In Corinth, the temple feast was celebrated to commemorate Pagan gods. The Greeks believed that by consuming food offered to idols will cause the spirits of the gods to give them Power.
Hence when they converted to Christianity, many of them gets stumbled by these idol offered meat sold in the marketplace because they too believed that the evil idolatrous spirits will possess those who consume them.
Paul did not have a problem with the spiritual implications of that, but rather urge those who understands the Law of liberty to avoid consuming it in the presense of Christians who are weaker in faith.
That is the context of 1 Cor 8.
As for Rom 14, it is more pertaining to Jewish Christians who are still practicing their Kosher diet... and non Jewish brethrens ought to take care of their conscience.
Hence today, simple things like consuming food offered to idols or taking Yoga as a basic form of exercise does not have spiritual implications.
However, if one gets involved in deeper into occultic believes like fortune telling, astrology or Yoga Kundulini meditation, he is essentially inviting spirits to have a foothold over them.
The bible specifically warns against idolatry.
As I urged you when I went into Macedonia—remain in Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith.
I Timothy 1:3-4 NKJV
Saturday, 17 February 2018
Friday, 16 February 2018
Can the Miracles of Jesus be replicated today?
Jesus did a series of Healing Miracles from Matthew Chap 8 to 9. Matt 9:35 forms an end of an inclusio of this series of activities beginning from 4:23 onwards. Hence the Sermon on the Mount should also be taken into consideration on Jesus' teaching focus on more Spiritual issues than Material ones.
The Miraculous activities from 8:1 to 9:35 all points to more than just the spectacular Miracles itself, which most will quickly carelessly conclude. These cannot be simply claimed to any individual today, given it's absolute fulfillment and magnitute of achievement.
1. Healing of a leper (8:1-4)
Jesus willingness to touch a Leper which is unclean according to Jewish Laws (Lev 13). Instead of getting himself infected (which is what the Law was trying to prevent), Jesus made the Leper Clean instead. He wanted him to tell no one perhaps because he was not ready to publicise his work, but asked him to present a gift as required under the Mosiac Law.
Jesus demonstrates his Power to make spiritually unclean people clean, just as how he used a Healing Miracle to demonstrate his Power to forgive Sins (9:1-7).
2. Healing of Centurion's servant (8:5-13)
Illustrates Jesus authority which has similar nature to the Centurion's (v9). The Centurions normally operates out of Major cities like Syria or Caesarea which is quite far away. It was quite unusual for him to travel personally all the way to Jewish territory to look for Jesus. And Jesus was actually ready to cross Jewish borders to heal his servant (v7). But the Centurion recognised who Jesus was, the Messiah who was able to save. It was based on this Faith that Jesus said this,
"10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. 11 I say to you that many will come from the east and the west,and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”" - Matt 8:10-12
What Jesus was saying, was that Israel (the subjects of the Kingdom) did not believed who he was, whereas Gentiles like the Centurion did. The Faith he was referring to is not about the healing, but about the identity of the Messiah.
Today, the word of God bears witness to these events that proves that Jesus is the Christ. The purpose of Signs and Wonders has been exhausted and is seldom required. Today, the bible is our prove.
3. Jesus Healed the crowd (8:14-17)
Mathew quoted Isaiah 53:5 in 8:17. But in Isaiah 53:5, the context was of healing of Sin, not Physical infirmities :
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed. - Isaiah 53:5
Notice the terms ""pierced for transgressions" and "crushed for iniquities". Hence is he was tortured for our sins, it is only logical that by his wounds our Sins are cured. This is consistent with Isaiah 1:5 which describes Israel as Spiritually Sick because of Sin.
Why should you be stricken again?
You will revolt more and more.
The whole head is sick,
And the whole heart faints.- Isaiah 1:5
Isaiah 35:5-6 also talks about Physical Healing which will happen in the Millennial Kingdom :
5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
And the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
6 Then the lame shall leap like a deer,
And the tongue of the dumb sing. - Isaiah 35:5-6
Hence while Isaiah 53:4 states the healing for Sin and transgression, Matthew is illustrating the ability of Jesus to prove that he is that Messiah who heals in the Millennial Kingdom, by giving a preview to Israel by demonstrating his power to heal Physically when he was there.
4. Cost of discipleship (8:18-22)
It is interesting that Matthew places this narrative in the middle of this series of Miracles. In ancient times, some Jewish sects like the Essences made their followers relinquish their property as a criteria to follow them.
Jews were also called to honour their father and mother, burying the dead was an important fulfilment of that commandment (Tobit 4:3-4, 4 Maccabees 16:11). This was also consistent with Greek culture. Jesus request for them to "let the dead bury their own dead" to follow Him would be a culture shock to them.
5. Jesus calms the Storm (8:23-27)
"27 The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”" - Matt 8:27
Jesus once again demonstrates what no other mortals can do, that he is the Son of God. No other modern day Healing Evangelist can come even close to mimicking such power.
6. Deliverance of the Demoniac (8:28-34)
"“Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?”". Even the Demons recognized Jesus when the Pharisees could not. And just like the Pharisees, they anticipate the coming of the Messiah to establish His Kingdom. But did not foresaw his coming as a man.
Jesus had absolute authority over Demon Spirits. He did not perform any rituals nor Charismatic mantras. The demons had to seek permission to leave at the command of a single word, "Go".
No modern day exorcists, clairvoyant or self proclaimed prophets can ever exude such authority. Only Magicians and Sorcerors follow rituals and spells, but Jesus had the ultimate authority above all.
7. Healing of the Paralytic (9:1-7)
The whole point of this narrative is this,
4 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? 5 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? - Matt 9:4
The intrinsic answer is of course, healing of the paralytic man. And because healing being the lesser task, Jesus was using this to demonstrate his ultimate power to forgive Sins.
8. Teaching on Discipleship again (9:9-17)
This is the 2nd narrative break on this series of Miracle accounts. Jesus encounter with the Pharisees at Matthew's House demonstrates that Jesus came for those who are willing to acknowledge their Sinful state as opposed to the pride of the Pharisees.
" 12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’[a] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”- Matt 9:12-13
In the Old Testament, the Law only required fasting on the day of Atonement. Many other days of fasting were implemented by religious sects such as the Pharisees.
His point about the old and new garment and wineskins, is for believers to forsake the old Wineskins of man-made Tradition and be prepared to embrace the the new fulfillment of the New Covenent.
9. Healed a Woman with issue of blood (9:18-22)
This shows Jesus coming down to the woman's level of Faith. Just as the Centurion believed that Jesus can heal at a word despite of the distance apart (8:5-13), the woman believed she can be healed by touching his garments (considered unclean for a woman under menstrual issues).
Again, the Faith that healed the woman, is her understanding of who Jesus is, the authority of the promised Messiah; he is not merely a Faith Healer.
10. Raised daughter at Synagogue leader's house (9:23-25)
Jesus performed an ultimate miracle in this series of narratives, raising the dead. Again touching the dead is considered unclean under Jewish Laws, but Jesus gave life to the dead girl instead.
The girl couldn't have the faith to believe in her resurrection. This is to demonstrate that Christ has the power to save us from spiritual death even though we are dead in trespasses (Eph 2:1-10)
11. Healing of blind and mute men (9:27-34)
A key question in v28 "“Do you believe that I am able to do this?”". "29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”" Just like the woman with the issue of blood, the Faith that healed them is based on their understanding of who Jesus was, the promised Messiah of the Jewish hope.
Jesus miracle parade worked. " “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”". And indeed nothing as spectacular will go beyond the ministry of Jesus and his Apostles. Given as a proof of Jesus ministry and the Apostles doctrine written in the New Testament.
Conclusion :
The Miracles performed by Jesus proves his Authority over Diseases, Demons, Forces of Nature and even Death. It proves Jesus ultimate authority to provide forgiveness of Sins.
Matthew's quote on Isaiah 53:5 provided a preview of Jesus' ability to provide actual Physical Healing which will take place at the Millennial Kingdom (Isaiah 35:5-6).
Our spiritual restoration, as demonstrated by the healing by Faith, is characterized by our recognition of our hopelessly Sinful state (9:12-13), willingness to forsake our worldly values (8:18-22), and Faith in knowing Jesus Saves (9:21-22, 28-29)
These Miracles will not be repeated today by having self-professed Prophets and Apostles trying to demonstrate the same power that Jesus has. Today, God will speak to the hearts and minds of those whom he has chosen, and will grant Miraculous Signs according to his will and purpose. This is something that no human is able to invoke or replicate.
