Posts Tagged ‘faith’

Addiction: Free or not free?

Posted: June 25, 2018 in Kingdom Teaching, teaching
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Now Christ lives his life in you! And even though your body may be dead because of the effects of sin, his life-giving Spirit imparts life to you because you are fully accepted by God. Yes, God raised Jesus to life! And since God’s Spirit of Resurrection lives in you, he will also raise your dying body to life by the same Spirit that breathes life into you! So then, beloved ones, the flesh has no claims on us at all, and we have no further obligation to live in obedience to it. For when you live controlled by the flesh, you are about to die. But if the life of the Spirit puts to death the corrupt ways of the flesh, we then taste his abundant life. (Romans 8:10-13, TPT)        

Not to cause a stir…merely my opinion as to the finished work of the cross….          

When I look at the resurrection power of the cross and what it did for me, to say I am a recovering addict is like saying I am a recovering sinner. I can not confess either for the powerful freedom that Jesus accomplished on the cross liberated me from the lifestyles of both..I once was bound yet Praise God, for I am now free..I took one step..one action and laid my burdens down..and He in His Great faithfulness, He took them away.          

I understand the merits of programs and the desire to get people free…Yet to recite time and time again that I am still an addict to whatever is not confessing freedom into the New Creation that Christ won for us on the cross, rather it is programing I am still hostage to the old nature.          

I know people who’ve attended these programs for short periods as well as others who have attended them for many years and some have experiencrd freedom to where they no longer drink, do drugs, watch porn ect. Yet, they are not truly free for they live within the confines of an addiction mentality. I have counseled many of these same people and they are so fearful of slipping up. It is like being free and looking at an open prison door yet never daring to step out of the prison cell to experience the freedom ones been given.

The power of the Blood of the Lamb is fully capable of severing the individual from the nature of addiction.        

I have witnessed the freedom that the true revelation of the cross and what Jesus did there fully set people free including myself. I don’t have to avoid the alcohol aisle in the store because of the fear of being tempted, I can freely stroll down the isle in compete freedom knowing that addiction no longer holds me captive.        

I opened with stating this is my opinion yet the witness of seeing the miracle in others lives as well, transfers it from opinion to truth..For whom the Son sets free is free indeed.            

I welcome any individual who has not found this freedom to come and talk with me and let us together, allow Holy Spirit bring you into the place, through the revelation of the finished work of the cross, where you too can experience the complete freedom that Jesus purchased for you on the cross.          

Dr. Russ Welch, Th.D. Miracle power of Biblical counseling

What does a Kingdom Gathering look like?

Posted: January 4, 2017 in Kingdom Teaching, Prophetic, teaching
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The New Testament out-lines what a gathering looks like and sadly many miss this. Either that or they are taught that the model of today is the true model.

Here is what I believe we find one looks like according to scripture;

Is it a Kingdom gathering if its in a large Cathedral or Mega Church setting?

No, not necessarily yet the Lord can still move within one.

Is it only in a house sitting?

No, not necessarily although because of persecution this is how they met in the New Testament. And I personally believe that in small groups, connected through out a town, city or even State can be far more productive and cost effective.

Does it have a pastor?

No, not in the manner for which most Churches operate today. The New Testament model shows a plurality of leaders (elders). But this by no means warrants that a group must not have a teacher or one who is matured as an elder who the Lord is using to disciple others into the elder’s role. (Acts 2:42-47) Much like what Jesus himself had taught them (Luke 9:1-6), (Matt 10:1-16)

Do they collect offering’s?

Yes, they should collect an offering to go into the StoreHouse of the Lord which can be used for many purposes with regard to those who gather together as well as fund missions from within the group. The storehouse can also assist the needs of those whom the Lord puts on the hearts of the group. This does not mean that the group needs to support a sole individual who wants to be their “Leader” which is a mark of many groups and Churches today. I am not saying that one who is called to ministry is not entitled to receive money to support them as there is a Biblical principle as well. That is a different story. I know of people who started a house group (Church) and then forces their bills upon the group in a manner for which the group is manipulated through guilt into supporting them. Paul set the high road about this subject and a diligent student will go study what I mean. The positive thing in regard to meeting in private homes is that no money is wasted on rent or mortgages.

Lessons from my personal study:

I’ve spent the better part of a decade and a half studying the Kingdom Model and I’ve seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Regretfully the good have been far in between. I attended groups that merely sit around and complain about the big Church and bring no Glory to the Lord and sadly they are generally are simply a smaller model of what they are complaining about.

I have witnessed some that morphed into a secluded group of believers who don’t evangelize and are totally scared of “Out-siders” coming in and contaminating their group. This is scary and cultish as they general end up with a single leader.

I have also witnessed a few that are onto something and this is generally found in persecuted nations but there are a few as well which are thinly spread out across America. These group are tapping into the Kingdom culture and the Lord is beginning to really move. Although, right now it may well be considered a remnant of sorts. I have heard from others and believe myself that in the coming months, especially here in America it will begin to swell in momentum as the “Mega-Churches” have been draining the Nations storehouse to support their personal kingdom agenda’s which require mega mortgages and salaried staff to keep the machine operating. The Spirit is opening the spiritual eyes of many. In these groups, we find that unlike the Mega type Church, these Kingdom gatherings have a plurality of leadership, taking turns teaching and all the gifts operating within the group.

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When we tap into the scriptures we read how the early Church gathered from house to house, how the Apostles planted (discipled) teachers, evangelist, prophets and pastors (elders) and then moved onto the next home to reproduce. You can visibly see the “Gifts” of the Spirit operating in each group. Were they perfect? No, yet today we have their mistakes to learn from and with a greater understanding of the Pauline revelations he received through Holy Spirit. One can see where there was Unity, the Glory of the Lord was present. Unity comes when a group of people are of one-mind and who are seeking to glorify the Lord and not worried about who is the leader, how they are going to pay the mortgage, who is going to do this and do that. In fact, they were not worried about the government of the world or the culture around them because they all knew that they were commissioned to represent the Kingdom government of Jesus and to release the culture of the Kingdom, being an influence of grace & love rather than being influenced by greed and immorality.

We know from scripture that when they gathered it was centered around Jesus, often with songs, praise and worship along with teaching. (Col 3:16). More than likely, upon a deep study of the scriptures and what scholars state, their meeting consisted of worship, practice of Spiritual gifts, teaching, prayer, fellowship, the Lord’s supper and Baptism.

We know based on historical facts that most homes were in fact apartments for the most part consisting of one or two rooms there were however a few that may have owned a single home structure yet this was not the norm in that day. Of course, back then a whole family lived there and often even sons with their wives. A custom unlike what we in America are accustomed to although in recent years because of economic hardships it is be coming a not so uncommon practice here. So more than likely these groups were not larger than 15 to 20 persons which then would break off to form another group, yet they were still connected in one form or other.

