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THE LORD TAKES PLEASURE IN THE PROSPERITY OF HIS SERVANTS – PART V

Let those who favor my righteous cause and have pleasure in my uprightness shout for joy and be glad and say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.  Psalm 35:27 AMP

The reason that many of God’s children are so poor is that they do not trust in Father God as Jehovah Jireh, their Provider. Because they don’t trust in Him, they do not ask and receive as He has promised:

What leads to strife (discord and feuds) and how do conflicts (quarrels and fightings) originate among you? Do they not arise from your sensual desires that are ever warring in your bodily members? 2 You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask. 3 [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives. Your intention is [when you get what you desire] to spend it in sensual pleasures. James 4:1-3 AMP

And we receive from Him whatever we ask, because we [watchfully] obey His orders [observe His suggestions and injunctions, follow His plan for us] and [habitually] practice what is pleasing to Him.  1 John 3:22 AMP

God has provided abundantly for His children – He has made no limits on the blessings they can receive or on getting what they want in this life. Having wealth is not a sin! Father God is not opposed to His children being prosperous and having money. Money can be a great blessing that can be used to do God’s work and to help those in need – this is the very reason and purpose for asking God for prosperity.

The Lord warns mankind against trusting in riches, which could potentially destroy their souls, but covetousness and the wrong use of money are sins over which God’s people can get the victory just as they can get the victory over any other sin!

Don’t trust in your power to take things by force. Don’t think you will gain anything by stealing. And if you become wealthy, don’t put your trust in riches. 11 God says there is one thing you can really depend on, and I believe it: “Strength comes from God!” Psalms 62:10-11 ERV

He who leans on, trusts in, and is confident in his riches shall fall, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like a green bough. Proverbs 11:28 AMP

And beware lest you say in your [mind and] heart, My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth. 18 But you shall [earnestly] remember the Lord your God, for it is He Who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.  Deuteronomy 8:17-18 AMP

As for what was sown among thorns, this is he who hears the Word, but the cares of the world and the pleasure and delight and glamour and deceitfulness of riches choke and suffocate the Word, and it yields no fruit. Matthew 13:22 AMP

Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!] Hebrews 13:5 AMP

As for the rich in this world, charge them not to be proud and arrogant and contemptuous of others, nor to set their hopes on uncertain riches, but on God, Who richly and ceaselessly provides us with everything for [our] enjoyment. 18 [Charge them] to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous of heart, ready to share [with others], 19 In this way laying up for themselves [the riches that endure forever as] a good foundation for the future, so that they may grasp that which is life indeed.  1 Timothy 6:17-19 AMP

Money is not the root of all evil – the love of money is the root of all evil. People are led astray, wander from their faith, and cause themselves much grief and anguish by their craving of money and riches (1 Timothy 6:10). These warnings are given to us by Father God – not so we would believe that poverty is a means to salvation – but so that when we are saved and living for God, that we know how to correctly govern our money and financial affairs and that we conduct our business in righteousness when the Lord prospers us.

Poverty does not make you a better person. It is time that the body of Christ wake up to the fact that God wants to prosper us and that He also wants to use us to be a blessing wherever we go. We have to understand that He has a higher plan for our lives – we are stewards of all the vast resources of God – a pipeline, carrying God’s blessings to others. If we try to control and contain the resources He places in our hands, then we will block and limit our potential to be used by Him and also block our own blessing. If we understand that all we have at our disposal is given by God and that we are His channel of blessing, then we will allow it to flow through our hands at His direction and by His leadings and promptings. As we righteously steward these resources, without covetousness or fear, we will find that our own life is abundantly blessed and prosperous as well!

The Lord is pleased when everyone is blessed!

Qualifications and Responsibilities of Leadership – Part III

I have counsel and sound knowledge, I have understanding, I have might and power. 15 By me kings reign and rulers decree justice. 16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges and governors of the earth.Proverbs 8:14-16 AMP

  1. A great leader is fearless, because they fear God and not man.

You shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is God’s.  Deuteronomy 1:17b AMP

The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high.  Proverbs 29:25 AMP

I tell you, My friends, do not dread and be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have nothing more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom you should fear: fear Him Who, after killing, has power to hurl into hell (Gehenna); yes, I say to you, fear Him! Luke 12:4-5 AMP

A strong and good leader knows what they believe and why they believe it. They have guiding principles, based on something solid, that are consistent, unshakable and non-negotiable. God’s word is the most solid rock that you can stand on in your life. His word is unshakable and immovable.

