Psalm 101:3 3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
The
author will offer only one example of idolatry to reveal that the majority of
people in the world (religious or not) are idolaters. The television set is perhaps the
greatest idol in the world today. This idol made its debut (first
appearance, introduction) only very recently in human history (end
of the age), but has become so significant that most cannot imagine life
without it. Does anyone seek deliverance from it (or even see the need)? Most plan their whole lives by it and offer
up enormous amounts of time and attention (cherish,
dedicate a foremost place in their life). This idol’s influence over the
day to day lives of its worshippers is immense (untold, vast).
The flesh is filled to overflowing and the spirit is made weak and subservient (submissive, obedient, docile) to the flesh – the blindness is made strong. The programming spews out the glory of the world through the wisdom of man (that which opposes God). All the glory and glitter of the “broad way” and every sin imaginable is portrayed in an entertaining fun filled fleshly way and is paraded before very eager and attentive eyes and ears (Matt 7:13 ). Wicked abominations and idols are portrayed upon the television screen (Ezek 8:9-10) and this is what most think about in their imaginations (Ezek 8:12 ). Wicked abominations do not have to be vile acts, just the subtle things that encourage you to continue to seek self; not totally submit to God (remain in rebellion); and take away from God (dishonor, oppose, disregard).
God is to be the focus (the center, foremost) of a believer’s life, yet the television programming disregards (ignores, discounts, does not acknowledge, Psalm 10:4, Job 21:15 ) God or presents Him in a negative or false manner. Sin is glorified – whether subtly (difficult to detect, devious) or blatantly (unashamedly, deliberately, obviously, patently). To not understand; fail to see the seriousness; or have no concern for the things being said here is to not “KNOW” God (Jer 9:24). Many should immediately take great heed to what Christ said: Mark 9:47-48, “And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” You must guard your heart (1 John 5:18 ). Jesus said if the eye be evil, then the body will be full of darkness – and great is that darkness (Matt 6:23 ).
Everything you could possibly covet (wish for, desire to obtain or possess, Luke 12:15 , Colos 3:5) beckons and intensely appeals (allures, fascinates) to you through the magic/wizardry of advertising (trance, spell). Advertising is perhaps witchcraft at its best. Advertisers attempt to lure (tempt) you into a course of action, for their selfish benefit, that you otherwise would not take. 1 Timothy 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.” These have an heart they have exercised with covetous practices (2 Peter 2:14 ). Man is in complete rebellion to God and everything shown on the television reinforces this rebellion. The programming opposes God and glorifies sin. Most take pleasure in the very sins that nailed Christ to the cross, but see no wrong or hypocrisy – they make a mock (parody, tease, laugh at, twist – perhaps through a sitcom) of sin (Prov 14:9). Those who fill their hearts with all that opposes God simply become one with it – they are joined (become worldlings, 1 Corin 6:15-16). For as a man thinketh in his heart so he is (Prov 23:7). Most take pleasure in wickedness and sin (through thoughts, actions and deeds) – they love their darkness (John 3:19 ).
Jesus said that those who believe on Him will not abide in darkness – they will freely forsake the darkness as led by His Spirit in righteousness. Iniquity is the fruit of the wicked (Prov 10:16 ). 2 Thess 2:12 , “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth (live by the truth), but had pleasure in unrighteousness (enjoyed those things which oppose God).” There is no doubt that enjoying (being entertained by) acts of sin AS SEEN ON TV (or anywhere else) is having “pleasure in unrighteousness.” Many say that much of what is on television is awful, yet they still sit in front of the tube taking it all in. James 4:8-9, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.
Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter (amusement and glee over worldly fleshly things) be turned to mourning (over your love of darkness and sin), and your joy (enjoyment and pleasure in the flesh) to heaviness (realizing your own wickedness).” Double mindedness is simultaneous belief in two opposing (contradictory) things. To be double minded is to say you love Christ, yet love the world – to be unstable and unsettled - confusion (James 4:8). Confusion is the opposite of the “fear of God” (discussed in the Conclusion) and is in a general sense, the mixture of several things promiscuously (mingled and without order). Confusion is a blending or confounding (i.e. mixing God and the world, flesh – shameful blending of natures) – indistinct combination; confusion of ideas (things that do not go together). Confusion would be like saying, “I hate peanut butter,” yet I eat peanut butter on everything. Confusion would be saying, “I love Jesus,” yet I take great pleasure in things that oppose Him (things I watch and enjoy). Psalms 97:7, “Confounded (confused, mixed or blended in disorder, perplexed, abashed) be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.”
God said that He will send such a strong delusion that they may believe a lie ( 2 Thes 2:11 ). The lie is that they can transgress the will of God (take pleasure in the unrighteousness, walk in darkness) and not die – that you do not have to take God’s Word all that seriously. The lie says that: “ye shall not surely die” (Gen 3:4). It’s all so innocent??? These will perish because they are deceived by unrighteousness and receive not the love of the truth that they may be saved ( 2 Thes 2:10 ). God’s Word is not read, meditated upon, taken to heart, or applied. Prayers are not offered. How are you redeeming the time in these evil days ( Ephes 5:16 )? Do you set wickedness before your eyes (Ps 101:3)? Do you really desire knowledge of God’s ways or to walk therein ( Job 21:14 )? If so, how are you accomplishing this? Those who profess are not “following” Christ (1 John 3:18 ). Jesus said walk as I walked, and do as I said (Ps 119:3, 128:1, Hos 14:9, Mt 16:24, Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 6:40, 46, 9:23, Jn 14:15-17, 20-21, 23, 15:10, 1 Jn 2:3-4, 3:24, 5:2-3, Rm 8:28-29, 2 Cor 3:18, 4:10-11, Gal 3:27, Eph 4:13, 15, 1 Thess 2:12, Col 1:20, 2:6, 3:10, 1 Jn 2:6, 2 Jn 1:6, Heb 13:21).
Many profess Christ, but serve at their convenience. Perhaps you will get around to reading God’s Word after the movie, sitcom or sports event? More than likely not, but you will get around to it – right? God does not desire to be worked-in (allotted time) between television programs or during a commercial break! – nor does the Lord want to be at the end of the list of things to do in a given day. The television has all the attention (following), and is receiving all the glory and worship (adoration, reverence, respect, devotion) that should be offered to God. The creature worships the creation. This will be a great and tremendous shame to you one day (Is 42:17). God tells those with a false (froward) heart to depart, for He will not know a wicked person (Ps 101:4). A froward heart is one that is unwilling to yield or comply with what is required – disobedient and peevish (irritable, bad-tempered, crabby, spiteful, fretful, apt to mutter and criticize/protest/whine, hard to please). The froward heart is perverse (wicked, stubborn, stiff-necked, obstinate, pertinacious, headstrong, rebellious) because of one’s reluctance and aversion (dislike, loathing, repugnance) to turn from evil (Psalm 18:26 , Prov 21:8, Ezek 33:11, James 4:17 ). It is an abomination to fools to depart from evil (Prov 13:19 ). Proverbs 11:20 , “They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight (also Prov 3:32 ).” There is no fear of God before their eyes (Romans 3:18 ). Followers of Christ are to cleanse themselves of all filthiness of flesh and spirit and perfect holiness (purity of heart, sanctity, freedom from sin) in the fear of God (2 Cor 7:1, Prov 14:16 ). This will be a great burden to the froward of heart (i.e. forsaking the television idol). The Lord says we are to be holy as He is holy (Matat 5:48 , 1 Pt 1:15-16, 2 Pt 3:11-12). Blessed are they that obey and seek God with a whole heart and do no iniquity, but walk in His ways (Ps 119:1-2, Isaiah 1:18 -20).
