A HEART OF A CHILD Bible Study

Bible Study for Monday, 7/1/2013 

A HEART OF A CHILD Bible Study

Have you ever heard someone tell you to grow up and stop acting like a child? I am sure you have. Have you ever had someone tell you to take life serious? I am sure you have. There are times to be adults and there is times when you have the rights to act like a Child. I see people who smoke, drink and get drunk, I have seen adults who acts old and have hearts of stone and seem to be cold towards others. God did not create them to be that way, they just have chosen to follow the dark shadows of satan. We are to live here on earth, but not be of the world. A better way of saying it is this, you are in the world, but not of the world. I am in the world, but not of this world. What does he mean by that? What I am saying is this, if you are here in this world and you are a Christian and a faithful believer and follower of Jesus Christ, you are not of this world because, you belong to Jesus Christ, God Almighty. Christians as no right at all, to be living like everyone else, by living in sin. I love it when people say things to me like, you are holier than thou, he is mister perfect. They said it right on the spot. Here, I will explain. In the be gaining of the Bible, God created us to be good and perfect, just as Jesus Christ is perfect, until Adam and Eve have cursed this world, sin came into the picture. Now when a sinner repents to God and turns away from all of his sins, he then is maid perfect, just as He is perfect. It means that we must live better. You then need to be water Baptized, just like what Jesus Christ as commanded in the new testament, water baptism, with belief and faith, brings eternal life in heaven. God created you and I to live with a joyful heart and not with a heart of stone. People who rejects the Truth of Jesus Christ, they are the ones who has the heart of stone, God did not create you to be that way. It takes a heart of a child to follow the path to Heaven. Don’t live life foolishly any longer, friends. Jesus loves a cheerful heart and follower of Him. He is our guide in life, not satan. Yes, you have to grow up in the Faith of God, but we need to keep a heart of a child. How can a person have a heart of God, if they don’t keep a young heart? Yes, the outside of God’s temple may get old and wrinkly, which is the body that all of you are living in is, you need to keep your heart young and don’t let it grow hardened and foolishly. If you have foolish activity in your heart, then it will make your mind think on sinful things and your hands, feet, the mouth that God gave you, will say foulish things and you will act on that sin and lead yourselves to hell, by allowing satan’s spirit to enter into your life. You will be in hell torment for all eternity, if you don’t turn away from sin. We will get more into eternal salvation towards the end of the lesson. Do you have the heart of a Child? Mat 18:2-20 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Remain has a Child at heart, for a person who has a heart that has been hardened, may have a hard time getting into heaven, or just loose some rewards in Heaven. Don’t let your hearts be hardened. Psa 95:8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: Heb 3:8 Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: Heb 3:15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. Heb 3:7-19 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Commentaries Hebrews 3:7-19 Here the apostle proceeds in pressing upon them serious counsels and cautions to the close of the chapter; and he recites a passage out of Psa_95:7, etc., where observe, I. What he counsels them to do - to give a speedy and present attention to the call of Christ. “Hear his voice, assent to approve of, and consider, what God in Christ speaks unto you; apply it to yourselves with suitable affections and endeavours, and set about it this very day, for tomorrow it may be too late.” II. What he cautions them against - hardening their hearts, turning the deaf ear to the calls and counsels of Christ: “When he tells you of the evil of sin, the excellency of holiness, the necessity of receiving him by faith as your Saviour, do not shut your ear and heart against such a voice as this.” Observe, The hardening of our hearts is the spring of all our other sins. III. Whose example he warns them by - that of the Israelites their fathers in the wilderness: As in the provocation and day of temptation; this refers to that remarkable passage at Massah Meribah, Exo_17:2-7. Observe, 1. Days of temptation are often days of provocation. 2. To provoke God, when he is trying us, and letting us see that we entirely depend and live immediately upon him, is a provocation with a witness. 3. The sins of others, especially our relations, should be a warning to us. Our fathers' sins and punishments should be remembered by us, to deter us from following their evil examples. Now as to the sin of the fathers of the Jews, here reflected upon, observe, (1.) The state in which these fathers were, when they thus sinned: they were in the wilderness, brought out of Egypt, but not got into Canaan, the thoughts whereof should have restrained them from sin. (2.) The sin they were guilty of: they tempted and provoked God; they distrusted God, murmured against Moses, and would not attend to the voice of God. (3.) The aggravations of their sin: they sinned in the wilderness, where they had a more immediate dependence upon God: they sinned when God was trying them; they sinned when they saw his works - works of wonder wrought for their deliverance out of Egypt, and their support and supply in the wilderness from day to day. They continued thus to sin against God for forty years. These were heinous aggravations. (4.) The source and spring of such aggravated sins, which were, [1.] They erred in their hearts; and these heart-errors produced many other errors in their lips and lives. [2.] They did not know God's ways, though he had walked before them. They did not know his ways; neither those ways of his providence in which he had walked towards them, nor those ways of his precept in which they ought to have walked towards God; they did not observe either his providences or his ordinances in a right manner. (5.) The just and great resentment God had at their sins, and yet the great patience he exercised towards them (Heb_3:10): Wherefore I was grieved with that generation. Note, [1.] All sin, especially sin committed by God's professing privileged people, does not only anger and affront God, but it grieves him. [2.] God is loth to destroy his people in or for their sin, he waits long to be gracious to them. [3.] God keeps an exact account of the time that people go on in sinning against him, and in grieving him by their sins; but at length, if they by their sins continue to grieve the Spirit of God, their sins shall be made grievous to their own spirits, either in a way of judgment or mercy. (6.) The irreversible doom passed upon them at last for their sins. God swore in his wrath that they should not enter into his rest, the rest either of an earthly or of a heavenly Canaan. Observe, [1.] Sin, long continued in, will kindle the divine wrath, and make it flame out against sinners. [2.] God's wrath will discover itself in its righteous resolution to destroy the impenitent; he will swear in his wrath, not rashly, but righteously, and his wrath will
make their condition a restless condition; there is no resting under the wrath of God.
IV. What use the apostle makes of their awful example, Heb_3:12, Heb_3:13, etc. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution, and enforces it with an affectionate compellation.
1. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution; the word is, Take heed, blepete - look to it. “Look about you; be upon your guard against enemies both within and without; be circumspect. You see what kept many of your forefathers out of Canaan, and made their carcasses fall in the wilderness; take heed lest you fall into the same sin and snare and dreadful sentence. For you see Christ is head of the church, a much greater person than Moses, and your contempt of him must be a greater sin than their contempt of Moses; and so you are in danger of falling under a severer sentence than they.” Observe, The ruin of others should be a warning to us to take heed of the rock they split upon. Israel's fall should for ever be a warning to all who come after them;
for all these things happened to them for ensamples (1Co_10:11), and should be remembered by us. Take heed; all who would get safely to heaven must look about them.

