Category: Uncategorized

Who is the Manchild? – 9/1/15

Jerry Turk's photo.
Jerry Turk

WHO IS THE MANCHILD IN REVELATION 12?

In I Corinthians 13 Paul writes “that a when I was a child I spake as a child: but when I became a man I put away childish things.”  In this passage Paul is using the concepts of childhood and manhood to speak about spiritual maturity.  Indeed, the verse preceding this passage states “When that which is perfect is come then that which is in part shall be done away.”  Most Christians today believe “that which is perfect” refers to the second coming of Christ.  However, this concept is relatively new.  That is, throughout most of Christendom until about 1860 this reference of perfection had more to do with the spiritual state of an individual while they were alive. For example, Saints were canonized by the Roman Catholic Church when a level of spiritual perfection was posthumously determined. In Protestant circles dominated by Puritans, early Methodists and converts from the first or second great awakening perfection more often referred to a second work of grace where the appetites and desires for sin were crucified once and for all. But the context of this chapter adequately defines this notion of perfection that is neither Catholic nor Protestant in the aforementioned terms. Essentially Paul is letting these carnal Christians know that even if they had great miraculous gifts and even if they were martyred, without LOVE they would be spiritually bankrupt.

In this case Paul’s use of “child” refers to a believer who is immature in the faith and is not well grounded. In the same sense Paul refers to a “man” as someone who was achieved a degree of maturity and is no longer influenced by the things of the world, the flesh or the devil. But this maturity or perfection is not just the absence of negative attributes that characterizes spiritual manhood. Paul also reports that the Fruits of the Spirit, and particularly, LOVE is not only the primary indicator of Christian maturity but also the evidence of Christian perfection.

However, in Revelation 12 we see that John has combined these same two concepts, manhood and childhood, but in an altogether different context. Here he refers to a group of believers who are collectively known as the Manchild. What is also apparent is that this Manchild is gifted and anointed by God. Indeed, immediately upon birth the Manchild is caught up to God and to his throne and yet at the same time “they loved not their lives unto death.” Although they are continually in the presence of God their mortal bodies are vulnerable to death.

Who is this Manchild? In one sense this becomes a relevant question in the light of current and unprecedented worldwide persecution and martyrdom of Christians. But the question about the identity of the Manchild is probably broader in scope than current events. This is because the very concept of a “Manchild” is an oxymoron or a contradiction. Consider for a moment the embodiment of Christ-like attributes or even unity with God in a collective that is corporately like a child? When we reflect on Christ’s dedication to purpose, commitment to His heavenly calling and His unwavering desire to follow the Father’s command, even to the point of tasting death and hell, childhood does not readily come to mind. Equally enigmatic are the other primary characters described in Revelation 12. These include the Woman who delivers the Manchild and the Dragon who seeks to devour the Manchild upon birth.

First it should be acknowledged that the identity of the Manchild is controversial. Not all believers agree. However, as scripture tends to interpret itself, then clues to the identity of Manchild are probably replete in type and shadow throughout scripture. A brief examination of Biblical children with anointed power should help us answer this question. Indeed, throughout the pages of the Bible there is a seemingly endless series of stories about couples and circumstances around the birth of their gifted or anointed offspring. A surface read of the book of Genesis gives an account of numerous couples, and in most cases, the unusual or peculiar circumstances that surround the birth of their son or sons.

To Adam and Eve were born Cain and Abel. But we read in Genesis 4 that Cain killed his brother Abel because God favored Abel’s offering, the blood sacrifice of an innocent newborn lamb over Cain’s sacrifice, the fruit of the ground or the fruit of his labor. To the believer the symbolism is obvious. Abel’s lamb is a type and shadow of Christ, called the Lamb of God in the gospels, while Cain’s offering represents those who seek to earn God’s favor by their own labor or by keeping the law. Moreover, after his death we read that Abel’s blood cried from the ground. Many have suggested that this reflects the eternal intercessory power of Christ’s blood. But obvious flaws are associated with this interpretation. Adam was created by God and was therefore called “the son of God.” Hence if Adam was murdered this interpretation might have merit. But when we consider that Abel was born of woman, the story holds more weight as a foreshadowing of the Manchild who was also born of “the Woman.”

In the apocryphal Book of Enoch (which was quoted by Jude and Jesus) we read of the birth of Noah who was thought by his father Lamech to be the offspring of Lamech’s wife and a fallen angel – because light could be visibly seen emanating from him when he entered a dark room. As a result Lamech contemplated taking the life of Noah. However, in the book, Enoch descends from his heavenly estate to reveal to Lamech that Noah is indeed Lamech’s son and that this young child, Noah has been chosen and anointed by God to save mankind. In reading the text one comes to realize that the phenomenon of light that surrounded Noah was the Shekinah Glory of God. This account of the infant Noah would therefore seem to be an appropriate prototype for both the birth of Christ and the birth of the Manchild. The lives of all 3 were threatened immediately after birth and all 3 survived following divine interventions. However, because Jesus said “as it was in the days of Noah so shall it be in the days of the coming of the son of man,” the Manchild Company correlates more closely with the infant Noah as both appear during an apocalyptic event. Moreover, since the Book of Enoch is not cannon of scripture, this example for some might not be relevant or accepted.

Thereafter, many other stories of phenomenal children are recorded in the Bible or other ancient related works. Eventually, the avid Bible reader comes to realize that childbirth is no doubt one of the major themes of the Hebrew covenant, and indeed the entire Bible. To Isaac and Rebekah were born twins, Esau first then Jacob (Gen. 25: 23-26). The story of these brothers and their relationship to God, to their parents and to each other makes for fascinating reading. This is because eventually the family inheritance and blessing goes to Jacob who, because he was younger would not typically become the rightful heir.  Ultimately Jacob’s name, meaning jackal or supplanter is changed to Israel, which means “the redeemed of the Lord “after several unexpected divine encounters (Gen. 35:10).  Again we find another story that suggests God’s favor is not dependent on merit or natural selection.  Additionally, a distinct difference between the younger and the older is described in detail.  Like Jacob, it is almost unnatural or unthinkable to consider that the blessing would go to a Manchild, which sounds a bit like an immature man.

