Thursday, 30 May 2013

To preach the true grace of God or fake grace (2) ?

continue from ..

It is the grace of God because:
  • we are saved (although many are condemned)
  • we are chosen (although many are called)  
It is grace and judgement. It is grace because we could be condemned; but yet we are not condemned.
  • Rom 5:8-9 KJV  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  (9)  Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
It is judgement because there would be condemnation who could not make it. Can we just segregate grace and condemnation from the gospel of Christ, and insist that there is only the grace of God with no more judgement of God or wrath of God to come ? Can we preach to the people that grace is given to everyone, and therefore everyone is saved, or therefore there is no more judgement under the covenant of grace ? No, this is not what I read from the Bible. If this is not true, why do we preach against the judgement of God or eternal judgement ? If we say that there is no more judgement for every sinner, every believer, or every church, indirectly we are telling God, "You cannot judge us !". If we said so and regard Him as so, is He still a sovereign God ? No. He can never be the sovereign God who can judge or convict everyone in the world. If he is no more the sovereign God, he is a counterfeit god. If he is a counterfeit god, the grace that he promised to us can never be the grace of God. However, the God or the Holy Spirit that Jesus showed us is a God who can judge and convict everyone in the world, whether they are called the sinners, the believers, the churches, God's prophets, or false prophets of this world. God can judge the whole world:
  • Joh 16:8-13 KJV  And when he is come, he will reprove the world (kosmos) of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:  (9)  Of sin, because they believe not on me;  (10)  Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;  (11)  Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.  (12)  I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.  (13)  Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Hence, I don't think anyone can deny that Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit can convict sins. If Jesus could convict the Pharisees by writing on the ground with His fingers and cause the Pharisees to leave one by one before Him (Joh 8:8-9), He can convict anyone in the world ('kosmos'), including the self-righteous believers, gnostic believers, agnostic believers, carnal believers, false believers, lying believers, worldly believers, or any kind of believers who think and argue that they can never be the sinners of the world and that, therefore, they can never sin or do not have any sin to be convicted by the Holy Spirit too. Of course, the prince of this world would disagree and preach otherwise. He would convince and influence the people to think that he can judge better than God, with no condemnation and judgement of sins:
  • 2Th 2:3-16 LITV  Do not let anyone deceive you in any way, because that Day will not come unless first comes the falling away, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,  (4)  the one opposing and exalting himself over everything being called God, or object of worship, so as for him "to sit in the temple of God" as God, setting forth himself, that he is God. Dan. 11:36; Eze. 28:2  (5)  Do you not remember that I told you these things, I yet being with you?  (6)  And now you know the thing holding back, for him to be revealed in his time.  (7)  For the mystery of lawlessness already is working, only he is holding back now, until it comes out of the midst.  (8)  And then "the Lawless One" will be revealed, "whom" "the Lord" "will consume" "by the spirit of His mouth," and will bring to nought by the brightness of His presence. Isa. 11:4  (9)  His coming is according to the working of Satan in all power and miraculous signs and lying wonders,  (10)  and in all deceit of unrighteousness in those being lost, because they did not receive the love of the truth in order for them to be saved.  (11)  And because of this, God will send to them a working of error, for them to believe the lie,  (12)  that all may be judged, those not believing the truth, but who have delighted in unrighteousness.  (13)  But we ought to thank God always concerning you, brothers, beloved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning to salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth,  (14)  to which He called you through our gospel, to obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (15)  So, then, brothers, stand firm and strongly hold the teachings you were taught, whether by word or by our letter.  (16)  But may our Lord Himself, Jesus Christ, and our God and Father, the One having loved us and having given everlasting comfort and good hope by grace,
Hence, it is by the grace of God we are chosen while there are judgement on those who are led by the error of the lawless. When there is God's judgement, there is the grace of God ! This is from 2Th 2:3-16. This is from the Bible. Hence, the teaching of these Bible verses can never bring condemnation. Otherwise, Paul would not have said, "(5)  Do you not remember that I told you these things, I yet being with you?  (6)  And now you know..  What happened if Paul would tell nothing ? The believers would know nothing ! We would fall into the trap of the lawless ones who would want us to preach only no judgement and no condemnation.        

