The Finish Line

 

The Finish Line

 

Most churches today are not teaching their people the truth concerning salvation. They are taught that by simply reciting the sinner’s prayer, they are saved, and the angels are singing in Heaven. The sinner’s prayer is a great prayer when done in sincerity, but this alone does not save a person’s soul, it is just the beginning. Most churches today are not teaching their people to repent of their sins and to be born again. To be born again, a person must become a new creation in Christ, and this means to be set apart from the world and unto God. The Apostle Paul addressed his letters to the saints in Christ. The word saint means, set apart one.  In Romans chapter six Paul teaches that we are not to continue in sin but we must live for Christ. If Jesus Christ is truly the Lord of your life, then his attributes will be apparent in your life. Christ said that any tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. Also note, that in the following verse Paul said that we are being saved, therefore we must never become complacent in our spiritual walk .  2 Cor 2:15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

 

In Hebrews 3:7-15,  We are admonished not to harden our hearts, as the Israelites did during the rebellion in the wilderness. In verse 12, we are told to beware, lest any of us have an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. We are also told, to exhort one another daily, while it is called today, lest anyone be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Verse 14 states, For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end. Salvation requires much more than just faith in Christ. It requires allowing God’s Holy Spirit to purify us, so that we can bear good fruit unto the Lord. We are truly saved, if we hold our confidence in Christ, steadfast to the end. There are several hundred scriptures in God’s Word concerning the necessity of holiness within the life of the believer. However, a handful of Paul’s writings that many take out of context, confuses people. Paul said that we are justified by faith, not by works, lest anyone should boast. Paul was saying that we are not justified by keeping the Law of Moses, lest we boast in the Law. Paul explains this better in Galatians. However, we are told in James, that faith without works is dead.

 

Hebrews 3: 7 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: "Today, if you will hear His voice, 8 Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, In the day of trial in the wilderness, 9 Where your fathers tested Me, tried Me, And saw My works forty years. 10 Therefore I was angry with that generation, And said, 'They always go astray in their heart, And they have not known My ways.' 11 So I swore in My wrath, 'They shall not enter My rest.' " 12 Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; 13 but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, 15 while it is said: "Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion."

 

 The Book of Revelation, was given to the Apostle John by the angel of Jesus Christ. Within Revelation, Christ gave warnings to the various churches that they must keep the commandments of God or they would be cast away. In Rev 2:4 Christ told them that they had left their first love, he told them to repent, and do their first works over or he would remove their lampstand from it’s place. He also told the church of Sardis to repent, because their works, were not found to be perfect before God. Christ told the church of Laodicea that because they are lukewarm that he would vomit them out of his mouth. As you can see, the Word of God teaches us that it is very possible to fall from grace, due to sin, or lack of faith. It is time for the lukewarm churches to wake up and stop leading people astray.

 

 

Paul compares this life of probation to running a race. We run this race of life hoping to obtain the prize, which is eternal life with God, but if we do not complete the race and cross the finish line, then all is lost. Even Paul said that if he didn’t discipline his body to bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. Paul was saying that like a runner in a race keeps his body in good physical condition, we must also keep our spiritual body in good condition so that we might be able to cross the finish line and win our crown.  1 Cor 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.  26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.  27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. Christ said that those who endure unto the end shall be saved, if we fail to cross the finish line in victory, then all is lost. Matt 10:22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. Matt 24: 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.  13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.  14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.

 

 The lukewarm church of the end time is preaching a greasy grace message that makes people feel good, instead of teaching them the truth. When there is no distinction between the sinful world and the saints, the salt has lost it’s savor, and the truth has been turned into a lie. If we live, dress, talk, as well as act, like sinners, then we are lost as well. Christ made atonement upon the cross for sins committed in ignorance, as well as for sins that are repented of. If we do not repent of willful sins, then there is no forgiveness. Atonement is not automatic, it follows repentance. No one is perfect of course, but we are called to righteousness, and that means to live right.

 

Many people profess to know God but deny him by their actions. If we know Christ then we should have the mind of Christ, as well as bear good fruit. Christ said that if you love him then you will obey his commandments.   Titus 1: 14 not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth.  15 To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.  16 They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.

 

  Also, consider the parable of the sower of seed.   Matt 13: 18 “Therefore hear the parable of the sower:  19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside.  20 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy;  21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.  22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.  23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” In this parable, Christ illustrates how many people fall away from the faith because they have no strong root. The seed is the Word of God, and many people don’t understand what they read and the wicked one (Satan) will deceive them and steal what was sown in their heart, these have fallen by the wayside. Others, who have no root, endure for awhile, then fall away from Christ because of hard times, or persecution, or tribulation. These people may hold prominent positions within the church, or may have been professing Christians for years, but they usually blame God for some tragedy or circumstance in their life, and fall away. I have known many people who have fallen away from Christ due to hardship. Others, the deceitfulness of riches or the cares of the world, choke the word and they become unfruitful. God’s Word teaches that the love of money is the root of all evil, but many of the television evangelists, as well as mega church leaders are into money worship and are leading the masses astray. The prosperity gospel is the polar opposite of the teachings of Christ. Christ said, that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of an needle, than for a rich man to enter Heaven. However, he who’s  seed fell on good ground, produced fruit, thirty, sixty or one hundred fold. Not every Christian will produce the same degree of good fruit, some may produce only 30 fold fruit, but they are still doing their best to pursue Christ. If we produce zero fruit then we are in serious trouble. The parable of the sower of seed, very clearly shows us that it is possible to fall away from Christ.

 

Rev 2: 4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.  5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.

 

Rev 3:1  “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.  2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.  3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.

 

Rev 3: 14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God:  15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot.  16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.  17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—  18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.  20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.  21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

        

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming

Shortly after the death of my nephew in 2013, the Lord blessed me with a dream of his return. I was also grieving over the death of my only brother and this dream brought me great comfort.

 

Throughout the entire dream I heard a song by Sandi Patti entitled, "We shall behold him." I also woke up singing this song. In my dream, I saw a great city descending from God, out of Heaven, it looked like many castles, shining brighter than the sun. This may have been the New Jerusalem, or symbolic of the Kingdom of God coming to the earth. Then I heard a loud voice shout, "Every eye shall behold him!" Then I saw the face of Jesus Christ fill the entire sky! His face was turned away from the earth because of wickedness, but as he was returning, he turned his face toward the earth. His face was transparent like that of a spirit, but you could clearly see his features. He was wearing a very large crown filled with many jewels. When the elect saw him, they fell to their knees, and lifted up their faces and hands toward him. Then their faces began to glow brightly, and soon their entire bodies were transformed into their immortal form. I know that the return of Christ will occur soon, because the Lord has spoken to me three times that I will never see death, yet will be transformed when he returns.

      

Rev 1:7 Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.

 

1 Thess 4:13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. 15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words

 

The Lord is returning for a bride without spot or wrinkle. The Lord has spoken to me through many words and visions, that most Christians, are covered in the filth of sin from compromise. The church today, is a product of our wicked culture. The apostasy (great falling away) is a result of the distorted grace for everything message that is being preached by dead churches. When the preaching of holiness, was replaced, by the we are all sinners lie, God began to remove His Spirit from the churches. If you do not believe this, then ask yourself, why has demonic manifestations replaced the Holy Spirit in most revivals? Common demonic manifestations are, making animal sounds, crawling around on all fours barking, spiritual drunkenness, uncontrollable laughter, sticking to the floor, heads rotating, and spasms. I am in the deliverance ministry and I have witnessed these type of manifestations, from demons that were being cast out of the possessed. There is an invasion of demons within the church today because of sinful compromise. If the churches will start preaching holiness again, then God’s Spirit may return. However, there is grace for sins that are repented of. Repentance means to confess your sins to God and one another, as well as turn away from them. There are hundreds of verses in God’s Word about ceasing from sin and pursuing righteousness, but they are ignored by most churches today.

 

 The apostate church of the end times, is referred to as spiritual Babylon, which is translated wickedness. God’s Word tells us that the harlot church will be the dwelling place of demons, and the prison of every foul spirit, and unclean bird. God’s true children, are told to come out of her. The Roman Catholic Church is the mother of all harlots and the dead protestant churches are her offspring. Rev 18:2 And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, "Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury." 4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, "Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.

 

 I believe that the Great Tribulation will be a time of purification for the true church. When people are forced to take a stand for Christ, as well as, clean their lives up, then they will be ready for the Lord’s return. When electricity is no longer available to power televisions or the internet, then Christians will be forced to get this form of compromise out of their lives. The internet is good for Christian ministry, but if a person is viewing pornography, then it is spiritual death to them. Statistics show that as many as 50% of pastors are addicted to porn, as well as the majority of men within churches today. Unless, a person is delivered from this sinful bondage, they will go to Hell. The Lord has given me numerous visions and dreams that television is also spiritual death to believers, as well as Satan’s throne in most homes. It will take the purging of the Tribulation, to produce a bride wearing garments of holiness. Those who wish to live to be transformed, when the Lord returns, must be sanctified (purified, set apart). Ephesians 5:26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.                

 

There is much controversy as to the timing of the rapture, but God’s Word is very clear on this subject and we will explore what it really teaches. This is not a subject that should divide us, but it is critical that we be informed of the truth. The pre-tribulation rapture viewpoint is very dangerous because it teaches people that there is no need to prepare for the tribulation, or hard times ahead, because God is going to rapture you up to Heaven for seven years, then return again to establish his kingdom. This man made doctrine is contrary to God’s Word, and was created by taking scripture out of context, as well as making scriptures jump through many hoops in order to bring about a man pleasing belief.

 

 

The Lord Jesus Christ himself told us exactly when he will return, as well as when he will send forth his angels to gather the elect. Christ said that immediately after the tribulation of those days he would return and gather his elect unto himself. NKJV Matt 24:29  “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.  30 Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.  31 And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.  Christ said what he meant and was not speaking metaphorically. The pre-trib doctrine teaches that this passage is in reference to the second coming of Christ, seven years after the ingathering of the saints, but Christ said that at this time, he would send out his angels to harvest the elect. This passage alone is enough to establish that the rapture and the second coming of Christ are the same event and that this will occur immediately after the tribulation.

 

 

 The Apostle Paul taught that we will not be caught up to meet the Lord in the air until the the dead are raised first, then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them. Paul did not say that we will be caught up to Heaven, but that we will meet the Lord in the air as he returns, this is our transformation into immortality. 1 Thess 4:13  But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.  14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep.  16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.  17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.  18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.

 

 

1 Cor 15:51  Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—  52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.   If we establish when the dead are raised, then we will know when the remnant who are alive, will be caught up and transformed. Christ said that he will raise the dead on the last day. John 6:39  This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.  40 And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”  Paul said that the dead are raised, and that we are caught up with them at the last trump. The last trump is a reference to the sounding of the seventh angel in the book of Revelation.  Rev 10:7  but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets. Rev 11:15  Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” When the trump is sounded then it is said, “ The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ”. As you can see, God’s Word clearly teaches that the dead are raised on the last day, at the last trump.

 

 

Another interesting fact is that all those martyred within the Great Tribulation will have part in the first resurrection (resurrection of the righteous). If the rapture/resurrection occurred before the tribulation then they would have no resurrection. Rev 20:4  And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.  6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

 

 

God’s Word teaches us that he will protect many of his children in the wilderness during this time of tribulation, these will be the remnant that overcome and that will never see death.  Rev 12:13  Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. 14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.  15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.  16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.  17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

 

 

  God did not rapture Noah out of the earth, nor did he build the ark for him, rather he instructed him how to build the ark.  Noah was obedient to God and although it took him 120 years to build the ark, he did not give up. Because of Noah’s obedience to the Lord, we are here today. Like Noah, we need to be making preparations for the soon coming tribulation. I believe that the Lord is instructing people to prepare communities in remote wilderness areas for the time of trouble ahead. We all need to be  seeking the Lord with much fasting and prayer concerning where to relocate. The cities, as well as populated areas are destined for judgment. This is not a time for fear but action. If we trust God as Noah did, then we will be obedient to him and follow his voice. God Bless!

 

Let's go Fishing!

Let’s go Fishing!

Mark 1:14 Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,  15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel." 16 And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. 17 Then Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." 18 They immediately left their nets and followed Him.

 

If we truly believe that the Bible is the Word of God, then we should do everything within our power to persuade others to believe also. God’s Word teaches us that we are sinners in need of a savior, and Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation. Christ made atonement upon the cross for those who will repent of their sins and make him Lord of their lives. Apart from Christ, there is no hope of eternal life, only damnation. Luke 16: 19-31 Christ teaches a parable about Hell. Hell, also known as Hades, or Sheol, is the abode of the spirits of the dead awaiting the resurrection. Christ taught us that Sheol is divided into sections, separated by a great chasm. The righteous go into Paradise, also known as Abraham’s bosom, and the wicked into prison, or torment. After the second resurrection of the dead, there will be the great white throne judgment. The righteous will inherit the Kingdom of God, and the sinners will be cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death. Death and Hell, will also be cast into the lake of fire. I believe that the original Greek language of the New Testament indicates that this is the destruction or extinction of the unsaved. A proper translation of the Greek indicates a final and irrevocable decree, not eternal torment.

      

 The illustration of the rich man, being in torment, and Lazarus being comforted, should shake us to the core. If we believe that Hell is a real place, we should do everything possible, to persuade everyone we know, to accept Christ, in order to escape this place of torment.  If we saw a child about to walk out in front of a semi- truck, would we not try to save them? Or, if we noticed a burning car with people inside on the side of the road, would we not also try to save them? Every day we are among those in danger of Hell fire. Do you share your faith with them, or do you try to fit in with the crowd, in order to please men, rather than God?

 

(NKJV) Luke 16:19 " There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day.   20 "But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate,   21 "desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.   22 "So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried.   23 "And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.   24 "Then he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.'   25 "But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented.   26 'And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.'   27 "Then he said, 'I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house,   28 'for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.'   29 "Abraham said to him, 'They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.'   30 "And he said, 'No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.'   31 "But he said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.' "

 

 

This life is like a vapor in comparison to eternity. Our lives are in God’s hands, and we don’t know when we will depart this earth. If you were killed in a car wreck today, are you prepared to meet your maker? God’s Word says that today is the day of salvation. This means that we have no guarantee of tomorrow, and we need to make Christ our Lord today. We must enter by the narrow gate that leads to eternal life, because wide and broad is the way that leads to destruction. God’s Word says that the soul that sinneth will surely die. This destruction is the second death.

 

 

When Christ told Peter and Andrew to follow him and that he would make them fishers of men, they immediately dropped their nets and followed him. The same call goes out to us today. In Matt 28:18-20 (The great commission) the Lord instructs us to go out into all of the world and make disciples, teaching them to observe all that he commanded. We are called to share our faith with all people. If we are ashamed of Christ, then he will deny us before the Father in Heaven. We need to be bold about sharing our hope of salvation with a dying world. We must also reflect Christ in our daily lives. Are you an example of true Christianity to your co-workers or family members? You may be their only lifeline of salvation. If you were in a boat and someone fell overboard, would you not throw them a life preserver? Jesus Christ is our lifeline, because he alone, paid the price for our salvation. 

 

 (NKJV) Matthew 7:13 " Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.   14 "Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.




The entire world is a mission field and the Lord does not require us to be eloquent speakers to share our faith. We can plant seeds of faith with those around us. It's not up to us for them to believe, it is the job of the Holy Spirit to convict them of sin and lead them to the truth, but we should utilize every opportunity to plant seeds of truth. One person may plant a seed, then another will come and water that new tender shoot, then another will harvest the crop and bring it into the storehouse. Let us look at Luke 8:5-18. 

  
 (NKJV) Luke 8:5 "A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it.   6 "Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture.   7 "And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it.   8 "But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold." When He had said these things He cried, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"   9 Then His disciples asked Him, saying, "What does this parable mean?"   10 And He said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest [it is given] in parables, that 'Seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand.'   11 " Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.   12 "Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.   13 "But the ones on the rock [are those] who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away.   14 "Now the ones [that] fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity.   15 "But the ones [that] fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep [it] and bear fruit with patience.   16 " No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts [it] under a bed, but sets [it] on a lamp stand, that those who enter may see the light.   17 "For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor [anything] hidden that will not be known and come to light.   18 "Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him [more] will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him."

We need to be a light set on a lamp stand, not hidden, that the world may see our good fruit, and desire to have the faith that is able to save their souls. Many people will fall away do to the cares or riches of this world, that is why it is so important to teach new believers of the importance of studying God's Word.  1 Thess 2:1-12 gives us good instruction on being a good role model to those we disciple in the faith.

(NKJV) 1 Thessalonians 2:1 For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain.   2 But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.   3 For our exhortation [did] not [come] from error or uncleanness, nor [was it] in deceit.   4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.   5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness -- God [is] witness.   6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.   7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing [mother] cherishes her own children.   8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.   9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God.   10 You [are] witnesses, and God [also,] how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe;   11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father [does] his own children,   12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

 

The Apostle Paul was a great role model to the churches that he established, in both conduct, as well as deed. His teachings did not come from error, uncleanness, or deceit. In order to be a good example to the churches, he worked with his own hands so as not to be a burden to those whom he preached to. Paul’s example of true Christianity is polar opposite of that of the modern-day television evangelists and mega church pastors. Most of them live in multi- million-dollar palaces, built from the money given by the poor, widows, as well as the disabled.
Christ said that you cannot serve God and mammon (money), for only one will be your master. As Paul pointed out, our moral conduct should be blameless as well. We should live a life worthy of an ambassador for Christ, because the world is watching. We need to be the salt of the earth, letting our light shine before men that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven. Let us all pray that the Lord of the harvest will send us out.



(NKJV) Luke 10:1 After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.   2 Then He said to them, "The harvest truly [is] great, but the laborers [are] few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.   3 "Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.

 

Dream of Being a Reflection of Christ

 

Dream of Being a Reflection of Christ

I recently, had a dream of the importance of reflecting Christ’s attributes in our lives. I dreamed that my wife and I were standing in front of a large glass window watching the clouds go by. The dream was very colorful, as well as in high-definition quality; it was very unique, with an almost three-dimensional quality to it. The vapor-like white clouds were spiraling by with speed.  I then noticed a perfectly shaped heart cut out in the clouds, and I pointed this out to my wife. I then saw the head of Christ in the clouds; his head was very round, with white curly hair and beard that resembled wool (Rev 1:14). I then noticed a man standing next to us, also watching the clouds. The man looked like the image of Christ that we saw in the clouds. He was very Jewish in appearance, however, his hair was black and curly, with no beard. His nose, light blue eyes, and olive skin tone, were distinctively Semitic. His appearance did not resemble the pictures of Christ that we have all seen. I walked over to him to ask if he was God. Before I could say a word, he looked me in the eye, and said, “I am the Angel of the Lord.” He began to quote many scriptures.  He said repeatedly, “God’s Word says…”, or “Christ said...” He began to teach me to love all people by being a reflection of Christ. I understood that the angels of the Lord are all reflections of the attributes of Christ, and that is why his appearance was like Christ. I then noticed that four or five men appeared on the right side of the angel. One man began to mock the holiness message that the angel proclaimed. Then all of the men began to quarrel amongst themselves. The angel walked behind each man, placed his hand on his right shoulder, and said repeatedly, “Stop it! Stop quarreling with each other!” Then the angel began to teach them to love one another, as well as to pursue peace with all men.

It is God’s desire that we reflect his attributes in our lives. We live in a fallen world and we are born with an iniquity nature. By the indwelling presence of God’s Holy Spirit, we can reverse this and display his divine nature in our lives. God’s Word teaches us that we are to put sin to death in our lives. If a person will surrender all to Christ, as well as be filled with His Spirit, they will have the ability to live a sanctified (set apart or purified) life. The angels of God have taught me that unless believers get sin out of their lives they will be lost. God’s desire is for his children to have unconditional love for one another and live a purified life, bearing much good fruit.   

 1 John 3:3-10 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 4 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.  5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.  6 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.  8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.  9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 10 In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother.

 1 Timothy 4:4 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

 Matt 7: 21 “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.  22 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?’  23 And then I will them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’           

An Example of Pure Faith, Written by my Wife

An Example of Pure Faith

 

If you are a regular reader of my blog, then you know that Mel and I do not watch television or go to movies.  We feel to really walk down the paths of righteousness, Christians should not expose themselves to the visual and audible filth of so-called entertainment.  Would you still watch that movie full of swearing, nudity, sexual perversion, occultism, and violence if Jesus sat next to you?  However, with that said, after getting rid of all our movies, we kept the one season we own of the documentary series, "Travel the Road"  (we hope to someday own the entire series) and watch it on our computer.   I could recommend this series with a clear conscience.  You can watch it from their website or stream it from Netflix or buy the CDs.  Please check out their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/traveltheroad/  and/or website https://www.traveltheroad.com/ . We watch these episodes around every six months or so. (The above photo is not from the show, but reminds me of it.)

Every time I watch, I am humbled and shamed to the point of tears.  As Americans, most of us are financially comfortable.  Even with a low income, Mel and I live in a nice home, have running water, electricity, clothes to wear, and food to eat.  Yet what do I do?  Complain about what I do not have and beg God for more.  Yes, I am thankful for my husband and my salvation, but I still have the nerve to think I am lacking in life. 

Watching just one episode of "Travel the Road" forces me to think globally.  In the first season Tim and Will (the young missionaries of the series) mostly travel to Africa and Asia.  The people there live in fear of war, starvation, disease, and persecution.  They live in huts and shanties, sometimes lacking in 4 walls, beds, or any other luxuries we take for granted.  They do not know when or where their next meal will come.  They work dangerous jobs just to provide for their families.  Yet what do these people do when they are in church or gathered around the missionaries in their villages?  Do they beg God for more?  Maybe to some degree, but mostly they raise their hands and praise, worshipping their benevolent Creator and thanking Him for life.  They fall on their faces and weep with love and thankfulness to God.  Their faces are full on joy in spite of all that they face each and every day. They have learned to find peace and contentment with life because of their  faith that God loves them and has provided an eternal sanctuary for them if they commit their lives to Him. Oh how I pray for such a faith and unconditional love for my Heavenly Father! 

My message today is short.  May we (and I mean me too) remember to be more thankful for what we have and imitate the people living in conditions we would be terrified to visit for even one hour.  May we praise God for all we have and live with the mindset of a thankful heart, not a complaining one.  I love the Lord, so may I lift my voice in worship to Him. 

The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

Some of our favorite scriptures in the bible are Romans 8:26 and 34. It is difficult to put into words just how amazing these verses are (as well as others below based on this same theme). We see here how the three, which are one, work together on our behalf. Jesus himself prays for us with the aid of the Holy Spirit based on God's will for our lives. Who knows better the perfect will for our lives than the Almighty Creator of the Universe? No one.

Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is in the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died , yea rather, that is risen again , who is even at the right hand of God , who also maketh intercession for us. Romans 8:26-28 & 34

Wherefore He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. Hebrews 7:25-26

He shall see the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he will divide the spoil with the strong because he hath poured his soul until death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:11-12 Consider this example from Luke 22:31-32. In verse 31, Jesus tells Peter, "Satan has desired to sift you as wheat." Satan wants Peter's soul for hell. In verse 32 Jesus goes on to tell Peter, "But I have prayed for thee that you fail not; and when thou art converted, [you will] strengthen thy brethren." Jesus desires our souls as well as longs for us to be strong in our faith and minister to others. With God on our side, we will win the war and devote our souls/lives to God for all eternity

Let us then follow the example of Jesus and practice interceding for those we love.

Has anyone ever said to you, "I had the strong urge to pray for you yesterday," and it was at the exact same moment you desperately needed those prayers? The truth is, we will never know this side of eternity how often the prayers uttered by someone else saved us from serious harm or even death. The same can be said in the reverse. When we get a sudden burden for someone out of the blue, God could be prompting us to pray for him or her. I (Julie) had two dreams a week apart of a childhood friend. In the first dream, this woman was asking for help and in the second, Mel and I were in a church praying for her. When I awoke from the second dream, I finally realized these were not random dreams my subconscious created, so I prayed for her before falling back to sleep. If you ever feel the need to pray for a specific person or need, please do not say you will do it later, because you will probably forget later. It is best to pray right then because you never know what that person may be facing. Even if turns out that person was perfectly safe at that moment, you never waste time praying for someone else. God knows our hearts and needs. There is no such thing as a simple prayer. When you call upon the power of heaven, there is nothing mundane about it! When you pray for someone, not only could you be calling on angels to save a life, but also for the person's conscience to be pricked. Your prayer could cause someone to remember the things of God and could stop an affair, suicide, and who knows what else.

Many people pray for their own desires or needs, but how many pray for the needs of others? When a person prays with a selfless heart, it moves the hand of God. There will be many people in heaven because of those who were willing to stand in the gap and intercede in prayer for them. The many prayers of parents, grandparents, friends, and acquaintances will lead to the salvation, as well as protection of many. There are times when a person will come strongly to my mind, and I will intercede in prayer for them. Later, I found out that they were sick, or in a dangerous situation. When I (Mel) have experienced tragedy in my own life, on several occasions God led a spirit- filled friend of mine to call me. Prayer works, when it is made on the behalf of another. Many churches or home groups have a system put in place known as a prayer chain. When a person is in need of prayer, a designated person will notify everyone on the chain to intercede in prayer for them. I have known of people in the hospital, who showed a marked improvement, after prayer, was made for them.

I Timothy 2:1-3 Teaches us that prayers, supplications, intercessions, and giving of thanks, should be made for all men. We are to pray for those who govern over us, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life. When prayer is made for even wicked leaders, the Lord may move upon them to make wise decisions. When a nation repents of their sin, God will heal their land. Nineveh is an example of a city who repented of their sin in sackcloth and ashes after Jonah warned them. Because of their sincere repentance, God spared that city from destruction. However, the Book of Revelation tells us that the nations of the world will not repent, but rather will curse God when the judgments come. The Lord knows the future, since he is not bound by our timeline. The Lord knows that America will not repent, because this nation has gone the way of Sodom and Gomorrah. However, we are to still intercede for this nation, as well as our leaders until the time of judgment comes.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessors, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savoir. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the Truth. I Timothy 2:1-3  Many believers keep a list of prayer requests either in a bible, on the refrigerator, or in a prayer notebook. It is a good reminder to pray for specific needs whenever they see the list, and/or to remember who and what to intercede for during prayer time. Some people even record the results of the prayers as God answers them. If you have ever done this (writing this blog inspired us to start our own prayer book), I am certain you will see people's names on that list that always seem to have the same request. Maybe years have gone by and you are still praying for a specific situation to change. Do not be discouraged, or quit praying. Results are not your responsibility, but praying is. (Although we should help people in need as much as our resources will allow.) We do not know why God has not answered the petition. Some prayers cannot be answered while the person is living an ungodly lifestyle. Other times God may have different plans than what the person thinks he needs. On the other hand, maybe God will eventually grant the request, but not until His perfect timing says it is right. We may never understand the mind of God, but that does not mean we give up praying even for a situation that seems hopeless.  

Oh that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbor. Job 16:21 Yes, God is capable of helping a soul in rebellion, but typically chooses not to, which is why it is so important for us to intercede for someone who will not pray for himself. Remember the story of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 18:20-19:30. In Genesis 18:20, the Lord decides to tell Abraham that He is about to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Because Abraham's nephew Lot and Lot's family are living in Sodom, Abraham pled with the Lord to spare the city if even ten righteous are living there. The Lord does not become angry with Abraham and agrees, but there are not even ten people living for the Lord in the wicked cities. The bible never says that God spares Lot because of Lot's righteousness, but clearly states, "God remembered Abraham" and his cries for Lot. It does not say he sent angels to assist Lot based on Lot's prayers. This is a wonderful example of God's mercy as well as showing the importance of intercessory prayer. It reminds us to always be faithful in praying for the safety and salvation of those we love.

And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in which Lot dwelt. Genesis 19:29 Throughout the book of Exodus, we see God tell Moses on several different occasions that He is angry with the murmurings and sins of the Hebrews. God tells Moses He will destroy them all. However, each time Moses begs God to spare the lives of his people. He reminds God that their enemies will laugh at the death of the Hebrews if God smites them. Repeatedly, Moses' interceding saves the lives of his family and friends.



And the Lord said unto Moses, "I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore, let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them..." And Moses besought the Lord His God and said, "Lord why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou has brought forth out of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand?" And the Lord relented which he had thought to do unto His people. Exodus 32:9-11 & 14  In Acts 12, King Herod had Peter arrested and thrown into prison. The church offered up constant prayer on his behalf and it moved the hand of God. The Lord’s angel caused the chains to fall off Peter, and Peter was escorted outside of the prison gates by the angel. This is a good example of the importance of intercessory prayer. I have known of several cases, where men came to the Lord in prison, and they were released early because prayer went up on their behalf. We must never stop praying for those who are sick, in prison, or in need of salvation.

Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, "Arise quickly!" And his chains fell off his hands. Acts 12:5-7   The above examples are just a few of the times one of God's servants intervened for a loved one. This shows God is tenderhearted, and very well may spare someone punishment or harm for the sake of sparing the believer pain. This does not mean God is insensitive to the offender deserving the rebuke, instead it shows how quick He is to show mercy. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to stand in the gap for another person in order for God to change His mind and forgo the chastisement. In other words, we need to ask for help in order to receive it.

And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 　Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:23-24 Also consider the below scriptures:

Ephesians 6:18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.

Philippians 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy,

Philippians 1:19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.    

 



 

 

 

 





 

Upon This Rock, I Will Build my Church

 

Upon This Rock, I Will Build my Church

The world is a mission field, waiting to be harvested for the Kingdom of God. The Lord is looking for people with hearts filled with love that are willing to answer the call. Recently, I dreamed that there were two young men of different races who repented of their sins. The Lord was their judge, as well as their probation officer. One man had been delivered from drug addiction, the other from pornography. The Lord had them each write a letter of repentance to him. I placed my arms around both of them and prayed for them. I felt tremendous love and compassion for these young men. I felt the necessity to remind Christians not to look down upon those who are captives of sin, but to reach out to them with the love of Christ. You may be the only Christian in the life of someone, and you have the ability to throw a life preserver to a person drowning in his or her sin. I woke up from this dream to a song from Sandi Patti entitled: "Upon This Rock". The lyrics from this song have a powerful message to them. Basically, the song states that if you reflect Christ in your life, then you are a rock that God can build his kingdom upon. Christ told Peter that he was a rock to be built upon. Like Peter, we are to reflect the love and attributes of Christ in our lives.

 God desires for us to look beyond the fault and see the need in others. If Christians would learn to not be easily offended and realize that we all have faults, then they would reap a harvest of souls for God. There should not be any form of prejudice in the life of the believer. If we look down upon a person because of their race, economic status, dress, appearance, or sin in their life, then love has not been perfected in our heart. God looks upon the heart of an individual, not their outward appearance, and we should do likewise.

 The Lord called me to the street ministry at the age of sixteen. I spent many years sharing my faith on the streets of Little Rock, Kansas City, as well as New Orleans. In later years, I served the body of Christ as a pastor, as well as an evangelist. I heard the life stories of many people from many different backgrounds. I heard of tragedy, sickness, sorrow, depression, as well as joy, from ordinary people. The Lord gave me a heart of compassion for people because I asked for it. The Lord will also give you a heart for people if you ask him to.

The kingdom of heaven consists of ordinary people. God is not impressed with the successful, popular, or best-looking; he is looking for ordinary people who are willing to make him Lord of their lives. I have talked to many people who felt that they were beyond hope because of the wicked things that they have done. The truth is, God is willing to forgive us of all of our sins and give us a fresh start if we will confess our sins to him and turn away from them. Grace is not automatic, but there is grace for sins that are repented of, as well as committed in ignorance.  If a person backslides away from Christ and repents, there is restoration because of the atonement that Christ provided for upon the cross. If we fall, we should get back up, repent, dust ourselves off, and press forward in our relationship with Christ. Never give up, learn from your mistakes, and continue to grow in Christ, and produce good fruit. When the Devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. Your past is under the blood and is forgotten by God.

Consider the parable of the wedding feast. Christ taught that the kingdom of heaven is like a king who arranged a wedding feast in honor of his son. He sent out servants to invite people to come. Those invited made light of it and mistreated and killed his servants. The king sent out his armies and destroyed the murderers and burned their city. Then he sent his servants to go out into the highways and invite as many as they find, both good and bad, to the wedding. The wedding hall was filled, but the man who did not have on a wedding garment was cast into outer darkness, where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. Christ said, “Many are called, but few are chosen.” If you belong to Christ, then you are commissioned, to go out into the world, and compel all to come to Christ. The churches are filled with both wheat and tares. It is the Lord who will do the separation in his timing. The tares will be removed and cast into the fire of destruction. This teaching of Christ should remind all of us to keep our spiritual garments clean for the wedding feast of the Lamb. Christ is returning for a bride without spot or wrinkle. God’s Word teaches us that if we continue in willful sins, then we deny both the Father and the Son. In order to be truly saved, a person must be born again, this means to become a new creation in Christ by allowing his Holy Spirit to separate us from the sinful lifestyle of the world.                        

 

Matt 22:1 And Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said: 2 "The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, 3 and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. 4 Again, he sent out other servants, saying, 'Tell those who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding." '5 But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business. 6  And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them.

7 But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. 9 Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.' 10 So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. 11 But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 For many are called, but few are chosen."