In the spiritual realm one chooses to be a friend of the Lord, or a friend of the devil's (Luke 4: 6) world.
The devil's sly enough never to promote himself as the driving force or the point of contact. He has a long history of using third parties (Gen.3: 1/Psalms 96/Eph. 6: 12) to accomplish his plans.
Only a few times in Scripture, do we see the devil doing or attempting to do the work himself (e.g. Luke 4: 1-13/Matt 4: 1-11/Job/Luke 22: 3).
No one, with an ounce of common sense, is gong to wittingly take sides with the devil, but many will cut a deal with him and/or with those who do his bidding (John 8: 38), if only a "little compromising" is required.
As much as Man will try to keep one foot in the camp of the Lord and one foot in the devil's world, James 4: 4 teach that one can NOT be both a friend of the Lord and a friend of the devil's world at the same time.
"You (spiritual) adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility towards God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God (James 4: 4 NASB italics mine)."
This does not mean that Church Age believers should not try to live in peace with others (Romans 12: 18).
"If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men (Romans 12: 18 NASB)."
The "possible" becomes the impossible when keeping peace with others would require violating the Word of God.
* * *
Satan is well aware of the pressure that "friends and family" can have on one's spiritual life.
The devil will oppose the positive influence that family and friends can have while promoting the negative.
Just as God will use godly friends and family in the process of conforming a born again believer to the likeness of Christ (Romans 8: 29), the devil will use ungodly (worldly-oriented) "friends" and family members to stifle it.
"Friends" is in quotation marks because many who weak believers consider to be their friends are not friends at all.
We did not choose the family environment into which our soul was placed (John 3: 6/Gen. 2: 7) at birth. but as adults, we do choose the type of family structure that we will establish and promote.
As (if) we mature, we do choose who are "friends" are going to be, or not be. Who we choose as friends tells a lot about where we are in our walk with the Lord.
Anyone who would lead someone down the road of destruction (Matt. 7:13) is hardly a friend!
When one chooses to go against the grain of popular opinion or behavior, he chooses to distinguish him/her self as being different. There IS a price to be paid for being different. Paying the price for being "different" can be a painful reality that one learns very early in life.
One can not be a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ and NOT be "different," in thought and actions, from the unbelievers and/or weak believers all around him/her.
Peer pressure does NOT go away, neither do many of the negative consequences that the "getting along to go along" approach to life produces.
It is this difference that attracts others and provides the advancing disciple with the opportunities to share his/he faith with others. Faith is not only the act of believing, but what it is that one believes.
It is this difference that lights up our position and course on the devil's "radar" screen.
No wonder the devil and his Eph. 6:12 forces of evil will do all they can do to persecute (2Tim. 3: 12) those who are "different" and willing to go against the flow in order to make a difference in the spiritual lives of others.
Willing to be different and to make a difference are marks of an advancing disciple. The will always be a price to be paid for engaging in true discipleship.
* * *
The commitment and the glue that holds the family structure together comes from God (Exodus 20: 12/Eph. 5:22, 25/Eph. 6: 1).
At the same time, Scripture (Matt. 10: 36) also makes its clear that a Church Age believer's spiritual enemies will be the members of the advancing disciple's own family.
When it comes to discipleship, the advancing disciple will learn the reality of (Mark 6: 4) soon enough, in that his/her spiritual outreach will be least effective among family and people with whom he/she shares a personal relationship.
"And Jesus said to them, " A prophet (spokesman for God and/or the things of God) is not without honor except in his home town among his own relatives and in his own household (Mark 6: 4 NASB italics mine)."
Part of the problem is that those who know us on a personal level also know of our own individual areas of weakness and failures that the devil will use as wedge.
This Mark 6: 4 reality can be a heart-wrenching experience when one finds him/herself ineffective when it comes to ministering (evangelizing/edifying) to the spiritual status and needs of people that one has inter-personal relationships, knowing the final outcome (Rev. 20: 15/1Cor. 3: 15) of their disinterest.
As a pastor-teacher with an Internet ministry, I get positive feedback from people from all over the world, but there are family members, social contacts, and acquaintences in my personal periphery who show little overt interest in spiritual issues.
In Mark 6: 4 scenarios, one can only "lead/teach" by example, and be "prepared to give an answer (1Pet. 3: 15)" should such person seek spiritual guidance.
In the meantime, keep in mind that it is God who determines and arranges when and though what means any given unbeliever is to be presented with the Gospel Message. and it is God who arranges which pastor-teacher any given born again believer is to have, in order to build and maintain an edified soul structure.
In regards to one's children, it is the parental responsibility to teach and to lead the children, but it is the responsibility of the child to follow.
By not being judgemental, the advancing disciple keeps the door open for future opportunities that God may arrange to minister to unbelievers who initially choose to reject the Gospel Message, or believers who reject the true post salvation spiritual life.
"Friends," especially during one's teen-aged years can have a greater influence than parents and family, as the restless soul struggles to "find" him/herself and to "get out from under" parental control.
Parents walk a tight rope, especially during this phase of parenting.
Too much control will incite rebellion and/or prevent the child from developing the ability to make his/her own decisions, but too much liberty opens the door for destructive thoughts and behaviors in the lives of those who can not handle the freedom they are given.
Children want the freedom, but often want the parents to get them out of the messes that their own "independent" choices generate.
The desire to establish one's own identity and chosen path(s) in life, apart from parental input, is a normal part of growing up.
Just as in the case of each parent, the child was placed on Earth to do the will of God, not necessarily the specific plan that the parent(s) had in mind.
In fear of personal loss or rejection, there are thoughts and actions that a child, teenager, or even an adult may share with friends that he/she will not share with parents or persons in positions of authority.
The teen-aged years is a very vulnerable stage for any soul, but especially if the child has not yet "identified" him/herself with Christ. When one has identified himself with Christ, e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g that he does (or doesn't do) is based on what God desires.
One is "identified" (sealed) as a child of God (Eph. 4: 30 ) the moment he/she is born again (John 3: 5, 7), but must also choose on a day to day basis to "identify" with Christ by pursuing the post salvation spiritual life if he/she is going to avoid the pitfalls and consequences of the all the alternatives that the world has to offer.
Many children are subjected to various forms of physical and/or psychological trauma that can trigger internal or external reactions.
Blessed is the child who EARLY in life has secured as his/her closest friend, the Lord and chooses chooses to remain on the spiritual battlefield in the midst of all the evil that the world will throw at him/her. The Lord is not the only one who can see the spiritual potential and good impact that an advancing disciple can have in the realm of spiritual combat. The devil sees this too, and seeks to destroy it (1Pet. 5: 8).
The principles of Psalms 1/James 1: 22 can apply at any age.
Anyone can learn and be willing to apply the Word of God when things are going his/her way, but the test of one's metal comes into play when one finds himself in the midst of adversity when obedience is going to cost him something.
"Blessed is the man who does walk in the counsel of the wicked...but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night (Psalms 1: 1 NASB mine)."
"But prove yourselves doers of the Word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves (James 1:22 NASB)."
The "counsel if the wicked" includes ANY source of information or advice that runs contrary to the Word of God.
* * *
Humans are imperfect beings. Even the best of human parents and friends will let you down from time to time.
Unlike human parents and friends, who have their own weaknesses and limitations, God can be counted on to forgive (1John 1: 9), if one is the guilty party, and always be there to enable us to overcome the resulting pain that the words and actions of others can bring to us.
When we are the guilty one, keep in mind that when we confess our sin (to God), we are not telling Him anything that He does not already know.
With God, there is no "shock" factor to deal with, as may be the case when confessing to parents or friends, whose "reactions" remain to be seen.
There is NO rejection when a born again believer deals with God.
Unlike in the case of human parents and "friends", we already know exactly how God is going to respond (1John 1: 9).
The same arms that was spread wide open on the cross, is spread open to welcome home a prodigal son or daughter (Luke 15).
A human friend or trained professional counselor can be there to help us vent in a constructive manner, but only God can bring about spiritual healing.