In First Samuel, chapters 1 and 2 we read that after seeking the Lord for years Hanna was finally fruitful, giving birth. In return and with thanksgiving she presents her long awaited son, rendering him to the service of the Lord by relinquishing him to serve Levitical priests and to duties of the tabernacle. Her son became the mighty prophet Samuel who would anointed Saul, and later, David as King over Israel. Again a strong correlation is obvious. Like Samuel who was promised to the Lord at birth, the Manchild is caught up to God and to His throne immediately after birth. This differs from Christ who began his public ministry at the age of 30.

We could also easily correlate the Manchild to David the shepherd boy who slew the giant Goliath.  Later, following the illicit affair between King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was born. In a strange twist of events Solomon unexpectedly became heir to the throne of David despite the fact that he was one of David’s youngest children. Moreover, the Lord gave Solomon permission to build the temple in Jerusalem. During Solomon’s dedication of the temple we read that fire fell from heaven and publically consumed 144,000 sacrifices before all Israel (2 Chron. 7:1).  Again this is noteworthy as “the 144,000” is designated as a significant number in the Book of Revelation.  In chapter 7 this number is associated with the 12 tribes of Israel (12,000 from each tribe) “who have come out of the Great Tribulation… and their robes are washed white in the blood of the Lamb.” However, in Chapter 14 the same number is associates with “the Redeemed of the Lord who originate from every nation, kindred, tongue and people from the entire earth.” Once again, those first chosen by the Lord, known as Israelites, receive not the promise of Christ. Instead the unexpected Gentiles or the younger or most recent converts who are added to the household of faith are the first to receive the promised Messiah.

The books of Kings and Chronicles provide us with what seems like endless genealogies of who begat who. Particular attention is often provided regarding the birth of Kings. In some cases, details are provided regarding their reign as well as the degree of their obedience to God. However, in the case of some kings it would appear that their only significance was the fact that they gave birth to their successor. Since we are focused on divinely anointed and appointed children, two young kings in particular are noteworthy. We read in II Chronicles 24 how Joash began his reign at the age of 7 and it was said of him that he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. Moreover, in II King 23 we read that Josiah began his reign at age 8 and was credited with consolidating many Hebrew texts and removing idols of Baal. In both cases the concept of a spiritually mature child or Manchild is reintroduced to our consciousness and is perhaps a foreshadowing of things not seen as yet.

Of all the stories in the Bible that provide details around the birth of a son there are 3 that stand out as unique and vastly different from the rest. And though the Bible provides an account of many sons born under miraculous circumstances, the birthing of THREE SONS in particular goes far beyond the realm of the miraculous. Indeed the birthings of these 3 specific sons carry the promise of UNIVERSAL AND ETERNAL significance. The story of these three families and their promised son that stand out head and shoulders above all other stories in the Bible are:

1) Abraham and Sarah, and their son, Isaac:
God speaking to Abraham “And in thy seed shall the nations of the Earth be blessed” (Gen. 22: 18). “By faith he sojourned in the land of promise as in a strange country dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise for he looked for a city that hath foundations whose builder and maker is god. Through faith also Sarah herself receives strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she just him faithful who had promised. Therefore, sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the seashore innumerable. By faith, Abraham when he was tried offered up Isaac and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said that in Isaac shall thy seed be called, accounting that god was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from whence also he receive him in a figure” (Heb. 11:9-12, 17-19).

2) The Birth of JESUS to the Virgin Mary: 
behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel (GOD with us)” (Isaiah 7:14). “for unto us a child is born, to us son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he be called wonderful, counselor, the mighty god, the everlasting father, the prince of peace” (Isaiah 9:6). “and there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord… and suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2: 8-11, 13-14).

3) The Birth of the Manchild in Revelation 12: 
“the wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and fatling together; and a little child shall lead them” (Isaiah 11:6). “and there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon having seven heads and 10 horns and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered for to devour her child as soon as it was born. And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she had a place prepared of God that they should feed her there 1200 and threescore days” (Rev. 12:1-6).

Most believers are well acquainted with the stories of the first 2 couples and their son of promise, but again we ask, who is this Manchild and what are His parent’s names? Many believe the Manchild is a description of Christ and His coming “millennial reign.” This is understandable when we consider that both Mary and the Woman take refuge shortly after giving birth and both are pursued for a specified period of time by evil forces aimed at annihilation. However, the description of this 3rd enigmatic child of promise in Revelation 12 does not quite fit with what we know of Jesus at his return. A little child or Manchild that shall lead as the great peacemaker between lion and lamb does not exactly fit with the Lion of Judah that returns with fiery vengeance.

Further distinctions regarding the Manchild are also supported in Revelation 12 where the mother of this new born is discussed. In this passage we note that “The Woman” or mother of the Manchild bears no obvious resemblance to Sarah or Mary. If the Manchild represented Jews converted during the Great Tribulation then we might have expected the mother to be described like Sarah, that is, beyond the age to conceive. Or if the Manchild was a symbolic or hidden message meant to reveal Jesus of Nazareth in cryptic language to an early persecuted church then we might expect the Woman to be described as a virgin. The absence of these essential descriptors is highly suggestive that the Manchild represents another group altogether. Reading from the beginning: “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of 12 stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered” (Rev. 12:1-2).

