Archive for the ‘Holiness’ Category
Twelve Things You MUST Know!
It’s Not Where You’ve Been…
It’s Where You’re Going!
The Prodigal Son
It’s Not What You Were…
It’s What You Are Now!
1 Cor. 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
It’s Not That You’ve Sinned…
It’s That Your Sins Are Forgiven!
Rom. 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Rom. 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
Rom. 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
It’s Not What Others Say…
It’s What God Says!
Rom. 3:4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
It’s Not What You’ve Left…
It’s What You’re Receiving!
Mark 10:28 Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
Mark 10:29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,
Mark 10:30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
It’s Not Just That You Speak In Tongues…
It’s That You Show Love To Everyone!
1 Co 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
It’s Not How Fast You Run…
It’s That You Finish The Race!
Eccl. 9:11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift,
Matt. 10:22 …but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
It’s Not That You Are A Servant Of God…
It’s That You Are Found Faithful!
Matt. 25:23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
It’s Not That You Know…
It’s That You Do!
Jas. 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Jas. 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
It’s Not Just That You’re Living Holy…
It’s That You’re Ready For His Coming!
The Ten Virgins
It’s Not That You Believe…
It’s That You Receive!
Acts 19:2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
Acts 19:3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism.
Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
Acts 19:5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
It’s Not That You Possess Spiritual Gifts…
It’s That You Have A Relationship With God!
Matt. 7:21 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.
Matt. 7:22 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?
Matt. 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Pentecostal Driftwood Dealers
Pentecostal Driftwood Dealers
Driftwood was once a strong growing limb connected to a tree trunk. It received its nourishment and source of strength from its roots. But, something happened that forever changed its appearance and characteristics. The harshness of the wind and sea forever marked it as unsuitable for residential or commercial construction. Lumber Yards do not sell driftwood.
Now and then, in coastal areas, a passerby may spot a store that seems to specialize in driftwood.
As a rule, the best that one can expect it to be now is a space filler or maybe an ornament. It can be painted, sprayed, bleached, washed, stained, and overlaid, but it is still what it is.
Most of us look at its unusual formations and decide whether or not it’s something we would like to look at all the time. Occasionally, pieces are picked up by some and taken home. Sometimes, a piece of driftwood is used as decoration on the lawn or flower bed.
If a cottage is located on a beach and a storm brings driftwood on the property, it’s next residing place is the county dump. Or, at best, dried out and used for firewood.
Driftwood dealers are unusual at best. The strangest driftwood dealers of all are the… Pentecostal Driftwood Dealers.
Some Pentecostal Churches seem to have a custom of keeping all the driftwood that appears in their pews. At best, it only fills space.
But, What Do You Expect To Build Out Of Driftwood?
Do those Pentecostal Driftwood Dealers ever wonder or ask where the driftwood came from, or why it detached itself from its source? Do they ever trace its back trail and call the former pastor? No? Why not? Sadly, some Driftwood Dealers play finders keepers.
Driftwood Has Also Been Called:
- Flotsam
- Jetsam
- Debris
- Wash-out
- Wreckage
- Junk
- Trash
- Waste
- Scrap
And, about sixty more names on https://www.powerthesaurus.org/driftwood/synonyms
Pastor… Is This The Material You Expect To Use To Build Your Church?
How can you better your congregation by taking in someone who left their home church because they had a problem with Holiness or Standards?
Why let someone who has a problem Submitting to their Pastor’s Authority influence your congregation?
Warning!!! Their past Moral problems may easily continue.
If you expect driftwood to once again become connected to any root system you will be disappointed. You do know that what floats in, may also float back out? Is it the need for numbers that drive you to take in whatever you can regardless of the cost?
Are you so dishonest and unscrupulous that you never pick up a phone and call their former pastor? Or, even ask for a letter? Your greed for new members cheapens your ministry.
Who was your pastor? Why weren’t you even taught the basics of ministerial ethics? What keeps you from just sending the driftwood back to where it came from or let it continue on its way? Are you happy being known among your brethren as a Driftwood Dealer? Good men will question that about you, and if you persist, they may also question other things about you as well.
Ministerial ethics doesn’t carry any particular color of fellowship card. One is either ethical or not ethical at all. How can you consider yourself ethical when you keep what is not yours?
God Has A Problem With Those Who Keep Their Neighbors Sheep When It Strays Into Their Pasture.
