First Century Christians (vs) Present day Christians.

Originally written in Tamil by Brother Vijay(http://vijay76.wordpress.com/)

I have written 14 great accomplishments made by present day Christians. These 14 achievement of us will prove to the world that we are better and knowledgable than the first century Christians.

• The fact that Jesus was born on 25th december was not known to the first centuy Christians. It was not even known to Mary- the earthly mother of Jesus. They were under the assumpton that 25th December was the birthday of the Roman SUN GOD. They knew only about the Cross -Tree; The did not know about the X-mas Tree. It is also a sad reality that they had no idea about the Great Man of God - Santa Claus.

• We know that we have to worsip the Lord in a church on a Sunday. But the early Christians did not know this truth and hence they were worsipping the Lord everyday. (Acts 2:46,47). Only the fourth Century Christians realised that they had to worship every sunday when this rule came into effect after a great group discussion in Heaven.

• The first century Christians respected Mary - The mother of Jesus. But they were blind to the Truth that she was ought to be worshipped.

• The first century Christians did not have a clue about the great discovery of the 20th century "Word of Faith Movement". They were idiots who never had Faith. If they had exercised their Faith by making Faith proclamations, they would have never gone through sufferings. The Lions would not have eaten them. They also never knew that they could download the Righteousness of God into them by repeating the words  "I am righteous in Christ Jesus". If only they had known that they could "Prophesy Prosperity" they would have been richer than Bill Gates. They were blind jokers who were blind to the revelation that we have now.

• God has changed his mind and he now lives in temples made of stones also. The early Christians thought that they were the body of Christ. The Apostles were the Church. They gathered together as the church. But they did not know that God hated that format of worship. They did not know that God lives in Big Churces where the Pastor doesn't even know 90 % of the members in the congregation.These truths were revealed to Chrstians after the 4th century AD.

• The first century Christians thought that Baptism was to die and be buried with Christ to receive redemption for the sins. Only those who acknowledged their sins took batism. But after the 4th century, even new born babies started acknowledging that they were sinners and they were specially designed by God with a super brain.

• Early Christians were under the assumption that the rituals of the Old covenant were abolished and  replaced by the New covenant principles. But the TITHE of the Old Covenant has not been abolished according to the present day Christians.In the Old covenant, the Tithe food was to be stored in the store house. But the present day store house is the Bank account of the preacher. The first century Christians did not know this Truth.

• The first centuy Christians were dumb to assume that a gathering of saints was building the spiritual bond among them and God.They were even foolish to consider themselves as different parts of the same Body of Christ. But the present day Christians have understood the real meaning of gathering of saints. The real meaning of gathering of saints is conducting spiitual meetings where evryone can jump in joy, roll around and laugh. After the meeting is over, we could go back to our worldly lives. This truth was not known to the first century christians.

• The first centuy Chrisians had a wrong belief, that they were worshipping and pleasing God  by offering their bodies as living sacrifices. But we know the real meaning of spiritual worship. Our Holy Spirt will get acivated when the bassist plays tap bass,the guitarist plays lead progressions with distortion and when the drummer packs a punch with his rolls. Very similar to Software updates, We have also updated our worship to new versions called soaking prayer, Prophetic worship, apostolic worship , rolling on the floor laughing (ROFL). The first centuy Christians might quote Romans 12: 1 and say that our worship is wrong. Let them say that, because they were beaten and bruised when they worshipped God according to Romans 12:1.  But we get joy and happiness and we get drunk in the spirit when we worship God. Even Gold powder falls on us when we worship.Which worship is better? You decide!

• The first century Christians preached a lousy Gospel and became enemies to many. By doing so, they thought that they were following God. But we use the same Gospel message and preach in such a manner that no one gets hurt. By using our brains, we preach a gospel through which we gain many friends. The early Christians lived in a small world and they went through a narrow gate. But the gate we enter through is Broad just like our mind. They thought that Gospel is about making disciples. But we know Gospel is about the number of people who get converted. Why care about quality when we have quantity?

• The early Christians had three enemies ( World, Flesh, Satan). But we have only one enemy (Satan). We bind him, make him to dance like MJ; and we even tie him and throw him in Hell and burn him with Fire. What is this World and Flesh? The frst century Christians complicated things. The only world that we know is the rotating globe that we have in our home. Talking about flesh, we recommend everyone to eat the chicken breasts from KFC.

•  The early christians thought that a prophet is one who Edifies the Church by standing in the gap, as a gatekeeper and as a watchman. But we know that a prophet is one who places his hands on our heads to predict our future.