Instead, this Manchild description strongly correlates to the “Manifested Sons of God” described in Romans 8. Indeed we read that “the whole creation groans and travails in pain for the manifestation of the Sons of God. Please note that this manifestation in Romans is described in “birthing terms,” groaning and travailing much like the passage in Revelation 12. And if the Manchild equates to Sons of God, it would of necessity have to be both a single entity and, at the same time, a multitude. Is a corporate entity a valid or scriptural concept? Indeed it is, for this is exactly what Jesus prayed in John 17:21, for believers in his generation and future generations. “That they all may be one; as thou Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” This is also verified directly in the passage in Revelation. Here “Manchild” is singular but later John reveals that THEY (plural) loved not their lives unto death. So we are compelled to ask who are the Sons of God, also known as the Manchild? “Now WE are the SONS OF GOD and it doth not yet appear what WE shall be but We know that when HE shall appear WE shall be like him for WE shall see HIM as HE is” (I Jn. 3:2). That means we shall be transfigured. This corruptible will put on incorruptible. And if All CREATION is awaiting the SONS OF GOD, then the concept of Jesus of Nazareth returning to set up His kingdom falls grossly short of God’s plan. How so? Recall on the cross He said, “It is Finished! Hence, a Body of Believers who are united under Christ, their divine head fulfills His promise to us: “God shall shortly bruise Satan under your feet” (Rom. 16:20).

Continuing in John 17:22 we read “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one.” This further helps us understand the mystery, “all flesh shall see (Him) together” (Rev. 1:7 & Isa. 40:5), because “He shall come to be glorified in His saints” (2 Thes. 1:10). It is easy to see how a worldwide simultaneous transfiguration of saints could best be described “as lightening that shines from the east to the west” (Matt. 24:27).

Unfortunately, not all who name the name of Christ or are “saved” will be a part of this transfiguration or manifestation. For we read in Matthew 25:1-13 that there were 5 foolish virgins who did not have enough oil when the time of the bridegroom approached. In fact the 5 wise virgins were unwilling to sell their oil to the 5 foolish. The oil was needed to provide fire to light the way during the midnight hour. Precious Spirit filled believer, as this era or Day of the Gentiles draws to a close (Matt. 24:14 & Rom. 11:25) and the sun sets into “gross darkness the people (Isa. 60:2)” don’t be without the FIRE OF THE HOLY GHOST. You can’t get this power from other Spirit filled believers. Only Jesus can baptize you in the Fire of the Holy Ghost (Luke 3:16).

Returning to Revelation 12 we also read that the dragon went to wage war with the Woman who had a place prepared for her in the wilderness. We may indeed rise TO MEET HIM IN THE AIR (1 Thes. 4:16-17), but the idea that we’re gone during some Great Tribulation is really not clearly indicated. Noah remained in the ark on the planet but was unaffected by the destruction of the planet’s surface. Peter reveals that once again at the Day of the Lord, the earth will again be destroyed, but this time by fire (2 Pet. 3:10). Upon reading Peter’s words one cannot help but be reminded of Daniel, chapter 3 in which the Fourth Man protected Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace . Perhaps a righteous remnant or Manchild Company will be unaffected by the coming apocalyptic fire.

Realize this, the birthing of the MANCHILD or THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD means you are possessed by God. You are One with God as He prayed in John 17. What difference does it make if you are in some celestial mansion or on planet earth. You are in Jesus and Jesus is in you. You are transformed. This flimsy necessity of sequentially and chronologically dividing the Book of Revelation into time frames is really not in keeping with what we know about the Master. Allow me to provide an example. Recall He was crucified and rose in 3, or 3.5 days. And according to our reading of the text Jesus allegedly “went to Hell (Ps. 16:10), got the keys (Rev. 1:18), came back to earth in a transfigured body for 40 days (Acts 1:3), and now He lives forevermore to make intercession for us (Heb. 7:25).” Right? Okay, then why did He say to the one next to him also being crucified, “This day you will be with me in paradise (Luke 23:43)?” How could He be with this man in paradise that day when Jesus had 3 days of work to do in hell? And indeed He did go to hell. Reading Psalms 16:10, “thou wilt not leave my soul in hell” confirms this as a destination for our Lord. Moreover, we read in 1 Peter 3:18 he preached to imprisoned spirits who were lost during the time of Noah. How then could he be with that man in paradise that day when he had to spend three days in hell and the grave? The answer is quite simple beloved. There is no time after the grave. God provides time-frames for us in this earthly realm to assist in our comprehension oh Him. How do we know this? Because the times and the seasons, which are measured by the sun, moon and stars were created by God. That is, by the Word of God, or by Jesus, time was created. “For by him (and for him) were all things created (Col. 1:16 & Prov. 16:4).” He is “the I AM (Ex. 3:14).” He is ever-present and always in the NOW. Let us no longer put God in a box and say… “then this will happen, then this, …then after that, this…but this has to happen first.” Believer, rid yourself of this kind of archaic thinking. God doesn’t live in a box or the Arc of the Covenant anymore. Understand that the Book of Revelation was given to those “that hath an ear to hear what the Spirit says… (Rev. 2:7, 17 &29, 3:22).” Hence the Book of Revelation is not meant to be read or understood on the basis of one’s intellect, but is spiritually discerned. It is intended to be revealed to spiritual ears and to be spiritually understood. Trying to figure out the Book of Revelation is futile and runs contrary to Christ’s instructions. Waste your time no more by reading Revelation as a series of chronological events and acknowledge that He is the I AM.

So let us go back to the Manchild or the Manifested Sons of God. They are birthed from the bride of Christ, the Church and Fathered by the Holy Ghost: Paul writes, “For I have espoused you to one husband that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ (2Cor. 11:2),” ….“That he (Jesus) might be the first born among many brethren (Rom. 8:29).” The son of Isaac and his mother, Sarah are a type and shadow of the Manchild Company and the Woman. Abraham is a picture of God who knows a son of promise is on the way. Though centuries have passed, Sarah, like the Church, upon hearing that she will actually produce a son, laughs as though hearing an absurdity (Gen. 18:12). Indeed, most in churches would laugh and scorn if you or I proclaimed that a righteous remnant, possessed by Christ will come forth from the church system and set creation free. But in the same way Sarah’s faith was ignited when she believed (Heb 12:11), so too is there a remnant in the Church waking from their slumber and aware that something great is about to happen. Most believe this to be “the Rapture.” But beloved, God has not called us to escape but to OVERCOME (1Jn. 5:4 & 5, Rev. 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:26, 3:5,3:12, 3:21, 21:7). Stop looking to the Nightly News and stop looking for a Rapture. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Heb. 12:2). Revelation depicts this Woman clothed with the sun. Hence her sins are blotted out or she is clothed with the Glory of God. The moon is under her feet. The moon has no life of it’s own but reflects the glory of the sun when it is darkest. This means she is crucified with Christ, and has no life; yet she lives and radiates the faith of the Son of God who gave His life for her (Gal. 2:20). Upon her head a crown of 12 stars. That is, she has been received apostolic teaching and authority. And though she does not know it, and perhaps she does not yet believe it, she is pregnant for the Corporate Christ or the First Fruits of the Spirit (Rom. 8:23).  She is pregnant for Christ, the many membered body (1 Cor. 12:27).  Allow me to provide an example.