Lev 6:1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Lev 6:2 If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the LORD, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour;
Lev 6:3 Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning therein:
Lev 6:4 Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found,
Lev 6:5 Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering.
Lev 6:6 And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:
Lev 6:7 And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD: and it shall be forgiven him for any thing of all that he hath done in trespassing therein.
*If God Required Gopher Wood For The Building Of Noah’s Ark…
*If He Demanded That Acacia Wood Used In The Construction Of The Tabernacle…
*Then Know That The Lord Is Particular And Will Not Build His Church Out Of Driftwood!
God Detests Driftwood Dealers.
Neighbor Pastors Detest Them As Well.
Sir? Are You A Pastor According To God’s Heart, Or Just A Driftwood Dealer?
How Shall They Hear Without A Preacher?
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
Disclaimer:
Although I love and support Holy Ghost Radio, I do not represent them in any official capacity. I am not paid by them, neither have I been asked to speak on their behalf.
We Have Many Things To Be Thankful For This Year!
- The Revelation of the Mighty God in Christ.
- The Baptism in the Name of Jesus.
- The Holy Ghost!
- God’s provision and protection.
- Our family and our heritage.
- Our church.
- Our health and our home.
One thing that may not have crossed your mind to be thankful for this year is Holy Ghost Radio! We all love it and have it bookmarked on our computers and have downloaded the app for our cell phones and tablets.
Every week for many years someone has mentioned a sermon or song they’ve heard on Holy Ghost Radio. No other Apostolic Pentecostal resource has been continually more effective in reaching the lost, edifying the body of Christ, and strengthening the church.
Pentecost and the world have been blessed beyond measure by the efforts of Brother and Sister Jeff Hoffer and Holy Ghost Radio.
Reports of listeners receiving the Holy Ghost or receiving the Revelation of the Oneness of God continually pour in. We rejoice with them, upon hearing these wonderful reports.
Twenty years ago, Bro. Hoffer felt led to make Apostolic preaching available to the world. It’s free for everyone to listen to. However, it is a huge expense to keep this service available.
Computers and technical equipment need to be upgraded to keep up with fast-changing technology. Technicians, programmers, and staff are needed to keep HGR on the air.
This Is A Voice That Must Never Go Silent!
While I have not been asked to make a plea for support, Partners In Missions are desperately needed!
Pastor… My Prayer Is That You Make HGR A Part Of Your Missions Giving!
As an individual, I have done a very small part by giving a modest monthly pledge. HGR needs us to show our Thankfulness to them by partnering with them on a monthly basis. (Have you ever noticed how God blesses you when you give to missions?)
Please consider blessing this missionary endeavor. Join me in helping them spread this Gospel around the world!
Click The Link Below.
Make A One Time Donation
I Want To Be A Monthly Supporter
Below Is A Letter From Brother Jeff Hoffer To The Friends Of Holy Ghost Radio
Hello Friends,
Back in 1999, when the Lord directed us to begin a radio ministry, we launched out in faith. Our first conference was in 2002 and we’ve been going strong ever since.
2019 has been a tremendous year for Holy Ghost Radio and we could not have done it without you.
We are streaming Truth 24 hours a day, across the world and love hearing all the testimonies of souls being saved and backsliders praying through!
We’re writing today because we are in need of your help.
We are trusting the Lord to help us keep up with the technology to continue to expand, add new channels, pay for the overhead, the app, website, servers, streams, internet, and upgrade our computers to support all of our streams, add new ones, etc.
Technology is expensive and we really need more churches to partner with us monthly, to help us grow, expand, and keep up with the times.
We are extremely thankful for the WPF adding Holy Ghost Radio to its offering list for Global Missions.
Please consider a monthly pledge offering, either personally or through your church, to support Holy Ghost Radio by continuing to fund the gospel to every nation.
You can give online at holyghostradio.com and click donate or send in a check to:
HGR
PO Box 711441
Santee, Ca 92072
Lastly, we’d like to let you know about an increase in our live conference fee, next year to $1,500 plus accommodations and travel expenses effective January 1, 2020.To save you accommodations & travel expenses you can go remote for $1,500
Thank you so much for being a faithful listener and supporter!
Sincerely,
Jeff & Jeannette Hoffer
Holy Ghost Radio
I Would Appreciate It If You Just Wouldn’t Mention Anything About…
I Would Appreciate It If You Just Wouldn’t Mention Anything About…
The car glided quietly down the Texas road. The only noise came from the breeze in the open windows of the car. The fact that there was no air conditioner in the car made it necessary to roll the windows down because of the heat.
