The Hand Of the Lord Org
Music link: https://youtu.be/iulGLSK6odo
A number of weeks ago, I had just gotten so fed up with society and the church, so I published a number of papers dealing with the hypocrisies and inconsistencies of the church. For over forty years, I have had to witness church after church take advantage of God's people and it has always been so disgusting to me that it literally makes me want to throw up.
I am going to be honest and tell you that after writing on all of these churches, I just didn't want to be a part of many of them anymore. You see, for my life I have defended the Charismatic "Streams" which have come out of the movement.
Recently with the popularity of "You Tube," there is now ministry after ministry of non-Charismatic self proclaimed or organized non-Charismatic churches which are just downloading on the abuses of where the "Spirit Filled Churches," have been taking the movement.
Personally, I cannot believe some of the things in which the "Spirit Filled," churches are accused of. Nevertheless, I know for the most part and have always said that if a ministry is not "Spirit Filled," then many times they will distort what they are preaching. That is because many have a sincere hatred of "Spirit Filled Churches," because they are afraid to experience the "Anointing," because of fear. Thus they preach against them without a clear understanding of why they do particular things which can seem strange to them. .
Well, a few days ago, I came upon one reporter who I believe was one such person, yet I had to listen to her as she was reporting on a paraphrase of the Bible adopted by many Charismatic's.
I had not even heard of the translation. It is called, "The Mirror Bible."
Well, I am not even going to comment on it, as I have only been made aware of it through this 'You Tube," clip. Nonetheless, I would think that if these NAR or Prosperity Leaders, had any concern for those not yet filled with the "Holy Spirit" then they wouldn't be introducing such a controversial Bible into their churches.
I mean, most of those people think that you Charismatic's are the most screwed up people anyway theologically, so why would you want to give such high regard to this 'paraphrase?'
That's not love, that's PRIDE.
See link: https://youtu.be/aJx78XHL2g4
Personally, the last thing that I believe the church needs is some more new "Prosperity," doctrine.
For a long time, I have had trouble with these "Prosperity Leaders."
Once, there was a Senator who challenged some evangelists to be more "OPEN," with their finances. Nevertheless, these men and women held together and told the government to go screw itself, as they didn't have any business in the churches finances.
I never understood that. I mean, I thought that if the government was going to give you millions of dollars in tax free status, so that you can "Bless the people," what did you say John?
I said, if the purpose was to "bless the people," then why shouldn't the leaders be accountable to the government in order to see that the 'PEOPLE,' were not getting screwed? Or in maybe one or two cases, perhaps the government wasn't getting screwed?
"Oh, I'm sorry, I was just informed that it is one of the churches "mysteries."
Wow, I did not know that!
You see, sometimes the churches are not all thinking correctly.
Let me give you one example, although I have hundreds of examples.
You see, last week I posted a clip concerning some guy who refused to serve in an already arranged meeting up in Canada. I guess he was going to preach a revival or something?
In the clip it mentions the fact that he had something like nine houses, and apparently in his style of ministry, he has offended numerous people by his outlandish use of ministry funds which many found questionable.
In other words, he is a typical "Prosperity," preacher acceptable within all the "fellow brethren," of Prosperity Preachers.
Do you understand what I am saying?
Let me better explain: You see, I didn't 'post,' the thing because I was offended because the guy had nine houses, apparently this is a common phenomenon among "Prosperity-ites."
I posted the thing because I thought that it was one of the most rudest and selfish actions that a "Man of God," could commit.
Please go look at my posting, I didn't critisize on the number of houses the man had, I commented on the behavior and the arrogance that many of these "Prosperity," preachers have toward their fellow "Christians," and generally over the "Body of Jesus Christ," in the church.
But you see, I made a terrible mistake because in thinking back of the way in which many "Prosperity," preachers have treated me over the decades, I was reminded of an incidence at a meeting preached by Brother Hagin.
Therefore, when I mentioned the arrogance of this man I added comment on these "Prosperity-ites," as well.
You see, I believe many of their doctrines are very selfish and damaging to the church.
