UCMI Faith Messenger:
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Mal 3:16  Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 

 
 

To Rightly Divide the Word of Truth.

To PRAY or to PREY ?

Black & White or Shades of Gray?

Ministering to the Gentiles.

DANGERS in Doctrines of 'Liberated' Denominations !

Are you plugged into 110 or 220?

Are you tithing Satan?
 
 
 
 
 
 

        On to the Faith Messenger. The message this time is not one you may ever hear in the
pulpit, however we feel that all Christians should know and understand this valuable teaching
message.

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The UCMI Faith Messenger
02/02/2000

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             U C M I    F A I T H    M E S S E N G E R
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        To Rightly Divide the Word of Truth.

        2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

        To help us understand this passage of Scripture, let's look at some Geneva Bible notes on the passage.

Geneva Bible Note:
2:15 {9} Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, {e} rightly dividing the word of truth. 
 (9) The fifth admonition: a minister must not be an idle disputer, but a faithful steward in correctly dividing the word of truth, in so much that he must stop the mouths of other vain babblers.      (e) By adding nothing to it, neither deleting anything, neither mangling it, nor rending it apart, nor distorting it: but marking diligently what his hearers are able to bear, and what is fit to edifying.

        We live in a world of diverse cultures and people. There are differing faiths and
beliefs throughout. Within Christianity itself we see differing beliefs and doctrinal systems
and all of it seems to be so confusing. This is why we need to know how to Rightly Divide the
Word of Truth. In Christianity today we see many prophecies, visions, doctrinal belief systems,
varying theological basis of belief. How can we possibly wade through all of this to know what
is true and what is not? 
        First we need to know what our duty or charge is in the faith and serving of our Lord.

        2 Timothy 4:2-5, "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.  For the time will come when they will not
endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having
itching ears;  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto
fables.  But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make
full proof of thy ministry."

        You see it is important for us to be knowledgeable in the word of God so we can test
these theories, prophecies and differing doctrines. The Bible is the final authority in all
matters.
        As Christians we know that the Bible can be a difficult book to interpret. This is
evidenced by all the different views of the teachings people have gotten from it. We also know
that Jesus promised us a helper to show us the truth of the word of God.

        John 14:26, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in
my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I
have said unto you."

        This method of revealed knowledge is certainly a powerful knowledge base for us to pull
from, but how do we know if a prophecy or doctrine we hear is based in the truth? We may ask
the Holy Spirit for revelation about it however in 2 Timothy 2:15 it states that we need to
study the word, that we might rightly DIVIDE the WORD of TRUTH.

        Now you might ask if this is really all that necessary for us? The answer is a
resounding "YES"!  We are faced daily with belief systems and we need to know how to reprove
them with the word of God. The Bible even warns us to be wary of these false teachings.

        Matthew 24:24, "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew
great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very
elect."

        Colossians 2:8, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit,
after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

        Romans 16:17-18, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and
offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.  For they that are
such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches
deceive the hearts of the simple."

        So how do we judge and determine if a prophecy or doctrine is sound and biblical? We
use the Bible as the final authority in these matters. In this message I wish to give you a set
of rules to follow for proving both prophecy and doctrine. These rules are based in biblical
hermeneutics which is a systematic basis for studying the Bible for establishing a consistent
proof of something.

  Hermeneutics: noun
        The branch of theology that deals with principles of exegesis
  Exegesis: noun
        1. An explanation or critical interpretation (especially of the Bible)
        2. Critical interpretation of a text (especially of the Bible)

        If something is to be used as a basis of doctrine it will be found to be consistent
throughout the entire Bible. It will have been prophesied or commanded in the Old Testament and
will also be found in the New Testament. It will be found not less than three times throughout
the Bible and there will be no scripture that contradicts its teaching. It will be easily
understood in the literal reading of scripture and will not be taken from poetry (Psalms) or
from any story or parable. It will be solely supported by direct and literal interpretation.
There will be no need for anyone to say that "This Scripture really means this or that" It will
be readily and easily understood. No one will need to say "We believe this to mean..."

        Of the Scriptures we use for our study we need to know certain things; such as
        1. Who is speaking (who were they, what do we know about them).
        2. To whom are they speaking (who was the audience ; Jews or Gentiles)
        3. In what context are they speaking (what is this about, what was happening then)
        4. During what time in Bible history did this happen (what Bible dispensation are we
under).
        5. What was the location of this occurrence. (did this have significance)

        Note: Study and Life Application Bibles as well as concordances will greatly aid in
your studies. They can point you to corresponding Scriptures for your study.

