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Look to the Light Christ’s humble servant, David Neal Come to Christ, Hear Christ and Do what Christ says!
January, 2006 John 1:4-5, “In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” Isaiah 9:2, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” John 8:12, “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 3:19-21, “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” Psalms 18:28, “For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.” John 12:46, “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.” Psalms 36:9, “For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.” Luke 11:35-36, “Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness. If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.” Romans 13:12, “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Philippians 2:15, “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” John 12:36, “While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light...” Psalm 27:1, “The LORD is my light and my salvation…” Ephesians 5:8, “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
Alleluja: for the Lord God omnipotent Reigneth
Foreword
The author has nothing against any of the religious peoples of this world and reaches out to everyone in love. My hope is to point all men to the one true God through Christ Jesus. The institutions of man are hopelessly irreparable (beyond repair, irredeemable), but with the hearts of men all things are possible through God (Mt 19:26, Mk 9:20, 10:27, 14:36).
John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Acts 4:12, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
Introduction
The following book resulted from a study of church history as understood from several different books written independently and in different ages that revealed much the same thingC, D, E, F. This knowledge coupled with sources from secular world historyA seemed to paint a rather disturbing picture. That which has historically been known as the church by the majority of peoples of the earth has undeniably been a reflection of the world and is often just as corrupt and evil as the world around it. How can this be? All things are not as they appear. The purpose of this book is to take an honest look at scriptures and relevant history and consider just where the true church can be found.
The author pondered, prayed and struggled over the path that much of the visible church took as compared to the truth of God’s Word. It became very clear that there was a definite change of direction that took place in Rome under Constantine (a combining with the state, a new foundation, Edict of Milan). They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us (1 Jn 2:19). The true church is small and continues under the teaching and guidance of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:11). The Lord spoke to the author in prayer, through His Word, and directed the author’s thoughts when writing this article. This writing is offered up for your consideration and I pray that the Lord will speak to your heart as you read. The purpose is to encourage you the reader to examine your foundation, seek God and walk in His true gospel.
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There was a tremendous religious system at the time of Christ. The Sadducees and Pharisees claimed to represent God. Through doctrine and tradition of men they had usurped the things of God (Mt 15:9, Mk 7:7, 13). John the Baptist and Jesus did not have many nice things to say of them. John said, upon seeing many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism: “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come (Mt 3:7, Lk 3:7)?”
Jesus said such things as: 1) Matthew 5:20, “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” 2) Matthew 23:33, “Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” 3) Matthew 12:34-35, “O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things” 4) John 5:42, “But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.” 5) Matthew 16:6, 12, “Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. (also Mt 16:11-12).” 6) Matthew 15:14, “Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.” 7) John 8:44, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do…” 8) Luke 16:15, “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.”
The martyr Stephen, through the Holy Ghost added: Acts 7:51, “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.” What about the religious institutions of man? Matthew 15:13, “But he (Jesus) answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.”
The religious Jews had developed doctrines and traditions of men. They put hard burdens upon men in a system of service through compulsion (obligation, force, coercion). They were hypocritical, self exalting, controlling and lacked true love or compassion for their fellow man. They loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (Jn 12:43).
The great religious institutions of modern man are analogous to the Jewish religious system. Man’s theology (what you must think and what you must do) has usurped the place of the Holy Spirit. The true love of God (and fellow man) has been lost. The religious never see or acknowledge their error or faults. Proverbs 16:2, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits (also Pv 21:2).” Is it just possible that there may also be many modern day serpents and vipers? Let us put religiosity aside (oh my!) for the moment (nothing can usurp the place of Christ as absolute head and Lord) and: 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”
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January 2006
This book is freely given and may be reproduced in its entirety and freely distributed (without charge). No permission is given to change the contents in any way.
This book makes no judgments and just presents the truth. You must decide whether or not your daily practices/lifestyle or religious observances are found within the truth – light. You must work out your own salvation (Php 2:12) – but make sure it is found in truth!
Scriptural references are from the Authorized King James Version Bible.
References:
A Microsoft Encarta encylopedia, Standard 2002. Search “Martin Luther, theology,” “Lutheranism,” and “Baptism.”
B Martin Luther wrote a pamphlet titled, “On the Jews and their Lies” which advocated Christians to set synagogues on fire, to destroy Jewish houses and to put Jews in stables, and it advised rulers to banish Jews from their countries.
C Martyr’s Mirror, The Story of Seventeen Centuries of Christian Martyrdom, from the Time of Christ to A.D. 1660, Thieleman J. van Braght.
D Pilgrim Church, E.H. Broadbent, 1931.
E The Torch of the Testimony, John W. Kennedy, 1965
F Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, John Foxe, 1563
Chapter One – A Harlot
If one takes the time to research the history of the church, it soon becomes very apparent (to those not blinded by Satan) that there has existed since the time of Christ a “true” church and a false or counterfeit church. In other words, when God sows good seed or wheat (children of God’s kingdom, Mt 13:38), the devil sows tares (children of the wicked one or devil, Mt 13:38-39). Jesus warned of it and Paul spoke of it (Mt 24:4-5, Mk 13:5-6, Lk 21:8, Acts 20:29-31, 2 Cor 11:4, 13-15, Gal 1:6-9). This false church might be more appropriately termed Mystery, Babylon the Great (Rev 17:5) or the synagogue (assembly house) of Satan (Rev 12:9, 3:9). There are many differences between the real and the false, but they all boil down to this: The false church is in the image of the world (a refection of the world), hates the true believers (sacrifices them for its benefit – it persecutes, hatred) and does not obey the Lord (regardless of how religious or godly it may appear to be). It seeks to be rich, secure and popular in the world, is very visible and wants praise and glory (justification before men, Lk 16:15). For this reason, the false church contains a majority of the people who claim to serve God. This counterfeit is very deceptive, but will be known by its fruit or actions (to be discussed, Mt 7:17-20, 12:33).
The true church is in the image of Christ and practices love (sacrifices self for the benefit of others, including enemies). The true church actually walks as Jesus walked and is led by the Holy Spirit with Christ as head (Eph 4:15, 5:23). The Lord leads in mercy those people whom He has redeemed (Ex 15:13). The true church will always be a minority that will be despised, rejected and persecuted by a world that opposes Jesus (even though many of those in the world may profess Christ – a paradox). 2 Timothy 3:12, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” The truth of this verse cannot be emphasized enough. The true church can EXPECT persecution. The true church will be a peculiar people when compared to the people of the world (1 Pt 2:9). The true church will also be known for its fruit: Matthew 3:8, “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance (also Acts 26:20).” This book will addressed how the true church must respond to the “expected” persecution.
Jesus said: Matthew 7:17, “Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.” For every tree is known by his own fruit (Mt 12:43, Lk 6:44). Matthew 7:20, “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Ye shall know them by their fruits (Mt 7:16). Living at the end of the age, we have a history of fruit to examine regarding individuals/institutions that have professed Christ. Shall we not learn from the good fruit and utterly reject the evil fruit? Shall we not take heed of the corrupt trees? God’s Word is very clear on what constitutes good fruit and what constitutes evil fruit. We must prayerfully discern (distinguish, tell the difference, differentiate, separate, determine, recognize, perceive, understand, notice) what has been produced to know what is of God and what is not of God.
Parallels
A very wise man, the wisest mortal to have lived on earth (1 Kgs 3:12, 4:29-34, 2 Chr 1:11-12, 9:22-23), once noted: Ecclesiastes 1:9, “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.” God once formed a nation from one man (Abraham). God made a covenant (solemn agreement, Ex 6:4, 24:6-8) with this nation of Israel that they would live by God’s commandments and love the Lord with all their heart and strength. In return the Lord would multiply them and greatly bless them with a habitation (Promised Land). God said to them:A 1) Deuteronomy 6:5, “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” The Lord further told them:A 2) Leviticus 19:18, “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.” Abraham had walked (by faith – obedience and trust) in these two commandments. God’s clear direction to Israel was: Deuteronomy 13:4, “Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.”
Israel (the vast majority) played the harlot and did not obey the Lord, nor cleave to Him, nor love their neighbors (e.g. Ez Chaps 16, 20 and 23). They sought after their own lusts and idolatry in rebellion to God; over and over till there was no remedy (2 Chr 36:16, Is 65:2, 66:3-4, Jer 5:23). An end, the end is come - enough (Ez 7:1, 6)! The Lord keeps His covenant and mercy to them that love Him and keep His commandments (Dan 9:4), but Israel sinned, and committed iniquity, and rebelled by departing from God’s precepts and judgments (Dan 9:5, 11, 14). God said: “I will have no pity, but will recompense for their abominations (Ez 7:9).” Therefore, the Lord judged them with His four sore judgements: the sword, and the famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence (Ez 14:21). A small remnant was exiled into Babylon to learn their errors and turn back to the Lord (2 Kgs 25:11, Is 1:9, 10:21-22, Jer 4:18, 5:13, 16:12-13). This was intended to get Israel’s full attention. Jeremiah 2:35, “Yet thou sayest, Because I am innocent, surely his anger shall turn from me. Behold, I will plead with thee, because thou sayest, I have not sinned.”
