Category Archives: Holy / Set Apart

Church / Body of Christ, Discerning / Judging, Holy / Set Apart, Leadership, Money / Finances / Wealth

Honoring and Discerning Elders (1 Timothy 5:17-22)

Have you ever wondered how the Bible instructs us to honor and discern the elders in our faith community?

In 1 Timothy 5:17-25, the Apostle Paul provides essential guidance on how to treat those who serve as elders in the church. Let’s explore these verses and uncover valuable insights for our own congregations.

Reconnect: Building upon the previous teachings in 1 Timothy, where Paul discussed the qualifications and responsibilities of elders and deacons, he now delves deeper into the honor and discernment that should be extended to those in leadership roles, specifically elders.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 5:17-22

     17The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18For the Scripture says, “YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. 20Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. 21I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. 22Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.

     23No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.

      24The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. 25Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Honoring Faithful Elders: Paul emphasizes the importance of giving honor and recognition to elders who serve faithfully in the church. These leaders, especially those involved in preaching and teaching, should be respected and esteemed for their dedication and commitment to the spiritual well-being of the congregation.
  2. Financial Support for Elders: Paul acknowledges that some elders may require financial support to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This support is not merely symbolic but serves as a tangible way of showing appreciation and care for those who labor in the Word and doctrine.
  3. Balancing Accountability: Paul provides a balanced perspective by highlighting the need for careful evaluation and accountability within the church. He cautions against hastily accusing an elder but encourages Timothy to investigate any accusations thoroughly. Elders should be held to a high standard, but accusations must be substantiated by credible witnesses.
  4. Maintaining a Blameless Reputation: Paul underscores the importance of upholding a blameless reputation among church leaders. Elders should live in such a way that their integrity is beyond reproach, both within the congregation and in the eyes of the broader community.
  5. Godly Wisdom and Discernment: Paul reminds Timothy that these decisions should not be made lightly but with godly wisdom and discernment. The welfare of the church and the reputation of its leaders are at stake, making it crucial to approach such matters with care and prayer.

Call to Action: As we meditate on 1 Timothy 5:17-22, let us apply these principles within our faith communities. Take time to honor and appreciate the elders who faithfully serve in your church. Support them not only with words but also through practical means, recognizing their financial needs. Additionally, commit to maintaining a culture of accountability and discernment within your congregation, ensuring that church leadership exemplifies blameless conduct. Let us seek God’s wisdom as we navigate these important matters in our faith communities.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the guidance provided in 1 Timothy 5:17-22 regarding our treatment of elders. Help us to honor and support those who lead us with dedication and integrity. Grant us the wisdom to discern and investigate matters thoroughly, upholding the reputation of our church leaders and the testimony of our congregation. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Holy / Set Apart, Purposeful / Intentional, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Christmas on Trial – the Closing Argument

Enter the courtroom of conscience as we put Christmas on trial.

In a world adorned with festive lights and holiday cheer, let’s set aside sentimental traditions for a moment and embark on a truth-seeking journey.

Brace yourself for a compelling case presented by Clyde Kilough, challenging the origins of Christmas and its alignment with God’s will.

Join the jury of reflection and let the evidence unfold—because it’s not just Christmas that’s on trial, but perhaps our understanding of what truly pleases our Creator

Before we start, I invite you to pray with me:

Father, help me to consider the facts and perspective laid out in the article today with a heart that wants to please You above all others. Help me to be courageous to challenge emotional family and cultural traditions against the truth of Your word. Help me to truly reflect on and consider what change I should make for myself and my family in regard to popular holidays.  Amen.

Christmas on Trial

Imagine a courtroom where Christmas is on trial, charged with false impersonation of legitimate, godly worship. Both sides have presented their cases. Now it’s the prosecutor’s turn to make his closing argument. It could well go something like this.

By Clyde Kilough

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, you’ve heard the defense supporting the religious practice of celebrating Christmas. I trust you noted it was not a biblical defense, because none exists.

Let’s step away from human reasoning and emotion, and revisit the facts presented to you by history, scholars and God’s Word itself.

You’ll recall that all the expert witnesses—secular historians and theologians alike—attested that modern Christmas practices can be easily traced back to non-Christian origins. Their sources were so numerous that no one bothered to present counterarguments.