This explains why Healing Miracles today happens randomly and will never be 100% fulfilled as recorded in the gospels, at least not until the 2nd coming.
So what's the point of showing us Miracles in the bible? It is to prove from the written Word of God that Jesus has the power to save.
The Miraculous activities from 8:1 to 9:35 all points to more than just the spectacular Miracles itself, which most will quickly carelessly conclude. These cannot be simply claimed to any individual today, given it's absolute fulfillment and magnitute of achievement.
1. Healing of a leper (8:1-4)
Jesus willingness to touch a Leper which is unclean according to Jewish Laws (Lev 13). Instead of getting himself infected (which is what the Law was trying to prevent), Jesus made the Leper Clean instead. He wanted him to tell no one perhaps because he was not ready to publicise his work, but asked him to present a gift as required under the Mosiac Law.
Jesus demonstrates his Power to make spiritually unclean people clean, just as how he used a Healing Miracle to demonstrate his Power to forgive Sins (9:1-7).
2. Healing of Centurion's servant (8:5-13)
Illustrates Jesus authority which has similar nature to the Centurion's (v9). The Centurions normally operates out of Major cities like Syria or Caesarea which is quite far away. It was quite unusual for him to travel personally all the way to Jewish territory to look for Jesus. And Jesus was actually ready to cross Jewish borders to heal his servant (v7). But the Centurion recognised who Jesus was, the Messiah who was able to save. It was based on this Faith that Jesus said this,
"10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. 11 I say to you that many will come from the east and the west,and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”" - Matt 8:10-12
What Jesus was saying, was that Israel (the subjects of the Kingdom) did not believed who he was, whereas Gentiles like the Centurion did. The Faith he was referring to is not about the healing, but about the identity of the Messiah.
Today, the word of God bears witness to these events that proves that Jesus is the Christ. The purpose of Signs and Wonders has been exhausted and is seldom required. Today, the bible is our prove.
3. Jesus Healed the crowd (8:14-17)
Mathew quoted Isaiah 53:5 in 8:17. But in Isaiah 53:5, the context was of healing of Sin, not Physical infirmities :
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed. - Isaiah 53:5
Notice the terms ""pierced for transgressions" and "crushed for iniquities". Hence is he was tortured for our sins, it is only logical that by his wounds our Sins are cured. This is consistent with Isaiah 1:5 which describes Israel as Spiritually Sick because of Sin.
Why should you be stricken again?
You will revolt more and more.
The whole head is sick,
And the whole heart faints.- Isaiah 1:5
Isaiah 35:5-6 also talks about Physical Healing which will happen in the Millennial Kingdom :
5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
And the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
6 Then the lame shall leap like a deer,
And the tongue of the dumb sing. - Isaiah 35:5-6
Hence while Isaiah 53:4 states the healing for Sin and transgression, Matthew is illustrating the ability of Jesus to prove that he is that Messiah who heals in the Millennial Kingdom, by giving a preview to Israel by demonstrating his power to heal Physically when he was there.
4. Cost of discipleship (8:18-22)
It is interesting that Matthew places this narrative in the middle of this series of Miracles. In ancient times, some Jewish sects like the Essences made their followers relinquish their property as a criteria to follow them.
Jews were also called to honour their father and mother, burying the dead was an important fulfilment of that commandment (Tobit 4:3-4, 4 Maccabees 16:11). This was also consistent with Greek culture. Jesus request for them to "let the dead bury their own dead" to follow Him would be a culture shock to them.
5. Jesus calms the Storm (8:23-27)
"27 The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”" - Matt 8:27
Jesus once again demonstrates what no other mortals can do, that he is the Son of God. No other modern day Healing Evangelist can come even close to mimicking such power.
6. Deliverance of the Demoniac (8:28-34)
"“Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?”". Even the Demons recognized Jesus when the Pharisees could not. And just like the Pharisees, they anticipate the coming of the Messiah to establish His Kingdom. But did not foresaw his coming as a man.
Jesus had absolute authority over Demon Spirits. He did not perform any rituals nor Charismatic mantras. The demons had to seek permission to leave at the command of a single word, "Go".
No modern day exorcists, clairvoyant or self proclaimed prophets can ever exude such authority. Only Magicians and Sorcerors follow rituals and spells, but Jesus had the ultimate authority above all.
7. Healing of the Paralytic (9:1-7)
The whole point of this narrative is this,
4 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? 5 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? - Matt 9:4
The intrinsic answer is of course, healing of the paralytic man. And because healing being the lesser task, Jesus was using this to demonstrate his ultimate power to forgive Sins.
8. Teaching on Discipleship again (9:9-17)
This is the 2nd narrative break on this series of Miracle accounts. Jesus encounter with the Pharisees at Matthew's House demonstrates that Jesus came for those who are willing to acknowledge their Sinful state as opposed to the pride of the Pharisees.
" 12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’[a] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”- Matt 9:12-13
In the Old Testament, the Law only required fasting on the day of Atonement. Many other days of fasting were implemented by religious sects such as the Pharisees.
His point about the old and new garment and wineskins, is for believers to forsake the old Wineskins of man-made Tradition and be prepared to embrace the the new fulfillment of the New Covenent.
9. Healed a Woman with issue of blood (9:18-22)
This shows Jesus coming down to the woman's level of Faith. Just as the Centurion believed that Jesus can heal at a word despite of the distance apart (8:5-13), the woman believed she can be healed by touching his garments (considered unclean for a woman under menstrual issues).
Again, the Faith that healed the woman, is her understanding of who Jesus is, the authority of the promised Messiah; he is not merely a Faith Healer.
10. Raised daughter at Synagogue leader's house (9:23-25)
Jesus performed an ultimate miracle in this series of narratives, raising the dead. Again touching the dead is considered unclean under Jewish Laws, but Jesus gave life to the dead girl instead.
The girl couldn't have the faith to believe in her resurrection. This is to demonstrate that Christ has the power to save us from spiritual death even though we are dead in trespasses (Eph 2:1-10)
11. Healing of blind and mute men (9:27-34)
A key question in v28 "“Do you believe that I am able to do this?”". "29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”" Just like the woman with the issue of blood, the Faith that healed them is based on their understanding of who Jesus was, the promised Messiah of the Jewish hope.
Jesus miracle parade worked. " “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”". And indeed nothing as spectacular will go beyond the ministry of Jesus and his Apostles. Given as a proof of Jesus ministry and the Apostles doctrine written in the New Testament.
Conclusion :
The Miracles performed by Jesus proves his Authority over Diseases, Demons, Forces of Nature and even Death. It proves Jesus ultimate authority to provide forgiveness of Sins.
Matthew's quote on Isaiah 53:5 provided a preview of Jesus' ability to provide actual Physical Healing which will take place at the Millennial Kingdom (Isaiah 35:5-6).
Our spiritual restoration, as demonstrated by the healing by Faith, is characterized by our recognition of our hopelessly Sinful state (9:12-13), willingness to forsake our worldly values (8:18-22), and Faith in knowing Jesus Saves (9:21-22, 28-29)
These Miracles will not be repeated today by having self-professed Prophets and Apostles trying to demonstrate the same power that Jesus has. Today, God will speak to the hearts and minds of those whom he has chosen, and will grant Miraculous Signs according to his will and purpose. This is something that no human is able to invoke or replicate.
This explains why Healing Miracles today happens randomly and will never be 100% fulfilled as recorded in the gospels, at least not until the 2nd coming.
So what's the point of showing us Miracles in the bible? It is to prove from the written Word of God that Jesus has the power to save.
Thursday, 1 February 2018
The problem with Simon today
And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 8:18-19 NKJV
The issue with Simon the Sorceror spans more than just false miracles and witchcraft. Simon's problem was with the heart. He saw what the Apostles did, laying hands and saw the Holy Spirit imparted. He wanted that power for superficial reasons.
He was already an influential man in Samaria due to his false gifts (Acts 8:9-11), and his influence was undermined by Philip's ministry (Acts 8:12-13) such that Simon himself believed.
So it is obvious that when he saw what the Apostles did in v17, he desired the physical manifestation and to regain his influence. He did not desire for the effects of the genuine spirit.
The genuine workings of the Holy Spirit gave the early church boldness to preach the word (Acts 4:31) and heart to give to the poor (Acts 4:31). Yet none of these appealed to Simon, he only wanted a display of power to further his influence.
I believe this simple narrative is applicable to all believers who serve in a ministry, be it in the Charismatic or Prophetic circle, Teaching ministry, Worship Ministry or even Administrative or Event organizers, the very motive that we are seeking determines the state of our Salvation. Simon is a classic case of a self professed false believer who is not truly saved. And that was eventually exposed by the Apostles and a curse was pronounced on him.