A person with a whole heart to seek God is one who places no restrictions on
their obedience and surrender of their will (Ps
119:10, 34). Those who sit in front of this idol day after day and profess
to love God are deluded (deceived, misled,
fooled, beguiled, duped) by the wickedness that they have filled the hearts
with. These have eyes full of adultery (desiring
the things of the world), and that cannot cease from sin (fill
their hearts with that which opposes God, 2 Pet
2:14
). Having forsaken the right way, are gone astray
to the way of the world (2 Peter
2:15
). The television is as if you are looking into the eyes of a serpent (the
devil) – it seduces and mesmerizes wonderfully. This is how the devil
overcomes man – he appeals to the desires of the flesh. Those who partake are
constantly fixated on that which is contrary to God, by
your own choice (desire).
Purposeful exposure to temptation, through lusts, leading to sin and death (James
1:13
-15). They are totally blinded to the truth of God and their own lives (2
Cor 13:5). If a man soweth to the flesh he shall reap corruption (death,
Gal 6:8). Here is some wise advice: Romans 13:14, “But put ye on the Lord
Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts
thereof.” Please re-read that last statement. Those who sit in front of the
television make provision for the flesh and gloat (triumph, wallow, rejoice) in their lusts while making no provision
for Christ – the opposite.
That which is in rebellion to God is always opposite of God’s will. This is what Jesus was talking about when He said, “they received me not” (John 5:43 ). Those who do not retain God in their knowledge have a reprobate (degenerate, good-for-nothing-eternal, abandoned in sin, lost to virtue or grace, impure, rejected) mind and as such can enjoy such evil without grieving and thus take pleasure in the wickedness (Rom 1:28 -32) – they’ll defend it! These will call evil good and put darkness for light (Isa 5:20 ). In other words, they will say that the television is not bad and there are many good things on it. They will put their love of such darkness (John 3:19 ) before the Lord, who is the true light. The Lord desires those with a contrite heart (Ps 34:18, 51:17, Is 57:17). A contrite heart is one that is broken hearted over sin; and is deeply affected with grief and sorrow for offending God – penitent. Those with contrite hearts are poor in spirit and tremble at God’s Word (Is 66:2). In other words, God’s Word convicts them not to do those things which oppose Him.
If Jesus is your very life, then how can you do such things that oppose Him (Galat 2:20 , Colos 3:3)? How can you possibly laugh with the world over programming rife with iniquity and wickedness and yet presume to have a contrite heart of grief over sin (which necessitated Christ’s death)? – this is double-mindedness. We are suppose to let the Word of God dwell in us richly in all wisdom ( Colos 3:16 , Ps 111:10, Prov 1:7, 9:10 ). How is this accomplished in front of the television set? God says we are to put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him ( Colos 3:10 ). What on the television contributes to this? The list of things on television that detract from godliness (righteousness, holiness) would be enormous and very revealing – perhaps a wise man will make such a list and consider it. We are to mortify (put to death) our selfish desires ( Colos 3:5). To mortify is to subdue; to abase; to humble; to reduce; to restrain; as inordinate passions (lusts, self will, transgressions, carnal and evil propensities) – no more indulgence in wickedness. Our bodies are suppose to be the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Corin 12:16 ). Will God’s precious Spirit enjoy the things you watch or will the Spirit vacate? What do the scriptures say? 1 Corinthians 3:17, “If any man defile the temple of God , him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” We are told to depart from evil (Prov 3:7, 16:17 ) – how much more will the Holy Spirit depart from evil (in adhering to God’s eternal Word)? Ephesians 4:30 , “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” 2 Corinthians 6:16 , “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols (i.e. television)? 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.” Those who transgress the will of God fall under God’s original penalty: “thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17 , Ezek 33:14) – these are still in rebellion and under their own authority seeking their own will (way, path).