In Babylon, the people of Israel would have frame of mind to ponder such things (to see things as they are, not blinded by “self”). Ezekiel 20:43-44, “And there shall ye remember your ways, and all your doings, wherein ye have been defiled; and ye shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for all your evils that ye have committed. And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have wrought with you for my name’s sake, not according to your wicked ways, nor according to your corrupt doings, O ye house of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.” AND Ezekiel 20:35-38, “And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will I plead with you face to face. Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord GOD. And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant: And I will purge out from among you the rebels (those who rebelliously walk in their own way), and them that transgress against me (those who follow the devil’s lie): I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD.”
At the appropriate time, the Lord sent His Son. Jesus reiterated the Father’s will (He only spoke the Father’s Words, Jn 3:34, 7:16-17, 8:28, 38, 12:49-50, 14:10-11): Mark 12:28-31, “And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 1) And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 2) And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” Jesus is the great I AM. John 8:58, “Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.” We now comprehend that: Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” The same message for all times: Love God foremost and then love each other. God reveals: “For I am the LORD, I change not (Mal 3:6).”
This book will clearly reveal that Jesus was very definitive that His disciples love one another (including your enemies). Jesus told the Israelites that Abraham’s children do the works of Abraham (Jn 8:39). Abraham obeyed the Lord’s voice, and kept His charge, His commandments, His statutes, and His laws (Gen 26:5). We are further told: Romans 4:13, “For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.” Therefore: Galatians 3:7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. AND Galatians 3:9, “So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.” AND Galatians 3:14, “That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” We are told in the first verse of the book of Matthew: “Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham (Mt 1:1).” Christ’s covenant (solemn agreement with His followers) brings us back to what God originally realized in Abraham – his faith to surrender, obey, trust in and be devoted to God’s will (Heb 11:8, 17, Js 2:21). Recall, Jesus said to do the works of Abraham. The children of Abraham are the children of faith which are the children of GodB (Rm 8:16-17). Galatians 3:26, “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.”
So, the nation (children) of Israel was to walk in faith as did Abraham and the disciples of Jesus are to walk in faith as the children of Abraham. Such faith was defined as loving the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength (a necessary death to self) and loving your neighbors as yourself. This love is only accomplished by sacrificing “self” for the benefit of others – a willful giving of “self.” Jesus led the example by sacrificing self and dying for all men (Jn 3:16). Similarly, Christ’s disciples “follow” Him: 1 John 3:16, “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”
Just as with Israel, those who have made covenant (the vast majority) with Christ have disregarded the covenant and become a harlot. Many who profess Jesus Christ have sought after their own lusts and idolatry and are in rebellion to God – walking in darkness. They love the world (things of) with all their heart, mind, soul and strength. They sacrifice their neighbors for selfish benefit. Just like Israel, they do not see it that way (darkness = blindness). They say: “my sin is acceptable through Christ” through so many religious words,(i.e. grace with no works). The Lord would also have them remember their ways, and all their doings, wherein ye have been defiled; and ye shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for all your evils that ye have committed. The Lord will also plead with them since they say: “our sin is acceptable.”
God will once again bring about His four sore judgments in a time of great tribulation (Rev chap 6). Christ has warned the churches (representative) to repent and overcome (sin and the world, Rev chaps 2 and 3, Rev 21:7). Jesus specifically told the church in Thyatira (also applies to Pergamos, Rev 2:14) concerning committing fornication (spiritual unfaithfulness), and eating things sacrificed unto idols (loving the world): Revelation 2:22, “Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.” The Lord refers to this doctrine (teaching, way of life) as the depths of SatanC (Rev 2:24). The gentile church was only given this instruction: Acts 15:19-20, “Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.” AND Acts 15:28-29, “For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.” The Lord specifically says He will cast them into great tribulation. God then says: “all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works (Rev 2:23).”
Many seek “self” and the things of the world (the lusts and desires of the flesh – the darkness) and are unfaithful to the Lord (the covenant they made with Him). Thyatira was taught and seduced (drawn aside or enticed from the godly path, lead to iniquity, depart from the faith giving heed to seducing spirits – 1 Tim 4:1) by a wicked woman (Rev 2:20). This woman (spirit) will be discussed later in this chapter.
Conversely, Jesus told the church in PhiladelphiaD: Revelation 3:10, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” What is meant by “the word of my patience?” The Lord defines it: Revelation 14:12, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” The church at Philadelphia obeys God and walks in faith! God seals whom He will (Rev 7:3, 9:4). Notice that the great tribulation is an hour of temptation to try them that dwell on the earth. Daniel gives us some further insight into this event: Daniel 12:9-10, “And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” Many will come out of great tribulation, having washed their robes, and having made them white in the blood of the Lamb (Rev 7:14). Most men will not repent (Rev 9:20-21, 16:9-11, 21).
Many need to take heed to what Jesus told the church at Ephesus: Revelation 2:4, “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” These have left Jesus (although they do not think so) and no longer walk in true love. True love places God foremost and then one’s neighbor. The Lord cautioned them to “remember therefore from whence thou art fallen,” and said they would be removed except they repent (Rev 2:5). This book will take a very serious look at what it means to leave your first love and how this applies to so much of what is thought of as the church (the visible majority institutions). This book will reveal how we shall know if we have left our first love.
Christ told the church at Sardis: “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead (Rev 3:1) - for I have not found thy works perfect before God (Rev 3:2). The vast multitudes of “indifferent” professed Christians who claim to be the church today firmly believe they are alive, but are in reality dead. The great challenge of this book is to show this for the intent that many will come to repentance and truly turn to the Lord. Lamentations 3:40, “Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.” Let us consider the truth of the matter: Matthew 7:22-23, “Many 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? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Continue to read this book and you will see the reality of so many who claim to work for God, but in fact work iniquity. One’s life (course, path) can certainly change with a contrite heart and a trembling at God’s Word (Is 66:2). I beg you to consider the light/truth.
Jesus gives the church at Sardis a WARNING: Revelation 3:3, “Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” This directly relates to: Luke 21:34, “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares (also Lk 12:37-40).” Who were those that brought no fruit unto perfection? Luke 8:14, “And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection (consider the lead-in sentence to the church at Sardis above).” Therefore: Mark 13:37, “And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch (also Rev 22:7).”
Similarly the church at Laodicea is lukewarm (indifferent), and neither cold nor hot (3:16). Jesus says: Revelation 3:17-18, “Because thou sayest, I am rich (self-sufficient), and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched (fallen short, missed the mark), and miserable (far from God), and poor (spiritually lacking), and blind (deceived), and naked (sinful, full of iniquity): I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich (persecution like the church at Smyrna – who are rich); and white raiment (purification from sin and iniquity), that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see (open your eyes that you may see the deception you walk in).” – Repent (Rev 3:19)! These are worldly, full of sin and are deceived. They desperately need persecution to drive them from the world and into the arms of God.
TAKE HEED: Revelation 3:22, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” These things Jesus says to you who will hear (Lk 6:27) – most will not hear (a great condemnation).
What does all this mean? Just like God tried Israel and purged the rebels and them that transgress against Him, the Lord will do again during the great tribulation. God will test and try man to see what is in his heart. Psalms 11:5, “The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.” Those who have professed Christ, but not followed Jesus will be put to the ultimate test. Why? The Lord wants to establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins (Ps 7:9, also Pv 17:3). AND 1 Corinthians 11:32, “But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” How? Many ways, but ultimately through buying and selling which is the world’s mechanism for seeking the things of the world. Buying and selling places man in control rather than dependence upon God. This is worship of the beast and his image (Satan’s image is seeking the lusts of the flesh). Revelation 13:17, “And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” To choose man’s mark is to choose the world, become an enemy of God, and receive a special damnation from the Lord (1 Jn 2:15-17, Js 4:4, Rev 14:9-11) - not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts (1 Thess 2:4). The devil offers you the world now (just take his mark) – but at a price. However, the wise will respond: Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve (Mt 4:10).
Just as in Eden, there will be much deception involved (Rev 13:11-14). Matthew 24:24, “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Those who take the beast’s mark will have been deceived (through the desires of the flesh) into such a wrongful course (Rev 10:20). Christ’s true church (the elect) will emerge, but the imposters will continue to be deceived. Those who have no heart toward God will embrace their true love – the world (ultimately self, Jn 3:19). You ultimately suffer and sacrifice for the one you love. The Lord tells those headed into great tribulation who profess Christ yet serve the world (idolatry) just what He told Israel when they served the world prior to Babylonian exile: Prepare to meet thy God (Amos 4:12). My friends: Hebrews 10:31, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Great woe!
