Bro. Patrick O’Shea Sr.
Promises of God

Bro. Patrick O’Shea Jr.
Sovereignty of God

Saturday, October 10, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Bro. Stephen Hargrave
Who Was Lucifer?

It is generally understood in the world that Lucifer was an angel of heaven, which is the devil.
Isaiah 14:12-17
The devil is so sly and crafty that he has made some people believe that there is no devil.
Lucifer was not in heaven because he wanted to ascend up to where God was.
(verse 16) Lucifer can be seen.
Isaiah 14:4
Daniel 4:4-5,10-32 Proves the Lucifer is actually Nebuchadnezzar.
He did not realize that he was just a base man.
Nebuchadnezzar said in his heart that he was the ruler of the world. He didn’t realize that it’s God who sets the appointed ruler over the kingdom.
There is more than one heaven mentioned in the Bible.
2 Corinthians 12:2-4 The third heaven(paradise)
Genesis 1:1
Ephesians 2:4 Ecclesiastical heaven/ spiritual realm
When the Bible is speaking about heaven, it’s not always speaking about the dwelling place of God.
Luke 23:43
1 Peter 1:3-4
The devil never was where God is. If he was there, then he can get there again.
There’s not enough evidence to believe that the devil ever was in heaven.
Revelation 12:1-11
The following scriptures prove that the woman in Revelation 12 is the church.
Romans 7:4
2 Corinthians 11:2
Ephesians 5:25-27
Revelation 19:7
Revelation 21:9-10
Ephesians 2:6 This woman was in heavenly places.
Acts 4:32
This dragon mentioned in Revelation 12 was the dragon that the morning time church was dealing with, which was paganism.
Revelation 12:7 This war that took place was a spiritual warfare.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Bro. John Strizu
The Fear of Man

We have a problem and that is that we are worried about what people think about us. To some degree that could be good, but to a large degree it could be a hinderance.
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare.
There are a lot of people who are hindered in their spiritual experience, of what they could do, by a fear of man.
Many people are bound by the fear of man and don’t even realize it.
Matthew 10:28
The Lord still has a plan for your life, a will for you to fulfill and if you’re not careful, you’ll be bound up by the fear of man.
John 12:42-43
Whose praise do you like better? People are afraid of what man thinks and forget about what God thinks.
You can’t please man. No matter how well you testify or pray, there’s always going to be someone who doesn’t like it.
1 Samuel 15:24
What are you moved by? What causes you to do, or not to do the things you do? Who are you trying to fit in with?
Next time you’re tempted to fear man, ask yourself, “What can man do unto me?”
God doesn’t want a bunch of people who are bound up by eachother.
Too often people are more motivated by what people think than by what God thinks.
You will never be able to do anything for God as long as you are bound up by man fear.
Whatever your calling is, move out! Don’t allow yourself to be hindered by the fear of man.

Friday, October 9, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Bro. Randy Hargrave
Being Saved Through the Gospel

1 Corinthians 1:21
We live in a time of no faith.
We need to hear gospel preaching that will save us from this generation.
You’re not strong enough to stay saved on your own.
If you’re going to be saved, it will be through the foolishness of preaching.
You need to be begging God that He will give the message clear and strong to the preacher.
Revelation 14:6
Romans 10:13-14
Nobody has ever been saved without a preacher.
Psalm 119:89 Forever, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in heaven.
We need a preacher that stand in the sun and doesn’t back up in his preaching.
Romans 2:16
Acts 2:37-38,41
Preaching the Word saves from sin.
We need the Book open and poured out upon us.
Acts 9:4
The gospel is a sword. It’s meant to prick.
Acts 10:44
The gospel fills people with the Holy Spirit.
People are healed by the preaching of the Word.
Romans 1:18
The wrath of God is the gospel.
Psalm 75:8,10
Revelation 16:1-2
This cup needs to be poured out upon you repeatedly.
The gospel does two things:it either helps us or condemns us.

Thursday, October 8, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Bro. Daniel Layne
Deceitfulness of Sin

The problem in this world is not because people are ignorant, it’s not because of others, circumstances, or family, but the problem is sin. The reason why people aren’t getting saved is not that they don’t understand, but they want to sin.
Nobody has to sin. People sin because they want to sin.People are not right because they don’t want to be right.
Ezekiel 18:2-4.30-31 The soul that sinneth it shall die.
There’s a way out for anyone that does not want to sin.
You don’t just sin on the outside. You are totally involved when you sin; inside and outside.
1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil.
If you are identifying yourself as a sinner, you are bad.
There are no good, nice, sweet sinners because the devil is not kind or gentle or sweet.
You can go to hell because of one sin and it would be your fault because you are of the devil.
John 8:44
If you don’t give yourself to the devil he can’t have you.
James 4:17 He that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Sin is not an accident. There was careful preparation made by you. You led yourself into that trap.
Isaiah 64:7
Hebrews 3:13
You will pay for every bit of sin. Most of the time people have to pay the penalty even though they are forgiven.
John 15:22
Ecclesiastes 8:11
If you are a sinner, your sins are chasing you and they are going to catch you.
Even just one sin that’s not covered by the blood can keep you out of heaven forever and forever. Don’t presume that God’s going to make some fantastic renovation in the end.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Bro. Daniel Layne
The Blood of Jesus

Exodus 12:3,5-7,12-13
Leviticus 17:11 It is the blood that maketh an atonement for sin.
Where there’s sin there must be the blood to cover it.
Revelation 5:6
Without the blood all there would be is judgment and hell at the end.
1 Peter 1:18
Hebrews 10:4-5
The blood of bulls and goats could never atone for us.
Hebrews 9:14
When you’re washed in the blood of Jesus you’ll be sure there’s something that’s gotten a hold of you.
Matthew 26:28 This is my blood, drink it.
Let the blood be a part of you, pervade your being, let it become you.
This Baby didn’t have A B blood type. It had had H G blood type, meaning Holy Ghost.
Everyone without the blood is hell bound.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Bro. Daniel Layne
True Salvation
Text: John 6:44

Receiving salvation for your soul (getting saved) is not a mental decision, moral transformation, praying, observance of outward tradition, desiring to be saved, raising your hand, or signing a decision card. It clearly does include making a choice and having your life transformed, but the Bible distinctly spells out the process God has laid out for true, Bible salvation. No man can choose his own timing to be saved. The work of salvation begins by the Holy Spirit drawing you and putting a desire to be saved in your heart. He will guide you in the way you need to take towards salvation as you seek Christ. There will be an awakening to your lost condition and a Godly sorrow for the sins you have committed. Godly sorrow works repentance and you will show the fruits of repentance by how you are dealing with your life. When you are saved, the evidence of it will continue to manifest itself in your life as you make restitution for wrongs you have committed and as you continue to move on to sanctification and the ordinance of baptism. God is willing and able to forgive every sinner, but he is not interested in a casual seeking out of a superficial desire for salvation. The process described in the Bible is not necessarily a lengthy one, but for many people with little or no understanding of salvation they will first need to be awakened to their condition by the Spirit before the can make a move to salvation.

Monday, October 5, 2009
Aylmer, Ontario, Canada

Sis. Susan Mutch
True Worship
Text: John 4:24

Worship is a term that is widely misunderstood and misapplied by the religious world. It is a vital element of our service to God and must not be underestimated. The Bible commands us not to forsake the assembling of God’s children – this does not mean to attend the church that suits your style. The command is to find an assembly of true worshipers whose hearts are full of holiness and purity. Worship flows freely from the justified heart in living praise and thanksgiving to the Almighty God. It is not something orchestrated or drummed up by a band or a worship leader. The Holy Spirit is the only leader of true worship. If your heart is full of God, worship will automatically manifest itself in a variety of ways, be it through prayer, song, testimony, lifting of hands, or verbal support of the service. All things done in worship are to glorify God and edify the believers.

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Tonight is the first service of the 11th Fall meeting in Aylmer, Ontario, Canada! We are anticipating great things from God – He never fails to bless His children in unexpected ways.

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Sunday, June 14, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

Bro. Ricky Hernandez exhorted the saints to be prayerful in all that we do. Whether in conversation or elsewhere, keep a spirit of prayer with you.

The Sea of Glass
Bro. Benjamin Tovstiga

Text: Revelation 15:1-4

The sea of glass (glass meaning mirrored glass as in a looking glass), mingled with fire is powerful. It is used by God to bring people face to face with themselves. Some spend hours in front of a literal mirror. This is generally a waste of time, but come and stand on the sea of glass. Take a good look – how is it with you? Many people come and take one look and run, as they cannot deal with how they appear. Do not get upset with what you see – it is only a mirror, after all. Save your energy for the washing. Do not rail at something innocent. Get a burning bush experience so you will not be consumed.

The camp meeting is now ended – what a meeting it was! Blessings poured down from heaven, souls were saved, sanctified, unified, and strengthened. There was a tremendous influx of people there for the first time and as a whole, were encouraged by what they saw. May the Lord continue to bless each and every one to bloom where they are planted and be light in this dark world.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

In the prayer meeting this morning, Bro. Ken Harger iterated how vital it is that we spread ourselves out to receive was much as possible from God. If we are parched, the wider we stretch our arms, the more rain (blessings) we will get.

