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Topic: Church Without Christ
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SoftTouch
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Member # 2316
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posted
quote:
Originally posted by helpforhomeschoolers:
Amen Betty; we need to pray for the flock!
It is easy to get stuck on thinking about the Shepherds that are devouring the flock and forget that there is a flock; Judgment will come to those that devour God's flock. God promised this, but the flock is still the flock and if the TRUE body of Christ is not there to draw them over to God's pasture then they are sitting ducks for the next wolf that comes along in sheeps clothing.
So yes, we must pray, but when things like this happen there better be more than prayer going on, there better be open arms and open doors and open hearts of GOD's people out there in the field helping to gather sheep in and get them into a flock where they can be fed and not be feed themselves.
AMEN ![[thumbsup2]](graemlins/thumbsup2.gif)
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Posts: 3465 | Registered: Nov 2003
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helpforhomeschoolers
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Member # 15
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Amen Betty; we need to pray for the flock!
It is easy to get stuck on thinking about the Shepherds that are devouring the flock and forget that there is a flock; Judgment will come to those that devour God's flock. God promised this, but the flock is still the flock and if the TRUE body of Christ is not there to draw them over to God's pasture then they are sitting ducks for the next wolf that comes along in sheeps clothing.
So yes, we must pray, but when things like this happen there better be more than prayer going on, there better be open arms and open doors and open hearts of GOD's people out there in the field helping to gather sheep in and get them into a flock where they can be fed and not be feed themselves.
Posts: 4684 | From: Southern Black Hills of South Dakota | Registered: Jun 2002
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TEXASGRANDMA
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Member # 847
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posted
Bro. Ripp,
We need to pray for the members of that Church.
I have seen Churches split in Texas myself before. There will be many who will leave Church for good and give up on God. We must pray that God will keep this from happening. We need to pray that they will find a good Church where the Preacher preaches from God's Word the whole Bible and not just the so called "prosperity message"
betty
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Luk 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/mm (son-in-law)http://www.myspace.com/mireles
Posts: 4985 | From: Washington State | Registered: Jan 2003
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Ripp
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Some say power got the best of pastor
Ex-members claim Arlington church lost its focus; leader has denied sex, drug charges
12:08 PM CDT on Tuesday, April 26, 2005
By JEFF MOSIER / The Dallas Morning News
ARLINGTON – Pacing next to a kitchen table-size lectern in his $3 million church, Terry Hornbuckle often warned his congregation about demons.
Daily life was a fight against the basest human urges, he would explain to hundreds gathered at Agape Christian Fellowship in southeast Arlington. In one of his self-published books, Mr. Hornbuckle called it "Psychological Warfare."
It was a battle the sharply dressed, charismatic preacher told the growing crowds that he could help them win – as long as they followed his advice and Scripture.
Now, former church members fear that Mr. Hornbuckle, who is free on bail on sexual assault and drug charges, has fallen prey to the demons he so eloquently preached against. He has denied the criminal charges.
"He's not a man of God," said Kevin Thornton, a former church member who became disenchanted with Mr. Hornbuckle in part, he said, because of the church's emphasis on money. "It really upsets me when people abuse their power."
If the criminal charges are valid, the pastor's story is a familiar one, said Ole Anthony, head of the Trinity Foundation, a Christian watchdog group based in Dallas. It's not unusual for huge nondenominational churches that preach the gospel of prosperity – in which followers are asked to donate to their church or pastor expecting God to provide financial success in return – to disintegrate as a result of accusations of their leader's indiscretions, he said.
"There are so many examples of this where there isn't any accountability with the churches," Mr. Anthony said, recalling Robert Tilton, the Farmers Branch televangelist whose $80-million-a-year ministry collapsed under the weight of fraud accusations and questions about his infidelities in the early 1990s.
Mr. Hornbuckle, 43, who started his 2,500-member nondenominational church in 1986 with a dozen friends, was indicted last month on charges that he sexually assaulted three female church members – ages 17, 20 and 37 at the time – and, in two of the cases, drugged them. He's also facing a drug charge after police said they found one to four grams of methamphetamine and a glass pipe in his car during his arrest.
Agape church member Sean Verdun, like many supporters of Mr. Hornbuckle, said that the person who would commit these alleged crimes bears no resemblance to his pastor, who he said is committed to empowering and uplifting people. Mr. Verdun said he believes his pastor was set up.
Mr. Hornbuckle and his church also are facing lawsuits filed by the alleged victims.
'Frivolous' charges
Through their publicists, Mr. Hornbuckle and church elders declined to comment on the allegations or discuss the history of Agape for this story.
Shortly after his arrest, Mr. Hornbuckle, who was briefly suspended from his duties as pastor but was reinstated last week, proclaimed his innocence at a news conference.
"These charges are frivolous," he said last month. "Those are accusations that I categorically deny." He also said in a previous written statement that the women demanded that he pay them millions of dollars in "hush money."
One of Mr. Hornbuckle's associates also was indicted on two counts of aggravated perjury in connection with her testimony before the grand jury about the case.
Lawsuit allegations
Two of the alleged victims said that Mr. Hornbuckle slipped them a date rape drug, and they woke up in a bed in a Euless apartment, according to the lawsuits. A third alleged victim said that Mr. Hornbuckle forced himself on her in a truck. In each case, the lawsuit claims that he told the women he wanted to meet to talk about spiritual or personal matters.
In a statement issued through her attorney, one alleged victim said Mr. Hornbuckle "created a place of worship and praise, and then used it to deceive and abuse people.
"What Bishop Hornbuckle did was terrible and wrong, even more so because he did it in God's name," said the woman, who is not being identified because she is an alleged victim of sexual assault. "I want him to understand the pain and anguish he has caused, to me and to so many others."
At least three former church members said they filed complaints with the IRS alleging that the church's charitable-giving statements – used to calculate income tax deductions – reflected only a fraction of the donations made to the church.