• In the Old Covenant, there was a dfference between High Priest and the people. This system was referred to as the clergy-laity system.The first century christians thought that Jesus abolished this system on the cross (when the Veil Tore). They considered themselves to be brothers and servants for one another. Even the shepherds and elders were one among them. But we proved them wrong by the 4th century AD when we brought back the Cergy-Laity system to practise.

• Above all,the crowning glory of our finding is our discovery that we could love the world and God at the same time. We have given a new meaning to Chrstendom with our discovery. The first century Christians never knew this truth.They loved only God and hated the world and because of that had a miserable life.

Ten Disturbing Questions for Christians

Originally written in Tamil by Brother Vijay.  (http://vijay76.wordpress.com/) 

 We Chrstians call ourselves Believers and address the Non-Christians as Non-Believers.But, Are we really followers of Christ? When I tried to search the answer for this question, I ended up having Ten more disturbing questions in my mind.

1. Non Chrstians make pilgrimmages with the hope of receiving Blessings from their god. Christians criticize this act of Non-Believers. But the same Chrstians run behind spiritual meetings to receive God's blessings. Jesus said,  “My food is to do the will of my Father". Aren't we supposed to follow the same thing too? When Jesus did the will of God, he lacked nothing. God's will for us is not to make us beggars.Have we forgotten Matthew 6:33 ?"Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

2.We criticize the fans and fan clubs of Movie stars. But Why have we made the Servants of God as our idols? We say that  Mary is not the mediator between us and God; but Why have we made the Pastors as our mediators? If Pastors are the disciples, Who are we ?

3.We probe to discern the miracle claims of a sage of another religion. We also discover that those miracles claims are not true but just a Trickery work performed in a precise manner. But when Christian preachers perform miracles on stage by "Name-calling", "Slaying", why are we believing them blindly? Aren't we supposed to test every Spirit? Aren't we supposed to discern the motive behind all the drama-acts that go on stage?

4.We tease the Non-believers when they trust their sun signs. But Why do we fall for the "Promise verse" -lucky draw game that is conducted in every churches? You mock and tease your non-believer friend when he puts his trust on the horoscopic fate of his sun sign, Do you at least remember the promise verse that you got at the beginning of this year? Did it come True in you life? Why this Hypocrisy?

5.You boldly say to others, "Jesus gives everlasting Peace in your life"; but still why are you praying for personal peace? If you do not have peace in your own life, How can you proclaim the peace of Christ to others, when you yourself have not experienced it in your life. I am not saying that a believer would not have peace. But I am reinstating the fact that unless we are crucified with Christ, we can never have the peace offered by Christ.

6.We strongly oppose Idol worship. But we have many idols in our life. Jesus did not compare himself with any other god.But he mentioned the name of his enemy -"Mammon" (Money/Worldly Lust). We can pray for our needs. But if we search for Jesus only for material blessings and Earthly Prosperity, we are idol worshippers too.

7.Some believers say that entertainment (Movies, Television) is satanic. But still, the very same believers encourage the so called satanic entertainment in their worship time and in churches. Many of the Christian music albums that are released in Christendom and many of the Christian TV shows like " The next Christian Idol, The worship leader Hunt, Dial the Christian song you like" are copied from the world system.

8.If AC/DC performs on stage amidst Laser, smoke, light effects with some female backup dancers, we call it worldly. But when a Christian worship leader adorns the same stage with the same Laser,smoke,light effects accompanied by some female backup dancers we call that an "anointed worship" session. Millions are spent for such stage shows. At the same time thousands of missionaries and their kids are still going to bed with hungry stomachs. Would we have peace when we show our accounts to our Lord almighty on judgment day? We justify our acts by saying that youngsters would come for our programs only when we have extravagant stage shows like this. Did Paul, Peter, Baranabas,James and John attract youngsters like this? They hadth Holy spirit in them and that Holy spirit attracted others.

9.If Horseracing and casinos are seen as areas where betting is involved, What should we call it, when Christians "Plant Seed" (Offer Money) in a particular ministry hoping or financial prosperity? Can we cal that "Spiritual prosperity"? Jesus reminds us to help the poor without expecting anything in return. But Aren't we involving ourselves in betting if we expect financial returns for planting seed in some ministry?

10.When a Preacher or a Sage of another religion falls for a public sin, we talk about his downfall with everyone. But when our favorite Christian preacher commits a crime, why are we trying to hide it by downplaying it?

It is not the Gospel. It is Poison

(He called you through our Gospel, so that you may obtain and share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ-2 Thes 2:14- Amplified Bible)

Beloved! We have been Invited to fellowship with our Glorious God through the Gospel

Which Gospel?

