God came down to earth as a man and led by example. Matthew 4:18-22, "And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets (left livelihood), and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father (left family), and followed him." Matthew 9:9, "And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. John 1:43, "The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me." Their responses in all cases: Yes Lord! These disciples immediately forsook their livelihoods (fishing, tax collecting, etc.), and family and followed Christ (Mk 1:18, 20). This is a very real demonstration of faith. Confession is easy, but actions are convincing. We must be willing to leave all things at Christ’s calling. You see, when you follow, Christ does not become a part of your life, He becomes your life (Col 3:3-4, Lk 20:38, Heb 2:11). Many desire to incorporate Christian aspects into their already established life (Mt 9:16-17). Usually their priorities tend to be self motivated. To obey a partial gospel is nothing more than doing what is right in your own eyes and this is placing your will above God’s (Pv 16:2). However, we are to die to our old lives (ways) and become a new creature, not a slightly modified and improved old self. 2 Timothy 2:11-13, "It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself." Having died to self we are "born again" to God with His nature to do His will (Eph 4:24). Psalm 40:8, "I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart." If you’re still seeking your will (rebellion), then you’ve never died to self. Your telling the Lord that you want to do the leading and for Him to follow you. Your holding on to Adam’s nature and are unconverted. Peter, Andrew, James, John, Matthew, and Philip demonstrated death to self by forsaking their old lives and following Christ. This is not a one time action, but a way of life - THE WAY (Jn 14:4-6)! This is faith in God! This is the message: Romans 14:8, "For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s."

The use of the words "believe" and "follow" in the Bible have essentially the same meaning. This is referring to a living faith in God, which is an unreserved (unconditional) surrender of your will to God in full love and obedience to Him, yielding to His purposes. This is seeing Christ as worthy of your full trust and confidence and following in His example. This is allowing God to rule in your heart (Col 3:15). We develop a very real and personal relationship with Jesus. Questioning God or His purposes simply reveals that you have not totally died to self and there is still some rebellion within you – this is your judgment upon God’s purposes. You do not have any authority to judge God. The only one who has presumed to do such is Satan and this is the nature of his followers (he is their father – Jn 8:44). To most the word "believe" is applied as a mere mental acknowledgement, agreement and acceptance of Jesus Christ and what He did, but not necessarily full commitment and submission to Him (Lk 6:46). This may be evidenced in a desire for a Savior, but not necessarily a Lord (Jn 13:13). However, anything short of full faith and commitment is hollow, unacceptable and just plain lukewarm. These want to seize His inheritance (Heaven/eternal life – Mt 21:38), but not from love. Christ made a distinction between professing with your mouth and living with your heart: Matthew 15:8, "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me." He said such worship was in vain (v. 9). Jesus said we must die to our old lives and be "born again." Until we die to our old way, there can be no conversion (newness of life, new creature, Rm 6:4, 2 Cor 5:17, Gal 6:15, Col 3:10). Most just want to incorporate being a Christian into their existing life. Sort of like a membership with a get out of hell free card benefit. Jesus either becomes your life or you have no life in Him. To mentally acknowledge Jesus is equivalent to what the devils do. James 2:19, "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." If you have not totally surrendered to Him then you are in rebellion just as the devils are. The devils believe, because Christ’s existence is a fact (Mk 1:34). The devils do not follow because they are in rebellion to Him and His purposes. You cannot live for self and just have Christian aspects to your life. You are either a whole-hearted follower or you are deceived. Self seeking (careers, possessions, entertainments, money, etc.) is just that and is the opposite of seeking God. This is a broad, yet temporal outlook that will never be satisfying or fulfilling (2 Cor 4:18). Your either one or the other and you are what you are – you decide. When you truly become converted, your desire will be for your Lord and not yourself. If your belief does not fully manifest in your actions, then for what purpose is it? Being a member at a religious institution does not necessarily qualify you to be a follower. When you follow, Christ is your life twenty-four hours a day (Col 3:4, Lk 20:38). He is in your thoughts, prayers, motives, decisions, hopes and actions. Your life is not separable from Christ, for they are one in the same – this is a mystery (Eph 5:25-32). Your life revolves around Him and not you. Your actions will be weighed based upon His light. Your life is found in Christ and that relationship and not in religious activities and works. Your heart should always be to please Him and seek His will – for this you do voluntarily out of love as you seek to glorify God. A believer’s faith will be tested and tried (1 Thess 2:4). This process will draw us closer to God or push us away. The heart will reveal itself under pressure and must be purified. Impurities are identified and burnt away (removed) as the purifying flame (trials and tribulations) is put to one’s life. This is a denial of the flesh and is not necessarily pleasant, but is spiritually necessary. By nature of the act, to "follow" is to submit, yield and obey.

Instead of "seizing the inheritance, God desires that we "bring forth fruits in their seasons (Mt 21:41)." But what does this mean? Luke 8:15, "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience." First you must have a heart toward God, receive the truth of His Word (as revealed by His Spirit, see Chapter Six), and apply the truth to your life (live it, be doers). As the Spirit leads you and you obey, God performs a work in you to conform you to the image of Christ (with whom God was well pleased, Mt 3:17, 12:18, 17:5, Mk 1:11, Lk 3:22, 2 Pt 1:17). Philippians 2:13, "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." AND Hebrews 13:21, "Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." This means that you die to self and come under His authority. This is the fruit that God desires to be manifested in your life and will be evidenced by God’s nature in you (love, joy, peace, self control, patience, etc.). When you abide in Christ, God purgeth you to bring forth more (much) fruit and thus He is glorified (Jn 15:2, 5, 8). This fruit is the patient work of God’s labors in you. Psalms 1:3, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." Those that are in Christ will yield results and fruits will appear. If not, the unfruitful branch is cut away and thrown into the fire (Jn 15:2, 6, Lk 13:6-9, Mt 7:19).

Mark 8:34, "And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Jesus said, "Whosoever will." What hinders you? The narrow path is not crowded; the invitation is open to all. What is the cost? - Trading your love of self for the love of another (Jesus). John 3:30, "He must increase, but I must decrease." What about those who will not "come after" or "follow?" Mark 8:35-36, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Job 27:8, "For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul?" To gain self will and supposed control is to lose the life of Christ and ultimately your soul. After a life of doing what is right in your own eyes, what will you exchange for your soul (v. 37)? You have nothing to offer God nor will you take anything with you beyond the grave (Job 1:21). Will you shame Christ by rejecting Him? What goes around comes around (v. 38).

Consider this parable: Matthew 13:44, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." The kingdom of heaven is an eternal treasure whose value cannot be comprehended. When a man finds this treasure (has eyes to see) and realizes its worth, he is willing to part with everything (sacrifice) that he has to obtain it (repentance) – Ps 119:14, 162. In other words everything of value in his life becomes meaningless in comparison with what he seeks to gain (new life). This man immediately begins to part with all (his old way of life) and makes necessary changes to obtain this treasure (new life). Many come professing Christ, but never really see the importance of denying themselves, taking up the cross and following Him. Hence they simply add one more interest (being a Christian) to their already established lifestyle. They want the treasure, just not the sacrifice. Jesus likened this to putting new cloth on an old garment (Lk 9:16). You are just putting a Jesus patch on your old Adamic life. God may never take priority in their lives and thus competes with other interests (idols). These folks do not sell out (all they have) and do not obtain the treasure. Truly following will require one to forsake sinful entertainments, incorrigible friends, fleshly desires, idols, etc. Matthew 13:45-46, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it." Those that truly recognize the value of the kingdom of heaven will do anything to obtain it. This usually results in significant changes in one’s life to conform to God’s will – totally abandoning sinful lifestyles and forsaking much of what the world thinks is important. Most will look for an easier way. If this does not make sense to you or it seems extreme or fanatical, then you haven’t recognized the value. Until you truly recognize the value, nothing will change.

Mark 10:17-23, "And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" This was a very religious man that seemed to have all the bases covered. He did everything that seemed to be required of him. Jesus did not dispute this. Jesus looked deeper, into the man’s heart and went right to the source of his problem. This man did not love God with his full heart because he retained self-sufficiency and control. There was a big idol, his self and resources (money). He obviously trusted (loved) in his resources more than God, but didn’t see the problem. Riches can exalt and separate one above others. Jesus loved him and provided a solution. Sell everything and give to the less fortunate – tear down the idol and be free of its hold (bondage). Deny yourself and make sacrifices for others – show love. Submit and be a servant (humbleness and meekness) – become least. Then Jesus asked him to follow. Jesus was already setting the example. Christ was saying, put aside your religious endeavors and come to me with a whole heart and have a living relationship. This man was willing to serve God just so far (and zealously), but no further. This man was willing to follow legalistically and keep a list of do’s and don’ts, but his heart was on his riches and the things of the world. He could not see his need for Christ. Perhaps he viewed his needs as greater than the those of the poor. Jesus was asking him to make God the center of his life and he was unwilling. He didn’t see the value. He wanted to follow a formula that allowed him to reserve a huge area of his life for self – that which he controlled. We must serve God His way. This is a very sobering message to those of who have eyes on retirement and bank accounts for daily or future provision. What if Jesus said, give away all thou hast and come follow me? Perhaps this man like most just sought out another teacher that would affirm or justify his desires rather than confront his pet idol. His original question was, "what must I do?" Many ask the question, but how many follow the answer? We die to ourselves and serve God with a full heart! Do you ask the question expecting a certain answer? So much of man’s religion is built upon the answer SELF wants to hear.