But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
Acts 8:20-23 NKJV
Acts 8:18-19 NKJV
The issue with Simon the Sorceror spans more than just false miracles and witchcraft. Simon's problem was with the heart. He saw what the Apostles did, laying hands and saw the Holy Spirit imparted. He wanted that power for superficial reasons.
He was already an influential man in Samaria due to his false gifts (Acts 8:9-11), and his influence was undermined by Philip's ministry (Acts 8:12-13) such that Simon himself believed.
So it is obvious that when he saw what the Apostles did in v17, he desired the physical manifestation and to regain his influence. He did not desire for the effects of the genuine spirit.
The genuine workings of the Holy Spirit gave the early church boldness to preach the word (Acts 4:31) and heart to give to the poor (Acts 4:31). Yet none of these appealed to Simon, he only wanted a display of power to further his influence.
I believe this simple narrative is applicable to all believers who serve in a ministry, be it in the Charismatic or Prophetic circle, Teaching ministry, Worship Ministry or even Administrative or Event organizers, the very motive that we are seeking determines the state of our Salvation. Simon is a classic case of a self professed false believer who is not truly saved. And that was eventually exposed by the Apostles and a curse was pronounced on him.
But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
Acts 8:20-23 NKJV
Dead Works does not save
ARE GOOD WORKS IMPORTANT IN THE DOCTRINE OF SALVATION?
Matthew 25:31-46 gives us a sobering thought about how we ought to live our lives. Do we care for the poor? Are we taking care of the needy? And it is so clear in that context, those whom the love of God does not manifest through good works, will be thrown in for eternal condemnation.
But are good works commandments in which we do IN ORDER to be saved? Or perhaps in a lighter tone, is it the will of God for us to focus our lives on good works and social morality?
Well, in Matt 5:13-16, Jesus told the Jews that they are the salt of the earth. Israel has always been God's chosen vessel to "be a light to the Gentiles" (Isaiah 49:6). From the call of Abraham, to the giving of the Law at Sinai, it has always been God's plan that his glory shall be revealed through God's holy nation and finally Abraham's seed. That is why Jesus came and repeat the words of the Law and the Prophets, to call Israel to " Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.".
Hence it is obvious that good works are important, important enough that if we don't do them, it proves our faith is dead (James 2:14-17), and obviously dead faith has no eternal life in it. That alone should bring us to attention about God's expectations of a healthy spiritual life of a real Christian.
THE PITFALL OF LEGALISM
In Gal 5:2-4, Paul cautioned the Galatians that if they follow false teachers of their day , and believe in circumcision as a criteria for Salvation (Acts 15:1), they have fallen from Grace. Paul pronounces a double curse in Galatians 1:6-9 for those who proclaim such a gospel. That is because the Judaic false teachers in Paul's day, taught circumcision, a work of the Law as a means to Salvation, which is not right.
Matthew 25:31-46 gives us a sobering thought about how we ought to live our lives. Do we care for the poor? Are we taking care of the needy? And it is so clear in that context, those whom the love of God does not manifest through good works, will be thrown in for eternal condemnation.
But are good works commandments in which we do IN ORDER to be saved? Or perhaps in a lighter tone, is it the will of God for us to focus our lives on good works and social morality?
Well, in Matt 5:13-16, Jesus told the Jews that they are the salt of the earth. Israel has always been God's chosen vessel to "be a light to the Gentiles" (Isaiah 49:6). From the call of Abraham, to the giving of the Law at Sinai, it has always been God's plan that his glory shall be revealed through God's holy nation and finally Abraham's seed. That is why Jesus came and repeat the words of the Law and the Prophets, to call Israel to " Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.".
Hence it is obvious that good works are important, important enough that if we don't do them, it proves our faith is dead (James 2:14-17), and obviously dead faith has no eternal life in it. That alone should bring us to attention about God's expectations of a healthy spiritual life of a real Christian.
THE PITFALL OF LEGALISM
In Gal 5:2-4, Paul cautioned the Galatians that if they follow false teachers of their day , and believe in circumcision as a criteria for Salvation (Acts 15:1), they have fallen from Grace. Paul pronounces a double curse in Galatians 1:6-9 for those who proclaim such a gospel. That is because the Judaic false teachers in Paul's day, taught circumcision, a work of the Law as a means to Salvation, which is not right.
Like the Pharisees, the church of Sardis (Rev3:1-6) was being charged for appearing alive but actually DEAD. The Problem? They sought to be justified under the Law, which resulted in an outward Righteousness without the workings of the Holy Spirit.
Hence to put it to perspective, we are to add no other means to Salvation except by faith in Christ alone. Hence those who preach good works and commandments as a criteria to Salvation falls into the pit of Legalism which the author of Galatians and Hebrews went at lengths to warn us about. So what now?
So how? Should we put in any effort into laboring in good works or not? Lest we fall into Legalism!
OBEDIENCE AS EVIDENCE, NOT A MEANS
1 John 2:3-8 gives us a good description on how to test if one is a believer; by those who keep his commandments. John 14:15, Jesus told the disciples "“If you love Me, keep[d] My commandments.". So those who are genuinely saved, WILL love God and keep his commandments; do good to others.
So in view of all these biblical evidence, we can safely conclude the following:
1. Good works and Godly living are not a means nor criteria for Salvation. It can be fulfilled IF we are perfect (James 2:10), but the bible says we are all guilty of Sin (Rom 3:19-20). Hence we can only have Salvation by faith in Christ alone.
2. But we are created by God for good works (Eph 2:10, Col 3:5-6, Gal 5:13-14). A true Christian will put his mind on the things in the spirit, not in the things of the flesh (Rom 8:5-8). So a true Christian WILL do good works and have compassion for the poor.
Hence to put it to perspective, we are to add no other means to Salvation except by faith in Christ alone. Hence those who preach good works and commandments as a criteria to Salvation falls into the pit of Legalism which the author of Galatians and Hebrews went at lengths to warn us about. So what now?
So how? Should we put in any effort into laboring in good works or not? Lest we fall into Legalism!
OBEDIENCE AS EVIDENCE, NOT A MEANS
1 John 2:3-8 gives us a good description on how to test if one is a believer; by those who keep his commandments. John 14:15, Jesus told the disciples "“If you love Me, keep[d] My commandments.". So those who are genuinely saved, WILL love God and keep his commandments; do good to others.
So in view of all these biblical evidence, we can safely conclude the following:
1. Good works and Godly living are not a means nor criteria for Salvation. It can be fulfilled IF we are perfect (James 2:10), but the bible says we are all guilty of Sin (Rom 3:19-20). Hence we can only have Salvation by faith in Christ alone.
2. But we are created by God for good works (Eph 2:10, Col 3:5-6, Gal 5:13-14). A true Christian will put his mind on the things in the spirit, not in the things of the flesh (Rom 8:5-8). So a true Christian WILL do good works and have compassion for the poor.
Hence our call for obedience is not one which relies on human determination, but one with understanding the right gospel. It is firstly a humbling recognition of our spiritual state of hopelesss in the wickedness of our human nature, and secondly our only hope of Justification and Sanctification which is in Christ Jesus.
With that understanding in mind, we can thus avoid trying to justify ourselves through good works (which is legalism), nor neglect the imperative of obedience (Lawlessness) in the life of a true believer in Christ.
It means that we do good works, but we ought to know why we are doing it. Obedience is ultimately a response to the gospel, not a means to Salvation.
GOOD WORKS IN VAIN IF VOID OF THE GOSPEL
But are good works ALL that is reflective of a life of a Christian? There are many Non-Christian organizations who are very fervent in doing good works, feeding the poor, caring for the needy, building shelters for homeless, etc. What then, is the difference between Christian good works in Matt 25 and Worldly acts of kindness?
The book of Acts tell us that the evidence of the early church tells us that besides being generous to the poor (Acts 4:34-35), they were relentless in sharing the gospel with boldness (Acts 4:31, Acts 11:20-21). Paul said in 1 Cor 9:16 that "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! ". Wow, he cursed himself if he did not preach the gospel, shouldn't we be doing the same??
What sets us apart is the word of God that is actuated by the evidence of our faith reflected in our conduct (Col 3:12-17). Good works is a means FOR the Gospel, not the concluding result of it. Without the preaching of the Gospel, good works will only elevate human kindness, which is filthy rags to God (Isaiah 34:6). The purpose of the gospel is to glorify God not men.
If we seek to do good works without sharing the gospel, the ultimate outcome will be glorification of man, not God.
