“The Shaking”

September 3, 2011

Note: The following post is for Seventh Day Adventists. If you are not one, this post may not be understandable to you. Especially if you aren’t familiar with the inspired writings of Ellen G. White.

In EGW’s (her abbreviation) book called “Early Writings” she goes over a brief summary of the timeline of final events in her Chapter called “The Shaking” page 269-73. Additionally from there to the end of the book(page 297), she writes a picture perfect scenario of the final events to come in man’s history . I stand in awe of how God inspired this woman to so clearly write out the events,  so very soon, to come.

Here is why it is so important to have the “Spirit of Truth”  within you to discern these things–It is because many are asleep as to what will VERY SOON take place, it will catch them unaware!  These events the servant of the Lord describes are different in important areas than today’s accepted SDA beliefs in end times. For I dare say that the vast SDA  leadership has missed the correct prophectic final events so much and so far from the mark, it can only be the work of the dark one himself. Let’s look at her(God’s)  true  prophetic account.

In the shaking chapter, the first thing she describes are those  WITH STRONG FAITH who are of  “agonizing spirit.” Something is bothering them, they are in an internal  and spiritual struggle. Notice she puts the two main characteristic of “strong faith” and “agonizing spirit” together to describe these people she saw. Remember in her book, Testimonies to Ministers, page 445, EGW describes the great and dreadful act of the “sealing process” of Ezekiel 9. The ones sealed were the agonizing ones who were sighing and crying. It was because these agonizers were truly bothered by the sins done by the professed members of their own people. Honestly and purity according to God’s Law is what they simply wanted and sadly seldom found it!

Not only is the above the reason for this “agonizing” but it is because they are called upon by God to deliver a most “solemn” message. A message that “shakes” to the core God’s end day church–THE SDA! Let’s follow her continuing vision.

As she notices the agonizing ones, she also notices the “indifferent and careless” ones. As we undoubtably know this shaking vision is for the last days, so these can only be the Laodiceans!  Here is where the bomb is brought.  She then says ” I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown it was CAUSED by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness TO THE LAODICEANS.  The “shaking” will be caused by people within the SDA giving testimony to their own members!  Let’s look at this most revealing part.

Here it clearly shows that a “straight and solemn testimony” will be given to God’s own church!  The SDA. This testimony will be of such a powerful message that look what she next describes.

“Some will not BEAR THIS STRAIGHT TESTIMONY”. They will rise up against it, and THIS is what will cause the “shaking” among God’s people.”  Ok, we must ask ourselves what could this testimony be that is so solemn and straight?  Could it be the faithful testimony for several years (even decades) of the Shepherd’s Rod? Can we think of any other message telling of the true prophesy of God’s soon to come judgement upon His own church( a straight and solemn one indeed)?  No we cannot!  ” Too much to bear”  they cry. “God is too merciful to bring judgment upon His own people” they protest.  Yet the strong faithful  ones must do it and the obedient and God fearing ones in His church must embrace it.

Further she writes ” The solemn testimony of which the destiny of the church hangs, has been LIGHTLY ESTEEMED, IF NOT ENTIRELY DISREGARDED. This testimony must work deep repentance, all who will truly receive it, will obey it and be purified.” Again the true SROD testimony has almost entirely been ignored, even hated by many within the SDA church. But thank God many are throwing  away the devil’s phoney cover and examining these precious last day truths for themselves. These messages are also known as the “Last day Elijah  message”.

Again, what message today is directed  to own church that warns of God’s upcoming “purification”? What  message is “straight  and solemn”? What message won’t be ‘beared” by many and practically entirely “disregarded” ?  IT CAN ONLY BE THE SHEPHERD’S ROD MESSAGE. Who do you think has been behind this “smear campaign” against these faithful messengers? You got it–Satan himself!

Next she noticed the company who had been crying and praying in agony of Spirit. But now they we “clothed in armor”, as if God had greatly empowered them. After their trial of suffering, God had made then of one accord, she says ” they moved in exact order,like a company of soldiers”.  They now “shone with the light and glory of heaven”. But she says the careless and indifferent were “left behind in darkness”–not good!

So if we follow her timeline, it appears,  first there is an agonizing message (and crying to God)going out by the faithful. They are in turmoil but yet do as guided by the Holy Spirit, as faithful servants. Then she sees after this,  a “victory” for this company. This can only be the 144,000. No other company fits as perfectly described as this. Clad with “full armor” , in other words full power  of the Holy Spirit, this company is now ready to march forward into babylon. She describes their ability next.

“I heard those clothed with the armor, speak forth the truth with great power. It had effect. ” Then a beautiful picture is shown how many are won over. Puzzled about this great change in God’s people she asked ” What made this great change?”  The Angel answered  ” it is the latter rain, the refreshing  from the presence of the Lord, the Loud Cry of the Third Angel.” Her excitement is shown forth by her again emphasising   ” Great power was with these chosen ones.”