The parallels between Israel and the church are striking. Much more could be said, but the point has been made. Rebellious man has never changed. Israel was as an harlot and many of those who profess Christ are the same. Very few men have walked in faith. This was true of the nation of Israel and this is true of many who profess belief in Jesus Christ. Nothing has changed in God’s expectations – the two great commandments accomplished through faith (those found in Christ have His Holy Spirit as those of old who walked in faith). Jesus made a very narrow way for reconciliation with the Father (God). Jesus said few would find it (Mt 7:13-14, 20:16, 22:14, Lk 13:23-24). Just as with Israel, the few are a remnant. This remnant keeps the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ (Rev 12:17). God desires the firstripe fruit (the very best of the vine/tree, Mic 7:1). The firstripe are those who surrender in obedience, trust and devotion to the will of God – heart, mind, soul and strength. This is the remnant! Ultimately, Christ’s church is composed of those that are called (Ekklesia – out of the darkness and into the light), and chosen, and faithful (Rev 17:14).
Understanding the Harlot
Throughout history, the false church, in league with secular governments, has been “the persecutor” of the true church (groups or individuals). After all: Psalms 2:2, “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us (also Lk 19:14).” The earthly kings reject God’s rule (surrender to the Lord’s commandments). If the kings of the earth rejected and persecuted the King of Kings, will they not also persecute his loyal citizens/followers? The kings of the earth have joined with Babylon: Revelation 17:2, “With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication (i.e. the majority of secular governments and “religious” people have been misled – intoxicated through the flesh – a kind of delirium with great enthusiasm, frenzy or madness).” These inhabitants are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues - in other words, they are global (Rev 17:15). For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication (from her golden cup full of abominations and filthiness, see below), and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her… (Rev 18:3). Babylon the Great (the false church) seduces the world to seek after the desires of the flesh and to reject God and persecute His people. Jeremiah 51:7, “Babylon hath been a golden cup in the LORD’S hand, that made all the earth drunken: the nations have drunken of her wine; therefore the nations are mad.” To be mad is to be inflamed to excess with desire - disordered in intellect.
Satan’s kingdom is at odds, one with another, due to the nature of hatred, strife, envy, bitterness, deception and confusion which they walk in. It is a divided kingdom that will not stand - it has an end. However, they can find agreement when it comes to persecuting those of God. For example: the religious Jews hated the Roman governor Pontius Pilate and despised Roman rule over themselves. The secular Jewish leadership (Herod) was also at enmity with Pilate. Yet the Jews had no problem forming an alliance with Pilate in order to have the state’s blessing to kill Jesus. When the Jews brought Jesus to Pilate: John 18:31, “Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death.” The Jews needed the state’s approval and they convinced Pilate to give into their will. Pilate thought to let Jesus go: John 19:15, “But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.” Yet the Jews despised Caesar and Roman rule, but used it, when convenient, for their purposes. Luke 23:24, “And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.” ALSO: Pilate and Herod (who were at odds) became friends during the trial and persecution of Christ. Luke 23:12, “And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.” The religious and secular Jews and the powers of the world came into agreement for the purpose of killing God’s Son (Ps 2:2-3). Jesus’ sheep follow Him in all things. In other words, religion and state will be at odds with those who follow Christ just as they were with the Lord. Hopefully this will become apparent in this book.
This false church loves the world and the things of the world (1 Jn 2:15-17, the pollutions of the world – 2 Pt 2:20). Revelation 18:7, “How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.” Revelation 17:4-5, “And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” Many men of the earth have waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies (Rev 18:3). Those who follow her are “self-centered” and the enticement is lust and desire.
The woman (false church) rides a beast (secular governments and their power) and persecutes the sincere “followers” of Christ. Revelation 17:6, “And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.” Even so, her enticements to the lusts and desires of the flesh are extremely intoxicating (exciting, complusive, stimulating, fascinating, enthralling) and most wonder after her – they marvel (that which arrests the attention and causes a person to stand or gaze, or to pause, admiration, Rev 17:6-7). Revelation 18:24, “And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.” The dragon behind this mystery makes war with those which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ (Rev 12:17). This mother of abominations (hatred, atrocity) is actually the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird (Rev 18:2). She is a mystery because she claims to represent God, yet opposes God (Zeph 3:1-12). She is the mother of all harlots (including the ancient Jews that sought after idols). As is the mother, so are her daughters (Ez 16:44). In scripture a spiritual harlot is one who forsakes (departs from) the truth of God (i.e. Ezekiel chaps 16 & 23). That which is not of the truth is idolatry (1 Jn 5:21). Idolatry is as stubbornness (seeking your will over God’s) and iniquity (violating God’s will or truth, 1 Sam 15:23). The nations of the world seek after fleshly things and so does this false church (Lk 12:29-31, 1 Jn 2:15-17). The false church is joined with worldly kingdoms. The true church of Christ seeks after the kingdom of God (Mt 6:33, Lk 12:29-31).
This false church is called a whore or harlot (being false with God) because she has departed from the Lord God (Jer 2:20, 3:1-21, Ez chap 16, Ez chap 20, Ez chap 23, Hosea). She has eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin and allures through the lusts of the flesh (2 Pt 2:14, 18). Her devotion is now to her lovers (Deut 8:19-20). She has sold herself to obtain the things that she lust and desires (prestige, power, big buildings, tax exemptions, delicacies, riches, comfort, influence, rule, security, possessions, etc.). Her love is not toward God, but rather is placed upon “self.” To exalt self is to place “self” foremost and above God (seek self above God’s commandments). To exalt self is to sacrifice others for selfish benefit. This might be thought of as the devil’s canon (standards, principles, tenets) of hate, which is the opposite of God’s two great commandments of love. In other words, the devil entices you to seek self with all your heart, mind, soul and strength and to seek self above or at the expense of your neighbor. This is the inclination of the corrupt nature of man – self first.
This whore reflects the nature of the devil, and walks comfortably within his lie (the darkness) seeking her will over God’s will. Proverbs 30:20, “Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.” She believes that she can “sin and not die” as per the serpent’s words in Eden (Gen chap 3) – to continue in her corrupt nature without consequence? This great whore has corrupted the earth with her fornication and by her sorceries (the assistance or command of evil spirits) thus deceiving all nations (Rev 19:2, 18:23, 19:2). Oh, but there is always a SELF-ish benefit for those who willingly follow the “lie.”.
Christ’s true church will not join with a harlot. 1 Corinthians 6:15-17, “Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.” This is because the true church is the bride of Christ and is faithful. The true church is joined to Christ and they become one (Eph 5:24-32). John 14:20, “At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” AND John 17:21, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” AND He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit (Jn 15:5). This book will attempt to reveal those that join with a harlot (an offspring of Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots) and thus become one – exhibiting the harlot’s nature in their love for her. 1 Corinthians 8:3, “But if any man love God, the same is known of him.” We sacrifice self for the one we love and hold dear (either love Christ – Jn 14:23, or the darkness/world – Jn 3:19, 1 Jn 2:15-17). You cannot love the darkness (Jn 3:19-20), yet be in the light (Jn 3:21). You cannot love the world, yet have the love of the Father (1 Jn 2:15-17). You cannot love money and be free of evil (1 Tim 6:10). Ultimately (day by day, situation by situation), you either sacrifice God or self. Who will prevail in your life? God or self? What fruit will be produced – good or evil?
True Blue – Obedience to the Will of the Father
God has always associated the colors of purple, scarlet, gold and blue with His tabernacle-temple/high priest/people (e.g. Ex 28:5-6, 8, 15, 33, 39:1-3, 24-25). Notice that the false church described above arrays herself with these same colors with one notable exception/exclusion – this great whore (corrupted by lewd intercourse with the world, Rev 17:1, 18:16) is missing the color of blue. What does the color of blue represent? Numbers 15:38-40, “Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders a ribband of blue: And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring: That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God.” The ribband of blue was to be a great reminder of the covenant made with God. The high priest’s holy crown was of pure gold engraved with, HOLINESS TO THE LORD and tied with a lace of blue, to fasten it on high upon the mitre (Ex 39:30-31). Holiness is sustained (upheld) through obedience to the Lord’s will (Lk 1:74-75).
