Repent First: Then We are Washed Clean By The Blood

"Regret" is a plain sense of sorrow for offensive or immoral behavior. "Penitence" is a sincere admission of transgression with an implication that the penitent intends to undertake moral improvement. "Contrition" is an absolute relinquishment of self to complete and perfect penitence for misdeeds. "Compunction" is a simple pang of conscience for a contemplated action of questionable morality. To "REPENT" is a deep commitment to turn away from our sin (or that which offends God).
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We must REPENT and give control of our life to God. This is God's Blessing to us, by His Grace, to exercises our gift of "freewill" to choose Him, REPENT, and follow Jesus' path. Glory to the Lamb of God! In His infinite mercy and inconceivable love, He forgives us and blesses us, even when we do not deserve it.
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Today's evangelists are doing a great disservice to their listeners by preaching a watered down version of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Their words serve only Satan, as their followers fall away from Grace and God's Blessings He intended for us. We cannot be seeking, or doing, God's Will for us as we live for the world. We fool ourselves into believing that we must get by in the world, or give into desires of the flesh, and God does not hold it against us.
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We live in 'secret sin', or what we consider 'little sins', which aren't hurting anyone. If it offends God, who is Holy without compromise, it hurts us and our relationship with Him. We can't possibly receive that which He has intended for us. We may feel like everything is fine, and we are getting away with our desires, for now, but, we are heading for disaster. Many live in adultery, or with hate for one another, and say they are "Blessed by God". They are so confused.
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Many people are walking around calling themselves Christians, and believing they are, but, live far out of the Will of the Father (Mat 7:21). They live in iniquity, which they never gave up from the time they said a little prayer, sometime ago, and tagged themselves "Christian". God hates all sin, large or small. The watered down Gospel we receive does not depict the true God's Holy and Just nature. Evangelists would have us believe that attempting 'good works' by walking in righteousness is not what God expects from us. The truth is, 'good works' will not alone get us to Heaven, but, is completely expected of us, by God's commands.
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I encourage you to read The Four Step Program if you are seeking knowledge regarding salvation, and what it takes. It really is very simple, but, it is acquired in steps, not just one simple act of reciting a prayer and saying we believe it. I say to you, out of love, you are only fooling yourself and gain nothing if you have not truly turned your life over to the Lord. If life went on as usual for you, and you do nothing to resist temptations, and live in sin, you were never really saved at all.
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The first step in accepting God's greatest gift of salvation, is to admit we are a sinner. Then we must repent, or turn away from that which offends God (sin). We do not become sinless Saints. We are still human, and expected to slip. We are convicted by the Holy Spirit in our hearts that we have offended God, and we immediately repent, and ask forgiveness. He is faithful to forgive us. We do not continue with the sin, until we are satisfied, knowing it is wrong, but, we will seek forgiveness afterward.
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Our own President claims to be a Christian, but, supports killing God's creations. What a horrible message to the people he leads, that you can be a Christian and choose any ridiculous thing in life regardless it offends God in the most heinous ways. These types of Christians have no idea what the Bible says, or believe it. This is what a Christian is. A follower of Jesus' Gospel, and God's commands. We cannot call ourselves Christian and do evil. It is mixing water with oil...it doesn't!
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The Blood of Jesus does not mix with sin, it covers it, washes it clean. The very first thing to be accomplished in order for us to be washed clean by the blood, is to repent, and stay away from sin as much as possible. If we are aware that what we are doing is wrong, God always provides a way out of temptation. We cannot use the excuse, "The devil made me do it". We have been given intelligence to know right from wrong. We have been given the Holy Spirit, if we truly accepted Christ, and if we seek His assistance, He will assist us out of temptation, always.
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God does not force us to turn away from sin, or the world. He gave us freewill, to choose for ourselves. This is what our salvation is dependant upon. Our choosing to walk in the other direction, away from the world and fleshly desires, is exactly what a Christian makes. We are also expected to read His Word, and serve Him, by speaking of His 'goodness' to others.
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The Lord's Word is clear, and inerrant. If we do not believe that, then we are not "Christians". We have compromised the commands of the Gospel, to suit our desires. Hence so many religions which are supposedly based on the Holy Bible. Everyone wants to interpret God's Word to suit their own needs and desires. It is not a smorgasbord, where we pick and choose what we like for today. Just like man's law, or civil law, we cannot decide we don't like the way it sounds, so we don't have to obey it, as it was written by men.
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God's law was written by men, by the will of God, and the accounts of Jesus' life. Man's law was written by men, by the will of the people, mostly inspired by God's law. We cannot choose to ignore man's law. God's desire for a relationship with us, is based on our faith, and depends on our exercising our freewill to choose Him. However, we must take the narrow path, that leads to the narrow gate, into His Kingdom.
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Evangelists not only lie, but, take snippets out of context, to support their Warm and Fuzzy Sermons. They count on appealling to those, especially whom, refuse to get into the Word on their own. They sell books, many books, appealing to those, especially whom, refuse to repent, but, do not want to realize they are so far away from God. We cannot blame the evangelist as we are standing in Judgement.