Truly great leaders rule with a deep respect for God – His will and His laws. A worthless leader makes decisions based on the opinions of others and not according to what is right. Leaders and judges who open themselves to be influenced by others make unrighteous judgments. Some do it because of a desire to be popular; some do it out of fear over threats from others. In any case, it is unacceptable and God will judge them. It is far better to fear God than to fear man, since God has the final say!

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.  2 Timothy 1:7 AMP

Fearful people are tormented people and tormented people make bad and wrong decisions. A great leader needs the qualities mentioned here in order to govern wisely, to administer justice, and to inspire confidence in those who follow them. They need to be confident in God’s love and approval on their own lives – because they have done and are doing His will. They need to have a calm and well-balanced mind in order to judge and decide fairly. They need self-control in order to be impartial and to do what’s right, no matter what their personal opinion is, or no matter what others do to sway or manipulate them.

The wicked flee when no man pursues them, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous are bold as a lion.  Proverbs 28:1 AMP

The wicked are full of fear, but the righteous, who have done what is right, need fear nothing and have nothing to fear!

  1. A great leader is strong and courageous.

Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go.  Joshua 1:7 AMP

Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty.  Acts 6:3 AMP

A great leader has strong character. A great leader displays courage in their decisions and judgments. They have the courage to follow their own conscience and ultimately to do what is right in the eyes of God. They are not swayed by the opinions of others.

  1. A great leader is obedient to the law – the law of the land and the Law of God.

This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.  Joshua 1:8 AMP

A great leader is first of all personally obedient to the law – and they apply it faithfully to others as well.

Happy (fortunate and to be envied) are you, O land, when your king is a free man and of noble birth and character and when your officials feast at the proper time — for strength and not for drunkenness!  Ecclesiastes 10:17 AMP

  1. A great leader is able and God-fearing.

Moreover, you shall choose able men from all the people — God-fearing men of truth who hate unjust gain — and place them over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, to be their rulers.  Exodus 18:21 AMP

The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me, When one rules over men righteously, ruling in the fear of God, 4 He dawns on them like the morning light when the sun rises on a cloudless morning, when the tender grass springs out of the earth through clear shining after rain.  2 Samuel 23:3-4 AMP

And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and wisdom, with intelligence and understanding, and with knowledge and all craftsmanship.  Exodus 35:31 AMP

You, Ezra, after the wisdom of your God, which is [in His instructions] in your hand, set magistrates and judges who may judge all the people [west] of the River; choose those who know the instructions of your God, and teach him who does not know them.  Ezra 7:25 AMP

It is God who gives a person the ability to lead and the qualities to be a leader. A great leader has great respect for God – they know that wisdom and ability come from Him and they know that they need His help on a daily basis, in order to wisely govern, lead, and/or judge the people under their authority. Every wise leader has a humble estimation of themselves and a reverence for Almighty God.

I have counsel and sound knowledge, I have understanding, I have might and power. 15 By me kings reign and rulers decree justice. 16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges and governors of the earth.Proverbs 8:14-16 AMP

  1. A great leader is fearless, because they fear God and not man.

You shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is God’s.  Deuteronomy 1:17b AMP

The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high.  Proverbs 29:25 AMP

I tell you, My friends, do not dread and be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have nothing more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom you should fear: fear Him Who, after killing, has power to hurl into hell (Gehenna); yes, I say to you, fear Him! Luke 12:4-5 AMP

A strong and good leader knows what they believe and why they believe it. They have guiding principles, based on something solid, that are consistent, unshakable and non-negotiable. God’s word is the most solid rock that you can stand on in your life. His word is unshakable and immovable.

Truly great leaders rule with a deep respect for God – His will and His laws. A worthless leader makes decisions based on the opinions of others and not according to what is right. Leaders and judges who open themselves to be influenced by others make unrighteous judgments. Some do it because of a desire to be popular; some do it out of fear over threats from others. In any case, it is unacceptable and God will judge them. It is far better to fear God than to fear man, since God has the final say!