Though Saul, whose name was later changed to Paul, persecuted the followers of Jesus and though he never met Jesus during His 33 years on earth, Jesus personally introduced himself to Paul. On the Road to Damascus Jesus appeared to Saul/Paul and asked, “Why persecutest thou me (Acts 9:4)?” Now consider this profound question for a moment and remember Saul had never met Jesus. In this question Jesus was revealing that those he persecuted were Jesus… “Insomuch as you have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me (Matt. 25:40). No! This is not blasphemy. But this is your inheritance, like the well-known hymn, “Be thou my vision…Thou my inheritance now and always.” Jesus is your inheritance (Phil. 3:8). Though aspects of your inheritance may have been described to you as streets of gold, reunion with loved ones passed on, sinless perfection, escape from God’s wrath, or even planetary reign, they do not compare with your true inheritance, JESUS.  Please know that you are called “to be conformed to His image (Rom. 8:29),” and “you are called to be ONE with Him (John 17:21).” Blasphemy is where you decide you are Christ. However, it is quite a different thing for Christ to give you His name. “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named (Eph. 3:14-15).” Indeed, it is quite common for a wife to take her husband’s name or for children to be identified by their father’s surname.

You and I are called to be part of this Manchild Company and you and I shall come forth on the earth at the midnight hour and subdue kingdoms. This Manchild Company are the meek that inherit the earth (Matt. 5:5).  Prophesy is fulfilled as “a little child shall lead them (Isa. 11:6).” Jesus said “Unless you become as a little child you shall not inherit the kingdom (Matt. 18:3)” and “Suffer the little children to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of God (Matt. 19:4).” “Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings God has perfected praise (Matt. 21:16).” Now we finally understand what He meant. So in this process in which you are divested of the doctrines of man, you enter into God and boldly “are caught up to God and His throne (Rev 12:5).” Here you begin to realize perhaps for the first time that you are “BEING BORN AGAIN of an incorruptible seed (1 Peter 1:23).” Indeed we are fitly framed together (Eph 2:21) to be manifested as the perfect man (Eph 4:13), the likes of which the world has never known; a Manchild that will set all creation free. That beloved, is “THE GOOD for which ALL thing work together (Rom 8:28).” Finally, to illustrate the Manchild Company allow me to repost a dream given to my daughter with the interpretation, which I believe was given to me by the Lord.

THE DREAM: “I was carelessly wandering a mountain top. I was humbly dressed and carrying a basket. Making my way down the mountain side I come upon a deer that did not move away as I drew near. I notice that the deer is wounded. As I get close I see unspeakable things. I get on my knees and pray for her but it appears she is eating her own hoof and leg to sustain her need for food. As I look at her entirely, her gut has been wrenched out and I realize her wounds (though unable to be mended) are the cause of her hunger. On all four with her- I sob, tears fall to the ground.”

INTERPRETATION GOD GAVE ME: It is a dream about the status of the reprobate church today. There is no manna, no quail. But they desire “strong meat that belongs to those of full age.” And since there is none because they have not seen the hope of their calling, that is they are unaware that they are called to be conformed to the image of Christ, they become like cannibals, eating on their own members. Gossiping, maligning, persecuting, they become gutless. They have no inner strength. Salvation preached to foreign nations is reduced to shoe boxes with gifts at Christmas time. There is no “deer panting for water, only the shell of what once could leap over hills and jump over walls, and now has developed a taste for blood, like vampires, or rodents that eat their young if no food is available. Peter and Jude write about them. They know scriptures and their own doctrines but they do not know Him, otherwise they would seek to be filled, healed, and delivered. They would seek to be broken by Him so as to be used in whatever capacity in which the Master has need. They would seek His Fire.

There is a newly born and invincible remnant that leaves the barren church in the wilderness and this Man-child company is caught up to God and to His throne.

The beast, that was once a deer is left to be trodden under foot for a time and times and half a time. Do not mourn endlessly for this beast but rejoice that God has called you easily to maneuver Mount Zion so that you can see the status of the Wilderness-Church and that you are not a part of it. Though still dressed in sackcloth, that is, not yet transfigured; and though you have a near empty basket, it is capable of feeding 5000 at a time. You cry for her not because of her wounds, but because of her lack of faith – a faith that enables you to have vision for the invisible. Those tears that hit the ground are like the drops of blood that fell from His brow in Gethsemane. And like Abel’s blood, it cries from the ground even after you have departed, making intercession for those who were without the heavenly vision. You could not but help draw near because the love of the Father is in you to love all who name the name of Jesus.

Lastly, allow me to reiterate that most Christians consider the Manchild to be a symbolic representation of the nation of Israel, converted to Christ during the Great Tribulation. But this is pure conjecture on the part of those who espouse the doctrine of Escapism. Instead we see that the birthing of the Manchild from the church system marks the inevitable doom of Satan and his influence on mankind. This is the inheritance of all believers. “God shall shortly bruise Satan under your foot (Rom 16:20).” The remainder of the chapter provides us with these details or the activity occurring in the spirit realm from God’s perspective. “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his Angels fought against the Dragon; and the Dragon fought and his Angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great Dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the devil and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of the brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the “Blood of the Lamb,” and the “Word of their Testimony;” and they loved not their lives unto death (Rev 12:7-11).”