"God will wipe away your tears, He will take away your burdens, He will free you from financial bondage,Your debts will be cleared, Your sick bed will be rolled away. If you had Invited the Lord Jesus to come into your heart today, you have been saved..." Will the Gospel that we preach/hear today take a man to share and obtain the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ? or Will it make man to love the world more and more?Jesus commissioned us to Preach the Gospel and make disciples (Matthew 28:19) Is the modern day preaching capable of making disciples out of those who accept Jesus Christ?

  

Were the Apostles persecuted and martyred for preaching this Gospel?

Sinners cried and repented with a contrite heart when they heard the Gospel message through John Wesley and Charles Finney. Many who were saved by their preaching became faithful missionaries for God and shone for our Lord. Did John Wesley and Charles Finney present this "God will wipe away your tears, He will take away your burdens Gospel?"  Those sinners were convicted of their sins and they pleaded for repentance with tears. Today,Evangelists present a salt-less Gospel and plead to the sinners to accept Jesus. Pity state of Christendom.

Any Gospel that doesn't convict the hearers of the wages of sin and the matchless sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the Devil's "Sweet False Gospel". This Sweet False Gospel might induce a change of mind; it might even induce a change in Religion, but it could never bring Salvation (Born again Experience). It is not the Gospel. It is Poison. Today, the Church is filled with Tares and it is because those who are not really Born-again, call themselves Christians by accepting Christ because of their lust for earthly blessings. This is the crowd that followed Jesus Christ when he performed the miracle by feeding the 5000 with 5 loves of bread and 2 fish. This is not the crowd of disciples.

Jesus  Christ is not a machine that produces Currency notes.He ain't a beggar who knocks at the door of Sinners ( Jesus is knocking at the Lukewarm Backslidden church - Rev 3:14-22). He is  angry with the wicked (Sinner) every day (Psalm 7: 11).If any sinner realises the Wages of Sin and the Price that our Saviour paid for it on the cross, he would Run to Jesus with tears in his heart, soul and mind. But if you try to Market your Poisonous Gospel, you are in Danger.

To preach this Salt-less, Non-edifying Poisonous Gospel, Money is spent in millions to erect cut outs, banners,posters for the evenagelist. Most people who attend  these meetings are not Non-believers. Most of them are Believers. I don't understand the spiritual burden of soul-winning, that most preachers have especially during the first week of the month. Offering baskets are getting filled. Many false testimonies are printed in next month's magazine.Are we fooling God who is waiting patiently for us with arms wide open?

We have to pray for those who are in tears and Grief. We can comfort them. It is good to tell them about God's love also. Yet, The comforting words that we speak to them is not the Gospel of Jesus Christ.The true Gospel of Jesus Christ will convict the hearers of their sin, and will induce them to repent.

Beloved!!

True Gospel will be accompanied by persecutions. It will also be accompanied by a Revival.

False Gospel will attract crowds, money, fame. It will also be accompanied by the wrath of God; because it is not the Gospel. It is Poison

Today's Jesus

I am Christian Preacher of the 21st century. I am gonna talk about the Jesus I preach from the pulpit.

My Jesus is a Prosperity tree that has Gold and Diamond fruits on it.

He has a Magic Vessel that satisfies our gluttony needs.

He is a Cow who can be milked any time for our selfish lusts.

He is a Money-bearing Tree and a currency printing machine.

His blood is the costliest Medicine that is sold in the Spiritual Market.

His Holy Spirit is my comedy Servant. When I Utter the word "Fire", he goes around and tickles everyone.

No one can question me, because There is no condemnation for the one who believes.

I wont stop preaching this (Cheap) Gospel till God pours his wrath on me.

WRONG BEGINNING - WRONG END ( A must read for every Christian who aspires to fulfill the Greatest Commission)

Note: This article is quite Long. It took a few days to write this article and It took a few more days to translate this article to English. This note captures the present day state of Christianity. So Every Christian reader can relate to this article.

Originally Written in Tamil by Bro. Vijay ( http://vijay76.wordpress.com/)

May the name of Jesus - The Christ be magnified and Glorified.

Those were the days when I was actively involved in youth ministry.We had dedicated our lives for ministry.  We - The youngsters will always be in the Church; Eating together, sleeping on the Roof top of the church. Sweet memories; Lovely Brothers in Christ. I can't forget those days. One day we were watching a worship video of a Korean Gospel Music Band. The manner in which the worship leader made his entrance on the stage was very similar to the Extravagant Introduction that is usually associated with Tamil Filmdom Super star - Rajinikanth. The worship leader made his entrance out of a private jet. He was in a black tuxedo. His band members followed him. Flash lights danced around them. Drumroll welcomed them

One brother who was watching the video along with us suddenly blurted out, " When are we gonna become like this?"