One of those, Mr. Thornton, said that church officials refused to explain why the donations listed on his statement one year amounted to only one-third of his actual contribution.
The IRS, as is its practice, refused to confirm or deny the existence of the complaints.
Mr. Verdun said he believes there is a conspiracy against Mr. Hornbuckle because of the church's work to help low-income families. One program has helped more than two dozen families buy houses, and that is threatening to some, Mr. Verdun said.
"People get set up all the time in America," he said. "It's nothing new."
Mr. Thornton and his wife, Tamme, who attended the church from 1998 to 2000, said they believe that Mr. Hornbuckle's fall started when the church moved to its current site from a strip mall storefront in Arlington in 1999. They say the charming and accessible pastor grew more aloof as both his congregation and the church's bank account grew.
"He became more of a diva," said Mr. Thornton. Questions for Mr. Hornbuckle had to be funneled through church elders, and members of the congregation were asked to provide "security" for the "first family." The security detail standing in front of the stage scans the crowd intently during church services. The entrance to the church is gated, and weekday visitors must press a call button for admittance.
Tanisha Edwards, who attended Agape for seven years and left in 2003, said she also noticed that Mr. Hornbuckle began distancing himself from average members of the congregation. Mrs. Edwards said that Mr. Hornbuckle announced that he would no longer perform weddings or funerals.
"Pastors are supposed to lead the sheep," she said. "You're not supposed to leave them out in the pasture."
Former church members said he began to behave and live like wealthy, celebrity televangelists such as Creflo Dollar of Atlanta, who served as one of his role models. In a 1999 interview with The Dallas Morning News, Mr. Hornbuckle said he patterned his ministry after that of Mr. Dollar and other pastors of large megachurches, including T.D. Jakes and Tony Evans.
Education questions
Mr. Hornbuckle graduated in 1980 from Wilmer-Hutchins High School. He then enrolled at the University of Texas at Arlington and graduated in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in business. Three years later, he earned a master's degree in religious education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth.
However, the educational background he listed on the Agape Web site is not entirely accurate. It says that he has a "pre-law degree" from the Oral Roberts University School of Law in Tulsa. A university spokesman said records show that Mr. Hornbuckle took classes there in 1983 and 1984 but did not receive a degree.
The Web site also said he's "currently pursuing a PhD in Conflict Management at Trinity Theological Seminary in Newburgh, Ind., but officials at the Internet university said he withdrew in 2000 after taking classes for five months.
In 1986 – the year he graduated from UTA – Mr. Hornbuckle started Victory Temple Bible Church with 15 members, and moved the church into a former Dairy Queen. By the mid-1990s, he had renamed the church Agape Christian Fellowship, and his congregation had doubled from 250 to 500 members. The church then moved into an 8,000-square-foot storefront at an Arlington strip mall in 1995.
Some former Agape members said Mr. Hornbuckle became friends with former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Deion Sanders and would occasionally appear at Thursday prayer meetings with other Cowboys players. Mr. Hornbuckle has described himself as either spiritual adviser or chaplain to the Cowboys. Team officials said that Mr. Hornbuckle has never served as chaplain or had any official position with the team.
It was just before the move to the 30,000-square-foot Destiny Center in 1999 when Mrs. Thornton said she started becoming disenchanted with the church and its growing emphasis on money. The high-pressure pleas for donations were constant from the Hornbuckles and guest speakers.
"I need 10 people to bring up $1,000," she said, mimicking the requests for money. "That kind of raised a red flag."
Personal finances
Mr. Hornbuckle often bragged in the pulpit about the new luxury car he bought, the jewelry his wife wore or the vacations they took, former church members said.
Last year, the Hornbuckles started construction on a 12,200-square-foot house in Colleyville that's expected to be worth more than $1.1 million, according to city construction documents.
Mrs. Hornbuckle testified at a recent bail reduction hearing that she and her husband are each paid $50,000 annually from the church, and they receive an $80,000 yearly housing stipend.
On the church Web site, a document for new members said that "bad things" happen to members who do not give 10 percent of their income as a tithe. "Disobedience gives Satan the right to wreak havoc in your life" if they don't tithe, the document says, and tells them to pay the church before paying any bills "be it electricity, child support or water."
At a recent Wednesday night service, those in attendance were asked to stand and hold up envelopes if they were tithing or giving an offering. Only a few of the 90 plus on hand remained seated.
Mr. Anthony, of the Trinity Foundation, said congregations preaching prosperity are growing in popularity.
"It teaches people how to be motivated and become a millionaire," he said. "It's really in line with the health and wealth preaching that is so foreign to the New Testament."
Mrs. Thornton said that in the late 1990s, a "cultish" atmosphere began to take hold. Many of the women tried to dress, look and act like Mrs. Hornbuckle. When Mr. Hornbuckle shaved his head bald, a sea of shiny bald heads filled the pews the following Sunday.
And questioning Mr. Hornbuckle, said Mr. Thornton, was out of the question.
"You're on his side, or you're on the side of the devil," he said.
Staff writer Kathryn Yegge contributed to this report.
Some say power got the best of pastor
Sometimes that shiny red apple is rotten at the core...
God bless and stay strong in the Word, not man. ![[Bible]](graemlins/bible.gif) ![[Cross]](graemlins/cross.gif) ![[Prayer]](graemlins/prayer.gif)
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TEXASGRANDMA
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Good Preaching, Bro. Ripp!! ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
betty ![[hug]](graemlins/hug.gif) ![[Kiss]](graemlins/Kiss.gif)
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Luk 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/mm (son-in-law)http://www.myspace.com/mireles
Posts: 4985 | From: Washington State | Registered: Jan 2003
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Ripp
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Laodicea — Assuming Room Temperature
Years ago in a college class on forensic methods we studied the various techniques used to determine how long a human body has been dead. The methods are many and are often somewhat complicated, but one basic technique is to contrast the environmental temperature with the temperature of the deceased. The point is to see how close the body temperature of the deceased is to the ambient (room) temperature. A dead body, you see, will take on the temperature of its environment. Such was the case with the church at Laodicea.