Upon images-10studying the house meeting structure of the New Testament, many are amazed at how fast Paul developed leaders. Of course, upon reading scripture we find than generally the person who opened their home were considered leaders and others blossomed around them.

Paul speaks of this in first Thessalonians 5:12-13, yet he does not attach “titles” to them. Again, we see that leadership pretty much developed organically.

Now, nowhere in the New Testament can one find a picture that closely resembles any of the fully developed systems at play in the main stream Church today. Back then “Church” government was not highly developed, and the local gatherings were a rather loosely knit group. These small gatherings did however exist side-by-side with other house groups. We can pretty much gather from the scriptures that these believers saw themselves as part of a greater city-wide family of believers. Ministry from these groups was fluid and dynamic. Members were encouraged to experience their spiritual gifts for the common good of the Body, and leaders operated as gifted men and women. This led to many opportunities for ordinary people to develop into leaders. (Rom 12:6-8; 1 Cor 12:8-10, 27-28)

hqdefault-3I believe that even as we see more and more open verbal and legal attacks against the Church and Christians in America and abroad, if one is truly tuned into what the Spirit is speaking, they to shall find the Father calling the Bride to journey back in time to apply the values and ministry practices found in the New Testament. While house to house ministry might look different today, many of the same Biblical principles apply and will help us to not only begin to disciple others, who go on to disciple others, we will also see the body coming back into unity and with that the Glory of the Lord shall once again be seen across this nation and through-out the world. Even if it is a remnant that begins, the fire will spread even as did through the first century Church.

Again,  I believe I have heard and learned through Holy Spirit in scripture as well as to what I have personally witnessed, this is what a Kingdom meeting does look like. Let us pray that the Bride awakens in this generation in this hour for His purpose.

I will be writing more on this topic in the coming months and welcome anyone else’s thoughts and insight as well.

~Dr. Russ Welch

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The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards

Posted: July 19, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, teaching, wilderness
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Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ’s sake.

Remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.

Overall Life Mission1

1. Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God’s glory, and my own good, profit and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriad’s of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to be my duty and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general. Resolved to do this, whatever difficulties I meet with, how many and how great soever.

2. Resolved, to be continually endeavoring to find out some new invention and contrivance to promote the aforementioned things.

3. Resolved, if ever I shall fall and grow dull, so as to neglect to keep any part of these Resolutions, to repent of all I can remember, when I come to myself again.

4. Resolved, never to do any manner of thing, whether in soul or body, less or more, but what tends to the glory of God; nor be, nor suffer it, if I can avoid it.

6. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.

22. Resolved, to endeavor to obtain for myself as much happiness, in the other world, as I possibly can, with all the power; might, vigor, and vehemence, yea violence, I am capable of, or can bring myself to exert, in any way that can be thought of.

62. Resolved, never to do anything but duty; and then according to Eph. 6:6-8, do it willingly and cheerfully as unto the Lord, and not to man; “knowing that whatever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive of the Lord.” June 25 and July 13, 1723.

Good Works

11. Resolved, when I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can towards solving it, if circumstances don’t hinder.

13. Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality.

69. Resolved, always to do that, which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. Aug. 11, 1723.

Time Management

5. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can.

7. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

17. Resolved, that I will live so as I shall wish I had done when I come to die.

18. Resolved, to live so at all times, as I think is best in my devout frames, and when I have clearest notions of things of the gospel, and another world.

19. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if I expected it would not be above an hour, before I should hear the last trump.

37. Resolved, to inquire every night, as I am going to bed, wherein I have been negligent, what sin I have committed, and wherein I have denied myself: also at the end of every week, month and year. Dec. 22 and 26, 1722.

40. Resolved, to inquire every night, before I go to bed, whether I have acted in the best way I possibly could, with respect to eating and drinking. Jan. 7, 1723.

41. Resolved, to ask myself at the end of every day, week, month and year, wherein I could possibly in any respect have done better. Jan. 11, 1723.

50.Resolved, I will act so as I think I shall judge would have been best, and most prudent, when I come into the future world. July 5, 1723.

51.Resolved, that I will act so, in every respect, as I think I shall wish I had done, if I should at last be damned. July 8, 1723.

52. I frequently hear persons in old age say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age. July 8, 1723.

55. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to act as I can think I should do, if I had already seen the happiness of heaven, and hell torments. July 8, 1723.

61. Resolved, that I will not give way to that listlessness which I find unbends and relaxes my mind from being fully and fixedly set on religion, whatever excuse I may have for it-that what my listlessness inclines me to do, is best to be done, etc. May 21, and July 13, 1723.

Relationships

14. Resolved, never to do anything out of revenge.

15. Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger to irrational beings.

16. Resolved, never to speak evil of anyone, so that it shall tend to his dishonor, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.

31. Resolved, never to say anything at all against anybody, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by the test of this Resolution.

33. Resolved, always to do what I can towards making, maintaining, establishing and preserving peace, when it can be without over-balancing detriment in other respects. Dec. 26, 1722.

34. Resolved, in narration’s never to speak anything but the pure and simple verity.

36. Resolved, never to speak evil of any, except I have some particular good call for it. Dec. 19, 1722.

46. Resolved, never to allow the least measure of any fretting uneasiness at my father or mother. Resolved to suffer no effects of it, so much as in the least alteration of speech, or motion of my eve: and to be especially careful of it, with respect to any of our family.

58. Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness and benignity. May 27,and July 13, 1723.

59. Resolved, when I am most conscious of provocations to ill nature and anger, that I will strive most to feel and act good-naturedly; yea, at such times, to manifest good nature, though I think that in other respects it would be disadvantageous, and so as would be imprudent at other times. May 12, July 2,and July 13.

66. Resolved, that I will endeavor always to keep a benign aspect, and air of acting and speaking in all places, and in all companies, except it should so happen that duty requires otherwise.

70. Let there be something of benevolence, in all that I speak.

Suffering

9. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death.

10. Resolved, when I feel pain, to think of the pains of martyrdom, and of hell.

67. Resolved, after afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them, what good I have got by them, and what I might have got by them.

57. Resolved, when I fear misfortunes and adversities, to examine whether ~ have done my duty, and resolve to do it; and let it be just as providence orders it, I will as far as I can, be concerned about nothing but my duty and my sin. June 9, and July 13, 1723.

Character

8. Resolved, to act, in all respects, both speaking and doing, as if nobody had been so vile as I, and as if I had committed the same sins, or had the same infirmities or failings as others; and that I will let the knowledge of their failings promote nothing but shame in myself, and prove only an occasion of my confessing my own sins and misery to God.

12. Resolved, if I take delight in it as a gratification of pride, or vanity, or on any such account, immediately to throw it by.

21. Resolved, never to do anything, which if I should see in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or to think any way the more meanly of him.

32. Resolved, to be strictly and firmly faithful to my trust, that that in Prov. 20:6, “A faithful man who can find?” may not be partly fulfilled in me.

47. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to deny whatever is not most agreeable to a good, and universally sweet and benevolent, quiet, peaceable, contented, easy, compassionate, generous, humble, meek, modest, submissive, obliging, diligent and industrious, charitable, even, patient, moderate, forgiving, sincere temper; and to do at all times what such a temper would lead me to. Examine strictly every week, whether I have done so. Sabbath morning. May 5, 1723.

54. Whenever I hear anything spoken in conversation of any person, if I think it would be praiseworthy in me, Resolved to endeavor to imitate it. July 8, 1723.

63. On the supposition, that there never was to be but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having Christianity always shining in its true luster, and appearing excellent and lovely, from whatever part and under whatever character viewed: Resolved, to act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to be that one, who should live in my time. Jan. 14 and July 3, 1723.

27. Resolved, never willfully to omit anything, except the omission be for the glory of God; and frequently to examine my omissions.

39. Resolved, never to do anything that I so much question the lawfulness of, as that I intend, at the same time, to consider and examine afterwards, whether it be lawful or no; except I as much question the lawfulness of the omission.

20. Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance in eating and drinking.

Spiritual Life

Assurance

25. Resolved, to examine carefully, and constantly, what that one thing in me is, which causes me in the least to doubt of the love of God; and to direct all my forces against it.

26. Resolved, to cast away such things, as I find do abate my assurance.

48. Resolved, constantly, with the utmost niceness and diligence, and the strictest scrutiny, to be looking into the state of my soul, that I may know whether I have truly an interest in Christ or no; that when I come to die, I may not have any negligence respecting this to repent of. May 26, 1723.

49. Resolved, that this never shall be, if I can help it.

The Scriptures

28. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.

Prayer

29. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept.

64. Resolved, when I find those “groanings which cannot be uttered” (Rom. 8:26), of which the Apostle speaks, and those “breakings of soul for the longing it hath,” of which the Psalmist speaks, Psalm 119:20, that I will promote them to the utmost of my power, and that I will not be wear’, of earnestly endeavoring to vent my desires, nor of the repetitions of such earnestness. July 23, and August 10, 1723.

The Lord’s Day

38. Resolved, never to speak anything that is ridiculous, sportive, or matter of laughter on the Lord’s day. Sabbath evening, Dec. 23, 1722.

Vivification of Righteousness

30. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before.

42. Resolved, frequently to renew the dedication of myself to God, which was made at my baptism; which I solemnly renewed, when I was received into the communion of the church; and which I have solemnly re-made this twelfth day of January, 1722-23.

43. Resolved, never henceforward, till I die, to act as if I were any way my own, but entirely and altogether God’s, agreeable to what is to be found in Saturday, January 12, 1723.

44- Resolved, that no other end but religion, shall have any influence at all on any of my actions; and that no action shall be, in the least circumstance, any otherwise than the religious end will carry it. Jan.12, 1723.

45. Resolved, never to allow any pleasure or grief, joy or sorrow, nor any affection at all, nor any degree of affection, nor any circumstance relating to it, but what helps religion. Jan. 12-13, 1723.

Mortification of Sin and Self Examination

23. Resolved, frequently to take some deliberate action, which seems most unlikely to be done, for the glory of God, and trace it back to the original intention, designs and ends of it; and if I find it not to be for God’s glory, to repute it as a breach of the 4th Resolution.

24. Resolved, whenever I do any conspicuously evil action, to trace it back, till I come to the original cause; and then both carefully endeavor to do so no more, and to fight and pray with all my might against the original of it.

35. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty, as that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolved. Dec. 18, 1722.

60. Resolved, whenever my feelings begin to appear in the least out of order, when I am conscious of the least uneasiness within, or the least irregularity without, I will then subject myself to the strictest examination. July 4 and 13, 1723.

68. Resolved, to confess frankly to myself all that which I find in myself, either infirmity or sin; and, if it be what concerns religion, also to confess the whole case to God, and implore needed help. July 23 and August 10, 1723.

56. Resolved, never to give over, nor in the least to slacken my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.

Communion with God

53. Resolved, to improve every opportunity, when I am in the best and happiest frame of mind, to cast and venture my soul on the Lord Jesus Christ, to trust and confide in him, and consecrate myself wholly to him; that from this I may have assurance of my safety, knowing that I confide in my Redeemer. July 8, 1723.

65. Resolved, very much to exercise myself in this all my life long, viz. with the greatest openness I am capable of, to declare my ways to God, and lay open my soul to him: all my sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, desires, and every thing, and every circumstance; according to Dr. Manton’s 27th Sermon on Psalm 119. July 26 and Aug. 10, 1723.

Aug. 17, 1723

New “Grace Message” Nothing but a spiritual “Trojan Horse”

Posted: June 17, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, Prophetic, teaching, wilderness
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The modern day “Grace” message is like a Trojan horse. It come in the form of a gift, sent by the enemy. It is a false representation of peace, for once we allow it to come in through the gate it opens up and the trained spiritual assassins break forth in to the court yard of one’s mind. At this point they wrestle against the foundation of spiritual truth, knocking down the watchmen from the walls who stand in guard against the approach of the enemy in the open, until at they at last command the gate and allow to full force of the enemy to enter, bringing death and destruction until there is but a small remnant left, for which they imprison.

We must stand guard and be ever watchful, even to that which appears as a gift. For we must test all things in the spirit assuring that they are indeed from our Lord. We seek but the gifts send from above for it is they which build us up in our faith rather than the gifts of the enemy who seeks but to destroy us.

The enemy has weakened the foundation in preparation for the allowance of this “Trojan House” to come into the camp. For we see how the years of continued watering down of the gospel message, the very foundation of our faith has been replaced with societies wisdom, ethics and morals. The hearts have been prepared for such a message as they seek the wide path rather than enduring the narrow path which calls for obedience and sacrifice.

Now if this new “Grace Message” were true and indeed the law and the old testament have passed away, then the earth would sink into the sun and the very stars of heaven would fall. For it is the God of the Old Testament, who for w brief moment stepped upon earth to restore all things, who hold all things both in heaven and earth by His command & Word.

Now when one walks in the Spirit they see the laws of God and His Kingdom not a burden rather as a blessing. For what the Father decrees is with the revelation of Jeremiah 29:11 that He purposes everything for the good of His children that His name may be “Glorified”.

It is but by the Grace of God that a servant/son can be a blessing unto His Heavenly Father, for it is His Grace which is infused into us via Holy Ghost that empowers us to walk in spiritual victory having daily dealt a death blow to the carnal nature which seeks but to enthrone itself above all else in one’s life including the Lordship of our Christ. It is the Grace from above which daily places us at the foot of the cross were we lay down every fleshly desire that we may walk in the Spirit allowing the complete dominion of Jesus Christ to rule every aspect of our lives, for then is the Glory of the Father revealed to the world.