Well-intended counseling, by parents, friends, professional therapists, or spiritually weak clergy, can cause more harm than good if the advice they provide is contrary to what the mind of Christ (1Cor. 2: 18 NASB)" has to say about the matter at hand. Human viewpoint will always be in agreement with the fallen nature in all of us. This fallen nature is inherently hostile (Romans 8: 7) towards God and/or the things and the ways (Isa. 55: 8) of God.
The ONLY worthwhile secular therapy is he one's that intentionally or unwittingly reflect the principles of the Word of God.
Neither blaming oneself when there is no justification for it, or blaming other things or people for the negative choices we do make is counter-productive to the process of healing and moving forward. Seeking revenge (Rev. 12: 18) against others who have failed us, or who have intentionally hurt us is NEVER the right course of action.
The means Biblical (1Pet. 5: 7/Phil. 4: 6/1John 1: 9/John 8: 11, etc.) to vent the pressure that unresolved spiritual issues can generate is open 24-7.
Without the means to vent the ever-increasing internal pressure, it is only a matter of time before one implodes and engages in self-destructive thoughts and/or activity, or explodes into destructive actions against those who he/she considers responsible. The more the pressure that unresolved issues generates, the more that one is likely to engage in an alternate solution to relieve the pressure. "Solutions" offered and promoted by human viewpoint will appear to offer an immediate solution, but in the long run will add to the problem(s) that one has to deal with while leaving the original issue unresolved.
Destructive behavior, excessive good behavior, religion, and/or criminality can be engaged in order to fulfill a subconscious need to be punished for some sin that has not been confessed. As tough as one can appear to be, we all desire to wipe the slate clean and make a fresh start.
One would not go fishing for tuna in fresh water, and one is not going to get godly advice from the devil's world.
Guilt, real or imagined, can be a great motivator, and is often used to manipulate those under its cloud. The devil, who deceives the whole world (Rev. 12: 9), knows all about manipulation via deception.
Real guilt is in view when one has committed a sin, whereas false guilt is based on what he/she "feels," when in fact, there is NO moral or legal responsibility or accountability in view.
Fellowship is a friendly association with those who share the same interests. These interests can be evil and self-serving, or they can be good with mutual concern. One of the ways that one can secure acceptance, security, and fellowship is to seek the fellowship with others who share the same evil desires.
The advancing disciple seeks fellowship (2Cor. 13: 14) with God. God DOES accept us just as we are (Romans 5: 8), but desires us to then grow in His knowledge (2Pet. 3: 18) and engage in the application (James 1: 22), conforming our thought and behaviors to the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 3: 29). All born again believers are forever accepted as a child of God, but that does not mean that all born again believers walk in daily fellowship with the Lord.
Acceptance from and friendship with God will come at the cost of rejection by the world. The "world", here, refers to those who hold to ways of the devil's world (Luke 4: 6).
Learning and applying the "ways of the world" to "get ahead" makes one "wise" in the eyes of Man, but makes one a fool in the eyes of God.
Seeking to please people by compromising one's walk with the Lord is a satanic trap (Gal. 1: 10).
"For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ (Gal. 1: 10 NASB)."
Self-seeking individuals will manipulate and take advantage of those who are willing to compromise their beliefs in order to please other people, but will drop them like a hot potato when the "well runs dry.
Discipleship can cost us the loss of ungodly friendships and relationships. You can pour and stir water and oil into the same container, and they will appear to blend, but sooner or later the oil and the water separates.
Sometimes, instead of breaking up the relationship, the relationship or friendships can be made stronger when God enters the scenario.
Such events afford the opportunity for the advancing disciple to "explain" to others why he/she can no longer maintain the relationship/friendship as is, but that he/she desires to make the necessary changes that will glorify God.
A newly born again believer, and/or a Christian who now desires to put God first in his/her life, is no longer going to have the same interests or priorities in life that he/she once shared with worldly-minded people (1Pet. 4: 3, 4).
"For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousals, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. And in all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excess of dissipation, and they malign you...(1Pet. 4: 3, 4 NASB)."
In modern day terminology, this verse is saying that the born again believers in view have spent enough time living in accordance with the ways of the world, and is now being bad-mouthed as he/she is no longer following the crowd.
* * *
In some cases, when venting and healing does not take place, the abused one becomes an abuser, subjecting others to the same type of abuse that he/she received.
This does not excuse or justify such thoughts or actions, but does explain how one can come to that point in his/her experience here on Earth.
Everyone (humanly speaking) has a breaking point in which he/she is then capable of engaging in severe reactions to the pressure on his/her soul.
The most severe internal reaction is self-destructive, suicidal, or homicidal thoughts. The most severe external reaction is engaging in reckless and self-destructive behavior, suicidal/homicidal actions.
Overtly pretending that the painful words and actions of bullies and other abusers doesn't hurt is a common defense mechanism, but the pain and suffering and the desire relief is real and contributes to place the ever-increasing pressure on the soul.
In fear of rejection from family for engaging in destructive behaviors, the tormented soul can do a good job of concealing the high level of internal pressure that he/she is experiencing.
It is often not until after the fact that the "warning" signs" of the impending sever reactions are realized, leaving those involved with a heavy burden of self-induced sense of guilt and responsibility.
No one would allow suicides or homicides to take place if they really thought such things were about to take place.
Rationalizing the situation away as being none of our business or not as bad as it may appear, is a defense mechanism that we will use, rather than face a situation and deal with it.
Unless the one involved is truly insane, all suicides and homicides are the result of conscious decisions made by the one(s) who carries them out. In such cases, the ultimate blame, responsibility, and accountability on the one who made that decision.
If unable to out one's suicidal thoughts into action, one might reach out to family and friends to assist them. Homicide/suicide pacts are not uncommon between couples who mutually desire to bring an immediate and permanent end to their Earthly circumstances.
Neither suicide nor murder is EVER the policy of God, and should never be entertained, endorsed, or encouraged by one of Christ's ambassadors.
Declining further medical treatment and/or praying to die is not all that uncommon among the sick and/or elderly.
For the advancing disciple, the timing, circumstances, location, and means of his/her earthly departure is the final phase of the plan that God has in mind for him/her as an individual believer.
Some will pass from this Earth without ever knowing (this side of Heaven) what hit them, whereas for others the process of physical death can be brief or long and drawn out.
In the first case scenario, the need to be prepared NOW is in view. In the second case scenario, the advancing disciple is to prepared to go thorough whatever God has in store, being given his/her final opportunity to be a witness for the Lord.
How one looks at death, or handles the process of dying, speaks volumes to those around him/her.
* * *
Godly parents will train a child, through instruction and discipline, but there comes a time when the child will have to choose for him/herself what activities, good or evil, he/she will and will not engage.
Once informed, it becomes the responsibility of the individual to make the appropriate choices when the opportunities present themselves.
The "old" of Prov. 22:6 refers to spiritual maturity, not biological age.
"Train up a child in the way that he should go, Even when (if) he is old (spiritually mature) he will not depart from it (Prov. 22:6 NASB)."
This is a general principle, but there are MANY exceptions.
King David, was a spiritually mature believer who was described as a man after the heart of God (Acts 13: 22), yet he committed adultery; had the husband of the woman he impregnated during the affair, killed. He then married the woman in an attempt to cover up his sin. Among the consequences for these sins, was the death of the child that his sin produced (2Sam. 12: 14).
He later engaged in other sin (1Chron. 21: 8) that resulted in the deaths of 70,000 (1Chron. 21: 14) of his countrymen.
* * *
The devil is well aware, and makes use of the negative pressure that spiritually weak "friends and family" and can apply.
Again, anyone who would lead you away from God and/or the things of God, is NOT your friend.
Spiritually weak friends and family members can offer "their" advice with the best of intentions, but a bullet fired in ignorance can be just as lethal as one that is fired with malicious intent.
Again, the "old" of (Prov. 22: 6) is not biological age, but refers to spiritual maturity.
Anyone who has not been born again (John 3: 5, 7), is not even spiritually alive, let alone spiirtually mature.