Please remember these facts:

    • Christmas is a man-made holiday. The Bible has zero reference to celebrating Jesus’ birth, which was probably in the autumn, not winter. Not until nearly three centuries later, in fact, did a “birthday party for Jesus” make its way into religious observance. Not until A.D. 336 did a Roman calendar officially note celebrating Jesus’ birth on Dec. 25.
    • So how was Dec. 25 selected for this celebration? Pope Julius I decreed it. Why? Because syncretism, the blending of religions, had become a common tool employed by the Roman church for assimilating “heathens” into its fold. Midwinter pagan festivals were immensely popular throughout Europe, so mixing these into the church’s rituals was an easy method to induce nonbelievers to embrace their version of Christianity.
    • What were these festivals? They included:
    • The birthday of the sun god Mithra.
    • Saturnalia, a time of debauchery honoring the Roman god of agriculture, Saturn.
    • Northern European celebrations of the winter solstice glorifying the sun’s return.
    • The Scandinavian Norse religion’s yule celebrations Dec. 21 through January, with its abundant superstitious customs.
    • The German version revering their god Odin. Interestingly, Odin is supposed to have made nighttime flights during which he would watch people and decide who to bless and curse. Hmm. Isn’t that reminiscent of a modern tale of a mythical guy who flies at night, somehow having godlike powers to know “who’s naughty and nice”?

People aren’t easily converted from entrenched popular customs, but church leaders had their methods. Let the people keep their customs, they figured, but simply syncretize them with ours and call them Christian. Instead of celebrating Dies Natalis Solis Invicti—the birthday of the unconquered sun—we’ll say we’re now honoring Jesus, the Son of God.

I remind you of the historian who quoted Augustine of Hippo, a great church influence, as saying in a Christmas sermon, “Let us celebrate this day as a feast not for the sake of this sun, which is beheld by believers as much as ourselves, but for the sake of Him who created the sun.”

If Jesus appeared today, would He okay our worshipping on a holiday borrowed from pagan religions that idolized the sun, moon and rocks?

I’ve barely recapped the historical evidence, but clearly, no one can legitimately argue for any biblical support upholding any aspect of Christmas as a Christian holiday. In fact, virtually all of our Christmas traditions—trees, mistletoe, gift-giving, wreaths, caroling, Santa Claus—sprang from these pagan festivals.

It is the thought that counts!

So, ladies and gentlemen, let’s examine the defense’s arguments in support of observing Christmas today, beginning with the contention that “at the end of the day—so what? It’s the thought that counts!”

Actually, I agree 100 percent! It is the thought that matters—and it’s God’s thought that matters most! God left ample evidence of His thought on this in His Word, the Bible.

I remind you of the religious scholars who admitted that God has always adamantly opposed syncretism, often bemoaning how His people mixed their idolatrous neighbors’ customs with their worship of Him.

When God delivered Israel from Egypt, what did He command? “Do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.’ You shall not worship the Lord your God in that way.”

What part of “you shall not” is so confusing for us humans?

For emphasis, He added, “Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it.” That’s in Deuteronomy 12:30-32.

So, centuries later, after watching the people continually blend pagan practices into their worship, taking from and adding to everything He’d said, God told them through the prophet Amos, “I hate, I despise your feast days” (Amos 5:21).

Did God use lightly the words hate and despise? If not, why should we assume He feels differently today?

In the same verse He also said, “I take no delight in your solemn assemblies” (Revised Standard Version). Today’s most important “solemn assemblies” are Christmas and Easter, but they are not the holy days God appointed. Even then, God told them, “Take away from Me the noise of your songs” (verse 23). They may be beautiful and catchy songs, but because of what they represent and where they come from, to God they are just noise!

Now, since God says in Malachi 3:6, “I am the Lord, I do not change,” and emphasizes in Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever,” we have to ask, “Has God now changed His mind about such things?” If Jesus appeared today, would He okay our worshipping on a holiday borrowed from pagan religions that idolized the sun, moon and rocks? Because someone mixed it into religion and called it “Christian,” does that mean God sanctioned it?

It is the thought that counts—but what does God think?