With that understanding in mind, we can thus avoid trying to justify ourselves through good works (which is legalism), nor neglect the imperative of obedience (Lawlessness) in the life of a true believer in Christ.
It means that we do good works, but we ought to know why we are doing it. Obedience is ultimately a response to the gospel, not a means to Salvation.
GOOD WORKS IN VAIN IF VOID OF THE GOSPEL
But are good works ALL that is reflective of a life of a Christian? There are many Non-Christian organizations who are very fervent in doing good works, feeding the poor, caring for the needy, building shelters for homeless, etc. What then, is the difference between Christian good works in Matt 25 and Worldly acts of kindness?
The book of Acts tell us that the evidence of the early church tells us that besides being generous to the poor (Acts 4:34-35), they were relentless in sharing the gospel with boldness (Acts 4:31, Acts 11:20-21). Paul said in 1 Cor 9:16 that "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! ". Wow, he cursed himself if he did not preach the gospel, shouldn't we be doing the same??
What sets us apart is the word of God that is actuated by the evidence of our faith reflected in our conduct (Col 3:12-17). Good works is a means FOR the Gospel, not the concluding result of it. Without the preaching of the Gospel, good works will only elevate human kindness, which is filthy rags to God (Isaiah 34:6). The purpose of the gospel is to glorify God not men.
If we seek to do good works without sharing the gospel, the ultimate outcome will be glorification of man, not God.
Walking in the Light
"To walk in the light means to be honest with God, with ourselves, and with others. It means that when the light reveals our sin to us, we immediately confess it to God and claim His forgiveness. And if our sin injures another person, we ask his forgiveness too. But walking in the light means something else: it means OBEYING GOD'S WORD (1 John 2:3–4). “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” (Ps. 119:105).
To walk in the light means to spend time daily in God’s Word, discovering His will; and then OBEYING what He has told us. OBEDIENCE TO GOD'S WORD IS PROOF of our love for Him. There are three motives for obedience. We can obey because we have to, because we need to, or because we want to.
A slave obeys because he has to. If he doesn’t obey he will be punished. An employee obeys because he needs to. He may not enjoy his work, but he does enjoy getting his paycheck! He needs to obey because he has a family to feed and clothe. But a Christian is to obey his heavenly Father because he wants to—for the relationship between him and God is one of love. “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15)."
Warren Wiersbe Commentary on the NT Pg 967
To walk in the light means to spend time daily in God’s Word, discovering His will; and then OBEYING what He has told us. OBEDIENCE TO GOD'S WORD IS PROOF of our love for Him. There are three motives for obedience. We can obey because we have to, because we need to, or because we want to.
A slave obeys because he has to. If he doesn’t obey he will be punished. An employee obeys because he needs to. He may not enjoy his work, but he does enjoy getting his paycheck! He needs to obey because he has a family to feed and clothe. But a Christian is to obey his heavenly Father because he wants to—for the relationship between him and God is one of love. “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15)."
Warren Wiersbe Commentary on the NT Pg 967
What is Godliness?
For bodily exercise profits a little, but GODLINESS is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
I Timothy 4:8 NKJV
Godliness
STRONGS NT 2150: εὐσέβεια
reverence, respect; in the Bible everywhere piety toward God, godliness: Acts 3:12; 1 Timothy 2:2; 1 Timothy 4:7, 8; 1 Timothy 6:5f, 11; 2 Timothy 3:5; 2 Peter 1:3, 6
I always thought Godliness is obedience. But the truth is, Godliness LEADS TO obedience, but it is actually not quite the same. Godliness, as defined by Thayer's, refers to REVERENCE, as described also by John Macauthur on his notes for 1 Tim 4:8, as devout piety towards God.
It is through Godliness, which is a respect and reverence, or described in other parts of the bible as "Fear of the Lord", that we learn to obey.
Just as Paul used an analogy of bodily exercise can profit the body, Godliness or "Respect" for God can be trained. And it starts with worship (which he regarded as a gymnasium for reverence training) and our attitute towards how to worship in spirit and in truth.
To worship in spirit and in truth, is not about singing WITH emotions. In fact, we are not to be LED BY IT. It is about understanding word of God, and emotions are a RESPOND to the truth. Superficial modern one line chorus does not convey that truth, but water it down to to be openly intepreted by our superficial understanding.
Back to 1 Tim 4:8, Paul therefore urges Timothy that GODLINESS is profitable for all things. It benefits all aspects of life where we learn to walk and talk to anyone in every situation, while we keep in mind for respect for God.
*Side note : Reverence or Fear, is also used in Matt 21:33-46 about the parable of the Vineyard owner; where he expected that the wicked vinedressors will respect his Son, but they didn't.
Then last of all he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will RESPECT my son.’
Matthew 21:37 NKJV
I Timothy 4:8 NKJV
Godliness
STRONGS NT 2150: εὐσέβεια
reverence, respect; in the Bible everywhere piety toward God, godliness: Acts 3:12; 1 Timothy 2:2; 1 Timothy 4:7, 8; 1 Timothy 6:5f, 11; 2 Timothy 3:5; 2 Peter 1:3, 6
I always thought Godliness is obedience. But the truth is, Godliness LEADS TO obedience, but it is actually not quite the same. Godliness, as defined by Thayer's, refers to REVERENCE, as described also by John Macauthur on his notes for 1 Tim 4:8, as devout piety towards God.
It is through Godliness, which is a respect and reverence, or described in other parts of the bible as "Fear of the Lord", that we learn to obey.
Just as Paul used an analogy of bodily exercise can profit the body, Godliness or "Respect" for God can be trained. And it starts with worship (which he regarded as a gymnasium for reverence training) and our attitute towards how to worship in spirit and in truth.
To worship in spirit and in truth, is not about singing WITH emotions. In fact, we are not to be LED BY IT. It is about understanding word of God, and emotions are a RESPOND to the truth. Superficial modern one line chorus does not convey that truth, but water it down to to be openly intepreted by our superficial understanding.
Back to 1 Tim 4:8, Paul therefore urges Timothy that GODLINESS is profitable for all things. It benefits all aspects of life where we learn to walk and talk to anyone in every situation, while we keep in mind for respect for God.
*Side note : Reverence or Fear, is also used in Matt 21:33-46 about the parable of the Vineyard owner; where he expected that the wicked vinedressors will respect his Son, but they didn't.
Then last of all he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will RESPECT my son.’
Matthew 21:37 NKJV
Unthankfulness
"One of the marks of someone who does not know God, is unthankfulness."
because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, NOR WERE THANKFUL, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Romans 1:21 NKJV
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, UNTHANKFUL, unholy,
II Timothy 3:1-2 NKJV
Do all things WITHOUT COMPLAINING and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,
Philippians 2:14-15 NKJV
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV
because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, NOR WERE THANKFUL, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Romans 1:21 NKJV
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, UNTHANKFUL, unholy,
II Timothy 3:1-2 NKJV
Do all things WITHOUT COMPLAINING and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,
Philippians 2:14-15 NKJV
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV
How to resist the Devil?
THEREFORE submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. - James 4:7 NKJV
This verse has nothing to do with deliverance from demonic opression or possession. Noticed that the verse starts with THEREFORE? Which means it is a conclusive statement of what was discussed before hand. So what aspect of the Devil which James says we ought to resist? Lets take a look at Chap 3 onwards.
3:1-12 talks about taming the tongue. It ends off with a rhetorical question on whether one is bearing fruits with his tongue.
Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
James 3:11-12 NKJV
He then explains that he who shows forth good fruits by good conduct are done in the meekness of wisdom.
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
James 3:13 NKJV
But if one is bitter and self seeking, his "wisdom" is not not from heaven, but DEMONIC
But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, DEMONIC.
James 3:14-15 NKJV
So James is starting to define what he meant by demonic influence, it is the source of strife among brethrens, 4:1.
Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?
James 4:1 NKJV
Believers allow this demonic influence that causes bitterness because they lust for worldly desires.
You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
James 4:3-4 NKJV
Thats why this section of scripture is not about deliverence from demonic possession, but about disallowing the Devil to get a foothold on us through the Sin like bitterness, envy and lusting for worldly things. It's actually about repentance.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
James 4:8-10 NKJV
This verse has nothing to do with deliverance from demonic opression or possession. Noticed that the verse starts with THEREFORE? Which means it is a conclusive statement of what was discussed before hand. So what aspect of the Devil which James says we ought to resist? Lets take a look at Chap 3 onwards.
3:1-12 talks about taming the tongue. It ends off with a rhetorical question on whether one is bearing fruits with his tongue.
Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
James 3:11-12 NKJV
He then explains that he who shows forth good fruits by good conduct are done in the meekness of wisdom.
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
James 3:13 NKJV
But if one is bitter and self seeking, his "wisdom" is not not from heaven, but DEMONIC
But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, DEMONIC.
James 3:14-15 NKJV
So James is starting to define what he meant by demonic influence, it is the source of strife among brethrens, 4:1.
Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?
James 4:1 NKJV
Believers allow this demonic influence that causes bitterness because they lust for worldly desires.
You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
James 4:3-4 NKJV
Thats why this section of scripture is not about deliverence from demonic possession, but about disallowing the Devil to get a foothold on us through the Sin like bitterness, envy and lusting for worldly things. It's actually about repentance.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
James 4:8-10 NKJV
Seeing is bellieving
And He said, “Go, and tell this people: ‘Keep on hearing, but do not understand; Keep on seeing, but do not perceive.’ “Make the heart of this people dull, And their ears heavy, And shut their eyes; Lest they see with their eyes, And hear with their ears, And understand with their heart, And return and be healed.”
Isaiah 6:9-10 NKJV
Who is blind but My servant, Or deaf as My messenger whom I send? Who is blind as he who is perfect, And blind as the Lord ’s servant?
Isaiah 42:19 NKJV
Isaiah is an example of a man of unclean lips, birthed out of a nation of deaf and blind, and he was willing to be obedient to God's Call.
So I said: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, And your sin purged.” Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”
Isaiah 6:5-8 NKJV
Just as Isaiah was called to be a messenger (Servant of God) to Israel, Israel was called to be the messenger (Servant of God) to the World. But Israel could not hear nor see, nor could they do what God told them to do.
It is the same for us today.
Seeing many things, but you do not observe; Opening the ears, but he does not hear.” The Lord is well pleased for His righteousness’ sake; He will exalt the law and make it honorable.
Isaiah 42:20-21 NKJV
the great trials which your eyes have seen, the signs, and those great wonders. Yet the Lord has not given you a heart to perceive and eyes to see and ears to hear, to this very day.
Deuteronomy 29:3-4 NKJV
Are you seeing and hearing his prophecies that are written down in the word?
Isaiah 6:9-10 NKJV
Who is blind but My servant, Or deaf as My messenger whom I send? Who is blind as he who is perfect, And blind as the Lord ’s servant?
Isaiah 42:19 NKJV
Isaiah is an example of a man of unclean lips, birthed out of a nation of deaf and blind, and he was willing to be obedient to God's Call.
So I said: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, And your sin purged.” Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”
Isaiah 6:5-8 NKJV
Just as Isaiah was called to be a messenger (Servant of God) to Israel, Israel was called to be the messenger (Servant of God) to the World. But Israel could not hear nor see, nor could they do what God told them to do.
It is the same for us today.
Seeing many things, but you do not observe; Opening the ears, but he does not hear.” The Lord is well pleased for His righteousness’ sake; He will exalt the law and make it honorable.
Isaiah 42:20-21 NKJV
the great trials which your eyes have seen, the signs, and those great wonders. Yet the Lord has not given you a heart to perceive and eyes to see and ears to hear, to this very day.
Deuteronomy 29:3-4 NKJV
Are you seeing and hearing his prophecies that are written down in the word?
A Faith beyond Time
“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord , “And My servant whom I have chosen, That you may know and believe Me, And understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, Nor shall there be after Me.
Isaiah 43:10 NKJV
Isaiah wrote these beyond 2 spectrums of future events. Firstly, he wrote these before the fall of Judah to the Babylonians in 582 BC and possibly after the fall of Israel to the Assyrians in 722 BC. Secondly, God's Prophecy through Isaiah went beyond this and also predicted the return (43:4-7).
The question is, how would the people at that time believed in Isaiah when these predictions have yet to happen? In fact, even when it did, they still did not believed in God. (Read Jeremiah 43-44).
My point? Our faith is not contingent upon our material status nor circumstances. It is more real than blessings and miracles, more secure than signs and wonders; it transcends beyond time as recorded in history. In Isaiah 43:10, God proved his worth to Israel, written in words only to be fulfilled hundreds of years later, and still continues to be fulfilled, and witnessed by generations that surpassed those of his time.
Hence indeed as we look past history, if we believe it, there is no other proof that is required other than these very words that were preserved through generations, to know that there is no other Gods beside him.
Isaiah 43:10 NKJV
Isaiah wrote these beyond 2 spectrums of future events. Firstly, he wrote these before the fall of Judah to the Babylonians in 582 BC and possibly after the fall of Israel to the Assyrians in 722 BC. Secondly, God's Prophecy through Isaiah went beyond this and also predicted the return (43:4-7).
The question is, how would the people at that time believed in Isaiah when these predictions have yet to happen? In fact, even when it did, they still did not believed in God. (Read Jeremiah 43-44).
My point? Our faith is not contingent upon our material status nor circumstances. It is more real than blessings and miracles, more secure than signs and wonders; it transcends beyond time as recorded in history. In Isaiah 43:10, God proved his worth to Israel, written in words only to be fulfilled hundreds of years later, and still continues to be fulfilled, and witnessed by generations that surpassed those of his time.
Hence indeed as we look past history, if we believe it, there is no other proof that is required other than these very words that were preserved through generations, to know that there is no other Gods beside him.
God's "I Wills"
Isaiah took lengths to describe Israel's sin and idolatry. How they rather trust in foreign allies like Assyria and Egypt, which were both destroyed and conquered when Babylon rose to power. And how God ended up judging the world for unbelief (Chap 24).
He also spent the 2nd half of the book (Chap 40-66) to describe how God will fulfill his promise to Israel, to establish them, despite of the great Sin that they lived for.
How then can we reconcile this to Isaiah 1:16-20? Did God just forgave Israel simply by exhausting his wrath from the foreign invasions (40:2)? Or did God required a specific set of actions from Israel in order to reinstate them back as the Messengers of his Laws (42:21)?
While a condition was set at the beginning of the Chapter, we also cannot deny the "I WILL"s in which God clearly said "I WILL" make it happen (42:6, 43:19, 44:22).
I believe the answer is here.
For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring;
Isaiah 44:3 NKJV
Until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, And the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, And the fruitful field is counted as a forest.
Isaiah 32:15 NKJV
The restoration of Israel, and thus all mankind to God is solely the work of God, the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. He will cause those who hear him, to repent, to believe in the Messiah, and live in obedience to him.
He also spent the 2nd half of the book (Chap 40-66) to describe how God will fulfill his promise to Israel, to establish them, despite of the great Sin that they lived for.
How then can we reconcile this to Isaiah 1:16-20? Did God just forgave Israel simply by exhausting his wrath from the foreign invasions (40:2)? Or did God required a specific set of actions from Israel in order to reinstate them back as the Messengers of his Laws (42:21)?
While a condition was set at the beginning of the Chapter, we also cannot deny the "I WILL"s in which God clearly said "I WILL" make it happen (42:6, 43:19, 44:22).
I believe the answer is here.
For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring;
Isaiah 44:3 NKJV
Until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, And the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, And the fruitful field is counted as a forest.
Isaiah 32:15 NKJV
The restoration of Israel, and thus all mankind to God is solely the work of God, the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. He will cause those who hear him, to repent, to believe in the Messiah, and live in obedience to him.
Who is the one who Sanctify?
We are Sanctified IN God, BY God. Sanctification is not based on human ability to obey.
To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are SANCTIFIED IN JESUS CHRIST, called to be saints, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
I Corinthians 1:2 NKJV
I Corinthians 1:2 NKJV
that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles MIGHT BE ACCEPTABLE, SANCTIFIED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Romans 15:16 NKJV
Romans 15:16 NKJV
But of Him you are IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO BECAME FOR US wisdom from God—AND righteousness and SANCTIFICATION and redemption— that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord .”
I Corinthians 1:30-31 NKJV
I Corinthians 1:30-31 NKJV
And such were some of you. But YOU WERE WASHED, but YOU WERE SANCTIFIED, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
I Corinthians 6:11 NKJV
I Corinthians 6:11 NKJV
Now may the GOD OF PEACE HIMSELF SANCTIFY YOU completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV
I Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV
But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning CHOSE YOU for salvation through SANCTIFICATION BY THE SPIRIT and belief in the truth,
II Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV
II Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV
It does not mean Sanctification is effortless. But it does mean that your desire for obedience is given and not achieved.... Rom 15:16 says, "that the offering of the Gentiles might be ACCEPTABLE, SANCTIFIED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. ". Which means on the flip side, if you think you seek to be justified by your obedience, your Sanctification will not be accepted.
