAY, to renew them AGAIN unto repentance; seeing they
crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an
open shame. Hebrews 6:4-6

Who are they who fall away in this passage? Lets back up and let
the Bible interpret itself:
A) Those who WERE ONCE ENLIGHTENED
B) Those who...HAVE TASTED OF (experienced) THE HEAVENLY
GIFT (eternal life)
C) Those who...WERE MADE PARTAKERS OF THE HOLY GHOST
D) Those who...HAVE TASTED OF THE GOOD WORD OF GOD
AND THE POWERS OF THE WORLD TO COME
Like any person once in the grace of God, who then lived in sin without
returning to the LORD, we see also that Judas fell from grace by
choosing to sin and remain in that offence.
...Judas BY TRANSGRESSION FELL... Acts 1:25
Those who neglect - arent diligent in following Christ in their daily lives are going to fall. When we are not pursuing Him, we are backsliding.
How shall we escape (eternal judgment), if we neglect so great
salvation (obviously, a saved person can neglect his
responsibilities to the Lord and come under His judgment)...
Hebrews 2:3
Did not Lucifer fall from grace - Heaven? The Son of God stated: I
beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. (Lk. 10:18)
Jesus told us here that Satan fell from heaven. This clearly
demonstrates that Lucifer, a created being, wasnt automatically and
eternally secure even though he was in Gods holy Heaven and in
fellowship with the Almighty. Just like we are, Lucifer was a created
being of God and in His family, yet he chose to allow sin in his heart
Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast
created, till iniquity was found in thee. (Ezek. 28:15) Though once
and probably for eons in the grace of God, at some point, Lucifer freely
chose to allow iniquity in his heart and was therefore violently removed
from the holy presence of God (Lk. 10:18).

Eli the priest of the LORD was promised by God to have an eternal place
with Him and yet this promise was revoked and he was cut off by the
LORD due to his sin (1 Sam. 2:30-32). All divine promises are
conditioned upon the continual obedience of the person the promise is
given to (Matt. 10:22; Gal. 6:7-9; Heb. 6:11-12).
According to Holy Scripture, Gods grace can be:

Received in vain 2 Cor. 6:1

Nullified Gal. 2:21

Quenched 1 Thess. 5:19

Fallen from Gal. 5:4

Failed Heb. 12:15

Done despite unto Heb. 10:29

Resisted Heb. 12:15

Abandoned by the believer Gal. 5:4

Multiplied 2 Pet. 1:2

Grown in 2 Pet. 3:18

Kept by His Power

Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore. For
the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they
are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut
off. Psalms 37:27-28
Typically, the eternal securist reads and embraces only part of this Bible
passage. In this divinely-inspired text, we see that The LORD
forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever, and yet, His
true saints who are preserved are defined here as those who Depart

from evil, and do good. It is because of this that His saints are blessed
to dwell for evermore with Christ.
Christs saints are those who those who love Him supremely and depart
from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore and are preserved
for ever. The erroneous teaching of OSAS and misuse of the doctrine
and experience of salvation does not invalidate the authentic version of
salvation presented to us in Gods Word. We should never abandon any
divinely-inspired truth to the abuse of some. Never abandon to abuse.
Never throw away the baby with the bath water as the saying goes
(Rom. 3:3-4; Phil. 1:15-20; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16-17).
Dare we throw away Gods truth because of the misuse of mere men
God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar. (Rom. 3:4)
LORD, please bless us to discern Your pure truth and keep us from
being tainted from the evil of leaders who have used Your truths for their
own self-serving purposes (2 Cor. 2:17; 2 Pet. 2-3). Does the enemy not
prosper to see Gods people throw away His very truth because of false
teachings? There is a truth in our preservation by Him. We are kept by
His power as we volitionally through faith walk in relationship with
Him (1 Pet. 1:5).
The soul of the righteous is to cry out to the LORD and remain desperate
for Him (Matt. 5:3, 6). Being preserved in the LORD is something the
righteous are to earnestly pray for. David prayed for this very thing.
Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and
needy. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save
thy servant that trusteth in thee. Be merciful unto me, O
Lord: for I cry unto thee daily. Psalms 86:1-3
The LORD protects and preserves His own. He blesses and keeps those
who abide or remain in Him and have set their love upon Him (Ps.
91:14).
Concerning being kept and the condition for such, Jeff Paton writes:
And I firmly believe Scripture which states a condition! We are
kept by the power of God THROUGH FAITH! (1 Pet.1:5) Now, show

me where sinning is faith! The whole of Scripture shows us

consistently that sinning is the absence of faith. You cant sin and
believe God at the same time! One must have faith in order to be
saved. Does not God expect us to be obedient to Him? Is that not
faith? If you contend for a faith that does not have to be obedient,
you have a devils faith, a faith that cannot save (Rom. 2:5-9; 6:16).
Even the Galatians were commanded to obey the truth(Gal. 3:1;
5:7; 2 Thes. 3:14;) Salvation is connected to obedience; He became
the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him. (obey
is in the present active participleobeying - Heb. 5:9). I dont see
how you can take the command of God concerning obedience and
made it a dirty word or antithetical to the Gospel. The problem in
Galatia was not obedience! God certainly thinks that obedience is
consistent with saving faith! One who is trusting wholly upon
Christ for their salvation, can at the same time obey Him and not
be guilty of the sin that is condemned in the book of Galatians.
Gods Word tells us that we are kept by His power through faith. (1
Pet. 1:5) He supplies the keeping as we render the faith. We are
blessed to abide in His presence and work out (not for) our own salvation
with fear and trembling as He works in us both to will and to do of His
good pleasure (Phil. 2:12-13). When we were drawn by Him and
received him, He granted us the power (right) to become the sons
of God. (Jn. 1:12-13) The LORD promised us a mansion in His Fathers
house, even though much tribulation may lie between here and there
(Matt. 10:22; Acts 14:22; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Jn. 3:13). For the saints who are
enduring to the end in grace, faith and patience, no matter how severe
the promised sufferings in this momentary life, the pain which is but
for a moment is a light affliction in comparison to the great and
never-ending reward that lies ahead (1 Cor. 2:9; 2 Cor. 4:16-18; Rev.
21:4).
Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see
him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full
of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of
your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9
Here we read that the true saints love and are believing toward the
One they rejoice with joy unspeakable to see. To these faithful ones,

final salvation will soon and forever be a consummated reality (1 Pet.

1:9). As it has been throughout history, so it is today - It is their supreme
love for the Savior that enables the faithful saint to persevere through
much tribulation. (Acts 14:22; Heb. 12:1-4; 1 Pet. 1:8; Rev. 2:4-5;
12:11)
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also
in me. In my Fathers house are many mansions: if it were not
so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And
if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and
receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also. John 14:1-3
Tribulation lies between here and our Heavenly home and He has
promised to bless, keep, guide, mature, protect, and greatly reward us as
we endure in these divers trials (James 1:2-4, 12). The remnant believer
must be willing to endure suffering (1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1; 1 Jn. 3:13).
Whatever the pain we may suffer here in this brief life, it is miniscule in
comparison to the everlasting horror to be experienced by all who deny
Christ.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might
have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of
good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is
tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the LORD hath
promised to them that love him. James 1:12
PRAYER: LORD, thank You for Your keeping grace and power. I fear only
Thee Father in Heaven and am grateful for the blessing of Your grace
working in my heart to cause me to pant after You! Break me Jesus! Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR

LATTER END WORSE

For if AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world
THROUGH THE KNOWLEDGE of the Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ, they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, THE
LATTER END IS WORSE WITH THEM than the beginning. For
it had been BETTER for them not to HAVE KNOWN the way of
righteousness, than, AFTER THEY HAVE KNOWN IT, to TURN
FROM the holy commandment delivered unto them. 2 Peter
2:20-21
When writing to HOLY BRETHREN about the possibility of a fall
the Word of God warns: Let us labour therefore to enter into that
rest, LEST ANY MAN FALL AFTER THE SAME EXAMPLE OF
UNBELIEF. (Heb. 3:1; 4:11) This is a clear warning to labourto
enter into that rest and not to fall. How could one fall from
something he wasn't already on?
...Judas BY TRANSGRESSION FELL... Acts 1:25
Note there that Judas didnt fall because he was predestined to fall, but
because he freely chose to live in sin which hardened his heart and led to
his falling away from faith in Christ.
Instead of salvation meaning we have a license to sin, we actually have
no excuse whatsoever to live in sin now that Christ came to deal with
take away sin on the cross (Jn. 1:29; Rom. 6). His spirit of holiness
has now taken up residence in every born again believer (Rom. 1:4). His
holy grace is sufficient for us to fully love and serve Him and now labors
in us to bring forth fruit unto Him (1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9-10).
It was by iniquity that Gods covenant people had fallen.

O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by
thine iniquity. Hosea 14:1
Sin alienates men from the one holy God and LORD of all that is (Hab.
1:13). In the divine economy, as communicated throughout His Word,
it would be better never to be saved than to get genuinely saved and
then drift away and depart from fellowship with Christ (Heb. 3:12-15;
10:29; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he
liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves
to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal
body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield
ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin:
but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the
dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto
God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not
under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin,
because we are not under the law, but under grace? God
forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants
to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin
unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans
6:10-16
Believers are instructed and warned to take heed to themselves so
that they dont fall.
Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest
he FALL. 1 Corinthians 10:12
Again, why all the warnings to Christians not to FALL if such were not
possible?
BRETHREN, if any of YOU (brethren) do err FROM the truth,
and one CONVERT him (bring him back to God); Let him know,
that he which CONVERTETH THE SINNER from the error of his
way shall SAVE a soul from death (eternal separation from
God). James 5:19-20

By which also ye are saved IF ye keep in memory what I

preached unto you, UNLESS YE HAVE BELIEVED IN VAIN. 1
Corinthians 15:2
Lets read this key Bible passage from 2 Peter. May the LORD bless us
to be honest about what He stated in His holy Word.
For if AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world
THROUGH THE KNOWLEDGE of the Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ, they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, THE
LATTER END IS WORSE WITH THEM than the beginning. For
it had been BETTER for them not to HAVE KNOWN the way of
righteousness, than, AFTER THEY HAVE KNOWN IT, to TURN
FROM the holy commandment delivered unto them. 2 Peter
2:20-21
The Bible here speaks of the beginning and the latter end which
clearly reveals that in our relationship to God, there is a beginning
where we are blessed to be born again. There can be an end to our
salvation which will mean worse judgment for those who once knew
Jesus then allowed themselves to become overcome by sin (because
they left their first love). The clear warning of this passage is that for
those who allow themselves to become entangled and then
overcome by sin, they will suffer greater damnation than if they had
never been saved.
Consider what the unchanging LORD told His own covenant people in
Joshua 24:
If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will
turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath
done you good. Joshua 24:20
The LORD reveals in His Word that His heart breaks when His own
people turn in spiritual adultery to other sources in place of Him. This is
idolatry and emanates from the prideful heart. Look at what the Holy
Spirit breathed in and through the prophet Jeremiah for us to heed:

Hear ye, and give ear; be not proud: for the LORD hath
spoken. Give glory to the LORD your God, before he cause
darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark
mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the
shadow of death, and make it gross darkness. But if ye will not
hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and
mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because
the LORDS flock is carried away captive. Jeremiah 13:15-17
This is why it is vitally important for believers to keep their hearts before
the LORD, moment by moment. Didnt our LORD forewarn us? He
warned us of allowing the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness
of riches, and the lusts of other things which entering in, choke
the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground;
who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it
with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure
but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution
ariseth for the words sake, immediately they are offended.
And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear
the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of
riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the
word, and it becometh unfruitful. And these are they which
are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive
it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some
an hundred. Mark 4:16-20
The Master told us there are 3 things that will choke the Word of God in
us and cause us to lose out:
1. Cares of this world
2. The deceitfulness of riches
3. The lusts of other things
How does this happen?

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own

lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth
forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do
not err, my beloved brethren. James 1:14-16
Thank God for the gift of repentance and how He so graciously seeks to
lead His children to return to Him.
Central to the biblical doctrine of repentance is Psalms 51 where the
man after mine own heart cries out in utter desperation after sinning
against the Almighty (Acts 13:22).
How many people do each of us know who once walked with Jesus in
a vibrant fellowship and yet today they no longer walk with Him? Do
you realize that restoring the backslider will save the sinner from
the error of his way and shall save a soul from death, and shall
hide a multitude of sins.
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert
him; Let him know, that he which converteth (restores) the
sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death,
and shall hide a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20
There is much at stake. Did you realize that there will be worse
punishment in hell for the one who once knew Christ then turned from
Him?
And that servant, which knew his lords will, and prepared
not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten
with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit
things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For
unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much
required: and to whom men have committed much, of him
they will ask the more. Luke 12:47-48
PRAYER: LORD Jesus I love You supremely and do wish to never drift
from Your holy presence. Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit and strike my
heart with Your holy fear. Cause my life to be fruitful in Your kingdom as I

am blessed to abide in You this day. Bless me to be used by You to lead

backsliders back home to You! Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY FIVE

ARE THE BELIEVERS PRESENT AND

FUTURE SINS AUTOMATICALLY
FORGIVEN?
But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we
deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. IF we confess our
sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7-9
Wow, once again we witness that bone-crushing, lie-leveling, Calvindefying two-letter word which haunts every proponent of the
unconditional eternal security myth if. Read this again if, if, if
we confess then we are forgiven and cleansed, but not until the sin is
confessed. God is without fail faithful to forgive if we will simply and
sincerely confess our sins in true repentance.
IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his

Son cleanseth us from all sinIF we confess our sins, he is

faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from
all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7-9
The divine promise of ongoing forgiveness is conditional upon the
salvation recipient walking in the light of divine truth and confessing his
sins (1 Jn. 7, 9). This is saving faith in action (Rom. 4-5). This is a
manifestation in the life of every person who possesses authentic saving
faith (James 2). The if word in this passage and many others should
haunt any person who still refuses to discard the OSAS heresy.
For IF we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we
should not be condemned with the world. 1 Corinthians
11:31-32
Only if we enjoin the LORD in fellowship, judging ourselves and
dealing with our sins and iniquitous tendencies, will we be chastened
of the Lord and not be condemned with the world. Those who die
outside of Gods grace will stand before Him at the Great White Throne
(Rev. 20:11-15). Here the Holy Spirit blesses us to know exactly how to
escape being condemned with the world at the Great While Throne
(Prov. 28:13; Rev. 20:11-15). One who stands before that Great White
Throne Judgment Seat is going to be issued a just sentence for his
termination into the bowels of hell which will be engulfed in the lake of
fire.
The OSAS proponents tout the unfounded myth that the truly saved
person is somehow mysteriously exonerated from all liability, penalty and
responsibility of all sins, past, present and FUTURE. Is this supposition
biblically accurate? Where is this found in the Bible? To the contrary, the
Scripture states something much different:
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in
his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of
sins that are PAST, through the forbearance of God. Romans
3:25

Here the Lord had the perfect opportunity to tell us that all sins, even
future sins, were automatically forgiven regardless of whether or not the
transgressors heart was repentant or not. The sins that are past are
forgiven, thank God, but all future sins will be forgiven when and if
repentance is rendered toward the Lord by the enabling power of the
Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:13; 1 Jn. 1:7, 9). Actually the LORD had 27 books in
the New Testament canon alone to tell His people they are
unconditionally forgiven of all future sins no matter what they choose to
do, and He simply didnt. The absence of even the hint of such should
make it abundantly clear that the forgiveness of the future sins of the
individual believer is contingent upon his choice to continue to walk with
Christ's light (1 Jn. 1:7).
What the OSAS proponent doesnt acknowledge or understand is that all
sins, past, present, and future, have been paid for, yet the forgiveness of
them is only appropriated by and granted to the individual when and as
confession and repentance is rendered (1 Jn. 1:7, 9). We have the Word
of God on this truth! As His Word clearly reveals, God set this system up
and any person who disagrees can argue with Him if they wish to. Any
person who doesnt acknowledge this plain Bible truth has fashioned in
his heart the image of a false god made in his own sinful image and
likeness. When we honestly observe His Counsel, we witness that the
LORD simply never indiscriminately washes away sins from anyone.
There must be confession and repentance and faith.
But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever,
sat down on the right hand of God. (Heb. 10:12) Salvation was paid
for by Jesus once on the cross 2,000 years ago (Jn. 19:30; 1 Pet.
3:18). God dealt with all sins once and for all on the cross in the sense of
satisfying the claims of His perfect justice (Rom. 3:24-25; 2 Cor. 5:19).
The way that applies to the individuals life is different. The same God
who dealt with sin on the cross also equally gave condition for men to
receive forgiveness initially and on an ongoing basis. The LORD draws.
No person can come to Him except drawn by Him yet He leaves the
final decision up to the individual (Jos. 24:15; Jn. 6:44). His desire is to
save and not destroy, to rescue and not condemn (Lk. 9:56; Jn. 3:17).
The one who will be in right standing with the Almighty must get in and
remain in the relational will of God by repentance and faith in Christ

alone (Acts 3:19; 20:21). Peter was rescued again or re-converted after
sinning (Lk. 22:31-32). James 5:19-20 speaks of restoring or rescuing a
perishing brother who errs into sin and spiritual death (James 5:19-20).
Spiritual death is separation from God through sin and must be restored
to re-establish the relationship (1 Jn. 1:6-10).
In many cases, the false security gospel is a message received by
those who choose to deny Jesus rather than self and still wish to be
exonerated for living a life that the Almighty sees as rebellion. In many
cases these same people maintain an outward form of godliness.
(2 Tim. 3:1-5) The Word here should be to them an awakening to the
reality of getting and staying holy before the living God. The keeping
grace of the God and a life of repentance are essential to the righteous
being preserved to the end (1 Pet. 1:5).
And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire;
hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto
him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present
you faultless before the presence of his glory with
exceeding joy. Jude 23-24

Sin Breaches
And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned
against me, him will I blot out of my book. Exodus 32:33
Why would any person who truly loves God want a license to live in
rebellion against Him by living in sin and not confessing and repenting?
Shouldnt believers fight the good fight of faith and lay hold on
eternal life, overcoming that which offends the One they claim to love?
The command to Fight the good fight of faith is written to believers.
Saints are to violently fight the good fight of faith, laying hold on eternal
life. The divine call is not a call to engage in a physical war but rather
one to conquer the flesh, enabling the saint to overcome the enemies of
his LORD and Savior (Isa. 58; Lk. 9:23-24; 1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Cor. 10:3-5;
Gal. 2:20; 1 Jn. 3:8). Will He not empower us as we live by faith and obey
His Majesty? (2 Cor. 12:9; Phil. 2:12-13; 1 Tim. 6:12; 1 Pet. 1:5)
The Exodus of the Israelites under Moses leadership (a type of Christ the
Deliverer) represents being brought out of sin and the world system by

being birthed into the kingdom of light and translated out of the kingdom
of darkness (Col. 1:13-14). After being brought out of Egypt and into the
promise land, Gods people were then to fight and overcome their
enemies through obedience to the One who is their Deliverer, the very
Author and Finisher of their faith (Heb. 12:1-3). Deuteronomy 20:1-4
speaks concerning the people of God fighting after they were delivered
from sin, Satan, and the world.
Could it be that the person who seeks to justify sin doesnt truly love God
but rather himself? (James 1:22; 1 Jn 2:4-5; 3:18) Do they deny Christ
or self in their daily lives? It seems that some would rather live this
earthly life in honor of themselves and vainly believe that they are
eternally secure or once saved always saved.
Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look
on iniquity. Habakkuk 1:13
The absurdity and rebellion of believing that a holy God would accept
and bring to Heaven a vile sinner who walks away from Him, is unholy,
sac religious, unscriptural, and downright blasphemous.
Did you realize that God broke His promise to His own covenant people due to their
rebellion? See Numbers 14.

ye shall know my breach of promise. Numbers 14:34

The LORD broke (breached) His promise to covenant Israel due to their
disobedience (sins against Him). All of Holy Scripture testifies to the
truth that His promises are conditional upon the obedience of the
recipient.
But your (Gods own people) iniquities have separated
between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face
from you, that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2
God is holy beloved, and sin separates people from Him. This is a basic
Bible reality and without the understanding of this simple truth, we are
doomed to be deceived. For the human race, it started with Adam and
Eve, who were separated from the Lord when they sinned against His
clear command (Gen. 2:17; 3:24; Rom. 5:12). Did Jesus shedding His
blood somehow now excuse New Testament believers from living holy? Are

their blatant and un-confessed sins not counted against them now? In the
absence of any hint of such, the answer is obvious. There is no mythical
wand waved over Gods people since Jesus came and died for our sins.
There is no automatic covering of the willful sins of saved people. Not one
Scripture hints that we are somehow excused from living lives separated
unto Him.
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all
manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16
Did the Almighty somehow cease to be holy? If so, when? If He didnt, we
deceive only ourselves to think He will ever accept sin into His holy
Heaven.
There has been no diminishing of the eternal attribute of divine holiness
(Lev. 19:2; Isa. 57:15; 1 Tim. 6:16). His attributes are eternal as He is. In
fact, because He is holy, He came to die for our sins to make us holy as He
is holy. All this He did to initially make us clean and on an ongoing basis
as we await our meeting together with Him (Jn. 13:8; Eph. 5:25-27; 1
Thess. 1:10; 1 Jn. 1:3-2:2). This leaves us with no excuse for remaining in
our sins.
The wages of sin is still death (separation from the Lord).
Romans 6:23
Didnt Jesus require Peter to repent and be converted or restored,
after he sinned? (Lk. 22:31-32) Repentance was a necessity as is the case
for any saint who falls away in sin (James 5:19-20).
Sin must be diligently dealt with (Mk. 9:43-49; Rom. 6; Col. 3:5-10; 1 Pet.
2:11). We are told that one must confess and forsake them to receive His
mercy afresh. Those who cover their sins without divulging, confessing
and forsaking them, will not prosper.
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso
confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs
28:13

According to the Word, arent brethren who err in need of being

converted or brought back to repentance afresh? In such a case, isnt
ones soul saved again from death and the multitude of sins
forgiven?
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert
him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from
the error of his way shall save a soul from death (eternal
separation), and shall hide a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20
Again, Gods holiness is an eternal attribute of His. Holiness is the
essence of His nature. He is holiness Personified. He who was holy, is
holy, and will forever be holy. He cannot be otherwise and demands the
same of those who will be His, now and forever.
Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the
LORD your God. Leviticus 20:7
In order to remain in the state of holiness, the believer must continue to
humbly acknowledge his sins and obtain the forgiveness of the LORD.
Genuine saving faith includes repentance from sin and total trust in
Jesus Christ, which produces a life of seeking the Lord with ones whole
heart, thereby producing Christ-like holiness in daily living (Acts 20:21;
Lk. 13:3, 5; Heb. 12:14; 1 Jn. 2:3-6).
The abandonment and refusal of so many of todays leaders to declare
repentance is a mockery of God and an utter affront to His holiness. The
modern false gospel peddled by the seeker-sensitive and emergent church
business entrepreneurs is completely foreign to the message of the New
Testament which the early Church continued steadfast in (Lk. 13:3, 5;
24:47; Acts 2:38, 42-47; 3:19; 20:21). Make no mistake: Only a counterfeit
leader would dare remove such an essential component as the very
holiness of God and the necessity of His people to fully and continually
repent before Him (Lam. 2:14).
Some people are so arrogant that they suppose the Almighty God who is
holy, holy, holy somehow ceases to be holy and would not cut them
off for their sins due to the fact that He initially saved them (Isa. 1:18-20;

6:3; Amos 9:10; Rev. 4:8). Such a notion reveals the height of blindness
caused by pride, arrogance, and a self-serving heart (Isa. 56:10-12)
Blatant and ongoing sin is the antithesis of divine holiness and that
which He ordained His people to experience and walk in (1 Pet. 1:15-16).
How can sin and holiness co-exist? We should pray and seek to more
thoroughly understand the truth of His holiness and that in lieu of His
holiness sin separates people from God and God from His people. To His
own people, the Lord said: Your iniquities have separated between
you and your God. (Isa. 59:2) In Heaven, from eternity past, and in
eternity future, the Almighty has and will be lauded and exalted with this
one word descriptive of His nature, thrice consecutively holy:
And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the
LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:3
And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him;
and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and
night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was,
and is, and is to come. Revelation 4:8
While God has revealed to us several aspects of His nature, it is
interesting to note that only the word holy is used three times
successively to solemnly praise Him and in revealing one of the attributes
of His nature.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is
to come. Revelation 4:8
Holiness is the enemy of sin and vice versa.
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, IF ye
continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye
shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free...Jesus
answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever
committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant (of sin)
abideth (remains) not in the house (Gods) for ever: but the Son
abideth ever. John 8:31-35

Whoso privily (secretly) slandereth his neighbour, him will I

cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I
suffer (to remain in His presence)...He that worketh deceit
shall not dwell (remain) within my house: he that telleth lies
shall not tarry (continue) in my sight. I will early destroy all
the wicked of the land; that I may cut off ALL wicked doers
from the city of the LORD. Psalms 101:5, 7-8
Four times the Bible states that names can be and are blotted out of the
book of life all because God is holy, holy, holy. How important is it
to be made holy by Christs precious blood and have ones name written
and remaining in the book of life?
And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was
cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:15
It is obvious that those names which are blotted OUT, had to first have
been written IN the book of life in order to be blotted OUT of it (Exod.
32:32; Ps. 69:28; Rev. 3:5; 22:19).
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which NO
man shall see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
Space does not permit listing the plethora of Scripture revealing that the
Lord will not allow sin into His presence - no matter what His previous
relationship with a person was (have you closely studied Joshua 6-7 and
Ezekiel 33:12-13?).
But now being made free from sin, and become servants to
God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting
life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal
life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:22-23
Holiness is the manifest fruit of eternal life. If one doesnt have the
fruit personal holiness a life separated unto the LORD, it is because he
does not possess eternal life. The payment for living in sin is spiritual
death. Those who are truly Christs are made free from sin and are
servants to God and have their fruit unto holiness, and the end

everlasting life. Did you note that in verse 22 there is a clear

correlation between holiness and everlasting life?
Polycarp, an early church disciple who existed before Augustine and
Calvin, still held fast to, observed, and maintained the original Gospel
given to us by the LORD and His apostles. Such is evidenced in this
following statement of his to a fellow saint of Christ:
Having obtained good proof that thy mind is fixed in God as upon
an immovable rock, I loudly glorify [His name] that I have been
thought worthy [to behold] thy blameless face which may I ever
enjoy in God! I entreat thee, by the grace with which thou art
clothed, to press forward in thy course, and to exhort all that they
may be saved. Maintain thy position with all care, both in the flesh
and spirit. (The Epistle of Ignatius to Polycarp 1:1)
Polycarp was one of the apostle Johns direct disciples who existed before
most of the apostasy from truth occurred. Polycarp still embraced and
taught the original Gospel given Him by John. As Christ and His
apostles instructed, He taught that maintaining ones place with God was
essential to final salvation and if one didnt hold his position, all would
be lost.
A Special People
According to His Word, Jesus Christ gave Himself for us that He might
redeem and purify unto Himself a peculiar people empowered by His
grace.
our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he
might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a
peculiar (special) people, zealous of good works. Titus 2:13-14
Why did Jesus come to die for you? According to Titus 2 the Bible says of
Jesus Christ - Who gave himself for us

that he might redeem us from all iniquity

that he mightpurify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous
of good works

Why would the divinely-breathed truth of this passage ever need

explanation? Explanation and defense of this truth is only necessarily
because there are those who are bent on proving an erroneous, preconceived position that is contrary to whole of the Word of God.
How many sins did it take for God who is holy to remove the first man
and woman from His presence? Just one right? Was their relationship
with Him perfect before they sinned against Him? Yes. Why did Jesus
come? Was it not to restore that relationship Adam and Eve knew?
(Rom.5) So, to believe that no sin can separate the saved person from the
LORD would be absurd, unfounded and blatantly contrary to what is
revealed in Scripture.
To concoct in ones mind the image of a deity who grants his people
freedom to sin with no consequence is to worship at the altar of a false
god. Such is completely contrary to what the God of Scripture told us of
Himself. He came to die to forgive, deliver and empower us to overcome
sin so that we dont have it in our lives (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29; Tit. 2:1314; 1 Jn. 3:5). He did not come to free us to live in sin but rather that
he might redeem us from all iniquitythat he mightpurify unto
himself a peculiar people. (Rom. 6:1-2, 15; Tit. 2:11-14).
And ye know that he was manifested to TAKE AWAY our sins;
and in him is no sin. 1 John 3:5
The bottom line truth is that we all still sin against Him and are
required to ask the LORD for His forgiveness and stay cleansed,
especially in light of Christs soon return (Lk. 21:34-36; 22:31-32; Heb.
4:14-16; 2 Pet. 3:10-14; 1 Jn. 1:7-2:2). We have never been told by the
LORD that we have a license to sin with no need to confess and repent
(Ps 32:5; 38:18; 51:1-17; 69:5; Prov. 28:13; James 5:19-20; 1 Jn. 1:9;
2:1-2).
The LORD granted us His grace not to live in sin but rather to bless
and empower us to please Him fully now in this present world and
as we eagerly await His glorious return for His remnant body (Tit. 2:1114).
Quoting Davids words in Psalms 32, the apostle Paul writes:
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man,
unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,

Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and

whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord
will not impute sin. Romans 4:6-8
The blessed place to be is where we have a real walk with God, one
that is accountable, repentant, and obedient. As we do, we are in His
holy light and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin!
Of the true follower of Christ, Andrew Murray wrote:
He (true believer) to be partaker, not only of the grace, but also of
the holiness of his Lord; or rather; he sees that holiness is the chief
beauty of grace. To live the life of Christ means to him to be
delivered from the life of self; the will of Christ is to him the only
path of liberty from the slavery of his own evil self-will. p. 188
Abide In Christ
The LORD Almighty is a great God who has granted to us this so
great salvation which He wrought through Christ alone (Jn. 19:30; 2
Cor. 5:19; Heb. 2:3). The LORD is a God of great mercy and forgiveness
and yet He requires the participation of the one who is currently and
desires to be continually forgiven.
PRAYER: Jesus please cleanse me afresh. I humble myself before You
and acknowledge my sins and ask that You wash me clean with Your
sinless blood and strike the fear of the LORD in my heart. Bless my inner
man that I might never excuse my sins but rather confess and forsake
them in godly sorrow. Strengthen my heart with Your Holy Spirit to glorify
Your name in fruitful living till the end. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY SIX

IS REPENTANCE NECESSARY
FOR BELIEVERS?
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise
perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell,
and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men
that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent,
ye shall all likewise perish. Luke 13:3-5
While preaching to several thousand people, the apostle Peter declared:
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be
blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the
presence of the Lord. Acts 3:19
Though false prophets selectively pick and choose what they wish to
deliver to their audiences to accomplish their own agenda, the Holy Spirit
will never change the original Gospel message (Ps. 89:34; Jn. 10:35;
Rom. 3:3-4). When giving the Great Commission mandate to the New
Testament Church, Jesus commanded that repentance and remission
of sins be preached to every generation:
And that repentance and remission of sins should be
preached in his name among all nations, beginning at
Jerusalem. Luke 24:47
Jesus told the Ephesian believers that they had left loving Him first place
(as their first love) and that if they didnt repent, He would remove His
presence from them. This was a threat.
Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent,
and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly,
and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou
repent. Revelation 2:5

According to the revelation of the Holy Spirit given to the prophet

Jeremiah, false prophets do not uncover the sins of Gods people and
therefore have no need to preach repentance for the remission of sins:
Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and
they have not discovered (exposed) thine iniquity, to turn
away thy captivity (bondage); but have seen for thee false
burdens and causes of banishment (non-essentials).
Lamentations 2:14
Here the Holy Spirit reveals the tactic of the false prophets among Gods
people in Jeremiahs day they have not discovered thine iniquity,
to turn away thy captivity. The leaders among Gods people did not
want to lay bare the sins they were all committing which were keeping
them captive (in captivity) to the enemy. Perhaps, like so many in
leadership positions today, these men had their own agenda and it
wasnt Gods agenda, so they wanted to make the people feel good about
themselves (like the ultra popular self-love message taught in our day) in
order to seduce them to help build that big church building and advance
their own careers/agendas. In order to accomplish their personal
agenda to advance their own careers - they follow peers and make light
of sin.
Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets (leaders), saith
the LORD, that steal my words every one from his neighbour.
Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use
their tongues, and say, He saith. 32Behold, I am against them
that prophesy false dreams (visions), saith the LORD, and do
tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by
their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them:
therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the
LORD. Jeremiah 23:30-32
The LORD God is against leaders who do not teach His Word by His
Spirit. He says they cause my people to err by their lies, and by their
lightness.
Here are the 2 things the Holy Spirit identifies that misled leaders do:

cause my people to err by their lies (Jer. 23:32)

cause my people to err by theirlightness (Jer. 23:32)

Taking a light view of the holiness of God and the sins that violate His
holiness, is a deadly and damning endeavor and being perpetrated by the
blind leaders who are leading many astray in this late hour (Matt. 15:14).
False Burdens and Causes of Banishment
In chapter 8 Jeremiah also pens these inspired words concerning what
the false leaders of his day were doing. He said that they have seen for
thee false burdens and causes of banishment.
False Burdens - Jeremiah reveals that instead of leading the LORDs
people into repentance from unholy things, those false prophets have
seen for thee false burdens and causes of banishment. In other
words, those leaders, like the false teachers in our day, tended to the
fanfare of lighter things like the modern-day prosperity message, church
growth, self-help programs, how to cope with problems and various
dainty non-essentials taught by fad authors.
In the text below, let us look at what Jeremiah says further concerning
those who held positions of leadership among the LORDs people in that
day. Also, we should ask: Has anything changed? Is this what the LORD
sees among those in leadership today who have come in His name but
dont bear His fruit and doctrine?
The wise men (leaders) are ashamed, they are dismayed and
taken (morally weakened through sin): lo, they have rejected
the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is in them?...for
every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to
covetousness, from the prophet even unto the priest every one
dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter
of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no
peace. Were they ashamed when they had committed
abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could
they blush (hardened hearts, seared consciences): therefore
shall they fall among them that fall: in the time of their
visitation they shall be cast down, saith the LORD. Jeremiah
8:9-12

By removing repentance from their message, the false prophets had

healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly (superficially),
saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. They removed the
essential message of repentance from sin before a holy, eternal God
except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Lk. 13:3) These men
had rejected the word of the LORD in their personal lives and
therefore in their service to the LORD. Though they once personally
embraced and preached repentance, they now became wiser than the
Almighty and therefore leaned to their own darkened understanding,
vainly believing they knew what their modern generation needed more
than the LORD Professing themselves to be wise, they became
fools. (Rom. 1:22) After all, things had changed right? They lived in a
new age, more enlightened than any previous time in history correct?
Wrong. Since the fall of man in the Garden, the heart of the human
problem has been sin and repentance from sin was and is mans only
hope in contacting His Makers grace and mercy. In order to be justified
exonerated from the punishment and penalty of sin, one must fall upon
the divine mercy of the One who is full of compassion, and gracious,
longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. (Ps. 86:15)
Why were Gods people not ashamed when they had committed
abomination? Because the leaders dealt falsely. There was no
convicting teaching on sin and holiness and judgment and repentance
among them. Their leaders were betraying the LORD and His people for
their own self-gain (covetousness). Nothing has changed in our day.
Jeremiah goes on to reveal:
The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not
saved. For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I
am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me. Is there no
balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not
the health of the daughter of my people recovered? Jeremiah
8:20-22
Is there no balm in Gilead This rhetorical question given by the
LORD here was whether or not there was still a healing balm, blessed
yoke-breaking anointing or Savior among the people of the LORD. Yes
there was but He was being kept at bay by the sheer refusal of those in

leadership to give the call of repentance. The leaders refused to call Gods
covenant people from the sins that separated the people from Him who is
holy, holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8)
The same exact scenario was a reality in the days of Isaiah the prophet.
It was not the LORD who abandoned His people but rather His people
abandoned Him and were suffering greatly for it. Their sins were
withholding the blessings He longed to bestow upon them. His hand or
ability to bless was not diminished. Not one bit! Yet, He wasnt delivering
them due to their rebellion against Him who is holy.
Behold, the LORDS hand is not shortened, that it cannot
save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your
iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your
sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Isaiah
59:1-2
In the 15th chapter, the prophet Jeremiah pens these words:
Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, thou art gone
backward: therefore will I stretch out my hand against thee,
and destroy thee; I am weary with repenting. And I will fan
them with a fan in the gates of the land; I will bereave them of
children, I will destroy my people, since they return not from
their ways. Jeremiah 15:6-7
Does sin separate? Does sin disconnect the covenant recipient from the
God who made the covenant?
O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen
by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the LORD:
say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us
graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Hosea
14:1-2
Return simply means to turn again re-turn. When Gods people turn
afresh to Him and away from the iniquities in their lives and render their
hearts and words of repentance to Him, all sin is graciously washed away
and innocence and relationship restored.

But your iniquities have separated between you and your

God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not
hear. Isaiah 59:2
Some mainline evangelical denominations are famous for teaching that
under the New Covenant, the believer cannot jeopardize his place with
God after once being genuinely saved, no matter what sins he chooses to
commit after being initially justified. They teach both blatantly and
subtlety, that repentance for sins committed after being saved is optional
and does not endanger the soul of the sinning saint. This lie flies in the
face of volumes of warnings in the Old and New Testament Scriptures
written specifically to Gods covenant people. To the avid student of
Scripture who listens and hears the divine message of Holy Writ, such a
teaching is an insult to his faith-filled and informed intelligence. The
continuing need to stay in relationship with the LORD is a serious reality
to the true disciple. Such takes regular repentance from all that He told
us offends Him.
Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one
according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn
yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not
be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions,
whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and
a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have
no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord
GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. Ezekiel 18:30-32
One has not yet understood the elementary truths of the Bible if he does
not have a fresh and ongoing revelation that God is holy and therefore
sin separates those made in His holy image from Him. In the divine
economy, repentance (a complete return to the LORD and relinquishing
of all known sin) is necessary to contact His mercy through Christs
blood, which brings cleansing and restoration.

Did Paul Believe Repentance from Sin was Important?

Notice these final words penned to the church at Corinth:

For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I
would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would
not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes,
backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I
come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I
shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not
repented
of
the
uncleanness
and
fornication
and
lasciviousness which they have committed. 2 Corinthians
12:21
These are the very last words the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian
believers. If repentance from sins was not important to the LORD, why
would the Holy Spirit have inspired His apostle to cite these believers for
being unrepentant? Here Paul speaks of bewailing many which have
sinned already, and have not repented. As an under-shepherd true to
the Master Shepherd, Paul knew these sins they had not relinquished
endangered the souls of these beloved people he was called to oversee.
Here are the sins the Holy Spirit cites some of the Corinthians for
committing without repenting:

Debates (contentious spirit bent upon strife)

Envyings

Wraths

Strifes

Backbitings

Whisperings (sowing discord)

Swellings (haughtiness)

Tumults (turmoil)

Uncleanness (fornication)

Fornication (includes any and all forms of sexual immorality

sex outside of marriage)

Lasciviousness (lack of restraint from sinning)

It is clear that these sins jeopardized the souls of these Corinthians,

otherwise the Holy Ghost would not have had Paul pen these words. It
was essential that they repent, turning back to the LORD with a whole
heart (Hos. 14:1-3; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:5-7; Rev. 21:8, 21).
Many erroneously teach that if a person seems to walk away from God
after being in right standing with Him, they were not saved to begin with.
Those who espouse such a farce ignore the fact that there are four, not
three types of people who do any one of four different things after hearing
Gods Word (Lk. 8:12-15). Again, there are four soils not three and
anyone who ignores any one of these hearers will have a skewed
understanding of the kingdom of God. It is also obvious from the words
of Christ here that people have free moral agency and the choice to
remain or change the way they treat God and His Word in their lives.
Diligently study Luke 8:12-15 prayerfully, defining and meditating upon
the four heart-types Jesus taught.
While offering forgiveness, the LORD also promised to punish all those
who did not repent and those of His own people who were
transgressors and forsook the LORD. (Isa. 1:18-20, 28, 31) He also
promised to abundantly bless those of His people who returned to Him
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as woolye shall eat
the good of the land. (Isa. 1:18-20)
After being set apart to the LORD (made holy) the believer is responsible
to remain in that condition washed (1 Jn. 1:6-10; 2:1-6). Those in
leadership who neglect to teach the necessity of continuing repentance
for committed or omitted sins, err as they paint to their hearers a flawed
picture of the divine economy. Such a gross omission is costly and
teaches men that they can have the benefits of Heaven without
possessing the holiness of the heavenly LORD.
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no
man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of
the grace of God Hebrews 12:14-15

Any person in a place of influence who leads people to believe that there
is no need to be made holy on an ongoing basis, is not following the
LORDs command to preach repentance among all nations (peoples)
as Jesus commanded.
And that repentance and remission of sins should be
preached in his name among all nations, beginning at
Jerusalem. Luke 24:47
Friend, let me interject here that any person who does not honor the
words of Jesus, simply and unmistakably does not honor Jesus (Mk.
8:34; Jn. 8:47; 14:15, 21). Holiness and repentance go hand in hand.
Any person who will be made holy as only the LORD can do, must
repent from that which He calls sin (Ps. 4:3; 51:1-19). If you are going
to be preserved to the end in the truth, you must run from any person
in leadership who does not regularly teach Gods people the absolute
necessity of divine grace and repentance for the essential of holiness
unto the LORD. (Zech. 14:20-21) Such a person has no business in
leadership and regrettably, this description fits the majority of those
who lead or communicate in the modern church world via pulpits,
Sunday school, books and various media.

