Saturday, February 6, 2010
IT IS COMING
One more month until the Trick Flow Ford Mustang rumbles the ground at Twin City Dragway. I am ready to put 565 horses to the ground in a low 11 second run. Chevy boys beware!!!!
Let Me Explain!
Okay my Brothers,
My thoughts on the last blog had nothing to do with "associations".
My thoughts were concerning individual New Testament churches (who are soveriegn and can do what ever they want) and individual members of New Testament churches taking part in the activities of false religions.
I know, please define a false religion--Any organization that does not have the authority Jesus gave His church.
How do you know? By the doctrines they teach. (Bro. James there very well may be a true New Testament church out there that do not call themselves "Baptist") Good luck finding one. Even in non-denominational religions that teach Bible salvation do not teach "church authority"
I do not take part in Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Pentecost, Church of Christ, Church of God, Assembly of God, Nazarene, Latter Day Saints, Jehovah Witness, any Baptists who are not of like order and faith (doctrinally--nothing to do with missions and associational works), Non-Denominational or any other religion that was started by a man, or woman.
I don't pray with them I pray for them. To pray with them is to accept their beliefs.
ie. I was once invited to the football stadium. All the religions in the parish were coming together to pray for the salvation of the youth. I did not go. Some, maybe even some of you, said that I did not care about the youth. They wanted to know why I did not join the effort. My answer to them was this--If all religions assemble to pray for the salvation of the youth, all believing in different ways to be saved, WHO is God going to listen to?
My friends God does not here the prayers of those who ask Him to save by works, baptism, or any other means outside of grace through faith.
To attend this prayer service would be an admittance that each religion represented were just in my eyes and in the eyes of God.
When we as a church or as an individual go to the organized functions of false religions we are consenting to their teachings.
Just as Peter in Galatians, we proclaim by our actions-we implicate that we accept the religion--its teachings and practices.
Okay everyone wants to hear it from me so here it is---M B S F
There is nothing wrong with the MBSF inviting "ALL" "WHOSOEVER" to their Bible studies and any other function they may have.
The MBSF must not, however, compromise teachings to keep from offending other religions (not referring to the doctrinal statement of the ABA.
First teach them how to be saved, teach them of Baptism and church membership also after they are saved.
Of course their are many other lessons for them, things to help them cope with things etc etc.
The MBSF, although they invite all, they should never attend the organized functions of another religion.
When asked why a door is opened to teach them why, and witness to them about Jesus.
This was my thought in my post. The taking part in the organized functions of false religions. As members of the Lord's New Testament church we are to be a witness of truth. We are not to compromise with false teachings. Sadly, this is what has happened with many. Our desire to have fun and be a part of a "Christian" group has caused us to compromise and conform. Churches are conforming, church members are conforming, and God's men are conforming.
My Brethren, in all honesty of heart ask yourself the following question.
When I assemble myself together with a religious group, in a worship setting, or in a manner in which all perceive that a group of "Christians" are gathering together in oneness and harmony; what do my actions say?
To the false religions they say "Hey, we are all working to get to the same place--though we believe different it doesn't matter God accepts us all"
To the onlooking world we say, "There is not difference in any religion, all are equally the same."
AT THE END OF THE DAY
It is your decision. I do not condemn you nor do I attempt to correct you. I am only posting my beliefs that I have based on God's Word. So brothers please let us not get into an all out debate after you wrest some of my phrases from its context. I do love to see people saved. I would never be rude to anyone--not even an athiest.
I would not ridicule them or the religion in which they support. I would, however, do all I could to teach them why I believe what I believe. Lastly, let us be careful at the things in which we participate, in the quest to see souls saved. Let us not use our liberty for a cloak; not all things done in the name of Jesus have anything to do with Jesus.
Love You My Brothers--if you want to debate email me @ grappejc@att.net.
My thoughts on the last blog had nothing to do with "associations".
My thoughts were concerning individual New Testament churches (who are soveriegn and can do what ever they want) and individual members of New Testament churches taking part in the activities of false religions.
I know, please define a false religion--Any organization that does not have the authority Jesus gave His church.
