Menu
Finney | Moody | Graham | Hyles |
---|
In the last 150 years, the basis or evidence of eternal life has been reduced from a changed life to merely naming Jesus in a rote prayer. Charles Finney originated the heresy; D.L. Moody perpetuated it; Billy Graham popularized it; and Jack Hyles profaned it.
Wise men call this heresy decisional regeneration, easy-believism, or fire insurance. They watch 'converts' rush back to the world without any evidence of grace in their lives. These four men were partial in the Bible, infatuated with the human will, obsessed with numbers and popularity, and their preaching has corrupted Bible Christianity. Their 'converts' presume salvation by a cheap decision for heaven.
The error spawned the Lordship controversy of the last two decades, where teachers of this heresy reject even basic repentance or commitment to Christ as part of salvation. But the Lord Jesus Christ and His apostles preached a very different doctrine, which required good works as the essential basis and evidence of eternal life.
Preface
We are not saved by our works as a condition for eternal life, for it is an unconditional gift by the free grace of a sovereign God; but our good works are the evidence of eternal life for our own assurance and to be well pleasing to the God Who has thus saved us.
'Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;
but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.'
Matthew 7:21
but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.'
Matthew 7:21
'Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now
much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For
it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.'
Philippians 2:12-13
much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For
it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.'
Philippians 2:12-13
'For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works,
which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.'
Ephesians 2:10
which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.'
Ephesians 2:10
'Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.'
James 2:24
James 2:24
'Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling
and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.'
II Peter 1:10
and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.'
II Peter 1:10
Why Preach It?
1. To provoke believers to labor to be accepted by their electing Father (II Cor 5:9).
2. To save the saints from the heresies of decisional regeneration and easy-believism.
3. To follow the truth between the two ditches regarding the Lordship controversy.
4. To condemn the sola fide (faith only) errors of both the Calvinists and Arminians.
5. To remember that justification by faith and justification by works are both true.
6. To contrast cheap sound bites perverted from the Bible with its real statements.
7. To provide a full description of the inspired evidence for assurance of eternal life.
8. To emphasize the character and works of the righteous that the Bible emphasizes.
9. To correct any foolish notion that God's children may live any way they so wish.
10. To answer and defend against false accusations by any that we are antinomians.
11. To stress the Bible's emphasis on good works as the remedy for God's chastening.
12. To correct wrong emphasis on the Great Commission by emphasizing godliness.
13. To stress godliness against the save-the-lost-at-any-cost compromise evangelism.
14. To fulfill my ministerial charge from my apostle to stress good works (Titus 3:8).
These heretics use Romans 10:13 as cotton candy to offer eternal life and heaven to anyone who will mouth the word 'Lord.' As soon as the person mumbles 'Lord,' or merely 'Jesus,' the soul winner guarantees their salvation no matter how they may live or die! All they have to do is remember the date of their decision!
But look at what Jesus and the apostles taught! Saying 'Lord' did not prove a thing! It was living for the Lord that counted! If you do not have much fruit and good works, you have no evidence of eternal life!
'Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord,
shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he
that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.'
Matthew 7:21
'And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and
do not the things which I say?'
Luke 6:46
'Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed:
and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord,
but by the Holy Ghost.'
I Corinthians 12:3
This study is to provide many passages of scripture to correct the false and foolish notion that a decision for Jesus is the basis and evidence of eternal life rather than a changed life with the fruit and good works commanded and described in the Bible. Sermons by this title were preached at the Church of Greenville in the summer of 2004 and the fall of 2010. May the God of truth guide us into all truth, especially concerning salvation.
Only eight souls believed Noah's doctrine of salvation. We do not care who or how many have chosen manmade theories against scripture, for we only trust 'thus saith the Lord.'
Let God be true, but every man liar (Romans 3:4).
Salvation by Works
- Introduction:
- We hold a different doctrine of salvation than other churches in this city forming the buckle of the Bible Belt.
- Eternal life is an unconditional gift.
- Bible passages must be rightly divided.
- You should understand the doctrine of salvation, rejoice in its gracious nature, and be able to defend the truth.
- The horrible disease of easy-believism, promising eternal life for mere decisions, has corrupted Christianity.
- There are two primary goals for this sermon: decisional salvation is heresy; and true saints will bear fruit.
- A Doctrine from Hell
- From the beginning, man has wanted to save himself, whether by fig leaves, Moses' law, or freewill.
- The heresy of decisional regeneration, or decisional salvation, is the rage in these perilous times.
- They say, God loves every sinner so much; Jesus died for each one; the Spirit convicts each one … and eternal life is left up to whatever influences can be combined to elicit a decision for Jesus.
- Jesus will have to stop praise in His direction in heaven and redirect it toward these little saviors!
- Rather than focus on what the triune God did for the elect, they put all the attention and emphasis on what a sinner does when presented with the gospel, as if this is the only determining factor.
- All a sinner must do is believe on Jesus, call on Jesus, invite Jesus into his heart, make a decision for Jesus, accept Jesus as his personal Savior, or other decision formula in order to be born again.
- Once he is born again, with the decision date guaranteeing his perpetual assurance, he knows he is saved no matter what, for 'once saved, always saved.' Instant salvation instead of pudding!
- You must hear their invitations! 'There is nothing you can do … all you have to do is … it is so easy to be saved in the next few seconds … you can know tonight you will never go to hell …'
- This sacramental, hocus-pocus, numbers-driven, man-exalting, God-denying, sin-allowing, repentance-rejecting, and holiness-hating scheme is devilish heresy. It is not from the Bible.
- Charles G. Finney got the whole mess going, and Billy Graham did the most to popularize it.
- They invented the 'Romans Road,' but the road never gets to sanctification (chapters 6-8,12-16), so it always misses the verses showing the holy and righteous character of the truly saved.
- They are constantly inventing gimmicks like the wordless book, emotional stories, endless invitations, peer pressure, Christian schools, bus ministries, athletic teams, etc., etc., etc.
- We know without a doubt that God must regenerate before sinners will do anything right at all, for they cannot hear or discern the things of the Spirit of God, and they will not come to Christ.
- Most Christians never hear a sermon stressing good works and their necessity, for topics are socialism (liberals), entertainment (megas), or the Great Commission (fundamentalists).
- This lie from hell has gone so far as to create a lordship controversy rejecting the duty of repentance.
- It is hard enough to believe that a Bible reader or preacher could think that eternal life depends on a personal decision by a natural man to become spiritual and choose Jesus and His gospel.
- But many today of this effeminate sort even reject decisions for Jesus that include repentance or confessing Jesus as Lord in the prayer formula! They call it legalism and deny any saving power!
- They would not recognize the apostle Paul, if he sat on them and wrote out his name for them.
- They say anything beyond 'bare belief of the bare truth' is salvation by works! What ignorance!
- You better believe it, because the lordship controversy has been a raging conflict in many circles.
- They reduced salvation to a belief-decision, and now they reduce how much you have to believe, because they are trying to make salvation as infantile as possible while ignoring the Saviour!
- Charles Ryrie, in Balancing the Christian Life, wrote, 'The importance of this question cannot be overestimated in relation to both Salvation and Sanctification. The message of faith only and the message of faith plus commitment of life cannot both be the gospel; therefore one of them is false and comes under the curse of perverting the gospel or preaching another gospel,' (p. 170).
- Ray Stamford, in Handbook of Personal Evangelism, wrote, 'Any teaching that demands a change of conduct toward either God or man for salvation is to add works or human effort to faith, and this contradicts all Scripture and is an accursed message.'
- Zane Hodges, in Absolutely Free, wrote 'Faith alone (not repentance and faith) is the sole condition for justification and eternal life' (p. 144).
- Robert Lightner, in Sin, Salvation, and the Savior, wrote, 'These views - the absolutely free gift view and the lordship view cannot both be right. They are mutually exclusive. The Bible teaches one or the other or neither, but it cannot teach both without contradicting itself.'
- Most believe that if unconditional election were true, men would have no motive to live for Christ.
- They get all excited about reconciling God's sovereignty and man's responsibility by gimmicks.