In the case of that tape Brother Hagin explains to the huge crowd that it is biblical to bless a soldier in the "Faith," or as the Bible states an OX treading out the grain.
Knowing how vicious that they can be, however, I should have probably not have done that. Even though, I felt that it was the Holy Spirit inspiring me. If you listen to index 100 to 130, on the tape, you will have a much better understanding of why I commented as I did concerning these "Prosperity Preachers," who were to meet at a convention the next day.
And let me also say, that I was not trying to manipulate any type of offering as many of these people are always accusing me of. I swear, if one were to give me such a thing, I fear that I might roll over dead of a massive heart attack.
You see, I used to attend many of these Camp Meetings, as I would help pray down the "Holy Spirit,"
In other words, I know exactly who Brother Hagin was referring too when he spoke that message.
They don't like the common sense correction that I preach concerning their doctrines. Also, this is the reason why America has become so detached from true Christianity. It is because you treat God's "True Prophet's," in the same way that they treated Jesus.
And instead you give "Glory," to your own "Prophet's," who you fashion to your likeness.
Well, can you imagine God looking down at America for some forty years, and he sees the church treating his "Anointed," as some scum bag. Surely, then he will bless the country, right?
No, I think not.
Well, such is life, nor was I holding unforgiveness in my heart toward any of these people. When I write about them it is because I believe that they have done and are continuing to do great damage to the church.
So, anyway I posted the clip on my web-site and instead of anyone commenting that it was an awful or selfish practice which this man committed they instead used my writings against myself.
The next day, I turned on one of these preachers from their convention and the man suggested a few times that I was Lazy and had no drive or ambition to do anything for God.
They made other insinuations, but that was the most concentrated accusation against me. You see, I have worked all of my life at numerous jobs and have mentioned them numerous times in my writings.
It was about five years ago, however, where I was grounded as a Professional truck driver. Right after I was grounded I was dianosed with Hepatitis C, which I had somehow contracted on the road.
You see, before I was driving a truck I was on the streets preaching and traveling by foot around the country, trying to eke out a living as a street preacher, but mostly learning about personal "Faith."
In five years, I never slept in the same bed for over three days. There were many times, I slept on a cold sidewalk.
That was at the same time that I was dianosed with a severe case of Sleep Apnea which had grounded me. A number of months after I was cured through a 100,000 dollar treatment of Hepatitis C, I was diagnosed with Prostrate Cancer and had been treated as well, for a number of months. During those first few months I applied for a disability, as they grounded me from driving and to earn a wage. And although I was told numerous times that "NOBODY," ever is granted it on the first application. I spent months living in my storage applying until I was finally refused.
Nevertheless, I got angry and although I stated numerous times that I was not going to appeal, I appealed the decision hired a hard ass lawyer here in Houston and when they received my application they did what no one had ever heard of them doing and they overturned my non acceptance even before my lawyer took the case officially. Nevertheless, I believe his reputation precedded him when they saw his name on the appeal.
I've had other health issues in the few years following like an A-Fib dealing with my heart. A few months ago, after going for a Sonogram they had found a few liters of fluid surrounding my heart. Thankfully, the operation was half successful because they couldn't find the specific cause, I may have to go through it again. But you see, I am not angry or hold unforgiveness, I am thankful else I would be dead.
It really isn't rocket science!
Well, right after the hurricane hit my storage, I was forced to find another place to live.
My small amount of Social Security does not make it possible for me to live in a full priced apartment, so I found a person and we share the rent and utilities.
Yes, Jesus found me a little widow woman to live with and to help take care of her which I have been doing for a few years now.
Only God himself is able to understand the situations and the hardships that I have had to live under in this relationship in which I have found myself. Nevertheless, I can't just abandon this woman and force her into living on the streets, so I obediently wait on God until their is a solution.
Lastly, my only amusement comes from the church, such as when posting about an "Ordained Minister," who doesn't even have the decency to obey his commitments to a part of the "Body of Christ."
Of course, those pathetic "Prosperity Preachers," who seem to find it all as normal behavior also makes me laugh though sick as it is.