We would become irresponsible preachers if we would just want to preach grace with no more warning or no more judgement
Would it be ungracious if we preach those warnings that Paul preached ? No. But, on the contrary, I would be ungracious if I lie and tell everyone to just focus on self and blind ourselves to think that everyone of us is saved regardless of what we do or believe, by twisting and misinterpreting the words of the Lord with many version of 'no condemnation' doctrine:
  • Mat 20:1-16 KJV  For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.  .. (15)  Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?  (16)  So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
  • Mat 22:2-14 KJV  The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,  .. (12)  And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.  (13)  Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (14)  For many are called, but few are chosen.
  • Mar 13:20-23 KJV  And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.  (21)  And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:  (22)  For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.  (23)  But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.
  • Joh 15:19-22 KJV  If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.  (20)  Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.  (21)  But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.  (22)  If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.
Hence, I would think that being chosen is the grace of God. The word 'chosen' explains that there are choices (or that out of a certain number of sinners, believers, or God's elect, few will fall into that the chosen category). Hence, it does not make sense if the judges would say to all the contestants in a beauty pageant, "All of you have been chosen to represent the Miss World or Miss Universe !" No, they have to be realistic and tell the beauty contestants the truth by saying to everyone honestly, "One of you or some of you may be chosen to represent as the Miss Word or Miss Universe !" I don't think the contestants would turn against the judges if they tell them this truth. It should encourage them to look beyond their beauty and find out what are the Beauty World standards, so that they will be chosen if they are still given a second chance. Similarly, Why are we so upset if God's preachers would say so ? We should look beyond our self and hear from Jesus with an open heart to find out what is the key to enter the kingdom of heaven, so that we will still be chosen under grace, instead of murmuring, covering our 'ears', and condemning all words and teaching of the Lord as hardsayings :
  • Luk 13:2-9 KJV  And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?  (3)  I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.  (4)  Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?  (5)  I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.  (6)  He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.  (7)  Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?  (8)  And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:  (9)  And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.

Jesus was the vine dresser who came to help us to bear the fruits of repentance
Do you know why Jesus wanted everyone to repent ? He knew the grace of God. He knew that God would give second chance (grace) to the sinners. Hence, He was the vinedresser who came to call the sinners to repentance that they may bear the fruits of repentance before the judgement of God comes. However, some will still argue, "What makes you think that we must repent or we must bear fruits of repentance ? How can you misinterpret those Bible verses as the Lord's teaching of repentance ? Do you know that Jesus had cursed a fig tree in Mar 11:12-21 and it died immediately ? But no second chance was given. Will you interpret that Jesus will curse all of us like that fig tree too? Will Jesus do such thing to us just because we do not bear any fruit of repentance ? No, it is absurd for Jesus to condemn us just because we do not repent. Obviously you have quoted many Bible verses out of context and preached everything as repentance.."
I will ask them, Do you really know the words of Christ ?
How can I quote the Bible verses out of context when everything that Jesus preached would point sinners to repentance, including the Bible passage which you have just mentioned:
  • Mar 11:12-21 KJV  And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:  (13)  And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.  (14)  And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.  (15)  And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;  (16)  And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.  (17)  And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.  (18)  And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.  (19)  And when even was come, he went out of the city.  (20)  And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.  (21)  And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.
Of course, Jesus was not heartless when He used the example of the fig tree to show us how 'fruitless' or 'lawless' were some of 'the trees' among us. Jesus knew that it would not help even if they were given the 'second chance':
  • Mat 3:7-10 KJV  But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?  (8)  Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:  (9)  And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.  (10)  And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
  • Jud 1:11-12 KJV  Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.  (12)  These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
Yes, they might look very healthy and prosperous with lots of green leaves and branches. However, their giant leaves can never cover their nakedness before God. It is because fig leave is a symbol of self-righteousness which could not save Adam and Eve too. Hence, the self-righteous Pharisees (and Nicodemus) would never understand God's second chance, God's second birth (John 3:1-16), or God's grace to them because they could not understand the need to repent and why they must die to self in order to bear the fruits of repentance. After cursing the fig tree, Jesus went on to overthrow the tables in the temple. He showed us that God would judge the Pharisees, their religious businesses, and their riches very soon. The axe would be laid unto the root of the trees when God's judgement will SOON come and utterly destroyed everything in the temple.


