When we say that we work hard, obey God's law, or do much in the Lord , are we boasting?

When we say that we work hard, obey God's law, or do much in the Lord , are we boasting?
Many radical grace preachers say that the Israelites boasted about their obedience to the laws of God and, therefore, God gave them the laws of frustration - see "It is a wicked lie to show that God gave His commandments out of frustration" in my another post here. 
When the Israelites said that they would do all that the Lord had commanded them and be obedient (Exo 24:7), did they boast? And, if we say that we will obey God, do something, or do more things in the name of the Lord, are we boasting too? Is it wrong to boast? When we say we obey God and pray, are we boasting in self-effort?  If this is true, then all the Apostles had boasted in self-effort too; this is ridiculous:

• Act 6:1-7 KJV  And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.  (2)  Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.  (3)  Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.  (4)  But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.  (5)  And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:  (6)  Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.  (7)  And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Of course, we don't simply accuse everyone of boasting just because they obey God or the Holy Spirit, to do something, to pray, to do church ministration, to do good to the widows and orphans, or to do and teach God's principles and doctrine. I would say that, yes, it requires much effort from ourselves to do good and to set a good example for our children, but it is one kind of 'self-effort' which can never be condemned as wrong; it is a great effort and good effort which we can still do and teach in our churches and families. If it is wrong to do so, we must throw away half of the Bible because there are too many Bible verses, Old Testament books, and New Testament letters which still teach God's principles, Godly values, sound doctrine, repentance's efforts to recompense, doing good, living godly lives, and walking after God's commandments.


A true believer or a great believer would not just pray and repent (change his mind); he would do and teach
I will tell them, Before you criticize any preachers and complain that they are preaching self-efforts or 'do good get good' principles, please pause and reflect for a while. You could have preach self-effort without knowing it too. When you preach and tell your followers to confess righteousness, confess long life (to live up to 120 years old), or follow your daily rituals of taking the holy communion to get more blessings, do you know that these are a type of self-effort too? Yes, you may boast that you can do all these 'beautifully and effortlessly' without doing it with your hands, physical effort, or hardwork (but with only your lips, your mouths, and your tongues); however, it is still consider as self-effort by God. He knows that you do all these confessions only out of deliberation to 'make' Him answer your desires. This is obviously one type of  self effort which is worst than the 'do good get good' principles. Why? It's because, in 'do good get good' principles, though we know that we will get 'good', but we still think of doing good to others based on the commandments and principles of the Lord. However, in your repetitive, radical, and ritualistic confession of your righteousness and long life in God, you will never think of doing any good to others. Obviously, when you boast or think that your confession is more 'effortless' than the 'do good get good' principles from the Bible, you do not have any thought or intention to do good to others. Hence, your self-effort is still as hypocritical as the Pharisees' effort which justify themselves before God.

• Luk 18:9-12 KJV  And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:  (10)  Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.  (11)  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  (12)  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

In fact, Jesus would teach us to pray and confess His words with our minds to do good. Unlike the Pharisees who would just pray and confess the words of God hypocritically, a true believers of Jesus would pray and confess the words of God with his mind to do more good than others'. Unlike the Pharisees who twisted God's words and thought of getting more God's blessings 'effortlessly', a true believer of Jesus Christ would be taught by the Lord to pray, repent, and do works (and effort) meet for repentance:

• Luk 11:1-4 KJV  And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.  (2)  And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.  (3)  Give us day by day our daily bread.  (4)  And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. 
• Mat 5:14-20 KJV  Ye are the light of the world. ..(16)  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.  (17)  Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. .. (19)  Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.  (20)  For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
• Mat 3:7-9 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.
• Luk 5:32 KJV  I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
• Mat 15:5-6 KJV  But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;  (6)  And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. (We do not know what kind of tradition or commandments the Pharisee would teach; however, we know that it was very likely the tradition or commandments which tell people to do nothing and expect more from God effortlessly ..)        

** When a farmer, a soldier, and a Bible scholar say that they work hard, endure hard, and study hard, are they boasting too?
I will tell them, If doing a lot of works or always thinking of works without thinking of Jesus (or grace) would cause us to fall from grace, a lot of Christians would have fallen from grace too. For example, if Christian pilots are always focusing on flying the plane, will they fall from grace at the split second when their minds are not on the Lord? What if they suddenly realised that they had totally forgotten to pray while they were in the cockpits? How about the programmers or software engineers who became so focused in their works that they did not eat their lunch, not to mention praying or thinking of Jesus? .. 
I will ask the radical grace preachers, If you keep accusing everyone for falling from grace just because they think too much about their works or focusing too much on their jobs, you are no different from those whom you complained about - the legalistic repentance preachers who kept telling you to confess your sins every minute and second. If you think that it is ridiculous to confess sins all the time, do you think that it is reasonable for you to ask the believers to think of grace all the time? No, of course, there are times when we must tell the people to do something; not just to sit around and do the thinking only: 

• 2Ti 2:3-26 KJV  Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.  (4)  No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.  (5)  And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.  (6)  The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.  (7)  Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. .. (12)  If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: .. (15) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  (16)  But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.  (17)  And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;  .. (19) Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.  .. (22)  Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart ...

Of course, when we do something with a lot of efforts, including the preaching and teaching of God's words, principles, doctrine, do's and don'ts, and commandments to shun ungodliness or lawlessness, it does not mean that all our 'self-efforts' are under the law of Old Testament.

** How did Esau fail of the grace of God?
They will argue, "But Esau and Martha were both performance oriented people. Esau was a hunter and hence he was rejected by the Lord. Martha was also very busy with serving. Hence, the Lord rebuked Martha for being performance conscious. They fell from grace because they are law-conscious or performance conscious. That's why Esau failed of the grace of God:"

• Gen 25:27 KJV  And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents.
• Heb 12:15-17 KJV  Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;  (16)  Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.  (17)  For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
• Luk 10:39-41 KJV  And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.  (40)  But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.  (41)  And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:

I will tell them, Martha was not rebuked by Jesus because she was performance oriented or busy with works. She was reproved by the Lord not because she worked hard; it's because she worked at the wrong time when the Lord was teaching and speaking to all of them. She did not treasure the teaching of the Lord. Please imagine what will your teacher or lecturer say if you would just want to do your own multitasking in his class (playing computer games, watching videos, and doing facebook chat)? 
Esau did not come to a place of no repentance just because he was a hunter who worked harder than his brother too. No. He lost his birthright and found that he could not change it because he did not treasure his birthright. Although I do not agree with the radical grace preachers who insisted that all the Jews and the people of the world (including the sinners) were living under grace before the covenant of grace was given, I do agree that some people had received the grace of God, and Esau was one of them. He received the birthright which he didn't work for it. However, he failed of the grace of God by despising his birthright and treated it cheaply by doing something that was stupid - ie. by selling it away with a bowl of soup to Jacob. This was recorded under the Old Testament. However, it is also recorded in the New Testament that believers who are under grace and have received grace today can still fail of the grace of God by despising it and treat it cheaply by doing something that is foolish too - ie. by sinning wilfully or by doing something which brings them to a place of no repentance and no turning (Heb 10:26). 
But many will argue, "No, we are under grace. We can never sin. That Bible verse (Heb 10:26) is not for us. We can never be judged no matter how we sin too. A believer can sin only if he is not grace-conscious or he has unbelief. Hence, the bitterness of Esau arose because of his lack of grace or failing to look diligently for grace (Heb 12:15); not because of his rebellion, sin, or lawlessness against the will of God."
I will ask them, Did you read Heb chapter 10 to 12 ? Please do not just quote Heb 12:15. Do you know that Heb 8 and 9 is about the new covenant, Heb 10 is about the laws and judgement of God for the people of God, Heb 11 about faith, Heb 12 about chastisement and holiness? So, if there is a word about the grace of God in Heb 12:15, it means that with the laws of God, faith of God, chastisement of God, peace of God, holiness of God, and the grace of God, the people of God would not feel bitter against anyone who live in the covenant or the will of God. We should not follow the footsteps of Esau. Neither should we say that law is greater or grace is greater, God forbid, because both are the gifts of God. Joh 1:16-17 KJV  And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.  (17)  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. However, I have no problem if anyone says that

1. grace is greater than the man-made laws from the Pharisees, or
2. law is better than the new perverted grace from the false prophets. (Heb 12:15 KJV Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; )   

Paul did boast about his work, his ministry, his effort, and his infirmities
Sometimes, we need to boast a bit because the false prophets has boasted too much when they boasted radically with exaggeration, lawlessness, and lies; whilst we will boast with the truth and the experience of our hardship, sufferings, persecutions, infirmities, true efforts, honest good works, genuine concerns, warnings, and ministries for the people. Hence, there is nothing wrong to boast if we must do it to clarify and contend against the deceptions, false accusations, and lawlessness of the false preachers.  

• 2Co 11:9-31 KJV  And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.  (10)  As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.  (11)  Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.  (12)  But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.  (13)  For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.  (14)  And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. .. (16) I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.  (17)  That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.  (18)  Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also... (30) If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.  (31)  The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

The false prophets were rejected by the Lord not because of their obedience to do God's will and commandments; but because of their doctrine or works of lawlessness
However, many will still argue, "No, we don't boast of doing good, doing many things, obeying God, and keeping God's commandments. If we do that, we would fall from grace and make Christ of none effect, believe in the works of the law, and boast like the false prophets in Mat 7. Jesus rejected them because they believed in doing many things for Him, relied on their self-efforts, and fell from grace."

• Mat 7:15-23 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.
• Mat 7:23 LITV  And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; "depart from Me, those working lawlessness!"

I will tell them, Yes, the false prophets above did boast about the efforts of their preaching, ministry, prophecy, casting of devils, and many wonderful works; however,  those efforts were their own efforts outside of the will or commandments of God. Obviously, if their efforts were good efforts within the will of God the Father, Jesus would never say, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity (or work lawlessness)". Of course, any effort to obey God's laws and commandments would never be considered by the Lord as the curse of 'the law', the works of 'the Old Covenant law', or the working of lawlessness. 

** Why did Paul say that the law or the works of the law is now a curse?

• Gal 3:10-12 KJV  For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.  (11)  But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.  (12)  And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them ... (23) But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.  (25)  But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.  (26)  For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

There are two different major perspectives or views on the law:

• one is the static view of the law which concludes that all the laws are curses since the beginning or from the day they were given (this could have been preached as a radical lawless 'truth' by most radical grace preachers who cannot follow or keep any law or commandment of God); 
• the other is the dynamic view of the law which shows us that the law (of the flesh, circumcision, or the old covenant) was good; but when another law, the law of faith and the law of the Spirit came, the old law became a curse. 

When what is obsolete became a curse, it does not mean that any form of the law is  a curse   
I believe that Paul showed us the dynamic view of the law in Gal 3. The law was a good schoolmaster who became obsolete only after the new covenant came through Jesus Christ. The old law or covenant was not evil. It was not a curse. In fact, it was a blessing to the Jews who were under the law. It was a divine covenant or a special distinction under which the Jews became a peculiar people of God. So, all the laws including the commandments of God, the ark of covenant, the tabernacle, the ceremonies, the rituals, the festivals, the utensils, the sacrifices, and the circumcision were good works of the law.
But how could all these good things become a curse now? Does it mean that any form of the laws, commandments, ark, temple, festivals, sacrifice, or circumcision is a curse now? No, the Spirit of the law of God is not a curse. The commandments to obey God, to worship God, to love God .. are not a curse too. The Words of God, like the ark of covenant, the bread, the tablets, and the rod, are not a curse too. When we are now the temple of God (1Co 3:16), we are not a curse too. Is Pentecostal festival a curse too? No, of course not. How about the sacrifice of our sins or circumcision? Of course, the spiritual form of it can never be a curse to the believers. Hence, the Ten Commandments which was in the covenant of stones under the law of Moses has become obsolete, but the Ten Commandments which has now become the law in our hearts can never be obsolete. 

When the Windows Xp has become obsolete, it does not mean that all the programmingand codes for the operating system is obsolete too   
I have shown you why we cannot conclude that any form of the laws, commandments, or works is a curse. But many still argue, "If the law has become a curse, any form of the law is a curse.  We just don't care if it is a better law or better commandment. If it is a law like the 'do's and don't' laws, written codes of laws, legalistic instructions, or any rules and regulations which tell us to do good and live with godliness, it is the law of curse or self-effort."  I will ask them, Did you use Windows Xp, Ms Dos, or Dos command prompt many year ago ? Was it a curse to use it? No, it was a blessing when it was the only operating system for the PCs at that time. But after the Windows 7 or Windows 8 has come, Windows Xp or the old operating system could be a 'curse' (or a risk) now because of computer virus, file corruptions, security issues, and lack of user interface. But we don't go around and tell people that all the operating systems are obsolete and hazardous. 

• Yes, the old version of the operating system, Windows Xp, is a hazardous risk now; but the operating system in general is still required. The operating system is still required for all the PCs and laptops today. Hence, we don't tell people that there is no more programming codes or instructions for the operating system in Windows 8 just because the codes are too difficult for us to learn. It is ridiculous to do away with all the codes and commands which must still be compiled into Windows 7/8. Don't be a confused IT professional. 
• Similarly, when we talk about the law or covenant of God, we don't go around and tell people that all kinds of law and covenant are obsolete and useless too. Yes, the law of the Old Covenant and the law of Moses are a curse or a ministration of death now; but the commandments and the laws of God are not. The laws of God are still kept by the believers in their hearts under the New Testament (NT). Hence, I find it ridiculous when some preachers complained that all the laws and commandments of God are hard sayings for the believers. It is ridiculous to reject God's commands which must still be kept under the New Covenant. Don't be a confused NT preacher.