Matthew 8:19-20, "And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." By nature the flesh seeks shelter and comfort, but Jesus was following the Spirit and this is not a path of ease to the flesh. Many are expecting blessings and worldly prosperity, but Christ never sought these things and followers should not expect any different. Jesus did receive much rejection and reproach. Christ’s kingdom is not of this world. John 14:2, "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." Many have used this verse to suggest that we will each have a big mansion in heaven and be catered to by God in eternal bliss. The word "mansion" is referring to a place of dwelling or room. We become a part of God’s family and dwell with Him (Rev 20:3, 21:2). New Jerusalem (heaven) will be an indescribably beautiful place, but do not suppose there will be the same fleshly lusts or desires there. On earth things like money, gold, houses, lands, possessions, and titles are highly sought after things of the flesh. Jesus never sought these types of things and God views the desire for them as negative and temporal. In the City of God these things many hold so dear on earth are just building materials – the streets are paved with gold and the walls are bricked with precious stones (Rev 21). The beauty is for all to behold, but will never be used for selfish gain or control.

Luke 14:26-27, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." We cannot have anything or anyone in our life more important than God. Family members tend to influence our decision more than love for God and this cannot be. The reference to our "own life" is not only referring to physical life but our self-centeredness and self-sufficiency. Bearing your cross and coming after Jesus undeniably means to follow in His steps. The cross is the shame and reproach that we will all suffer – many are the afflictions of the righteous (Ps 34:19). This will make no sense to those living in the flesh. Taking up the cross means death to self, the point of no return. When one took up the Roman cross that meant they were not coming back. We die to our old life and follow Christ into His kingdom. There is a cost to be considered: Luke 14:28-30, "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish." We are to consider the cost of following Jesus. We read of Jesus’ example in the last chapter. Study Christ’s example and determine if you willing to follow the path of the cross to completion? Yes, you will need the Lord’s help! Yes, you will need the Lord’s strength! But are you willing? If not, you will start a work and not complete it. You will become a hypocrite for all to see or be deceived with many of the religious. Many will not consider the foundation they are building upon. Luke 14:31-33, "Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple." Following is not sitting on a church pew one or two days of the week (Mt 25:25-26)! Following is a daily living of your faith. Following involves forsaking and self denial and is truly a narrow path. Christ forsook all for you, and relationships are reciprocal.

Urgency?

Luke 9:59-60, "And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God." There is no life apart from "following" Jesus. When we do not follow Christ we are as the living dead. This may have seemed like a reasonable request, but when Christ calls there is no time or place for delay. God must take precedent in our lives. We cannot have other priorities in our lives no matter how rational or justifiable they may seem. Life is found in Christ, all else leads to death. This man lacked a real zeal toward Christ’s calling. This man assumed that his priorities would also be God’s and that his ways would be God’s ways. Rather than providing Christ with a submissive answer, he turned the circumstance around such that God was waiting or answerable to him.

Luke 9:61-62, "And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." How many say, Lord I will follow "BUT." One must be focused and committed to continue a work begun (2 Pt 2:20, 22). Once a decision is made there can be no looking back (drawing back) or distractions. Do we rebuild that which we destroyed – died to (Gal 2:18)? Have you made a commitment to God and allowed other distractions to interfere or take precedence? When we look back, are we not regretting some aspect of our decision? Perhaps one misses (longs for) selfish or sinful facets of their old life (Pv 14:14, 24:19-20). Maybe we want to hold onto something that was let go or sacrificed? Perhaps Christ is saying to you that you’ve made a confession so when are you going to put your hand to the plough? Some answer "I go" but "go not" (Mt 21:30).

The path of the cross is the path that Christ followed as detailed in the last chapter. This could also be thought of as the narrow way that leads to eternal life. This is not a path of ease, and following will require sacrifice and denial; trials and tribulations; suffering reproach; unpopularity; death to self; simplicity of life; patience; self control; righteousness; holiness and godliness. This path is narrow and there is no room for your views, just God’s purposes. You may find that once you have decided to truly give your whole heart to God, others may not be willing to go along with you on this path. Some of these may be those that now make a profession of Christ or are very religious. Many will look at this path’s rough terrain and prefer the well-beaten broad path of the world instead. There is no room on this narrow path for selfish or worldly things. Christ will provide the necessities along the way and His Spirit will guide and direct, but only as one yields to Him. Proverbs 4:25-27, "Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil." Our eyes must be focused straight ahead on Christ. This path is narrow and we cannot turn to the left or the right. We must constantly examine where we are going and remove ourselves from evil.

Stephen followed the path of the cross (Acts, Chapters 6-7): There arose some murmuring in the Early Church because certain widows’ needs were being neglected. The apostles wanted to devote themselves to the study of God’s Word (as we all should be doing). Acts 6:2, "Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables." So the apostles appointed men for the task of "serving tables." Stephen who is described as full of faith and of the Holy Ghost was appointed to this duty. Now this is not a high profile position that most would desire and requires a humbling of oneself. Jesus once said: Matthew 23:11, "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant." Stephen was faithful in the small things and the Lord blessed him and promoted him (Mt 25:21, 1 Cor 4:2). Acts 6:8, "And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people." There soon arose certain of the synagogue (the religious) that disputed with Stephen. Acts 6:10, "And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake." Jesus had said: Matthew 10:19, "But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak." Such was the case with Stephen: Acts 6:11-13, "Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God. And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council, And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law." Character assassination (misrepresentation) was the mode of operation for the religious. They had done the same thing to Jesus – even the accusations of blasphemy and false witnesses. Christ had said they were of their father the devil and his will they would do (Jn 8:44). How did Stephen respond to all of this? Acts 6:15, "And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel."

Stephen then proceeds to preach through the wisdom of the Holy Ghost and brings great conviction upon his accusers. Acts 7:54, "When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth." Do you see how Stephen is following in the path of Jesus? Humble, faithful, obedient and led of the Spirit. Is the Lord pleased? Acts 7:55-56, "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God." These religious folks did not receive this at all: Acts 7:57, 59, "Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." How did Stephen react? Did he lash out and ask God to avenge this wrongful deed? Acts 7:60, "And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep." Wow! He forgave them just like Jesus did. If we do not forgive others, then we need not expect God to forgive us (Mt 6:15). Scripture says he "fell asleep." One must wonder if he even felt the stones that crushed his body. Did not God receive the glory? He loved not his life even unto death, literally dying to SELF to please God. Well done good and faithful servant! During the stoning of Stephen: Acts 7:58, "…the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul (Paul)." This young man would later follow the path of the cross….

Initially Paul started out as a persecutor of the Church (Acts 8:3, 9:1-2). He was very religious and thought he was serving God. Jesus once said, John 16:2, "They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service." Paul was spiritually blind (Acts 9:8-9) until the Lord opened his eyes that he could see (Acts 9:17-18). Jesus confronted Paul in a mighty way when he was traveling to persecute Christians in Damascus. There was an immediate noticeable change in Paul’s nature (Acts 9:20-22, 27, 29). God chose Saul; thus having mercy on whom He will have mercy (Acts 22:14-15, Rm 9:15). Jesus said of Paul: Acts 9:15-16, "…for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake." Paul’s future suffering was not Jesus’ way of getting revenge on him. No! Suffering and tribulation are a natural part of every disciple’s walk (who boldly professes Christ). 2 Timothy 3:12, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." AND John 15:19, "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." Everyone who truly follows Christ will suffer at the hands of the world. Did Jesus Words come true for Paul (Acts 9:23)? 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, "Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches." Paul taught the gospel of Christ: Acts 20:21, "Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." Paul went back to Jerusalem one last time to plead with the religious. He had a good sense of what awaited him: Acts 20:22, "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." From the moment he entered into the temple the crowd grabbed him and thrust him out: Acts 21:31, "And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar."

Paul was allowed audience before the people to present the gospel. Acts 22:22-23, "And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air." From that day forward Paul became imprisoned, yet had the opportunity to testify before governors, kings, and emperors. While in bonds (and suffering), many fellow believers were ashamed of him and he exhorted Timothy not to follow suit (2 Tm 1:8, 15). Paul was sent to Rome where he was martyred for the cause of Christ. Well done good and faithful servant! What did Paul say about all this: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." Paul was offered for God’s glory! He kept the faith with his eyes upon Jesus! Are we not all instructed to do the same?