If we would reject self-effort daily, we would reject sinful self and repent daily too
I will ask the radical grace or hyper grace preachers, Have you asked the Lord, "Why must we believe ? Or why must we die to self, look beyond self, or reject self-effort ?" I am sure many of us would never question God. Many of us would just say, "No, we believe so because the Bible has said so". I will ask them, If we can believe so because the Bible has said so, why can't we repent or preach repentance because the Bible has said so too ? If you would never find it difficult to preach faith in Christ, effortless belief in Christ, and rejection of self-effort (over and over again, daily, and repetitively on every Sunday), why would you find it difficult to repent or reject old sinful 'man' daily ? Is it purely because of your fear to certain word which reminds you of your sin conscience (to repent) or certain word which will bring condemnation to you ? I hope you are not upset because I would still wish to point you to the foundation of repentance from dead works and sinful self. It is not because we want to point people to sin for condemnation or because we have graduated from the foundation or doctrine of Christ, but because we may still need to hear and preach about it if we have been ignoring it for too many decades.
  • Col 3:4-7 KJV  When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.  (5)  Mortify (put to death) therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:  (6)  For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:  (7)  In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.  
Yes, you may think that the preaching against the sins or sinful behaviours above is obsolete because it would point people to sin conscience, condemnation, and wrath of God; but I would think otherwise. The Bible verses have said clearly that it would point you to repentance from your former self or life of disobedience.  However, if you have been thinking and preaching negatively against it, those who believe in your words would always think negatively against repentance. They would never repent. Hence, please take note and study the Bible again: Repentance is not dead work; Repentance is to turn away from dead works and sins. Repentance is one of the principles of the doctrine of Christ. It is one of the things which accompany salvation, and thus we must preach it as it is :
  • Heb 5:11-14 KJV  Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.  (12)  For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.  (13)  For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.  (14)  But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
  • Heb 6:1-12 KJV  Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,  (2)  Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment(these are the six basic or major principles of the doctrine of Christ) (3) And this will we do, if God permit.  (4)  For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,  (5)  And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,  (6)  If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.  (7)  For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:  (8)  But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.  (9)  But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak(the things that accompany salvation are our work and labour which minister, show, or teach the doctrine of Christ with diligence)  (10)  For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.  (11)  And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:  (12)  That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Of course, we should leave the principles of the doctrine of Christ and teach something more spiritual. That's why Paul or the Hebrews writer say, "(3) And this will we do, if God permit." Otherwise, we will still have to give attention to these "(9) things that acompany salvation". For it is impossible for those, who have known these things and would still fall away, to come back to repentance again. They would insult the finished work of Jesus Christ and put Him to open shame.
Hence, if we preach rejection of self-effort, we should know that we do it because it comes from the principles of the doctrine of Christ to repent from dead works and old sinful self. We do it because we have to die to self and take up our cross in repentance according to the command of the Lord, not because of men's doctrines or many other vain reasons (like metanoia, mind changing philosophies, belief of supernatural wealth, more prosperity, effortless success, or 'no swear' doctrine). 


Repentance, remission of sins, and grace is a doctrine of Christ for salvation
Some of you may argue, "If repentance is one of the principles of doctrine of Christ, is there any doctrine on grace or the doctrine of Holy Spirit ?"
I will say, It should be in one of the principles of the doctrine of Christ. The fact that it is not mentioned does not prove that it is less important or less significant. Of course, if Paul were to mention or list down every important doctrine, it could come up to hundreds or thousands. Of course, it would be ridiculous to classify the doctrine of Christ into so many categories or principles. For example, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit is very important. But I would think that Paul could have preached about the Holy Spirit under the principle of the doctrine of baptisms or laying on of hands. Similarly, he could have included grace under the principle of foundation of repentance too. It's because true repentance will lead to God's grace and remission of sins, and remission of sins to salvation. I will tell the radical grace preachers, If you are unhappy about the ranking, there is nothing much I can do. I would think that preaching of repentance, remission of sins, grace, salvation, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, God's commandments, God's words, faith, obedience, dying to self-effort, dying to sinful self, prayers, baptism of Holy Spirit, fruit of the Spirit, good works, discernment, eternal judgement, eternal rewards, or eternal life can all be included or classified under one of the principles of doctrine of Christ. Paul did it for quick reference to his preaching of doctrine of Christ. Of course, when he did this, he had no intention to belittle the Holy Spirit or Jesus Christ.   