We were all in the same mind set and we all agreed with him in anticipation. We never knew that we were making a big mistake by nodding our heads in agreement to him. Time flew like a dove. I understood one thing very clearly by the Grace of God -"The pathetic situation of Today's Christendom is because of the wrong expectation with which people step foot into ministry".

The expectation with which we start doing God's ministry always decides the direction of our life. Our Sermons, the plans we make for our ministry revolves around our expectations. As a result, we might even achieve all that we anticipate and expect. Still, I am rest assured that when we stand before the judgment seat of God, we would face a Big surprise if we start our ministry with an ambition to become famous.

There is a very famous Tamil proverb - ”முதல் கோணல் முற்றும் கோணல்” . It means , If the first step is wrong, the entire project will go wrong.

An article written by a watchman minister of India about a very famous Preacher in India ( This famous preacher and the watchman ministered together in the beginning of their ministry life) made me think deeper on this subject.

That Late - Famous preacher in his initial days had a fascination towards the ministry of Billy Graham and William Branham and he always talked about the scores of multitude that gathered for their crusades. He always talked about " getting famous" , "Signs and wonders" , "Big Crowds". The First step was wrong. He indeed achieved what he wanted in a very short span of time. He climbed the ladder of earthly success in no time. Yet he has left  many bad examples for many ministers who start their ministry with him as the role model.

Today we will see the different areas that attract youngsters to become Servants of God. 

1) Honour from Men 

For they loved praise from men more than praise from God (John 12:43)

The influence that Evangelists and Pastors have in Christendom is so huge.The manner in which various Preachers Pose for Posters and Banners just like movie stars have deceived many. When a young Believer looks at a Pastor

who roars the words "In the name of Jesus" and runs around the stage

makes many to fall down by just extending his hand

being surrounded by many calling him "Pastor, Pastor"

the young believer also starts dreaming to be like the Pastor. "This is God's ministry.I would also get honour like this" - A false hope is created in the mind of the young believer

John 12:26 - "My Father will honor the one who serves me" is totally misunderstood by the young believers. Please read the full verse.

Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.

Yes, anyone who does ministry like Jesus, is really HIS servant.

•   When Satan tried to lure Jesus by showing all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor,Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! (Matthew 4:8-10)
• When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.(John 6:15)
• Jesus even spoke the following words "I do not accept praise from men, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. (John 5:41,42)

Those who follow Jesus will be Honoured by the Father. Those who do not followe Jesus will be honoured by Satan according to Matthew 4:9

A certain Pastor in Singapore makes his entrance on stage amidst loud music and flickering Lights. I don't know whether to cry or laugh. They are fulfilling their desires by acting like a movie star. Those who step into ministry influenced by such minsiters will end up like them. It pains,when I see stage entertainers performing on stage in the name of Praise and Worship Service. Anyone who could sing can release a music album. The music ministry is one ministry which can catapult anyone to stardom in no time. Because of the pathetic situation of music ministry one even starts to wonder whether the number of music albums that are released in a day is more than the number of souls that are saved! Music Ministry is a blessed ministry. If one enters into this ministry to become famous, he will end up like Uzzah who dared to touch the ark of the Lord.

Beloved! Getting into Ministry with anticipation of being Honoured by men is a WRONG BEGINNING. Don't get deceived like Herod who fell for the wrath of God

Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. [Acts 12:23]

2) Money and Standard of Living

"That preacher owns a private jet". This is how certain preachers are introduced by many. Many preachers who had a humble beginning in their ministry  suddenly climb up in their standard of living.

When they say, " I started my ministry with just Rs.10/-. Now God has given me two buildings, one jet plane and a mansion", it is not a testimony that Glorifies God.

If they say," I started my ministry with many spiritual pitfalls and I was controlled by my flesh. But Now I have many qualities of Jesus in me. I have brought many disciples for Jesus Christ", such a testimony brings glory to God.

   

Beloved, If the Extravagant lifestyle of a minister of God inspires you to set foot into ministry, it is a WRONG BEGINNING. Woe to every preacher who aspires to become a minister of God with dreams of looting money through prayer towers/ Education Institutions, owning a car, making foreign tours. If you enter God's ministry with such a dream, you have the spirit of Balaam and Gehazi. You won't enjoy eternal heavenly life.  Blackest darkness is reserved for you ( 1 Peter 2:17)

3) The Crowds

The Success of a minister is now a days measured based on the crowds that gather in his meetings. A few young ministers are deceiving themselves by designing photographs in which they appear to be speaking to millions of people. Photoshop comes handy for them. God doesn't see that way. His ways are different. He praised Moses not because he guided Thousands of people; but because he was Faithful to God ( Numbers 12:7)

Ministries that pull millions of people are not always recognised by God. The ministry of Jeremiah, according to the judgment of man was a complete failure. His 40 year ministry had one message - " Be prepared for the Babylonian Bondage". That was not a popular message during that time.No one wanted to listen to him. They even persecuted him.But in the eyes of God, Jeremiah was an obediant prophet.