A "born again" believer can spend a lifetime "attending" Church, but still be no more spiritually mature than he/was the day he/she was saved.
Unlike salvation, that IS something that IS instantaneously received and complete, spiritually maturity is secured and retained through the o-n-g-o-i-n-g and life-long process of learning and applying the Word of God to what the world sees as the day to day events of life.
Spiritually weak friends and family members, no matter how "religious" are, they are NOT spiritually mature. One can not be both "religious" and spiritually mature. One of the requirements for spiritual maturity is the ability to discern and reject what is "religious," having come fro Man, and to have established an edified soul structure (1Cor. 3:9- 12).
Knowing what is right (as God defines "right") and doing what is right is NOT, at all, one in the same (James 1: 22).
As in the case of David, previously noted, the most spiritually mature believer can experience a moment or moments of weakness and engage in a variety of sin(s), but a weak believer is a "sitting duck" who conducts hm/herself largely on the basis of how he/she feels.
Fallen Man is "naturally" inclined to be "hostile Rom. 8: 7)" towards God and the things of God.
Choosing to think and do what "naturally" comes to us, over what is "supernaturally" required of us, will get us into trouble every time.
Satan is well aware and promotes the pressure that family/friends can place on a soul.
The devil makes use of it to promote "religion" while opposing Christianity.
Going against one's "religion" is equal to going against one's family/friends in many cultures. Many cultures that have traditionally followed Christian "religions" are no exception.
The phrase, "Christian religion" is actually an oxymoron, as it contains two c-o-n-t-r-a-d-i-c-t-i-n-g elements, Christianity (that comes from God), and religion that comes from Man.
The Lord Jesus Christ made it clear that discipleship requires that family members be placed and kept in their proper place of priority when it comes to spiritual matters (Luke 14: 26).
"If anyone comes to Me, and does not *hate (*love less) his own father and mother and wife (husband) and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he cannot be My disciple (Luke 14: 26 NASB italics mine)."
There will comes times, if you are an advancing disciple, when lines must be drawn and stands must be taken as an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ (2Cor. 5:20).
Drawing these lines and taking these stands will generate rejection, persecution, isolation, and hostility that will put the best of marital, familial, social, and Earthly "friendships" to the test.
If you profess to be a Christian, that is, a "follower" of Christ, but are not being conformed to His likeness, then you have taken (on) the name of the Lord in vain.
This is one of the ways in which a Church Age believer can violate the 3rd Commandment (Ex. 20: 7) of the Old Testament, Ten Commandments.
Both Old Testament (Ex. 20: 9) and New Testament (Heb. 12: 5,6) warns of divine discipline for the BELIEVER who takes the name of the Lord in vain.
"You shall not take the name of the Lord in vain for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain (Ex. 20: 9 NASB)."
"and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, NOr faint when you are reproved by Him; For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son who He receives (Heb. 12: 5, 6 NASB)."
Many believers limit a violation of the 3rd Commandment to using the name of the Lord Jesus Christ as one would use a "cuss word", or when giving false testmoy after taking an oath in the name of Lord to tell the truth.
While such actions ARE sins, but taking the Lord's name in vain cover a lot more ground than that.
* * *
Many evangelists erroneously blend the requirement (singular) for salvation and the requirements (plural) for discipleship into one package. The ONE requirement to be born again (John 3: 5, 7) in order to receive salvation (deliverance from the wrath of God - Rev. 20: 15) and to receive eternal life (John 3: 16) is to believe (place one's full trust and confidence) in what the Lord Jesus Christ totally accomplished and "finished (John 19: 30)" on the cross (John 3: 18).
Post (after) salvation discipleship has many, many requirements, evidenced by the more than 300 commandments (not suggestions) found in the New Testament alone. Failing to learn and apply such principles constitutes post (after) salvation sin that can result in receiving divine discipline (Heb. 12: 6) while here on Earth and forfeiting specific rewards (not salvation) in Heaven (1Cor. 3: 15).
At the same time, success in the post salvation spiritual life does NOT improve the integrity of the salvation that a born again believer one has already received, not do failures in the post salvation spiritual life diminish the integrity of the salvation that a born again believer has already received.
Eternal security (the fact the salvation can not be lost) is NOT a license to sin. Post (after) salvation sin can bring divine discipline into the lives of born again believers. Divine discipline (Heb. 12: 6) here on Earth and bring about the forfeiture of specific rewards (1Cor. 3: 15) in Heaven. Divine discipline (here on Earth) an range in anything from having to live with a guilty conscience up to and including physical death (Acts 5).
The purpose of the 1John 1: 9 process (confession) and the John 8: 11 principle of forsaking sin is to return the offending (sinner) believer to fellowship (2Cor. 13: 14) with God and to return to and move forward in his/her post salvation spiritual life. It is NOT for the purpose of res-securing salvation.
Discipleship, that includes "giving your life (Luke 14: 26) to Christ is a POST (after) salvation activity.
All born again believers are called to the post (after)salvation spiritual life of discipleship, but this has got nothing to do with either obtaining or retaining salvation.
Discipleship BEGINS with one's own spiritual edification (2Pet. 3: 18) and application (James 1: 22) of the Word of God. This is an ongoing process that never ends this side of Heaven.
The long term objective, however, is to be involved in presenting the Gospel Message to unbelievers and the spiritual edification of fellow believers.
THIS is what Christianity (being a Christian) is all about!
Needless to say, the devil has a whole warehouse full of "alternatives", including the alternatives found in the Christian religious community at large.
Knowing the pressure that family and friends can apply, the devil uses spiritually dead or spiritually weak family members and friends to promote these alternatives.
In the secular realm, an ambassador is an appointed individual who represents one kingdom while posted in another. What the ambassador has to say is taken as having come from the head of the kingdom/nation he/she represents.
Each and every day, everyone who claims to be a Christian provides the world with the spoken or unspoken "testimony" of his/her daily life.
Discipleship is a 24-7 relationship. There are no time outs or vacations. There are NO neutral zones. One is either progressing or regressing in his/her walk with the Lord, at any given time.
Godly friends and family members will contribute to one's progression, whereas ungodly (spiritually dead or spiritually weak) friends and family members will contribute to one's regression.
All spiritually dead souls are called to become born again believers (John 3: 5, 7). All born again believers are called to become disciples (Matt. 28: 20). All disciples are called to become ambassadors () . Where (if) any one of us are in this chain of events is a choice that we make.
An ambassador is well versed in the policies of the kingdom that he/she represents, and NEVER speaks of his/her own, independent opinions.
Ambassadors for Christ do NOT provide endorse, support, or promote ungodly advice or participate in ungodly activities.
In the spiritual realm, the advancing disciple is called to be an ambassador for the Kingdom of God, while here in the devil's (Luke 4: 6) world.
The policies of the Kingdom of God are contained in the Word of God. One can not do the work of an ambassador if he/she does not have a clear knowledge of the Word God. One can not pass onto others what he/she does not first possess him/herself.
Spiritual ignorance or spiritual edification is a daily CHOICE that a born again believer makes and/or reinforces every day. Not having the time is a weak excuse, in light of all the time that we DO find to listen (through the news, gab shows, sitcoms, cable TV, movies, etc.) to listen to or view what the world has to say.
For most of us, its not that we do not have the time, its that we do not have the interest or desire.
When confronted with a spiritual issue, Christ's ambassador, through his/her words, silence, action, is called to convey the official "position" of the Kingdom that he/she represents.
Compromising one's spiritual position in order to avoid adversity, or to secure/preserve a "friendship" or relationship here on Earth, makes one an enemy of God (James 4: 4).
Peter's chose to deny even knowing the Lord after he (Peter) was identified as being one of the Lord's followers (Luke 22: 57)
But in principle, each one of us deny association with God when we fail to take a public stand for the Lord when given the opportunity.
The more spiritually mature a born again believer becomes, the more aware he/she will be of the spiritual issue(s) behind ALL the day to day, moment to moment, activities we encounter, as we go about our daily "routines." What is seen as a "problem" to a weak believer is seen as an "opportunity" to an advancing disciple.