The Evidence of True Repentance

Bring forth therefore fruits meet for (consistent with)
repentance...And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the
trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit
is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Matthew 3:8-10
God loves and requires fruit (Jn. 15:1-6, 16). According to the LORD
Jesus, all who are not truly rooted in Christ at death will be hewn
down, and cast into the fire of eternal damnation (Matt. 3:10; Mk.
9:43-49; Lk. 13:3, 5). Christ taught that all those in Him who do not
remain intimate with Him (abide) will cease bearing good fruit and He will
cast them into the fire, and they are burned. He casts them into the
fire to be burned. (Jn. 15:1-6) Hell awaits all who once in Him fall
away and do not return to an intimate relationship with the only Way of
Salvation (Jn. 14:6; 2 Pet. 2:20-21). This is a basic Bible truth. Such a
fundamental truth of Scripture has been utterly covered up and hidden

by the enemy of all souls through a counterfeit priesthood of leaders who

have offered the polluted bread of a false security and lead millions to
worship at the altar of an unholy god who guarantees eternal life without
holiness to those living in sin (Mal. 1:7; Matt. 5:8; Heb. 12:14).
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down,
and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know
them. Matthew 7:19-20
Jesus Christ taught us that the fruit of every persons life testifies to
the reality of who that person truly is by their fruits ye shall know
them. (Matt. 7:16, 19). Fruit is always the evidence of what is actually
in a persons heart (Matt. 12:34; Gal. 5:22-23). The fruit is always
determined by the root which is decided by the volitional decisions made
by the individual (Matt. 7:21-29; Lk. 6:46-49; Rom. 11:16). When we
walk by a tree we cannot see the root system because it is not visible, but
we can see the health and fruit of the tree which is above ground and
visible. Jesus told us that people are known or discerned by their fruit
(Matt. 7:15-21). In this the Son of God teaches His people how to discern
by their fruits ye shall know (discern) them.
Jesus did not say we would know who is true and who is false by their
mere profession of faith or position or by their miracles or good works. Of
the many of those who hold positions of leadership and use His name
to cast out devils, prophesy and do miracles, He told us that they will not
make it to Heaven. Jesus said Many (who use His holy name and
dont know Him) will say to me (Christ) in that day, Lord, Lord
(Matt. 7:22-23) They call Him Lord, Lord today and will also be forced
to bow confess Him as LORD just before they are sent to eternal fire
(Phil. 2:10-11). The many He speaks of are those who operate
ministries today calling Jesus their LORD and performing works using
His name and yet do not bear the earmark spiritual fruit of knowing Him,
hence His horrible words of eternal termination And then will I
profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work
iniquity. (Matt. 7:23)
The good news is that if we are false today there still remains the grace
and space to repent and turn our lives over afresh to the One we either
have never met or once knew and departed from (to serve our own self-

interests). As His grace enables, godly repentance is a product of the holy

fear of the LORD and an essential component to the divinely-given
equation of restoration (2 Cor. 7:9-10).
Christ obviously wanted us to divide between those who are true and
those who are false, so He instructed His people to be fruit inspectors
Beloved, believe NOT every spirit, but try (test) the spirits whether
they are of God: because MANY (not a few) false prophets are gone
out into the world. (1 Jn. 4:1) Christ would never have told us to
know or discern people by the fruits of their lives if He didnt fully
intend for us to inspect the fruit of peoples lives to get a read on who
they really are. In this vitally important Matthew 7 passage, the Son of
God spoke specifically in respect to distinguishing the many false leaders
or false prophets in sheeps clothing. Inspecting fruit involves
looking for the fruit of the Spirit and not the spiritual gifts (Gal.
5:22-23; 1 Cor. 12:1). The nine dimensional fruit or evidence of the Holy
Spirits work can only come to fruition in the abiding disciple But the
fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace (Gal. 5:22-23) People can fake
or actually operate in the spiritual gifts while being out of fellowship
with the LORD, and so gifts are no indication of knowing the LORD
(Matt. 7:21-23). Though there are good works to do in His name and
power and for His glory, these works do not guarantee one is true to God
(Matt. 7:22-23). Casting out devils, winning souls, performing miracles,
prophesying, writing books, doing TV or radio programs, singing for the
LORD, or teaching Sunday school are good works to do and yet there is
no guarantee the person doing them is rooted and grounded in the divine
Person of Jesus Christ who is the absolute identity of every true believer
(see Matt. 7:19-23; 1 Cor. 2:2; Gal. 6:14). Only the grace of God and the
believers continual abiding in Christ with obedience and regular
repentance from sin assures the good fruit of the Spirit that God alone
can produce.
Also, an essential earmark of all who are true to the LORD is that they
are students and communicators of His Word alone and do not operate
according to any other agenda except His (Isa. 8:20; Jn. 8:47; 2 Tim.
3:15-17). The leader or person who is not preaching the Word out of a
broken and contrite spirit according to the full-counsel of the Scriptures,
but rather some other doctrine or persuasion for any other purpose than

to glorify God, must repent (2 Cor. 2:17; 4:2; Tit. 3:10; 1 Pet. 4:11). Paul
commanded us to Teach no other doctrine and to Preach the
word. (1 Tim. 1:3; 2 Tim. 4:2)
Knowing people by their fruits does not involve condemning another
person or possessing an evil critical spirit, but it does involve discerning
who they really are in order for the believer to be able to determine his
involvement with that person. The LORD doesnt intend for His people to
be nave or blind to reality and so instructs us to know people by the
fruit seen in their lives (Prov. 14:15; 1 Jn. 4:1).
When a person repents, he will despise and be ashamed of the sinful
things he did before turning to Christ or back to Christ again (Lk. 22:3132; Rom. 6:21). Repentance involves laying an axe to the root of any
sinning member of ones life (Matt. 3:10; Mk. 9:43-39).
And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees:
therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is
hewn down, and cast into the fire. Matthew 3:10
And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to
enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell,
into the fire that never shall be quenched. Mark 9:43
True repentance always brings proof. The evidence that one has truly
repented will be seen in the fruits produced and deeds lived out by that
person (Gal. 5:22-23; 1 Jn. 3:8-10). The one who has turned completely
to the righteous LORD and Savior will bring forth the fruit of holiness
and love.
repent and turn to God, and do works meet for (consistent
with) repentance. Acts 26:20
True repentance always yields good fruit Bring forth therefore fruits
meet for repentance. (Matt. 3:8) In Luke 19 we see an example of true
repentance, bore out by the good fruit and works of Zacchaeus who
resolutely turned from his own way to the LORD Jesus. Zacchaeus was a
little man in physical stature but large when it comes to blessedness in
the kingdom of God.

And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold,

there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief
among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see
Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was
little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a
sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And
when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and
said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to
day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came
down, and received him joyfully And Zacchaeus stood, and
said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to
the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false
accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him,
This day is salvation come to this house Luke19:1-9
Like David, Zacchaeus knew how to repent when he was convicted and
drawn by the LORD (Ps. 51). Salvation which includes all the
blessings of the LORD, came to Zacchaeus when he repented. This
quality of returning quickly to the LORD - is essential to maintaining a
relationship with the one true God who is holy, holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3) I
fully believe that Jesus loves it when His people are fervent and swift to
repent when they err.
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore,
and repent. Revelation 3:19
Repentance is a gift from God and out of His love for us, the LORD
motivates His people to repent by rebuking and chastening us when
needed (Prov. 3:12;
Rev. 3:19; 2 Tim. 2:24-26; Heb. 12:1-17). Gods
initiating and heart-influencing grace and our willingness and obedience
to repent restores relationship and refreshes the saint, blessing him
afresh to sup or dine and fellowship with Jesus (Acts 3:19; Rev. 3:1920). The LORD delights to restore broken fellowship and will seek to draw
to Himself those who once knew Him and have since slipped backward
by their sin.
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have
loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with
lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3

The Lie Travels Through the Centuries

The insidious and diabolical nature of Calvinism is that man has
absolutely no responsibility to obey a holy God and even in total rebellion
and sinfulness, the LORD will bring him to His holy Heaven - as long as
that man has at one point in his life, truly believed upon Jesus. In
contrast the Word of God tells us that only those who remain in holiness
before the LORD are going to see Him (Matt. 5:8; Heb. 12:14). This
happens by the initiating grace of God and the response of the individual
to obey that compelling - To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not
your hearts, as in the provocation. (Heb. 3:15)
The Bible teaches us that the perpetual forgiveness of the believers sins
is contingent upon his personal repentance in continuing to return to
Christ as first love.
But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin,
we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. IF we confess
our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7-9
The sovereign and holy God of Heaven has limited the grace of His
forgiveness to those who confess and repent of their sins initially and
ongoing.
He (anyone once saved or not) that covereth (hides does
not confess) his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth
and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs 28:13
Only those who acknowledge, confess and forsake sin as God defines
sin in His Word shall have mercy and all who dont wont. To the
contrary of the truth and among many other atrocities, the graceperverting teaching of once saved always saved thumbs a nose at the
unalterable divine attribute of holiness and grants a license to sin to
those who are ensnared in its clutches (Rom. 6:16). Titus 2:11-14 and
volumes of other Bible passages are a literal nightmare to graceperverting, Scripture-twisting, truth-dodging modern beguilers who seek

to perpetrate a grace and salvation plan that is completely foreign to

what the LORD has given us in His Holy Word. Hard-hearted and selfdriven leaders refuse to acknowledge numerous Bible passages which do
not pander to their own personal agenda to position their audiences just
where they want them for their own purpose and agenda. All scripture
is given by inspiration of God, not just some of the Scripture in the
Bible, but rather All. See 2 Timothy 3:16. By withholding Titus 2 from
the ears of their audiences, grace-corrupting leaders are able to create a
god in their own image and concoct a false picture of the LORD by their
impartiality in the law/Word (Mal. 2:9).
1 John 3:14-15 says We know that we have passed from death unto
life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother
abideth (remains) in death (spiritual separation). Whosoever hateth
his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath
eternal life abiding (remaining) sin him.
This Bible passage is written to believers. Loving the brothers in Christ is
tangible proof that one has and is remaining passed from death unto
life. Those who hate in their hearts are murderers and no murderer
hath eternal life abiding (remaining) in him. In the eyes of the
Almighty, it doesnt take physically killing someone to be a murderer. If
there is hatred in ones heart there is murder in Gods eyes. This is an
example of such a sin that must be repented of to prevent eternal
separation.
Murder, whether actually physically carried out or hatred retained in the
heart, is grave sin and carries with it the reward of eternal damnation.
Suicide is murder and carries with it the death penalty. If suicide is
instant, there is obviously no time to repent before entering eternity. In
such a case the damnable sin of murder is on the account the one who
murdered himself.
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and
murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters,
and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth
with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Revelation 21:8

Who does the Bible tell us shall have their part in the lake which
burneth with fire and brimstone?

the fearful

unbelieving

the abominable

murderers

whoremongers

sorcerers

idolaters

all liars

A Tragic Story
A number of years ago I had a very close friend who ultimately
committed suicide. He was taught and believed in OSAS which removed
the fear of God and barrier of truth that would have otherwise prevented
him from making such a sinful decision. Yet before he killed himself, Bill
and I were brought together due to our common love for and faith in
Jesus Christ. Bill was clearly born again. For several years Bill and I
witnessed together and conversed daily at length about the beauty of the
LORD's salvation. We prayed often together and sought to help others to
be saved. Bill did evangelism faithfully and daily. I have personally been
blessed to have numerous Christian relationships and this one ranks
among the most sincere. The fruit of Christian love and obedience of His
life clearly testified to Bill's clear knowledge and love for Jesus. After
relocating from that city and losing contact with Bill for several years, I
called and received the tragic news from his widowed wife. Apparently, it
was an instant death which would mea n Bill had no time to repent.
Obviously and regrettably Bill did not remain in fellowship with the
LORD Jesus and upon drifting from the Good Shepherd was deceived by
the evil hoards of hell into taking his own life (Jn. 10:10).

Some would say Bill was never initially saved in the first place, yet the
facts and the fruit clearly tell a different story. How could Bill be talking
about Jesus Christ, living the Christian life, witnessing and loving the
saints, if the Holy Spirit didn't live inside of him? How could Bill have
been so fruitful in the LORD if he wasn't saved with the Holy Spirit of
God living inside of him? The fact is that this man was saved and bore
the fruit that proved such as he remained in Christ and yet later became
unfruitful due to his heart's departure from Jesus as his first love. Such
a state of apostasy led to his demise. See John 15.
The truth is that Bill obviously backslid and died in sin (separated from
the LORD). He plainly didnt continue to walk with the LORD, nurturing
that all-important relationship, and became cold, hardened and slid
backward, otherwise he would have never taken his own life.
The common excuse and erroneous idea used is that those who live in
sin after apparently being saved, never were saved to begin with. Yet
there are more than a few Holy Scriptures which reveal that one can
forfeit salvation after having it. In the kingdom parable of the sower and
the seed, our LORD Jesus taught that there would be both false
converts, and also those who believed for a while (were saved) then fell
away (Lk. 8:12-13). Jesus invented the term fall away, so any person
who doubts or says it cannot happen, is lying against the Truth Himself
(James 3:14). Why would the very Alpha and Omega have used such a
term as fall away if falling away from salvation after being saved were
not possible? Who will we believe, the eternal Judge or mere men? What
authority has John Calvin or any of his beguiled followers? None! Zilch!
There are 4 types of heart soil according to Jesus, not 3. See the parable
of the sower and the Word (Luke 8:12-15). If we are going to be fullcounsel believers, it is high time we acknowledged and embraced all that
is written and go beyond what mere men in leadership choose to espouse
and reveal.
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, the latter
end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been
better for them not to have KNOWN the way of righteousness,

than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy
commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto
them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his
own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her
wallowing in the mire. 2 Peter 2:20-22
Living in open rebellion - not repenting of sin - reveals that one has
departed from the LORD and is now living after the works of the flesh
which is spiritual death and will prevent one from entering the eternal
kingdom of God if he chooses not to return to the LORD in genuine
repentance before passing into eternity (see Gal. 5:19-21; Rom. 8:13;
Heb. 3:12-15; Rev. 21:8, 27; 22:11). Such backsliding can happen even
while we are continuing to go about in a form of godliness while
denying the power or reign/authority of Christ in our personal lives
(Prov. 14:14; Lk. 9:23-24; 2 Tim. 3:5). Every person ever saved has
sinned many times after being saved, yet individually one chooses to
either continue in that which displeases the LORD or to return to Him in
repentance. Cain, Esau, Saul and Judas all remained in their sins returned to their own vomit and never came back to the LORD. In
contrast, Abel, Jacob, David and Peter were men after the heart of the
LORD who chose to diligently seek His face (1 Chron. 22:19; 2 Chron.
15:2). These God-fearing men openly and perpetually repented and cried
out in sincere and utter desperation to the LORD. Each of these men
after Gods heart were restored to fellowship with Him and are now in His
heavenly presence (Ps. 86:5, 15).
Continuing to seek His face is vital to our lives with the wonderful Savior:
Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.
Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his
wonders, and the judgments of his mouthNow set your heart
and your soul to seek the LORD your God. 1 Chronicles
16:11-12; 22:19
David sought God with His whole heart and so should we. Here are the
words David brought before the LORD in His repentance:
Have mercy upon meWash me thoroughly from mine
iniquity, and cleanse me from my sinFor I acknowledge my

transgressions Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and

done this evil in thy sightPurge me with hyssop, and I shall
be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snowHide thy
face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in
me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy
spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and
uphold me with thy free spirit. Psalms 51
When we continue in that which displeases the LORD (any sin) our
hearts are hardened and it will cause us to depart from the Lord. The
heart can turn to stone if the one who once believed ceases to abide in
Jesus (Jn. 15; Heb. 3:12-15). When we walk with the LORD and
experience relationship with Him, repenting of all known sins, our heart
remains as flesh, soft and pliable. When we truly love and trust the
LORD we will want nothing in our lives that does not glorify Him.
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put
within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your
flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my
spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye
shall keep my judgments, and do them. Ezekiel 36:26-27
Jesus is coming and God has called His remnant Bride to truly fear Him
and to purify our hearts as He is pure and holy (1 Jn 3:3). Those who
fear the LORD and honor Him who is holy and therefore purify their
hearts, demonstrate that they are His true Bride (Matt. 25:1-13; Eph.
5:25-27; Rev. 19:7).
It is unfathomable that we who have been the very reason for the Savior
shedding His precious blood would neglect so great a salvation by not
coming continually to receive grace and mercy for our sins (Heb. 4:14-16;
7:25). This is how the Bride of Christ makes herself ready (Eph. 5:25-27;
Rev. 19:7).
Friend, few things could be as important to the believer as receiving the
baptism in the Holy Spirit. If you have not yet received the baptism in the
Holy Ghost, let me encourage you to seek it out. To learn more about
being filled with the Holy Spirit, print out the topical study entitled Holy

Ghost Baptism on the STUDY GUIDES page of the ministry site at

www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com.
PRAYER: Jesus I love You. You are my first love LORD. Grant my heart to
be broken, pliable and soft. Give me a heart of flesh and take away all
stony places in my heart LORD. Right this moment I release and commit
my spirit afresh to Thee. I lay my life in Your holy hands O Father. Grant
to me the gift of repentance that I might not retain anything that brings
offense to Your holiness. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN

LORDSHIP SALVATION?
Is Obedience Essential to Final Salvation?

And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I
say? Luke 6:46
The Messiah asks a question here to those men He was speaking to as
well as all other men who were to be born into the earth following. In
light of the offering of this enormous question by the Son of God, how
can anyone dare claim Christ as Savior if He is not LORD Master of
that persons life?

Perhaps some have rightly stated that Jesus is either LORD of all or not
LORD at all.
In order for Him to become Savior, one must repent, then receive and
confess Jesus Christ as LORD:
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus,
and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from
the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9
And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be
saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and
thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Acts 16:30-31
There are those who dare mock the Bible doctrine of Lordship salvation
in defiance of the words of our LORD here and in many other places.
Jesus foretold that on that Great Day of Judgment many who do
ministry today will hear the following words of justice and eternal horror:
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heavenAnd then will I profess unto them,
I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Matthew 7:21, 23
Real saving faith, as James describes, can be clearly seen in the fruit and
works of the persons life who has chosen to possess such a precious
commodity. As witnessed in the above text, calling Jesus Lord is not
enough He must be Master in reality in the individuals life, or the proof
is abundant that salvation does not rest within the person, even though
he may be one of the many today who claim Him as Lord.
Whose servants we are is seen in who we serve:
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to
obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto
death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans 6:16
Email response concerning OSAS:

Todd, You teach that a person can be right with GOD only by their
obedience to the commands of GOD. You teach that a person once
saved can be lost. You quote verse after verse after verse to prove
that a person must obey the commands of GOD to be right with
GOD. Are you equating being right with GOD and being saved? Is
there no room for sin in GODs salvation? If there is no room for
sin in GODs salvation I am eternally lost and without hope. I am
glad there are teachers who see GODs salvation differently.
Captured by HIS grace, Gene
Our Response:
Beloved Gene, I want to encourage you to look to the Teacher who
gave us His holy Word so we dont have to depend on sinful men
(like myself), but rather have His truth for our own selves. A life in
the Word is the only cure for confusion. GREAT PEACE have they
that love thy law (Word) and nothing shall offend them. (Ps.
119:165) Jesus told us that only those who DO the will of His
Father will be in Heaven - Matt 7:21. We are only saved by the
grace of God and yet that grace shows up in the way we live if we
really possess it, otherwise we are deceived and headed for
damnation. Salvation simply is not an unforfeitable possession (2
Pet. 2:20-22; Ezek. 33:12-13). Did the Almighty somehow cease to
be holy, holy, holy now that He saved us!? How blind and
arrogant we have become! Now is it loving to hide this Bible truth
or to unveil and communicate it so people can be warned and take
shelter under the shadow of His holy wing? Truth protects (Prov.
30:5). For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared
to all men, TEACHING US that, DENYING UNGODLINESS AND
WORLDLY LUSTS, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly,
IN THIS PRESENT WORLD. (Titus 2:11-12) The numerous Bible
verses which show sin defiles and will damn the soul if not
repented of in the life of a person who has once believed should
deeply move us to the fear of God and not to argue with the One we
claim to be serving who gave us these truths. And if the righteous
scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
(1 Pet. 4:18) Be warned: He that taketh warning shall deliver his
soul. (Ezek. 33:5) Jesus warned us all: And take heed to

yourselves (personal responsibility), lest at any time your hearts be

overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this
life, and [so] that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare
shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted
worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to
stand before the Son of man. (Lk. 21:34-36) Ready or Not - Jesus
is coming, and He's only going to justify those who are looking for
Him in the way they live by purifying their hearts by authentic,
saving faith (Heb. 9:27-28; Acts 15:9; 1 Jn. 3:1-3; Rev. 23, etc.). This important subject is thoroughly address in the book
titled
Lie
of
the
Ages
which
can
be obtained
at www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com God's blessings in Jesus, the
Truth, Todd
It is regrettable that Gene says he is glad there are teachers who tell him
what he wishes to hear. There seems to be a disregard for the LORD here
and His Word and holiness, as if mere men will judge him on that Final
Day. Among the eternal securists there seems to be a denial of truth to
suit ones own lifestyle. There appears to be a refusal to endure sound
doctrine even after staring the Word in the face (2 Tim. 4:2-4).
For instructional purposes, lets break down Genes words and see what
is typical of the eternal securists:

You quote verse after verse after verse to prove that a person must
obey the commands of GOD to be right with GOD. Here he
admits that there is verse after verse to prove that one must
obey God to be right with God and yet he denies this truth.

Is there no room for sin in GODs salvation? No there isnt. Did

the Almighty cease to be holy just because He saved you? What
brazen arrogance this notion reveals! Though we have all sinned
and still do, we must stay before the LORD and wear out a path to
His throne room where we receive continually cleansing of the
blood of Christ (Heb. 4:14-16; 12:14; 1 Jn. 1:8-2:2). Sin-spotted
garments are spoken of many times in the Bible as defilement that
prevents entrance into Gods kingdom (Rev. 3:4-5; 16:15).

If there is no room for sin in GODs salvation I am eternally lost

and without hope. I am glad there are teachers who see GODs
salvation differently. There is good news for you and for me and
all of us: Gods throne is a place to obtain mercy and find grace
to help in time of need. (Heb. 4:14-16) As we confess our sins
He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all
unrighteousness (1 Jn. 1:9). We have an Advocate with the Father
to remain cleansed (1 Jn. 2:1-2).

Captured by His grace. Gods grace is indescribable and

precious and is accessed through faith and obedience - By whom
we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the
faith among all nations, for his name. (Rom. 1:5; 5:2)

In a writing entitled Holiness is not Legalism, John Wesley wrote:

Permit me to warn you of another silly, meaningless phrase: Do not
say: I can do nothing. If so, then you know nothing of Christ. Then
you have no faith. For if you have faith, if you believe, then you can
do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Phil. 4:13). You
can love Him and keep His commandments; and to you His
commandments are not grievous (1 John 5:3). Grievous to them that
believe? Far from it! They are the joy of your heart.
Show then your love for Christ by keeping His commandments, by
blamelessly walking in all His ordinances. Honor Christ by obeying
Him with all your might, by serving Him with all your strength.
Glorify Christ by imitating Christ in all things, by walking as He
walked. Trust in Christ to live and reign in your heart. Have
confidence in Christ that He will fulfill in you all his great and
precious promises. That He will work in you all the good pleasure
of His goodness, and all the work of faith with power. Cleave to
Christ, until His blood has cleansed you from all pride, all anger,
all evil desire. Let Christ do all. Let Him who has done all for you,
do all in you.
Exalt Christ as a Prince to give repentance. A Savior both to give
remission of sins, and to create in you a new heart, to renew a
right spirit within you. This is the Gospel, the pure, genuine

Gospel; glad tidings of great salvation. Not the new, but the old
the everlasting gospel. John Wesley
The doctrine of repentance, essential to receiving eternal life, means a
complete surrender to the Lordship of Christ by falling upon His mercy
(Matt. 3:8; Lk. 13:3, 5). The fruit of such is obvious in those who have
come under the leadership of the LORD of all creation by laying down
their lives (Gal. 5:22-23).
Gods Holy Word is the measure and final authority of what is truth (Jn.
10:35; 17:17; Rom. 3:3-4; 2 Tim. 3:16). And yet there are so many today
that base what they believe on personal sediment and feelings instead of
truth. This is a deadly undertaking. For example, they draw their
conclusions based on how it fits into their own lifestyle and/or how they
wish to feel about a dead relative (trying to make themselves feel better
about where their dead relative is Heaven or hell). In this tragic
scenario, what we see is that because these people have denied Christ
the place of LORD and Master of their personal lives, they act as their
own little god, thinking and dealing according to what best suits their
own self-serving agenda. Hell awaits (Matt. 7:21; Lk. 6:46; James 1:22; 1
Jn. 2:4-5; Tit. 1:16).
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall
come. For men shall be lovers of their own selveslovers of
pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness,
but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2
Timothy 3:1-5
Should we be surprised? The Holy Ghost foretold of these days where
men would love themselves and hence their own personal pleasure and
comforts above the LORD. So many today that claim to be Christians
walk in a mere formula of a pseudo godliness and yet openly deny Jesus
instead of self in their daily lives (Lk. 9:23-24). The authority or power of
Christs reign is missing from their personal lives (2 Tim. 3:5). These are
people who have chosen to determine what they believe based on how it
serves their own personal agenda and immediate comfort with no fear of
God or thought of what their eternal feelings are going to consist of. This
is due to the lack of truth in leadership today (Isa. 56:10-12; Phil. 3:1720; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).
We should at this time examine whether or not our own lives are truly
laid down and that we authentically worship God in the spirit, and
rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. (Phil.

3:3)
Gods Word is harmonious and perfect. There are no contradictions.
While the Holy Ghost inspired His words in Paul to show the New
Covenant believers how to receive justification by faith through the blood
of Christ, James was equally inspired to pen the following words which
reveal what true saving faith looks like in the life of those who have it:
What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath
faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or
sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say
unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled;
notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are
needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it
hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say,
Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without
thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou
believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also
believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that
faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father
justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the
altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by
works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled
which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto
him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye
see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith
only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by
works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent
them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is
dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:14-26
The unspeakably precious blood and grace of Christ alone justifies, yet
the divinely-given requirement to receive such a gift is complete faith in
Him (Rom. 5:1-2). Such a genuine, saving faith is evidenced in anyone
who has it by their love for God and their fellow man which are the
fruits meet for, or consistent with, their true repentance before a holy
God (Matt. 22:37-39). When Zacchaeus repented, he immediately decided
to retun what he had obtained wrongfully while in his sinful condition.
After Jesus came to abide at his house (live as LORD of His life),

Zacchaeus said joyfully the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if
I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore
him fourfold. (Lk. 19:8) Let us always remember that when a person
truly comes to repentance under the Lordship of Jesus, His whole life is
changed, made new - regenerated (2 Cor. 5:17-18). Those who know a
truly saved person see the fruit of the presence of the LORD in that
persons life. Clear changes are obvious and no one needs a highpowered microscope to see them.
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue;
but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the
end, to him will I give power over the nations. Revelation
2:26
According to the Word of God, complete life repentance and the keeping
of the faith of Christ to the end (enduring until Christ returns or one
dies) is essential to the obtaining of heavenly glory (Heb. 10:34-39).
In some evangelical circles, what is called Lordship salvation is
mocked, even in light of the many Scriptures which testify of such a
divinely-given truth. In the Word, salvation is spoken of in connection
with possessing Jesus as LORD (1 Jn. 5:12). Christ Himself asked Why
call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? (Lk. 6:46)
The LORD enters no life that He doesnt wholly and significantly change.
The evangelical church today is plagued with what some call easy
believism, where people are told they can simply confess Jesus as Savior
with no need to lay down their lives and make Him their LORD. People
are taught this and then told they are saved forever no matter what else
they do in this life. In this biblically illiterate day of apostasy, multitudes
are being led to believe that they can simply add Jesus to whatever they
already are (depraved sinners) and that they are saved and
unconditionally eternally secure no matter what else they choose to do
with their lives thereafter. This notion is completely foreign to biblical
message of salvation.

It is interesting to note that the term LORD Jesus appears 115 times
in the New Testament which alone testifies to the necessity of making
Jesus the Master of ones life. The frequency of such a term further
reveals that if Jesus is not LORD, He is not Savior. Christ saves no one
outside of that person choosing to be under His Lordship, which means
that they have totally believed upon Him, embracing His Person and
words and are not ashamed of either His name or words (Mk. 8:38).
Regrettably, among believers there seems to be little or no taking into
account the works or fruit of those who are supposedly saved. There
appears to be little urgency toward the essential of holiness. This seems
to indicate that people are at ease in Zion Woe to them. (Amos 6:1)
Such a salvation has no connection with that witnessed in Holy
Scripture. The New Testament message of salvation is that which bears
clear fruit or evidence of a completely changed life, one fully given over to
Jesus Christ.
Truly born again disciples of Christ must cease to believe in vain that our
friends who are believers (or supposedly) are receiving the message of the
New Testament Scriptures because they attend church meetings. We
help no one by our silence and withholding the truth. May our LORD
bless each of us to be His truth seekers and speakers, communicating
His message as given to us in His Word.
And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his
commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not
his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But
whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God
perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith
he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he
walked. 1 John 2:3-6
In the following promise, the Son of God exhorted us to beware of those
who could if allowed, through their lies, steal the reward of eternal life:
Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that
no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a
pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out:
and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name

of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh

down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him
my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the
Spirit saith unto the churches. Revelation 3:11-13
Here, the living Word, Jesus Christ, warns of being deceived by doctrines
of men, losing our crown, and not overcoming. No warning like this
(nor the numerous others in the Word) would exist if such were not
possible (see also Col. 2:4, 8).
Is obedience necessary for salvation? Does the following passage sound
like a suggestion (optional) or command?
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto
sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not
sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it
in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as
instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves
unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your
members as instruments of righteousness unto God. Romans
6:11-13
In the Bible text you just read, does there seem to be any notion or hint
of the crucifying of the sinful nature being an optional suggestion? In
this very same book, what did he say would happen if the believer
doesnt mortify the deeds of the body?
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the
Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans
8:13
Perhaps the core reason the Almighty detests Satans first lie (ye shall
not surely die if you live in sin), propagated by deluded leaders today,
is that the whole system of this unbiblical, unconditional eternal security
excuses men from their God-given, personal responsibility to live holy or
die spiritually.
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate,
saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will

receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my

sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 2 Corinthians
6:17-18
According to this Bible text, one must come out from among those
without Christs salvation to continue to be received by the Father as a
son or daughter.
Below is another Bible passage to observe. As you read this text, ask
these questions: What is the tone? What is the Holy Ghost saying? Is
obedience to God offered here as a suggestion or command? Does
adherence to this sound like it is optional or essential?
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth;
fornication,
uncleanness,
inordinate
affection,
evil
concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which
things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of
disobedience. Colossians 3:5-6
For the individual, conditional blessings are found throughout Scripture,
never unconditional. Read Deuteronomy 28 for starters. In Deuteronomy
28, verses 1-14 pronounce the rich blessings which will come upon those
who obey the LORD and verses 15-68 detail the utter curses which will
come upon all who are among the people of God and do not obey the
Word. All blessings from God to individuals are conditional they must
be received by faith and obedience to Him. One must meet the conditions
set forth by the LORD in order to receive His blessings. The
unconditional eternal security proponent has to ignore or manipulate the
volumes of Scripture which show the personal responsibility of the
individual in order to make his twisted point.
Heed the plea of the Almighty to all, especially those who once knew Him:
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be
willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if
ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for
the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah 1:18-20

John Wesley Stated:

Yes, professing Christians invariably invent one way or another to
get to heaven without holiness. In the place of holiness, some have
substituted penance, pilgrimages, and praying to saints and
angels. Thousands of professing Christians have no doubt but
that, by a diligent use of these thingswithout any holiness at
allthey shall see the Lord in glory.
However, Protestants will not be satisfied in that manner. They are
convinced that whoever leans on such things leans on the staff of a
broken reed. Yet, thousands of such Protestants also think that
they too will see God without holiness. How? Why, by doing no
harm, generally doing good, going to churchAnd many
thousands are content with this, believing they are on the high
road to heaven. Yet, that is not much better than the hopes of the
first group.
However, other Protestants recognize that such nominal
Christianity is not sufficient. They correctly say that such a
religion does not stand on the right foundation. However, they go
on to say that Christ has already accomplished and suffered
everything for us. They say that His righteousness is imputed to
us; therefore, we need none of our own. Since there is so much
righteousness and holiness in Him, there needs to be none in us.
In fact, they claim, that to think we have any holiness, or to desire
to seek any holiness, is to renounce Christ. That from the
beginning to the end of salvation, all is in Christ, nothing is in
man. And that those who teach otherwise are preachers of
legalism, and know nothing of the gospel.
What evasion! What has Satan done? He has persuaded the very
men who receive it to turn the grace of God into
licentiousness/lasciviousness (Jude 4). This is indeed a blow at
the root, the root of all holiness, all true religion. The whole design
of Christs death was to destroy the works of the devil (I John 3:8).
But now this is overthrown in one stroke.

There seems to be no end to the devices men invent to justify their sinful
living and to escape the reality of the denial and crucifixion of the selflife which Christ utterly requires of all who will be His.
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take
up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his
life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake,
the same shall save it. Luke 9:23-24
Hasnt such deceitful dissimulation, which dares to ignore the words of
Christ while believing that salvation is obtained, been the case
throughout the centuries? Did not Cain seek to escape the need for
willing repentance and obedience in approaching the LORD the way He
requires? Is this not rooted in rebellion, and this we know because the
person seeks to come to God his own way and not the way the
unchanging LORD plainly prescribed? Didnt Paul the apostle warn that
there are many who pervert the words of the LORD? (2 Cor. 2:17) Didnt
Jeremiah the prophet tell us that the deceivers perverted the words of
the living God? (Jer. 23:36)

Remember Lots wife Luke 17:32

What is Jesus conveying to our hearts by prompting us to remember
Lots wife? Why would the Son of God bring up this ancient story when
speaking of His eminent return and the importance of being in a
constant state of readiness? After being brought out of the city of Sodom
(representing the life of sin), Lots wife chose to look back to the sinful
city and life she was being delivered from and was turned into a pillar of
salt (judged). Salt is a preservative and the LORD used this pillar of salt
as an eternal memorial to illustrate that He will judge all who turn back
to sin after being delivered (saved). Lots wife chose to depart from the
faith and not to continue in the path of righteousness and remain
under the Lordship of the One who delivered her (1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Pet. 2:2022). Again, salt is a preserving agent and the LORD chose to turn her
into a pillar of salt in order to establish an eternal monument of warning
for all who would come thereafter and be tempted to turn back to the life
of sin, departing from the living God. (Heb. 3:12)

It is those who are doers of His Word who have the assurance of eternal
salvation.
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal
salvation unto all them that obey him. Hebrews 5:9
Remember that Jesus instructed us to remain (abide) in Him, lest we
be thrown into the fire? See John 15:6.
Do you recall how God chose Saul and then when Saul chose to cease
rendering full obedience, the LORD rent the kingdom from him? The
LORD revoked His blessing from Saul. See 1 Samuel 15. He warned
Gentile believers to Be not highminded, but fear Him or otherwise
thou also shalt be cut off. (Rom. 11:19-23) The LORD Almighty made
all and set up the rules as He so chose. Dare we be so shamelessly
arrogant to question these rules?
Is the Almighty still holy? Is He not a righteous Judge? Will He not
punish sin? Is the wages of sin still death? Doesnt sinful living disqualify
one from Heaven? Are we going to simply listen and obey what He said
or, are we going to make up our own way and be sentenced to damnation
in the end?
Following is a conversation between the changeless LORD and His
servant Moses:
Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I
pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written. And the
LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me,
him will I blot out of my book. Exodus 32:32-33
Misusing Ephesians 1:13, there are those who vainly believe they are
sealed in such a way as to exempt them from any accountability or
responsibility for their sins. What the Word of God is communicating
here in Ephesians 1 is that the Holy Spirits presence in the one who is
currently believing, is the earnest or divinely-given down payment
until final salvation has occurred when that person is in Heaven (Eph.
1:13-14). One must believe to the saving of the soul and be kept
by the power of God through faith unto salvation to receive that

heavenly crown (Heb. 10:39; 1 Pet. 1:5). There are conditions to be met
here and there is also no hint of an unconditional eternal security in this
Ephesians 1 text in which the Bible uses the word sealed. Yet when
dishonest men are bent upon convincing themselves and others of
something, they will twist and spin the truth until they accomplish it
(Rom. 1:18-25; 2 Cor. 2:17). While violating the text and intentionally
excluding the whole of the Word of God, these men make up their own
doctrine and are leading many astray. These deluded men are sporting
themselves with their own deceivings and mock in the face of a holy
God who counted their depravity and sins so vile that He came in person
to live a perfect life and pour out His own lifes blood to redeem them
(Matt. 26:28; Jn. 19:30; 2 Pet. 2:1-22). They vainly imagine that they are
sealed in a way the Bible never describes or validates. The sealing
they speak of is a sham a sin-justifying lie, placing their souls at ease
in Zion and leading millions to damnation Woe unto them. (Amos
6:1) Also, dont be deceived when men attempt to utilize the Greek to
supposedly prove their error (to prove their sealing doctrine, etc). God
gave and preserved His Word for us in our own language as He promised
(Ps. 12:6-7). Looking into the Greek is not nearly as important nor
authoritative as collating His Word in our own language - line upon line
- to determine the divine verdict on any given subject (Isa. 28:9-10; 1
Cor. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:16). Regardless of how sure of himself he may sound
or what the so-called seminary scholar seeks to propagate, the Greek is
not going to change what the LORD Himself clearly communicated to us
in our own language from Genesis to Revelation. Numerous clear truths
in Scripture completely invalidate the misuse of the sealed doctrine
among the deluded who seek to prove that there is no eternal danger for
the believer who strays into rebellion. Here are but a few:

Jesus told us that only those who obey His Word in a practical and
literal sense know Him and will be in Heaven (Matthew 7:21; 25:146).

No person who dies outside of holiness with the LORD can see Him
in Heaven (Heb. 12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27).

Jesus promised the 7 churches of Asia that only those who

overcome sin, the world, and the devil through a real relationship

of obedience with Him, will be clothed in white robes of His

righteousness and in Heaven (Rev. 2-3).

The names of those who do not overcome are blotted out of

(removed from) the book of life (Exodus 32:32-33: Ps. 69:28; Rev.
3:5; 22:18-19). Note that someones name has to be in the book of
life in order to be blotted out of it.

There are several lists of sins in the Bible with the warning that
anyone living in such sin reveals that they are not in right standing
with the LORD and will not enter the kingdom of Heaven unless
they repent and return to Him (Matt. 15:18-20; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal.
5:19-21; Eph. 5:3-9; Rev. 21:8, 27).

While the Bible in no place assures that all who have truly been born again
will automatically persevere to the end, I fully believe that the seal of the
LORD includes His undying desire and His work to restore a wayward,
prodigal son.
More from John Wesley:
Without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Nothing under
heaven can be more sure than this; for the mouth of the Lord hath
spoken it. And though heaven and earth pass away, yet His word
shall not pass away. As well therefore might God fall from
heaven(Heb. 12:14; Mic. 4:4; Matt. 5:18).
No one who is not saved from sin here can be saved from hell
hereafter. No one can see the kingdom of God above, unless the
kingdom of God be in him below. Whoever will reign with Christ in
heaven, must have Christ reigning in him on earth. And yet as
sure as this is, and as clearly as it is taught in every part of the
Holy Scripture, among all the truths of God, there is probably none
which is less received by men.
Beloved, the fear of the LORD is clean and the great peace of God
given to those who love His Word is priceless. He gifts those with His
unspeakable blessings in acknowledging things just the way the LORD
has laid out to us in His Word (Ps. 19:9; 119:105, 130, 165).

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your

calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall
never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you
abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:10-11
PRAYER: LORD Jesus, right this moment, take fresh hold of my life.
Consume me and keep my heart from being led astray by any false notion
of men and devils. Fill me. Heavenly Father I lay my life unreservedly into
Thy holy hands afresh. You must increase LORD Jesus and I must
decrease. I am crucified with Christ. I love You my Master and LORD
Jesus. I this moment choose to forget those things which are behind me
and press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ
Jesus! Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY EIGHT

REJOICING FIRM UNTO THE END

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we,
if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope
firm unto the end. Hebrews 3:6
In stark contrast to the deadly myth many in the modern church
perpetrate, soul-saving faith is never conveyed as a one-time event on the
pages of the 27 books which comprise the canon of New Testament
Scripture. The Old Testament is the same Ezekiel 33:12-13. In Holy

Writ, we observe that the faith that pleases God begins with the born
again experience and then is an ongoing believing, overcoming, and
enduring experience and not just a one-time event. The individuals
salvation begins with a one-time experience upon repentance and faith in
Christ and that same volitional trust is to be maintained by the believer
and is left up to his own volitional will. The saint is enabled by the
influencing and enabling grace of God.
Everything in Gods kingdom economy works through His mercy, grace
and mans faith-filled obedience. Salvation is undeserved not
unconditional. The LORD requires initial saving faith and that the
recipient of His salvation continue in that saving faith until the end of his
life.
Concerning King Uzziah, in 2 Chronicles 26:4-5 we read:
And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD,
according to all that his father Amaziah did. And he sought
God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the
visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made
him to prosper.
It was only as long as King Uzziah sought the LORD that God made
him to prosper.
Those who teach the heretical once saved always saved (OSAS)
doctrine, consequently do not teach what Christ and His apostles taught
concerning continuing in the grace of God during and to the end of ones
life. Unfortunately, many have bought into this myth not realizing that
their eternal soul could be in jeopardy. Those who believe and teach this
doctrine of men and devils divorce themselves from the full-counsel of
Gods Word and make a god in their own image. One of the biblical
doctrines ignored, neglected and rejected, is the absolute necessity of
enduring or continuing in faith to the end of ones life (Matt. 10:22;
24:10-13; Acts 14:22-23; Col. 1:23; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; Rev. 2-3).
Didnt Jesus forewarn us that the love of many shall wax cold?