Shiloh
Bro. Stephen Hargrave

Text: Zechariah 8:20-23

Shiloh=peace. Jesus=peace. Peace comes with a sword – some things have to be divided before there can be peace. The Body of Christ is peace. It is not normal for Christians to be separated. It is abnormal to have a church only for black/white/Hispanic/German people. That is manufactured unity. A lot of people try to manufacture arks. Some have only zebras or gorillas. In the middle of the arks are many creeping creatures. Many a zookeeper is deployed to keep the peace. Regardless of your race or culture, if you are a Christian you are in! All of us Christians look alike the whole world over. It is not about the clothes you wear, but your spiritual personality – we all share the same Spirit. You cannot be a Christian and withhold your hand of fellowship to any of the saints. These kinds of actions only happen outside of Shiloh. But, the Lord can heal withered hands so that they once again reach out to every blood washed one as He first intended. Is this Amish/Mennonite/Catholic/Baptist? No! It is the Ark – all Christians are one congregation, separated simply by locality. If you are separated from another brother in the Lord, that is not between him and God. That is between you and him and God. The religious world is declining so quickly around us that true Christians are running out of options – it is time to come home and unite as God has ordained in His Word.

Following the morning service, a baptismal service was held nearby. Many were baptized by immersion – it was a blessing to see the outward symbol of what had already taken place inside the heart of each participant.

The saints were greatly inspired and encouraged in the evening service through the numerous songs that were sung.

The Spirit of Prophecy
Bro. Randy Hargrave

Text: Revelation 19:10

In order to operate a piece of heavy machinery, you must have someone teach you that has experience. It is not enough to read the owner’s manual or get some classroom training. The only way to learn is hands-on. People are puffed up in their own minds and think they know so much. But even most so-called Church of God people have never touched the real thing. They only have head knowledge. But God has put together a people that actually know how the machine works. It may not be how you imagined it to be, but it works! The spirit of prophecy speaks expressly. You are accountable for what you see and what it tells you. There is not much time left – are you going to heed its speaking? People by the multitudes are feeling the pressure – it is the spirit of prophecy. Do not refuse Him that is trying persuade you to yield. It may seem hard, but will Heaven not be worth it?

Friday, June 12, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

Bro. Patrick O’Shea Jr. exhorted the saints in the 7:30 AM prayer meeting to pray effectively. Do not just pray generally, but identify the need and pray accordingly.

The ordinances of foot washing and the Lord’s supper were observed in the morning service. It was a blessed time of fellowship as the brothers and sisters separately washed each others’ feet as hymns were sung and the saints rejoiced in the bond of perfectness which binds us all together in Christ. Afterward all the saints reunited in the main tabernacle and an open communion was observed in accordance with the example Jesus left us in the New Testament. Unleavened bread was used to represent the body of Christ, wheat mixed with water and baked. Pure grape juice was used to represent the blood of Christ that He shed on the cross of Calvary for our sins. Individual communion cups or bread portions are not used by the Church of God as that is a modern, sterile dilution of the ordinance that is meant specifically to be used as a type of the exclusive unity of the Church and the resistance to personal, spiritual independence. As each saved person participated in the communion, an air of solemnity prevailed over the audience as we meditated on the gravity of the sacrifice of Christ’s death. The service was all together inspiring, unifying, and sobering.

Bro. Byron Benion opened the service tonight with a rousing testimony of his salvation from sin and spoke of his lifelong quest to be a winner through football, coaching, etc. Through all of these avenues his quest continued, but he testified that since he got saved last September he had finally attained his goal – he was a winner with the best coach in the universe – God! A number of saints testified tonight and the special singers from Aylmer, California, and Ohio sang.

The Witness
Bro. John Redekop

Text: Romans 8:16

A witness is the assurance of approval. God gives each of His children a witness of their salvation. In the Old Testament God gave His people a stone. Do you have a stone? A stone will make doubts disappear. When the devil comes to you with accusations and questions – show him the stone. There is a prevalent false teaching to “take it by faith”. Yes, faith is necessary, but God is faithful to bear witness with His Spirit in your heart. He also bears witness to His people as a body. That is why we do not hesitate to invite anyone to the meeting – come and see the witness. Try the Spirit – does it bear witness with your soul? Many have tried to manufacture a witness through various means, but this will not last. If you do not allow yourself to be talked into it, no one can talk you out of it. Elijah’s sacrifice was answered by fire – when the fire falls, you have the witness. If you are unsure tonight, get the witness – it is available for all.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

An ordination service was held this morning. Bro. John Redekop of Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada and Bro. Johnny Friesen of Paris, Texas, USA were ordained to the Ministry of the Church of God. May the Lord richly bless them as they labor in the Lord’s vineyard.

Let Us Go On
Bro. Ray Tinsman

Text: Hebrews 6:1

After you have been saved, the Lord has more for you. Last words are generally very important. Jesus specifically instructed

His disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until they should received the Holy Spirit. They were saved – Jesus explicitly mentions that their names are written in heaven – but they needed to go on to perfection. The experience at Pentecost is known by numerous names: Baptism of the Holy Spirit, Sanctification, Entire Sanctification, Perfection, etc. It has always been the desire of God to have man in His own image. God never meant for His creation to be separated from Him by sin. After Adam sinned, the root of sin was inbred into each child born subsequently. This is also know as the Adamic nature, the carnal nature, the old man, the carnal mind. After you are saved, you have victory over sin, but the carnal mind is still present and causes something to rise up within you involuntarily. The carnal mind also causes doubts and confusions. Your biggest enemy is yourself. After you have experienced the second work of grace or been sanctified, this root is entirely removed and the Holy Spirit takes full charge of your being. All temptations come from without, not within. Character flaws, impatience, and other carnal traits are eradicated. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible clearly distinguishes between the two works of grace, salvation and sanctification. If you are saved, that is wonderful! Now, do not tarry there, go on to perfection, the Lord has a tremendous experience for you that will help you to excel spiritually.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

In the prayer meeting, Bro. Peter Hildebrandt reminded the saints not just to seek but follow the Lord’s instructions to receive your help. Naaman had preconceived ideas how he should be healed. He was not healed until he followed the prophets instructions exactly.

The Second Coming of Christ
Bro. Jacob Braun

Text: Acts 1:9-11

Everyone will see the Lord return, not just those that anticipate His coming. Prepared or not, you will witness His return. Some are refusing His pleadings today, but a day is coming when you have no choice but to face Him. That day will surely find you out. Every teaching that allows for a second chance is a fallacy from the devil. People are pretending another chance exists after the judgment, but it is only a pretension. When Jesus returns, Mohamed will acknowledge Jesus as the only Savior, along with all other false religions. Every single knee will bow to Jesus Christ, every atheist will confess that He is Lord. God will answer His enemies to their face. The judgment will be fair, your verdict based solely on your actions. Now there remains an opportunity to determine your own outcome. We are responsible for all we hear and know. Is there a welcome in your soul for the Lord’s return? Do not be the last backslider before the Lord’s return. We do not know when He is coming – but this we know, prophecy is fulfilling and He promised He was returning.

Awake
Bro. Daniel Layne

Text: Isaiah 51:9

The Church of God is preaching the message of awakening, alarm, and restoration. The world around us is asleep and needs to be awakened. God wants a place where our children can excel and a place for our young people to be radical. When we stop to preach the come-out message, we need to hear it preached to us. We came out of places where mourning was the main occupation. After being in many different prisons, we are now free! We are living in Bible times, we are living the acts of the Apostles. The glory is here, the Lord is working mightily. Get people into the Book and they will experience real salvation – a life-altering experience. It will affect everything, your family life, finances, etc. It used to be that you could to service after service and never feel stirred. Those times are over – the Lord is working and moving freely in each service. We have no program, the Holy Spirit has free reign. Now we can sing Joy Unspeakable with joy unspeakable and full of glory! Quantity will come, the Lord is restoring quality so that He can send quantity.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

In the early morning prayer meeting, Bro. Rick Wiebe encouraged the saints to continue in prayer. We must persevere until we get through.

Restoration
Bro. Benjamin Tovstiga

Text: Isaiah 1:23-26

God is characterized by comfort. Outside of God there is no comfort. If God is the comfort of all comfort, surely He has the capacity to comfort Himself. Throughout history, God has comforted himself, by restoring His people. Restoration is the removal of counterfeit or substandard materials to be replaced by the genuine product. God is removing the tin in this time, to be replaced by Gold. For the last 100 years, the people have been collecting tin. Preachers turned into amateur tin collectors. Trying to collect something that has no value. Gold was too expensive, so people decided to divert to tin. Tin is everything besides God. God despises tin and everything that comes with it. Churches have turned into scrap metal junkyards. God is now comforting Himself by restoring the condition of the Church back to the beginning. Not a few years or eras, but right back to the beginning. We have come from places where it was more profitable to just sleep rather than to fight sleep. Adam was not yawning when He walked with God. It is good to see people getting up and moving, but when you get up, you are stained with the things you have been sitting on for 40 years. That is where fuller’s soap comes in. This is no delicate wash cycle – this is genuine get-the-dirt-out washing. People have been sincerely begging for revival in the past decade. Then when it arrives, they reject it because it did not come the way they expected it. Come and experience the joy of restoration!

We are thankful for the Lord’s great blessings this far – it has been a spiritually exhilarating time and the week is far from over. Many more have arrived and we are anticipating a great outpouring of the Spirit of the Lord.