Baptism vs Filled with the Spirit
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is a one time event, given at the point of conversion. It is not a seperate event when a believer has to pray to recieve the gift of tongues.
In him you also, WHEN YOU HEARD the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and BELIEVED, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14 ESV
For in one Spirit we were all BAPTIZED into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:13 ESV
We cannot receive the Holy Spirit other than putting our faith and believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Nothing more, nothing less.
Let me ask you only this: Did you RECIEVE THE SPIRIT by works of the law or by HEARING WITH FAITH? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by HEARING WITH FAITH—
Galatians 3:2-5 ESV
The EVIDENCE of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is obedience to his Commandments, his Laws.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the SPIRIT set their minds on the THINGS OF THE SPIRIT. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the SPIRIT OF GOD dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ DOES NOT BELONG to him.
Romans 8:5-9 ESV
Another EVIDENCE of the Spirit abide in us, is that we Love one another.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
1 John 4:11-13 ESV
One can also be FILLED with the Spirit to perform extraordinary tasks for the ministry.
Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.
Acts 6:3 ESV
Then Peter, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders,
Acts 4:8 ESV
But Saul, who was also called Paul, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him
Acts 13:9 ESV
Paul therefore encourage us to be FILLED with the Spirit, not the modern Charismatic concept of "Baptised and speak in tongues".
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,
Ephesians 5:17-18 ESV
In him you also, WHEN YOU HEARD the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and BELIEVED, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14 ESV
For in one Spirit we were all BAPTIZED into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:13 ESV
We cannot receive the Holy Spirit other than putting our faith and believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Nothing more, nothing less.
Let me ask you only this: Did you RECIEVE THE SPIRIT by works of the law or by HEARING WITH FAITH? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by HEARING WITH FAITH—
Galatians 3:2-5 ESV
The EVIDENCE of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is obedience to his Commandments, his Laws.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the SPIRIT set their minds on the THINGS OF THE SPIRIT. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the SPIRIT OF GOD dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ DOES NOT BELONG to him.
Romans 8:5-9 ESV
Another EVIDENCE of the Spirit abide in us, is that we Love one another.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
1 John 4:11-13 ESV
One can also be FILLED with the Spirit to perform extraordinary tasks for the ministry.
Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.
Acts 6:3 ESV
Then Peter, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders,
Acts 4:8 ESV
But Saul, who was also called Paul, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him
Acts 13:9 ESV
Paul therefore encourage us to be FILLED with the Spirit, not the modern Charismatic concept of "Baptised and speak in tongues".
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,
Ephesians 5:17-18 ESV
Real Spiritual Warfare is in the mind
When you get scolded by your boss, spiritual warfare is not about your boss scolding you, but about your attitude and mentality of that event.
When you argue with your spouse, the spiritual warfare is not on the arguement itself, but our mental attitute towards the situation.
The bible talks about keeping our mind captive to the obedience of Christ. Spiritual warefare, is about our thoughts, and the external factors that influence us towards sin and unbelief.
We destroy ARGUMENTS and every lofty OPINION RAISED AGAINST THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD, and take EVERY THOUGHT captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.
2 Corinthians 10:5-6
James 4:6-7 also talks about worldliness like disputes and coveteousness. The solution is to Submit to God and Resist the Devil (Worldly temptations), and he will flee from us.
1 Peter 5:8 also reminds us to be SOBER MINDED. Its a message to Shepherds to "Exercise oversight and not for Shameful Gain", v2. So the general message is to be alert and keep a sound mind (1 Tim 1:7).
So essentially, Spiritual Warfare is about the mind. And the solution to this is by keeping a sound mind, to be grounded and obedient to God's word, and not giving it up to Mindless Esoteric Mystical solutions.
When you argue with your spouse, the spiritual warfare is not on the arguement itself, but our mental attitute towards the situation.
The bible talks about keeping our mind captive to the obedience of Christ. Spiritual warefare, is about our thoughts, and the external factors that influence us towards sin and unbelief.
We destroy ARGUMENTS and every lofty OPINION RAISED AGAINST THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD, and take EVERY THOUGHT captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.
2 Corinthians 10:5-6
James 4:6-7 also talks about worldliness like disputes and coveteousness. The solution is to Submit to God and Resist the Devil (Worldly temptations), and he will flee from us.
1 Peter 5:8 also reminds us to be SOBER MINDED. Its a message to Shepherds to "Exercise oversight and not for Shameful Gain", v2. So the general message is to be alert and keep a sound mind (1 Tim 1:7).
So essentially, Spiritual Warfare is about the mind. And the solution to this is by keeping a sound mind, to be grounded and obedient to God's word, and not giving it up to Mindless Esoteric Mystical solutions.
My Problem with the "Unmerited Favor" book
For a meaningful evaluation on the following texts, I suggest that you read every scripture reference slowly and carefully. If you don’t bother to read the bible, I suggest you don’t bother reading this either.
________________________________________
This book is all about Jesus. It is about His passionate love for you and His desire for you to experience success in your life. But before we go on, let me ask you this question: Do you believe that Jesus is interested in your success? Take a moment to reflect on this. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page vii
________________________________________
Does God want us to have material success? Not necessarily. We can say for certain that God definitely wants spiritual success,
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”” – 1 Peter 1:14-16.
But God definitely does not intend to make every believer wealthy and successful materially (James 4:2-4), but rather knowing that “ But godliness with contentment is great gain”. – 1 Tim 6:6.
The following excerpt from the introduction of Joseph Prince’s book “Unmerited Favor” is totally against the biblical position of contentment with God’s sovereign plan for us, to encourage believers to selfishly anticipate material blessings that were never promised in the bible, and reject every suffering which God could allow for his plan and purpose.
________________________________________
My friend, I am so glad that we have the opportunity to talk about this today because I want you to know that Jesus delights in blessing you. It is His good pleasure to see you blessed in every area of your life! Now, don’t put a limit on His blessings in your life. The blessings of the Lord are not (as some may erroneously believe) just seen in material things. Jesus is infinitely interested in your total well-being. He is interested in your family, career, fulfillment in life, marriage, ministry, and boy, does the list go on! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page vii
________________________________________
He craftily promised that “blessings of the Lord are not (as some erroneously believe) just seen in material things”. But the fact is, the blessings that he has listed (life, marriage, ministry, and boy does the list goes on!) ARE physical material things! We must never forget that God’s priority in our lives, is to end up in spiritual restoration, to turn from being Sons of disobedience (Ephe 2:2-10), to obedience to him (Col 3:1-17).
God MAY bless you with material well being in accordance to his will, and praise God if he does! But it is NOT his priority to bless you materially. His priority is always spiritual realization, even if it takes for one to lose everything in order to see HEAVENLY VALUES, and not earthly ones (Rom 8:1-11).
________________________________________
When it comes to your desires, hopes and dreams, there is no detail that is too minuscule, minute or insignificant for Jesus. Trust me, if it matters to you, it matters to Him! Even if you went to Him in prayer to remove that small pimple on your nose,
He is not going to look at you and reply mockingly, “Hey buddy, don’t you know that I’ve got a whole universe to run? Come to Me when you have a bigger prayer request.”No way! A thousand times no! Jesus will never ridicule or deride your concerns as petty. He is never dismissive or condescending. He is not like some of your so-called “friends,” who may delight in poking fun at your shortcomings. If it bothers you, it bothers Him. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page Vii-viii
________________________________________
There is nothing wrong with having ambitions and goals. We all have targets to meet in life. Be it excelling in academic results, winning a singing contest, or climbing a corporate ladder, it was Paul’s exhortation to “rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man” – Ephe 6:7. Was Paul referring to “Effortless Success”? It is hardly so. In fact, we are to work hard to please our employers and in the course of doing so may achieve our career success.
However, what Joseph Prince is promising here, is a Jesus that does not exist in the bible. He is presenting his version of a jesus who has misplaced his priorities to rather care for pimples on your nose, than to help you in your spiritual maturity.
________________________________________
The world’s way to success is based on meritocracy. God’s way to success in the new covenant is in direct contradiction to that,
and is based on His unmerited favor. You can’t earn it. You can’t deserve it. And you certainly can’t merit it. It comes by way of God’s grace and by the power of what was accomplished at Calvary. It goes against the grain of every world system you have ever learned ordepended upon. God’s ways are higher and they always lead to good and abiding success.