Laodicea can be loosely translated “mob rule”. It was the democratic church where popular opinion was the law and the concepts of right and wrong were voted upon. Jesus had nothing good to say about it. The church was ineffective and dead.
In Revelation 3:14ff Jesus described the Laodicean church as “lukewarm”; that is, it was neither hot nor cold (it was room temperature) and was thus nauseating and worthy of being vomited out of His mouth. He wanted the church to be either “hot” or “cold” with both terms meaning being different from the world around them and thus capable of having an impact. Being “hot” does not mean being “on fire” and being “cold” does not mean being “dead”; they are both positive terms that describe something that is desirable such as hot coffee or cold water. No one wants to drink hot water or cold coffee. Laodicea was a church that allowed itself to be overly influenced by the world around it with the result being that it no longer influenced its environment, but was rather being influenced by its environment. That is, it was taking on the temperature of its environment. It was dead.
Laodicea, being the last of the seven churches mentioned, is often seen as representing many in the church at the end of the age just before Jesus returns for His bride. We are living in that age and many in the church are lukewarm and severely influenced by the world around them. In fact, though there is some semblance of religion associated with those folks, the fact of the matter is that deep down Laodiceans are not much different from the secular world around them.
We know the church will not be destroyed and we know the gates of hell will not prevail against her. But, we also know the church is susceptible to error, heresy and worldly influence. We are warned about wolves in sheep’s clothing, about false teachers and other dangers that threaten the sanctity and purity of the church. So, what characteristics might be playing a role in deadening the impact of the church in these last days? Is there anything we can watch out for? I think so.
Health and Wealth Gospel
The Laodicean city fathers thought their city was in good shape. They were rich. So rich that the local banking system financed the reconstruction of the city in A.D. 60, after an earthquake destroyed it, without aid from Rome. This was a matter of great pride for the Laodiceans. That area produced an expensive glossy black wool for which the city was famous. They had a medical school and a drug company that manufactured a famous eye-salve. They thought they were independent and needed nothing from anyone. They were progressive, self-sufficient and very wealthy. What city could want more?
The church in Laodicea should have had a message for their arrogant fellow citizens, but the message somehow got lost as the church took on the prideful and wealth-oriented characteristics of the city. Money seemed to solve all problems. Have you ever been in a church business meeting where the main thing was the financial report, and if the money situation was good then the church must surely be doing okay spiritually?
The modern “name-it-and-claim-it” preachers are having a hay-day these days. One in particular will put on “Holy Spirit demonstrations of power” on a large stage in front of thousands. People go to the meetings with problems and leave their money with the evangelist in appreciation for expected health and wealth. Wonder why Paul didn’t know about all this when Timothy and Epaphroditus were sick, and why he didn’t tell the churches in Judea about this when they suffered so much during a famine. Funny thing about those guys — we don’t see them preaching the health/wealth gospel to twelve or fifteen people in the dirt-poor leper infested neighborhoods of Calcutta. Wonder why.
As a result of this materialistic focus the Laodicean church of the end times chooses her leadership as corporate American chooses hers. The result is a church that has forgotten her message and is more concerned about positive public perception, materialism and showmanship than truth, fidelity and evangelism.
Downplaying of Doctrine
We have probably all heard people say, “Doctrine divides; love unites”. They say this as if to mean they are mutually exclusive — you either have to focus on doctrine or love. These same people often have trouble reconciling the grace of Romans and the works of James. The fact is all doctrines and principles in the Bible are interrelated and cannot be divided. The Jesus that said, “Love one another” is the same Jesus that said, “Except you…”
Modern Laodicean churches are long on tolerance and short on doctrine. They desire reputations for being open-minded about those things that divide people. To the modern Laodicean church what a person believes about basic Bible doctrines regarding Jesus, salvation, the Holy Spirit, eternity, etc. are not important as long as everybody gets along and loves everybody else. They forget that Jesus once said, Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man's enemies will be the members of his household (Matthew 10:34-36 NASB). Jesus does, in fact, divide people. In fact, He is the greatest divider the world has ever known.
Very seldom, if ever, do modern preachers expound doctrinal texts such as relate to divorce, morality, love of money, hell, etc. These texts, though a definite part of God’s word, are purposefully avoided because they “divide people and hurt their feelings”. It is better, they say, to talk about things that unite like tolerance, getting a positive self image, the psychology of sin from a modern perspective and other such things that make people feel better about themselves.
The apostate church of Revelation 17 will be very inclusive and ecumenical. It will accept just about anyone as a member — as long as biblical truth is not part of their belief system. Even then the mantra will be, “Doctrine divides; love unites”.
Unbiblical Portrayal of God
The God of the Bible is not the god of the Laodicean and modern apostate church. Unitarians, New Agers and others portray God as a doting old grandfather who would send no one to hell and would allow all into heaven. Their god is all-inclusive, tolerate and demands no doctrinal requisites from his followers because he does not label any conduct as actual sin. Every word, thought and deed is to be labeled, defined and dealt with on a sliding scale of mitigating circumstances, so therefore nothing is really sin.. Everything is relative.
The truth is their god is no god at all. He is a figment of their imagination; an idol created by their own expectations and cast in the mold formed by the humanistic wanderings of their own reprobate minds. Their god is absolutely and categorically foreign to the Bible.
We shall thank God for all eternity for His “marvelous grace that is greater than all our sin”. Yes, and a thousand amens!! But we must not allow ourselves to be deceived, for God will not be mocked. Not for one moment must we think that He will allow the finite mind of rebellious man to reconstruct His divine character into some spineless, indulgent deity and His infinite purpose into some indecisive, helter-skelter proposal that is constantly up for debate. In essence God has almost been made intrinsically a human being.