Free To Believe

The other day I was on the "Prayer" group page of facebook when I ran across a more than interesting entry. The page is basically intended for members to either submit prayers, or make prayer requests. The entry to which I am referring, however, was neither. The submitter was looking for controversy by posting an excerpt from a post on his page, by one of his friends. A woman was making an observation regarding the growing "Christian" presence on "facebook".

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Commenting on all the references she has observed pertaining to God, the woman was trying to make the point of "Throwing around God's name does not make us Christians". She went on to explain how she has observed so many whom practice leaving inspirational notes and godly remarks, were also just as involved in ungodly behavior. She pointed out Mat 7:21, "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord', shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven". She concluded with the advise "Maybe they should get off facebook, and pick up a Bible".

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The gentleman submitting the comment, was asking for people's "thoughts", as it was apparent he had been offended by the observation. All the times I've visited the Prayer page, I have never seen so many responses to an entry, even when people were requesting prayer for dyer situations. The remarks mounted quickly, in a cruel and vicious assault against the woman, questioning her Christianity. One stood out to me, especially, stating "we" are supposed to be spreading "his" name.

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Any whom have read the majority of my articles, are fully aware where I stand. I was compelled as never before to add my two cents. I wrote, "What she says is biblical truth. If it raises so much emotion and controversy, perhaps we need to analyze ourselves, rather than the messenger", which did not 'go over' too well.

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As it is quite true, we are, as Christians, expected and commanded to speak of God to others. What I have oftentimes observed is that too many spread His name for their own glory and vanity, rather than for His Glory. Advertising that they are Christian takes priority in their heart. Some do it out of ignorance, while many do it intentionally. In either case, they face certain doom for their calamity.

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I cannot think of a more perfect example than someone I've known personally. As of late, I have come across several instances where they have made note on various Internet pages, including facebook, that they are a "Devoted Christian", and proclaiming the "Goodness of God". I know, just as well, they harbour hate and bitterness in their heart. They live a constant lie. This person is far from being a victim, as they portray to unsuspecting ears. They are equally to blame (Mat 7:1-6) for the conflicts they leave behind, but, accept no responsibility or accountability. Instead, they take vindictive actions against people, and refuse to forgive (Mat 18:23-35). Their style of life encourages and empowers the enemy in all lives around them.

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The huge misconception by many, and a tool for argument by atheists, is that because we are Christian we are not supposed to sin. How ridiculous! Every human sins, but, as Christians we have put away sin, or iniquity, and pledge to follow the Heart of Jesus, and the Word of God. God knows we will slip, He expects it. As soon as we slip, our heart is convicted by the Holy Spirit, we repent, and by God's promise, as believers, we are forgiven. In particular cases, however, the sin is premeditated, and without conscience. They neither seek, nor give, forgiveness (Mat 6:15-15). They are under the mistaken impression that, even though they are still involved in the sin, God automatically forgives them, and they claim they are blessed by God.

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These people are confusing God's Blessing with Satan's enabling. As we cherish the desire to control and manipulate others, Satan is in his delight, as he knows this draws us away from God's Will. All demonic influences and principalities will join forces to create the delusion that "God must be making this happen", as it comes so easily and seemingly effortless. Demons can even take on the appearance of an angel visiting us, or speaking to us, to coax us into rationalizing and justifying our ungodly actions.

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God's inerrant Word never relays it is alright to attack another human for personal gain, or inflict suffering, for revenge. There is only one truth and that is the Word of God. The Holy Bible, or the Believers Instructions Before Leaving Earth, is not God's "Suggestion" book. Rather, it is His command for how all are to live. Whether or not, we choose to believe that, is irrelevant.