Spirit maturity is the result of learning and applying the Word of God to EVERYTHING that we do (or choose not to do).
Having the support of a strong Christian family and friends can be a great asset, but spiritually dead or weak family and "friends" can also be a great distraction to the plan that God has in mind for you.
We know that the Lord Jesus Christ was circumcised (Luke 2: 21). We can conclude that He made His Bar Mitzvar, as without it He would never have been afforded the right to speak and comment on The Law in the synagogues when the time came for His public ministry.He undoubtedly grew up celebrating all of the Jewish holidays and complied with all the rituals associated with the Temple, along with family and friends.
Yet, in order to fulfill (Matt. 5: 17- 20) the true meaning and purpose behind the Old Testament rituals, practiced by his earthly mother, father, family, and friends, there came a time when the Lord Jesus Christ had to go to the cross and introduce a new way of worshiping God that "raised the eyebrows" of many.
In these days of prophesied (1Tim. 4: 2) apostasy, the advancing disciples will be called to go up against all the false teachings and practices that have been accepted and that are presently being promoted in the name of Christian religion WITHIN the Christian Community at large.
This has always been an issue from the earliest recorded days of the Church Age (Galatians 3) to date, but none so as such as will take place in the "later times (1Tim. 4: 2 NASB)," just before the Rapture (1Thess. 4: 17) of the existing true Church here on Earth, takes place.
* * *
A Christian friend will have your best spiritual interests in mind, but don't expect or anticipate any human being to ALWAYS "be there" for you.
Even in the best of human relationships, each one of us has to deal with the self-centered, fallen nature within our selves and in each other.
All of us have our individual areas of weakness, as well as our areas of strengths.
No human relationship or friendship is going to endure with genuine forgiveness. We all need to forgive and to be forgiven.
* * *
A James 4: 4 "enemy" of God is a "friend" of the devil in that he/she is supporting an activity that God hates and has declared to be sin.
From time to time, when conducting our 2 Cor. 13: 5 self examinations, it would be wise to evaluate what are the "binds that tie" that we have with some of the people we consider our "friends."
Daily interaction with unbelievers and/or weak believers is inevitable (John 17: 15). It is while interacting with such souls that the advancing disciple is to function as Christ's ambassador.
Obedience to the command (not an option) of 2 Cor. 13:5 (NASB) to "test" and "examine" ourselves requires that we ask ourselves the following questions.
What are the "ties that bind" that we have with some of those we consider to be our friends..
Are these "ties" godly (promoting the progression of my post salvation spiritual life), or are they ungodly (promoting the regression of of my post salvation spiritual life.
As noted earlier in this study, to the extent that circumstances allow (Romans 12: 18), we should strive to interact in a peaceful manner with everyone. But, this does not mean that everyone is (or should be) our friend.
* * *
Neither we, nor anyone else is ever going to be sinless.
A Christian has no cause engage in the SIN by looking down his nose at ANYONE for ANY reason ((Proverbs 6: 17).
At the same time, choosing to "flock together" with the wrong crowd is NOT the way to go for an advancing disciple (Matt. 7: 13).
For an advancing disciple, the "wrong" crowd is one that is on the popular road, that leads to destruction (Matt. 7: 13).
Being born again forever settles the issue of salvation, but does not mean that one can make choices that destroys the quality of his/her post salvation spiritual life and not then expect to "hear" from God (Heb. 12: 6) on the matter.
Scripture (1Pet. 5: 8) makes it perfectly clear that this (destruction) is exactly what the devil has in mind for each and every born again believer and even more so for the born again believers who engage in discipleship. At the top of his list are the disciples who become ambassadors.
There are NO "little" sins in the eyes (Habakkuk 1:13) of God.
God hates ALL sin, and places ALL sinners in the same stinking, sinking, boat (James 2: 10).
God hates sin and disciplines (Heb. 12: 6) born again believers involved in it because of the damage it does to the ones He loves.
* * *
There is a price to be paid for choosing to be a friend of God and/or to be a friend of devil. One cannot accept the ways of one without rejecting the ways of the other. The born again believer who practices and promotes the ways of God will be subjected to an attack from the devil. The born again believer who accepts and promotes the ways of the devil will be subjected to divine discipline. As Peter put it, since suffering is going to be a reality either way, better to suffer for the good (1Pet. 3: 17).
Friends of God, walk with God on an increasing level intimacy each and every day. Spiritually dead and/or weak believers focus on themselves.
Friends of God will suffer persecution, rejection, isolation, and ridicule from the friends of the devil.
Be it here on Earth or in Eternity (Galatians 6: 7), we will reap the produce from the seeds, good or evil, that we sow (Gal. 6: 7) while here on Earth.
What goes around comes around, even if it takes Eternity for it to come around to us.
Being a friend of the devil may make life here on Earth a lot less confrontational, but having no confrontation that is NOT what life of discipleship is all about!
"Do NOT think that I came (at the First Advent) to bring (interpersonal/international) peace to the earth; I did not come to bring (interpersonal/international) peace, but a sword (Matt. 10: 34 NASB italics mine)."
The type of peace that was announced by the angel at the First Advent (Christmas), was peace between God and those are born again. It is the born again believer who is experience the type of peace referenced in Matt. !0: 34). Note that this is the opposite of the unrest and uncertainty commonly experienced by "religious" persons. Religious persons hope they are Heaven bound; whereas born again believers know (John 8: 32) they are and have put that issue to rest.
The one and only means to secure peace with God is by choosing to believe (placing one's trust and confidence) in a presentation of the true Gospel Message. The Gospel Message is "the truth (John 8: 32 NASB)" that sets one free from fear of what is going to happen when they depart this Earth. False "religious" teachings, that add to what God requires to be saved generates its own brand of fear WITHIN the Christian Community at large, and is used by religious authorities to recruit, retain, and garner the financial support of its membership.
While providing peace with God to those who believe, the preaching of the Gospel would, has, and will be cause of much conflict here on the Earth!
Many folks erroneously refer to all their trials and suffering here on Earth as their "cross to bear." However, the cross bearing spoken of in Scripture (Luke 9: 23) refers to adversity that one encounters as a result of taking part in the Great Commission (Matt. 28: 19, 20). The Great Commission calls for proclaiming the true Gospel Message to unbelievers, and the spiritual edification of fellow believers.
To be a Christian disciple means to take up (personally learn) the Gospel Message of the cross and bear (move forward) with it into enemy held territory. "Enemy held territory" in a-n-y-w-h-e-r-e that false Gospels and false teachings are promoted or have taken root. Enemy held territory can be as close as one's own soul structure, and is found both within (1Tim. 4: 1) and outside of the Christian Community at large.
The cross, in the days of Christ's public ministry was the means of capital punishment. To wear a cross as a piece of jewelry in that day would be the same as wearing a miniature electric chair on a chain today. The cross later became an accepted symbol of Christianity. Many "religious" groups and "religious" persons who wear the cross today have no clue what the true message of the cross they display is all about. This is evidenced by their participation in religious activities that oppose what the true Gospel Message concerning the cross has to say.
"For many walk, of whom I often told you. and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ (Phil. 3: 18 NASB)."
The result of Luke 9: 23 type of "cross bearing" will generate the same "hatred" and conflict that the Lord Jesus Christ experienced during His public ministry before going to the cross.
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you (John 15: 18 NASB)."
Just as the Gospel Message and/or post (after) salvation doctrine presents a pleasing "aroma" to a believer, it is an irritating "stench" to those who reject or are spiritually challenged by it.
"For we (advancing disciples) are a (pleasing) fragrance of Christ to God to those who are being saved and (an offensive stench) among those who are perishing; to the one an (offensive) aroma from death to death, to the other an (pleasing) aroma from life to life...(2Cor. 2: 15, 16 NASB italics mine)."
Godly (spiritually alive and progressing) believers are friends of God and do His bidding (John 15: 5), promoting the Great Commission (Matt. 28: 19, 20).
Ungodly (spiritually dead or spiritually weak) family members (Matt. 10: 36) and friends are friends of the devil and do his bidding (John 8: 44), promoting the devil's alternatives.