2. He enforces the admonition with an affectionate compellation: “Brethren, not only in the flesh, but in the Lord; brethren whom I love, and for whose welfare I labour and long.” And here he enlarges upon the matter of the admonition: Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. Here observe, (1.) A heart of unbelief is an evil heart. Unbelief is a great sin, it vitiates the heart of man. (2.) An evil heart of unbelief is at the bottom of all our sinful departures from God; it is a leading step to apostasy; if once we allow ourselves to distrust God, we may soon desert him. (3.) Christian brethren have need to be cautioned against apostasy. Let those that think they stand take heed lest they fall.

3. He subjoins good counsel to the caution, and advises them to that which would be a remedy against this evil heart of unbelief - that they should exhort one another daily, while it is called today, Heb_3:13. Observe, (1.) We should be doing all the good we can to one another while we are together, which will be but a short and uncertain time. (2.) Since tomorrow is none of ours, we must make the best improvement of today. (3.) If Christians do not exhort one another daily, they will be in danger of being hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Note, [1.] There is a great deal of deceitfulness in sin; it appears fair, but is filthy; it appears pleasant, but is pernicious; it promises much, but performs nothing. [2.] The deceitfulness of sin is of a hardening nature to the soul; one sin allowed prepares for another; every act of sin confirms the habit; sinning against conscience is the way to sear the conscience; and therefore it should be the great concern of every one to exhort himself and others to beware of sin.

4. He comforts those who not only set out well, but hold on well, and hold out to the end (Heb_3:14): We are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast to the end. Here observe, (1.) The saints' privilege: they are made partakers of Christ, that is, of the Spirit, nature, graces, righteousness, and life of Christ; they are interested in all that is Christ's, in all that he is, in all that he has done, or can do. (2.) The condition on which they hold that privilege, namely, their perseverance in the bold and open profession and practice of Christ and Christianity unto the end. Not but they shall persevere, being kept by the mighty power of God through faith to salvation, but to be pressed thus to it is one means by which Christ helps his people to persevere. This tends to make them watchful and diligent, and so keeps them from apostasy. Here observe, [1.] The same spirit with which Christians set out in the ways of God they should maintain and evidence to the end. Those who begin seriously, and with lively affections and holy resolutions and humble reliance, should go on in the same spirit. But, [2.] There are a great many who in the beginning of their profession show a great deal of courage and confidence, but do not hold them fast to the end. [3.] Perseverance in faith is the best evidence of the sincerity of our faith.

5. The apostle resumes what he had quoted before from Psa_95:7, etc., and he applies it closely to those of that generation, Heb_3:15, Heb_3:16, etc. While it is said, Today if you will hear, etc.; as if he should say, “What was recited before from that scripture belonged not only to former ages, but to you now, and to all who shall come after you; that you take heed you fall not into the same sins, lest you fall under the same condemnation.” The apostle tells them that though some who had heard the voice of God did provoke him, yet all did not so. Observe, (1.) Though the majority of hearers provoked God by unbelief, yet some there were who believed the report. (2.) Though the hearing of the word be the ordinary means of salvation, yet, if it be not hearkened to, it will expose men more to the anger of God. (3.) God will have a remnant that shall be obedient to his voice, and he will take care of such and make mention of them with honour. (4.) If these should fall in a common calamity, yet they shall partake of eternal salvation, while disobedient hearers perish for ever.

6. The apostle puts some queries upon what had been before mentioned, and gives proper answers to them (Heb_3:17-19): But with whom was he grieved forty years? With those that sinned. And to whom did he swear? etc. Whence observe, (1.) God is grieved only with those of his people who sin against him, and continue in sin. (2.) God is grieved and provoked most by sins publicly committed by the generality of a nation; when sin becomes epidemic, it is most provoking. (3.) Though God grieves long, and bears long, when pressed with the weight of general and prevailing wickedness, yet he will at length ease himself of public offenders by public judgments. (4.) Unbelief (with rebellion which is the consequent of it) is the great damning sin of the world, especially of those who have a revelation of the mind and will of God. This sin shuts up the heart of God, and shuts up the gate of heaven, against them; it lays them under the wrath and curse of God, and leaves them there; so that in truth and justice to himself he is obliged to cast them off for ever. If you are a Christian, then you need to be living and walking Christ like. 1 John 2:6 - He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 1 Corinthians 11:1 - Be ye followers of me, even as I also [am] of Christ. John 14:15 - If ye love me, keep my commandments. John Chapter 13:13-17 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for [so] I am. If I then, [your] Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord neither he that is sentgreater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. Ephesians Chapter 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Romans 6:4 - Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Baptism in Water for Believers Matthew 28:19, 20 “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Mark 1:4, 5 “John did baptize in the wilderness and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.” Mark 16:16 “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Acts 2:38 “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.” Acts 8:35-38 “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” Acts 16:31, 33 “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.” If you have been watered Baptized and have repented, turned away from your selfish ways and sin and done all that Jesus Christ said to do, by accepting Him as your Lord and Savior? Congrats, you are heaven bound my friends. If you have been Baptized into Christ, then why are you still living in sin? Lets close in Prayer.