Did the Word or God's law came by Moses or by Jesus Christ ?
They will still argue, "But grace is not a doctrine. Grace is Jesus Christ. How can you classified God or Jesus Christ into doctrine ? This is insulting to the grace of God.."
I will tell them, I have already said, If you would think so, there is nothing much I can do. Do you agree that grace is a gift from God. If it is a gift, it cannot be God. We are told to worship God the giver, not the gifts of God.
They will insist, "No, grace is not a doctrine or a gift. Grace is Jesus Christ. Is there any Bible verse which proves that ? Of course, please read the gospel of John. It said, Joh 1:17 KJV  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. So, we can interpret that grace is Jesus Christ. Grace is God or a God.."
I will tell them, The Bible did not say "grace is Jesus Christ"; it said "grace came by Jesus Christ". There is a vast difference. If grace is Jesus Christ, the Bible would say it is Jesus Christ. If it came by Jesus Christ, the Bible would say it came by or came from Him. How can we insist that 'what it is' is the same as 'what it is from' ? It is like trying to lie that 'money is God' is the same as 'money came from God'. Probably, the Pharisees would always like to twist the Bible to get the greedy religious people into their 'club' by using the same interpretation about God too:
  • Luk 16:13-15 KJV  No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.  (14)  And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.  (15)  And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Anyway, I don't wish to be particular about the definition of God, grace, or the gift of God. However, if preachers would like to definite God with grace and many weird terms, I would like to probe further. I will ask them, Do you know why we can say "God is love, God is peace, God is our blessings, God is prosperity, and God is even money"; but not vice versa ? That's because God can be many things or everything and we cannot limit Him. But if we reverse our definition and say, "Money is our God", we limit Him as a Money God. This would become our idolatry. Similarly, if we give people the wrong impression that "grace is our God or grace is our Jesus Christ", we may lead the people to worship an idol of all our desires.   
I will tell them, Ok. I will not want to argue with you on John 1:17 alone. Let us look at another Bible verse. Did you read, Joh 1:1 KJV  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God ? It said, The Word was God. The Word was God because Jesus Christ came as the Word of God. The Lord's transfiguration on the mount showed us that He was the Word or God's commandment:
  • Mat 17:2-5 KJV  And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.  (3)  And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.  (4)  Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.  (5)  While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. (God did not tell the disciple to just behold His glory. Why? God wanted them them to hear Jesus because He is the Word. Jesus has God's words and commandments which the disciples must hear.) 

The covenant of grace came by Jesus Christ (through repentance in Christ) 
What's the difference when the Bible verses above are compared with Old Testament when Moses came down with the law ? Of course, there were great differences. There was not only a great difference in their physical appearance and the light that shone from them, there was also a great difference in their covenants that came down with the commandments and the laws by (through) them:
  • Of course, we know that the law was not given by Moses; but it was given by God. Moses was mentioned because the giving of the law by (through) Moses would represent the giving of the Old Covenant between God and the Jews
  • On the other hand, grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Grace and truth was given by God too. However, Jesus Christ Himself is the Word or God's commandment. The giving of Jesus Christ as God's commandment or the Word into the hearts of men would represent the giving of grace or the giving of the New Covenant between God and men too (Heb 8:10, 10:16). It also mean the giving of better laws or a better covenant to men because men can keep the laws of God in their hearts and mind now. How can we say that there is no more law for the believers because they are saved under the covenant of grace ?
  • Exo 25:18-22 KJV  And thou shalt make two cherubims of gold, of beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.  (19)  And make one cherub on the one end, and the other cherub on the other end: even of the mercy seat shall ye make the cherubims on the two ends thereof.  (20)  And the cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubims be.  (21)  And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee.  (22)  And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.
  • Joh 20:11-12 KJV  But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,  (12)  And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
  • Rev 19:11-16 KJV  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  (12)  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  (13)  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  (14)  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.  (15)  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  (16)  And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.  
 Hence, I will tell the radical grace preachers, If we must make definition
  • whether grace is Jesus Christ 
  • or the Word is Jesus Christ 
so that the believers are truly under the covenant of grace, I would have more reasons to believe in the latter. And I think it is time to keep that, especially at such a time when we have so many weird definitions which point people to lawlessness, lawless philosophies, or a 'lawless God' who has no more law, no more commandment, no more obedience, no more repentance, or no more judgement for them. If we believe them, we would have no more brains also.
Have we seen party revellers who always drink to the music of rock n roll, enjoy free sex, do weird things, and insist that they are doing the right things without any laws ? We would be too naive if we would still believe that they are dancing to the 'rhythm of grace'.
Can we judged the lawless ones ? However, on second thought, we cannot judge them or correct them if they think that they have become totally 'immune' or 'judgement-proof' against God's laws and commandments. They can be judged by no one else, except God. Hence, we are not interested to judge them; we can only hope that they will know grace by repentance before they will know the judgement of God by Revelation in the end time. One day, they may be too shocked to say anything when they realise that they are the 'many prophecies' which will come true in the Revelation:
  • Mat 22:12-14 KJV  And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.  (13)  Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (14)  For many are called, but few are chosen.
  • Mat 7:21-24 KJV  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  (22)  Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in .. (26) And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 
  • Luk 6:46-48 KJV  And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?  (47)  Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:  (48)  He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood (false doctrine) arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. (Hence, Jesus said clearly that He would not just want us to have right believing, right faith, right miracles, right preaching, or right confession only; he wants us to have right doing with His words too, because right doing would prove that we are His true disciples on the rock of salvation.)
  • 1Jn 2:18 KJV  Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. 1Jn 4:1 KJV  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2Jn 1:7-10 KJV  For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.  (8)  Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.  (9)  Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.  (10)  If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
  • Rev 3:18-19 KJV  I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  (19)  As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