- 'The door into heaven says, 'Whosoever will,' and on the other side says, 'Chosen in Christ.'
- 'God's sovereignty and man's responsibility are like the two rails of a railroad track … meeting far out in the distance.' But we respond that we will not ride on a train where the tracks meet!
- Their idea is lascivious, for it promises life to reprobates and crushes the righteous (Ezek 13:22).
- They accuse us of being antinomians (lawless rejecters of good works), as a slur against election.
- We know that those ridiculing holy living by virtue of election are damned souls (Romans 3:8).
- Those holding God's sovereignty and sacramentalism, called Reformed, cry sola fide (faith only)!
- Faith only! It may be true with careful description in limited contexts, but it feeds decisionalism!
- Faith without works is dead, so blabbing about faith only had better be restrained to Judaizers.
- We know Paul's contrast of faith and works was to condemn Judaizers, not teach decisionalism.
- He did not teach decisionalism, as James proves, but rather rejected Jews revering Moses' law.
- Those holding God's sovereignty and teaching unconditional eternal life often neglect man's duties, so they are a stain on the truth of the gospel by being practical fatalists toward human responsibility.
- Man's duties are not for eternal life, but God's salvation is not for man to live as he pleases.
- Some Primitive Baptists end up with most or all humanity elect and regenerate, without works.
- These are the true antinomians, for they consider most of the world's fools and pagans as elect.
- The popular use of Scripture is to grab sound bites with little regard for any context or honest sense.
- Consider John 1:12. Why use only half a sentence? They reject God's choice in regeneration.
- Consider John 6:37. Why use only half a verse? They cannot stand God's election in Christ.
- Consider John 6:47. Does it give a condition? Or does it state a fact? Why make it a condition?
- Consider Revelation 3:20. It is totally unrelated to salvation: it is addressed to church members.
- Consider Matthew 24:13. It is unrelated to salvation: it is about the destruction of Jerusalem.
- Whether Arminians with Revelation 3:20 or Calvinists with Matthew 24:13, both are wrong.
- Arminians beg sinners to invite Jesus in, while Calvinists define saving faith … both are wrong!
- Both think the Great Commission is the greatest duty of believers and substitute it for the godly living and good works that the N.T. epistles emphasize while totally ignoring the Commission.
- Their errors in the scriptures should not surprise us, as most Calvinists cannot figure out the simple doctrine of baptism; most Arminians cannot understand the use of wine; and both of them are without a clue regarding Christmas, prophecies in Daniel 8; Matthew 24; II Thess 2; etc., etc.
- While the heresy of these pernicious doctrines and practices is obvious, we seek fair use of Scripture.
- Our issue is this: if sound bites with faith convict them to promote decisional regeneration and easy salvation, then let these sound bites of good works convict them to promote holy living!
- Their doctrine of salvation is so distorted and twisted; we simply want to help get them balanced.
- If sound bites with faith attached to salvation require faith as a condition for eternal life, then these sounds bites with good works attached to salvation require good works as a condition also.
- If we are honest, only the Campbellites, the so-called Church of Christ, consistently includes works in their salvation scheme, which leads them to lose their salvation for every act of sin.
- You better figure out the fatal difference between calling on the name of the Lord and calling Him Lord, before it is everlastingly too late (Rom 10:13; Matt 7:21; Luke 6:46; I Cor 12:3)!
- A Doctrine from Heaven
- The doctrine of salvation in the Bible does not put any stock at all in a man's momentary decision.
- There are seven Bible reasons why we categorically reject any such decisional salvation scheme.
- There are five phases of salvation, and four of those phases do not include man's will at all.
- Eternal life is entirely a gift of God according to His own purpose and will, not the will of man.
- Repentance, faith, and good works are all the fruits of regeneration and evidence of eternal life.
- In fact, love is the greatest grace and evidence of eternal life, going far beyond what devils have.
- Sinners are not saved by good works, but they cannot lay any claim to eternal life without them.
- We totally deny any meritorious value of good works toward earning eternal life from God (Rom 4:5; 9:11,16; 11:6; Eph 2:8-9; II Tim 1:9; Titus 3:5; etc., etc.).
- But we just as totally deny any assurance or evidence of eternal life without them (Jas 2:14-26).
- Salvation is without good works, but unto good works (Eph 2:8-10; Titus 3:3-8; Phil 2:12-13).
- We see the perfect reconciliation of God's sovereignty with man's responsibility in salvation.
- God is absolutely sovereign in giving eternal life unconditionally to the vessels of mercy, just as a Potter chooses what kind of vessels to make from one lump of clay (Rom 9:11-24; etc.).
- Man is fully responsible to believe and obey God and the gospel for any evidence of eternal life.
- Therefore, God is more sovereign than any Calvinist believes, and every child of God is more motivated to good works than any Arminian has ever conceived. Give God the glory for truth!
- Good works are connected to salvation throughout the whole Bible and the New Testament.
- Start with Psalm 15, where David lists the characteristic good works of God's saints in a context of abiding in His tabernacle and dwelling in His holy hill, and he uses the same inspired language of Peter that doing these things guarantees salvation (II Pet 1:10). Why is this passage not used for invitations? Why is this reference not used on placards in football end zones?
- Continue with Psalm 24, where David lists further characteristic good works of true saints in a similar context answering identical questions to Psalm 15. Note that these two psalms ignored the ceremonies and rituals of Moses' Law to emphasize practical godliness, which condemned the hypocrisy and compromise of Israel, who put all their confidence in Jewish sacramentalism.
- The gospel connects faith and repentance, which is rejecting sinful living to follow Jesus as Lord and Master of all parts of your life (Matt 3:8; Mark 1:15; 2:17; 6:12; Luke 3:3,5; 5:32; 13:3; 16:30; 24:47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 11:18; 17:30; 20:21; 26:20; Heb 6:1,6; II Pet 3:9; etc.).
- Those that enter into the kingdom of heaven are those that do the will of the Father, not merely calling on Jesus as their Lord, so Romans 10:13 is not cotton candy for reprobates (Matt 7:21).
- Jesus Christ will eternally reject all men continuing in a course of wickedness, regardless of what they call Him or have done for Him in the way of outward religious acts (Matt 7:22-23).
- The Lord Jesus had no use for those calling His name but not doing His sayings (Luke 6:46), and this rule should also be applied to those calling on God as Father without a holy life (I Pet 1:17).
- If you want to know for sure you are saved, you better do these eight things with all diligence, for the confidence of never falling and being ushered into heaven depends on you doing them (II Pet 1:5-11). Note the emphasis on diligence twice (5,10). Note identical language in Psalm 15:5. Note the total lack of any reference to a decision. Faith without adding these things is worthless.
- Paul knew the election of the Thessalonians by their work, labor, and patience, not by some decision they made in response to his preaching (I Thess 1:3-4). Let men prove their election!
- When confronted with the gospel by John, the people asked him what they should do to prove repentance and qualify for baptism, and John plainly told them (Luke 3:10-14). Note carefully that he did not tell them (1) there was nothing to do but to (2) invite Jesus into their hearts.
- God graciously works in us to will and to do of His good pleasure, but we must work out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil 2:12-13). Work it out! Fear and trembling! Where is the goofy confidence and assured arrogance of the decisionalists with their dated decision?
- The classic text for the importance of good works is James 2:14-26, where sola fide or faith only is ridiculed. The declaration is as clear as possible … justification in this context is by works!
- The rich do not look to their decision for eternal life, but rather to their giving, for it is on this basis of Christian charity that they lay up a foundation for the Day of Judgment and lay hold of eternal life (I Tim 6:17-19). They are preparing to be the sheep on his right hand (Matt 25:40).
- Paul was sure of a crown of righteousness for fighting, finishing, and keeping (II Timothy 4:7-8), rather than for some presumed decision for salvation he made on the Damascus Road.
- Our Lord's Beatitudes state heavenly rewards and blessedness for more than faith (Matt 5:1-12). Note the actions and rewards of Matt 5:3, 5:5, 5:7, 5:8, 5:9, 5:10, and 5:11. Where are decisions?