God says we are to
teach our children of Him, but parents are allowing the television to teach
their entire family of all that opposes God (such
as covetousness, lusts, sensuality, foul language, violence, adultery, divorce,
fornication, homosexuality, occult, greed, hatred, envy, lying, materialism,
pride, course jesting, etc.). Do you wonder why your children and
grandchildren are falling prey to these very things (lives
being destroyed)? We are suppose to be: 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 compels one to do just the opposite. The programming takes the
devoted and spellbound audience’s mind captive and glorifies those
imaginations and high things that exalt themselves against God and casts down
the things of Christ. Woe to them that continue therein.
Professed Christian, do you make a mockery of Jesus through your enjoyment of all that opposes Him (2 Peter 2:20 )? Are you led of the flesh or the Spirit? Can you say? - Psalms 18:23 , “I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity.” True knowledge of God seeks and performs His will (Ps 128:1). Some have no knowledge because their hearts are elsewhere (Hos 4:6). Their thoughts are captive to the obedience of the world and not Christ (Ps 119:97). 1 John 5:5, “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God (also Rm 12:2)?” To be overcome by the world is to exhibit no demonstrated (practical) belief in Christ (not actually living in obedience). 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.” Conversely, the thoughts of the wicked are an abomination as are their ways (Prov 15:9, 26). The television induces and nurtures wicked thoughts.
The aforementioned list of virtues can only apply to surrendering to God and performing the Lord’s will. You cannot watch the television and yet love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. You are devoted to one or the other – The Lord or an idol. Here is some wise advice concerning the television set: Deut 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.” That which comes between you and God is an accursed thing. Where is your fellowship? Ephes 5:11 , 13, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.” Take heed therefore (oh religious one) that the light which is in thee be not darkness (Luke 11:35 ).
The author understands that this bright light (truth) concerning television (idolatry) hurts those eyes that are so accustom to darkness (John 12:35 , 40). The author serves the Lord God Almighty and points you to Him; and will not join the myriads of false prophets who placate (pacify, mollify, appease) you in your wickedness and idolatry. The prophet Jeremiah often confronted such men. For if I seek to please men then I should not be a servant of God (Galat 1:10 ). The world will surely hate those who testify of it that the works thereof are evil (Jn 7:7). Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way (Prov 15:10 ). No chastening seemeth joyous (Heb 12:11 ). 1Corinthians 11:32 , “But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” How are blinded eyes ever to see if they never venture into the light (2 Cor 4:4)? How is one to come out of Egypt if one does not even see the need? How is one freed from bondage if one has accepted such and become content in it? 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.” Brethren, “follow” Christ and walk in His light and come out of all darkness.
For those who stubbornly cling to their idols (such as the television) know this: stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry (1 Sam 15:23 ). Stubbornness seeks “your way” and not God’s way and is an affront to the Lord. Many will defend and justify the wickedness, evil, rebellion, and iniquity of the programming, but may have a harder time defending and justifying their devotion to it. Either way, you are a loser in the eyes of God. Most will justify and defend the things that are the priorities in their lives (their gods).