God's laws and commandments are given not because of men's boasting; but because of God's favour  
Did the Israelites boasted? Did God give His commandments to them out of frustration because they boasted? No. I have explained why it is a wicked lie which is created to show a wicked Father. Please see "It is a wicked lie to show that the Israelites died because of the giving of God's commandments" in my previous post here".
 

The commandments of Jesus are given only to His disciples; not to everyone who just wants to follow Him for the bread, the gifts, the healing, or the miracles
Many will still argue, "No, God would never give commandments; God gives only gifts. Only the devil will give you long list of do's and don't or instructions to make you work like the ox or donkey. He is the accuser of the brethren. He will give you a lot of commandments and then judge you for not keeping all the laws. So, if anyone comes to you with God's laws and commandments, he is not from God. He is the accuser. He is the devil. He wants to bring the curse. Those who listen to him would love to do a lot of laws and boast, All that the Lord command, we will do .. 
Please think, If someone gives you a gift, do you pretend and say that he should give it to someone else who is poorer or someone who really need it? Or do you think that you should say something to show people that you are more humble and that you are not that worthy to receive it.. No, that's the problem of most Asians who love to pretend in their culture. They always say, "No, lah, we feel 'pai-say lah'. This is too good to be true." No, God wants us to cut the crap. Just say, Thank you and receive the gift ! Or else, we insult God who wants to give only good things to us. He would feel respected if we 'use' Him and use His gifts .."
I will tell them, Who said that God is only a gifts-giver? Obviously, this can never be true because the Bible has said that God is also a lawgiver too:

• Jas 4:12 KJV  There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

In fact, God is a great lawgiver; Satan, "the Lawless One".

• 2Th 2:3-10 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.

I will tell them, You said that God can only give you gifts, not any laws or commandments. So, does it mean that you will accept anyone who will give you gifts? Do you know that Satan will always want to show you that he can give more gifts and better gifts than God? Will you follow Satan just because he can give you more gifts or better gifts? Will you reject anyone who would give you the commandments of God? I feel sorry for you - very likely, you have not only rejected God, the lawgiver; you have missed the Saviour who would also give us more words, more commandments, more principles, more sermons, and more doctrine than more miracles, more healing, more bread, and more prosperity:

• Mat 4:3-4 KJV  And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.  (4)  But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
  Joh 14:15 KJV  If ye love me, keep my commandments.
• Joh 15:10-11 KJV  If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.  (11)  These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

Jesus might give gifts to many people, including the sinners, but He did say clearly that He gave His commandments to His disciples. In fact, He knew that only His disciples can keep His commandments. Hence, if you just want to receive gifts, you are not His disciples yet:

• Joh 12:48-50 KJV  He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.  (49)  For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.  (50)  And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
• Joh 14:23-26 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.  (26)  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
• 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 arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
• Joh 6:26-66 KJV  Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. (27)  Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. .. (60) Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?  (61)  When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?  (62)  What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?  (63)  It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.  (64)  But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.  (65)  And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.  (66)  From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

** Is it wrong to feel unworthy?
I will tell them, You say that you are not like those who feel unworthy. But do you know who are those who feel unworthy? They are those who truly receive the forgiveness of God and favour of God. Are there biblical examples of those who felt unworthy and, as a result, received more favour? Yes, it is not just one; but many examples in the Bible:

1. The sinner who confessed his sin before God: Luk 18:11-14 KJV  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  (12)  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  (13)  And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  (14)  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
2. The woman who washed Jesus feet with her tears because she did not feel worthy to look up at Jesus and others: Luk 7:44-47 KJV And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.  (45)  Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.  (46)  My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.  (47)  Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. Please think, Did she do it with the same feeling like the feeling of someone who strikes lottery and thinks that it is God's favour? Did she feel so favoured, so worthy, or so excited that she kept kissing the feet of Jesus? No, her feeling was totally different from those who think that they are worthy; she felt unworthy instead. That's why she did the most lowly task of washing, kissing, and wiping the feet of Jesus which the Pharisees or those who think that they are too worthy or too favoured to do it.
3. The prodigal son who repented and thought that he was not worthy to be a son: Luk 15:17-19 KJV  And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!  (18)  I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,  (19)  And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
4. The thief who admitted his sins, his due punishment, and his unworthiness before the Lord - Luk 23:40-43 KJV  But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?  (41)  And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.  (42)  And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.  (43)  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
5. Peter who fell down at Jesus' knees and felt unworthy - Luk 5:6-11 KJV  And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.  (7)  And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.  (8)  When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.  (9)  For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:  (10)  And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.  (11)  And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.  

I believe that all the people above had felt unworthy before God. Why did they feel unworthy? It's because they knew that they were sinners, they knew that they had sinned, or they had sin conscience in them. It's because, if they felt that they were very favoured or righteous like the Pharisees, they would never feel unworthy. Hence, I don't think that there is any wrong to feel unworthy before God or Jesus Christ. It is not wrong to have sin conscience to repent when we have sins or know that we have sinned too; it is wrong only if we have sin conscience to keep on offering the blood sacrifice like the Jews or the Pharisees who would never repent (or never have the sin conscience to repent).
I will ask the radical grace preachers, Are there people who would never feel unworthy (or sin conscious) to repent but would just keep thinking of God's favour or God's righteousness and believe only (and they think that to repent is to believe only)? Yes, only the Pharisees. If sinners would never feel unworthy or feel that they are sinful before God or others, they are not the sinners; they are the Pharisees and they are too righteous for Christ to save them:

• Luk 5:30-32 KJV  But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?  (31)  And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.  (32)  I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
• Mat 3:5-9 KJV  Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,  (6)  And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.  (7)  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.
• Mat 5:20 KJV  For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. (What did Jesus mean? If the Pharisees, who thought that they were too righteous to confess their sins or to repent, would be condemned before God, no one is righteous enough before God. It means that no one is too righteous to confess their sins or to repent. That's why Jesus would preach the gospel of repentance to everyone in the world, to ask them to repent, and not just to believe only. The Pharisees and the religious Jews (including the lawless ones, hypocrites, and the devils) might think that they could believe only, but John the Baptist and Jesus knew that they could never repent.)

Repentance is a kind of 'effort' which we must preach and no one can say that we are wrong
They will still argue, "But if we must repent with a lot of sin conscience, feeling of unworthiness, or thinking of sins, we will do our repentance with a lot of self-effort. Sin conscience always leads to self-effort. If we still want to do a lot of self-effort, we have not truly repented; we have fallen from grace.."
I will tell them, By the way, do you know why John the Baptist told the Pharisees to repent with fruits meet for repentance Mat 3:8. It means there must be 'effort' or 'works' in true repentance. Hence, Paul would never tell the believe to repent by changing their minds only. He would still preach the same repentance that the Lord and John the Baptist preached. It is a kind of self-effort which must be preached to everyone in the world in the name of the Lord:

• Luk 24:45-48 KJV  Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,  (46)  And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:  (47)  And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.  (48)  And ye are witnesses of these things.
• Act 26:19-21 KJV  Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:  (20)  But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.  (21)  For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.