Consider this—When these “chosen ones” are armored and ready to go for God, will they be coming back to God’s church every Sabbath and  co-mingling with the many “careless and indifferent” ones?  No, it will not happen. (Mal 3:3 “And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver:and shall purify the son’s of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness”

So we see the great work of calling out the people in babylon (false churches) cannot come until the church get’s purified. Just think about this– If God’s church today, with so many careless and indifferent ones, was to stay the same(without any change) could we really “call people out” from one sinning church to come into another sinning one?? Let’s get real.

Then EGW describes how the evil ones become enraged at the success of the armor ones and stirs the wicked people(the vast wicked earth) to go after them (then Sunday Law comes) and finally after the severe trial of waiting for the Lord amidst these most troubling times, the Lord comes to save His people (both the 144k servants and the great multitude that was called out of babylon).

So we see a short yet powerful condensed vision of the end times to come. This shaking is about to pick up among God’s church (SDA) are you ready to take a stand? Are you going to “follow” the crowd and believe what others say about God’s end time messengers, or are you going to say ” I will do it my  LORD  and search this last day message as taught by Shepherd’s Rod.”  If it is false the Holy Spirit will show it clearly  but after studying carefully and fully, you may be like me and say –” Let the Lord’s plan come. Your truth and will is my desire Lord”—- a solemn and straight testimony shall be given to my brothers and sisters before Your visitation to Your church,  Amen, in Christ, Rob

Ps.(Note, I understand that their website may be under remodeling so please call first to order properly)  For those of you who would would like more information concerning this last day “Elijah Message”  contact http://www.11th-hourministries.org/contact.html  ( 11th hour ministries) or call 1-845-434-5282  All Cd’s and literature is sent free of charge.

Posted in End times | 4 Comments »

Humor in the Bible

August 27, 2011

As the human story is one of mostly sorrow and redemption, there is not alot of humor in God’s word. But the few instances there are really stand out. As our Lord was not used to sin for possibly billions of years, when it came upon the scene, the bliss, happiness and even laughter came to a halt. But let us look at the situations where God directly or indirectly was connected with “humor” even amongst the sorrowful human condition.

The most direct evidence we have for God laughing is in Psalms.(Psalms 2:4) ” He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh:the Lord shall have them in derision” (Psalms 59:8) says ” But You, O Lord, shall laugh at them; You shall have all nations in derision.”   (Psalms 37:13) ” The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming.”

In those scriptures, our Lord shows a subtle confidence , against  fools who think they can pull something over on the Lord. Again in (Job 41:29) He shows the same confidence. “Darts are regarded as straw; He laughs at the threat of javelins.”

Even in God’s creation, it can be seen that He can make something beautiful and funny in the same creature. Take the Albatross for instance, it is so graceful in flight and is truly a beautiful thing to watch, but when it lands, it truly is funny. It kinda crash lands, falling all over the place (probably due to it’s extra large wing span). Not hurt, but giving quite a humorous show for sure.

Proverbs has a few good ones. These are my favorites. (Prov 21:19)” It is better to live alone in the desert, than with a crabby complaining wife”  (Prov 27:14)  “If a man loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse.”   That  one really cracks me up.

Then we have the Jonah story. Jonah preached impending doom. The King realized that if they repented God might change His mind.  So EVERYBODY repented and put on sackcloth, from the King on down. They even put sackcloth ON THE COWS! Who knows, maybe God was even chuckling at the site(secretly ofcourse), for it was a VERY funny one indeed.

Then we have the classic Elijah story. One of the truly funniest (in a mocking way) stories in the Bible. Elijah made the ultimatum to the people ,serve God or baal.He ordered a bullock sacrificed. The test was,which ever God answered their call to bring down fire to burn the bull, that would indeed be the true God. They agreed to this test, all 450 “prophets” against Elijah’s God. So Elijah (who knew what would really happen) let the Baal prophets go first.

So from morning to noon, the 450 men jumped up and down, dancing all around, calling out their god. Even dancing upon the alter.Probably bumping into each other in a desperate attempt to call upon their “Baal god”. We can imagine Elijah quietly chuckling and even smirking as it approached noon. Then as noon came Elijah jokingly mocked them saying “Cry louder, for he is a god, maybe he is talking or meditating, or he is busy, or on  a  journey, or maybe he is sleeping and needs to be awaken.”(1 Kings 18:27)

They became more desperate, even cutting themselves. They continued to the evening sacrafice time. No voice or fire was ever heard or seen. Talk about egg on faces! Finally Elijah stopped the nonsense and prayed aloud to the God of Israel, and fire came down. So we can see that God whole heartedly supported this important yet partly humorous show by Elijah, to show the true foolishness of   these   people.

Finally there is the one of my favorite little stories about Martha and Jesus. In this short little story we see our Lord’s SOFT heart and compassion. Two sisters were in the house, one KNEW the importance of the Lord, the other not so much. Then Martha had the lack of insight to “complain” to the God of the universe about a trifle thing. Can we not imagine our Lord looking up at her almost ready to gently chuckle, but says with a soft smile “Martha, Martha, thou are worried about many things…”. Kinda like a father listens to his little girl complain because of a ladybug landing on her. He wants to gently chuckle.