- When Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount, He condemned the least compromise in action or doctrine, which clearly states His emphasis on good works (Matt 5:16-20). See Matt 5:19 and 5:20.
- Calling your brother a fool without a justifiable cause creates the danger of hellfire (Matt 5:22). Should we ignore this warning, since a decision for Jesus is all that really matters? Once we see the warning in this text, we should consider others like I Cor 6:9-10; Revelation 21:8, etc., etc.
- If you want to be the children of God, then you need to love your enemies, now (Matt 5:43-45); we again say that love is a far greater evidence of eternal life and work of grace than faith.
- Jesus explained to a young rich man that gaining heaven required giving his wealth to the poor, which he compared to a camel going through the eye of a needle, which the disciples knew was impossible (Matt 19:16-26). Why did Jesus make the simple matter of eternal life so hard? Why? Why did he send this great prospect away without getting a decision out of him for heaven?
- Jesus was not content with men merely calling Him Saviour, for He connected forsaking your closest relatives with inheriting eternal life (Matt 19:29). This is extreme Lordship! Believe it!
- Jesus described the Day of Judgment as depending on works of charity for determining the goats on His left hand for hell and the sheep on His right for heaven (Matt 25:31-46). Why is there no mention of believing, faith, decisions, inviting Him into their hearts, getting saved, etc.?
- Jesus declared that salvation had come to a man's house, when Zacchaeus declared in repentance that he would give half his assets to the poor and restore any thefts fourfold (Luke 19:1-10). This was stated long before he made any decision to invite Jesus into his heart!
- Believing on Christ is worthless without continuing in His word, as Jesus condemned some believers as children of the devil, after He exposed them by provoking their flesh (John 8:31-47).
- The evidence of abiding in Jesus Christ is bearing much fruit to avoid His burning (John 15:5-6).
- Jesus told the church at Ephesus that the tree of life in paradise was for overcomers (Rev 2:7).
- Jesus told the church at Smyrna that avoiding the second death was for overcomers (Rev 2:11).
- Jesus told the church at Pergamos a new name unknown by men was for overcomers (Rev 2:17).
- Jesus told the church at Thyatira the morning star was for workers and overcomers (Re 2:26-28).
- Jesus told the church at Sardis white raiment and the book of life was for overcomers (Rev 3:5).
- Jesus told the church at Philadelphia that the city of Jerusalem was for overcomers (Rev 3:12).
- Jesus told the church at Laodicea that sitting in Christ's throne was for overcomers (Rev 3:21).
- Paul listed many things in order to attain to the resurrection, when most would say he could have been assured of that blessing by the decision he made on the Damascus Road (Phil 3:8-11).
- The Lord Jesus Christ is the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him, not all them that call on Him in some rote 'sinner's prayer' parsed out to them by a soul winner (Heb 5:9).
- Cornelius was commended and approved by Peter for working righteousness and being accepted with God before believing the gospel and being baptized (Acts 10:34-35).
- If a man is truly saved and in Christ Jesus, he will be a new creature practically, which does not allow for all these converts-by-decision that never show the slightest fruit (II Cor 5:17).
- Paul told Titus to be always teaching believers to be careful about good works (Titus 3:8), and the repetitive statements about this emphasis are significant with his silence about saving souls.
- Paul told his prize ministerial student to fight the good fight of faith for eternal life (I Tim 6:12).
- If we analyze and consider faith by Hebrews 11, we find that in every single case it did great things for God, rather than just believe God's existence in some lame sense as often required.
- The objects of Satan's wrath, the pure church, keep the commandments of God (Rev 12:17).
- Phinehas obtained righteousness by impaling two fornicators while others cried (Ps 106:30-31).
- God's gracious salvation of sinners in Christ is for those continuing in the faith (Col 1:21-23).
- Jude would not let false teachers he opposed get away with lascivious grace, so he closed his epistle exhorting to growth, prayer, and keeping themselves for eternal life (Jude 1:20-21).
- Jude was not content with merely getting decisions for Jesus, as he exhorted his readers to pull sinners out of the fire, hating any spots of the flesh (Jude 1:22-23). He ignored decisions.
- We are Christ's house and partakers of Christ by continuing stedfast in confidence (Heb 3:6,14).
- Paul associated sowing good works to the Holy Spirit with reaping eternal life (Gal 6:7-10).
- There is therefore now no condemnation to them who truly walk after the Spirit (Romans 8:1-9); this wonderful promise of justification is not based on a decision, but on a holy, spiritual life.
- It is the doers of God's word that are saved, not the readers or the hearers (James 1:21-25).
- It is the doers of God's word that are saved, not those who profess with their lips (I John 2:4).
- The true followers of Jesus deny themselves, bear their cross, and follow Christ (Luke 9:23).
- The true followers of Jesus hate all the dear things of this life and their lives also (Luke 14:26).
- The true followers of Jesus must bear their cross in life and follow after Christ (Luke 14:27).
- God has given commandments, and we are to do them, though they are our duty (Luke 17:10).
- Preaching Christ and baptizing only fractionally fulfills the Great Commission, yet it is their heretical notion of soul winning they emphasize to the neglect of the greater part (Mat 28:19-20).
- The resurrection of life is for those that have done good, and vice versa for evil (John 5:29).
- We need preaching that eternal life is dependent on mortifying the body's deeds (Romans 8:13).
- Suffering is necessary to be glorified with Jesus Christ, if Paul wrote inspired truth (Rom 8:17).
- Paul prayed for the Colossians to walk worthy of God in good works, not just faith (Col 1:10).
- Serving a boss heartily at work is the basis on which you receive the inheritance (Col 3:23-24).
- For a woman to be saved by Jesus, she must have faith, love, holiness, and sobriety (I Tim 2:15).
- You must endure temptation, if you wish to receive a crown of life from the Lord (James 1:12).
- You better be doing His commandments in order to have a right to the tree of life (Rev 22:14).
- Godliness, not faith, has promise of the life that now is and that which is to come (I Tim 4:8).
- Jesus is coming with mighty angels to destroy them that do not obey the gospel (II Thess 1:8).
- Paul labored to be accepted by Christ in patient endurance and zealous service (II Cor 5:9-11).
- Righteousness is the mark of the true children of God as opposed to wickedness (I John 3:4-13).
- We prove eternal life and assure our hearts before God by loving the brethren (I John 3:14-24).
- Love of the brethren is just as essential to identify true children of God as faith (I John 4:7-21).
- God accepted the prayers and alms deeds of Cornelius and told him what to do (Acts 10:1-6).
- He that believes and is baptized shall be saved, which are evidence of eternal life (Mark 16:16).
- The apostolic answer to men asking what to do is for them to repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38).
- Jesus had no use for men who believed on Him and sought Him for carnal reasons (John 6:1-71).
- True religion bridles the tongue, visits orphans and widows, and rejects the world (Jas 1:26-27).
- If faith is the hand taking the offer of salvation, why is charity greater than faith (I Cor 13:13)?
- If you want to be saved, then you must endure to the end (Matt 10:22)! Why do they ignore this sound bite? It requires too much for them. We know it is only Jerusalem's end, as in Matt 24:13.
- These examples could be multiplied until most or all of the Scriptures are used, for the message throughout is summarized by fearing God and keeping His commandments in light of coming judgment before God, when we shall give an account of our lives to Him (Eccl 12:13-14).
- The doctrine of salvation in the Bible does not put any stock at all in a man's momentary decision.
- Let God Be True
- You better figure out the fatal difference between calling on the name of the Lord and calling Him Lord, before it is everlastingly too late (Rom 10:13; Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46; I Corinthians 12:3)!
- If the jailor asked today, 'What must I do to be saved?' We would answer the same (Acts 16:30-31).
- But we know that his faith in Jesus Christ was the result of regeneration, not a condition for it.
- And believing on Christ was not the condition or instrument of eternal life, only laying hold of it.
- And we would immediately teach him the myriad of things he ought to do to add to his faith.
- And the only belief ever intended by Paul was much more than the belief of most (John 8:31).