Precious believer, I pray that as darkness covers the earth, we die to our ambitions and self-desires. In doing so we will receive the brightness of His Glory and He shall arise upon us. Plead the “blood of Jesus” over every circumstance and know “the word of our testimony.” That singular word of our testimony is of course, J E S U S.

God Bless You Precious Saints.
In the mighty name of Jesus of Nazareth,
Brother Jerry Turk

Redeemed… 8/29/15

Shoaib Khokhar asks:
“? Question to my Facebook nation. I know Jesus love us. But why does he love us Much? Just because he created us?  Not that that’s not reason enough all on its won.”

The Bible tells us that God is love. We were in Him and with Him before the foundation of the earth. We could not comprehend Him who is Love. And so we descended to this time-space dimension we call earth with all it’s limitations and struggles.

Ultimately each of us will be forced to accept our miserable estate and death will have it’s way. But to demonstrate just how much love He truly is, God came to humanity in the form of a human (a state in which He pre-existed) and defeated death itself. By believing in this Jesus, who is in truth God, (for in Him dwelt the fullness of the godhead bodily) and accepting His work on a cruel cross, by repenting of one’s sinfulness and committing one’s life to Him, a lost sinner can be saved and inherit Eternal Life. Hence we are Re-deemed or brought back to our former glorious estate by Him who purchased our salvation by His own precious blood.

And not only did He conquer death but He went to hell where I was supposed to go because of my sin. He actually took my punishment. This is the story of the Prodigal Son. We all are prodigal sons. You see my friend, love can never truly be fully understood unless it is lost with no hope of ever getting it back, but regained against all hope. Hence we are REDEEMED! Then love is finally and at long last understood.

Indeed, God is understood in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. Why is that necessary. So that we can enter into Oneness with Him. So that we can inherit all things. So that we will know Him as well as He knows us. So that we will be “filled with ALL the fullness of God.” Oneness with God is the fellowship He desires (see John 17). And even a partial understanding of this love is enough to transform the vilest sinner into saint. In this GREAT SALVATION we go from a prodigal son to a Son of God. Yes, indeed, He is the FIRST BORN among MANY brethren. HALLELUJAH.

PRAISE HIS NAME FOREVER!

Redeemed [Live]
Music video by Bill & Gloria Gaither performing Redeemed (feat. Squire Parsons, Karen Peck and Guy Penrod) [Live]. (P) (C) 2012 Spring House Music Group

Jesus Came to Fulfill the Law – 8/25/15

He did not come to re-establish, reinforce, reintroduce, reiterate, reaffirm, remain in, or re-institute the law. “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ [Jn 1:16].”

Why is this important? Because the law was taught by priests who were from the tribe of Levi. They were known as Levites or Levitical Priests. But Jesus was from the tribe of Judah whose descendants were called Jews. Now Moses, and all 12 Hebrew tribes including Judah descended from Abraham. And yet Abraham gave tithe or 10% of his spoil to Melchizedek because Melchizedek was from a higher order than the law.

Melchizedek had neither beginning of days nor end of life. Likewise in Hebrews 6:20 Jesus is revealed “after the order of Melchizedek.” For example, Jesus said, “before Abraham was I AM [Jn 8:58].” Again Jesus is like Melchizedek for “He ever liveth to make intercession for us [Heb 7:25].” Intercession means Jesus is advocating like our lawyer for our innocence because He paid the penalty for our sin on the cross. The intercessory work of Christ is God’s grace or unmerited favor.

If we trust in our ability to keep the law we will surely perish. Even our righteousness is as filthy rags [Isa 64:6]. If we repent of our sins, seek forgiveness for our sinful nature and trust, or have faith in His grace to save us,we will stand before Him at the Judgment Seat clothed in His righteousness and inherit eternal life.

John the Baptist – 8/8/15

QUESTION: Something I’ve been wondering about, John the Baptist…what made people listen to him rather than dismiss him as a crazy man? He was so respected that he was able to pave the way that pointed to Jesus!

RESPONSE: According to Jesus he was the greatest of all prophets while the Old Covenant prevailed (Lk 7:28a). He came in the Spirit and power of Elijah (Lk 1:17). Jesus even said he was Elijah returned as scripture foretold (Mal. 4:5-6 and Mt 17:12). So think of the ministry and miracles of Elijah and realize John’s ministry was greater. Hence what he said came to pass. What he declared – happened. Indeed, when he baptized Jesus the heavens opened, the Spirit descended on Christ in the form of a dove and the voice of God was heard (probably like thunder) saying “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him (Mt 3:16-17).”

And realize this; if, according to Ben Franklin, George Whitefield could easily preach to a crowd of 10,000 in the mid 1700’s, how many more by one anointed from his birth (Lk 1:16).

Obviously his lone voice stirred an entire nation; so much so that the royals even felt threatened (Mt 14:4). Despite his immense popularity he had to be silenced. All of what he said and did was not recorded, but it is sufficient to say that Jesus said he was the greatest prophet. And yet what is even more surprising,…the fact that Jesus said of us who enter the kingdom (of grace by faith) that we receive a greater portion than John (Lk 7:28b). Now that is truly amazing! PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME. Thank you JESUS.

Jerry Turk's photo.

Be Filled with the Holy Ghost 7/17/15

But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people (Jeremiah 31:33).

For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, this is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear (Isaiah 28:11-12).

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions (Joel 2:28).

John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire (Luke 3:16).

And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high (Luke 24:49).

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you (John 14:26).

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8).

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance (Acts 2:1-4).

And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied (Acts 19:1-6).

Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart (2 Corinthians 3:3).

Then Peter said unto them, repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call (Acts 2:38-39).

Household Salvation 7/10/15

Are you the only one in your family that knows the Lord? If so Beloved, know that is not God’s will. The Lord Jesus wants all your family members to know Him, to know His saving power, His healing power, His power to deliver and His power to bring them eternal life. And as you continue to pray for your family members it is best to know and read His LAST WILL and TESTAMENT. What does the WILL say? What has He left your HEIRS?