Paul was raised to be a very religious man. He was a pharisees pharisee and blameless in the requirements of his religion (Acts 26:5, Php 3:5-6). He was taught at the feet of a very respected teacher (doctor of the law, Acts 5:34, 22:3) and was zealous for his religion (Acts 22:3). Paul said: Galatians 1:14, "And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers." Paul was greatly accepted by his religious peers when he lived a religious life of man’s attempts to serve God through the flesh. He was given great authority by the religious leaders (Acts 8:3-4, 9:1-2, 26:10, 12). Paul’s life and religion were intrinsically intertwined – this was his very life. On the road to Damascus, Paul had an encouter with God Himself – Jesus Christ. Acts 9:15-16, "But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake." Jesus stated: Acts 26:16-18, "But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." Paul didn’t choose Christ; Jesus through His mercy chose Paul – for His purposes. Now Paul had to "come out" of this religion that was his very life. He had to totally forsake the only life he knew for Christ Jesus. Paul had a tremendous choice to make – to continue to be religious and serve man or to serve God in His truth. He later stated: Acts 26:19-20, "Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance." Paul OBEYED God, forsook his religiosity (his old life) and then taught the true gospel of repentance (Gal 1:13-17). Paul brought forth fruits meet for repentance by forsaking this old dead religion and totally losing his old life such that he could gain true life through Christ (Lk 9:24). Paul counted all his religious efforts but dung compared to the life in Christ: Philippians 3:7-11, "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead." His righteousness was found in Christ and not in religion (of which he was well trained) or the efforts and works of man which he had once sought to perform. How many in the religious world today would desire such things or even consider losing anything? Paul conformed to Christ’s death by both dying to self (loss of position and selfish life) and literally physically dying. The path of the cross is narrow, but it leads home. The path you choose will lead to your eternal home.

When Paul left his religiosity behind, he became a very persecuted man. The religious now turned upon him with a vengance (Acts 9:24, 23:14-15, 26:21, 1 Thess 2:15-16). Even so, Paul said: 2 Corinthians 12:10, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." Our weakness in SELF is our strength in depending upon God. Paul was falsely accused by the religious just like Jesus had been. The religious now sought Paul’s life just as they had done Christ’s. The Roman governor had said of Jesus: John 18:38, "Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. Later: John 19:4, "Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him (also Acts 13:28)." Now notice what the authorities said of Paul when the religious accused him: Acts 26:30-32, "And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them: And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds. Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar (also Acts 23:29)." Paul was imprisoned and ultimately martyred. Jesus and Paul were both innocent, but the religious relentlessly persecuted them until they had their way. We will either accept the light, run from it, or seek to extinguish it. Those in rebellion to God either run from or persecute the truth.

Jesus was reaching the end of His path. John 13:36-38, "Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards." Peter knew what he meant, John 13:37, "Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice." Later, the Lord’s Words rang true, when Peter denied the Lord a third time in a rage of cursing (Mt 26:74). Peter had followed Christ from the beginning and loved Him dearly. Peter thought he could follow the path of the cross, but found he was not ready. The reality of persecution and losing one’s life hit a little to close to home when it actually occurred (Mk 4:17). When Peter should have been seeking the Lord and praying for strength, he was sleeping (Lk 22:40-46). Peter did not lose faith because Jesus himself had intervened earlier, Luke 22:31-32, "And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Peter thought he had strength in himself, but our strength must come from God. Jesus had been praying for strength in the Garden of Gethsemane, but Peter had fallen asleep (Mt 26:40). When Jesus found Peter and the others: Luke 22:46, "And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." 1 Corinthians 10:12, "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." When we become confident in ourselves then watch out! Our confidence must be in the Lord, not the flesh.

Shortly after Christ’s resurrection, Jesus and Peter had a conversation. Jesus asked Peter if he loved him (and told him to feed His sheep) once for each time Peter had denied Him prior to the crucifixion. Christ then prophesied: John 21:18-19, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me." This is so significant; Jesus has just told Peter to follow in His foot steps, the path of the cross. He has told Peter that he will physically die (be martyred) for Christ and for God’s glory, but to follow anyway! Peter would have the opportunity to follow through on his earlier claim. We must be prepared to obey Christ unto death if required (Rev 12:11). Peter did follow Jesus and preached the gospel of repentance (Acts 2:38). He performed many miracles including raising the dead (Acts 9:37-41), suffered persecutions and tribulations, and followed the path of the cross to his physical death for Christ’s namesake. Peter once boldly announced to his religious persecutors, "We ought to obey God rather than men," afterwards, he was beaten. His response was: Acts 5:41, "And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name." We must all be prepared to suffer shame for Jesus’ namesake. However, we cannot suffer if we are not professing Christ’s name boldly before men and following.

In previous chapters we covered how man chose to follow his own will, disobeyed God, and fell from God’s grace. Man now lives in a fallen world, corrupted with sin. God has interacted with man through various means since the fall for the purpose of redeeming and reconciling fallen man back to Himself (Heb 1:1-4). God does not excuse or overlook sin and rebellion, so man could not be redeemed without an acceptable atonement. God sent Jesus, His only Son to be that acceptable sacrifice to once and for all atone for man’s sin. Jesus came and lived a life devoid of self and in total obedience to God, and thus was without sin. Jesus laid His life down as the unblemished sacrificial lamb for all of mankind (1 Pt 1:19-20). This sacrifice was acceptable to God and thus all men may now be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ (2 Cor 5:18-19).

So there now exists two kingdoms, the kingdom of Christ (Light) and the kingdom of darkness (Acts 26:18). These may also be thought of as two paths, one narrow with few travelers that leads to eternal life and one broad and well traveled that leads to eternal damnation (Mt 7:13-14). The kingdom of darkness or the broad path is the fallen world that one is naturally "born" into. The kingdom of Christ or the narrow path is that way which one is "born again" into (Jn 3:3, Col 1:12-13, 1 Pt 1:23, 1 Cor 15:46). We must seek the light such that there is no darkness within us. The narrow path is one of faith. The broad path is one of unbelief. Faith and unbelief are determined through actions (doer of the Word?).

When Jesus says, "come follow me," His kingdom is where He is leading. Christ rules and reigns in this kingdom and it is one of righteousness, holiness, peace and truth. Jesus’ kingdom begins now (Lk 17:21). God dwells with His people in this place and eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the wonderful things that await for them that love Him (Rev 21:3, 1 Cor 2:9). God is light and in Him is no darkness. Christ calls us out of the darkness into His light (1 Pt 2:9). Jesus’ desire is: Acts 26:18, "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." Jesus paid a heavy price for those who will follow: Colossians 1:13-15, "Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature." The path to this kingdom is not well traveled because it denies the flesh (sanctification) and seeks only God’s will. 1 John 1:5,7, "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Let us rejoice: Galatians 1:4-5, "Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." We have been instructed to do that which is good and come to Christ’s light (Jn 3:19-21). 1 Thessalonians 5:5, "Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness." We have found a great treasure through God’s mercy. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7, "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. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." The power is of God and not of ourselves.

The kingdom of darkness represents the fallen world that we all know so well. This is a world where man’s will is manifested, is mostly disobedient and rebellious toward God, and is highly influenced by Satan and his principalities and the power of darkness (Lk 22:53, Jn 7:7). These are the children of disobedience (Eph 2:2-3, 5:6, Col 3:6). Ephesians 2:2, "Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience." This is a world that has rejected Christ and thus has not been reconciled with the Father. Because they have not been reconciled, they walk in the course of this world. This is a passing world that will soon come to an end (Heb 1:10-11, 2 Pt 3:7, 12-13). Followers of Christ are sojourners, pilgrims and wayfaring men in this world – just passing through (1 Chr 29:15, Heb 11:13, 1 Pt 1:17 & 2:11, Is 35:8). These pilgrims grieve over the sin that abounds and seek a country (Heb 11:14). Hebrews 13:14, "For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come." Jesus’ disciples are also ambassadors to represent Him to this world and be His witnesses (2 Cor 5:20, Php 2:15). God is in control and maintains presence for the elect’s sake and for all those who will repent, turn from their sins and receive Christ – for God’s glory fills all the earth (Is 6:3). God maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust (Mt 5:45). For this reason there is some good in this fallen world. Those that proceed on to hell are totally separated from God’s presence and blessings and this is a nightmare that cannot be comprehended by the human mind. God uses this world to try the hearts of men and reap an acceptable harvest (Rev 2:23, 3:10, Lk 10:2, Js 5:7). Christ died for the just and the unjust for the purpose that He might bring us to God (1 Pt 3:18).

God has and will judge wickedness on the face of the earth. There are many examples of God’s judgments in the bible that are given for us to take note. God judged the wickedness of the early world with a global flood (Gen 6:5-7). God judged the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 13:13 & 19:13). 2 Peter 2:6, "And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly." God judged seven nations in the Promised Land because of their wickedness, namely the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites (Deut 7:1-2 & 9:4-5). These nations had done lewd things with family members, homosexuality, bestiality, child sacrifice, sorcery (familiar spirits, sorcery, wizards), enchantments, astrology, skin markings, prostitution, idolatry, and all manner of evil (Lv Chapters 18-19, 20:23). Israel was warned not to do these same things, Leviticus 18:28, "That the land spue not you out also, when ye defile it, as it spued out the nations that were before you." God has also judged many individuals on the face of the earth due to their wickedness (1 Kg 14:10-11 & 21:21-24, Acts 12:21-23). Israel represented those who follow God in the Spirit, by faith (led by the cloudy pillar looked to God for manna and water, etc.). The evil wicked nations that possessed/occupied the promised land represented those who live in/follow the flesh (lusts, desires, etc.). Israel was to go in and utterly destroy those nations. The flesh and the things of the flesh must die – these oppose God. Those who live by faith in God will prevail – these submit and obey God. We live in a country that does these very same things and such is becoming much more prevalent and flaunted in society. The Lord said not to make covenant or marriages with them, because they will turn your children from following God (Deut 7:2-4). Do people even consider this in our day? Many barriers have been removed and access to evil is more available through the television, internet, movie rental, magazines and general acceptance in the culture. Inhibitions are lowered and acceptance is gained, what was once unheard of and done only in secret starts to become open and more common. We are not to participate in any of these evils (Deut 7:5). When one takes pleasure in unrighteousness and loves darkness, their journey down the broad path only gets darker and more deviant. These things are a snare and an abomination to God (Deut 7:25). Judgment Day looms on the horizon as the world is again as the days of Noah and of Sodom (wicked) and the sins have reached to heaven (Lk 17:26-29, Rev 18:5). Luke 17:30, "Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."