The church at Laodicea was in a terrible condition. Void of any spirituality and steeped in materialism she was the epitome of a lifeless church that was taking on the evil characteristics of the city she was supposed to influence. Little if any difference could be seen between the Christians of Laodicea and its pagan citizens.
Jesus’ Advice
Repent (vs# 19). During His ministry Jesus had said, “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3). Plain and simple, the church needed to repent. The problem, however, with repenting is that most people do not like to do this, especially publicly. You see repenting is a very humbling experience. It is an admission of sin and a declaration of turning away from it.
The church at Laodicea had changed a lot from Paul’s day. It was dynamic, vibrant and effective in earlier years, but that all changed when it got too much of the world in it and not enough of it in the world. It assumed the temperature and demeanor of her environment — and died.
The modern Laodicean church also knows nothing of repentance. They say it is not a good thing because repenting can damage a person’s self image and can do much harm to their psyche. So it is said by those who speak modern religious psycho-babble. But, the truth remains and the consequences cannot be escaped. All the hype, pizzazz, programs, flashiness and noise in the world cannot keep a church alive when it has turned away from the truth, become prideful, rejected doctrine and made God into it own image. DLM
God bless.
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Ripp
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"The CHURCH of the COMFORTABLE and TOLERANT"
-by Jesse Morrell.
Once upon a time in the land called Feel Good there was a Church.
This new Church was called "The Church of the Comfortable and
Tolerant". Very recently this Church hired a new Pastor, Pastor
Peace Keeper, who just graduated from the Seminary of Smooth Talking.
The congregation "of the Comfortable and Tolerant" loved the new
Pastor's sermons. Some of their favorites were "God is happy with
everyone", "Everything is fine and dandy", and "There is nothing but
good times ahead".
Pastor Peace Keeper once made a terrible mistake. He wrongfully
allowed Mr. Conscience into the pulpit. Mr. Conscience did nothing
but call human mistakes "sins" and called the good folks of the
congregation to "repent". Mr. Conscience had never been to the
Seminary of Smooth Talking, and maybe he should have before
attempting to preach. The congregation of the Comfortable and
Tolerant were shocked at Mr. Consciences audacity and arrogance.
They said things among themselves like "who does this self-
righteous legalist think he is coming and talking to us like that!
Why should we allow this false preacher among us any longer to
continue to persecute us?"
Pastor Peace Keeper terribly regretted letting Mr. Conscience into
the pulpit. Mr. Conscience has betrayed the trust he had with the
Pastor. So Pastor Peace Keeper asked Mr. Conscience to please
leave the church, he was not welcome there any longer. Everyone
was happy that Mr. Conscience was asked to leave, except one
member called Holy Spirit. So Holy Spirit and Mr. Conscience left
together and after awhile nobody even noticed that they were gone.
Once things were back to normal, the way they had always been,
everyone was happy once again in the land called Feel Good.
Pastor Peace Keeper continued to sugar coat sweet and wonderful
lies that made everyone comfortable in their sins and heavily
guarded his pulpit from abrasive truths. Who could blame him?
You see, the Pastor loved his new home, his new church, and of
course he loved his new income. He couldn't put such precious
things on the line! So he absolutely guaranteed that "The Church
of the Comfortable and Tolerant" were as satisfied and as happy
as they possibly could be while they sat in their complacency.
They lived the rest of their days happily ever after, that is, until
they were finally cast into hell.
The point: Rather then preparing the way of the Lord and making
His paths straight, preachers are removing the bumps in the road
to hell to make it as comfortable as possible for those who travel
on them. The backslidden church utterly refused to remove the
log out of her own eye and therefore also utterly refuses to remove
anything from anyone else's eye. She vehemently opposes those
who try to do so also. God help those who attempt to clean up the
church and the world! Joseph Parks said it best: "The man whose
little sermon is 'repent' sets himself against his age, and will... be
battered mercilessly by the age whose moral tone he challenges.
There is but one end for such a man. 'Off with his head!" You had
better not try to preach repentance until you have pledged your
head to heaven."
God bless.
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Ripp
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"THEY LOVE TO STAY AT THE Y.M.C.A."
Lol sorry, couldn't resist.
*Puts away the '70s Greatest Hits 8-track*
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yahsway
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posted
I love that song!!
Posts: 1238 | From: Tennessee | Registered: Aug 2004
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SoftTouch
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Member # 2316
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quote:
Originally posted by helpforhomeschoolers:
Hey Deb, that is a song!
Very Cool!!!! Wish I could hear the melody! I'm sure I'm going to be learning a whole lot of New Songs (and remembering a few I used to know) when we start attending the Baptist Church! (Not quite sure when Ian intends to start, but I'm ready when he is!)
Aw, who needs the Melody... I can Dance and Praise the Lord without one ![[Wink]](wink.gif)
![[dance]](graemlins/dance1.gif) ![[hyper]](graemlins/hyper.gif) ![[clap2]](graemlins/clap2.gif)
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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helpforhomeschoolers
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Hey Deb, that is a song!
![[youpi]](graemlins/youpi.gif) We are in the Army of the Lord
We've been been washed in the blood and we are moving forth
With a two- edged sword and SHOUT of PRAISE!
Every form of bondage.....Get beneath my feet
Every prisoner held captive be set free
Our deliverence is come by the power of the Son.
We're the Blood Bought - The Church - The Redeemed!
Posts: 4684 | From: Southern Black Hills of South Dakota | Registered: Jun 2002
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SoftTouch
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quote:
Originally posted by Ripp:
quote:
Originally posted by SoftTouch:
Brother Ripp, did you write that story "The Watcher" ?
Sorry I'm so quiet... I'm just really wipped out. ![[Smile]](smile.gif)
Yeah sorry, I know it's kind of cheesy but I only spent a few minutes on it. I just thought an analogy might help.