Exodus 12:3
Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for an house:

Exodus 12:13
And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Joshua 6:22-23
But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot’s house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her. And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel.

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Psalm 72:4
He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.

Psalm 112:2
HIS see shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.

Psalm 115:14
The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.

Isaiah 49:24-25
Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered? But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.

Isaiah 54:13
And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.

Isaiah 59:21
As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of they seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and forever.

Matthew 15:22-28
And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs. And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

Matthew 17:14-18
And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.

Luke 19:5-9
And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.

Acts 2:38-39
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call.

Acts 16:26-34
And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in GOD with all his house.

Hebrews 11:7
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Hebrews 11:8-10
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

The circle of you and your loved ones does not have to be broken. Even though His Word is like a sword “that turns a man against his father, a daughter against her mother,” (Matt 10:34-36), the same Word spoken in faith caused the worlds to be framed (Heb 11:3). Stand on the will of His WORD and by faith see your family in Christ. “Call those things that be not as though they were” (Rom 4:17).

In Jesus precious name I stand in agreement now with my brothers and sisters in Christ that their family members, though perhaps far from you, begin to hear your call. Unsettle them, shake them, awaken them Lord Jesus. Do whatever it takes to bring them into the household of faith. We stand on your WORD believing for household salvation. And we’ll be sure to give you all the glory, in Jesus name, AMEN and AMEN.

Hallelujah! We Shall Rise [Live]
Music video by Bill & Gloria Gaither performing Hallelujah! We Shall Rise (feat. Ann Downing, Squire Parsons, Amy Lambert and Mike Allen) [Live]. (P) (C) 201…

The Heart of the Matter – 7/10/15

THE PROCESS OF BECOMING SONS OF GOD- PART I
The Heart of the Matter

By faith Moses forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, AS SEEING HIM WHO IS INVISIBLE. -Hebrews 11:27

When Moses forsook Egypt he left behind security, reputation, riches, position, authority, power and more. Additionally, Moses would have to forsake something that would cost him more than the loss of these things. From the time of his youth, Moses had been trained and prepared in the courts of Pharaoh to rule as King. In his training, Moses learned that he would be the highest authority in all of Egypt. His mind was set on this and his mind had been trained to rule with all the “wisdom” Egypt had imparted to him.

When the burden of the Lord came upon Moses and the crisis came, Moses did indeed lose his rank and status, but this loss was the result his own actions, when he struck down and killed an Egyptian guard while defending a Hebrew slave. There was, of course, no deliverance for the Hebrew slaves at that time. The only consequence was pronounced upon Moses, who was stripped of his position and exiled to the wilderness. When Moses attempted to defend this Hebrew slave, it was not by the direction of God, but by his own direction and might. In order for Moses to truly “forsake Egypt” he would have to forsake the self-governing spirit that was bound in his “Egyptian” heart!

And so the burden of the Hebrews came upon Moses and with this new found burden, Moses had an intense desire to “stand in the gap”, to somehow make a difference. Initially this burden led Moses to take matters into his own hands, and by his own efforts he attempted to prevail over Israel’s taskmasters, thinking to free Pharaoh’s slaves through his own ideas and ways. Moses’ choice to murder was not God’s mind or leading but came from a heart that was not familiar with God’s ways. Moses was so conditioned to make decisions for himself, that taking matters into his own hands had become “second nature” to him. The result of this self-ruling spirit was murder and that crime led to his exile. Up to this point Moses had only forsaken the riches, prestige, power and comforts of Egypt, but God was never going to be able to use Moses as His instrument until he forsook the independent spirit that predominated his heart and mind.

From this point forward, Moses was driven into the blazing heat and barrenness of the desert. Although Pharaoh had decreed this punishment upon Moses, it was surely the hand of God that brought Moses to this place where the blistering winds of the desert would drive out the last traces of Moses’ self-reliance and arrogant, self-seated wisdom. In order to lead captives out of captivity, one must first see the burden of the Lord or receive a call as Moses had. But this burden and call alone is not enough to set captives free. Indeed, the hand of God must drive us into the backside of the desert where all of our own creative ideas and schemes are blown away by the wind of His Spirit to be replaced by His will and His ways!

Moses, of necessity, would have to forsake a life of comfort when the burden and reproach of his own people came upon him; for the reproach of Israel was God’s own reproach and so too, Moses would bear the same reproach as his brethren. Through this invaluable identification, Moses would become one who would effectively intercede for Israel. Through the wilderness experience, Moses was reduced to a mere shadow of the man he thought he was. As the howling winds of God’s Spirit blew upon Moses, the independent spirit was crucified and a new spirit; a righteous spirit, a new mind; the mind of Christ was brought forth.

If we are to become sons (uihos-a full grown son) of God, or placed (uihothesia) by God as those trusted vessels, those through whom He can move unhindered and unrestrained, then we must become totally dependent on God for everything! Jesus said follow me! Do what I do! Imitate me!

FOLLOWING CHRIST JESUS
Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. – (John 14:10-12)

Even as Jesus boldly stated that He could do nothing without the Father, so too did Jesus tell us that we could do nothing without Him.
In other words, we must become those that we are utterly dependent on Christ… For everything!! Many believers will say a hardy “Amen” to the above scripture, but this “Amen” will be proven false if we continue to direct our lives independent of the direction and wisdom of God. We are all born with a sinful and self-centered nature. Self-rule and an independent spirit are greatly valued by the world and therefore we are trained to exemplify these characteristics until they become “second nature” to us. Turning to Christ is the beginning of our salvation. Learning to die to our independent thoughts and actions, yielding to the Lord’s mind and will are the first steps to a surrendered life. Few of us start out willing to give up our right to rule or govern our own lives. When the burden of the Lord comes upon our life, however, then the working of the wilderness will produce in us a faith and dependence on God that will bring forth much fruit or the greater works that Jesus declared we would do!