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.2 Timothy 1:7 AMP

Fearful people are tormented people and tormented people make bad and wrong decisions. A great leader needs the qualities mentioned here in order to govern wisely, to administer justice, and to inspire confidence in those who follow them. They need to be confident in God’s love and approval on their own lives – because they have done and are doing His will. They need to have a calm and well-balanced mind in order to judge and decide fairly. They need self-control in order to be impartial and to do what’s right, no matter what their personal opinion is, or no matter what others do to sway or manipulate them.

The wicked flee when no man pursues them, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous are bold as a lion. Proverbs 28:1 AMP

The wicked are full of fear, but the righteous, who have done what is right, need fear nothing and have nothing to fear!


  1. A great leader is strong and courageous.

Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go.Joshua 1:7 AMP

Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty.  Acts 6:3 AMP

A great leader has strong character. A great leader displays courage in their decisions and judgments. They have the courage to follow their own conscience and ultimately to do what is right in the eyes of God. They are not swayed by the opinions of others.


  1. A great leader is obedient to the law – the law of the land and the Law of God.

This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.  Joshua 1:8 AMP

A great leader is first of all personally obedient to the law – and they apply it faithfully to others as well.

Happy (fortunate and to be envied) are you, O land, when your king is a free man and of noble birth and character and when your officials feast at the proper time — for strength and not for drunkenness!  Ecclesiastes 10:17 AMP


  1. A great leader is able and God-fearing.

Moreover, you shall choose able men from all the people — God-fearing men of truth who hate unjust gain — and place them over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, to be their rulers.  Exodus 18:21 AMP

The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me, When one rules over men righteously, ruling in the fear of God, 4 He dawns on them like the morning light when the sun rises on a cloudless morning, when the tender grass springs out of the earth through clear shining after rain.  2 Samuel 23:3-4 AMP

And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and wisdom, with intelligence and understanding, and with knowledge and all craftsmanship.  Exodus 35:31 AMP

You, Ezra, after the wisdom of your God, which is [in His instructions] in your hand, set magistrates and judges who may judge all the people [west] of the River; choose those who know the instructions of your God, and teach him who does not know them.  Ezra 7:25 AMP

It is God who gives a person the ability to lead and the qualities to be a leader. A great leader has great respect for God – they know that wisdom and ability come from Him and they know that they need His help on a daily basis, in order to wisely govern, lead, and/or judge the people under their authority. Every wise leader has a humble estimation of themselves and a reverence for Almighty God.

 

Marks of a Good Pastor – Part I

Jesus is THE Good Shepherd, but He calls certain of His children, as leaders, to feed and care for His sheep. There are certain qualities that He looks for in a shepherd/pastor/minister.

  1. A pastor/minister must be personally acquainted with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit
  2. He must not be a stranger to God or to Gospel experiences. He must be born again.

2 Corinthians 5:17 AMP – Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

John 3:5 AMP – Jesus answered, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, unless a man is born of water and [even] the Spirit, he cannot [ever] enter the kingdom of God.

  1. He must be filled with and controlled by the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:16-26 AMP – But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God). 17 For the desires of the flesh are opposed to the [Holy] Spirit, and the [desires of the] Spirit are opposed to the flesh (godless human nature); for these are antagonistic to each other [continually withstanding and in conflict with each other], so that you are not free but are prevented from doing what you desire to do. 18 But if you are guided (led) by the [Holy] Spirit, you are not subject to the Law. 19 Now the doings (practices) of the flesh are clear (obvious): they are immorality, impurity, indecency, 20 Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, anger (ill temper), selfishness, divisions (dissensions), party spirit (factions, sects with peculiar opinions, heresies), 21 Envy, drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you beforehand, just as I did previously, that those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires. 25 If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spirit we have our life in God, let us go forward walking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.] 26 Let us not become vainglorious and self-conceited, competitive and challenging and provoking and irritating to one another, envying and being jealous of one another.