“Brother Ballestero, tonight is the first night of our revival and you will notice three teenage girls that are the praise singers. You will notice also that they are all wearing mini-skirts. They have such great spirits. I am working with them on their attire and I would appreciate it if you just wouldn’t mention anything about mini-skirts or short skirts while you’re here.”
He said that while looking straight ahead. I never turned mine to look at him. Here was an icon in Texas asking me to not to say anything about mini-skirts.
“No problem!” I blurted out.
“Oh, thank you!” He said.
“Well, that was easy. If you would, I have a couple here who have just inherited $1,000,000.00 and they haven’t paid tithes yet. If you say anything while you are here about tithes, they will think I talked to you about it, get mad and may not pay tithes at all. So, if you just wouldn’t say anything about tithes while you’re here I will take it as a personal favor.”
“Not a problem, sir,” I said.
“Well then, just one more thing. I have a precious little Assemblies of God couple coming here and I am waiting for the Holy Ghost to reveal the revelation of the Oneness of the Godhead to them. So, if you wouldn’t preach on the Godhead while you’re here. I would take that as a personal favor also.”
“Relax brother,” I said.
“While I’m here, all I’m going to preach is Jesus!”
He looked at me with relief in his eyes and said, “Thank You.”
“The reason that all I am going to preach while I’m here is Jesus is that it sounds like no one here knows Him!” I said flatly while looking through the front window.
(I am not sure why that revival only lasted one night, but I have a good guess.)
What’s Wrong With Your Voice?
What’s Wrong With Your Voice?
My father rode beside me in the car as we talked about the alarming decline of standards and morality among some of the churches we knew. Dad shook his head after a while and rhetorically said, “Where’s Bro. Verbal Bean when we need him? Where’s Bro. Joe Duke? I wonder why God took their ministries from us when we needed them the most?”
Since neither of us could answer that question, the car stayed quiet for a while as I drove down the highway. Since then, many more strong voices of men and women have been laid silent in their graves. Today, nearly forty years later, I revisited that moment in the car with my daddy.
We look around us now for another star to shine bright! We look for another champion of the faith. We look for someone with an amazing ministry. A preacher we would drive a hundred miles just to listen to one sermon. Someone who will lift their voice.
Really?
- What’s Wrong With Your Voice?
- What Keeps You From Speaking Up?
- Why Don’t You Say Something?
- Why Don’t You Respond To The Need?
- Can’t You See What Sin Is Around You?
- And, You Still Can’t Open Your Mouth?
Maybe you say to yourself that you don’t have a ministry like Bro. Bean, or a Bro. Duke. So you feel content to be quiet.
Have you never read about a man named Amos in the Bible?
Amos 7:14 Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet’s son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit:
Amos 7:15 And the LORD took me as I followed the flock, and the LORD said unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people Israel.
Amos declares that He wasn’t preacher nor a preacher’s son. He was just a herdsman and had a little fruit stand. Yet God chose to speak through him to a whole nation.
God looks for availability.
Eze. 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.
Isa. 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
God is still looking for a voice!
- Are You Available?
- How Would You Respond If God Chose To Use You?
Again, I ask…
What’s Wrong With Your Voice?
Someone Needs To Say Something!!!
You Might Not Be A Saint!
You Might Not Be A Saint!
This Is Strong Meat.
So, I may offend some here. (Sorry)
I have no desire to be harsh or unkind.
I’m Going To Be Straight Forward…
- Like they preached to me when I was young.
- Before anyone heard of being ‘Politically Correct’
A Fact:
Before You Can Be A Saint, You Must Be Born Again.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Then, After You Receive The Holy Ghost, You’re Called To Be A Saint.
1 Cor. 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
(Side Note: You MUST be a Saint before you can ever be a preacher.)
Being A Saint – That’s Our Calling.
Are You Willing To Accept The Call?
- Count the cost if you accept.
- Count the cost if you don’t accept.
To Accept The Call And Qualify To Be A Saint…
1.) You Must Be Willing To Do Whatever It Takes To Be A Saint.
- I’m talking to everyone.
- I don’t care how long you’ve been a church member.
If You’re Just Going To Church:
- To get your shout on.
- To get your blessing.
- For the loaves and the fishes.
- For the fellowship.