I think it was a brilliant analogy, I thought you found that on a website... now I understand your comment about 'critics' LOL! Sorry Bro
quote:
Originally posted by Ripp:
P.S. I know how you feel. We might have to be debriefed and deprogrammed when we get "Home".
LOL! Now I am starting to feel like I'm in the Army
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by SoftTouch:
Brother Ripp, did you write that story "The Watcher" ?
Sorry I'm so quiet... I'm just really wipped out.
Yeah sorry, I know it's kind of cheesy but I only spent a few minutes on it. I just thought an analogy might help.
God bless.
P.S. I know how you feel. We might have to be debriefed and deprogrammed when we get "Home".
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SoftTouch
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Brother Ripp, did you write that story "The Watcher" ?
Sorry I'm so quiet... I'm just really wipped out.
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by helpforhomeschoolers:
quote:
You forgot the question mark.
I do try not to add or detract from that which is written. ![[type]](graemlins/type.gif) ![[rapture]](graemlins/rapture.gif)
 ![[pound]](graemlins/pound.gif)
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helpforhomeschoolers
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quote:
You forgot the question mark.
I do try not to add or detract from that which is written.
Posts: 4684 | From: Southern Black Hills of South Dakota | Registered: Jun 2002
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Ripp
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You forgot the question mark.
You're right although it's a lot easier to shake off the dust as you're LEAVING the town. This one seems to follow you around.
God bless.
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Ripp
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Familyman wrote:
quote:
I guess what I'm trying to say is in your zeal to expose the enemy, just be careful to not expose the innocent.
Absolutely! As I have said on numerous occasions, I don't just thrown anyone out there. The people that I have been pointing out have been already been pointed out. I check over sources to find multiple verification. I do not take my job lightly. I realize that I could do harm if I say the wrong thing and point someone out that is innocent.
But listen, the people that we have been talking about here have been mentioned by many, many born-again believers. Many! It's not like some guy in his basement writes up a conspiracy and faxes it to me. I read what I see, check, recheck, take it to the Word and then post. I have other people that I am researching right now that I WON'T name because I don't want to be premature or inaccurate.
The people that need to hear the watchers will hear the watchers. Some won't be able to understand. Some will claim, "heresy hunter" or "hater" or whatever. There are many, many sources to get facts about the false teachers that have been presented here yet some STILL fail to look. Too many scales...
But believe me, I am careful. I have actually deleted a post right after posting it because my Spirit was uneasy with it. I dont' take this lightly. I do have to do what I have to do though.
God bless and thanks for your input.
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helpforhomeschoolers
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Eric let me illustrate asking you a question so that you will not any longer feel that you have been attacked or that someone has given a false witness against you.
Read carefully: This is not an attack; this is not a false witness, this is not an accusation...
This is a question:
quote:
You lump everyone together as though absolutely everyone is a false teacher and that's just wrong.
Now do you understand the difference between a question and an accusation or a false witness against you?
Let me give you some advice that Jesus gave his aposltes when he sent them out:
Mark 6:11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
It is not you that is owed an apology; Don't ask for one. Dead men do not benefit from the praises of men or the apologies of men. When your heart's desire is to please God through faithful obedience you are going to offend men. You are in good company. Learn to glory in your infirmities and his grace will be sufficient that you can live pressed in by thorns and still be full of peace and Joy.
Posts: 4684 | From: Southern Black Hills of South Dakota | Registered: Jun 2002
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Familyman
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Brother Ripp,
I surely am not challenging your calling to be a "watchman", and it is necessary for us to keep our eyes open. If you've got the ability and time to check many things out and are not afraid to "take some bullets" for the cause of Christ, then you go. But I do stick by my post and cautionary comments. They're not a slam, just a call to daily check to make sure we're not off base. Anyone . . . you, me, anyone . . . is capable of getting "slightly off course", since we all suffer from the same sin disease.
If you'll re-read my post, I think you'll see that one of my points was that we don't let pre-conceived opinions skew objective investigation (which, by the way, I am learning through these conversations to take to heart). Take for example Tim Lahaye, who is on the "list" at BDM. I've read the "Left Behind" series and the one thing that comes screaming through is that Jesus Christ alone can save you from your sins and if you don't turn to him, you'll be regretting it. It has never made me doubt the Bible, my need to read it daily, nor my need for repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ. His end-times views might be slightly different from your's or mine, but is that heresy? What is the acid test for heresy? Where you stand on eschatology or how you view the person of Jesus Christ and the inspiration of God's Word? Also, the use of ministry tools that you may not agree with (i.e, skits, plays, music) should never be a reason to doubt a ministry's integrity. If it speaks to the Truth (not a watered down version, but the whole Truth), then it's got to be okay.
I am in full agreeance with you that there is danger afoot. There is an "easy listening" movement going on that scares me. I've said so in other posts. I hammer it into my Sunday School students: 'Study the Word of God daily! Don't get caught up in denomintaionalism and ecumenicalism and don't believe that any man or ministry is above reproach.' But as much as we're called to be watchful, we're also not to tear each other down (that doesn't mean ignoring the poison; your story post is well taken ).
I guess what I'm trying to say is in your zeal to expose the enemy, just be careful to not expose the innocent. (And I truly appreciate your zeal and the love you do have for your fellow Christians. I may not agree with you 100% on all matters, but I have taken all of your wisdom to heart and continue to take all things, including the stuff I don't agree with, to prayer).
Thanks for the feedback, brother!
Posts: 10 | From: Kingston, MI | Registered: Apr 2005
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by Gramajo320:
Ripp,
I've not attacked you at all and you shouldn't even think that. Asking a question is not attacking. Thank you and end of subject.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
quote:
You lump everyone together as though absolutely everyone is a false teacher and that's just wrong.