        We find these same principles good for checking prophecy against the Bible to see if it
can be supported or not. Remember that Jesus warned that there would be false prophets. Many
modern religions and cults are formed around false prophets and their teachings. We need to be
watchful for any prophecy that brings a NEW revelation that adds anything to the word of God.
The Bible is a completed work and there will be nothing added to its teachings. All true
prophecy will check out completely within the Bible. There are no new truths to be added. A
religious doctrine formed against a false prophecy can lead many fervent Christians into a
false system of beliefs. 

        Colossians 2:20-23, "Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the
world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,  (Touch not; taste
not; handle not;  Which all are to perish with the using) after the commandments and doctrines
of men?  Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and
neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh."

        You see my friends, it is most important that we be able to ground ourselves in the
sound doctrine of the Bible, but we must be able to distinguish the validity of any doctrine we
are presented with by testing it in the Word. If you attend a church and question a specific
doctrine they are presenting, ask for the Scriptural proof of their basis for this teaching.
Then do your homework and see if you find a Scripture that counters or does not support what
they are preaching. Check the Scriptures they refer to and see if they can be literally
understood without adding some interpretation to them. Then see if this teaching is supported
throughout the entire Bible, both Old and New Testaments. This way you are armed with His
knowledge. 

        Ephesians 4:14, "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried
about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they
lie in wait to deceive;"

        Remember it was a small "doctrinal" change that the Serpent gave to Eve in the garden
that caused the downfall of man. Always remember that the word of God, as written in the Bible
is the final authority in all matters. 

        Revelation 22:18-19, "For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the
prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the
plagues that are written in this book:  And if any man shall take away from the words of the
book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the
holy city, and from the things which are written in this book."

        These principles will serve you well my friends. They will bring you understanding in a
world of confusion and keep you steadfastly on the righteous path of our Lord. It is a true
shame that so many have been deceived in their faith by false teachings. We need to be equipped
in this modern, religious world to cope with so much diversity that we may always have the real
truth to follow all the days of our lives.

        2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to
be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

        It is my prayer that you will question the teachings you encounter in your religious
path. Prove them and weed out the false that you may stay in the truth of His word always.
False doctrine will always fail when tested this way. The same holds true for false prophecy.
Do not follow a doctrine you do not agree with and cannot prove biblically and be not led by
those who would preach it as being truth. What is your eternal life worth to you? The Bible is
and always will be the final word of God.

        May or Lord richly bless you in His wisdom.

******************************
Written by:
Rev. Steven B. Smethers, DD
Senior Pastor & Administrator, UCMI  2000

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UCMI   FAITH   MESSENGER
01/16/2000

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         U C M  I    F A I T H    M E S S E N G E R
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        To PRAY or to PREY ?

        Pray; verb
        To address God; to say a prayer

        Prey; noun
        A person who is the victim of ridicule or exploitation by some hostile person or
influence.

        Well my friends I think we all understand these terms. The question is how do we relate
to them in our faith? We all understand the basis of prayer in our faith walk. We talk to the
Father and confess our sins and ask forgiveness. We petition for blessings and grace from our
Lord. We ask for protection for our families and friends. We do intercessory prayer for those
who are not able to pray for themselves or who do not yet know the Lord. Certainly all of these
things are workings of our faith and we use them every day through our faith in the Lord.

        Now I wish to speak to you about another word. LEGALISM.

        Legalism: noun
        Strict conformity to the letter of the law rather than its spirit.

        Today my friends we live in a world that is divided in the faith of our Lord. Men have
setup Religions based in the teachings and doctrines of men. The innocence of the sheep of His
flock is spoiled by these deceptive doctrines that are taught along side of the word of God.
Men have set their interpretations of Scripture along side and even in place of the word of
God.

        This creates a basis of comparative judgment within the Body of Christ's believers.
These misled believers go about and point the finger of righteous judgment at any Christian who
does not confess the same belief in their personal doctrine of faith.

        2 Thessalonians 3:11-15, "For we hear that there are some which walk among you
disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.  Now them that are such we command and
exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.  But
ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.  And if any man obey not our word by this epistle,
note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.  Yet count him not as an
enemy, but admonish him as a brother."

        Men have set their own "Laws" of doctrine in place and many have been misled by their
teaching. These poor people have been lied to in a righteous manner. They are led to believe
that these are the true answers of the Bible. These same people will now commune with other
believers and doubt their salvation or their communion with the Lord because they do not meet
up with the Doctrines that they believe.  JUDGMENT upon other Christians is Legalism!  It is
the act of PREYING upon other Christians rather than praying for them or with them.