Another Gospel
Bro. Stephen Hargrave

Text: Galatians 1:6-9

This scripture has been manipulated to keep people trapped in religions of tradition. That application is false. It is written on the basis of assurance that where you are is true religion. Verify that you are actually where the true Gospel is preached. A farmer’s work is self-evident – is the corn growing, are the rows straight? Check out the straightness of your rows. If there are curves and deviations, you know you need to first find the true Gospel that Paul was speaking of. He knew his personal revelation came from Jesus Christ. Paul preached the true gospel so well that the religious economy of paganism and idolatry went into recession. In the time of Primitive Christianity you did not have to figure out where to go. There was no black, white, liberal, or conservative church. There was only the Gospel. If in the future you hear one of us preach differently than what you know is right, let us be accursed. Do not accept something different than what you liberated you in the first place. The Gospel is to be communicated from the heart of the preacher to the audience. Any other is only talking – not the Gospel. We reach our hand to every blood washed one – that is the Gospel of unity – the Gospel of Paul.

Monday, June 8, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

Bro. Johnny Friesen exhorted the saints on Matthew 7:7 in the prayer meeting this morning. We must be persistent to have our needs met.

Godly Sorrow
Bro. Isaac Thiessen

Text: II Corinthians 7:10

Before we can get very happy, we must get very sad. Now do not be mistaken – salvation is wonderful and glorious. But, there are steps you must follow in order to get a true, crisis experience of salvation. There is no rest in this world until you have experience God’s rest. We are not looking for brief, shallow experiences that last for a day or two. Walk in the steps the Lord is leading you, go through the sorrow He is leading you through. Follow until you feel horrible as a sinner. He will lead you to become absolutely sick of yourself. This is true Godly sorrow. People want a “road to Damascus” experience, but this must be preceded by a genuine sorrow for your committed sins. A deep awakening must have taken place in the heart and a realization of the gravity of sin. Do not stop seeking – seek Him until you find Him. There is a real danger that our children may avoid this and never get a hold of true salvation. Each and every one of us must go through this sorrow and realization of sin to obtain salvation. The Bible way is to sorrow, repent, and be saved with complete, continuous victory over sin for the rest of your life. You never need to fall back into your old life. Godly sorrow will keep you faithful when you remember your old life. Would you like rest? Get tired of your life as it is and God can provide unparalleled rest in this world with wonderful, sustaining victory over sin.

Over 1,000 have people have registered on the grounds here up to this point and we are anticipating more as the week progresses. Many visitors and newcomers have arrived and are enjoying the rich blessings of the Lord as He moves among His children.

Meet Your Help
Bro. Abe Redekop

Text: Isaiah 35:4

If you have not yet yielded in this meeting, it is time that you did. Do not relax in an unsaved condition. We will keep digging around until we find your hidden spot. Sin will lull you to sleep. We are here to wake you up. What is holding you back? Do whatever you have to do to change your condition. Our goal is rest – beg for help from God in this meeting to get true rest. Admit your need, seek your help, and get your rest. You may be able to help yourself for a little bit, but in the long run it will not last. Get a lifting experience that will victoriously lift you above the waves of sin. Heed the warning – danger is in delay.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

In the prayer meeting this morning, Bro. John Redekop exhorted the saints not just to seek, but to find and obtain in prayer. He challenged us to go beyond the seeking and fulfil the obtaining.

Kicking Against
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Acts 9:1-5

Saul came to a point where he was in pain from kicking. God puts goads in place so that it will be painful for you to continue kicking against His dealings. Through this meeting our purpose is to at least insert something in your heart that will grow and prick you when you resist. How much time do you need to finally yield? How many songs need to be sung? If we yield in a timely manner, we will be saved. God’s voice penetrates the loud music, His spirit will follow you. He can cause things to go wrong for you and your health to fail. This is conviction! You may be covering up on the exterior, but inside your soul is crying. Allow God to water your dry condition.

The song service this evening was richly blessed as the Spirit of the Lord gave liberty. The saints were greatly encouraged through the songs – God Can, Nobody Helps Like Jesus!

Through Faith We Understand
Bro. Randy Hargrave

Text: Hebrews 11:1-6

In order not to believe in God, you have to be out of your logical mind. Faith causes you to think right. It gives you the capacity to think the way God designed you to think. Jesus speaks soul language. When your soul connects with Him, that is true happiness. When God smiles and you smile that is enough to make a man cry. Jesus demonstrates, then he asks you what you think. That is the test of faith. Your answer tells on you. Call it for what it is, do not hesitate and speculate. If you see a miracle, do not say “Hmmm, that was…” Just say it, “That was a miracle!” God sends lightning, thunder, and hail and asks you, “What is this?” Admit it and call it for what it is – something real. If you are not offering something real, seekers will walk away. God has established a strong salvation that will produce a strong faith – it will surpass anything this world has to offer. By faith – that is the key.

Saturday, June 6, 2009

West Milton, Ohio, USA

We are filled with praise and thanksgiving – another International Camp Meeting has begun! The saints have arrived with great anticipation to witness the glory of God in the midst His children and feel His mighty, working power in each and every heart.

In the prayer meeting this morning, Bro. Benjamin Tovstiga exhorted the saints to pray for this meeting in a mighty way. God’s expectations for this meeting far exceed our own expectations. We need to ask big – He is mighty!

In the morning service the special singers from Aylmer and Ohio encouraged the saints with songs, Christ Is Not a Disappointment, In Christ Alone, and God Is Glorious.

Fear Him
Bro. Ray Tinsman

Text: Matthew 10:26-28

God still hates sin! No matter what people say or how they excuse themselves, He still hates sin. God will exact vengeance on you if you do not repent. Your due date to pay for your sin is coming, can you afford to pay? If you are late, the penalty is clear. Do you have things you need to clear up? Now is the time to send a messenger to request terms for peace. It is settled – your payment due date has been set, you do not know when. Either it is cleared up or the Lord promises revenge on those who presumed on His mercy but did not act in a timely manner. Now is the time to stop being a hypocrite, terms for eternal peace are still offered. Children need to know they will be responsible for their actions when they know to do better and do not do it. This message needs to be instilled from a young age – God still hates sin!

The tabernacle is full and overflowing, more saints arrived by the time evening service had begun. The weather this first day has been pleasant, which we are thankful for.

Poor In Spirit
Bro. John Strizu

Text: Matthew 5:3

Blessed are the poor in Spirit – the antithesis of mainstream Christianity today. If you feel like you have something to offer God when you get saved, you are not ready. God does not need your money, reputation, or intelligence. He already has what He needs. It is imperative that you declare personal, spiritual bankruptcy and realize you cannot continue alone. No sin is small. If you have only told one lie, you are no better than the drunkard staggering out of the bar. It is all in the heart. A Pharisaical nature is to downplay your own sins versus others. One committed sin gives you the capacity to stop at nothing. The Prodigal son had spent all his money, yet thought there was a little hope so he got a job. When reality hit him, he realized he was craving the food of vile creatures. The time has come to stop believing in yourself and believe in God. Imagine yourself as the dirtiest sinner around. The rich young ruler lacked one thing – the realization of his spiritual poverty.

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No Other Way
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Acts 4:12
There is only one way to heaven – through Jesus Christ. The religious world is shying away from the exclusivity of the one way as taught in the Bible. There is only one, true God. There is no multiplicity of ways to salvation. We must strongly proclaim to the world that there is only one, true, Bible way to salvation. Paul was not ashamed of the Gospel and neither should we.
Romans 1:16
1 Corinthians 1:17
There 7-step programs available for deliverance from drugs – the Gospel offers a 1-step program! It has the answer to ALL problems, great or small. It is THE answer for broken homes, peace in the Middle East, and all the social disfunctions all around us.

The Lord has blessed tremendously this past week and sent a real revival through young and old. Souls were saved and completely delivered from the power of sin. The Holy Spirit worked in a powerful through Bro. Ernest and we are thankful for his willingness to serve us.

March 8, 2009 AM – Aylmer, ON

Set Your House In Order
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Isaiah 38:1
Just because you do not see it, does not mean it does not exist. Meetings like these provide a time to get serious about your record. What God is writing down, you are dictating. People know they need to be saved, but some are unsure of where to start. Begin by setting your house in order. Spiritual houses are in a mess – sinks in the bedroom, showers in the living rooms, and beds in the kitchens.
James 4:7-8
Your case is not hopeless – submit to God. He is greater than you and has the power you need. Begin by reading your Bible, praying, and submitting yourselves to God and his people. Take the necessary steps towards salvation. God has professional advisers in spiritual matters. We can offer 100% return on investment with dividends – forget 15%!
When you move towards God, He moves towards you. Make the right moves, take the steps, and you will be rewarded by His presence.
Do not get religious – get to the root of your problems and get deliverance.

March 7, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

The Valley of Decision
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Joel 3:14
God is bringing you to a point of decision. He is putting you between a rock and a hard place. He is trying to bring you down into the valley that has a tall and difficult mountain on either side. The mountain on one side is called Death, the other one is called Life and both are very difficult to climb. People who endeavour to climb the mountain of Life but give up because of the steepness and danger, will find that the mountain of Death is even harder to climb.
Deuteronomy 30:15-19
Choose Life! There is no need to go on living with the pain and carrying the heavy burdens you have been carrying. What you have to do is decide. God does the saving after you make the decision.
Genesis 32:24-29
Like Jacob, you are going to have to wrestle with God and it’s going to be the most difficult fight you’ve ever engaged in. You know you want to be saved but God has been putting you off to test you. Your blessing is just a decision away. When God asks you “What is your name?”, He is saying that you need to decide if you’re going to continue doing things your way, or if you’re willing to change.
Luke 16:16
The saints are forming a human chain. Christ is at the top of the chain and the saints stand together, holding hands, to form a chain to reach down to you. We are anchored to him and we will not let go. We are helping you, all you have to do is reach out and take the hand that is offered. It will work, but you have to make the decision. You are going to have to press your way. You can make it…with the right decision. Stop worrying about your family or other circumstances – this is not their time. This is your moment – seize it!