So as we go through our walk, let us realize that a laugh here and there really does lighten our spirit. As we’ve seen our God has a sense of humor, and there will be times when it’ll be a good thing   to  have  a good intention laugh occasionally amidst the many sorrows we’ll have.

In Christ,  your servant,  Rob

Posted in God's humor | 6 Comments »

The Lord’s Righteous Anger

August 20, 2011

I remember reading (for the first time in my life) the Old Testament from front to back, completely. One of the main things that struck me, was the Lord’s fury and anger. Often and repeatedly,  His anger was seen throughout the OT. But as we shall see God’s anger is NEVER a bad thing, and likewise our anger, when right, is also not a bad thing.  Let’s study and learn about this often overlooked and under reported trait of our King.

The first and most memorable example of our Lord’s anger is in (John 2:15-16) “When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers money and overturned the tables. And he said to those who sold doves “Take these things away!” Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!”

What we can see from the above is the absolute “pure motive” of our Lord. His anger was aroused because he saw utter contempt for the HOLY house of God. Now what do you think the FATHER was thinking as He saw our Lord do this?  Was He thinking, “Oh no this is bad my Son, you should have been more tactful, not been so upset with these people” ? No.  He saw the Son’s motive, and it was to UPHOLD RIGHTEOUSNESS.

 How many are saying today to those who get mad at sin, “Oh that’s wrong, be nice” ?   The lesson here is that we should HATE sin, even if we have to get mad at it. Now, does that mean we go around looking for people to yell at? God forbid. But there does come times when righteous anger is correct before the Lord.

Let me give you a personal example. In my line of work, I often do service calls. I have many times corrected a person who breaks the 3rd Commandment in my hearing. I am very polite about it, and say in a loving manner, “You know it’s better to say gosh darn”. But let’s say, even after I warned them, they continue to say GD this and GD that (hasn’t happened yet). I continue to hear it as I work, I slowly begin to get steamed about it. Finally I turn and say “Hey,Please knock it off!”  Am I wrong in this case? Absolutely not. For I am doing EXACTLY what our Lord did– I am showing righteous anger.

Let’s be clear about anger, the greater problem comes from unrighteous anger. This amounts to spiritual breaking of the 6th Commandment– Thou Shal Not Murder. Our Lord warned about that in (Matt 5:22) “But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother WITHOUT CAUSE (meaning righteous cause) shall be in danger of the judgement…”  So Please be very careful in your anger, lest you fall into the all to common trap of unrighteous anger. 

The truth is that when we grow spiritually and we get holier (as we throw away our sins by the Holy Spirit) we discern situations where we get more indignation. The reason is that the purer you get the clearer you see sin, and since sin becomes more abhorent to you, you find more righteous anger within. But thank God, the Holy Spirit guides us in this regard. We can control it, and use it ONLY SPARINGLY, as our Lord did while he walked among us.

In these last days, our church is called the “Laodicean Church” and what is  most often thought of when mentioning this church?   Yes, LUKEWARMNESS. Now, as was just shown , righteous anger is NOT a lukewarm symtom. But if our Lord describes us as neither hot or cold, we’d better get off the fence and stop being mellow about sin, wouldn’t you say?

So let us remember that , though we don’t want to be angry with our fellow servants and friends, should a situation arise that calls for us to stick up for the Lord and His righteousness, we will do the right thing and admonish firmly if we must.

Next week, we’ll look at the humor of God and His servants.

In Christ,  Rob

Posted in Righteous Anger | 2 Comments »

Heaven Bound

August 13, 2011

Many times in our daily walk, we lose track of where we are heading. We get discouraged, frustrated. People we wanted to help show the light of truth, can’t see it, ignore it or argue against it.  We throw up our hands and say “where am I going with all this?” Thankfully God has told us , it’s  heaven bound!  Let’s look at what heaven will be like.

In (John 14:2-4) our Lord tells us where He’s going and what He’ll do. ” In My Father’s house are many rooms, if it were not so , I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.  I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going”

We can see that we will have our own dwelling place, a home as it were. It will no doubt be beautiful and luxurious. Think of the most gorgeous mansion in the earth today. It could very well make it look like a “dungeon”.

I have had two different dreams in my life that can be interpreted as pertaining to heaven. The last one  (about a year ago) I was walking around heaven and I was feeling so excited and bliss, I turned to ask (don’t remember who) ” You mean we get to experience this everyday?”  The other was one I had as a kid (at least 3 or 4 times) in it I could fly. I was astonished at this, utterly amazed this was possible . Was God letting me know I could experience blissful things in heaven with these dreams? Yes, I believe He was.

We are told a most clear and beautiful picture of heaven in (Rev 21:10 to 22:5) The lighting, the gates, the gold streets, so much beauty–this is our home! We walk up and down pure gold streets like glass. Everything is first class built by that most excellent carpenter- our Lord! Day after day, these blissful surroundings are ours to behold. This is our reward for those painful agonizing days of  discouragement and trials.