I will ask them, Do you know why the Jews wanted to kill Paul? Was it because Paul told them to repent, 'metanoia', and change their mind to be more godly or to give more tithes to the churches? No, Paul told them to repent and do works (effort) which showed that they had truly repented and they couldn't.  

Yes, 'effortless doctrine' can sell, but it cannot last
Many will finally say, "You can keep quoting many Bible verses which oppose God's grace and our effortless teaching; but how many souls have you saved? How many churches have you built? How many people have believed God because of your preaching? If you have done anything for anyone, I suggest that you keep quiet and mind your own business. If you are a pastor and you have only a few miserable members who listen to your preaching, you are not living in the will of God .."
I will ask them, Do you really say all these to your believers? Do you really think so? If you do, you have no respect for the preaching of God's words. Yes, you may boast about the millions of followers who listen to you because of your effortless teaching, you may boast that you are the bestsellers of your 'effortless doctrine', you may receive tons of testimonies and good reports from the internet, you may have brought many miracles to others, you may have done this and that, you may have done many wonderful works, ..  But what does it mean? It means that you have still boasted against the words of God and the doctrine of Christ with your own achievement, glory, deception, and self-effort . At the end of the day, you have still failed to do the will of God:

• Mat 7:20-27 KJV  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:  (25)  And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.  (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:  (27)  And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

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Was Peter a hypocrite?

Was Peter a hypocrite?
Radical grace preachers would say, "Yes, all those who believe in the law were hypocrite including the Christian believers who do and teach God's laws and commandments. That's why we still need to preach grace to all the churches. We need to save them from the laws with our Gospel Revolution. Many believers are still under the law. Like Peter, they become corrupted and corrupt others who believe in grace. That's why we must preach radically even though all of them misunderstood us; otherwise we are not preaching the gospel that Paul. We don't preach the gospel that Peter preached; we preach only the gospel that Paul preached or John preached .."

• Gal 2:9-14 ERV  James, Peter, and John seemed to be the leaders. And they saw that God had given me this special gift of ministry, so they accepted Barnabas and me. They said to us, "We agree that you should go to those who are not Jews, and we will go to the Jews."  (10)  They asked us to do only one thing--to remember to help those who are poor. And this was something that I really wanted to do.  (11)  When Peter came to Antioch, he did something that was not right. I stood against him, because he was wrong.  (12)  This is what happened: When Peter first came to Antioch, he ate and associated with the non-Jewish people. But when some Jewish men came from James, Peter separated himself from the non-Jews. He stopped eating with them, because he was afraid of the Jews who believe that all non-Jewish people must be circumcised.  (13)  So Peter was a hypocrite. The other Jewish believers joined with him, so they were hypocrites too. Even Barnabas was influenced by what these Jewish believers did.  (14)  They were not following the truth of the Good News. When I saw this, I spoke to Peter in front of everyone. I said, "Peter, you are a Jew, but you don't live like one. You live like someone who is not a Jew. So why are you trying to force those who are not Jewish to live like Jews?"

Today we don't listen to Peter any more; we listen more to Paul instead. Peter was under the law and, hence, his letters were still full of the law and self-effort. Imagine how Peter fumbled when he could only think of the tabernacle or the law when he saw the glory of God. Peter could never be a true grace preacher:

• Mat 17:4-5 KJV  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.

  

Was Paul a greater hypocrite?
I will tell them, If Peter was a hypocrite, would Paul be a greater hypocrite because he accused Peter and then later did something that pleased all the Jews too?

• Act 16:1-4 ERV  Paul went to the city of Derbe and then to Lystra, where a follower of Jesus named Timothy lived. Timothy's mother was a Jewish believer, but his father was a Greek.  (2)  The believers in the cities of Lystra and Iconium had only good things to say about him.  (3)  Paul wanted Timothy to travel with him, but all the Jews living in that area knew that his father was a Greek. So Paul circumcised Timothy to please the Jews.  (4)  Then Paul and those with him traveled through other cities. They gave the believers the rules and decisions from the apostles and elders in Jerusalem. They told them to obey these rules.

If Peter or Paul were hypocrites, everyone in the churches are hypocrites too. No, God forbid. We should not just quote from the Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) or the Bible version that we like to promote our own radical view on the preaching of grace only or law only. My advice is to read more Bible versions, including the King James Version (KJV), to have a more balanced view on the gospel or man's sin problem.
Based on what I know from the Bible, no one is perfect. And hence, it is ridiculous to use the failure of one Apostle to conclude that all his letters or teaching of God's words, God's commandments, and God's grace will turn us into hypocrites. Of course, none of the writers of the Bible were perfect but the words and commandments that they wrote were spiritually inspired for correction, instructions, warnings, and reproofs for the believers:

• 2Ti 3:13-17 KJV  But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.  (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.

Hence, it is ridiculous for us to boycott any writer of the Bible (like Moses, Jeremiah, Peter, or James) just because we think that they were angry prophets or 'doom and gloom' preachers, and preach only the letters of Paul because only his words are from the gospel of grace. It is ridiculous to be named after Paul only just because we think that only Paul can preach the gospel and no one else can preach it better. If we have such thinking, I am not surprised that many believers have stopped listening to Paul too. It's because many believers could have been deceived by the false prophets who teach them not to confess any sins. The believers could have been subtly led to think that the false prophets are more righteous, more gracious, more anointed, and more positive than Paul who still confessed his weaknesses or sins:

• Rom 7:18-25 KJV  For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.  (19)  For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.  (20)  Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.  (21)  I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.  (22)  For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:  (23)  But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.  (24)  O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?  (25)  I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.(Did Paul say that he could never sin because he was  under grace? No, if he could never sin, he would never said "O wretched man that I am! (v24)", confess that he was still brought under the captivity of sin (v23), and admit ".. the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do (v19)". Hence, if Paul still sinned or confessed publicly about his existing weakness or sins in his wretched man, why can't a believer or a sinner confess his sins and admit that he has sinned too? If Paul did not think that he could insult the righteousness of God by admitting or confessing it, how can we think that we will insult God's righteousness by confessing our sins?) 

   

Radical view or intent will cause more confusion and dissension in the churches
I will tell them, If your intent of preaching radical grace is to accuse everyone in the churches as hypocrites and cause arguments and contentions, your radical grace preaching is not from God. How can you be less hypocritical than Peter or Paul if you have prospered more than them by preaching more graciously or more radically than them?

We know that the law or the Jewish Old Covenant which includes the law of circumcision is no more applicable to the Gentiles. But if we use that to bring confusion, flame arguments, and create contentions in the churches, we are no different from the carnal Corinthian believers who boasted in the name of the Lord for following the teaching of Paul or Apollos.
We are not bothered by the name or the credential of those who preached the gospel; whether it is the gospel that was preached by Paul, Peter, Apollos, or the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. But we must know and judge the intent of the radical preachers who would just want to create contentions and accuse God's people who hold more balanced viewpoints on the gospel or God's words:

• 1Co 1:11-15 KJV  For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.  (12)  Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.  (13)  Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?  (14)  I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;  (15)  Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.