SUPPORTING SATAN’S PLAY GROUND AND TITHING, Bible Study

Bible study for Monday 6/24/13

SUPPORTING SATAN’S PLAY GROUND 

AND TITHING, Bible Study

This world is crumbling and its falling apart to a dark evil world. Satan is the ruler of this life, just until Jesus Christ, whom is God, returns and places His Kingdom here. Satan and all of its followers and worshipers will be throne into the lake of fire. Satan has so many people deceived and serving him, day and night. How can I tell, you asked? Well, I will tell you. By the way some of you act, by the programs you watch, by claiming to be “Christian” and still talking like the rest of the world or even posting worldly garbage on facebook, like porn, gossips, going to bingo halls, or even playing it on facebook, your whole life on their, watching things like wrestling and buying pay per-view. All of these things supports satan’s work shop and you are his servants. The money you use to support these kind of things, is truly satan’s play ground. That money that is spent on that garbage, should be placed in the offering plate at Church. Money is the root of all evil and most of you has already proven God’s point to be true. Do something good and not foolish, put it towards God’s Kingdom and not the devils. You can’t serve two masters. Psa 23:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.Luke 3:14 Some soldiers were questioning him, saying, “And what about us, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not take money from anyone by force, or accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages.” Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow. Proverbs 23:4 Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. Mat 19:21-26 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God allthings are possible. Mar 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, andthe lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. 1Ti 6:9-11 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evilwhich while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Mar 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shallgain the whole world, and lose his own soul? How to deal with evil people? Rom 12:19 Dearlybeloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance ismine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Pro 29:11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. Jas 1:19-20 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear,slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Mat5:38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:Mat 5:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy rightcheek, turn to him the other also. Eph 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go downupon your wrath: Joh 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.A real Christian will not give into temptations of evil, like being sinful when you are angery, oreven given into lust’s like spending money on trash like, violent’s on t.v, porn of any kind, dirtymoney from the gambling places and such. There is nothing wrong with making money, but if itis dishonest earnings and used for trash to help satan’s play ground, then its dirty and can sendyou to hell. How is your tithing? That money spent on filth should be placed in the offering plateat Church. Are you supporting satan’s play ground or are you supporting God’s Kingdom.People who smokes, drinks any type of alcohol, illegal drug usage, bars, gambling places, gay’sand lesbians, the buying of niv, the amplifies Bibles, all that is dirty money and is supportingsatan’s play ground. Eph 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, norcovetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 1Co6:9-10 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be notdeceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers ofthemselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, norextortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. If you are a Christian? Then you would not takepart in such filth. If the money that you are holding onto is dirty and maid in dishonest means,get rid of it and don’t give it away. Anything that is not honestly earned and you give thatdishonest earnings away, then your blood and guilt lay’s in their hands. You will share in their shame in hell. 5 Bible verses about money every Christian should know. Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Mal 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. 1Ti 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Act 20:35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Pro 22:7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. 1 Timothy 5:8 - But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Deuteronomy Chapter 14:22-29 Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always. And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; [or] if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee: Then shalt thou turn [it] into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household, And the Levite that [is] within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee. At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which [are] within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest. Proverbs 3:9 - Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: Exodus 19:5 - Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth [is] mine: Genesis Chapter 28:20-22 And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, So that I come again to my father's house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God: And this stone, which I have set [for] a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee. TO TITHE OR NOT TO TITHE? 1Th 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. It needs to be established at the very outset here that this study does not teach against Christians giving into the work of God. It is about how they give – whether spontaneously, or by compulsion. A teaching persists in the contemporary church that Christians under grace in the New Testament are obligated to tithe as the Jews under the law had to tithe in the Old Testament. There are no defining scriptures anywhere in the Bible however, to validate such teaching. Nevertheless the proponents of tithing do use scriptures to argue their position. The purpose of this study is to examine those scriptures in context to determine if they really can be used for that purpose. But first let us find out exactly what the tithe is Lev 27:30-34 And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it is holy unto the LORD. Lev 27:31 And if a man will at all redeem ought of his tithes, he shall add thereto the fifth part thereof. And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD. He shall not search whether it be good or bad, neither shall he change it: and if he change it at all, then both it and the change thereof shall be holy; it shall not be redeemed. These are the commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai. We see from this that the tithe is a tenth part Under the law here the Old Testament Jews had to pay ten percent of the produce of the earth and the increase of their herds and flocks to God. It had nothing to do with money then, as it has today. Today the tithe is stipulated as ten percent of one’s gross income which has to be paid to the local church. Those who argue for the tithe use Mal 3:8-11 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. to teach that the local church, being the place where Christians are spiritually fed, is the New Testament equivalent to the Old Testament storehouse where the tithes had to be taken, and that New Testament Christians who withhold their tithes will be cursed the same as the Old Testament Jews. Mal 3:8-11). Nothing that God says here can be applied to New Testament Christians. God rebuked the Jews who were under the law and obligated to tithe. New Testament Christians are not under the law because it has been fulfilled in Christ, and they have been redeemed from its curse. Rom 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. Gal 3:13-14 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. The tithe is first mentioned in scripture when Abraham tithed to Melchizedec – a priest of the most high God – from the spoils of war after the slaughter of the kings, when Abraham rescued his nephew Lot and the women captives, in Gen 14:18-20 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.We will learn more about this tithe and how it is represented by the proponents of tithing in the contemporary church a little later when we study Hebrews 7. Another argument for tithing is said to be found in Mat 23:23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Many in the church believe that by acknowledging the obligation of the Jews to tithe here Jesus is teaching that tithing is also obligatory for New Testament Christians. Tithing is not even the issue though. Jesus was rebuking Scribes and Pharisees who were subject to the law and obligated to tithe anyway. The issue Jesus was addressing was not their tithes, but their neglect of justice, mercy and faithfulness toward others. To practice these was more important then being sticklers for the smallest detail of tithing. Mat 23:24-33 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? This is what Jesus was really leading up to in Mat 23:23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone, from being used to teach that Jesus was sanctioning tithing for New Testament Christians. Compulsory tithing under the law in the Old Testament does not translate to giving under grace in the New Testament. The New Testament does not compel Christians, but rather invites them to give generously in response to the needs of others, and as an expression of their love for God. 1Co 16:1-2 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 2Co 8:1-15 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. 2Co 9:1-15 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready: Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. Gal 6:6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. Jas 2:13-17 For he shall have judgment without mercy that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 1Jn 3:16-19 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. We learn from these scriptures that New Testament giving is voluntary, spontaneous and freely given, not from a sense of obligation nor with an intent to merit blessings. Giving is to be seen as a privilege, not an obligation. 1Co 16:1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come, is used by those who promote tithing to teach that the money the Corinthians were to put aside each Sunday represented the tithe. 2Co 8:2-4 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. is used to encourage Christians to tithe, yet in V8 Paul clearly states that he was not commanding the Corinthians to give; he only wanted them to prove the sincerity of their love for their brothers and sisters in Christ. In V7 he calls their giving an act of grace, which is the exact opposite of mandatory tithing. 