This is a man who through his "hooking up," with the "Prosperity," brethren owns over eight or ten houses, yet can't seem to find "Preaching the word," a honor or blessing.
No, these guys have to be paid hundreds of thousands if not millions of dollars in order for the church to receive such blessings from man.
And the world or church is filled with a millions of these guys.
You see, I can guarantee you that Saint Paul or any one of the Early disciples or followers of Jesus would have considered it a privilege and not a burden to their comfortable life of "Prosperity."
And so as I watched preacher after preacher at the convention of Prosperity-ites, there was only one man there who I had any respect for, and that was Kenneth Copelands grandson, Jeremy.
Unfortunately, unless someone can save this young guy, he is most likely going to grow up to be as all the other preachers I saw who at one time carried a similar anointing.
Oh hey, I almost forgot Brother Jesse, lest he be likened unto his brethren he gave away a whole table full of his books.
Talk about the biggest one there, "What a man, what a man."
Yea, I dedicate this paper to Jeremy and Brian.
Please, don't change!
Lastly, as I listened to almost every one of these preachers, almost every sermon was inspired by some kind of material possesion in which they conquered for the Kingdom of God. For a few it was an airplane or jet, for another it was being able to grow "spiritually," that he had attained a position in life, so that he was able to sow a million dollar offering. Seriously, that was his ultimate goal of ministry. To place all of your efforts in manipulating money to come your way, so that on that day you could stand up in front of a congregation and to say, "I attained 'Nirvanna.'"
"It looks like a million dollars baby and there is no greater high."
"What the people?"
"Oh yea, they helped me do it."
"Without my brothers and sisters, I wouldn't have been able to reach such 'Nirvanna," thanks guys."
Lastly, I liked Jesse's sermon. He shared how that he had attained a love for Persian Rugs, Jewelry and solid Gold bars.
Of course, he must have been encouraging us all, because this is what their audiences have loved for over fifty years. Many just come to hear all of the sermons on "Things," that we have attained and how "You too can be just like us."
Can you imagine?
These people live by the world, I wonder if they have ever asked the world concerning riches?
Taken from Google:
AI Overview
Various scriptures address the potential negative impact of riches on one's relationship with God and spiritual well-being. Some passages warn that the love of money can lead people away from faith and cause distress, while others state that one cannot serve both God and money.
Scriptures also caution against trusting in wealth or setting one's heart on increasing riches. There is a warning that those who rely on their riches will fail, while the righteous will prosper. Jesus taught about the challenge for wealthy individuals to enter the kingdom of God, using the illustration of a camel passing through the eye of a needle. Additionally, the Bible advises guarding against greed, emphasizing that life is not measured by possessions. Another verse notes that worldly worries and deceptive wealth can hinder the effectiveness of God's word.
These passages collectively suggest that an excessive focus on or attachment to wealth can have detrimental spiritual consequences, such as developing a false sense of security, drifting from faith, prioritizing material things over spiritual ones, and lacking contentment. The Bible encourages faith in God as the provider and using resources for beneficial purposes, including generosity and sharing.
I'm sorry, but I have to ask...."Who you gonna believe?"
Best Sunday Sermon: https://youtu.be/0uRIjB54jd4
Postscript: My websites have lost some bandwidth, so I am not going to correct this, lest it go haywire.
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Lastly, I want to point out the fact that what these people do whenever anyone challenges their theology is to place, the "Golden Calf," up on the altar and to revere it.
Thus no matter the person disagreeing with them, they have a "Golden Calf," which can lead you to the "truth and the life." Thus it proves our doctrines are right because no one can challenge it.
Were any of you aware of this fact?
Do you all know what I am talking about or am I the only one who has ever seen it?
Would you like to see it?
Can I show you it and tell you where it's at?
Yea, let me do that and then if you guys still want to follow it, you are welcome to join their ministry and to "worship it," Okay?
Okay, this is how you find it, go on the internet and subscribe today for some tickets to next years SWBC. I heard Brother Copeland already announce a plug for them.