        Proverbs 3:30, "Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm."

        Proverbs 20:3, "It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be
meddling."

        Romans 14:10-13, "But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought
thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.  For it is written, As
I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.  So
then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.  Let us not therefore judge one
another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to
fall in his brother's way."

        The Bible is full of warnings about judging others. It is full of instruction on how to
live as a Christian.... In loving kindness and brotherhood. Forgiving as we have been forgiven.
Being not critical but edifying one another until we all come to the fulness of Christ. Being
patient and slow to wrath.

        1 Thessalonians 5:9-15, "For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain
salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,  Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should
live together with him.  Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as
also ye do.  And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over
you in the Lord, and admonish you;  And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's
sake. And be at peace among yourselves.  Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are
unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.  See that none
render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves,
and to all men."

        My friends we will all grow in or faith if we will pray with and for each other. We
will be remiss of our charge as Christians if we devour each other, as prey, over foolish
doctrinal divisions and opposing viewpoints of Religion.

        Proverbs 6:16-19, "These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination
unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that
deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that
speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."

        We need to support our brethren and not be quick to attack minor differences. The basis
of Christianity is Faith in the Lord. Praise and worship of our Lord. Unity in the Body of
Christ that we jointly fit together as the working unit of the Lord. How can we work for the
Lord if we can't stop arguing minor points of difference? Isn't the will of our Father of
greater importance than the insignificant whimpering of our petty discrepancies? How can we
have the Lord's peace in our heart if we serve to devour each other as prey?

        2 Timothy 2:23-26, "But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do
gender strifes.  And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt
to teach, patient,  In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure
will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;  And that they may recover
themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."

        James 5:16, "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may
be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

        Let us look at a larger picture here. God wants us at peace with each other. Satan
would have us in strife with each other. Satan's way causes division. It divides us and creates
doubt and judgment. It should be clear to you that following the course of legalistic judgment
is not a Godly path to choose.

        Romans 12:18, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all
men."

        The decision then comes to this. Do we pray with and for our brethren in faith or do we
make a sport out of Christian faith by making them our prey? I think it is an obvious choice.
Do not let Satan deceive you in this. This is just one of the subtle ways he has to keep you
from the victory that is your inheritance as a Christians. Stay in the teachings of our Lord
and let the wisdom of HIS ways set the standard that you follow.

        Ephesians 4:11-16, "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some,
evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;  For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of
the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:  Till we all come in the unity of the
faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the
stature of the fulness of Christ:  That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro,
and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness,
whereby they lie in wait to deceive;  But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in
all things, which is the head, even Christ:  From whom the whole body fitly joined together and
compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the
measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

        We are given all the tools and an instruction book (Bible) as well. Why do we need to
argue over something that some man or other wrote or decided that we should believe?  I cannot
speak for you but as for me and my house, we will worship God and follow His word alone. We are
to lead as an example; what example do we set to the world and each other if we spend our time
judging each other?  Do we pray or seek prey? The choice, as always, is left to you. Christian
were blessed to be given the power of prayer. Let's follow the leading of the Lord.

        May God be with you and light the path of your way.

========================
Written by: Rev. Steven B. Smethers, DD
Senior Pastor & Administrator - UCMI  2000

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United Christian Ministries International
Faith Messenger 01/01/2K
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        U C M I    F A I T H   M E S S E N G E R
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        Black & White or Shades of Gray?

        The word Gray: 
        An achromatic color of any lightness between the extremes of black and white

        We read in the Bible about the righteousness of God and of believing peoples. Always the reference is to that of light. Light is the absence of dark. It is the presence of illumination.

        John 3:16-21, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not his
Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.  He
that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because
he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  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."

        We also see that evil is seen as darkness. Satan is the prince of darkness. Darkness is
the absence of any light. The Bible always refers to people rejecting the truth of the Lord as
turning from the light towards the darkness.

        In the movies we see the good guys always wearing white and the bad guys dressed in
black. We always know who the good guys are by their appearance. The Bible tells us that Christ
will return riding atop a white horse. Dressed in a white robe. It tells us that when we are
received by the Lord we will be dressed in white raiment of the purest white.

        The commandments of the Lord are all as clear as if done in black and white. Evil being
black and God's commands being white. They are clear cut and without any areas of
misunderstanding. They are written so even a child can understand them clearly. They are stated
as "thou shalt" and "thou shalt not". Simply put, do this, and don't do that. Very clear.