The Holy Spirit is not just for performing miracles in public – He is in your life to regulate your own life. Many people want the Holy Spirit, for show, in church, but we all need the Holy Spirit every day in our personal lives. We need to spend time with the Holy Spirit so that we can really come to know Him and to know His voice. We need to allow Him to do a work on the inside of us. He can only do through us that which He has done TO us and IN us!

  1. A pastor/minister must have a divine call. You can’t just decide to be a minister – God has to call you.
  2. You can’t call yourself and, if you are called, you can’t run the other way. You must obey God.
  3. You cannot enter into ministry out of the love of money; personal ambition; desire for respect, honor, or attention; self-interest; or love of ease – but only because of the call of God and the desire to please Him.

John 10:1-2 AMP – I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, he who does not enter by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way (elsewhere, from some other quarter) is a thief and a robber.  2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

Acts 13:2-3 AMP – While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, Separate now for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them. 3 Then after fasting and praying, they put their hands on them and sent them away.

1 Corinthians 12:28 NKJV – And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.

Ephesians 4:11 NKJV – And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers

Romans 11:29 AMP – For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.]

The New is Wine is Better

Then He spoke a parable to them: “No one puts a piece from a new garment on an old one; otherwise the new makes a tear, and also the piece that was taken out of the new does not match the old.  37 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined.  38 But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved.  39 And no one, having drunk old wine, immediately desires new; for he says, ‘The old is better.'”  Luke 5:36-39 NKJV

No one puts a new piece of material on an old garment:

Jesus told the disciples: “No one puts a piece from a new garment on an old one; otherwise the new makes a tear, and also the piece that was taken out of the new does not match the old.”

He was speaking of the New Covenant compared to the Old and to our new life in Him compared to religious tradition and our own efforts. Isaiah 64:6a NKJV says: “But we are all like an unclean thing, And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags.” When it comes to garments, the material tends to shrink when it is washed, especially when it is new. An older garment has done most of its shrinking, but a new piece of material will still shrink further. When this happens, it will tear away from the garment it has been sown onto.

Christianity is not just another religion – it is a new life! We have a brand new covenant, based on better promises. You can’t put a new religious patch on an old religion. Jesus did not come to “patch up our religion, nor us” or to patch up the Law – He came to give each of us a brand-new garment – a robe of righteousness. You can’t fix the sin problem by fixing behavior – you can’t fix it from the outside in, with rules, but only from the inside out, by the Spirit of God. Only God can fix the sin problem, and He does it by changing the heart. When you believe the Gospel and you receive Jesus as Lord and Savior, you are born again and you become a new creation – your spirit is made brand new! You don’t have a new religion – you have a new life.

No one puts new wine into old wineskins:

Jesus said: “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”

Jesus is speaking here about new wine that has been freshly squeezed. New Wine is symbolic of the Holy Spirit. You can’t put new wine into an old wineskin, because an old wineskin is rigid and unyielding. When the gases of the wine in it expand, it will not stretch, but burst. New wine must be put into a new wineskin that is soft and flexible, so that they can expand together. God puts His Holy Spirit into the heart that has been made brand new by the blood of Jesus.

Even an old wineskin can be pressed into service again if it is first soaked in water and then has oil thoroughly rubbed into it, to make it soft and flexible again. Water is symbolic of the Word of God and Oil is another symbol for the Holy Spirit. Where religion makes us hard and inflexible, liable to burst and tear, God’s Word and His Holy Spirit make us soft, humble and yielded, if they are allowed to do their work on our “wineskin”. If we want God to be able to use us then we must continually soak ourselves in the Word of God and allow it to soak into us. We must allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in us to keep us fresh and full of His wonderful new wine.

Old wine versus new wine:

Jesus said: “And no one, having drunk old wine, immediately desires new; for he says, ‘The old is better.’”

On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. 3 And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.” 4 Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” 6 Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. 7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And He said to them, “Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.” And they took it.  9 When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. 10 And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!”  John 2:1-10 NKJV

The first miracle that Jesus did was to turn water into wine at the wedding feast. The master of the feast declared that this new wine was the best tasting wine at the celebration. When people drink too much of the “old wine” of religion, they are not thirsty for the new wine of the Spirit of God. Jesus came to give us His delicious new wine. Once we taste it, we will never want the old again!