- Because of the great Youth Dept.
Your Actions Describe You More Like A Spiritual Moocher Than A Saint.
If All Church Is For You, Is Just A Place That Gives You Loaves And Fishes…
- Then I can’t help you.
- Because you most likely will never change.
You Don’t Have To Be A Saint…
- But if you choose to be a saint…
- You cannot become a saint on your terms!
“Saints Are Not Born, They’re Made” – My Dad Always Said.
- If you are a saint…
- Or ever become a saint…
- It’s because you listened to your pastor!
If You Are A Saint, It’s Because There Was A Change In Your Life.
- It may be, “Come as you are,”
- But it’s not… “Stay as you are!”
- The Gospel is all about change.
(Do you still want to be a saint?)
If You’re Looking For An Easy Route To Heaven,
- One that you never have to make a change, inside or out.
- One that requires no commitment,
- One That requires no submission…
Then you are just looking for a social group that lets you live like you want.
Isa 30:9 That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD:
Isa 30:10 Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:
If That’s You, You Won’t Be Happy In A Real Apostolic Church. You Might As Well Move On Down The Road. Because ALL Of God’s Word Gets Preached In An Apostolic Church.
(Do you still want to be a saint?
Or do you want a compromised and watered-down version of the Word of God
Saints Don’t Argue With The Word, They Submit!
2.) A Saint Always Has A Teachable Spirit.
Jas 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
If You Do Not Have A Teachable Spirit, You Don’t Really Have The Holy Ghost.
3.) A Saint Loves Doctrine.
Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Rom 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2 Tim. 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
If Doctrine Is Boring To You,
If Doctrine Is Irritating To You,
If Doctrine Seems Unnecessary To You,
If Doctrine Is Harsh To Your Tender Spirit,
Then You’re Not Really A Saint.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
4.) A Saint Is Willing To Submit God’s Correction.
Heb. 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Heb. 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
All The Sons Of God Receive Correction.
Because They’re Not Perfect.
Heb. 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
- Remember, you won’t stand in the judgment by yourself!
- Your pastor will be there too. He must give an account of your attitude and spirit.
If Allowing The Word Of God To Correct You Or Your Children Is Unacceptable To You,
Then you’re not really a saint!
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
5.) God Hears The Prayers Of Saints.
Prov. 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
James 5:16… The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
If God Doesn’t Hear Your Prayers,
Then maybe you’re not really a saint.
6.) All Saints Worship.
John 4:23 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.
Psa 150:6 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.
If worship is a problem for you…
You’re not thankful.
2 Tim. 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 Tim 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
2 Tim. 3:3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
2 Tim. 3:4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
2 Tim. 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Then you’re not really a saint.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
7.) If You Say You’re Not Being Fed…
It’s because you’re not a saint!
A saint always obeys and is willing.
Isa. 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:
8.) If Holiness Is Debatable Or Just Something That Is Only A Personal Conviction To You.
Then you’re not really a saint.
Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Holiness is God’s lowest standard.
1 Pet. 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
1 Pet. 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; (lifestyle)
1 Pet. 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
If you have a problem with Holiness,
Then you’re not really a saint
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
9.) If Wearing Modest Apparel Is Not Your Style Of Dress And You Refuse To Change…
Then you’re not really a saint.
1Tim. 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
Shamefacedness =
- a sense of shame,
- ability to blush
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
10.) If Your Life Is Wrapped Up In Hollywood, Sports, And Worldly pleasures,
You’re not a saint.
Ball Games
If you go to a sports event, your heart will beat with the heart of the world.
Saints don’t want their heart beating with the world’s heart, only God’s heart.
Hollywood
Saints do not bring Hollywood into their homes, regardless of whatever format it comes in.
1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
If The Love Of The Father Is Not In You…
Then you’re not really a saint.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
11.) If A Woman Thinks That Wearing Men’s Apparel Is Not A Problem,
And She Defies The Scriptures…
Deut. 22:5 The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.
Then she is not a saint.
If he wears women’s clothing, then he’s not a saint.
12.) If A Man Thinks It’s Ok To Let His Hair Grow Long,
Then he’s not really a saint.
1 Cor. 11:14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?
13.) If A Woman Cuts Her Hair,
Then she’s not really a saint.
1 Cor. 11:15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.
1 Cor. 11:5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
1 Cor. 11:6 For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.
If You Cut Your Hair, Sister, You’re Not Really A Saint
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
14.) If Jewelry, Ornamentation, And The Wearing Of Gold Is Your World…
Then you’re not really a saint.