That is NOT asking a question. That is an accusation! If you chose not to back it up with proof or you fail to apologize, that's on you.
God bless.
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Gramajo320
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Ripp,
I've not attacked you at all and you shouldn't even think that. Asking a question is not attacking. Thank you and end of subject.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by Gramajo320:
Ripp,
God loves you.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
Are you going to back up your false claims or play the change-the-subject game? You owe me an apology. I don't appreciate being attacked like that.
God bless.
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Gramajo320
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Ripp,
God loves you.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by Gramajo320:
Do you even realize that all ministers, teachers, and lay man are not false teachers?? You lump everyone together as though absolutely everyone is a false teacher and that's just wrong.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
Ok Granmajo, I've had about enough out of you. Go and grab quotes where I claim this. Either put up or shut up...
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Gramajo320
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Do you even realize that all ministers, teachers, and lay man are not false teachers?? You lump everyone together as though absolutely everyone is a false teacher and that's just wrong.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by SoftTouch:
Excellent Story... "The Watcher"!
All I can think to say is at least Mike's death is not on Alex's head because Alex TRIED to warn Mike about the poison he SAW being mixed into the drink given him by his friend John.
Another thought on the story... Perhaps there were others who Almost drank the drink, but refused when they heard the warning It's too bad the author didn't think to include that in the story.
There is a Huge Lesson here!
Let the Watcher Not Remain Silent! False Teaching is like a drop of poison put into a drink.
Lol! Geesh, such critics...
That's a good idea. Maybe I will revise it one day. Or perhaps someone else would like to expand, I don't mind.
Maybe if the critics would get to work INSTEAD of bashing the writers!
Hmm, maybe someone will write a sequel.
God bless.
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SoftTouch
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Excellent Story... "The Watcher"!
All I can think to say is at least Mike's death is not on Alex's head because Alex TRIED to warn Mike about the poison he SAW being mixed into the drink given him by his friend John.
Another thought on the story... Perhaps there were others who Almost drank the drink, but refused when they heard the warning It's too bad the author didn't think to include that in the story.
There is a Huge Lesson here!
Let the Watcher Not Remain Silent! False Teaching is like a drop of poison put into a drink.
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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Gramajo320
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There are millions of ministers, teachers, and lay man who are called by God, who are led by the Holy spirit, and who do God's work in furthering God's Kingdom. God greatly blesses them in many ways.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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Caretaker
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Matt. 24:
3: And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4: And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
5: For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6: And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7: For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8: All these are the beginning of sorrows.
9: Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
10: And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
11: And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
Tremendous post Brother Eric, and God bless each of my Brothers and Sisters who have posted in support of your TRUTH.
2 Tim. 3:
1: This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2: For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3: Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4: Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5: Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
6: For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
7: Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
8: Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
9: But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.
13: 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.
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A Servant of Christ,
Drew
1 Tim. 3:
16: And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh..
Posts: 3978 | From: Council Grove, KS USA | Registered: Jun 2002
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Ripp
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Granmajo wrote:
quote:
Please re-read your posting which is the 6th one from the bottom that you did in response to mine.
I did. I see no correlation. If you are going to accuse me of something, please come out with it and quote me. Thanks.
quote:
As for your last posting I ask this: Your point would be??
That is for you to decide.
God bless.
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Ripp
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THE WATCHER
Mike, John and Alex have been best friends since high school. They are all born again believers in Jesus Christ and attend the same Church. Mike is a doctor who has a wonderful family and enjoys life.
John decided to go back to school and finish up with his degree. He is single and enjoys spending time with John and his family.
Alex works in retail and enjoys the weekends when he can study God's Word. He has a Christian girlfriend who he loves deeply. They plan on getting married in June.
One day Alex dropped by John's house before heading over to Mike's for dinner and a movie. While there, he witnessed John putting a drop of poison in a container of margaritas. Concerned, Alex confronted John about his intentions. John told him that it was nothing and not to worry.
As they reached Mike's house, Alex got a bad feeling in his stomach. He could tell something wasn't right.
The two went inside and greeted Mike. As they sat down for dinner, Alex noticed that John poured some of the margarita mix into a glass. As he handed it to Mike, Alex yelled, "don't drink that!" Looking confused, Mike responds, "what's wrong with you?"
"It's got poison in it, I saw John put it in there!", said Alex. "You can't be serious! I have known John for 22 years!"
"I know but I SAW him put the poison in there!", exclaimed Alex.
"Don't listen to him Mike, you know I would never do anything like that", said John.
"I saw you do it!", yelled Alex.
"Ok that's it! Alex, I want you to get out of my house! Our friendship is OVER!", screamed Mike.
Visibly shaken by the ordeal, Alex dropped his head and left.
The following day as Alex was getting ready for work, he noticed the headline on the front page of the paper:
"Man Dies From Poison: Friend Main Suspect"
God bless.
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Ripp
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Granmajo wrote:
quote:
You should know by now that there are millions who are not associated with what you call the WOF.
I've never claimed otherwise.
quote:
Furthermore these others who are called by God to work to further his Kingdom do so as led by the Holy Spirit and they are greatly blessed by God.
Never claimed this either.
quote:
You need to remember that everyone is not a false teacher.
I never said that. Btw, you said that everyone is not a false teacher. Do you really believe that there are no false teachers or did you word this wrong? Please explain.
Why are you telling me thise things Granmajo? I have never implied any of these things...
God bless.
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Ripp
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Please meditate on this passage for a few days. See what the Spirit tells you about it.
For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works. [2 Corinthians 11:13-15]
God bless.
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by Gramajo320:
It is always worthwhile to check out and learn about all the huge amounts of money that is given out to promote God's work to further His Kingdom for it's a very true fact that millions are given away to promote God's work. It's also a fact that is never mentioned here. However it should be recognized as it certainly deserves mentioning.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
Just because they give money away doesn't mean they aren't false teachers. I keep saying this but it just flies over peoples heads.