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one

another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets
shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall
abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall
endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Matthew
24:10-13
The only way for love to wax cold is for it to first exist. A love that does
not first exist cannot possibly wax cold.
His joy is one of the dimensions of the fruit of the Spirit and the
strength of His people (Neh. 8:10; Gal. 5:22-23). The LORD would
have His people to be overcomers - those who victoriously come over
all trials and temptations through divine grace and saving faith (1 Jn.
5:4-5).
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this
is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who
is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that
Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:4-5
Those who do not stay in close relationship with Christ, will inevitably
leave the faith for sin and will perish eternally if they do not repent before
it is too late.
But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy
scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
Psalms 68:21
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast
destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. Psalms 73:27
And the destruction of the transgressors and of the sinners
shall be together, and they that forsake the LORD shall be
consumed. Isaiah 1:28
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest
that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself
should be a castaway. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye
should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the

cloud, and all passed through the sea; And did all eat the same
spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for
they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that
Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well
pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now
these things were our examples, to the intent we should not
lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye
idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people
sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us
commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in
one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt
Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of
serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured,
and were destroyed of the destroyer. Now all these things
happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for
our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he
fall. 1 Corinthians 9:27-10:12
Here the Holy Spirit of God tells us that all these things happened
unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition.
He reminds believers of the entire New Testament era to behold the
historical record of how His covenant people defied Him, thinking He
would automatically forgive them without their personal repentance and
trust in Him. Beloved, heed this warning. Not only did the LORD not
forgive or overlook their blatant and sinful rebellion, He judged them
harshly, sending 2,500 of His own covenant people directly and literally
into the fires of eternal damnation. Check out this vivid and horrifying
account in Numbers 16:
And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all
these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under
them: And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them
up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto
Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to
them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon
them: and they perished from among the congregation. And all
Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for

they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also. And there came
out a fire from the LORD, and consumed the two hundred and
fifty men that offered incense. Numbers 16:31-35
Jeff Marshall writes:
We need to look into the perfect law of liberty (Gods Word), see
ourselves in truth (as God sees us, as we really are), and repent
and call on Him to wash our filth away (just as He told Peter that if
He didnt wash his feet, he could have no part in Him. Peter said
wash all of me then, and Christ explained that he was already
clean, but his feet were dirty. In other words, you may already be
saved and baptized in the name of Jesus, for the remission of
sins, but if you walk through this world in these bodies of flesh,
then you will pick up some filth along the way. If you dont come to
Christ, humbly, and have Him wash it away, then you have no
part in Him either.
Once saved, always saved, Calvinism, and cheap grace are just
not found in Scripture. There are tons of Scripture to show that
truth, not just the one or two, taken out of full context to try to
prove the opposite. This isnt some minor point of doctrine that is
inconsequential and trivial/divisive, but this is truth that is
missing and is deceiving masses of people into religion without
relationship to Christ. The lie we hear today is: Just say this little
prayer and youll get your get out of hell free card, and nothing
you do or dont do after that can change it. When Christ Himself
said, Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the
Kingdom of heaven, but only he who DOES THE WILL OF MY
FATHER in Heaven. (Matt. 7:21) Also, read Jude 4-7; turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord
God, and our Lord Jesus Christ, etc.)
Is that adding works to salvation? No, that is what Jesus said, so
who cares what that preacher on TV tells you? Was he there when
the earth was formed? Did he write the Bible? Does he hold the
keys to death and hell? Did he die for your sin? Then you better
listen to Jesus and quit listening to his easy believism, we are all
going to heaven type preaching before its too late. The final end of

that is to cry out, Lord, Lord. and hear Depart from me, you
who practice lawlessness, I never knew you. Nothing is more
important than this.
Being prepared to meet Christ at all times should be a central concern of
every saint. Strong delusion has already been released into the hearts
of many because they received not the love of the truth, that they
might be saved. This is also done That they all might be damned
who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. (2
Thess. 2:10-12) The wrath of God will be soon poured out upon all who
suppress or hold His truth in unrighteousness (the disobedient). See
Romans 1:18.
Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation
not desired; Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass
as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the LORD come upon
you, before the day of the LORDS anger come upon you. Seek
ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his
judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye
shall be hid in the day of the LORDS anger. Zephaniah 2:1-3
Gods promises to man are conditional. Here in this Zephaniah passage,
the promise of being hid in the day of the LORDs anger has
requirements:
1. Gather yourselves
2. Seek ye the LORD
3. Seek righteousness
Gods covenant people are told they must meet these requirements in
order to avert divine wrath. Here is the impending threat: the fierce
anger of the LORD come upon you, before the day of the LORDS
anger come upon you. (Zeph. 2:2)
Below is another exhortation for us to Seek ye the LORD while he
may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. (Isa. 55:6)
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss
the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when

his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put
their trust in him. Psalms 2:11-12
We are here instructed to place our full trust in the LORD and Kiss the
Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is
kindled but a little. (Ps. 2:11)

Must a Christian Continue in Obedient Faith

to the End of His Life to be Eternally Saved?
To His very own disciples, Jesus stated: And ye shall be hated of all
men for my names sake: but he that endureth TO THE END shall be
saved. (Matt. 10:22) If you really want to know exactly who the Savior
was speaking to here, read Matthew 10:1-22. Hint: He was speaking to
His very own disciples. See Matthew 10:1.
We must ask: Why would the Master warn His very own disciples about
something that wasnt possible? Dare one who claims to know Christ
impugn or call the very Son of God a lunatic and liar?
Lets break down the conditional promise made by the LORD Jesus to
His own 12 in Matthew 10:22:

Ye shall be hatedfor my names sake persecution

He that endureth to the end shall be saved promise

Endureth to the end - condition

Christ said told His twelve ye shall be hated and not ye shall be
honored. He never promised His people financial prosperity but rather
persecution (Matt. 10:25; Jn. 15:20). Jesus also never guaranteed that
one once saved was eternally secure no matter how he lives but rather
that He (that has once been saved) that endureth to the end shall
be saved. The Son of God had all the opportunity in the world here to
tell His very twelve that they were unconditionally, eternally secure and
didnt. No, instead He told them they would be hated of all men and
persecuted and that only those of them who endured to the end of their
lives would be ultimately saved. At the time He spoke these words to

them, all twelve were in right standing with Him and yet one of the twelve
ended up in hell (Acts 1:25). Since we know He was speaking to His very
own disciples, we know that Jesus was speaking of the necessity of all
who have been made right with God to remain in fellowship with Him or
lose out. There is no legitimate, honest way to explain away the fact that
Jesus was talking specifically to His very disciples in this passage. The
LORD was not speaking to the lost or the Jews and we know this
because the first verse in this passage reveals who Christ was
addressing:
And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he
gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out,
and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of
disease...And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake:
but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:1,
22
Another view of this text:
...he had called unto him his twelve disciples...he (among
you) that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:1,
22
What was Jesus getting at here when He stated he that endureth to
the end shall be saved?
If enduring to the end were automatic and didnt involve the individuals
personal will and obedience, why would Christ ever have bothered to
make this statement?
What was Jesus saying here if there were no possibility of His disciples
forfeiting their place in His eternal kingdom if they didnt endure to the
end? Was He simply filling space on the pages of the New Testament
Scriptures? Was He violating the words He previously spoke in the
Sermon He spoke from the mountain?
But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for
whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Matthew 5:37

Why would Jesus say He that endureth to the end shall be saved if
there were no possibility of one not enduring to the end and therefore not
being ultimately saved from eternal damnation in the end?
If you are still supposing that the Lord is speaking to lost people here,
there is a question that begs to be answered: What is it that a lost person
should endure to the end about or in? If he is not right with God in
the first place, what is he going to endure to the end of or in? If a
person does not already possess saving faith, how can he possibly be
expected to endure in that faith? Can you see the ridiculous nature of
such a notion? Would it not be dishonest, ridiculous, and groundless at
best to attempt to pawn Christs statement off on a group that is not
Gods people? Not only was Christ speaking to His own people, these are
the very twelve He prayed to select and serve Him and have a special
place in His eternal kingdom (Matt. 19:28).
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21
Are you beginning to see why only people who are taught OSAS (by
misled men) embrace the unconditional eternal security teaching? I have
yet to meet a person who studies the Bible for themselves, with no
preconceived notions or taught doctrines of men, who believes such a
foreign doctrine. Paul never taught such. Our LORD never taught such.
John never taught such. Peter never taught such. Jude never taught
OSAS. Not one of the prophets, apostles or Gospel writers taught an
unconditional eternal security, but rather that those saved by His grace
must endure in faithful obedience to the end of their lives to be eternally
saved. Either the Bible is final authority or its not.
Heres Gods promise to those who endure to the end:
And he that overcometh (essential), and keepeth my works
UNTO THE END, to him will I give power over the nations.
Revelation 2:26
Whos going to be with Jesus when He defeats the rebellious?

These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall
overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and
they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Revelation 17:14
Those who will be in eternity with Christ are those whom He has called,
and chosen and who were in their earthly life FAITHFUL. (Rev.
17:14) God does the calling and choosing and men must be faithful to
receive His eternal reward. We see everywhere in Scripture, the initiating
grace of God and the condition given to men - to be faithful to God to
the end of this earthly life. Any person seeking to eliminate or deny the
involvement of the personal will of men is not dealing honestly with the
LORD and His Word.
Jesus Christ promised that only those who know and obey Him will be
with Him eternally (Matt. 7:21; Mk. 8:34-38; Lk. 6:46; Rev. 2-3).

Power to Overcome
The divinely-given promise is to strengthen and bless each and every
believer with His Spirit in their inner man, empowering them to be
blessed and a blessing. Paul prayed:
That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory,
to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being
rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with
all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and
height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth
knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above
all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh
in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus
throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Ephesians
3:16-21
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come
upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in

Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the

uttermost part of the earth. Acts 1:8
According to the biblical record of the early Church, receiving the
baptism in the Holy Ghost is the single most important experience after
being born again. Jesus instructed His very own disciples to tarry
(wait) ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power
from on high. (Lk. 24:49) Christ said His followers would receive
power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon them. Notice that the
Son of God said it would be after and not before the Holy Ghost came
upon His disciples that they would receive power and be witnesses
of His at home and abroad. (See Holy Ghost Baptism Study Guide on
ministry site: www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com)
The apostle Peter went from wavering to witnessing. After being baptized
in the Holy Spirit, just days after he had denied even knowing Christ,
Peter was bold and powerful in the LORD. Peter, empowered now by the
Spirit, preached and 3,000 then 5,000 people got saved. This same
baptism in the Spirit of God is promised and available to all believers.
I (John the Baptist) indeed baptize you with water unto
repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I,
whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with
the Holy Ghost, and with fire. Matthew 3:11
My own life was dramatically transformed after being baptized in the
Holy Spirit. The LORD saved me and I began to walk with Him and was
experiencing inconsistency in my walk, so I cried out to Him to help me.
Jesus heard this cry in Heaven. Shortly thereafter I met a godly pastor
who began to take me through the Scriptures concerning this New
Testament experience of being baptized in the Holy Ghost. That beloved
pastor invited me to pray to receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit. We
prayed. I went home and began to commune with the LORD in a way I
hadnt previously know or experienced. He filled me and His witness from
then on emanated and the power of God was there. The increase in
boldness was tremendous and so was the kingdom fruit that began to be
produced. There is a complete topical study on the ministry site on the
STUDY GUIDES page. See the Holy Ghost Baptism study guide.
www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com/html/holy_ghost_baptism.html

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink (outward

religion); but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy
Ghost. Romans 14:17
PRAYER: Father, cause my heart to be cleansed of all iniquity and filled
with Your Holy Spirit! Change my life Jesus! Thank You for shedding Your
precious blood for my many sins. This very moment, I ask You to baptize
me in the Holy Ghost and take over my life completely. Embolden me to
declare Your Word in this late hour and to rejoice firm to the end. Amen.

CHAPTER THIRTY NINE

IF AND AGAIN
More Nails in the Coffin of Calvinism

By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory what I

preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 1
Corinthians 15:2

If, If, If?

Personally speaking, if I were somehow misled to believe in the 5 point
heresy of John Calvin, this 2-letter word found throughout Scripture if would greatly haunt and embarrass me hopefully to the point of
repenting of my belief in a myth (which is one of the works of the flesh
heresies - Gal. 5:19-21).

The true grace teacher, the apostle Paul, writing to Brethren

concerning the gospel states, By which also ye are saved IF ye
keep in memory what I preached unto you, UNLESS YE HAVE
BELIEVED IN VAIN. (1 Cor. 15:1-4) Believing in vain is clearly
possible or it would not have been mentioned here. Believing in vain
would mean that ones initial/previous saving faith is useless if they
do not keep in memory the gospel which Paul preached to them and
they received. This verse clearly reveals that initial saving faith becomes
useless (vain) if that person chooses to cease living in faith and
obeying the Lord.
True believers must make sure the Gospel once given to the saints is
diligently declared and defended (Jude 3-4; Phil 1:17). This includes
verse 2 of this passage which defines what the true Gospel is and how it
is maintained.
According to 1 Corinthians 15:2, IF ye keep in memory the Gospel,
including enduring to the end, ye are saved and have not believed
in vain.
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house we are,
IF WE HOLD FAST THE CONFIDENCE and the rejoicing of the
hope FIRM UNTO THE END. Hebrews 3:6
Here we learn that we are members of Christs...house...IF WE HOLD
FAST THE CONFIDENCE and the rejoicing of the hope FIRM UNTO
THE END.
For we are made partakers of Christ, IF we hold the beginning
of our confidence (obedient faith) stedfast UNTO THE END.
Hebrews 3:14
And you...hath he reconciled (saved)...to present you holy and
unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: IF you continue
in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from
the hope of the gospel... Colossians 1:21-23

We see here in Colossians 1 that it is possible for those who have been
reconciled to be moved away from eternal life, which is the hope
of the gospel.
In Romans 11 Paul warned non-Jewish believers to take heed to what
God did to His own covenant people who rebelled against Him:
Be not highminded, but FEAR: For IF God spared not the
natural branches (Israel), take heed lest he also spare not thee.
Behold (take hold of) therefore the goodness AND severity of
God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness,
IF THOU CONTINUE in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt
be CUT OFF. Romans 11:20-22
The avid unconditional eternal security proponent must, of necessity,
find a way to wax over or deceitfully manipulate the numerous ifs of
Scripture if he is going to make this doctrine palatable to his own
conscience and others. In doing this, one continues to hide the truth
from his own heart so that he can continue to live the life he so desires
and still possess eternal life. (This teaching is designed by Satan to give
license to escape the Lordship of Jesus.) Did not the Holy Spirit foretell of
those in the last days who would do this after they departed from the
faith (apostasized)?
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times
some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy;
having their conscience seared with a hot iron. 1 Timothy
4:1-2
Especially in these final days, some have so denied the truth that they
have seared their own consciences (Rom. 1:18-25). The person who
decides to deny truth must become skilled at deceiving his own heart.
The many ifs found in Scripture clearly reveal a conditional security
a security or assurance only granted by God to the heart of the doer of
truth (Rom. 2:7-13; James 1:22; 1 Jn. 3:16-19). Like the Jehovah
Witnesses and Mormons, the cult of Calvin steeps its adherents in the
fine art of twisting Scripture to arrive at the enemys desired erroneous
outcome. If you have ever dealt with a staunch follower of Calvinism,

then you are familiar with the way they have mastered the evil art of
Scripture twisting.
The word if found throughout Scripture plainly reveals that there are
divinely instituted conditions for getting saved and remaining saved.
There are those (namely new believers) who honestly have never seen the
volumes of Scripture texts which plainly eradicate any possibility of there
existing an unconditional, eternal security. And yet, there are those who,
after seeing the Scriptures, which refute such a falsehood, choose to
cloak themselves in the garment of lascivious deceit. Instead of owning
up to the clear truth of Scripture, there are those who would rather twist
and deny Biblical truth that stares them in the face, in order not to
disturb their false sense of security, which they have wrapped
themselves in using this doctrine which makes a mockery of sin and the
holiness of God. Is there anything new about this depraved state of
heart? Did men of old also cut the Bible up and discard those things they
didnt
like?
In his booklet entitled The Eternal Security Teaching, J. L. Stauffer says
that the Eternal security as a teaching is based on partial Scriptures.
Stauffer wrote:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable. This
teaching magnifies the verilies, but discounts the ifs; yet both are
given by God and are equally inspired. Conditions of salvation and
conditions of keeping are not named in every Scripture. Scriptures
of warning are addressed to such believers as may be careless,
indifferent, trifling, boastful, or presumptuous. The usual group of
Scriptures quoted by the eternal security believers are the kind
that are needed to encourage and sustain the fearful, trembling,
and weak saints who earnestly desire to do the will of their Lord,
but are harassed by the devil and beset with doubts. Yet forty days
and Nineveh shall be destroyed, was a verily as far as the
statement was concerned, but there was an if implied in one of
the promises of God. (See Jer. 18:1-12.) Such Scriptures as John.
10:27, 28; Col. 3:1-3; John.3:36; 5:24; Jude 24; Rom. 8:34-39;
Heb. 7:25, and a lot of others that might be given are precious to
every believer. They make it clear that we are safe in Christ Jesus.

No outside power or influence, neither men, angels, nor devils, can

come between us and our Lord; but there are conditions of
salvation and there are conditions that govern our keeping. We do
not question Gods sovereignty, His power, His omnipotence; we
believe and hold to all of them. On the other hand as honest
people, we dare not close our eyes to the fact that God has laid a
responsibility upon free moral agents that He does not violate by
His sovereignty, His omnipotence, His election, or any other office
or attribute belonging to Deity. The condition that saves is the
same condition that keeps. Eternal security believers constantly
underscore hath in John 5:24 but overlook the condition,
believeth. They will take John 10:27-29 and underscore the never
perish and no man is able to pluck them out of my hand, but
ignore the fact that this promise is made to the sheep that hear
his voice and follow him. As long as this condition continues, the
keeping continues. No other interpretation is consistent with free
moral agency.
Of the sovereignty of God and the free moral agency of men, one
responder writes:
God is sovereign. God is God. He is all-knowing. He is all-wise.
He is eternal...No man can come to me, except the Father which
hath sent me draw him. Yes, He draws us to Him. We choose to
follow, to receive or reject his sweet offer of forgiveness and life, to
accept or to put it off. There is a we side to the equation,
though, or all men would be saved, for He says that He is not
willing that any should perish, but that all should come to
repentance. - 2 Peter 3:9. So you see, some of it is up to our
choosing.

One-Word Nightmare of OSAS - Again

Again - Here is yet another word that haunts those who embrace the
lie of the ages which emanates from the serpent in the Garden who came
to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. (Jn. 10:10)
The prodigal son was a son of his father then abandoned his fathers
house. Of him Christ said: For this my son was dead, and is alive
AGAIN; he was lost, and is found...for this thy brother was dead, and
is alive AGAIN; and was lost, and is found. (Lk. 15:24, 32)

The prodigal son parable gives us more confirmation that a person can
be twice dead. (Jude 12) This term twice dead means that one who
is born dead, as all men are, is saved and then falls away from God and
is dead again. Lets look at verse 32 of Luke 15 again:
It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this
thy brother (part of the family) was dead, and is alive AGAIN;
and was lost, and is found. Luke 15:32
To begin with, the prodigal son was clearly a member of the family,
otherwise he wouldnt be referred to as the brother of the older son. He
then departed from his fathers house in rebellion. He became dead
and then alive AGAIN.
Lets consider Jude 12 in light of this truth:
Twice dead, plucked up by the roots. Jude 12
Concerning this Bible passage, in her book Secure in Christ, Dr. Cathy
Burns states: (emphasis hers)
Notice that here were trees whose fruit withered so that it was
without fruit and it was TWICE DEAD. This would refer to a
person who was originally spiritually dead as all are born in sin.
This person then got saved, bore fruit for awhile and then backslid.
He is now unsaved, and once again spiritually dead thus TWICE
DEAD. p. 33
Is re-conversion Biblical? Must one who is saved be re-converted when
he falls away?
But I (Jesus) have prayed for thee (Peter, Christs own
apostle), that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted,
strengthen thy brethren. Luke 22:32
If one who is in right standing with God can fall like Peter, and need to
be converted, then he was obviously in danger of eternal judgment.
Is re-conversion necessary for eternal life?

Brethren (who?), IF (denotes the possibility) any of YOU do

err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that
he which converteth (again) the sinner from the error of his
way shall save a soul from death (eternal damnation), and shall
hide a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20

More on Again
2 Peter 2:20-22
For IF after they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are AGAIN entangled therein, and overcome, the latter
end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been
better for them not to have known the way of righteousness,
than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy
commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto
them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his
own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her
wallowing in the mire. 2 Peter 2:20-22
First of all, according to this divinely breathed utterance, a person can
possess the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ having
escaped the pollutions of the world and can become AGAIN
entangled therein, and overcome. The text also reveals that this
person in question had known the way of righteousness yet did
turn from the holy commandment. If such a person does not repent
before it is too late, the latter end will be worse with them than the
beginning. In other words, his eternal torment in hell will be utterly
worse than if he had never tasted of and experienced the heavenly gift of
eternal life.
This 2 Peter 2 text alone completely removes the possibility of an
unconditional eternal security. This passage all by itself annihilates the
diabolical teachings of John Calvin and all modern strands of it. The
bottom line is that a person who has once been truly saved can lose His
salvation! Any person who reads these words and still denies such is not
being honest with Gods Word.

Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on

them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, IF
thou continue (DENOTES A CONTINUAL CHOICE) in his
goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. Romans
11:22
Previous to these words Paul speaks about the fruit which is determined
by the root. In any tree or plant, the fruit reveals the substance or nature
of the root (Rom. 11:16). The root determines the fruit. According to the
Bible, fruit that once existed can wither and die. Those who have been
saved are required to abide or remain grounded and settled in the
LORD and through that relationship His fruit will be yielded in their lives
(Jn. 15; Col. 1:23).
Of those apostates (people who departed from the faith) who operate in
the midst of the people of God, the Word states:
These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast
with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are
without water (these men do not contain nor pour out true
divine substance), carried about of winds; trees whose FRUIT
WITHERETH, without fruit, TWICE DEAD, PLUCKED UP BY
THE ROOTS. Jude 12
Note here that these apostates Jude addresses had previously been
saved and bore fruit which now withereth. An apostate is one who
leaves the faith he once knew and embraced (1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Pet. 2:2022). Those who depart from Christ are also said to be TWICE dead,
plucked up by the roots. How can one be plucked up by the roots
if he were not first planted in the ground the soil of the LORDs
vineyard? The biblical truth is that those planted in the housdue to
the ots if they do not continue to seek Him and obey Him. Do you
remember what 2 Chronicles 15:2 says?
The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek
him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will
forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2

PRAYER: Please grant my heart your grace holy Father, to live in love with
You and wholly pleasing in Thy sight. Cleanse from my heart every
distorted notion of who You are and what Your will is. Help me to help
others in Your truth and love. Make my heart to be resolutely honest about
what You told us in Your Word. I love You LORD Jesus. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY

PENKNIFE SACRILEGE
Forsaking the Full-Counsel of God

And it came to pass, that when Jehudi had read three or four
leaves, he cut it with the penknife, and cast it into the fire
(this is what is happening today in our churches) that was on
the hearth, until all the roll was consumed in the fire that was
on the hearth. Yet they were not afraid (no fear of God), nor
rent their garments, neither the king, nor any of his servants
that heard all these words. Jeremiah 36:23-24
At this dark time in the history of Israel, the Scriptures had been lost
and out of circulation among the people of God. Then they were found
and read before the king and his servants. As a result conviction of sin
came and certain parts of Gods Word were rejected and thrown into the
fire to be vanished out of their presence. Read Jeremiah 36.

2 PARTIES GUILTY HERE: Just as it was in the days of the prophet

Jeremiah, so today, many kings, that is, those in spiritual authority,
and servants who claim to follow Christ, are allowing the Word of God
to be diminished, distorted, damaged, denied, disdained, desecrated and
dodged. Many of our leaders and those they lead are spiritual swine who
refuse to rend their hearts in repentance of this travesty and
trampling of that which is holy (Joel 2:13; Matt. 7:6). Instead of
acknowledging and embracing the whole of the Word of God as we have
been so privileged to have received, like the king of Judah in Jeremiahs
day, some are cutting out and denying those parts of Scripture which
dont line up with their denominational tradition. These deceitful workers
refuse to lay down their lives and call upon the LORD to circumcise their
hearts. They refuse to mortify the sins of the flesh in the fear of God.
Those listening will never know what is being intentionally avoided and
left out of their messages unless they embark upon the blessed
adventure of learning and knowing intimately the Holy Scriptures (Jer.
23:18; Jn. 5:39; 2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Pet. 2:2).
The tragedy is that many of those claiming to be the servants of the
LORD, namely those who are not in the pulpits, refuse to discern and
raise the red flag in protest of another gospel. (2 Cor. 11:1-4; Gal. 1:69) Not only do they not object to falsehood by raising biblically-based
questions, they financially support and promote these false teachings
and teachers by attending churches that pick and choose what they will
and will not acknowledge from Gods Word. The LORD holds us
accountable for such (Isaiah 5:20-24). Believers are never to bid god
speed (endorse or condone in any way) to any form of false gospel nor
person peddling such (2 Jn. 10-11).
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine,
receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil
deeds. 2 John 10-11
As it was in Jeremiahs day, so it is today. There are those who will stand
against deception which is causing many to fall and leading millions
astray. There is no doubt that eternal hell is full of those who were (like
the kingdom of heaven which Jesus likened to five wise and five
foolish virgins - Matt. 25) once truly saved and did not endure to the end

of their lives trusting and obeying the LORD with all their hearts, but
rather allowed their heart lamps to run low and ultimately leak out the
oil of His presence that was once there (Matt. 25:1-13). This was a
parable of warning from our LORD Jesus. These foolish virgin believers
did not pursue depth of relationship with Christ they werent planted
by the rivers of water. (Ps. 1:3) The five foolish virgins had received
Christ Jesus the LORD and yet did not continue to walk in Him nor
did they choose to become Rooted and built up in him, and
stablished in the faith. (Col. 2:6-7) These who counted other things
more important than their relationship with the Bridegroom, didnt
choose to endure persecutions and various sufferings associated with the
true Christian life and allow Him to perfect (mature), stablish,
strengthen, settle them in His grace (1 Pet. 5:10). They didnt stay in
intimate communion with the LORD they were espoused to but rather
took the path of least resistance and lived according to the flesh,
breaking their engagement with the Bridegroom (Jer. 3:8; Amos 6:1,
9:10; Lk. 12:35-40; 21:34-36; Rev. 3:15-16, etc.).
Being Planted and Flourishing
Healthy fruitfulness is the sign of life and nourishment. As the roots of a
tree go down into the earth, absorbing vital nutrients for healthy fruitbearing and growth, so the believer who roots himself in the King and His
kingdom, receives nourishment and grows and prospers. He grows and
become stronger and stronger (Ps. 84:7). The LORD promised us that we
would flourish in the courts of our God, bring forth fruit, and not
grow faint and weary if we remained in the heart posture of hungering
and thirsting after His righteousness and planted in the house of the
LORD. (92:13) See also Matt. 5:6; Lk. 18:1; Gal. 6:9 and Heb. 6:11-12.
Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish
in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old
age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To show that the LORD
is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in
him. Psalms 92:13-15
May the Lord be praised for those who are calling leaders to repentance
for their doctrinal atrocities, for purposely avoiding hard truths in order

to grow their own church businesses. The Almighty sees all and for this
evil He will judge:
Nevertheless Elnathan and Delaiah and Gemariah had made
intercession to the king that he would not burn the roll: but
he would not hear them. Jeremiah 36:25
These men feared God (Elnathan, Delaiah, Gemariah). They boldly
beseeched the king not to cut out any part of the words of God. Are we
beseeching leaders not to ignore any part of Gods Word? Are we cutting
out, denying or dodging any truth we read in the Scriptures? Are we
willing to elevate the LORD and His Word above all else and confront
leaders for their refusal to teach His full-counsel?
And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by
night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue
of the Jews. These were more noble than those in
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness
of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those
things were so. Acts 17:10-11
Note here that these more noble disciples of Christ refused to simply
believe everything Paul the apostle stated before they personally verified
such in the Scriptures. They put everything he said to the acid test of
Holy Scripture they received the word with all readiness of mind,
and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
They were being wise instead of naive like many today who are quite
frankly overtly gullible. These Berean believers took and compared Pauls
doctrine to the Scriptures to see if the apostles message was from Gods
Word.
I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name
for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast
magnified thy word above all thy name. Psalms 138:2
No leader alive today possesses more kingdom authority than the apostle
Paul did. And yet, the Christians at Berea acid-tested what Paul stated
against Gods Word to see if it were true or if it were false. They magnified

the Word of God above any mans teachings yea, let God be true, but
every man a liar. (Rom. 3:4)
The believers living in the city of Berea are a glorious example of what the
LORD desires in all of us a noble heart that believes nothing unless
they dig it out of His Word for themselves! Saint, consider making Acts
17:10-11 your focal text this week. Memorize it. Meditate upon it.
Highlight, underline, and cross-reference this vital passage with other
like verses. Pour over this text until it begins to take root in your
understanding.
Some who claim Christ as Savior do no want all of Gods Word, only
those parts which coincide with the lifestyle they are living. Many would
rather buy into doctrines foreign to Scripture, teachings which do not
demand death to the self-life. They migrate to teachings which place their
lives at ease and do not call for repentance from sin. These teachings
pander and grant license to those who do not possess the love of the
truth. The uncircumcised heart chooses to please its own evil desires
instead of honoring the LORD and His Word. We must delight in and
endure sound, full-counsel Bible doctrine and love the change the Potter
will bring as we allow Him to pour the water of His Spirit upon our
hearts, making them pliable putty in His holy hands (Jer. 18:6).
Those who have been schooled in the once saved always saved message
will have a decision to make after reading the myriad of irrefutable
Scriptures in this volume. The OSAS adherent will be faced with the
decision of whom to trust - his favorite pastor, doctrine, denomination, or
God. Divine wisdom instructs us in this way:
Let God be true and every man a liar. Romans 3:4
There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against
(equal to) the Lord. Proverbs 21:30
For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalms
119:89

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto
thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him,
and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
If you are ready and willing to embrace the purity and fullness of Gods
truth and relinquish this ungodly, anti-biblical, unholy, license-to-sin
teaching from your life, from a humble heart, repeat the following prayer
aloud and from your heart:
Dear Father in Heaven, I truly love You. Thank You for finding and
saving me through the blood of Your Son and for continually leading
me into all truth about Yourself. Thank You kindly for all the grace
and mercy you have shown me. I hereby repent of and denounce the
unconditional eternal security lie and all its effects upon my life and
those around me. Please forgive me for ever buying into this lie. I
begin now to embrace the truth of Your Word, Your full-counsel.
Please forgive me for believing this falsehood which is not taught in
Your Word. Help me to discern truth from error. Restore to me the
fear of the LORD. Father, please teach me Your ways and Your
wisdom in all things pertaining to Your kingdom as I seek Your holy
face and study Your words. In Jesus holy name. Amen.
There is virtually no end to the Bible truth that can be unearthed and
studied to expose this lie of the ages as diabolical in origin and
intent. Our Great Shepherd informed us that the enemy, the father of
lies, has come to steal, kill and to destroy (Jn. 8:44; 10:10).
The Word of God is absent of any such teaching as an unconditional
eternal security. This teaching is no where to be found in Holy Writ
except as the message of Satan and the false shepherds. In light of this,
may God bless us to study what He has given us in His Word and
apprehend His mind. May He grant us to have no other agenda but to
know Him and His truth and to forsake all we have previously espoused
which does not align with His Word.
Suggestions:
1. Get a King James Bible (accept no substitute see BIBLE
VERSIONS button at www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com).

2. Get up early and embark upon seeking the LORDs face in Bible
study and prayer communion.
3. Fast and pray regularly, pouring over Isaiah 58.
PRAYER: LORD, please make my heart tender with Your grace. I choose to
magnify Your Word above the counsel of all others! Forgive my sin of ever
dodging or ignoring anything from Your Word. From this moment forward, I
count Your holy truth above the words of any and all mere men. Cleanse
me with Your blood and Word, for my allegiance and loyalty is to You
Jesus. I embrace the fullness of Thy counsel and despise all that does not
align. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY ONE

ARE CHRISTIANS TO FEAR GOD?
Or Is That Only for the Lost?

Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

Psalms 2:11
Are Christians to fear God? What does fear mean? What does it mean
to fear God? What does the Bible say?

David prayed: Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth:
unite my heart to fear thy name. Psalms 86:11
Is this not the prayer of all those who truly seek Him in this late hour? O LORDUnite my heart to fear thy name.
The Case of Matthew 10 & Luke 12:
In these chapters, Jesus is exclusively speaking to His very own
disciples. (Are you His disciple?):
The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above
his lord...And fear not them which kill the body, but are not
able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to
destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:24, 28 What
could be clearer?
Surely He was teaching us to fear God above man, but was that it? The
whole discourse recorded in Matthew 10 beginning at verse 1 is speaking
specifically to His disciples, which we are also. In the preceding words
Jesus stated What I tell you (My disciples) in darkness, that speak
ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the
housetops. Then He says to His very own And fear not them which
kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him
which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Why would the
Son of God ever have warned them and us to fear him which is able to
destroy both soul and body in hell if there were no danger of
backsliding and beginning to fear men above God and be in danger of
hellfire? Paul kept under his body knowing he too - after preaching to
many - could become a castaway (one cast away from God). See 1
Corinthians 9:27.
In Luke 12:1, 4-5 the Son of God forewarned us:
...he began to say unto his disciples (not the lost) first of
all...And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that
kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which

after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say
unto you, Fear him.
Notice here that Jesus forewarned His very own disciples and
friends that it was possible for them to be killed by the heavenly
Father and cast into hell if they feared men more than God. Where
does that leave OSAS (once saved always saved)?
Did the Almighty not warn us not to forget Him and to fear Him?
Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in
pieces, and there be none to deliver. Psalms 50:22
The LORD has from the beginning been intent upon His people
remembering Him not forgetting Him.
But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that
giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his
covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
Deuteronomy 8:18
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that
forget God. Psalms 9:17
If it were not possible to forget God, why would such a phrase appear
in Gods Word? The fact is that one who once knew the LORD can forget
Him and be turned into hell.
when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither
were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and
their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be
wise, they became fools Romans 1:21-22
Note that concerning those He addresses here, the Bible says they
knew God. Romans 1 is a divine discourse on apostasy and reveals the
very sins which lead to a departure from the LORD. Here it says that
those who once knew the LORD were not thankful. Personally and
openly showing gratitude to the LORD is ultra important. We must
incorporate praise and the giving of thanks for all things beloved. If not,
our hearts will forget and not remember the LORD our God. May the

LORD bless each of us to cultivate a heart full of thanksgiving for all He

has done and is doing and will do!
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20
If we do not fear and give abundant thanks to and remember the LORD,
we will forget Him.
The truth is, that if I am presently seeking after the LORDs face, I am
remembering Him and acknowledging Him in all my ways. If I do not
currently possess a thankful heart that hungers and thirsts after His
righteousness, I have clearly forgotten Him (Prov. 3:5-6; Matt. 5:6).
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the
judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
Psalms 19:9
Let me stop here and ask you to examine whether or not you truly
believe the Bible? The question is not whether or not you say you believe
the Bible, but do you really believe it is Gods inspired Word and final
authority? Do you personally own the truth in your heart? Do the
affections of your heart hold His Person and truth as the supreme,
highest authority? Have you placed yourself in obedience to and under
His divine authority, or, have you forgotten Him? Friend, if after
reviewing a preponderance of Scripture, you can still deny that God is
holy, to be feared, and requires holiness in all who will be in Heaven,
much is lost. Those who are born again have the blessed opportunity and
responsibility to live holy before God and to fear Him. Any person who
does not believe this and live accordingly, denies Christ and His Word.
And, that person makes the Almighty out to be a liar.
Consider what He says:
Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and
in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on
the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the
LORD. Joshua 24:14

God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and

to be had in reverence of all them that are about him. Psalms
89:7
Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear,
and let him be your dread. Isaiah 8:13
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
Psalms 2:11 (Even while in rejoicing we are to fear and tremble.)
Here in the following text, Romans chapter 11, Paul is talking to the
Gentile Christians about their position with God and using the originally
chosen Jews as an example as covenant people who had been cut off
from relationship with God:
Thou (Gentiles) wilt say (boastfully) then, The branches (Jews)
were broken off, that I might be grafted in. Well; because of
unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be
not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural
branches (the Jews), take heed lest he also spare not thee.
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them
which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou
continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
Romans 11:19-22
What does the word fear mean?
What does it mean to fear God?
Here is Romans 11, phobeo is the Greek word for fear. According to the
Strongs Concordance, this Greek word PHOBEO means to frighten, to
be alarmed; to be in awe of, revere /(+sore); afraid, fear (exceedingly),
reverence.
Any leader who does not teach the fear of the LORD is a wolf. Run for
your life beloved. The new wave of local churches littering communities
across America are seeker-sensitive not God fearing and God-sensitive.
Their focus is the light fanfare that draws crowds like family,
relationships, and self-help programs. There is a complete absence of
Bible doctrines like the fear of God, the holiness of God, judgment to

come, denial of the self-life, the divinity, death, and resurrection of Jesus
Christ, etc. Any local church that is not built upon the foundational
doctrines of the LORD Jesus Christ and His holy apostles is not a part of
the New Testament Church (Acts 2:42; Eph. 2:20).
Some sound very pious when they say that love should be the greatest
motivator toward God. According to numerous Bible verses, FEAR, like
love, is indeed a legitimate motive or reason for serving God (Jude 23).
Jesus told His twelve when they were about to go out: And fear not
them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather
fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matt.
10:28) The apostle Paul wrote: Well; because of unbelief they were
broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but
FEAR: For if God spared not the natural branches (Jews), take heed
lest he also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and
severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee,
goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also
shalt be cut off. (Rom. 11:20-22).
The person who does not have a set apart life reveals clearly that he does
not fear God. The person who does not fear the LORD is not afraid of nor
in awe of His Majesty and will not experience His blessings.
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,
and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every
secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
The fear of the LORD is something that must be chosen by the individual
and will determine ones eternal destination. Fearing God never happens
by accident.
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of
the LORD: They would none of my counsel: they despised all
my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own
way, and be filled with their own devices. For the turning away
of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall

destroy them. But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell

safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. Proverbs 1:29-33
Fearing God is a deliberate choice and there is great reward in learning
the fear of the LORD:
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour,
and life. Proverbs 22:4
David was devoted to the fear of the LORD:
Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.
Psalms 119:38
According to Proverbs 22:4, what are the resulting blessings of fearing
the LORD?

Riches

Honour

Life

Every genuine saint of the LORD should seek to be devoted to the fear of
Him. Praying daily for the fear of the LORD to possess your heart and life
is wise.
PRAYER: Unite my heart to fear Thy holy name Jesus! Quicken my spirit
in Your holy fear. Fill me more and more with Your precious grace, which
You provided through Jesus Christs perfect sacrifice on the cross. Father
in Heaven I so deeply thank You this moment for the myriad of Your
innumerable blessings to us! Seizing this moment, I lay my life in Your
hands afresh Jesus! I know You are coming soon! I love You my LORD.
Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY TWO

ESCAPE FOR THY LIFE;

LOOK NOT BEHIND THEE
Genesis 19:17

Remember Lots wife. Luke 17:32

What did the Son of God mean by warning His very own disciples
concerning His coming kingdom with this statement about Lots wife? Is
Jesus Christ just filling space here? What was He conveying? What did
He want us to understand here?
What did Jesus want us all to remember about Lots wife? What did the
wife of Lot do? Why does her name resurface in history out of the mouth
of the Messiah?
In Genesis 19 we have the record of the deliverance of Gods remnant of
righteous people (Lots family) out of Sodom, an evil city the LORD was
going to destroy for their gross rebellion against Him. Jesus told us that
the very last days of this age leading up to His return, would resemble
the epidemic acceptance of sinful rebellion that was in Sodom and
Gomorrah (Lk. 17:26-33). The warning message came loud and clear:
And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth
abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee,

neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest
thou be consumed. Genesis 19:17
The cup of His holy indignation was full and the Almighty was getting
ready to destroy the sinful inhabitants of Sodom, so was first getting His
people out of that place before His holy wrath was to fall. As is always
His pattern, the LORD was going to send forth warning and preserve
alive His remnant. Through His angel He gave them clear warning to
Escape for thy life; look not behind thee. Unfortunately, Lots wife
did not obey the divine instruction and became an example to all who
would live thereafter.
But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a
pillar of salt. Genesis 19:26
What does a pillar of salt represent? Why did God turn Lots rebelling
wife into a pillar of salt? What is the divine message in this?
Universally, salt is known and used as a preservative. This pillar of salt
made out of Lots wife, is a memorial warning to all of us today who claim
to be His. The divine message in this warning is to never look back as
Lots wife did, lest we be destroyed and not make it out from among
those whom the LORD will soon destroy in His fierce end-time judgment.
Also, if we look backward and dont keep walking with the LORD, we will
miss eternity with the righteous and the Righteous One.
What does looking back to the place we were delivered from truly
represent principally? Lets peer into the surrounding words of our LORD
to see a fuller view. When specifically speaking of the last days before His
return, Christ tells us:
And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the
days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they
married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that
Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed
them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did
eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they
builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it
rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them

all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is
revealed. In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop,
and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it
away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return
back. Remember Lots wife. Whosoever shall seek to save his
life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall
preserve it. Luke 17:26-33
Jesus warned of the danger of not being in a state of perpetual readiness
for His return. Those who are His must warn also (Rev. 22:17). Many
precious souls will be in Heaven due to His saints, who being true to
their Master, warn in His love the Spirit and the bride say, Come.
(Rev. 22:17)
ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the
LORD, and so wrath come upon you, and upon your brethren:
this do, and ye shall not trespass. 2 Chronicles 19:10
So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the
house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my
mouth, and warn them from me. Ezekiel 33:7
Warning of the fate of those who left the faith was a vital doctrinal
component of Jesus and the early Church as it must be in our day,
especially in light of the impending return of our LORD Jesus. Those who
cease to live in fervent love for and faith in Christ will not make it to
Heaven (Matt. 25:1-13). After calling thousands of lost souls to
repentance and instructing them to be water baptized and filled with the
Holy Ghost, Peter says Save yourselves from this untoward
generation. (Acts 2:37-40).
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,
wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the
elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we,
according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new
earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved,
seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be
found of him in peace, without spot, and blamelessYe
therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware

lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall
from your own stedfastness. 2 Peter 3:12-14, 17
Does God Know I Love Him?
In the message of the modern gospel, we hear so much about how much
God loves us. When is the last time we have personally pondered or
heard the piercing questions:

How much do I love the LORD with all my heart, soul, mind and
strength? (Matt. 22:37-39)
Is Jesus Christ truly the first and foremost love of my life? (Rev.
2:4)

Jesus commanded all men to repent and to love God.

Lots wife erred to her own destruction in these ways:
1) She did not fear God, otherwise she would have obeyed Him (Heb.
11:7).
2) Lots wife forgot God and was therefore turned into hell. (Ps.
9:17)
3) She did not choose to love the LORD supremely, otherwise she
would have obeyed Him and been delivered (Jn. 14:21; 1 Jn. 2:35).
4) Lots wife loved herself (like Lucifer) and the temporal world and
will forever be punished for her sins and rebellion against her holy
Creator (2 Thess. 1:7-10; James 4:4; 1 Jn. 2:15-17).
The Word instructs believers to behold the full spectrum of the
attributes of the LORD. He told us to perceive, consider, view and
observe both the goodness (love) and severity of God. (Rom. 11:22).
There will be a balance in our belief system and lives when we do this.
We hear so much today about how much God loves us, but what about
how much we love God? Man seems to look at how much the LORD loves
him in order to think God will love him in spite of his rebellion and
therefore still save him, but the Bible says:
They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.
Jonah 2:8
Perhaps many who claim to be believers have become presumptuous due
to not observing how much the Bible has to say about the big question
and that is How much do I truly love God?