This mother of all harlots and abominations of the earth imitates the colors which God’s high priest was arrayed in with the notable exclusion of blue (Exodus chapter 28). This corrupted imposter does not array herself in blue because she seeks after the lusts and desires of her own heart and eyes and does not “do” or obey the commandments of God (Gen 6:5, Deut 12:8, 29:19, Jer 3:17, 7:24, 9:14, 11:7-8, 13:10, 16:12, 17:16, 18:11-12, 23:17, Rm 1:21, Jdg 17:6, 21:25, Ps 36:2, Pv 3:7, 6:18, 12:15, 16:2, 21:2, 30:12, Is 5:21). She says, but does not do (Mt 23:3). The harlot is very religious in form, speech, doctrines and ceremony, but she does not obey God’s commandments – but her outward appearance suggest that she is godly. She is very sympathetic to those who walk in sin/darkness, but does not encourage those who walk in the light. She is quick to tell those in sin that God understands (implied approval attributed to Christ). This harlot talks all about God’s free gift, grace and no need for works (once saved always saved, predestination, easy salvation, name-it-and-claim-it, prosperity, peace-peace, etc.), but she does not obey Christ’s commands nor deny self and take up the cross (no death to self, no obedience - Jn 14:15-17, 20-21, 23, 15:10, 1 Jn 2:3-4, 3:24, 5:2-3). This false church is an imposter – a pretender, phony, hypocritical, feigned. As further confirmation, it is also obvious from the whore’s description above that fornicating with the world and killing God’s saints (Mt 24:9) is disregarding the Lord’s commandments.
When the camp (of Israel) setteth forth and the tabernacle was to be moved, the ark of the testimony was covered with a cloth of blue (Num 4:5-6, also the table of shewbread, candlestick, golden altar, and instruments of ministry were covered in blue, Num 4:7, 9, 11-12). The “ark” of the covenant was a small chest that contained God’s law which Israel agreed (covenanted) to “obey.” Many years before, Noah was saved from the flood by “obeying” God in building an “ark” for the saving of his house (Heb 11:7). Obedience to God’s commands is always for the saving of the soul! The “ark of the testimony’s” covering of blue was a further reminder to obey God’s covenant. When we stand before God at judgment, our “ark” for salvation will have been constructed through a lifetime of obedience to Christ’s Word (Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Acts 4:12 AND For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thess 5:9). This obedience to the Lord will be made manifest in our works/deeds/fruit. Those that are Christ’s are “called,” “chosen,” and “faithful” (Rev 17:14). Jesus calls them out of the darkness and they hear Him, respond and obey.
It was noted above that this false church intoxicates the peoples of the world to produce a kind of delirium. Revelation 18:3, “For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.” To be delirious is to be disconnected from the truth, marked by confusion. Confusion is the inability to differentiate (judge) right and wrong and thereby meld (join, mix) the two as shades of gray. To be drunk is to become stupefied (dullness). This would include having doctrines and traditions associated with God’s Word (twisting) that are irregular (not according to established principles) and conflicting with other parts of God’s Word – confusion of ideas (opposed to distinctness or perspicuity). Confusion results when the truth is twisted into a lie. Confusion occurs when one disobeys God and transgresses His will, yet claims to love and serve Him. Jesus said it like this: Luke 6:46, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Disobedience to God’s truth results in confusion: Jeremiah 3:25, “We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covereth us: for we have sinned against the LORD our God, we and our fathers, from our youth even unto this day, and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God.” God is truth and anything apart from Him is confusion (Ps 31:5, Is 65:16, Jn 4:24). God’s people must be established in the truth (2 Pt 1:12). That which opposes God’s truth is the darkness. That which confuses God’s truth is a lie - no lie is of the truth (1 Jn 2:21).
This harlot seduces wonderfully through her deception and her appeals to the flesh. God proclaims that He is her enemy. Nahum 3:4-6, “Because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the wellfavoured harlot, the mistress of witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts. Behold, I am against thee, saith the LORD of hosts; and I will discover thy skirts upon thy face, and I will shew the nations thy nakedness, and the kingdoms thy shame. And I will cast abominable filth upon thee, and make thee vile, and will set thee as a gazingstock.” This harlot is wellfavoured or “pleasing to the eye.” Recall that in the garden of Eden, the serpent beguiled Eve (through deception and appeals to the flesh) and she transgressed God’s will by eating fruit from the forbidden tree because it was “pleasing to the eye (Gen 3:6).” Those who seek the flesh, seek what pleases the flesh as discerned through the senses. Those who seek God, surrender to what pleases God as revealed through faith, which bypasses the flesh (no confidence in the flesh, Php 3:3) – the Lord’s will. The harlot allures one to partake of that which is forbidden; she says: Proverbs 9:17, “Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” Beware, the dead are with her and her guests are in the depths of hell (Pv 9:18). Partaking of that which is forbidden leads to death and hell. To partake of that which is forbidden is to rebel against God’s established authority.
Man has always had the choice of submitting to God’s will or seeking the lusts and desires of his flesh (his will, self). The harlot follows Satan’s gospel which is to seek self and that which is forbidden. The darkness is sustained through the lusts and desires of the flesh (the corruption that is in the world is through lust, 2 Pt 1:4, 2:18). The harlot’s gospel has a sheep’s skin (deception, Mt 7:15). It appears godly on the outside, but underneath it is as a ravening wolf that devours men. She comes as an angel of light (truth, 2 Cor 11:14) and in the name of Christ, but deceives (Mt 24:5, 11, Mk 13:6, Lk 21:8, Rev 12:9). She twists Christ’s gospel into something that seems right but is not – she corrupts God’s Word (2 Cor 2:17, 4:2). She makes believe that what is not is – she lies (Jn 8:44). The harlot places false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies (2 Pt 2:1-2). The harlot’s false apostles and deceitful workers transform themselves into the apostles of Christ and ministers of righteousness (2 Cor 11:13-15, also Mt 24:24). They steer you to the flesh and away from obedience to the will of God. Her nature is to seek the things of the flesh and not to obey God. This is Satan’s nature, which is the darkness. The darkness is opposite of the light; the lie is opposite of the truth. When he (the devil) speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own (Jn 8:44). In other words, the supposition that you can seek your own will and disregard God’s commandments is the lie that the devil authored (what he did). He abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. (Jn 8:44). The devil teaches and leads in the lie that he created. This lie exalts self and denies the authority and rule of God. The lie leads one out of the truth – for no lie is of the truth (1 Jn 2:21).
Babylon, the mother of all harlots (false churches) has always lashed out at the true church in hate, but the true church has always responded with love. One group walks in Satan’s nature and one group walks in the Lord’s nature. This could be characterized as the proud verses the meek & humble. The proud always exalt self and the meek always deny self. The proud injure and the meek forbear the injuries that are inflicted. True followers of Christ never took up the sword, nor shall they – not even for defense. He that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword (Rev 13:10). The true church is known for love and not returning evil for evil (Jn 13:34-35). They have been commanded by their Lord to love others and the true church obeys (Jn 13:34, 15:12, 14, 17, 1 Jn 3:23, 2 Jn 1:5-6). True believers never fought back, but maintained their testimony, even to their demise. THIS IS SO IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND. You will be known by whose nature you walk in and your deeds will be manifested through your actions.
A harlot claims love for one (God), but actually has eyes for another (things of the world, the flesh). This is idolatry (Jer 2:23-25). A harlot/whore is not faithful (rather she is promiscuous) or obedient. A true follower of the Lord will make no covenant (agreement) with the inhabitants of the land (secular governments) or go a whoring after their gods (anything placed ahead of the one true God, Ex 34:12-16, Lev 18:3-5, 20:23-24 Num 33:52, Deut 12:1-4, 31:16). To go a whoring is to be led of devils (Lev 17:7, 20:5-7, 23). Devils lead opposite of God and in rebellion/disobedience to God. This is to break covenant (solemn agreement to follow and obey the Lord) with God – to break Christ’s testament (Heb 10:28-31, 38-39, 12:24). Those in covenant with God are His peculiar people that obey Him and show forth His praises (Ex 19:5, Deut 14:2, 26:18, Ps 135:4, Ti 2:14, 1 Pt 2:9).
More Definitive
Many have assumed that this “mother of all harlots” is Roman Catholicism given its history of persecution and practices, but this is a very narrow view. Roman Catholicism is but one of her children (Is 57:3-5). This great mystery also includes much of Protestantism and Orthodoxy (Greek and Russian). This is not to say that everyone that has been associated with these man-made organizations is guilty. The peoples of the world are intoxicated, yet the Lord is continually calling individuals out of the darkness. This darkness certainly includes “religious” darkness. The Lord is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish, but all come to repentance (2 Pt 3:9). 1 Timothy 2:4, “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 1 John 2:3, “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.” When the Lord’s light shines, there are always those who respond to it. 2 Corinthians 4:6, “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” Often, those who saw the kingdom of God (Jn 3:3) and tried to find their way out of the religious darkness, were persecuted unto death. Their new nature was made manifest as they went to the slaugther as lambs, praying for their persecutors. The Lord moves sovereignly over His creation and the author in no way attempts to limit God in how He deals with man (whether religious or not) or the kingdoms of this world. God gives life and the Lord takes life away, blessed be the name of the Lord (Job 1:21).