The Three-Fold Office of Christ

Before Jesus Christ, no one man was ever anointed as prophet, priest and king. Some were anointed prophets, some priests, and some kings; but in Him, all these offices are combined.

Jesus is: 

Prophet to all Mankind:

God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds.  Hebrews 1:1-2 NKJV

God speaks to us through Jesus. Every word he speaks, we can fully depend on.

 

High Priest to all Humanity:

Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, 2 who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house.  Hebrews 3:1-2 NKJV

Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  Hebrews 4:14-16 NKJV

As He says also in another place, You are a Priest [appointed] forever after the order (with the rank) of Melchizedek. Hebrews 5:6 AMP

Where Jesus has entered in for us [in advance], a Forerunner having become a High Priest forever after the order (with the rank) of Melchizedek.  Hebrews 6:20 AMP

Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? 12 For the priesthood being changed, of necessity there is also a change of the law. 13 For He of whom these things are spoken belongs to another tribe, from which no man has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is evident that our Lord arose from Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood.  15 And it is yet far more evident if, in the likeness of Melchizedek, there arises another priest 16 who has come, not according to the law of a fleshly commandment, but according to the power of an endless life. 17 For He testifies: “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.”  Hebrews 7:11-17 NKJV

 

Jesus is our High Priest. He is the mediator between God and man and, at the same time, He was our sacrifice, purging us of all sin and stain. Because He stood in our place, we can have boldness to come into the presence of the Father with a sense of forgiveness and righteousness instead of a sense of sin or unworthiness.

 

King of all Nations:

I saw in the night visions, and behold, on the clouds of the heavens came One like a Son of man, and He came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him. 14 And there was given Him [the Messiah] dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away, and His kingdom is one which shall not be destroyed.  Daniel 7:13-14 AMP

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.  Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV

And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one.  Zechariah 14:9 KJV

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.  Luke 1:32-33 KJV

When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.  Matthew 25:31 NKJV

Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”  Revelation 11:15 NKJV

And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. 4 They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. 5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.  Revelation 22:3-5 NKJV

The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!

The Character of God Part Two The Seven Redemptive Names of God

Foundation Scriptures:

 

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. Romans 8:14-16 KJV

 

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17 KJV

 

For I am the Lord, I change not. Malachi 3:6a KJV

 

  1. God’s Character Revealed Through His Names:
  2. I AM THAT I AM – Jehovah – Yahweh – God the Lord
  3. Adonai – Lord; Master
  4. Psalms 110:1 – The Lord (Yahweh) said unto my Lord (Adonai), Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.
  5. His Name is holy – it was considered too holy to say
  6. Elohim – God the Creator; God the Trinity
  7. El Shaddai (Shadday) – Almighty God – the God who is more than enough

 

  1. These are the Seven Covenant or Redemptive Names of God – These Names Reveal His Character:

 

  1. Jehovah-Jireh – Jehovah Will Provide – the Lord Who sees and provides
  2. Genesis 22:14 KJV – “And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.”
  3. Philippians 4:19 KJV – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

iii. Matthew 6:31-33 KJV

 

  1. Jehovah-Rapha – the Lord my Healer  – the Lord that heals, and restores my soul
  2. Exodus 15:26b KJV – “I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.”
  3. Matthew 8:17 KJV – “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.”

iii. 1 Peter 2:24 KJV – “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.”

  1. 3 John 2 KJV – “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”

 

  1. Jehovah-Tsidkenu – Jehovah our righteousness
  2. Jeremiah 33:16 KJV – “In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.
  3. 2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV – “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

iii. Romans 3:22 KJV – “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference.”

  1. Romans 3:26 KJV – “To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.”

 

  1. Jehovah-Nissi – Jehovah my banner – the Lord is my canopy
  2. Exodus 17:15 KJV – “And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi.”
  3. Colossians 2:15 KJV – “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

iii. 1 John 4:4 KJV – “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

  1. Romans 8:31 KJV – “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”
  2. Colossians 1:13 KJV – “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.”