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Now, more than ever, all should be vigilant to the time of the rapture of the church. We are ever so close to the time in which the Antichrist will be revealed, immediately following the rapture. The campaign of the enemy to eliminate the Bible and sway even believers to corruption has intensified, in preparation. Just as many professed Christians, as non-believers, take part in and/or support abortion, divorce, fornication, adultery, and the list goes on.

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The Lord will only rapture His faithful (Rev 3:10). Many pastors and evangelists will not be spared the Tribulation (Mat 7:22). "Then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; go away from me you evil doers'," (Mat 7:23).

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Many so called preachers (wolves in sheep's clothing, Mat 7:15) are more interested in recruiting numbers than preaching the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. They will throw God's name into their WARM AND FUZZY SERMONS once in awhile, but, promote personal reliance and motivation to escape any guilt for our sin. They portray adhering to God's commandments as "Good works" and suggest its not only unnecessary, but, a sin, in and of itself. There are many, but, Joel Osteen is a perfect example. In this interview with Larry King, he once again side steps and walks the fence in order to not upset any potential customers.

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In the same perspective of self-promotion Oprah Winfrey, a professed Christian, not only promotes demonic, anti-Christian books such as "Laws of Attraction", and "The Secret", but, proclaims we can believe whatever we want, and there are many ways to get to Heaven.

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More and more people whom profess Christianity are abandoning the truth of the Gospel, in favor of a massive rationalization which supports their transgressions. Don't submit to God's word, worship idols, and still go to Heaven? This is what millions are swearing to, but, profess Christ, only because they said a short prayer sometime ago.

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This is Jesus' spoken word, in the Sermon on the Mount: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven (Mat 7:21).

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Those whom proclaim God is good, but, think they can live in iniquity, will also learn God is JUST !

The Plague Abounds

I must give credit, where credit is due. This article was inspired by the recent teachings of Jonathan Falwell, son of the late Jerry Falwell. A very public figure, his message is heard by millions every week. When I heard his latest sermon, "Biblical Integrity", I knew exactly what Jesus felt when he was outraged at the Temple and drove out the merchants as they were desecrating the house of His Father (Mat 21:12).

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Most of Mr. Falwell's message was the usual soft, 'warm & fuzzy' sermon I have heard so many times. The certain ideology that really struck me, however, was the profound statement he delivered, "Even if you are living a life of sin, you cannot lose your salvation". Usually I am cautious about using direct quotes, but, as in the case with Larry Huch, I do not want to deprive them of something to ponder when half (optimistic) of their church is gone, and they are 'left behind'. Larry Huch feels God does not expect "Americans in 2009" to follow His Word as it was written two millenniums ago.

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Once again, as so many others before him, Mr Falwell quoted scripture from Apostle Paul. We must remember, Paul was writing to believers, not heathens. It was Apostle Paul who wrote in the letter to the Galatians 2:20, It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and this life I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave His life for me.

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When we took the step in faith, and accepted Christ as our Saviour, we died to sin. We were washed clean of the sin of our past. As believers, we are not simply committing to the vow of believing Jesus died on the Cross, therefore, we can now go on living a life of sin without guilt. Being 'born again' means our heart has been changed and we have now committed to following Christ. We are to live our life as though He could return any minute. We have been so displaced from that notion, we rationalize everything we do which we know offends God.

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By giving these totally false messages, the false teachers are watering down our concept of the need to follow God's Word. The good news is that we were given the opportunity to fellowship with God and secure our place in Heaven. We didn't do anything to deserve this. By God's standard we are filthy, even if we are at our best. We are saved by His Grace alone. To give into sin is mocking His effort for us and spitting on Jesus. We are in effect crucifying Jesus all over again when we willfully sin.

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Preachers who spread this diluted message that Christ died for our sin so we wouldn't feel guilty as we continue to sin, should find an honest job, or call their new religion something else. Their message is in no way a true reflection of Christianity. How can seemingly intelligent people misconstrue God's Word so profoundly? Satan's confusion. Satan's goal is to keep as many as possible from salvation. When so much contradiction and hypocrisy abounds, there is no standard. When people are conceived to be godly and contradict God's Word, atheists catch it easier than believers. When they see no unity or conformity, why should they believe?