Who is the antichrist ?
Initially I wanted to stop here. But after I went to take a shower, I realised that I could not stop because I received another revelation. I suddenly saw The Word of God in my mind while closing my eyes during the shower. This happened because I had just read about The Word of God in Rev 19:11-16 above and The Word in Joh 1:1 KJV  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Suddenly my 'thinking bulb' lighted up. This means that Jesus Christ was The Word which came down in the flesh:
  • Joh 1:14 KJV  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Of course this is no big surprise to me because I have read about this Bible verse. But it was the next Bible verse (1Jn 4:3) which gives me the bigger surprise:
  • 1Jn 4:1-6 KJV  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  (2)  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  (4)  Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.  (5)  They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  (6)  We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
Jesus Christ is God's word or God's law in the flesh ! 
However, the antichrist will deny it by preaching many different but convincing doctrines. He may preach that Jesus Christ has come; but he would never confess that He is the Word of God or the laws of God that came in the flesh to dwell in us. He may define Jesus as a man, as a spirit, as grace, as prosperity, as favours, as riches, vain glory, lustful desires, mammon, material wants, or whatever, or anything, but he would never confess that Jesus is the Word or the laws of God in the flesh. Hence, he would never preach keeping and doing the laws of God. Instead, he would keep perverting the laws of God and confusing the people about the laws of God. Please look around us now, do you think that this could be a coincidence when John wrote that in 1Jn 4:4 KJV .. whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world ? No, I don't think so, it is a prophecy which must be fulfilled together with all the rest of the prophecies in the book of Revelation 12-14 and many other Bible warnings against the spirit of error or the error of lawless (2Pe 3:17). I think we are not far from end time now.


The antichrist could a former believer who is now a 'lawless' believer
I went to bed and woke up this morning while still thinking about what I had written above yesterday night, about 'Who is the antichrist ?'. Suddenly, the same question came to me again. It said, "Who is the antichrist ?" I answered, Yes, the antichrist is certainly someone who denies Jesus Christ or denies that Christ is the Word or God's law that came in the flesh. But another question came, "Can he be a non-believer or a believer of another religion ?" I suddenly woke up and realised something. The antichrist can never be a non-believer or a believer of another religion:
1. because a non-believer or a believer of another religion will never read John 1:1, never have knowledge that Jesus Christ or the Word of God came in the flesh, and never argue vehemently with the churches about the laws of God in the believers. Please think, Can you deny something which has not been made known to you ? No, it is very unlikely for someone to deny something which is not known to him.. Hence, the antichrists would deny Christ because Christ has already been made known to them. They would deny the Word of God and the commandments of God also because the Word or commandments of God have been made known to them. Hence, they could be the believers who have the wisdom, the word, and the knowledge of the truth. However, should they fall, they would use whatever they have known to seduce the believers to follow them (1Jn 2:25):
  • 2Pe 2:19-21 KJV  While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.  (20)  For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.  (21)  For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 
  • Heb 6:4-6 KJV  For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,  (5)  And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,  (6)  If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
  • Heb 10:26 KJV  For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 
2. because the antichrists would come from us, from the churches, or from the believers who have the knowledge of the truth and know how to seduce us :   
  1. 1Jn 2:18-29 KJV  Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.  (19)  They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.  (20)  But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.  (21)  I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.  (22)  Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.  (23)  Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.  (24)  Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.  (25)  And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.  (26)  These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.  (27)  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.  (28)  And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.  (29)  If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
  2. 2Co 11:2-4 KJV  For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.  (3)  But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.  (4)  For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. 
  3. Mat 7:15-24 KJV  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. ..  (20)  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  (21)  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  (22)  Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  (23)  And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.  (24)  Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:

The antichrist would become 'very easily offended' by The Word of God
Would you be offended if I said that "the antichrists would come from us" ? Of course not, if you know the words of God and you know that John had said so in 1Jn 2:19, you would feel nothing or you would just feel more concern for the ignorants. However, the antichrists would feel offended because any words which sound out the warning would become condemnation against them. Whenever people are warned, they would feel more insecure because more people will beware of their deception. Naturally they would try to condemn anyone who quotes Bible warning or commandment to them. They know that it would turn out to be 'sword' or condemnation to them. Hence, if preachers would keep arguing vehemently that all the Bible warnings are no longer applicable to them or that the Bible warnings are condemnation to them, it would just show us clearly that :
  1. they are very afraid of condemnation or any Bible warnings (in another words, they would feel easily offended by other believers who quote any Bible verses).
  2. they would just think negatively of any Bible warnings as condemnations, false accusations, or misinterpretations not to their likings. They would refuse to see any positive side or benefit of God's warnings to His people.
  3. hence, they would try to deny all the words of God which has Bible warnings and commandments
  4. they could no longer have God's laws in their hearts and mind. They may lose the mark of Christ and replace it with the mark of lawlessness
  5. they could have been preaching another Christ with no more law or a 'lawless' Christ now.
They will argue, "You have misunderstood us again. We are not easily condemned. In fact, we can never be condemned because we are believers. A believer in Christ can never be condemned. Hence, we are against the preaching of any of those Bible warnings above is not because we are feeling offended; but because we want the people to focus on Christ. We want them to focus on the positive things, not the negative things, condemnation, or judgement. I would think that the preaching of all these are obsolete. Our believers today do not need to hear any of these condemnations .."
I will tell them, Have you read how Paul preached eternal judgement to Felix ? He preached it until Felix trembled:
  • Act 24:24-25 KJV  And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.  (25)  And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee. (Are you surprised that Paul being a grace preacher would preach eternal judgement to the extend of making Felix trembled ?)
I will tell them, I have already shown you how you have denied the words of Christ when you denied Bible warnings and made the Lord's repentance of none effect. If you insist that you can focus on Christ by denying the words of Christ, I can no longer reason with you. You have chosen to focus on blindness and you think that this is focusing on Christ. How can you focus on Christ if you would deny His words, His teaching, and His commandments ? Yes, you may focus on a Christ who would have no more words, no more laws, no more repentance, and no more commandments for you. But it is only a self-created 'Christ'. You are still focusing on your SELF.


The antichrists could have a 'false identity' or a 'former identity' in Christ
I will ask them, You said that "you are a believer and you can never be condemned". But have you read what John said (1Jn 2:19) ? He said an antichrist could come from us, from the churches, or from the believers who had the knowledge of the truth and knew how to seduce us. Antichrists may not be true believers now; but they could be former believers who had the wisdom, the word, and the knowledge of the truth. Please read all the Bible warnings about them in the Bible verses above if you are still doubtful about their 'former identity' in Christ. The following Bible passages should give you more information about their 'former identity' or 'counterfeit identity':
  • Mat 13:22-30 KJV  He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. ..  (24)  Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:  (25)  But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.  ..  (30)  Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.  (Is it possible that the deceitfulness of riches could be any 'gospel of riches' which would choke the word too ?)
  • Act 20:27-32 KJV  For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.  (28)  Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.  (29)  For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.  (30)  Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.  (31)  Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.  (32)  And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
  • Jud 1:3-5 KJV  Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.  (4)  For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.  (5)  I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
  • 2Ti 3:6-17 KJV  For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,  (7)  Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.  ..  (14)  But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;  (15)  And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  (16)  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  (17)  That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 
Did you notice the words 'crept' and 'creep' which were used to describe how they will come into our midst, into our believers, or into our churches from the Bible verses above ? Unnoticeably ! It means that we may think that they are believers of Christ because they are among us; but they are not (or they are no longer) the believers. That's why all the more we need to teach the Holy Scriptures to our children so that they will grow up as a mature and discerning adult ! A discerning adult is also a man of God on the road to perfection (2Ti 3:17, Heb 5:12-14). That's why Jesus would want us to be a discerning and a diligent believer who would always take heed, watch, beware, and do His words too (Matt 7:15-23).
  • Heb 5:12-14 KJV  For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.  (13)  For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.  (14)  But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

A true believer can be judged by his fruits
Hence, if a former believer could be condemned because of his fall, a true believer should beware of it lest he also would fall and become condemned like those former believers too. I don't think this is deep theology. This is just common sense for the believers who reads the words and the warnings of God. Please don't think like the OT believers when we are now the NT believers. I would think that we should be the ET believers (End Time believers) who should be more discerning and more alert. Please think again, Do you know why the warnings in Heb 5:12-14 - Heb 6:1-6 are for the believers ? It is because only the believers know the first principles of the oracles of God, the principles of the doctrine of Christ, and the foundation of repentance which are all mentioned in the Bible verses. Hence, it is ridiculous to argue that all these principles, warnings, or Bible verses are only for the non-believers:
  • Heb 6:1-6 KJV  Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,  (2)  Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.  (3)  And this will we do, if God permit.  (4)  For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,  (5)  And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,  (6)  If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
If we read these Bible verses above again, we know that it is impossible for those who have once tasted of the heavenly gift, the Holy Spirit, and the good word of God, to be non-believers. No, they can never be non-believers; but they could be former believers. We may ask, "Could they have received the heavenly gift, the Holy Spirit, and the good word of God (and Jesus Christ) if they had done that without true repentance ?" I would think that, yes, it was possible. If you remember the parable of Jesus in Matt 18, you would agree that the servant had received forgiveness.  But he lost it probably because of his wrong belief, wrong motive, or false repentance:
  • Mat 18:32-34 KJV  Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:  (33)  Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?  (34)  And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.
The servant in the parable above thought he had so much of grace or favour that he started to abuse other fellowservants before he was finally reported to the king. This parable shows us that a person could be a former believer who was a God's servant, who had tasted the good word of God, received favours, grace, the heavenly gift, forgiveness, and the Holy Spirit. However, should he fall, it is impossible to "(v6) renew him again unto repentance" because he may not have truly repented when he first started as a believer, accepted the Lord, and professed that he had 'repented' (or believed) in the Lord. That's why the good word of God or the seed would fall onto many 'grounds' but we cannot judge if it is a good 'ground' until the 'harvest time'. That's why if it is possible, we should try to avoid judging anyone without looking at their fruits, or judging too quickly:
  • Mat 13:18-30 KJV  Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.  (19)  When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.  (20)  But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;  (21)  Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.  (22)  He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.  (23)  But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.  (24)  Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:  (25)  But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.  (26)  But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.  (27)  So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?  (28)  He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?  (29)  But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.  (30)  Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
  • Mat 7:15-23 KJV  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  (16)  Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? .. (20)  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  (21)  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  (22)  Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  (23)  And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
The Lord has said clearly that there are:
  1. many believers who will hear, believe, understand, and receive the good word of God with joy  (some of them probably with tears of joy)
  2. and those who will grow together
  3. and those who will prophesy, cast out devils, and done many wonderful works
But ultimately, those who have the fruits are the good grounds or the true believers. 