Many preachers start their ministry by going around the streets preaching the gospel. But when they get fame and crowds around them, Why do they portray themselves as Kings? They are not bothered about building God's kingdom. They are more worried about building their own empire. They even struggle, strive  hard  and even sacrifice a lot for building their empire. We look at their sacrifices and honour them; but God sees their heart and he knows their intentions.

Beloved, If you get into ministry life with dreams of having a big crowd behind you, it is a WRONG BEGINNING.

If you are True to the sheep that God gives you (Ten million or just Ten), God will bless you

4) Signs and Wonders

Today, many preachers who decide to enter to ministry fast for 40 days. What for? Is it for Fruit of the spirit? or Is it for Christ's charcters to be conformed in them? Most preachers fast for GIFTS of the Holy Spirit. I know ministers who have fasted for the gift of "Calling out Names of people from the crowd". They end up adding their name as "Anointed preacher with the gift of healing" in posters and banners.

Signs and wonders are indeed necessary in Ministerial life. But making that as your idol is wrong. Signs and Wonders should follow a believer. A believer should not run behind Signs and Wonders. 

The last Prophet of the Old Covenant "John the Baptist" did not perform any miracle. Many True ministers of God , even when they perform miracles and wonders, never boast about it.

Beloved! If you don't aspire to be a servant of God and if your dream is to become a celebrity, it is a WRONG BEGINNING. There are many preachers who have started their journey to become celebrities. They are now in the pit of darkness and deception. Remember that.

5) Media Popularity.

Today, there is a norm that in order to be a great Minister of God, one has to appear on a Christian TV channel. Pastors and evangelists are prying for TV slots. It is good that TV is used for spreading the word of God. But when the Pastors and preachers use TV to promote themselves by showing the number of people slayed by them and the number of evil spirits driven away by them, it becomes a sad sight. Some Preachers even promote themselves as " Greatest prophet of 21st century". Did Jesus and Paul introduce themselves like this?

TV ministry is not a sinful ministry. It should be a ministry that is opened by God. When God opens the door, he doesn't want you to beg for money by shaking Offertory boxes. He would want you to shake the nations for him. You will face tribulations and oppositions. The TV opportunity that you got will also be taken away. Are you ready for that? 

Beloved, If your wish is to become popular by showing your face on TV, it is a WRONG BEGINNING. Being content and happy in the ministry that God has placed you is what God wants from you.

6) Foreign Tours:

  

Another myth among Christian believers is that God blesses a minister by sending him to developed countries around the globe. Beloved, Don't fall for the lies of preachers who say that God took them to many countries to preach the Gospel. Why did not God take them to third world countries like Cambodia, Somalia and Angola? Why does God always take them to US, Europe and Singapore? Aren't there any souls in the third world countries? Don't they need God's messages ? God did not send them. They are Balaams running behind Balaks. They don't preach in their homeland if the crowd is less than 1000. But they preach in Britain even if they have to preach just for 5 people, because those 5 souls are costly souls.

Beloved, If you think that by becoming a minister of God, you can travel around the globe,it is a WRONG BEGINNING. I am not saying that God won't send you to developed countries. When God sends you to such countries, Go there and preach the Gospel without diluting it and most importantly, Don't BEG.

7) Dowry

Dowry system is a Thorn in the flesh of the body of Christ, especially in South India. It is a system in which the the bride groom demands money/assets from the bride's family to marry her. Today the DOWRY received by a Pastor is more than the dowry that an Engineer or a Doctor gets. Hence Pastoral studies are in great demand these days. When I joined a theological college, I found many theologians from southern part of India. At first I thought that they had great burden for carrying their cross and following Jesus. But when I found that they were forced to study in the colleges by their parents because of the heavy Dowry that they would get in marriage, I could not control my tears.

 Beloved, If you become a follower of Christ with a hope of getting a huge dowry, it is a WRONG BEGINNING. Woe to you , if you try to make business out of the Great Commission.

To end this note, I would like to tell you Beloved about the True Ministry.

Jesus did not say, "If you carry your cross, You will become Rich and prosper". In fact he laid conditions to become his disciple.He says " Wait, Just take your travel expenses, decide and follow me". Don't enter ministry life without a Vision. Please read Luke 14:25-35. The 30th verse gives us the message that Ministry is not about how much I get; but it is all about how much I Give.