 

  1. Jehovah-Shalom – Jehovah of peace or prosperity
  2. Judges 6:24 KJV – “Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord, and called it Jehovah-shalom: unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abi-ezrites.
  3. Psalms 23:4 KJV – “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

iii. Isaiah 53:5 KJV – “…the chastisement of our peace was upon him…”

  1. Isaiah 26:3 KJV – Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
  2. John 14:27 KJV – “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
  3. Philippians 4:6-7

 

  1. Jehovah-Shammah – Jehovah is there – the Lord is present – He is with me
  2. Ezekiel 48:35 KJV – “It was round about eighteen thousand measures: and the name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there.”
  3. Hebrews 13:5b KJV – “…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

iii. Romans 8:11

  1. Romans 8:16
  2. 1 Peter 1:23

 

  1. Jehovah- Ra’ah (raw-aw’) – the Lord my Shepherd
  2. Psalms 23:1 KJV – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
  3. 1 Peter 2:25 KJV – “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

 

  1. All the Character of God is Wrapped up in One Name – the Name of Jesus:

 

  1. 1 John 4:17 – As he is, so are we in this world.
  2. Philippians 2:7-10 – The Name above all names.
  3. Colossians 2:8-11 – In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  4. John 17:1-26
  5. Verse 3 KJV – “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”

Jesus is the Reason

Foundation scriptures:

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.  Luke 2:1-14 KJV

It is a historical fact that Jesus was born.
a. This time of the year has been co-opted and commercialized.
b. Winter traditions mixed in with shopping: Santa, decorations, mistletoe, and sleigh bells.
c. We give gifts to each other.
d. It is Jesus’ birthday, not ours.
e. We must not forget why we celebrate.

Jesus is the reason for the season.
a. People get hung up over the date – December 25.
b. Jesus, almost certainly, was not born on that date.
c. Nevertheless, we can still celebrate His birth.
d. For the world, it is a historic date, and an opportunity for us to share Jesus.
e. We celebrate Him every day.
f. His message has always been: Joy to the world.
g. Bringing tidings of great joy.

Do not forget the reason.
a. A baby born in a manger.
b. A cross.
c. An empty tomb.
d. A resurrected Savior.
e. King of kings.
f. Lord of lords.
g. Soon-coming King.

The Christmas season is a time of giving gifts.
a. The greatest gift was given to us by the Father.
b. John 3:16-17 KJV – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
c. Will you receive Him today?

But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  Romans 5:15-18 KJV

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Romans 6:23 KJV

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.  2 Corinthians 9:15 KJV

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.  Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV

Why do Christians Suffer?

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Foundation scripture:

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.

Hosea 4:6 KJV

1. People Suffer Because of Lack of Knowledge: 

a. People need to be teachable, humble themselves, and learn.

b. 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

c. God’s word is freely available to us. There is no reason to be ignorant. We have access to books, CDs, DVDs, the Internet, etc.

2. Not Acting on the Word of God:

a. Matthew 7:24-27 KJV – “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 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. 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: 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.”

b. James 1:22 KJV – “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”

3. Opposing the Truth:

a. 2 Kings 5:9-14 KJV – Naaman, the Syrian, wanted to be healed of leprosy, but he didn’t want to dip himself in the Jordan as Elisha commanded him, because he thought the Jordan was not as good as his rivers back home. Although it was a simple enough assignment, he thought it was beneath him. It was only when he swallowed his pride and  dipped where he was told to dip, that he received his healing.

b. Some people call themselves Christians, but have no respect for the Word of God. They don’t think that it applies to them.

c. Some people are in outright rebellion toward the Word of God. They are going to do it their way no matter what the word says.

d. Humble yourself and obey.

4. Living in Sin:

a. Galatians 6:7-8 KJV – “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”

b. If you sow to the flesh – rebellion; self-will; carnality – you will reap corruption. The wages of sin is still death.

c. Isaiah 1:19-20 KJV – “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.”

5. Not Discerning the Lord’s Body:

a. 1 Corinthians 11:17-30 KJV

b. Verses 29-30 KJV – “For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.”

c. Discern the Lord’s body – beaten and broken for you – His stripes for your healing.

d. Discern the Lord’s body – love your brothers and sisters – walk in love toward the Body of Christ.