- And like Paul, we do not solicit or allow any sinner's prayer in the dungeon before hearing truth.
- And like Paul, we would have gone home and preached repentance and Christ to his whole house before we believed and endorsed their repentance and faith as sufficient for baptism.
- Belief on the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity is the evidence that you shall be saved in the last day; it is not the condition, instrument, or means of getting regenerated or justified. Rightly divide!
- We understand faith and good works to be the evidence and result of salvation and the means for assurance of salvation, but neither are a condition or instrument of eternal life in any degree at all.
- The Bible doctrine of salvation exalts God's grace to great heights and stresses man's responsibility.
- Eternal life is totally the sovereign choice of the blessed God in all operations of grace in Christ.
- Man has no claim on eternal life without good works and cannot please Christ without them.
- Are good works necessary to salvation? Yes! They are absolutely necessary to practical salvation!
- If you don't know what practical salvation means, then learn the five phases of salvation.
- Our good works are not involved at all in God's four phases of our salvation, only in our phase.
- But there is no evidence God has worked a single phase of salvation in you without good works.
- Conclusion:
- It is one thing to know and understand salvation by works, but it is another thing to be fruitful in good works.
- It is one thing to despise heresy in others, but it is very much another thing to despise heresy in yourself.
- If you are struggling with temptation in any area of life, remember that eternal life is for overcomers only.
- If we are wrong, souls go to hell by our neglect; if right, the Christian world is nuts! Let God be true!
- For further study:
- The sermon outline, Revelation 3:20 Reclaimed.
- The sermon outline, Once Saved, Always Saved.
- The sermon outline, They Promise Them Liberty, which identifies and condemns teachers promoting sinful lifestyles.
- The sermon outline, Eating and Drinking Christ, which shows clearly Jesus was not seeker sensitive at all.
- The sermon outline, Why Preach the Gospel? which identifies from the Bible the connection of the gospel to salvation.
- The sermon outline, Why No Invitation? which gives a history of the invitation and the Bible reasons condemning it.
- The sermon outline, The Love of Christ Constraineth Us, identifies the changed man resulting from being in Christ.
- John Gill's tract, The Necessity of Good Works unto Salvation, in which he divides salvation five ways, denies good works to be any meritorious or instrumental cause of eternal life, and defends good works as necessary to please God.
- Arthur Pink's tract, Is Christ Your Lord? takes up the difference of viewing Jesus Christ as Saviour or Lord.
- J.I. Packer's article, Understanding the Lordship Controversy, which explains this heresy from the Reformed position.
- A brief history of the invention of the modern invitational system.
- A review of Jack Hyles' attempt to outdo Pentecost.
Yes, there is a vast difference if you try to seperate the two.
Primise
It has been said that there are three mindsets concerning presenting the Gospel to the unsaved:
It has been said that there are three mindsets concerning presenting the Gospel to the unsaved:
1) those that demand too much,
2) those that demand too little; and
3) those that present the gospel correctly.
2) those that demand too little; and
3) those that present the gospel correctly.
Concerning those that demand too much, there are some that would seek to set such legalistic standards to salvation, those that would “strain and a gnat and swallow a camel“ (Matthew 23:24); attempting to foster legalism when explaining salvation to the unregenerate (this will not be discussed in this post, but will be addressed in a later blog). And then there are those that would attempt to paint such a pretty picture of the Christian walk, to make it attractive at the expense of the truth; that many false converts in our churches enter only leave once they find out that the true Christian walk demands everything we own, sometimes even our very lives.
Presenting Jesus as Savior only, not Lord
It is this second group, those that would present the gospel in such a milquetoast manner that they would not explain to the potential convert the full ramifications of following Jesus Christ (“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” ~ Luke 19:23).
It is this second group, those that would present the gospel in such a milquetoast manner that they would not explain to the potential convert the full ramifications of following Jesus Christ (“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” ~ Luke 19:23).
This is never to imply that one earns their salvation, or that they trade or barter for the same (“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” ~ Ephesians 2:8-9).
However, if one attempts to present Christ as the Savior of mankind who has come to die for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2), without presenting Jesus as the Lord (John 13:13; Matthew 12:8) and King(John 18:37; Revelation 19:16) over the followers life, this is deceptive and unworthy of those that say they are His followers. It is unfortunate that many supposed believers do not have enough faith in God that they would think that they must leave out the hard parts of the story in trying to sell Jesus Christ by presenting only a positive side of the issue. Yet, there are many who take on the mindset of a salesman in presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ, and in the process emasculate the power of God, while denigrating His sovereignty. The point is that there will be trials and tribulations of this world if follow (following Jesus Christ is a euphemism which is synonymous with becoming a believer, accepting the grace given to become a son of God, adopted into God’s family – there are those that attempt to delegate this word beyond its natural meaning as Jesus used it) Jesus Christ (“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33; and Mark 13:21). However, this is nothing in comparison to what is gained in the next world, or the punishment for rejecting God’s Son in hell for all of eternity.
The Great Caveat – Your Saved from Hell in Eternity, but you will Go through Tribulation Here.
Therefore, it is an imperative to witnessing concerning Jesus Christ that we fully explain what becoming a follower and believer in Jesus Christ mandates of our life. Jesus doesn’t want only our Sundays and our money; He wants everything, all of us – we no longer own ourselves(“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own” ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19); we are that which He purchased with His own blood (“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” ~ 1 Corinthians 6:20; and 1 Cor. 7:23; 1 Pet. 1:18-19; 1 Pet. 2:9; 2 Pet. 2:1; Rev.5:9; Acts 20:28). We must be completely frank about this in order to fully prepare the new convert with the mindset that trials(“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” ~ 1 Peter 4:12-13) and tribulations(Matthew 13:21) are a part of this walk, and to gloss over this point we lack preparing them for the reality they are about to enter, while also being dishonest in the process.
Witnessing
For the last century, attempting to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to the unsaved has been referred to as witnessing(“witness,” from the Greek:martus, which we get our English word “martyr;” in that to witness was synonymous with pledging your life concerning the trustworthiness of that which was stated – been willing to die rather than to recant – and willing to die if it was a lie – Acts 1:8), which is spoken of as leading to an individual to Jesus Christ. Its main purpose has been a one time encounter to solicit a convert. And while the idea of making converts is Biblical (Matt. 13:15; Matt. 18:3; Mark 4:12; Luke 22:32; Johe 12:40; Acts 3:19; Acts 28:27; James 5:19; James 5:20;), the idea of a one-time encounter is not. Jesus instructions concerning converts is seen in Matthew 28:19-20, which states:
For the last century, attempting to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to the unsaved has been referred to as witnessing(“witness,” from the Greek:martus, which we get our English word “martyr;” in that to witness was synonymous with pledging your life concerning the trustworthiness of that which was stated – been willing to die rather than to recant – and willing to die if it was a lie – Acts 1:8), which is spoken of as leading to an individual to Jesus Christ. Its main purpose has been a one time encounter to solicit a convert. And while the idea of making converts is Biblical (Matt. 13:15; Matt. 18:3; Mark 4:12; Luke 22:32; Johe 12:40; Acts 3:19; Acts 28:27; James 5:19; James 5:20;), the idea of a one-time encounter is not. Jesus instructions concerning converts is seen in Matthew 28:19-20, which states:
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
We need to notice a few aspects of Jesus instructions (time does not permit to take the verses in whole, which would take more than a few pages, we will take the first verbs of each verse), He says: Piano keys for all of me.
1) “Go,” Jesus doesn’t say to bring them into the church – make them come to you; but go to them. We are to present the gospel in the world, to the potential convert where they are at. The verb, “Go,” is in the aorist tense, which is characterized by its emphasis on punctiliar action (point action – occuring in time); that is, the concept of the verb is considered without regard for past, present, or future time. It is a passive deponent voice which in almost all cases are translated as being in the passive voice, which is the voice that represents the subject as being the recipient of the action. Hence, the subject; those that Jesus is speaking to, the hearers – us, we are to “Go.”