Whose friend are YOU?
The devil's sly enough never to promote himself as the driving force or the point of contact. He has a long history of using third parties (Gen.3: 1/Psalms 96/Eph. 6: 12) to accomplish his plans.
Only a few times in Scripture, do we see the devil doing or attempting to do the work himself (e.g. Luke 4: 1-13/Matt 4: 1-11/Job/Luke 22: 3).
No one, with an ounce of common sense, is gong to wittingly take sides with the devil, but many will cut a deal with him and/or with those who do his bidding (John 8: 38), if only a "little compromising" is required.
As much as Man will try to keep one foot in the camp of the Lord and one foot in the devil's world, James 4: 4 teach that one can NOT be both a friend of the Lord and a friend of the devil's world at the same time.
"You (spiritual) adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility towards God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God (James 4: 4 NASB italics mine)."
This does not mean that Church Age believers should not try to live in peace with others (Romans 12: 18).
"If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men (Romans 12: 18 NASB)."
The "possible" becomes the impossible when keeping peace with others would require violating the Word of God.
* * *
Satan is well aware of the pressure that "friends and family" can have on one's spiritual life.
The devil will oppose the positive influence that family and friends can have while promoting the negative.
Just as God will use godly friends and family in the process of conforming a born again believer to the likeness of Christ (Romans 8: 29), the devil will use ungodly (worldly-oriented) "friends" and family members to stifle it.
"Friends" is in quotation marks because many who weak believers consider to be their friends are not friends at all.
We did not choose the family environment into which our soul was placed (John 3: 6/Gen. 2: 7) at birth. but as adults, we do choose the type of family structure that we will establish and promote.
As (if) we mature, we do choose who are "friends" are going to be, or not be. Who we choose as friends tells a lot about where we are in our walk with the Lord.
Anyone who would lead someone down the road of destruction (Matt. 7:13) is hardly a friend!
When one chooses to go against the grain of popular opinion or behavior, he chooses to distinguish him/her self as being different. There IS a price to be paid for being different. Paying the price for being "different" can be a painful reality that one learns very early in life.
One can not be a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ and NOT be "different," in thought and actions, from the unbelievers and/or weak believers all around him/her.
Peer pressure does NOT go away, neither do many of the negative consequences that the "getting along to go along" approach to life produces.
It is this difference that attracts others and provides the advancing disciple with the opportunities to share his/he faith with others. Faith is not only the act of believing, but what it is that one believes.
It is this difference that lights up our position and course on the devil's "radar" screen.
No wonder the devil and his Eph. 6:12 forces of evil will do all they can do to persecute (2Tim. 3: 12) those who are "different" and willing to go against the flow in order to make a difference in the spiritual lives of others.
Willing to be different and to make a difference are marks of an advancing disciple. The will always be a price to be paid for engaging in true discipleship.
* * *
The commitment and the glue that holds the family structure together comes from God (Exodus 20: 12/Eph. 5:22, 25/Eph. 6: 1).
At the same time, Scripture (Matt. 10: 36) also makes its clear that a Church Age believer's spiritual enemies will be the members of the advancing disciple's own family.
When it comes to discipleship, the advancing disciple will learn the reality of (Mark 6: 4) soon enough, in that his/her spiritual outreach will be least effective among family and people with whom he/she shares a personal relationship.
"And Jesus said to them, " A prophet (spokesman for God and/or the things of God) is not without honor except in his home town among his own relatives and in his own household (Mark 6: 4 NASB italics mine)."
Part of the problem is that those who know us on a personal level also know of our own individual areas of weakness and failures that the devil will use as wedge.
This Mark 6: 4 reality can be a heart-wrenching experience when one finds him/herself ineffective when it comes to ministering (evangelizing/edifying) to the spiritual status and needs of people that one has inter-personal relationships, knowing the final outcome (Rev. 20: 15/1Cor. 3: 15) of their disinterest.
As a pastor-teacher with an Internet ministry, I get positive feedback from people from all over the world, but there are family members, social contacts, and acquaintences in my personal periphery who show little overt interest in spiritual issues.
In Mark 6: 4 scenarios, one can only "lead/teach" by example, and be "prepared to give an answer (1Pet. 3: 15)" should such person seek spiritual guidance.
In the meantime, keep in mind that it is God who determines and arranges when and though what means any given unbeliever is to be presented with the Gospel Message. and it is God who arranges which pastor-teacher any given born again believer is to have, in order to build and maintain an edified soul structure.
In regards to one's children, it is the parental responsibility to teach and to lead the children, but it is the responsibility of the child to follow.
By not being judgemental, the advancing disciple keeps the door open for future opportunities that God may arrange to minister to unbelievers who initially choose to reject the Gospel Message, or believers who reject the true post salvation spiritual life.
"Friends," especially during one's teen-aged years can have a greater influence than parents and family, as the restless soul struggles to "find" him/herself and to "get out from under" parental control.
Parents walk a tight rope, especially during this phase of parenting.
Too much control will incite rebellion and/or prevent the child from developing the ability to make his/her own decisions, but too much liberty opens the door for destructive thoughts and behaviors in the lives of those who can not handle the freedom they are given.
Children want the freedom, but often want the parents to get them out of the messes that their own "independent" choices generate.
The desire to establish one's own identity and chosen path(s) in life, apart from parental input, is a normal part of growing up.
Just as in the case of each parent, the child was placed on Earth to do the will of God, not necessarily the specific plan that the parent(s) had in mind.
In fear of personal loss or rejection, there are thoughts and actions that a child, teenager, or even an adult may share with friends that he/she will not share with parents or persons in positions of authority.
The teen-aged years is a very vulnerable stage for any soul, but especially if the child has not yet "identified" him/herself with Christ. When one has identified himself with Christ, e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g that he does (or doesn't do) is based on what God desires.
One is "identified" (sealed) as a child of God (Eph. 4: 30 ) the moment he/she is born again (John 3: 5, 7), but must also choose on a day to day basis to "identify" with Christ by pursuing the post salvation spiritual life if he/she is going to avoid the pitfalls and consequences of the all the alternatives that the world has to offer.
Many children are subjected to various forms of physical and/or psychological trauma that can trigger internal or external reactions.
Blessed is the child who EARLY in life has secured as his/her closest friend, the Lord and chooses chooses to remain on the spiritual battlefield in the midst of all the evil that the world will throw at him/her. The Lord is not the only one who can see the spiritual potential and good impact that an advancing disciple can have in the realm of spiritual combat. The devil sees this too, and seeks to destroy it (1Pet. 5: 8).
The principles of Psalms 1/James 1: 22 can apply at any age.
Anyone can learn and be willing to apply the Word of God when things are going his/her way, but the test of one's metal comes into play when one finds himself in the midst of adversity when obedience is going to cost him something.
"Blessed is the man who does walk in the counsel of the wicked...but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night (Psalms 1: 1 NASB mine)."
"But prove yourselves doers of the Word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves (James 1:22 NASB)."
The "counsel if the wicked" includes ANY source of information or advice that runs contrary to the Word of God.
* * *
Humans are imperfect beings. Even the best of human parents and friends will let you down from time to time.
Unlike human parents and friends, who have their own weaknesses and limitations, God can be counted on to forgive (1John 1: 9), if one is the guilty party, and always be there to enable us to overcome the resulting pain that the words and actions of others can bring to us.
When we are the guilty one, keep in mind that when we confess our sin (to God), we are not telling Him anything that He does not already know.
With God, there is no "shock" factor to deal with, as may be the case when confessing to parents or friends, whose "reactions" remain to be seen.
There is NO rejection when a born again believer deals with God.
Unlike in the case of human parents and "friends", we already know exactly how God is going to respond (1John 1: 9).
The same arms that was spread wide open on the cross, is spread open to welcome home a prodigal son or daughter (Luke 15).
A human friend or trained professional counselor can be there to help us vent in a constructive manner, but only God can bring about spiritual healing.