Once again, we are thankful for your prayers as the Lord has done great things in these meetings. Souls are continuing to seek the Lord and getting saved. Please continue to pray because the meeting is not over yet and conviction has been strong and increasing. One more day remains and we need the blessings of the Lord.

March 6, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

Deception
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Galatians 6:7
All of us are one decision away from being deceived. Deception is not something far away or just for a sinner, it is waiting for each one of us.
All you have to do is sit here in this meeting with us and do nothing – that will deceive you.
Galatians 6:7-8
Deception is the thought, that, even if I do plunge into sin, for me it will be different, it will not happen to me.
Some live with merely a profession yet no real fire inside. On the outside everything may look okay – that is deception.
Deception works in many different ways.
When parents conceive the idea that they have all that their children need and fail to take them to Jesus, they are deceived.
You can not hold a grudge against the saints and still be in unity. If you hold a separate thought or opinion and think that you can still be a part of them, you are deceived.
He is not dealing with something that you do not know about, but rather with what you do know about. If you know that you need to be saved, that is all that He is asking of you.
Deception is always unbelievable, gets worse consistenly, and is the very basis of sin.
James 4:17
Acts 5:1-4
What happened in Acts is happening more often than what we see with our eyes. Be very careful what you do in a spousal relationship, refuse to enter into an unholy alliance. Remember, there are no secrets with God. You do not have to deal with deception now if you do not want to, but no one in eternity will be deceived. Each individual will know exactly where they are and why.

We are thankful to report that a number of souls that had been repeatedly attending during the week were gloriously saved tonight! The joy of salvation on their faces as they prayed through was unmistakably visible to those present. Please remember them in your prayers that they would be established and deeply rooted in the Lord.

March 5, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

Conviction
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

The burden of the message was directed to those that were under conviction. Even if you do not get saved or remember anything that was read or sung here tonight when you leave, conviction won’t leave you, it will stay with you.
The Holy Ghost knows no boundries and no limitations. In fact, the Holy Ghost is so relentless it makes its way everywhere.
God uses the very things of nature to deal with you. Really, it was the Holy Ghost that brought you here tonight, it was not your own choice.
John 16:8-9
When you sit here and it feels like everyone is looking at you, those are the eyes of the Lord that you feel looking at you. It is the chief work of the Holy Ghost to deal with us, without it we cannot be saved.
Psalm 32:3-4
Conviction is supposed to make you speak out. The longer you stay silent, the harder it will get to speak out. If you want the weight of conviction to ease on you a little bit, start confessing.
This experience is the same for everyone because it is the same Holy Ghost.

More visitors out tonight and a number of repeats.

March 4, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

Weary of Repenting
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Jeremiah 15:6
This particular “repenting” means the staying of the hand of God from destroying us. God is waiting to pour out His judgment and He is tired of holding back. In human terms, He is “sick and tired” of forbearing with you, but not willing that you should perish. He has sent numerous messages your way in the right language, at the right time, and He is weary of the lack of response.
Genesis 6:3
God’s striving with you is not infinite – you only have a limited amount of time with the dealings of the Lord. The people in Genesis did not know that God had already determined 120 years for them and not one day more. He has already set his limit on many of you and will not deal with you forever. There is only one thing for you to do now: Do what you know you have to do.
God is a merciful God; He left the people with a sign. There should have been enough curiosity in the people to really find out what was going on in Noah’s day. Just seeing the animals doing what was contrary to nature should have been enough for them to see that God was forbearing His judgment. After the door was shut, there were people who began seeking God in earnest, but it was too late. God had determined 120 years. How many more animals do you need to see? How many more years do you have left?
Genesis 18:20-21
God is listening and watching and He is still coming down to see what you are doing. It is all adding to the fury of His wrath.
Genesis 19:12-14
God is saying “Go, get whoever you can.” He has sent us for the purpose of destruction and anyone who will not get out will be destroyed. You can mock all you want to, but it is God who will have the last laugh. When the Judgment begins, mercy will not be available – God is weary of holding back.
Jonah 1:2
These people had a great privilege, when God announced to them that they had 40 days. After only one day of hearing the preaching of the message, they knew. They didn’t wait until the 39th day, but rather fasted and prayed. Even their animals fasted and God stayed His hand.
God is through playing with people, so you are the one in danger. The Ninevites are watching what you will do with what you hear. Will you take care of business and do what you need to do?

The Lord is dealing with hearts and we have been having a number of repeat visitors. Please continue to pray, that, as the meeting progresses, souls would receive the help they need.

March 3, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

Knowing the Time
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Romans 13:11
We are a time conscious people – that is undeniable.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Everything you do is based on time: You get up at a certain time, you agree to meet someone at a certain time; and if someone is late, you go back and look at the time. Our bodies show the effects of time and you can feel time. Everyone knows that there is a time when they must die. There’s no stopping it when the time comes. The most important thing for us to do is recognize the time. There is general time and then there is God’s time. When God says it’s Winter, you live accordingly; and when God says it’s Summer, you don’t go out wearing gloves and a coat. God expects us to know what time it is.
Matthew 25:5
The ten virgins all slumbered and slept because it was nighttime.
Revelation 3:16
Revelation 8:1
There was silence in Heaven because people didn’t recognize the time. When there should have been a great, joyful noise, there was silence. You have to know the time so you can be stirred every day and you can’t afford to miss what’s going on. Everyone has a sense of time; you are responsible.
Romans 13:11
Sleepiness is right next to you. If you don’t wake up, you’ll crawl right back into bed and reset the alarm. You’ll sleep another hour and it will be forever too late.
We don’t have time to wait for you. Hurry up! If you don’t do everything possible to keep awake, you will go back to sleep. If you’re always late, God will fire you!
1 Samuel 17:29
The army of Israel was completely inactive. They were just taking all that Goliath was telling them. When David came on the scene, he was determined to do something about it.
1 Peter 5:8
Be vigilant! Take heed to every change in climate! If you feel the temperature has dropped one degree, it’s time to turn up the heat.
Romans 13:11
Heaven is closer now than it was when you got saved. Most people lose out just before the finish line. Don’t give up – know the time.
Being stirred is your only protection!

March 2, 2009 PM – Aylmer, ON

The First Commandment
Bro. Ernest Benion Jr.

Text: Ephesians 6:2
OBEY – it’s a word that has become a rarity and it has almost become vulgar. People don’t want to hear it, yet it’s the first and only commandment. After all, this is the “whole duty of man”.
Genesis 2:16-17
People have debated what kind of tree this was. Was it an apple or a pear? What was the “knowledge of good and evil”? It doesn’t matter. God only asked Adam to do one thing – not to touch it. All He had to do was obey.
Some people just have a problem obeying. All that man is supposed to be doing is summed up in one “ugly” word – obey. But its NOT ugly for the saved person.
Ephesians 6:1-2
Parents want their children to obey, but yet the reason many children rebel is because they don’t see their parents obey.
You need to learn to obey when it hurts. If you need to obey, it will necessarily be something you had no intentions of doing.
You got saved by obeying; do you want to stay saved? OBEY.
Husbands, obey your wives. Parents, obey your children. It doesn’t matter if a donkey or a rooster tells you what to do, if they’re right you just need to obey.
You were created for obedience, so there is no way out of it. You will either obey the Devil or the Lord.
2 Kings 5:8-13
Naaman expected Elisha to do everything. He didn’t want to do what the servant told him, but you have to obey before God will do the great and mighty thing.
Philippians 2:5-7
Servants do what they are told. Christ came in a low way and died the death of a malefactor – this is real power. Everyone wants to be accepted and the key is obedience.
“The greatness of a man’s power is in the measure of his surrender.”

We are very thankful how the Lord is blessing us right from the beginning. We had a wonderful song service. A number of visitors came out. Please continue to pray for the meeting and for the souls that have been invited, as we are expecting the Lord to do great things.

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March 2-8, 2009 – Revival Meetings at the Church of God congregation in Aylmer, Ontario, Canada with Bro. Ernest Benion Jr., of the Church of God congregation in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.

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My Record Will Be There

In a day that is not far,
At the blazing judgment bar,
Even now the awful summons I can hear;
I must meet the mighty God,
I must face His holy Word,
I must stand before the judgment bar.

Refrain

Oh, my record will be there,
Be its pages dark or fair,
When I stand before the judgment bar.
When the books shall open be,
In that morning by and by,
Oh, my record, oh, my record will be there.

I must meet each broken vow,
That I hold so lightly now,
Every heartache I have caused, each sigh, each tear;
Things that time cannot erase,
I must meet them face to face,
When I stand before the judgment bar.

Every secret lust and thought
There shall be to judgment brought,
When the Lord in all His glory shall appear;
All the deeds of darkest night
Shall come out to greet the light,
When I stand before the judgment bar.

I must meet my cankered gold,
For whose greed my life was sold,
It shall mock me in the judgment’s lurid glare;
Saying we have sold for naught,
All the Savior’s blood has bought,
You must stand before the judgment bar.

Let me turn and seek the Lord,
Let me trust His holy Word,
Let me bow and call upon Him while He’s near;
Then when I my record face,
He will answer in my place
When I stand before the judgment bar.