No one should boast that he can preach better than others
Who is more important? Is he the one who preaches grace, or the one who preaches doctrine and commandments?

• 1Co 3:1-10 KJV  And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.  (2)  I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.  (3)  For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?  (4)  For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?  (5)  Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?  (6)  I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.  (7)  So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.  (8)  Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.  (9)  For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.  (10)  According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

No one should boast just because he thinks that he has preached more 'grace'
Or can we boast that we are better than all others because we preach only Jesus Christ and we can confess the name of Jesus Christ better than others? No. Those who have such thinking are no better than the carnal Corinthian believers too:

• 1Co 3:20-23 KJV  And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.  (21)  Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;  (22)  Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;  (23)  And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.

I will ask those who argue vehemently that they would never judge others or be judged no matter they do, Do you boast that you can preach better than Peter or Paul? Do you judge all others as the Pharisees or hypocrites in your radical revolution? If you preached that Peter was a hypocrite and that he was still under the law, you have judged him unfairly:

• 1Co 4:2-6 ERV  Those who are trusted with such an important work must show that they are worthy of that trust.  (3)  But I don't consider your judgment on this point to be worth anything. Even an opinion from a court of law would mean nothing. I don't even trust my own judgment.  (4)  I don't know of any wrong I have done, but that does not make me right. The Lord is the one who must decide if I have done well or not.  (5)  So don't judge anyone now. The time for judging will be when the Lord comes. He will shine light on everything that is now hidden in darkness. He will make known the secret purposes of our hearts. Then the praise each person should get will come from God.  (6)  Brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself as examples for you. I did this so that you could learn from us the meaning of the words, "Follow what the Scriptures say." Then you will not brag about one person and criticize another.

Believers can still sin, not by stealing or killing, but by 'speaking'
I will ask the radical grace preachers again, So, do you now believe that there is always suffering and persecution for the true believers? and not everyone will always prosper? However, do you explain the correct scripture to your believers?

• Jud 1:8-20  KJV  Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. ..  (10) But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.  (11)  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; .. (16) These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.  (17)  But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;  (18)  How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.  (19)  These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.  (20)  But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
• 2Pe 2:10-22 KJV  But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.  (11)  Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.  (12)  But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; .. (17) These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.  (18)  For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.  (19)  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.  (22)  But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. 

Do you realize that sinners or believers do not need to kill or steal to sin? They can just 'speak' to sin. If we are preachers, we can sin even more because, as preachers, we can speak better lies to deceive more people. Hence, how can we lie that the Ten Commandment is no longer applicable to us when we know that it is still God's commandment to the churches?

• Rom 13:9-14 KJV  For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. ..  (13)  Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.  (14)  But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
• 1Pe 3:10-15 KJV  For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:  (11)  Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.  (12)  For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.  (13)  And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?  (14)  But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;  (15)  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Many end time preachers will turn the grace of God into lasciviousness
Peter has said it right (in 1Pe 3:10-15 above) because he would still keep the commandments of God (even though he was not perfect in keeping every God's commandment).
However, after reading from Jud 1:8-20 and 2Pe 2:10-22, I realize that there were great similarities in Peter and Jude. They would keep the commandments of God and warn the believers of those who will speak evil of dignities. However, Jude would go further by saying that there could be someone who would turn the grace of God into licentiousness or lasciviousness too

• Jud 1:4 KJV  For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

I had made a quick check on the meaning of 'lasciviousness'. It means 'feeling morbid sexual desire or a propensity to lewdness' or 'The trait of behaving in an obscene manner'. Of course, it can mean 'license to sin too'. Please think, Who would turn the grace of our God into lasciviousness? Can the believers of other religions turn the grace of our God into lasciviousness? No, it is very unlikely for anyone outside the churches to turn the grace of our God into lasciviousness. Obviously Jude was talking about those who are teaching or preaching in our churches; not the believers outside our churches. No wonder they could never quote scripture comfortably from the letter of Jude and Peter. Instead, they would constantly speak evil of Peter, Jude, and all the churches who would still keep the commandments of God:

• Rev 12:17 KJV  And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
• Rev 14:11-13 KJV  And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.  (12)  Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.  (13)  And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

I feel especially comforted to know that we can rest from our labours from henceforth, according to the grace of God. It reminds me of what Paul said earlier in his letter to the Corinthians:

• 1Co 3:1-10 KJV  ... (5)  Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?  (6)  I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.  (7)  So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.  (8)  Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.  (9)  For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.  (10)  According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

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To boast or not to boast

What is boasting ?

Boasting is always done out of pride
The Lord would not like us to boast. It is because boasting is always done out of pride, whether it is done before men, before God, in the temple, in the church, or from the pulpit, even if it is done in the name of the Lord.

• Luk 18:11-14 KJV  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  (12)  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  (13)  And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  (14)  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Boasting in the Lord could be done out of pride too
Many radical grace preachers think that they can boast under grace. But when they quoted the law to compare with what they could do radically, unknowingly they could have used it to gratify the desire of their flesh to boast and to live with their lawless or radical philosophies. They may not commit adulteries or live with sinful lives but they may teach and influence our next generation to live with the wrong philosophies, and wrong philosophies will lead to wrong living one day.
They will argue, "But what's wrong if we boast in the name of the Lord ? Under law, we cannot show that we are at ease with ourselves, we cannot shout and scream, we cannot clap and cheer. We cannot walk to our pulpit in styles, we cannot do this and that; we can only tiptoe to our pulpit in boring silence, like the Pharisees. You think that this is humility ? No, this is false humility. But under grace, we are so secured that we can just stroll in to our pulpit in styles, amidst the cheers and shout of our 'fans' and followers. You may criticise us for encouraging idol worship, but I am just representing Jesus to receive the glory from the people. The Jews can never give glory to God if they did not have the anointed kings like king David or king Solomon. So, likewise, we are the anointed ones or channels for the people to give glory to God too.. Haha. Under law we cannot boast, we cannot live in the flesh, we cannot feel good about many things, we cannot dress like rock stars, we cannot enjoy sex or fame and talk freely about it on the pulpit, we cannot do this and that; we can only live like a monk? No, this is false holiness; but under grace, we are so righteous that we do not need to live like a holy monk - we can do everything in Christ now (Php 4:13). We can boast about all things in the Lord and yet we are very humble. We will glorify His name.. Under law, we cannot do this and that .. but under grace, we can do all things and we can boast about it .. 
Under law, we are poor.. under grace, we prosper.. Under law, we are under stress to do do do, Under grace, God supplies and bless bless bless.., Under law, sin is highly infectious and contagious, so is holiness, and it is effortless under grace .. God spoke to me in an audible voice, err.. I mean in an inner small voice, to preach all theses and glorify His name.. "
They said that they are the channels through which God can receive the glory from the people.  I will tell them, God will still receive the glory without you or your people. If God wants the glory, He can make the stones to give glory to Him too:

• Mat 3:8-9 KJV  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.
• Psa 98:7-9 KJV  Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.  (8)  Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together  (9)  Before the LORD; for he cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall he judge the world, and the people with equity.  