The LORD is unfailing and perfect in His love, yet the question remains:
How perfect is my love for and to Him?
Jesus spoke in terms of how much God loved us (Jn. 3:16) and also He
had some things to say about how much men choose to love God. Listen
intently to these words from the LORD:
If ye love me, keep my commandments.He that hath my
commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me:
and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will
love him, and will manifest myself to him. John 14:15, 21
Christ commanded:
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with
all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This
is the first and great commandment. Matthew 22:37-38
All men are commanded to fear and obey their Creator because
Judgment Day is on the way:
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,
and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every
secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Even though this is right there in Gods Word, we seldom hear such
speech from OSAS misleaders. No, instead people are just overly assured
as to how much God loves them and seldom if ever warned. Today, the
messages from the pulpits and modern media paint a far different picture
than the words we have recorded in the Bible. Jesus and all of the
inspired writers of the New Testament issued numerous warnings to all
saints (Rom. 11:19-23; 2 Cor. 5:11; Col. 2:8; Heb. 3:6, 12-15; 10:26-39;
Jude 3-4). Gods people are to utterly fear Him and such fear will yield
faith and obedience:
Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear,
and let him be your dread. Isaiah 8:13
Ever hear this verse from your pastor? Does he even know this verse is in
the Bible?
The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that
keepeth his way preserveth his soul. Proverbs 16:17

Lots wife did not fear God. She did not truly have Him as her first love
and therefore lost out with no second chance (Heb. 9:27; Rev. 2:4-5).
Lots wife represents the many who having once known the LORD in
the process of their deliverance - have grown cold and now love self and
the world more than God. According to Jesus these people are not fit
for the kingdom of God. (Lk. 9:62)
And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the
plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. Luke
9:62
There are those who have grown hardened or cold in heart and now have
a mere form of godliness and yet deny the Rule or power of God in their
personal lives (Matt. 24:10-13; 2 Tim. 3:1-5). In contrast, those who look
not to the left hand nor to the right continue to have a more brightly lit
path. Momentum builds as they continue to enjoy intimate communion
with the Savior and delight to do His will. They are blessed to wax bolder
and bolder. These truly wise virgin believers have full lamps of oil and go
from strength to strength, from faith to faith and from glory to
glory. (Ps. 84:7; Rom. 1:17; 2 Cor. 3:18)
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth
more and more unto the perfect day. Proverbs 4:18
We have been given free will and personal responsibility in our
relationship with the LORD. His saints are instructed to keep
themselves in the love of God and to refuse to allow anything to interrupt
that vital relationship (Mk. 9:42-49; Lk. 21:34-36; Jude 3, 21). The
remnant believer must keep himself in that special place with the LORD.
This is an individual decision. The LORD is there as we humble ourselves
and draw close to Him yet He wont force us to love Him (James 4:4-10).
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of
our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Jude 21

License to Sin?
I have personally met and heard countless people who though living in
outright rebellion or lukewarm lives, truly believe they are eternally saved
and that nothing can prevent them from entering Heaven. Their resolve
seems to be that it is as if even God Himself couldnt stop them from
going to His holy Heaven. I guess they think they are taking their sin to

Heaven since it seems they have no desire to repent of it and become set
apart to Christ for His holy purposes (Rom. 8:29). In most cases people
who believe this way have been taught a spiritually debilitating and souljeopardizing falsehood that has caused their lives to be lukewarm,
ineffective and unfruitful. These people have no conviction. One will
readily discover that the vast majority of people who have espoused this
no-fear-of-judgment lie, do not take divine justice and holiness to heart
and are not abiding in Christ in the biblical sense, but are rather living
life on their own terms while maintaining a form or resemblance of a
godly life by associating with a local church or even reading the Bible and
praying (Jn. 15; 2 Tim. 3:1-7).
Those who are truly ready for the return of Christ are not justifying their
sins but rather being delivered and purified from them as they fervently
expect the soon return of the LORD (Lk. 21:34-36).
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon
us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the
world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now
are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we
shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be
like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that
hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1
John 3:1-3
After warning of ravenous wolves who would turn the grace of God into a
license for sin, Jude warns of how God saved the Israelites, then
destroyed those who went back to live in sin.
I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once
knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of
the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed
not. Jude 5
Did you catch what the Word just said? Note what the Bible says here.
This servant of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wants to put these
believers he is writing to in remembrance of the fact that the LORD
saved the people out of Egypt (sin; the world) and afterward
destroyed them that believed not. There will be many who were at

some point in their lives saved and yet did not continue to believe
(fully trust in) the LORD and will be destroyed.
Lets take a little closer look by reading this passage in tact. Please read
this text from Jude for all it is worth and for all the understanding the
Holy Spirit intended for us to gain from it:
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you
in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the
Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt,
afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels
which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation,
he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto
the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha,
and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves
over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth
for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Jude
3-7
First we are instructed to earnestly contend for the faith because
certain men are crept in unawares (secretly)turning the grace of
our God into lasciviousness (license to sin). Immediately following
this exhortation, the Holy Ghost brings believers of the whole Church era
into remembrance of the holy wrath of the Almighty upon those of His
own covenant people who went back into sin after being saved.
Because of this, they were destroyed. This is yet another New
Testament Scripture text that undeniably reveals that these people were
once saved then destroyed. And this is a severe warning to every
person reading these words to endure in faith and remain in the place of
fully believing in Jesus Christ and never draw back to perdition (Heb.
10:36-39). The final reward of eternal life with Him belongs to all those

who endure to the end. It is they who shall be saved. (Matt. 10:22;
24:13)
In 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, the apostle Paul warns of the sins of covenant
Israel whose Rock was Christ and how their sins of lust, idolatry,
fornication, tempting Christ, and murmuring led to their forfeiting the
promised land. We are told that the reason for bringing this to the
attention of New Testament believers was for our example and
admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. The Holy
Ghost specifically tells us that these once covenant children were
destroyed of the destroyer due to their rebellion.
You will find much in this passage. Study 1 Corinthians 10:1-14.
PRAYER: Holy Father I choose to be kept in fervent expectancy of Your
soon return as I learn to love and to serve You this day. I love You Jesus! I
will live by faith and thank You for keeping me by Your power. Cause my
life to bear the good fruit that You have ordained it to. Expose any teaching
or notion of justification of evil in my heart. Teach me Your truth LORD and
to love You more sincerely this day. At this moment I release and submit
my whole being into Your holy hands! Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY THREE

THE MESSAGE OF CHRIST, HIS

APOSTLES, & THE EARLY CHURCH
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and
the same day there were added unto them about three
thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles
doctrine and fellowship Acts 2:41-42
The soul who is subject to Christ should clearly desire to continue
stedfastly in the apostles doctrine and in so doing experience
fellowship with His remnant the true body of Christ.

The Message of Jesus Christ

And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake: but he
that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:22
Here Jesus Christ, the Almighty God, tells His own twelve disciples that
those among them who persevere to the end of their lives, remaining and
continuing in obedience to Him - shall be saved.
Notice here in Matthew 10, the utter difference between what Jesus told
His disciples and what so many leaders today lead people to believe.
First, realize that Christ hand picked these twelve men and one of them
didnt continue with him and went to hell (Acts 1:25). There is the
complete absence here and throughout the New Testament Scriptures of
words like:

You are eternally secure.

God is not an Indian giver.

No matter what you do, you are sure for Heaven.

You are guaranteed Heaven because God is not an Indian giver.

Its eternal life not temporary life

Jesus is the Good Shepherd, how could Jesus ever lose a sheep?

You cant obtain salvation by works, so you cant loose it by bad

works (sinning), it doesnt matter what you do, you still have it.

Once in grace, always in grace.

Concerning the last days, Jesus gives His disciples a vastly different
message than what we hear today:
But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and
persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into
prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my names
sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony. Settle it
therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall
answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your
adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. And ye shall
be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and
friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.
And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake. But there
shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess
ye your souls. Luke 21:12-19
The message the Son of God gave His very own includes:

Persecutions from the religious (v12)

Prison (v12)

Giving answer to rulers (v13)

Divine inspiration in words (v15)

Betrayal by family and friends (v16)

Death for some (v16)

Hated for Jesus sake (v17)

Protection (v18)

The necessity of patience (endurance) to the end (v19)

Then, in this discourse concerning the last days, Jesus warns His very
own:
And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be
overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of
this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a
snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the
whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may
be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come
to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:34-36
As one can see from these passages, Christs message to His own was
anything but a promise of ease and comfort in this life or automatic
unconditional eternal security or some kind of fixed guarantee of
immunity from judgment. There is no such language in the Word. All
assurance is conditional upon the present state of the individual.
Rather, Christs words were those of promise of great trials and
tribulations and even martyrdom for some, and yet eternal bliss for those
who endure.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might
have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of
good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Jesus message was certainly no promise of tiptoeing through the tulips
with automatic and irrevocable eternal security if one endures not to the
end of his life in trust and obedience.

The Message of Paul, the Apostle of Christ

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest
that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself
should be a castaway (reprobate). 1 Corinthians 9:27
Notice the word keep here which denotes the necessity of staying in
the will of God. Paul tells us here of the essential nature of keeping the
deeds of the flesh under subjection to the Holy Spirit and Word of God.
He reveals that even though he himself was saved and preached to
others, it was still a possibility that he could become a castaway.
This apostle did not count himself exempt from becoming cast away from
Christ. His words here reveal the distinct possibility of becoming
reprobate. The apostle Paul would never have stated these words if he
believed the myth of once saved always saved. This apostle did not
consider himself unconditionally eternally secure (immune from holy and
divine judgment if he resorted back to sin). The very phrase I myself
should be a castaway introduces the clear and present danger that
after all the LORD did to find and work in him, the apostle Paul could
lose out if he did not keep under his body, and bring it into
subjection to the Lordship of Christ.
Now if he were here with us today, this world-changing, historic apostle
of Christ would agree and resolutely affirm the danger of becoming a
castaway after knowing and serving Christ. If such is not the case,
then God has changed and we know that cant happen. The Holy Spirit
gave this truth to His Church and God has not changed (Mal. 3:6). Yet as
Jude foretold, today the landscape of the church world is littered with
ungodly men who are turning the grace of our God into
lasciviousness and would argue against the truth in the face of
volumes of Holy Scripture. They would argue with Paul that once a
person is saved they are always saved no matter what (Jude 3-4). Such
was never the message of Christ and His holy apostles. When we look at
the lie in the Garden and throughout Scripture, we can clearly conclude
that this falsehood is the message of Satan and his emissaries and is
unthinkably being peddled today as a component of the Gospel or a
Christian doctrine.
More from Paul:

For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon

with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being
clothed we shall not be found naked. 2 Corinthians 5:2-3
This language is far different than that heard coming from those who
corrupt the message of Gods grace in our day. The implication here is
that even after being saved, one can be found naked. Being found
naked means that the person in question is no longer clothed with the
garment of Christs righteousness. Was this not the case with those
believers in the church at Laodicea? See Revelation 3:14-20.
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from
the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we
labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of
him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of
Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his
body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or
bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade
men 2 Corinthians 5:8-11
Under the Holy Spirits inspiration, here Paul says that to be absent
from the body is to be present with the LORD and therefore in light
of this we labour, that whether present or absent, we may be
accepted of him. As is plainly witnessed here by every honest student
of Scripture, Paul upheld labour as a prerequisite of continuing in the
grace of God and being ready to meet Him. Labour here refers to
fighting the good fight of faith and laying hold on eternal life, continuing
in the faith and not sinking or drawing back to sin and destruction (Col.
3:6, 14; 1 Tim. 6:12; Heb. 3:12-15, 10:34-39).
In the face of so much divine truth, why, why, why do some insist upon
defending and promoting the unfounded once saved always saved myth
which is not only NOT taught in Scripture, but is actually refuted
repeatedly and identified as the first and resounding lie of the enemy of
God?
So far we have witnessed that Jesus never taught an abiding grace
without holiness. Paul didnt believe that he nor any believer was once
saved always saved.

After leading people to Christ in Antioch, the apostle Paul returned to

that city and notice here what his divinely inspired message to them was:
Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to
continue in the faith, and that we must through much
tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. Acts 14:22
Today, in stark contrast to the original apostles of Christ, we have people
who have dedicated themselves to making those around them to feel
eternally secure or assured no matter how they are living and without
the need to truly serve the One who bled to deliver them from all sin.
What are these people going to feel eternally in hell if they die in sin and
stand before a holy God and Judge?
The message of the apostles was not one of automatic security,
assurance and ease, but rather that we must through much
tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Those who know the LORD and will be preserved in Him in this
treacherous last hour, must be willing to endure trials and suffering
(Matt. 24:10-13). Whatever the loneliness, anguish, and pain we may
suffer here in this brief life, it is miniscule in comparison to the eternal
terror to be experienced by all who deny Christ.
Mark This: Only a deceiver would neglect to preach the full-counsel of
the original Gospel and name sin by name as the Bible does. Only a false
teacher would promise eternal assurance to any person living in rebellion
against the LORD (Ezek. 33:12-13; Lam. 2:14; Amos 9:10).
As we just witnessed firsthand in the Holy Scriptures, the LORD and His
apostles admonished new converts to endureth to the end and to
continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation
enter into the kingdom of God.
This view of an unconditionally guaranteed surety of salvation that
requires no diligence of active and ongoing faith, is foreign to the
authentic Christianity found throughout Holy Scripture, and is therefore
a false form of Christianity, facilitating a mere form of godliness, denying
the need for the power or reign of Christ in the individual life. Such

supposes that Christ will remain in the life of all who have been born
again, no matter what vile sins they may now be living in. Nonsense.
Unbiblical. Not true.
Beloved, the truth is, if we are not diligently seeking the LORD this day,
we are backsliding and in danger of becoming like one of the foolish
virgins to whom the door of entrance into the kingdom of Heaven was
shut (Matt. 25:1-13).
What exhortation did Paul give to these new believers in Acts 14?

Continue in the faith

We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of

God

Beloved, the Holy Spirit of God had all the opportunity in the world here
to tell these new converts to enjoy their salvation, be nice little
Christians, attend church services on Sundays, build a denomination,
give to the building funds, and live upstanding lives in their community.
He didnt! He could have told them that they are unconditionally
eternally secure, but He didnt. No, instead, Paul gave the same message
Christ gave His twelve in Matthew 10:22 continue and endure to the
end and expect to be hated of all men for my names sake and much
tribulation between now and Heaven. Every leader should be disclosing
these things to those they oversee. Every saint should acknowledge these
truths.
Paul was inspired by the Holy Ghost to write much of the New Testament
canon, correct? Why didnt he guarantee Heaven to everyone who was at
one time born again? Why didnt the Son of God do so?
In the message of the modern church, we are told that believers will be
rewarded for their good works, but are not in danger of losing their souls
if they dont obey God. Some misuse 1 Corinthians 3 to come to this
conclusion. Such a conclusion does not align with the whole of Scripture
and therefore should not be embraced.
The early Church apostles obeyed the Master and taught new converts to
continue in Gods grace, just as Jesus taught them what they must do to

ultimately inherit His eternal kingdom (Matt. 10:22; 25:1-13; Acts 14:22;
Rev. 2-3). Do we espouse and teach what Christ and His apostles taught?
For more on what Paul was inspired to teach, see 1 Corinthians 9:2710:12 and Romans 11:19-23. Any thought that this Holy Spirit inspired,
true grace teacher taught an unconditional eternal security will be
soundly silenced upon the honest reading of these texts.
If OSAS was an original doctrine of the New Testament Church, wouldnt
the apostle Paul have included it in the books he contributed to the
canon of the New Testament Scriptures?

The Message of Peter the Apostle

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end
is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better
for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than,
after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment
delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according
to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again;
and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. 2
Peter 2:20-22
After Simon believed upon Christ, Peter told him:
Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized,
he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the
miracles and signs which were doneBut Peter said unto him,
Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that
the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast
neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in
the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and
pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be
forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of
bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. Acts 8:13, 20-23

Did you notice that there is anything but eternal assurance in this
divinely inspired communication of the apostle Peter? Peter told Simon
that he was going to perish after he was saved (believed) and was
baptized.
Of course we all hope Simon repented before it was too late, yet all we
know from this text is that he asked the apostle Peter to pray that none
of the judgments pronounced would come upon him (v24). It is
frightening to think of the millions of souls who when living in sin like
Simon was, after being saved, do not have the voice of true, godly
authority (like Peter) who follow Christ authentically, warning them to
repent or they will perish. Simon got saved then turned to sin again
and Peter called him to repent or perish. Simon was blessed because
he had a man like Peter to rebuke the error of his way. Today, it is
regrettably all too rare to find those authentic New Testament Christians,
who endeavor to live and declare the apostolic faith once delivered to the
saints. Beloved, are you willing to answer the call of God to learn and live
real New Testament Christianity as we witness on the pages of New
Testament Scripture? This would include helping Christian people
living in sin by calling them to repent or they will perish. Living like
Jesus and His apostles means giving no hope of assurance or eternal
security to anyone living outside of obedience to Christs Word/will, but
rather calling people who are living in rebellion and sin to repent or
they will perish. This means that they would ultimately go to eternal
hell if they dont repent and this is all regardless of any past
relationship experience they had with the LORD as is clear in this
instance with Simon (Ezek. 33:12-13; Acts 8:13, 20-23).
Those under-shepherds who truly fear the LORD, endeavor to speak the
truth in love to safeguard the precious souls of those they oversee with
divine truth (Eph. 4:15; Heb. 13:17).
The apostle Peter had all the opportunity in the world to overlook this
new converts sin. Peter had full and open occasion here to assure Simon
that he was eternally secure no matter how he chose to live because he
was now saved. But Peter didnt. Why not? Because such would have
been treason and utterly in opposition to the truth of God.

Even a cursory look at the New Testament Scriptures reveal that the
LORD Jesus and His apostles had a completely different approach and
instructions than do many ministries today. Unlike original and
authentic Christianity found on the pages of New Testament Scripture,
most ministries today give no admonition or warning to new converts to
the Christian faith.

The Message of Jude, the Brother of Jesus

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before
of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning
the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you
in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the
Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt,
afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels
which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation,
he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto
the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha,
and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves
over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth
for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fireThese
are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you,
feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without
water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth,
without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; Raging
waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering
stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
Jude 4-7, 12-13
By direct inspiration of the Holy Ghost, Jude says that ungodly men
who have crept in unawares (secretly) are turning the grace of our
God into lasciviousness and by doing such are denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Then he begins to innumerate
how the Almighty has destroyed those who were once in His kingdom
then departed. He brings New Testament believers into remembrance of
the fact that the LORD, having saved the people out of the land of
Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. Then he reminds
us of how Lucifer and one-third of the angels who once occupied Heaven

are now fallen into the eternally irrevocable state of condemnation: And
the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own
habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness
unto the judgment of the great day.
Not once do we see the Son of God, any of the apostles, or any other
believer, telling the newly saved that they are once saved always saved
or intimating that they are unconditionally eternally secure. Such a
message is completely foreign to genuine and original New Testament
Christianity. There is no hint of teaching insinuating the diabolical lie
that the believer has no need to obey God in their daily life. Instead,
there is abundance of warning that if one goes back into sin, judgment
awaits that transgressor. The modern teaching of eternal security is
entirely alien to the teachings of Christ and His apostles and is therefore
another gospel. (2 Cor. 11:1-4; Gal. 1:6-9)
Please allow me to exhort true Bible believers to offer a challenge to any
teacher or proponent of an unconditionally eternally secure salvation.
The challenge is this: To produce any biblical record of such a teaching
which would include a preponderance of Scripture in context with the
passage it has been placed in. If such evidence cannot be clearly
demonstrated through the preponderance of Scripture, I hope and pray
that God will grant repentance to any who still believe such, that they
might turn to the truth and away from this deadly fable (2 Tim. 2:2-5).
What one will find, in studying the New Testament Scriptures, is that no
such hint of the notion nor teaching of an unconditional eternal security
is found among the early disciples of Christ. The apostles of Jesus
continued in His doctrines as He instructed them to do and no such
doctrine of an unconditional eternal security is taught.
The Million Dollar Question: If God wanted His people to believe that
once they believed unto salvation, there was no further need to obey Him
in faith, why didnt He simply come out and tell us so in His Word?
Why in 66 books is there the deafening silence of such a teaching and
yet, so many today in the evangelical church world teach and believe
such?

Before leaving the earth and when sending forth His apostles, the Son of
God commanded:
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is
given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to
observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo,
I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:18-20
Notice in particular the command: Teaching them to observe all
things whatsoever I have commanded you. Jesus Christ never taught
that a person is without responsibility after he is born again, but rather
just the opposite. He commanded that all those in Him must abide or
remain in obedience to Him or they will be thrown into the fire (Jn. 15:6).
His many warnings alone make the reality of the jeopardy of the soul
clear to the honest-hearted student of His Word (Matt. 24-25).
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of
itself, except it abide (remain) in the vine; no more can ye,
except ye abide in mefor without me ye can do nothing. If a
man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. John 15:4-6
We must ask ourselves: Why would the very Son of God ever so much as
mention abiding (continuing; persevering) in Him if such were automatic
or some kind of a fixed state of grace? Was Jesus just filling pages with
His words, or is this a divinely-given mandate the personal
responsibility of each and every born again believer?
Salvation is of the LORD said Jonah after he had repented from his
rebellion and returned to the LORD (read Jonah 2). Salvation surely is of
the LORD and yet the LORD has made it clear that He never forces any
person to love and serve Him or continue to remain in relationship with
Him (Deut. 28; 30:19; Josh. 24:15; Isa. 1:18-20; Jn. 1:12; 3:16, 36; 5:24;
15:1-6; Rev. 3:20). Remaining with Christ is volitional. The one who is
willing and obedient, and planted in the house of the LORD will

flourish in the courts of the LORD and be embellished with the

blessings of the LORD (Deut. 28:1-14; Ps. 92:13-14; Isa. 1:19-20).
Jonah had rebelled against God. He then cried out in distress when the
LORD blessed him to be swallowed up by a large fish (Rom. 2:4). As we
learn in the parable of the prodigal son, the LORD will lead the wayward
to repentance yet He will never force Him to repent even though He is
not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to
repentance. (2 Pet. 3:9) The perfect will of God and the individual
appropriation of such are two different issues. From the belly of that fish
the prophet cried out to God in repentance and his prayer came into the
ears of the LORD in whom is all salvation. The LORD heard, forgave, and
restored Jonah. In his restored state Jonah said that those who observe
lying vanities forsake their own mercies. As a direct result of his
returning to the LORD, the LORD then told that fish to spit His man out
upon the beach and it did. Read Jonah 2. It wasnt till he repented that
the LORD restored Jonah. When Jonah came to himself in the presence
of God, he realized that he had embraced lying vanities in thinking he
could forsake the LORD and not be forsaken by the LORD (2 Chron.
15:2).
If abiding in Him is a divine command, what is the consequence for not
staying with Him? What did Jesus say is going to happen to all who do
not remain in Him? Christ stated that any person who is in Him and
doesnt continue faithful in His Word, will be cast forth as a branch,
and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. (Jn. 15:6)
So, to teach that after a believer is saved, he is going to automatically go
to Heaven, no matter what he does or does not do, is clearly not a New
Testament teaching. Only those who get saved and continue to make the
decision to abide in faith and obedience to Him, will be eternally with
Him all others will be cast into eternal fire.
If unconditional eternal security was an original doctrine of Christ and
the New Testament apostles, we would find it in the canon of New
Testament Scripture.

Saint of the LORD, be exhorted to keep your soul diligently by removing

yourself from any leader who espouses such a dangerous falsehood.
Such a lie is a cancer to the soul, eating away at fervency and crippling
the necessity of diligent faith in and obedience to Jesus.
Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your
calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall
never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you
abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and
Saviour Jesus ChristSeeing then that all these things shall
be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all
holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto
the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on
fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with
fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look
for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth
righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for
such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace,
without spot, and blameless. 2 Peter 1:10-11; 3:11-14

PRAYER: LORD Jesus, bless me to continue in the apostles doctrine once

delivered to Your saints in Your Word. Quicken my heart to a deeper
relationship with You and fervency of spirit, born out of the fear of the
LORD. Make my conscience extremely sensitive to Your conviction and
grant repentance to my heart for every depraved motive or action. Father,
thank You so much for the sacrifice and resurrection of Your only begotten
Son. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY FOUR

SMOOTH THINGS OR ROUGH?

Remnant Endurance

That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that

will not hear the law (Word) of the LORD: Which say to the
seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right
things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Isaiah
30:9-10
Those living in darkness many times shun the light of truth and
therefore diligently avoid leaders who endeavor to speak the whole of
divine counsel. Instead, they heap to (set before) themselves teachers
who will tell them smooth things, never confronting their sin while
intentionally avoiding harder Bible truths that might offend their
listeners and hinder the cash flow. Leaders who are self-serving in their
positions know that the masses want smooth things and therefore
tailor their messages to win friends and influence people and grow their
local church business. Self-ambitious leaders who are not dead to self,
intentionally remove the jagged rock biblical truths from their messages,
smoothing out the road and making it wider and more accepting than the
narrow road Christ spoke of (Matt. 7:13-14). This is the new form of
Christianity we see today that is deceived on purpose. Masses are being
deceived on purpose, driven to deception because of their denial of the
fullness of divine truth revealed in the written Word (2 Thess. 2:10-12).
The seeker-friendly or seekersensitive movement, community
churches, and otherwise are a part of this departing from the faith once
delivered to the saints and given us in Gods precious Word (1 Tim. 4:1-3;
2 Tim. 4:2-4; Jude 3-4).
The words of the LORD bring light which shines on darkened hearts and
the unrepentant are repelled because they choose to remain in
darkness. Remember what Jesus told us about this?

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the

world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their
deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light,
neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds
may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. John
3:19-21
To accommodate those who wish to remain in darkness, enterprising
leaders have tapped into the key to growing their congregations
numerically while withholding precious truth that would lead their
hearers to the Savior in repentance upon realizing their sinful state. The
unconditional love and unconditional eternal security messages are two
of the telltale messages used by this type of leader, basically
communicating to the hearer that he has a free ride or carte blanche
ticket to live as he wishes and there will be no consequences to face.
The people whom the prophet Isaiah ministered to in his day were no
different than many people today who flock to hear conviction-less, nice
little sweet and smooth sermonettes from smiling, positive, seekersensitive church liars who refuse to tell the whole truth, but for their own
agenda, cherry pick certain parts of the Bible to allure and entice the
fleshly nature of men (Phil. 3:17-21; 2 Pet. 2:18).
They hate him that rebuketh in the gate, and they abhor him
that speaketh uprightly. Amos 5:10
Many of those who are in darkness today, believing they are secure due
to a past experience with Christ, shun truth tellers. They defy the LORD
by shunning His truth while vainly believing they have the assurance of
eternal life. This is what is conveyed due to the absence of the harder
truths of the Bible.
Like many today, the people in Isaiahs day didnt desire nor search out
truth but instead, wanted smooth things. In the theme verse of this
chapter from Isaiah 30, the people were demanding that their religious
leaders tell them what they wanted to hear so as not to inconvenience
their personal lives. They wanted salvation and security on their own
terms. They wanted to hear that they were okay, secure and assured

eternal life in their current sinful condition. These people didnt want to
hear about denying self, taking up the cross, being crucified to the sins
of the fleshly nature, serving God and others in a real way, etc. Oh no,
they wanted easy things and to feel good all the time as they did their
own thing in their earthly lives. Their goal was to be happy in this life,
not holy. The person who lives with these erroneous ideas is self-deluded
and self-idolatrous. Today, a man whose stadium church tops 30,000 in
weekly attendance has built his lucrative enterprise on trying to make
people feel happy (instead of being holy), purposely refusing (as he
himself states) to preach on sin. This is a perfect example of a false
leader who comes in the name of the LORD but not with the fruit and
doctrine of the LORD Jesus and His apostles, who offended many. Our
LORD warned of many men speaking well of you, for so did their
fathers to the false prophets. (2 Tim. 3:10; Lk. 6:26) Christ promised
that His true followers would uncompromisingly embrace and speak His
Word and would consequently be hated of all men. (Matt. 10:22)
Preaching the Word uncompromisingly will thin crowds or prevent them
from coming and salvation without sacrifice sells (2 Tim. 4:2-4). The false
gospel of ease is the epitome of the at ease in Zion lifestyle (Amos 6:1).
The word repent in its various forms appears 80 times in the Bible. If
there were no sin, there would be no reason for this divinely inspired
word and action. Yet, since sin occurred in the Garden and has passed
upon all men, repentance is a necessity (Rom. 5:12). When a leader
chooses not to preach on sin there is obviously no reason for his hearers
to turn to the LORD in godly sorrow (repent) there is nothing to repent
from in his false theology. He has created a god in his own image his
theology transmits the image of a false god a god who accepts people in
their sins instead of the God of Scripture who separates Himself from
those who live in sin (Isa. 59:2). Those who do not preach on sin identify
themselves as false and completely contradictory to the message of Jesus
and His holy apostles and prophets (Lam. 2:14; Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Lk. 13:3;
Acts 2:38; 3:19; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Rev. 21:8, 27).
The happiness-instead-of-holiness syndrome is epidemic in this late hour
and is a trademark emphasis of seeker-friendly churches which are
drawing tens of thousands of goats who believe they are truly right with
God. While they do a good job alluring and gathering the masses, these

enterprising leaders refuse to name and define sin as the Bible does.
When men refuse to preach on sin there becomes no reason to repent or
call men to repent before a holy God. How tragic!
The sinful masses are no different today than in Isaiahs day, seeking to
do what is right in their own eyes while receiving justification from their
leaders to live a self-serving life instead of a Christ-serving life.
Unrepentant, sinful man believes he can live as he so chooses and still
remain in Gods grace, vainly believing he has divine approval in doing
such. A rude awakening lies (Matt. 7:21-29).
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that
ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto
God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed
to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your
mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2
The people of Isaiahs day cried, Prophesy not unto us right things
(truth), speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits. (Isa. 30:910)

The Alignment
The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by
their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye
do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31
Notice the 3 classes of people involved here whom the LORD indicts in
Jeremiah 5:31:

Prophets

Priests

People

And there shall be, like people, like priest: and I will punish
them for their ways, and reward them their doings. Hosea 4:9
When mass apostasy occurs, both classes are involved - leader and
listener. It takes both parties to complete the circle. Last days mass
apostasy was foretold (Matt. 24:10-13; 2 Thess. 2:3; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Tim.
3:1-7; 4:3-4). Epidemic departure from the faith is a reality today as it
has been throughout history, yet there is a remnant, as has also been
the case throughout history (1 Kings 18:4, 19). Those who make up the
remnant are those who know their God and are willing to suffer the loss
of all things and like Job to say Though he slay me, yet will I trust in
him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. He also shall be
my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him. (Job
13:15-16) The word remnant is found 92 times in the Bible and in this
context is being used to refer to the residue of people within the church
world who truly serve the LORD and have not forsaken the Ancient of
Days for the idolatry of selfish pleasures, personal gain, and religion (Mk.
4:17-19; Lk. 17:26-33; 2 Tim. 3:1-7).
The individual who seeks to escape the essential of heart circumcision
which leads to the denial of the self-life, will migrate to the widespread
false grace message that justifies sinful hearts and sinful living. The one
who will not open his heart fully to Christ wants the heavenly crown
without the daily cross on earth. Even though Jesus died to give us
relationship with Himself and the Father, many who claim to know Him
today do not want to bare their hearts to Christ in a transparent
relationship, yet they want to reap eternal life, escaping the fires of
eternal damnation. This people draweth nigh unto me with their
mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from
me. (Matt. 15:8)
Our God is so very merciful, His compassions fail not but are rather new
every morning, great is His faithfulness. He is ever so tenderly merciful
with those who will come to the light of His truth. If we just come to Him
in honest and sincere heart, confessing our sins and asking Him to
restore Himself as the first love of our hearts. See Psalms 86:5, 15;
Proverbs 28:13; Lamentations 3:19-26; Revelation 2:4-5. God is
continuing His good work in all those who love Him in truth and are
conforming to His holy image (Phil. 1:6; Rom. 8:29).

Since the Son of God promised us that speaking His Word - including the
truth that one must endure to the end to be saved - would bring
persecution, some leaders have toned His message down. Speaking the
whole counsel of God would include the hard truths of Scripture, and
such teaching will not make one popular or garner to ones local church
masses of people. So, it is natural for the leader who has as his driving
goal to build a large following, to teach OSAS or avoid this subject. The
expose of the myth of unconditional eternal security offends people and
such hinders the goal of the one who seeks to build his own kingdom.
The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by
their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye
do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31
Note that like today, the leaders of Jeremiahs day bear rule by their
means. In other words, they lead for their own good, to accomplish their
own agenda. Leaders like this prophesy falsely by telling people what
they want to hear and not what God wants them to hear. These leaders
do things their own way and not Gods - all this while they conduct
themselves in ministry leadership positions, claiming to come in the
name of the LORD while denying His Word (Mk. 8:38).
Note the chilling question and implication at the end of this verse:
What will ye do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31b
Judgment is coming on all in the house of God who do not truly obey
Him - according to the pattern of His immutable Word. See 2
Thessalonians 1:7-10 and 1 Peter 4:17-18.
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house
of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them
that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely
be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God
commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as
unto a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4:17-19
In light of the fact that only a few of the righteous will be ultimately
and eternally saved, they are exhorted here to commit the keeping
of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. We

serve a faithful Creator and the remnant of the LORD are called to
commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing. Those who
do will possess true assurance in their hearts.

Lure of the Temporal

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the
time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but
after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers,
having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from
the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 2 Timothy 4:2-4
Esau didnt endure sound doctrine. Like Esau, who forfeited his very
birthright for a fleeting fix (bowl of soup), the religious and yet sinful
people of all ages want the temporal blessings of ease and comfort
instead of doing whatever it takes to conform to Christs image, leading
and Word. Our LORD calls each of us that is to be His disciple, to walk
through sufferings in this life and it is through these times and seasons
that He works His character in us (Phil. 1:29, 2:12-13; 1 Pet. 4). We must
be willing to endure hardness, and all those who do, reap the earthly and
eternal rewards that only the LORD can give.
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal
glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while,
make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1 Peter
5:10
At times Gods way is rough isnt it? All who have ever walked with Him
have found that out, but they also discover that He has His purposes for
our suffering - to establish, root and ground us in Him (1 Peter 5:10).
The end of the LORDs way is always a priceless peace and rich
blessings. Job is one such servant who was established more deeply in
the LORD as he obediently and patiently endured the trials that came
upon him.
Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the
name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of
patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have
heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the

Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

James 5:10-11
Remember that those who endure the rough things now, walking with
the LORD no matter what comes their way, will be overcomers and eat of
the fruit of the tree of life in the eternal kingdom of the Savior they
supremely loved and therefore refused to deny in this life (2 Tim. 2:12;
Rev. 2-3).
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing your people to be
seated together in heavenly places in Christ and with all spiritual
blessings in Him. Please grant me the grace to grow in knowing You and
hearkening to Your voice at all times. I love you my LORD Jesus. Help me
to know You better this hour and to treasure Your holy words, hearkening
to the voice of Your Holy Spirit and what You are saying to the Church. Stir
me up LORD. I love You and praise You for all the blessings You have
bestowed upon this life you have given. Purge my heart and strike it with
Your fear my LORD. I choose to endure hardness as a good soldier of
Jesus Christ, to suffer, and become a companion of all those who are
genuinely true to Your Word. No matter what comes my way, I know You
are greater. Please bless me to be rooted and grounded in Your love and
fill me with Your fullness LORD Jesus as You use me to be a blessing to
others this day. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY FIVE

JESUS IS KNOCKING

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my

voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup
with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20
Just before these words, Jesus told this church assembly in Laodicea
that they were lukewarm and ready to be spewed or vomited from
His holy mouth (removed from His kingdom, v15-16). They were
materially rich and prideful about it, blinded and unable to see their real
state In their hearts they vainly supposed this: Because thou sayest,
I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and
knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and
blind, and naked. I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire,
that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be
clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and
anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I
love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold,
I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open
the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with
me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my
throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in
his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith
unto the churches. (Rev. 3:17-22)
Jesus Christ foreknows all (Isa. 46:9-10; Heb. 13:8). He saw into the
hour in which we now live, where material prosperity, travel and luxury
would abound (Dan. 12:4). These are the final days leading up to His
soon return and He desires that we posses ears to hear what He is
attempting to say to us to safeguard our souls in His hands.
His instructions to all who will be chastened and specially loved and
eternally secure with Him are as follows:

Buy of me gold tried in the fire.s (Rev. 3:18)

Obtain from Me the true riches of My righteousness that thou

mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be
clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.
(Rev. 3:18)

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore,

and repent. (Rev. 3:19)

The city of Laodicea possessed great material wealth. The people here in
Laodicea did not lie when they said they were much increased in material
goods thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have
need of nothing. (v17) This preoccupation with the things of this
temporal world had blinded them so that Jesus said that they knew not
that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and
naked. In reality these precious souls were spiritually bankrupt and
needed the LORD and the gold that only He can give, tried by fire. They
were in need of receiving His rebuke and chastening and to be zealous to
repent (v19). I stand at the door and knock (v20) - Jesus was inviting
these people to love Him more than their material wealth and the things
of this fleeting life.
The pleasure-seeking and ease of their lifestyle left them untried and
weak and deceived into thinking that their spiritual state was secure. In
reality they were naked and undone, weighed in the balance and found
wanting. Jesus here tells the supposed Christians at Laodicea that they
needed the white raiment that only He can give. Only the blood of the
Savior can purify sin from the saints of God.
He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white
raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of
life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before
his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit
saith unto the churches. Revelation 3:5-6
The Laodiceans had sin in their lives. These people were world renown
for their medical facilities. This city produced eye salve for the world to
help people physically see, and yet spiritually these same people were
blind. Jesus knows where we all are spiritually. Will we dare humble
ourselves and ask Him to show us where we really are with Him what
our absolute true spiritual state is? Christ is knocking on our door. Shall
we answer His call and allow Him to come in and sup with us (fellowship;
commune). Those who are honest before Him will be blessed to see Him
and His kingdom and their true state. They will be zealous to repent.

Like the people at Laodicea, today many leaders and church

organizations relish their material wealth, vainly believing they are being
blessed by God and equating such to their spiritual state. Nothing could
be a more deadly measuring standard (1 Tim. 6:3-11). First of all, nearly
every cult in the world today prospers materially and yet they are dead
wrong and hell bound. So, material wealth is never a measure of
godliness in the divine economy. In fact, many of those who hold to the
LORD and the purity of His Word are despised and poor, having nothing
and destitute of even basic necessities (2 Cor. 6:10; Heb. 11:37). Jesus
told us that the rich already have their consolation (Lk. 6:24). James tells
us that God has chosen those who are poor in this world and yet rich in
faith (James 2:5).
In order to grow his local church business, the ambitious,
entrepreneurial leader must compromise truth and thereby rebel against
the One he claims to serve. This he must do if his inner goal is to grow
his church numerically instead of simply declaring divine truth and
letting the LORD Himself add to His body as only He can do (Acts 2:47;
5:14). Even among those claiming to be true believers today, it seems
that many simply do not want to deny themselves, take up their cross
and follow Christ. They would rather have a soft, nerf-like cross of ease,
without repentance, change, and the denial of the self-life. The masses
do not wish to endure sound doctrine. Instead, they heap to
themselves teachers, having itching ears to hear and confirm
themselves in the message of ease (Amos 6:1; 2 Tim. 4:3).
The believer who will remain true to and in the grace of Christ, must not
allow the the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches,
and the lusts of other things entering in, (to) choke the word, and
(so) it becometh unfruitful. (Mk. 4:19) There are numerous warnings
in the Bible directed specifically and strategically to Gods very own
people to continue to the end in obedient faith in Him, especially in light
of the return of Christ. Space does not permit an exhaustive elaboration
on this important truth at this time, yet the intention of this writing is to
lay a foundation for the readers deeper personal study of the warnings
given by the LORD to us in His Word.

The Soul Must Be Kept

To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled...in heaven...
Who are KEPT (preserved for Heaven) by the power of God
THROUGH FAITH unto salvation...Receiving the end of your
faith, even the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:4-5, 9
Notice here that we are kept by the power of God THROUGH FAITH
UNTO salvation...Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation
(final) of your souls.
He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him
against that day. 2 Timothy 1:12.
What is God able to keep? that which I have committed unto
Him against that day. The LORD will not keep that which is not
committed to Him.
Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that
come unto God by him. Hebrews 7:25
Who is Jesus the Great Intercessor able also to save? themthat
come unto God by him.
Some erroneously believe that they are somehow automatically kept by
the LORD and have no need to fear Him, live by faith, or keep His Word.
There is not the slightest hint in Holy Writ to show such to be true.
Divine keeping only happens in conjunction with mans free will and
faith. Without faith it is impossible to please him. (Heb. 11:6)
Again, the only prerequisite for man to be saved is genuine faith in
God - this saving faith must include repentance and be continued in to
the end of ones life or he forfeits eternal life. God, who is our Keeper,
requires our ongoing faith to the end. See also 1 Peter 4:19. We are
saved, being saved and to be saved. There is not even one promise to be
found in the Bible of eternal life granted to any person who is saved and
then turns back to his sinful vomit (2 Pet. 2:20-22; Ezek. 33:12-13, etc.).
At the end of his life, the Apostle Paul stated ...I have KEPT the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness... (2
Tim. 4:7-8)

God has chosen to keep the soul in conjunction with the free will
obedience of the possessor of this great salvation (Heb. 2:3). Hebrews
10:26-39 says:
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the
knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for
sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery
indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that
despised Moses law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses: Of how much sorer (worse than death under the OT)
punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath
trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the
blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy
thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we
know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will
recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge
his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the
living God ... ye have in heaven a better and an enduring
substance. Cast not away therefore your confidence (must be
possible), which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have
need (its a necessity) of patience, that, AFTER ye have done
the will of God (to the end of your life), ye might receive the
promise (eternal life). For yet a little while, and he that shall
come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live
(their whole lives) by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who
draw back unto perdition (destruction); but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:26-39
Since when does man lose his ability to choose (free moral agency) after he
is saved? This is a question that stumps all proponents of the
unconditional eternal security myth. The apostle Peter was inspired to
write the following frightful words of warning:
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the
ungodly and the sinner appear? 1 Peter 4:18
Of all those who have ever been born again into the kingdom of God,
scarcely will even these souls be saved.

God sets life and death, blessing and cursing before His own people
with the choice between the two (Deut. 30:19; Isa. 1:19, 20). Salvation is
not merely a one-time experience, although it starts that way. One must
continue to choose God and His Word - to the end of his life in order to
be continuously washed and saved eternally (1 John 1:7; John 8:31-32;
1 Pet. 1:4-5, 19; 2 Tim. 4:7-8). Jesus is knocking will we hear, open the
door of our heart to Him, repent, and be chastened and made whole in
Him?
The Son of God told us that the kingdom of Heaven (not hell) was likened
to ten virgins. All ten of these virgins were predestined to go to and began
on the path to Heaven, yet only five made it. The wise virgins kept oil in
their lamps and were preserved/kept by God. They nurtured their
relationship with the Bridegroom and kept Him as their first love. The
wise received final salvation. The foolish virgins, of whom the kingdom of
Heaven was also originally likened, were shut out of the kingdom (Matt.
25:1-13).