A true believer can judge the antichrists with the words of God
Can we tell or judge whether all the believers in the midst of us or in our churches are true believers, former believers, or false believers ? No, I cannot judge like a God or a prophet who has the word of wisdom and all knowledge to discern the hearts of men. Hence, I must confess that I cannot be a good judge. I am not anointed like some of the believers who claimed that they can hear from God, see visions, raise the dead, turn water into wine, turn everything that they touched into gold, prosper everyone, make the piano play music, cast our the devils, predict wars, and have more anointing. Hence, I am not anointed enough to judge their miracles, their works, and their hearts too. Probably only the angels can really judge:
  • Mat 13:40-43 KJV  As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.  (41)  The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;  (42)  And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.  (43)  Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
However, we can still judge based on their fruits, their doctrines, their spoken words, or their teachings. we can judge based on what they said, confessed, preached, exaggerated, boasted, twisted, lied, removed, or omitted. We don't need any supernatural power to judge all these if we have the words of God for comparison and confirmation. Hence, if God permit, we can still judge many things with the words of God. However, is it scriptural for us to do so ? Can we find the Bible verses to support it ? You bet.
  • Mat 7:15-22 KJV  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  (16)  Ye shall know them by their fruits. .. (20)  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  (21)  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; ..
  • Gal 5:22-23 KJV  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  (23)  Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
  • Heb 5:14 KJV  But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
  • 2Ti 3:16-17 KJV  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  (17)  That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Who is more unfairly critical ?
Would we become unfairly critical like the Pharisees or scribes if we compared the words of God and their words too critically ? Are we finding faults ? Of course not. If we are to find more mercy, peace, love, and grace for others and ourselves, we have to watch, reason, contend, labour, strive, preach, teach, exhort, and warn others, even to the extent of having tears:
  • Act 20:30-31 KJV  Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.  (31)  Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears
  •  Jud 1:2-4 KJV  Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied.  (3)  Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.  (4)  For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
  • Col 1:26-29 KJV  Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:  (27)  To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:  (28)  Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:  (29)  Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
  • 2Pe 3:17-18 KJV  Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.  (18)  But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
  • Act 17:2 KJV  And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,
  • Act 18:4 KJV  And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.
  • Act 18:19 KJV  And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.
  • Act 24:25 KJV  And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

Can you accuse Paul for reasoning or being unfairly critical with the word of God ?
I will tell them, I don't think we are unfairly critical if we would reason with you with all the Bible verses above. On the contrary, I think that you are the ones who have become unfairly critical on the principles of the doctrine of Christ. Instead of preaching repentance from dead works and sinful self, you become unfairly critical against the words of God when you preached repentance as dead works. You gave people the false impression that the preaching of repentance, God's laws, and eternal judgement is dead works and condemnation. You have become unfairly critical against the words of Christ and the principles of the doctrine of Christ whenever you gave the wrong interpretation and quoted from the following Bible verses:
  • Heb 6:1-3 KJV  Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,  (2)  Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.  (3)  And this will we do, if God permit.
I will tell them, Please read Heb 5:12-14 first before you conclude why Paul would say, "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ ..". If you deliberately mislead the believers to think that the principles of the doctrine of Christ have all become obsolete, you are 'unfairly critical', not only to the churches and us, but also to the Lord and all His disciples who preached repentance and eternal judgement as the foundation principles of the Church. If the Israelites were emotional about the building of God's foundation, of how much more diligent (or critical) when we come to the teaching of God's foundation to the churches ?
  • Ezr 3:10-13 KJV  And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, they set the priests in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the LORD, after the ordinance of David king of Israel.  (11)  And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.  (12)  But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy:  (13)  So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off. (Please think, If you are building a foundation for any building, will you change or remove it when you find better things, better technology, or better materials in the future ? No, you can only build on the foundation that has been built. You can never change it unless you wish to demolish the whole building. Many radical preachers or revolution preachers are just doing that without knowing the consequences.)   
Hence, their revolution, which makes the Lord's repentance message, God's commandments, and the principles of the doctrine of Christ, of none effect, has become their rebellion against God. Therefore, I would rather  
  • be falsely accused by them for being unfairly critical to them because we reason with them with many Bible verses  
  • than be judged by God for being unfairly critical like them when they made the words of God of none effect. 