But it does cost something, it’s NOT free. It cost’s a pure heart sold out to Jesus, willing to obey His Holy Commandments (and not just some of them). Infact after we are painted this most beautiful picture of our future home Apostle John is guided by our Lord ONE LAST TIME, to tell everyone the cost–(Rev. 22:14) “Blessed are they who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right, to the tree of Life, and may enter through the gates into the city”.

Let us always remember where we are headed. Paul explained it when he said (Col. 3:1-3) “…set your hearts on the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on the things above, not on earthly things. for you died and your life is now hidden with  Christ in God.”

Our life is but a mist in the eternalness of time, is it really worth it to get all these earthly pleasures, and then to sacrifice all the eternal bliss of everlasting heaven?  No my friends, it’s such an easy decision to make when you start dwelling on where you’re going!   In Christ’s love, Rob

Posted in Heaven | 8 Comments »

Ezekiel

August 6, 2011

Perhaps there is no book in the Bible (except Revelation) which has so much prophetic and mysterious things of God as – Ezekiel. From visions of “wheels within a wheel, wheels with eyes” and the “dry bones rising up and speaking” just to mention a few. This book is definitely the “full course steak dinner” for the serious Bible studier 🙂  Let’s look at how this book’s prophetic words will play a VERY IMPORTANT part in these last days.

It is extremely important to understand that we, as  those living in these last days, are going to be receiving clearer light and truths that perhaps have been hidden or just plain ignored previously. The powerful light that is just now beginning to awake is the “sealing” of Revelation. Many are discovering the merging of S.O.P (Spirit of Prophecy-Ellen G. White) and scripture as regards to this sealing. Let’s look at what the prophetess of God had to say about it.

In Her book “Testimonies to Ministers” page 445  EGW gives a pointed picture of the sealing, and how it is the pure in heart who get it. At the end of the page she writes about John’s  revelation vision of the sealing  by saying ” This sealing of the servants of God IS THE SAME THAT WAS SHOWN EZEKIEL”. There is only one place in the book of Ezekiel that describes a sealing, it’s chapter 9.

This sealing is done BEFORE the four winds are let loose*. EGW describes those winds as symbolic of religious strife and persection, held back to protect and mark the 144,000. So if the sealings are one and the same, what clues can we get from Ezekiel 9?  The most obvious is that the marks or “seals” are placed on those “who sigh and cry” for the abominations done in their midst (meaning within their professed brethren). So it shows we are NOT to be going through the motions (keeping the Commandments in form only), but rather being a watchman for our brothers and sisters!

Ezekiel, as God’s prophet was called by God–“A watchman” and as such his message was primarily one of warning. We find it very interesting that God tells Ezekiel to warn the people a most important message TWICE . Anytime God says a warning 2 or 3 times you can BANK ON IT–it is IMPORTANT! Let’s see what this message was. Could God be giving it in Ezekiel because HE KNEW that His seal was to be connected to this warning message? Yes, I think so.

In (Ezekiel 3:19) we read “If thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity, but thou hast delivered thy soul”  Again the Lord says in (Ezekiel 33:9) ” Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it, if he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity, but thou hast delivered they soul” .

So we can see that the Lord provided key guidance in those warnings on “what” we are to do in these last days. Is not our Lord the searcher of hearts? Infact if I had to give him a job desciption, it would be just that–Searcher of Hearts. He KNOWS whether you are going through the motions and saying ” Oh I love the Lord, He’s so good” then the next day, for example, at Sabbath service you embrace a fellow member YOU KNOW is having a fornicating or homosexual relationship and say ” Oh my friend so nice to see you, Lord bless you”—-Falseness!!  And like a reader of this blog recently said ” You can’t FOOL God”. You may people though!

Now I am not under any illusion, being a watchman will make you, many times –unpopular. But look at what Paul said about this (Gal 1:10) “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings or God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ”.

Infact, when we warn our brothers or sisters, we are indeed caring for their souls. It is THEIR welfare we are desiring. This is what pleases our Lord! But sadly, we will in many cases see in a most clearly exposed way(when we warn them)–whether they want to walk uprightly or please God their own way. If they get upset with us or angry, it shows CLEARLY they don’t want the truth. They want to “come in another way”. It CANNOT be. God’s word is truth and all who ABIDE by it WILL BE SAVED. Sadly though scripture is clear–“Few find it”, or unbelievably–even WANT IT.

In summary, let’s let God know He can “count us in” for his truth by living it , proclaiming it, and WARNING when we need to.

In Christ, Rob

* There is a more in depth study of this vision if desired, let me know

Posted in Ezekiel | 8 Comments »

Prison Ministry Update

July 30, 2011

A few weeks ago I wrote a post called “From a Prison Cell” (listed under Witnessing). About how a prisoner named Eldon who was doing God’s work among his own fellow prisoners. My heart was gladdened this week as I read his latest letter. Let me share the good tidings.