Well-intended counseling, by parents, friends, professional therapists, or spiritually weak clergy, can cause more harm than good if the advice they provide is contrary to what the mind of Christ (1Cor. 2: 18 NASB)" has to say about the matter at hand. Human viewpoint will always be in agreement with the fallen nature in all of us. This fallen nature is inherently hostile (Romans 8: 7) towards God and/or the things and the ways (Isa. 55: 8) of God.
The ONLY worthwhile secular therapy is he one's that intentionally or unwittingly reflect the principles of the Word of God.
Neither blaming oneself when there is no justification for it, or blaming other things or people for the negative choices we do make is counter-productive to the process of healing and moving forward. Seeking revenge (Rev. 12: 18) against others who have failed us, or who have intentionally hurt us is NEVER the right course of action.
The means Biblical (1Pet. 5: 7/Phil. 4: 6/1John 1: 9/John 8: 11, etc.) to vent the pressure that unresolved spiritual issues can generate is open 24-7.
Without the means to vent the ever-increasing internal pressure, it is only a matter of time before one implodes and engages in self-destructive thoughts and/or activity, or explodes into destructive actions against those who he/she considers responsible. The more the pressure that unresolved issues generates, the more that one is likely to engage in an alternate solution to relieve the pressure. "Solutions" offered and promoted by human viewpoint will appear to offer an immediate solution, but in the long run will add to the problem(s) that one has to deal with while leaving the original issue unresolved.
Destructive behavior, excessive good behavior, religion, and/or criminality can be engaged in order to fulfill a subconscious need to be punished for some sin that has not been confessed. As tough as one can appear to be, we all desire to wipe the slate clean and make a fresh start.
One would not go fishing for tuna in fresh water, and one is not going to get godly advice from the devil's world.
Guilt, real or imagined, can be a great motivator, and is often used to manipulate those under its cloud. The devil, who deceives the whole world (Rev. 12: 9), knows all about manipulation via deception.
Real guilt is in view when one has committed a sin, whereas false guilt is based on what he/she "feels," when in fact, there is NO moral or legal responsibility or accountability in view.
Fellowship is a friendly association with those who share the same interests. These interests can be evil and self-serving, or they can be good with mutual concern. One of the ways that one can secure acceptance, security, and fellowship is to seek the fellowship with others who share the same evil desires.
The advancing disciple seeks fellowship (2Cor. 13: 14) with God. God DOES accept us just as we are (Romans 5: 8), but desires us to then grow in His knowledge (2Pet. 3: 18) and engage in the application (James 1: 22), conforming our thought and behaviors to the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 3: 29). All born again believers are forever accepted as a child of God, but that does not mean that all born again believers walk in daily fellowship with the Lord.
Acceptance from and friendship with God will come at the cost of rejection by the world. The "world", here, refers to those who hold to ways of the devil's world (Luke 4: 6).
Learning and applying the "ways of the world" to "get ahead" makes one "wise" in the eyes of Man, but makes one a fool in the eyes of God.
Seeking to please people by compromising one's walk with the Lord is a satanic trap (Gal. 1: 10).
"For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ (Gal. 1: 10 NASB)."
Self-seeking individuals will manipulate and take advantage of those who are willing to compromise their beliefs in order to please other people, but will drop them like a hot potato when the "well runs dry.
Discipleship can cost us the loss of ungodly friendships and relationships. You can pour and stir water and oil into the same container, and they will appear to blend, but sooner or later the oil and the water separates.
Sometimes, instead of breaking up the relationship, the relationship or friendships can be made stronger when God enters the scenario.
Such events afford the opportunity for the advancing disciple to "explain" to others why he/she can no longer maintain the relationship/friendship as is, but that he/she desires to make the necessary changes that will glorify God.
A newly born again believer, and/or a Christian who now desires to put God first in his/her life, is no longer going to have the same interests or priorities in life that he/she once shared with worldly-minded people (1Pet. 4: 3, 4).
"For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousals, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. And in all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excess of dissipation, and they malign you...(1Pet. 4: 3, 4 NASB)."
In modern day terminology, this verse is saying that the born again believers in view have spent enough time living in accordance with the ways of the world, and is now being bad-mouthed as he/she is no longer following the crowd.
* * *
In some cases, when venting and healing does not take place, the abused one becomes an abuser, subjecting others to the same type of abuse that he/she received.
This does not excuse or justify such thoughts or actions, but does explain how one can come to that point in his/her experience here on Earth.
Everyone (humanly speaking) has a breaking point in which he/she is then capable of engaging in severe reactions to the pressure on his/her soul.
The most severe internal reaction is self-destructive, suicidal, or homicidal thoughts. The most severe external reaction is engaging in reckless and self-destructive behavior, suicidal/homicidal actions.
Overtly pretending that the painful words and actions of bullies and other abusers doesn't hurt is a common defense mechanism, but the pain and suffering and the desire relief is real and contributes to place the ever-increasing pressure on the soul.
In fear of rejection from family for engaging in destructive behaviors, the tormented soul can do a good job of concealing the high level of internal pressure that he/she is experiencing.
It is often not until after the fact that the "warning" signs" of the impending sever reactions are realized, leaving those involved with a heavy burden of self-induced sense of guilt and responsibility.
No one would allow suicides or homicides to take place if they really thought such things were about to take place.
Rationalizing the situation away as being none of our business or not as bad as it may appear, is a defense mechanism that we will use, rather than face a situation and deal with it.
Unless the one involved is truly insane, all suicides and homicides are the result of conscious decisions made by the one(s) who carries them out. In such cases, the ultimate blame, responsibility, and accountability on the one who made that decision.
If unable to out one's suicidal thoughts into action, one might reach out to family and friends to assist them. Homicide/suicide pacts are not uncommon between couples who mutually desire to bring an immediate and permanent end to their Earthly circumstances.
Neither suicide nor murder is EVER the policy of God, and should never be entertained, endorsed, or encouraged by one of Christ's ambassadors.
Declining further medical treatment and/or praying to die is not all that uncommon among the sick and/or elderly.
For the advancing disciple, the timing, circumstances, location, and means of his/her earthly departure is the final phase of the plan that God has in mind for him/her as an individual believer.
Some will pass from this Earth without ever knowing (this side of Heaven) what hit them, whereas for others the process of physical death can be brief or long and drawn out.
In the first case scenario, the need to be prepared NOW is in view. In the second case scenario, the advancing disciple is to prepared to go thorough whatever God has in store, being given his/her final opportunity to be a witness for the Lord.
How one looks at death, or handles the process of dying, speaks volumes to those around him/her.
* * *
Godly parents will train a child, through instruction and discipline, but there comes a time when the child will have to choose for him/herself what activities, good or evil, he/she will and will not engage.
Once informed, it becomes the responsibility of the individual to make the appropriate choices when the opportunities present themselves.
The "old" of Prov. 22:6 refers to spiritual maturity, not biological age.
"Train up a child in the way that he should go, Even when (if) he is old (spiritually mature) he will not depart from it (Prov. 22:6 NASB)."
This is a general principle, but there are MANY exceptions.
King David, was a spiritually mature believer who was described as a man after the heart of God (Acts 13: 22), yet he committed adultery; had the husband of the woman he impregnated during the affair, killed. He then married the woman in an attempt to cover up his sin. Among the consequences for these sins, was the death of the child that his sin produced (2Sam. 12: 14).
He later engaged in other sin (1Chron. 21: 8) that resulted in the deaths of 70,000 (1Chron. 21: 14) of his countrymen.
* * *
The devil is well aware, and makes use of the negative pressure that spiritually weak "friends and family" and can apply.
Again, anyone who would lead you away from God and/or the things of God, is NOT your friend.
Spiritually weak friends and family members can offer "their" advice with the best of intentions, but a bullet fired in ignorance can be just as lethal as one that is fired with malicious intent.
Again, the "old" of (Prov. 22: 6) is not biological age, but refers to spiritual maturity.
Anyone who has not been born again (John 3: 5, 7), is not even spiritually alive, let alone spiirtually mature.
A "born again" believer can spend a lifetime "attending" Church, but still be no more spiritually mature than he/was the day he/she was saved.