        It would be a simple matter to adhere to these simple rules if not for one factor.
Satan has dominion over this world. The serpent in the garden began by beguiling Eve with a
simple twist of the one command of God. He mixed some dark evil logic with some divine white
good and created the first ever gray area of interpretation. You see, gray area is a blend of
good and evil. A mixture of darkness and light. A shade in the middle of black and white. Eve
took in the evil dark view of the serpent and darkened or clouded the truth of God.

        Isaiah 5:20-21, "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness
for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe unto
them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!"

        This same scenario continues even today and in all abundance. We have a President who
lied on trial in the Supreme Court, under oath taken on the Bible, and walked away based on
gray areas about the transgressions he had made. We watched O.J. Simpson walk away from a
murder trial based on a racial matter that had nothing to do with the fact of the evidence. We
see unborn babies butchered in this country because of  interpretations that man has made to
justify this debauchery. These are all matters of the power of the gray area of interpretation.
Yet God was quite clear when He said "thou shalt not kill" and "thou shalt not bare false
witness against another", "thou shalt not steal" and so on. There is no doubt of God's commands
but yet these gray areas allow the breaking of these same commands because men think that they
have insight to the truth and the matter of justice.

        1 John 1:5-6, "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.  If we say that we have fellowship
with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:"

        Proverbs 14:12, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are
the ways of death."

        Now I know you are all saying that this is true and just seems to be an abomination
that occurs all around us in this world and in these times. You wish these injustices would
end. You certainly do not support these things. If it were you, you would stand in the name of
all righteousness and be strong in the Lord and His commands. Would you really?

        Would you do something that would be seen as insignificant and of no moment? Like a
little "white lie" on your income taxes? Would you tell someone you couldn't do something that
you really could do? Would you, in private, do something because no one would or could ever
find out about it?

        Isaiah 29:15, "Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and
their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?"

        What about the pen or other supplies you carried off from your job? Did you ever tell
your spouse a "little fib"? How about the report you gave to your insurance company on that
claim you had?  Would you drive 60 mph in a 55 mph zone? I think you get the point here. You
cannot tell a "near" truth. You cannot lie a little bit. You cannot do what is almost right.
All these things are gray area and not of righteousness. God will know you did them.

        Jeremiah 9:3, "And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: but they are not
valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me,
saith the LORD."

        Would you then pray to God for His blessings? Would you expect Him to give you His
covering and grace?

        Proverbs 4:14-19, "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil
men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. For they sleep not, except they
have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. For they eat
the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. But the path of the just is as the
shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is as
darkness: they know not at what they stumble."

        Would you seek God's wisdom and guidance while transgressing against His commands?

        Daniel 12:10, "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall
do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand."

        We are to be as an example unto the world. What example will we set if we allow these
small transgressions? If this minor bending of the word of truth is allowed then Satan will
rejoice because just as in the garden we will allow him the interjection of GRAY
interpretation. If you look at the horror that man has created on this planet you will quickly
see that most if not all have been the result of gray. Not quite righteous and not all evil
either..... Just sort of a shade of gray.

        Example: A man is found to be guilty of murder.... His attorney says that the man was
not in his right mind and pleads temporary insanity. Did God say "thou shalt not kill unless
thou be insane"? No He did not. So if the courts follow this command and say he was sane and
therefore he is guilty and will get the death penalty. Did God say "thou shalt not kill but if
thou does then you may killeth him also"? No He did not. These are samples of gray areas of our
society. In this case the vengeance, as in all things, should be left to the Lord. We also see
gray areas whenever we run into religious doctrines. You can see this in the serpent as well.
The serpent gave Eve a different doctrine than that which she received from God.

        The bottom line to all of this is the fact that there are no small transgressions to
the Lord. Either you choose to follow His Commands or you choose to rewrite the command so you
may justify your actions. Doing this is a form of rebelling against God's authority. Not a
smart thing to do. Do not mock the Lord thy God.

        2 Corinthians 4:1-4, "Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received
mercy, we faint not;  But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in
craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth
commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.  But if our gospel be hid,
it is hid to them that are lost:  In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them
which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God,
should shine unto them."

        Simple rule to follow my friends is that if you have to justify something then chances
are it cannot be justified by God. Most times our justifications are to give us some semblance
of peace about the matter. The truth of this is that if it is of the Lord we will be given the
peace we desire by God Himself.