Okay, and then once you get there next summer, (I believe that it's going to be in July again.) Go and sit under one of these meetings where Brother Copeland, Jesse Duplantis, Keith Butler, Creflo Dollar, Benny Hinn, Keith Moore, Nancy Dufresne, Jesse Duplantis, Jonathan Shuttlesworth, Bill Winston, or Bill Johnson, not quite sure about that Jeremy guy though. Nonetheless, once that you are sitting under those individuals speakers, start chanting, Na, na, na na, Na, na , na, na, who you gonna believe, na, na ,na ,na...
And so as you are sitting there each one of them are going to start telling you about how they became the "head," and not the tail. Then each one of them is going to tell you that if you give to them as they gave to their "Golden Calf," then you will be able to become as one of them and you will no longer have any troubles or difficulties in this life."
Now, I am serious, I happened to write a paper which I published while in a really low state of "Spirituality," and this was what happened to me. I had Golden Calf after Golden Calf correct me in the manner of the way that I was worshipping God and living my personal life. I'm not kidding you in every case, I was given a testimony of how their lives were saved and had now become perfect ever since they too became had an experience that now made them a "Golden Calf."
Well, I sort of question the procedure because I don't see that the apostle Paul had to become a "Golden Calf." I don't see where any of the disciples or apostles or even any followers of Jesus also became "Golden Calves."
I don't see where Jesus gave any lessons on "How to walk like a "Golden Calf."
Lastly, of all of those millions of individuals who had left the "Word/Faith Movement," because it didn't work for them or whatever other reason, "How come they gave up their Golden Calf callings?"
More importantly, I have always wondered, "Why don't you guys ever do any personal studies on the successes of what is preached in your churches?"
And "PLease," don't let there be any one person that claims that I am challenging the "Faithfulness," of God or of the opportunities and the blessings of giving to God the "Tithe."
You see, I am not challenging the "Biblical Tithing Principles," but what I am challenging are those who manipulate God's "Word," for the basis of stealing or misusing the "Blessings of God," for their own financial benefits because they purposely seek out "Things," for their own glory.
You know, "things," like Jewelry, Persian Rugs, Gold and Silver Bars. Luxury cars, airplanes, Private Jets, and then are too stingy to buy a fellow minister equal in every way a morning cup of Coffee.
I mean, Could someone please explain that Biblical Mystery to me, I think I was sick that day because I forgot to bring my tithe to church and unexpectedly caught a fever.
Music link: https://youtu.be/TdqenA8k_GU
A few hours later after waking up for an early doctor's appointment.
Almost forgot a few other points:
Also, in discussing this whole situation with the Lord, like as to whether I should respond or not the Lord told me to inform the "Prosperity Churches," that when he looks down from heaven one of the things that He sees is a whole slew of so-called Preachers who have never worked a day in their lives. It is as I have always stated many of these churches only take, take take, they never do anything for their people. They rule in darkness as most everything they do is kept silent and withheld between their four walls.
Their finances are shrouded in darkness, they lavish themselves with huge salaries, bonuses and whatever else they can manipulate from the little people.
if you want the truth they run the church exactly as the Democrats have been running the country. They over-spend, waste billions of dollars on themselves and have no need or desire to justify politics with the goal of helping the people, but instead they use the people to amass their own power which gives them the ability to manipulate funds.
That was the reason why none ever used their pulpits or platforms for politics. You see, they loved a government which was shrouded in secrets and darkness. that way they could control their "corporations," much easier.
But, God told me the other day, he sees a bunch of men who in many cases have never worked a full days job in their lives. he sees a bunch of beggars and con men. We were also discussing the fact that for the most part it is the preachers who were responsible for the political climate of the US in the last twenty-five years
Let me say this, if it wouldn't have been for myself writing, encouraging and rebuking the church for its silence concerning their stand in recent politics, I doubt that we would be sitting under a President who isn't insane.
So, in other words, I believe that you "Prosperity" pundits were responsible for the Democratic governments, and I was more responsible for the election of Donald Trump. yet you all sit on your high horses and call me lazy and against God's church, not giving a damn.
No, you all have it ass backwards, as you normally do.
You think these statements outlandish?