6. Unforgiveness:

a. Mark 11:22-26 KJV

b. Verse 25-26 KJV – “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”

7. Envy, Strife, and Pride:

a. James 3:14-16 KJV – “But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”

b. Proverbs 16:18 KJV – “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”

8. Murmuring and Complaining:

a. 1 Corinthians 10:10 KJV – “Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.”

b. Deuteronomy 28:45-48 KJV

c. Verse 47 KJV – You are cursed with a curse: “Because thou servedst not the Lord thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things”

9. Persecution:

a. It is scriptural to suffer persecution for preaching the Gospel, and nothing to be ashamed of. God will grace you to handle it and deal with your enemies on your behalf.

b. 2 Timothy 3:12 KJV – “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

c. Mark 10:29-30 KJV – “And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.”

d. If you suffer as a result of your own foolishness or wrongdoing, then you must also suffer the consequences – this suffering is your fault, not God’s. Bear it without complaining.

e. 1 Peter 4:15-16 KJV – “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.”

f. The suffering that is NOT God’s plan for you is sickness, disease, poverty, lack, torment, misery, fear, curses, etc.

SUFFERING FOR THE CAUSE OF CHRIST

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

For you have been granted [the privilege] for Christ’s sake not only to believe in (adhere to, rely on, and trust in) Him, but also to suffer in His behalf. Philippians 1:29 AMP

The Bible speaks about Christians suffering with and for Christ. This is not the undeserved suffering of sickness and disease as some misinformed, religious people have taught, because that is unscriptural. The only suffering that is appropriate and even inevitable for a true Christian is persecution and the pressures and opposition that come from obedience and yieldedness to God’s will. Opposition and persecution come from the devil and demons and from ungodly people. Sometimes, even lukewarm or backslidden Christians are the ones who are used by the enemy to persecute those who are living godly lives and who are on fire for God. Persecution is a consequence of faithfulness toward God and His word and being a doer of the Word and will of God.

1. It is not strange or unusual for Christians to suffer—godliness attracts persecution

1 Peter 4:12 AMP – Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality, as though something strange (unusual and alien to you and your position) were befalling you.

2 Timothy 3:12 AMP – Indeed all who delight in piety and are determined to live a devoted and godly life in Christ Jesus will meet with persecution [will be made to suffer because of their religious stand].

2. You should rejoice when you become a partaker ofthe sufferings of Christ­—you are not alone—and great is your reward

1 Peter 4:13 AMP – But insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, rejoice, so that when His glory [full of radiance and splendor] is revealed, you may also rejoice with triumph [exultantly].

Matthew 5:10-12 NIV – Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

3. The greater the suffering you experience, the greater also your joy and glory

Romans 8:17-18 AMP – And if we are [His] children, then we are [His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His inheritance with Him]; only we must share His suffering if we are to share His glory. 18 [But what of that?] For I consider that the sufferings of this present time (this present life) are not worth being compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us and for us and conferred on us!

4. Not only is there a greater glory that is to come, but Christians also have the Holy Spirit upon them now to help them and enable them to endure

1 Peter 4:14 AMP – If you are censured and suffer abuse [because you bear] the name of Christ, blessed [are you—happy, fortunate, to be envied, with life-joy, and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of your outward condition], because the Spirit of glory, the Spirit of God, is resting upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.

Romans 8:26-27 AMP – So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance. 27 And He Who searches the hearts of men knows what is in the mind of the [Holy] Spirit [what His intent is], because the Spirit intercedes and pleads [before God] in behalf of the saints according to and in harmony with God’s will.

5. Christian sufferings glorify God and it is an honor and not a shame, to suffer as a Christian

1 Peter 4:16 AMP – But if [one is ill-treated and suffers] as a Christian [which he is contemptuously called], let him not be ashamed, but give glory to God that he is [deemed worthy to suffer] in this name.

6. Christians should patiently bear sufferings according to the will of God, realizing that God is always faithful toward those who are His own, in the midst of their sufferings

1 Peter 4:17-19 AMP – For the time [has arrived] for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will [be] the end of those who do not respect or believe or obey the good news (the Gospel) of God? 18 And if the righteous are barely saved, what will become of the godless and wicked? 19 Therefore, those who are ill-treated and suffer in accordance with God’s will must do right and commit their souls [in charge as a deposit] to the One Who created [them] and will never fail [them].