Unlike salvation, that IS something that IS instantaneously received and complete, spiritually maturity is secured and retained through the o-n-g-o-i-n-g and life-long process of learning and applying the Word of God to what the world sees as the day to day events of life.
Spiritually weak friends and family members, no matter how "religious" are, they are NOT spiritually mature. One can not be both "religious" and spiritually mature. One of the requirements for spiritual maturity is the ability to discern and reject what is "religious," having come fro Man, and to have established an edified soul structure (1Cor. 3:9- 12).
Knowing what is right (as God defines "right") and doing what is right is NOT, at all, one in the same (James 1: 22).
As in the case of David, previously noted, the most spiritually mature believer can experience a moment or moments of weakness and engage in a variety of sin(s), but a weak believer is a "sitting duck" who conducts hm/herself largely on the basis of how he/she feels.
Fallen Man is "naturally" inclined to be "hostile Rom. 8: 7)" towards God and the things of God.
Choosing to think and do what "naturally" comes to us, over what is "supernaturally" required of us, will get us into trouble every time.
Satan is well aware and promotes the pressure that family/friends can place on a soul.
The devil makes use of it to promote "religion" while opposing Christianity.
Going against one's "religion" is equal to going against one's family/friends in many cultures. Many cultures that have traditionally followed Christian "religions" are no exception.
The phrase, "Christian religion" is actually an oxymoron, as it contains two c-o-n-t-r-a-d-i-c-t-i-n-g elements, Christianity (that comes from God), and religion that comes from Man.
The Lord Jesus Christ made it clear that discipleship requires that family members be placed and kept in their proper place of priority when it comes to spiritual matters (Luke 14: 26).
"If anyone comes to Me, and does not *hate (*love less) his own father and mother and wife (husband) and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he cannot be My disciple (Luke 14: 26 NASB italics mine)."
There will comes times, if you are an advancing disciple, when lines must be drawn and stands must be taken as an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ (2Cor. 5:20).
Drawing these lines and taking these stands will generate rejection, persecution, isolation, and hostility that will put the best of marital, familial, social, and Earthly "friendships" to the test.
If you profess to be a Christian, that is, a "follower" of Christ, but are not being conformed to His likeness, then you have taken (on) the name of the Lord in vain.
This is one of the ways in which a Church Age believer can violate the 3rd Commandment (Ex. 20: 7) of the Old Testament, Ten Commandments.
Both Old Testament (Ex. 20: 9) and New Testament (Heb. 12: 5,6) warns of divine discipline for the BELIEVER who takes the name of the Lord in vain.
"You shall not take the name of the Lord in vain for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain (Ex. 20: 9 NASB)."
"and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, NOr faint when you are reproved by Him; For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son who He receives (Heb. 12: 5, 6 NASB)."
Many believers limit a violation of the 3rd Commandment to using the name of the Lord Jesus Christ as one would use a "cuss word", or when giving false testmoy after taking an oath in the name of Lord to tell the truth.
While such actions ARE sins, but taking the Lord's name in vain cover a lot more ground than that.
* * *
Many evangelists erroneously blend the requirement (singular) for salvation and the requirements (plural) for discipleship into one package. The ONE requirement to be born again (John 3: 5, 7) in order to receive salvation (deliverance from the wrath of God - Rev. 20: 15) and to receive eternal life (John 3: 16) is to believe (place one's full trust and confidence) in what the Lord Jesus Christ totally accomplished and "finished (John 19: 30)" on the cross (John 3: 18).
Post (after) salvation discipleship has many, many requirements, evidenced by the more than 300 commandments (not suggestions) found in the New Testament alone. Failing to learn and apply such principles constitutes post (after) salvation sin that can result in receiving divine discipline (Heb. 12: 6) while here on Earth and forfeiting specific rewards (not salvation) in Heaven (1Cor. 3: 15).
At the same time, success in the post salvation spiritual life does NOT improve the integrity of the salvation that a born again believer one has already received, not do failures in the post salvation spiritual life diminish the integrity of the salvation that a born again believer has already received.
Eternal security (the fact the salvation can not be lost) is NOT a license to sin. Post (after) salvation sin can bring divine discipline into the lives of born again believers. Divine discipline (Heb. 12: 6) here on Earth and bring about the forfeiture of specific rewards (1Cor. 3: 15) in Heaven. Divine discipline (here on Earth) an range in anything from having to live with a guilty conscience up to and including physical death (Acts 5).
The purpose of the 1John 1: 9 process (confession) and the John 8: 11 principle of forsaking sin is to return the offending (sinner) believer to fellowship (2Cor. 13: 14) with God and to return to and move forward in his/her post salvation spiritual life. It is NOT for the purpose of res-securing salvation.
Discipleship, that includes "giving your life (Luke 14: 26) to Christ is a POST (after) salvation activity.
All born again believers are called to the post (after)salvation spiritual life of discipleship, but this has got nothing to do with either obtaining or retaining salvation.
Discipleship BEGINS with one's own spiritual edification (2Pet. 3: 18) and application (James 1: 22) of the Word of God. This is an ongoing process that never ends this side of Heaven.
The long term objective, however, is to be involved in presenting the Gospel Message to unbelievers and the spiritual edification of fellow believers.
THIS is what Christianity (being a Christian) is all about!
Needless to say, the devil has a whole warehouse full of "alternatives", including the alternatives found in the Christian religious community at large.
Knowing the pressure that family and friends can apply, the devil uses spiritually dead or spiritually weak family members and friends to promote these alternatives.
In the secular realm, an ambassador is an appointed individual who represents one kingdom while posted in another. What the ambassador has to say is taken as having come from the head of the kingdom/nation he/she represents.
Each and every day, everyone who claims to be a Christian provides the world with the spoken or unspoken "testimony" of his/her daily life.
Discipleship is a 24-7 relationship. There are no time outs or vacations. There are NO neutral zones. One is either progressing or regressing in his/her walk with the Lord, at any given time.
Godly friends and family members will contribute to one's progression, whereas ungodly (spiritually dead or spiritually weak) friends and family members will contribute to one's regression.
All spiritually dead souls are called to become born again believers (John 3: 5, 7). All born again believers are called to become disciples (Matt. 28: 20). All disciples are called to become ambassadors () . Where (if) any one of us are in this chain of events is a choice that we make.
An ambassador is well versed in the policies of the kingdom that he/she represents, and NEVER speaks of his/her own, independent opinions.
Ambassadors for Christ do NOT provide endorse, support, or promote ungodly advice or participate in ungodly activities.
In the spiritual realm, the advancing disciple is called to be an ambassador for the Kingdom of God, while here in the devil's (Luke 4: 6) world.
The policies of the Kingdom of God are contained in the Word of God. One can not do the work of an ambassador if he/she does not have a clear knowledge of the Word God. One can not pass onto others what he/she does not first possess him/herself.
Spiritual ignorance or spiritual edification is a daily CHOICE that a born again believer makes and/or reinforces every day. Not having the time is a weak excuse, in light of all the time that we DO find to listen (through the news, gab shows, sitcoms, cable TV, movies, etc.) to listen to or view what the world has to say.
For most of us, its not that we do not have the time, its that we do not have the interest or desire.
When confronted with a spiritual issue, Christ's ambassador, through his/her words, silence, action, is called to convey the official "position" of the Kingdom that he/she represents.
Compromising one's spiritual position in order to avoid adversity, or to secure/preserve a "friendship" or relationship here on Earth, makes one an enemy of God (James 4: 4).
Peter's chose to deny even knowing the Lord after he (Peter) was identified as being one of the Lord's followers (Luke 22: 57)
But in principle, each one of us deny association with God when we fail to take a public stand for the Lord when given the opportunity.
The more spiritually mature a born again believer becomes, the more aware he/she will be of the spiritual issue(s) behind ALL the day to day, moment to moment, activities we encounter, as we go about our daily "routines." What is seen as a "problem" to a weak believer is seen as an "opportunity" to an advancing disciple.