        Matthew 5:14-19, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot
be hid.  Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it
giveth light unto all that are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.  Think not that I am come to
destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.  For verily I say
unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law,
till all be fulfilled.  Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and
shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall
do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

        My friends I hope you all can see that each of us need corrective work in our hearts on
a daily basis. We are a pitiful lot at best but we are blessed that God loves us as we are. He
only asks us to do the best we can and seek Him first before we act on anything. We are none of
us in pure white raiment yet, but neither are we the full blown evil blackness of this world.
We are all struggling in this sea of varying shades of gray. Until we all come to the fullness
of Christ, may we lift and correct each other in love. Think of the new earth that will have no
evil or darkness. We have yet to see the brilliance of His divine white light.

        May God bless you abundantly in His mercy as we enter this new century.

**************************
Written by:
Rev. Steven B. Smethers, DD
Senior Pastor & Administrator, UCMI  2000

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  F A I T H    M E S S E N G E R
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11/15/98
  Ministering to the Gentiles.

 The subject may seem like old news. I see it quite differently than that. Most of us know that Gentiles are all the people that are not of Jewish origin. That is true enough however we tend to confine our ministry to the people (Gentiles) who have strayed from Christ.

 Ephesians 3:7-8, "Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.  Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; "

 "I should preach among the Gentiles ..." . Lets talk about the definition of exactly what a Gentile really is. In biblical times there were the chosen "believers" and the rest of the world. The Gentiles. Who were they? They were the non-believers, the unsaved, the heathens of the times. The unholy, the lost souls, the ones controlled by Satan. They were of low moral stature, without the basis of divine foundation. These were people who were without the basic knowledge of God, let alone Jesus the Christ. They had no news to read or watch on TV. They had no idea about who Christ was or what He had done.

 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. "

 You see we were not sent to only save the ones who strayed from Christ; we are to go out and bring the lost to Christ. The ones controled by Satan. How convenient it would be to just confront the people who were slightly off track with the Lord. You know something ..... you cannot evangelize a Christian. You can only SAVE the lost. The people who have not accepted Christ as their savior.

 There are many fine Christians out there who only minister to other Christians. They never get to the real commission that we were given.

 Acts 10:44-48, "While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.  And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.  For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,  Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?  And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. "

 Do you see that? The Holy Ghost came down upon the newly saved Gentiles. These were biblical Gentiles. Unsaved people who the Spirit descended upon when they heard the Word.
 Now if the Holy Spirit thinks that these unclean, heathen types are important, then who do we think we are that we cannot spend our valuable time with them?

 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!  For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.  What is my reward then? [Verily] that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.  For though I be free from all [men], yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.  And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;  To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ) that I might gain them that are without law.  To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all [men], that I might by all means save some.  And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you]. "

 "To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ) that I might gain them that are without law." Without the law. In other words, people not of or under God, but controlled by Satan. Notice also in the last scripture that it tells us to gain their confidence by being "like" them. Not better than or superior to but like them. On the same level WITH them. Nobody will ever follow you if you approach them with a puffed up, Holier-than-thou attitude. Be one with them and they will follow. Befriend them. They are in need of a Christian friend.

 Deuteronomy 15:11 For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.

 Ever heard the phrase "to fill a need"? The needy of the land. It doesn't say just the needy Christians. Jesus was the ultimate teacher of salvation. Here is what He said about His methods:

 Matthew 4:18-19, "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. "

 Jesus also said to go forth into all the lands and make disciples of all nations. He did not restrict His direction to the Godly and the strays. "I will make you fishers of men." ALL men.

 To say that we should only follow this great commission would not be correct either. It is our Christian duty to support and guide other Christians on the path of life. Keep them in the fold. This is accountability. A Christian duty.

 2 Timothy 4:1-5, "I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;  Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.  But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. "

 Too many Christian ministers today take the easy road and only deal with the strays. We are told in the Bible that the road to heaven is narrow (difficult) and the road to damnation wide (easy). The great commission is evangelizing the Gentiles of the world. Not just the strays from Christ. Remember that Gentiles come in assorted flavors and sizes; not just Christian.

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Written by Rev. Steven B. Smethers, DD
Senior Pastor / Administrator - UCMI   1998

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Christian Inter-Mission
7-15-98

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 DANGERS in Doctrines of 'Liberated' Denominations !

 Some Definitions:
 CHURCH DOCTRINE: Noun , 
 The body of teachings of a religious group that are generally ACCEPTED by that group.
 RELIGIOUS DENOMINATION: Noun , 
 A group of religious congregations having its own organization and a DISTINCTIVE faith.