This false grace message is a drug—a poisonous sleeping pill that feels freeing, relaxing and euphoric. Yet this non Biblical grace overdose that’s occurring in churches all over the world is resulting in people’s careless, self-focused slumber that they will, one day, fail to awaken from.

I fear that it has already has and will bring even more division into the body. Many have already fallen into its trap and they are relentlessly seeking to drag others down with them. In fact whole Church have been consumed by this seductive destructive doctrine. We need the true watchmen to take to the walls and sound the alarm.

Again, many in this modern day “Grace Message” movement have already been shocked on the day of their death to find themselves escorted not into the presence of God by glorious angels, but rather by the most horrifying of demonic creatures into their new, eternal residence in Hell. It happens every day. I’m grieved and broken.

The Apostle Paul accurately predicted, “The time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to MYTHS” (2 Tim. 4:3,4).

Basically this new grace message is but a theology of exemption which states that since we are saved, we are exempt from the penalties of sin. This false gospel message ever so subtly exclaims that there are parts of the Bible that no longer apply to us. Yes, it’s a heresy. This new “Grace Message” removes bible-based responsibilities to respond to God in holiness.

The number of people who subconsciously or unwittingly embrace such a theology of exemption is far greater than those who explicitly pronounce their agreement with this doctrine. Many subscribe to new “Grace Message” doctrines without realizing their deception.

Many have been lulled into a false sense of security while actually existing in an unsaved state. They are confident they’d enter Heaven if they died, yet the reality is that they would not. They have come to believe they are exempt from certain parts of the Word of God that requires response.

But as the One Who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living. For it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy.  And if you call upon Him as [your] Father Who judges each one impartially according to what he does, [then] you should conduct yourselves with true reverence throughout the time of your temporary residence [on the earth, whether long or short]. ( 1Peter 1:15-17)

I could go on with many more scriptures that would lay open the vulnerabilities of this new “Grace Message” that indeed it can hold no water in light of the truth of His Word. Yet I believe that I have given enough here that would cause any true Berean to dig deep and dislodge this heretical doctrine with the help of Holy Ghost guidance. Also one can email me at hisway64@aol.com and I will willing to discuss this in greater detail. Also one call follow this topic and more at https://www.facebook.com/rush.welch or https://www.facebook.com/ruuswelch?fref=ts

Let us be ever vigilant, ever studying His Word that we may rightly divide the Word and not fall for any doctrines which seek to remove us from the very foundation of our faith according to that which the Lord has commanded and taught us in His Holy Word. Let us not allow any Trojan horse into our camp rather let us set them ablaze with the Fire of His truth before they even come close that they burn as a warning signal to others to see.

Russ Welch

Servant of Christ

Profile of the Lukewarm, Part 2

Posted: June 14, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, teaching, wilderness
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This is a continuation of my previous post. Again, this was taken from the newsletter from Crazy Love authored by Francis Chan.

LUKEWARM PEOPLE are thankful for their luxuries and comforts, and rarely consider trying to give as much as possible to the poor. They are quick to point out, “Jesus never said money is the root of all evil, only that the love of money is.” Untold numbers of lukewarm people feel “called” to minister to the rich; very few feel “called” to minister to the poor.

LUKEWARM PEOPLE do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from feeling too guilty.

They want to do the bare minimum, to be “good enough” without it requiring too much of them.

They ask, “How far can I go before it’s considered a sin?” instead of “How can I keep myself pure as a temple of the Holy Spirit?”

They ask, “How much do I have to give?” instead of “How much can I give?”

They ask, “How much time should I spend praying and reading my Bible?” instead of “I wish I didn’t have to go to work, so I could sit here and read longer!”

LUKEWARM PEOPLE are continually concerned with playing it safe; they are slaves to the god of control. This focus on safe living keeps them from sacrificing and risking for God.

LUKEWARM PEOPLE feel secure because they attend church, made a profession of faith at age twelve, were baptized, come from a Christian family, vote Republican, or live in America. Just as the prophets in the Old Testament warned Israel that they were not safe just because they lived in the land of Israel, so we are not safe just because we wear the label Christian or because some people persist in calling us a “Christian nation.

” LUKEWARM PEOPLE do not live by faith; their lives are structured so they never have to. They don’t have to trust God if something unexpected happens–they have their savings account. They don’t need God to help them–they have their retirement plan in place. They don’t genuinely seek out what life God would have them live–they have life figured and mapped out. They don’t depend on God on a daily basis–their refrigerators are full and, for the most part, they are in good health. The truth is, their lives wouldn’t look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God.

LUKEWARM PEOPLE probably drink and swear less than average, but besides that, they really aren’t very different from your typical unbeliever. They equate their partially sanitized lives with holiness, but they couldn’t be more wrong.

This profile of the lukewarm is not an all-inclusive definition of what it means to be a Christian, nor is it intended to be used as ammunition to judge your fellow believers’ salvation. Instead, as 2 Corinthians 13:5 says, it is a call to “examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves? We are all messed-up human beings, and no one is totally immune to the behaviors described in the previous examples. However, there is a difference between a life that is characterized by these sorts of mentalities and habits and a life that is in the process of being radically transformed.

We’ll get to the transformation later, but now is the time to take a serious self-inventory.

So if you want to know more about this book, you can visit his site at http://crazylovebook.com.

America needs a Revolutionary Spiritual Reformation – Not a political change!!!

Posted: June 13, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, Prophetic, teaching, wilderness
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Having spent some time studying the history of the Church and seeing where we are as a nation I truly believe that we are in desperate need of a Spiritual reformation. It is time that we return back to the Red Letters of the Bible, it is time to release a 3 reformation in this nation. We see a nation who has fallen morally both in the secular government as well as the Church. This is not a war of division and is not a solution that can be reached through political upheaval. I am shocked at the amount of so called teachers within the Church that so boldly speak out against the government of America and it’s politicians as they are in direct opposition to what the New Testament teaches. No my brothers and sisters what we need is for the Church to repent, turn from it’s wickedness, cry out to our God and then we shall see our God heal our land. (2 Chron 7:14)

I read post after post by pastors who bash the president and they are ultimately dishonoring the Lord when they do so for they reject the wisdom of His Word for their own wisdom. We could replace all of congress, the house even to the President with Christian men and women yet that is not the solution.

We have a organized religious structure in this nation which has shaken their fist in the face of God and have permitted abominations to take place in the house of God.

They have allowed the vow of marriage to be disregarded. They have removed reverence and holiness from the pulpit and replaced it with seeker friendly messages based upon the philosophies and wisdom of this world. They have allowed the morality of the Church to be hijacked by the unethical moral decay of this nation.

We have seen the Church sell out to the riches of this world, hijacking the store house of the Lord for His people and used it for personal gain and the building of man made enterprises. If the apostles were to return today and enter into the average Church they wouldn’t even know what it was and more than likely would see them as temples built for the honoring of pagan gods. If Jesus were to enter the average church in America today He would not even be recognized for they have sold out to the world and created a Jesus in the image that they are comfortable serving. I can hear the words of Ezekiel 34:1-25 thundering in the Spirit.