How do you know? By the doctrines they teach. (Bro. James there very well may be a true New Testament church out there that do not call themselves "Baptist") Good luck finding one. Even in non-denominational religions that teach Bible salvation do not teach "church authority"
I do not take part in Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Pentecost, Church of Christ, Church of God, Assembly of God, Nazarene, Latter Day Saints, Jehovah Witness, any Baptists who are not of like order and faith (doctrinally--nothing to do with missions and associational works), Non-Denominational or any other religion that was started by a man, or woman.
I don't pray with them I pray for them. To pray with them is to accept their beliefs.
ie. I was once invited to the football stadium. All the religions in the parish were coming together to pray for the salvation of the youth. I did not go. Some, maybe even some of you, said that I did not care about the youth. They wanted to know why I did not join the effort. My answer to them was this--If all religions assemble to pray for the salvation of the youth, all believing in different ways to be saved, WHO is God going to listen to?
My friends God does not here the prayers of those who ask Him to save by works, baptism, or any other means outside of grace through faith.
To attend this prayer service would be an admittance that each religion represented were just in my eyes and in the eyes of God.
When we as a church or as an individual go to the organized functions of false religions we are consenting to their teachings.
Just as Peter in Galatians, we proclaim by our actions-we implicate that we accept the religion--its teachings and practices.
Okay everyone wants to hear it from me so here it is---M B S F
There is nothing wrong with the MBSF inviting "ALL" "WHOSOEVER" to their Bible studies and any other function they may have.
The MBSF must not, however, compromise teachings to keep from offending other religions (not referring to the doctrinal statement of the ABA.
First teach them how to be saved, teach them of Baptism and church membership also after they are saved.
Of course their are many other lessons for them, things to help them cope with things etc etc.
The MBSF, although they invite all, they should never attend the organized functions of another religion.
When asked why a door is opened to teach them why, and witness to them about Jesus.
This was my thought in my post. The taking part in the organized functions of false religions. As members of the Lord's New Testament church we are to be a witness of truth. We are not to compromise with false teachings. Sadly, this is what has happened with many. Our desire to have fun and be a part of a "Christian" group has caused us to compromise and conform. Churches are conforming, church members are conforming, and God's men are conforming.
My Brethren, in all honesty of heart ask yourself the following question.
When I assemble myself together with a religious group, in a worship setting, or in a manner in which all perceive that a group of "Christians" are gathering together in oneness and harmony; what do my actions say?
To the false religions they say "Hey, we are all working to get to the same place--though we believe different it doesn't matter God accepts us all"
To the onlooking world we say, "There is not difference in any religion, all are equally the same."
AT THE END OF THE DAY
It is your decision. I do not condemn you nor do I attempt to correct you. I am only posting my beliefs that I have based on God's Word. So brothers please let us not get into an all out debate after you wrest some of my phrases from its context. I do love to see people saved. I would never be rude to anyone--not even an athiest.
I would not ridicule them or the religion in which they support. I would, however, do all I could to teach them why I believe what I believe. Lastly, let us be careful at the things in which we participate, in the quest to see souls saved. Let us not use our liberty for a cloak; not all things done in the name of Jesus have anything to do with Jesus.
Love You My Brothers--if you want to debate email me @ grappejc@att.net.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
FELLOWSHIPPING TOGETHER
Why is fellowshipping with those who are not of like faith and order such a big issue today?
Why do so many try to justify ecuminicalism?
The reason is that many today just like having fun; fellowshipping with all who profess to be "Christians"
While we are having our fun fellowshipping with those who are not of like faith and order, we are forgetting that iin our fellowshipping we are condoning their beliefs. [Call it what you want preachers this is the truth].
Call me mean, hateful and unloving; call me uncaring, but the fact is this--Jesus established His church to go into the world to preach the Word to the unbelieving, not fellowship with them and wish them God Speed.
If you like to play "Christian Fellowship" with the religious of the world that is your choice, but please don't take the Bible, bend it and wrest it to make it say what you want it to say or support ecuminicalism.
Final Thought--Why is this subject such a debate today? Because God's people are neck deep in ecuminicalism and don't know how to get out, or don't want to get out--because it is so much fun.
