fencepostdigest

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are taken from the NET2 Bible.

Believers are justified by God’s grace through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ, how difficult is that? Lost people who are engulfed by culture’s darkness have great difficulty understanding because of their darkened souls. And too often those who have been deceived and somehow think of themselves as being Christians demonstrate a false positive to their lost neighbors. In other words, they are able to pray in public and speak in public concerning their god but do not know the God of the Bible they quote from. And this leads lost people to say it is more important how one lives than their relationship to God. However, Jesus does say this, “If you continue to follow my teaching, you are really  my disciples and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32. Followers of Jesus Christ will be enabled by Him through the presence of His Spirit to faithfully live according to His inspired and infallible Word.

“21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God (although it is attested by the law and the prophets) has been disclosed— 22 namely, the righteousness of God through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 24 But they are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:21-24,

Justified by God’s Grace 

We will begin with v. 24, “But they are justified freely by his grace through redemption that is in Jesus Christ.” and Paul also writes in Ephesians 2:8, “For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God;” Much more can be exposited than will be attempted here; more will come. 

Much has been written concerning the subject of grace and nothing new will be done here, simply my thoughts. I begin with grace because Paul does the same in Ephesians 2:8, but this does not mean that grace is necessarily the required place to start. Salvation really begins with God in the Old Testament but is completed in the Empty Tomb. Again, I go to Paul concerning an OT figure, “What then shall we say that Abraham, our ancestor according to the flesh, has discovered regarding this matter? For if Abraham was declared righteous by works, he has something to boast about—but not before God. For what does the scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Romans 4:1-3. Please read all of Romans 4 for contextual purposes.

Early in God’s Word, Genesis 6:8 we find a powerful example of God’s grace being demonstrated in a very dark world, “But Noah found favor in the sight of the Lord.” There are earlier demonstrations of His favor being extended to mankind, but this place seems to be the best place for my purposes. Everyone who knows God can identify with Noah who, no doubt, is the recipient of God’s grace and in a difficult spot. It is only by God’s grace that anyone can escape God’s judgment upon the wicked. Noah lived in such a world of darkness, did he not? And so do we for our world, not simply our culture, finds itself in cultural darkness: perhaps more so than at any other time in His story. You and I who believe in Jesus Christ have found favor in the sight of God because we have chosen to live in His righteousness. Unfortunately, there are some among us, though claiming to know Him, obviously do not. So sadly tragic.

Because we have found His favor it is only because of His grace. Nothing that I write here is a culmination of thoughts from a great deal of reading and is, therefore, perhaps paraphrasing from many places. I find that God’s grace points to the absence of anything anyone can accomplish and is therefore referred to as ‘unmerited favor.’ Someone else has said that unmerited is the absence of demerit, our demerit. Webster’s tells us that demerit is an “offense,” or “quality that deserves blame.” Therefore, ‘unmerited favor’ is the granting of a blessing as an act of mercy in spite of bad behavior which forfeits all claims to participation in better things.kingdom. We cans say that God’s disfavor and righteous wrath falls upon anyone who breaks covenant relationship with Him. However, that is an OT concept for His grace, unmerited favor relates to the blood of Jesus Christ poured upon us at the Cross and culminating at His resurrection. We now know that “by grace are you saved,” but that is not all.

Justified Through Faith

Someone has said that justification means “‘just if I’d’ never sinned.” In retrospect, perhaps so, but I do sin and if it were not for Jesus I would be in very serious circumstances. Praise the Lord for Calvary and the Resurrection!! The point is, we have also been given the gift, the grace of faith. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see. 2 For by it the people of old received God’s commendation…By faith Noah, when he was warned about things not yet seen, with reverent regard constructed an ark for the deliverance of his family. Through faith he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” Hebrews 11:1,7.

Now, read what Paul says concerning the faith of Jesus Christ, “We are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners, yet we know that no one is justified by the works of the law but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. Galatians 2:15-16.

What we discover is that justification comes by faith in Jesus Christ or His faithfulness demonstrated in His crucifixion and resurrection; period, end of the sentence. Without His faithfulness toward His end, the Gospel Message is null and void and Jesus Christ is a fraud. However, we know by faith that the Gospel Message is fully empowered by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This completely and satisfactorily demonstrates God’s grace, His unmerited favor and distinguishes all arguments of our accomplishments establishing a right relationship with God. Our good works are as filthy rags. Nothing more can nor need be said.

Jesus is Lord!!

All Scripture references are taken from the HCSB unless otherwise noted.

Ignorance is NOT bliss as some may believe. There are people within your circle of friends and/or acquaintances who wish you would go away and often times dismiss you and me because of our antiquated Christian demeanor. Please do not get me wrong, for I do not feel less than or feel bad about myself for I know who and Whose I am. Therefore, I am not ‘bad-mouthing’ anyone when I speak. I am not ‘belly-aching’ or whatever other explanations might be given. What I do want to say here is best explained by Paul in Romans 1:14-17,  “I am obligated both to Greeks and barbarians, both to the wise and the foolish. 15 So I am eager to preach the good news to you also who are in Rome. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. 17 For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith.” What I have to say to anyone is the same truth spoken by every biblical writer although I may not say it the same way.

“Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravaging wolves. 16 You’ll recognize them by their fruit. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 In the same way, every good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. 19 Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 So you’ll recognize them by their fruit. 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven.’” Matthew 7:15-23.

The question remains the same as does the answer. “Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” v. 19. The Word of God is quite clear concerning those who refuse the message of the Gospel, they will burn in Hell. Paul writes, “Don’t you know that the unrighteous will not inherit God’s kingdom? Do not be deceived: No sexually immoral people, idolaters, adulterers, or anyone practicing homosexuality, 10 no thieves, greedy people, drunkards, verbally abusive people, or swindlers will inherit God’s kingdom.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. Paul does not mix words with us, does he?

There Are Questions to Be Answered

Many do raise questions about what Paul writes and about things that Jesus has said. “I know Christians who are liars, immoral, adulterers and worse. Will they go to Hell?” The better question is, “Are these folks Christians?” The Word of God is clear and the answer is “No, they are not Christians.” They may want you to think so and very well may have themselves convinced of being Christians. However, the Scriptures are very clear concerning what it means to be a Follower of Jesus Christ. There is much more to being a Believer than praying to receive Christ as Savior and knowing Him as Lord. We will all be surprised on Judgment Day.

Yes, those ‘Christians’ who lead lives not professing the precious Name of Jesus Christ will go to Hell because they do know the Savior as Lord. No, these folks are NOT born-again Believers and Followers of Jesus Christ for they are known by the fruit demonstrated in their daily lives.

The Words of Jesus Are Telling

Take a look at what Jesus says, “every good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So you’ll recognize them by their fruit.” Vv. 17-19. Often times people who question us about why we are ‘judging’ those around us by saying ‘this person or that person is not a Christian’ must recognize that we are judging no one. Jesus gives a very vivid description of people who have chosen not to take up his cross and follow Jesus. The end result is that those who deny Him will be cast into the Lake of Fire as described in Revelation 20:13-15, “Then the sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead; all were judged according to their works. 14 Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And anyone not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” Why are they cast into the fire? Because their names are “not found written in the Book of Life.” Simple enough.

Beware of Evil-Doers

Bad trees cannot produce good fruit just as clearly as good trees cannot produce bad fruit. Christians do not live unrighteously. They simply do not and Jesus said this, “Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravaging wolves. You’ll recognize them by their fruit.” For those who will use the accusation that they “know Christians who live like ‘such and such’” are really talking about people who are not Christians. Simple enough. And we are judging no one for, indeed, these are known by the lives they live. They are not examples of Christ because they do not belong to Him. They are wolves wearing the clothing of sheep. They are liars and the Truth is NOT in them Jesus is not a part of who they are.

Jesus is Lord.

All Scripture references are taken from the NET2 translation unless otherwise noted.

The Question of “Who” will go to Heaven always ends with the fear of condemnation for many people because ‘the many’ also fear the ‘How of measuring up.’ However, if the truth be known the END is the reason for the fear, the fear of God’s judgment, at the least. Few people I have ever known really do not believe in God and have no fear. And the Bible is clear that because of their denial they have already been condemned. Please read John’s account of Jesus’ meeting with Nicodemus for this truth.

How Does One Become a Christian

This is an easy question to answer, but faith is the place of beginning that will continue in the life of every Believer. Faith is NOT a one time event.

“Faith is acting as if it is so in order for it to be so because with God it already is so.” This is a statement coming from Manley Beasley who was one of the foremost evangelists among Southern Baptists when he went home in July, 1990. Mr. Beasley struggled with a failing liver for a very long time and understood how to live by faith in the sufficiency of God’s amazing grace.

My own father Al Williford understood faith as well, and expressed his relationship with God in this manner, “God will heal me of this cancer one day. He will make me whole again in this life or when I enter into His presence. Either way is okay with me.”

The writer of Hebrews expresses faith in this manner, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see. For by it the people of old received God’s commendation. By faith we understand that the worlds were set in order at God’s command, so that the visible has its origin in the invisible.” Hebrews 11:1-3. Faith is not concerned with the visible gods of the world in which we live, but in the invisible God who created the world in which we live. Our eternal salvation depends not upon what we are able to do but upon that which God has done.

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of his great love with which he loved us, 5 even though we were dead in offenses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you are saved!— 6 and he raised us up together with him and seated us together with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 to demonstrate in the coming ages the surpassing wealth of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 it is not from works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are his creative work, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we can do them.” Ephesians 2:4-10. The salvation of mankind finds its Source completely in Jesus Christ the Risen Lord and not upon what we can do ourselves for we “have been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we can do them.” How difficult is this to understand? “For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

Created for Good Works is the Demonstration of How We are Saved

How are these ‘good works’ achieved? “For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith. 4 For just as in one body we have many members, and not all the members serve the same function, 5 so we who are many are one body in Christ, and individually we are members who belong to one another. 6 And we have different gifts according to the grace given to us.” Romans 12:3-6a. Not only are Believers saved by His grace, we are also empowered to His service by His grace as well. Just as we are saved by HIs grace, we are also empowered by His grace to demonstrate His grace because we are His ambassadors to accomplish His purposes. Jesus is Lord.

Matthew and Luke each record a broadway which leads to destruction and a narrow way which leads to life. Please read them both. The message is the same, but a bit different to read.

Matthew 6:13-14 is simple, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

Luke 13:23-28 is a bit more involved, “23 And someone said to Him, “Lord, are there just a few who are being saved?” And He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 Once the head of the house gets up and shuts the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock on the door, saying, ‘Lord, open up to us!’ then He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know where you are from.’ 26 Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets’; 27 and He will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you are from; DEPART FROM ME, ALL YOU EVILDOERS.’ 28 In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but yourselves being thrown out.”

Who will go to Heaven? Take note of what Luke recorded in vv. 25-26, “Lord, open up to us!’ then He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know where you are from.’ Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’” These who could not enter through the narrow door felt they had done what was necessary to enter even though they arrived late for the door was already closed to them. Their argument did not suffice although they had been ‘followers from afar.’ No doubt, they claimed to know Him but were not actively engaged with Him. How many folks do you know who claim the same? They are somewhat faithful to go to church and even bring their Bibles when they show up and they call themselves ‘Christians.’ They are known as the Evildoers about which Jesus speaks.

There is more to these parables than oftentimes is spoken of and is debunked by many people who call themselves ‘Christians.’ Jesus said in Matthew 6:13 that few will enter through the narrow gate. Again, these are the Evildoers of whom He speaks in Luke 13:25-26.

The Answer is Clear

There is a very familiar story recorded by Luke in chapter 16 verses 19-31 from which many arguments ensue, but one thing certain there is a place of torment awaiting those who refuse the Gospel message. For those who refuse, look at what is said in vv 22-24,, “Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and *saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom.” The rich man is clearly and ‘evil’ person who not only rejected God, but God also rejected him because of his evil ways. And the person who followed the instruction of God found himself in Abraham’s bosom. The place of comfort is obviously Heaven and the other place is called Hades or Hell. Therefore, the answer to the question, “Who will go to Heaven?” is obviously not the evil person, but the one who is righteous. What more can be said?

There is only one way to Heaven

Paul writes in Romans 10:8-13, “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”-that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, 9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; 10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; 13 for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Jesus is Lord.

All Scripture references are taken from the NET2 translation unless otherwise noted.

I have always been amused at myself and others as we observe the dawning of a new year, and here we are again on January 1st. The year is not important because as the new morning and new year begin, nothing really changes; or does it?  The sun still comes up and can be seen through the trees unless there are clouds present as they are this morning, but the point is that the constants of God’s creation are always the same. And the things that have been going on around us will continue until solutions are found. I suspect that unless there are some surprises, and there usually are, your daily routine will remain for the most part unless a resolution has been made to change some unwanted habit(s). Your calendar from yesterday (last year) was set some time ago and, again, unless some unforeseen event takes place that will not change, either. So…what is new?

“Create for me a pure heart, O God. Renew a resolute spirit within me. Do not reject me. Do not take your holy Spirit away from me.  Let me again experience the joy of your deliverance. Sustain me by giving me the desire to obey.” Psalm 51:10-12.

The desire of every Believer will be to live in Christ, to have His desire will come from His heart which is spiritually transplanted into the life of the new Believer. Walking in Christ is not so easy, but is necessary. The Psalmist has the hope of living in the joy of deliverance which only comes from being sustained by obedience. Paul writes with complete confidence of doing so in Philippians 4:11-13, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content in any circumstance. I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment, whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.”

Walking in Obedience

God tells us that when newness comes old things must be removed and when that is accomplished the Believer will be fruitful in His service. “If you walk in my statutes and are sure to obey my commandments,…“I will turn to you, make you fruitful, multiply you, and maintain my covenant with you. You will still be eating stored produce from the previous year and will have to clean out what is stored from the previous year to make room for new.” Leviticus 26:3, 9-10. When the Believer begins to walk in obedience to the teachings of Christ a new existence then begins under the control of the Savior. His love intervenes and, indeed, all things become new. “For the love of Christ controls us, since we have concluded this, that Christ died for all; therefore all have died. 15 And he died for all so that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised. 16 So then from now on we acknowledge no one from an outward human point of view.  Even though we have known Christ from such a human point of view, now we do not know him in that way any longer. 17 So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:14-17. When a person experiences the New Birth, yes, all things become new, but this newness provides a new point of view toward other people. We see people from God’s point of view and no longer live for themselves for Jesus is Lord!!

All Scripture references are taken from the NASB unless otherwise noted.

In Part 2 I noted the following from Luke’s Gospel, “Jesus was talking to a group of Jews who were obviously not pleased with His presence among them because they asked why He would associate with sinners, “Jesus answered them, “Those who are well don’t need a physician, but those who are sick do. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31-32.  This is the first of two statements Luke’s narrative refers to the purpose of Jesus’ ministry. The second is found in 19:9-10 when Jesus was visiting in the home of Zaccheus, “Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this household because he too is a son of Abraham! For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Jesus’ sole purpose in living among us humans was to the redemption of mankind.”

The answer to the question, “Who will go to heaven,” is telling, is it not? Remember that Jesus’ sole purpose for living among His created was to call seek out sinners for repentance and for them to find salvation in Him by His grace and through faith. But, Jesus gives a further explanation in Mark’s Gospel, “Then His mother and His brothers came and standing outside, they sent word to Him and called Him. 32 A crowd was sitting around Him and told Him, “Look, Your mother, Your brothers, and Your sisters are outside asking for You.” 33 He replied to them, “Who are My mother and My brothers?” 34 And looking about at those who were sitting in a circle around Him, He said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 35 Whoever does the will of God is My brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3:31-35.

Most who attend a local church for any time at all may begin to wonder about the relationship that some among their fellow worshipers know the Christ they claim to know. There is a reason for this because they do not appear to be accomplishing the will of God. Remember that Jesus said this, “Whoever does the will of God is My brother and sister and mother.” This is a profound statement from which we may be able to say, “Whoever does not do the will of God do not belong to Jesus, do not know Him.” No, Jesus does not say this, but certainly, that assumption can be correctly made.

We Must Know Him

But look at what 1 John 2:3-6 tells us, “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; 5 but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.”

The Parable of the Sower explained

In chapter 4 of Mark’s Gospel in verses 1-4, we find Jesus as “He began to teach again by the sea. And such a very large crowd gathered to Him that He got into a boat in the sea and sat down; and the whole crowd was by the sea on the land. 2 And He was teaching them many things in parables, and was saying to them in His teaching, 3 “Listen to this! Behold, the sower went out to sow;” This Parable of the Sower goes a long way in giving us an explanation as to why many people will not enter into Heaven. The Parable is given in verses 5-8, and in verses 13-20, and Jesus provides an explanation like this, “Do you not understand this parable? How will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 These are the ones who are beside the road where the word is sown; and when they hear, immediately Satan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them. 16 In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; 17 and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away. 18 And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns; these are the ones who have heard the word, 19 but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 And those are the ones on whom seed was sown on the good soil; and they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.”

The heart of man is like a stone

Jesus tells us that those who obey His words of instruction will bear fruit, but all of those who do not hear and accept it are deceived by Satan and fall away from the truth of Jesus’ words. We should take this parable into consideration and continue to read through the Gospel of Mark as we search for the answer to our question from Jesus. Another profound statement In Mark 7:20-23 which may give some explanation as to what He told His disciples a bit earlier in 6:49-52, “But when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed that it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw Him and were terrified. But immediately He spoke with them and *said to them, “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.” 51 Then He got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped; and they were utterly astonished, 52 for they had not gained any insight from the incident of the loaves, but their heart was hardened.  “. And in Mark 7:20-23 we find this, “And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, 22 deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. 23 All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man.” What we know right now is those who hear the Word of the Gospel are not always what we would like or expect.

Peter Rebukes Jesus, NOT a good thing

Through more than 7 chapters of Mark’s narrative, we find Jesus teaching in many places about the Kingdom, but we do not find Mark saying much of anything about many who positively responding to His message. Now, in chapter 8 we find a remarkable statement by one of his closest followers, “And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And He was stating the matter plainly. And Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. 33 But turning around and seeing His disciples, He rebuked Peter and *said, “Get behind Me, Satan; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.” Mark 8:31-33. I find it difficult that one of the Twelve rebukes his teacher, but do not run past what Jesus tells Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan…” Jesus sees ‘through’ what Peter has done and understands what is going on when He points to Peter’s heart, “You are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.” THIS IS THE PROBLEM WITH MANY IN YOUR LOCAL CHURCH, THEIR INTERESTS ARE NOT FOUNDED UPON THE WILL OF GOD, BUT IN THEIR OWN SELF-INTERESTS.

The Answer to our Question is NOT Yet Found, BUT…

As we continue to read Mark’s Gospel we see that Jesus does become quite frustrated with people, including His disciples. Mark reveals the hardness of the hearts of the people to whom He has come to redeem, “And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. 35 For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? 37 For what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” 9  1 “And Jesus was saying to them, “Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” Mark 8:34 – Mark 9:1.

Jesus’ words are truly condemning for everyone who is self-serving as He tells us that we must deny what we want or all is lost for he “must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” This is, in part, the answer to our question. Following Jesus is not about us, the ‘following’ part is completely about Him and if one does not do that his eternity in Heaven is not possible.

Jesus is Lord.

Someone has asked, “In Eden, Adam and Eve sinned and rebelled against God. In Heaven where those who are saved by Christ will eternally live we are told that no one will sin. God can create people with free will who do not and cannot sin and this leads to my question, “Why didn’t God create Adam and Eve with a free will who cannot and do not sin?” There seems to be a serious contradiction in the Bible and in biblical theology. If there is an answer can you please tell me?”

Separation

God created Heaven as the ‘final destination’ for His created beings, i.e. angels who remained faithful to Him. Before God created earth we know that the heavens, the sky surrounding planet earth were created long before. For it was from this place that fallen angels fell; Satan and his minions.

The Eternal City

In Revelation 21 John describes what can best be described as the Eternal City. It is to this perfect dwelling place that all who have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will finally and eternally live in the presence of Almighty God; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. For every person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God, was crucified, and was resurrected after 3 days, repents from sin and asks God for salvation by His grace and through His gift of faith that person will become a citizen of the Eternal City, the New Jerusalem.

Saved by Grace through Faith

Please read what the Word of God says to us,  “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:5-7. Because of this relationship, anyone can be ”Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”  1 Peter 1:3-5.

If you have not by faith trusted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, the Apostle John wrote the following words in Revelation 22:17,  “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.” The ‘Water of Life’ is Jesus, the crucified, risen and coming again, Savior.

Freedom to Choose

I have written to answer a question concerning ‘freedom of the will’ which God has given to everyone who has ever lived, beginning with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Everyone has the freedom to choose or to deny God and is capable of and does sin, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.” Romans 5:8-9. We sin because we are free to choose to do so. And, in John 3:16-18, we find a very short phrase spoken by Jesus to His friend Nicodemus, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.17 For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” We are saved or we are condemned because of this God-given freedom to choose.

Practicing Sin is not of God

Because we have this freedom of the will we have this incredible statement, again,  from John, “Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. 5 You know that He appeared in order to take away sins; and in Him there is no sin. 6 No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him. 7 Little children, make sure no one you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; 8 the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil. 9 No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother.” 1 John 3:4-10.

Here, we must have our understanding in ‘high gear’ because many folks become confused when reading this statement. The operative thought that John gives us is, “practices sin” because John writes in verse 9, “No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” This is not a contradiction, but we must understand the context is within the confines of “practicing sin” and not “cannot sin.” John is not talking about sinless perfection as some believe.

Harsh Reality

In the New Jerusalem, the Eternal City, we find a perfect and sinless environment where evil does not exist because when this beautiful city comes into being, Satan and all evil and evil-doers will have been cast into the Lake of Fire, “And the devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are also; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.        21 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband.” Revelation chapter 20:10 through chapter 21:2.

Light is NOT in Darkness

No doubt, the afore-mentioned question will never be satisfactorily answered for I have read many articles dealing with the problem of sin. No writer, except the Bible, has given an adequate response. I find it interesting and compelling that many, if not most people, do not accept what the Bible gives us which is the truth of God which can only be accepted by faith. And it stands to reason that lost people will always look to darkness to find their light in which there is none.

Have a blessed day. Jesus is Lord.

Unless otherwise noted all Scripture references are from HCSB.

Words of Jesus from Part 1

1. “I am the way, the truth and the life, and no man comes to the Father but by me.” John 14:6
2. “Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4
3. “Do not test the Lord your God.” Matthew 4:7
4. “Worship the Lord your God,and serve only Him.” Matthew 4:10.
5. “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!” Matthew 4:17.
6. “For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20.
7. “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, 32 You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.’” John 8:32.
8. “Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.” John 3:18.

Eternal Damnation for Disobedience

Everyone who understands the trail of thought throughout the Word of God knows that His plan from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 concerns itself with the redemption of man through the blood of Jesus Christ, the Resurrection, Ascension, Return for His Church, and ending with the culmination of time as we know it. His plan includes His ultimate judgment which identifies those who will enter into His heaven because of their obedience to follow Him.

However, those who choose not to obey Him will be cast into the Lake of Fire. “Then I saw a large white throne and the one who was seated on it; the earth and the heaven fled from his presence, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne. Then books were opened, and another book was opened—the book of life. So the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to their deeds. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and Death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each one was judged according to his deeds. 14 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire. 15 If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, that person was thrown into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:11-15.

Further Thoughts from Jesus

Jesus was talking to a group of Jews who were obviously not pleased with His presence among them because they asked why He would associate with sinners, “Jesus answered them, “Those who are well don’t need a physician, but those who are sick do. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31-32.  This is the first of two statements Luke’s narrative refers to the purpose of Jesus’ ministry. The second is found in 19:9-10 when Jesus was visiting in the home of Zaccheus, “Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this household, because he too is a son of Abraham! 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”  Jesus’ sole purpose in living among us humans was to the redemption of mankind.

Being Uncomfortable is not easy

Jesus promises a great reward for those who live righteously according to Him. “But love your enemies, do what is good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High.  For He is gracious to the ungrateful and evil.” Luke 6:35. (Please read all of Luke chapter 6  for contextual purposes.)

Sharing with others from what we have demonstrates our obedience toward Jesus Christ as noted in Matthew 19:16-22 where Jesus has a conversation with a wealthy young man who could not obey and give up what he had accumulated, “The young man said to him, “I have wholeheartedly obeyed all these laws. What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go sell your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 But when the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he was very rich.” Jesus wanted this person to be one of His disciples, but obedience was not possible for Him to follow. This is an issue for many people you and I know because obedience in following Christ means that one must sometimes be uncomfortable which may not be easy.

One of the most remarkable statements in all of the Word of God concerns Isaiah when he decided to follow the call of God in his life, “But then one of the seraphs flew toward me. In his hand was a hot coal he had taken from the altar with tongs. 7 He touched my mouth with it and said, “Look, this coal has touched your lips. Your evil is removed; your sin is forgiven.” 8 I heard the voice of the Lord say, “Whom will I send? Who will go on our behalf?” I answered, “Here I am, send me!” Isaiah 6:5-8. Following God is not always easy but when He calls He enables us to overcome the difficult things in life.

Jesus is Lord.

If I were to answer this question from where I sit, not one single person that I know will get through the Pearly Gates of Heaven…except, perhaps, me. That is subjective. However, I want to be as biblical as is possible and look at some different statements made by Jesus and the writers of the New Testament books. This will take more than one ‘sitting’ to complete, but I cannot pinpoint as to how many ‘parts’ there will be, either. This is Part 1, The Words of Jesus.

Unless otherwise noted all Bible verses will come from the HCSB translation.

The Words of Jesus

“Lord,” Thomas said, “we don’t know where You’re going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. 7 “If you know Me, you will also know My Father. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” John 14:5-8.

The standard that Jesus puts into place is ‘knowing Him.’ And that seems easy enough, but is it? This statement was made soon before He was to be crucified which was witnessed by 11 of the Twelve. Their knowledge of Jesus was quite personal, but how well did they really know Him? Better than most.

Jesus said these things to Satan in Matthew 4:1-11,

vs. 4, “Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

vs. 7, “Do not test the Lord your God.”

vs. 10, “Worship the Lord your God, and serve only Him.”

Simply stated, Jesus intends for His people to be completely obedient to Him in service and in worship. Nothing or no human is to come between Him and those that follow Him.

Jesus’ Public Statements of Obedience

When Jesus began His public ministry Matthew wrote these words, “The people who live in darkness have seen a great light, and for those living in the shadowland of death, light has dawned.” 4:16.

Jesus’ message was clear and quite simple, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!” Matthew 4:17.

In His ‘Sermon on the Mount’ Jesus said these words, “For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20. How is one to surpass the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees? “Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commands and teaches people to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:19. In other words, the scribes and Pharisees routinely lived apart from the Law of Moses, and Jesus expects those that follow Him to live according to the Law of Moses. What we who live under Grace do is live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. “As He was saying these things, many believed in Him. 31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, 32 You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:30-32.

It is obvious that Jesus expects those who choose to follow Him will live according to His Word at all times, obedience. It is not acceptable to live according to 2 sets of rules; yours and His. His teachings are to be adhered to, never to be altered to please life experiences, but according to His teachings in order to be life-changing.

Notice what John writes concerning the coming of Jesus into the world: “The Word became flesh and took up residence among us. We observed His glory, the glory as the One and Only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified concerning Him and exclaimed, “This was the One of whom I said, ‘The One coming after me has surpassed me, because He existed before me.’”) 16 Indeed, we have all received grace after grace from His fullness, 17 for the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ..” John 1:16-17. No doubt, Jesus’ presence on the earth introduces God’s grace in truth. It is interesting to note that John uses the word ‘grace’ 4 times in vv. 14,16 and 17, but never again in his narrative. And it is important to know that people, their souls are saved by His grace through faith in Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 2:8-10.)

One Must be Born Again

Jesus met with a Jewish leader named Nicodemus and the Lord said to him that he must be born again; first from his mother’s water and then from the spirit of God. Expanding on that Jesus said, “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.” John 3:16-18.

Many among us discount the idea that when a preacher uses the words, “You are going to Hell because…” a human judgment using the Word of God is being made. However, if one cares to read the Word of God, knowledge of His truth is gained and that knowledge reveals that those who live in denial of Jesus’ teachings reap eternal damnation. The judgment of God concerning eternal damnation has already been made.

However, when one is born again, there is renewal and there is change. Look at what Paul writes, “Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. 3 For by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think. Instead, think sensibly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one.” Romans 12:1-3.

Who will go to Heaven? Those who are born again and are transformed by His grace.

More to come.  Jesus is Lord.

Professing Christians who read this post should first judge themselves in the light of the Word of God. In my opinion, this is the first principle for each of us to keep in mind when exercising judgment/discernment toward other people who we might think are not Believers. Is there a litmus test for me? Yes, there is and judgment must begin at the House of God; meaning me personally.

I will begin with Paul writes to his friend Timothy in 1 Timothy 3: 1-7 because of the calling God presented to me when I was 19 years old, “It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2 An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4 He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5 (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6 and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7 And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” NASB.

I may have bumped into a ‘bad apple’ in the rather large barrel of preachers whom I have known over the years, but not many…perhaps a small sampling of those who fell into disgrace and into the Devil’s trap. However, the vast majority are men of God whose lives have been and continue to lead lives which are exemplary, men who are righteous before God. Will anyone of them claim to be without sin? No, because they do sin once in a while, but they practice righteousness and do not practice sin. The statement Paul makes in verse 2 will describe the men I have known and know now for they are “above reproach.” And like the Apostle Paul wrote, “Be imitators of me, just as I am also of Christ.”

Judgment begins of God in the house

For many decades I found myself behind a pulpit or in front of a congregation of worshipers speaking or I have written statements concerning temptation, sin, the need for repentance and the purpose and need for folks to declare Jesus as their Savior and Lord. Sometimes people have been offended by what I have either said or written and have said these words, “You are judgmental and self-righteous.” Please allow me to say in my defense, “No, I am not for every time before stepping up and proclaiming a message from the precious and inerrant Word of God I always ask for God’s forgiveness, His guidance, and power. Judgment must begin in the heart of the messenger before proclaiming His judgment.”

Every time anyone speaks concerning the judgment of God which will come upon a lost person we must first consider who we are in Christ. “Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner?” 1 Peter 4:11-18.

It is important to remember that when this life on earth is done every Believer will stand in front of the Christ at His seat of judgment, not one of us will pass Him unnoticed. “Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are made manifest to God; and I hope that we are made manifest also in your consciences. 12 We are not again commending ourselves to you but are giving you an occasion to be proud of us, so that you will have an answer for those who take pride in appearance and not in heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.” 2 Corinthians 5:9-15.

God’s judgment is pronounced in His love

Everyone who knows God fully understands that God is love, but do not always receive His harsh judgment upon us especially when that judgment is spoken from among us. I doubt very seriously than any one of us would look into the face of God and say to Him, “You are self-righteous.” This has happened more than one time after proclaiming and reading the Word of God concerning the result of sin in a person’s life. Hey, this is what the BOOK says, God said this, not me. I suggest you take this up with Him. God always speaks from a heart of love even as He pronounces judgment.

In Romans 12:9-21 Paul writes these words, “Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” NASB.

The operative phrase here is, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” We must remember that while we are pronouncing God’s Word upon sin, this is God’s judgment, not our own and we must do so with a heart of love. The difficulty is that not everyone will receive His Word graciously.

To receive from God is to be submissive to Him

The most difficult reaction to another person who is administering the Word of God is to be submissive to that person’s spiritual authority. And not everyone will do this or is able to do so. Why is this true? Most see another person as their equal, which is true, but in the Body of Christ, there are those who are called by God to deliver His message in love. Submission to that spiritual authority is necessary.

Please read from Hebrews 13:1-17 which ends with this encouragement, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.” HCSB. Every pastor will one day stand before the Lord for what he has done in His Name as His servant and in every place he has served. We who have stood and listened or have refused that leadership should make their work easier in obedience to them and to God. The question is, “Will these men of God be able to testify before God that there was joy when they stand before Him?” We are to receive from these called men of God as from God because they have been appointed by Him.

Every Believer is righteous before God

Every Believer is has equal status before God although He has appointed some to be our spiritual guides, the leaders of His Body on earth. Lost people will reject that truth and the truth these men bring to them and when they are confronted with His truth they respond as who they are, lost in their sin. But, we who are Followers of the Christ stand before Him with confidence.

“And now, little children, remain in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink away from him in shame when he comes back. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you also know that everyone who practices righteousness has been fathered by him. 3:1 (See what sort of love the Father has given to us: that we should be called God’s children—and indeed we are! For this reason the world does not know us: because it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that whenever it is revealed we will be like him, because we will see him just as he is. 3 And everyone who has this hope focused on him purifies himself, just as Jesus is pure). 4 Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; indeed, sin is lawlessness. 5 And you know that Jesus was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6 Everyone who resides in him does not sin; everyone who sins has neither seen him nor known him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you: The one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as Jesus is righteous. 8 The one who practices sin is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was revealed: to destroy the works of the devil. 9 Everyone who has been fathered by God does not practice sin, because God’s seed resides in him, and thus he is not able to sin, because he has been fathered by God. 10 By this the children of God and the children of the devil are revealed: Everyone who does not practice righteousness—the one who does not love his fellow Christian—is not of God.” 1 John 2:28-3:10 NET2.

And what does a Follower of the Christ look like? Look at your heart for Jesus is Lord.