We have seen the Church remain silent in regard to moral issues because she is as dirty as the morally decayed society around her. She cannot speak against abomination of abortion for she has aborted several generations of God’s servants in the name of modern churchanity. She remains silent when prayer is mocked for she has lost the ability to pray with power and authority of Jesus Christ as she bows down to false gods of greed and pride. She cannot speak out against adultery for she herself has had an ongoing adulterous affair with the pleasures of this world. She cannot speak out against the abomination of sexual perversion in society as she herself has become but a harlot – lust and pride are the menu selection of the day. She has even allowed and condoned and in some cased applauded the abomination of the gay & lesbian agenda not only into the Church but has prostituted the pulpits out to them in the name of political correctness and social sensitivity.

We have allowed the cross to be removed from the Gospel message and replaced with a cross-less gospel. We have allowed the beauty of Gods message of grace be replaced with a graceless message that is nothing more than a license to sin. We have seen the gifts of the Church purposed for the Church marketed and sold to the highest payer. We have seen the generosity of faithful servant’s sapped as their gifts of faith are stolen by crooked and perverse shepherds.

We have seen the call of counting the cost removed and replaced with a message of prosperity that is slander the name of Jesus, causing many to stumble and seek the treasures and pleasures of this world over that of Heaven. We have seen the truth about Hell replaced with a false message of a god who will simply allow everyone into Heaven regardless their denying Him.

No, this nation does not need a political restructure nor a civil war, this nation needs a spiritual reformation that will cause the armies of a Heaven to join in as we wage spiritual warfare against the god of this age who has hijacked the faith of this nation. We need a generation of sold out faithful radical Christians who have counted the cost and pledged to Jesus: “ Whatever You desire Lord, for our lives are Yours purchased by Your blood for the glory of Your Name”. We need a reformation of His Church to return it back to His control & Headship. We need to remove the false shepherds and replace them with men of God who are willing to die for their faith and are more interested in building up a treasure chest in heaven, daring not dirty their hands with the treasures of this world.

America needs the rise of a generation marked by their servant hood and vow of holiness that will go to the gallows before ever renouncing their Christ or His Gospel message. We must stop attempting to restore America to what once was and start spending hours, days and weeks on our faces interceding for America that she will be transformed as a nation into the very image that the Father has purposed her to be, that His Holy Name may be glorified thru her to the world.

We must remember at all time that “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places”.  (Eph 6:12)

Ultimately what America truthfully needs is a spiritual revolution that births a supernatural Reformation that will birth a new nation that is truly under Gods dominion.  So let us sound the alarm, calling for the Spiritual revolutionist to rise up in a Holy Ghost orchestrated Reformation that will shake the nations as the Name of Jesus is Praised, Glorified and Honored above all else.

Written by Russ (Rush) Welch

What a Wicked Person Can Expect from Life

Posted: May 24, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, teaching, wilderness
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“Indeed, the light of the wicked is snuffed out. The flame of his fire stops glowing. The light in his tent becomes dark, and the lamp above him is snuffed out. “His healthy stride is shortened, and his own planning trips him up.

His own feet get him tangled in a net as he walks around on its webbing. A trap catches his heel. A snare holds him. A rope is hidden on the ground for him. A trap is on his path to catch him.

“Terrors suddenly pounce on him from every side and chase him every step he takes.
Hunger undermines his strength. Disaster is waiting beside him. His skin is eaten away by disease. Death’s firstborn son eats away at the limbs of his body. He is dragged from the safety of his tent and marched off to the king of terrors.

Fire lives in his tent. Sulfur is scattered over his home. His roots dry up under him.

His branches wither over him. All memory about him will vanish from the earth, and his reputation will not be known on the street corner. He will be driven from the light into the dark and chased out of the world.

He will not have any children or descendants among his people or any survivor where he used to live. People in the west are shocked by what happens to him. People in the east are seized with horror. This is what happens to the homes of wicked people and to those who do not know God.” (Job 18:5-21)

Praise God there is hope In Christ Jesus for those who repent and turn their lives in submission to Him!!!

In [this] freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off]. (Gal 5:1)

We can not fight and win the battle against sin in our power!!!

And having been set free from sin, you have become the servants of righteousness (of conformity to the divine will in thought, purpose, and action). I am speaking in familiar human terms because of your natural limitations. For as you yielded your bodily members [and [a]faculties] as servants to impurity and ever increasing lawlessness, so now yield your bodily members [and [b]faculties] once for all as servants to righteousness (right being and doing) [which leads] to sanctification. For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. But then what benefit (return) did you get from the things of which you are now ashamed? [None] for the end of those things is death. But now since you have been set free from sin and have become the slaves of God, you have your present reward in holiness and its end is eternal life. For the wages which sin pays is death, but the [bountiful] free gift of God is eternal life through (in union with) Jesus Christ our Lord. (Rom 6:18-23)

So many today struggle in their walk – they’ve attended conventions, conferences and Church meetings, tarried at the alters yet experience no freedom. This is what happens when a false and watered down Gospel based upon self is taught – It is void of Gods power.

To get into heaven, you have to REPENT of your sins and BELIEVE the gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark 1:15).

You have to REPENT of your sins–that means turn from them and BELIEVE that Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. Having done these things, you will be born again and the Lord Jesus Christ will help you to walk uprightly. You will read the word and follow the teachings of Jesus. The word of God will wash your mind and your desires will actually change as you obey what you read. [Beware for there are many false gospels in the world today].

A Critical spirit is a deadly room mate!!!

Posted: May 3, 2013 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, Prophetic, teaching, wilderness
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Definition of Critical – Inclined to find fault, or to judge with severity

Quote: It is impossible to help anybody after they have developed a critical spirit.

“Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces. Should I let them inquire of me at all? (Ezek 14:3)

One of the quickest ways to shut up the Heavens over ones life and stop receiving the blessings of God is to allow entrance of a critical spirit. Even worse are those who have welcomed this spirit in and actually made room in their hearts for it to stay. Sadly the room was made via the eviction of the love of God from their lives, for they now are worshiping the spirit of the deceiver, the accuser of the saints, Satan himself.

 Now He was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath.  And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, “Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.”

 The Lord then answered him and said, “Hypocrite![a] Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it?  So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?”  And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him. (Luke 13:10-17)

I. The Causes of a Critical Spirit

A. An Unhealthy Appreciation of Self – vs. 14 the ruler of the synagogue

  • Romans 12:3  For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

A critic is one that considers themselves an authority or a master of a subject which qualifies them to point out the good and the bad.  Their own knowledge and expertise is their authority; not a defined standard.