 We are all one in the body of Christ. This is the "unity" that was requested of all Christians in the Bible. Yet in most churches today we are led by denominational doctrine. (see above) Is this a Biblical arrangement? The answer is ... NO! Don't these same denominations teach us about Christ and the teachings of the Bible? This is where things start to become a problem. 
 Denominations want to teach us their "take" or interpretation on the meaning of the scriptures. This is their distinction or what sets them apart from other religious denominations. (see above) Denominational following was NEVER sanctioned in the Bible. Quite the opposite. The Bible is very clear that there be only one "Church" and one DOCTRINE. The Bible warns us about this repeatedly.

 Here are just a few of the scriptures about doctrines:

Matthew 15:8-9, "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with [their] lips; but their heart is far from me.  But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men. "

Romans 16:17-18, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.  For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. "

Galatians 1:6-9, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:  Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.  But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.  As we said before, so say I now again, If any [man] preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. "

 Any time that we add to or take away from or in any way distort the pure Word of God and the teachings of the Holy Bible, we have created a new doctrine. The Bible is the Word of God, so how can any denominational religion dictate it's interpretation? They have added to the truth in the Word of God by including their beliefs as doctrine.

 Here is the FIRST Example listed in the Bible:

Genesis 2:16-17, "And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die."

 This verse shows that God said "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it" This is the commandment that God set down to Adam.

 Here is how the commandment was changed by Eve:

Genesis 3:1-5, "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which [is] in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil."

 Eve CHANGED what God commanded by adding "neither shall ye touch it". Neither shall ye touch it ... That is an innocent enough phrase. That simple addition (which was Eve's interpretation of what God said) changed man for all time and condemned him to death for his sin.
It was all that was needed to allow Satan to twist the Word of God and convince Eve that no evil would befall her.

2 Corinthians 11:3-4, "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.  For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]. "

 This example should show you that God intended for us to take His Word as it is written and not add our own twist onto the interpretation of it. Now it is one thing to receive some help in understanding scripture ... it is Quite another to TEACH this interpretation! Yet this is exactly what religious denominations do. Their DOCTRINE is what sets their religious denomination apart from others. This factor is so strong that almost all Christian denominations have their "accepted" Seminary and will only ordain ministers that have been properly "indoctrinated" by their seminary. Additionally, these same ministers are not acceptable to any other denomination. I ask you; Is this Unity in Christ?

 MORE SUPPORTIVE SCRIPTURES:

Ephesians 4:13-14, "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:  That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; "

Colossians 2:8, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

Colossians 2:20-22, "Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,  (Touch not; taste not; handle not;  Which all are to perish with the using) after the commandments and doctrines of men? "

1 Tomothy 4:1, "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;"

2 Timothy 4:3, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;"

Hebrews 13:9, "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For [it is] a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein."

2 Peter 2:1, "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction."

 You may say: "I really think that all Christian Denominations teach basically the same doctrine and I don't see any problems with them". CAUTION: remember Eve? There are many who think that the modern church should "keep up" with the times of our society. Many of our "large denominations have done just that. You see they are not limited by the "restrictions" of the Holy Bible. Instead, they create their "doctrines" on the fly so to speak, adding whatever they think will please their flock. Most recently several MAJOR denominations have taken up the ordination of marriages between GAY and or LESBIAN couples. TRUE! If that isn't enough, some have even ordained GAY and LESBIAN ministers. They say that they are keeping up with the times and are liberated in their doctrines. And claim to be modern Christian Denominations.

 Let's just do a quick check in the Holy Word on this topic:

Romans 1:21-27, "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,  And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 
Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:  Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. "

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. 

Leviticus 18:22, Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it [is] abomination.
 I suppose that these same "denominations" will remove these scriptures from their Bibles because they see them as out of date. God demands UNITY in His believers and this type of UNGODLY belief is completely outside of the DOCTRINE that Jesus Christ gave to us. 
 God will strike down these FALSE DOCTRINED RELIGIONS.

 Please consider this scripture:

1 Timothy 1:8-10, "But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;  Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,  For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;"

 Notice that it says that "But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;  Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly" ... Do you see?  [law is not made for a righteous man] If these Christian denominations allow these UNGODLY acts and add them to their DOCTRINE, they will fall from GRACE and be subject to the old LAWS of SIN and DEATH. They are renouncing Christ and the "grace" that we were given by Him. This scripture refers to "Sound Doctrine" in other words ..... the Word of God in the Holy Bible!

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.