2Co 9:5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. Paul stresses the importance of the collection being seen as a willing gift, not as money that has been extorted from them, 1Co 16:3-4 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me. 2Co 8:2-4 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 2Co 8:7-8 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 2Co 9:5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. The clear teaching in all these scriptures is that New Testament giving under grace comes from what one has, not from what one does not have. Christians are only expected to give according to their means, and although there must a readiness and eagerness in giving, Christians do not have to run themselves into debt or reduce themselves to poverty level in order to give into God’s work. This is acceptable to God. The issue is one’s willingness to give – not the amount, Luk 11:41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. 2Co 8:11-12 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Christians must not feel bad if they are ever unable to give, 2Co 8:13-15 For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. his teaches that Christians who are well off should meet the needs of those who are not. In this way none will lack, and there will be equality for all, just like God directed the Israelites with the manna in the wilderness. Exo 16:16-18 This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your persons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents. And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less. And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating. There are four things Christians must do in giving: they must give willingly from the heart, they must not give grudgingly; they must not give of compulsion; they must give cheerfully. 2Co 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 2Co 9:5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. 2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Christians who give what they can to those in need will find that the grace of God furnishes a sufficiency for their own needs, and even more, in order that they may abound in good works for others. Psa 41:1-2 To the chief Musician Psalm of David Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. Pro 11:24-25 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. Pro 11:25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. Pro 19:17 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. Pro 22:9 He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor. Ecc 11:1 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. Luk 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. 2Co 9:6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully 2Co 8:15 As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. At the heart of all Christian giving is the acknowledgement that God is the creator, the owner, and the giver of all things, and what we give back to God is only a part of what He has given to us in the first place. Gen 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Exo 19:5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: Deu 8:7 -20 For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills; A land of wheat, and barley, and vines and fig trees, and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey; A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any thing in it; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass. When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint; Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that he might humble thee, and that he might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end; And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God. 1Ch 29:10-16 Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding. O LORD our God, all this store that we have prepared to build thee an house for thine holy name cometh of thine hand, and is all thine own Psa 24:1 A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. Psa 50:10-12 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof. Hag 2:8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts. Joh 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. Jas 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 2Pe 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Everything Christians have belongs to the Lord. No one has anything that they had not first received from God. Those who hold that tithing is obligatory for New Testament Christians also use Heb 7:1-10 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him. to teach that, as Abraham was the antecedent of all New Testament Christians and paid a tithe to Melchizedec, it is incumbent upon all New Testament Christians to tithe. They contend that Abraham was the representative tithe payer of all his seed to come, which Christians are Gal 3:29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. Now let us look at Heb 7:1-28 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. Now consider how great this man was unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him. If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God. And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:) By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. And they truly were many priests because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore. When kept in the context of the whole of Ch 7 it is plain to see that tithing, as being obligatory for New Testament Christians, is not being taught in V1-10 at all. Melchizedec is the subject, not Jesus, and tithing is mentioned only in the context of demonstrating the superiority of Melchizedec over Abraham and Levi in the first place, and the superiority of Christ’s eternal priesthood over the temporary Levitical priesthood in the second place, which makes the New Covenant superior to the Old. That is the theme of He 7, not tithing. Tithing is only incidental to proving that the New Covenant, of which Jesus is the mediator, is by far superior to the Old Covenant, and it cannot be made to mean anything else. The importance of tithing? Answer. Tithing is in obedience to God plus that's how the church runs its expensses for, light bills, helping the families of the church, and if you have a full time pastor, that's his salary as well. When you are in obedience, God will be filled; Deu 12:6 And thither ye shall bring your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, and your bless you even more, maybe not necessarily financially, but health-wise, peace of mind, and in all areas of your life. Nothing is impossible to God. Tithing is important primarily for only one reason. It builds your character. But secondarily it teaches you to live within your means and help others who are in need. Another point of view: According to the Bible, tithing was commanded under the Mosaic Law in the nation of Israel. Deu 26:12 When thou hast made an end of tithing all the tithes of thine increase the third year, which is the year of tithing, and hast given it unto the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that they may eat within thy gates, and tithes, and heave offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstlings of your herds and of your flocks: to support the Levite’s as they performed their priestly duties at the temple, Num 18:21-24 And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation. Neither must the children of Israel henceforth come nigh the tabernacle of the congregation, lest they bear sin, and die. But the Levites shall do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they shall bear their iniquity: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations, that among the children of Israel they have no inheritance. But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer as an heave offering unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. Deu 14:22-29 Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always. And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee: Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household, And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee. At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates: And the Levite (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest. When Israel neglected to support the Levitical priesthood, they suffered spiritually, as the priests had to leave their duties to work in the fields to support themselves. Neh 13:10 And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field. As part of the Mosaic Law, 'tithing' ended with the death of Jesus.Eph 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; Eph 2:13-14 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; No longer under Law, Christians were never commanded to tithe. Rom 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. The setup for true worship completely changed from a 'physical law', with rituals and sacrifices, to 'a law in the heart', and Christians were encouraged to give whatever they could manage, PRIVATELY. Rom 6:3-4 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. willingly, from the heart, to support spiritual interests in the congregation. 2Co 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. AND, rather than be financially supported, those taking the lead in the congregations worked at secular employment so as not to put a financial burden on their Christian brothers. 1Th 2:9 For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. I hope that you can see that tithing today, is not like how it was back in the day of Jesus Christ. Now, these days, we need to be tithing from the heart, it should be 10 percent of your income. Jesus Christ will provide you with what you need when you need it, that is where trust and faith comes in at. I feel that the topic of this Bible Study, fits perfect and in harmaony with each other. The reason why I say that, is because we are living in a fallen world that need Jesus Christ. Many of you are buying the trash that is listed at the be-gaining of this study, instead of putting it to good use for the Kingdom of God. Some of you are supporting satan’s play ground and have truly fallen into satan’s lies and trap, your robbing God. What does the dollars say on them? It say’s in GOD WE TRUST, right?. If your stealing from God, how can He trust you with money that is not even yours to began with? It actually belongs to God, he is just lending it to you. Everything you have, house, car, clothes, or anything else that is under the sun, it all belongs to God and not you. Many of you are misusing the things that God has blessed you with, that is not fair to God. Are you using money for sinful reason’s? Are you supporting satan’s play ground? Would you like to gain a way out? If you have chosen to answer yes, then here is your answer on how to make the change in your life. Hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, Confess to God and to each other that you are in the need of a Savior, Repent all, not some, but all of your sins, lay them at the foot of the Cross and allow the blood of Jesus Christ, cleanse you and walk away from your sins. 2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. With your new found faith in Jesus Christ, you need to be water Baptized. Water Baptism is for those who Believes and has Faith in Jesus Christ and it is an act of being obedient to God. If you believe and have faith, to live in obedience to God, you need to be Baptized by water. Water does not save anyone, if you do not have faith and believe.