Well, I am not the one who for decades refused to encourage my people to support the country politically. That was "You guys," who seldom have worked a day in your life, and are so fearful of losing your 501 C-3 status that you would rather see the country go to hell, than to preach righteousness.
if the truth were known concerning God, my guess would be that He has been really ashamed of you money gathering, not giving a damn concerning righteousness, personal self proclaiming each other preachers who do not base their callings on goodness or righteousness, but instead base their ganizations on Nepotism, and good old fashioned boys clubs.
I believe that this movement of yours is a shame and disgrace to the churches two thousand year history of followers of Christ.
Could I be any more kinder toward you all or have I said enough?
In other words, many of you money manipulators are a blight on the good name of the church and my next paper is going to be on the teaching of Jesus where he stated that "there are only a few who will find the narrow way.
Have you guys ever thought of that?
Did you know that the scriptures say that "He was teaching his closest disciples."
Yes, the scripture declares that "He took his disciples up the mountain to teach them." It does not say that he ascended the mountain to talk to the people."
It says that "He took his disciples up the mountain with the intention of teaching them."
And this is what he said as He taught his disciples:
Matthew 7:13-23 New Living Translation
The Narrow Gate
13 “You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. 14 But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.
The Tree and Its Fruit
15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.
True Disciples
21 “Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. 22 On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ 23 But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’
You see, Jesus chose that particular place to teach, as I am sure that he knew the acoustics would be good and many of the people would hear. Nonetheless, the scriptures say that "He was teaching his disciples."
Therefore, another way to say this was that he was telling his closest disciples, "There are only going to be a few of you who will end up walking through the narrow gate of Eternal life."
Matthew 5:1-2 New Living Translation
The Sermon on the Mount
5 One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, 2 and he began to teach them.
Has anyone ever thought of that?
In other words, there are many "Word/Faith people who are going to spend Eternity in Hell.!
Have a wonderful day, I have to get ready for my appointment...
Hey, got back from the doctor's today and have been elated. You see, they were worried about some kidney stone issues, but apparently they dissolved or something?
They are "No more," is what I am trying to say.
Thought I would celebrate by posting some scriptures for which they always bring me such delight!
Have a "Blessed," tomorrow, will ya...
Acts 13:9-12 New Living Translation
9 Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he looked the sorcerer in the eye. 10 Then he said, “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? 11 Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time.” Instantly mist and darkness came over the man’s eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him.
12 When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.
Acts 13:22-41 New Living Translation
22 But God removed Saul and replaced him with David, a man about whom God said, ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do.’
23 “And it is one of King David’s descendants, Jesus, who is God’s promised Savior of Israel! 24 Before he came, John the Baptist preached that all the people of Israel needed to repent of their sins and turn to God and be baptized. 25 As John was finishing his ministry he asked, ‘Do you think I am the Messiah? No, I am not! But he is coming soon—and I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the sandals on his feet.’
26 “Brothers—you sons of Abraham, and also you God-fearing Gentiles—this message of salvation has been sent to us! 27 The people in Jerusalem and their leaders did not recognize Jesus as the one the prophets had spoken about. Instead, they condemned him, and in doing this they fulfilled the prophets’ words that are read every Sabbath. 28 They found no legal reason to execute him, but they asked Pilate to have him killed anyway.
29 “When they had done all that the prophecies said about him, they took him down from the cross and placed him in a tomb. 30 But God raised him from the dead! 31 And over a period of many days he appeared to those who had gone with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to the people of Israel.
32 “And now we are here to bring you this Good News. The promise was made to our ancestors, 33 and God has now fulfilled it for us, their descendants, by raising Jesus. This is what the second psalm says about Jesus:
‘You are my Son.
Today I have become your Father.’
34 For God had promised to raise him from the dead, not leaving him to rot in the grave. He said, ‘I will give you the sacred blessings I promised to David.’ 35 Another psalm explains it more fully: ‘You will not allow your Holy One to rot in the grave.’ 36 This is not a reference to David, for after David had done the will of God in his own generation, he died and was buried with his ancestors, and his body decayed. 37 No, it was a reference to someone else—someone whom God raised and whose body did not decay.