When one follows Jesus and has received His Spirit, the Holy Ghost works to conform the individual to Christ’s image (Col 3:10). This process leads one in paths of righteousness and holiness for Jesus’ namesake (Ps 23:3, Pv 8:20). Jesus is the image of God (Col 1:15). When one rejects Christ and continues to follow his own natural path (will) and desires (lusts), the devil and his principalities work on that one to conform him to the devil’s image. Proverb 4:19, "The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble." This process leads to bondages, addictions, lewdness and ever increasing darkness. Either individual will be recognizable as to whom they serve through the fruit in their life. One may show love, joy, peace, and self control, whereas the other may use foul language, course jesting, bawdy behavior (course, vulgar, rude, lewd) and have affection for the things of the world (Eph 4:29, Col 3:8). The sad thing is that many who are lost do not see themselves as such because their own darkness has blinded their eyes and minds such that they do not understand or recognize their sin (2 Cor 4:4, Jn 12:40, 1 Jn 2:11). The lukewarm are the religious who are living in darkness yet think they are in the light by reason of a mere confession – deception. You cannot reason with those who love the darkness. They will defend and justify their love and relationship. Only those who seek the light will listen. This is the challenge of this book, to reach those who will listen.

In the beginning God put a division between the light and the darkness (Gen 1:4). The light is representative of God’s glory, righteousness, holiness and purity. The darkness is representative of disobedience to God and the resultant evil (sin, transgressions and iniquities). Due to the disobedience of man, the whole world lies in darkness (1 Jn 5:19). In the midst of this darkness, God has provided His witnesses (lights). These lights are represented in the creation account as stars which provide light upon the earth (Gen 1:14-18). Jesus said: Matthew 5:14, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid." We are to release all darkness and come to the light and be God’s witnesses upon this earth. Daniel 12:3, "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever." Jesus was the ultimate light come down to a rebellious mankind. Consider Christ’s righteous light:

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." John 12:46, "I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness." 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." Amen. Jesus is the light that leads us through the darkness as we "follow." Those whose eyes are not upon the light will stumble and fall. In eternity there will be no sun nor moon, but the Lord will literally be our light (in more ways than one, Is 60:19-20, Rev 21:23, 22:5).

When we live in darkness, choosing our will over God’s, choosing to seek the things of the flesh rather than the things above, we become blinded to the light (Col 3:1, 2 Cor 4:4). Bit by bit, day by day, thought by thought the light diminishes by our own choice of darkness – you grope in the darkness (Job 12:25). The darkness increases in power and rules your thoughts, actions and decisions, for you walk therein (Pv 2:13). Ephesians 4:18-19, "Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness." Consider those who reject God’s Word: Romans 2:5-6, 8-9 "But after thy hardness and impenitent (unrepentant) heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds. But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth (reject), but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile." We must "follow" Christ in righteousness (and thereby be saved from wrath – Rm 5:9): Light is sown for the righteous (Ps 97:11). God gives light in the way we should go (Neh 9:33). Romans 1:17, "For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith." AND Romans 2:7, "To them who by patient continuance (steadfast, day by day) in well doing (righteousness) seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life." We must walk by our faith (Spirit) and not by our sight (flesh) - 2 Cor 5:7. Man is justified by faith (Rm 3:28)! Satan will try and imitate God’s light to draw men unto himself (2 Cor 11:14). We must let Jesus shine in our hearts by choosing the light instead of the darkness. We are called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pt 2:9). Ephesians 5:14, "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light." Consider this: 1 John 1:5, "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." Psalm 104:2, "Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain." Christ is our example to follow in His steps and in Him is no darkness. This means that in this life we should be striving, through Christ (abiding), to eliminate the darkness out of our life as being obedient and led of His Spirit. 1 John 1:7, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Notice the "if" we walk in the light. Some will "profess Christ," yet stay in the darkness and thereby not be cleansed from all sin. 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." Guard your heart from darkness and seek Christ’s light (Ps 36:9). Proverbs 4:18-20, "But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Psalm 119:105, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Proverb 4:19, "The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble." Proverb 6:23, "For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life." The light shines more and more in our lives as we conform to Christ’s image day by day, until the perfect day when we see Him as He is (1 Jn 3:2). 2 Samuel 22:29, "For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness." Job 29:3, "When his candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness." Followers walk through this dark world on a narrow path led by the Spirit.

Those that love darkness want to hear all about God’s love in terms of acceptance. They want a God of unconditional love – to sin and not die. They want a God who will allow the love of darkness. Job 24:13, "They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof." They don’t necessarily want to come to the light, they just want to be forgiven and have grace to remain in the darkness. Often religious institutions will talk all about God’s love as they choose to define it, yet rarely talk about the evil of sin or God’s righteous judgment and a necessary life of righteousness and holiness. These are known as smooth messages that will appease the flesh. Those who bring these messages will be popular and praised. These are those that rebel against the truth of the light and will not come to it. They reject God for one of their own making. The truth is that God loves you so much that He desires the best for you. He wants to remove you from the filth and shame and bring you out of the darkness into the light. God gave His only Son to accomplish this and this was a precious sacrifice. If you choose to remain in the dark, you have rejected God’s true love –you condemn yourself. The light of the wicked will be put out (Job 18:6-7).

What shall be said of those who love the darkness and will not come to the light? Isaiah 59:6-7, "…their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths." They behold obscurity (shadows, muriness); for brightness, but we walk in darkness (Is 59:9). They depart from God speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood (Is 59:13).

Until we understand our condition, there can be no remedy. John 8:31-34, "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin." Notice that Jesus is talking to those who believe in Him – they "profess Christ." Jesus was telling them that His truth would set them free, but they didn’t see that they had a problem to be set free of. When you realize your sin, then and only then can you see your need of deliverance from it. If you do not acknowledge your bondages, then you certainly can’t be freed from them. If you cannot acknowledge truth and seek repentance then you cannot be recovered from self and the snare of the devil, who takes captive at will (2 Tm 2:25-26). Unregenerate man is helplessly under the dominion of Satan and sin because he has his nature. Jesus came to set you free, but you first must see the need and then desire the freedom (1 Jn 3:5, 8-9). Just because we know something is sin doesn’t mean we have power over the sin. We need to understand that we are not going to be able to deliver ourselves. When you realize your sin (the filthiness), then and only then can you see your need of deliverance from it. Many in the religious world acknowledge the sin, but don’t see the need for deliverance – they’ve accepted it! They see a profession of Christ as a means whereby God now overlooks or excuses continuance in sin. This is not continuing in the truth (Word) – its rejection of the truth! The love of sin must be dealt with. You must be converted (take on God’s nature) and have the desire of sin removed. The kingdom of God is not about just following rules for rules sake. The kingdom of God is about righteousness and holiness – having correct attitudes, motives and love in your heart. The greatest joy you can know is to serve God because you love Him and WANT TO – you serve with joyfulness and gladness of heart (Deut 28:47)! – you delight yourself in the Lord (Is 58:14, Ps 40:8)! In God we boast all the day long (Ps 44:8)! You do not serve out of fear of hell, fear of men, or guilty conscious. No. You serve Him because He is the joy of your heart and you love Him. John 8:36, "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." Luke 1:74-75, "That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life." We obey God out of correct desire (not compulsion), because we understand the merit and hate the darkness and love the light. There are multitudes of people who profess a certain fear of God (fear of hell, obligation, guilt, abstract agreement with His truth, etc.) who nevertheless serve their own gods to which their hearts are devoted and in which they put their trust. Although they find agreement with God’s truth (unconnected from their person), they are not able to apply it to their lives due to their stronger commitment to SELF.