 My friends, I issue a stern WARNING! Remove yourselves from denominational religions that allow, condone and ordain ungodly acts. These liberated church denominations of today are an abomination in God's eyes. God is waiting to strike these religions down. Do not be deceived by this treachery. These religions WILL fall and all who believe through them will perish along with them. Keep your eye and your heart focused on the pure Word of God and do not follow the theology of UNGODLY DENOMINATIONS. Jesus Christ started the only recognised church. It is based on the Unity that is in and of the Body of Christ. Satan has NO power against it's doctrine. It's Doctrine is the truth that is in the pure Word of God. (and no other doctrine)
 

Written by: Rev. Steven B. Smethers DD 
Senior Pastor & Administrator of :
Christian Inter-Mission 
United Christian Ministries International
All rights reserved  1998

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United Christian Ministries International
09/17/99

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 Are you plugged into 110 or 220?

 In the modern church environment there are many exciting avenues of activity. There are outings and various celebrations and feasts. These things are all wonderful in and of themselves. A church should provide numerous activities for their membership. Many churches today build much of their membership around the basis that they do offer a good curriculum of activities for their membership. This also accounts for the fact that many churches are dead ministries in the Lord!

 Galatians 1:10 
 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (KJV)

 Galatians 1:10 clearly defines this practice of so many churches today. They have turned away from the faith to entice people into their flock. Do not be fooled by this. God will not bless these ministries. In addition there are many churches today that ADD to the scripture by placing their doctrines along side the teachings of the Bible. This practice also serves men as it proclaims doctrine that men have written in the same class with the God inspired writings of the Holy Bible.

 Now we need to address the correct way to worship in our Lord.  The way of the Bible.  God's way.

 Galatians 2:20 
 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

 You see my friends we must not follow what man can provide for man. It is not about man's doctrines or programs but rather who we are in Christ that really matters. Churches need to be teaching these principles and not telling you all about the "Pot Luck Supper" that they have planned for next Wednesday evening or the "Men's Golf Outing" planned for the following Saturday afternoon. If churches will stick to the simple truth of the Bible in their ministries the people in their flock will be bless for their learning of these principles rather than being entertained by the church and its activities.

 Now the question remains for you to ask yourself. Is the church you attend feeding you with the manna that only God's word can provide or do you come away from your service with only a calendar of scheduled events to attend?  No Christian wants to hear the words from Christ that say " Depart from me for I never knew you" Be very careful in the purpose of you worship.  Consider your church very carefully. Are you plugged into 110 or 220. We will pray that you will choose 220.  May God bless all that you do.

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Published by UCMI 1999
Written by:
Rev. Steven B. Smethers, DD
Senior Pastor & Administrator

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United Christian Ministries International
08/19/99

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 Are you tithing Satan?

 In the Christian world today there are many disappointed souls who will tell you that they are not being blessed in answer to their prayers. They pray and ask our heavenly Father for all manner of things and receive very little from Him. It makes them doubt His provision and the caring nature of our Father. They are attending church and doing good for the Lord and yet they lack the things they feel the Lord has promised to them. They seek a victorious life and try their best to follow His lead and yet they do not see the victory they wish to have. 

 The first area to look at is the life that these people follow. God does promise provision to all who follow him and serve His kingdom. These same people claim that they are following the Lord. I must ask this question; Are they really following God or are they fooling themselves and being deceived by the world?

 Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 
 Galatians 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

 People say that they sow to the church and follow the commands of giving under the New Testament standard that they give as they are blessed. I ask; Do they really? Under the Old Testament there were Doctrines of tithing and people say that these doctrines were Law and we are not under the law of Moses any longer through Christ. This is true, the Law has passed away with the death of Jesus on the cross. However God also gave us the laws of provision in sowing and reaping by following His commands.

 2 Corinthians 9:6 But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 
 2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 
 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work:

 The first thing that one should note is that the Laws of tithing were not laws at all but actually conditions to be met for God's blessings to be bestowed upon the giver. This Law did not apply as a law because no person was ever condemned for Not Giving a tithe. Tithing was a provisional covenant.

 Malachi 3:7 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept [them]. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?
 Malachi 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
 Malachi 3:9 Ye [are] cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, [even] this whole nation.
 Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that [there shall] not [be room] enough [to receive it].
 Malachi 3:11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.