But if my heart’s right …

You also heard from a defense witness who reasoned, “I know Christmas’ origins are wrong, but I know in my heart why I go to church at Christmas—it’s to honor Jesus—and I believe it’s what’s in my heart that counts!”

Absolutely—the heart does count! That’s big on God’s list of qualities! But don’t forget what Jesus said about the heart in Mark 7:6-9: “This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men.” Jesus doesn’t accept just any worship, even if in our heart we think it’s okay.

Notice, too, He said, “All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition.”

Christmas offers a prime example of this. Isn’t God the One who said, “Do not lie”? But what is one of the biggest Christmas traditions people cling to? Lying to kids about Santa Claus! How does that honor Jesus, who commands us not to lie! And don’t forget Easter. How do people lie to their kids that rabbits lay eggs, then trot off to church saying it’s all about worshipping God?

Do we really think we can reject doing what God says, instead borrowing religious practices from pagan religions, and think He’ll be happy about it because we say “my heart’s right”?

Tradition does not trump obedience. If our heart’s right, won’t we be striving to worship God “in spirit and in truth,” as Jesus told the Samaritan woman (John 4:24)?

Saying “Lord, Lord” to no avail

You also heard this line of reasoning from the defense: “Yes, everyone knows the bad side of Christmas—the partying, commercialism, indebtedness, greed and so on—but most people have a very merry Christmas. What’s wrong with families enjoying being together with good food, gifts, pretty music and lights, or helping the needy? There’s far more good than bad, and a lot of it involves good Christian acts!”

Well, of course God loves good things and seeing people happy. But do good deeds justify bad actions? Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” Who was He addressing? Religious people proudly pointing out all their good deeds!

“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”

There is more “Lord, Lord” talk at this time of year than any other, but does it impress God when we persist in lawlessness—doing things He tells us not to do?

We say we’re worshipping the baby Jesus, but we’re not doing what the grown-up Jesus told us to do! If people were really serious about doing God’s will, we’d see real “peace on earth” and “goodwill toward men.” We’d see good deeds all the time, not just during a few days when they get in the “Christmas spirit.”

People of truth?

You also heard the defense try to poke a hole in our case by arguing, “The Jesus I know isn’t so radical about something that brings so much fun and enjoyment to everyone, even the fantasy part for the kids.”

Ladies and gentlemen, this one’s simple. Answer this, please: Would you like it if someone told your kids lies about you and got them to believe it? I don’t think so.

So how do you think God feels when He’s being lied about?

This is so important because of where it comes from. Jesus explained one time—in John 8:44—that the devil “is a liar and the father of it.” The people He was addressing were the religious leaders of the day, and He angered them by saying they were of their father the devil. It doesn’t matter who you are—if you lie, or perpetuate a lie, it’s wrong.

If people claim to follow God, isn’t it logical that He expects them to not lie? Aren’t Christians to be people of truth—telling the truth and practicing the truth?

Sad to say, for thousands of years God has seen people lying about Him, even under the guise of claiming to speak for Him.

Long ago God spoke through Ezekiel words that are just as true today: “Her priests have violated My law and profaned My holy things; they have not distinguished between the holy and unholy, nor have they made known the difference between the unclean and the clean; and they have hidden their eyes from My Sabbaths, so that I am profaned among them. … Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord had not spoken.” That’s Ezekiel 22:26 and 28.

Putting words in God’s mouth is just a bit presumptuous, wouldn’t you say?

What’s really on trial?

So, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, let me ask you again: Given the weight of evidence, both factual and circumstantial, if Jesus were here today, do you think He would attend Christmas Eve services, or exchange gifts around the Christmas tree? Would He have a “Put Christ back into Christmas” bumper sticker—or would He say He was never in it to begin with?

Would He still stand by His words in Matthew 4:4, that man shall live “by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God”? I ask, can you do that and observe Christmas at the same time?

I rest my case; but as you make your decision, I urge you to remember that it’s not really Christmas that is on trial—we are.

© 2019 Church of God, a Worldwide Association, Inc. ·

As we conclude this courtroom inquiry, the verdict lies in the hands of your conscience.

Take a moment for introspection, laying aside the tinsel and carols. Let the evidence presented resonate within your heart.

In the quiet chambers of prayer, seek guidance and discernment from the One who sees beyond the glitter and garlands. Reflect on what truly pleases our Creator, and may your decisions align with His timeless wisdom.