A servant of God 

• is not one who is served; He is one who becomes a Servant (Matthew 20:26)
• doesn't receive ; but gives up everything ( Luke 14:33)
• does not aspire to become Rich financially; but becomes Rich in gentleness and humbleness ( Matthew 11:29)
• does not create Blind followers; but makes disciples (Matthew 28:19)
• does not sell the Truth and Roll in Luxury; but he tells the Truth and becomes enemy to many ( Gal 4:16)
• does not create Fans for himself; but becomes a slave to everyone (1 Cor 9:19)
• does not swim in Money; but goes through the pains of Childbirth ( Galatians 4:19)
• does not offer his neck to garlands; but offers his neck to the sword ( Romans 16:4)
• does not aspire to become popular; he likes to be share the burden of people of God (Heb 11:24,25)
• doesn't sit on someone else's shoulders; but he carries the cross on his shoulders (Luke 14:27)
• doesn't use others' money to stay in a 5 star hotel; but will lead many to righteousness and will shine like the stars for ever and ever (Daniel 12:3)

If anyone of you aspire to become a Servant of God, please don't follow the footsteps of any popular minister of God. If you do so, you will fall in the same pit, where they have fallen. If you want to take any human beings as your role model, Please read the autobiographies of William Carrey, John Wesley, Whitefield, William Booth, Hudson Taylor, David Livingston,Sadhu Sunder Singh, D.L Moody,George Muller. I am not saying that there are no true ministers of God today. They are there. But Many of them are not popular and they don't want to be popular too.

Above all, Look unto Jesus and learn from him.

He made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant (Phil 2:7)

May God speak in your heart. May his name be Glorified for ever and ever

To read this article in Tamil please click this link [http://is.gd/hrlr5]

The Topsy Turvy Christians ( The Rebellious Renegades)

The Bible essentially teaches us two things
1) not to be content in our Spiritual Growth (Eph 6:12 , Eph 4:11).
2) to be content in material blessings (1 Tim 6:6-12)
Yet we are Content with our Spiritual Growth , but Greedily yearn for material blessings like the two daughters or the leech (Proverbs 30:15)

Jesus loved people and he used Materials.
But we love the materials and use people.

Jesus was a Roaring Lion for Satan, still when men pulled his beard and scourged him, he was calm as a sheep.
We roar like a ferrocious Lion at men; but succumb like a sheep when Satan pulls us in all his directions.

Even when God said in anguish "My house remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house" (Haggai 1: 4,9), No one was ready to build a Temple for the Lord
But now when God says, " Your Body is the Temple of God "; we are sweating out to erect Buildings and Towers for the Lord

The Old testament Priests were stingy that made God to tell them " You rob me of my Tithes and Offerings" (Malachi 3:8)
Now under the New Covenant, though "Tithe" is abolished, The sermons are focussed on "Tithes" rather than on " Jesus"

Jesus kept the Pharisees at a distance. He showed his Love and concern towards Sinners and made them disciples.
By distancing ourselves from Sinners and handing over the pulpits to Pharisees, we are nurturing "Sons of Hell"

The Church of the first century brought a revival in the world
Now the world is revolutionizing the Church

Jesus said " Doing God's will is my food" (John 3:34)
But we Do work only for food (John 6:27)

The early apostles were poor in Financial wealth , yet they were Millionaires in Spiritual wealth
We are Millionaires in Financial wealth and poor in Spiritual wealth.

Jesus never preached a single sermon on Physical healing, but he practically healed multitudes.
We preach Trillion sermons on Physical healing, but when it comes to practise- we are total Zeroes.

The Holy Spirit chose the Apostles and handpicked his mission workers (Acts 13:2)
Now the Gentile Politicians choose Moderators and Bishops in Churches ( In few cultures - India, America)

God wants us to place us as a Strong and Mighty Horse in the Battle field (Zec 10:3)
But we have ended up running zig-zag like a she-camel (Jer 2:23)

He planted us to be a fruitful Vine stock
We have become corrupt wild wine (Jer 2:21)

The people in the Old Covenant Longed to have the blessings of the New Covenant (Peter 1: 10-12)
But we Glorify in Buildings,meaningless Festivals, Tithe, Financial Blessings, Law of Death and hence prove our longingness towards the Old Covenant blessings.

Jesus lived among Sinners, but he hated Sin
We hate sinners, but we live with Sin

Then money was used to help the poor and needy to win them for Christ
Now money is stolen from the needy and the poor by exploiting them with False teachings

Every Biblical Doctrine has been reversed.  We are rebelling against every teaching of Jesus Christ.This is our present condition
For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry (1 Sam 15:23)

We love everything that is hated by God
We almost hate everything that is Loved by God except for one

God wants us to be with him eternally in Heaven.
We want that too. We even hope for eternal Heavenly life.