I will tell them, "Yes, of course, we can boast too. Before we are successful, we stammered, but now we can speak very well in the name of Jesus. Before we are successful, we could not write but now we can write like a pro. Before success, we stayed in a small house but now we are richer because we stay in big houses. Before success, we do not know how to boast or promote ourselves but now we can boast 'like a pro' .. Before .. now .., before .., now ... " Well, what do you see if we boast like this? It sounds like some kind of 'snake oil' promotion on the streets. There is no spirit of humility; but only hypocrisy and lies, even though we can boast very well, in the name of God.

Under the law or grace, no one can boast

If Jesus did not accept the Pharisees who boasted with the thinking that God would be glorified by their works and boasting, neither would He accept us if we boast like the Pharisees or king Saul thinking that God would be glorified by our boasting or offerings. Under both the Old and New Covenant, God has said that He is not interested in any offering or boasting if it is done out of pride, human lust, lawlessness, or rejection of God's commands:

• 1Sa 15:20-24 KJV  And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites.  (21)  But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal.  (22)  And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  (23)  For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.  (24)  And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.
• 2Co 10:5-8 KJV  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  (6)  And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  (7)  Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.  (8)  For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

I will ask them, You said that Under law, sin is infectious, under grace, holiness is contagious (effortless) .." Are you saying this to the Gentiles or the Jews ? 

a. For the Gentiles and us, we are under sin, not under the law. we don't have God's law to show us that we are under sin although we do have many men's laws, our own laws, and perverted laws. But, in the eyes of God, we are all under lawlessness (1Jn 3:4) whether we like it or not. But under grace, holiness is not contagious without our conscious effort to repent too. The Bible tells us that, under grace, all must repent. Holiness is contagious and will abound only if the repentant sinners or the believers are well taught about sanctification, honour, and holiness according to the commandments of the Lord (it is not effortless without any command) :

• 1Th 4:1-8 KJV  Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.  (2)  For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.  (3)  For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:  (4)  That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;  (5)  Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:  (6)  That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.  (7)  For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.  (8)  He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. 

b. For the Jews and Pharisees who are under the law (Gal 2:15-16), yes sin is infectious; but for them to be under grace and to abound in holiness, they must have repented and followed the teaching of the Lord too. Hence, Paul teaching above on sanctification, honour, and holiness would still apply for the Jews. However, I wonder, Why would the radical grace preachers keep preaching on "Under the law, sin is .. Under grace, holiness is .. " when there are no Jews or Pharisees in their churches. Probably they think that the sinners in their churches would think that, being under the law, they will not need to repent from their sins ? However, unknown to them, by keep reminding their believers to abound in grace and holiness, they are confirming the words of Paul again on how they ought to walk and to please God (v1), and how they should possess their vessels in sanctification, honour, and holiness (v3,7). However, unknown to them, this would contradict against what they have always preached ie:  holiness is contagious, effortless, and doing nothing. They have confused their believers.

Boasting should not be used to impress others
Some will still argue, "But Paul said, We can boast in the name of the Lord. He always boasted in the name of the Lord.."
I will tell them, Please do not boast about everything in the name of the Lord. Please find out what Paul had boasted first. He would never boast to impress others:

• 2Co 11:30 LITV  If it is right to boast, I will boast of the things of my infirmity.
• 2Co 12:5 LITV  On behalf of such a one I will boast. But I will not boast on my behalf, except in my weaknesses.
• 2Co 12:5-7 LITV  On behalf of such a one I will boast. But I will not boast on my behalf, except in my weaknesses.  (6)  For if I desire to boast, I will not be foolish, for I speak the truth. But I spare, lest anyone reckons me to be beyond what he sees me or hears anything of me.  (7)  And by the superabundance of the revelations, that I not be made arrogant, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan, that he might buffet me, that I not be made haughty ..

Boasting should not be preached as the key to get prosperity or to change our situation 
Did you boast like Paul ? When Paul boasted about his weaknesses, he was still in the weaknesses. He never gave us the impression that if we boasted in our physical weaknesses, we would become strong (physically), or that if we boasted in our poverty, we would prosper (in material abundance). In fact, he took pleasure in the weaknesses and remained in those weaknesses that he might know Christ and preach grace better.

• ... 2Co 12:7-11 LITV  And by the superabundance of the revelations, that I not be made arrogant, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan, that he might buffet me, that I not be made haughty.  (8)  Beyond this I entreated the Lord three times, that it depart from me.  (9)  And He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness. Therefore, I will rather gladly boast in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may overshadow me.  (10)  Because of this, I am pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in dire needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for the sake of Christ. For when I may be weak, then I am powerful.  (11)  Boasting, I have become foolish. You compelled me. For I ought to be commended by you, for I lacked nothing of the highest apostles, even though I am nothing.

Could you experience and boast like Paul ? If our answer is yes, we can 'boast' like him; otherwise we'd better keep quiet and do not boast ! Many rich preachers boasted that they could preach better grace like Paul because they have prospered, but what kind of grace did they preach ? It is a 'Question mark' !

Hence, Paul would never boast about the law or grace of God
Similarly, we would never preach boasting of our love for God or boasting of God's love for us to any sinners or believers. Boasting of anything can cause pride even if it is done in the name of the Lord. It is not only limited to the boasting of the law by (1) the Israelites or (2) the Pharisees, who were under the law:

1. Exo 19:3-8 KJV  And Moses went up unto God, and the LORD called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel;  ..  (5)  Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:  (6)  And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.  (7)  And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him.  (8)  And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.
2. Luk 18:10-14 KJV  Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.  (11)  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  (12)  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  (13)  And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  (14)  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Boasting of God's favour or abusing of God's grace can cause pride and the downfall of a God's servant even if he is under grace too

• Mat 18:23-34 KJV  Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants .. (27)  Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.  (28)  But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. ..  (32) 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.

a. justification by faith or by grace is only the beginning of a believer's forgiven life so that he can do more with the words and commandments of God in his life. The grace for cancellation of debts or forgiveness of debts is not given so that we can have more future debts or more future lawlessness. It is certainly not an excuse or license to have more future sins with no more repentance (or to sin wilfully). 

• Luk 13:2-10 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.  (10)  And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath.

b. Grace is not forever - it is given for the purpose of repentance, turning back to God's commandments, keeping God's laws, and doing His words. Grace is not given for the purpose of enjoying or living in lawlessness forever. Grace is not there forever if we are forever lawless in our hearts or minds. However, if we repent, keep the commandments of God, and live with the laws of God in our hearts and minds, God will remember all our lawlessness no more and He will be our God forever: 

• Heb 10:16-17 LITV  "This is the covenant which I will covenant to them after those days, says the Lord: Giving My Laws on their hearts, and I will write them on their minds;"  (17)  also He adds, "I will not at all still remember their sins" and their lawlessnesses. ..  
• Heb 8:10 LITV  Because this is the covenant which I will covenant with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord, giving My Laws into their mind, and I will write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people." 
• Luk 19:8-10 LITV  But standing, Zaccheus said to the Lord, Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor. And if in anything I accused anyone falsely, I restore it fourfold.  (9)  And Jesus said to him, Today salvation has come to this house, for he also is a son of Abraham.  (10)  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the one being lost.