 Now people will say that they do tithe to the church and still they fall short of what they ask in the Lord. Then they ask why? 
 My friends life must be in an agreed balance with the Spiritual nature of life. People say that they would give more but the scripture says that they are to give as they are blessed and sets no basis against the ten percent mentioned in the Old Testament. They are right! However let's really look at this fact closer. Under the Old Testament, God said to bring ten precent of your increase into the storehouse. Under the New Testament it says to give as you are blessed. Give as you are blessed. God PROVIDES us with all we have! Everything we have is a blessing from God. So if we give as we are blessed we need to see that the ten percent LIMIT was lifted and we are asked for more as we can give. God wants more of our giving that He may bless us more.

 Deuteronomy 8:18 But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for [it is] he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as [it is] this day.

 Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

 2 Corinthians 9:10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for [your] food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness) 
 2 Corinthians 9:11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

 Now that we understand this factor let's address the matter of the folks that say they meet with the commands of tithing and giving and still feel that God is forsaking their petitions to Him.

 Job 4:8 Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.

 Matthew 6:24 No man 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.

 Now you are saying that we have gotten off of the topic altogether because these people are following the leading of God in their lives. They are not serving two masters at all.  I say to them...... Really?  Lets take a good look at things in their lives.
 How many of them pay money into Satan's realm? What! you say. You can't tithe Satan. If you do not think so then consider this: A high percentage of death and injury occurs from alcoholic drink. Do these people spend money on any of this? Or Night Clubs? Would they pay to see a movie that sported an "R" or "X" rating? You say of course not. Well then how about credit cards? How many have unpaid balances on a credit card? If we pay interest to these companies we are robbing the till of monies that could or should go to the building of the kingdom.
 Proverbs 22:7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower [is] servant to the lender.

 Credit places us into bondage to Satan. He comes to kill, rob and destroy. He robs us through credit interest monies so we have even less to give to God. How many people say "I would give more but with my bills I just can't afford any more than I give"?

 Matthew 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. 
 Matthew 12:29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house. 
 Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

 Do you see this? Satan first must bind us in financial bondage and then he can seek to destroy our house. We also see that we are either of God or against God in our directions in the world. God has given us direction as to where we must store our treasures.

 Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 
 Matthew 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 
 Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

 IMPORTANT :  there will your heart be also ......  do you see this? There will your heart be also. I ask you then where you are spending the money that God has provided to you by His abundant grace? God gave you the power to earn wealth. All that you have, you have received through God. Would you then spend that money as an unwise steward and squander it on the corruption of the world? Would you subscribe to a pay cable TV station that shows "R" or "X" rated movies that you might help to support this sickness? Would you buy a Playboy magazine or spend money on any other type of porn? Would you buy a lottery ticket or place money into any form of gambling? All of these things support the works Satan is trying to promote. I know of some people that will spend $20 per week for lottery tickets and give $10 in the church collection plate.
 Are you so sure that your actions would be seen as pleasing to God? Would He see that you place more of the money He gave you into the things of the world than you give to His ministry? Are you living on God's plan of provision? If you are then you know that He will provide you with all your needs and the desires of your heart. If you are a Christian that has to ask 'why' you are not receiving the blessings you seek then perhaps you invest more into the works of Satan than you do into the Lord's work. Spiritual life must be in balance and we need to seek the Lord first in all things. Now you say "yes I understand all that but I have needs that must be met and sometimes I cannot wait on the Lord for His timing and provisions and so I take it upon myself and sometimes I must charge these things" .......... Really?

 Matthew 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 
 Matthew 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

 Our impatience will cause us to invest unwisely and fall into Satan's financial trap. He can then place us in financial bondage and ruin our peace and our victory in Christ.

 If you get a clear view of these things it should be obvious to anyone that if you are going to insist on following Satan's financial program and place yourself into bondage then you have NO RIGHT to expect that God is going to bless you in His abundance. If you seek the grace and blessings of God then you need to turn away from the trappings that Satan has put in place in this world and set your course on the plan that God has given to us.

 Jesus said that He came that we might have life and that we might have it in all abundance. This was meant for us NOW, during our lifetime on earth. That we might have life in ALL ABUNDANCE. It is His promise to us. All He asks of us is to turn away from Satan and worship Him. Only Him. Not the things Satan promises you in the world through his deceptive schemes.
 My friend I emplore you that you might see this trap that Satan has set to place you into financial bondage. Seek Christ and be set free of the bonds Satan will place you in. Quite tithing Satan and place you treasures in heaven where it will be safe and never destroyed. God will bless you for your giving ......... He promised. Now I ask you, would you rather be poor and in debt or receiving God's blessings for obeying Him. As always the choice is entirely yours.

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Published by UCMI 1999
Written By:
Rev. Steven B. Smethers, PhD
Senior Pastor & Administrator - UCMI

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