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My Dear ones in Christ,

Let me tell you a story. This would be similar to our story ( 1 Cor 10:11). By His Grace, God freed the Israelites from the Iron clutches of Pharoah. But the Israelites rebelled against God. Hence none but two of them entered Canaan. Because of their rebellious attitude, the gentiles also received salvation (Romans 11:11) . The original branches were cut off from the Olive Tree and God grafted wild branches like us to the Original Olive tree. A new Episode commenced. But God is a never-Changing God.

For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. (Romans 11:21,22)

Yes, we can't play the fool with God. We should never take his Grace for granted. If we are not ready to come out of Lukewarm-Religious Christianity, God would also cut us off.

• Though God destroyed the entire world, he still preserved 8 of them (Noah and his family)
• All who rebelled against God in the desert never entered the promised land. Only their generation, Joshua and Caleb entered it
• Even though Jezebel killed all the Prophets of God, He still preserved 7000 prophets who did not kiss Baal's feet
• Even though Hitler destroyed Jews around the world during Holocaust, God preserved a group of Israelites to regroup and form Political Israel in 1948.

Similarly, today

• eventhough Christianity has become a commercial business commodity,
• though we have wolves in sheeps clothing,
• although deception is blinding even the elect,
• when it seems that Satan has complete control of the Church and the world,

we need not be bogged down, because Jesus will spit them all out of his mouth (Rev 3:16)

God is preparing a remnant without any partiality towards any denomination in Christendom.

• This remnant will always put God first in their lives.
• They will Love God with all their heart and all their mind.
• They will also love their neighbours as themselves.
• They have sold themselves all out for Christ
• They are free from the Mammonic stench of Babylon
• Religious Christianity is their first enemy
• They are not swept away in the stream of Deception. They battle against the stormy waves of Darkness
• They would not compromise on anything other than the word of God with anyone.
• They will fight like warriors against the world, Flesh and Satan

God will use this remnant for his Spiritual Battle in these Last Days.


Before I bid adieu, Let me pose a Trillion Dollar Question!

Are we in this group that God is gonna use for the Battle?


Shielded in God's Love
The pen of God

Warning! Warning! Warning !

When the disciples of Jesus asked him, "What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of age?" (Matthew 24:3b), Jesus listed down a number of signs - viz : Wars , Famines, Earthquakes, Persecution,Wickedness. But before he stated all these signs, Jesus stressed on one very important sign of his coming - DECEPTION.

Not just one or two; Many will Deceive Many (Matthew 24:5). This one verse should indeed ring an alarm bell in our heart and soul. Jesus said "Watch out that no one Deceives you" (Matthew 24:4).We should remember that he told this to His believers and not to non-believers.




Do you know?



You can fall for deception too! Hence WATCH OUT!!!

You might say, "How will I fall for deception? I attend a spirit filled church, I pray, I pay the Tithe. How can I be deceived? " . The Bible says that "False Christs and False Prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect - If that were possible" (Mark 13:22). So be on your Guard

Compare the following 15 warning signs (not exhaustive) with your life. Let the Holy Spirit minister to you. If you are convicted by the Holy Spirit that you are in deception, kindly spend time at his feet and reconcile with God and strenthen the relationship that you have with Jesus. Listen to Him alone. He only is worthy.

Warning #1

Are you satisfied by just attending the church, giving offertory, Ministering in Church? Yet, Have you forgotten the Great commandment of Jesus? (1- Love your God 2- Love your neighbour. ) A religious Christian who merely observes Rituals is in great danger compared to a sinner who is struggling with the guilt of his sins. A sinner knows his sins.He can be broken easily. But anyone who is satisfied with Christianity (not in Christ) is caught in a deceptive web of self righteousness.

Be careful! Our foundation should be on the solid Rock of Christ and it should not be on the Fragile sand of Religious Christianity. God doesn't expect us to perform rituals. He first expects us to Love him and our neighbours.

Matthew 22:36-40

Warning #2

Is your hatred against sin and your passion towards holiness growing day by day?Is your alone time with God fruitful?

If the answer is No, it is a clear indication that your fellowship with God is weak. You are searching for your spiritual food not from the Lord.

Luke 12:34; Proverbs 27:7

Warning #3

Are you so busy that you are not able to spend time reading and meditating on the word of God.If you fall under this category, Beware! You can very easily fall for deception.