38 “Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. 39 Everyone who believes in him is made right in God’s sight—something the law of Moses could never do. 40 Be careful! Don’t let the prophets’ words apply to you. For they said,
41 ‘Look, you mockers,
be amazed and die!
For I am doing something in your own day,
something you wouldn’t believe
even if someone told you about it.’”
Acts 13:50-52 New Living Translation
50 Then the Jews stirred up the influential religious women and the leaders of the city, and they incited a mob against Paul and Barnabas and ran them out of town. 51 So they shook the dust from their feet as a sign of rejection and went to the town of Iconium. 52 And the believers were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 14:1-7 New Living Translation
14 The same thing happened in Iconium. Paul and Barnabas went to the Jewish synagogue and preached with such power that a great number of both Jews and Greeks became believers. 2 Some of the Jews, however, spurned God’s message and poisoned the minds of the Gentiles against Paul and Barnabas. 3 But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders. 4 But the people of the town were divided in their opinion about them. Some sided with the Jews, and some with the apostles.
5 Then a mob of Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, decided to attack and stone them. 6 When the apostles learned of it, they fled to the region of Lycaonia—to the towns of Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding area. 7 And there they preached the Good News.
Acts 14:19-20 New Living Translation
19 Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowds to their side. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of town, thinking he was dead. 20 But as the believers gathered around him, he got up and went back into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.
Author's note:
It is too bad that Paul didn't have any brethren from the "Golden Calf Mega Church," to explain to him that had he tithed way back when, then he wouldn't have had to endure all these terrible situations and persecutions.
How sad, if they had only known the revelation in which we have today.
Psalm 2 New Living Translation
1 Why are the nations so angry?
Why do they waste their time with futile plans?
2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle;
the rulers plot together
against the Lord
and against his anointed one.
3 “Let us break their chains,” they cry,
“and free ourselves from slavery to God.”
4 But the one who rules in heaven laughs.
The Lord scoffs at them.
5 Then in anger he rebukes them,
terrifying them with his fierce fury.
6 For the Lord declares, “I have placed my chosen king on the throne
in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain.”
7 The king proclaims the Lord’s decree:
“The Lord said to me, ‘You are my son.
Today I have become your Father.
8 Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,
the whole earth as your possession.
9 You will break them with an iron rod
and smash them like clay pots.’”
10 Now then, you kings, act wisely!
Be warned, you rulers of the earth!
11 Serve the Lord with reverent fear,
and rejoice with trembling.
12 Submit to God’s royal son, or he will become angry,
and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities—
for his anger flares up in an instant.
But what joy for all who take refuge in him!
2 Corinthians 12:1-10 New Living Translation
12 This boasting will do no good, but I must go on. I will reluctantly tell about visions and revelations from the Lord. 2 I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know—only God knows. 3 Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know 4 that I was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell.
5 That experience is worth boasting about, but I’m not going to do it. I will boast only about my weaknesses. 6 If I wanted to boast, I would be no fool in doing so, because I would be telling the truth. But I won’t do it, because I don’t want anyone to give me credit beyond what they can see in my life or hear in my message, 7 even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.
8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 11 New Living Translation
11 I hope you will put up with a little more of my foolishness. Please bear with me. 2 For I am jealous for you with the jealousy of God himself. I promised you as a pure bride to one husband—Christ. 3 But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. 4 You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.
5 But I don’t consider myself inferior in any way to these “super apostles” who teach such things. 6 I may be unskilled as a speaker, but I’m not lacking in knowledge. We have made this clear to you in every possible way.
7 Was I wrong when I humbled myself and honored you by preaching God’s Good News to you without expecting anything in return? 8 I “robbed” other churches by accepting their contributions so I could serve you at no cost. 9 And when I was with you and didn’t have enough to live on, I did not become a financial burden to anyone. For the brothers who came from Macedonia brought me all that I needed. I have never been a burden to you, and I never will be. 10 As surely as the truth of Christ is in me, no one in all of Greece will ever stop me from boasting about this. 11 Why? Because I don’t love you? God knows that I do.
12 But I will continue doing what I have always done. This will undercut those who are looking for an opportunity to boast that their work is just like ours. 13 These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve.