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The world in which we live is becoming more wicked with each new day. Threats of terrorism control the news headlines. Teenagers are killing their classmates and peers. Regard for the well-being of others is considered to be a sign of weakness. Unwed parents and unwanted children abound on every hand. Abortion clinics are thriving. Morality is fast declining while indifference and unconcern are on the rise.

In just such a setting as we face, the words of Jesus ring out loud and clear: “Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again.” In other words, don’t be surprised when I tell you that you must be born again. You see, nothing short of the miraculous grace of God can stop the downward spiral of sin and its effects. God intends to destroy the kingdom of sin one soul at a time. This is why the words of the Saviour are so specific. YOU must be born again. Jesus wants to deliver you from the bondage of sin, and give a new life of freedom in Him. He earnestly desires for you to be born into the kingdom of God, and become a new creature. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. My friend, no matter what sins and offenses you have committed against God, He can make you as clean and as innocent as a new born baby, if you will seek Him with true repentance.

There is a popular belief today that prevails in the minds of many. That is the belief that all that is necessary to please God and make it to heaven is to “believe” in God, attend church, and just do the best you can. But dear one, this is a lie perpetrated by the devil. In John 3:3 Jesus says, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” If you believe in God, you will certainly want to do what He says. You must receive God’s forgiveness for your sins, and forsake all sin and live a new life in Jesus – a holy life, without committing sin.

Please consider these words today. They are offered in love, not condemnation. “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:17. Jesus will save all who come unto Him in sincerity. He desires to save you from sin and rescue you from hell.

Please examine your soul this day. If you are not saved, call on the name of the Lord before it is everlastingly too late. Confess and forsake all sin, and He will save you. You must be born again.

By Dale Hayton

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The secret is out. The plan has been revealed. The way has been opened. Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), has shown the path of life to mankind. If we would enter the kingdom of God now and enjoy it through eternity in heaven, we must be born again.

But there seems to be much confusion over this issue in our day, in spite of the plain words of the Lord. Some think to gain heaven in ways of their own devising, while others think they are born again, when they are not. Let us lift the veil of misunderstanding forever from the issue, that hypocrites may be without a cloak for their sin, and those seeking to please God may receive a Bible experience.

First, let us consider what Jesus did not say:

He did not say, Ye must be moral. No. Morality is not enough. We cannot commend our own self-righteousness to God. He alone is the author of salvation. He alone can save. To such a class of moral people Jesus said, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men: but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. Luke 16:15. The words of the Hebrew prophet are applicable to the moralist today: But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Isa. 64:6.

He did not say, Ye must be religious. Obviously not. Religion is not enough. Head knowledge means nothing. Hear the words of James (2:19): Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. What more do you have, O religionist, than these devils? Nay, they have quite an advantage over you, for your belief in God supposedly rests upon faith, but theirs upon sight. They believe in and fear God. So we see that mere religion profits you nothing.

Now, let us consider what Jesus did say. Ye must be born again. You must be. You have to be, or you cannot enter the kingdom of God here and above. There is no other way.

Jesus is not speaking about a literal birth, but a spiritual. Every man stands in need of a spiritual birth, or regeneration, because all are dead in trespasses and sins. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Rom. 3:23. Wherefore as by one man sin into entered the world, and [spiritual] death by sin; and so [spiritual] death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. Rom. 5:12. To be born again is to be changed from this dead spiritual state, to be quickened or made alive (Eph. 2:1), to awake to righteousness, and sin not (1 Cor. 15:34).

This new birth cannot be accomplished by the human will alone. It takes the will, working, and power of God to recreate the soul in righteousness. It takes more than a head knowledge or mere belief in Jesus Christ. It requires an active faith and reception of Him. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12, 13. It takes repentance, a forsaking of all sin, and obedience to the command of Jesus, Go, and sin no more (John 8:11).

False teachers are busy telling unwary souls today that Christians cannot help but sin more or less everyday. That is a base falsehood and contrary to the Word of God. The truly regenerated soul does not sin, but lives above it by the grace of God.

When a soul is born again, the seed of righteousness is planted within the heart, and it makes it impossible for them to sin and retain the regenerated experience. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 1 John 3:9. Therefore, whosoever sins needs to be born again.

One may say, Not so. It is only human to sin. We cannot help but fall once in awhile. Poor, blinded soul! The purpose of the new birth is to make you a new creature, one on which sin and temptation have no power. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Cor. 5:17.

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 1 Pet. 1:23. You cannot claim a born again experience that does not measure to the Word of God, since it is through meeting the conditions of His Word that the experience is obtained.

Being born again involves more than just ceasing from the outward manifestations of sin, such as cursing, lying, drinking, fornication, adultery, etc. It isn’t merely a reformation. It is a transformation wrought in the soul by the power of the Holy Ghost. Any person can reform themselves, but it takes a divine work of grace to regenerate the soul. This salvation does such a thorough work in the heart.

E. E. Byrum explained the new birth this way: It is as radical a change as is the natural birth of an infant.

How is it with your soul today? Have you experienced the radical change of the new birth? If there is a doubt, you can settle it today.

Are you still sinning? If so, you are a child, not of God, but of the devil. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil I John 3:8, 10. You are in need of the new birth.

Regardless of your religious profession, Jesus says to you, Ye must be born again. We beg you in God’s name to get a Bible experience, cease from sin, and enjoy the wonderful light and peace of regeneration.

By Daniel Eichelberger

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In chapter seven of Romans, the apostle Paul shares his testimony expressing his condition while still under the old Mosaic law and prior to his conversion through Jesus Christ. He was ever brought under the power of sin, despite his desire to do good and all of his religious practices.

Oh SIN – cursed tyrant! problem of all mankind! Can any escape its awful grip? Can none be free of sin while in this life? Can this bondage never be broken?

The apostle brings the readers to this very question when he cries out, “Who shall deliver me?” Oh, how his soul groaned to be free from sin! Then one glorious day, he met his Deliverer on the road to Damascus, and falling at His feet he cried, “What must I do to be saved?”

Oh, dear reader, true repentance and a humility that will bring you to the feet of Jesus Christ will open the door to a powerful salvation. After this experience, Saul, once a sinning religionist, arose to newness of life, never to be a “wretched man” in sin again! “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed!”

With triumphant joy, the apostle Paul continues the testimony he started in

Romans 7 in chapter 8: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Who shall deliver me? Glory! Exalt the name of Jesus! Oh, what a Saviour! “He shall save his people from their sins.”

“…He was manifested to take away our sins…Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not…Little children, let no man deceive you…He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” 1John 3:5-8.

There is no doubt that Jesus accomplished the purpose for which He came. To say that one cannot live free from sin is to deny the power of Jesus Christ. Yet by far, the prevailing testimony of professing Christians today is that sin has dominion over them and that none can expect to live free from sin while in this world. What an atrocious dishonour to the mighty Son of God! What a corruption of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ! What a miserable message to tell sin-laden mankind! Is this the tidings of great joy for all men the angels burst into praise about? NO!

The apostle Paul used the word deliver. “Who shall deliver me?” He did not say, who shall forgive me, though of course he also needed forgiveness. He realized a cure was needed to reach the malady of sin and tear it out by the roots. Yes, Sin needed to be conquered. He found the Conqueror in Jesus Christ and was nevermore the same. Read Paul’s writings. Wretched and bound before salvation, he later could testify and teach that in Christ we are more than conquerors. He lived holily and justly and unblamably…had a conscience void of offense toward God and men…was made free from sin and declared, “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?”

Is it not amazing that when the Bible asks, “Shall we continue in sin?” that the professing religious world insists that yes, they must, though the Bible answers, “God forbid!?” And when the Bible states the Christian is dead to sin, most professors are still alive to it? We can only conclude that “mainstream Christianity” is not Christianity at all, but the product of “another gospel.”

“Let God be true but every man a liar.” “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin.”

By S. Mutch

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Consider this report (1820) by William Patton. The term “alcoholic” is not used. He uses the Bible term, “drunkard.” The Bible does not recognize drunkenness as a sickness, but as sin. The drunkard is listed in scripture with thieves, liars, extortioners, murderers, etc., as being in danger of God’s judgment in hell unless he repents. Gal. 5:19-21; 1 Cor. 6:9-10. God will never consign a person to hell for being sick. Therefore the matter of drunkenness, and that which leads to drunkenness, becomes a very serious matter. Here is his report:

I found that all Bible passages where wine or drinking is mentioned, fall under three headings: a) where wine is merely mentioned, b) where it is spoken of as a cause of misery and the emblem of eternal wrath, c) where it is a blessing along with grain.

I began to wonder if the Bible makes reference to two kinds of wine. Such is indeed the case. I shared my findings with Professor Seixas, an eminent Hebrew teacher. He took my manuscript, and a few days later returned it with the statement, “Your discriminations are just. They denote that there indeed are two kinds of wine.” I have since learned much from others who have come to the same conclusion. I ran into much opposition from those who believe that all mention of wine in the Bible is to intoxicating wine, but here are a few counter-statements:

Dr. Ure, in his Dictionary of Arts, says: “Juice when newly pressed from grapes, and before it has begun to ferment is called must, and in common language new wine.”

Rees’ Cyclopedia: “Sweet wine is that which has not yet worked or fermented.”

Noah Webster: “Wine, the fermented juice of grapes…Must, wine, pressed from the grape, but not fermented.”

Smith’s Dictionary of the Bible “The wine was sometimes preserved in its unfermented state and drunk as must…Very likely new wine was preserved in the state of must by placing it in jars or bottles, and then burying it in the earth.”

These authorities make it clear that there were, indeed, among the ancients, two kinds of wine, the fermented and the unfermented.