When Israel entered the Promised Land, they were to destroy the wickedness out of the land. They were not to learn of the wickedness of the people of the land or unite with them in any way. Deuteronomy 12:30-31, "Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods." They were not to seek after their own heart or their own eyes which are used to go awhoring (away from God to the things of the world, Num 15:39). Israel disobeyed God: Psalm 106:35, "But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works." They walked after the imaginations (willfulness – their way) of their own hearts and God said they would be cursed and He would blot their names from under heaven (Deut 29:18-20). We live in a time when those who profess Christ have mingled with the people and certainly learned their evil ways. It is very important to note that even though we are to be a light in this world, we have no justification to partake of the flesh or things of the world. We do not become like the world to win the world because doing so would only prove that the world has won us rather than vice versa. We are to overcome and be separate (2 Cor 6:17, 1 Jn 5:4). The next thing Israel did was: Psalm 106:36, "And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them." They became like the world around them and this polluted them. Many who profess Christ today have done the same and seem to think that grace allows them to do this. The next thing Israel did was: Psalms 106:37-38, "Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils, And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood." Some who profess Christ have sacrificed their children to devils through abortion. Many others have sacrificed their children to the world by allowing the world through its knowledge and entertainment to teach their children to live in a manner that opposes God. I dare say that with most this message is one sided (worldly) and not even balanced with parental teaching of Christ. Lastly: Psalm 106:39, "Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions (ideas)." When we seek our own ways (flesh) and our ideas (opinions) apart from God, we are in great error. Many will do this in a religious context and this becomes the nature of the apostasy. So, how did God see this: Psalm 106:40, "Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance." There is a message here for all of us who say we are called by His name.

We are about to cover some material that the flesh will surely rebel against. I say in advance, if you cannot acknowledge the sin, bondages and the evil nature of your heart, then you cannot be free of them. You then love the darkness and will not come to the light (Jn 3:19-20). Many want to be saved from the consequences of sin and have no desire to be saved from the wretched, evil nature of their heart. This is so predominant in today’s form of Christianity. Please pray now that the Lord will open your eyes.

God referred to himself as "I AM" when inquired of by Moses. God IS everything that we could image. He is our life, provision, health, deliverance, wisdom, salvation, etc. Jesus further stated this when He said: John 8:58  Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM." Jesus is the manna that man must live by. John 6:48, 51, "I AM that bread of life. I AM the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." This was further emphasized: 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."

The problem is that man likes to place himself in the position of "I AM." Man mostly seeks his will over God’s purposes in keeping with the original sin of disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Man says, I am self sufficient, have self-knowledge and will seek self-gratification. I will determine my own way and walk therein. The religious qualify this by saying God will understand because we "profess" Christ and grace allows it. Isaiah 47:8, 10, "Therefore hear now this, thou that art given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I AM, and none else beside me; I shall not sit as a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children. For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I AM, and none else beside me." God is not mocked and man continues to rebel and seat himself in the throne of God. Jesus said: John 8:24, "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I AM he, ye shall die in your sins." To believe is to live daily in demonstrated faith. There is only one way to God: 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." We are either following self or Christ and our actions reveal our choice. The condition is: "He that followeth." Would you believe that after Jesus revealed Himself as the great "I AM" to a religious audience that they looked for stones to kill Him (Jn 8:59)? Do not allow your religiosity to cause you to be blind to the very light of God.

God wants to be the great "I AM" in your life. He is your creator, who loves you and wants the best for you. God wants to be your Lord, Savior, Father, provider, healer, knowledge base, guide, friend, special interest, etc. The question is: Is He? Perhaps you are the great "I AM" in your life. Full of self-confidence and assurance, seeking after those things you desire? Perhaps a loved one is the great "I AM" in your life such as a parent, spouse, special romance, or best friend (Lk 14:26)? Perhaps the great "I AM" in your life is a respected leader such as the President, a pastor/theologian, doctor or professor? Perhaps your faith is in a celebrity such as a movie star or sports hero? Perhaps the great "I AM" in your life is a thing such as a religious denomination/church, university, job/career, sports team, prized possession, television/music or hobby/special interest? The fact is that there can only be one great "I AM" in your life – and this is where your heart will be. If there were two, you would love the one and hate the other (Mt 6:24, Lk 16:13).

Consider a stream of water meandering through a valley. Water always takes the path of least resistance and thus flows downstream. The course of the stream is defined by the surrounding topography. If an object such as a rock is in the path, water will either go around it or over it but not through it. Water never flows upstream or against the current. Most people live their lives in a similar fashion. They take the path of least resistance. Most chart their lives by the course of the world to fit in and get along. To differ from the norm (majority, popular culture) will bring about separation, confrontation, self-denial and reproach. The flesh (physical self) seeks acceptance and comfort. This is why man would never in and of himself choose to follow God. Following the Lord requires that we go against the flow/current of this world – a very narrow path. This is discomforting to the flesh because it must now be denied worldly acceptance, pleasures, cares and the comfort it seeks. The will of the flesh must submit to the will of God. Had God not drawn us to Himself and provided His Spirit, this would be an impossible task for man to fulfill. The danger and deception occurs when we identify ourselves with God, but then compromise and justify our actions such that we are flowing along the broad stream of the world and are actually traveling opposite of God’s will. We are no longer noticeable, because we are no longer going against the current – we then become a part of the current (Ps 119:2-3). We must understand Christ’s statement: John 10:27, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." The true sheep hear and they will follow. Jesus Christ always went against the current (see Chapter Two or read the Gospels) and so will His sheep. This is not a leisure journey and will require a denial of the will of the flesh – a taking up of the cross (Mt 16:24, Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 9:23). The flesh will never seek the path of the cross. There will be suffering, trials, testing, and reproach, which will require trust and obedience (faith). Fortunately those who follow are not alone – His rod and staff comfort through this valley of the shadow of death (Ps 23:4). Notice in the verse, Jesus "knows" us – we will not be forsaken (Heb 13:5).

Because the world is fallen and man’s will is mostly manifested, man’s works or desires (things of the world) are tainted with sin and rebellion (1 Jn 5:17, Is 40:17). Ephesians 2:2-3, "Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation (life) in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others." Fallen man lives to fulfill the lusts and desires of the flesh and the carnal mind. This is displeasing and sinful to God and challenges His will. To walk in the course of this world is to be opposed to Christ. Many seek worldly temporal things. They want to establish their place in this world and partake of all its offerings. This is the emphasis of their life and in doing so the motivation is self. Beware: that which may seem important now in the days to come will be forgotten and then you will face the judgment (Eccl 2:16, 5:15-16). Then there are those who have set their affections on heavenly things, which are not visibly manifested in this world, but are eternal (Col 3:1-11). To obtain the heavenly one must sacrifice the earthly. We are not to walk in the spirit of the world (1 Cor 2:12). The former are referred to as cold (broad path, darkness) regarding Christ and the latter as hot (narrow way, light). Finally there is a group that seeks to be a combination of the two. They seek the flesh and things of the world, but also identify themselves with Christ – they are religious in seeking God their way rather than His way. These are the lukewarm (double minded, deceived). Christ actually preferred that we be cold or hot. The lukewarm bring dishonor to God in that they claim to represent Him, but live in a manner that opposes Him (Ez 20:39). They wrongfully represent Him to the world. They want to be as the heathen (Ez 20:32). They are adulterers with the world (Js 4:4). When we are endeared to Christ, then we will not desire to do those things, which oppose Him. The things of the world appeal to our flesh nature – those things that oppose Christ. The world wants us to be as it is. This is why the narrow path is narrow and less traveled. To be on this path, one must overcome the world or those things that oppose Christ (1 Jn 5:4). Are you willing to suffer reproach for Christ’s namesake?

Through his free-will man has established nations, cultures, governments, education, religions, currencies, measures, entertainments, etc. in order to fulfill the lusts and desires of his will. God does influence many things and His glory fills the earth (and is in control), but much is also allowed to be freely developed out of man’s rebellious knowledge and will (Is 6:3). The whole world lies in wickedness (1 Jn 5:19). God’s children are not to live for the flesh or man’s will, but for God’s will (1 Jn 5:19-20). We abstain from fleshly lusts (1 Pt 2:11). 1 John 2:15-17, "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. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." These scriptures are clear; to love worldly things is to oppose God and not even know Him. Since we are pilgrims sojourning in this world, we do not seek the things of the world. We have been reconciled to the Father through Christ and now live for His will exclusively. In other words we have left the broad path and are now on the narrow. We do not live in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God – for we shall one day give account (1 Pt 4:2, 5). We must escape the corruption that is in the world through lust and not live by the principles (rudiments) of the world (2 Pt 1:3-8, Col 2:20). This will not be accomplished through a list of thousands of do’s and don’ts, but through a changed heart and loving faith in God as led by His Spirit. The Spirit will specifically lead (virtue, godliness, self control, love), and in all cases it will be toward righteousness and holiness. Romans 13:14, "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof." The will of the Father is that we be delivered from this present evil world through Jesus Christ (Gal 1:4). Christ will do nothing for you as long as you love the world and it’s pollutions and entanglements.