Hence, the cancellation of debt or forgiveness of debt is not given so that a believer can have more future debt or lawlessness forever. It is certainly not an excuse or license to have more future sin or lawlessness without any repentance. However, many preachers have deceived the believers into thinking that they can literally expect forgiveness of all their future sins, and even supernatural cancellation of all their future financial debts, if they will just radically believe or do and teach their 'holy communion's blood cleansing' ritual, 'pure grace' confession, 'supernatural' favour, 'mind changing' philosophy, or 'false repentance' to disregard and to 'repent' from all the laws and commandments of God. I did write about some preachers who have managed to quote the Bible out of context and capitalise on this 'supernatural' deception or 'cancellation of debts' to transfer effortless wealth to themselves. (see "Supernatural cancellation of debts - Is it really a supernatural transfer of wealth, a religious gimmick, or just a vain religious boasting?" in my previous post here.)

• Heb 10:26-30 KJV  For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,  (27)  But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.  (28)  He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:  (29)  Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?  (30)  For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
   

Who were those who had boasted and fallen ? 
The Hebrew writer said in Heb 10:30 above, "The Lord shall judge His people". Who were His people ? Of course, the Jews who were under the law in the Old Testament as well as the believers who are in the New Testament (or the Israelites who despised Moses' law as well as the believers who hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace in the Hebrew congregation or the churches the Hebrew writer wrote to).

• Heb 6:4-6 KJV (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.

Who were those who had fallen ? They could be God's believers and servants who fit into the five descriptions mentioned in Heb 6:4-5. Only God's believers and servants can fit these descriptions. Hence, we would be lying if we say that these warnings are not applicable to the believers or those who serve God.
Some may argue, "These warnings are only against those who despised Moses' law (v28) or hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace (v29); but not for us. They are not applicable to us who would only boast about grace.."
I will ask them, Have you read Mat 18:23-34 above ? Before the servant despised the goodness of the king, the forgiveness, or the grace from his king, he could have boasted about it before others or in his heart. He could have said within, "Haha, I have received so much grace. I can never be condemned. I can do whatever I want. If the king (or God) will not condemn me, no one can condemn me .. If God think that I am righteous, who can say that I am a sinner who still needs to repent .. " And so he acted, based on his boastful inner reasoning. But God's words in Heb 6:4-6, Heb 10:26-30, and Mat 18:23-34 are all clear warnings to all of us who like to boast and think highly of ourselves.


The giving of grace or favour in the Old or New Testament should not be preached radically to justify those who despised God's laws, God's covenant, and God's kindness
They will say, "Mat 18:23-34 is not applicable to us because it was the Lord's teaching to the Jews before He died. It is not about grace under the New covenant. However, if we receive grace under the New covenant, we can never lose the grace of God. God's grace will ensure that we are once saved always saved. It is the assurance of God to make sinners feeling secured. If we preach otherwise, the people will sin like the devil.. Please read the following Bible passage: 

• 2Sa 9:1-7 KJV  And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?  .. (3) And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan hath yet a son, which is lame on his feet.  ..  (6)  Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he answered, Behold thy servant!  (7)  And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.
• 2Sa 21:7 KJV  But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD'S oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.

It is a beautiful picture of grace when God's kindness was shown to Mephibosheth who was lame for Jonathan's sake. Today we know that this typology can be applied to us as God's kindness has also been shown to the sinners who are unworthy for Jesus' sake.."
I will ask them, Can this still be more relevant to us:

1. when we know that it was written in the Old Testament?
2. when we know that the Pharisees had also quoted this scripture to boast about God's covenant or mercy with them for Abraham's sake so that they could not be condemned even if they had despised God's laws and make God's commandments of none effect? Mat 15:6 KJV  And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Mar 7:11-13 KJV  But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.  (12)  And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother;  (13)  Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
3. when we know that Jesus told us in His parable about the kingdom of God in the New Testament, that the servant of God could receive God's kindness and would still abuse it in Mat 18:23-34?

Can we boast about God's favour in the name of the Lord?
They will say, "Why not? If people know that we are blessed, we have prospered, and we have received more favours, they will follow Jesus. We will give glory to Christ too.."
I will tell them,  The Pharisees boasted about their favour in God too. They thought they had prosperity and inheritance under the covenant of God with Abraham too. But their boasting would never give God the glory. On the contrary, their boasting was disgusting to the Lord:

• Luk 18:11-14 KJV  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  (12)  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess .. (14)  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
• Mat 3:6-9 KJV  And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.  (7)  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. 

Are there churches who boasted about God's favour like the Pharisees?
Many will argue that they are in the New covenant and hence their boasting would not be like the Pharisee's. They would challenge us, "Have you heard any of us preach or boast like the Pharisees?" I will tell them, You bet. I have heard preacher(s) who boasted that they have received more favour because they could get cheaper rent or better church premise from the Casino ! Yes, a church in the Casino - something which was unheard of or which the Apostles would never 'dream' of. Of course, I am not against having a church in the Casino if you have no better choice after looking around for a suitable church building. However, if you boasted that you were more favoured than other churches because you had better premises or more favours from the Casino, something is wrong. Your favour is not God's favour under the New covenant; it is worldly favour interpreted in the wrong way.

• Your favour is not God's favour under the New covenant between God and Abraham; 
• but it is worldly favour under a commercial 'covenant' between you and the world. There is nothing much to boast about. If God needs the Casino to show us His favour, He is not a God of many supply. He is a God who needs the world to bless us. He is the 'god' of the world. He is the god of a limited supply with worldly principles.   

Many of us have become confused in boasting of God's favours
They will still argue, "What's wrong if we boast about God's favour from the world or Casino? We are living in the end time where there would be a transfer of wealth or favour to the godly. What's wrong if we have beautiful congregation in a beautiful auditorium from the Casino? We did pay for the rent, and everything in it was done legally, legitimately, and orderly .. We can worship God beautifully in such an environment too. It doesn't matter to God whether we worship Him in the casinos or the churches; in the houses or massage parlours; in the toilet (your 'great white throne') or the cinema .. "
I will tell them, Yes, we can worship God anywhere, if we have the right spirit. But of all places, why a Casino and preaching it like it is God's favour? If God's favour has to be preached like a Casino's favour or next to a 'wheel of fortune', it is a watered-down favour. Jesus would still reject it because it has changed the correct image of God's favour and the ministry of the church.

• Mat 21:12-13 KJV  And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,  (13)  And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Someone has asked me, "Are you sure you would never have a church inside the Casino?" I will tell them, Yes, I would never advise people to build a church inside a casino; with one exception, that is only when the casino has stopped operation and it is a vacant place suitable for prayer and worship of God.
A point of reflection: I have found that many Christians today have become so liberal that they are no more logical, biblical, and spiritual. For years, modern preachers have been preaching against religious or traditional mentality so much so that they have become totally confused about simple belief in God.
I hate to say this; but it could be true: many believers have become so confused that they can no longer think logically. The believers from other religions may have missed the truth in Christ but they can still think more logically than many of us.