More on Laodicea
Lets look at this vitally important passage again. These words from
Jesus Christ hold incredible, soul-saving truth to be possessed by all
who will be Christs eternally. To His very own people, not the unsaved,
Jesus Christ stated:
And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write;
These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the
beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou
art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then
because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will
spue (vomit, reject) thee out of my mouth (reject as part of His
body). Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with
goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou
art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I
counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou
mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be
clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As
many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and

repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man

hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and
will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh
will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also
overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the
churches. Revelation 3:14-22
The Laodicean lie is the very falsehood that began in the Garden of Eden
the lie of the ages. The Son of God addresses these who were in the
Church who erroneously and boastfully imagined that they were rich,
and increased with goods, and have need of nothing. To the
contrary, Christ informs them that they were wretched, and miserable,
and poor, and blind, and naked.
Why would God warn His own people to be diligent to obey Him so that
the shame of their nakedness would not appear in His sight, if it
were impossible for them to be uncovered after they had been covered by
Christs blood? This alone proves that the blood does not indiscriminately
cover every one who has ever been born again at some point earlier in
their lives. One must continue to walk in the light to continue to be
cleansed, otherwise his sins will add up against him and be counted
against him in the final day (1 John 1:7; Rom. 2:5-11).
Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the
things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slip (Why the divine warning if such were not possible?).
For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every
transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of
reward; How shall we escape (eternal judgment), if we neglect
so great salvation (obviously, a saved person can neglect his
responsibilities to the Lord and come under His judgment)...
Hebrews 2:1-3
Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate: for MANY (who
vainly thought they were eternally secure), I say unto you, will
seek to enter in (thinking they were immune from eternal
judgment in hell because they were at one time saved), and
shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen

up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without,
and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us;
and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence
(where) ye are (now)...But he shall say, I tell you, I know you
not whence ye are (the spiritual state you are in at death);
depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity (hell). Luke 13:2425, 27
Satan craftily convinced the woman (Eve) that she had irrevocable
security and assurance, no matter what her actions against the clear
command/Word of God might be. In other words, she was told by Satan
Himself that she had no further responsibility to live in faithful obedience
to her Maker. Since we know the author of the lie of lasciviousness, what
does this say of those who teach this same unconditional eternal security
lie?
Consider a sampling of the necessity of enduring to the end of ones life
to be saved into Heaven:
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast
destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. Psalms 73:27
Be thou instructed, O Jerusalem, lest my soul depart from
thee; lest I make thee desolate, a land not inhabited.
Jeremiah 6:8
Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath
rejected them. Jeremiah 6:30
The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek
him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will
forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2
The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him;
but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake
(leave, depart from) him. Ezra 8:22
Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for
their deceit is falsehood. Psalms 119:118

Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, thou art gone
backward: therefore will I stretch out my hand against thee,
and destroy thee; I am weary with repenting. And I will fan
them with a fan in the gates of the land; I will bereave them of
children, I will destroy my people, since they return not from
their ways. Jeremiah 15:6-7
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, preserve my soul in Thee. Thank You for first
loving me, finding me and saving me. I love You Jesus. Take over my life
afresh. I lay my life in Thine hands. I choose now to answer Your call to
repent and realize I have no riches outside of You LORD. Thank You for
loving me enough to chasten me and for continuing Your good pleasure in
me and perfecting that which concerns my life. Please multiply Your grace
in my heart and lead me according to Your perfect will. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY SIX

MY DOCTRINE
SHALL DROP AS THE RAIN
Deuteronomy 32:2

My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as

the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the
showers upon the grass. Deuteronomy 32:2

4 Similies of True Doctrine from Deuteronomy 32:2

1) Rain drop by drop, beginning slowly and increasing more
and more until the whole revelation is complete.
2) Dew descends gently and silently and mysteriously upon the
heart and ear, moistening and bringing refreshment.
3) Small Rain like sweeping showers and gusts of wind.
4) Showers Upon the Grass continual rain necessary for
planting and harvesting of the crops.
Drop by drop, gently, in brief provisional gusts, and continually does
the Word of His grace influence the hearts of men (Acts 20:32).
For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and
returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it
bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and
bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of
my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall
accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the
thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:10-11
Gods Word is the source of all true doctrine and the incorruptible
seed by which we are born again. (1 Pet. 1:23)
Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of
incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for
ever. 1 Peter 1:23
The word doctrine appears 51 times in the Bible. It is utterly
important to diligently study, learn and be established in Bible doctrine.
Knowing what the LORD told us about Himself is essential in discerning
truth from falsehood. There are many teachings which the enemy has
spawned in order to derail the children of God.
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of
Christ, hath not God. He that abideth (remains) in the doctrine
of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come
any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not

into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that
biddeth him (anyone who espouses false teaching) God speed is
partaker of his evil deeds. 2 John 1:9-11
True believers are not to endorse in any sense those who teach contrary
to the Word of God. Yet, one cannot know what is of God or what is
not of God if he doesnt intimately know the oracles of God himself
(Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29; Jn. 8:47; Heb. 5:11-14).
Jesus told us that as we continue in His Word His truth will make us
free (Jn. 8:31-32). As we devour His words of life and walk in them, we
are blessed to live in His fullness, wholly pleasing to Him, and be
safeguarded against deception, and not derailed by false teaching (Col.
2:8-9).
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain
deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the
world, and not after Christ. Colossians 2:8
The importance of doctrinal exactness cannot be over-estimated. There are
many false doctrines circulating in the church world today which appear
to be the truth and yet one can only rightly divide the truth if he studies
to show himself approved unto God (Eph. 4:14; 2 Tim. 2:15). Friends, the
human race became separated from God due to one 3-letter word added
to Gods Word. In this hour, the same enemy is using the same
serpentine tricks successfully on those who do not know and fervently
hold to the doctrines the LORD gave us in His holy Word. For example:
Millions today have been deceived by false teaching into believing that
they are secure even though not in obedience to Christ (Matt. 7:21-23; 1
Jn. 2:3-6). This doctrine has caused many to possess a false assurance.
Anyone who has ever witnessed on the streets, especially in a bar
district, knows how many saved people are out doing everything the
devils children are doing and yet these same people boldly claim to be
once saved and always saved. A rude awakening lies ahead if they do
not repent before it is too late (Isa. 55:6-7; Heb. 12:14; Rev. 21:8, 27).
True Doctrine is to be Received & Maintained

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for

doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly
furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
As we just read in 2 Timothy 3:16, the Word of God was breathed into
holy men for fourfold purpose:
1) doctrine
2) correction
3) reproof
4) instruction in righteousness
The Bible has been given to us that we might learn and possess proper
doctrine and to thereby be made sound, deeply rooted, and mature in
the faith and able to help others in the same (1 Tim. 4:6, 16; 2 Tim. 3:1617; Col. 2:6-7; Heb. 5:11-14).
Possessing sound doctrine is ultra important in the divine economy. The
phrase sound doctrine appears 4 times in the Bible.
But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine
Titus 2:1
Correct doctrine is vital to our present and future standing with the
LORD. Lets look at 2 John again:
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of
Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of
Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 2 John 9
According to the Holy Spirits words here in 2 John 9, one who is in the
truth can err from His truth which makes him a transgressor. In such a
case that person ceases to abide or remain in Christ.
Gods Word should be:

Loved (Jer. 15:16)

Honored above any revelation, prophecy, dream or human

philosophy (2 Pet. 1:12-21)

Spoken plainly and never veered from when ministering (1 Pet.

4:10-11)

Esteemed to the highest level, even above the basic necessities of

life (Job. 23:12)

Written down (Deut. 17:18)

Kept always before the eyes and thereby kept in the midst of the
heart (Prov. 4:21)

Lived by (Lk. 4:4)

Meditated upon (Jos. 1:8; Ps. 1:2)

Delighted in (Ps. 1:2)

Heard with the heart and mind (Lk. 8:18; Jn. 8:47)

Never forgotten or forsaken (Prov. 3:1, 3)

Written upon the table of the heart (Prov. 3:3)

Search out diligently (Jn. 5:39; Acts 17:11)

Used to measure all by (Acts 17:11)

Adhered to and used in doctrine, reproof, correction, and

instruction in righteousness (2 Tim. 3:16)

Retained (Prov. 4:4)

Bound continually upon the heart (Prov. 6:21)

Used (Heb. 5:11-14)

Obeyed (James 1:22)

Read (Rev. 1:3)

Memorized (Prov. 4:4)

The LORD told us that those who hear and obey His words demonstrate
that they truly know and love Him and those who dont, prove they do
not love Him.
He that is of God heareth Gods words: ye therefore hear
them not, because ye are not of God. John 8:47
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is
that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my
Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
John 14:21
In order to accommodate the unfounded unconditional eternal security
teaching, those men who teach it must of necessity deliberately ignore
volumes of Bible truth/doctrine. Those who do not have a at least a
foundational knowledge of holy Scriptures are vulnerable to deception
(Prov. 14:15; Hos. 4:6; Matt. 22:29). In turning a blind eye to the myriad
of Scriptures which invalidate this lie of the ages, they create a god in
their own image, after their own likeness, in order to live as they desire
and do what is right in their own eyes, while rejecting the God they claim
to know and serve (Jude 4). This has always been how men have rejected
the authority or reign of the LORD and justified themselves in doing what
is right in their own eyes (Judges 17:6).
In those days there was no king (authority) in Israel, but
every man did that which was right in his own eyes
(lawlessness). Judges 17:6
The attack on Gods Word abounds in the Christian community. Our
LORD Jesus told us that Satan has come to take away His Word from the
hearts of men causing them to be unfruitful and ultimately perish (Mk.
4:15). The ultimate rebel himself is enjoined by lawless rebels in his
attack upon the Word. The denial of divine truth is done by those who do
not want to come to the light and therefore attack it and those who are
messengers of it (Mk. 4:17; Jn. 3:18-21).

Preparing For Departure

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven depart from me, ye that work
iniquity (lawlessness). Matthew 7:21-23
Christ tells us here that in order to be in the kingdom of heaven one
must doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. There will be
no exceptions. Jesus had all the opportunity in the world here to tell us
that those already saved had no further responsibility to obey His Father.
Yet, we see no such clause. He was speaking to all namely those who
claim to be His own. In this Sermon on the Mount Christ is specifically
addressing His own disciples. (Matt. 5:1).
The Son of God was specifically warning us in this passage of counterfeit
leaders who are identified by their false teachings Beware of false
prophets, which come to you in sheeps clothing, but inwardly they
are ravening (devouring) wolves. (Matt. 7:15) False teachers downplay
the necessity and requirement the LORD Himself gave us here to go to
Heaven doing the will of His Father in Heaven. Deceivers in sheeps
garb teach contrary to Jesus and this is exactly what identifies them as
false (Matt. 7:15-23).
The LORD instructed His prophet Ezekiel to speak with MY words
unto them. (Ezek. 3:4) Men of God are to diligently learn, memorize,
meditate upon and communicate the very words of God. The one who will
be true to the LORD must soundly and deliberately resolve to speak only
that which originates from the Words of Holy Writ (2 Tim. 2:15; 3:15-4:2).
1 Peter 4:11 states: If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles
of God. - Instead of humbly allowing the LORD to speak for Himself
through His very own words, false teachers in this late hour use carefully
selected parts of Gods Word and weave certain verses of Scripture into
their own words and message creating their own brand of false doctrine
For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their
own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of
the simple. (Rom. 16:18) This is how unlearned precious souls are
deceived. For example: A long time friend of mine believes in an

unconditional eternal security. As you can imagine, he and I have

discussed this doctrine on several occasions. He told me where he
learned to believe this teaching. He told me that he read a book by
Arthur Pink when he is very young and from then on was imbued with
the unconditional eternal security teaching. If you have ever read Pinks
writings you know how convincing he can sound and yet he uses very
little Scripture and when he does it is many times misused. For a sound
refutation of Pinks false teachings on the subject of eternal security, see
article titled The Eternal Security Teaching on ARTICLES page at
www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com.
It is the false teachers of our day which come to us in sheeps
clothing who are preparing masses of those who think they are
eternally secure to receive the most horrible sentence of eternal
consequence depart from me, ye that work iniquity (lawlessness).
(Matt. 7:15; 21-23)
In this insightful and electrifying passage of the future scene at the
Judgment Throne of the Almighty, the Son of God foretells us that those
who did not literally and practically DO the will of His Father in their
earthly life will not enter into His eternal kingdom. There will be no
exceptions.
Jesus warns us to Beware of false prophets, which come to you in
sheeps clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. (Matt. 7:15)
He is warning about false leadership and their teachings here. It is these
very false prophets He identifies who are leading millions to deny the
Lordship of Christ in living lives pleasing to themselves and not Him. The
masses are being led to believe that obedience to the LORD is not
necessary after they get saved. When He warned of the tragic end of
many who are currently performing many wonderful works, Jesus
was specifically speaking to His own people here. (See Matthew 5:1 which
is the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount which spans through the
end of chapter 7.)
In many cases this unconditional eternal security myth is inferred more
than blatantly declared, which makes this lie all the more deceptive and
insidious. Jesus tells us to Beware. These whom Christ identifies as
false prophets will along with those who followed their lies, hear these

horrid words of permanent termination - I never knew you: depart

from me, ye that work iniquity (lawlessness). (Matt. 7:15; 21-23)
Those who teach that obedience to the LORD is optional for the Heavenbound believer are the very false prophets He addresses here. The
Holy Spirit used Jude to address these same ungodly men who taught
this same license for sin doctrine (Jude 3-4). These same false teachers
pervert the grace of God by claiming that divine grace indiscriminately
and unconditionally covers the sinful neglect and brazen disobedience of
those already saved. These deceivers, whom Jesus said were many,
are leading many to depart from the LORD in their hearts (see also
1 Tim. 4:1-3; Heb. 3:12-14). All those who name the name of Jesus as
LORD, and are not literally obeying Him are the many He spoke of
here. They will ultimately hear the Almighty declare to them depart
from me.
We should all be forewarned that those who depart from the faith in
this life will be told by the LORD to depart from me on that Great and
Terrible Day of Judgment (Matt. 7:21-23; 1 Tim. 4:1). What a frightening
picture! Didnt the Holy Spirit tell us that in the very last days, men who
claim to know Jesus would possess a form or formula of godliness and
yet deny Christ and His teachings as the authority of their lives? Do they
not deny the LORD instead of self? (Lk. 9:23-24; 2 Tim. 3:5)
The Son of God told us that on that eternally consequential Day of
Judgment many who are living their earthly lives unto themselves, as
they have chosen, and in defiance of divinely revealed truth, will be
pronounced lawless (disobedient; without Christs Lordship) and forever
terminated into the bowels of hell.
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,
Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy
name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many
wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never
knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity
(lawlessness). Matthew 7:21-23

The Son of God promised that only those who did the will of His
Father (given in His Word) would be with Him and His people in eternity
(Matt. 7:21). Those who claim to be saved due to even a genuine
salvation experience earlier in their lives, and yet die lawless, will hear
the horrible and terminating words Depart from me. Many of these
souls were and are today active in ministry according to Jesus. The Bible
tells us that the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
For it had been better for them not to have known the way of
righteousness, than, AFTER they have known it, to turn from the
holy commandment delivered unto them. (2 Pet. 2:20-22)

Lift Up a Standard for the People

Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the
people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones;
lift up a standard for the people. Isaiah 62:10
The leaders of Gods people were instructed to Lift up a standard for
the people. Those messengers who are true and pleasing to the LORD
uncompromisingly set forth His holy standard before His people. By
refusing to preach the full-counsel of Gods Word including preaching
on sin, righteousness, repentance, holiness, and eternal judgment, false
teachers remove and denigrate the divinely-inspired message.
Not elevating the divine standard leads to lawlessness among Gods
people and will end in eternal damnation for many. Remember that in
this shocking Judgment Day passage (Matt. 7:21-23), Jesus foretold that
only those who obey His standard, His Word, in this life, will remain in
His kingdom and be in Heaven with Him and His beloved people. By not
teaching Gods Word, leaders today are leading millions to live lawlessly,
ushering them into the eternal prison of fire. By not teaching the whole
counsel of God and intentionally avoiding hard truths, deceivers set up a
counterfeit standard which misleads people, diverting them down the
path of the broad way that leads to everlasting destruction (Matt. 7:1314).
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad
is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be
which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is

the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheeps
clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know
them by their fruits. Matthew 7:13-16
When the standard revealed through the Word is withheld from Gods
people, they are not invigorated with His life and encouraged and
perpetuated in the life of sin and made to feel that it is ok (Ps. 17:4;
119:9, 11; Prov. 29:18; Matt. 4:4; Jn. 6:63).
Adam and Eve found out quickly that ignoring the divine standard and
disobeying their Maker (lawlessness) led to dismal consequences. He
removed them from His holy presence which they once enjoyed. The lie of
lasciviousness (lawlessness) slivered into the sanctuary of their hearts,
robbing the treasured fear of the LORD and weakened their resolve to
remain in obedience to Him. They bought into and internalized the
enemys lie and said We can disobey God and still have His grace cover
us. How wrong they were and how wrong are all those throughout
history and today who believe they can live in sin and still receive the
grace of Him who is separate from sinners. (Heb. 7:26)
In the face of volumes of historic instances found in the Bible, so many
people today erroneously believe God is going to hold on to them no
matter what they do.
Friend, this book is about being established in the LORD Himself
according to what He has given us in His Word (Col. 2:6-8). Truth
protects, lies bring destruction (Prov. 30:5-6; Hos. 4:1, 6; Matt. 22:29; 2
Thess. 2:9-12).
If God wanted His people to believe that after they are in His grace they
have no more personal responsibility to obey Him, why didnt He simply
come out and tell us such in His Word? After all, He had 66 books to tell
us such. Why in the Bible is there the complete absence of any eternal
assurance given to any person living in sin, regardless of any past
experience with the LORD? To the contrary, Gods very covenant people
are warned that all their righteousness will be forgotten if they go back
into sin (Ezek. 33:12-13). Why are there a myriad of biblical warnings
about continuing to the end in watching, prayer and holy living, and not

allowing sin to snare the soul? Should we rip the book of Hebrews out of
the Bible since there are numerous warnings in this God-breathed book
alone?
After King David sinned, he cried out to God with these telling words:
Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit
from me. (Ps. 51:11) If it were not possible for a believer to be cast away
from the LORD, why would David have ever been inspired by the LORD
Himself to pray such a prayer? Why would this be included in Holy Writ?
If the LORD would never take His Holy Spirit away from the person who
lives in deliberate rebellion/sin and without repentance, why would
David have been moved upon to pray take not thy holy spirit from
me?
Daily study of Gods Word is the disciples only safeguard against
deception. As with the lie of the ages which originated in the Garden, false
doctrine is designed by the enemy of souls to lead the believer away from
the image, nature and instruction of the One True God (Acts 20:28-32; 1
Tim. 4:1-5; 2 Peter 2:1-3; John 10:10).
After shedding tears for three years, knowing that deceptive wolves would
enter in among Gods people and deceive and spoil some, the apostle
Paul committed the believers at the city of Ephesus to the eternal Word
which is the only safeguard:
And now (in light of false teaching and its ability to draw one
away from Christ), brethren, I commend you to God, and to
the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to
give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
Acts 20:32
Obeying the word of his grace, which is able to build you up gives
us the assurance of our eternal inheritance among all them which
are sanctified.
Beloved, beware of seductive and unfounded deceptions which are being
peddled by the enemy of your soul in this late hour through misled
leaders (Isa. 9:16). Being true to God requires that we walk in the Spirit
and live by His written standard, while rejecting satanic-inspired

omissions, twistings, and additions. Also, allegiance to mans doctrines or

personalities is deadly! (1 Cor. 1:29, 31; 3:5, 21; Gal. 1:10) It doesnt
matter who is teaching the doctrine of lawlessness - once saved always
saved, it is still a lie and always will be in Gods Book! This includes John
Calvin and his teachings and modern-day followers, which have no
authority in the eternal kingdom of God.
At the heart of the Gospel this lie of the ages is refuted. Conditional
eternal security is present in the most definitive text of what the Gospel
consists of in all of Scripture. The gospel is defined in 1 Corinthians 15
and by divine inspiration and ordination, the Bible doctrine of a
conditional eternal security is on record. Read this follow Bible passage
closely:
Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I
preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein
ye stand; By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory
what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For
I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how
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 15:1-4
No honest-hearted, truth-seeking disciple of Jesus Christ can believe this
unfounded lie after he carefully and thoroughly studies the full-counsel
revelation of Gods Word. Unconditional eternal security can clearly be
identified as a doctrine of devils, spawned by the devil himself in the
Garden of creation (1 Tim. 4:1). God will judge all who teach this
doctrine, for it is the first doctrine of His arch enemy - Satan (Genesis
2:17; 3:4; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2 Pet. 2:1-22; Jude 1:3-7, 12-13). On the
authority of the full-counsel of Holy Writ, such a teaching is to be openly
exposed as diabolical and the message of false prophets (Jer. 14:13-14;
Ezek. 33:12-13; Jude 3-4).
Once saved always saved proponents take a very few biblical texts and
make all of the rest of Scripture subservient to their very few and scant
proof texts. They also purposely dodge volumes of Bible truth which
repeatedly and blatantly refutes this error they have chosen to buy into.
Perhaps they do this for one or all of the following reasons:

1. They are willing to ignore and manipulate Scripture to maintain a

tradition of mere men, making the Word of God without effect
(Matt. 15:8-9).
2. They seek to cover their own sins with this teaching while teaching
a license for sin to the people they instruct (Prov. 28:13; Jude 4).
This is a heart issue (Matt. 12:34). They do not wish to truly have
to deal with their sinfulness and so purposely adopt this doctrine.
They wish to override their own consciences while denying Christs
true reign in their lives. By doing this they are in danger of searing
their very conscience with a hot iron (1 Tim. 4:2).
3. They seek to provide comfort to their hearers in a misguided
attempt to help them maintain a sense of assurance or security
outside of divine truth that the Almighty never gave in His Word
nor grants (Jn. 8:31-32; 17:17).
4. They elevate the teachings of mere men (like John Calvin) above
the authority of the holy Scriptures (Ps. 138:2; Rom. 3:3-4; 2 Tim.
3:16; 2 Pet. 1:12-21; Rev. 22:18-19).
In the face of the truth many who lead others into darkness refuse to
relinquish this lie that perpetuates their sense of false security. The
imaginary comfort zone that has been constructed out of their adherence
to falsehood justifies a lack of the essential fear of the LORD and
sinfulness. This doctrine of lawlessness, which leads to eternal
damnation, affords men a license to live in sin with no fear of retribution
from the LORD. Personal accountability and responsibility is taught
throughout Scripture:
Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest
thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest
they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach
them thy sons, and thy sons sons; Specially the day that thou
stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD
said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make
them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the
days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may
teach their children. Deuteronomy 4:9-10

The LORD told His covenant people here that He gave them His Word in
order that they would learn to fear me all the days that they shall
live upon the earth.
Regrettably and according the Jesus, many would rather remain in an
unrepentant state. This is at the heart of the matter as it was in the
Garden personal responsibility. Some want to believe they have the
assurance of eternal safety, yet do not want to be bothered with the
conditions laid down in the holy Scriptures for entering into the eternal
kingdom. In fact, they resist the Holy Ghost and harden their necks
at the biblical notion of truth that threatens the thin veneer of false
security they hide behind (Isa. 30:9-10; Acts 7:51).
There are numerous warnings to Gods people in Scripture about falling
away and being lost again. To ignore this part of Gods Word is to forsake
ones mercy (Prov. 28:13; Jonah 2:8). Its not just a cute clich, we truly
will all reap what we choose to sow.
The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him;
but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake
him. Ezra 8:22
But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto
thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the
righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man
according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in
well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal
life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the
truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath. Romans
2:5-8
Though it contradicts the Bible, the unconditional eternal security
teaching is very attractive to the flesh. The requirement to crucify our
sinful desires is negated and denied with this teaching. Is it worth it to
adopt this lie, which contradicts all of Holy Scripture? Who will we
believe? Will we trust God or mere men? What will be the end of those
who do adopt this doctrine that is the antithesis of the Counsel of the
Most High? The passages we have visited answer these important
questions clearly.

Like any teaching, the doctrine of once saved always saved must be
weighed in the balance of the whole of Holy Scripture. When we do put it
to the acid test, we find it to be completely inconsistent and actually
contrary to the teaching of Christ and His apostles.
May our LORD bless us to continue stedfastly in the apostles
doctrine, watching and prayer, and the holy fear of God (Acts 2:42).
PRAYER: Father in Heaven we love You supremely and beg You to strike
our hearts Your holy fear and a deep hunger to know Your Word and
measure every teaching we hear by that perfect standard. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY SEVEN

DOCTRINE: A MATTER OF THE HEART

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth
forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure
bringeth forth evil things. Matthew 12:35
What one believes is ultimately a choice and will affect the issues of his
life.
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues
of life. Proverbs 4:23

Doctrine is ultimately a heart matter. Men make choice to believe what

they believe and what one believes determines the state of his heart
(Rom. 1:16-2:7). As long as a person believes they are truly
unconditionally saved/eternally secure, they have no reason to be
circumcised in heart and therefore live as others with their belief system
would unto themselves. This heart state is one of evil unbelief and
leads people to deny Christ instead of self (Heb. 3:12-15). After all, they
are going to Heaven either way right? Wrong!
I have personally spoken to hundreds of OSAS proponents about this
unconditional eternal security matter. With those who believe this myth,
I have observed something very disturbing in the majority of cases.
Somewhere in the course of the conversation, after they have been
introduced to numerous verses contradicting their false doctrine, there is
a notable change in their expression. At some point, after viewing with
their very own eyes volumes of Bible texts that sharply contradict and
blatantly refute unconditional eternal security, there comes a visible
change. Suddenly they are confronted with the reality of what it would
mean for them to embrace the biblical truth that they are responsible
before the LORD for the way they live and will be in Heaven or hell
depending upon which master they serve.
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to
obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto
death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans 6:16
What men do (not say) is really who they are (Prov. 20:11; 1 Jn. 3:18).
Many profess to know Him but only a few possess the life fruit that
proves they do.
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny
him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good
work reprobate. Titus 1:16

According to the eternal Word, judgment will be based on what we

do in this life and not just what we say or profess. Works are the
clear manifestation of ones inner heart and faith. No person will be
judged on his mere profession of Christ but on the actual life he
lived (Matt. 12:36-37; Jn. 5:29; Rom. 2:1-7, 13; 14:12; 1 Cor. 3:13-

15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Eph. 6:7-8; Col. 3:25; Tit. 1:16; Rev. 2:23; 20:12;
22:12).
Often our LORD Jesus used the contrasting words many and few.
According to the Son of God, only a few are on the narrow road that
leads to life. (Matt. 7:13-14) Many be called but few chosen. (Matt.
20:16) The typical western Christian formula lifestyle without obedience
to Christs commands, is the clear evidence of evil unbelief and not
saving faith. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:
the devils also believe, and tremble. (James 2:19).
During the writing of this book, and throughout the years, when
discussing this topic of the biblical view of a conditional salvation, I have
witnessed numerous cords struck in people who believe in OSAS. Some
of them make panic statements and give away their true position. When
the truth pierces their hearts some have an acidic reaction. Here is an
example of the many responses I have heard from people who believe
they are once saved always saved: How dare you tell me that Im
actually responsible to truly obey and serve God by loving Him more than
myself and crucifying the deeds of my sinful nature! I just want to go to
Heaven! I dont want to be bothered with the details of literally living a set
apart and holy life unto the LORD! Please stop showing me these things in
Scripture! Dont ruin my comfort zone! Everything was fine until you
introduced these Bible truths! The security of the believer is what I will
embrace and still go to Heaven.
Is this a new thing in our day? By no means is this new. Sinful man has
long imagined that he is free from moral accountability and
responsibility, not realizing that a horrible judgment lies ahead where
the terror of the LORD will be unleashed upon all un-cleansed sin
(Eccl. 8:11; 2 Cor. 5:11).
Since Adam and Eve, Satan has been using this lie of the ages and
people have been falling for it. They are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
This is because many refuse to search out, embrace and obey divine
truth as it is plainly revealed in Holy Scripture (2 Thess. 2:10-12). The
love of the truth will be the very reason Heavens children possess their
eternal home with the LORD. Those who count the things of this life
more important that God do not search out His truth. They will go to hell

because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be
saved. (2 Thess. 2:10-12)
Jeremiah had this same finding when speaking/ministering the Word of
the LORD to a covenant people whose hearts had grown cold and
backslidden (Prov. 14:14).
O Jerusalem, wash thine heart from wickedness, that thou
mayest be saved. How long shall thy vain thoughts lodge
within thee? Jeremiah 4:14
It is a vain thought to believe one who is living in the filth of sin is
going to Gods holy Heaven (Matt. 5:8; Heb. 12:14).
And though they say, The LORD liveth; surely they swear
falsely. O LORD, are not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast
stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed
them, but they have refused to receive correction: they have
made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to
returnNeither say they in their heart, Let us now fear the
LORD our God. Jeremiah 5:2-3, 24
These covenant people of the LORD swore falsely or lied by saying they
were of Him and yet their actions did not correspond to His instructions.
The Bible tells us that they refused to receive correction and
refused to return (repent) from their sinful ways.
The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by
their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye
do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31
What happened in the day of the prophet Jeremiah is happening today.
The people love to have it so. The people love and therefore support
those leaders who prophesy falsely and bear rule by their (own)
means. Concerning the judgment to come upon those of His covenant
people who were backslidden (v6), the LORD asks the frightening
question What will ye do in the end thereof?
Notice that in his day as in ours, the spiritual leaders taught by their
means. In other words, their doctrines were crafted by these prideful

men in their own image and likeness. Yet, the prophet Jeremiah reveals
that my people love to have it so. Because their hearts were not
truly in love with the God that delivered their forefathers by parting the
Red Sea, and they simply did not fear Him, they heaped to themselves
teachers, having itching ears. (2 Tim. 4:3-4) Sound familiar? That is a
phrase found in the New Testament, where we see sinful men, believing
they are saved, deliberately sit under the teachings of men who preach a
message of success and prosperity and healing, with no naming of sin,
repentance, judgment, holiness or personal accountability.
Then, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the prophet says and
what will ye do in the end thereof? In other words, the prophet posed
the question: Judgment is coming and what are you going to do when
you stand before God? What are you going to tell Him in that allimportant moment of reckoning? Some today, when they die are going to
say Lord, I was told by my favorite pastor that I was once saved always
saved. These are they who have built their theology upon myths, fables
and clichs, instead of what God clearly revealed to be His will in His
Word.
These are they who choose what they are going to believe, based on how
it affects their temporal lifestyle, instead of on the eternal Word. The
Bible is just another book to them, even though they give lip service to it
being the inspired Word of God. It is not their final authority. Again, it is
clear that this whole belief system is a heart matter and arrived at out of
the lawless desire to justify sin.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to
themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn
away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto
fables. 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Notice the obvious nature of volitional human will in this Bible text.
Every individual makes choices to turn to or away from the truth.
Observe the definitive prophetic nature of a specific time when many
will turn away from the truth to lies. This prophetic utterance is being
fulfilled all around us today. Many refuse to endure sound doctrine

and heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears and turn

away their ears from the truth to fables.
2 Peter 3:5 tells us that men who are deceived are willingly deceived and
Romans 1:20 tells us that all men upon earth are without excuse.
Continuing in our observance that doctrine is a heart matter, look here
at 2 Thessalonians 2:
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not
come, except there come a falling away firstSatanAnd with
all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish;
because they received not the love of the truth, that they
might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong
delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be
damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in
unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 10-12
Concerning this epidemic falling away preceding the return of the
LORD, the Holy Spirit foretells us that Satan and his emissaries are
going to be able to deceive those who do not love and obey the truth. Why
does the Bible tell us that the vast majority of people will be sent strong
delusion and be damned? because they received not the love of
the truth, that they might be saved.
Friend, so many who claim to be Christs, have no love for His words
which He told us are truth (Jn. 17:17). This is going to be the noose that
hangs millions eternally, sending them to the fires of eternal damnation
while they lived their earthly lives completely convinced that they were
safe and eternally secure. Since they did not choose the fear of the LORD
and to honor and desire the sincere (pure) milk of the word, the
masses will be deluded and damned. (2 Thess. 2:10-12; 1 Pet. 2:2)
What we believe determines how we live. The person who truly trusts in
the LORD Almighty diligently endeavors to love and live out His Word by
the Spirit (Jn. 14:15; 21).
Some reason that it is not worth bothering to crucify the deeds of the
body when such is optional and does not affect ones salvation (Rom. 8:1,

13). This is what some are erroneously taught, usually in a subtle

fashion. The only thing to lose is rewards, right? Wrong. What good is it
to mortify the deeds of the body? Why not indulge when there is no
possibility of losing the reward of eternal life in Heaven? Theres nothing I
can do to disconnect myself from God, right? Wrong. Theres no sin that
will cause me to be cut off or fall away, right? Wrong! (Rom. 11:22;
Luke 8:13; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Rev. 21:8, 27)
God is calling His people to authentically and literally make things right
with Him and to accept the biblical reality that they are called by God to
live a holy life (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1). The LORDs children are to be distinct
from those who are of the world (not saved). Because it is written, Be
ye holy; for I am holy. (1 Pet. 1:16) We must refuse to possess the
notion that we have a license to sin. Let us cease to go on intoxicated
with the eternal-security-no-matter-what concept. This is rooted in the
pride of life. Many would rather dismiss and wax over divine truth,
instead of facing up to it and dealing with their personal sin. Some refuse
to hear Scriptures that refute their pet doctrine that justifies them to live
in sin and believe they are still saved.
LORD grant us pliable hearts of flesh and take away the stony places of
our hearts!
Be certain that according to Holy Scripture, no person who dies living in
blatant rebellion (backslidden condition) will be in Heaven. Among
numerous other Bible verses, here is one that forever dismisses the lie
that the backslidden will go to Heaven.
And I will fan them with a fan in the gates of the land; I will
bereave them of children, I will destroy my people, since they
return not from their ways. Jeremiah 15:7
Those who are backslidden among Gods covenant people and return
not from their ways will be destroyed because they chose not to turn
their hearts back to the LORD before it was too late.
Beloved, remember that we need the LORD He doesnt need us. He
wants us and invites us.

Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him

while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the
unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the
LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for
he will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7
PRAYER: LORD of all, grant me to know You more and be consumed with
a deep hunger and thirst for Your glorious righteousness and truth.
Change my heart Jesus! I love You Holy Father and ask You to fill me
afresh with Your Holy Spirit and with a zeal to know and obey Your truth.
Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY EIGHT

RIGHTLY DIVIDING
THE WORD OF TRUTH
2 TIMOTHY 2:15
How To Apprehend the Truth About
Eternal Security - Every Time

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that

needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of
truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

In the following pages we are going to visit a few Bible verses and
doctrines as examples of how we have the opportunity to either rightly
divide or to have a distorted understanding in the things of God. The
apprehension of truth is all-important to the LORD (Prov. 2:1-22).
Many OSAS (once saved always saved) proponents seek to isolate John
3:16 as if it were more inspired than the rest of Scripture. This may be
due to the fact that certain denominations have used it every Sunday
morning for decades to win souls. These OSAS defendants get shook up
when other Bible verses and texts are brought into the picture, because
they have never been introduced to the whole counsel of God by their
leaders. Their leaders simply do not truly embrace the truth that All
scripture (not just some) has been God-breathed (2 Tim. 3:16). The
apostle Paul was a complete full-counsel teacher of Gods truth (Acts
20:20, 27). He held nothing back that was profitable for the LORDs
people.
The Psalmist was a full-counsel believer. Are we?
Therefore I esteem ALL thy precepts concerning ALL things
to be right; and I hate every false way. Psalms 119:128
Personally, I wonder why some people are so insecure about what else
Jesus stated about eternal life and the other things the Holy Spirit
intentionally had recorded and canonized as divine and eternal truth in
the Bible. Didnt He tell us that Great peace accompanied the
embracing of His Word?
Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall
offend them. Psalms 119:165
Why would any true believer shun any part of Gods Word? Great
peace is the reward of the LORD reserved for the hearts of those who
love His Word. The deep and divine peace of God rules in and anchors
the hearts of all those who love His law.
Could the fear of previously unknown Scripture stem from an incomplete
personal knowledge of the whole of the Word of God? Have some stopped
at John 3:16 and consequently possess a limiting and skewed view of the

LORD and His truth due to lack of knowledge of the Word? Could it be
that many are not being encouraged to study and know the whole of the
written Word?
Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy
righteous Judgments endureth for ever. Psalms 119:160
Why would any believer ever be resistant to any portion of Holy
Scripture? What would this indicate one is afraid of? Why would any true
disciple of Jesus ever be afraid of something else from the Bible being
revealed to their hearts, even if it violates what that person has
previously been taught?
In many evangelical circles, verses like John 3:16 have been presented to
the exclusion of the whole counsel of Scripture. Even when John 3:16 is
broken down, it clearly proves that the word believeth pertains to
those who are presently trusting in Christ and not just a one-time belief.
To those who are currently believing, eternal life is promised, and not to
the one who once believed and was saved and yet is not presently
walking with God. 1 Corinthians 15:2 says:
By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory what I
preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 1
Corinthians 15:2
Note the phrase unless ye have believed in vain. The Holy Spirit is
saying here that anyone who has believed and been saved, yet is not
keeping in memory the Gospel of Christ, is not saved, but rather their
initial saving faith is counted to be vain. In vain means that it has
no power to save them now due to their own personal decision to rid
their heart memory of what they had previously believed. Initial
saving faith has no effect on the present if one stops walking in the
obedient faith that initially accessed Gods grace (Rom. 5:1-2). Saving
faith must remain in ones heart in order for him to continue to receive
the saving grace of God and be wholly cleansed by the blood of Christ,
without which no man will see God (1 Jn. 1:7-9; Heb. 12:14).

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of

Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of
Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 2 John 9
Looking only at John 3:16, to the exclusion of the whole of Scripture, in
itself violates biblical interpretation laws (Isa. 28:9-10, 13; 1 Cor. 2:13).
The same God who spoke John 3:16 spoke all that is in Holy Scripture
which when taken collectively, clarifies itself. All Scripture has been
given by the same one LORD God and must be considered as a whole in
order to apprehend and rightly divide truth and avoid error (2 Tim. 2:15;
3:16).

The Words of Jesus

Here is a sampling of Scripture truth spoken by the Son of God, which
clearly reveals a conditional eternal security:

Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my

name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

Revelation 2:10-11 Fear none of those things which thou

shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into
prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten
days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown
of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith
unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of
the second death.

Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed

in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the
book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and
before his angels. (written to the Church)

Matthew 10:32-33 Whosoever therefore shall confess me

before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is
in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I
also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

Luke 8:12-13 Those by the way side are they that hear; then
cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their

hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock
are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy;
and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time
of temptation fall away.

Luke 13:24 Strive (Greek - Agonize) to enter in at the strait

gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall
not be able.

Building a thorough theological understanding cannot be done with one

or two verses, especially when all of the words of those particular isolated
texts are not considered, much less the whole of Scripture. This is
actually how cultic groups get started on a verse which is extracted and
isolated from the whole of the Word of God. The Bible is perfectly
harmonious (in concert) with no contradiction. Each verse must be taken
in light of its surrounding text and all of Holy Scripture. Prayerful study
of Gods Word that seeks to understand divine truth must be done with
the whole counsel of God being observed - precept upon precept; line
upon line. (Isa. 28:10; Acts 17:10-11, 20:20, 27)
Jesus spoke of those who have an honest and good heart when it
comes to hearing the Word of God (Lk. 8:15). Do you have an honest
and good heart in your personal approach toward God and His Word?
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and
good heart, having heard the word, KEEP IT, and bring forth
fruit WITH PATIENCE (continuance). Luke 8:15
The God of order (1 Cor. 14:40), who is perfect and not the author of
confusion, has set up a simple system to protect His people from being
deceived (1 Cor. 14:33). If one verse or text of Scripture seems to say one
thing, yet violates other clearly revealed Scriptural truth, it must be
interpreted in light of the clearly revealed Scriptural truth, as a whole.
The LORD God cannot contradict Himself.
ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable
for doctrine... 2 Timothy 3:16

The Bible has built-in interpretation laws which must be followed if one
is to apprehend divine truth in the context the Author intended. It is
important to hear and understand this.
First, one must know the Author of the Holy Scriptures to properly
understand them. Jesus stated:
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the
Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and
bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said
unto you...Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he
will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself;
but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will
show you things to come. John 14:26; 16:13
Then, one must collate (compound, put together) Scripture with
Scripture in order to comprehend divine truth:
Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to
understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk,
and drawn from the breasts. For precept MUST be upon
precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line;
here a little, and there a little. Isaiah 28:9-10
Which things also we speak, not in the words which mans
wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth;
comparing (to compound; put together; collate) spiritual
things with spiritual. 1 Corinthians 2:13
Note the method that the Holy Spirit uses to teach us: the Holy Ghost
teacheth; comparing (compounding; putting together) spiritual
things with spiritual. This refers to collating Scripture upon Scripture,
that is, the line upon line stacking and learning of Holy Scripture. This
method assures the establishing and rightly dividing of truth.
All leaders who are truly following Christ teach their hearers to discern.
The Good Shepherd is all about protecting the sheep of His pasture (Jer.
3:15; John 10).

And they (authentic, God-fearing servants) shall teach my

people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause
them to DISCERN between the unclean and the clean. Ezekiel
44:23
The enemy of all souls always has a counterfeit in religion in order to
deceive. His agents lie in wait to deceive as he walketh about
seeking whom he may devour. (Eph. 4:14; 1 Pet. 5:8) Yet his devices
are common to man. (1 Cor. 10:13; 2 Cor. 2:11) There is no new
thing under the sun. (Eccl. 1:9) Mixture is his most deceptive and
effective tool to draw even well-meaning believers into sin, bondage, and
delusion. Only those who love, study, and embrace Gods truth will
escape (2 Thess. 2:10-12). Satans tricks are age old and must be
observed through an historical biblical perspective and by the Holy Ghost
living inside each saint (Acts 17:11; 1 Cor. 12:10; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16; Heb.
5:11-14; 1 Jn. 2:20, 27; 4:1-3). The person who believes every spirit or
teaching is in direct disobedience to the LORD. Testing every spirit and
weighing all teachings in the light of Holy Scripture is a divine mandate
(Jude 3-4; 1 Jn. 4:1-3). The LORD hates mixture and this is why He has
ordained that all who seek and serve Him learn and teach my people
the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to
discern between the unclean and the clean. (Ezek. 44:23)
Biblical truth must be placed upon biblical truth (collated - line upon
line) in order to apprehend and understand the things of God and to
divide between truth and error. Truth must be compounded, that is, put
together or compared with the whole. It is all-important for the one who
desires to guard his heart against deception to cross-reference verses in
his Bible. Both Jesus and the apostle Paul gave us this key to knowing
the truth:
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two
more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word
may be established. Matthew 18:16
This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of
two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 2
Corinthians 13:1

Each inspired Bible text is to be enjoined with the full-counsel of Holy

Writ. All individual scriptures must be interpreted in light of the whole of
the Word of God.
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by
bread alone, but by EVERY WORD that proceedeth out of the
mouth of God. Matthew 4:4
Simply put, we should always interpret Scripture with Scripture.
Who is it that should not perish, but have everlasting life? The ones
who are believing - presently. According to the Bible, to stop believing is
to stop being justified by God. Can a true Christian stop believing? If he
does stop believing, is he still justified?

John 6:66 From that time many of his disciples went back,
and walked no more with him.

Luke 8:13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear,
receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a
while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.

Ezekiel 33:12-13 Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the

children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous
shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the
wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day
that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the
righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that
he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall
surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit
iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but
for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.

Remember the Old and New Testament verses about the just
LIVING by faith? This truth is found in Habakkuk 2:4, Romans
1:17, Galatians 3:11 and Hebrews 10:38.
Now the just shall live (continuously) by faith: but if ANY
man draw back (this is obviously possible), my soul shall
have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw

back unto perdition (eternal destruction); but of them that

believe to the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:38-39
Here is yet another text which clearly reveals the need to keep on
believing to the end - to keep on clinging to the Lord. Here are more
verses revealing this truth:

Matthew 24:13 But he that shall ENDURE unto the end, the
same shall be saved.

Mark 13:13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my names

sake: but he that shall ENDURE unto the end, the same shall
be saved.

Hebrews 3:6 But Christ as a son over his own house; whose
house are we, IF we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing
of the hope firm unto the end.

Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, IF we hold

the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

Hebrews 6:11 And we desire that every one of you do show

the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

Revelation 2:26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my

works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:

A Peek Into Greek

Lets look at John 3:16 along with some other biblical texts.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life. John 3:16
I am going to pull out my Textus Receptus Greek Interlinear Bible (The
Received Text is the real Word of God, from which the King James Bible
was translated). The literal Greek reads:

For God so loved the world that He gave His only-begotten

Son, that everyone believing into Him should not perish, but
have everlasting life. John 3:16
Note the phrase that everyone believing into Him should not perish.
The Greek word translated believing is a present participle - used as a
verb; everyone believing (currently) in Him, not everyone who has at
one time in the past believed.
This is confirmed by many other clear texts. Here is but one:
By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory what I
preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 1
Corinthians 15:2
In the literal Greek rendering above, notice the term believing into. The
Greek word for into is EIS (pronounced ice) which is defined in the
Strongs Concordance (1519) as such: EIS - to or into (indicating the
point reached or entered), of place, time or (fig.) purpose (result, etc.);
throughout, till, to (be, the end, -ward), (here), until (to-)ward. Often used
in composition with the same general import, but only with verbs (etc.)
expressing motion (literally or figuratively).
The John 3:16 promise (eternal life) is not made so much to the one who
has once believed, but to the ones who have and are presently believing.
Yes, eternal life is eternal, yet the possession of it can be forfeited if the
person who once believed upon Christ to salvation neglects His walk with
God and then does cast off their first faith. (1 Tim. 5:12) See also
Luke 8:13; Col. 1:23; Heb. 2:3; 3:6, 12-14; 10:26-39.