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As a Christian, our heart is transformed and we turn away from sin. As we unintentionally sin, the gift of the Holy Spirit in our life makes us feel conviction for the sin and we immediately repent and turn our focus back on God and we are forgiven. When we willfully sin we are turning away from God and His goodness. He is all righteous and just and hates sin. As followers, we are to hate sin, as well. We are human and not expected to be Saints, but we are expected to be disciples, as was Paul, who the misguided preachers love to quote.

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Jesus was not 'pulling our leg' when he said, "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the kingdom of Heaven, but he that does the will of my Father which is in Heaven"(Mat 7:21).

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Are we to believe that we should only live by that portion of God's Word that was written in a way we can manipulate it to make us feel better? This is what Falwell and so many others like him want you to believe. Should we then disregard the parts of the Bible that conflicts with our heathen lifestyle? Is our biggest sin really feeling guilty about our sin? In Mat 7:21 Jesus was talking to you Mr Falwell, and all of you who pervert His Word to increase your attendance. Jesus was speaking directly to people who profess Him with their mouth, but, ignore His Word and live wickedly.

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This is why most Christians have a rude awakening ahead. I have a fairly strong following of my articles. It is not because my writing is popular. Most of whom keep up with my message, are only doing so to find another angle for which to argue. I receive much more hate mail, than support for what I relay. When I first started to relay God's message, all I received was condemnation. For so long it did not bother me, as I knew I was being obedient.

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There came a day when I even started to doubt myself. I fervently prayed for God to somehow confirm I was sending out an accurate account. Mind you, up to that point, I was the only person I knew of relaying this message. You won't find it on TBN or Daystar. I had not had time to do enough research to confirm...I only did what I was told.

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I had Pastors and seasoned Christians attacking me because I was contradicting their way of preaching. That day, when I was looking for confirmation from God, I was afraid He would think I was showing lack of faith in what He directed me to carry out. I knew I should not question His will, but, I needed to know I was not misinterpreting what He had told me. Immediately, as I got off my knees, I was Divinely directed to several Christians, one after another, who also were called to spread the same message. I realized then, it was the enemy attempting to instill doubt in me, but, God is most merciful. If we are operating in His Will, His Grace abounds. If you stay persistent, He will guide you in every aspect of your life. If you do not seek His Will, Satan will find a break in your faith and get a stronghold, as he has done with so many Christians.

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Don't rely on any man to tell you if you are saved. Pick up the Word of God and give your heart to Him, instead of rebelling over His Word. You are not accomplishing anything by burying your head in the sand. Jesus does not fall for your ignorant act, no matter how much you will it. If you are living in sin without repentance, He is not there. Jesus says, "Go away from me you that work iniquity, I never knew you" (Mat 7:23). Again, He is speaking to people who profess Him.

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The following is the message I "Dared to send to such a man of God" (another direct quote).

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email to J Falwell:
I realize Pastor Falwell is too busy to read an email which does not address anything relevant to the moment, but, I must do my part by attempting to get the message to him. You better examine yourself and where your salvation stands. You live and teach a myth that just because we say a prayer once, and profess with our mouth, we can "Live a life of sin" and cannot lose our salvation. Really? If you choose to believe that, is one thing, but, you are teaching it to people which whom are not understanding you are misled. They use your very words to live a life of sin. I know you say it separates a relation with the Lord. I know, they are responsible to find out the truth on their own, and will be accountable on their own. It is not an excuse that they listened to a misled preacher. But your irresponsible teaching is growing the separation of God and His people. Not exactly on the narrow path are you? And the title of your sermon is Biblical Integrity

It probably wouldn't do you any harm to read what Biblical Integrity really is about. I was led by the Lord to address this very issue. It is very sad to have a calling to tell Christians they cannot live as they want. I am sure your vanity will keep you from reading anything contrary to what you believe and teach. You will be just as stubborn as Larry Flint was with your father, as he tried and tried to reason with him. Your father felt he had a calling, to address a disease in this country. I am not intending to sound insulting when I say your words are contributing to that disease. I am not a kook or religious fanatic. I didn't even want the mission God Divinely led me to do. Please, if you are a staff member reading this, make some attempt to relay this message to Mr Falwell, in God's Holy name. I will continue to pray for you, and hope God can turn your heart around and refrain from your 'warm & fuzzy sermon' which serves only Satan. God Bless you and your family.