Watch TBN sometime and see what they are preaching. Is it money or the Gospel of Jesus Christ? What are their motives, money or saving lives? If you can't discern this BASIC point I don't know what to tell you.
As preachers, they are supposed to teach rebirth, repentance and the True Word of God. But with the WOF, the message has become all about money. They use Scripture twisting as ways to coerce you to send in your money so they can buy thier outlandish toys. Open your eyes Granmajo, you need to be able to see these things in these times. It is a big charade and you have to be able to see the players.
God bless.
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Ripp
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Cheech,
You're not crazy. I've been feeling that way for some time, and it's getting stronger. I believe that time is short and that's why we sense the darkness of the world. It is closing in on us as the spiritual forces prepare for the final battle.
And you're right, TV is awful. ![[Frown]](frown.gif) Just turn on TBN sometime, that will send your stomach reeling. Blah...
God bless and stay strong.
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Gramajo320
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It is always worthwhile to check out and learn about all the huge amounts of money that is given out to promote God's work to further His Kingdom for it's a very true fact that millions are given away to promote God's work. It's also a fact that is never mentioned here. However it should be recognized as it certainly deserves mentioning.
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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Ripp
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Familyman wrote:
quote:
Are we inadvertantly shooting our comrades down in our zealousness to point out false teachings?
Can you give examples? Are there some people that you don't consider false teachers? I agree that we need to be careful but I'm not sure who you could be talking about. I don't just randomly grab preachers and load up my guns. I take what their message is to the Word.
quote:
Or, another questions to ask is, has the desire to point out false teachers replaced the need to point people to Christ?
The desire of the watcher is always going to be pointing out false teachings, just as a worship leader is going to lead worship. Besides, warning someone of false teachers steers them away from false teachers AND to Jesus, no?
quote:
I have been to certain discernment web-sites and while I agreed with some findings, I had to question others.
Can you give examples of which ones? What don't you disagree with?
quote:
If the mechansim points someone 1) to the need of repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ and 2)the need to read and know the inspired Word of God, can it be bad?
Well, that's the whole point about the Purpose-Driven church and seeker-sensitive movement. They aren't doing that. They don't want to offend anyone and so they teach a watered down version of the Bible. If you read what I posted, you will see what I am talking about.
quote:
I can't imagine that, but it sure looks like there is a tendency to lump things together and, as I've said before "throw the baby out with the bath water".
Once again, can you give us some examples of what you disagree with? What ministries do you feel are being targeted without cause?
quote:
Everyone's thoughts, actions, and words must be measured against the Holy Scriptures, the only standard that matters (not my opinion).
Well, that's the key to all of this. They are NOT standing up to the Word of God.
quote:
Idol worship comes in many, subtle forms, and whether it be in pursuing an otherwise righteous goal or elevating a person beyond reproach, it all has the same result: putting a thing instead of Christ at the center of our lives.
Some are called to be watchmen, that is our job. We have gone over this many, many times here and it doesn't seem to sink in to peoples brains. What shall I do? This is what I have been called to do! Shall I disobey God and do something else? Everyone has a job in the Body of Christ. Mine just happens to be a not very popular one, but so be it. Do you think that watchers choose to come under attack? Don't you think I would choose to do something less stressful if I could? I don't do this for giggles and grins. I really am called to watch. I realize that it's not popular but what can you do?
I think that you are seeing more watchers come to the forefront today for two reasons:
1) There are a LOT of false teachers out there.
2) Time is short.
I am interested in which you think are being unfairly pointed out though, please reply with details.
God bless.
P.S. Jesus IS my life, that's why I do this. I love my Brothers and Sisters and don't want them to be misled.
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cheech
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Ironically alot of what you have said I have just been studying about. A few things you mentioned which caught my attention:
1. Apostasy of the church
2. False teachers
3. evangelism and luxuries(summing it up)
4. self help books
5. lukewarm church
I guess I actually summed up your post I was talking to my husband about all of this last night and I basically told him that I just keep having an awful gut wrenching feeling lately (for months really) and it just gets worse. I know it has to do with everything going on in the world (although I barely have tv on but a little in the morning and at night). The feeling just gnaws at me as if something is coming but I don't know what or when. I hope I don't sound crazy cuz I am a pretty sane person
When I read the first paragraph to the link on apostasy...that is almost how I feel...shaken, like I'm trying to be deceived. The more I read the bible the stronger I become. The more I listen to and read from outside influences, the more confused I become and I second guess myself. But deep down, I always know the truth and I always go back to the bible because if words don't jive with God's words then it just ain't so.
I see these televangelists and hear their preaching and it all sounds so good, but then I look at what they have...as you pointed out...the jets, mansions, luxury cars, etc and I think "whatever happened to "“If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”?" Why does it have to cost money to hear the word of God preached? Oh yes, so they can have enough money to go places and spread the word. Ok...fine...but do they need luxuries along with it? I can read my bible for nothing and go to my Pastor with any questions and it's free!
Thanks for bringing up this topic...I could go on with more things but these were at the top of my list
cheech
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My God Is My Faith
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Familyman
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Good morning, all!
Considering Brother Ripp's profound posting, I'm feeling led to offer up the following. Just like many of you, I too am concerned about the wrong message being delivered to the hungry masses. The signs are rampant and line up with Scripture warnings of false teachers and a great falling away. I've been spending some time in the book of Hosea the last couple of nights (giving ear to the minor prophets, where I know I don't spend near enough time), and even there it points to a great increase of false prophets, the rebellion of many, and their ultimate doom. Yes, we need to tighten our belts, put on the full armor of God, and be ready!