Because he is under a “security system” there are many different checkpoints things must go through (including letters) before they can reach the individual prisoners. We had talked about me sending the two-part DVD set called “The Lord’s Day” to the prison to show the men a great video on the truth about the Sabbath. Finally after several weeks he has indicated we are on go for me to send it out. It’ll go through review then get forwarded to the Chaplin to arrange a showing. Praise the Lord, that powerful Sabbath tool will be seen by these hungry souls (spiritually).

There were several highpoints in his letter. He mentioned that he taught the Sabbath lesson (which was after the sermon). He was aware that some of my dear brothers and sisters would like to pen-pal with a prisoner, in hopes of strengthing them in their faith. As we know Jesus said HE WAS IN PRISON, remember? He wanted to know- did you visit Him?

 So he expected a couple hands to go up. NINE went up! You see, we must understand that these souls are hungry and lonely. Yes, they screwed up, but haven’t we all? Our Lord knows that some really want to get straight and if they reach out (Like Eldon) and seek the Lord, they will find Him right there  in prison!

Eldon also said he is getting ready to give next week’s sermon (pray for him) and it will be on — how keeping the Commandments are the result of KNOWING Jesus, not works of ourselves. When I read things like this from this prisoner I realize God shows His truth to any and all no matter their circumstances, they just gotta want to know it! Eldon is being given good light in which to lead his fellow inmates- Praise the Lord!

Now, that brings me to ask if any one who’s heart is touched wants to write one of those spiritually hungry hands that went up, let me know. I have 9 names and addresses. 2 people (responders of the last post) will be writing to two of them.

  in Christ, Rob

Posted in Prison ministry updates, Witnessing | 6 Comments »

Teachable Spirit

July 23, 2011

Being a professed teacher of the things of the Lord, there perhaps is no more fulfilling words to hear than “I want to learn and am a teachable spirit”. Those that possess this Spirit are whom the Lord delights. But the ones who say this must know (Isaiah 8:20) completely in their heart, for this is the GREAT STANDARD all teachers are judged. ” To the Law and to the Testimony, if they speak not these words, it is because they have no light in them”.

Once we know this standard for the teachers of Christ, we can look back upon history and see that the some of the teachers who were VERY popular in the world didn’t believe in the standard. They spoke a most solid message EXCEPT with subtle but important errors. Men like Martin Luther *  and Billy Graham * come to mind. But their comtemporaries–Oswald Glait , Andreas Karlstadt (during Luther’s time) and Joe Crews, all well known in their own time and taught at the same time,  yet never got the world wide following that these got. They taught the standard.

In (James 3:1) we read “My Brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgement”. These are stern and warning words that our teaching must be the truth. Our Lord does tell us that there is GREAT REWARD for the righteous teachers (Matt 5:19) “Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of the Commandments and teaches others to do so, shall be called least in the kingdom of God, but whoever does and TEACHES THEM, he shall be called great in the kingdom of God”. Here the Lord equates Commandment teaching with “greatness”. This is something us teachers must always remember!

One of the greatest obstacles we as teachers face is pride. It truly saddens me when I try to show someone the truth according to scripture and it goes against their belief or learning they have been told. But when it comes to the opposite situation my joy is great– a open and humble “teachable spirit”. Let me give you a recent example. Her name is Teri.

In my post recently called “If we talk the talk, we must walk the walk” I tried to give a helpful guide to a righteous walk before the Lord. She received the post and was blessed by it. In her excitement she sent it off to her pastor. A SDA pastor no less. She was in mild shock when she received his response. In it he said some was good but alot was “legalistic”, sort of like the teachings of the Pharisees in Jesus’ time. Huh?  This was the same response Teri had. Teri wasted no time and sending an email back correcting him according to scripture (Ezekiel 3:19) “If you warn the wicked, and he does not turn  from his wickedness, nor turn from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity, but you shall have delivered your soul”.

 Wow. I feel like Jesus did when the centurion so impressed Him with his words. She is really the example of a teachable spirit. Being in the Holy Spirit she reconized the post and the truth it was saying and was warmed by it. She didn’t cower and meekly “accept” his reproof. I honestly fear for people like this pastor. It shows me something is seriously amiss. When we teach that to obey the Commandments is VERY important and that we should teach others, and people find fault in it, I seriously become concerned.

I am also reminded of this very important point. In (John 14:26) we read “But the helper, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you”.  Here we see that it is the Holy Spirit who is our primary teacher.

The Holy Spirit is indeed helping us and giving us “Discernment” to know the truth and falsehood.Those who are secretly cherishing sins in their life CANNOT expect to have this clear discernment. As we let go of our sins, our vision and understanding of “Holy” things of God get more clear. I know in my own walk, as I have let go of my idols and many sins, my understanding of God’s word and truth is really clearer than anytime before.

In (Mal 2:7) God points out how the teachers (priests) should be  teachers of His Law (Holy 10 Commandments) “For the lips of a priest should keep knowledge, and people should seek the LAW from his mouth, for he is a messenger of the Lord of hosts.” 