Lets Close in Prayer.

BRIDLING OUR TONGUES, Bible Study

Bible Study for Monday 6/17/ 2013

BRIDLING OUR TONGUES, Bible Study

Are you living a Holy life that is pleasing to God? Do you have a foul mouth and habits that you will not break away from for the Kingdom of God? Do you speak of slang words in place of curse words? Anything that is poisoness, like smoking, drinking any kind of alcohol, foul language, any other illegal drug and activity that may be out there, can lead you to hell, if the individual’s does not repent, turn away from them and put a stop to it, can lead you to hell. Eph 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. These things may be allowed here on earth, but it is against God’s Law. Such things does not edify or even glorify God. Your slang words that you choose to speak, in place of the actual cuss words, are the same and have the same meanings. I can preach it and teach it, but the learning and applying is all up to you. You have been warned. If you have God in your hearts, mind, soul and body, then you would stay away from the filth that has satan and hell written all over it. I have had people recently to try to tell me that Jesus died on the Cross for our sins and they can live any way they want and they claim that they are still going to Heaven. I recently had a person tell me this, “Once saved, always saved”. They are spiritually dead wrong. I have heard false pastors and teachers say the same things. They are not just leading themselves to hell with that false doctrine, but others to hell as well. Does a person have to be Baptized to go to Heaven? Yes, God commanded it. Water dose not save anyone, if they don’t “Believe and have Faith”. Without Belief and Faith, the water Baptism is dead. Joh 3:5-6 & 11 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Joh 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Joh 3:11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. Tit 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Water Baptism is part of Salvation to Heaven. We need to live in God’s Law and follow His plan of Salvation, human’s way of salvation only leads to hell. We need to be-careful and not to use filthy language, it poisons the whole body and to learn how to bridle our tongues, it could cost you your eternal Life in Heaven. Bridling Our Tongues. ‘If anyone among you considers themselves religious while they do not bridle their tongue but deceives their heart, this person’s religion (Christianity) is worthless’ (James 1:26). ‘I will guard my ways so I do not sin with my tongue. I will muzzle my mouth as with a bridle while the wicked are with me’ (Psalm 39:1). ‘Let no unwholesome speech proceed out of your mouth but only speech encouraging to others, as the need may be, so it may give grace to those who hear it. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God in Whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry and evil speaking (slander) be put away from you with all malicious speech and deeds’ (Ephesians 4:29 to 31). ‘Let your speech at all times be gracious, pleasant and win some, seasoned as it were with salt, so you may never be at a loss to know how you ought to answer anyone who puts a question to you’ (Colossians 4:6). ‘The tongue is a tiny part of the body … See how a little spark sets a large forest ablaze. The tongue is a fire… the tongue no one can tame. It is an unstable and evil thing, full of deadly poison … Out of the same mouth come forth words of blessing and cursing. These things ought not to be so’ (James 3:5 to 10). ‘Put away all wickedness, all deceit, hypocrisies, envies and all evil speaking’ (1 Peter 2:1). Slanderous and malicious gossip and speech grieves the Holy Spirit. Nasty comments, even if they are true, should never pass our lips. We are to speak the truth at all times, but sometimes the whole truth is so hurtful and destructive, it is better to bridle our tongues and leave some things unsaid. We need to be mindful of the above verses and say what is needed to encourage others, and we must speak in such a way, we impart blessings and edify our listeners. In short, we need to bridle our tongues. We need to control what we say and not wound others with our words. That does not mean we should lie about anything, just not cause unnecessary pain by ‘speaking our mind’. We need to use tact and let our speech be gracious, while still being honest. When we are dealing with a non-Christian, it is important we do not hurt their feelings. Our job as Christians is to lead people to Jesus not turn them away. If we have wounded them with unkind words, that could make them stumble and turn away from God. If we are dealing with a fellow Christian, we must consider their feelings or our Christian service is deemed worthless. There are thousands of believers who will not attend church because they have been hurt by unkind words spoken to them by other Christians. We need to show them God’s love in action. Sometimes, Christians are the only examples unsaved people have of God, and we need to keep in mind God is watching us. He will hold us accountable if we make new Christians or children stumble and fall away (Matthew 18:6). Blasphemy is evil speaking against God. We tend to think what we say does not hurt others but we usually remember the hurt another person’s words have caused us. Unkind words cannot be taken back once they are spoken. Slander and gossip are like tossing feathers into the wind then trying to pick them up again. The Hebrew words for lies, slander, gossip, criticism or evil speaking are ‘lashon hara’. That includes telling an evil truth about someone unnecessarily. For example, there may be a genuine Christian in the church with a very colorful past. Once we have repented and all our sins are under the blood, the sin should never be mentioned again. Some people might ‘chat’ about someone’s past openly, when the sad person is trying to put the past behind them. To reveal to others the sins of the past is telling an evil truth. The person whose past has been revealed is hurt. The gossiper is hurt because they have polluted their thoughts and have sinned, plus their reputation is tarnished far more than the original victim of the gossip. The listener has had their mind polluted so they are also hurt, so three or more people are hurt by speaking an unnecessary evil truth. When Absalom spoke critically about his father King David, it caused a war in which 20,000 men were more than hurt – they died. The evil speaker Absalom died and King David was so hurt he wept (2 Samuel 15:2 to 10; 18:7 & 15; 19:1). Aaron and Miriam spoke evil words about Moses because he married an Ethiopian woman who had dark skin. On this occasion the Lord God became involved and caused Miriam to suffer from leprosy for a week (Numbers 12:1 to 15). It is likely serious skin conditions are brought on by the sin of malicious gossiping or evil speaking. We are told strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, slander or back biting, whisperings, proud conceited thoughts and rebellion are not acceptable (2 Corinthians 12:20). When we focus our thoughts on thinking and saying evil about other people, we self-destruct, both spiritually and physically. A root of bitterness enters our hearts and that defiles many people. ‘Look carefully lest there be anyone who falls short of the grace of God, lest any root of bitterness springs up and troubles you, and many are defiled by it’ (Hebrews 12:15). The only way a root of bitterness can defile others is by evil speaking. Jesus said, “You offspring of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man out of his good heart speaks out good things. The evil man out of his evil heart speaks out evil things. I tell you, every idle word men speak, they will give an account of it on the Day of Judgment. By your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned" (Matthew 12:34 to 37) We can speak the truth kindly and without hurting anyone’s feelings or causing a situation to grow into bitterness. The following twelve examples are situations where we should bridle our tongues, and are all possible real life scenarios. Some of these scenarios are absolutely accurate and some have been altered to protect the identities of the people involved. Example # 1: Jeni and Steve. A close but unsaved friend named Jeni is about