Love Your Brother in Christ
Bro Joey Grappe
PS. To my Brethren who want to slay me with Scriptures, PLEASE make sure that you use them in context.
Why do so many try to justify ecuminicalism?
The reason is that many today just like having fun; fellowshipping with all who profess to be "Christians"
While we are having our fun fellowshipping with those who are not of like faith and order, we are forgetting that iin our fellowshipping we are condoning their beliefs. [Call it what you want preachers this is the truth].
Call me mean, hateful and unloving; call me uncaring, but the fact is this--Jesus established His church to go into the world to preach the Word to the unbelieving, not fellowship with them and wish them God Speed.
If you like to play "Christian Fellowship" with the religious of the world that is your choice, but please don't take the Bible, bend it and wrest it to make it say what you want it to say or support ecuminicalism.
Final Thought--Why is this subject such a debate today? Because God's people are neck deep in ecuminicalism and don't know how to get out, or don't want to get out--because it is so much fun.
Love Your Brother in Christ
Bro Joey Grappe
PS. To my Brethren who want to slay me with Scriptures, PLEASE make sure that you use them in context.
A LONG FAR CRY!
A little boy riding a tricycle is a long far cry from a race car driver.
A little boy with a BB gun is a long far cry from a sniper.
A little boy with a toy airplane is a long far cry from an astronaut.
You Add The Rest
A little boy with a BB gun is a long far cry from a sniper.
A little boy with a toy airplane is a long far cry from an astronaut.
You Add The Rest
Thursday, January 28, 2010
WHY?
Why can't the Lord's New Testament churches just do what He sent them into the world to do? Why do His churches have to be involved with everything except the "Great Commission"?
Why can't God's men, whom He called into the gospel ministry, just commit themselves to fulfilling their calling? Why are we, as God called men, trying to change God, His ways, His teachings? Why can't we just preach and teach God's Word?
Why can't God's people be happy with service that is undefiled before God? Why do many seek to stone "Stephen" when truth is taught? Why do they seek the pleasures of the world over the service to the Lord?
1. Because we have to keep up with main stream religion. Because the "Great Comission" is old school, we live in the 21st century, we have to be more hip, mix things up--Hey, if we don't have it or offer it we cant add to the church--God adds not us
2. Because we remain ignorant of Bible truths. We don't study like we should. Because we would rather make people laugh that preach truth that convicts them of sin. Because we want to be popular, liked, men pleasers we have become.
3. God's people are becoming less and less faithful-in service and in godly living. Less interested in the things of God and more interested in competed with false religion.
Summary: If the Lord's churches would commit themselves to the "Great Commission", and God's men would stop playing who is the best preacher and start fulfilling their office, then God's people would be taught, they would be growing, and they would be seeking to please God instead of self.
Why can't God's men, whom He called into the gospel ministry, just commit themselves to fulfilling their calling? Why are we, as God called men, trying to change God, His ways, His teachings? Why can't we just preach and teach God's Word?
Why can't God's people be happy with service that is undefiled before God? Why do many seek to stone "Stephen" when truth is taught? Why do they seek the pleasures of the world over the service to the Lord?
1. Because we have to keep up with main stream religion. Because the "Great Comission" is old school, we live in the 21st century, we have to be more hip, mix things up--Hey, if we don't have it or offer it we cant add to the church--God adds not us
2. Because we remain ignorant of Bible truths. We don't study like we should. Because we would rather make people laugh that preach truth that convicts them of sin. Because we want to be popular, liked, men pleasers we have become.
3. God's people are becoming less and less faithful-in service and in godly living. Less interested in the things of God and more interested in competed with false religion.
Summary: If the Lord's churches would commit themselves to the "Great Commission", and God's men would stop playing who is the best preacher and start fulfilling their office, then God's people would be taught, they would be growing, and they would be seeking to please God instead of self.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
HOLDING THE FAITH WITH PARTIALITY
HOLDING THE FAITH WITH PARTIALITY
James 2:1-4
INTRODUCTION
A. James addresses his “brethren”. This is not a physical kinship but a spiritual one. “My brethren”, my brothers and sisters in Christ, fellow members of the Lord’s New Testament churches, those who are now scattered throughout the region.