Most will be appalled at such a notion, after all most professed Christians consider themselves as belonging to one of these big three religious institutions that supposedly (allegedly, purportedly) make-up Christianity. Do not be so quick to dismiss this assertion. Jesus warned over and over to beware of religious deception (read Mt chap 24, Mk chap 13, Lk chap 21). This writing is going to attempt to look at the fruit or outwardly manifested actions and deeds – how else will we know? Jesus gave us the authority and discernment to look at the fruits (Mt 7:17-20, 12:33). It is really quite simple (complex confusion made simple), you are either following man-made institutions (works of the flesh) or the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that in the end it all boils down to the fruit. It is not about the names that great institutions of men are known by, but rather by the fruits they produce! There are fruits of the flesh (i.e. wrath, strife, envy, hatred, Gal 5:19-21) known as fruit unto death,(Rm 7:4) and fruits of the Spirit (i.e. love, meekness, longsuffering, gentleness, Gal 5:23-24) known as fruitunto God(Rm 7:5). These two positions produce distinct and identifiable fruits. Galatians 5:16-17, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” You either produce corrupt fruit (fleshly) or good fruit (godly).
The true church is composed of many nameless (as in unimportant to man) individuals that are known of Jesus and His Father (1 Cor 8:3, Jn 10:3, 14, Nah 1:7, Gal 4:9, Mt 10:32, Lk 12:8, Rev 3:5). These obey the Lord’s commandments thereby walking in faith. They do not only talk of faith, but walk in faith. They come out of the darkness into the light (1 Pt 2:9). They produce good fruit (Jn 15:8). This is not an institution of man, but a work of the Spirit having been called and assembled of God (Jn 6:44-45, 12:32).
Those who are Christ’s (belong to) have come out of the lust sustained darkness: Galatians 5:24-25, “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh (died to) with the affections and lusts.” We must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2 Cor 7:1). If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Those who walk in idolatry, strife, envy, hatred, murder, fornication, uncleanness, seditions and such like, will not inherit the kingdom of God (Gal 5:19-21, Rm 1:29-32, 1 Cor 6:9-10, Col 3:8-10). PLEASE CONSIDER THIS FULLY as we proceed on…
Notes:
A This was noted by a very learned scribe at the time of Christ: Luke 10:25-28, “And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” These two great commandments were understood by this lawyer (one well versed in the law) from the writings of Moses. This was not a new concept.
B Another vital thing to realize (particularly with regards to this book) is: Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” A peacemaker is one who makes peace by reconciling parties that are at variance. In other words, they are not at variance or strife with others (particularly at war). Therefore (in keeping with the paragraph) a peacemaker is one who walks in faith which is a child of God.
C The depths of Satan or his great “lie” has always been to seek self-will over God’s will. This is realized through seeking the lusts and desires of the flesh. This is the darkness or lie. This is to place your will above God’s will or to be as gods (Gen 3:5). To seek your will must result in a diminishing or sacrifice (disregard) of God’s will.
D God’s elect is not appointed unto God’s wrath (1 Thess 5:9), but that does not mean that they will not die (be martyred). God’s elect are appointed unto salvation. The evil and wicked are appointed unto the lake of fire (Rev 20:15). Jesus told the church at Smyrna, with regard to their tribulation and suffering: “be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life (Rev 2:10).” These do not receive wrath, but life. Consider how they overcome the beast: Revelation 12:11, “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Those who walk in Christ’s covenant will not compromise with the world or take it’s mark (Rev 20:4).
Chapter Two – Persecution, Killing and War
Persecution
The great whore is a persecutor of God’s people. Her fruit is strife, sedition (bring about rebellion against established authority), envy, hatred, violence, murder, warfare, deceit, killing, deception, false witness, adultery, etc. All one has to do is research who the “persecutors” have been or who they currently are (in a corporate sense, not individually). Jesus said: John 16:2, “They shall put you out of the synagogues (i.e. churches): yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” Any religious group that persecutes another whether through bodily injury, imprisonment or death are not of God and do not “know” God. Also, any religious group that takes away from (downplays, lessens) obedience to God’s commandments, does not “know” the Lord and the truth is not in them (1 Jn 2:4). In other words, the false church walks in hate. It sacrifices individuals/groups (identifying them as heretics or such) for the perceived benefit of the institution which is attributed to doing God a service.
The true church walks in love! 1 John 4:16, “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him (also 2 Cor 6:16).” Love sacrifices self for the benefit of another. Jesus through love sacrificed Himself for the benefit of man (Rm 5:8). Those who are Christ’s dwell in love! Christ’s two great commandments reveal that man must sacrifice self for God foremost (heart, mind, soul and strength, Mt 22:37-40, Mk 12:30-31, Lk 10:27) and that man must also sacrifice self for his neighbor (Mt 5:43, 19:19, 22:39, Mk 12:31, 33, Lk 10:27, Rm 13:10, Gal 5:14, Js 2:8). The true church is led of the Spirit and obeys the Lord’s commandments. This requires a sacrifice of self (no way around this). You cannot be selfish and fulfill Christ’s two great commandments.
They shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues (religious councils), and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers (secular authorities) for my name’s sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony (Lk 21:12-13). This church-state union will persecute true believers, but in doing so the testimony of Christ’s gospel will be clearly annunciated (to announce or proclaim) for all to hear. Consider what the scriptures say about Jesus (whom believers follow): Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession (1 Tim 6:13). The words of this gospel will come from the Lord through His followers (Lk 21:15). These worldly authorities shall be without excuse when true believers appeal their cases to be heard before the judgment seat of God Almighty. The true believer must uphold God’s Word while willingly and nonviolently submitting to the punishments of the worldly authorities. Many shall be put to death and all shall be hated of men for Christ’s name’s sake (Lk 21:16-17). The matter must be left in God’s hands.
The false church does not walk in God’s love. The false church loves the things of the world; she loves the darkness (Jn 3:19, 1 Jn 2:15-17). 1 John 4:20, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” Hate is the opposite of love and sacrifices others for selfish benefit. Those that do this become very creative in how they justify the reasons why they do it, but the fruit is evident for all to see.
Now here is something crucial that we must take to heart: the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us (Rm 5:5). We must walk in God’s Spirit to be His and have His love (Rm 8:9, 1 Cor 3:17, 6:19, 2 Jn 1:2). Jesus says to all sincere believers: “behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you (Lk 24:49, Jn 7:38-39). This is Jesus giving the power to become the sons of God to as many as will receive Him (Jn 1:12, Rm 8:14). Romans 8:11, “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken (make alive, effect grace, revive) your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” So the Spirit dwells in us that love may dwell in us. PLEASE REMEMBER THIS AS WE PROCEED: Romans 13:10, “Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” The law restrained the evil nature of man toward each other. In other words, the law reavealed thus: Luke 6:31, “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” The Holy Spirit, dwelling within a man, will never lead that man to persecute or hate/harm his neighbor (including enemies). Hatred, killing, violence and warfare are of another spirit altogether.
Protestants (reformers of Roman Catholicism), as a leg of Mystery Babylon, are a little harder to define because some legitimate groups have been lumped under the umbrella of Protestantism (see Chapter 5, False Doctrines). As a matter of course, any group that is not Orthodox or Catholic will most likely be considered or labeled Protestant. Therefore, Protestants will have to be defined by their actions (not by a name), namely hatred/killing/violence and false doctrines. These shocking attributes will be discussed at length within this book. The Protestant’s mother is the Roman Catholic church. The Protestants tried unsuccessfully to reform parts of Roman Catholicism. Since Satan’s kingdom walks in hatred, there is no love between the Catholics and Protestants. Thus, the Catholics adopted the counter-reformation to combat Protestantism. The Protestants have been very good at pointing out their mother’s evils (Catholicism), but never acknowledge their own.
Neither the Catholic or Protestant entities have any desire to repent of past evils or change, but may evolve when it suits them. The chief difference between the false and the real is that one group is led of man and exhibits the nature of Satan (goats, tares) and the other is led of the Holy Spirit and exhibits the nature of Christ (sheep, good seed). The Protestants did have a measure of truth and over time some individuals/groups who sincerely sought the Lord went on to realize the true gospel of Jesus Christ. These sobered up (no longer intoxicated) and came to the light. Even so, no one will “follow” the true gospel without significant resistance from religious man (those who presume to serve God apart from His Spirit). Religious man attempted to hinder Christ and so it will be with His followers (Lk 11:52). Matthew 15:13, “But he (Jesus) answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.”
When God looks upon man, He does not necessarily see men as Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant or whatever, but rather as either walking in faith (obedience) or unbelief (disobedience, Mal 3:18). God doesn’t look for those trusting in religion (its doctrines and sacraments), but rather those trusting in Jesus Christ. The church doesn’t save anybody (it is a vessel to proclaim God’s truth, read Jn 1:12-13), but rather those saved are the church (His body),which Jesus adds to daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:47). Those walking in faith (the just shall live by his faith, Hab 2:4) are willfully dying to self in surrender and obedience to the will of God. Through faith, they are kept by the power of God (the Holy Spirit, the grace that should come unto you, 1 Pt 1:10) unto salvation (1 Pt 1:5). Those walking in unbelief are increasing in self and disregarding God’s will in order to seek (realize, attain) their own will – this can be done in a religious way. Those led of the Spirit will be led to understanding, given an obedient heart (Pv 2:6, Col 1:10, 3:10). 1 John 2:27, “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” The Spirit of truth leads to the truth of Christ (1 Cor 2:12-14). So, whatever the starting point may be, those led of the Spirit will be led to the truth.