Lastly, as a teacher, one of the most important things to remember is we must NEVER ignore questions directed to us.  This shows us to be either ignorant, prideful, or careless. All definitely not Christ like qualities.

So let us desire to use (Isaiah 8:20) as our guideline if we desire to teach. Praying often that we never think we have all the truth and can’t learn. Ellen White has said we will ever be learning new truths through out eternity, I can’t wait to know the vast truths that exist, I want to be a “teachable spirit”    amen.

In Christ, your servant, Rob

*  Many are well familar that pastor Graham taught Sunday was the Holy day of God. As far as Luther, it is well known among historians that he was anti- Sabbath as well http://concordiatheology.org/2010/05/luther%E2%80%99s-writing-against-emerging-sabbatarianism/

Posted in Christian walk, Proper teachings | 21 Comments »

If we talk the talk, we must walk the walk

July 9, 2011

As many know, the last book of God’s word describes those who will be saved (Rev. 22:14) ” Blessed are they that DO His Commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life”.

The Lord  guided me to do this post to more throughly show examples of keeping His Commandments. To get a clearer view on what it means to “Walk the walk”. When it was recently revealed to me about the 144,000 ( post “The 144,000” listed under Salvation), it really sent me to do some soul searching and to realign my path to help bring the truth out more fully and seriously. Partial obedience WILL NOT satisfy. It is of the DEEPEST concern for our spiritual welfare to know what is required of us.

Jesus said few will enter into the eternal kingdom. Ellen White (our last Prophetess) said the same thing. They are not lying. So we must have a healthly fear (reverence) and look at our lives and ask–  Am I doing enough to be found worthly of His kingdom?  As we read above,  His word makes it clear His Commandments are key. The following guide will make it very plain to examine your life to see if you are indeed DOING His Commandments and not just going through the motions. Let us break down the “walk”.

#1   “Love the Lord your God with all your heart , mind and soul”

Are you doing these things— Reading His word daily?  Praying daily?  Telling people about Him daily  or at least very frequently?Do you pray frequently a similar prayer as this?  “Father, help me to keep your Holy Commandments, and if I error please let me know about it”.  If you are, you’re well on your way to doing  the first one.

#2   “No other God’s before Him, or worship Idols”

Do you have a certain hobby or pursuit that constantly is taking most of your spare time?  Are you placing objects or persons before Him?   We must be careful to use our time wisely and not devote our spare time to continually putting things or even loved ones in front of  our Lord.  Let me give you an example.

Let’s say your spouse has worked hard for a long time in pursuit of a certain degree. Their graduation is next Saturday. They are excited to “finally” get the degree. You think long and hard about attending, you say to yourself   ” It’s just this once, God will understand, I’ll go”.   No!  You have now put your spouse BEFORE God. This is particulary bad  because it’s a “premeditated sin”. If you make little “exceptions” like this and put people or things in front of Him, you are carelesly tossing aside His word- not good!

Read (Numbers 15:32) for alittle story of a man who put his family before God and His Law (harmlessly collecting sticks, so he thought). And he didn’t get a second chance!

#3   “Do not take His name in vain”

This is pretty clear cut but what many don’t realize is the following. When you HEAR someone in your presence take the Lord’s  name in vain you MUST correct Him. If you do not, YOU have just silently agreed with what they have done. You don’t have to go into a sermon with them , it can be a simple  “You know it’s better to say Jeepers Creepers”   and leave it at that. Ofcourse they may want more info, and it’ll be  a chance to spread His word!(that’s why it’s a good idea to have cards with your  name and number with you-for studies)

#4   “Keep the Sabbath Holy”

By keeping it “Holy” it is meant that we are not to do our normal activities (work, pleasure and such). This Is the Lord’s Day. It’s amazing how often He called it  “My Sabbaths”  in the Old Testament. Proper worship and respect is our duty for this day. But some think ” Oh, I’ll run to the store real quick and buy that little item I forgot to get for lunch” No!  Or they will say ” I’ll stop at the gas station because I forgot to do it yesterday, He’ll understand”. No!   These “little” things are NOT LITTLE to God. You  might as well go to the keg party because in God’s sight YOU JUST DID! 

 Read again the little sticks story (Numbers 15:32-36). If you continue to do these little breaks here and there, you’ll be grieving the Holy Spirit.

#5   “Honor your Father and Mother”

This one isn’t a part-time one when YOU feel like it. It mean always honoring them. You don’t yell at them or generally dis-respect them. Here’s an example.  Your Father promised to help you on that loan payment, but he didn’t do so. Father’s day is coming up in a couple days. You say to yourself  ” Forget him! He doesn’t deserve any call from me!”  That would be bad to the Lord. Instead you should swallow your pride and call him anyway. Honoring takes precedence over “our” feelings.