Webster’s 1828 Dictionary: A person skilled in judging of the merit of literary works; one who is able to discern and distinguish the beauties and faults of writing. In a more general sense, a person skilled in judging with propriety of any combination of objects, or of any work of art; and particularly of what are denominated the Fine Arts. A critic is one who, from experience, knowledge, habit or taste, can perceive the difference between propriety and impropriety, in objects or works presented to his view; between the natural and unnatural; the high and the low, or lofty and mean; the congruous and incongruous; the correct and incorrect, according to the established rules of the art.

We ought to wake up every morning singing, “I’m not worthy to be here, but THANK GOD I belong!”

B. An Unbiblical Adherence to a System – vs. 14

Where did this rule come from? Where did he come up with this?? You can only be healed on certain days?

  • Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

Truth is, he made this rule up.  Since he had never had a person healed in his synagogue on a sabbath, surely God cannot be in it!

A critical spirit will come when you are always thinking you know what OUGHT to be done when the truth is, you don’t have a clue!

Here he was telling people when they OUGHT to come get healed, and he had never healed anybody!  In essence, He was limiting God – trying to cram God in his own little test tube!!

He was an expert in a system that didn’t even exist except in his own mind.

C. An Unreasonable Attitude toward the Sovereignty of God – vs. 14

NOTE: He was upset with what God did, so he took it out on the people.

God can do what He wants to, when He wants to, however He wants to.  Deal with it!

He mistook GOD working for MAN working.  (there are six days in which men ought to work)  It wasn’t man working – it was GOD.

You say – “I just don’t understand it.”  If you understood everything, you’d be God.

His ways are past finding out.

  • Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

Keep your mind open to this possibility: God might work in a way you never thought possible or have never seen before.  God might use somebody you didn’t think He could, He might save somebody you never thought could be saved.  He might manifest Himself in a manner that you’ve never seen before.  He might be trying to teach you something!  Quit criticizing and learn!!!

II. The Curses of a Critical Spirit

A. It will Belittle the Positive – vs. 14 (because that Jesus had healed…)

Positive things such as:

  1. Jesus is in the midst – vs. 10 (theirs wasn’t the only synagogue; they were honored)
  2. Jesus was teaching them things – vs. 10 (many people never learn anything or grow)
  3. There were people in the place that were there in spite of their infirmities – praise God!
  4. Jesus was still calling hurting people to himself – vs. 12 that’s a blessing!
  5. Jesus was still laying his hands on people and touching people – vs. 13
  6. People were still getting straightened out after years of being wrong – vs. 13
  7. New converts were praising and glorifying God – vs. 13

Did any of this matter?  NO!!  The man with the critical spirit saw NONE of the positive things

B. It will Badger the People – vs. 14 …and he said unto the people…

Interesting NOTE: We find no record that this ruler of the synagogue ever badgered or criticized this woman UNTIL she got STRAIGHT!

For 18 years, she had been in a mess, and he never helped her.

Now she’s right with God and he gets mad!

If somebody bothers you, just imagine how bad it would be if you’d known them before they met Jesus!

C. It will Buck the Praising – vs. 13, 14 they glorified; he answered with indignation

  • A critical spirit will cause you to pout when others are praising.
  • A critical spirit will make you mad when others are magnifying.
  • A critical spirit will make you tense when others are testifying.
  • A critical spirit will cause you to hinder people when God is trying to help people.
  • A critical spirit will cause people to ask “What’s wrong with him or her?”

Do excited Christians get on your nerves?

Do people that brag on the Lord and the church and their pastor irritate you?  You’re critical!

D. It will Broadcast the Poison – in vs. 10, Jesus is teaching; where is the ruler then?

He let EVERYBODY know where he stood on the subject.  Notice that nobody asked him.

Watch out for this line – “Well, if you ask me…”  Nobody will.  They don’t care as much about what you think as you do!

Critical spirits are not happy until they’ve poisoned everybody they meet with their criticism.

Question: Do the excited, testifying, praising Christians stay excited, keep testifying and are they still praising after you’re done with them?

Do you find yourself more comfortable around those that are uncomfortable?

  • Ever noticed that the people that are most critical are the one’s that’s not doing anything?
  • Ever heard a soul winner complain about too many visitors?
  • Ever heard a bus worker complain about the mess that bus kids make?
  • Ever heard a grass cutter complain about how the grass was cut?
  • Ever heard a friendly hand shaker complain about not getting their hand shaken?
  • Ever heard a shouter and testifier complain about a service being dead?
  • Ever heard a servant criticize another servant’s way of doing something?
  • Ever noticed that the one’s that never bring anybody to church can tell you how it’s done?

III. The Cures for a Critical Spirit

A. Admit your Hypocrisy – vs. 15 “Thou hypocrite!”

Most of the things that people criticize in others are things they are guilty of themselves.

  • Illustration: The beam and the mote in the eye.
  • Start judging people by the same standard you judge yourself!  You’ll be more longsuffering.

Even if you had ALL YOUR DUCKS in a row and all your own personal issues resolved, you still wouldn’t have the right to have a critical spirit, but your own shortcomings and faults and failures make your critical spirit even that much more hypocritical!

B. Be Ashamed that your Heart is not 100% right with God – vs. 16, 17

God’s will was not their will.  Their will always will contradict what God wants to do.

God’s will was all about this woman’s problem getting healed.

The critic’s will was all about his position being honored.

God’s was concerned about sinners; they were preoccupied with standards.

C. Acknowledge all the glorious things that are being done by Him – vs. 17

Stop looking for the negative and the problems and start seeing what God is doing.

There’s many faults and failures in the lives of everybody you come in contact with.

  • Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
  • I Cor. 13  Charity thinketh no evil…

Spend your time planting grass instead of pulling weeds.

You don’t have to elaborate on everything that you see wrong.  Why not elaborate on what you see RIGHT and what God is doing?

  • Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt,…

http://www.pleasantview.org/2011/a-critical-spirit-what-the-bible-says-series

THE FIRE OF GOD COMES

Posted: November 17, 2011 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, Prophetic, teaching, wilderness
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Throughout recent centuries God has been restoring piece by piece that which was lost when Adam and subsequently all mankind fell. The process of restoration involves first the revelation of what is to be restored. It is revealed as being reality for the time in which it is to be restored.

Over 500 years ago salvation by grace through faith was restored. In the early 20th century, the revelation of the baptism with the Holy Spirit was restored. The gifts of healings and miracles were restored. Later in the mid 20th century, prophets were restored, and then in the latter part of the century and into the first part of the 21st century, the apostles are being restored. These are just a few of the most recent major restorations to the Body of Christ.

Now that the prophetic is restored, God reveals what He is doing to His prophets. As the prophets proclaim the revelation of what God is doing, it begins to come to pass. A true prophetic proclamation resonates in the hearts of mature believers and prepares God’s people to receive the next piece of restoration from God.

Surely the Lord GOD does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets, Amos 3:7.

The Restoration of the Baptism with Fire

This may not be fresh to some of you. However, the greater revelation of the fire portion of being baptized by Christ Jesus with the Holy Spirit and FIRE is being freshly revealed and made real in me.