to go out for dinner with her new husband Steve. She is looking forward to the dinner and comes to visit you to show off the new dress she bought especially for the occasion. As Jeni twirls around, she is expecting a compliment. The trouble is, although Jeni loves the dress, you regard it as the ugliest dress you have ever seen. As a close friend, you would not want to destroy her happiness by telling her the whole truth about how you feel concerning the dress, but you do not want to lie to her either. What could be said in all honesty without hurting her feelings? The dress might be ugly, but it might actually suit Jeni. You bridle your tongue and say, “That dress really suits you, Jeni.” “The red in it brings out the highlights in her hair, doesn’t it, Steve?” “The material is so soft.” Then to prepare Jeni for what may be a few strange looks; “I guarantee other women at the restaurant will be checking your dress out! Have a wonderful time and God bless.” So you have still told the truth without destroying her joy. She will leave your house feeling happy and with your friendship intact, and there is the chance you may be able to lead Jeni and Steve to Jesus one day in the future. Example # 2: Lily. A friend named Lily has suffered a series of major tragedies. She has been a Christian for many years, serving the Lord faithfully, but within the space of three years she has lost her four children and two grandchildren to an inherited illness, and after a couple of years is still sad. You do not understand her ongoing sadness and feel she is living in the past and should get over the losses and get on with things. What you should never say is, “Just get over it.” “You have brought this on yourself.” “You are reaping what you must have sown.” Those words would be cruel. No matter what anyone thinks of the situation, common sense tells us that nobody would knowingly put themselves in that situation; nobody would deliberately sow destruction into their lives, and especially not a committed Christian. Death is part of this fallen life and we can accept the loss of parents, siblings and friends, but the one death that is the hardest to bear, is the loss of one’s child. When a child dies, the parents have to live with the emptiness that lost child has left; the lost little kisses and hugs; the lost birthday parties; the lost Christmases with that child; the lost Mother’s/Father’s Days with their child and the loss of potential future grandchildren. Adjusting to those enormous changes can take several years. Multiply that six times and you have someone who struggles to cope for many years. That is not living in the past. Lily’s present life is without her children and her ongoing sadness is that of someone trying to cope with a childless future, when it had previously been filled with the joy of the children now gone. It would take a very heartless person to say glibly, “Get over it. I think you are just living in the past.” And it would take an even worse person to blame Lily for her losses. That is what Job’s ‘friends’ did and the Lord was not pleased with them (Job 42:7). So what do you say to someone in a situation like that, when you know words are inadequate? You bridle your tongue but speak honestly. “I do not know what to say to you?” “How can I help you?” “I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through.” If you cannot visit, you could telephone every day so they can hear a voice. Even as a committed Christian, deep grief is a very, very lonely place to be; multiple griefs are overwhelming. We are to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Allow them to talk even if they repeat the same thing over and over. Be supportive, compassionate, let your comments be gracious, encourage where possible and keep all negative thoughts to yourself. Do not unload any of your problems onto them; they just cannot take it at that time. Example # 3: Charlie. An artist you are friendly with shows you his new paintings. He is excited because he has arranged a public exhibition and wants your opinion. To you, Charlie’s art looks like a monkey could have painted them, but you could never say that. So what do you say? You bridle your tongue, speak honestly and tactfully. If you like the colors in one of them you could give him the gentle truth. “Hey Charlie. I love the colors in this one.” “I can see you put a lot of time into these paintings.” “Tell me what this represents.” When none of his paintings are sold, you could gently suggest he try ‘another angle’. Take him to an exhibition where several paintings are being sold and suggest he ‘try that out and see how he goes’. The whole truth in this situation could stop a potential masterpiece being painted and destroy a friendship. It could also keep the person from coming to Jesus because unsaved people look to Christians as being God’s representatives. Example # 4: Nicol. As a Christian, you teach your children about love and forgiveness, encouraging them to forgive each other rather than argue. Your daughter Nicol has just been very naughty and you have sent her to her room for time out for the both of you. Before you have the opportunity to let her out of her room, she comes to you with one of your prize-winning orchids, torn up by the roots, dropping dirt all over your clean floor. With tears dripping down her little cheeks, Nicol says with a tiny hopeful voice, “I’m sorry I was naughty Mommy. I brought you a flower to say sorry. Can you forgive me like you told us?” What can you do? Scream at her for destroying your award-winning orchid or show her the love and forgiveness you have been telling her about? Do you love the orchid or your child more? Children should be treated with gentleness. You bridle your tongue and thank her for the flower and hug and forgive the little child who needs it right at that moment, then suggest the flower is probably much happier in its pot and ask her to help you replant it – and hope it does not die. You have not told Nicol she has possibly destroyed something you cherish – which would be the whole truth – but you have hedged around it by re-potting your flower and your child’s tender young heart is still intact – and so is your relationship with her, and Nicol’s relationship with Jesus. You have also learned a lesson in forgiveness and patience. Example # 5: Blaze and Ize. You have noticed a girl sitting alone in your church and she is as rough as they come. Tattoos, multiple earrings, nose rings, rings through the navel which she delights to show off, rings through the eyebrows, studs in the tongue, dread locked hair dyed jet black, fingernails painted black, black lipstick, black skimpy clothing, dirty bare feet, foul mouthed, foul smelling and very obviously on drugs. Do you walk away with your nose turned up like everyone else has and ignore her? Would it be wise to tell her you do not want people like her in your church? You would love to, but you do not tell her the truth about how you feel concerning her clothes and piercing’s. You would love to tell her to take a good bath. The whole truth in this case could end up causing a lost soul who is seeking, to stop seeking and end up in hell. What do you say to someone like that? We need to realize Jesus died for her too, and loves her as much as He loves everyone else. She is seeking God or she would not be in church in the first place. As much as you would dearly like to tell her the truth you know it would not be appropriate, so greeting her with a smile, bridling your tongue and speaking to her like you would any other new person, would be the Christian thing to do. “Hello. I have not seen you before. I am Sue. What is your name?” If she tells you her name is Blaze Fury, you probably would not believe it but you would not say, “Oh yeah right. I do not believe that. What is your real name?” What you could say is, “Wow, Blaze Fury is unusual. Do you live around here?” You do not like to say since the church is in the prestigious Northern Beaches area of Sydney, then she is way out of place and could not possibly be actually living there! The following week you shudder when you see her with an older version of herself, but you swallow the feeling of nausea and welcome the smelly new arrival who introduces herself as Ize Angel. Feeling as though bacteria are crawling all over you, you hug the gum-chewing