As the battle rages, however, I am equally concerned with "friendly fire". Are we inadvertantly shooting our comrades down in our zealousness to point out false teachings? Or, another questions to ask is, has the desire to point out false teachers replaced the need to point people to Christ? Is there the danger of a means to and end becoming the end in and of itself? This is not stones throwing, just a point I think in need of deep reflection, starting with myself. Let me give a personal example. Many years ago, I got really excited about serving the Lord. So excited, in fact, that I threw myself into serving. I was on the church council, I started a Jr. High youth group, I was on several committees, and I even joined the church softball team. I was a serving fool. However, I ended up having an emotional meltdown and nearly lost my family. Why? Because in my zeal to do great things for the Lord, I forgot one important thing: to just seek and follow Jesus. My "doing" had become my "high place".
Going back to my "friendly fire" comments, are we considering certain ministry functions or organizations "heretical" based on truly biblical standards? (Please note that I use the term "we" here, for I am the first needing scrutiny). I have been to certain discernment web-sites and while I agreed with some findings, I had to question others. Is it possible that pre-conceived notions replaced objectivity? Understand that I do not believe that any person, no matter how big their ministry, is impervious to the temptation to fall away, especially if the ministry is really big (the Truth compromised by the lure of a "successful empire"). Ecumenicalism is large and sly. But I really wonder if disagreements in ministry style or non-salvation issues (i.e., eschatology) lead some to unfavorably label possibly legitimate ministries. If the mechansim points someone 1) to the need of repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ and 2)the need to read and know the inspired Word of God, can it be bad? I can't imagine that, but it sure looks like there is a tendency to lump things together and, as I've said before "throw the baby out with the bath water".
I am not defending any one person, group, or ministry, nor am I singling any out. Everyone's thoughts, actions, and words must be measured against the Holy Scriptures, the only standard that matters (not my opinion). I believe that we all understand that. And we must be diligent in our study of Scripture and to at least give an ear to a brother or sister if they feel something is worthy of warning or comment. I just want to bring attention to the danger we all have (especially myself) in replacing Christ on the throne. Idol worship comes in many, subtle forms, and whether it be in pursuing an otherwise righteous goal or elevating a person beyond reproach, it all has the same result: putting a thing instead of Christ at the center of our lives. Let's continue to consider this prayerfully, lift each other up in prayer, encourage each other to be more and more prepared "as that day approaches", and, most importantly, point the lost to the only One who can save them: Jesus Christ. I appreciate everyone on this board whose posts and comments encourage me in that regard.
In Christ,
Familyman
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Gramajo320
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Many are called to do the work of God to help further the Kingdom of God. Those who are called by God are led by the Holy Spirit and they do their work as the Holy Spirit leads them to do in the areas in which they are working. Some are ministers, teachers, missionaries, layman using their special skills in the areas that their specialty is, and so many other people help in many other ways. God blesses each and everyone of them so much!
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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SoftTouch
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quote:
Originally posted by hardcore:
Thank you Ripp. Nice post.
The time for fence sitting is over.
God wants repentant hearts, not boastful "good works".
He wants obedience, not big bank accounts.
He wants humilty, not pride.
He wants faith that endures no matter what, not faith that relies upon "healing on demand".
And most of all, He wants us to love HIM.
Mat 22:36 Master, which [is] the great commandment in the law?
Mat 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
Mat 22:38 This is the first and great commandment.
AMEN!
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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Gramajo320
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There are many who come to repentance and who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, and who truly do follow exactly what the Holy Spirit leads them to do. They also have the fruit of the spirit, they are very humble, they follow God's greatest commandment which is to love one another as He loves us. They do this by never being a stumbling block and they do this with love, compassion, empathy for others. There are many great preachers and lay man alike who have won souls to Jesus Christ and they are doing this all around the world. God knows who His true workers are and He greatly blesses them! He knows everything! He is an awesome God!
In Christ's love,
Gramajo320
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hardcore
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Thank you Ripp. Nice post.
The time for fence sitting is over.
God wants repentant hearts, not boastful "good works".
He wants obedience, not big bank accounts.
He wants humilty, not pride.
He wants faith that endures no matter what, not faith that relies upon "healing on demand".
And most of all, He wants us to love HIM.
Mat 22:36 Master, which [is] the great commandment in the law?
Mat 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
Mat 22:38 This is the first and great commandment.
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SoftTouch
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PRAISE GOD!!!!
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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SoftTouch
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AMEN and AMEN!!!
 
Stand Firm!
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Psalm 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. 105Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
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Ripp
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quote:
Originally posted by rancan6776:
AMEN and AMEN.........
You are all over it Ripp.
1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
1 Corinthians 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be men, be strong.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Ephesians 6:13 Therefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
I think Paul mentioned a couple of times something about "stand"...
Eph 6:13 is one of my favorite verses. "and having done all" to do what? to STAND.
Thanks rancan although I'm just the messenger.
Those are great passages, I think I will jot those down.
God bless.
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rancan6776
Advanced Member
Member # 3943
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posted
AMEN and AMEN.........
You are all over it Ripp.
1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
1 Corinthians 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be men, be strong.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Ephesians 6:13 Therefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
I think Paul mentioned a couple of times something about "stand"...
Eph 6:13 is one of my favorite verses. "and having done all" to do what? to STAND.
Posts: 52 | From: east texas | Registered: Oct 2004
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TEXASGRANDMA
Advanced Member
Member # 847
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posted
God bless you,Bro. Ripp. As I was bathing and getting ready, it seems the Lord impressed about my mind that this is the age that will divide those who are willing to take a stand and those who will not.
Yes,it is wondeful when a ministry gives to the poor and supports many efforts. I have often bragged about my own Church's effort in this. But the Church has lost its focus if it is no longer about God's Word. My Church supports missions and other ministry while at the same preaching the whole Bible. When a Church loses its focus of preaching God's Word then they have become no more than a clubhouse.
God bless you and now I am off for the concert.
betty
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Luk 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/mm (son-in-law)http://www.myspace.com/mireles
Posts: 4985 | From: Washington State | Registered: Jan 2003
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