So believers must not love or take enjoyment in the things the world seeks after. This is equated to following the ways of Balaam (mixing the things of God with the world, 2 Pt 2:15) and is grievous (2 Pt 2:15-16). Balaam advised that God’s people could not be conquered unless they could be corrupted with evil such that God would turn against them (2 Pt 2:18). Examples are numerous such as money, jewelry, possessions, entertainments, power, control, etc. This is being allured through the lusts of the flesh – through much wantonness (depravity, debauchery, immorality, unrestraint, shamelessness, 2 Pt 2:18). Proverb 27:20, "Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. We may require some things in the world to live, but these are not to be our desire, nor are we to put hope, trust, and undue attention in them. Our hearts are to be on God and He is to rule and reign over every area of our lives. We are told to keep ourselves unspotted from the world (Js 1:27). We are in this world, but not of this world, so we must walk in a way that pleases God and is an example to the ungodly (Jn 15:19, 17:16). Because we are in this world, we have certain needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. We also work to provide for these things. However much of what the world has to offer, a follower should not be joined to. God knows what we have need of and we are to live simply, in moderation, and be content with those things that we have (Mt 6:8, Heb 13:5, Php 4:5). 1 Timothy 6:6-8, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." Much of what the world desires and man has developed such as television, movies, popular music (rock, country, rap, etc.), magazines, newspapers, video games, books, man’s knowledge, internet sites, alcohol, drugs, pornography, etc. are in great contradiction to the Word of God. Romans 8:8, "So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God." These things are what the scriptures refer to as the "pollutions of the world" and followers are not to become entangled in them (2 Pt 2:20, Pv 22:3). These things will become bondages and men will be overcome by them (2 Pt 2:19). These things are stumblingblocks. I’m sure the flesh is now becoming offended at many of the things written here. When the flesh is threatened or denied it lashes out. 1 John 5:4, "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." The flesh (man’s will) does not want to be overcome, but if its not then there will be no reconciliation with God. To live in one’s own will is rebellion against God and subject to due penalties (Job 21:30). We live in a time when many are concerned (overcome) with the enjoyments of this world and it’s cares and are overtaken in the evil thereof as caught suddenly in a snare (Lk 21:34-35).

We live in a fast pace society where most feel they must be constantly entertained. The world caters to this desire with all sorts of activities such as television, music, books, newspapers, magazines, computers/internet, video games, movie theaters, theme parks, events, careers, sports and hobbies. These things are designed to draw your attention away from God, impart a message and stay in your thoughts and conversation throughout the day. In almost all cases the messages are worldly, man-centered and contradictory to God’s Word. Consequently these are the things people will think about and meditate on through the day. These are the things that go into one’s heart and form the basis of who they are. Since these things are contrary to God and His purposes, those who do them will be also. We must zealously guard what goes into our hearts (Mt 15:18, 2 Pt 2:8) – we keep ourselves (1 Jn 5:18)! An example might be a newspaper or television news story designed to get everybody’s attention. These stories are always worldly with a humanistic message and will be a topic of conversation for most throughout the day. When one story gets old, it will quickly be replaced with another in a never ending fashion. These are the things man thinks are important. Man is by and large self seeking and rebellious toward God. When one truly becomes converted in heart and purpose, one will see all these things of man for what they are (unnecessary) and redeem the time for God since the days are evil (Eph 5:16, Col 4:5). We do not have time to dally (waste time): 2 Timothy 2:4, "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier."

Rarely will one find quiet places in society with no distractions. A good example would be what one encounters in a discount store these days. There will be loud rock and roll music playing that is only interrupted by hanging television sets all over the store. The atmosphere is busy with all sorts of things to draw your thoughts and attention. Everything is orchestrated to grab our attention and influence our minds. The point is that for most, God will not be in their thoughts, just a desire to fulfill the flesh (Ps 10:4). Perhaps there are some who like to enjoy a meal in a restaurant without having loud rebellious rock and roll music playing or a television suspended in the corner. We must guard what goes into our hearts – do we even consider such? Does the sin which abounds grieve us? For most, there is no time and maybe no desire, to sit down and read God’s Word or pray quietly or without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17). These things should grieve our heart – do they? If this sounds extreme to you, it may just show where your heart is.

Those who seek the things of the world should heed the advice and conclusions of the wisest man who had the resources to seek all his fleshly desires. Ecclesiastes 1:2, 13-14, 16-17, 2:10-11, "Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity. And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven: this sore travail hath God given to the sons of man to be exercised therewith. I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit. I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge. And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit. And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun." Solomon did it all; he built works, had bodily pleasures, planted vineyards, gardens and orchards, and had servants, entertainment and great wealth. None of this satisfied. Our only peace will be found in God when we submit to Him in love and are restored to His purposes. Your joy will never be found in fleshly pleasures or pursuits; this will only lead to dissatisfaction, unfulfillment and continual never ending pursuit of fleeting contentment, eventually resulting in physical and eternal death.

In Jesus’ parable of the seeds, one of the groups of lost individuals were those overtaken by the world. This particular group was described as: 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." Seeking pleasures and riches is serving self and not God. Many will say, "You have to live in this world." Those who put undue emphasis on the "cares" (needful things) also brought no fruit to perfection (Lk 21:34). Unfruitful branches are taken away from the vine (Christ), wither and are gathered and thrown into the fire (Jn 15:1-10). Luke 13:6-9, "He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down." The Lord is patient, but does eventually expect results. What did Jesus say about those who seek the riches of this life? Mark 10:23-24, "And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!" Notice that they "trust" in riches – this is what the rich do. Twice repeated is emphasis and should be heeded. Those that seek pleasure, seek self and not God (Mt 10:39, Jn 12:25). Your fruit or lack thereof will betray your heart. Let us be careful that we do not become enemies of the cross of Christ and mind earthly things (Php 3:18-19).

Adulterers and adulteresses are those who make a commitment and marry one (Christ), but lust and have eyes for others (old man, world, flesh, self). James 4:4, "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." This is why self must die! The flesh wants to do that which is contrary to the will of God. These are spiritual paramours (one in an adulterous relationship). It wants to do what is right in your own eyes – do what makes you feel good (Pv 12:15, Deut 12:8). After an adulterer partakes of worldy pleasures, they feel they have done no evil – they justify their actions. Proverbs 30:20, "Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness." This is the condemnation were their can be no mercy: they do not acknowledge their evil or turn from it. Proverbs 28:13, "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy." Jesus said it plainly: Luke 16:13, "No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways (Js 1:8). You cannot live for this world and serve God also; you become an enemy of God aligned with a rebellious fallen world. James 4:8, "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded." You will either yield to the world/self or Jesus, but not both. Romans 6:16, "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"

There are what appear to be many paradoxes in scripture that are really fine lines between God’s will and man’s interpretation or understanding this truth. Often these paradoxes are twisted inaccurately. God has placed followers to be lights/salt in this world to represent Him and be a witness (Mt 5:13-16). Christ walked openly in the world and we are to follow His example. Even though Christ walked publicly, He remained pure. We live in a fallen world and are now in a particularly sinful time at the end of the age (as in the days of Noah). We are to live righteously in the midst, but not become hermits in some wilderness cave. This can become a difficult task (not to become tainted) and we must have discernment to know good and evil (Heb 5:14). We must stay close to God through His Spirit and Word. As we live righteously and do not seek or participate in the things of the flesh, we actually isolate ourselves from most. When we do not participate in worldly things many will interpret this as an affront against themselves. We will at times be persecuted and men will separate from our company due to our witness. Followers of Christ must be careful not to become self righteous (Lk 18:11-12, Rm 12:3). Often you will be asked why you do not do certain things. If you respond that it is because you follow Christ, many of those asking the question will say, "I do to." Our actions will tell the real story. We will always seem this way (holier than thou) to those who are convicted by our lives. We must constantly examine our hearts before God and make sure that we have love (charity) for others, placing them above ourselves, desiring only the best and never looking down upon them (Php 2:3). You must not desire evil (witchcraft) for any man. Christ came to deliver and save and we are to follow His example.

Most will follow the world and all that is popular with the justification that, "Everybody is doing it." 2 Corinthians 10:12, "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." Our only rule of measure should be the Word of God. God’s Word is truth, its eternal and we will be judged by it (Ps 96:13, Jn 12:48, Is 40:8). The world does not seek the things of God, nor does it know or even understand them (Job 21:14-15). He who plots his course by majority actions will be sorely disappointed. Beware of peer pressure. "Everybody’s doing it" is merely a justification to compromise and a sure way to become distaseful and lukewarm. Those who compromise will "kiss the calves" in sacrifice to the world rather than standing for Christ (1 Kg 19:18, Hos 13:2). They bow down the knee to the image just like everybody else (Dan 3:7). Many will walk after their own devices (maybe secretly), and do the imaginations of their evil hearts (Jer 18:12, 2 Kgs 17:9-18). The Lord says: Jeremiah 13:23, "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil." We must seek the Lord for new life in Him (1 Kgs 19:18). Majorities have always sought to subjugate (conquer, overcome, subdue, defeat) minorities. Pressure will always be brought to bear to conform minorities to the majority norm. Truly following Jesus will make you a minority in this world. Many religious people seek a compromise with the majority to maintain place without suffering reproach or tribulation. Many of these were tested and are now found to be lacking. When you follow Christ, you conform to His image by dying to yourself through self-denial and sacrifice - Psalm 4:5, "Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD." Israel constantly rejected God for their idolatry, yet never departed from the sins of Jeroboam (he instituted the worship of the golden calves), they always had a kiss for the golden calf (2 Kgs 17:22, 34-41). Who should we kiss? Psalm 2:12, "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him." Israel rejected God and God removed them from His sight (2 Kgs 17:23). So it will be with all who reject God. Who will stand as a light (witness, example) in this "everybody’s doing it world?" These are the very ones that God is seeking to be with Him eternally.