girls and invite them to come the following week, but inwardly hoping they would disappear. Week after week the girls come to church and to your horror, embarrassment and revulsion they spy you out and sit with you, uninvited – and they smell. One day you suggest they go forward for prayer and are amazed when they go. Gradually they stop the gum chewing; they wash before church; they have their hair cut extremely short because it was the only way to rid themselves of the dread locks and head lice. You suggest they go to the youth group; the multiple rings and studs slowly go; the tattoos are covered up with long sleeves; in fact the girls are covered with raggy but decent clothing but they never wear shoes. That Christmas, against your better judgment, you buy them some nice clothes, socks, sports shoes, soap, a loofah, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste. They appreciate your generosity so much their reaction is exaggerated and embarrassing. You do not like to tell them you did not buy the things for them, but to save yourself from being uncomfortable because they always liked to sit with you and they smelled so bad. One day they take you into their confidence and tell you their tragic and sad life story of how they lost their drug-addicted mother as young girls then their father abandoned them, leaving them to fend for themselves in the streets of Sydney along with other abandoned and rejected street children. To get away from the sordid life-style and to try to better themselves, they managed to secure jobs as cleaners of the local public toilets and leased a tiny flat not far from the church, just to get themselves off the streets. Blaze and Ize were just their street names. Your stomach turns over with compassion and love for the lost girls, and guilt because of the way you initially regarded them. Then to make your feelings of shame and guilt worse, they take a microphone and in front of the whole church, they thank you personally and publicly for being patient with them, treating them with love and kind words, and being ‘like a mother’ to them, buying them the first Christmas gifts they had received since they were young girls. You can only sit there and weep because in your heart you know that was not how you felt. Treating lost teenagers just like ‘Blaze’ and ‘Ize’ with love and kindness could bring them right into the Kingdom of God, saving lost souls for Jesus. You would have the joy of watching them grow in grace and eventually learn their real names. Example # 6: Miranda and Keturah. A young lady in the church has recently had a baby daughter. When you ask Miranda what her new baby’s name is, she says something that sounds unintelligible to you; Keturah. After repeating the child’s name three times, you still do not understand what it is. You feel like telling the young mother what you really feel about the silly name she has given the baby but you bridle your tongue, smile sweetly and ask her how it is spelt, then tell her what a beautiful baby she has, because you still cannot work out the name. Telling the whole truth and giving your opinion would hurt the young mother’s feelings unnecessarily and could cause a break in fellowship. That would be sad, especially if you find out later the name she chose for her new baby is an Old Testament name you had never noticed before (Genesis 25:1). The truth is, little Keturah is beautiful and her name means scent or fragrance. Example # 7: Debra. You and your wife Debra have made plans to enjoy your wedding anniversary over dinner. You arrive home from work to pick Debra up for the anticipated evening out and nearly faint. Debra has taken the time to buy a new dress and she has just spent hours at the beauty salon and hairdresser getting herself all dolled up especially for you, but she looks like a mannequin, heavy make up makes her look like a panda, her new dress is too tight and her hairdo looks as though she has been struck with lightning – but she did it for you. Do you tell her the whole truth about what you really think? You cannot without ending up in divorce! What do you say? You bridle your tongue and speak the truth. “You must have spent hours at that hairdressing salon, Darling. It is lovely you would put yourself through all that just for me, and I love you for it.” Example # 8: Alex. Your teenage son has no idea what to buy you for Mother’s Day so you give him a few subtle hints. Your husband gives him enough money to buy you a nice gift. Mother’s Day comes around and you wait to see which of the gift ideas he has bought you. He hands you the chosen gift with bright eyes. It certainly is heavy! When you open it you are stunned to see your dear son has bought you a spear gun. You look at him dumbfounded! What could he be thinking? Do you say, “You silly boy. What am I supposed to do with this?” Before you can get a word in, Alex tells you since he loves spear fishing so much, think of all the fish you are going to have for free! Then Alex asks if he can borrow it. You take a deep breath, bridle your tongue and graciously hand him the spear-gun, telling him to be very careful when he is out catching fish for you and thank him for the thought, knowing full well Alex bought it for himself with the money his father gave him to buy your gift. Example # 9: Keith. There is a big, tall man in your church who loves to sing as loudly as he can. The trouble is he sings way off key, all the time, at the top of his huge voice. There have been many times when you have tried to broach the subject with him – as have other parishioners – but you do not quite know how to. His size is a little intimidating. Your opportunity arises one day over a fellowship coffee when Keith happens to mention to you just how much he loves to sing and worship God. His sparkling eyes are full of love for the Lord. Now is your chance to tell him exactly what you think of his singing! Telling someone the truth is always the best is it not? What words would you use to destroy this man’s love of worship? The gentle truth would be better. You bridle your tongue and say, “I can see how much you really love worshiping our Lord. I do too.” Example # 10: Mia. Your ten-year old daughter wants to try to cook something she has made at school in cookery class. She spends a couple of hours making something that smells delicious. As everyone sits down to eat, you take a mouthful of something that can only be described as road kill. Without anyone being aware, you leave the room and spit it out. When Mia giggles and says, “Daddy. Take a bite,” do you speak the whole truth and say, “That is too disgusting. What did you put in that mixture?” Or do you bridle your tongue and say softly, “No Honey. You made it, you deserve the first bite,” and let her discover for herself what she has done wrong, without you hurting her feelings. Then Mia would need a comforting hug when she realizes she has mixed in the wrong ingredients, and may need encouragement and help to try again and get it right. Example # 11: Anne. There is a woman in your church who has always been friendly to you, even though you really do not like her. You try to avoid her, turn down her invitations for meals using every excuse you can and once in the shopping center, you even hide from her, but Anne keeps on asking anyway. You nickname her Miss Dislike and tell all your friends about how and why you can justify disliking her. One day you are going through a very tough time in your life. Miss Dislike comes to you and shyly says, “I have a word for you from the Lord.” Well that really is the last thing you need – Miss Dislike telling you something she thinks is from God! Before you can get away from her, she tells you the Word of Knowledge. The word she delivers is 100% accurate, then she sweetly says, “I have always liked you. I knew you were going through this tough time and I have been praying and fasting for you. That is when God gave me this message for you.” You feel as though your stomach is turning inside out with shame and guilt. Talk about having coals heaped on your head! She has been praying and fasting for you while you have been ignoring her, avoiding her and not showing love to her! Do you tell her the whole truth? “That’s nice, but you know I have never really liked you. I have been avoiding you and made fun of you to my friends.” Of