The Spirit of truth will never lead into the devil’s lie or the darkness. Jesus is constantly calling individuals, wherever they may be in the darkness (even religious darkness), to come to His light (truth). Those who respond are born of God (to be discussed) and led to walk in the Lord’s truth (in Christ’s steps). Those who willfully remain in the darkness are of the darkness and love it (Jn 3:19). Ye are sanctified (set apart), and are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God (1 Cor 6:11). They are turned from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, sanctified by faith in Jesus (Acts 26:18, Rm 5:2). Many will seek to enter in (by religious means), but shall not be able (Lk 13:24). Many are called, but few are chosen (Mt 20:16, 22:14). This is because most will ignor God’s Way and trust in their religious organization and its way or their own ability and means. Of those called, God is looking for the ones who trust and obey.
Persecution, Killing and War (the Crux of the Matter)
Those of the flesh persecute those of the Spirit. This is analogous to Ishmael and Isaac. Galatians 4:22, “For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.” One child resulted from man’s efforts and the other child resulted from God’s intervention due to His promise/covenant with Abram. Galatians 4:28-29, “Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.” Psalms 37:12, “The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.” The wicked watcheth and plotteth against the righteous and just to slay him (Ps 37:12, 32). The very first murder also demonstrates this: Cain was of the flesh and killed his brother Able (who pleased God, Gen 4:4-5, 8, Heb 11:4). 1 John 3:11-12, “For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” Notice that Cain, the wicked one (had Satan’s nature), was the persecutor. Able, the righteous one, was the one who was persecuted (Heb 11:4). Those who are of God love one another. Those who are not of God hate one another which is manifested through envy, violence, war, and killing. Those of the flesh are always the persecutors and those of the Spirit are always the victims. There are no victims when all walk in love (which is a picture of heaven). Those of the Spirit are delivered when the Lord chooses to intervene.
Herod was proud (exalted) and sinful (Mk 6:17-18, Lk 3:18-19, Acts 12:20-23). John the Baptist was humble, sent of God, and the greatest prophet (Mt 3:4, 11:10, Mk 1:2-3, 6:20, Lk 7:28). Herod killed John rather than humble himself to save him (Mk 6:17-28, Lk 9:9). John was a bright light on Herod’s dark life. Rather than repent, Herod put out the light. Proud religious men (of the flesh) also killed humble Jesus (of the Spirit) out of jealousy and envy (Mt 27:17-18, Mk 15:10). Rather than repent, religious man attempted to put out Christ’s light. Those that love the darkness do not come to the light, but rather try and extinguish the light. “For every one that doeth evil, hateth the light, neither cometh to the light…(Jn 3:20).” Paul was a persecutor, but when he came to the light (saw the light), he became the persecuted (Acts 9:16). Paul once dragged believers to prison, falsely accused them, gave his consent in stoning them or putting them to death otherwise. Once Paul became a believer, he was stoned, falsely accused, imprisoned and later killed (2 Tim 3:10-11, 4:6). Those in the darkness always persecute those in the light.
The Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants have all persecuted others in defense of their institution’s traditions and doctrines being driven by the desire to control – history reveals this plainly. They considered everyone who did not agree with them (at one time or another) to be heretics and thought they were doing God a service by killing them. These groups used secular governments and man made laws to do this (they rode the beast). 1 John 2:9-10, “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.” How could one group who “professes” love for Christ, have such hatred toward another group who does the same? – and then use God’s Word to defend their hatred. We are not talking about breaking fellowship or separating from those in error, but rather desiring ill will and harm and inflicting violence upon them. 1 John 2:11, “But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.” Those who do not walk in brotherly kindness and charity are blind, and cannot see afar off (2 Pt 1:8-9). Consider this: 1 John 3:10, “In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” AND 1 John 3:14-15, “We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” Therefore: those that hate walketh in darkness, are murderers and abideth in death. Being in the darkness blinds to the truth. To hate is to desire harm or ill (bad, harm, trouble, suffering) upon another. To hate is to sacrifice others for selfish benefit. We shall further determine how this applies to all the wars these groups have endorsed and participated in.
Some might say that the Roman Catholics persecuted the Protestants; shouldn’t the Protestants also be the true church? The answer is found in how the Protestants reacted or responded (in general, note comment below). For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword (Mt 26:2, also Job 4:8). In most cases the Protestants simply returned evil for evil (Rm 12:17, 1 Thess 5:15, 1 Pt 3:9). They fought against their adversaries (i.e. Catholics). For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light (Jn 3:20). Proverbs 24:29, “Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.” Judgment is not in our hands! The Lord says: Romans 12:19, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord (also Nah 1:2-3, Rev 6:10-11).” 1 Peter 4:19, “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
The true church hates no one nor does it render evil for evil, it just goes to the slaughter as a lamb (Acts 8:32). The true church patiently receives the wrath of others, forbearing the inflicted injuries. Romans 8:36, “As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter (also Ps 44:22).” These are under the altar of God having laid down their lives without resistance for the Word of God and the testimony which they held (Rev 6:9). The true church may be in the midst of wolves (aggressors that want to devour), but it is harmless as doves (Mt 10:16, Php 2:15). The true church trusts in God and then accepts their fate (Thy will be done, Nah 1:7). The Lord has said that there are a certain number of saints that shall be killed and this must be fulfilled (Rev 6:11).
The Lord’s people are often referred to as sheep (Ps chap 23, Jn chap 10, also Ps 78:52, 79:13, 95:7, Is 53:6, Jer 23:1, Ez 34:6, Mt 9:36, 26:31, Mk 14:27, Jn 21:16, 1 Pt 2:25). Psalms 100:3, “Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture (also Ps 95:7).” The sheep never attack a wolf, no matter how many sheep there are – they always flee from the wolf. If there were a hundred sheep and only one wolf, the sheep would still run away. The nature of the wolf is to kill, devour and destroy. The nature of the sheep is to be meek, humble, loving, gentle and kind. Does a lamb bite a wolf? The wolf is the persecutor and the sheep are the persecuted. So it is with the children of the devil and the children of the Lord. The aggressor overcomes the humble through evil doings. The humble overcome the aggressor by not becoming an aggressor. 1 Peter 3:17, “For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.” The sheep (followers) do depend upon the shepherd (Jesus) for protection (2 Kgs 17:39), even so, the true church yields to whatever God sends their way – suffering patiently (Js 1:3, 5:10-11, Rev 13:10). Luke 21:19, “In your patience possess ye your souls.” When ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God (1 Pt 2:20).
Jesus said: Matthew 10:23, “But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” When persecuted, Christ’s sheep flee. Notice that Jesus did not say to stay and defend yourselves or hold your ground. Notice that Jesus’ sheep will flee from city to city until Christ returns. Jesus would not have us to stand and fight because then we would not be “following” Him and His example. Jesus Himself did not walk in some areas because the Jews sought to kill Him. John 7:1, “After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.” If we returned evil for evil, then we would be following Satan’s example further into the darkness.
Jesus explicitly said: “For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them (Lk 9:56).” AND “for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world (Jn 12:47).” Those who “follow” Jesus do not destroy men’s lives (as in war), but are also here to save them – to be lights and vessels for the Master’s use. The purposes of Christ and His church are one in the same. Christ did not come to kill and destroy, but to seek that which was lost. Luke 19:10, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Jesus came calling sinners to repentance (Mt 9:13, Mk 2:17, Lk 5:32). Satan came (in Eden) to kill and destroy (Jn 10:10) – he scattered and lost. 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Jesus came to undo the damage that Satan inflicted (Lk 15:1) – to destroy the works of the devil (1 Jn 3:8). Satan brought death; Jesus brought life. Those who follow Jesus will be about their Lord’s business of recovering the lost back to God’s kingdom. Christ’s followers will offer “life” and “liberty” and not “death” and “bondage.” ITS ALL ABOUT FOLLOWING JESUS IN ALL THAT HE DID – this cannot be emphasized enough.
The true church is meek – they forbear the injuries of others and justify God no matter what (Mt 5:5). Matthew 5:39, “But I (Jesus) say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” “Resist not” means no defense – to forbear. Those who walk in darkness cannot understand this – it is not their nature to understand it. These try to justify following Christ through the devil’s nature – it cannot be done. Jesus said: Matthew 5:9-10, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Can you see how the true church is peacemakers, yet persecuted (forbear the injuries of others)? Remember, the true church “follows” Jesus. The true church is a light to shine Christ’s nature, not the devil’s nature. Weren’t Jesus, the prophets and the apostles all persecuted for righteousness sake? Did they return evil for evil? We must follow – in His steps (1 Pt 2:21). If you are not the salt of this earth (examples of Christ’s nature, conformed to His image, letting your light shine before men, Mt 5:16), then Jesus said you are good for nothing (Mt 5:13). We must love our enemies and pray for those who despitefully use us (Mt 5:44). We are called unto perfection – to be completely in God’s will and yielded to His purposes (Mt 5:48). The author does believe that their were many individuals within the Protestant church that ultimately saw God’s truth and laid down their lives (without resistance) when required.