Fermentation

The laws of fermentation are fixed laws, always operating in the same way, and always and everywhere requiring the same conditions.  Lardner’s Cyclopedia says:

“1. There must be saccharine (sugar) matter and gluten (yeast).

“2. The temperature should not be below 50 degrees nor above 70 or 75 degrees.

“3. The juice must be of a certain consistency. Thick syrup will not undergo vinous fermentation. Too much sugar is not favorable for the process, and on the other hand too little sugar, or, which is the same thing, too much water, will be deficient in the necessary quantity of saccharine matter to produce a liquor that will keep, and for want of more spirit the vinous fermentation will almost surely turn to vinegar.

“4. The quantity of yeast or ferment must also be well regulated. Too much or too little will impede and prevent fermentation.”

Others confirm these statements. The indispensable conditions for vinous fermentation are the right proportions of sugar, of yeast, and of water, with the temperature of the air ranging between 50 and 75 degrees.

We see therefore that the process of fermentation is not a natural one. Chaptal, the eminent French chemist, says, “Nature never forms spirituous liquors; she rots the grape upon the branch; but it is art which converts the juice into (alcoholic) wine.”

Fruits Preserved

[Before there was refrigeration]

As grapes and other fruits were such an important part of the food of the ancients, they would, by necessity, invent methods for preserving them fresh. Josephus, the first century historian, in his Jewish Wars, book VII, ch. VIII, s. 4, makes mention of Herod’s fortress in Israel, called Masada, “For here was laid up grain in large quantities, enough to enable an army to survive for a long time: here was also wine and oil in abundance, with all kinds of herbs, vegetables and dates heaped up together. These products were also fresh and full ripe, and in no way inferior to such fruits newly laid in, although they had been there almost 100 years.”

In a footnote William Whiston, the translator, says: “Pliny (AD 27-79) and others confirm this strange paradox, that provisions laid up against sieges will continue good for 104 years, as Spanheim also notes upon this place.” Such facts regarding long preservation of fruit and other food are confirmed by many other historians.

Swinburn says, “In Spain they also have the secret for preserving grapes sound and juicy from one season to another.”

E. C. Delevon states that when he was in Florence, Italy, “Signor Pippine, one of the largest wine manufacturers, told me that he at that time had in his lofts, for the use of his own table, until the next harvest, a quantity of grapes sufficient to make 100 gallons of wine; that grapes could always be had, at any time of the year, to make any desirable quantity; and that there was nothing in the way of obtaining the fruit of the vine free from fermentation in wine countries at any period. A large basket of grapes was sent to my lodgings, which were as delicious, and looked as fresh, as if recently taken from the vines, though they had been picked for months.”

Fermentation Prevented

Professor Donovan, in his writing on domestic economy, mentions three methods by which all fermentation can be prevented:

“1. Grape juice will not ferment when the air is completely excluded from it.

“2. The juice may be boiled, thereby evaporating the water. The substance thus becomes a syrup, which if very thick will not ferment.

“3. If the juice is filtered and deprived of its gluten; or yeast, the production of alcohol will be impossible.” —Anti-Bacchus, p. 162.

Also, if the juice is kept below 45 degrees (in water or underground) it will not ferment.

Four methods were used by the ancients to keep their new wine from fermenting:

Boiling and Thickening

By this process the water is evaporated, thus leaving so large a portion of sugar that fermentation is prevented. “By boiling, the juice of the richest grape loses all of its aptitude for fermentation, and may afterwards be preserved for years without undergoing any further change.” —Elements of Chemistry, Herman Boerhave.

Liebig says, “The natural law causing organic substances to pass into a state of decay is annihilated in all cases by heating to the boiling point.” The grape juice boils at 212 degrees; but alcohol evaporates at 170 degrees, which is 42 degrees below the boiling point. So then, if any possible portion of alcohol was in the juice, this process would expel it. All yeast, which would cause fermentation, is also destroyed by boiling. The obvious object of boiling the juice was to preserve it sweet and fit for use during the year. The boiling continued for several hours until ¼ to ½ of the water had boiled away. Water was later added to the syrup when the host desired to serve new wine.

Some of the celebrated Opimian wine, mentioned by Pliny had, two centuries after its production, the consistency of honey. Professor Donovan says, “In order to preserve their wines to these ages, the Romans concentrated the must or grape juice, of which they were made, by evaporation, either spontaneous in the air or over a fire, and so much so as to render them thick and syrupy.”

Horace, born 65 BC, says, “There is no wine sweeter to drink than Lesopian. It is like nectar, and resembles ambrosia more than wine. It is perfectly harmless, and will not produce intoxication.” —Anti-Bacchus p. 220.

“The Mishna states that the Jews were in the habit of using boiled wine.” —Kitto, Volume II, p. 477.

W. C. Brown, who traveled extensively in Africa, Egypt, and Syria from AD 1792 to 1798, states, “Most of the wines of Syria are prepared by boiling immediately after they are pressed from the grape, until they are considerably reduced in quantity, when they are put into jars or large bottles and preserved for use.” He adds, “There is reason to believe that this mode of boiling was a general practice among the ancients.”

“It is observable that when sweet juices are boiled down to a thick consistency, they not only do not ferment in that state, but are not easily brought into fermentation even when diluted with as much water as they had lost in the evaporation.” —Caspar Neuman, MD, professor of chemistry.

Filtration

By filtration, the gluten or yeast is separated from the juice of the grape. While the juice will pass through the filtering implements, the gluten will not, and, being thus separated, the necessary conditions of fermentation are destroyed. The ancient writers, when speaking of the removal of the vim, vi, vires, that is, the potency or fermentable power of the wine, use the following strong words: eunuchrum, castratum, effaeminatum–thus expressing the thoroughness of the process by which all fermentation was destroyed. Plutarch, born AD 60, in his Symposium, says: “Wine is rendered old or feeble in strength when it is frequently filtered. The strength or spirit being thus excluded, the wine neither inflames the brain nor infests the mind and the passions, and is much more pleasant to drink.”

Again, Pliny said, “Wines were rendered old and castrated or deprived of all their vigor by filtering.”

Captain Treat, in 1845, wrote, “When on the south coast of Italy, I inquired particularly about the wines in common use, and found that those esteemed the best were sweet and unintoxicating. The boiled juice of the grape is in common use in Sicily. The Calabrians keep their intoxicating and unintoxicating wines in separate compartments. From inquiries, I found that unfermented wines were esteemed the most. These wines were drunk mixed with water. Great pains were taken in the vintage season to have a good stock of them laid by. The grape juice was filtered two or three times, and then bottled, and some put in casks and buried in the earth–some kept in water (to prevent fermentation).” Dr. Lees’ Works, Vol. II, p. 144.

Subsidence

[Meaning, to sink or fall to the bottom; settle]

The gluten may be so effectually separated from the juice by subsidence as to prevent fermentation. The gluten, being heavier than the juice, will settle to the bottom by its own weight if the must can be kept from fermentation for a limited period. If the juice is kept at a temperature below 45 degrees, it will not ferment. The juice being kept cool, the gluten will settle to the bottom, and the juice when siphoned off, and thus deprived of the gluten, cannot ferment.

“They plunge the casks, immediately after they are filled from the vat, into water, until winter has passed away and the wine has acquired the habit of being cold.” Kitto, II, 955; A.-B. 217; Smith’s Antiquities. Being kept below 45 degrees, the gluten settled to the bottom, and thus fermentation was prevented.

Columella gives a recipe: “That your must may always be as sweet as when it is new, proceed in this way: Before you apply the press to the fruit, take the must that has already flowed from the grapes, put into a new amphora [jar], bung it up, and cover it very carefully with pitch, lest any water should enter; then immerse it in a cistern or pond of pure cold water, and allow no part of the amphora to remain above the surface. After 40 days, take it out, and it will remain sweet for a year.” He no doubt inferred that the pure wine was to be poured off from the gluten that had settled to the bottom. This wine would again be sealed airtight and kept cool in the ground or water until used. These ancients had underground cellars where their wines and other foods were preserved.

Fumigation

Dr. Ure states that fermentation may be stopped by the application or admixture of substances containing sulphur. Adams, in his Roman Antiquities, on the authority of Pliny and others, says, “The Romans fumigated their wines with the fumes of sulphur; they also mixed with the mustum (the newly pressed juice) yokes of eggs and other articles containing sulphur.”

In all these extracts, the writers call the grape juice wine, whether boiled, filtered, subsided or fumigated.

Wine With Water

There is abundance of evidence that the ancients mixed their wines with water. Not because they were so strong with alcohol as to require dilution, but because, being rich syrups, they needed water to prepare them for drinking.

According to Lightfoot, the Passover was celebrated with nonalcoholic wine mixed with water. Each person, man, woman and child drank four cups. After celebrating the Passover with His disciples, Christ took the bread and wine that remained and instituted the Lord’s supper. The wine was, we believe, the rich syrup diluted with water. This kind of wine met all the requirements of the law concerning leaven. The true rendering of matsah, according to Dr. F.R. Lees, means unfermented things. It therefore refers not only to bread.

Classification Of Wines

The careful reader of the Bible will notice that in a number of cases wine is simply mentioned without anything in the context to determine its character. He will notice another class, which unmistakably denotes the bad character of the beverage. There is also a third class, whose character is clearly designated as good.