Well….I’m not a bad person! God is totally righteous and Holy and you cannot even comprehend such (Ps 145:17). You may not think yourself bad compared to those around you in this "relative" world that man has devised, but rest assured you are filthy, soiled and detestable when compared with the heavenly (Job 15:15-16). God says that one lie will send you to hell for an eternity (Pv 6:16-17, Rev 21:8). We must fall upon God’s mercy. However, until you see your sinfulness and wickedness and repent, there can be no mercy – only judgment. Psalm 147:11, "The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him (want to know and perform His will), in those that hope in his mercy." Living (applying, doing) our faith in God through Christ as led by the Spirit secures mercy. This is the basic question: Jeremiah 23:18, "For who hath stood in the counsel of the LORD, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word, and heard it?" – Live the Word! Mercy leads to grace, which is the God given ability to walk in His direction.

When considering the evil/wicked things people do/follow/conform-to that seem so innocent - many will say: well I don’t really think of - the thing in question - like that; or that’s not what I intend for it to mean; this is so innocent, its fun, fun, fun and we all know its not real. Everybody has one: opinions, sentiment, speculation, persuasion, belief, perspective, and conjecture – just what is truth (Jn Jn 12:48, 18:38)? Perhaps sentiment best describes the reasoning of many folks. Sentiment is your belief of what seems true, valid or probable mixed with feelings and emotion. Which is the greater reality (quality or state of being actual or true, substantial and substanative): 1) What you say? or 2) what you think? or 3) what you do? Often these are not in agreement in a person’s life. They are all important and form who you are. What takes precedence (in rank)? God says the greater reality is one’s actions – what they do (Is 29:13, Mt 15:8, Mk 7:6). Many will say one thing and do another! God will judge all according to their works (ways/doings, see Chapter Seven, "Conclusion," for a list of scriptures). However, wicked thoughts and words will not escape notice either (Heb 4:12). Speech and thought (one or both) are an ultimate part of actions. Actions are superior to words and thoughts. Speech could be an action, but when in conflict with a deed, the deed will outweigh (say and not do, Mt 21:28-31). Are your words confirmed/justified by your actions (i.e. living your profession daily, live by example)? So! Everybodys doing it – best make sure of what you are doing. One should carefully examine one’s heart to determine if their sentiment overules the truth – sentiment exalted above the throne of God.

The children of Israel had done evil and God had forsaken them to their enemies the Midianites (Judges 6:1). God sent a prophet with a message for Israel to forsake their idolatry and turn back to God, but the prophet was ignored (Judges 6:7-10, Neh 9:30, 35). God sent an angel to speak with Gideon. Gideon could not understand why God had forsaken Israel, yet he was blind to his own idolatry (Judges 6:13, Neh 9:28). Gideon’s father had an altar to Baal and a grove beside it. The men of the town worshipped there. Gideon was ignorant of God’s Word or he would have surely known how displeasing this idolatry was to God. Israel was living under God’s curses (Deuteronomy chapters 28 & 30) due to their own idolatry, yet they refused to accept they were doing anything wrong. God could not use Gideon until he forsook his idolatry and became obedient to the Lord. Gideon was required to throw down his father’s alter and cut down his grove (Judges 6:25). Obeying God’s direction immediately made Gideon very unpopular with the men of the town and they wanted to kill him (Judges 6:28-30). Through Gideon’s humble obedience and forsaking of his idolatry, God exalted him to deliver Israel from their enemies. Most people today are blind to their own idolatry and much of this comes from ignorance of God’s Word. These may attend religious services often, but how many read, understand and apply God’s Word to their lives daily? Until we truly seek God we will also be dumb and blind to our own idolatry. Once you become aware of your idolatry, you must then decide to willingly forsake it rather than justify it. Before you think that you have no idolatry in your life, you may want to consider some of the examples in this book. Consider now the tremendous idol of the modern generation…

When one examines the scripture, there is no doubt that God wants our attention focused upon Him. It is also evident that the things of this world are designed to take our attention off of God and place it upon the things of man or self, as greatly influenced by the devil. This was the tactic used by Satan in Eden. The things of the world are designed to appeal to lusts and to constantly tempt. Most "professed Christians" will at least concede that in scriptural theory, that we are not to live as the world depending on how "world" is defined. The problem arises when one takes God’s command and actually applies it to one’s life. The flesh will immediately rise up and justify itself and its actions. This is the nature that is in rebellion against God’s purposes. This is the fallen nature that must be put to death. A true believer will be guided by the Holy Spirit and God’s Word and the two will be in agreement. With this in mind, let us examine a worldly example that is commonly and frequently indulged in by most. Those who love not the truth are the same ones that justify the darkness and are oblivious to their actions (or complacent) and will probably be offended by the light having exposed this darkness.

There is a much cherished and revered item in almost every home in this country. Many will spend hours a day bowing down and worshipping it. Some begin and end their day paying homage. This item has such a hold on people that it may be one of the worst addictions possible. This idol will captivate (enthrall, hypnotize, mesmerize, fascinate, and enchant), entertain, pacify, and teach. Its message is always one-sided and no dialog is permitted. Parents will allow it to teach and instruct their children in ideas that are contrary to their own deep held beliefs. Many will experience the whole range of human emotions while serving it. No one has to have this item, yet most cannot (I dare say, will not), imagine life without it. Some will build special temples (rooms) for it or purchase one that is big enough to encompass the whole room. Most will defensively say, "Everybody does it." What is this idol you might inquire? It is the television set.

Many will now rise up in protest and say that they are most certainly not addicted to it (1 Jn 1:6). Well I challenge you. Unplug the television, remove it from your home and stop paying for cable service and we shall see. Words are easy, but actions are convincing. These will respond, I could, but I just don’t want to, I enjoy watching it and see nothing wrong with it (we have to live in this world). Oh really, read on.

There is no dispute that television programming is full of graphic violence, sex (and now homosexuality), adult situations, bad language, glorified drug and alcohol abuse, course jesting, witchcraft/occult, etc. Every sin that one can imagine is portrayed in an entertaining way – AS SEEN ON TV! Every temptation one could conceive of is paraded before your eyes and you willingly subject yourself to this. Romans 13:14, "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof." Recall from Chapter One that Satan places objects of lusts before our eyes. The devil’s desire is that we think upon and chase after such things. This is how he overcomes man. For every abomination to the Lord, which He hateth, has been brought before your eyes for your pleasure (Deut 12:31). So how do you suppose the television programming fits into this? Be honest with yourself. Should we have a television in our home? Deuteronomy 7:26, "Neither shalt thou bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like it: but thou shalt utterly detest it, and thou shalt utterly abhor it; for it is a cursed thing." It’s hard to believe, but most "professed Christians" (so-called) view as a source of entertainment (enjoyment), the very sins that nailed Jesus Christ to the cross. These same ones claim to know Him! No wonder Jesus said that many would call him "Lord" and yet not enter into heaven (Matthew 7:21-23). None of these will be able to tell God they "struggle" with lust and they try not to lust but cannot help it – Not when they sit in front of the TV. How foolish to watch lustful things and then think you struggle with sin in your life. Hebrews 12:4, "Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin." The TV will fill your heart full of all manner of evil and wickedness to the extent that victory over sin in your life will be impossible. Worse it will be an indicator that you have no desire for victory over sin in your life – your passions give your heart away. Is this not a continual mocking of God and a denial of all that is sacred? We will justify what we choose not to overcome! We must understand: 2 Corinthians 6:16, "And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." Is the temple being filled with filth and evil? Do you find agreement with the television idol? When God looks at your heart, what will He find therein (1 Kg 8:39)? How will this manifest in your outward actions? God takes no pleasure in wickedness and neither should we - Psalm 5:4, "For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee." We must be separate and come out from such wickedness and not touch unclean things (v. 17). We must cleanse our temples of filthiness of flesh and spirit (2 Cor 7:1).

The television is a destroyer of souls. King David (Beloved of God) once said, "I will set no wicked thing before my eyes" (Ps 101:3). What about those who do? Those who change the truth of God into a lie (as constantly taught on TV), and worshipped and served the creature (things of man) more than the Creator are given over to all manner of sins leading to death (Rm 1:25-31) and love not the truth (2 Thess 2:10, Rm 1:18). Romans 1:32, "Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." Followers of Christ do not partake of other men’s sins nor take pleasure in them, but rather keep ourselves pure (1 Tm 5:22). Those who believe God’s truth are purifying themselves and being led of His Spirit in paths of righteousness and holiness (Ti 2:14, 1 Pt 1:22, Js 4:8, Rm 8:14, 1 Jn 3:3). Followers set the Lord before them always (Ps 16:8). They are living their faith every day and this faith purifies the heart. Acts 15:9, "…purifying their hearts by faith." What about those who are seeking the flesh? 2 Thessalonians 2:12, "That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." There is no doubt that enjoying (being entertained by) acts of sin AS SEEN ON TV (or anywhere else) is having "pleasure in unrighteousness." Those who absorb the constant stream of ungodly programming are lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God (2 Tm 3:4). If we think about (desire) doing certain sinful things then we are equally as guilty as if we had actually done them (Mt 5:27-30). God is looking at our hearts and He will try them (Ps 7:9, Jer 17:10, 20:12, 1 Thess 2:4). We are to put aside all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and seek God’s Word to the extent that we are doers and not hearers only (Js 1:21-22). Thoughts become actions, hearts are darkened, imaginations become vain (Rm 1:21)! The carnal mind serves the flesh (Rm 8:5-8). When viewing television, your mind and your thoughts are constantly put upon secular worldly (sinful) things of the flesh and not God. In addition to taking pleasure in unrighteousness, many temptations will be implanted in your mind and grow to produce additional sin, all of which leads to death.