course not. If you are a genuine Christian, you would hug her, thank her and look beyond her weaknesses to the committed Christian and sister in the Lord she is and then go quietly and repent of your sin. It is never kind to tell someone you did not like them when you first knew them. That piece of whole truth may make you feel good, but is devastating to the person you said it to because they were probably unaware of it. In that their new-found joy. Helen feels loved and special, something she has never known before, so allow her to enjoy that for as long as she can because in time she will see that she is one of a huge body of unique individuals. Gentle truth would work here. You would bridle your tongue and say, “It is truly wonderful to know God’s love. I am happy to see you so filled with joy.”Yes it is true we need to speak the truth but sometimes, some things are better left unsaid. Sometimes in situation’s, it is always better to bridle your tongue. Example # 12: Helen. There is a new baby Christian in your church who has come from a very sad childhood. For the first time in her life Helen feels loved and accepted. Helen tells everyone how special she is to God and how much she loves Him and how much He loves her. You are tempted to tell her the whole truth and say, “You are not alone in this you know, you are just one of millions. God loves everyone equally. You are not singled out.” To tell a new Christian that whole truth would be too devastating and rob them of there Joy, its better to remain silent than cause someone unnecessary hurt. We really do need the Lord’s wisdom, we need to bridle our tongues and we need to be sensitive to other people. We need to put ourselves in their shoes, so to speak, to understand fully what our unkind, unthoughtful words will do to the other person. Let us never give an evil report, a slanderous word, a bitter word, an angry word or any ‘lashon hara’. May your words always be gracious, wise, loving and give blessing to your brothers and sisters in the Lord and lead the unsaved to salvation. Last week, one of you asked about fasting and I thought we could take a close look at how to fast Bibically. The Biblical Way To Fast‘Jesus fasted for forty days and forty nights and later He was hungry’ (Matthew 4:2; Luke 4:2) ‘Moses was up the mountain with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he ate no bread and drank no water’ (Exodus 34:28). Jesus and Moses fasted a complete fast; that is they did not eat any food, nor did they drink any water for more than a month. Moses did that twice in the space of 120 days. He went up the mountain for forty days and fasted during that time, then he came down the mountain for forty days and ate normally, then he went back up the mountain and fasted for a further forty days before coming back down again. Daniel fasted a partial fast for twenty-one days (Daniel 10:2 & 3). As Christians, we are called to fast from time to time (Matthew 9:15; Mark 2:20; Luke 5:35). Fasting is always accompanied by prayer. What is fasting for? What does it accomplish? Other than denying food and water, what other types of fasting are there? Fasting is for a number of reasons which we will look at, and when fasting is done with the correct motive and attitude, it accomplishes God’s will. Other types of fasting will be looked at later Fasting food and water can be used to show repentance. ‘They gathered at Mizpah, drew water and poured it out before the Lord and fasted on that day and said, “We have sinned against the Lord’” (1 Samuel 7:6). ‘When I heard this, I sat down and wept and mourned for days and fasted and prayed constantly before the God of heaven ... confessing the sins of Israel ...’ (Nehemiah 1:4 to 11; 9:1 to 3). ‘Therefore, says the Lord, turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping and with mourning’ (Joel 2:12). The whole city of Nineveh repented, fasted and turned to God (Jonah 3:1 to 10). Fasting can be used to prevail against the enemy and receive deliverance from trouble. ‘And in every province, wherever the king’s decree came there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping and wailing, and many lay in sackcloth and ashes ... “Gather all the Jews and fast for me, neither eat nor drink for three days and three nights and I will fast the same way’” (Esther 4:3, 16). The Jews won a great victory, helped along by their fasting Fasting can be used to increase the power of God in our life so we can serve the Lord more effectively just as Jesus did. He was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness (Matthew 4:1; Mark 1:12) and came out of the desert full of the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4 :14). Jesus did not perform one miracle until after He was baptized in water by full immersion and had fasted for forty days. Fasting can be a form of worship, and fasting can also be a response to the call of God. ‘While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting the Holy Spirit said, “Separate now for Me, Barnabas and Saul, for the work to which I have called them.” After fasting and praying, they laid hands on them and sent them away’ (Acts13:2 & 3). ‘When they had appointed elders for them in each church with prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord in Whom they had come to believe’ (Acts 14:23). Fasting can be used to diligently seek the will of God. ‘The whole army of Israelites came to the house of God and wept. They sat there before the Lord and fasted that day until evening, and the Israelites inquired of the Lord’ (Judges 20:26 & 27). Jehoshaphat set himself to seek the Lord and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah (2 Chronicles 20:3). Fasting can be used to receive healing or deliverance for ourselves or others (2 Samuel 12:16 to 23). ‘When they were sick ... I afflicted myself with fasting and I prayed’ (Psalm 35:13). ‘This kind (of evil force causing epilepsy) does not go out except by prayer and fasting’ (Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29) Fasting can be used to humble ourselves before the Lord. ‘I (Ezra) proclaimed a fast there so we might humble ourselves before our God ...’ (Ezra 8:21) ‘When I (David) wept and humbled myself with fasting, I was humiliated’ (Psalm 69:10). Fasting can be used to ask God’s help. ‘So we fasted and sought our God for this, and He heard our prayer’ (Ezra 8:23). Fasting can be used to ask for necessary provisions, such as food or water in times of drought or bush fires. ‘Wail all you vinedressers for the wheat, barley and the harvest of the field has perished. The vine has dried up and the fig, pomegranate, palm, apple and all the trees of the field are withered ... Sanctify a fast and gather the elders ... The seed rots and shrivels. The granaries are empty ... The beasts groan. The herds of livestock are starving ... O Lord, to You will I cry... The wild beasts pant for the water has dried up and fire has consumed the pastures’ (Joel 1:11 to 20). You can do a 24 hour fasting, which would be ok for a diabetic, you can do a 3 day to a week fasting its your wish, or do a biblical fasting. It is to bring you closer to the the Lord, God Almighty. As we close in prayer tonight, I pray that you will come to the foot of the Cross and lay all of your burdens at the Cross. I want to encourage you to find a solid Bible based Church and get busy serving our Awesome God and get Baptized by water and of the Holy Ghost and you will receive the free gift of Eternal Life in Heaven. Baptism is part of Salvation, it all runs together. I pray that you have felt the presence of the Lord in this study and became right with God. Go out into the world and be good witnesses to the lost world, so they may come to know Jesus Christ and want to get water Baptized. Christians that has God in their Hearts, are also called, son’s of God, pastors, preachers, preast,s, disciples of God. We who have God in our lives, as the rights to Baptize others, in the name of the Fathers, Son and of the Holy Spirit and a person can be baptized anywhere at any time and not just inside of a Church building, Jesus said to His desciples, which is us Christians. Mat 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Mat 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Mat 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Lets Pray.