Spirit maturity is the result of learning and applying the Word of God to EVERYTHING that we do (or choose not to do).
Having the support of a strong Christian family and friends can be a great asset, but spiritually dead or weak family and "friends" can also be a great distraction to the plan that God has in mind for you.
We know that the Lord Jesus Christ was circumcised (Luke 2: 21). We can conclude that He made His Bar Mitzvar, as without it He would never have been afforded the right to speak and comment on The Law in the synagogues when the time came for His public ministry.He undoubtedly grew up celebrating all of the Jewish holidays and complied with all the rituals associated with the Temple, along with family and friends.
Yet, in order to fulfill (Matt. 5: 17- 20) the true meaning and purpose behind the Old Testament rituals, practiced by his earthly mother, father, family, and friends, there came a time when the Lord Jesus Christ had to go to the cross and introduce a new way of worshiping God that "raised the eyebrows" of many.
In these days of prophesied (1Tim. 4: 2) apostasy, the advancing disciples will be called to go up against all the false teachings and practices that have been accepted and that are presently being promoted in the name of Christian religion WITHIN the Christian Community at large.
This has always been an issue from the earliest recorded days of the Church Age (Galatians 3) to date, but none so as such as will take place in the "later times (1Tim. 4: 2 NASB)," just before the Rapture (1Thess. 4: 17) of the existing true Church here on Earth, takes place.
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A Christian friend will have your best spiritual interests in mind, but don't expect or anticipate any human being to ALWAYS "be there" for you.
Even in the best of human relationships, each one of us has to deal with the self-centered, fallen nature within our selves and in each other.
All of us have our individual areas of weakness, as well as our areas of strengths.
No human relationship or friendship is going to endure with genuine forgiveness. We all need to forgive and to be forgiven.
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A James 4: 4 "enemy" of God is a "friend" of the devil in that he/she is supporting an activity that God hates and has declared to be sin.
From time to time, when conducting our 2 Cor. 13: 5 self examinations, it would be wise to evaluate what are the "binds that tie" that we have with some of the people we consider our "friends."
Daily interaction with unbelievers and/or weak believers is inevitable (John 17: 15). It is while interacting with such souls that the advancing disciple is to function as Christ's ambassador.
Obedience to the command (not an option) of 2 Cor. 13:5 (NASB) to "test" and "examine" ourselves requires that we ask ourselves the following questions.
What are the "ties that bind" that we have with some of those we consider to be our friends..
Are these "ties" godly (promoting the progression of my post salvation spiritual life), or are they ungodly (promoting the regression of of my post salvation spiritual life.
As noted earlier in this study, to the extent that circumstances allow (Romans 12: 18), we should strive to interact in a peaceful manner with everyone. But, this does not mean that everyone is (or should be) our friend.
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Neither we, nor anyone else is ever going to be sinless.
A Christian has no cause engage in the SIN by looking down his nose at ANYONE for ANY reason ((Proverbs 6: 17).
At the same time, choosing to "flock together" with the wrong crowd is NOT the way to go for an advancing disciple (Matt. 7: 13).
For an advancing disciple, the "wrong" crowd is one that is on the popular road, that leads to destruction (Matt. 7: 13).
Being born again forever settles the issue of salvation, but does not mean that one can make choices that destroys the quality of his/her post salvation spiritual life and not then expect to "hear" from God (Heb. 12: 6) on the matter.
Scripture (1Pet. 5: 8) makes it perfectly clear that this (destruction) is exactly what the devil has in mind for each and every born again believer and even more so for the born again believers who engage in discipleship. At the top of his list are the disciples who become ambassadors.
There are NO "little" sins in the eyes (Habakkuk 1:13) of God.
God hates ALL sin, and places ALL sinners in the same stinking, sinking, boat (James 2: 10).
God hates sin and disciplines (Heb. 12: 6) born again believers involved in it because of the damage it does to the ones He loves.
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There is a price to be paid for choosing to be a friend of God and/or to be a friend of devil. One cannot accept the ways of one without rejecting the ways of the other. The born again believer who practices and promotes the ways of God will be subjected to an attack from the devil. The born again believer who accepts and promotes the ways of the devil will be subjected to divine discipline. As Peter put it, since suffering is going to be a reality either way, better to suffer for the good (1Pet. 3: 17).
Friends of God, walk with God on an increasing level intimacy each and every day. Spiritually dead and/or weak believers focus on themselves.
Friends of God will suffer persecution, rejection, isolation, and ridicule from the friends of the devil.
Be it here on Earth or in Eternity (Galatians 6: 7), we will reap the produce from the seeds, good or evil, that we sow (Gal. 6: 7) while here on Earth.
What goes around comes around, even if it takes Eternity for it to come around to us.
Being a friend of the devil may make life here on Earth a lot less confrontational, but having no confrontation that is NOT what life of discipleship is all about!
"Do NOT think that I came (at the First Advent) to bring (interpersonal/international) peace to the earth; I did not come to bring (interpersonal/international) peace, but a sword (Matt. 10: 34 NASB italics mine)."
The type of peace that was announced by the angel at the First Advent (Christmas), was peace between God and those are born again. It is the born again believer who is experience the type of peace referenced in Matt. !0: 34). Note that this is the opposite of the unrest and uncertainty commonly experienced by "religious" persons. Religious persons hope they are Heaven bound; whereas born again believers know (John 8: 32) they are and have put that issue to rest.
The one and only means to secure peace with God is by choosing to believe (placing one's trust and confidence) in a presentation of the true Gospel Message. The Gospel Message is "the truth (John 8: 32 NASB)" that sets one free from fear of what is going to happen when they depart this Earth. False "religious" teachings, that add to what God requires to be saved generates its own brand of fear WITHIN the Christian Community at large, and is used by religious authorities to recruit, retain, and garner the financial support of its membership.
While providing peace with God to those who believe, the preaching of the Gospel would, has, and will be cause of much conflict here on the Earth!
Many folks erroneously refer to all their trials and suffering here on Earth as their "cross to bear." However, the cross bearing spoken of in Scripture (Luke 9: 23) refers to adversity that one encounters as a result of taking part in the Great Commission (Matt. 28: 19, 20). The Great Commission calls for proclaiming the true Gospel Message to unbelievers, and the spiritual edification of fellow believers.
To be a Christian disciple means to take up (personally learn) the Gospel Message of the cross and bear (move forward) with it into enemy held territory. "Enemy held territory" in a-n-y-w-h-e-r-e that false Gospels and false teachings are promoted or have taken root. Enemy held territory can be as close as one's own soul structure, and is found both within (1Tim. 4: 1) and outside of the Christian Community at large.
The cross, in the days of Christ's public ministry was the means of capital punishment. To wear a cross as a piece of jewelry in that day would be the same as wearing a miniature electric chair on a chain today. The cross later became an accepted symbol of Christianity. Many "religious" groups and "religious" persons who wear the cross today have no clue what the true message of the cross they display is all about. This is evidenced by their participation in religious activities that oppose what the true Gospel Message concerning the cross has to say.
"For many walk, of whom I often told you. and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ (Phil. 3: 18 NASB)."
The result of Luke 9: 23 type of "cross bearing" will generate the same "hatred" and conflict that the Lord Jesus Christ experienced during His public ministry before going to the cross.
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you (John 15: 18 NASB)."
Just as the Gospel Message and/or post (after) salvation doctrine presents a pleasing "aroma" to a believer, it is an irritating "stench" to those who reject or are spiritually challenged by it.
"For we (advancing disciples) are a (pleasing) fragrance of Christ to God to those who are being saved and (an offensive stench) among those who are perishing; to the one an (offensive) aroma from death to death, to the other an (pleasing) aroma from life to life...(2Cor. 2: 15, 16 NASB italics mine)."
Godly (spiritually alive and progressing) believers are friends of God and do His bidding (John 15: 5), promoting the Great Commission (Matt. 28: 19, 20).
Ungodly (spiritually dead or spiritually weak) family members (Matt. 10: 36) and friends are friends of the devil and do his bidding (John 8: 44), promoting the devil's alternatives.
Whose friend are YOU?