#6   ” Do not murder”

Thankfully we need not worry (almost  everyone) about the “literal” act of doing this. But the spiritual one , explained by our Lord (Matt 5:21-22) is where we shouldn’t get into  heated exchanges with people. Murder in our eyes is considered as “breaking” this Commandment.

#7  “Do not commit adultery”

Again this one is pretty clear cut. But it would include “any” sex outside of marriage. Because His word says fornicators will not be allowed in the God’s Kingdom (Eph 5:5).

#   “Do not steal”

This one is wider than many think. For example if you hire someone to do work for you and you short-change him in what’s right for the work he did–you have “stolen” labor from him. You see how this has ALOT of variations? When you go to do your taxes DO NOT short change the government. If you do, you have stolen from the government. Remember Jesus said “render what is Ceasars  to Ceasar and to God what is God’s” (Luke 20:25). This one really requires you keep a mindful watch that you do not steal.

#9     ” Do not bear false witness against your neighbor”

This one I believe comes up the least often. But when someone does it , it is really bad to the Lord. It covers lying AGAINST someone.  Not just the typical lying that is done. Although that is called an abomination to God (Prov. 12:22)

#10    ” Do not covet”

This is another of those wide open ones. It covers ALOT. We must be careful that we don’t want, want, want.  We can want money, things, people’s approval over God’s approval, etc. above and beyond what we truly need. The ultimate breaker of this one was Satan. He wanted (coveted) worship, power, exaltation. His coveting was his undoing. So we too must be sure we aren’t coveting. This is a sneaky one , for sure!

Hopefully this is a good guideline for your “walk” and possibly it has made you aware of some little things that are really BIG things to God.. The Lord doesn’t want ANY to miss His kingdom. But His pardon for you and I meant we are given a clean slate. The Holy Spirit comes in and helps us walk uprightly. We dare not go on messing our clean slate  up (continual sinning) if we truly love Him(John 14:15) and want to be called into His Kindom.Remember we are told we only have two duties (Ecc 12:13) “Fear God and keep His Commandments”. The “fear” part comes in when we don’t want to do those little “breakings” for fear our walk will not be right with Him.Let us go to bed each night knowing we did our best according to His word.

 In Christ,  Rob

Posted in Christian walk, Commandments | 10 Comments »

“Let our works save us”

June 25, 2011

Unbelievably as this sounds, many believe this today, even unbeknownest to themselves. Some think they can earn their way to heaven. But it is a very “sneaky” trap by the devil. Let us look at this most close delusion of the truth.

Keep this most revelant scripture in mind as you read this (Ezekiel 33:13) “When I say to the righteous that he shall surely live, but he trusts in HIS OWN righteousness and commits iniquity, none of his righteous works shall be remembered, but because of the iniquity that he has committed , he shall die”. Here it basically says that righteous works MUST be according to His word not done by what WE think is right.

I have know “Jan” (her name has been changed) since about 2004. She and her husband run a ministry for poor and dis-advantaged children and families. It’s an actual real life building and large property and is well known through out the area. I had been a regular donater. About a year ago, the Lord had inspired me to contact her via email to let her know about my walk with the Lord and to possibly shed some new light to her as well.

I was well aware of her fine minstry, as I often received their monthly mailer telling of individual heart moving stories of dis-advantaged families and the children’s plight and sometimes their success in finding Jesus. I was moved on more than a few of them. So it was with a real hope and desire I contacted her to see if it was possible that they might be able to teach the kids about God’s Holy Day-the Sabbath.

So I heard from her and we agreed to do a “online bible study”. As I usually do , I first explained how God gave me a direct sign at the end of my first Sabbath. I felt it is good to let people know I am not “raised” a Sabbath keeper, so I don’t have a prejustice to it. I SAW God’s hand work and His sign letting me know His Sabbath is for real. She appreciated it and our study began.

God had given me this vision of her big ministry bringing the many kids into the light of the Sabbath. But as the study went on, my soul became more despondent. For all the many truths I showed her was like water on a duck’s back. It just flew right off her. God knows I really tried. I poured out my spirit in trying to show her the “truth”. But she continued to refuse the light, she was steadfast in her reasoning that “The Sabbath wasn’t biblical” as she put it. This got me to thinking -what was exactly going on in this woman’s head?

Recently, with another person I know making this same error, I felt it was time to bring awareness to this very “real looking” deception.It has to do with “works”. In the book of James we learn how works is a MUST in our Christian walk. (James 2:17) “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone”. The BIG PROBLEM is when we think “our” works can replace works that glorify God.

So I got to thinking about “Jan’s” situation. I mean here is this lady who is doing VERY GOOD things in the name of the Lord. Providing a most gracious giving enviroment for the dis-abled and dis-advantaged. YET she has turned downed the LIGHT God showed her through me, His servant. What are we to make of this?? Let me tell you the God’s truth in this matter.

Many remember the Saul story. Israel’s first king. In the book of Samuel, we learned that Samuel had told Saul( at God’s specific direction) to go into this evil village and destroy EVERYTHING, leave nothing or no one alive. Saul agreed. But Saul became presumptous. Instead of doing as God instructed through His Prophet Samuel, Saul decide to “spare” the finest animals as HIS SACRIFICE to the Lord . BIG  BIG MISTAKE! Saul in effect decided HIS way was better than God’s word. God was very upset and was grieved!