16 Again I say, don’t think that I am a fool to talk like this. But even if you do, listen to me, as you would to a foolish person, while I also boast a little. 17 Such boasting is not from the Lord, but I am acting like a fool. 18 And since others boast about their human achievements, I will, too. 19 After all, you think you are so wise, but you enjoy putting up with fools! 20 You put up with it when someone enslaves you, takes everything you have, takes advantage of you, takes control of everything, and slaps you in the face. 21 I’m ashamed to say that we’ve been too “weak” to do that!
But whatever they dare to boast about—I’m talking like a fool again—I dare to boast about it, too. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? I know I sound like a madman, but I have served him far more! I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. 24 Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. 26 I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. 27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.
28 Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak without my feeling that weakness? Who is led astray, and I do not burn with anger?
30 If I must boast, I would rather boast about the things that show how weak I am. 31 God, the Father of our Lord Jesus, who is worthy of eternal praise, knows I am not lying. 32 When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas kept guards at the city gates to catch me. 33 I had to be lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape from him.
1 Corinthians 4:1-13 New Living Translation
4 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.
5 So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.
6 Dear brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself to illustrate what I’ve been saying. If you pay attention to what I have quoted from the Scriptures, you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another. 7 For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?
8 You think you already have everything you need. You think you are already rich. You have begun to reign in God’s kingdom without us! I wish you really were reigning already, for then we would be reigning with you. 9 Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor’s parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world—to people and angels alike.
10 Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. 11 Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don’t have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. 12 We work wearily with our own hands to earn our living. We bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us. 13 We appeal gently when evil things are said about us. Yet we are treated like the world’s garbage, like everybody’s trash—right up to the present moment.
Music link: https://youtu.be/19ezU_8jK_I
2nd https://youtu.be/UJxs7ZUGkfo
Postscript:
You know, I seldom watch movies, but it has been a weird day today, so after taking care of most things, I turned on the "Telly."
There was an English movie called, "The Duke," and I just started watching it. Apparently, it was a biographical movie of an elderly Englishman who stole a famous painting back in the sixties.
If I told you the plot and ending you would probably die of laughing. You ought to check it out sometime.
Nonetheless, while it was about to end, I thought of a scripture which I seldom turn to. So, I looked it up and just read it. Well, I was using the NLT and the wording was so descriptive. so, in a sense I got to look at it again in a different light.
You see, normally I just read it and I have never really thought of how serious that it reads.
So, when asking for it's location through "Google," it told me that it was 1 Corinthians 9:7.
Well, I wanted to read the entire context of his intent, so I expanded the search to pull up some more verses, both in front and back. I then searched for 1 Corinthians 9:7-13.
The following is the passage:
1 Corinthians 9:7-13 New Living Translation
7 What soldier has to pay his own expenses? What farmer plants a vineyard and doesn’t have the right to eat some of its fruit? What shepherd cares for a flock of sheep and isn’t allowed to drink some of the milk? 8 Am I expressing merely a human opinion, or does the law say the same thing? 9 For the law of Moses says, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” Was God thinking only about oxen when he said this? 10 Wasn’t he actually speaking to us? Yes, it was written for us, so that the one who plows and the one who threshes the grain might both expect a share of the harvest.
11 Since we have planted spiritual seed among you, aren’t we entitled to a harvest of physical food and drink? 12 If you support others who preach to you, shouldn’t we have an even greater right to be supported? But we have never used this right. We would rather put up with anything than be an obstacle to the Good News about Christ.
13 Don’t you realize that those who work in the temple get their meals from the offerings brought to the temple? And those who serve at the altar get a share of the sacrificial offerings.
But as I was reading it, I thought to myself, "Why John, don't you carry a greater "Faith," with you in believing in God's resources?"
I really can't answer that. I suppose as a street kid growing up I had a very low self esteem. Nevertheless, I gave up on that attitude years ago, as God filled me with his Holy Spirit.
Sometimes, I think that I have too much confidence for my own good though I am sure that few would agree with that perception?
Nonetheless, all of my life, I have had a difficult time in "Receiving things," unless I worked for them.