The author exalts his God above the television idol, will you in like manner exalt your god (television) above mine? Ephesians 5:5-7, “For this ye know, that no whoremonger (those who seek the world, idolatry, spiritual harlotry), nor unclean person (defiled, foul with sin, adultery of the heart, no virtue), nor covetous man (fleshly lusts), who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words (the false prophets that lead you away from God): for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience (those submitted to the flesh and in rebellion to God). Be not ye therefore partakers with them.” 2 Timothy 2:19, “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” We must depart from all evil (Ps 37:27, Pv 3:7, Rm 12:9). Let us reason together: Proverbs 8:32-36, “Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
Disobedience (frowardness, obstinacy) to God equates to hate which always produces death. Hate is the opposite of love. Love is the sacrifice of self for others (Rm 5:8). Therefore, hate is the sacrifice of others for self – disobedience so as not to incur personal loss (loss of fleshly entertainments). The Lord would say to you: He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbeareth (to abstain from, omit, or avoid doing, refrain, restrain from), let him forbear (Ez 2:7, 3:11 , 27). AND Revelation 22:11 -12, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Every man shall give account of himself (Rm 14:12 ). 1 Corinthians 10:14, “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.” Consider your ways and turn unto the Lord (Ps 119:59). Walk away from Egypt by following Christ who comes to deliver. The television will be used as an example from time to time in this book to relate scripture to real life understandable circumstances in most people’s lives. Let us not be unwise, but understand what the will of God is (as it relates to your daily life, Eph 5:17 ). Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And having no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reproving them (Eph 5:10 -11). There are numerous examples that could have been used, but the belief is that this (television) is perhaps one of the most extensively used devices of Satan in these end times in which we live (God speaks this to my heart, scripture bears witness). The flesh wants to be constantly entertained and in doing so one will never see (perceive) the path that leads to God (and certainly have no use for traveling on it). The blindness in your life is a direct result of your own actions. The author begs you to come to the true light (Jesus Christ) – not the eerie glow of the world’s most profound idol. 1 Peter 2:11, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”
The flesh is filled to overflowing and the spirit is made weak and subservient (submissive, obedient, docile) to the flesh – the blindness is made strong. The programming spews out the glory of the world through the wisdom of man (that which opposes God). All the glory and glitter of the “broad way” and every sin imaginable is portrayed in an entertaining fun filled fleshly way and is paraded before very eager and attentive eyes and ears (Matt 7:13 ). Wicked abominations and idols are portrayed upon the television screen (Ezek 8:9-10) and this is what most think about in their imaginations (Ezek 8:12 ). Wicked abominations do not have to be vile acts, just the subtle things that encourage you to continue to seek self; not totally submit to God (remain in rebellion); and take away from God (dishonor, oppose, disregard).
God is to be the focus (the center, foremost) of a believer’s life, yet the television programming disregards (ignores, discounts, does not acknowledge, Psalm 10:4, Job 21:15 ) God or presents Him in a negative or false manner. Sin is glorified – whether subtly (difficult to detect, devious) or blatantly (unashamedly, deliberately, obviously, patently). To not understand; fail to see the seriousness; or have no concern for the things being said here is to not “KNOW” God (Jer 9:24). Many should immediately take great heed to what Christ said: Mark 9:47-48, “And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” You must guard your heart (1 John 5:18 ). Jesus said if the eye be evil, then the body will be full of darkness – and great is that darkness (Matt 6:23 ).
Everything you could possibly covet (wish for, desire to obtain or possess, Luke 12:15 , Colos 3:5) beckons and intensely appeals (allures, fascinates) to you through the magic/wizardry of advertising (trance, spell). Advertising is perhaps witchcraft at its best. Advertisers attempt to lure (tempt) you into a course of action, for their selfish benefit, that you otherwise would not take. 1 Timothy 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.” These have an heart they have exercised with covetous practices (2 Peter 2:14 ). Man is in complete rebellion to God and everything shown on the television reinforces this rebellion. The programming opposes God and glorifies sin. Most take pleasure in the very sins that nailed Christ to the cross, but see no wrong or hypocrisy – they make a mock (parody, tease, laugh at, twist – perhaps through a sitcom) of sin (Prov 14:9). Those who fill their hearts with all that opposes God simply become one with it – they are joined (become worldlings, 1 Corin 6:15-16). For as a man thinketh in his heart so he is (Prov 23:7). Most take pleasure in wickedness and sin (through thoughts, actions and deeds) – they love their darkness (John 3:19 ).
Jesus said that those who believe on Him will not abide in darkness – they will freely forsake the darkness as led by His Spirit in righteousness. Iniquity is the fruit of the wicked (Prov 10:16 ). 2 Thess 2:12 , “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth (live by the truth), but had pleasure in unrighteousness (enjoyed those things which oppose God).” There is no doubt that enjoying (being entertained by) acts of sin AS SEEN ON TV (or anywhere else) is having “pleasure in unrighteousness.” Many say that much of what is on television is awful, yet they still sit in front of the tube taking it all in. James 4:8-9, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.
Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter (amusement and glee over worldly fleshly things) be turned to mourning (over your love of darkness and sin), and your joy (enjoyment and pleasure in the flesh) to heaviness (realizing your own wickedness).” Double mindedness is simultaneous belief in two opposing (contradictory) things. To be double minded is to say you love Christ, yet love the world – to be unstable and unsettled - confusion (James 4:8). Confusion is the opposite of the “fear of God” (discussed in the Conclusion) and is in a general sense, the mixture of several things promiscuously (mingled and without order). Confusion is a blending or confounding (i.e. mixing God and the world, flesh – shameful blending of natures) – indistinct combination; confusion of ideas (things that do not go together). Confusion would be like saying, “I hate peanut butter,” yet I eat peanut butter on everything. Confusion would be saying, “I love Jesus,” yet I take great pleasure in things that oppose Him (things I watch and enjoy). Psalms 97:7, “Confounded (confused, mixed or blended in disorder, perplexed, abashed) be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.”
God said that He will send such a strong delusion that they may believe a lie ( 2 Thes 2:11 ). The lie is that they can transgress the will of God (take pleasure in the unrighteousness, walk in darkness) and not die – that you do not have to take God’s Word all that seriously. The lie says that: “ye shall not surely die” (Gen 3:4). It’s all so innocent??? These will perish because they are deceived by unrighteousness and receive not the love of the truth that they may be saved ( 2 Thes 2:10 ). God’s Word is not read, meditated upon, taken to heart, or applied. Prayers are not offered. How are you redeeming the time in these evil days ( Ephes 5:16 )? Do you set wickedness before your eyes (Ps 101:3)? Do you really desire knowledge of God’s ways or to walk therein ( Job 21:14 )? If so, how are you accomplishing this? Those who profess are not “following” Christ (1 John 3:18 ). Jesus said walk as I walked, and do as I said (Ps 119:3, 128:1, Hos 14:9, Mt 16:24, Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 6:40, 46, 9:23, Jn 14:15-17, 20-21, 23, 15:10, 1 Jn 2:3-4, 3:24, 5:2-3, Rm 8:28-29, 2 Cor 3:18, 4:10-11, Gal 3:27, Eph 4:13, 15, 1 Thess 2:12, Col 1:20, 2:6, 3:10, 1 Jn 2:6, 2 Jn 1:6, Heb 13:21).
Many profess Christ, but serve at their convenience. Perhaps you will get around to reading God’s Word after the movie, sitcom or sports event? More than likely not, but you will get around to it – right? God does not desire to be worked-in (allotted time) between television programs or during a commercial break! – nor does the Lord want to be at the end of the list of things to do in a given day. The television has all the attention (following), and is receiving all the glory and worship (adoration, reverence, respect, devotion) that should be offered to God. The creature worships the creation. This will be a great and tremendous shame to you one day (Is 42:17). God tells those with a false (froward) heart to depart, for He will not know a wicked person (Ps 101:4). A froward heart is one that is unwilling to yield or comply with what is required – disobedient and peevish (irritable, bad-tempered, crabby, spiteful, fretful, apt to mutter and criticize/protest/whine, hard to please). The froward heart is perverse (wicked, stubborn, stiff-necked, obstinate, pertinacious, headstrong, rebellious) because of one’s reluctance and aversion (dislike, loathing, repugnance) to turn from evil (Psalm 18:26 , Prov 21:8, Ezek 33:11, James 4:17 ). It is an abomination to fools to depart from evil (Prov 13:19 ). Proverbs 11:20 , “They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight (also Prov 3:32 ).” There is no fear of God before their eyes (Romans 3:18 ). Followers of Christ are to cleanse themselves of all filthiness of flesh and spirit and perfect holiness (purity of heart, sanctity, freedom from sin) in the fear of God (2 Cor 7:1, Prov 14:16 ). This will be a great burden to the froward of heart (i.e. forsaking the television idol). The Lord says we are to be holy as He is holy (Matat 5:48 , 1 Pt 1:15-16, 2 Pt 3:11-12). Blessed are they that obey and seek God with a whole heart and do no iniquity, but walk in His ways (Ps 119:1-2, Isaiah 1:18 -20).