This story has BIG implications for us. In (Samuel 15:22) we read “…to OBEY is better than sacrifice..”  This is a profound statement. That means God want’s  us to obey rather than sacrifice ANYTHING! That means our time , our money, our anything! Is that not what Jan is doing? She is in effect saying “God, I won’t  obey your Commandments BUT here’s what I will do. I’ll do many good works for you, “sacrifice” my time and devote my life to doing good works in your name”. She has placed BIG FAITH in her works pleasing God. Is it really? Instead can we not see how God’s face would smile if she did these works IN ADDITION to obeying His word! Wow, that would be the ticket!!

Many today are saying “We are close to the Lord, look at all the things we do for Him”. Yet the very next Sabbath they can be found shopping at the mall, or watching the ballgame. Just trampling HIS Holy day and making it of no effect! His word means nothing, their works have justified them, so they think.

Sadly, a most fitting scripture describes these people (Romans 10:3) ” For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness have not SUBMITTED to the righteousness of God”. His holy 10 Commandments is  His ultimate “righteousness”.

For kind of a last word to Jan I told her this. “Jan, suppose I am right and that God really does want His Commandments kept. Do you think if you’ll die, He will say ‘Jan, you did a foolish thing, you kept those old outdated Commandments, sorry you can’t come into my Kingdom”?  Ofcourse not.

To summarize, let us always remember that “our” works are to be done as “supplement works” AFTER   “His”  great Commanded works-His Holy 10 Commandments!   In Christ, Rob

Posted in Commandments | 5 Comments »

From A Prison Cell

June 11, 2011

Many years ago a guy named Eldon was a sitting duck for demonic angels. He was continually  breaking God’s Commandments. The lusts of this world was his passion. But for some these satanic demons break loose and really control their host. As scripture says (1 Peter 5:8) “Be sober and vigilant, your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour”. When one ignores this word of God and becomes NOT sober and vigilant, terrible things can happen.

But I am talking about the “old” Eldon. The one who has been destroyed and no longer lives. There is a new Eldon whom it is my delight to tell about. Let’s look at this GREAT turnaround.

I often receive much Christian literature during the week. I enjoy reading the latest in God’s work. About 2 months ago an article caught my eye. It was from a 3abn magazine about a prisoner who had been watching 3abn and became alive in knowing about the “true” gospel of  Jesus Christ. His eyes and ears became open and truths such as the Sabbath became very clear and real to him. He became a changed man.

You see once we receive and understand God’s REAL TRUTH we become as His word says (John 8:32) ” You shall KNOW the truth and the truth shall make you free”. Free indeed! Even a locked up man  is now free! He has peace and comfort knowing that every day that goes by is another chance to work for God in his short “mist of time”, compared to eternity! And Jesus , the great counter, adds them up and rewards every one according to his work.

So as I read this story the words of the Lord came into my mind (Matt. 25:36) “…I was in prison and you came to visit me”. I tried to picture myself “IN HIS SHOES”. I wondered was anyone reaching out to this guy? Here he was telling this great turnaround story, the LEAST I could do was to write and encourage him. (Luke 22:32) “….When you are converted, strengthen your brothers.”  I am a converted “new” man and therefore our Lord says to make strong our brothers. This was something I decided to do.

So I wrote him and basically told him I was with him in spirit and how happy I was for him to have found God’s truth. He no longer had to search around for the “true” gospel of Christ–He KNEW it! At first, after 3 or 4 weeks and not hearing back from him, I began to think ” Well, I haven’t heard anything , maybe I said something, or it got lost”. Then his response came.

My spirit soared  as I read his lengthly letter. He told of how he is working among the 1350 men in his prison to show the truth to men who are hungry for it. How he has been tranformed from that old sinful man to a new creature of God. It became clear to me that all he needed was alittle “outside” help ( in the form of literature, DVD’s, and such) then he would be armed in spiritual material to make even more headway in winning some souls in there.

After reading that first letter back I knew God had placed a small job before me. Afterall what is 2 or 3 hours of our life every month to reach out to a brother who is ready and willing to do God’s work in a prison! Praise the Lord, for men like Eldon! The following are some writings from Eldon.

He writes  ” Do you think your church or any groups in your area would consider adopting us as a mission site”? There’s an awful lot we could do here with just alittle  outside help. There are so many souls on the line here and these men need to discover God’s truths in their own bibles.”

So it is with hope and prayer  I’d like to ask if any of you would like to become a pen pal and spiritual helper for someone in prison. Eldon  can provide names of some of the guys who would be very thankful even to just hear a “hello, how you doing” note.

Our Lord knows these men have made some wrong decisons but they can be helped and eventually brought into God’s kingdom!  Amen!

Posted in Prison ministry updates, Witnessing | 6 Comments »

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