The Roman Catholics (Western Christianity), Orthodox (Eastern Christianity) and Protestants (Reformed Christianity) have all rode the beast, meaning they have allied with secular worldly governments to further their goals (growth, power, control, security, riches). Revelation 17:3, “So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.” AND Revelation 17:7, “And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.” The dragon or Satan gives the beast its authority and power (Rev 13:1-4). The beast has killed and shall kill God’s people (Rev 6:9). Revelation 13:7, “And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.”
This is a combining of religion and state! – a man directed theocracy. Roman Catholicism once combined with the Roman empire (which included many European states) and later with Europe forming a Holy Roman Empire. The famous Protestant, Martin Luther, combined with Germanic countries. The famous Protestant, John Calvin, combined with Switzerland (Geneva). The Orthodox church once combined with Russia. Under all these circumstances, God’s true saints suffered greatly. The Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants have persecuted those who did not accept their dominance and also have warred with each other through the centuries. They demanded that everyone join the “state church” – the institution that they controlled. There was the state church and the stake church (as in being burned at the stake).
The Roman Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants have all supported war and their members have engaged in war (killing, violence, hatred) – against each other or within their own ranks. This is a historical fact and we are not talking about isolated (few in number) occurrences (see Chapter 3, “A Disturbing History”). We are talking about a mindset, endorsement, patriotism and participation that profoundly exists today. God’s Word says: Romans 8:14, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” The Holy Spirit will never lead to violence, killing, hatred and warfare. The Holy Spirit leads in paths of righteousness (Ps 23:3). What does this say about these groups that claim to be Christ’s church? Romans 8:11, “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” Does the Spirit quicken us to kill one another? Is this what Jesus did? You must have the Holy Spirit or you are none of His (Christ’s, Rm 8:9). The Holy Spirit is given to dwell in us and teach us (Jn 16:13, 1 Cor 2:12-14, 3:16, 6:19, 2 Cor 6:16). John 14:26, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” Does the Holy Ghost teach us to war? – to inflict violence and kill – to hate? Are these the things that Christ said to do? So who is leading and teaching those who participate in war and kill one another or God’s people? Who is leading the aforementioned groups – the Holy Spirit or man (and the one behind man, Jn 8:44)?
Christ’s Command
Jesus said: John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” AND John 15:12, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” How did Christ love us? Jesus loved us by sacrificing His very life for our benefit. He did this while we were still His enemies. Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (also Is 53:6).” 1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” To sin is to transgress (violate and oppose) God’s will which is to be God’s enemy. Those that vex (irritate, make angry through provocations, trouble, distress) the Holy Spirit are enemies of God (Is 63:10). Christ’s sheep will follow His example. Therefore: 1 John 3:16, “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” The love of Christ always sacrifices for another (consider Jesus’ walk). You must value obedience to Christ and love of your neighbor more than your own life. Nothing can come before Jesus (Lk 14:26). Jesus’ commandments will never ever have us destroy one another.
A true Christian could never under any circumstance kill another Christian (or even an enemy). Re-read Christ’s new commandment! This is not a suggestion, but rather defines a true follower. Every one that is perfect shall be as his master (Lk 6:40). To be as Jesus is to love your enemies. Just for further emphasis, Jesus said: John 15:17, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” Please keep this in mind as you read the remainder of this book. Jesus did not say I command you…except under the following conditions. There are no exceptions to Christ’s comandment of love. Those who hear Christ, follow (obey) Christ. Those who do not hear Christ, add their exceptions (reasonings, logic, presumptions) to what Jesus said – they do not obey – they do not hear. The harlot church does not obey God! The harlot church thinks to change the truth of God into a lie(Rm 1:25)!
Now you must explicitly understand that everyone that is of the truth will hear Christ’s voice (Jn 18:37). Jesus’ truth (and He is the Word of God), His commandment, our clear direction, is to “love one another.” Do you hear His voice? To come to any other understanding is to not hear Christ’s voice and to walk away pondering: “What is truth (Jn 18:38)?” Pilate questioned what truth was when the very embodiment of truth was before Him (Jn 1:14, 18:38). He didn’t have ears to hear (or eyes to see) and neither do most men. By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive (Mt 13:14).
Can we imagine the early churches going to war against each other? Killing each other? Would the church at Corinth battle the church at Ephesus or Galatia? Would it be acceptable for members within each of these churches to kill one another (i.e. Corinthians killing Corinthians)? Paul once chastised the Corinthians: 1 Corinthians 3:3, “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” If we can see the wrongfulness and absurdity in this, then why can we not see it in our world today? This article is going to consider how Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants have fought and killed one another and each other through the centuries. They all presumably profess to follow the same Jesus – what a sad reflection that continues to play out even today. They have also persecuted and killed true believers - who offered no resistance. Would Jesus acknowledge those who bear such fruit as His church? Would the apostles (i.e. Peter, John and Paul) acknowledge those who bear such fruit as being the Lord’s church?
Consider the following verse: Matthew 13:33, “Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened (also Lk 13:20-21).” The author believes this verse has a different meaning than what it seems to be. In God’s Word, leaven has always represented sin (1 Cor 5:8, Amos 4:4-5, Ex 13:3), hypocrisy (Lk 12:1), false doctrine (Mt 16:6-12, Mk 8:15) and self exaltation (the leaven of Herod, Mk 8:15, Acts 12:20-23) – leaven is never good or desirable (Ex 12:14-20, 13:3, 7, 23:18, 34:25, Lev 2:11, 6:17, 10:12, Deut 16:4). The Lord forbid leaven from being offered in grain (flour) or sin offerings (Lev 2:11, 6:17, 10:12, 23:17). The leavening of the whole lump of dough/meal/bread has always been used in a negative sense in scripture (1 Cor 5:6-7, Gal 5:7-9). Unleavened would be without sin, and walking in sincerity and truth (1 Cor 5:7-8, also numerous references and symbology in the Old Testament). To hide leaven (sin, hypocrisy and false doctrine) in three measures denotes “deception.” Why three measures? Three branches of Christianity claim to be Christ’s true church (yet all three have rode the beast and killed) – Catholicism, Orthodoxy and Protestantism. Who is the woman? The woman is Mystery, Babylon the great, the mother of harlots. She has deceived these three religious giants through sin (ye can sin and not die, Gen 3:4-5), hypocrisy (say but not do, Mt 23:3), false doctrines (allowing transgression and downplaying obedience to God) and self exaltation (you must submit to us). Remember a spiritual harlot is one that departs from the truth of God – she is not faithful or obedient. A bride loves, honors and obeys. The bride is pure for her betrothed. The meaning of the parable is a warning (similar to those given in Mt chap 24 and Mk chap 13) regarding deception, false doctrines and self exaltation which produce sin and hypocrisy.
Jesus said of this Babylonian spirit/behavior: Matthew 23:27-28, “Matthew 23:27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.” AND “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy (Lk 12:1).” Hypocrisy is feigning (make a show of; to pretend; to assume a false appearance) to be what one is not; or dissimulation, a concealment of one’s real character or motives; assuming of a false appearance of virtue or religion; a deceitful show of a good character, in morals or religion; a counterfeiting of godliness. The whore makes an outward show of godliness and claims to serve God, but she is hypocritical in that she really serves self. She disregards God’s Word and is full of iniquity. Iniquity is unrighteousness which is the transgression of the will or commandments of God (every single violation of the divine law, wickedness). The whore says in so many religious words that you do not have to obey God and “ye shall not surely die (Gen 3:4).” To obey “self” over God in any way is to “be as a god (Gen 3:5).” Iniquity separates man from God (Is 59:2) – and always will - eternally. So, iniquity against God = eternal separation from God. In other words, if you do not “obey” God, then you will be eternally separated from Him. Now consider the fact that obedience to God draws one unto God. So, obedience to God = unity with God. Oh religious man examine your doctrines to see if ye be in the faith or no (2 Cor 13:5).
In America, these religious organizations are still involved in politics (seeking favoritism through law, tax benefits, and influence) and support this country’s wars (killing, hatred, violence). The relationship between this false church and the state is mutually beneficial. How many who profess Christ are in the military? Who fights the wars? Jesus’ commandment was to love and not to kill. 1 John 1:6, “If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.” Satan was/is a liar and a murderer and so will his children be (Jn 8:44). The deception is “whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service” (Jn 16:2). No Christian kills without thinking he is justified before God for whatever reason, yet God’s Word clearly says: 1 John 3:15, “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” Most reading this will still not “get it,” they have been blinded by Satan. 2 Corinthians 4:4, “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” THE GOSPEL IS LOVE!!!! Those who do not walk in love do not walk in Christ’s gospel.