May your journey of faith be guided by truth and a sincere desire to honor the One who remains unchanged. Be still, reflect, and may your path be illuminated by the light of understanding and obedience.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John

 

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross. 

Adultery / Sex Outside Marriage, Guide, Holy / Set Apart, Homosexual Behavior

Embracing Holiness in a World Filled with Impurity (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8)

Step into the illuminating words of 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, where Paul beckons believers to embrace holiness in a world filled with impurity.

Join us on a transformative journey through these verses as we explore the timeless call to live a life pleasing to God, navigating the challenges of a world often at odds with the pursuit of spiritual purity.

1 Thessalonians 4:1-8

Sanctification

      1Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more. 2For you know what commandments we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. 3For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, 5not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you. 7For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. 8So, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Call to Live Pleasing Lives: In these verses, Paul passionately urges the Thessalonian believers to continue living lives that are pleasing to God. He emphasizes the importance of following the instructions they received, establishing a foundation for holy living.
  2. The Pursuit of Holiness: Paul underscores the significance of holiness in the life of a believer. The call is not merely to avoid impurity but to actively pursue holiness, setting themselves apart in a manner that reflects their commitment to God’s standards.
  3. Respecting Boundaries in Relationships: A key theme in these verses is the need for believers to exercise self-control and honor the sanctity of relationships. Paul encourages them to avoid sexual immorality and to conduct themselves with integrity, respecting the boundaries set by God.
  4. The Rejection of Impurity: These verses highlight the contrast between the purity God desires and the impurity that characterizes the behavior of those who do not know God. Paul urges believers to reject impurity and embrace the holiness that aligns with God’s will.

As we dive into the profound counsel of 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, let’s reflect on the call to embrace holiness in a world yearning for purity.

How do we navigate the challenges of living pleasing lives in a society often at odds with spiritual values?

Take a moment for self-reflection and prayer, considering how these verses resonate with your own journey toward holiness.

Additionally, share your insights on the pursuit of holiness and the importance of respecting boundaries in our relationships with a friend or family member.

These verses invite us not only to reject impurity but also to actively seek the path of holiness, aligning our lives with God’s standards.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the transformative power embedded in this timeless call to holiness.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. John

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Holy / Set Apart, Parables, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

The Widower Who Remarried: a Parable for the Holidays

In the tender narrative of a devoted widower, a poignant tale unfolds—a love story marked by cherished habits and traditions. This man, who once joyfully celebrated his first wife’s preferences with flowers, candy, and thoughtful gestures, found himself caught in the grip of those very traditions when she passed away.

Just to be clear, this is not a biblical parable, but one based on biblical teaching and one that is true many times over.

Grief-stricken but resilient, he remarried after a time of grieving, unaware of the impending storm that would brew within the walls of his new life. His second wife, with distinct tastes and desires, yearned for a love uniquely tailored to her. Despite gentle pleas for understanding, the man clung tenaciously to the echoes of his past, repeating gestures and traditions designed for his first love.

The stark contrast between his professions of love and the unchanged traditions left his second wife wounded and questioning. The pain intensified as the man, well-intentioned but misguided, failed to recognize the stark difference between honoring her and just holding on to the traditions of the love he once knew.

This thought-provoking parable serves as a mirror reflecting the way we often treat our relationship with God, especially when it comes to celebrating holidays. Steeped in long-held traditions, some stemming from ancient pagan practices, we, too, risk offering God a bouquet of weeds while insisting they are roses.

The parallel to our spiritual journey is striking. Are we, like the widower, willing to shed the comfort of familiar traditions and embrace God’s desires as communicated in the scriptures? Despite the discomfort and familial challenges, the heart of the matter lies in whether we choose man-made traditions over God’s prescribed path.

Diving deeper, the revelation unfolds that many commonly cherished celebrations—Christmas trees, wreaths, mistletoe, and even the December 25 date—are rooted in pagan worship practices. The Church, unable to quell these practices, eventually embraced them, akin to giving a weed the name of a rose.

The call is clear—to love God deeply is to align our lives with His desires, not clinging to traditions offensive to Him. The scriptures lay out the path, highlighting God’s Moedim (appointed times) or holy days for celebration, contrasting with the man-made festivals we’ve come to accept.