In the desert Moses “died” to his independent spirit, his personal ambition and all self-centered motivation. In the wilderness he lost hope in his own desire and expectation of who he thought he might become; “the great and mighty deliverer of Israel”! In the wilderness he faced isolation, suffering, thirst, rejection and danger. It was here that he also began to identify, in reality, with the sufferings of the children of God. It was in the wilderness that Moses forsook the way of “Egypt” that governed his heart. Through all of these experiences, trials and temptations Moses would eventually become the instrument through whom God would use to deliver Israel. Moses had to forsake Egypt and Egypt, likewise, had to be driven out of his heart! These were the conditions God had set for Moses to become the deliverer of Israel.

Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, Leaning upon her beloved? – Song of Songs 8:5

When the process of the wilderness has done its work in us, and we have learned to lean on our beloved Savior and His wisdom rather than our own, we will begin to “see” the Lord of Glory seated and taking His rightful position upon His throne! When we truly forsake an independent, self-governing spirit and self has been dethroned, the Lord will take His place on the throne of our hearts! When Christ is enthroned as High King over our lives, when His ways and will are exalted, and when we give Him total access and power (dominion) over our lives, (our mind, our will, our emotions and our bodies) then and then alone will He be able to use us as He used Moses! Then we will see the “greater works” manifesting through His sons! Romans 8: states:

For the intense anticipation of the creation waits expectantly for the manifestation, the disclosure of the placed and trusted sons of God. (Rom 8:19)

These sons are those who are in submission to and under the direction of the Holy Spirit; they have the heart and mind of the Father. These sons (and daughters) are not needed in the great by and by but are needed, anticipated and intensely longed for now! But there is a cost.

If we allow the Lord to lead us into the wilderness so that our self-ruling spirit might be dealt with, we will begin to SEE God as larger than the dilemma of those we are burdened for! We will see Him mightier than the wrath of the King! When we SEE the Lord enthroned, we will joyfully and carelessly abandon ourselves unto His purposes. We will see Him who is invisible and trust HIM to accomplish HIS desires in and through us. Moses would spend 40 years in the wilderness with the Children of Israel who still had Egypt in their hearts….but Moses could endure, yes, he could remain in faith for them…as seeing Him who is invisible. Moses saw the King of kings enthroned on his heart as the Almighty, all sufficient One! -Amen
From Ghana, West Africa

Deliverance for the Christian 7/9/15

Remember when you first came to Jesus and got saved. You were as light as a feather. The burden of your sin was rolled away. You met the lover of your soul. You were overcome with joy. Every day you awoke and you couldn’t wait to talk to Him. You couldn’t wait to read your Bible. You couldn’t wait to fellowship with other believers. So what happened? Basically, the cares of this world, the desires of the flesh and the devil crept back into your life. And now, if you’re honest, you wonder if you’re worse now than you were before you met Jesus.

If you are a Christian and you have struggled relentlessly with worldly desires, then you are probably under attack by the enemy of your soul and the Kingdom of Darkness. This kingdom that has but a short time is cast down and is revealed in Scripture. It includes a chaotic, hegemonic power structure where it’s various members obey orders because they fear punishment, yet they war against each other. Ranked by power and authority, members in particular include:

1) Fallen Archangel Lucifer, a former cherub of light created to worship the Almighty;
2) Fallen Cherubim or 200 Satanic Principalities that do Lucifer’s bidding among the nations;
3) Fallen Seraphim or Evil Powers of Wickedness that enslave billions of souls into world systems;
4) Fallen Angels or Demonic Spirits that take possession of individuals;
5) Fallen Angels or Unclean Spirits that impose infirmity and disease;
6) Fallen Angels or Foul Spirits that impose death;
7) Fallen Nephilim or Familiar Spirits that haunt with generational curses;

These are the most common spirits that plague Christians:

1) A SPIRIT OF LUST often characterized by pornography, fornication, homosexuality, adultery, masturbation, gluttony, and an obsession with sensual pleasure;
2) A SPIRIT OF MURDER often characterized by bitterness, hatred and jealousy,a desire for revenge, an obsession with homicide and/or suicide;
3) A SPIRIT OF IDOL WORSHIP often characterized by greed, selfishness, covetousness, and/or the desire for wealth, power or possessions;
4) A SPIRIT OF ANTI-CHRIST often characterized by pride, arrogance and a belief in one’s own superiority, a desperate need to be worshipped, adored and/or recognized;
5) A SPIRIT OF WITCHCRAFT often characterized by addictions, rituals and secrecy associated with cigarettes, alcohol, drugs and/or violent entertainment;
6) A SPIRIT OF LIES often characterized by arguments, a desire to debate, contentions, a desire to be seen as right or a constant desire to correct others;
7) A SPIRIT OF FEAR often characterized by unforgiveness, inferiority, condemnation and/or mental /emotional illness.

Our Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ stands at the door of your heart and calls you to Him. Don’t wait. Don’t walk. Run to Him. He will deliver you and set you free from the Kingdom of Darkness. Repent and tell Him you are sorry for collaborating with the enemy. Call out the name of that spirit that has oppressed you. Rebuke it now in the name of Jesus and command it to leave your life. Remain in prayer looking to Jesus until the filthy thing is gone. Wait upon Him until He comes with a new confidence, a renewed faith that the evil thing has left you. While praising Him in word and song wait upon Him for the confidence knowing that He has brought you His strength to overcome. Jesus did not come to condemn you but, through faith believing in His grace he is now come to set you free.

Be released from the powers of these evil spirits in Jesus name. Satan, take your hands off God’s property now in JESUS name. I said NOW in JESUS name. We give you all the praise and glory Lord Jesus. You alone are worthy of all praise. Thank you Jesus for loving us, for setting us free.

HeartSong Cedarville University – A Mighty Fortress (Official Music Video)
Official music video for A Mighty Fortress off the Cathedral CD by HeartSong. Available now on…
YOUTUBE.COM

Lord Plant My Feet on Higher Ground – 6/28/15

I have been on Facebook for about one year.  Initially I sought fellowship with other believers and I remain delighted when that occurs.  However, I have some concerns because I often review posts by Christians and read responses from other Christians which are blatantly argumentative or reveal a contentious spirit. Now I am aware of 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”  But beloved, this is not what I hope to address in these brief remarks.  Instead, I am referring to responses which are contentious, overtly rude, crass, vulgar and even hostile.  Some responses are even filled with obscenities and mock individuals on a personal level.