This is the true grace of God because it always exhorts with the written words of God
Since I have talked about the principles of the doctrine of Christ, I would like to go on. I will ask them, How can you say that there is no more law or commandment for the believers after knowing the foundation and the principles of the doctrine of Christ ? No. If we still need the foundation, the principles of the doctrine of Christ, or the words of God, we would still need the laws of God and the commandments of God too? It is because all them are the words of God:
  1. The scriptures or the Bible
  2. The Word (John 1:1), the command (Gen 2:16-17), or the commandments of God (Exo 25:21-22, Heb 8:10,10:16)
  3. The covenants of God (2Co 3:6 -14)
  4. The principles of the doctrine of Christ (Heb 6:1-2)
  5. The law of the Spirit of God (Rom 8:2-10)
  6. The audible voice of God or inner voice of the Holy Spirit
I would consider all the above as the word of God because they have the words or commands of God in one way or another, whether they are spoken or written to us. I would rank them in that order not because I find that some of them are more important than the others; but because there are obvious differences in the way they operate in a believer's life. I do not have time to explain the ministry of each category of the word of God in details.
We have already known that the ministry of the Old Covenant of God in category 3 above has become obsolete because the words of God, the ordinances, and the many laws given through Moses under that covenant are no longer valid. However, can we conclude that all the other 6 categories of the words of God have become obsolete too. No. We would still have the words of God, the ordinances, and the laws of God under the New Covenant. Some categories are so important that the removal of them would be equivalent to the removal of our foundational belief.
They will argue, "But we are now in the New Covenant. When we are in the New Covenant, we will HEAR Jesus only or listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit. We will no longer follow the written law, written letters, or the written doctrine of God. Any words of God or laws written in the stones or letters would now be ministry of death and condemnation. The letter kills 2Co 3:6 ..  "
  • 2Co 3:6-7 KJV  Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.  (7)  But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, ..
I will tell them, I don't know how you can deliberately misinterpret this Bible verese. No, the Bible (2Co 3:6) did not tells us that any written law or letter will condemn and kill, for so likewise is the Gospel. Can we say that the letter of the written Gospel kills too ? Of course not. Please don't confuse the people; but read the whole chapter of 2 Cor 3:
  • It said that "the letter" kills, not merely because it was written, but because it was "the law" which was written AND given under the ministry of the Old Testament. Hence, only the written words, the laws, or the letters of the Old Testament were from the ministry of death and therefore they killed. 
  • But we are no more under "the law" or the Old Testament. Therefore, the written words, God's commandments, the Lord's sayings, or the epistles written for us now in the Gospel or the New Testament are of "the spirit" and they gives life. 
  • Mat 19:17 KJV  And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.
  • Mat 7:24 KJV  Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
  • Joh 14:23-25 KJV  Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.  (24)  He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.  (25)  These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
  • Rev 22:9-10 KJV  Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.  (10)  And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.
    Rev 22:14 KJV  Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
I ranked the words of God from 1 to 6 and the voice of God as the last category above, not because I think that the voice of God is the most important or the most spiritual, but because it is the most specific and it is applicable only to certain individuals. However, the scripture is at the top because it is generally applicable to us and the public. Hence, do not be deceived by the false prophets who keep emphasizing on the voice of God by falsely condemning all the written words or commandments of God as the ministry of death. A false prophet knows that if he can remove all the written words of God for the general public and convince them to HEAR Him only, the people will finally hear him only, hear his twisted words only, hear his lawless 'jokes', hear his lawless 'jesus' only, or hear his lawless cohorts only.
  • 1Pe 5:10-12 KJV  But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.  (11)  To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  (12)  By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.
This is the true grace of God because it always exhorts with the written words of God. This is the true gospel that Jesus and Paul preached also.

To continue..

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