Bad Wine

This class of texts refers to wine:

1. As the cause of intoxication. This is not disputed.

2. As the cause of violence and woe. Prov. 4:17; 23:29-30.

3. As the cause of self-security and irreligion. Isa. 28:7; 56:12; Hab. 2:5.

4. As poisonous and destructive. Prov. 23:31.

5. As condemning those who are devoted to drink. Isa. 5:22; 1 Cor. 6:10.

6. As the emblem of punishment and of eternal ruin. Psa. 60:3; 75:8; Is 51:17; Jer. 25:15; Rev. 14:10; 16:19.

Good Wine

I turn now to another class of texts which speak with approval of a wine whose character is good, and which is commended as a blessing.

1. To be presented at the altar as an offering to God. Num. 18:12; Neh. 10:37, 39; 13:5, 12.

2. Is classed among the blessings, the comforts, the necessities of life. Gen. 27:28; Deut. 7:13; 11:14; Isa. 65:8; Joel 3:18.

3. Is the emblem of spiritual blessings. Isa. 55:1; Psa. 104:15.

4. Is the emblem of the blood of the atonement, by which we receive forgiveness of sins and eternal blessedness. Matt. 26:26-28; 1 Cor. 10:16.

In all the passages where good wine is named, there is no indication of warning, nor intimation of danger, no hint of disapproval, but always of decided approval.

How bold and strong is the contrast: The one the cause of intoxication, of violence, and of woes. The other the occasion of comfort and peace. The one the cause of irreligion and of self-destruction. The other the devout offering of piety on the altar of God. The one the symbol of the divine wrath. The other the symbol of spiritual blessings. The one the emblem of eternal damnation. The other the emblem of eternal salvation.

“The distinction in quality between the good and the bad wine is as clear as between good and bad men, or good and bad spirits; for one is the constant subject of warning, designated poison, both literally and figuratively, while the other is commended as refreshing and innocent, which no alcoholic wine is.” Lees’ Appendix, p. 232.

Can it be that these blessings and curses refer to the same beverage, and that an intoxicating liquor? Dr. Nott says: “Can the same thing, in the same state, be both good and bad; a symbol of wrath, and a symbol of mercy; a thing to be sought after, and a thing to be avoided? Certainly not. And is the Bible, then, inconsistent with itself? Again, certainly not!”

Professor M. Stuart says: “My final conclusion is this: Whenever the scriptures speak of wine as a comfort, a blessing, or a libation to God, and rank it with such articles as grain and oil, they mean, and they can only mean the wines that contained no alcohol that could have a harmful effect; that wherever they denounce it, and connect it with drunkenness and revelling, they can mean only alcoholic or intoxicating wine.”

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As we set sail into the sea of glass (Word of God) searching for the truth concerning Judas, let us begin in Matthew the 10th chapter. This entire chapter deals with the Lord calling, choosing, equipping, instructing, and sending the twelve disciples.

“And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits.” Matt. 10:1. In Luke 10:19, Jesus said unto the seventy, “I give unto you power…over all the power of the enemy.”

Jesus does not give power to unsaved people who are not of His kingdom, only to those who are blood-washed. He gave the disciples power against unclean spirits, to cast them out. How in the name of good common sense could an unsaved man (unclean spirit) cast out unclean spirits? Matt. 10:8 tells us that the disciples–this included Judas Iscariot–were sent by Jesus to cast out devils. Please read Acts 19 concerning the vagabond exorcists who thought they would cast out devils without the salvation of Jesus working in their hearts. They not only failed, but were beaten and wounded.

“And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan?” Mark 3:22-23. The scriptures are very clear that an unsaved man cannot cast out unclean, devilish spirits, on account of, he is a part of the same sinful kingdom (Matt. 12:26). Jesus did not send the devil to fight the devil but sent saved men of God.

Consider this, and the Lord give thee understanding. Many teach Jesus called, chose, and sent a man named Judas Iscariot to preach the gospel, who was not saved. If that be so, then Jesus of Nazareth is a liar and no Saviour at all, for He has said in His own Word, “A bishop [minister] then must be blameless.” 1 Tim 3:2. “For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God.” Titus 1:7.

Does not the scripture read in Acts 1:20 concerning Judas, “and his bishoprick let another take.” Judas was a bishop appointed by the Son of God. Listen to the words of the scriptures, “a bishop must be blameless.” They are saying, a bishop must be saved! Precious soul, I proclaim to you, Jesus did not lie. He called, chose, and sent a saved man named Judas Iscariot. Acts 1:17 states, “for he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.”

In Matt. 10:8 Jesus told Judas Iscariot, “freely ye have received, freely give.” Judas and the eleven had received everything available for the work of ministry and apostleship, which includes salvation. Do we desire the truth from heaven or a concoction brewed up by man?

The facts of the matter are very clear. Judas was called, chosen, equipped, and sent by the great Shepherd of the sheep, as an ambassador of Christ. Judas was a saved man who along the way allowed the devil to have place in his heart. “Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.” Luke 22:3.

Acts 1:25 states that Judas by transgression fell. Someone who is not saved (living in sin) cannot by transgression fall because they are already at the bottom. Only saved people can by transgression fall. The Bible speaks of falling from grace in Gal. 5:4. You cannot fall from grace if you have no grace, for by grace are ye saved (Eph. 2:5).

“And I say unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church…” Matt. 16:18. Jesus stated that He would build His church. What type of material does the Bible show He built with? May we start looking where all good structures start, the foundation.

“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 2 Tim. 2:19. “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” Eph. 2:19-22.

Jesus never attempted to build the church of God with sinners and hypocrites as the religious world would have you believe. “The Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:47. Only those who are blood-washed will be used in this holy temple. Do these scriptures mean nothing to the proponents of the “once saved always saved” lie?

“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” 1 Pet 2:5.

As the followers of Jesus, are we to believe that He once again disobeyed His own word and laid the foundation of the church with a dead stone named Judas? What ludicrous formulations have been devised to promote the devil’s cause! For the scripture saith, “The wages of sin is death.” Jesus is the life and would never be found building with death.

“And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers…” 1 Cor. 12:28.

I read no place in the Holy Writ where it conceives the idea that God set an unsaved man (hypocrite) in the office of a minister. Where then does this teaching find its origin? I have located only one scripture in the Bible that it could have ascended from and that is Rev. 9:2. The bottomless pit most assuredly has given birth to this doctrine of the devil, which has darkened the way of truth and led countless millions to hell. Concerning the doctrine of “once saved always saved” we must say that it is most assuredly found in the Bible. Turn to Genesis chapter three to find the birth of this teaching and its teacher (Gen. 3:1-4).

God said not to eat of it or touch it or they would die. The devil said, “Ye shall not surely die.” Thus we have here a vivid account of the origin of “once saved always saved.” One of the most effectual and venomous strikes the serpent ever made occurred as he taught Eve the “once saved always saved doctrine.” As we look around today, we see the serpent has not been slack to slither into every pulpit possible to spew this poison. The ringhals cobra and a small black-necked African cobra that spray jets of venom at the eyes of an aggressor, most vividly portray the viperous clergy of today, who have spiritually blinded the eyes of precious souls–souls, who no doubt at one time desired to see Jesus with true holiness, but now eat freely of the forbidden fruit, feeling no harm to conscience. Concerning sin, their consciences had been pacified and some even seared, by the echoing words of a hireling ministry, “Ye shall not surely die.”

Oh, how I thank God, that in this end time there is a ministry equipped with a rod and staff that is eating the serpent of Pharaoh’s magicians and also comforting the Lord’s sheep.

According to the two witnesses (Word and Spirit), God has never ordained an unclean minister. Meaning, He has never called, chosen, and sent an unsaved man to do the work of the ministry. Listen to the cry of the inspired Word of God, “Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord” (Isa 52:11). God only calls preachers who are chaste and virtuous for His service.

“And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it.” Isa. 35:8a.

“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Jn. 8:12.

In Rev. 1:16 it is stated that Jesus has seven stars in His right hand. Verse 20 explains that these stars are angels or ministers of the seven churches that Bro. John addressed letters to. These ministers are flaming beacons of light, fueled by the fire of the Holy Ghost (Matt. 3:11; Heb. 1:7), for the purpose of guiding lost souls to Christ. Are we to believe that Jesus had a dead star in His hand at the beginning of the gospel dispensation? The answer is emphatically, No! The truth of the matter is, Judas was a brightly burning star who fell to the earth and was thus extinguished.

Let us now consider the star that replaced this fallen one (Acts 1:20-26). Verse 24, “Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen.” They were interested in the heart. Why? “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness.” They were the most concerned that his heart was qualified for this office. They knew Jesus would never choose one whose heart was not right, much less, one who was not even saved.

Today’s so-called churches are more concerned that one’s head has been qualified by some Bible college than that the heart has been qualified by the blood of Jesus. Hence, have heaped upon themselves teachers having itching ears (2 Tim. 4:3-4). It is truly amazing the swarms of gnats people strain at and the vast herds of camels they will swallow to substantiate their false doctrines.

Precious soul, awake to righteousness and listen to God-given reasoning. If Jesus ordained an unsaved man named Judas into the ministry, then we are to do the same, for the scripture states in 1 Pet. 2:21 that we should follow His steps. If one believes such foolishness, then there is no censorship at all, for anyone can be allowed to step behind the sacred desk. Dear ones, open your ears and hear the infallible Word of God, “Know them which labor among you.” 1 Thess. 5:12.

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matt 22:14. Please remember that Judas was not only called, but also chosen.

“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life.” John 5:39. Look into the scriptures with us at how careful Jesus was in the calling and choosing process.