B. James is going to speak concerning the “faith”
faith: the doctrine of Christ and His teachings, those delivered unto His church.
C. These verses address the manner in which God’s people “have”, hold or possess the faith.
D. These four verses will expose those who are prejudice against those whom the Lord desires to be saved, baptized, and taught the all things.
“have not the faith”
have not the faith: to hold as your personal possession
A. James warns his brethren that they shouldn't hold onto the faith as if it is their own personal property in which they can possess in any manner of their choosing. It is the faith:
“of our Lord Jesus Christ”
A. The “faith” that was delivered unto the saints is the Lord’s system of doctrines in which His church is to deliver unto the world.
1. The church is to preach, baptize, and teach the all things to all men in all places.
B. James refers to our “Lord Jesus Christ” as “the Lord of glory”.
1. The Lord Jesus Christ is the glory of God revealed unto men.
C. Therefore His teachings are God’s teachings and by His teachings, by the faith, all men may see the glory of God and glorify God.
D. Therefore church do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ:
“with respect of persons”
respect of persons: to fix the eye upon, to show partiality or favoritism
A. James addresses a problem that is still present in the Lord’s churches today.
1. We will preach, baptize, and teach those who are appealing to us—we will witness to those who we think will make a good church member.
2. Those who are less desirable to us can receive the faith from someone else.
B. The “faith” is not ours to distribute to who we think deserves it or to those who we desire over others.
1. The Great Commission teaches us that the church is to spread the faith throughout all the world—preaching it to every creature.
“For if there come unto your assembly” 2
A. Not any assembly but “your” assembly”. The church—James addresses the manner in which church members treat visitors, and even their own church members.
Read 2-4
B. James speaks of two men—the man in goodly apparel—and the man dressed in vile raiment. Rich man poor man
C. The rich man was shown favoritism while the poor man was given the lowest estate in the congregation-under the footstool.
D. How do you treat those who come to your assembly?
1. Are some looked upon with greater desire than others?
2. Do we treat everyone the same or do we cater to the rich, the beautiful, intellectual, etc?
3. Who will you give your seat to—the thief, drunkard, drug addict, murderer, beggar—or is it reserved for the rich man.
E. Again the rich man has more to offer than the poor; therefore many times these are treated with favoritism—in hopes to win them that they may give what they have to offer.
F. The poor man wore vile raiment.
vile: dirty, filthy-it reflects a man in a mendicant state, a beggar/ more than dress but this man is nasty and filthy—he can also be a very sinful man (this man represents that which is disgusting to society.
G. The poor man is in the same condition as the fatherless and widows in their affliction (1:26, 27). They don’t have much to offer so their place is under “my” footstool.
1. Many are guilty of showing this partiality to those who visit their assembly.
2. Partiality is even shown within the membership--many churches today are placing all their emphasis on the youth while neglecting the older of the church.
3. The faith is to be delivered unto all men of all ages—rich and poor.
“Are ye not then partial in yourselves”?
A. In your own mind you have made a distinction between the rich man and poor man.
“and are become judges of evil thoughts”
A. By your evil thoughts you have judged as to who you believe is worthy of receiving the faith.
1. In our mind the rich man and poor man are different—one more deserving than the other.
CONCLUSION
A. When we hold the faith with respect of persons we are partial in ourselves and are judges of evil thoughts.
B. We take the faith, which is meant for all men to hear and receive—and distribute it to who we think is worthy.
C. Churches need to take a long look at to whom Jesus delivered the faith.
James 2:1-4
INTRODUCTION
A. James addresses his “brethren”. This is not a physical kinship but a spiritual one. “My brethren”, my brothers and sisters in Christ, fellow members of the Lord’s New Testament churches, those who are now scattered throughout the region.
B. James is going to speak concerning the “faith”
faith: the doctrine of Christ and His teachings, those delivered unto His church.
C. These verses address the manner in which God’s people “have”, hold or possess the faith.
D. These four verses will expose those who are prejudice against those whom the Lord desires to be saved, baptized, and taught the all things.
“have not the faith”
have not the faith: to hold as your personal possession
A. James warns his brethren that they shouldn't hold onto the faith as if it is their own personal property in which they can possess in any manner of their choosing. It is the faith:
“of our Lord Jesus Christ”
A. The “faith” that was delivered unto the saints is the Lord’s system of doctrines in which His church is to deliver unto the world.