Fearing God
The fear of the Lord is clean. (Ps. 19:9) It is wisdom. It is right. It is
holy. It is just. It is fair. Fearing God to obedience is the only thing that
will bring divine peace. The fear of the LORD will keep our feet held fast
on the narrow road that leads to life with the few.
In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children
shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain
of life, to depart from the snares of death. Proverbs 14:26-27

Note here that strong confidence, a place of refuge, and a

fountain of life are exclusively promised to those who possess The
fear of the Lord.
Again, here are the 3 things promised to those who fear God:

Strong confidence

A place of refuge

A fountain of life

What we choose to believe directly affects how we live. What we belief

determines our future our destiny.
Knowing God and rightly deciphering His truth is an all-important
undertaking in the keeping of ones soul before the LORD. Lack of
knowledge is a deliberate choice as is knowing His Word.
Misunderstanding God, by not choosing to fervently gain the
understanding of His Word, can have eternal consequences. For example,
the Scriptures above have revealed that the ultra popular doctrine of
once saved, always saved (OSAS) is a lie at best. The myth of OSAS
robs from the believer the fear of God. This lie of lawlessness fosters
rebellion and gives way to sin, the enemy, delusion, and disobedience.
This is exactly what it did the first time it was told - by Satan. Adam and
Eve proceeded to sin against God when they believed this lie of the ages
(Gen. 2:17; 3:4). It is the ye shall not surely die lie (Gen. 3:4).
Beloved, we must avoid this error at all cost. It could cost one his eternal
soul.
Here is another verse the OSAS proponents have purposely excluded
from their thinking: Jesus stated that In your patience (endurance)
possess ye your souls. (Lk. 21:19) The Greek word for patience is
HUPOMONE which is defined in the Strongs Concordance as cheerful
(or hopeful) endurance, constancy:-enduring, patience, patient
continuance (waiting).
The doctrinal examples used in this chapter reveal the danger of not
including the whole of Scripture when drawing conclusion on any
doctrine.

In summation, those who believe and teach OSAS fail to acknowledge the
plethora of Biblical texts which clearly state mans responsibility before
God and that He has designed that the dispensing of His salvation grace
is contingent upon such (Rom. 4:16; 5:1-2). OSAS proponents seem only
to acknowledge Gods grace in saving men, but never the truth that men
have free moral agency. The Bible teaches us that men have a divinelygranted free will to exercise for or against the LORD. God is perfect and
has done His part through Christ and left the appropriation of His
salvation up to the individual (Josh. 24:15; Deut. 30:19; Isa. 1:19-20; Jn.
1:12; 3:16, 36; Rom. 11:19-23).
Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and
apply thine heart unto my knowledge. For it is a pleasant
thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted
in thy lips. That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made
known to thee this day, even to thee. Have not I written to
thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, That I might
make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou
mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto
thee? Proverbs 22:17-21
PRAYER: May the Holy Spirit of truth minister to each of us and bless us
to seek after the LORD and to understand His ways. Teach me Jesus!
Grant my heart Your wisdom. Amen.

CHAPTER FORTY NINE

REFUTING THE LIE OF THE AGES

Speaking the Truth in Love

Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the

common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort [you] that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude 3-4
Note here in particular what falsehood the Holy Spirit targets when
mandating that all of Gods people earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered to the saints. It is notable that the aim of
his message is to make believers under the New Covenant to beware of
and refute this lie of lasciviousness. He specifically confronts the lie of
the ages here and instructs Gods people to expose it. Remember beloved
that the works of darkness are not to be concealed but rather
uncovered for all to see. The light of truth, the Holy Lamp of Gods Word,
must be shone directly upon the darkness of our own hearts and that
which has crept in among the people who profess to know Jesus Christ.
Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk
in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself
for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling
savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness,
let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are
not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know,
that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man,
who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of
Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for
because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the
children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with
them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in

the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit
is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what
is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the
unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove (expose)
them. Ephesians 5:1-11
According to the Holy Spirit, in this Ephesians 5 passage, the darkness
that is to be specifically exposed is that of teaching or supposing that any
person living in open sin will be admitted into Gods holy Heaven. The
apostle exhorts Let no man deceive you with such a lie, but rather
reprove (expose) this deadly lie of darkness. This passage alone is
the divine authority to expose the lie of the ages which supposes God to
accept man in a sinful condition.
Of all the falsehoods which He could have identified here to be
upbraided, uncovered, and overturned, the perfect wisdom of God chose
this one, the lie that has weaved its way through the ages, deluding and
bringing eternal damnation to those deceived by it. Such a reality should
underscore in our minds the divine anger for this teaching and the
dangerous nature of this falsehood. We should be hereby quickened to
the need to refute such a heresy and rebuke those who dare align with
the enemy of souls to teach such.
In this Ephesians 5 passage, the Holy Spirit makes it clear that this
doctrine of devils, no matter what package it comes in (Calvinism or
otherwise), rides on the wings of men in leadership, polluting the minds
of Gods people. These beguiled men turn the grace of our God into
lasciviousness, which is a license for sin. The LORD identifies these
men as ungodly men under divine condemnation. Furthermore, He
tells us that by teaching this doctrine, these men are denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Never mind what you or I or any other mere man thinks about those men
who teach such. The Holy Ghost tells us specifically here that God is
angry with and will judge those who teach this doctrine of devils. His fury
will fall upon those who teach this poisonous heretical doctrine if they do
not return to the LORD and His truth, repenting of peddling this lethal
falsehood.

The fact that some of those who teach OSAS are eloquent of speech and
teach correctly in many ways, makes their whole message and ministry
all the more insidious and sinister. While the bulk of what they teach
about Christ and Christianity is sound, these men poison the heart pond
of their hearers with the age old lie of lasciviousness. Beware! Some slip
it in while others make it their forerunner doctrine.
It is frightening to think of how masses of souls have been taught OSAS
theology and as a direct result, do not lay hold on eternal life, strive
against sin, or fight the good fight of faith. (1 Tim. 6:12; Heb. 12:4).
This lie of the ages removes all fear of God and the motivation to obey
Him. Those who have bought into this diabolical myth see no reason to
obey Christ by denying the self-life, enduring to the end, and taking the
kingdom by force (Matt. 10:22; 11:12; 24:13; 16:24-27).
Jesus told us what to do in light of His return which He told us was
going to catch many by surprise (Mat. 24-25; Lk. 12:40; 21:34-36). The
LORD told us He is coming back for those who are looking for Him and
purifying their hearts and lives of all that does not please Him (Heb.
9:28; 1 Jn. 3:1-3).
Discussing the License for Sin Teaching with Others
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always
to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the
hope that is in you with meekness and fear. 1 Peter 3:15
If one is not steeped in the Word, he will not be able to receive the truth
nor will he be able to communicate and defend it. Those who do not
know the Word are vulnerable to be deceived by the more experienced
eternal security proponent who knows how to use Scripture to his
advantage but to the exclusion of the whole Counsel of God. Many who
believe in OSAS know how to weave their way through the Bible,
carefully dodging out and avoiding the volumes of verses which clearly
reveal that the security the true believer has is conditioned upon his
continual saving faith in Christ.
Theres a lot at stake for the person who has cloaked himself behind this
teaching which he thinks grants him carte blanche license to live in sin

or to be casual about the way he deals with his sin. This is why those
who have embraced an OSAS theology become so very defensive about it
and even violently defend such a mythical position. Beware and have fun
with these people. If OSAS is not true, their lifestyle and soul is at stake.
So, dont be surprised at some intense reactions. Those who are willingly
intoxicated with this falsehood are blinded and dont even realize that
their very soul could be hanging in the balance.
After speaking to hundreds of people about this matter, I have personally
found the following points to be important when discussing this subject
with the person who believes in an unconditional eternal security
(salvation without personal responsibility and holiness):

Pray for those you minister to (1 Tim. 2:1).

Stay unwaveringly with the written Word (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Pray for those you minister to.

Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that
ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (Col. 4:6)

Ask questions based on Scripture. Here are some penetrating

sample questions that should be asked to those who have
embraced the deadly lie: If God wanted us to know that once we
are truly saved we have no further responsibility to walk obediently
with Him in holiness, why didnt He simply come out and tell us in
His Word? After all, He had 66 books to do so. Also, the question
should be posed: What did Jesus mean when He told His own
twelve disciples that they must endure to the end to be saved?
(Matt. 10:22) Also ask: Why did Jesus Christ, the Truth Himself,
give us a kingdom parable where only 5 of the 10 virgins who
began in His kingdom made it to Heaven? (Matt. 25:1-13)

Personal Preparation: Begin to dig out, cross-reference and

memorize verses and their references in order that you might let
the holy Scriptures establish truth and expose error and never

depend upon your own wording or personal reasoning (Rom. 3:34).

Never allow the conversation to veer into subjective scenarios (like

the typical father and son relationship used by those trying to
make their doctrine palatable). Remember, extra-biblical parables
are subjective and can be manipulated in any direction the speaker
wishes.

Lovingly, diligently, soundly, and persistently introduce Scripture

that reveals the Bible view of salvation which is a conditional
eternal security based upon Gods grace and mans continuance in
it by real and obedient faith. This will clearly refute once saved
always saved. Again, you will need to vigorously memorize the
Word, equipping yourself as a workman that needeth not to be
ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15)

In your speech, always remain true to the LORD by not giving hope
for Heaven to any person not presently seeking the face of God
while abiding in intimate fellowship with Christ (John 15; Heb.
12:14-15).

Stick exclusively to Holy Scripture in discussing this matter and

kindly and yet firmly keep the conversation on the Word nothing
else is authoritative. When the person you are speaking with veers,
bring the conversation back to Bible truth alone. Diligently seek to
keep the direction of the conversation from being derailed.

Study and learn the 4 types of heart soils Jesus taught in the
parable of the sower and the Word which is indicative of the
persons/hearers heart (Luke 8:13-15). Memorize Luke 8:13.

Write on index cards and become intimately familiar with and

memorize the following Scriptures: Ezekiel 33:12-13; Matthew
10:22; Romans 11:22; Hebrews 3:6, 12-15; 6:4-6; 10:26-39; 12:1415; Revelation 3:5, 11.

Once again, as with any other ministry matter, pray for those you
are blessed to speak with about this important subject.

Realize beforehand that some are not going to come to the light of
the truth but brazenly continue to embrace this lie of
lasciviousness. Let them go. Simply communicate the truth in
Christs love and pray for them.

When discussing this teaching, my goal is to plant numerous seeds of

Bible truth in the heart of the person I am speaking with. Our LORD told
us that His Word never returns void and that it always accomplishes that
for which He sends it (Isaiah. 55:10-11). It should be our objective to
plant as many seeds of truth as possible, introducing the person to raw
divine truth, which in most cases their leaders have not shown them, but
rather hidden from them (otherwise they wouldnt believe this lie). By
introducing the hearer to Scripture they have never considered or even
heard, the foundation of the myth will be shaken. Always remember that
it is a good and godly thing to use the truth to make people doubt the lies
they believe. This should be part of the goal - so that the foundation of
falsehood can be shaken and rooted out. This is what must take place in
order that the establishment of their belief system can be reconstructed
with Holy Scripture only.
See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the
kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and
to throw down, to build, and to plant. Jeremiah 1:10
As any honest student of the Bible can see, the once saved always
saved teaching is a whole system of extra-biblical, groundless reasoning
which hold no reconciliation to the Word of God. May God bless us to
dismantle such a deception with His truth in love (Eph. 4:15). Such a
dangerous heresy has been taught to millions who claim Christ as their
Savior. Let us, with the divine authority invested in the Holy Scriptures,
shake the faulty foundation fabricated with fables and falsehood.
When you have diligently studied to show yourself approved unto your
LORD and been the messenger of His pure Word, you can rest in peace
with clear conscience, relying on His promise that He will use His Word
to accomplish His will (Isa. 55:10-11).
Beloved, please allow me to encourage you to lovingly and earnestly
expose and refute the lie of the ages every time you can. To make the

most of your ministry impact, leave people with Bible-intensive resources

on this matter (website or printed materials) which establish what God
told us in His Word. This will allow the person to go home and begin to
thoroughly research what Scripture says.
The Marine Corps spends all of its time preparing for war. As a Marine,
all of the training I received was towards this end readiness for war.
Such is the job and occupation of the Marine Corps and any military
force. The Marines must be a force in readiness ready to deploy and
destroy. In the same way, are we not the army of the LORD? Should we
not be ready to communicate His truth? See 1 Peter 3:15 and 2 Timothy
2:3-4. Should we not leave the house each morning prepared for
ministry?
Saint of the LORD, please allow me to exhort you to become armed.
Become dangerous. Load your weapons with the Word. Learn and let
Gods Word speak. Let the LORD speak for Himself by resolutely quoting
His holy words lovingly, unabashedly, and in sound wisdom.
PRAYER: LORD, please teach me Your ways and bless my heart to be
sound in Thy holy truth, rejoicing in it and despising any falsity that
contradicts it. Holy is Your name Jesus. I love You. Please open doors this
day for the ministry of Your Word. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY

COMING TO THE LIGHT

Remaining in the Light

But the fearful (cowardly; timid), and unbelieving, and the

abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers,
and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake
which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second
death. Revelation 21:8
Notice here that the very first of eight classes of sinners named as those
to spend eternity in the lake of fire are the fearful. This word fearful
comes from the Greek word DEILOS which means cowardly; timid. The
Word refers to those who freely choose not to unashamedly root and
ground their hearts and lives in Jesus Christ and His eternal kingdom,
but rather to waver and doubt in unbelief (Col. 2:6-8; James 1:5-8).
These are those people who fear man and not God, although they may
indeed have the outward form of Christianity. Such a state is a very
dangerous proposition.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to
all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that
wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and
tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any
thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his
ways. James 1:5-8
Spiritual cowards waver. They are not really with Christ. Jesus was
not ashamed to come and suffer a horrible death for us and we should
never be ashamed to confess and serve Him even unto the death if
necessary (Matt. 10:32-33; Rev. 12:11).
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth
not with me scattereth abroad. Matthew 12:30
Those who deny Christ in their daily lives are ashamed and will not enter
into the kingdom of God. Is this not consistent with other places in
Scripture? Heres one example:
For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the
will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little
while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my
soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who
draw back unto perdition (destruction); but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:36-39
The gospel adapted by spiritual cowards who refuse to press into the
kingdom of God by daily crucifying the deeds of the sinful nature, is a
false gospel which perverts the original Gospel once delivered to the
saints (Jude 3-4). Those who deny Christ instead of their sin, are those
who consequently migrate to the unconditional eternal security teaching.
A gospel of ease that does not include the cross (crucifying all the sinful
deeds of the body and mind) is another gospel. (2 Cor. 11:4)
And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. Galatians 5:24
Unlike Christ Himself, the OSAS (once saved always saved) gospel
never demands that one deny self, take up his cross daily and truly
follow the Master (Lk. 9:23). It is the gospel that allows one to have a
form of godliness, yet denying the power (authority; rule;
Lordship) thereof. (2 Tim. 3:5) (False prophets purposely dodge certain
Biblical texts in the Bible. If they do review them, a spin is placed on the
self-interpretive plainness/exactness of these words of God.) This is the
happy times, cotton candy, feel-good gospel of ease and pleasure (Amos
6:1; 1 Tim. 5:6). This is the gospel for those who want their sin and
Jesus too. Jesus made it clear though that there are conditions for being
His disciple and receiving His kingdom.
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let
him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will
lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. For what is a
man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself,
or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of
my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he
shall come in his own glory, and in his Fathers, and of the
holy angels. Luke 9:23-26

Lets face it, as Christians we all have temptations and sins we daily deal
and struggle with; thats not the issue (1 Jn. 1:8, 10). There should be no
argument about the Biblical truth that the flesh lusteth against the
Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the
one to the other. (Gal. 5:17) There is an ongoing war between the
sinful nature in us and the Holy Spirit who lives in us along with our
desire to serve Him (Rom. 6:1-4; 8:1-14). The issue is that some choose
to be honest concerning the reality of, face, and overcome those
iniquities. Others deliberately decide to justify their sins with so-called
Christian doctrines that are not biblical whatsoever and will ultimately
seal their damnation if not repented of. Still some simply decidedly ignore
or dodge the volumes of Scriptures that dont make for and easy path
and call for the mortification of the self-life so that the resurrected Savior
can reign supreme.
He that covereth (hides; does not repent of) his sins shall not
prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have
mercy. Proverbs 28:13
The problem starts when one ceases to fight the good fight, ceasing to
lay hold on eternal life. (1 Tim. 6:12) To fight and lay hold are
commands concerning eternal life. Jesus told us that many who
start out fighting the good fight of faith, eventually allow their love for
God to wax cold and start justifying their sins instead of seeking the
Almighty in fervent repentance for the rooting out of that which defiles
and is unpleasing in His sight (Matt. 24:10-13; Lk. 8:13; Jn. 6:66).
Father we beg You to break every yoke in our lives in Jesus holy name
and by His precious blood! Destroy the bands of wickedness LORD! (Isa.
58)
All those who are not diligently seeking the LORD, established in a life of
daily prayer and regular fasting, and a deep study of His Word, are in
jeopardy. These are those who are like the foolish virgins who counted
other things and the pursuit of them, more important than getting
intimate with the Bridegroom (Matt. 25:1-13).
Study and be a doer of Isaiah 58. Contained in this glorious chapter is
the divine prescription for complete victory - to have every yoke
broken and to be made free by the LORD Jesus Christ. Make it part of
your life and you will experience blessings untold.

Again, we must be aware that many today are finding a cloak for their
sinfulness through prevalent teachings within the Church world. They
are actually being emboldened by these false teachings to live wantonly.
Instead of pleasing God by living a life of repentance and crucifying
fleshly lusts, which war against the soul, many justify their sins by
hiding behind a false gospel which purposely excludes much of what
Scripture states. This inoculating message is soothing and insidious and
lulls its victim into a spiritual sleep like the poison of a deadly snakebite.
The serpents venom will prove to be fatal in the end if one is not recovered
out of it (1 Cor. 11:19).
COMING TO THE LIGHT: Jesus made it clear that coming to the light
the first time, for initial salvation, was the beginning, but not all that is
required for final salvation:
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the
world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their
deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light,
neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
But he that doeth truth cometh to the light (initially and
continually), that his deeds may be made manifest, that they
are wrought in God. John 3:19-21
One who has been saved must continue to come to the light, that is, live
in faith and obedience to the LORD (Matt. 7:21; James 1:22). It is not
enough to have come to the light once, one must continue to come to the
light till the end of his life or his initial salvation is null and void (forfeited).
See Ezekiel 33:12-13; Matthew 10:22; Hebrews 2:1-3; 3:6, 14, 10:26-39;
Col. 1:23; Revelation 2:10-11, etc.
But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
One who comes to the light - gets saved - must continue to come to the
light or he closes the door of forgiveness and the blood of Christ no
longer cleanses him. Read 1 John 1:7 again (above). The perpetual
cleansing of our sins is contingent upon the obedience of the individual

recipient of the grace of God (2 Cor. 6:1). The grace of God can be
received in vain.
Notice in 1 John 1:7 that fellowship and the blood of Jesus Christ
cleansing us from all sin is conditioned upon our walking in the light if we walk in the light. Covering our sins instead of openly confessing
and forsaking them, is a deadly and soul-jeopardizing occupation. Lets
look again at Proverbs 28:13:
He that covereth (does not repent of) his sins shall not
prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have
mercy. Proverbs 28:13
CONCERNING SINS, Proverbs 28:13 REVEALS THAT:

He that covereth (his sins)...shall not prosper (make spiritual

progress)

He that...confesseth and forsaketh (his sins) shall have

mercy

God continues to extend to us His forgiveness based upon the blood of

the cross of Christ and our confessing and forsaking our sins (Col. 1:14,
20; Heb. 4:14-16). The person who chooses to cover his sins will not
prosper. His spiritual growth is in reverse and his eternity at stake. Sin
hardens the heart and causes the one who does not get rid himself of his
sin to depart from the faith (Heb. 3:12-15). He must repent and establish
righteous paths as detailed in Scripture or God will not hear his prayer
(Psalms 18:20; 66:18). So great a salvation which the propitiatory
blood of the Savior accomplished provides for total washing of record and
conscience of all sin (Heb. 2:3; 9:14; 1 Jn. 1:9, 2:1-2).
Many of us are aware of the Calvinistic falsehoods in the Church world
that exclude repentance from the gospel and avoid the conditions Holy
Scripture details.
Biblical salvation requires that one repent to get saved and continue to
repent of his sins. If one does not, he will be in denial of Christ and cease
to be cleansed by the blood of Christ (1 Jn. 1:7, 9; Lk. 13:3, 5).

IF we suffer, we shall also reign with him: IF we deny him, he

also will deny us. 2 Timothy 2:12
COULD IT BE PLAINER? IF we deny him, he also will deny us. (2
Tim. 2:12)
To refuse to confess sin is to openly deny him.
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs
with Christ; IF so be that we suffer with him, that we may be
also glorified together. Romans 8:17
We are the temple of the living God and it should be noted that Jesus
cleansed the temple of extortion and the thieves in the beginning and at
the end of His ministry on earth (Jn. 2:13-17; Matt. 21:12-16). This He
did to establish His zeal and mandate for holiness upon all who will
follow Him in spirit and in truth (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; Heb. 12:14). He said
ye are the temple of the living God and those who harbor instead of
relinquishing sin will be destroyed (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1).
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the
Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of
God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy,
which temple ye are. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Think about this: According to Gods Word, without holiness there can be
no Heaven and without repentance there can be no holiness (Heb.
12:14).
The unconditional eternal security proponents/leaders are livid at the
hearing of any doctrine (even from Scripture) that requires personal
responsibility. They blow grace up into something the Bible never even
implies, much less, teaches. Regardless of how big an audience these
leaders have or how popular their name is, they are teaching false
doctrine and turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness (a
license for sin). (Jude 3-4) These falsehoods must be earnestly
contended against - souls are in the balance. Unconditional eternal
security is the very first thing Satan preached in the Garden of Eden
(Gen. 2:17; 3:4). Our unchanging Maker warned the first man and

woman that if they partook of a certain tree they would surely die.
Satan countered with ye shall not surely die.
Friend, it is our divinely-given mandate to diligently and intentionally
defend the original Gospel once delivered to the Body of Christ (Phil.
1:17; 2 Tim. 4:2-4; Jude 3-4).
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the
grace of our God into lasciviousness (a license for sin), and
denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude
3-4
Those who follow the coward gospel are those who deny Christ instead
of their sin, and will be denied by Him in that final day (Matt. 10:32-33;
2 Tim. 2:12; Matt. 7:21). So, is it hateful or loving to warn them before it
is too late? (see Prov. 12:17; 27:5-6; Gal. 4:16)
There are many who vainly suppose that they will not be judged for their
doctrinal deceit and sins, but God says they will be:
All the sinners of my people shall die by the sword
(judgment), which say (in their doctrine), The evil shall not
overtake nor prevent (stop) us (from going to Heaven). Amos
9:10
Some say, The evil shall not overtake nor prevent us. That is, they
imagine that they will not be judged nor prevented from entering the
eternal kingdom of God for their sins because God sees them through the
blood of Christ due to their initial born-again experience. Does God
indiscriminately cleanse the sins of those who have been saved in the
past? 1 John 1:7 states that only those who walk in Gods holy light are
kept (remain) in fellowship with Him and are continually cleansed by the
blood of Jesus. According to the Bible, we must repent to be cleansed and
cleared.

This doctrine (OSAS) completely destroys the distinction between

right and wrong, and removes all motives to abstain from sin. Daniel Steele
Many are taught and teach that they are not accountable for their
actions, heart motives, attitudes, thoughts, or words anymore (since they
got saved). They vainly believe that God does not judge them for sin any
longer because He sees them through the blood of Christ. In other words:
(1) Their salvation changes the very nature of the eternal God - God
ceases to be holy just because He saved them. What arrogance!
(2) They have no responsibility to live holy (see Titus 2:11-12; Rom. 6:12, 15).
The once saved always saved doctrine teaches that all sins, past,
present, and future are automatically forgiven regardless of the life of the
individual who initially received Christs salvation. Let us ask ourselves,
Is this what the Bible says? Check this little nugget out:
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in
his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of
sins that are PAST, through the forbearance of God. Romans
3:25
Note the term sins that are past. Where is there any mention here of
future sins unconditionally or indiscriminately being forgiven? This was
the perfect place for the Holy Spirit to reveal that all future sins are
automatically and unconditionally forgiven. It is clear from Scripture that
all sins, past, present and future, are already paid for by Christs blood,
but that His blood is only applied and re-applied where there is true
repentance. Scripture gives no assurance that any future sins are
without condition and automatically forgiven. The forgiveness of future
sins is conditional upon the continued obedient faith of the individual.
Such a faith always drives the one who possess it to come boldly
before His throne of grace to receive fresh cleansing, keeping a short list
of sins with God (Heb. 4:14-16).

Why would any God-fearing child of the LORD want to retain any sin
that which offends the holiness of the LORD?
But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
When we choose the sins of the flesh over the blessed Lordship of Jesus
Christ, we forsake our own mercy (Prov. 28:13; Jonah 2:8). God forbid
that we would rather wallow in that which displeases Him rather than to
face the God we claim to serve! The irresistible grace adherent is taught
that he does not have to repent of his wickedness (sins) - all under the
banner of being eternally secure or once saved always saved. As for the
propagators of this myth:
Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them
which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many
walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even
weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ
(because they use it to justify their sins): Whose end is
destruction (eternal damnation), whose God is their belly
(sinful appetites), and whose glory is in their shame, who
mind earthly things.). Philippians 3:17-19
Once saved always saved, like many false teachings throughout the
centuries, is merely a sin-justifying cloak for mans depraved nature
which God commands to be crucified (Rom. 6). This teaching justifies
men in their iniquities whereas divine truth calls and enables men to be
purged and delivered from the penalty, punishment, conscience, and
burden of sins. This is why Jesus came - to make captives free from sin
and its bondages and eternal result (Matt. 1:21; 11:28-30; Jn. 1:29;
3:17; 8:31-32; Rom. 6:22-23).
Here are instructions, conditions, and promises concerning being
received of God as His children:
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and
what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord

hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth

with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God
with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God
hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be
their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out
from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and
touch not the unclean thing; AND I will receive you, And will
be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters,
saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises,
dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of
the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2
Corinthians 6:14-7:1
Four INSTRUCTIONS Listed in 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1:

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers

Come out from among them

Be ye separate

Touch not the unclean thing

Five Conditional PROMISES Listed in 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1:

I will dwell in them, and walk in them

They shall be my people

I will receive you

And will be a Father unto you

Ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty

Will we die or live?

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the
Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans
8:13

Those who truly love Christ and His glorious appearing are those who, at
all costs, choose daily to please God by putting away the deeds of the
sinful nature and seeking to live holy in His sight (Col. 3:1-13). Oh yes,
when we fall, we are to continue to get up and seek the face of the God
who loves us and has our ultimate good in mind. The person who has a
heart that is after God will fervently and constantly commune with Him.
The LORD is good to us and ready to forgive. He is so gracious
to us! Take a look:
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous
in mercy unto all them that call upon thee...But thou, O Lord,
art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and
plenteous in mercy and truth. Psalms 86:5, 15
PRAYER: Thank You for being so gracious, longsuffering and merciful to
me Father. Thank You for Your precious blood Jesus! Rescue my heart! Let
my affections be enraptured in Your love this moment, hour, and day!
Grant my heart grace to please You in being conformed to Christs holy
image. Glory be to Your holy name!

CHAPTER FIFTY ONE

WHAT EARLY DISCIPLES SAID

CONCERNING ETERNAL SECURITY

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles doctrine

Acts 2:42
The apostles doctrine is the compilation of the teachings of Jesus
Christ and His apostles who wrote the Holy Spirit inspired books which
make up the canon of the New Testament. Nothing could be nor ever will
be more authoritatively divine than Holy Scripture.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect,
thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
This chapter will feature the intriguing and telling words of some of the
earliest servants of Christ who lived to carry forth the Gospel and work of
Jesus after the twelve were deceased. One should witness a consistency
in these words with the doctrine of Christ and His holy apostles as
recorded in the New Testament Scriptures. These early disciples spoke in
accordance with the oracles of God (1 Pet. 4:11). Regrettably, as time
went on under this New Covenant era, the prophesied apostasy in the
church world began to transpire and escalate. Deceivers began to wax
worse and worse and they will continue until the return of our LORD and
the ultimate setting up of His eternal kingdom (2 Tim. 3:13).
These men, whose words you are about to read, were not far removed
from the original apostles of our LORD and His Gospel and held fast to
His Word the apostles doctrine. (Acts 2:42)
Perhaps these words, since they are consistent with what we read in the
whole of the Word of God, are worthy to be accepted as supplemental, yet
not on the same level of authority as the truth of Holy Writ. The purpose
of placing these words in this volume is to show a preponderance of
witnesses to the divine truth once delivered to the saints of Christ (Jude
3-4). This is an historical witness to the truth of Scripture. Some who
read this will have been surrounded by those who espouse Calvins
teachings and have had little exposure to the words of other men and
their view of Bible truth.

Knowing truth from error is the result of becoming intimately and

personally familiar with the contents of the New Testament Scriptures.
As we behold what Christ and His apostles taught we are then able to
rightly divide the Word of truth and discern who is and who is not
teaching and speaking according to the original Gospel (2 Tim. 2:15;
3:16; Heb. 5:11-14).
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation 1
Timothy 1:15
Today, many who are within Christendom, go back to Calvin, a man with
no genuine kingdom authority whatsoever because he simply did not
honor the counsel of God (Isa. 8:20; 1 Pet. 4:11). If we are going to look
back to mere men for inspiration and authority, why not go a little
further back than Calvin? Why not do the right thing and look to holy
men of God who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost? (2
Pet. 1:20-21) When we do, we will find John Calvin to be a heretical false
teacher who spent his years poisoning the church world with his
private interpretation and outright and outlandish falsehoods.
No mans teachings or view are on the same level as Holy Scripture (Prov.
21:30; Rom. 3:4).
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any
private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time
by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were
moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1:20-21
It is unfortunate that some people follow the teachings of this mere man
when they have complete access to the very Word of God. We make the
word of God of no effect when we place the words of mere men above the
truth given us of the Almighty.
This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is
far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for
doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the
commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the
washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye
do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the
commandment of God, that ye may keep your own
traditionMaking the word of God of none effect through your

tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things

do ye. Mark 7:6-9, 13
It can be perhaps witnessed, when studying the Church as it functioned
through the New Testament centuries, that after Christ and His apostles
left the earth, there was a steady decline in doctrinal purity leading up to
our day. This was long ago prophesied Evil men and seducers shall
wax worse and worse. (2 Tim. 3:13) It is interesting to observe the
words of some of the leaders in the Church world throughout these New
Testament centuries. Many of these men held to the biblical revelation of
salvation - how it is received and how it is maintained. It may interest
you to know that Polycarp was the direct disciple of the apostle John.
These men addressed this unconditional eternal security matter that had
already sprung forth from diabolical origins soon after Christ had risen
again from the dead. Later, John Calvin came on the scene and grossly
perverted the grace of God as foretold by Jude in Jude 3-4. Calvin set
forth and re-established the lie that would continue through the
centuries to be responsible for the damnation of millions of souls who
believed and died believing they were eternally secure no matter what
spiritual state they died in.
QUOTES FROM EARLY CHURCH FATHERS BEFORE THE
CORRUPTION OF UNCONDITIONAL ETERNAL SECURITY SET IN: (in
quoting these men, we are not condoning everything they might have
taught in other areas of doctrine)
And pray ye without ceasing in behalf of other men; for there is
hope of the repentance, that they may attain to God. For cannot
he that falls arise again, and he may attain to God. (Ignatius of
Antioch, To the Ephesians, A.D.110)
Watch for your lifes sake. Let not your lamps be quenched, nor
your loins unloosed; but be ye ready, for ye know not the hour in
which our Lord cometh. But often shall ye come together, seeking
the things which are befitting to your souls: for the whole time of
your faith will not profit you, if ye be not made perfect in the last
time. (Didache, A.D.140)

That eternal fire has been prepared for him as he apostatized from
God of his own free-will, and likewise for all who unrepentant
continue in the apostasy, he now blasphemes, by means of such
men, the Lord who brings judgment [upon him] as being already
condemned, and imputes the guilt of his apostasy to his Maker,
not to his own voluntary disposition. (Justin Martyr, fragment in
Irenaeus Against Heresies, 5:26:1, A.D.156)
Christ shall not die again in behalf of those who now commit sin,
for death shall no more have dominion over Him; but the Son shall
come in the glory of the Father, requiring from His stewards and
dispensers the money which He had entrusted to them, with
usury; and from those to whom He had given most shall He
demand most. We ought not, therefore, as that presbyter remarks,
to be puffed up, nor be severe upon those of old time, but ought
ourselves to fear, lest perchance, after [we have come to] the
knowledge of Christ, if we do things displeasing to God, we obtain
no further forgiveness of sins, but be shut out from His kingdom.
And therefore it was that Paul said, For if [God] spared not the
natural branches, [take heed] lest He also spare not thee, who,
when thou wert a wild olive tree, wert grafted into the fatness of
the olive tree, and wert made a partaker of its fatness. (Irenaeus,
Against Heresies, 4:27:2 A.D. 180)
But some think as if God were under a necessity of bestowing
even on the unworthy, what He has engaged (to give); and they
turn His liberality into slavery. But if it is of necessity that God
grants us the symbol of death, then He does so unwillingly. But
who permits a gift to be permanently retained which he has
granted unwillingly? For do not many afterward fall out of (grace)?
Is not this gift taken away from many? (Tertullian, On Repentance,
6 A.D. 204)
Therefore, the ones who are pardoned are those who slip into sin
unintentionally and incautiously. He who sins willfully has no
pardon. (Lactantius, A.D. 304)
By believing in Him you will live. But by disbelieving you will be
punished. (Apostolic Constitutions, A.D. 390)

Grace with the Lord, when once learned and undertaken by us,
should never afterward be cancelled by repetition of sin.
(Tertullian, A.D. 203)
He who keeps them will be glorified in the kingdom of God.
However, he who chooses other things will be destroyed with his
works. (Barnabas, A.D. 70)
Only those who fear the Lord and keep His commandments have
life with God; but as for those who do not keep His
commandments, there is no life in them. (Barnabas, A.D. 70)
We ought therefore, brethren, carefully to inquire concerning our
salvation. Otherwise, the wicked one, having made his entrance by
deceit, may hurl us forth from our life. (Barnabas, A.D. 70)
Let us therefore repent with the whole heart, so that none of us
perish by the way. (Second Clement, A.D. 150)
I hold further, that those of you who have confessed and known
this man to be Christ, yet who have gone back for some reason to
the legal dispensation [i.e. the Mosaic Law] and have denied that
this man is Christ, and have not repented before deathyou will
by no means be saved. (Justin Martyr, A.D. 160)
Rather, we should fear ourselves, lest perchance, after we have
come to the knowledge of Christ, if we do those things displeasing
to God, we obtain not further forgiveness for sin, but are shut out
of His kingdom. (Irenaeus, A.D. 180)
He who hopes for everlasting rest knows also that the entrance to
it is toilsome and narrow. So let him who has once received the
gospel not turn back. (Clement of Alexandria, A.D. 195)
God gives forgiveness of past sins. However, as to future sins,
each one procures this for himself. He does this by repenting, by
condemning past deeds, and by begging the Father to blot them
out. (Clement of Alexandria, A.D. 195)

The world returned to sinand so it is destined to fire. So is the

man who after baptism renews his sins. (Tertullian, A.D. 198)
Rather they must be preserved. It is not the actual attainment,
but the perfecting, that keeps a man for God. (Cyprian, A.D. 250)
A son who deserts his father in order not to pay him obedience is
considered deserving of being disinherited and having his name
removed forever from his family. (Lactaintius, A.D. 304)
He who sins after baptism, unless he forsakes his sins, will be
condemned to Gehenna. (Apostolic Constitutions, A.D. 390)
These things, beloved, we write unto you, not merely to admonish
you of your duty, but also to remind ourselves. For we are
struggling on the same arena, and the same conflict is assigned to
both of us. Wherefore let us give up vain and fruitless cares, and
approach to the glorious and venerable rule of our holy calling. Let
us attend to what is good, pleasing, and acceptable in the sight of
Him who formed us. Let us look stedfastly to the blood of Christ,
and see how precious that blood is to God, which, having been
shed for our salvation, has set the grace of repentance before the
whole world. Let us turn to every age that has passed, and learn
that, from generation to generation, the Lord has granted a place of
repentance to all such as would be converted unto Him. Noah
preached repentance, and as many as listened to him were saved.
Jonah proclaimed destruction to the Ninevites but they, repenting
of their sins, propitiated God by prayer, and obtained salvation,
although they were aliens [to the covenant] of God. (Clement to the
Corinthians, 7:33-36)
Day and night ye were anxious for the whole brotherhood, that
the number of Gods elect might be saved with mercy and a good
conscience. (Clement to the Corinthians, 2:7, 8)
On account of envy, Aaron and Miriam had to make their abode
without the camp. Envy brought down Dathan and Abiram alive to
Hades. (Clement to the Corinthians, 4:20, 21)

Having obtained good proof that thy mind is fixed in God as upon
an immovable rock, I loudly glorify [His name] that I have been
thought worthy [to behold] thy blameless face which may I ever
enjoy in God! I entreat thee, by the grace with which thou art
clothed, to press forward in thy course, and to exhort all that they
may be saved. Maintain thy position with all care, both in the flesh
and spirit. (The Epistle of Ignatius to Polycarp, 1:1)
What we gather from all these quotes is that the early Church
believed one was saved by faith in Christ and His blood, apart from
works. That were redeemed and washed from our sins, there must
be repentance, if one sinned and did not repent they would be lost.
They believed Gods foreknowledge and predestination, and they
believed by blaspheming the Holy Spirit and/or forsaking God that
one would lose salvation. unknown
God is a God of mercy and compassion, He is long suffering,
patient, and willing to call you back, but if one persists in willful
abandonment and blasphemy against His Spirit, how can He put
up with that? unknown
PRAYER: Holy Father, I love You supremely. Savior of my soul, thank You
for coming to die for my sins for redeeming my life. Thank You. Thank
You. Thank You. I cling to Thee alone and to the words of Your holy truth.
You promised that as I stand upon Your unchanging truth, that I would
forever stand in Thee! Thank You! On Christ the solid rock I do stand and
all other ground is sinking sand! So be it Jesus!

CHAPTER FIFTY TWO

THE SECURITY IDOL

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I
am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am
persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed
unto him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words,
which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in
Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee
keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. 2 Timothy 1:1214
Paul said he was boldly unashamed of the LORD and His Gospel. His
whole life was in the hands of the Savior. This man truly knew the LORD
I know whom I have believed. Faith was more than a sideline to
Paul. He had committed all to Christ. Nothing of self was in reserve as
is the case for many who claim to be saved today. This follower of Jesus
was therefore able to soundly and resolutely declare I am not
ashamed: for I know whom I have believed and he is able to keep
that which I have committed unto him against that day.
Unabashed perseverance is a New Testament theme. If such were not
essential and important, why would the Holy Spirit have repeatedly
woven this truth into His Word?
But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and
hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned
them. 2 Timothy 3:14
Here we are instructed to continuein the things which we have
learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom we have
learned them. We are to get to know and love the One in whom we
have initially believed (Hos. 6:3; Jn. 17:3). This is the divinely-given and
exact the reason we were created and saved. If we follow on to know

the LORD we will possess the deep assurance that cannot be argued
out of the true believer and be received upon His soon return.
Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his
going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto
us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.
Hosea 6:3
Many today want to be secure in their faith without securing their
relationship with the One who bled to rescue them. In other words, they
want the absolute guarantee that they are as sure for Heaven as if they
were already there no matter how they might choose to neglect and
turn against Jesus and live in sinfulness against Him. The LORD gave no
such guarantee. Because the masses of the populace want to live any
way they so choose and still be assured Heaven, many leaders have
capitalized by accommodating them with the once saved always saved
heresy. God forbid! Because this lie has been so rampantly taught, many
have been intoxicated and deceived by it. I have met several people over
the years who immediately turn off and tune out anyone who speaks the
biblical truth about conditional eternal security. These people stop their
ears at the truth instead of receiving it humbly.
Conviction upon an unrepentant heart can provoke a violent reaction.
Consider what the religious Jews did upon hearing the message that
Jesus was their Messiah who died for their sins:
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do
always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do
yethen they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their
ears, and ran upon him with one accord. Acts 7:51, 57
Like these rebellious Jews whose hearts were uncircumcised, some
today are bent upon believing they possess a license to live in sin. They
will stand there and openly deny Scripture upon Scripture that clearly
refute an unconditional eternal security. These people have come so
under the influence of this false teaching (OSAS) and the false security if
brings them, that they cannot bear to think of accepting the notion that
salvation can be lost if neglected (Heb. 2:1-3). Because of this, they

harden their hearts and stop their ears at the mention of the truth (Prov.
29:1; Acts 7:51; Heb. 3:7).
Some today have the distinct paradigm of Give me the crown - never
mind the cross! I just want to miss hell and go to Heaven but I dont
want to get to know and obey the Door to Heaven! I dont want a
relationship, I just want the reward! See Matthew 7:21-23 for the
ultimate end of those who do not sincerely and intimately know the
LORD.
To the honest Bible student, it is crystal clear that those who neglect to
know the LORD and return to the vomit of their sin forfeit their previous
place with God (2 Peter 2:20-22). Gods Word instructs us to follow on
to know the LORD. (Hos. 6:3) The LORD would have us follow through
into a deeply rooted and intimate relationship with Him. This is the
reason He made and redeemed us (Jn. 17:3).

Blessed Assurance
Knowing the LORD is what Christianity is all about (Phil. 3:10). Instead
of shepherding people to love and obey the LORD supremely, some in
ministry instill a casual, careless disposition toward the LORD in those
they influence (Matt. 22:37-39).
In many cases, the chief and supreme goal of those who teach this
doctrine (OSAS) becomes the feeling of security it gives those who hear it.
This elated feeling of security can be addicting and intoxicating. Some of
these who teach OSAS become so dead-set on making everyone feel
secure in their salvation (which no man can do) that it becomes an idol
or an agenda that drives their ministry. Do we see in Scripture any
apostle or the Lord Himself with such a goal or emphasis? We simply
dont. Those the Holy Spirit saves and assures are comforted and granted
assurance due to their own relational love for and obedience to Him (Jn.
16:7, 8, 10; Rom. 8:16; 1 Jn. 5:11-13).
OSAS despises the cross of Christ and therefore brings no persecution,
which alone testifies to its falsity (Matt. 10:22; Gal. 5:11; 6:12; 2 Tim.
3:12). Could there be big money and amazing accolades associated with
teaching unconditional eternal security? Is self-promotion, affluence, and

self-preservation the reason some teach the diabolical doctrine of

unconditional eternal security?
Protection, soundness of heart and mind, security, and assurance, can
only come from God safety is of the LORD. (Prov. 21:31) Such a
blessing is granted exclusively to those who truly know Christ and are
currently in right standing with Him (1 Jn. 3:18-21).
And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure
our hearts before himHe 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 of the Son of God; that
ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe
on the name of the Son of God. 1 John 3:19; 5:12-13
Note the phrase of the Holy Spirits choosing here that ye may know
that ye have eternal life. Knowing one possesses eternal life comes
from having the Son, fully believing upon Him in the heart.
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue;
but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of
the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 1 John
3:18-19
The heart of the true believer is comforted and assured before the LORD
by His present faith and obedience And hereby we know that we are
of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.
The kept one or the one kept under the shadow of the Almighty is
blessed by the power of God through faith.
We must never forget nor let drop the truth that the individual is
justified by faith and that without faith it is impossible to please
him. (Rom. 5:1; Heb. 11:6) The unchanging God made up the rules and
requires faith to grant His grace, justification, and assurance (Rom. 3-5).
The one who believes upon Christ is absolutely justified and fully in His
kingdom as long as he remains or continues in faith toward God. Saved
faith can be departed from or cast off. (Jn. 15:6; 1 Tim. 4:1; 5:12; Heb.
3:12-15)

The divinely desired posture is that of blessed assurance. Are we living in

such a manner as to possess this blessed keeping and assurance? Such
is not automatic. Faith and obedience involves and requires the
involvement of the individual (Isa. 1:19-20).
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again
unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the
dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that
fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by
the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be
revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though
now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through
manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much
more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried
with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at
the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love;
in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice
with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of
your faith, even the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9
Yes, this inheritance is incorruptible (cannot be ruined), yet it is
not un-forfeitable. It is reserved in heaven for those who meet the
requirements both initially and ongoing in their earthly life. The state in
which one dies will determine his eternal destiny (Ezek. 33:12-13). We
who are saved are justified by the grace of God through faith and are
kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Gods power
to keep is never in question. It is in the exercise of the free that
determines the keeping. God is always willing are we? If one turns away
from the LORD in unbelief and doesnt return to saving faith, doom will
be his end he will not be kept by the power of God through faith
unto salvation. See Hebrews 3:12-15. The Almighty requires faith to
be initially justified and to be kept. Loving and serving Him in the
faith that is essential to being kept, is left up to the individual (Heb.
11:6). Love is by nature volitional, which means it is never forced.
By faith one is saved and by unbelief that same person can be lost again
(Heb. 3:1, 6, 12-15).