2) “teaching,” Jesus doesn’t say convert them in the sense of present them with the gospel and leave – this is not a one-time encounter that Jesus is instructing us to do. The verb, “teaching,” is in the perfect tense, meaning that it is an ongoing continuous action to does not stop. It is in the active voice, meaning that the teaching is done by the individual that is witnessing. The point is, a one-time encounter makes no great demand of the believer witnessing – it is superficial, and lacks no real commitment of time or effort. Yet, the act of teaching; the idea of introducing someone to Jesus Christ and then to become a part of their life, wherein you teach them the Word of God – you disciple them, this is what Jesus is saying here. You take them to church with you, break bread with them, and spend your life with them – sharing the gospel; this is “teaching.” This is much more of a commitment than simply a one-time presentation, which is what witnessing has
2) “teaching,” Jesus doesn’t say convert them in the sense of present them with the gospel and leave – this is not a one-time encounter that Jesus is instructing us to do. The verb, “teaching,” is in the perfect tense, meaning that it is an ongoing continuous action to does not stop. It is in the active voice, meaning that the teaching is done by the individual that is witnessing. The point is, a one-time encounter makes no great demand of the believer witnessing – it is superficial, and lacks no real commitment of time or effort. Yet, the act of teaching; the idea of introducing someone to Jesus Christ and then to become a part of their life, wherein you teach them the Word of God – you disciple them, this is what Jesus is saying here. You take them to church with you, break bread with them, and spend your life with them – sharing the gospel; this is “teaching.” This is much more of a commitment than simply a one-time presentation, which is what witnessing has
Philosophy(Greek: Philosophia, ‘love of knowledge’)
Let me continue on by way of emphasizing an expression which is true and authentic to the human experience. It has been well documented and replicated within management circles that the following expression that has proven itself time, and time again:
Let me continue on by way of emphasizing an expression which is true and authentic to the human experience. It has been well documented and replicated within management circles that the following expression that has proven itself time, and time again:
Jiski biwi moti pagalworld song download. Free Mp3 Jiski Biwi Moti Song Pagalworld Download, Lyric Jiski Biwi Moti Song Pagalworld Chord Guitar, Free Ringtone Jiski Biwi Moti Song Pagalworld Download, and Get Jiski Biwi Moti Song Pagalworld Hiqh Qualtiy audio from Amazon, Spotify, Deezer, Itunes, Google Play, Youtube, Soundcloud and More.
“Responsibility cannot be separated from authority.”
The point is that authority by its very nature represents more freedom, at least over those or that which is governed over; rather it’s an elected governmental official, an employer, or a parent. However, freedom is never without restraints. Freedom may be free, but it’s not cheap (freedom always costs someone something, perhaps not those down the road, but it did cost those that gained it). Within the principles which God has created within the makeup of man’s soul, and heart(biblically speaking, the heart never refers to the emotions alone; but to the complete inward man which involves the 1) Mind, reasoning, 2) Emotions, and 3) the Will, where choice is made; discretion more predominantly – see the post: “The Heart and the Mind – What the Biblical word “Heart’ Means”); there are certain attributes of humanity which cannot be violated, without repercussions – reciprocity. Such is the above expression.
Reciprocity
God has built reciprocity(“a mutual agreement to exchange privileges, dependence, or relationships,” also it is defined as: “when things are coupled together because of there very nature”) within His creation. From such we get the idea of conditions on the one side, and consequences on the other. This is where God has built within humanity the mandate for responsibility. And within this moral or standard of responsibility, you never get something for nothing, even if what is gained is the consequence of an attitudinal change. In one case it may be gratitude and thankfulness (Colossians 3:15), while in another it may be expectation and presumption (2 Peter 2:10). The point is we live in a world where nothing is isolated unto itself.
God has built reciprocity(“a mutual agreement to exchange privileges, dependence, or relationships,” also it is defined as: “when things are coupled together because of there very nature”) within His creation. From such we get the idea of conditions on the one side, and consequences on the other. This is where God has built within humanity the mandate for responsibility. And within this moral or standard of responsibility, you never get something for nothing, even if what is gained is the consequence of an attitudinal change. In one case it may be gratitude and thankfulness (Colossians 3:15), while in another it may be expectation and presumption (2 Peter 2:10). The point is we live in a world where nothing is isolated unto itself.
Freedom
The myth of our current age is that one can be totally free and unaccountable to anyone or anything, and that this is achievable on some realm (personal note: by nature I hate restrictions, guidelines, and rules. I naturally enjoy the easier softer way, and have a real hard time with self-discipline. I am not proclaiming what is comfortable for me or what I like. So please understand that these rants and raves are against my very soul, and not made in self-righteousness; judging others. Every one of these negative qualities I wrestle with daily, so if you hear any self-righteousness, it is only your own perception). However, freedom requires responsibility, in the same way that righteous authority demands accountability. And if these principles, which are part of the framework of humanities disposition are missing or decline, then the attribute ceases or lessens. These are principles of life, unchanged by our philosophy or religious bent. Anarchy only works if there is only one person on a island, and even then, it still affects change in your attitude, and mindset, wherein if indulgence is completely given over to, inner peace and joy are the casualties.
The myth of our current age is that one can be totally free and unaccountable to anyone or anything, and that this is achievable on some realm (personal note: by nature I hate restrictions, guidelines, and rules. I naturally enjoy the easier softer way, and have a real hard time with self-discipline. I am not proclaiming what is comfortable for me or what I like. So please understand that these rants and raves are against my very soul, and not made in self-righteousness; judging others. Every one of these negative qualities I wrestle with daily, so if you hear any self-righteousness, it is only your own perception). However, freedom requires responsibility, in the same way that righteous authority demands accountability. And if these principles, which are part of the framework of humanities disposition are missing or decline, then the attribute ceases or lessens. These are principles of life, unchanged by our philosophy or religious bent. Anarchy only works if there is only one person on a island, and even then, it still affects change in your attitude, and mindset, wherein if indulgence is completely given over to, inner peace and joy are the casualties.
Christianity
In the same way, within the spiritual realm of Christianity there is responsibility which mandates adherents. Man cannot live within a vacuum, because God refuses to allow it to occur. If you attempt to isolate God’s sovereignty in your life, then you make moot His salvation. And while salvation is never solely an act of our will, and is a free gift of God, there are conditions of receiving that cannot be sidestepped, or else the gift has no value.
In the same way, within the spiritual realm of Christianity there is responsibility which mandates adherents. Man cannot live within a vacuum, because God refuses to allow it to occur. If you attempt to isolate God’s sovereignty in your life, then you make moot His salvation. And while salvation is never solely an act of our will, and is a free gift of God, there are conditions of receiving that cannot be sidestepped, or else the gift has no value.
An Analogy
There is the old analogy that if someone wanted to give you $100, and extends their hand with the bill in your direction, stating: “I give this to you as a gift, it is free if you received it.” To receive it, you would have to take the action of extending your hand and taking it from the giver. Though the gift is totally free and unearned there are still conditions to receiving it, you still must take an action; as well as implying your reception of the gift.
There is the old analogy that if someone wanted to give you $100, and extends their hand with the bill in your direction, stating: “I give this to you as a gift, it is free if you received it.” To receive it, you would have to take the action of extending your hand and taking it from the giver. Though the gift is totally free and unearned there are still conditions to receiving it, you still must take an action; as well as implying your reception of the gift.
The point is while true that belief is the only necessary condition of receiving salvation, what is that which is to makeup the belief. To receive the forgiveness of God implies that you believe that it is truly God who exist and does the forgiving; and is therefore sovereign. And in the process if it is God that has given you the salvation, and by the very definition of the word “God,” His sovereignty is implied; and how can a person not believe that they are to submit to that sovereignty within receiving the free gift. Does one believe that you could receive salvation, then go down the road and completely disassociate yourself from the belief that God is truly sovereign in your life as well. Salvation is based upon grace, and grace is received through faith; and faith by its very definition implies trust as the basis for a relationship, which when the relationship is with God implies submission to His will and rule of your life.