Throughout history, there have been many religious groups that were heretical (in great error). There have also been many true gatherings of believers that were assumed or proclaimed to be heretical because they did not concede to the religious demands of the controlling false church. Just as Caesar, Hitler or Stalin demanded secular loyalty, so has this false church demanded religious loyalty throughout the ages. Was disloyalty ever tolerated by such rulers? The false church says that you will do this, that or the other thing (according to our interpretation and assumed authority) or we will do God a service and remove you from the earth (coercion at the end of a sword). There have also been many divisions based upon doctrines and traditions. This may have necessitated a break in fellowship (maybe justifiably due to unrepentance), but never justifies hatred or violence against another. For instance, when the Roman Catholics and Protestants historically fought one another (went to war), it only proved they were both wrong, in great error and in the darkness – irregardless of who started it. Again, anyone or group that hates or persecutes another does not love or know God. This includes fighting for defense. Christ’s church is known by their love for one another. John 13:35, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Believers are commanded to a higher standard: Romans 12:14, “Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.” To curse is to injure; to subject to evil; to vex, harass or torment with great calamities.
Those in error are always in the majority and generally persecute the minority who are found in truth. Those found in God’s truth – who “know” God cannot fight back. Romans 12:17, “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest (truthful, sincere) in the sight of all men.” Jesus said: Matthew 5:42-45, “Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust (also Lk 6:27-31).” Jesus forever closed any loopholes concerning love. You cannot hate anyone! – this includes your enemies. Hatred always leads to violence and killing. The children of God are those who walk in love.
Jesus further stated: Luke 6:32-36, “For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” Followers of Christ have clearly been called to a much higher standard than unbelievers. We must love the unlovely – the good, bad and the ugly (Mt 22:10). Love is Christ’s nature and hate is Satan’s nature – we must always walk in love, even to our own demise. The aggressors (prideful) always prey upon the meek (humble). However, if you strike back, then you also become an aggressor – the opposite of that which you profess to be – this is evil for evil. You must walk in the nature of Christ irregardless of the consequences or personal loss. You cannot change natures to protect “self.” To exalt self is to walk in pride which is an abomination to God (Pv 16:5). To walk in “self” is to seek your way. We have been “called out” to walk in God’s way. The flesh is never exalted in God’s way – for no flesh shall glory before God (1 Cor 1:29). You must trust solely in God (not self) and accept the Lord’s will in all matters.
Therefore, the groups that have been historically persecuted and did not fight back (walking in God’s love and truth) are clearly the true church or sheep of Christ. Only through God’s love could this even be accomplished. The true church are the ones who assemble in Christ’s name and that the world despises. Romans 8:36, “As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter (also Ps 44:22).” After all, consider our Lord: Acts 8:32, “The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth (also Is 53:7).” Christ’s sheep “follow” Him. Those who love Jesus obey Jesus, irregardless of the personal cost. Christ said: John 14:15, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” The Lord’s commandments are to walk in love. Those who live godly in Christ Jesus are persecuted, yet blessed by the Lord (2 Tim 3:12, Mt 5:10-12). Many a religious man must ponder Christ’s question: Luke 6:46, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Those who are intoxicated by Babylon the Great do not do what Christ says, yet feel justified by their own confused logic.
Now when speaking of these three religious giants that claim to be Christ’s church, we are speaking in generalities. Certainly there were true and sincere individuals within these organizations of man that came to understand God’s truth and served the Lord in obedience – despite the harlot. After all, this “Mystery” Babylon gobbled up the whole earth – peoples, nations, kindreds and tongues. This Mystery Babylon (riding the secular beast) has ruled with an iron fist. Even so, Christ’s true church is to be found outside this false church. We are warned of Mystery Babylon: Revelation 18:4, “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” Once someone has been enlightened with God’s truth within Mystery Babylon, they are warned to come out of her. In other words, forsake the evil and do not attempt to “reform it” – you have not the ability. The Lord is continually calling men out of darkness which includes worldly and religious darkness. Scripture reveal that a great multitude (although a small percentage of the whole) will ultimately respond to God’s call (Rev 7:9).
Mystery Babylon is governed by “man” and walks in the nature of its father, the devil (Jn 8:44). This shall be proven in a succeeding paragraphs. In other words, Mystery Babylon is not led of the Holy Spirit nor is Christ the head (Jn 14:6, Acts 20:28, 1 Cor 11:3, Eph 1:20-23, 4:15, 5:23, Col 1:18, 2:10). The author does not attempt to judge all of this (I have no such authority), but simply presents the historical evidence and the scriptural rebuttal and draws the inevitable conclusion based upon Christ’s Words: Matthew 7:20, “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Certainly there are individual and group exceptions (who followed their Lord) within Catholicism, Orthodoxy and Protestantism, but these went against the grain/current – many to their demise. Some may have been hopelessly trapped within Babylon’s sphere of dominance, but this does not mean that they were aligned in spirit and heart. The Lord ultimately judges with righteousness.
Some might say of these three major religious groups that make up Mystery Babylon: “but they profess Jesus and do many wonderful works.” They outwardly appear righteous, but inwardly are full of hypocrisy and iniquity (Mt 23:28). Jesus said: Matthew 7:21-23, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many 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? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Profession of Jesus is not good enough, you must actually keep the commands of God. Works are not good enough, you must do the will of God. Those that work iniquity disregard God’s commands and will – they transgress the Lord’s will. They justify their own actions in direct contradiction of God’s Word (stated will). This is manifested in their outward nature. All those things which offend (take from God’s righteous nature or glory) and them which do iniquity shall be gathered and cast into the furnace of fire (Mt 13:41-42). The things of Satan are an offence unto Christ (Mt 16:23). Jesus said, if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments (Mt 19:17, also Jn 14:15-17, 20-21, 23, 15:10, 1 Jn 2:3-4, 3:24, 5:2-3). Christ’s commandments are founded upon love (Mt 22:37-40, Mk 12:30-31, Lk 10:27, Jn 13:34, 15:12, 17). You must surrender obediently to God and practice brotherly love (Rm 12:10, 1 Thess 4:9).
The Lord’s true church has always been small – a little flock, few (Lk 12:32, 13:23-24, Mt 7:13-14). These nameless and less visible groups have existed along side of Catholicism, Orthodoxy and Protestantism since the beginning. Jesus never defined his church as characterized by buildings (with names), but rather those who worship God in spirit and truth. John 4:23-24, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” God’s Word further relates: God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth (2 Thess 2:13).
The English word “church” is “ekklesia” in Greek which means called out ones (out of the darkness and into the light, 1 Pt 2:9) or in some cases a gathering of called out ones. Those who are set apart for salvation are filled and led of the Holy Ghost (indwelling) and walk God’s truth which is His very nature (Jesus is The Word which is The Truth which is The Way which is The Life, Jn 1:14, 14:6, Rev 19:13, The Spirit of Truth testifies of Jesus, Jn 14:26, 15:26, 16:13, 1 Jn 5:6). Much of the formalized religious infrastructure so evident today is of man. Jesus said: Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” A couple of sincere believers gathered in spirit and truth is the minimum requirement for a church (it can certainly be more).
These groups have been persecuted, murdered, misrepresented, and demonized by religious man (they said Jesus had a devil, Mt 12:24-28, Lk 11:15). These groups never fought back except with the spiritual weapon of God’s Word (Eph 6:12-18). They did not war after the flesh with carnal weapons (2 Cor 10:3-4). They arrayed themselves with God’s armor and placed their lives in the Lord’s hands - come what may (Jesus said: Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit, Lk 23:46). True believers do not fight with men: Ephesians 6:12, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” These groups have existed all over the world as the Holy Spirit raises them up. The chief difference is that they are led of the Holy Spirit and not man. They have Christ as head and not man. Some of the names that man assigned to them would be Paulicians, Cathars, Brethren, Nestorians, Lollards, Waldenses, Albigenses, Beghards, Moravians, Anabaptist, and Stundists. Often these groups were declared heretics and assigned false beliefs that they did not hold in order to demonize and discredit them. These man-made names were also sometimes applied to more than one peoples/groups to lump together so as to discredit and smear the legitimate ones. Their writings were often destroyed or obliterated to hide the truth. The truth of many of these persecuted peoples will not be known until God’s judgment (whether they walked in truth or error).
Anabaptist were considered to be radical reformers. All they did was take God’s Word literally and apply it to their lives as scriptures require. Subsequently they were a much hated and persecuted peoples. Their refusal to compromise the truth of God’s Word was the secret of their strength. Jesus said: Matthew 10:32, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.” AND Luke 12:8, “Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God.”
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