I have also noticed that if a person simply shares a Scripture verse most Christians have no problem. However if this Scripture verse is illustrated, reinforced in song or given an interpretation, a flurry of criticism and accusations can follow. Many so-called believers are even so bold as to pronounce unspeakable things such as “you are going to hell, …this is the spirit of antichrist, (or one of my favorites), you are a false prophet.” Beloved, I’m quite sure that it’s not necessary for me to warn you about others on Facebook who claim to be Christians but simply do not believe that they are saved by grace through faith. Many even know the Scriptures very well but their goal is to undermine your trust in Christ alone and substitute your Savior for their cause. Typically they advocate your involvement in a program of good works or strict adherence to the Torah.

First, indulge me with some secular advice. I know this saying I’m about to share is not in the Bible “but if the shoe fits…” I think I first heard it from my parents when I was a child. I gather they found this sage wisdom necessary because I had seven brothers and sisters and arguments often erupted. Basically they would say (or yell) something like this: “If you don’t have something good to say about someone, then don’t say anything.” Infractions of this kind of “golden rule” were met with punishments that were typically swift and harsh.

But a reliance on worldly wisdom is really not necessary for the Christian. Indeed, Scripture is replete with instruction and admonishments regarding our conversations with each other, and for that matter, our conversations with those in the world. For example, the book of James speaks openly about the power of the tongue and the devastation that can be created from arguments and contention. And because there seems to be so many self-appointed apostles on Facebook who feel the need to bring contention and arguments, I am led to share just a few scriptures that have helped me bridle my tongue.

Regarding Christians who are not part of my group or denomination: Mark 9:39-41 – But Jesus said…For he who is not against us is for us. For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because of your name as followers of Christ, truly I say to you, he will not lose his reward. John 10:16 – I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd.

Regarding Christians who believe they are divinely appointed to judge or correct other Christians: Matthew 7:1-3 – Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

Regarding Christians who base judgments solely on their interpretation of Scripture: John 16:12-14 – I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.… II Corinthians 3:6 – Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

Regarding Christians who make prophetic claims are not supported by Scripture or who speak as hypocrites: Luke 12:55-56 – And when you see a south wind blowing, you say, It will be a hot day, and it turns out that way. You hypocrites! You know how to analyze the appearance of the earth and the sky, but why do you not analyze this present time? II Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need if not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Regarding Christians who like to argue or have a contentious spirit: Proverbs 26:20-21 – For lack of wood the fire goes out; and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. As charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife. Philippians 2:14 – Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that you may be blameless and harmless the sons of God, without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. Titus 3:1-2 – Be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for any honest work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy to all.

Regarding Christians who do not recognize their need for other believers: Ist Corinthians 12: 20-22 – But now there are many members, but one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of you; or again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary.

Regarding the impact and consequences of criticizing other believers: Matthew 25:40 – And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Rom 2:6-8 – Those who are patient in well-doing will receive eternal life, …but for those who are contentious… tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that doeth evil.

Beloved, as the body of Christ our reputation should not be “a group of fanatics who are overly critical and judgmental of everyone including themselves.” We are called to HIGHER GROUND. We are called to love one another. Any time two people get together there is a potential for disagreement and differing opinions. But the Word declares we are one body. He brought all of us out of the pit. Stand tall on the higher ground, the rock of our salvation. That ROCK, that HIGHER GROUND is JESUS.

Lord Jesus I pray that you would bind us together with cords that cannot be broken. I affirm your prayer that we be one in You in the same manner that You and the Father are one. Forgive us where there has been criticism and words of unkindness. Pour out a new and fresh anointing on your people that empowers us to demonstrate your love both in word and in deed. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us. We receive your healing to our sin-sick souls even now. I commit this to You in the mighty name of Jesus of Nazareth whose I am and whom I serve.

Be blessed in Jesus name,
Pastor Jerry Turk

Jesus, Don’t Pass Me By – 6/27/15

I offer to pray for my patients many times. Sometimes I hear people say, “You can pray for me but it won’t do any good.” They explain, “I’ve got too much sin in my life… I’ve called out to Jesus before and He never helped me. I’m still suffering.” Often I hear “I just want to die. I want it to be all over.” Precious one, you’ve been listening to the father of lies. Satan wants you dead.

But Jesus says, “I have come that you might have life and that you might have it more abundantly.” Jesus has not passed you by. He is but a breath away. Call on Him to save you. Ask him to forgive you for your sins. Humble yourself before him. He loves you with an everlasting love. He longs to embrace you, to encourage you, to give you the blessed assurance of your salvation. You are not forgotten. Even now he is pleading with you, “Come unto me.” And I promise you, he will give you rest. But not just rest in the midst of your trouble, but a life of victory, abundant life, joy unspeakable and full of glory.

When there is so much despair and no reason to go on what have you got to lose? You only stand to benefit. Are you racked with pain? Does your family reject you? Do you have a criminal history or a bad reputation? Then come to Jesus. He has come to seek and save that which is lost. Run to him. He’s waiting with open arms. Only Jesus can fill the longing of your empty soul. Do it today. Just surrender it all.

Give all your burdens to Jesus. Commit the rest of your life to him. Say it right out loud. “Jesus, I give the rest of my life to you, I will live for you and serve you from now on. I turned my back on all the wickedness this world has to offer. Come into my life. Do not pass me by.  I accept you as Lord and Savior.” If you prayed that prayer God bless you. I love you, but more importantly, Jesus loves you so much so that he died for YOU so that you might have eternal life. Write me back and let me know if you made this decision today or even in the past.

Again, be blessed in Jesus name.

Pastor Dewey Smith Sings – Pass Me Not
Sermon – Ministering with Suspect Credentials – The Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway Decatur, GA 30034 404-243-9336 http://www….
YOUTUBE.COM