Not Overdoing It – Baby Steps, Nevertheless Steps must be Made
I do not believe that when you are explaining the gospel to an unbeliever, that you should lay down the 613 requirements of the law found in Leviticus, If done so as requirements of accepting the free grace of Jesus Christ. But one must share the law (10 Commandments) to show the sinner that he is indeed a sinner, and has violated God’s law (“Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” ~ Romans 3:20); how else shall he repent from that which he has done, unless he knows it is wrong – sin. Explaining the concept of repentance (“And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.” ~ Mark 1:15“; “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…” ~ Acts 3:19), which is not a singular act, but actually means to “change a person’s mind, which in turn changes the direction of their life – how they walk (John 8:12; Romans 6:4; 8:1,4; 1 John 1:7; 2:6; 2 John 1:6; 3 John 1:4). This understanding of repentance is completely necessary; and by its definition the law must be presented in some form, with the 10 Commandments being a good example.
I do not believe that when you are explaining the gospel to an unbeliever, that you should lay down the 613 requirements of the law found in Leviticus, If done so as requirements of accepting the free grace of Jesus Christ. But one must share the law (10 Commandments) to show the sinner that he is indeed a sinner, and has violated God’s law (“Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” ~ Romans 3:20); how else shall he repent from that which he has done, unless he knows it is wrong – sin. Explaining the concept of repentance (“And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.” ~ Mark 1:15“; “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…” ~ Acts 3:19), which is not a singular act, but actually means to “change a person’s mind, which in turn changes the direction of their life – how they walk (John 8:12; Romans 6:4; 8:1,4; 1 John 1:7; 2:6; 2 John 1:6; 3 John 1:4). This understanding of repentance is completely necessary; and by its definition the law must be presented in some form, with the 10 Commandments being a good example.
Or if all you did was explain the basis of faith as simply believing a story than a man lived 2000 years ago and died on a cross for your sins without informing them that faith is a relationship of trust wherein you rely upon God as your sovereign deity, and that as in the case of all sovereign you are obligated to obedience. For how can you trust a deity if you refuse to do what He says. Telling a potential convert anything less concerning accepting God’s free gift of salvation is intellectually dishonest, and many times is referred to as “cheap grace.”
Repentance
Jesus displayed that there cannot be a separation between repentance and salvation, when the Scripture states:
Jesus displayed that there cannot be a separation between repentance and salvation, when the Scripture states:
“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”1
The Greek word for “repentance” is metanoeo, and involved a changing in direction or purpose in life. It was never simply the motive, or resided in the emotive or cognitive realm; but transcended to change behavior. It is to believe something so powerfully that it changes the way a person acts. And used by Jesus, it represents a redirection of behavior; that of a person normally heading towards sin, then turning completely around, and heading toward God, in His direction.
Obedience
If the conclusion of the definition of salvation is entering heaven, then according to Jesus obedience to do God’s Will is also required, as seen when he said:
If the conclusion of the definition of salvation is entering heaven, then according to Jesus obedience to do God’s Will is also required, as seen when he said:
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” 2
Discipleship
The Greek word “disciple” is mathetes, which means a student, pupil, or follower.3 The word Christian is similar in that it denotes a follower of Christ. Therefore, if a person is not a disciple of Christ, he is not a Christian. And if he is not a Christian, then he is not saved. Being saved does not stand on its own, but is part and parcel of discipleship, and therefore mandates responsibility, as well as servitude. Jesus said:
The Greek word “disciple” is mathetes, which means a student, pupil, or follower.3 The word Christian is similar in that it denotes a follower of Christ. Therefore, if a person is not a disciple of Christ, he is not a Christian. And if he is not a Christian, then he is not saved. Being saved does not stand on its own, but is part and parcel of discipleship, and therefore mandates responsibility, as well as servitude. Jesus said:
“If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.”4
Responsibility
Responsibility is built into salvation; it is not responsibility to pay for sin, but responsibility to meet the conditions that God has laid upon those that would choose to respond to God’s free gift of salvation – to follow Christ. To do what Christ said to do, because of trusting in what He has said, this is faith.
Responsibility is built into salvation; it is not responsibility to pay for sin, but responsibility to meet the conditions that God has laid upon those that would choose to respond to God’s free gift of salvation – to follow Christ. To do what Christ said to do, because of trusting in what He has said, this is faith.
Faith
Faith is a synonym for “belief,” which is much more than believing that Jesus existed as a man 2000 years ago, it is even more them believing that Jesus existed as the Son of God to pay for the sins of the world. Faith, because it is a relationship of trust, demands that obedience at some level is the goal. To have faith in God, you must have faith in what He has said, and that if He says to do something, you do it out of obedience because you trust Him. We do not obey for the sake of obedience, but we obey because of faith.
Faith is a synonym for “belief,” which is much more than believing that Jesus existed as a man 2000 years ago, it is even more them believing that Jesus existed as the Son of God to pay for the sins of the world. Faith, because it is a relationship of trust, demands that obedience at some level is the goal. To have faith in God, you must have faith in what He has said, and that if He says to do something, you do it out of obedience because you trust Him. We do not obey for the sake of obedience, but we obey because of faith.
Obedience because of Faith – Not Obedience for the Sake of Obedience (taught by false religions)
If we obey ONLY because of obedience, we will be exchanging our behavior for salvation. But because faith is a relationship, which produces repentance; which is a change in direction from the way that I want to go as a sinner, unto the way that God would have me go as a believer – where He loves me and only wants the best for me ( Romans 8:28 ), this is the reason I can have faith in what He says to do, and therefore obey because of that faith. Obedience because of faith is what the Christian walk is meant to be. You can’t earned salvation, but you must receive it, according to His condition, that of faith.
If we obey ONLY because of obedience, we will be exchanging our behavior for salvation. But because faith is a relationship, which produces repentance; which is a change in direction from the way that I want to go as a sinner, unto the way that God would have me go as a believer – where He loves me and only wants the best for me ( Romans 8:28 ), this is the reason I can have faith in what He says to do, and therefore obey because of that faith. Obedience because of faith is what the Christian walk is meant to be. You can’t earned salvation, but you must receive it, according to His condition, that of faith.
To reiterate,
The very definition of Christian faith involves a trust in God, and that He will reward those that diligently seek him5, therefore how can you separate a servitude to the God that you have imparted your trust in. It is in your cooperation with His Will that benefits your soul. It is in laying aside your own presuppositions, along with perceptions, that validate your faith in Him to begin with.
If you can trust God with your eternal salvation, why can you not trust Him to rule your earthly life. This is not paradoxical, it is antithetical. Unfortunately, there are those that call themselves Christians and attempt to preach this blasphemy. They attempt to substitute their will for Gods.
It is impossible to separate God’s sovereignty as Lord of your life, from His application as Savior of your soul.
The Gospel ~ The Whole Word of God
Any Gospel (“good news”),that reports or implies, a softer easier way outside of complete submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, is a false gospel. Salvation is much more than a few verses taken out of context. This is why Paul stated, in defense of his ministry that he presented the complete volume of God’s Word when he stated in Acts 20:27-28:
Any Gospel (“good news”),that reports or implies, a softer easier way outside of complete submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, is a false gospel. Salvation is much more than a few verses taken out of context. This is why Paul stated, in defense of his ministry that he presented the complete volume of God’s Word when he stated in Acts 20:27-28:
“For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God [the whole will of God – His complete Word to man ~ which is contained in the gospel, that 13 letters Paul wrote; and the 10 others written by apostles]. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”
False Teachings
It is when false believers dissect God’s Word, leaving out what opposes their own false doctrine, utilizing Scripture out of context; that they attempt to make the Bible support their own false teachings.
It is when false believers dissect God’s Word, leaving out what opposes their own false doctrine, utilizing Scripture out of context; that they attempt to make the Bible support their own false teachings.
Be it the: “Manifolds Sons of God,” “Dominion Theology,” “Replacement Theology,” “Word Faith Movement,” “Seed Faith Movement”; or any other form of chicanery; if it attempts to replace, or subvert the Lordship of Jesus Christ in the life of the convert or believer: it is a damnable heresy that will lead people to hell.