My friend, there is no middle road. You cannot mix your own efforts with God’s grace. Choose His unmerited favor and all the glory redounds to Jesus. Every success, opportunity, blessing or breakthrough, be it in your health, family or career — success in every aspect of your life —
comes by His unmerited favor. It is never you! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page x-xi
________________________________________
God’s SALVATION (not Success) is based on Grace (unmerited Favor), to save us from Sin and Death (Rom 6:23), not from poverty and sickness. Can you see how he has craftily introduced elements of prosperity gospel into his own gospel? As discussed above, God’s priority is always spiritual reconciliation. But according to Joseph Prince’s gospel, his gospel is always about material well being, to satisfy the flesh.
If what he says here is true, that “God’s ways are higher and they ALWAYS lead to good and abiding success”, then,
1. There should be no believers who are sick and poor. In fact ALL believers should be wealthy and at the pink of health. But is that true?
2. If material well being is contingent upon our faith, what he is really saying is, Christians who are poor and sick has a lack of Faith. This is the cruelest concept to describe Christians who are going through trials and persecution.
3. This principal violates God’s priority, which is “”But godliness with contentment is great gain– 1 Tim 6:6.
4. The truth is, God decides who to bless with riches and health. And those who receives has added responsibility to take care of the poor (who are not defined in the bible for lack of faith) – 1 Tim 6:17-19
________________________________________
Now, let’s stop right here. Doesn’t this list of requirements that you have to fulfill so that God will bless you sound awfully familiar to you? I believe that many of those who insist on these requirements are well-meaning, sincere people. But what they are doing is pointing others back to the old covenant of the law, whether knowingly or unknowingly! That’s how the Law of Moses works. Under the old covenant, God’s blessings were contingent on man’s fulfillment of a list of requirements. But we are no longer under the old covenant of the law. This is not Christianity. The new covenant that we are under today is based completely on the removal of our sins by the blood of Jesus! “For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Depending on your own efforts to deserve favor from God is considered “dead works.” It is God’s desire for us to depend wholly on the unmerited favor of Jesus.Just to make it clear, it is not Joseph Prince who is finding fault with the old covenant. God Himself said, “For if that first covenant [the covenant of law] had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second [the covenant of grace].” The Christian life today is not based on what you are doing or not doing. The reality is that the Christian life is not a religion at all. It is about having a relationship based completely on receiving WHAT GOD HIMSELF HAS DONE ON THE CROSS! When you receive completely what Jesus has done for you, your “doing” will flow effortlessly. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page xi-xii
________________________________________
Firstly, God’s blessings (or Salvation) were NEVER contingent on man’s fulfillment of a list of requirements. When Israel sinned, they were covered under the atonement of the yearly Sacrifices. God gave his commandments, and when an Israelite falls into Sin due to human weakness, their Sins are atoned for under the Mosaic Covenant (Hebrews 9:6-7).
Israel was judged NOT BECAUSE they failed to follow the procedures, but because they SINNED REBELLIOUSLY (it was not unintentionally). And despite their rebelliously sinful lifestyle, they continued to perform the sacrifices under the Law, thinking that they can get atonement for their Sins nevertheless.
That is why in Isaiah 1:13-15, God called them “vain Offerings; the incense of an abomination to me”. It was not because Israel could not follow the procedures, but because they were in REBELLION (2 Kings 17:7-23). That is why in Isaiah 1:16-20, he called for Israel to repent from their Sins, to obey him so that they will eat the good of the land.
Though his misconception, Joseph Prince demonized the Law of God, turning it into an enemy of the gospel, citing that God had found fault with the very Laws that he wrote himself! Heb 8:7 is not about “God finding fault with the Law”, the point is that Jesus Christ is the ultimate completion of the Old Covenant (which was incomplete), to bring spiritual reconciliation to those who repent and follow him.
The fact is that believers even in the Old Testament were not justified by the Law. It was the ISRAELITES who tried to seek justification under the Old Covenant to cover their rebelliousness… and it was through this notion that they think they were “Justified under the Law” which Paul wrote against the idea in Romans Chapter 4.
Under the New Covenant, the same principal applies. Those who are under the Grace are Slaves to Righteousness (Rom 6:15-23) and “ Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him” – 1 John 2:3-6. True believers may fall into Sin UNINTENTIONALLY(Rom 7:21-25), but they will not live REBELLIOUSLY (Heb 6:4-6).
The rest of the book is based on this misconception about Law and Grace, and misplaced view of God’s blessing and prosperity that is relevant to the lives of believers.
________________________________________
My friend, I want to encourage you to begin to see that the world’s model of success is unstable and built upon a foundation that is shakable. It may have the outward appearance of the good life, but it is temporal, and we have all seen for ourselves how the world’s transient wealth can dissipate like smoke and easily slip away like the shifting sands in the desert. It is the presence of the Lord in your life that makes you a success! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page 3
________________________________________
He claimed that he is not preaching the prosperity gospel. But everything that he says IS about PROSPERITY.
________________________________________
We need to learn to stop pursuing things and to start pursuing Him. God sees your relationship with Him as the only thing that you need for
every success in your life. I can’t imagine starting in a worse place than Joseph.He was completely naked. He had nothing! No bank accounts,
no educational qualifications, no natural connections with people of influence, nothing. Thank God the Bible records a picture of Joseph
who began with nothing, so that you and I can have hope today. If you think that like Joseph, you have nothing, well, you can start believing in the power of the presence of the Lord in your life. Start looking to Jesus and claim that promise in
that Scripture for yourself!
Let me show you how you can personalize this promise in your life. Insert your name here into God’s promise for you:
“The Lord is with _______ , and I am a successful person.” JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page 3-4
________________________________________
He claim that “we need to learn to stop pursuing things and to start pursuing Him”. But his last line to ask his reader to insert their name on “The lord is with _____ , I am a successful person” IS EXACTLY making his readers to “Pursue Things”!! In fact, when a believer pursues God IN ORDER to get what he wants, then at the end of the day, what he wants is not God, but his own selfish desires! No wonder the bible says that Covetousness is idolatry! (Col 3:5, Ephe 5:5).
________________________________________
Now, read this aloud to yourself. Read it out loud a hundred times if you have to, and begin to see this as your reality. Stick this promise on your mirror, and every morning when you brush
your teeth, remind yourself that today, as you go to work, as you go to school, as you start the day caring for your children at home (or do whatever it is that you need to do), the Lord is with you.
And because He is with you, YOU ARE ALREADY A SUCCESS! When you have Jesus in your life, you are no longer trying to be a success; you ARE a success! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page 4
________________________________________
As you can read from just merely a few pages from his book, it has nothing short of the prosperity Gospel. In fact, his teachings are based on biased view of the word of God that is out of context. If you are sitting under his ministry or so happen to be listening to him, I urge you to study the word of God and see how his theology is fraudulent and deceptive.
________________________________________
This book is all about Jesus. It is about His passionate love for you and His desire for you to experience success in your life. But before we go on, let me ask you this question: Do you believe that Jesus is interested in your success? Take a moment to reflect on this. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page vii
________________________________________
Does God want us to have material success? Not necessarily. We can say for certain that God definitely wants spiritual success,
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”” – 1 Peter 1:14-16.
But God definitely does not intend to make every believer wealthy and successful materially (James 4:2-4), but rather knowing that “ But godliness with contentment is great gain”. – 1 Tim 6:6.
The following excerpt from the introduction of Joseph Prince’s book “Unmerited Favor” is totally against the biblical position of contentment with God’s sovereign plan for us, to encourage believers to selfishly anticipate material blessings that were never promised in the bible, and reject every suffering which God could allow for his plan and purpose.
________________________________________
My friend, I am so glad that we have the opportunity to talk about this today because I want you to know that Jesus delights in blessing you. It is His good pleasure to see you blessed in every area of your life! Now, don’t put a limit on His blessings in your life. The blessings of the Lord are not (as some may erroneously believe) just seen in material things. Jesus is infinitely interested in your total well-being. He is interested in your family, career, fulfillment in life, marriage, ministry, and boy, does the list go on! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page vii
________________________________________
He craftily promised that “blessings of the Lord are not (as some erroneously believe) just seen in material things”. But the fact is, the blessings that he has listed (life, marriage, ministry, and boy does the list goes on!) ARE physical material things! We must never forget that God’s priority in our lives, is to end up in spiritual restoration, to turn from being Sons of disobedience (Ephe 2:2-10), to obedience to him (Col 3:1-17).
God MAY bless you with material well being in accordance to his will, and praise God if he does! But it is NOT his priority to bless you materially. His priority is always spiritual realization, even if it takes for one to lose everything in order to see HEAVENLY VALUES, and not earthly ones (Rom 8:1-11).