Ezekiel 8:9-10, "And he said unto me, Go in, and behold the wicked abominations that they do here. So I went in and saw; and behold every form of creeping things, and abominable beasts, and all the idols of the house of Israel, pourtrayed upon the wall round about." The similar message for today is: behold the wicked abominations that they do here. So I turned on the television and saw every form of wickedness, violence and idolatry portrayed upon the screen from the imagination (acting, special effects, etc.) of rebellious man. I focused my attention and became one with it.

To live in God’s truth (Word) is to abhor (avoid at all cost) any evil and wickedness (Eph 5:11, Pv 3:7, 8:13, 16:17, 22:3). Psalm 119:101, "I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word." One cannot possibly expect to keep God’s Word if one intentionally exposes oneself to evil. Perhaps keeping God’s Word is not a foremost conscious action with many who "profess," but do not follow Christ. Those that seek the Spirit apply the Word and those that seek the flesh don’t. Psalm 141:4, "Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties." The world says "come," partake of my pleasures – be entertained and filled with laughter. Eat, drink and fill your heart with merriment – let your flesh be at ease and cast the hours away. God says: "Come out" from among them and be ye separate, touch not the evil thing (2 Cor 6:17). One day you will wish you had the hours back! A choice must be made – whom will you serve? Who will lead, guide and teach you? Who will hold your thoughts and devotion? We must not be filled with the world’s wickedness as continually spewed forth from the television. Warning: all televised programming is not suitable for any age, any time. The wicked do not abhor that which is evil (Ps 36:1-4) – this is an indicator.

The television must surely be the devil’s inspired invention. This one device constantly takes man’s focus off of God and places it upon the things of the world and man. Man’s attention is shifted to self and all manner of things that exalt themselves to oppose God. Consider this: a popular movie that reflects sinful and rebellious behavior/ideas could literally be viewed by millions of people at one time. Millions of hearts could be dwelling on the same sinful and fleshly thoughts at the same time. Many will later discuss their enjoyment of such things with others. Oh how this must grieve God! Oh how this must be accomplishing the devil’s purposes! The fact is that the television is being used for values clarification (redefines). The whole world is becoming one in thought and deed. Consider the tower of Babel (Gen 11:1-9): man intended to reach God his way, man intended to exalt himself, and man was making a statement to God concerning the recent flood judgment (he would rise above). God said: "Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do." The television (programming) is making this nation (and the world) one in thought and purpose. Six is the biblical number of man because he was created on the sixth day. Thrice six (666) is the ultimate in man exalting himself. We are on the verge of this and the devil will send his son, the antichrist, to lead.

Take heed what was told an audience of "believers" in scripture (Similar list in Rm 1:24-32): 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, "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, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God." This is our warning! We are further told in the same chapter that: 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." The harlot is worldliness and all manner of idolatry and sinfulness. When you take pleasure in unrighteousness you join yourself with the harlot and become one with it in opposing all that is of Christ. This is the spirit of the antichrist. So, we are one in Spirit with Christ or one in spirit with the Harlot. Choose whom you will serve. A harlot speaking words of love is shallow because her actions reveal the opposite. Many will have a form of godliness (maybe a profession of Christ), but are lovers of their own selves (2 Tm 3:1-5). Romans 1:18, "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness." When you have eyes full of adultery (eyes for other than Christ), you cannot cease from sin; and follow doctrines of Balaam desiring the lusts of the flesh (2 Pt 2:14-16, 18). What a perfect example of spiritual adultery (idolatry) the television is (Habak 2:19). The idols of old were wood, stone and metal. They couldn’t speak. The idol of today speaks all manner of abomination to an attentive and eager audience – what a hold it has! Do not presume this to be innocent before God!

Now many will say at this point that they do not watch the bad stuff, only the wholesome entertainment. The problem is that there is no wholesome secular entertainment on television. The whole premise of acting is to present yourself to an audience as something you are not - to pretend and convince of an untruth (deception). The audience is made voyers into lives or situations of others to be taught a humanistic message. Some will say, "I only watch the discovery channel." This channel teaches evolution and vast geological ages in contradiction to God’s Word. It teaches the worship of the creation rather than the creator. This will be discussed in a later chapter. How about the man-centered History channel? This is what man deems important as edited by man and popular opinion. Even the commercials on TV are evil. They are advertising which is nothing more than witchcraft. Advertisers spend millions of dollars to manipulate you into buying a product that you wouldn’t necessarily buy. They also want to bury the thought of their product in your mind (hypnotism) and to entice you into lusts and covetousness (Heb 13:5, Ps 119:36). Covetousness is idolatry (Col 3:5). Advertisers must fixate your attention on their product in a short moment of time by appealing to your inner lusts such that the enticement will remain long after the appeal and result in a later action. This is serious manipulation! Recall from Chapter One, Satan’s process of enticement: temptation, lust or desire, capitulation, and action. Due to the amount of money that is spent on advertising, you can be sure they are getting a return. They create factitious (needs created by advertising) lusts! When you willfully watch such things you are exposing yourself to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons (1 Tm 4:1). These commercials are the sorceries of the merchant men of the earth (Rev 18:23). Some will contend and say there are some good things on TV such as the preachers. One only has to listen to their message in light of God’s Word to realize that they are presenting damnable heresies, making merchandise of you (2 Pt 2:1-3), and are lover’s of money (2 Tm 6:10, 1 Pt 5:2). Their messages must be popular (sugar coated) to maintain audience and receive the much coveted donations and offerings (Ti 1:11). False prophets are always popular with the people and likeable. Their messages appeal to your flesh and do not deny it.

Most people fit in with "Popular Culture." This is defined as having values that come from advertising, the media, and icons of style as targeted to ordinary people in society. Where do your values come from? Those who develop television programming, newsprint and movies want to shape you (conform you) to their image. In many cases, they have succeeded. Who will prevail in this battle – the flesh or the Spirit? Many who "profess Christ" may find in an honest self-examination that their daily lives reflect popular culture more than the Jesus described in the Bible (must read to know). To live "popular culture" is to conform to the world. Popular culture is defined on the television in a mass appeal to the lusts of an impatient audience. In the American pop-culture driven society, you may find that those who profess Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, Judaism, etc. have much more in common as far as how they live their daily lives (thoughts, desires, entertainments, American dream – the ideal, etc.) than you may realize (a melted pot of compromise and wrong ideals – see Chapter Four, What Does Man Teach Us?). Much of this is defined, portrayed and propagated by television. You may say that your core beliefs are different than these religions, but how are these lived out or outwardly expressed in your life? What is your witness? The author asks you, "professed" Christian – How is your hope and faith made manifest in your daily actions? No doubt most could talk for hours about television shows, movies, characters and actors. Could these same ones discuss with any depth and detail eternal things of God’s Word?

Even if television programming was completely neutral or you just sat in front of an empty box it would at a minimum be a tremendous waster of time and as such an idol put before God. We are to redeem the time because the days are evil (Eph 5:16). Would the Bible be read? Would the prayers be offered? Can you imagine standing before God and realizing all the time you sat in front of a little box – not to mention willingly filling your mind with all that opposes Christ? This exposes your true heart! How does your television time compare to your Bible reading time? Which one is of eternal value? How much do you pray verses watch television? Which truly receives more honor – God or TV?

Consider the following scriptures before you next view the television: 2 Corinthians 10:5, "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." The television programming is designed to keep our thoughts on things of man (take captive) and off of Christ. Everything shown on TV exalts itself against the knowledge of God. True knowledge of God seeks and performs His will (Ps 128:1). Some have no knowledge because their hearts are elsewhere (Hos 4:6). Your thoughts are captive to the obedience of the world, not Christ (Ps 119:97). Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things, are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Very few (most likely none) programs would meet the qualifications of this verse. 1 John 5:21, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen."

Many have noted how evil television programming has become and have made comments to suggest that if it gets any worse they will have to stop watching it. Well it continually gets worse, inhibitions are lowered, evil becomes more acceptable and the day to remove it never seems to come for most. Has the programming ever become more moral or godly? If it were, would God desire you to sit in front of a box all day? A religious man once told me about how awful television programming had become. I told him that he should turn the television off and take it out of his home. He became quiet and quickly dropped the subject. He was willing to acknowledge the darkness (evil), but that was the extent. This is why some do not approach the light (Jn 3:20) and that’s the condemnation (Jn 3:19). Christ once told the Pharisees: John 9:41, "Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth." In other words if you are ignorant about a sin, perhaps you could plead innocence. If you have knowledge of God’s truth, yet ignor it or if you see your sin (have knowledge of