Subtlety
The subtleness of the “doctrines of demons” has been attempting to work its way into mainline Christianity in United States for decades now. It is very appealing to our desire (lust) to have a easier, better, softer, more successful life, as opposed to the type of Christian life Christ did spoke about ( Matthew 1023-24). Some have called it “Christianity Light.” It plays down our responsibilities to God, man, and our country; and appeals to the narcissism, which is the hallmark of our day.
The subtleness of the “doctrines of demons” has been attempting to work its way into mainline Christianity in United States for decades now. It is very appealing to our desire (lust) to have a easier, better, softer, more successful life, as opposed to the type of Christian life Christ did spoke about ( Matthew 1023-24). Some have called it “Christianity Light.” It plays down our responsibilities to God, man, and our country; and appeals to the narcissism, which is the hallmark of our day.
We even see it in those churches which we refer to as “Seeker Friendly,” or even those movements which are called evangelistic. And there are a lot of good-hearted people behind these churches and organizations as they attempt to continue to evangelize the world, but at what cost?
They attempt to make it as easy as possible for people to enter the Kingdom of God. The services become a concert, where emotionalism, rather than worship is exhibited. Where stories and presentations behind the pulpit are mere entertainment; and Scripture is used sparsely as props to rationalize a presupposition, or themes.
Don’t get me wrong, while raised as a child with the old hymnals, my preference is with some the newer (40 years old) praise songs. But many of the much newer songs just talk about us: they are the me and Jesus type of songs, rather than just worshiping Jesus alone. And so many of the messages are about leading better lives, being better Christians, better parents, and better citizens. while these things are good things, are these what should be this Sunday morning services to the congregation, about us – or should it be about Jesus. There is so much self-help going on in the church, as seen in all the individual type of groups and classes; yet always at the expense of teaching the meat of the word – things that are hard to hear him take focus to understand. It’s much more appealing to talk about ourselves rather than our God. It becomes very attractive to use the tools of the world and modernity, to court the masses. But at what price?
“Theopedia, An Encyclopedia of Biblical Christianity,” states:
Easy believism is the “popular slogan for the view that one simply has to believe in order to be saved and that there is no corresponding need for a committed life of Christian discipleship.”6 The result is that sanctification is divorced from justification, and discipleship is seen as a path that some Christians follow, but not others. The term carnal Christian is used to describe such a supposed Christian, who once made a “decision” but has not continued in discipleship. Names applied to this doctrine by opponents include no-lordship and cheap grace as it suggests that “accepting Jesus” does not involve any further commitments. Proponents of this view, on the other hand, prefer the term the “free grace” to describe their position. Easy-believism is also said to overemphasize the doctrine of assurance of salvation at the expense of personal authenticity.
Those who hold to the Free-grace position are generally Arminian in theology, although classical Arminianism does not adhere to this. By contrast, Reformed Christians generally hold to what is termed Lordship Salvation. However, among adherents of each view one will find there are differences of language and emphasis. According to Phillip Johnson:
“These days, support for the no-lordship gospel is mostly confined to a small but prolific group of speakers and writers. Dallas is still the geographical hub of their movement. The Grace Evangelical Society has published their journal since 1988. In fact, for the past 15 years or so, GES has almost singlehandedly kept the drumbeat alive for the no-lordship position.”7
Lest you misunderstand what this teachings by this orgination is really all about, the website for “Grace Evangelical Society” is: http://www.faithalone.org/about/affirmation1.html; and it states in their “About” section, under their “Affirmations of Beliefs”:
Salvation
The sole condition for receiving everlasting life is faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ, who died a substitutionary death on the cross for man’s sin and rose bodily from the dead (John 3:16-18; 6:47; Acts 16:31).
The sole condition for receiving everlasting life is faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ, who died a substitutionary death on the cross for man’s sin and rose bodily from the dead (John 3:16-18; 6:47; Acts 16:31).
Faith is the conviction that something is true. To believe in Jesus (“he who believes in Me has everlasting life”) is to be convinced that He guarantees everlasting life to all who simply believe in Him for it (John 4:14; 5:24; 6:47; 11:26; 1 Tim 1:16).
No act of obedience, preceding or following faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, such as commitment to obey, sorrow for sin, turning from one’s sin, baptism or submission to the Lordship of Christ, may be added to, or considered part of, faith as a condition for receiving everlasting life (Rom 4:5; Gal 2:16; Titus 3:5). This saving transaction between God and the sinner is simply the giving and receiving of a free gift (Eph 2:8-9; John 4:10 ; Rev 22:17 ).
Cheap Grace
In this new style of worship service, that is progressive, spectator oriented, emotionally driven, and “Word of God” delinquent; where is the emphasis. Where are the messages on repentance, sin, hell, suffering, sanctification, discipleship, sacrificial love, and dying to self. And prior to making altar calls, why have we not followed Jesus’ admonition to “count the cost.”
In this new style of worship service, that is progressive, spectator oriented, emotionally driven, and “Word of God” delinquent; where is the emphasis. Where are the messages on repentance, sin, hell, suffering, sanctification, discipleship, sacrificial love, and dying to self. And prior to making altar calls, why have we not followed Jesus’ admonition to “count the cost.”
Why do we gloss over Jesus’ words so easily, when he said:
“And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:27-33
It is this form of “Cheap Grace” (that also devalues the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as well is encouraging the flesh), that impregnates our appeal to the masses to “accept Jesus.” How more condescending could we be to the God of the universe – we must accept Him. It is what we imply that holds as much weight is what we say. It’s all been said many years ago, and was seen back then as a progression of carnality.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer said:
“Let the Christian rest content with his worldliness and with this renunciation of any higher standard than the world. He is living for the sake of the world rather than for the sake of grace. Let him be comforted and rest assured in his possession of this grace – for grace alone does everything. Instead of following Christ, let the Christian enjoy the consolations of his grace!
That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which amounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and from whom sins departs.
Avast premier crack. In addition, it gives us also the offline installer and we ought not to connect from the web for it all versions. Don’t worry about activation code or any crack way just use the license key and get a full subscription.Furthermore, it bushes one tool whereas we will get the pc and web security. This Avast Premier 19.4 license key with the file also provide your firewall rules, protect your Wi-Fi connection, update your old software.
Cheap grace is not the kind of forgiveness of sin which frees us from the toils of sin. Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession.
Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him.
Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must the asked for, the door at which a man must knock.
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: “ye were bought at a price, and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us.” From: “Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship
The Last Word
Jesus himself said in John 13:13: “Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.”
Jesus himself said in John 13:13: “Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.”
Endnotes
- Matthew 4:17 – “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
- Matthew 7:21 – “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
(1.) Concerning the topic of obedience, Walter A. Elwell states:
(2.) Text: The whole of biblical theology centers on the notion of divine revelation and the receptive response of man: God speaks his word, man hears and is required to obey. The connection between hearing and obeying is therefore essential. Hearing is always viewed as a process of the mind. When divine revelation is its subject, man must respond with obedience. This connection is borne out in particular by the language of obedience in the Bible. In the OT sama conveys the meaning of both “to hear” and “to obey.”Israelmust hear Yahweh’s voice and act in obedient response. In the Torah the theme of responsive obedience is underscored (Exod. 19:5, 8; 24:7; Deut. 28:1; 30:11-14). Abraham was blessed because he heard and obeyed the Lord’s voice (Gen. 22:18). This theme lies behind the prophetic injunction, “Thus says the Lord.” The prophetic word reveals both who God is and what he is callingIsraelto do. Disobedience, then, is any hearing which is not attentive, and this too is the story ofIsrael: “They have ears, but do not hear” (Ps. 115:6; cf. Jer. 3:13; Isa. 6:9-10).