________________________________________
When it comes to your desires, hopes and dreams, there is no detail that is too minuscule, minute or insignificant for Jesus. Trust me, if it matters to you, it matters to Him! Even if you went to Him in prayer to remove that small pimple on your nose,
He is not going to look at you and reply mockingly, “Hey buddy, don’t you know that I’ve got a whole universe to run? Come to Me when you have a bigger prayer request.”No way! A thousand times no! Jesus will never ridicule or deride your concerns as petty. He is never dismissive or condescending. He is not like some of your so-called “friends,” who may delight in poking fun at your shortcomings. If it bothers you, it bothers Him. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page Vii-viii
________________________________________
There is nothing wrong with having ambitions and goals. We all have targets to meet in life. Be it excelling in academic results, winning a singing contest, or climbing a corporate ladder, it was Paul’s exhortation to “rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man” – Ephe 6:7. Was Paul referring to “Effortless Success”? It is hardly so. In fact, we are to work hard to please our employers and in the course of doing so may achieve our career success.
However, what Joseph Prince is promising here, is a Jesus that does not exist in the bible. He is presenting his version of a jesus who has misplaced his priorities to rather care for pimples on your nose, than to help you in your spiritual maturity.
________________________________________
The world’s way to success is based on meritocracy. God’s way to success in the new covenant is in direct contradiction to that,
and is based on His unmerited favor. You can’t earn it. You can’t deserve it. And you certainly can’t merit it. It comes by way of God’s grace and by the power of what was accomplished at Calvary. It goes against the grain of every world system you have ever learned ordepended upon. God’s ways are higher and they always lead to good and abiding success.
My friend, there is no middle road. You cannot mix your own efforts with God’s grace. Choose His unmerited favor and all the glory redounds to Jesus. Every success, opportunity, blessing or breakthrough, be it in your health, family or career — success in every aspect of your life —
comes by His unmerited favor. It is never you! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page x-xi
________________________________________
God’s SALVATION (not Success) is based on Grace (unmerited Favor), to save us from Sin and Death (Rom 6:23), not from poverty and sickness. Can you see how he has craftily introduced elements of prosperity gospel into his own gospel? As discussed above, God’s priority is always spiritual reconciliation. But according to Joseph Prince’s gospel, his gospel is always about material well being, to satisfy the flesh.
If what he says here is true, that “God’s ways are higher and they ALWAYS lead to good and abiding success”, then,
1. There should be no believers who are sick and poor. In fact ALL believers should be wealthy and at the pink of health. But is that true?
2. If material well being is contingent upon our faith, what he is really saying is, Christians who are poor and sick has a lack of Faith. This is the cruelest concept to describe Christians who are going through trials and persecution.
3. This principal violates God’s priority, which is “”But godliness with contentment is great gain– 1 Tim 6:6.
4. The truth is, God decides who to bless with riches and health. And those who receives has added responsibility to take care of the poor (who are not defined in the bible for lack of faith) – 1 Tim 6:17-19
________________________________________
Now, let’s stop right here. Doesn’t this list of requirements that you have to fulfill so that God will bless you sound awfully familiar to you? I believe that many of those who insist on these requirements are well-meaning, sincere people. But what they are doing is pointing others back to the old covenant of the law, whether knowingly or unknowingly! That’s how the Law of Moses works. Under the old covenant, God’s blessings were contingent on man’s fulfillment of a list of requirements. But we are no longer under the old covenant of the law. This is not Christianity. The new covenant that we are under today is based completely on the removal of our sins by the blood of Jesus! “For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Depending on your own efforts to deserve favor from God is considered “dead works.” It is God’s desire for us to depend wholly on the unmerited favor of Jesus.Just to make it clear, it is not Joseph Prince who is finding fault with the old covenant. God Himself said, “For if that first covenant [the covenant of law] had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second [the covenant of grace].” The Christian life today is not based on what you are doing or not doing. The reality is that the Christian life is not a religion at all. It is about having a relationship based completely on receiving WHAT GOD HIMSELF HAS DONE ON THE CROSS! When you receive completely what Jesus has done for you, your “doing” will flow effortlessly. JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page xi-xii
________________________________________
Firstly, God’s blessings (or Salvation) were NEVER contingent on man’s fulfillment of a list of requirements. When Israel sinned, they were covered under the atonement of the yearly Sacrifices. God gave his commandments, and when an Israelite falls into Sin due to human weakness, their Sins are atoned for under the Mosaic Covenant (Hebrews 9:6-7).
Israel was judged NOT BECAUSE they failed to follow the procedures, but because they SINNED REBELLIOUSLY (it was not unintentionally). And despite their rebelliously sinful lifestyle, they continued to perform the sacrifices under the Law, thinking that they can get atonement for their Sins nevertheless.
That is why in Isaiah 1:13-15, God called them “vain Offerings; the incense of an abomination to me”. It was not because Israel could not follow the procedures, but because they were in REBELLION (2 Kings 17:7-23). That is why in Isaiah 1:16-20, he called for Israel to repent from their Sins, to obey him so that they will eat the good of the land.
Though his misconception, Joseph Prince demonized the Law of God, turning it into an enemy of the gospel, citing that God had found fault with the very Laws that he wrote himself! Heb 8:7 is not about “God finding fault with the Law”, the point is that Jesus Christ is the ultimate completion of the Old Covenant (which was incomplete), to bring spiritual reconciliation to those who repent and follow him.
The fact is that believers even in the Old Testament were not justified by the Law. It was the ISRAELITES who tried to seek justification under the Old Covenant to cover their rebelliousness… and it was through this notion that they think they were “Justified under the Law” which Paul wrote against the idea in Romans Chapter 4.
Under the New Covenant, the same principal applies. Those who are under the Grace are Slaves to Righteousness (Rom 6:15-23) and “ Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him” – 1 John 2:3-6. True believers may fall into Sin UNINTENTIONALLY(Rom 7:21-25), but they will not live REBELLIOUSLY (Heb 6:4-6).
The rest of the book is based on this misconception about Law and Grace, and misplaced view of God’s blessing and prosperity that is relevant to the lives of believers.
________________________________________
My friend, I want to encourage you to begin to see that the world’s model of success is unstable and built upon a foundation that is shakable. It may have the outward appearance of the good life, but it is temporal, and we have all seen for ourselves how the world’s transient wealth can dissipate like smoke and easily slip away like the shifting sands in the desert. It is the presence of the Lord in your life that makes you a success! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, Page 3
________________________________________
He claimed that he is not preaching the prosperity gospel. But everything that he says IS about PROSPERITY.
________________________________________
We need to learn to stop pursuing things and to start pursuing Him. God sees your relationship with Him as the only thing that you need for
every success in your life. I can’t imagine starting in a worse place than Joseph.He was completely naked. He had nothing! No bank accounts,
no educational qualifications, no natural connections with people of influence, nothing. Thank God the Bible records a picture of Joseph
who began with nothing, so that you and I can have hope today. If you think that like Joseph, you have nothing, well, you can start believing in the power of the presence of the Lord in your life. Start looking to Jesus and claim that promise in
that Scripture for yourself!
Let me show you how you can personalize this promise in your life. Insert your name here into God’s promise for you:
“The Lord is with _______ , and I am a successful person.” JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page 3-4
________________________________________
He claim that “we need to learn to stop pursuing things and to start pursuing Him”. But his last line to ask his reader to insert their name on “The lord is with _____ , I am a successful person” IS EXACTLY making his readers to “Pursue Things”!! In fact, when a believer pursues God IN ORDER to get what he wants, then at the end of the day, what he wants is not God, but his own selfish desires! No wonder the bible says that Covetousness is idolatry! (Col 3:5, Ephe 5:5).
________________________________________
Now, read this aloud to yourself. Read it out loud a hundred times if you have to, and begin to see this as your reality. Stick this promise on your mirror, and every morning when you brush
your teeth, remind yourself that today, as you go to work, as you go to school, as you start the day caring for your children at home (or do whatever it is that you need to do), the Lord is with you.
And because He is with you, YOU ARE ALREADY A SUCCESS! When you have Jesus in your life, you are no longer trying to be a success; you ARE a success! JOSEPH PRINCE UNMERITED FAVOR, page 4
________________________________________
As you can read from just merely a few pages from his book, it has nothing short of the prosperity Gospel. In fact, his teachings are based on biased view of the word of God that is out of context. If you are sitting under his ministry or so happen to be listening to him, I urge you to study the word of God and see how his theology is fraudulent and deceptive.
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