There is joy unspeakable to those who believe in, love, and know the
LORD Jesus Christ, and they will receive the end product of faith,
even the salvation of their souls (1 Per. 1:3-9).
So, in their vain quest to quiet every human insecurity and conviction,
these men study and teach certain Scriptures which seem to confirm
that one is unconditionally eternally secure. Only the unlearned are
beguiled by this (Matt. 22:29). This they do to the exclusion of the whole
of Scripture, in order to convince those who hear them that they are
secure, no matter how they live after being saved. Denial of the unrest
and conviction upon the transgressors heart is simply not Gods method
of assuring the hearts of His people. Repentance alone brings the
refreshing and restoration of comfort and assurance (Acts 3:19).
Someone might ask, Does God want us to have assurance? The Biblical
answer is a resounding Yes. Check this out:
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue;
but in deed and in truth. And hereby (by loving God and men
in deed and in truth) we know that we are of the truth, and
shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn
us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we
confidence toward God. 1 John 3:18-21
How is it that we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our
hearts before him? According to 1 John 3, we have assurance as we
love not in word (mere lip service) but in deed and in truth.
The next question should be, How does the Lord want to grant us the
assurance of salvation and right standing with Him?
The Lords people are cleansed on the inside, in their conscience, by
repentance and confessing of their sins initially and on an ongoing basis
(Heb. 9:14; 1 Jn. 1:7-9). Humbling ones self before a holy God who
demands consecration is essential to possessing a clear conscience (1
Tim. 1:5). We certainly are not cleansed by denying the conviction of the
Spirit of the LORD leading us to live a pleasing life of repentance for sins
we commit. As the believer walks in the light of His revealed will (the

Word), he is continually cleansed by His holy blood and thereby

experiences the precious peace and assurance the LORD desires to give
us which He wrought through the blood of His cross. (Col. 1:12-23)
But IF we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have
fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
Son cleanseth us from all sin...IF we confess our sins, he is
faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from
all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7, 9
A clear conscience is the seat of the assurance God desires His children
to possess (1 Tim. 1:5; Heb. 9:14). This benefit of a clear conscience only
comes via the blood of Christ, clean hands, and a pure heart (Ps. 24:3-6).
A pure heart is a requirement and condition for salvation (Jer. 4:4; Matt.
5:8).
Note here that IF we confess our sins, the Lord is faithful not only
to forgive us our sins, but also to cleanse us (conscience) from all
unrighteousness.
One of the incredible blessings of the New Covenant revealed in the book
of Hebrews, is that God not only forgives our confessed sins, but cleanses
the guilt-ridden conscience which would otherwise hinder the peace and
assurance He desires for us.
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the
eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your
conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews
9:14

Backsliding Denied
Indigenous in the unconditional eternal security theology, is the clear
denial of the Bible doctrine and potential of backsliding.
In the divine economy, security does not exist for any person who is not
wholly given over to the LORD.

The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek

him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will
forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2
The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him;
but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake
him. Ezra 8:22
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast
destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. Psalms 73:27
Be thou instructed, O Jerusalem, lest my soul depart from
thee; lest I make thee desolate, a land not inhabited.
Jeremiah 6:8
Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath
rejected them. Jeremiah 6:30
Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, thou art gone
backward: therefore will I stretch out my hand against thee,
and destroy thee; I am weary with repenting. And I will fan
them with a fan in the gates of the land; I will bereave them of
children, I will destroy my people, since they return not from
their ways. Jeremiah 15:6-7
Concerning the idol of the OSAS teaching and the blessed privilege and
necessity of following Jesus to the end of ones life, Jeff Paton writes:
Nothing is more senseless than to create a god with ones own
hands, only to bow down to worship it as mighty and powerful!
Christians assurance can only be based on a vital, living and
trusting faith in the one true God, Jesus Christ. If there is a break
in this relationship, there cannot be any hope of assurance. To
claim assurance while one does not have a relationship with God is
equal to worshiping something other than God, whether it be a
doctrine or a piece of wood. Some will claim that fellowship with
God can be severed but not the relationship to God. This statement
is the same as calling God a liar! For it is written But if we walk
in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with

another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us

from all sin. (1 John 1:7). Notice that cleansing for sin is
conditioned upon fellowship with God, and that fellowship is
conditioned upon walking in the light. If the blood of Christ is not
cleansing us from all sin, it is impossible to be in a relationship with
God! Fellowship and relationship are inseparable from the saving
work of Christ. Being out of fellowship with God is the same as
being out of the grace and relationship with God.
My friend, cast away the false god of assurance that has been
fashioned with the hands of men! Do not trust in lofty and
eloquent pleas to trust in a false eternal security, but put all of
your trust in Him who keeps us through a genuine, trusting, and
abiding faith, that we may one day hear those wonderful words
well done, good and faithful servant. www.EternalSecurity.us

False Security Zone

The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by
their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye
do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31
In Jeremiahs day, the people of God were living in sin. Here the Holy
Spirit exposes the inner workings of the relationship between the evil
wolves in sheeps clothing who were leading Israel astray and the people
themselves (Isa. 9:16).
The depraved nature of man has not changed So many want to believe
that they are free to sin and have no responsibility to resist and
overcome the flesh, the world, and the devil. They want to sit under men
who will tell them they are secure no matter what. The people are told
that once they have had that one moment of faith in Christ, there is no
further responsibility and that God sees all their sins through the blood
of Christ. These leaders never tell them that the LORD requires that they
forsake all and follow Him, remain in the light and relationship with Him,
confess sin, bear fruit, and live holy (Lk. 14:33; Jn. 15; Heb. 12:14; 1 Jn.
1:7, 9). Those who love this fleeting world and the lust of it will perish
regardless of their previous place with God (James 4:4; 1 Jn. 2:15-17).

After reading in Jeremiah 5:31 that The prophets prophesy falsely,

two phrases of great alarm strike me in this verse:

My people love to have it so so many who claim to know the

LORD love to have it so they love to hear their false prophets
prophesy or teach the falsehoods that enable and justify their sins.

What will ye do in the end thereof? what good will it have

been, when they die and immediately awake to the horror of the
fires of eternal damnation? What will they do after purposely
denying the truth of God and living a lie that brought temporary
earthly pleasure yet eternal misery?

There is a fear-provoking truth in 1 Peter 4. It coincides with the truth of

the narrowway which Jesus said is inhabited by only a few.
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the
ungodly and the sinner appear? 1 Peter 4:18
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad
is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be
which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is
the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find
it. Matthew 7:13-14
The Son of God made it clear that there are only two roads, one that
many occupy and leads to eternal damnation and one that only a
few tread upon that leads to eternal life. According to 1 Peter 4:18,
only scarcely will even those made righteous be saved. This is
because like the ten virgins of Matthew 25, only some who are brought
into the kingdom of God continue to the end of their lives and receive
final salvation.
For more than two decades I have personally had the opportunity to
converse with hundreds upon hundreds of people who claimed to be
saved and yet believed that there was no danger at all of losing out in the
end with God. On many of these occasions, after unveiling several Bible
texts refuting this matter, their countenance would drop. This seems to
occur when the OSAS adherent realizes from Holy Scripture that there is

no license to sin and that they are personally responsible to live a holy
life before a holy God or forfeit eternal life in Heaven (Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet.
1:16). The revelation of this divine truth seems to strip the false euphoric
joy that has enveloped their thinking. Truth cuts through the lies and
strips this falsehood. The word of God is quick, and powerful, and
sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing
asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a
discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb. 4:12) When
communicated, the truth pierces and arrests people who live under this
false pretense that they are once saved always saved. Many of these
proponents of the unconditional eternal security teaching have for years
built up a hypnotic fortress of falsehood around themselves. When they
realize that Jesus Christ stated that to be in Heaven with Him, one must
know Him, have a pure heart, obey Him, and endure to the end, the
thin veneer of dishonesty and deceit begins to fall. The one who will
overcome and victoriously triumph with Christ, will live in faithful
obedience to Him (Matt. 7:21; 10:22; Heb. 10:26-39; Rev. 2-3).
If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he
also will deny us. 2 Timothy 2:12
By which also ye are saved IF ye keep in memory what I
preached unto you, UNLESS YE HAVE BELIEVED IN VAIN. 1
Corinthians 15:2
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with
Christ; IF so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also
glorified together. Romans 8:17
Here is what has been happening throughout history and is happening
in our day:
Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of
Judah, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king
hearkened unto them. And they left (departed from) the
house of the LORD God of their fathers, and served groves
and idols (spiritual adultery; idolatry): and wrath (reaping;
judgment) came upon Judah and Jerusalem (God covenant
people) for this their trespass (sin). Yet he sent prophets to

them, to bring them again unto the LORD; and they

testified against them: but they would not give ear. And the
Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the
priest, which stood above the people, and said unto them,
Thus saith God, Why transgress ye the commandments of
the LORD, that ye cannot prosper? because ye have
forsaken the LORD, he hath also forsaken you. And they
conspired against him (righteous Zechariah, Gods
spokesman), and stoned him with stones at the
commandment of the king in the court of the house of the
LORD. 2 Chronicles 24:17-22
These covenant people of God were backslidden and did not want to
endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:2-4) No, instead they sought to
kill the messenger instead of circumcising their wicked hearts and
seeking the LORD that He might have His mercy and the rain of His
righteousness poured upon them (Hos. 10:12). The man that the
LORD sent to them showed them the sins they were committing and
how they was hindering them from prospering (moving forward
spiritually). They had forsaken the LORD and were cut off from
His presence and in need of returning to Him in repentance (Hos.
14:1; Rom. 11:22).
The relationship between the LORD and His people had been severed
through sin. The blessings ceased.
You only have I known of all the families of the earth:
therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. Can two
walk together, except they be agreed? Amos 3:2-3

Impending Danger Denied

In stark contrast to the ministries of Jesus and His apostles, we should
observe that those who pervert the grace of God are seldom if ever heard
warning of any danger for those who have been saved and are now living
in sin. In their corrupted minds the backslider is in no danger of losing
out because they believe he is eternally secure due to his one time
profession of faith and reception of salvation. This is completely

inconsistent with the apostolic faith once delivered to the saints and the
myriad of warnings Jesus and His apostles gave to the Church. In the
false theology of these men, they cannot see that sin contaminates ones
relationship with the one true and holy, holy, holy God, thereby
endangering ones position with Him, especially if the transgressor
refuses to return in repentance (Prov. 28:13; Isa. 6:3; 1 Jn. 1:7-9; Rev.
4:8). In their system of belief, built upon notions inconsistent with Holy
Writ, there is no danger of losing out once one is initially saved.
The perspective of many who teach once saved always saved, is that
God has saved us to go to Heaven, but in no way to sanctify us and
conform us to the image of His Son in this life on earth (Tit. 2:11-14).
Such a person when asked will deny such, yet the absence of the
essential of holiness and continuing faith tells a different story of his real
belief. The purveyor of OSAS theology intentionally ignores volumes upon
volumes of Bible truth in order to make his unconditional eternal
security falsehood palatable.
The apostle Paul labored and strove for one central purpose - that we
may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. (Col. 1:28) Preparing
and presenting believers perfectly was Pauls purpose and God-given
objective in ministry. This was the goal of his ministry that every born
again believer might be presented perfectly holy and pleasing to God in
that final Day (2 Pet. 3:10-14). Make no mistake: This is the goal of any
true servant of God. In fact, if such is not the goal of a person in ministry,
he is a hireling who has his own agenda at heart and not Gods.
The apostle Paul did 3 things to prepare the believers he ministered to for
their meeting God in judgment.
Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning
every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we
may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I
also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh
in me mightily. Colossians 1:27-29
This apostle of Jesus gave us the clear example of a true Christ-centered
leader. Preaching, warning and teaching are essential mandates for all
overseers, yet it seems that few leaders today ever warn. No God-fearing

leader leaves people defenseless against the greivous wolves who are
feverishly operating in the Christian world to deceive and lead astray
(Acts 28:27-32; Rom. 16:17-18; Eph. 4:14; Col. 1:28; 1 Jn. 4:1-3).
Any deluded leader who believes in an unconditional eternal security will
not preach, warn or teach the Bible doctrines of sin, repentance,
holiness, righteousness, and judgment to come. In his belief system,
there is no thought of soul endangerment. The many warnings of Paul
alone underscore his full realization of the soul jeopardy involved when
one who is saved goes back into sin without repenting. This great apostle
himself told us that he was aware of the fact that it was his duty to
keep under subjection his own body lest after he had preached to
others he himself would become a castaway one cast away from God
eternally (1 Cor. 9:27).
PRAYER: LORD, there is a firestorm of deception in the church world and I
know Your desire is to protect and preserve the eternal souls of Your
eloved people. Convict my heart deeply. Unearth all that does not belong to
You. Let me be assured only through Your Word and not mans artificial
way. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. Search
me O God and know my heart, try me and know my thoughts and see if
there be any wicked way in me. Lead me in the way everlasting holy
Father. Teach me to discern Your way. In Jesus name. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY THREE

CHURCH DISCIPLINE

Love that Restores

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are

spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;
considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one
anothers burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man
think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he
deceiveth himself. Galatians 6:1-3
The Holy Spirit of God is addressing the Brethren and not the worlds
people. He acknowledges that any of Gods people can be overtaken in a
fault and that one who is spiritual or spiritually mature should
approach the erring saint in the spirit of meekness while considering
that he also is capable of the same offense. In restoring a brother to his
rightful relationship with Christ, the restoring agent is keeping the law
of Christ by doing for him what he should want done if he himself were
backslidden.
Personal pride and self-righteousness immediately disqualifies one from
being a restorative agent For if a man think himself to be
something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. (Gal. 6:3)
Lets take a quick glimpse into our own depravity and perpetual need for
humility and the LORDs mercies:
I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the
truth, which thou hast showed unto thy servant. Genesis
32:10
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately
wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try
the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and
according to the fruit of his doings. Jeremiah 17:9-10
For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good
thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that
which is good I find not. Romans 7:18
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the
body of this death? Romans 7:24
Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth
to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be
wise. 1 Corinthians 3:18

Self-righteousness was one of the cardinal sins Christ condemned the

religious Pharisees for (Matt. 23). Truly understanding how deeply
depraved we ourselves are without the present grace of Christ, is to
realize our own desperate need before the one, true God who is holy,
holy, holy. (Isa. 6:3; Rev. 4:8). This realization will keep us from
approaching others in a self-righteous, condemning demeanor which
would be pharisaical (Eph. 4:32). Yet the Bible tells us to restore fallen
believers (see also Matt. 7:1-6).
Bringing a Brother or Sister Back to Christ
In order to approach this ministry topic correctly, one must identify with
some foundational truth revealed about the LORD in His Word. We
should eagerly seek to discover and understand the heart of the LORD.
He gave us His Word for this express reason (Ps. 33:11). His divine
attributes scream from the pages of Scripture. He is grieved when His
children hurt because of their sin and delivers and restores them when
they willingly offer themselves to Him afresh (Judges 5:2; 10:16). One of
His divine attributes is His restorative love. The LORD is not out to
condemn but rather rejoices to restore and bless. God really is good
(Ps. 86:5, 15) Remember the announcement of the angel and heavenly
host at first coming of Christ to the earth for us? Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth peace, GOOD WILL toward men. (Lk. 2:14) The
LORD Almighty has good will toward men and not bad will (Jer.
29:11). Remember also that Jesus Christ made intercession and
mediation for mankind after he had sinned and that from the very
foundation of the world the Father had slain His only begotten Son to
restore His relationship with His alienated creation (Gen. 3:15; Isa. 53;
Rom. 5:6, 8; Rev. 13:8).
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have
loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with
lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3
It is very important to possess the heart of the Great Shepherd of the
sheep who gave His life for and to restore His sheep (Jn. 10; 15:13;
Heb. 13:20). The father was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself
and has now sent you and I forth, filled with His Spirit, to be the
ambassadors of His holy and restoring love (2 Cor. 5:18-20). This
ministry is to the backslidden as well as those never saved both are in
danger (Lk. 15:24, 32). The LORD Jesus is the good shepherd who
actively seeks to restore that one wayward sheep that has wondered off
into sinful living (Lk. 15). Each soul is of the greatest importance to the
LORD (Lk. 15:7, 10; Ps. 49:7-8; 1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9). Dying in the grace
of God is of the utmost importance to the heavenly Father and such

should underscore the purpose of restoring members of the body of

Christ back to Him (Matt. 10:22; 1 Pet. 1:5, 9; 2 Pet. 2:20-21; Rev.
16:15). It really is true that Jesus would have come to the earth and died
for one sinner without the guarantee that that one sinner would
ever repent and receive His offer of salvation.
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert
him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from
the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall
hide a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20
There will be heavenly rewards for every time we are used to bring a
backslider back to Jesus. To the brethren of the LORD, James says
that an eternal soul is saved from death when the sinner
(transgressor) who has erred from the truth, is restored to his
relationship with the LORD. Note that the Holy Spirit is addressing any
of you among the brethren and so He is clearly not speaking to the
lost who are not in the truth so could not depart from or err from the
truth.
The phrase shall save a soul from death reveals the critical nature of
the ministry of the body of Christ in restoring fallen Christians.
Saving souls from spiritual death is the exact goal of church
discipline. Such was initiated out of the heart of a loving God who is
not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but
is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but
that all should come to repentance. (2 Pet. 3:9)
Twofold Reason for Discipline:
1) To bring about repentance in the transgressor whose soul is in
danger of hell fire.
2) To inform believers and the world that such behavior is not
tolerated by the Church.
1 Corinthians 5 & 6
Lets look at 1 Corinthians 5 and some of chapter 6 (5:1-6:11). This
passage is all important and central in the study of the topic of restoring
a brother or sister to the LORD (church discipline). Read these words
carefully to procure an understanding concerning how a sinning member
of the body of Christ is to be dealt with:

It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you,

and such fornication as is not so much as named among the
Gentiles, that one should have his fathers wife. And ye are
puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath
done this deed might be taken away from among you. For I
verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged
already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so
done this deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye
are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our
Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan for the
destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the
day of the Lord Jesus. Your glorying is not good. Know ye not
that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out
therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are
unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither
with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the
unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. I wrote unto you in
an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether
with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or
extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out
of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep
company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or
covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an
extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to
do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them
that are within? But them that are without God judgeth.
Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked
person. Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go
to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? Do ye not
know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world
shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest
matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much
more things that pertain to this life? If then ye have
judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge
who are least esteemed in the church. I speak to your shame.
Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one
that shall be able to judge between his brethren? But brother
goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.
Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye
go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong?
why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? Nay,
ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. Know ye
not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of
God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor
adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with

mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor

revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are
sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus,
and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 5:1-6:11
There was a fornicator in the church at Corinth. He was one of the
members of that local body. In the face of the truth in this explicit
chapter (1 Cor. 5), the eternal security crowd would have us believe that
this fornicator was still safe and eternally secure though he had not
repented of his sin. How dishonest can one be!
Some things to acknowledge from this passage:

I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with

fornicators (v9) those who live in blatant sin without
repentance are to be shut out until they return to the LORD in
repentance and bring forth fruit to prove such (Matt. 3:7-8).
Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with
the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must
ye needs go out of the world (v10) not sinners who dont claim
to be saved, if so you would have to leave the world because
sinners will sin but saints are to be set apart.
But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any
man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an
idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such
an one no not to eat (v11) do not keep company or even have
lunch with one who is called a brother and yet is living in open
sin. This would give open approval and endorsement to such sin
which would bring reproach against Christ and His people by
sending the wrong message to those outside the kingdom.
Do not ye judge them that are within? (v12) there is to be
accountability among the brethren of the LORD, always motivated
out of the love of God and zeal to keep His name from being used
in vain (profaned).

In light of the fornicator in their midst and knowing that the

unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God (v10), Paul
instructs the believers at Corinth to execute judgment and discipline
upon sinning Christians. This saves them from the soul endangerment
sin brings. The Holy Spirit tells the saints of the whole New Testament
era to Be not deceived and even names the exact sins that will

disqualify any saved person who departs from Christ without returning
from inheriting the eternal kingdom of God:

Fornicators
Idolaters
Adulterers
Effeminate
abusers of themselves with mankind
thieves
covetous
drunkards
revilers
extortioners

The message is clear: Of these among us who commit such sins without
truly repenting, the LORD says that they shall not inherit the
kingdom of God. Yet, the ultimate goal of the LORD is to restore the
wayward one back to the fellowship with Him and His people. Church
discipline is a clear manifestation of the mercy and love of God. It serves
to bring the transgressor to repentance and restore his faith in God. In
order to do this, there are instances where the transgressor, if unrepentant, must be dis-fellowshipped. If he will not return to the LORD in
repentance, he is to be put outside the company of believers so that he
will hopefully realize his offense against the LORD and hopefully repent.
The victory and ultimate goal of the LORD in church discipline was
successfully accomplished in this sinning man in Corinth. In his next
letter to this same group of believers at Corinth, and concerning this
man, Paul writes:
Sufficient to such a man (the now restored fornicator) is this
punishment, which was inflicted of many. So that
contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him,
lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch
sorrow. Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your
love toward him. For to this end also did I write, that I might
know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. To
whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any
thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the
person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for
we are not ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:6-11

This punishment, which was inflicted of many the whole group of

believers at Corinth agreed with the LORD and executed the
excommunication of the fornicator in their midst. The result was the
repentance of the sinning person and he was restored to fellowship with
Christ and His body.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 says Be not deceived: neither fornicatorsshall
inherit the kingdom of God because of the widespread false teaching
of unconditional eternal security, many today have been deceived into
thinking that people once saved who are now living in sin will enter Gods
holy Heaven. Such a cancerous myth has contributed greatly to the
damnation of millions of precious souls and the virtual absence of
biblical church discipline in the modern church world.
The self-evident truth of this whole Corinthians passage is that a
member of the body of Christ can fall out of fellowship with Christ
through sin and be in need of being spiritual necessitated. When this
happens, it is the responsibility of those believers around such a person,
to seek to restore that person to relationship with Jesus. The whole point
of this kind of discipline is to bring back a fallen member which in itself
reveals the potential of a saved person becoming spiritually dead again
(Ezek. 33:12-13; 2 Pet. 2:20-22; Jude 12). Paul even enumerates a
specific list of sins that if committed and not repented of, cause one to
forfeit his place with the LORD (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21).
The LORD is holy and so is His true body (Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:15-16).
He is soon to return for a bride that is presently and willingly being
washed by His Word, without spot, holy and without blemish. (Eph.
5:25-27) One component of His plan to make men holy and ready for His
all-important, soon return, is church discipline. As He sent His angels to
help Lot, so the LORD is so gracious and loving that at times He seems to
go to great lengths to rescue His people. Yet, He says His Spirit will not
always strive with men. Lots wife is to be remembered for her refusal to
continue in the truth, persevering to the end, and how she was prevented
from being fully delivered and receiving the heavenly reward (Gen. 19;
Lk. 17:32; Heb. 10:26-39). The disciplining of an individual member of
the body of Christ is a token of the love of God (Rom. 2:4; Heb. 12:5).

The Loving Nature of God

The Bible is the unfolding story of Gods redemption of precious souls.
Remember that He could have ended it all after Adam and Eve sinned
and also after His fury concerning the earths inhabitants in the days of
Noah. But He didnt! He is merciful! His mercy triumphed over His

judgment and He saved eight souls from which we all emanate (See
Genesis 6-9).
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready (postured) to forgive; and
plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. Psalms
86:5
Notice here that the Bible tells us that the LORD is not bad but rather
good, and ready (postured) to forgive. Note this nugget revealing the
nature of our Savior He is intent upon or ready to forgive and not
condemn. As one who has transgressed numerous times after being
saved, my heart rejoices at this truth! Does yours? He has restored me
many times. To realize His forgiveness of our own sins should help us
deal much more tenderly with others.
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one
another, even as God for Christs sake hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32
It is the LORDs good pleasure to forgive and restore and not to condemn
(Lk. 9:56; Jn. 3:17). Jesus came to restore, rescue, and save (Matt. 1:21;
Jn. 1:29; 1 Tim. 1:15). Remember that Christ, the only sinless One to
ever walk the earth, openly forgave the adulterous woman in John 8 as
she came to Him humbly and repentant. He released her with Neither
do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. (Jn. 8:11) It is interesting to
note that the religious hypocrites who sought to condemn her left
unrepentant and un-forgiven. Gods goal is to freely forgive and restore
and not to condemn. Since He is holy and just, He must condemn when
there is not repentance.
The restoring love of God and the governing truth that fills the heart of
the spiritual man sends him forth like the Good Samaritan to bear the
burdens of the fallen ones, lifting them up to the Savior out of the mire
clay of sin (Lk. 10:29-37; Gal. 6:1-2).
There is a divine mandate and purpose for disciplining sinning saints
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of
God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor
adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor
extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Cor. 6:9-10)
Make no mistake: The establishment of holy accountability among
believers will be responsible for many souls being in Heaven instead of
eternal hell. The lack of obedience to discipline sinning saints will
tragically result in the eternal damnation of many.

Initially the believers at Corinth were allowing sin in their midst and for
that the apostle Paul was furious. He said they should be mourning for
such sin (1 Cor. 5:1-2, 6, 12). Concerning the fornicator in 1 Corinthians
5, Donald Stamps, in the Life in the Spirit Study Bible, writes:
HAVE NOT RATHER MOURNED. Paul expresses what should
be the normal reaction of a Spirit-filled church to the immorality
found among its professing members. Those who embrace the
Biblical view of Gods holiness and His revulsion to sin will be
moved to sorrow and regret (cf. Is.6). They will remove wickedness
from among themselves (vv. 2, 4-5, 7, 13).
Such an-repentant person was to be turned over unto Satan. This is
so that he would hopefully repent and escape judgment to come.
DELIVER SUCH AN ONE UNTO SATAN. To deliver one to Satan
means that the church must remove the immoral person from its
fellowship and to return him to Satans domain. This will, in turn,
expose him to the destructive influences of evil and the demonic
(vv. 7, 13). (1) This discipline has two purposes: (a) That the
offender, by experiencing problems and physical suffering, may
repent and ultimately be saved (cf. Luke 15:11-24); (b) that the
church may purge out therefore the old leaven (v. 7; i.e., sinful
influences), so that the people of God might become a new bread of
sincerity and truth (v. 8). (2) The same action can be taken by the
church today in seeking the salvation of one who has forsaken the
Christian life and returned to the world (cf. 1 Tim. 1:20). Life in
the Spirit Study Bible
Jesus taught:
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and
tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear
thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear
thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth
of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And
if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if
he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an
heathen man and a publican. Matthew 18:15-17
Goal if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother gaining
a brother is important to the LORD and the peace among His beloved
people (Eph. 4:3).

If a trespass is committed against a brother, here is the sequence of

steps in order to bring peace:
Step 1: - tell him his fault between thee and him alone - The
goal is to keep the matter of offense as unknown as possible.
Step 2: - But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one
or two more one or two more believers are to then be brought
into the matter if the offender will not hear the brother he has
offended.
Step 3: - And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the
church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto
thee as an heathen man and a publican if the transgressor
will not acknowledge his offense to the first person or the others
brought in to help him realize his offense, such a matter and
person are to be brought before the church and if he still wont
repent, he is to be considered to be an heathen man and a
publican. If he wont repent, it is clear that he is to be considered
outside the kingdom.
The Church of the LORD is to know His Word and who is inside and who
is outside His holy kingdom. Leaders are called to teach the difference
between the holy and profane. (Ezek. 44:23). As this passage and
many others clearly reveal, no person living in the sins listed here, has
any inheritance in the kingdom of God and such is to be made known
openly. The LORD is holy and will not tolerate sin among His people.
Summation: The whole reason for church discipline is to restore a
sinning member of the body of Christ to his rightful relationship with the
Savior because his soul is in danger of hell fire. This is a divinelyinitiated and enabled mission of mercy to rescue again a fallen saint
who will otherwise perish if not re-converted (Lk. 15:24, 32; 22:31-32;
James 5:19-20). Whether we understand church discipline or not, when
necessary, believers are to render obedience to the LORD in executing
this discipline just as Scripture clearly prescribes.
PRAYER: LORD Jesus, thank You for Your ultimate sacrifice and infinite
wisdom and how You gave us all things that we need in Your Word. Teach
us Your perfect ways and grant our hearts grace to stay before Thee and
to be used by You to bring men back to You. Thank You so much for
finding me and saving my wicked soul from sin and eternal damnation. I
love You Jesus! Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY FOUR

VICTORIOUS FRUIT BEARING

Results that Remain

But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and
good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth
fruit with patience. Luke 8:15
It is erroneous to believe that one is right with God when there is no
fruit in that persons life. In many circles today eternal security is sold
to the unknowing as something people irrevocably receive as a
guarantee no matter what their behavior is like after that initial
decision for Christ. Is this what Jesus and His apostles taught?
Jude states:
These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast
with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are
without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit

withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots.

Jude 12
One main theme of the book of Jude involves apostates (those who left
their faith in Christ after having saving faith 1 Tim. 4:1). Lets observe a
portion of what Jude says concerning believers who having accepted
Jesus as their LORD and Savior, are not currently observed bearing fruit
in their lives:

trees whose fruit withereth these people obviously had fruit

at one time. This we know because it says that the fruit they had
withereth.

without fruit some were fruitless instead of fruitful.

twice dead these apostates he addresses were like all men born dead in their trespasses and sins. They obviously got saved
and then died spiritually again due to not continuing in their
relationship with the LORD and not repenting of their sins.

plucked up by the roots a plant that is not first planted

cannot be plucked up by the roots. It would be absurd to say
that the plant (represents people) addressed here was not first
planted in the kingdom. No plant could possibly be uprooted if it
were not first planted in the ground. In the same way, no person
could be removed from the vineyard of the LORD having not first
been planted there by Him.

An authentic walk with the LORD is characterized and authenticated

by the bearing of good fruit (Gal. 5:16, 22-23). When we flourish in
our relational walk with the precious Savior, He grants us His
enabling grace and we bear His fruit (Jn. 15).
Conversely, if the person once saved does not abide in Christ he
forfeits the forgiveness he once received (2 Pet. 1:9-11). We are not
free to live in sin and remain justified (Matt. 1:21; Jn. 1:29; Rom. 6:12, 15; Tit. 2:11-14; 1 Jn. 3:1-15). God dealt with sin at the cross when
Jesus who knew no sin became sin for us in order to redeem us (2

Cor. 5:21). At the cross the Father momentarily turned His holy face
from Christ who had become sin for us (Matt. 27:46).
Why did Jesus Christ come and die?
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all
iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of
good works. Titus 2:14

Burned or Blessed
Fruit is the proof that there is relationship.
Regrettably, some want to believe they are insulated from judgment
whether they continue to trust Christ or not. Jesus gave the promise of
eternal assurance to those who are currently in relationship with Him
and also guaranteed that those who do not abide (remain, continue) with
Him will become spiritually withered and castinto the fire, and
they are burned.
Notice the curse pronounced upon those who do not continue with Jesus
and the abundant blessings for those who do:
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in
you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall
ye be my disciples. John 15:6-8
Obviously it is possible for a man to abide not in the relationship
with the Vine (Jesus) or such a statement would never have been made
by our LORD. Lets look at two of the blessings bestowed upon the lives
of those who abide in Christ:

Answered prayer If ye abide in me, and my words abide in

you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Fruitfulness that ye bear much fruit.

Bearing fruit in Gods kingdom is very important to Him, and in

particular, fruit that remains (Jn 15:16). Fruit bearing is the premium
measure of His abiding and sanctifying presence and work in each of His
saints. He produces His holy and good fruit as the believer abides in

fellowship with and obedience to Him. In Scripture we never witness the

slightest hint that abiding is automatic and salvation an involuntarily
fixed state. The initial and perpetual involvement of the recipient is
required by the One who so loved that He gave His life for us. Like a good
farmer, the LORD told us that He prunes or purges His own so that they
bear even greater fruit whereby He is glorified.
every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may
bring forth more fruit. John 15:2
So, the child of God should rejoice that He is being purged. It reveals that
the LORD is pruning him to be a vessel to bear even more of His fruit.
The Vine also tells us in John 15 of the end of those who do not remain
or abide in Him.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh awayIf
a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire,
and they are burned. John 15:2, 6
According to the LORD Jesus Christ, the person who does not continue
to love the LORD supremely after He saves that soul, is taken away from
the Vine, withered, and cast into the fire to be burned.
Notice closely in the above passage that it is the man who does not
remain in Christ who is cast forth into the fire and not the branch. Our
LORD only uses the imagery of the branch burning to help the hearer
understand that He will cast forth into the eternal fires of damnation all
who do not bear His fruit on that final Day. Gods Word is full of warning
words like these about being burned up in unquenchable fire (Mk. 9:4249).
Christ speaks in John 15 of fruitmore fruitmuch fruit, and that
your fruit should remain.
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained
you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit
should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in
my name, he may give it you. John 15:16

Fruit and fruit that remains is of premium value in Christs kingdom

(Jn. 15:16).
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for (consistent with)
repentance. Matthew 3:8
Who spoke these words? To whom was he speaking?
It is intriguing to note that John the Baptist spoke these words as he was
speaking to men who were highly religious but not righteous in the eyes
of God.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come
to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who
hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth
therefore fruits meet for repentance. And think not to say
within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father (religious
affiliation): for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones
to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is
laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which
bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the
fire. Matthew 3:7-10
Didnt Jesus tell us to know or discern others by their fruits? Also, arent
we known by others by the fruit our lives bear? (Matt. 7:16, 20) He also
informs us: Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire. (Matt. 7:19)
We are told to bring forth the real and tangible evidence (fruit) that we
have answered the divine call and laid down our lives to follow Christ.
The focus, affections, and actions of our lives are to conform to that
inward work Christ began in us when He saved us (Phil. 2:12-13). This
fruit will be that which is consistent with the grace of God which granted
genuine heart repentance. We are dead and our lives are hid with Christ
in God (Col. 3:3). We no longer live - He does (Gal. 2:20). The fruit of the
true believer will be divine grace at work. His life will be marked by
certain landmark, irrefutable characteristics. For the one who is truly in
Christ, old things are passed away and all things are become new (2 Cor.
5:17-18).

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of

yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man
should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ
Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that
we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10

The Tempter
For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know
your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you,
and our labour be in vainTherefore, brethren, we were
comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your
faith: For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. 1
Thessalonians 3:5, 7-8
After Paul had been to Thessalonica and the LORD had saved a people
into His kingdom, the apostle Paul fretted concerning their continuing in
Christ (Acts 17). If there were no danger of these people drawing back
and being lost again, why such a concern from this great apostle of Jesus
Christ?
So, Paul sent messengers to find out where their hearts were. After the
messengers found enduring faith in the Thessalonican Christians,
Paul rejoiced and said now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. In
other words, he was saying that his initial ministry to them was not in
vain (futile) as long as they continued in the faith (Gal. 5:4; Col. 1:23;
Heb. 10:34-39). The book of Galatians along with this text in 1
Thessalonians underscore the need for under-shepherds of Jesus to see
that their fruit should remain. (Jn. 15:16)
Satan hindered us. 1 Thessalonians 2:18
Jesus told us that there is a tempter who has come to steal, kill, and
destroy (Matt. 4:3; Jn. 10:10; 1 Thess. 3:5). The enemys goal and
occupation is to hinder and prevent victorious fruit bearing, yet as we
abide in Jesus fully He will enable that precious fruit to be borne and
remain (Jn. 15). This dark and dastardly evil tempter is Satan and he

walketh about seeking whom he may devour. (1 Pet. 5:8) According

to the divinely breathed record, the Devil seeks to steal Gods Word out of
the hearts of those who hear it lest it germinate and begin to root them in
his enemy Jesus Christ (Mk. 4:11-20; 1 Pet. 5:8).
Once I spoke with a man who said he was saved and knew most of the
correct things to say. He has been an active member of the most popular
evangelical denomination in America, and has been taught that as long
as he believes, he is saved. Yet, saving faith is defined much differently in
Scripture. Saving faith is always seen in the fruit of the possessors daily
life. This mans perspective is all too common.
Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the
devils also believe, and tremble. James 2:19
Its not enough to just say one has faith. In Gods economy, good fruit is
an earmark of kingdom citizenship. Father, please bless us to abide in
Christ and to bear His fruit.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away:
and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may
bring forth more fruit. John 15:2
The fruit of being born again and remaining in Christ, is always
according to Galatians 5:22-23. (love, joy, peace)
The life that is truly submitted to Christ bears unmistakable telltale fruit.
Every one of us can be known by our fruits.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against
such there is no law. And they that are Christs have crucified
the flesh with the affections and lusts. Galatians 5:22-24

Hindrances to Fruitfulness
Jesus has a question for us to ask ourselves - before it is too late:
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I
say? Luke 6:46

Why lie? Why pretend? Not remaining in fellowship with Christ means we
are not abiding (remaining) in Him. Living in blatant disobedience to the
commands of the LORD is clear evidence that ones heart is not in
fellowship with Him. The lack of fruit is the attestation of the lack of
relationship. The existence of good fruit is the verification of a life-giving
relationship.
The Alpha and Omega (Christ) told us exactly why a person becomes
unfruitful after hearing the Word.
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground;
who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it
with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure
but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution
ariseth for the words sake, immediately they are offended.
And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear
the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of
riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the
word, and it becometh unfruitful. Mark 4:16-19
If I have more time to pursue the pleasures of this sinful world than I do
to seek the face of the Savior I profess to know, I have deceived myself.
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
your own selves. James 1:22
The one who truly loves the LORD, counts Jesus Christ to be of supreme
importance. All else in his life is less important. Through loving the
LORD with all of His heart, soul, mind, and strength, he is blessed to
ward off the many false prophets and temptations that call him to
worship at the altar of false gods (idols).
Affliction or persecution will ariseth for the words sake. (Mk.
4:17) In the Mark 4 text above, did you catch the 3 things Christ told us
choke out the life of God in us making us unfruitful?

Cares of this world

The deceitfulness of riches

The lusts of other things

Jesus said that these 3 things entering in, choke the word, and it
becometh unfruitful. Unfruitful here means lacking the fruit
consistent with a life that is rooted, grounded, and abiding in Christ and
therefore assured and blessed. Beloved, we should stop here to examine
whether or not the evidence of our lives reveals us to be real believers.
Please show us Jesus!
When I am not putting first His kingdom by seeking His face and doing
His will, the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and
the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it
becometh unfruitful.
Remember what the Holy Spirit told us through Jude?
These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast
with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are
without water (have the talk but not the walk), carried about of
winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead,
plucked up by the roots. Jude 12
Jude tells us that those who once knew Christ and have since fallen
away, have withered fruit that was once healthy, are without fruit, twice
dead, and plucked up by the roots. Scary isnt it?
This world and all the sinfulness in it will soon pass away. The message
of Holy Writ tells us beforehand that the King of all kings is coming soon
and will separate the wheat from the tares, sending the tares to a
burning and eternal inferno. Our LORD was intent upon us
understanding this truth. In Matthew 13s account, He summed up His
long parabolic discourse concerning the eternal separation of the real
and counterfeit (wheat/tares) with these words:
So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come
forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, And shall
cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and
gnashing of teeth. Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood

all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. Matthew
13:49-51

Is He Truly First?
Truly placing the LORD first in our lives and setting our affections daily
upon Him and His kingdom work is paramount to our fruitfulness. What
a blessed privilege to know Him and be known of Him! Help us love You
more LORD Jesus!
In Matthew 6 Jesus was speaking to us about food and clothing and said
(For after all these things do the Gentiles - those who do not have a
covenant relationship with the LORD seek:)... (Matt. 6:32) He was
conveying to us that which is characteristic of those who do not know
Him to greedily pursue the menial, material things of this fleeting life.
Then He told us that as we His children seek first His kingdom, all
these things shall be added unto you. (Matt. 6:33) The question really
is this; is the insatiable, endless appetite and pursuit of that which will
perish with the using ever going to fill or satisfy us? What is driving us?
What do we lack inside that would drive us to chase these things
which those who do not know Christ strive after as if there is an answer
in these things? Do we really think material possessions provide the
answers?
Learning to be thankful and content with what we currently have is not
only a test, but it is also essential to kingdom living and the fruit of an
abiding life.
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in
whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Philippians
4:11
And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 1
Timothy 6:8
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be
content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will
never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5

The secret to keeping our relationship alive with Christ is the daily,
ceaseless pursuit of Him with joyful thanksgiving for the great
salvation He has graciously purchased for us with His own blood (Heb.
2:3, 9). The best defense against evil weeds in the garden of our heart
and mind truly is a powerful, militantly advancing offense. As we awake
each morning to burst forth in exuberant praise to our God, the enemy is
hindered in his work and our day begins with advancing and conquering
faith. Daily prayer and searching His Scriptures provide the means of our
strength and advancing offense.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that
cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6
A person only falls into the pursuit of earthly pleasures when he is not
seeking first - as his ultimate life priority - the King and His kingdom.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;
and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore
no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought
for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil
thereof. Matthew 6:33-34
If I do not daily seek Him in intimate prayer and in His Word, it is
because I am engrossed in self-idolatry, seeking my own selfish ends,
and not truly and duly worshipping, and upholding the God who made
and bought me. Thou shall have no other gods before me. (Exod.
20:3) If I do not sincerely seek His holy face, I allow my soul to rule
instead of my spirit which is where the Holy Spirit bears witness (Rom.
8:16). The soul is only fruitful when guided by the spirit which is to be in
communion with the Holy Ghost (2 Cor. 13:14). When the Holy Spirit and
the spirit of man are not ruling, the result is selfishness and pursuit of
earthly pleasures.
Maintaining the good works, the disciplines of a holy life that is in
communion with Christ, is essential to fruitfulness in Gods kingdom.
And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary
uses, that they be not unfruitful. Titus 3:14

Maintaining the first fruit time of Bible study and prayer communion is
indispensable to continuing to keep our lives in vital union with the Vine
Himself. Nothing can be more rewarding now and forever. Rendering to
the Master the first minutes of our day, our very initial waking moments,
is crucial to abiding close with our Savior.
And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he
went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there
prayed. Mark 1:35
My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the
morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
Psalms 5:3
If I dont spend time with the Father in prayer communion, it must be
due to the fact that something or someone else has become more
important than Him. Heal our idolatry LORD! If my life is one endless
pursuit to fulfill my own needs and desires (spiritual adultery and
idolatry), it is because Jesus is not truly my first love. First means
first.
Let each day have its value from your calling to abide in Christ. As
its light opens on your waking eyes, accept it on these terms: a
day, just one day only, but still a day, given to abide and grow up
in Jesus Christ. Whether it be a day of health or sickness, joy or
sorrow, rest or work, struggle or victory, let the chief thought with
which you receive it in the morning thanksgiving be this: This is a
day that the Father has given; in it I may, I must, become more
closely united to Jesus. As the Father asks, Can you trust Me just
for this one day to keep you abiding in Jesus, and Jesus keep you
fruitful?, you cannot help but give the joyful response: I will trust
and not be afraid. Andrew Murray, Abide In Christ, pgs. 114, 115,
Whitaker House
Though they had works which looked good on the outside, the people in
the church at Ephesus had faded from upholding Jesus Christ as Head
of their lives. This is exactly what inevitably occurs when the believer

neglects to experience Christ in personal communion. To this gathering

of believers at Ephesus, Jesus said:
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou
hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou
art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will
come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out
of his place, except thou repent. Revelation 2:4-5
The divine promise here is that if we do not repent and return to our first
love, God will remove His holy presence (candlestick) from our lives quickly.
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny
him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good
work reprobate. Titus 1:16
Whats the real score? Do I genuinely possess a relationship with Him or
just profess or pretend to have one?
Our view of the One who is Judge of all is ultra important. He sees not as
men see. Men see not as He sees (1 Sam. 16:7; Isa. 55:8-9). Jesus told us
that those who are born again can see (perceive) the kingdom of
God. According to how the born again believer lives in and by the Spirit
and the Word, he is able to see or view or perceive the things the way
God does.
PRAYER: Holy Father, grant my eyes to see and ears to hear what is
priority to You. Do Your work in my heart and make me to be a rich and
increasingly fruitful field for Your eternal glory. Please fill my heart afresh
with Your love. Also, grant me the privilege to help others to be fruitful and
that that fruit might remain to the end. LORD Jesus thank You for saving
me and for continuing Your good pleasure in my life. I love You. Take full
possession of my life and produce Your holy fruit in me. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY FIVE

APOSTASY IN THE CHURCH WORLD

The Lie Prospers from Pulpits

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times

some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy;
having their conscience seared with a hot iron. 1 Timothy
4:1-2
In light of the numerous end-time warnings concerning the exponential
deception to be circulating among those who claim to know the LORD,
we should not be surprised that this lie of the ages has gained such
prominence.
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not
come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of
sin be revealed, the son of perdition. 2 Thessalonians 2:3
The Holy Spirit foretold of treacherous times coming in the final days of
this age, where there would be a whole generation of people who were
supposedly Christians and yet lived to serve their own selfish interests
and their leaders would endorse and affirm this lawlessness in them in
order to accomplish their own selfish agendas. In other words, these
people would deny Jesus instead of self and justify themselves with
impartial and false doctrines they have received from the false teachers
they purposely placed themselves under because they refuse to obey and
endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:2-4).
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the
common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you,
and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith
which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are
certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the

grace of our God into lasciviousness (lawlessness; license to

sin), and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus
Christ. Jude 3-4
Instead of giving warning, modern deceivers (serving themselves, not
Christ) confirm people in their sins, sealing their damnation.
Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his
righteousness,
and
commit
iniquity,
and
I
lay
a
stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not
given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his
righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered;
but his blood will I require at thine hand. Ezekiel 3:20
True believers are responsible to give warning to those among Gods
people who commit iniquity. The blood of the slain will be required of
us on Judgment Day if we do not warn them.
Our LORD told us that in this last day generation, there would be
counterfeit Christians who would be pure in their own deceived eyes
and yet not washed from their iniquities.
There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet
is not washed from their filthiness. Proverbs 30:12
These are they who have a form or formula of godliness (religious
regiment, outward show without a real relationship) and yet deny Christ
the place of Lordship in their personal lives. Jesus is not their first love.
Lets look at a detailed description of what the moral landscape will be
and is in the very latter days leading up to the return of Jesus Christ:
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall
come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous,
boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents,
unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers,
false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are
good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more
than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying
the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Behold closely the fruit of those who have the image of a false god in
their hearts and love pleasure more than Christ. Here we are told 19
specific things that In the last daysmen shall be:

Lovers of their own selves spend their time and energies to

embellish and pleasure themselves.