1 Pet. 3:3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
(Adorning Definition = World)
1 Pet. 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
Every Time Israel Drew Close To God, They Took Off Their Ornaments.
Every Time They Backslid, They Put Them On.
Gen 35:1 And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.
Gen 35:2 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments:
Gen 35:3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.
Gen 35:4 And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem.
Hos 2:13 And I will visit upon her the days of Baalim, wherein she burned incense to them, and she decked herself with her earrings and her jewels, and she went after her lovers, and forgat me, saith the LORD.
(The wearing of earrings was associated with Baal worship. That’s why Jacob’s wives gave him their earrings when they surrendered their idols of Baal.)
If keeping your jewelry is your thing,
You’re not really a saint.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
15.) Real Saints Don’t Rob God.
Mal. 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
Mal. 3:9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.
Mal. 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
If you are a God-Robber, You’re not really a saint.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
16.) If You Are A Tale Bearer Or Critical, And Say Negative Things About The Church Or The Pastor…
Lev 19:16 Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.
If you’re a gossiper, you’re not a saint.
You will be shunned.
1 Co 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
If you’re a critic of what your pastor does,
You’re not a saint.
A saint is a pastor’s friend.
If You’re A Railer And Gossiper,
You will be shunned.
Because You’re Not Really A Saint.
17.) If You Think You Are On The Same Level As Your Pastor Then You’re Not A Saint.
Heb 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
You are not a saint.
(It does not matter the number of degrees you have, you will never be equal to your man of God.)
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
18.) If You Cannot Forgive, You Are Not A Saint.
Matt. 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
Matt. 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
(So, do you still want to be a saint?)
19.) Saints Love One Another.
Unity cannot happen without loving one another. Without unity, no church can enjoy lasting revival.
If you are unable to love your brother or sister, you’re not a saint.
- If you can’t get past personality differences,
- If you can’t get past everyone’s yesterdays,
- If you can’t get past the past,
- If you can’t get past ethnicity and realize we are one in Christ,
You’re not really a saint.
John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
20.) Saints Are The Only Ones Going To Heaven.
Eph. 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
(So, Are You A Real Saint?)
It’s Come As You Are, Not Stay As You Are!
It’s Come As You Are, Not Stay As You Are!
Come As You Are? Yes.
Stay As You Are? No.
Most churches have promoted an open-door policy to every new visitor. They want everyone to feel welcome to attend. Although the Bible doesn’t actually say, “Come as you are,” churches reach for everyone. Apostolic Pentecostal Churches are no different. (But, it might be amazing to see what some actually are willing to wear to God’s House using the ‘come as you are’ umbrella as an excuse!)
That, however is not the real problem. Some folks not only come to church as they are, they have chosen to stay as they are. They are not willing to change. They ignore how the saints dress, worship and live. They have chosen not to change or to submit.
Living for God is all about change. Completely change. Change is necessary. Change is required. Change is the will of God for everyone. With salvation comes change. With deliverance comes change. Unchanged people have no hope of deliverance, no hope of being a testimony, no hope of being used of God, and no hope of heaven.
How Do We Become A “New Creature In Christ Jesus” If We Don’t Change?
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
How Do We Become “Transformed” If We Don’t Change?
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
How Do We Become “Born Again” If We Don’t Change?
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God
How Do We Become “Holy” If We Don’t Change?
1 Peter 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
How Can We Come Out From Among Them And Be Separate, If We Don’t Change?
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
How Can We Have Christ In Us And He Never Changes Us?
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
Do You Mean To Tell Me That When We Repent We Really Don’t Have To Change Anything?
Do You Mean To Tell Me That When We Get Baptized In Jesus Name, We Don’t Change?
Do You Mean To Tell Me That We Can Be Filled With The Holy Ghost And Never Be Changed?
When Jacob Prepared To Go To Bethel, He Changed.
Genesis 35:1 And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.
Genesis 35:2 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments:
Genesis 35:3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.
Genesis 35:4 And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem.
When normal people come into the presence of the God, they quickly remember their sins. At that point, they must choose to keep them or confess and forsake them.
God might be merciful and forgiving, yet His word tells every confessor to forsake their sins.
If the God you serve lets you do whatever you want, and live like you want, then your god is you. You became your own god!
Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
If We Want God’s Mercy, We Must Not Only Confess Our Sins But Forsake Them!
Mercy comes to those who confess and forsake. That is the change God looks for. Forsaking your old life is what living for God is all about.
1 Corinthians 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
1 Corinthians 6:10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
- (And Such Were Some Of You!) That Is Change!
Repentance Must Bring Change. If It Doesn’t Bring Change It Wasn’t Real Repentance!
In The Old Testament, God Chose Not To Bless Israel Until They Changed.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
- Change Puts Us In The Direct Path Of God’s Blessings.
Romans 6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
Romans 6:2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Let’s Get Real Plain…
If you see a sinner man and a Holy Ghost-filled man standing together talking, you should be able to tell which one is which.
If you see a sinner woman and a Holy Ghost-filled woman standing together talking, you should be able to see the difference.
When we obey Acts 2:38, (by repenting of our sins, getting baptized in Jesus name, and being filled with the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in tongues.) We are no longer the same. We are changed on the inside. What is changed on the inside quickly shows on the outside!
- We don’t do the things we used to do
- We don’t talk like we used to talk
- We don’t go where we use to go
- We don’t have the kind of friends we used to have
- We don’t dress like we used to dress
- We don’t drink what we used to drink
Why?
Because Now We’re A New Creature In Christ Jesus.
How Do We Lay Sin Aside And Not Change?
1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,
1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
- (Growth is change, too)
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
- Removing things from our life that will keep us from being saved, is change.
If we say we are saved, yet remain unchanged… We are not honest with our soul, with God, or with the truth.
Our Heart Must Change
Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
Ephesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation (our old lifestyle) the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
Ephesians 4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
Our Speech Must Change
Ephesians 4:25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
Our Outward Appearance Must Change
1 Peter 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
Change Requires Modesty For Men And Woman
1 Timothy2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
1 Timothy 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
Deuteronomy 22:5 The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.
Hair Care Changes
1 Corinthians 11:14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?
1 Corinthians 11:15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.
Our Priorities Must Change
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Even Our Furniture Must Change
Psalms 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
The Things We Love Must Change
1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
We Say We’re A Christian, (Christ-like) And Yet…
- We’ve Never Changed On The Inside Or The Outside?
- We Neither Look Like Nor Act Like An Apostolic Saint?
Who Are We Fooling? Only Ourselves.
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
If we balk at Biblical correction and refuse to allow God’s Word to change our life… then we have shown to everyone that we are not a true child of God. We are of illegitimate birth in the Kingdom of God.
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Hebrews 12:9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
Hebrews 12:10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
What’s Missing In Our Lives That Would Keep Us From Allowing God To Change Us?
No Conviction of Sin?
No Fear of God?
No Respect?
No Obedience to His Word?
No Love for His House?
Are we just being Rebellious?
Are we just Clueless?
Are we not able to see that we don’t measure up to God’s Standards?
Are we just Insincere?
How can we come to church for months and even years… claiming to be Spirit-filled, and never change?
Ask Yourself…
If we had a beard and applied for a job at a company that had a ‘no beards’ policy, would we be willing to change?
If we worked for a fancy restaurant that had a no tattoo ‘visible’ policy for its employees, would we be willing to cover ours?
If we got hired by a good paying company but we had to work nights, would we change our sleeping habits?
If our job gave us a promotion, but we had to relocate, would we be willing to change towns?
If the doctor ordered us to change our diet because of cancer, would we?
If our heart doctor wanted us to change our lifestyle to live longer, would we?
If our homeowner’s association didn’t approve of our lawn display, would we take it down?
What if God reminded us in the Judgment of all the changes in our life that we made for man and for money, yet we chose not to make any changes for Him. What will our answer be then?
We Must Allow God To:
Change us like He changes Night into Day, Winter into Spring.
Change us like He changes a Caterpillar into a Butterfly.
Apostolic Expository Series
Christy Ballestero (My Beautiful DIL)
http://marciaballestero.com/
Pastor Anthony & Kim Ballestero, New Destiny Worship Center, Clearwater, FL (My Son)
Pastor Bryan & Christy Ballestero, Temple Of Pentecost, Raleigh, NC (My Son)
James Groce Blog – "Toward The Mark"
Kenneth Bow Blog
Kingdom Speak Podcast
Philip Harrelson – "The Barnabas Blog"
Verbal Bean Ministries
Holy Ghost Radio