1. The church is to preach, baptize, and teach the all things to all men in all places.
B. James refers to our “Lord Jesus Christ” as “the Lord of glory”.
1. The Lord Jesus Christ is the glory of God revealed unto men.
C. Therefore His teachings are God’s teachings and by His teachings, by the faith, all men may see the glory of God and glorify God.
D. Therefore church do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ:
“with respect of persons”
respect of persons: to fix the eye upon, to show partiality or favoritism
A. James addresses a problem that is still present in the Lord’s churches today.
1. We will preach, baptize, and teach those who are appealing to us—we will witness to those who we think will make a good church member.
2. Those who are less desirable to us can receive the faith from someone else.
B. The “faith” is not ours to distribute to who we think deserves it or to those who we desire over others.
1. The Great Commission teaches us that the church is to spread the faith throughout all the world—preaching it to every creature.
“For if there come unto your assembly” 2
A. Not any assembly but “your” assembly”. The church—James addresses the manner in which church members treat visitors, and even their own church members.
Read 2-4
B. James speaks of two men—the man in goodly apparel—and the man dressed in vile raiment. Rich man poor man
C. The rich man was shown favoritism while the poor man was given the lowest estate in the congregation-under the footstool.
D. How do you treat those who come to your assembly?
1. Are some looked upon with greater desire than others?
2. Do we treat everyone the same or do we cater to the rich, the beautiful, intellectual, etc?
3. Who will you give your seat to—the thief, drunkard, drug addict, murderer, beggar—or is it reserved for the rich man.
E. Again the rich man has more to offer than the poor; therefore many times these are treated with favoritism—in hopes to win them that they may give what they have to offer.
F. The poor man wore vile raiment.
vile: dirty, filthy-it reflects a man in a mendicant state, a beggar/ more than dress but this man is nasty and filthy—he can also be a very sinful man (this man represents that which is disgusting to society.
G. The poor man is in the same condition as the fatherless and widows in their affliction (1:26, 27). They don’t have much to offer so their place is under “my” footstool.
1. Many are guilty of showing this partiality to those who visit their assembly.
2. Partiality is even shown within the membership--many churches today are placing all their emphasis on the youth while neglecting the older of the church.
3. The faith is to be delivered unto all men of all ages—rich and poor.
“Are ye not then partial in yourselves”?
A. In your own mind you have made a distinction between the rich man and poor man.
“and are become judges of evil thoughts”
A. By your evil thoughts you have judged as to who you believe is worthy of receiving the faith.
1. In our mind the rich man and poor man are different—one more deserving than the other.
CONCLUSION
A. When we hold the faith with respect of persons we are partial in ourselves and are judges of evil thoughts.
B. We take the faith, which is meant for all men to hear and receive—and distribute it to who we think is worthy.
C. Churches need to take a long look at to whom Jesus delivered the faith.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Pastors, Have you ever been asked?
Oh how I love the questions that are asked when going in view of a call. You know them:
1.Do you agree withe the 21 doctrinal statement of the ABA? We say yes--I ask do you even know them?
2. Grape juice or wine?
3. Do you visit?
4. Testimony of salvation and call
5. Do you mow your grass?
6. Do you run up the utility bills?
7. Etc Etc
8. Do you meet the qualities stated in 1 Timothy 3? Anybody ever said no? of course not
One question that I have never been asked, nor have I ever heard of any my brothers being asked,
Do you have a desire to pastor a New Testament church?
I think it would be a good one to ask--what do you think?
1.Do you agree withe the 21 doctrinal statement of the ABA? We say yes--I ask do you even know them?
2. Grape juice or wine?
3. Do you visit?
4. Testimony of salvation and call
5. Do you mow your grass?
6. Do you run up the utility bills?
7. Etc Etc
8. Do you meet the qualities stated in 1 Timothy 3? Anybody ever said no? of course not
One question that I have never been asked, nor have I ever heard of any my brothers being asked,
Do you have a desire to pastor a New Testament church?
I think it would be a good one to ask--what do you think?
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