• Other religious believers would say, without hesitation, that we are out of our minds if we suggest that they should also have their temples, shrines, or cathedrals in the Casino. 
• But we would have to search the whole Bible or write long tedious essays to convince one others to allow or not to allow church in the Casino. What a shame? 

Jesus would not want us to boast with the worldly favours 
Those who boasted that they had the good favours and the privileges to have their churches in the Casino did not know that they could have been used by the Casino. They have forgotten that the Casino would love to project a better image or a more 'wholesome' attraction to all the gamblers or those who are addicted with gambling with the presence of the churches in their casino premises. Hence, the good favour or special privilege we may enjoy from the Casino is not something that we should boast about. It is actually a shame if we have to compliment and joint venture with the Casino subtly! If Jesus were still around, He would have discerned it and get His people out of the 'Casino' church.
They will argue, "Are you going to teach the people to chase everybody out of the Casino like Jesus chasing out everybody in the temple ? Come on, this is crazy. We are now living in the country where there is law and order. We can't intrude on their business and chase away their customers today. What Jesus did was only applicable to the Jews in the Old Testament. We don't do such thing in the New Testament any more ..."
I will tell them, No, Jesus did not tell us to intrude on the business of those outside the churches. But we should know what He wants us to do with ourselves and our churches. You can justify yourselves by saying that everything is not applicable to you. What Jesus did and taught is still applicable to us and the churches. If there are professing Christians and false prophets who preach the name of Jesus in our churches and they are not saved, then every warning and commandment in the Bible is for us to preach to our churches and our people (unless you are very confident that all your believers are too perfect to hear the words or warnings of Christ and the Apostles eg:-

1. Mat 13:18 - the parable of the sower 
2. Mat 13:25 - the parable of the tares, 
3. Mat 7:15-24 - the warning for the professing believers, 
4. Mat 18:23-35 -  the warning for the arrogant servant, 
5. Mat 25 - the warning for the virgins (churches), servants (pastors), and the goats (believers), 
6. Heb 6:4-6 - the warning for those who will rebel after tasting the goodness of His words,  
7. Heb 10:26 - the warning for those who will sin willfully after they are under the Old or the New covenant of God, 
8. 1 John 1:9 - the promise for those who may fall into sins, 
9. Revelation 2-3 - the warnings and promises for all the churches in different dispensations or regions. Of course, Jesus will still judge His people and His churches before He will finally judge the world.

1. Segregation and judgement of His people in the churches: Rev 14:11-19 KJV  .. and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.  (12)  Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus .. (14) And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.  (15)  And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.  (16)  And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.  (17)  And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle.  (18)  And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe.  (19)  And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.
2. Final judgement of the world: Rev 20:11-12 KJV  And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.  (12)  And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

Hence, Jesus will still judge and speak against the churches who corrupt His doctrine, teach worldly principles, and 'joint venture' with the lawless world to destroy His commandments before His coming. Of course, He will not tell us to go to all the banks, the stock exchange, the money changers, or the casinos to 'overturn their tables', chase everybody out, and stop them from doing business. Of course, He will never do it because we know that, in the Bible, He would never go to the markets or the tax collectors and overturn their tables too. However, He would judge His churches if He knows that the house of God has been turned into a den of thieves, religious hypocrites, or boastful con men.

Can we boast that we have NEVER argued with anyone ?
They will say, "No, the Lord told us not to argue or judge others. But you have argued and judged too much. Although we always boast in the Lord, we would never argue like you. We would never speak evil against others. We are always gracious people who have always kept our tongues from evil. Yes, we don't believe in teaching people to keep the ten commandments, but we will still teach the people to keep the one commandment in Psalm 34, and we will always sing about it:

• Psa 34:3-14 KJV  O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.  (4)  I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears .. (7)  The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them ... (11)  Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.  (12)  What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good?  (13)  Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.  (14)  Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

Therefore, we would only speak the good things. We have never argued or judged anyone although sometimes we did 'comment graciously' (???) that:

1. most of the law preachers, the conservative, the legalistic, and our critics were hypocrites who taught many rules and regulations,
2. they could not understand God's grace; but they could only preach an angry God with an Old Testament mentality, 
3. they do not believe in the finished work of Christ. They still think like the world and adopt the world system to 'do good get good'. They are adulterers with the world by mixing grace with the system of the world.  
4. they could only judge and point fingers like the Pharisees, and condemn everyone (who could not repent like them), with jealousy and false humility. Yes, we are certainly humbler than most of them because we are under grace, although we have more anointing, we have Jesus speaking to us more often, we have better sex life, we can joke, we can entertain, we can do cat walk on the pulpit, and we can promote ourselves better (click to see this link). 
5. they cannot speak in tongues, have no miracles, no healing, no signs and wonders, no love, no grace, and no God's wisdom to preach a smiling and gracious God, 
6. they taught people to pray too much or fast too often, they discriminated sexy or sexual people who are like us, they had too little hair or bad hairstyle, they wore old fashioned gowns, they were too religious or too traditional to strike any business deal with the world or the Casino, they rejected the sinners,
   they do not know how to be a friend of sinners like Jesus

.. and hence they could never preach the gospel more effectively than us. However, we are not like them. We know how to preach, act, and sing like the rock stars or joke like their favourite comedians. Hence, we know how to please them and gain favours. We have never spoken evil against anyone or preach against anyone. We love everyone. We love the sinners and accept them too. We would refrain from giving bad reports, saying bad things, pointing out sins, or condemning anyone who sin. We don't accuse anyone as sinners. We don't preach like the repentance preachers. We keep our tongue from evil. That's why we can prosper .. we found favour with the world but it is actually God's favours or transfer of supernatural wealth from the world to the churches.."

I will tell them, Yes, Jesus was a friend of sinners. However, Jesus loved the sinners and ate with them, so that He could preach and call them to repentance. Are you really like Him ? I will ask them, Are you sure you could comment on all the above 'graciously' when you breathe out those judgemental remarks ? I don't know how you could manage to convince so many people that you are very gracious and that you have never argued or spoken evil against anyone. But, if I have to speak the truth, I would not lie and boast that I have NEVER argued with anybody. Please think, Is it possible for a radical grace preacher or any preacher to claim that he has never argued and would never need to argue with anyone ? No. He is very likely lying. We should tell him to go back and listen to all his preaching again. Very soon he will realise that most of his sermons are full of bitter arguments against God's commandments and preaching of repentance, and against those who preach God's words. Please think, If he had preached against others vehemently with his so-called 'radical grace revolution' with no law, no commandment, no condemnation, no repentance from sins, no good works, and no judgement, how could he preach all these with no argument ? Very likely, he could have been arguing all the while from his pulpit and he did not realise it. He could have enjoyed it too much to realise it. But he could have argued more than any preachers in the past, present, and ..



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