Who knows, perhaps it is my "work ethic," which has always been very strong. As well, as my independant "spirit," and perhaps a little egotistical pride?
But as I read those passages in just a few moments, they really jumped out at me.
Could you even begin to imagine a farmer who has worked in the fields for forty years and has never ever tasted of it's fruit?
I mean, I am talking about a single strawberry, or perhaps a grape, or an apple. For forty years from sun-up to sun-down the man is out in the fields and he has never so much as eaten an acorn which has fallen off a mighty Oak Tree.
Or how about this one, Can you imagine a soldier always ready at a moment's notice to defend the very least of his masters servants or properties. Tirelessly, he has always been willing to jump in front of his master, take a bullet, or to give his life for any other member of his master's family. Time and again defending those who have no ability to defend themselves from the wolves who are consistently trying to use and abuse them. Nonetheless, during his career of forty years, the only substinence which had been given him was two bowls of porridge each day.
I have never really meditated on this scripture until tonight, but this is what the apostle Paul was trying to convey, I believe it with all of my heart.
And then Paul talks about a "Shepherd," and no, I am not talking about what Americans consider a 'shepherd,' to be, as most religious American's have never ever been able to distinguish between a wolf and a shepherd.
No, I am talking about a real "Shepherd." One who wakes with the sheep, goes to sleep with the sheep, never let's one out of his sight, lest vicious wolves come to carry the bloody carcasses away, having not time to finish their meals.
So, can you imagine this is a guy who gets right into the dirt with these animals, chases a single one down that strays. Never allows the wolves anywhere near the camp. This is a dedicated man he doesn't run away at the threat of any dangerous or unknown danger approaching. he is steadfast, loyal and above all honest and full of integrity. Nonetheless, in almost forty years of keeping these dumb and ignorant animals, he has never so much as tasted a sip of milk from any of them.
And I don't mean to get personal, but this is what the apostle is saying. And then what is even more incredible, is that he says, "I have been as an Ox treading out the grain for "lo these many years," but just as all of those examples in which I am giving you, I have chosen to be as one of them and to have never ever taken advantage of any of these priveleges.
1 Corinthians 9:13-17 New Living Translation
13 Don’t you realize that those who work in the temple get their meals from the offerings brought to the temple? And those who serve at the altar get a share of the sacrificial offerings. 14 In the same way, the Lord ordered that those who preach the Good News should be supported by those who benefit from it. 15 Yet I have never used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that I want to start now. In fact, I would rather die than lose my right to boast about preaching without charge. 16 Yet preaching the Good News is not something I can boast about. I am compelled by God to do it. How terrible for me if I didn’t preach the Good News!
17 If I were doing this on my own initiative, I would deserve payment. But I have no choice, for God has given me this sacred trust.
So, you see as amazing as it is, the man proclaims that I have never done this.
Well, why Paul?
Paul, please tell us why you have worked yourself to near death on many occasions and you have never forced the issue of demanding PAY for yourself?
Following taken from "Google:"
These are results for "Where does Paul talk about not accepting privileges because of greedy men?"
AI Overview
The Apostle Paul discusses not accepting certain privileges, particularly financial support, because of the potential for it to be misunderstood or used as an excuse by those with greedy motives in 2 Corinthians 11:7-15.
Here, Paul explains to the Corinthians why he refused financial support from them:
He states that his refusal of funding does not dishonor the Corinthians but rather demonstrates his hope not to burden them.
He also worries about the implications of taking money from the Corinthians, as it would make him appear no different from those he calls “false apostles” and “deceitful workers”. These false teachers were likely using their positions for personal financial gain.
By refusing their financial support, Paul demonstrates that his motives for ministering are above reproach and that he is not seeking personal gain, according to Ready4Eternity.
In essence, Paul's decision to forego certain privileges, like financial support, stemmed from a desire to safeguard the integrity of the gospel message and to prevent false teachers from using his actions to justify their own greedy practices. He emphasized that his reward was the opportunity to preach the Good News without charging anyone, according to Quora.
Sermon by Kenneth Hagin
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