(3.) In the LXX sama is regularly translated by words in the akouein word group, and this again expresses the inner relation between hearing and response. Emphatic forms hypakouein and hypakoe (lit. “to hear beneath”) convey the meaning “obey/obedience” (in the NT the verb appears 21 times; the noun 15 times, esp. in Paul). The NT, to be sure, brings out this OT background in full when Jesus demands that he “who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matt. 11:15; 13:9, 15-16; Mark 4:9, 23; 8:18; Luke 14:35). This kind of constructive response to divine revelation is illustrated well in the parable about the man who built his house on the rock. The story follows the exhortation of Christ: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46-49). In Matthew this same parable concludes the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 7:21-27), clearly indicating the seriousness of personal response to Jesus’ ethical injunctions.
(4.) Jesus stands in the OT prophetic tradition when he callsIsraelto a discipleship which essentially involves “doing, ethics. When a voice in the crowd praises Jesus’ mother, the Lord replies by saying, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it” (Luke 11:28; cf. John 10:16, 27; 15:5, 10). Bonhoeffer remarks: “The actual call of Jesus and the response of single-minded obedience have an irrevocable significance. It is only to this obedience that the promise of fellowship with Jesus is given.”
(5.) Bultmann points out that Jesus’ call has radicalized an obedience already well known in Judaism. First century Judaism had emphasized cultic and ceremonial rules to such an extent (365 prohibitions, 278 positive commands) that any notion of virtue was almost unknown. Jesus presses beyond the casuistic rules and expects a true obedience, not blind obedience: “You tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith” (Matt. 23:23). Man, in effect, must exceed the demands of the law (Matt. 5:20) and perceive for himself what God commands. That is, single-minded obedience grasps the spirit of God’s intentions (cf. Mark 10:2-9 on how Jesus applies this to one law) and exceeds God’s desires, not with the measured efforts of a servant (Luke 17:7-10), but as people who enjoy a vital and responsive relationship with him. Bultmann sums up: “Radical obedience exists only when a man inwardly assents to what is required of him,… when the whole man stands behind what he does; or better, when the whole man is in what he does, when he is not doing something obediently, but is essentially obedient.”
(6.) Paul regards obedience as being one of the consitituent parts of faith. Initially Christ stands as the model of obedience (Phil. 2:5-8), and through his obedience, which is contrasted with Adam’s disobedience, “many will be made righteous” (Rom. 5:19; cf. Heb. 5:8-9 for the parallel thought). Paul in fact views his task as bringing about the “obedience of faith” among the nations (Rom.1:5; 16:26). For him, every thought should be made “captive to obey Christ” so that the Christian’s obedience might be complete (II Cor. 10:5-6). This means that Paul too despairs of any faith that is either simply cognitive (a hellenistic weakness) or mechanistically legal (a Jewish fault). Obedience is of the essence of authentic saving faith and should provide evidence of a responsive relation the Christian shares with his God (cf. James 1:22-25; 2:14-20; I Pet. 1:22; I John 3:18).
(7.) ELWELL’S EVANGELICAL DICTIONARY OF THEOLOGY
(8.) Evangelical Dictionary of Theology by Walter A. Elwell,
(9.) (c) Copyright 1984, by Baker Book House Company.
(10.) All Rights Reserved.
- Concerning the description of what a Disciple is,Easton’s Bible Dictionary states:
Text: a scholar, sometimes applied to the followers of John the Baptist (Matt. 9:14), and of the Pharisees (22:16), but principally to the followers of Christ. A disciple of Christ is one who:
(1.) believes his doctrine,
(2.) rests on his sacrifice,
(3.) imbibes his spirit, and
(4.) imitates his example (Matt. 10:24; Luke 14:26, 27, 33; John 6:69).
- Luke 12:26-27 – “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.”
- Hebrews 11:6 – “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him”.
- Donald K. Mckim, Westminster Dictionary of Theology terms, 85.
bb
1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephesians 2:8-9, Hebrews 11:6, Jesus as Lord, Jesus as Savior, Luke 12:26-27, Matthew 23:24, Philosophy, Reciprocity, Repentance
notοὐκ(ouk)
Adverb
Strong's Greek 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.
by
ἐξ(ex)
Preposition
Strong's Greek 1537: From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.
works,
ἔργων(ergōn)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's Greek 2041: From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act.
so that
ἵνα(hina)
Conjunction
Strong's Greek 2443: In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.
no
μή(mē)
Adverb
Strong's Greek 3361: Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.
one
τις(tis)
Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's Greek 5100: Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.
can boast.
καυχήσηται(kauchēsētai)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's Greek 2744: To boast; I glory (exult) proudly. From some base akin to that of aucheo and euchomai; to vaunt.
(9) Not of works, lest any man should boast.--In this verse we have the echo of the past Judaising controversy; it sums up briefly the whole argument of Romans 3:27 to Romans 4:25. There is a similar reminiscence, but more distinct and detached, in Philippians 3:2-9.Verse 9. - Not of works, lest any man should boast. Exegetical of the last clause, 'Not of yourselves; certainly not of your works.' The suppression of boasting was a purpose of God in his scheme of salvation; not the chief or final purpose, any more than the manifestation of his grace in coming ages was his chief or final purpose in showing mercy to the Ephesians, but inseparable from the nature of his plan. The spirit of glorying is essentially unsuited to the relations between the creature and the Creator, between the Redeemer and the redeemed. It is the very opposite of the spirit, 'Not unto us, O Lord' (Psalm 115:1) - the spirit that casts its crown before the throne, and that breathes in the songs of heaven, 'Unto him that loved us .. be glory and dominion forever and ever' (Revelation 1:5, 6). 2:1-10 Sin is the death of the soul. A man dead in trespasses and sins has no desire for spiritual pleasures. When we look upon a corpse, it gives an awful feeling. A never-dying spirit is now fled, and has left nothing but the ruins of a man. But if we viewed things aright, we should be far more affected by the thought of a dead soul, a lost, fallen spirit. A state of sin is a state of conformity to this world. Wicked men are slaves to Satan. Satan is the author of that proud, carnal disposition which there is in ungodly men; he rules in the hearts of men. From Scripture it is clear, that whether men have been most prone to sensual or to spiritual wickedness, all men, being naturally children of disobedience, are also by nature children of wrath. What reason have sinners, then, to seek earnestly for that grace which will make them, of children of wrath, children of God and heirs of glory! God's eternal love or good-will toward his creatures, is the fountain whence all his mercies flow to us; and that love of God is great love, and that mercy is rich mercy. And every converted sinner is a saved sinner; delivered from sin and wrath. The grace that saves is the free, undeserved goodness and favour of God; and he saves, not by the works of the law, but through faith in Christ Jesus. Grace in the soul is a new life in the soul. A regenerated sinner becomes a living soul; he lives a life of holiness, being born of God: he lives, being delivered from the guilt of sin, by pardoning and justifying grace. Sinners roll themselves in the dust; sanctified souls sit in heavenly places, are raised above this world, by Christ's grace. The goodness of God in converting and saving sinners heretofore, encourages others in after-time, to hope in his grace and mercy. Our faith, our conversion, and our eternal salvation, are not of works, lest any man should boast. These things are not brought to pass by any thing done by us, therefore all boasting is shut out. All is the free gift of God, and the effect of being quickened by his power. It was his purpose, to which he prepared us, by blessing us with the knowledge of his will, and his Holy Spirit producing such a change in us, that we should glorify God by our good conversation, and perseverance in holiness. None can from Scripture abuse this doctrine, or accuse it of any tendency to evil. All who do so, are without excuse.
Jump to Previous
BoastGloryImpossiblePrincipleResultWorksBoastGloryImpossiblePrincipleResultWorksLinks
Ephesians 2:9 NIVEphesians 2:9 NLT
Ephesians 2:9 ESV
Ao3 Savior Not Working Meme
Ephesians 2:9 NASB
Ephesians 2:9 KJV
Ephesians 2:9 Bible Apps
Ephesians 2:9 Biblia Paralela
Ephesians 2:9 Chinese Bible
Ephesians 2:9 French Bible
Ephesians 2:9 German Bible
Alphabetical: a as boast by can may no not of one result so that works
NT Letters: Ephesians 2:9 Not of works that no one would (Ephes. Eph. Ep) Christian Bible Study Resources, Dictionary, Concordance and Search Tools