Prophet Isaiah warns us that we would not have the light of dawn if we do not listen and speak according to his word ( Isa 8:20)

Isaiah 8 :20, Psalm 119:165, Hosea 4:6

Warning #4

If you are not able to pray for anyone other than the Pastor of your church and If you are not in a position to love or acknowledge other ministers of God and If you are taught only to pray for your church and not for any other church

Beware! You are under Great Deception

I John 4:20, 1 Cor 12: 5-27, 1 Cor 1:10-13,

Warning #5

Do you give more importance to argue on Doctrinal issues rather than submitting yourself at the feet of the Lord everyday to look into your own heart?

Danger Sign ! The Bible calls this as a spiritual disease 

Timothy 6:4, Titus 3:9; I Cor 11:16

Warning #6

You don't have control over your eyes and your tongue?

Beware! You need to be admitted in the Spiritual Intensive care Unit of God

Matthew 6:22, 23 Jacob 3:5-12,

Warning #7 (More Applicable to Indians)

Do you have a sense of Caste (Racist) system?

If the answer is Yes, before analysing whether your are deceived, check whether you are actually Saved.

Because if you believe in caste system you are still caught in the "Hindutva Varnasrama Concept" trap which segregates human beings under caste divisions like Brahmin, Shathriya, Vaishnavite, Sutra and caste names like Nadar, Vanniyar, Dhevar, Pallar, Parayar. You have no respect for The Holy Bible. Who created you? Jehovah or Brahma? Decide today.

Galatians 3:28

Warning #8

Instead of tasting the word of God by reading and meditating the Bible, do you have a tendency to depend on the sermon of preachers? or Do you sit blindly in the pews and accept anything and everything that is being preached from the pulpit?

DANGER (RED ALERT)

It is very important to cross check the sermon with the word of God like the Bereans who crosschecked the teachings of Paul with the scriptures. Because of their discernment capabilities, the Bereans were even called as more Noble minded than the Thessolanians. Be on your guard or else anyone can deceive you

Acts 17:11, Matthew7:15, I Thess 5:21

Warning #9

Instead of searching for the Holy Spirit's presence in Internal Transformation in the form Testimonial Life and in the Depiction of Fruit of the spirit , do you search for The Holy Spirit's presence in external manifestations and in the Bodily Experiences?

Beware 

The Holy Spirit is not freely given for entertainment. He has come inside us to enable us to lead a dedicated life for Him and to be witnesses for him.

 Acts 1:8

Warning #10

Is earthly Prosperity Blessings  taught more than Eternal Blessings in the church in which you are a part of? Is The Sermon in the mount not preached much in your church?

RED ALERT SIGN

You are under deception. Before the Grace of God is revoked and darkness captivates us, may you and your church enter through the narrow gate. Be quick!


Phil 3:19, I Cor 15:19

Warning #11

I am a wanderer in this world; My eternal Home is heaven ! Do you long for the coming of Jesus everyday? If the answer is No

Beware

Satan is deceiving you to separate you from our eternal father and our eternal home in heaven.

Hebrew 13:14, II Peter 3:12, 2 Cor 5:1-6

Warning #12

Instead of  giving to the poor, needy, people with hunger, destitutes; do you give your money to the Institution called Church or to a Pastor with the Hope that God will bless you abundantly because you gave to the church?

Beware

You are deceived by false teaching. You are deceived because of your love for money. Read the New Testament to understand more on  how to Give

Galatians 2:10, Proverbs 19:17, James 1:27

Warning #13

You have a good reputation in your church, but you don't have a good Testimony in your own House. If this is your lifestyle you are a spiritual hypocrite. God hates this habit in us. Don't wait to change. Now is the time for you to repent. Yes! NOW

Acts 1:8; I Tim 5:8;

Warning #14

Do you find it difficult to give the same importance to a poor believer that you give to a Rich Believer?

If the answer is Yes, you are not following christ; you are following a fruitless dry religion. My dear Beloved, This kind of behavior is abomination in the sight of God

James 2:1-9

Warning #15

What is your identity in Christ ? What are your talents? What are the gifts that are given to you under the new covenent? What is the difference between us and the Old Testament Believers? Do we have a clear understanding of all these?

The Apostle Paul  prays earnestly for us to have a clear understanding on all the above points. (Ephesians chapter 1). This is our primary need.

Warning!

If we do not understand these, instead of becoming children of God, we would live our life as mere devotees of God.

We are not giving importance to important things.
We are eagerly listening to vain-sermons.

The only way that we have to escape from this mess is to read and meditate the epistles of the Apostles with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 1:16-19

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Beloved,

This article is written not with an intention to hurt you. I have warned you with the Love of Christ so that you would not perish in eternity.

 Proverbs 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend