What is a Christian? I don’t know how you meet Jesus, in my case before loving Him I fear Him.
I used to look at God as the One who punish me for my imperfections, the One who silent His mouth and delay His blessings to give me a “teachable moment”.I found Christianity the most difficult life style. I was unhappy once I found Jesus than before. I found easier to earn things in life by my own way than asking God. “I suppose to be without sin; otherwise God doesn’t answer my prayers”
He looked at me! He found me in the middle of my imperfections…He found me! And I just chose to follow Him. Someone told me one day, “God hates sin and He’s angry at you. Repent or burn. Change your ways or you’re in big trouble!” …For years I walked trying to be “perfect, I didn’t know what a relationship with my Master meant; I was to busy trying get pure before his presence. But I praise God that He found me, because that’s not the Gospel. That preacher wasn’t talking about the grace of God. Yes, there is a punishment for sin—but the Gospel emphasizes God’s answer to it.
Paul also uses these two terms—the Gospel and grace—interchangeably in Galatians. Notice how “the grace of Christ” clearly implies the Gospel.I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel. Galatians 1:6Galatians was written for the same reason as Romans—to establish the grace of God.The Gospel is good news. It specifically refers to what Jesus did for us. It’s based upon His performance, not ours. Yes, I was a sinner! Many people think that “doing good things is what makes you a Christian”. But God showed me how our good works and “holiness” do not earn us salvation, it doesn’t make us “more” righteous. We must get away from this dependenceon self. It’s sad to say, but much of what is called the Gospel today is actually promoting trust in self rather than trust in the Savior. That’s just false religion! The Grace of Christianity Grace is what sets true Christianity apart from every other religion in the world. Other religions may acknowledge and worship a “one true God.” They may even agree that Jesus existed and that His teachings are admirable. They say that He was a good man, perhaps even a prophet, but definitely not God manifest in the flesh. Religion refuses to acknowledge Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation—right relationship with God.Every false religion—even religious Christianity—puts the burden of salvation upon the individual. In other words, “salvation” is based upon your performance. If you live holy enough, do enough good things, observe all of these rituals and rules, then you might be able to be saved. The problem is—and Romans makes it crystal clear—that none of us can live up to those standards. We can’t save ourselves! True Christianity is the only faith on the face of the earth that has a Savior. On Judgment Day, each one of us must stand alone before God and answer the question, “What makes you worthy to enter into My presence?” The followers of every other religion will say, “I was holy and gave to the poor. I never did these things and always did these others. I even journeyed to the holy city and performed the prescribed rituals. I prayed three times a day, and fasted.” However, the Word plainly reveals that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. (Rom. 3:23.) Who wants to be the best sinner that ever went to hell? Therefore, you simply cannot trust in yourself for salvation. However, a born-again believer would answer that same question differently. They’d say, “Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior. I’m trusting completely in His goodness and His performance. It’s definitely not anything I’ve done. I get in based on what He did for me through His death, burial, and resurrection.” Now that’s the right approach! Someone told me… “Many people around the world who have embraced “Christianity” have never heard the true Gospel preached concerning God’s goodness and grace. They’re simply substituting “Christian” things to do instead of Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or some other religion’s things to do” Sad but true! For many people, Christianity is nothing but a different set of rules, doctrines, and regulations whereby they must earn their way to God or to receive something from God. That’s not the true Gospel“ What’s Christianity? Rules, “most” do, performance, condemnation, 24/7 working on church? What’s Christianity? A solemn praise where no claps are allow? What’s Christianity because based on that I prefer to say that I’m not longer a Christian… He found me! I’m not longer searching but following. I received the forgiveness of my sins, the healing of my body, the deliverance from Satan’s oppression, and whatever else I need. I believe we don’t need to convince people they are sinners and get them condemned. They already know that and feel condemned. We need to show them the way out of the mess they’re in. That’s what the Gospel does!...
All my life I was a Catholic and for 4yrs now I've been closer to the "christian" religion. I've been tormented by family members about leaving my religious roots. So all I say now is "I am not a Catholic, I am not a Christian...I BELIEVE IN GOD'S WORD, I HAVE BEEN SAVED FROM ALL MY SINS BY JESUS CHRIST...TOO LIVE BY GOD'S WORD IS BY HEART'S TRUE DESIRE AND MOST IMPORTANTLY...MY PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD & LIVING TESTIMONY IS WHAT GIVES LIGHT IN MY WAY!
So I say.....
18:1 + 18:2 \18:1\ I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. 18:3 \18:2\The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower.
AMEN!!! good word!!!!! There was a season when I was caught up in a 'churchianity' mindset... (religious activity where I was trying to earn God's love, by trying to be perfect internally as well as externally), but Thank You Lord... You set me free! (Was not raised in a church and was seeking, had to have false preconceptions exposed and released, so I could return to HIS grace and come into the fulness of it). These days I am led to use terms like 'I am a believer in the Teaching of Jesus Christ' ... or 'I am a follower of the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ' or the like... when faith is touched upon in conversations.... such opens the door to those who have heard the 'false gospel rooted in an anti-christ spirit'. who have been hurt/burnt ect by a false concept of 'Christianity' and would not be open to discussing HIS truth otherwise.
Some times I think we can even as "christians" loose sight of the grace Jesus has for us, and fall back into the works process. Thanks for the reminder that it is only grace that saves us from ourselves.
hahahahaha that's a good question Paul! It’s bad to say I’m Christian? I do not think so, in fact Acts 11:26 called the disciple Christians.
Basically I’m talking about that misconception thought as Christianity, which is confusing many people, especially in Latino America.
The point is that I born and grew up in a Christian family, which mind set was quiet confused about the message of salvation. Yes, Jesus save but I was taught the message that sin breaks your relationship or fellowship with God.
Many countries in Latino America come from a catholic background so many believe that confession is something that you have to do every time to take care about your salvation; you lose your salvation (“backslide”) every time you sin, until it’s confessed. Others believe your eternal salvation is still secure, but you lose fellowship, can’t get your prayers answered, or can’t be used of God if you sin. That’s not good news, since all of us sin (Rom. 3:23 and 1 John 1:8). Christians usually cope by trying to keep every sin confessed. Let me just put this honestly: That’s impossible! The Bible says that whatever is not of faith is sin (Rom. 14:23). Do we always walk in faith? James 4:17 reveals that sin isn’t only doing things that are wrong, but it’s not doing what we know is right. Would any claim they are loving God and others as they know they should?
By these definitions, we all sin through the weakness of our flesh. It’s impossible to keep every sin confessed. Even if it were possible, that puts the burden of salvation on our backs. There wouldn’t be any peace or rest in our relationship with the Lord if that’s the way it worked (Rom. 5:1). Most people, including Christians, see the forgiveness of sins as something that God can do, and continues to do, but not as something He has completed. From that comes the false concept that we must constantly confess our sins, which makes and keeps us sin conscious.
Than kind of Christianity is the one I deny! Jesus paid all. I’m free from sin, I’m not prefect…but God has not finished yet with me…what a relief!
Because God's justice was satisfied by the cross of Christ, he is not mad at us - justice has been served. Therefore, I agree with you, Jenily, God is not sin-conscious. When he looks at his kids he doesn't think, Oh, that's wrong and that's wrong and that's wrong. He looks and says to the person caught up in pornography: "What you need is more of my purity. Come to me and I will give it to you. I will make you white as snow." He looks at the person who is materialistic and says, "It's not things you need, it's more of me you need. Come to me, learn of me, and I will give you true riches."
This kind of thinking is opposite to what most of us have thought and been taught. May we all know the truth and be set free from self-effort and negativity (focusing on self makes us negative.)
Once again, we think alike. I have been meaning to write on this. If I do, I will cross reference to your blog once again!
You said: "From that comes the false concept that we must constantly confess our sins, which makes and keeps us sin conscious.
Than kind of Christianity is the one I deny! Jesus paid all. I’m free from sin, I’m not prefect…but God has not finished yet with me…what a relief!"
Bless God... according to the spiritual understanding I have been given... God sees us as perfect... He sees the finished work... and thus calls us to 'enter into HIS rest'. When we enter into HIS rest... we see through HIS eyes of eternity... we no longer have a sin consciousness... which keeps us bound to sin and death and self condemnation or self consciousness... but a Christ consciousness... which keeps us in HIS grace and ever abiding present truth!
Thank You Father for the mind of Christ...for eyes to see... for ears to hear... for the faith of Your Son for.................... which brings us into YOUR rest... where we can abide in Christ and Your finished work. Thank You Lord for the Holy Spirit of truth... who leads us into all truth and opens scripture to us and...................... Bless YOU!
4:1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left [us] of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard [it]. 4:3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.4:4 For he spake in a certain place of the seventh [day] on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. 4:5 And in this [place] again, If they shall enter into my rest. 4:6 Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: 4:7 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. 4:8 For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. 4:9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. 4:10For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God [did] from his. 4:11 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.4:12 For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 4:13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. 4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] profession. 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin. 4:16Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
For those desiring to study on God's Rest and what is being stated here to the Hebrew's, from a Hebrew perspective... and would like a book to read their bible which is filled with scripture they can look up while doing so ...may I suggest: Andrew Murray's 'The Holiest of All'
Andrew Murray's book "Abide in Christ" one of the first Christian Books I was given when I was first born of the Spirit... and I was led to more books inspired through him... recommend him highly for those who like to read books and study the scriptures in them, with their bible alongside while doing so... he has some beautiful prayers in his books/devotionals as well. For more titles or links to free online books by Andrew Murray please click: Casual Reviews of Books and Authors from Among the Body Of Christ and Seekers of Gods Truth
Thanks Lauren!!! Thanks for stopping by and let me a comment!
Guys help!!!!!! I inserted a code of a video in this post and now I'm realizing tha it has changed...why? somebody know? It is not the same video I placed this morning and it changed all by itself...how it happened????
What's sad is that the type of legalistic mindset that always focuses on sin has the complete wrong focus....it makes us focus always on the worst in ourselves and the worst in others....it's only when we take the correct approach of accepting God's grace towards us do we truly begin to understand the limitless depths of God's love. Then, we can have the focus on others that we need to have in trying to show them the love of God. It allows us to see ourselves as sinners saved by grace....and in this, actually will help us to sin less....because our focus is on Gods love. For if our only focus is on showing the love of God to others, then we don't have the time or mindset to be focused on sin.....
Great thoughts Jenily....it was such a blessing to me.
Jenily.... it's the same video as this morning from this end. I clicked on share video after watching it and tried to send a copy, could that have messed it up? If so... I do not know how to fix it and am sorry about that! Talk to Sue with the alligator... perhaps she can help??? (see my friends)
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Grace and faith are totally dependent upon each other. We are saved by grace through faith, not one or the other. God's Word teaches us that they must be combined. Failure to do this has been the reason for much frustration.
They were first called Christians at Antioch. It was a mockery of the believers who followed, loved, and served Christ there. If I am going to be persecuted and made fun of for following Jesus then call me a Christian, by all means but no one is truly "Christ"like in this world. We all live in sin-cursed bodies. They are depraved all the way to the grave. It is only in our new, glorified body that we can truly be like Christ. I am a believer - thank God by His grace and through my mustard seed faith. Nothing could I do to save myself, it is all of God. Nothing can I do to take away my salvation - I am sealed to the day of redemption. Thank you, God!!!!!
great blog. I'm reading some of the comments and the blog itself and i understand the whole 'not christian' deal but is it right that we disown ourselves from our God given name and identity, our RIGHT? i don't think so. People will call themselves 'christians' and by that i'm referring to hypocrites. but see it this way, if someone stole YOUR identity, your name and social security, would you willingly leave it for them and get a new one? of course not. it's who you are, whether your family is 'good' or not. The same way we must prove that WE ARE CHRISTIANS, and not let those who are discrediting us win. you see, the word doesn't need to be redefined, just applied. just a thought i felt the need to share.
Claps, claps claps! Excellent explanation for a 17 year old young lady! Excellent! Now you are talking about other side of this Christianity position, named testimonies; and it's so true we shouldn't abandon Christianity for others testimonies, but improve the reality of Christ in our own testimony!
But in my case I expressed that I decided to abandon the wrong teachings about Christ and Grace... :-)
I just came back to say this: “the best way to be a believer, follower or Christian is more than a title a heart’s attitude. We really need to shine out, show joy, love and a big smile.
I do not mater about title, nominations or distinctions…but about a humble heart attitude that shows the non-seen character of God
I call myself a believer or follower, it opens up good conversation. If someone asks me if I am a Christian, I'll ask them what is a Christian? Again it opens up "leading" conversation (Even Brazilian Witches call themselves that)
Christians were a name given to followers by pagans (and rightfully so), but as the treasured one says we have a God given name, or a God given character and authority that He gave us. Our lifestyle will show people who we really are, regardless of what we say. Thank God for His grace, who sees us perfect through the blood of Jesus!
I’m getting confused with this post’s comments. There was a time when I strived to be a 'good' Christian... And would beat myself up, mercilessly, when I failed to live up to the ideal. I found, more often than not, that I was attempting, in my striving, to be something other than authentic. I was, as I see it now, pretending to be, or more specifically, trying to be, someone other than myself.So, I now see myself, as a 'bad' Christian...Hoping, against hope, that God is indeed merciful and that grace is His defining characteristic.Are you a 'good' Christian? Honestly?
You are so right and our God is so awesome. When we became aware of good and Evil in the Garden of Eden, God knew that we could not handle it...Satan lied by telling a half truth to Eve....but the Grace of our god overcame the deception by God deciding to live among us as a man....He was the only one who could live perfectly and die perfectly in order to defeat death sting the consequence of our disobedience. He is the only way, the only truth, and the only life. Paul wrote it this way....through one man sin entered into the world, so by one man's death, Jesus Christ, we are restored to the Father. Praise His Holy Name today, tomorrow, forever. Thank you for sharing your heart for Him.
Dear Maria: I don’t think this blog is about bad or good Christian. I think it’s more about the value of The Kingdom. Understanding God just as He is, and in His full nature!...LOVE
Walking out from Social Christianity into the spirit of adoption; to be and act as sons and daughters of God.
God or bad…hmmmm! I think it’s not really an issue right now Maria. Don’t feel guilty and also remember we die daily to ourselves for that reason you feel that you are no longer “authentic” is because you are dying to one nature (old men) and you are adopting your real identity! :-)
What words and enlightment God gave you in this.... WOnderful is the Lord !
People think I have to change every way I think,feel ,breath, do.... There afraid of change ! What if I cannot make it ! Then I am more in trouble..Than never trying ! Its the unkown that makes us feared !
On the statement of works getting us to heaven... Nope God tells us so in His word ! The christian who thinks himself saved may not be...and one unsaved may be saved, do to they may be doing more than the christian, in doings of comapassion..LOve..Understanding... We do not know what someones mind says, or what they may say in private to GOD. Its God's choice in who will be saved , and not saved ! He sees and knows all about us ! He knows what we truly are...and what we truly do... NOT guess work like mans pointing fingers you did this ! Man makes many mistakes in thinking they Know what you have done, or not done.
Man whom thinks they are saved...out there pointing fingers at those they think are sinners is wrong ! That is GOd's call ! We, if walking with Gods ways.. The best we can... Can ask, do you know the Lord? Try to persuade men to God through Jesus ! But to Scare them to God ! Where would free will be in it for those you scaring to Christ ?(Not you Persy..men in general). Jesus brought us to Him with Honey.... We must draw others with the same Honey...Compassion ! Love ! Sharing the wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, GOD shown us..Through His Son Jesus Christ Our Lord !
Your writing here shows God in you Dear ! And I was Blessed to read it !
I too had tried to clean up my act..Throwing a3way years of romance novels.>Would not even pass them on... Through away what knots I'd been collecting ,as a new christian I took them as idols..TRashed them..Even the loved unicorns, I heard God loved... And much more changing I did ! And over time I seen it was not the things persy I did outside.>BUt more I needed changes inside ! Gradually I learned and changed to the new me ! But when we start a christian life.>We read alot and say I was dammned for this and that..in such anguish of our sins ! WE try to change much ! TRy to re-pay JESUS ! BUT we cannot ! NO one..ALL of us ! Cannot re-pay Him for what HE sacrificed ! After a few years of being a christian we learn the errors of our start into christianity ! We see all debts were paid from the begging ! And we live to Please God in following what HE wants us to do ! What he wishes us to keep , and throw out ! HE works in US more than OUT in the world ! WE are His church He purifies !
You mentioned NOt being catholic, christian,etc..
Do you know at calvary...and before...They called our Lord JEsus... The son of a carpenter... Even at calvary he was JEsus, the King of the Jews... as they mocked Him ! Christ came when they seen Him as the One, The son of God prophesy fortold. As people forcasted the story of Jesus and Calvary... Christ was referred too mostly.>Meaning Savior ! So that was when Christianity was born..Those that seeked Christ saviour.>Jesus. So it became known as Christ followers..that became Christians.
It is not the sin to think on true.>We as human have the conception to beat ourselves down.>When we learn of what JEsus Christ done for us..THen we beat ourselves badly ! We were not worthy of such a thing as Jesus dying for our sins ! BUT yes we were..OR Jesus would not have saved us ! That SHOW true love ! He seen our filth ! But HE made us NEW ! Just by our beleiving in Him ! PRAISE JESUS !!!!!
Everything is about relationship not religion when we seek a close, intimate fellowship with God, when we are exposed to His Word, the Holy Spirit show us God´s face -His Glory- and we experience a transformation...that's CHRISTIANITY “We, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord´s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, wich comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3.18).
hi albert! Thank you so much for your comment. I'm glad to know that you are a 100% God follower! God bless you and it's so nice to have you her...I never see you b4 in my post...So It makes me happy!
Although I agree with the spirit of the post in its declaration of freedom from legalism, or vain ritual without regard to a perfected love and relationship with Christ; I disagree with what I feel may be an unbalanced perspective. I do not agree with the implications that as a follower of Christ one does not need to try to live a life of holiness, or try to walk in the Spirit, or strive for the perfection of our love for Christ.
The scripture clearly states that receiving the salvation of Christ means you have been saved from eternal death. It also states that the undeserving loving kindness or grace God has bestowed those who believe in Christ is a gift not a right. Therefore because it is a gift we should not use that gift or liberty or freedom as an excuse, or liscense to sin.
2:4But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God: 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Scripture also teaches us that once we are believers in Christ we are new creatures, and must put on the new man. That we must put forth the effort to be a follower of Christ. We must die daily, and be living sacrifices that God can use. Scripture also tells us that the various gifts and callings given to us are to be used to "perfect" the saints for the "work of God's ministry" and for the "edification of the body of Christ". That we must use them until "we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:" The apostles understood that we endure the burden of our flesh, realizing that it takes a daily commitment but through God we can overcome it. As ambassadors we are officially appointed by God to represent Christ. How can you represent Him if you bear no resemblence to Him in thought, knowledge, language, spirit, love, or deeds?
12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 4:13Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
5:9 Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad. 5:17 Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
The word of God also admonishes us to "press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus". To reach for those things of God which are before us. A press means there is opposition, and work on our part in mindset and in deed as to carry out the "work of the ministry". We are striving the high calling of God in Christ.
3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
The scripture constanly warnes believers against returning back to the ways of the flesh, and urges them to "walk in the Spirit". Explaining in great details what the fruits of the Spirit are, and what behavior denoted fruits of the flesh. (Galations 5:16-26)
Being saved by grace through faith in Christ does not mean we are free to do whatever pleases us. We belong to God, he is our Master, we are his slaves, servants, even prisoners as Apostle Paul states! If you are a servant you do what is asked of you, you must be of use to your master. We are here to please, and worship Him.
I think what confuses some of us is not fully understanding that we are not our flesh. We are our spirit. We are encased in flesh. So the real us is fighting with what we are jailed inside of. We can never be completely perfect in a imperfect body, we will only reach that perfection in the new perfected bodies Christ will give us when we see him face to face. However that does not mean we don't try to let the spirit of God inside of us shine out by decreasing the power of our flesh over us. When we do succumb to the temptations of our flesh and we are aware of it, we should tell God we are sorry out of respect, reverance and love, and turn away from that temptation. How can we say we love God if we don't keep His commandment to love our brother as we love ourselves. And how can we say we love ourselves if we willingly harm ourselves by fullfilling the lusts of our flesh?
So while we are free not to live our lives imprisoned by legalism, or vain rituals. We should NOT use this freedom to continuosly yield to the temptations of the flesh. I do understand and was raised in legalism myself before coming to a greater knowledge through the teachings of the word of God at my current church. Now I've learned that like Christ I need to live a life of balance and excellence in all things. Striving toward perfection daily in my love for Christ, and relationship with Him; but not being burdened by guilt when I do fall short, or thinking I have arrived because I think I have not sinned for two years! (yea right). :=) Like the apostles have said it is a daily journey, one that I take take great joy in.
It is this way ~ Once we get past self... Then we see God ! More we see God more we let Him have His will in us ! Instead of selfs will, we normally would do without God ! God cleans us up once we adhere to His words. Follow Him and what He sets for us ! God then purifies us slowly..HE lets us understand what to get rid of in posessions. What to change in us that needs to be thrown away ! And He instills what He needs in us !
Yes we must refrain from sin, temptations. But we have to remember all SINS OF MAN FOR ALL TIME, sINCE BEGINNING OF CREATION GOD MADE ! sINCE CALVARY AND AFTER, ALSO IS IN THAT sins COVERED by JESUS OUR REDEEMER.!
God knew before He handed out the commandments, That man would fail them ! MOSes in BREAKING GODs law when handed them, Set presidence man fail to follow Gods laws. Why ? A Savior was too COME named JESUS ! Without man failing ! A saviour would not be needed.
We must strive daily to do our best to stay clean....We fail..But God set presidence also that we are forgiven ! By His Son Christs BLOOD !
GOD is AMAZING in the way HE works ! Have you ever seen Him answer, before you finished praying ? Thats do to God being ahead of us ! He has been ahead since the beginning ! Praise GOD !
MAn cannot however have a set mine to go and sin.... An accident is one thing when your weak. But to go out and pursue to do evil is wrong ! And chastizement will follow ~ As the 40 years in the desert the jewish children faced for purposely disobeying God ! The 40 years had those that committed out right sin to wander till those that partook died ! The children of them they had or birthed in the 40 years. Were the ones to go on to the promised land ! Only a few elderly went on to the promised land ! Even Moses could not go.>Do to being the one to break the commandments ! Why ? Moses got angry ! and acted out ! Anger is suppose to be Gods own to do..When He chooses. His children are not to do His Job. So Moses died after seeing from the mount.>The promised land.
We must remember that all sin is forgiving except the blaspheming of the Holy Ghost. Many people believe this to be using gods name as a curse word ! Though that is a very bad thing to do, and a sin. THey meant to say their is no God, Or word of God ! That is the worst sin !
May God Bless Ya'll !
If you need further encouragement christianster.com is a good place !
praise the Lord!!! u nailed it.. (so did HE) i always say at fellowship or prayer meetings that i pretty much hate christians, but i love Jesus followers..
I think I see what she's saying, you know, to not claim the religion, but the Savior.
It just comes out as a bit confusing when you first read it.
I agree with it. Following the Messiah isn't about rules, rites, or repeated mutterings to people who aren't even part of the Trinity - it's about grace and how others can get involved.
Thank you all for such a wonderful comments! Wow!!!!
Dear Yaa!! You are right the freedom of legalism doesn’t imply that we are free to sin…NOOO!!!
When you are born-again, sin is not longer an issue between God and you! Flesh is the issue that you have to address. Why you should sin no more? Because God will be mad at you? It’s because He will depart from you? No! Sin is not longer an issue between you and God, once you receive Jesus.
But we have to deal with those areas in our life where the devil has messed it up so bad, so we take bad the God’s given authority as believer. If you do not take responsibility over your flesh and let your Spirit rule over you the devil will take your lunch and pop the bag! But It’s a freedom to know that no matter what…God love me!
Bu this is my point, religious teachers say, “You must come to our church. You must pay your tithes, read your Bible, and pray more, to mention a few. Then, if you do all these things just right, you have to be a “good” person, so God will accept you and love you back.” It’s against the “good news” of God’s grace because it’s putting the burden of salvation on your back—and you can’t bear it. Nobody can save themselves.
The Gospel isn’t only the belief in salvation, but it’s also the understanding of the means by which this salvation is obtained. “If you’ll act good and do good, then you’ll be good” isn’t the true Gospel. Notice what Paul said while addressing the very first ministers’ conference at Ephesus: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24).
As I mentioned b4 another way Paul could have said this is, “I am testifying of the Gospel—which is the good news of the grace of God.” The words “Gospel” and “grace” are terms that can be used interchangeably. The good news—or Gospel—is the grace of God.
Even the word salvation is misunderstood. Evangelical Christianity says that salvation is a one-time occurrence, an experience when your sins are forgiven. That’s true, there is a moment when you pass from death to life, but that is not all that happens. It’s an incomplete definition. Salvation isn’t limited to the initial born-again experience.
Salvation is a package deal and it’s all accomplished by the grace of God, not our works. However, Satan is always trying to deceive us. He is the one who wants us to believe we must earn things from God. He is the one causing us to doubt the Lord’s willingness to use His ability on our behalf, and unfortunately, the church is often reinforcing that belief.
I’ve had many believers saying to me, “Why am I not healed? I’ve fasted, prayed, and studied the Word. I pay my tithes and go to church. I’m doing the best I can. What does God demand?” When I hear that, they have just given me the answer to their question. They aren’t pointing to what Jesus did; they are pointing to what they have done, and that always leads to failure.Most people believe that God moves in their lives proportional to their performance. That was the error Paul was dealing with in the book of Romans. When Paul came along and said “I’m not ashamed of the Gospel!” he was saying “I am not ashamed to tell people about the goodness, grace, and mercy of God. The Lord loves us in spite of who we are and what we’ve done.” Now that’s “good news!”
It’s hard to have a relationship with God when you believe that a person’s relationship with God dependent on self. “Look what I have done for the Lord, how holy I’ve been, and how much I’ve denied myself.” This is actually a very self-centered, self-dependent way of approaching God that never produces any fruit in your life.
I went for years not understanding this. In 1995 He restored this prodigal daughter! But still, at times, I struggle with this fact. I know it is true...it happened to me. I was rejected totally by my earthly father. The Lord mercifully adopted me into His eternal family. Amazing, yes!! We finally belong to a wonderful fellowship where grace and forgiveness is taught. I see His Hand in my heart and in my life. I will never totally understand love like this while on earth but I treasure it.
There is a HUGE population of lost and deceived people roaming this planet...thank you for doing your part in sharing the good news. May you continue to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ok, now that I read the whole blog can say it was SOO good, it's sad how sometimes we lost the way God want us to walk which is just follow Him, cause we are too busy chasing a gold medal christianity or trying to be a super christian 24/7, when what we need to ask our self is "what would Jesus do?", is sad when we point others religious cause we know how to proof they are wrong, is sad when we totally reject someone just because that person is gay or drink, use drugs, smoke, etc how sad should be our Father when we reject someone else (who is another God's creation) just because...so next time we are tempted to reject someone just because... think again.... and do what Jesus did.
P.D: I think I made another blog...but you inspire me with this blog!!
I feel so blessed with your presence here! it's awesome how we can gather and exchange experiences, teachings and testimonies. All your comments built up this post. Honestly, you guys are the authors ..for you are the stars!!!
Grace is such a powerful theme and gift that even in simple post can impact many lives. It's almost two weeks since I wrote this article, and people all around still coming and leaving messages. It's not because the post is good indeed...but because GRACE NEVER EXPIRE! We always can say and share something about it! thank you Jesus...I love you!
There seems to always be a pharasee around wherever you go. My thot is for you not to "be good" but to be Gods.Cosmetic christianity can lead to a spirit of religeon (a demon) and only serves to move you away from what the Spirit is saying. Remember there were people around in Jesus day that loved the word, prayed all the time, paid their tithe and had the promise but rejected God's Messiah. In fact one of them said to Jesus that he was a Samaritan (insult) and that he was demon possesed. And he (pharasee) felt good about it, impowered by his friends. So Trust in the Lord with all of your heart lean not to your own understanding, in all of your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path. Remember you rock because Jesus rocked you first.
9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
It's unfortunate that we increasingly need to make a distinction between types of Christians, but Jesus Himself says in Matthew 7:21 "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the kingdom of heaven." And He continues speaking about false teachers in verses 22-23 and what He will say to them:
22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Who is the "them" Jesus speaks to? Unbelievers? The heathen? No - unbelievers and heathen don't refer to Jesus as Lord. Which leaves who? How about believers who thought they served Him. And again, who would that be? Jesus says we will know them by their fruits. (Read all of Matthew 7)
Who wants to hear Jesus say to them "I never knew you: depart from me..."? That's why we need to examine ourselves, whether we be in the faith; and to make our calling and election sure.
Jesus Himself tells people who thought they served Him, "Depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity.
The Bible does give the name "Christian" as being those who are followers of Christ. Does this mean there are true followers and false followers? Well, there are disciples and there is the multitude. The multitude of today considers themselves "Christian"...but disciples do too.
There is a Remnant Church all throughout the book of Revelation, which means that there are people reserved of God from various walks of life and denominations...including those who might say your input is apostasy.
1 Corin 13:10 But, when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part will be done away with.
Until then, I would encourage not to throw out the baby with the bathwater.
i wish i had the wrods to express my slef i know this thought you speek of about no one wonting me around or in there church cuse i was and still am a biker and had long hair sayed had it short know but not going to grow it back long well take care nice job shame you had to speek so fast to get it all in but nice job as well thanks so much for sharing it . Biker Dan
" For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba Father". Rom.8:15
" You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace." Gal.5:4
" This is love, that we walk according to His commandments.............................." 2 John 6
" If we confess our sins , He is faithful to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John:9
We cannot fulfill the law. Christ is the fulfillment of the law and our righteousness. We are of the sin nature justified through Christ. I can't speak for all Christians but I sin daily. I am a work in progress. The end of the work (Christ is the author and finisher of our faith) is santification. This is not of ourselves lest anyone boast; but through our right relationship with Him.We are called to be holy as God is holy. One function of the Holy Spirit is to convict me of sin in my life. I in turn should confess and repent. If I don't I am being disobedient. If I'm in a relationship, (which seems to be the theme here) and I do something contrary to the relationship or hurt the other in some way without attempting to make amends or reconcile my actions to the person - then I do not have a very healthy relationship. Sin hurts God ! We are often aware of our sin. When we are, we are called to confess and " He is faithful to forgive".
For those of you struggling with the commandment part here 1 John 3:23 makes it pretty easy
".............that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment. God Bless.
Jenily: Great word! That's exactly how I've come to believe in Christ! We are unworthy, but His love reaches far beyond our unworthyness. The gift of salvation is precisely that, A GIFT!! Our good deeds towards our neighbor is done in obedience & gratitude to show Him love, not to repay Him. Thank you for your blog, & please continue to be a light in this obscure world, in which guilt hinders many to come to Jesus. Blessings to you & yours! <3 <3 <3
Thanks guuys for your comments! WOW!!!! I'm really happy with all your comments and opinions about these topic "GRACE"... I did not reply b4 bcoz I was working..but I keep all of you in my mind every moment!
Interesting play on words and certainly attention-grabbing. On the other hand, I am more and more a Christian than ever. What I mean by that is the same as you. We are speaking in the same direction. I am more and more a Christ-ian (a follower of Christ and his teachings) and less and less a mere church-goer.
WOW, I loved the video and what you had to say. I too understand you are crying out against the pharasee approach we have in the modern church to "do" the christian walk. Just think if we really believed the message of Grace. I mean I am accepted by God. God sent His only Son to go through all that agony so He could have a realtionship with me!!!!
So many times I don't stop to ponder this awesome truth. And then I get wondering why certain things are happening or why I am treated wrongly by others. Then in the middle of those thoughts, all I have to do is sit back and consider the Wonder of it All!!!
Then I can follow after a God who knows me, is never embarassed by me when I don't happen to say or do or think the right things. He is my best confidant and the only true source of Joy and Peace.
So then our works are not a way to look better to others and to earn favor with our Lord and our God, as that has been taken care of with our Salvation. But our heart so wants to respond in love to the God who loved us and that reponse is where we are motivated to please God and follow after His teachings.
Thanks for a great video and thoughts. I too would like to be called a True Follower of Christ which is what being a Christian means. I do not want to be connected with churchianity. Grace and Peace, your brother in Christ, Brent
Jenily, I appreciate the spirit of your post and am happy that after all that searching you found home but with all due respect, like a lot of people you have an extremely simplified view of religion. Contrary to what some Christians like to believe Jesus never condemned religion, He condemned the exploitation of religion. In all of His encounters with the Pharisees never once did He condemne them for being Phairsees. He condemned them for oppressing those who looked to them for leadership and for abusing their position. James describes "true religion" as basically loving and serving the poor, and while lit's certainly true that much religion in our culture falls short of that definition, he never says that religion is the problem. It is too easy to blame all the problems in Christianity on religion, it goes deeper than that and we all struggle with it, whether we are faithful devout Cahtholics or home-church worshipping non-denominational Christians or anything in between.
You suggest that true Christianity does not take place within solemn services where there is no clapping. I find that insulting and condesceding. Not all of us had the same experinec as you. I grew up in a church that started out solid but eventually became one that did not really value tradition or liturgy. The services were pretty much a bunch of praise songs and a 30 minute pep-talk disguised as a sermon. It all seemed so empty and soon I had completely disconnected myself from any sort of faith life. Years later I found myself attending a Lutheran church. The Holy Spirit spoke to me though the liturgy and the Christ-centered cross focused preashing, the liturgy, the boldly confessional hymns (as opposed to empty praise songs), and the great theology, and the creeds. And yes there are somber moments in those services, but those are actually some of the most edifying moments for a lot of people. It may not be for a lot of people but for many it's womderful. So next time you see one of those somber services don't be so quick to dismiss it as lacking real Christianity. The Holy Spirt is able to reach people in ways that we may not understand. God bless, Steve
It wasn't my intention to offend anyone who worship in a solemm way. BTW I never said that the Holy Spirit can't dwell among that type of adoration.
But worship is another post, I'm talking about grace and I do not believe that I'm simplying the view...How could I? it's extremelly deep... I can't say that I understand it all...But I'm so free and complete!
There are dead fellowships "of all kinds", branded with different labels... with true "hungry" believers that still search for a place to belong. There are beautiful worshipful praise songs, and there are wonderful traditional hymns that will forever touch my heart. Jesus knows what each of us needs to grow, and for that matter, He knows where we need to be- to grow.
The thing that touched home for me with this blog is that I can so relate. I was one who walked around trying so hard to be perfect and trying so hard to please God so He would love me. Imagine this: I just kept falling short and ending up miserable! The liberating truth is that He does love me! And the beautiful, awesome thing is that He loves me in spite of me! My simple mind has a really hard time comprehending this thing. Where is it in 2Timothy where it says that salvation is a gift from God, not of our own works...so that we cannot boast.
I do not see condemnation of any "religion" here, in this blog...only a very thankful heart that has realized the glorious freedom that is in Christ!!
2:5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 2:6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly `places', in Christ Jesus: 2:7 that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus: 2:8 for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, `it is' the gift of God;
5:12 I would that they that unsettle you would even go beyond circumcision. 5:13 For ye, brethren, were called for freedom; only `use' not your freedom for an occasion to the flesh, but through love be servants one to another.
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