Mat 3:11: I (John) indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

New or fresh revelation is God uncovering for us what has always been. It is as if God lifts up the cover or lid, and our eyes are opened to fresh revelation. We may then marvel that we have not seen before this obvious reality that is now so clearly exposed.

I believe that in this season, the lid is NOT being gently lifted off the revelation of THE FIRE of GOD. The lid is being blown off with an explosion of power.

This will be more than the revival fire that has been poured out historically time and time again. In revival we cried out for God to SEND THE FIRE. His fire has now come and we are beginning to grasp what it means to be baptized by Christ Jesus with the Holy Spirit and FIRE.

This does not involve the hype and showmanship of highly promoted performance-based conferences. This is not a stage or platform production. The fire of God is not geared to man-made staged performance. You can lay aside the rock bands and high powered so called “praise music” with its costumed and choreographed dance. The fire of heaven is coming down in the person of Christ Jesus in the Holy Spirit. The Body of Christ will come forth filled with the Spirit of Christ from within and saturated with the fire of Christ upon us.

Living Water and Fire

Probably most if not all of us have been experiencing to some degree the inner working of the baptism and fullness of the Holy Spirit – the gifts, peace, inner power, joy, and more. However, most of us have probably not truly experienced the baptism with Fire coming UPON us in this present season. The fire of God is the glory of Christ falling upon us from above. It is the Christ in us coming together with the Spirit of Christ from above. The restoration of the baptism of fire is coming upon us exploding the powerful works of Christ Jesus into a desperate and failing world.

The fire of His glory is suddenly coming upon purified holy sons and daughters of God. The glory will not rest upon mixture or flesh, as the revival fire of the past has done. The Holy Spirit was poured out on flesh in revivals and outpourings in the 90s, and a measure of fire came for a short season. This that is now coming forth is much more and will be Spirit to spirit. Mixture will be quickly burned away, and only pure holiness will remain in the fire.

This past Sunday afternoon, I was meeting with a few close friends. We were seated in a relatively close circle each sharing from our hearts and from the scriptures. Something was said about being thirsty for the coming of more fullness of God or something like that. I heard in my spirit that it was in us and needed to flow out of us as living water. I read a couple of scriptures from John.

John 4:13-14: Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

John 7:38: “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

As I read these verses I began to feel a strong stirring of unrest and dissatisfaction within. I began to proclaim that it is in us. We have it and are not letting it flow out to each other. We thirst and do not have, because we are not pouring out the rivers of living water to each other. I don’t have it because you are not letting it flow out to me. I was saying something like that when suddenly the fire of God fell upon me. The Spirit of God came UPON me and fire (glory) came upon my being like I have not experienced in a long time, if ever before.

At my age, I usually get up from a seated position slowly with help by pushing myself up with my arms. When the fire came upon me, I suddenly leapt straight up from my chair with shouts and did some sort of a rapidly stepping scooting sort of a dance or something in a tight circle as tongues and words flowed profusely from me. I could not see anything but the glory. I fell back into my chair and prophesied and praised as the river poured from me. As far as I could tell, glory filled the room and impacted us all. I do not sing at all, but at some point in all this, I actually flowed into spontaneously leading worship choruses. Prophecy, prayer, and praise flowed like a river.

It was like the flow of living water (Spirit) from within flowed out and met the fire of God. Perhaps this is a key to the fire (glory) falling upon us. First the dissatisfaction with our not flowing the living waters of the Spirit of Christ out of us. At the instant we begin to flow the living water, the fire comes.

It is as if the inner flow of the living water of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of God’s people can meet up with Holy Fire and create explosive power. The heavy lid of religion with its erroneous theology of doubt and unbelief and our personal gods of prideful self-consciousness have held back the release of the power of the Spirit, creating an extreme back pressure in the bosom of God’s Spirit-filled people.

In the natural realm water contained in an enclosed vessel that is heated with fire becomes steam pressure. As the fire increases the pressure builds, and when the lid comes off, it explodes. At best we have been experiencing small leaks of power flowing out to the atmosphere of the world from the sons of God.

The pressure for the release of God from within us is now ready to explode into the world as God helps us to blow our lid off to full-out release the explosive power of spiritual reality of Christ Jesus.

First the Cross, Next the Spirit, Now the Fire

After the cross, the resurrected Christ Jesus gathered with His disciples before ascending to the Father and gave them instruction. They were sent by Jesus to do the same work God sent Jesus to do by the same power. Then He breathed the Holy Spirit into them (John 20:21-22).

Prior to this moment the disciples had not received the Holy Spirit. Even though they had followed Jesus and believed He was the Son of God, until Jesus died on the cross they remained of the first Adam. Because of the sinful state of mankind, they could not fully receive the Holy Spirit. However, it was at this moment after the cross, the sin curse had been broken and those who followed Jesus were able to receive the Holy Spirit from the breath of the resurrected Christ. Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit into them much as God had originally breathed His Spirit into Adam (Gen 2:7).

At this point redemption became a reality for the disciples who now had the Spirit of God in their lives. For the first time since Adam, the Holy Spirit was again within men other than Jesus. However, they did not yet have the full empowerment of the life of Christ Jesus within and upon them. He was still standing before them awaiting His ascension to the Father.

Christ Jesus had to return to the Father and become a “life-giving Spirit” (1 Cor 15:45). Only then could the Holy Spirit impart the fire of Christ Jesus to dwell with and empower the disciples who would receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The disciples were instructed to not depart from Jerusalem but to wait for the empowering baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-8).

All of this took place in a relatively brief period of time. The cross and resurrection had broken the curse of sin and changed the sinful state of the disciples, opening the way for Jesus to breath the Holy Spirit into them before ascending to the Father. Then the promise of the Father could come at Pentecost in the full baptism of the Holy Spirit and FIRE. These works of God were being planted into the world to be multiplied in the fullness of time when all things were made ready.

From the revelation of the work of the Cross by grace through faith being restored around 500 years ago, to the baptism of the Holy Spirit about 100 years ago, to the revelation of the kingdom of God life on earth in the past few decades, to the recent restoration of true holiness by the Spirit within, to the today restoration of the FIRE of Christ Jesus coming UPON pure-hearted Holy Spirit-filled people of God, the restoration continues.

The Fire of God is the Glory of Christ Jesus

Forerunners of FIRE are emerging now. The real and fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit with fire will soon spread to the corners of the earth bringing the manifest presence and power of God into view of all. It will bring great empowerment to the humble and sudden destruction to the pride and loftiness of man. The progressive transformation to the kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven is now being clearly seen by God’s people. The gospel of the kingdom is restored and being widely proclaimed. The FIRE of the Spirit of Christ is coming upon Holy Spirit-indwelled people bringing God-empowered LIFE.

The Sword of the Lord Comes with Fire.

Ron McGatlin

http://www.openheaven.com
basileia@earthlink.net

Its time for the preachers turn back to preaching life not death!

