ISRAEL UPDATEDecember 14, 2003 – It is ironic just how close G-d can be, and yet man misses it… the prime example was Jesus on Earth. His life and ministry were truly misunderstood.
Just as the prophet spoke so long ago, from the time of his birth in Bethlehem to the time of his ascension, Jesus had but one mission… to heal the sick, open blind eyes, restore broken hearts, and proclaim the acceptable day of the L-rd.
While it's true we have seen division and controversy over Jesus, it simply shows us that in reality, men are not at peace with G-d. Jesus is not the problem… actually the problem comes from the turmoil within each individual.
For example, as we approach the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus; just notice how “uptight” people become over Nativity scenes on display in front of municipal buildings.
It has been said that we cannot force another religious holiday on those that don't observe or comprehend it the manner we do.
We have just passed the Halloween season, being inundated with horror movies, occult practices, and the exaltation of pagan rituals, which are all contrary to Christian beliefs, yet this is acceptable to the very ones screaming the loudest about forcing religion on others.
As we read these passages in Luke 4:16-21, we are reminded that Jesus closed this prophecy saying “And he began to say unto them, this day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” Unfortunately many people then, as today, do not come into the realization of just who Jesus truly was.
As they reject the traditional symbols of Christmas in angry fashion, they, like those of Bible times, are not at peace and know not the time of their visitation.
December 14, 2003 - We live in the age of false doctrine, whether it is the door to door missionaries - or erroneous publications in various places of business... these things are easy to discern.
It might seem ironic that false doctrine should permeate the bastions of Christian theology, but the truth is that it is part of G-d's plan.
But we must look at G-d's word to see the essence of false teachings, “Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the L-RD your G-d proveth you, to know whether ye love the L-RD your G-d with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 13:3
As we think back to the words of Jesus, he answered one in a group of Pharisees (who was a lawyer who tried to tempt him), as to what the greatest commandment was... “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the L-rd thy G-d with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” Matthew 22:37
The warning about false prophets is not just a warning, but a message to true believers to overcome the evil influence of the current day… and you will have great reward.
False doctrine(s) in church circles affords us the true opportunity to grow in the knowledge and grace of our L-rd and Savior Jesus Christ.
And as we progress in this series, you will learn that there just might be more false doctrine and teaching than you were aware of… as you allow the light of truth through G-d's Spirit and word to shine in your life, the greater the victory you will experience.
To be continued…