Acknowledging this truth is a challenging emotional journey. Admitting the need for change amidst familial resistance is a test of our devotion to Christ above all. As Jesus forewarned, following Him may stir discord even within our households, yet true discipleship requires prioritizing Christ over all familial bonds.

May this narrative stir a courageous introspection, prompting a prayerful pursuit of God’s kingdom above the familiar and cultural traditions. As the challenge resounds, may our hearts find the courage to trust in God’s ways over those of men, embracing the transformative journey toward a life more pleasing to Him.

If you truly love God, and submit your life to God… take the time to learn more about what He wants and not just stick to traditions of men that are offensive to Him. You can easily study online even using Christian encyclopedia’s like Zondervan or other encyclopedias. The origins are not secret, only that it has been accepted to celebrate God in ways that were developed by pagans for their gods. 119Ministries.com has put together an effective documentary in video form you can watch (The Christmas Question). They have previous teachings available for free you may consider as well (Sunburned – Part 1 and Sunburned – Part 2).

The LORD has also given us instructions on what holy days to celebrate to point to Him and our relationship with Him. They are called the Moedim and are outlined in Leviticus 23 and other places throughout the Bible.

You can find scripture where Jesus participated in the Moedim. You will never find record of Jesus celebrating Christmas and Easter (or almost anything we celebrate commonly today) in the Biblical record.

Passover and Easter are very different. See what they focus on. With God’s celebrations, the focus is always on Him and not gifts or food or simply ourselves. To learn more, scroll through and read from our Traditions/ Holidays category of teachings.

I recognize that this is an emotional subject for many and admitting that we should change is very hard. Even if we accept it and change our behavior, there will be much difficulty among family. This is to be expected when we stand for Christ above all others. Jesus said so himself in Matthew 10:23-39.

32 “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven.

34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.

35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father,
    a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
36     Your enemies will be right in your own household!’[l]

37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

We each must decide whether or not we submit to God fully or hold tightly to the traditions of man. By the way… study of the new testament clearly shows that clutching to the traditions of man was the way of the Pharisees and Sadducees, not the way of Jesus.

God wants his people to be holy (set apart for God’s use) and righteous (living according to God’s commands rather than the world’s). He wants us to put Him first, above everything else.

Challenge yourself to objectively evaluate your traditions and seek first the kingdom of God. Do not dismiss this quickly but rather prayerfully seek God to show you the truth of His word and how to apply it in your life. Ask yourself about any tradition you claim to observe to honor God, if you were not influenced by family or cultural traditions would you naturally come up with this tradition by studying the Bible? If not, that can be a good indicator.

Pray that God would give you courage and boldness to pursue him with how you live. My family and I have been on this journey, we remain on this journey still today. It is difficult at times, but well worth pursuing to grow closer to Him and be more pleasing to Him. Trust in His ways over those of men.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Holy / Set Apart, Traditions / Holidays

Are Christmas Trees in the Bible?

In the enchanting glow of Christmas traditions that colored my childhood, this season held a special place in my heart. Yet, as adulthood unfolded, the Lord gently nudged me to unravel the origins of these cherished traditions, turning what was once my favorite time of the year into a journey of profound introspection.

One tradition that captivates families during this season is the joyous act of bringing a Christmas tree into the home—a tradition I enthusiastically partook in for decades. While undeniably fun, the pursuit of “fun” is not the moral compass by which we determine right from wrong. Sin may cloak itself in enjoyment, but its fleeting happiness pales in comparison to the profound joy found in a genuine relationship with our Heavenly Father.

As believers, we anchor our understanding of good and bad in God’s standards, illuminated through the pages of the Bible. Regardless of one’s perspective on its divine inspiration, the Bible remains the most accurate record of God’s relationship with His people and His guidelines for righteous living.

My quest for truth led me to scrutinize whether Christmas trees found a place in the Bible, and to my surprise, a passage in Jeremiah 10:1-4 seemed to allude to them. It cautioned against adopting the practices of non-believers, condemning the cutting of trees for decoration—a striking parallel to our modern Christmas traditions.

Some will argue this is focused only on idols, but it seems to apply also to Christmas trees.

Jeremiah 10:1-4 (KJV)

1Hear ye the word which the LORD speaketh unto you, O house of Israel:

2Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.

3For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe.

4They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.

Delving deeper into the roots of Christmas, I discovered that many of its customs have pagan origins. While this revelation might be startling, it underscores the importance of Yahweh’s call for believers to be set apart and holy, avoiding the adoption of worldly practices under the guise of Christianity.

For those intrigued to explore further, additional articles and videos are available, providing a comprehensive understanding of Christmas traditions. I urge you to prayerfully consider these revelations, seeking the courage and discernment to distance ourselves from heathen practices in alignment with God’s teachings.

To learn more:

In conclusion, I invite you to join me in prayer:

Father, grant us the strength to prioritize Your instructions above all else. Instill in us the courage and discernment to detach from traditions rooted in heathen or pagan origins, which stand contrary to Your teachings. May an awakening sweep through Your people worldwide, turning them away from worldly ways and toward Your divine path. Amen.

Shalom

John

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Holy / Set Apart, Purposeful / Intentional, Satan, Traditions / Holidays, Wickedness / Evil, Worldliness

Should a Follower of Christ Celebrate Halloween?

Far too often we just go along with whatever “everyone else” is doing when the holidays are concerned. We can always rationalize why many of the common “holidays” such as Halloween “are harmless” or even “an opportunity to participate so as to lead others to Christ”. However, never in scripture does God encourage us to in any way imitate the pagan celebrations of others as a way of “getting along with” or “blending in with” or even witnessing to non-believers. We are instead called to be set apart from pagan traditions and worship of false gods in every way. We are to do things only in God’s way. Being different is an important part of being a light to draw people to Christ. If those who follow Christ blend in with everyone else, why should any non-believers accept Christ and change their lives.

The following article is a good summary of Halloween, so I choose not to write my own. I recommend you pray for God to give you an open mind and test celebration of Halloween, not against what your church does or your family has done for generations, but against the word of God.

A few easy questions to ask yourself…  “Does celebrating this holiday honor God and point others to Him? Could it actually confuse others as to what Christ calls us to do and how He calls us to act? If I ignore traditions of men for a moment and test the holiday (and how it is celebrated) against scripture, is there any way I would ever reasonably conclude I should celebrate this based on the Bible itself?” Perhaps one final question, “If I am not sure it is good and honoring to God, should I skip it or celebrate it anyway?”

ChristianAnswers.net – Should Christians participate in Halloween?

The October 31st holiday that we today know as Halloween has strong roots in paganism and is closely connected with worship of the Enemy of this world, Satan. It is a holiday that generally glorifies the dark things of this world, rather than the light of Jesus Christ, The Truth.

Have you noticed how costumes and masks are getting generally more bloody, gory, and depraved each year? Unfortunately, the gruesome and grotesque and the occult are increasingly glorified in American society, not only on Halloween, but throughout the year in frequent horror movies and television programs.

My family does not celebrate it or participate in it. We do not believe that our children are “missing out,” and neither do they. Other days are used for costumes and parties. Happily, all of our children have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. We have found that Halloween provides an excellent time to remind our children that, as Christians, we are different, and not of this world (Heb. 11:13-16; 1 Pet. 2:11).

What about church “Harvest Festivals” held on October 31? Although we understand the rational and good intentions behind them, we don’t think they are the best approach. Our family tends to agree with the author of an article called “Are ‘Harvest Parties’ for Christians?” (written by a self-avowed former witch and now active Christian). Harvest parties on October 31 tend to assume that “our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.” There are better things to do on Halloween than partying.

Also, we need to teach our children that “the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but” “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV).

Click the following link to read the full article: ChristianAnswers.net – Should Christians participate in Halloween?

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead Your people away from worldly celebrations that draw them in and lead them to embrace Your celebrations and Your ways. Help us to be set apart from the world, not blend in. Help give courage to those who struggle to break away due to family and emotional attachments to worldly holidays and celebrations. Help us to choose You first! Amen. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

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Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Holy / Set Apart, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Peace / Rest, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Traditions / Holidays

Dive Into Scripture to Embrace the Meaning of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles)

Rather than write another article today, I encourage you to review the following links from TheMoedim.com. There is much useful information. Remember to test everything. I may not agree with every detail, but pay particular attention to the scripture itself. It is very well laid out. Also, remember to keep separate in your mind scripture from traditions. Both may have value, but traditions should point back to scripture and not be taken with the same importance as scripture.

I encourage you to do some more personal study on this celebration. I include a few links below. However, be sure to validate everything you read against the truth of scripture. As a last encouragement, note that Yeshua even set an example by celebrating the Feast of Booths, or Tabernacles, despite people seeking to kill Him (John 7). I encourage you to click the link and read all of John 7.

Have fun with it. This is a celebration! Our Messiah returns! Consider even some easy online searches for songs or music videos associated with Sukkot. We have found some that are very cheerful and fun and some that are more spiritually focused and meaningful. Do not be discouraged from these resources because Jews celebrate Sukkot. It can be celebrated by anyone who rejoices in our Creator and His appointed times. With Christ, we have even more reason to celebrate these appointed times!

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please help me to embrace Your appointed times. Help open the eyes of Your followers everywhere to Your celebrations and their purpose in drawing us closer to You. Amen. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Holy / Set Apart, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Peace / Rest, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Celebrate Sukkot (Tabernacles) – Dwelling in His Presence

Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles (also Booths), is at first strange to those of us growing up in a Christian church or non-Jewish culture because so much of the Old Testament is not taught or is not taught as relevant anymore. As the Lord has revealed more to me in my study and prayer it has become quite a meaningful celebration for my family. My children look forward to it every year, sometimes months in advance. The celebration is coming up soon, so I encourage you to take some time to learn more and consider participating with your family, or even by yourself.

In a quick summary, the festival is about celebrating dwelling in the presence of our God. It looks back on the past as He dwelt with His people as they left Egypt for the Promised Land and also looks forward to when Yeshua returns to dwell among us at the second coming of our Lord. Who wouldn’t want to celebrate that!

From a practical perspective, it also reminds me to be thankful and humble, not to take for granted the nice home and secure lifestyle my family is blessed with.  I am reminded that He provides! He leads me, even if it seems like I am in hard times, like the 40 years in the wilderness.

Leviticus 23:37-44

    37‘These are the appointed times of the LORD which you shall proclaim as holy convocations, to present offerings by fire to the LORD—burnt offerings and grain offerings, sacrifices and drink offerings, each day’s matter on its own day— 38besides those of the sabbaths of the LORD, and besides your gifts and besides all your votive and freewill offerings, which you give to the LORD.

      39‘On exactly the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the crops of the land, you shall celebrate the feast of the LORD for seven days, with a rest on the first day and a rest on the eighth day. 40‘Now on the first day you shall take for yourselves the foliage of beautiful trees, palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. 41‘You shall thus celebrate it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It shall be a perpetual statute throughout your generations; you shall celebrate it in the seventh month. 42‘You shall live in booths for seven days; all the native-born in Israel shall live in booths, 43so that your generations may know that I had the sons of Israel live in booths when I brought them out from the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.’” 44So Moses declared to the sons of Israel the appointed times of the LORD.

We have not taken to live in booths in the wilderness as yet for this celebration, but we do set aside the Sabbath days of rest and pitch the tent to go camping. We started by camping in our own family room in a tent and have now moved outside on our property.  It creates excitement for the kids and questions about why and what we are celebrating and it all points back to our Father who provides for us and a reminder that Yeshua will return and dwell among us.

Consider taking steps to start celebrating God’s holy days. They consistently focus on our relationship with Him rather than worldly things like so many man-made holidays.  Take small steps at first to start observing and grow from there. Don’t be intimidated so that you put it off.

Invest time for personal study of this celebration. I include a few links below. Take a link a day and explore it over the next few days.  Validate everything you read against the truth of scripture. It is helpful to distinguish tradition from scripture.

As a last encouragement, take note that Yeshua even set an example by going to celebrate the Feast of Booths, or Tabernacles, despite people seeking to kill Him (John 7). I encourage you to click the link and read all of John 7.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please help me to embrace Your appointed times. Help open the eyes of Your followers everywhere to Your celebrations and their purpose in drawing us closer to You. Thank You for the joyful reminder each year that Yeshua is going to return to dwell among us! Amen. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Holy / Set Apart, Justice / Judgment, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Share the Good News, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

We Are Called to Be Salt and Light; Do Not Cause Others to Stumble

We are called by our Lord, Yeshua (Jesus in Hebrew), to be both salt and light. Salt helps preserve food and adds flavor to it, makes it more enjoyable. Light allows us to see well and avoid traps and missteps. We are to be both of these things when we choose to submit to and model our lives after Yeshua.

Matthew 5:13-16

     13“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.

      14“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

If we, as disciples of Yeshua, fail to be salt and light, we have little or no purpose in this world. Our lives should reflect His teaching and His truth. We should lead others to Him by our example and our words. If we fail, and lead others astray, especially the children who are dependent on adults for so much, it is bad not only for those children, but for those who led them astray. God will hold us accountable for our influence on others, whether leading them to Him, or away from Him. We best pay attention and get it right.

Mark 9:42-50

     42“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe to stumble, it would be better for him if, with a heavy millstone hung around his neck, he had been cast into the sea. 43“If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life crippled, than, having your two hands, to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire, 44[where THEIR WORM DOES NOT DIE, AND THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED.] 45“If your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame, than, having your two feet, to be cast into hell, 46[where THEIR WORM DOES NOT DIE, AND THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED.] 47“If your eye causes you to stumble, throw it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, than, having two eyes, to be cast into hell, 48where THEIR WORM DOES NOT DIE, AND THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED.

      49“For everyone will be salted with fire. 50“Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

We are also warned in Mark 9 the importance of avoiding sin. Yeshua provides some dire sounding examples that probably shock most of us when we read them… better to cut off a hand, cut off a foot, poke out an eye… than to be cast into hell. This is not to say we should physically mutilate ourselves, but rather makes a serious point. Hell is a very bad place and it is forever once you are there. It is better to turn away from anything that leads you to sin and disobey God, even if it makes our life in this world more difficult or even downright harsh. This life is temporary. Do what you need to in order to stay away from sin and avoid leading others to sin.

Be the salt and the light to the world. There are eternal consequences for how we choose to live our lives… whether in obedience and faith or rejection and rebellion toward our heavenly Father. Choose wisely and then do not make excuses, for God will not listen to excuses when we face Him in judgment. We are either with Him wholeheartedly or we are against Him. There is no middle ground.

Revelation 3:15-16

      15‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. 16‘So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.

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Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? If you die today, do you know for sure that you would be with God in heaven? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Holy / Set Apart, Parables

Do We Need to Understand the Process to Reap the Joy of the Harvest?

Jesus had a fascinating way of speaking in parables. For those whom Yahweh allowed to understand, the parables help enable understanding of the spiritual through comparison to the physical. Sometimes, He even points out to us that there are some things… ok, many things… which we do not need to understand, but rather we just need to accept them and trust God.

Mark 4:26-29

Parable of the Seed

      26And He was saying, “The kingdom of God is like a man who casts seed upon the soil; 27and he goes to bed at night and gets up by day, and the seed sprouts and grows—how, he himself does not know. 28“The soil produces crops by itself; first the blade, then the head, then the mature grain in the head. 29“But when the crop permits, he immediately puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

We should consider the context of these verses. They follow immediately after the parable of the Sower and the Soils, in which the seed represents the word of God being shared with people. The people are represented by four soils, with different reactions to the seed… the word of God.

Yeshua shows us that we do not need to understand how the seed grows in order to benefit from it and enjoy the harvest of what it provides. Yes, we can study and pray to try to understand more about the kingdom of God and about how faith grows inside the righteous… but we do not need to understand the “how”. We can leave that to God. We are to plant the seed in others and help care for the seed that is planted in each of us, as individuals and as community, by prayer and study of the Bible daily and by fellowship with other true disciples of Yeshua.

Do not get distracted with “having to know” the “how”. Instead, focus on the role  Yeshua calls each of us to play in growing and honoring the kingdom of God.

As an added reflection, we can consider verse 29 a bit more so as not to overlook it. Yahweh makes the seed of faith grow inside of us. When the plant is now ready to harvest and use for His purposes, He does so. Of course, it is up to Yahweh to determine for each of us what it means to be ready to harvest based on what plans He has for us.

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.