Posted: June 9, 2011 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, teaching, wilderness
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The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian church: “I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner…for godly sorrow worketh repentance” (2 Corinthians 7:9–10).

What is happening to the House of God today? Where is the preaching of the Word? Why is there such a lack of messages about sin? When we do not preach the Word, rather we preach a watered down version according to what we believe the people want to hear, we do an injustice to the Lord. And we end up with a church filled with weak Christians stumbling from defeat to defeat! They choose to listen only to soft, flesh-assuring preaching. Where there is no convicting word, where there can be no godly sorrow over sin. And where there is no godly sorrow for sin, there can be no repentance. And where there is no repentance, there is only hardness of heart.

Thank God, David had Nathan, who was not afraid of what the King would do to him, he walked with a holy reverence for the Lord God and the Truth!

David saw what happened to Saul when he rejected the word of the Lord. Saul, who once walked a godly life style, living as a Spirit-led king continually rejected the Spirit’s reproving words, delivered by a holy prophet. It didn’t take long after he began to stop listening to God that Saul began to walk in self-will, bitterness and rebellion.

Finally, the Holy Ghost departed from him: “Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king” (1 Samuel 15:23). “The Lord…departed from Saul” (18:12). Saul ended up turning to a witch for guidance, which many Christians do today – they seek out a person who does not treasure the gifts of the Lord and they will for the recognition of men give a pleasing truth-less word. Saul knew the Lord had left him, he even confessed to the witch, “God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do” (28:15)

All this came crashing back to David memory, all the madness, ugliness and terror surrounding this man who had shut out God’s word. Suddenly, the truth pierced his own heart: “God is no respecter of persons. I have sinned, as Saul did. And now here’s another prophet, in another time, giving me God’s Word, as Samuel gave it to Saul. Oh, Lord, I’ve sinned against you! Please don’t take your Holy Spirit from me, as you did from Saul.”

We need men and women of God today in the pulpit who fear the Lord more than they fear the people or the lack of their treasure chests being filled!

We need men and women of God who are on fire for the Lord and His truth, that will not compromise the truth of the scriptures even if it means death. We need to get back to the Bible and stop with all these foolish functions, conferences and hyped up emotional meetings to stir the hearts, minds and wallets of the people. Holy Spirit will stir the hearts of the people. When we release the Word of God with the power and authority of the King, it will bring conviction – not only to those hearing the Word, but first to those preaching the Word.

Friends, let us not be fooled any more about the “Revival message” coming by simply willing it – that if we get loud enough He will come, that if we dance hard enough the Lord will show up in power. The Bible clearly shows that whenever we return to the Lord in genuine, heartfelt repentance, God responds by bringing absolute reconciliation and restoration. Reconciliation – a rejoining of our hearts and spirit with that of the Lords! Restoration a true Revival that brings us back to the redemptive and transforming purposes of the Lord! It’s when God’s [people fall on their face, truly repent and call out upon the Lord with every part of their lives, then we shall see a people rise up who themselves are the Revival of the Most High!!!

Is dancing and shouting praise to the Lord wrong? Of course not, but if there is no conviction that we are not completely following Him, that there are things in our lives that limit Holy Spirit from fully releasing from our lives, that which the Lord has poured in, how can the Lord use us? He could show up at any church He desires to show up at, but He is looking for a people who are hungry for Truth, a people who are not simply moved by a song that spurns emotions – He is looking for a people who have been broken, who have come to the conviction that it is not because the Lord does not love that He has not showed up in His Glory – it is because we have not loved Him enough to get rid of everything that is an idol in our lives.

This does not mean that we have to “fade away” from life, biding our time in quiet shame until the Lord takes us home. Lets get real, listen to what the Word has to say, such as what we read in the book of Joel. Here we see where the prophet Joel assures us that God steps in immediately when we return to him: “Rend your hearts turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil” (Joel 2:13)

Now that a powerful promise – The Bible is filled with these promises, they are not dead words, they are alive even in this present day. The Words of the Lords speaks from generation to generation. Look again in Joel, for God then gives us this incredible promise: “I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten and ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed” (2:25–26). The Lord promises to restore all.

And this happened after God had pronounced judgment upon the land!

Even as He has pronounced judgment upon those who forsake His Word – if we will but turn towards Him, with a repentant heart cry out, Father forgive me – He will run to us as did the father to the prodigal son and restore unto us all that He has desired. A true revival is not ushered in on the wings of eagles, it is ushered in upon the broken hearts that cry out in repentance. Just look at the revival of times past – the heavens opened up as the people having their hearts pierced cried put to God to forgive them. We saw the revival in individuals hearts and lives being transferred into the hearts of others

We need to get back to preaching God’s Word with Fire, with conviction, allowing it to do its job to pierce the sinner and saints hearts alike.

Today the church has swallowed such a fallacy that has been placed upon the good ole Hellfire preaching to the point that the people of God have been dumbed down to believing that the pulpit should give us a word that build us up which is non offensive and easy to swallow. The truth is, God does not want to build us up on a foundation of hay and stubble – He wants to build us up on a solid foundation, on the foundation of the Rock of His salvation Jesus Christ – thus we need to have that Word of God that divides asunder, even to the piercing of the heart to render us in a broken state, that the breath of His revelation can come in with new birth and build up in His way.

What has been known to be an offensive message of Hell and sin, is in all honesty, is that which is preached through tears by one who has been through the valley of conviction and emptied out on the alter humbled under the mighty hand of God, called “grace preaching.” If you’re your heart is being pricked and probed by God’s Word — if Holy Spirit is refusing to allow you sit comfortably in your sin — then you’re listening too truth and being shown mercy. It is the deep love of God at work, calling you out of death and into the true Christ birthed life.

The question is – do we want to turn back to preaching and hearing the truth, are we willing respond to him as David did? If we the people of the Lord God desire such truth and seek after it with our whole heart then we will know true restoration and reconciliation. And we shall see that our God will restore everything the enemy has stolen.

Let the pulpits across this nation once again be set on fire – it is not to late for America or any other Nation to repent and turn towards God. His grace and mercy abounds and will be poured out upon all who call upon His Name!

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My prayer is that the Lord will strip me of everything that is not worthy of Him, everything that would limit the power of Holy Spirit flowing through my own life. That what ever is in my own life, whether pride, godless desires or what ever the sin may be be burnt up and thrown out. That from this point on I will never preach another Word that is not baptized in the fires of His holiness – that I will not listen for the Amen’s of the people – rather I will turn my ears to hear the Amen’s of heaven. That Holy Spirit will sweep across this nation and move upon every man and women of God in the pulpit seeking to only proclaim His truth this week and set them ablaze with the passion of the Father and open the ears of the people to those who refuse and see how empty their words are – the words that contain death and not life.

May the Lord God bring a conviction upon the Bride in this nation and all nations to repent and turn back to Him in Truth through the Spirit!

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