Covetous can never have enough or be content with what they

have; insatiable greed for more.

Boasters boastful about selfish, unimportant things.

Proud full of pride; puffed up in self.

Blasphemers using Gods name in vain by professing to know

Him and yet serving self.

Disobedient to parents do not honor their father and mother.

Unthankful do not truly have a broken heart of humility and

therefore cannot render gratitude to the One from whom all
blessings flow.

Unholy not sanctified, not set apart.

Without natural affection do not possess simple affection for

God and others.

Trucebreakers people who do not keep their word.

False accusers blamer; issuing forth railing accusations

against others.

Incontinent no control of appetites and passions.

Fierce burst out in anger (think about how we act in traffic or

if we erupt in anger for small things).

Despisers of those that are good (false accusers and

persecutors of the righteous).

Traitors not loyal or faithful.

Heady rash, hasty, reckless, headstrong.

Highminded arrogant; the opposite of a humble servant who

looks upon others with Gods love and renders simple acts of
charity to help them.

Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God self-seeking

and self-focused idolatry.

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof

they have the outward Sunday morning show of being a Christian,
but do not truly know or serve Him daily. They deny His authority
to rule supreme in their daily lives, taking up the cross and
following Him.

In what is perhaps the most frightening passage in all of Holy Scripture,

Jesus foretells that it will be too late for many on that Great and
Terrible Day of reckoning with the Judge of the earth:
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into
the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my
Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,
Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy
name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many
wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never
knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew
7:21-23
We are told in Revelation 14 that any person, with no respect to them
being saved previously, who takes the mark of the beast will be eternally
doomed (also see Ezek. 33:12-13).
And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice,
If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his
mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of
the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without
mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be
tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy

angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of

their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have
no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image,
and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Here is the
patience of the saints: here are they that keep the
commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. Revelation
14:9-12
This is but another clear refutation to the beguiling and erroneous
teaching of an unconditional eternal security. Once again, the lie is slain
by the sword of divine Truth. Here, in the case of sure damnation to any
person taking the mark of the beast, we see the same inferred condition
of enduring faithfully to the end as a requirement to enter the pearly
gates into eternal glory. This is consistent with the whole of Holy
Scripture.
And we desire that every one of you do shew the same
diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye
be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and
patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:11-12
The promise of everlasting bliss with Jesus is reserved for those who
inherit the promises of God through faith and patience
(enduring to the end).

Persevering in the Truth

Anyone who vainly believes that the LORD will somehow pardon the sins
of His own people that are not repented of, is deluded and in wholesale
denial of the entire Word of God (Exod. 34:7; Rom. 11:22; 1 Jn. 1:9; Rev.
21:8, 27). Such a person has fashioned the image of a false god in his
mind and is in great danger.
Those who do not possess and persevere in the love of the truth will
absolutely be deluded and deceived and believe a lie so that they are
ultimately damned.
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that
perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that

they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them
strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all
might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure
in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
Is there a reason people are deceived and ultimately incarcerated in
eternal hell? Is this Gods will or is it the deliberate decision of the
deceived?
This daunting passage in 2 Thessalonians clearly reveals that ones belief
about God will save or damn him. See also Proverbs 13:13, Isaiah 5:2024, Mark 16:16, 2 Corinthians 2:15-16; and 2 John 9.
Did you observe here in 2 Thessalonians 2 that God Himself does not take it
lightly when men do not love His Word? So much so that He personally
sends to their hearts a strong delusion and leads them to eternal
damnation if they dont repent and believe according to what is written in
His Word.
And for this cause (that they did not believe His Word) God shall
send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. 2
Thessalonians 2:11
Why does the Bible tell us that many will believe a lie and be
damned? because they received not the love of the truth, that
they might be saved. Those who refuse to be possessed like David by a
love for Gods holy Word, will follow a false god, one concocted out of
fables even using Scripture, and will be deceived and ultimately
damned.
Who did Jesus say is of God and who is not of God?
He that is of God heareth Gods words: ye therefore hear
them not, because ye are not of God. John 8:47
Here the Son of God clearly defines who is right with God and who isnt based upon who hears (and obeys) His Word and who doesnt.
He blessed us with His precious Word that we might know His truth and
be comforted and assured in Him and kept from deception.

For whatsoever things were written aforetime (the Scriptures)

were written for our learning, that we through patience and
comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Romans 15:4
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I want to know You more. Forgive the idolatry
of my life. I have sought my own way and to fulfill my own needs and
desires. Help me to without reservation give my life to You and then others
in service. I choose this day to honor You first in my life and to prefer and
elevate others above myself. I love You Jesus. Thank You for giving Your
life for me. Grant me Your grace through the blood of the cross of my Savior
and do Your good pleasure in my life. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY SIX

THE SPIRIT OF HOLINESS

Romans 1:4

And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to

the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:
Romans 1:4
Jesus Christ died on the cross and then was raised from the dead to
redeem all. After a person comes to Him in repentance and faith and is
born again, the Holy Spirit possesses that person and seeks to lead him
into holy conformity to the Son of God (Rom. 8:29). The same Spirit that
raised up our LORD dwells in us to bring about His holy will (Rom. 8:11).

Any person in ministry work or claiming to have a relationship with the

LORD who is not on the relentless pursuit of personal holiness through
the power of Christ is either backslidden or was never saved in the first
place (Lev. 19:1-5; Ps. 93:5; 2 Cor. 7:1; Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:15-16). It is
only when a man is made to realize his own utterly depraved state
outside of Christs present grace, that he will cry out to the LORD in
repentance (Jer. 17:9; Acts 3:19). As Paul did, the repentant soul will
then cry out daily to his LORD to wash him (Ps. 51; Rom. 7:18, 24; 1 Jn.
1:9). Only as he is being washed can one be ready for ministry to the
saints who also have flesh that wars against their spirit (Gal. 5:16-17).
This same man, true and transparent to the LORD, will unceasingly
endeavor to see Christs body washed and made holy and ready for His
return (Eph. 5:25-27).
Peter, one of the very twelve of our Savior, discovered the need for
perpetual cleansing which can only come from Jesus Christ.
He (Jesus) riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments
(prepared to serve); and took a towel, and girded himself. After
that he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the
disciples feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he
was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith
unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and
said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt
know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash
my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no
part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet
only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He
that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean
every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. John 13:4-10
Jesus told Peter here that he was washed yet that he must be perpetually
washed Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to
wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.
When our feet are cleaned we are clean every whit. Christ would
never have used this term clean every whit, if He were not intent
upon the personal, meticulous, and microscopic holiness of His beloved
saints. Selah!

Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house,

O LORD, for ever. Psalms 93:5
The personal holiness of His beloved people has always been of the
utmost importance to the LORD.
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto all the
congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye
shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy. Ye shall fear
every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I
am the LORD your God. Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to
yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God. And if ye offer
a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at
your own will. Leviticus 19:1-5
Have you noticed that walking through this life causes the disciple,
whose feet tread upon the narrow road, to pick up dirt which must be
washed? Has the filth of sin not touched each of us?
Peter wisely chose to answer the call of Christ to be perpetually washed
Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my
hands and my head. Unlike Judas, the one Christ refers to here when
He inserts but not all (are washed), Peter answered the LORDs call to
be washed of his filth - perpetually. Was this not the very difference
between Peter and Judas? Is this not the reason that only one of these
two men is in Heaven and the other in the bowels of eternal damnation?
You may wish to pause and remember how that the LORD promised
Peter and Judas an eternal throne, so we know they were both equally a
part of His kingdom initially (Matt. 19:28). Both of these men were
actually active in Jesus ministry (Lk. 9:1-6). Jesus also sent both of
these men out to do His work which He would have never done if both
men were not His at the time (Matt. 10:1-8).

If I Wash Thee Not, Thou Hast No Part with Me

Beloved, you are the basin, the vessel, which must first be washed out
and then filled with the water of Christs holy presence in the divine
Person of the Holy Ghost. From that washing and filling you will be

enabled to wash the feet of others which relates to helping them realize
their great need to be cleansed and filled by our LORD. Like Peter was
taught by the Savior, so we must learn that one must be cleansed first to
be blessed to be used by the Master (2 Tim. 2:21). All the saints of Christ
are washed yet they must like Peter, continue to be washed and filled up.
There is the vital necessity for the continual flow of the life and cleansing
stream of Christs washings to make us holy and meet (fit) for the
masters use. (2 Tim. 2:21)
If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a
vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet (fit) for the masters
use, and prepared unto every good work. 2 Timothy 2:21
In an hour when the idea of personal holiness is either completely
ignored or even mocked at in the modern church, there is the dire need
for men and women who truly love the holy LORD of all creation, to
speak His truth in love. God demands personal holiness the holiness
that He alone can bring about in the humble, broken servant. It appears
that many in leadership positions today who mislead by withholding
such paramount biblical truth, desperately need to be cleansed of their
sins and the evil of their self-serving lives.
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
The LORD would wash the body of Christ, His Bride, from all filthiness of
the flesh and spirit and perfect in each member the fear of God and His
holiness.
The Bride must have His perfect Word that they might be washed. Gods
Word has been corrupted in the new versions of the Bible in English and
such must eventually reflect upon the health of the Church.
(See BIBLE VERSIONS button at www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com) The
purity of the Word of God is of the utmost importance (Ps. 12:6-7; Prov.
30:5-6; 1 Pet. 2:2; Rev. 22:18-19).
In this late hour, God-fearing overseers who live and operate in
leadership to glorify Jesus Christ alone are rare (1 Cor. 2:2; Gal. 3:1;

6:14). Men who are true to God in this apostate generation are unique
and this writer believes very precious in the eyes of the LORD. These men
truly watch after the souls of those they are blessed to lead and fervently
preach the Word of God to His people (2 Tim. 4:1-4; Heb. 13:7, 17). Their
deep desire and focal point of service to the LORD is to see Jesus Christs
holiness exalted and He alone glorified among His beloved people as
Savior and LORD (Col. 1:22, 27-29). This was Pauls goal in light of the
return of the LORD (Eph. 5:25-27; Col. 1:27-29).

The Bridegroom
He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of
the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth
greatly because of the bridegrooms voice: this my joy
therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.
John 3:29-30
In human relationships, the friends of a bridegroom rejoice to see the
bridegroom and His bride brought together in holy matrimony. Those
who are true friends of Jesus Christ rejoice to see Him and His Bride
united. That day draws near. The greatest of human joy is associated
when a new family is formed at a wedding celebration.
For as a young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry
thee: and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall
thy God rejoice over thee. Isaiah 62:5
We all understand that the consummation of a new family is the
occasion for great rejoicing, hence the marriage celebration and coming
together of a man and woman in holy matrimony. Leading up to the
marriage is great preparation. Is it not true that if one loves Christ he will
rejoice to see the Bride of Christ prepared for coming together with the
Bridegroom (Jesus)? This will be the ultimate marriage celebration.
Those who love the Bridegroom (Jesus) also rejoice to decrease that He,
the Bridegroom, might increase and use them to prepare the Bride in
humble, obedient service.

Abrahams servant rejoiced to see Isaac and Rebekah brought together

(Genesis 24). Naomi rejoiced to see Boaz and Ruth united in fruitful
marital relationship (book of Ruth).
In cultures across the world, especially in ancient times, women purified
themselves for months in preparation for their bridegroom.
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the
marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself
ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine
linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of
saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are
called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto
me, These are the true sayings of God. Revelation 19:7-9
Of the bride of Christ, the Bible tells us his wife hath made herself
ready.
Like the bride who extensively prepares to be united with her beloved
bridegroom, so the true Bride of Christ purifieth himself (prepares
herself), even as he is pure. (1 Jn. 3:3) In order to be holy, one must
have his garments washed. Garments are used allegorically in the Bible
to depict righteousness and unrighteousness (Eph. 5:25-27; James 5:2;
Jude 22-23; Rev. 3:4; 16:15). Spotted garments represent the stain of sin
upon ones life while pure, white garments depict the righteousness of
the saints who are washed afresh in the blood of the Lamb. The Son of
God warned:
Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and
keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his
shame. Revelation 16:15
Beware of the many leaders who refuse to teach this ultra-important
truth out of the Word. According to the New Testament record, the
believers life is one of perpetual preparation and eagerly awaiting the
soon return of the Savior (Lk. 21:28, 34-36; Heb. 9:28; 1 Jn. 3:3).
False leaders will offer salvation and cheap grace and ignore
Christs demand for repentance, separation from immorality, and
loyalty to God and His standards. False gospels centering on

human desires, needs, and goals of self-interest will become

popular (see 2 Tim. 3-4). Life in the Spirit Study Bible, p. 1896
When Gods people are misled by their leaders the worlds people look
on and mock (Isa. 9:16). When His beloved people are led into the
worship of self (psychology, etc.) and things pertaining to greed and
self-interests, and not after a life given to Christ, judgment and
chastening will come from Heaven (Rev. 3:19).
What thing shall I take to witness for thee? what thing shall
I liken to thee, O daughter of Jerusalem? what shall I equal
to thee, that I may comfort thee, O virgin daughter of Zion?
for thy breach is great like the sea: who can heal thee? Thy
prophets (leaders) have seen vain and foolish things for thee:
and they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away
thy captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and
causes of banishment. All that pass by clap their hands at
thee; they hiss and wag their head at the daughter of
Jerusalem, saying, Is this the city that men call The
perfection of beauty, The joy of the whole earth?
Lamentations 2:13-15
In Jeremiahs day, sin had separated Gods covenant people from Him.
The problem? Their leaders were not discovering or uncovering their sins
which were the very cause of the LORD forsaking them and allowing
them to be under the captivity (bondage) of other heathen nations. Why
would any leader do this? - Because he is serving himself and not
Christ. One will observe while reading the history of Gods covenant
people, that sin breaches and brings the curse and all its evil effects
upon Gods people (Isa. 9:16; 59:2; Jer. 3:15). God is eternally holy. As
in Jeremiahs day, so today, many who lead are busy building their
own church kingdom business and in order to do so, they must take
the conviction and offense out of the true Gospel (Gal. 5:11; 6:12). If
hirelings dont remove conscience-stinging doctrines of Scripture, they
will not be successful in winning friends and influencing the carnal
masses to give their money and keep coming and rendering their
support. Such popularity gives the hireling pastor a sense of success.
As foretold in Scripture concerning the last hour of this age, many will
be misled to their own destruction (2 Thess. 2:3, 10-12; 1 Tim. 4:1-6; 2
Tim. 4:1-4). In this last hour, self-serving hirelings, willing to twist and
omit and manipulate the truth, are very common in the church world
(1 Tim. 4:1-6; 2 Tim. 3:1-13). Beware!
Beware of the leader who does not preach, warn, teach, and does not
possess the ironclad, apostolic goal of making ready the Church to

meet Christ at His soon return (Col. 1:22; 28-29; 2:4-8; 1 Jn. 2:24-3:3;
4:1-3; 2 Jn. 7-11; Jude 3-4).

The Beauty of Holiness

Holiness is of prime importance to God and to all those who truly know
Him.
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all
manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16
Authentic holiness is beautiful and not drudgery. Any notion or brand of
so-called holiness that is tainted with religious legalism and dread is not
of divine origin.
Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the
LORD in the beauty of holiness. Psalms 29:2
O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before
him, all the earth. Psalms 96:9
From the perspective of the saint who is presently on earth, one of the
many beautiful things about the beauty of holiness is that personal
holiness does not come merely by human effort. Ultimately only God can
make a man holy and perhaps this is one way that His holiness is so
beautiful (Prov. 20:9). Though only Christ can sanctify and make a man
holy, He must of necessity have the individuals participation (2 Cor. 7:1;
1 Pet. 1:16). We know this plainly because He would never command
men to be holy (as He has done) if such were not a personal
responsibility and also a distinct possibility.
May our LORD give us grace to cease from seeking to be justified,
righteous, or holy by mere self-effort and not out of a grace relationship
with Him (which is by faith not works). Suggested prayer: LORD grant me
the spirit of Your holiness to please You through relationship faith. I love
You Jesus and I know that it is not by works of righteousness which I
have done but according to Your mercy that You saved me through the
blood of Jesus Christ. Amen.

God does not make us holy in the sense of character; He makes

us holy in the sense of innocence, and we have to turn that
innocence into holy character by a series of moral choices. My
Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers, p. 252
Paul severely rebuked the bewitched Galatians for being deceived by
the evil of forsaking the Gospel of grace and going back under lawrighteousness (see Gal. 3). He poses the following question to the
believers at Galatia who after being saved by grace through faith went
back to seeking to be justified by their own good works: Are ye so
foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the
flesh? (Gal. 3:3)
Going back to self-works to remain justified is gross sin and displeasing
in the sight of the LORD. Personal works can neither save nor set a man
free or separate him to God.
Now to him that worketh (to gain or maintain salvation) is
the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that
worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly,
his faith is counted for righteousness. Romans 4:4-5
The believer in Christ must learn to perpetually cast himself upon the
LORD and cease from seeking to be kept or sanctified merely by his own
self-effort. It is Gods power that justifies and keeps the saint as he trusts
fully in the LORD (1 Pet. 1:5). Self-righteousness was one of the cardinal
sins of the Pharisees whom Christ said were going to damnation (Matt.
23). There can be no peace outside of personally possessing this truth (of
the Gospel of grace by faith in Christ alone) revealed in our hearts by the
Holy Spirit. We cannot save nor sanctify ourselves.
But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for
himself. Psalms 4:3
Ultimately, it is only Christ who can save and sanctify (Ps. 4:3).
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come
by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. O foolish Galatians,
who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth,

before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth,
crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received
ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of
faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye
now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many
things in vain? if it be yet in vain. He therefore that
ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among
you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of
faith? Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to
him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are
of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. Galatians
2:21-3:7
Justification and salvation are by faith not self-effort nor works (Rom.
3:28). The Holy Spirit of holiness fills and propels the individual saint
toward authentic holiness (sanctification). Just as we are justified by the
grace of God through faith in Christ, so we are set apart to Him in
holiness (consecrated) by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8-10). Through
relationship and communion with the LORD, the deeds of the
fleshly/sinful nature are to be crucified (Matt. 26:41; Rom. 8:13; Gal.
5:16). When Jesus reigns in a person, His resurrection life will be found
present, propelling that saint on to a life of inward holiness that
manifests in the actions as is pleasing to the LORD.
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the
Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans
8:13
It is through the Spirit of God that men are blessed to glorify the
LORD as they present their bodies as living sacrifices to Him and are
transformed to have a renewed mind (Rom. 12:1-2). The sinful nature is
insatiably evil (Jer. 17:9; James 4:5). It must be crucified and cannot be
negotiated with. The life of the disciple must be wholly released to the
LORD. It clearly takes the power of God to bring the implacable sinful
nature of men under subjection to the Spirit of God (1 Cor. 9:27). Such
occurs when the saint fully cooperates with the LORD by commending
his spirit into the perfect hands of the Father (Lk. 23:46; Rom. 8:13-14).

Jesus instructed those who would follow Him fervently and holy to the
end to watch and pray.
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit
indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41
Positional and practical holiness are accomplished through the spirit
of holiness. For the justified disciple of Christ, it is through watching
and praying in the communion of the Holy Ghost that the sinful
nature is put under (mortified; rendered powerless) so that the life of
Jesus might be manifested in that life (2 Cor. 4:10-11; 13:14, etc.).
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus,
that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus
sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our
mortal flesh. 2 Corinthians 4:10-11
Our LORD is calling us to sentence our sinful nature to death that
His holiness might be realized and accomplished in our lives. The selflive must be sacrificed.
But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should
not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead. 2
Corinthians 1:9
Can there be a resurrection without there being first a death? Obviously
not.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into
the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth
forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he
that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life
eternal. John 12:24-25
This writer would offer the following encouragement to those who want
more on this important topic:

Pour over Romans 6-8. Memorize key verses in theses chapters.

Endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:3)

Flee from moral cowards who refuse to preach the full-counsel of

the Word, line upon line, precept upon precept - directly out of the
Scriptures (Isa. 28:10).

Migrate to and fellowship with men with God-fearing fortitude who

truly and uncompromisingly embrace and preach the Word and
nothing else (2 Tim. 2:2-3, 22).

Ask Jesus to make you holy.

John Wesley exhorted:

Love the strictest preaching best. That which most searches the
heart, and shows you wherein you are unlike Christ. That which
presses you most to love Him with all your heart, and serve Him
with all your strength.
More exhortation:

Ask the Father to fill and possess you afresh with His Holy Spirit the spirit of holiness. (Rom. 1:4)

Cry out to the Father to change your heart. Humbly and boldly ask
Him to bless you to obey and endure sound doctrine. (Jn. 7:1617; 2 Tim. 4:2-3)

Ask His help to grant you keen discernment concerning true and
false teachers who operate among His people (Acts 20:27-32).

Pray for a man (or men) of God who speaks out of a true fear of the
LORD with Scripture preaching.

When you find such a man, get behind the LORDs work in him
with prayer and generous financial support (1 Cor. 9:1-14; Gal.
6:6; 1 Thess 5:25; 2 Thess. 3:1; Heb. 13:17-18).

Desire and pursue the LORDs holiness - break up your fallow

ground and sow not among thorns. (Hos. 10:12)

PRAYER: Grant me Father to have Your Spirit of holiness working deep

within. Help me to lay down my life that You alone might reign in
resurrection power. Bless me to never rely on my own self-effort or
righteousness which are all as filthy rags. This moment I sanctify my life
afresh to You LORD Jesus. I am crucified with Christ, yet nevertheless I
live, yet not I but Christ that lives in me. Jesus, I choose to live this hour
and day in light of Your soon return. Amen.

CHAPTER FIFTY SEVEN

THE LAID DOWN LIFE

And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk
in the Spirit. Galatians 5:24-25
Living in the Spirit and not in the flesh is a settled issue with the
remnant. They have crucified the flesh and the evil the sinful
nature would do. Its a done deal - They HAVE crucified the
flesh that Christ the LORD might reign in heir mortal body.
Likewise reckon (count) ye also yourselves to be dead
indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body,
that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye

your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin:

but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from
the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion
over you (because you have accounted yourself dead): for ye
are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we
sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace?
God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves
servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey;
whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto
righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the
servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that
form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made
free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Romans 6:11-18
The form of doctrine delivered by Christ and His holy apostles in the
original Gospel, included the accounting of ones life now dead and then
being raised up by Christ, with His life-giving grace operating within to
please Him fully (see also Rom. 12:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9).
For if by one mans offence death reigned by one; much more
they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of
righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. Romans
5:17
Lets peer again into the words of our LORD found in John 12:
And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the
Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you,
Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth
alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth
his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world
shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him
follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if
any man serve me, him will my Father honour. John 12:2326

Laying down our lives is paramount to walking with Jesus. It is His

command (Lk. 9:23-24; 14:33, etc.). He raises up in new life those that
are bowed down before Him (Ps. 146:8). The seed (corn) is planted or
buried alive, and is resurrected by God to a life of glory and blessing.
Without a death, there can be no resurrection. This death to the self-life is
volitional and ongoing in this life I die daily. (1 Cor. 15:31)
He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30
As we are blessed to be planted together in the likeness of his
death, so we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus
Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried
with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised
up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also
should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted
together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the
likeness of his resurrection. Romans 6:3-5
This is rightfully the most popular Bible passage on water baptism and
what the meaning and purpose of water baptism is. At water baptism, we
are buried in water, figuratively dying to the old man, the man of sin,
and being resurrected by the risen Savior and LORD to a new life where
He reigns supreme.
And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but
the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of
him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that
raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal
bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Romans 8:10-11
There are symptoms in the life of one who is not buried. The disciple who
is buried with Christ is dead to sin. (Rom. 6:2) When we argue to
justify the things we do in this life and call those who point them out
legalistic, it is symptomatic of a life that is not laid down. When we
argue against the truth (the Bible says Lie not against the truth James 3:14) when we are shown it, we manifest the rebellion in our
hearts because our lives are not authentically laid out before the LORD.

The corn of wheat (dead seed) must be planted and remain planted in
order to bud and bring forth new life. The laid down life does not make
excuse when he realizes that he has sin. No, instead he rejoices to be yet
more delivered and in the place of blessing and holiness with the One He
delights to please and serve.
Arent we the temple of the Holy Ghost and commanded to cleanse
ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting
holiness in the fear of God? (2 Cor. 7:1)
If we still have habitual sin in our lives, we should know that we are not
buried with Christ. If we were, His life would be teeming in us and
causing us to put away sinfulness. Overcoming sin happens when we
bury the old man of sin by nailing it to the cross. God is with us to do
such (Rom. 8:13; Phil. 2:12-13).
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also
suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow
his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his
mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he
suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him
that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his
own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live
unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 1 Peter
2:21-24
The LORD looks upon the hearts of men (1 Sam. 16:7). Getting our
hearts right with God begins with laying down the right to ourselves and
releasing ourselves into the unfailing hands of the One who made us and
gives us the breath of life (Lk. 23:46). This is in following the ultimate
example of our LORD Jesus who came and laid down His sinless life for
us (1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1).
Lets check our deadness. Lets see how dead we are to this world system
and all of its arrogant rebellion against the God of the universe and all
that is: Do we defend our right to fill our minds and hearts with the evil
things that are blatantly and subtly portrayed on some TV and radio
programming (and other forms of modern media)? If so, the fleshly

nature is not dead but is still alive and we are therefore not raised to new
life.
Perhaps it is true (as has been stated by some) that a person can be
known by what he laughs at or finds humorous. What do we laugh at?
What do we find entertaining? CharityRejoiceth not in iniquity,
but rejoiceth in the truth. (1 Cor. 13:4, 6)
Laying down our lives requires a deliberate, willful decision. Believers are
called to be circumspect (fully orbed in holiness) and not glorify anything
the LORD calls profane (Prov. 17:15; 24:24; Isa. 5:20-24; Ezek. 44:23;
Eph. 5:15-17).
Why crucify the flesh when there is no reason to do such? When a new
believer is told that he is eternally secure or OSAS, why then should he
get sanctified, live a repented life, be wholly set apart to the LORD, be
matured and equipped to do ministry, or prepare for the soon return of
Jesus Christ?
Apparently, according to the Word of God, returning laughter when we
witness foolishness (folly) confirms the person we are laughing at in his
folly and causes us to partake of his foolishness and deeds.
The following brief and yet convicting commentary is taken from the Life
in the Spirit Study Bible concerning Romans 1:32. First lets view the
Biblical text, then the commentary.
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit
such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but
have pleasure in them that do them. Romans 1:32
HAVE PLEASURE IN THEM THAT DO THEM. Pauls last word
on general human sinfulness is Gods condemnation of a condition
even more damning than the practice, i.e., supporting, approving,
and encouraging evil by taking pleasure in the immoral actions of
others. This disposition is the ultimate in depravity - vicarious
enjoyment of lust and evil. Sin becomes entertainment. (1) The
word have pleasure (Gk. suneudokeo) means are pleased with,
delight in, or give approval to, and points to the casual

enjoyment of the sins of others that prevails in human society. (2)

Today we know that great harm is produced by the portrayal of
immorality that dominates the entertainment media; yet many
consent to it and derive pleasure from it. Being entertained by
watching other people sin and engage in ungodly actions, even
while you yourself abstain, brings you under the same
condemnation of God as those engaging in such evil practices.
Iniquity is intensified in any society where sin meets with no
inhibition from the disapproval of others and where people enjoy
watching it. (3) Hence, those (and especially those who profess
faith in Christ) who use the immoral actions of others for
entertainment and enjoyment are directly contributing to public
opinion favorable to immorality and, therefore, to the corruption
and eternal damnation of an indefinite number of other people.
This sin is worthy of death and will be exposed and judged at the
final day of judgment (2 Thess. 2:12). p. 1729
Concerning the many things in this sinful world that would draw our
affections away from Jesus Christ and blur that pure-focused
disposition, the Psalmist wrote:
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of
them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. Psalms 101:3
Do we seek to protect our right to continue relishing the things of this
world which are despised of God? See 1 John 2:14-17. The Bible tells us
that those who love this world system and the things in it, hate God and
are His enemies regardless of what they profess (Tit. 1:16; James 4:4).
When we live out the Word, He promised persecution and instructed us
to rejoice (Matt. 5:10-12; Mk. 4:17; 1 Pet. 4:12). Have you ever been
persecuted by other believers and called legalistic because you chose
not to watch a movie that mocks at what God calls sin? I guess I have
seen people do this to truth-speakers for so long, that it has little affect
anymore, other than inducing a concern for where they really are in their
hearts. Seeking to be upright in ones ways in not legalistic it is biblical.
The Word instructs us to walk circumspectly which means fully
obedient exactly, diligently, perfectly.

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as

wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will
of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess;
but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms
and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in
your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things
unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ. Ephesians 5:15-20
And in all things that I have said unto you be circumspect:
and make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it
be heard out of thy mouth. Exodus 23:13
What the LORD tells us in Proverbs 26:4-5, is that when we join a fool in
his folly (foolishness), we become as guilty as he is and perpetuate this
sinfulness in his life and more importantly we offend the holiness of the
LORD we claim to be serving.
What we partake of and/or laugh at reveals who we really are. If all these
sinful things and justification of them are still alive in us, we do not have a
laid down life.
Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is
favour. Proverbs 14:9
Folly (foolishness) is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom:
but a man of understanding walketh uprightly. Proverbs
15:21
Yes, laughter is a blessing and there is a time to laugh and to rejoice,
yet we are not made free from sin by the blood of Christ to laugh at evil
things (Eccl. 3:4). LORD please bless us to be purified in our hearts and
to rejoice and laugh more for the right reasons! Please grant us Your
joy Jesus! Amen.
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit
drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge and
those who have it walk uprightly - they walk biblically in the Holy Spirit
of grace and not legalistically. They have joy from Jesus and are the most
blessed people in the world.
The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those
that be bowed down. Psalms 145:14
Beloved, our LORD is calling us to lay down our lives like Christ did that
He might fully possess us. Bow down before His holiness that He may raise
you up His way. Let it all go. Die to justifying your sins. Before this day
expires, get alone with the Savior and release the life He gave to you back to
Him. Completely relinquish control as you cry out like Jesus did on the
cross when dying for us - Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.
(Lk. 23:46) Give up the ghost. Cease living life on your terms. Lay your
whole life at His feet and let Him raise you up in newness of life in the Holy
Spirit and reign supreme in your body.

The Path of Our LORD Jesus

Jesus was to be glorified by the Father in laying down His life for all men
(Jn. 15:13).
nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done... Luke 22:42
He laid down His own will because of the immeasurable love He has for
each of us.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his
life for his friends. John 15:13
Do we love Jesus Christ in return? How much do I love Him? Will I lay
down my whole existence before Him, knowing He will raise me up to new
life and fruitfulness as He lives His life through me? Is this not the essence
of Galatians 2:20?
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but
Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I
live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave
himself for me. Galatians 2:20

He must increase and we must decrease, that He might be glorified in us,

and we might be the living epistles He has called us to be. When the
King of saints is reigning in a persons life, it is obvious His light
shines brightly (Matt. 5:16; Rev. 15:3).
Much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the
gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:17
His holy, impelling presence is the life that exudes from the truly justified
person, instead of the self-centered and selfish nature (Jn. 3:30). As His
resurrection life teems within, His works will be manifested through us.
Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk
in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself
for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling
savour. Ephesians 5:1-2
Jesus Christ gave Himself for us and this ultimate sacrifice to God is
a sweetsmelling savour to the Father. Finding that place of intimacy
with God is where the laid down life begins. May I suggest that you begin
with prayerfully, and from deep within, citing Galatians 2:20 aloud.
Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all
thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Psalms 42:7
PRAYER: Please draw me deeper in You LORD Jesus. Father in Heaven,
You sent Your only begotten Son to die for me in order that I might be
raised up in new life in this brief life and eternally. I love You Jesus and
ask You to lead me to that crucified life that you lived when here on earth.
Quicken me by Your Holy Spirit and fill me afresh O LORD, that this life
You gave might be fully fruitful and pleasing to Thee. Lord, I am watching
and praying in light of Your soon return. Amen.

ADDENDUM

MAKING PEACE WITH GOD

Entering the Kingdom

But your iniquities (sins) have separated between you and

your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he
will not hear. Isaiah 59:2
God is holy and our sins separate us from Him. We have all broken Gods
laws by lying, dishonoring our parents, cheating, hating, committing a
sex act in our mind with someone we are not married to, stealing,
coveting, taking His holy name in vain, etc. These are all sins against
God and we are all guilty. Committing any single one of these sins makes
us guilty of breaking the whole law and worthy of death.
Divine justice demands that our violations be punished. Because we are
guilty of breaking Gods holy law, we deserve to be fairly repaid for our
offenses. God doesnt want us to be punished in hell forever though, so
He sent His Son to pay the debt for us, so we would not have to pay for
our own sins in eternal hell as we clearly deserve, but rather live now
and forever with Him. What love!
At the end of a perfect (sinless) life, Christ carried the very cross He was
to be nailed to. His infinite love for you, along with the nails driven
through His hands and feet, held Him to that cross as He agonized for 6
hours in pain - to pay for your sins. He was crucified to make peace
between God and man. The Son of God bridged the gap that sin had
caused. This wonderful man named Jesus chose to shed His life blood
(die - in excruciating pain) for you rather than live without you. He loves
you.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal
life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23

Christ died to fully pay for the sins of the human race (John 19:30). God
loves all men and wants us to experience relationship with Him, now and
forever (John 17:3). Friend, who else has ever died for you but Jesus, the
Good Shepherd?
For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ
died for the ungodly (thats you). Romans 5:6
Christ Jesus came into the world to save (rescue) sinners. 1
Timothy 1:15
No religion or religious figure can save your soul from hell (no matter
what they claim). Jesus didnt come to start of religion but rather to
establish His eternal kingdom in the hearts of men, granting them a
relationship with God. Jesus Christ is the only One who bears nailscarred hands and feet for your sins. He is the only way to God and your
only hope.
For there is ONE God, and ONE mediator between God and
men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5
The Son of God died and rose again to take away all your sins. He was
the only One qualified for the job and He is the only One worthy of your
worship. Peace with God happens when we meet the Prince of Peace.
Now apply His holy blood to your life so that you may live now and
eternally with Him. You must completely turn your life over to Him and
turn away from all your sins - repent. Now, pray this prayer to God with
all that is within you, from your heart and out loud: Dear Lord Jesus,
thank You for shedding Your holy blood for my sins to save me from
eternal damnation in hell. You are my only hope. Heavenly Father, I
acknowledge all my sins against You right now, and ask Your forgiveness
through the precious blood of Jesus, who died and rose again for me.
Lord Jesus, take over my life right now and forevermore. I love You.
Amen.
Tell another Christian. Find a group of Christ-centered believers who love
Gods Word. Be water baptized. Read your King James Bible daily and

talk with God in prayer. Follow Christ to the end of your life. Sign up for
the free email devotional at SafeGuardYourSoul.com.

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Shocking & thought-provoking secrets about the after life. Contains a
blistering menu of what awaits all who are not born again. This message
is not for those who wish to hide the whole truth about eternal things.
SECRETS is a tract few can resist reading with its aesthetic wickedness
which reeks of death, and curiosity provoking title.
Order Your Supply Today at SafeGuardYourSoul.com

What People are Saying about the

SafeGuard Your Soul Gospel Tracts:

I walk a wooden cross through the Deep Ellum area of Dallas, so, I get
handed a lot of Bible Flyers and tracts. Your JESUS: Why Did This Man
Die On A Cross? is about the best so far. Jim B., TX
Ive had the hugest response I have ever seen through a tract. Michael,
Oregon
Since 1999 my wife and I began distributing thousands of the JESUS
tracts in Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago, Ghana, Holland, Nigeria, Vatican City,
Italy, France, Japan, Germany, Thailand, Aruba, Cayman Islands, Puerto
Rico, and all across America. The JESUS tract is quite unique as it
presents the gospel clearly and in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy
Trinity has enabled the publishing of this magnificent gospel tract titled-JESUS, that is literally reaching the world. Many of our friends and
family members have also used this tract to the glory of God. We have
personally witnessed many souls being won to Christ as a direct result of
the JESUS tract. Jay, Texas

I gave out 500 or so of the tracts and the response WAS huge! I will
never use another tract than the JESUS tract! I have seen DOZENS of
people get saved from it! Aaron, Oregon
We have read over your tract called, JESUS-Why did this man die on a
cross? and are in love with it! Joey Q., Abilene, TX
We went out passing the JESUS tracts. They are so effective. They look
so good when you hand them to the people and they see the Name of
Jesus there staring at them. We passed so many out today I lost count
but I need to order some more of them. Cindy H., Texas
Thanks so much for the Secrets From Beyond the Grave...that tract is
so awesome! I cant wait to order them for our halloween outreach this
year! Jeff F.
Hi Todd! I have been passing out your JESUS tracts. I like
themEveryone really likes them, including my sons teenage
friendsGod bless you Todd! Chris A., WI
I love your new tract (HELL: Dont Go There!)...Saw two guys publicly
give their trust to Jesus Christ...Thanks for such a wonderful tract Todd.
I love you brother. Byron C., TX
Your tracts have helped me win dozens of souls to Jesus. Jay B., TX
Your tracts planted the seed that led me to Christ. I was saved after
seeing tons of tracts laying all over Wal-Mart while working, shopping,
etc. unknown

SHARPENING YOUR
PERSONAL DISCERNMENT

For the Building Up of His Saints

To begin receiving the Moments for My Master email devotionals, sign

up at SafeGuardYourSoul.com.

Also, sign up for print newsletter on site.

(book cover here)

Deceivers
&

False Prophets
Among Us
Volume I
THE BOOK SOME LEADERS
HOPE YOU NEVER FIND OUT ABOUT

Are there false, fruitless and even deceptive predators in the pulpits of the
modern church? If so, are these deceivers leading multitudes to the
worship of false gods through their damnable heresies? Are seekerfriendly churches creating a new class of Christians who have no
concept of authentic, Biblical Christianity? Are there leaders who are

building their own kingdoms in lieu of Gods and doing so on your dime?
Are we hearing the full-counsel of the LORD from those in leadership, or
the psychology and programs of mere men? Are beguiling emissaries in
our midst drawing believers away from pure devotion and intimacy with
Jesus Christ? Do these things exist within your local fellowship? Are you
truly being instructed in the right ways of the LORD? Explore the answers
to these and many more questions in this bold, insightful, and resourceful
look at the church world today.

WHAT YOU WILL GAIN FROM READING THIS BOOK:

o What specific erroneous teachings are circulating in the church
world and how to identify and expose them
o How to discern the genuine leaders who truly follow the Word and
Spirit of God, from the false and fruitless who are using Gods
money to build their own kingdoms
o How to please the LORD by positioning and establishing His
written revelation as final authority in your personal life
o How to discern and cease wasting your brief existence on this
earth supporting wolves in sheeps clothing
o How to serve God with a loving and concerned heart from the
foundation of divine immutable truth
Order this book at www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Todd Tomasella is a publisher of Gospel literature designed to strike
the lost with the fear of God and to build up the body of Christ. Based
in Dallas, Texas, Todd is blessed to possess divine grace with a
kingdom perspective as he serves through discipleship-pastoring and
evangelism on a daily basis and in a local fellowship, Scriptureintensive books, Gospel tracts, the website SafeGuardYourSoul.com,
the Moments for My Master email devotionals, and speaking
engagements.
Visit www.SafeGuardYourSoul.com