“And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Mark 10:17. The true church of God is not taking all that come running to her. Verse 21 says that Jesus beholding him loved him. We also, as the Lord’s church, love every soul that runs to us, but we love them as Christ did. We love them enough to tell them the truth (take up the cross and follow). False religion solicits souls with spaghetti dinners, activities, impressive gymnasiums and entertainment centers. The Lord’s true church will not follow her ways. It will not lower the standard that Jesus taught. You will have to sell out and embrace the cross of Calvary to take the true way.

Look at what a stickler Jesus was in recruiting laborers for the work of His kingdom–“One thing thou lackest.” Could not Jesus have overlooked this one thing and taken him in? The false prophets of our day would have immediately taken him in to gain from his wealth. Yes, this young man received a call but was not chosen. What a great calamity exists in our day regarding the multitudes who have received a call but not paid the price for election. Nevertheless, they go forth proclaiming to have been chosen.

The facts of this topic are very clear. Judas was a saved man who allowed the devil to enter his heart. He then committed treason against his Lord and by transgression fell. The devil had him snared in such deep guilt and deception that it led him to his suicide. Acts 1:25 states, “that he might go to his own place.” Dear ones, we are free moral agents and will choose our place in eternity. The sad consequences of Judas Iscariot led him to hell, the place of his choosing. Please hear what the great Judge of all has to say concerning suicide: “And ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” 1 John 3:15.

“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition…Wherefore let him that standeth take heed lest he fall.” 1 Cor. 10:11-12.

More thoughts and texts could be multiplied to prove that Judas was a saved man, sent to preach the gospel; a man who fell from grace by transgression and landed in hell. Notwithstanding, what more could be said than what God hath said, “a bishop must be blameless.” May we let God be true and every one who deems it necessary to refute His holy Word, a liar (Rom. 3:4). &

By Robert Bourn

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While the early morning church “turned the world upside down,” we see that mainstream Christianity has been turned upside down by the world.  In an effort to “win the people to Christ” and to “make attractive the way,” the cost of discipleship has been lowered, “equally costly faith” is not so costly anymore, and the narrow way has been comfortably broadened to accommodate those who falter at too much “straitness.”

It seems they are intent on paving the smoothest road to heaven that they can, taking out all the “bumps” for those who aren’t fully convinced that the way of the cross is worth leaving the world for anyway.

Intellectual minds have re-evaluated things and concluded that to win the world, you must reach them on their level.  Hence, they evince a brand of “love” which spares all judgment, tolerates sin and error, and will work all manner of compromises to reach the masses in such a way so as not to make them feel that the gospel will place any requirements upon them.  This is a far cry from those radical prophets of old who dared to “cry aloud and spare not,” in order to show the people their transgressions!

Just think, had the martyrs of old such “wisdom” as this, they could have avoided their martydom!  What reproach they could have been spared!  How congenial would have been their path!

Within the clime of the church-world today, the conscience rules and the opinions of man prevail. Methods have been learned and their attendance records convince them, that in this modern day, a new approach to soul-winning is necessary. After all, “he that winneth souls is wise.”

Self-proclaimed prophets of today insist that this is effective evangelism.  They have decided to give the young people three parts volleyball and skating, to one part Bible study, and instead of the old-fashioned way of telling them to separate from worldly music, whether rock n’ roll or rap, they just change the words, but keep the beat.  There will be some “hip” new converts before you know it!  Just tell the people how much Jesus loves them–don’t offend them with specifics concerning conduct or dress.  And please, do not be narrow-minded concerning doctrine, because that would hinder the ecumenical flow.

But what are we going to do about the Bible?  It states, “BE NOT CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD.”  God was the inspiration behind these words.  When did the God who changes not, change?

Under divine inspiration, the apostle went on to say, “be ye TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2).  This is a most concerning point, for though their parking lots are getting filled, it is difficult to find in the lives of their adherents, the proof of deep, divine transformation of heart and mind.  Herein lies the separating factor for a true child of God.  Can someone be divinely transformed, a new creature in Christ, and yet remain so interested in the world, so tolerant and “understanding” of its sins, and so shallow when it comes to having real Bible convictions?

The problem is, this exercise of human wisdom has not produced divine results.  It has created a religious breed with no real Holy Ghost power, who are unaquainted with the cross and its attending glory. The world looking on is unconvinced, even mocking.

This “evangelism” will never produce a people of early morning stock. There is no resemblance.

But the hardy brand of Christianity, that which is pure and undefiled, and, do not forget, also “unspotted from the world,” is of no such temper.  It will still make an issue of sin, with very distinct lines, though they be accused of having a harsh spirit.  It never has become a friend to the world, but reproves it.  It is actuated by the Holy Ghost, and all of its loves and hates are borne of Him.

One writer stated, “The men who move the world are the ones who do not let the world move them.”  These, I say, are great men; men who know and fear their God; men who will stand up and say, “Thus saith the Lord!” though the whole world be offended;  men who love souls enough to bear their wrath in an effort to save them from eternal hell.

This “seem right” way is seeming more right to people all the time, but God does not negotiate with the world. He calls it to repentance, and points out the only path to heaven that there is–the one that is still strait and narrow, which only those who have been crucified with Christ can walk upon. &

By Susan Mutch

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Awake, and think of where you are, and where you are going. While you are in your unconverted, unbelieving state, all your sins are unpardoned, and the wrath of God abides on you. Suppose you saw a poor creature hanging over a burning fiery furnace, by nothing but a slender thread, about to break at any moment, would not your hearts ache for such a one? Sirs, it is your very case. You hang over the infernal burnings by nothing but the small thread of your lives, while you know not but it may break the next moment, and then where are you? Is this a state for you to go on contentedly and merrily in?

What condition is your soul now in? Are you changed and renewed by conversion, or not? Have you been soundly and savingly changed, both in heart and life? Where are your evidences? Can you show the marks of the Lord Jesus upon your souls? Where was the place? What were the means? When was the time that your soul was thoroughly renewed? At least, if you cannot show the time, place, or means, can you prove the thing? Can you say one thing I know, that I was blind, but I now see? Be not deceived. Nothing will avail you to salvation, except you become new creatures.

What if you should lose your soul? This is very possible. Yea, it is the case of the most. There are but few of the children of men that escape safe to heaven. Beware of your danger. Suppose a man were to travel through some perilous wilderness, having but one jewel in all the world, in which his all was bound. Oh, in what fear would this traveller go, lest he should lose this jewel and be robbed of all at once! Why, you are the man; this traveller is yourself; this jewel is your soul; this is this world you are to travel through–swarms of sins, legions of devils, and a whole world of temptations; these are the robbers that lie in wait for your soul. And if all that these can do can keep you out of heaven, you shall never enter there. Oh! what if your pride or worldliness, your delays and triflings in religion, should at last betray your soul into the robbers’ hands? Other losses may be repaired, but your soul being once lost, God is lost, Christ is lost, heaven is lost, all lost for evermore.

What do you do for your soul? What! have you an immortal soul to care for, and look no better after it, and bestow no more time or pains upon it, no more of your thoughts about it? So it may be said of many that are early and late at their worldly business, but let the care of religion lay by neglected. What! have these men no souls? Why, man! have you a soul, and yet do so little from day to day, for it? O sleeper, arise, call upon God, that you perish not. What will become of your soul, if you look to it only at this careless rate?

If God should this night require your soul where would death land you? There was one that promised himself many merry days and years (Lk. 12:19-20), as it is likely you do, but that same night God called for his soul. Are you prepared? Are you fit to die? O, dare not live in such a case, nor in that course, in which you would not dare to die.

Go then to Christ, seek the pardon of your sins through His death, commit your soul into His hands, believe in Him, and then His happiness shall be yours. But go, I beseech you, without delay.

What do you intend to do? Will you go on and die, or will you set upon a thorough and speedy conversion, and lay hold on eternal life? “How long will ye halt between two opinions?” Have you not yet resolved whether Christ or Barabbas, whether bliss or torment, whether this vain and wretched world, or the Paradise of God, be the better choice? Is it a disputable case, whether the vile puddle of sin is to be preferred before the water of life? Why stand wavering? When will you come to a fixed, firm, and full resolve? Do not you see how Satan cheats you by tempting you to delays? How long has he drawn you on in the way of perdition?

“Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation: today if you will hear his voice, harden not your heart.” Why should you venture a day longer in this dangerous and dreadful condition? What if God should this night require your soul! Others have had their day and have received their doom, and now you are brought upon the stage of this world. If you make not a wise choice now, you are undone forever.

And is it true indeed? Are life and death at your choice? Why, then, what hinders but that you should be happy? Nothing can hinder, but your own wilful neglect or refusal. So I may say to you, See, here is Christ, here is mercy, pardon, life – what hinders but that you should be pardoned and saved?

One of the martyrs, as he was praying at the stake, had his pardon set by him in a box, which indeed he refused rightly, because upon unworthy terms, but here the terms are most honourable and easy. O sinner! will you burn with your pardon by you? Consent to Christ, renounce your sins, deny yourself, take up the yoke and the cross, and you carry the day; Christ is yours. Pardon, peace, life, blessedness, are all yours. Is not this an offer worth embracing? Why should you hesitate or doubtfully dispute about the case? Is it not past controversy whether God be better than sin, and glory than vanity? Why should you forsake your own mercy and sin against your own life?

Away with your sins, and come unto Him, lest devouring wrath overtake you. Ho, every profane sinner, come in and live. Return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy on you. “Though thy sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow: and though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’’

—Abridged and the Old English has been modernized.

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