1 Corinthians 10:13 NKJV – No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Jesus suffered major persecution and when we accept Him as Lord and Savior, that is what we sign up for as well—whether we like it or not. But for those who endure and don’t buckle under the pressure—there remains great rewards from our Father in Heaven! You will not be tested beyond your ability to endure—God’s grace is always enough for you. So don’t back off; don’t give in, keep hanging in there and praising God, and you will finish your race and win your prize!

The Signs of the End and Jesus’ Coming

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
Matthew 24:3-14 NKJV

When the disciples asked Jesus for the sign of His coming and the end of the age, the first thing Jesus warned them of was to “Watch out that no one deceives you.” You see, if you are always looking for “signs”, you will also be susceptible to deception. There always have been false prophets and other liars around – some of whom claim to be Jesus or an Old Testament prophet resurrected – and there are more that will rise up as we get closer to the end. False prophets don’t preach or personally live by the truth of the Gospel; but they say what people want to hear, even and especially when the people are not following God as they should. According to Jesus, many – even believers – will be deceived by the false prophets and their counterfeit powers. False teaching and loose morals tend to go together. Many people claim to love and serve God, but their drinking, immorality, covetousness and witchcraft tell the real story. They want heaven, but they also want to fulfill the lusts of their flesh.

The only way you can be sure to keep from being deceived is to keep your heart right with God and keep your eyes on Jesus and on the Word of God. Don’t look for special signs; don’t spend time looking at other people; look to Jesus. Many Christians are being deceived by false prophets even now, because they have downplayed the importance and essentialness of the Word of God in their lives. They don’t read or study it and they won’t submit to it. The Word of God is our only sure guide and light in this dark age of endless sinful choices and pressure to conform to the world’s standards. A true Christian is personally submitted to God and His Word. Make sure that the Word of God has a place of honor and respect in your life; make sure you are a DOER of the Word.

Jesus said that near the end there would be increased trouble and strife on the earth – wars and rumors of wars; nation rising against nation and kingdom against kingdom; famines, pestilences, and earthquakes all over the place. It sounds like our News today! He also said that His followers would be persecuted – some severely – by those who hate Him and what He stands for. Some of them would even be betrayed by fellow “Christians”, friends and family!

There are levels of persecution. Some persecution is just verbal – people belittling you – saying bad things to you or about you. Some of it is meant to humiliate you – people used to throw eggs or rotten tomatoes, or send a mule with a burr under his tail through the church. But some persecution is truly hateful – they want to shut you up even if they have to kill you. It is not just the Early Church who suffered persecution and death for their faith. In every generation, there have been those who lost their lives, their families and/or their possessions because of people motivated by Satan, who hate God and hate the Gospel. We need to remember to pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering today for their faith and keeping the Gospel flame alive despite terrible persecution.

The thing about persecution is that it has a tendency to sort out the true Christians from the fair-weather Christians. Those Christians who “play” church, who have pastors who “tickle” their ears, and who are not sold out to Jesus – will not be able to withstand the pressures of persecution. The vast majority of American Christians in America have never experienced anything more than mild persecution, if any, but Christians in other parts of the world have and still are suffering intense persecution. You have to ask yourself the hard questions: Am I sold out to Jesus? Would I still serve Him, and preach the Truth, if my life depended on it? Would I be prepared to give up my possessions, my relationships, my security and even my life, for the Gospel’s sake? Could I keep walking in love if a close friend betrayed me? You need to prepare your heart to withstand the pressure to conform and deny Jesus. Remember that other people died to preserve the truth of the Gospel and to pass it down the generations to reach you!

When you are pressured to give up and turn your back on Christ, don’t do it! When you are persecuted for the Gospel’s sake, don’t take it personally. God did not call us to give up nor to fight back in the flesh – He said that He would vindicate us. He just asks us to trust Him, obey Him, walk in love, and preach the Truth. Remember the benefits of staying strong. Jesus said that, “he who endures to the end shall be saved.” He also said that, “this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” We can be the Church who denies Jesus or the Church who stands strong and continues to fulfill the Great Commission no matter what it takes! Which Church are you?