That which is in rebellion to God is always opposite of God’s will. This is what Jesus was talking about when He said, “they received me not” (John 5:43 ). Those who do not retain God in their knowledge have a reprobate (degenerate, good-for-nothing-eternal, abandoned in sin, lost to virtue or grace, impure, rejected) mind and as such can enjoy such evil without grieving and thus take pleasure in the wickedness (Rom 1:28 -32) – they’ll defend it! These will call evil good and put darkness for light (Isa 5:20 ). In other words, they will say that the television is not bad and there are many good things on it. They will put their love of such darkness (John 3:19 ) before the Lord, who is the true light. The Lord desires those with a contrite heart (Ps 34:18, 51:17, Is 57:17). A contrite heart is one that is broken hearted over sin; and is deeply affected with grief and sorrow for offending God – penitent. Those with contrite hearts are poor in spirit and tremble at God’s Word (Is 66:2). In other words, God’s Word convicts them not to do those things which oppose Him.
If Jesus is your very life, then how can you do such things that oppose Him (Galat 2:20 , Colos 3:3)? How can you possibly laugh with the world over programming rife with iniquity and wickedness and yet presume to have a contrite heart of grief over sin (which necessitated Christ’s death)? – this is double-mindedness. We are suppose to let the Word of God dwell in us richly in all wisdom ( Colos 3:16 , Ps 111:10, Prov 1:7, 9:10 ). How is this accomplished in front of the television set? God says we are to put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him ( Colos 3:10 ). What on the television contributes to this? The list of things on television that detract from godliness (righteousness, holiness) would be enormous and very revealing – perhaps a wise man will make such a list and consider it. We are to mortify (put to death) our selfish desires ( Colos 3:5). To mortify is to subdue; to abase; to humble; to reduce; to restrain; as inordinate passions (lusts, self will, transgressions, carnal and evil propensities) – no more indulgence in wickedness. Our bodies are suppose to be the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Corin 12:16 ). Will God’s precious Spirit enjoy the things you watch or will the Spirit vacate? What do the scriptures say? 1 Corinthians 3:17, “If any man defile the temple of God , him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” We are told to depart from evil (Prov 3:7, 16:17 ) – how much more will the Holy Spirit depart from evil (in adhering to God’s eternal Word)? Ephesians 4:30 , “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” 2 Corinthians 6:16 , “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols (i.e. television)? 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.” Those who transgress the will of God fall under God’s original penalty: “thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17 , Ezek 33:14) – these are still in rebellion and under their own authority seeking their own will (way, path).
God says we are to
teach our children of Him, but parents are allowing the television to teach
their entire family of all that opposes God (such
as covetousness, lusts, sensuality, foul language, violence, adultery, divorce,
fornication, homosexuality, occult, greed, hatred, envy, lying, materialism,
pride, course jesting, etc.). Do you wonder why your children and
grandchildren are falling prey to these very things (lives
being destroyed)? We are suppose to be: 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 compels one to do just the opposite. The programming takes the
devoted and spellbound audience’s mind captive and glorifies those
imaginations and high things that exalt themselves against God and casts down
the things of Christ. Woe to them that continue therein. Professed Christian, do you make a mockery of Jesus through your enjoyment of all that opposes Him (2 Peter 2:20 )? Are you led of the flesh or the Spirit? Can you say? - Psalms 18:23 , “I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity.” True knowledge of God seeks and performs His will (Ps 128:1). Some have no knowledge because their hearts are elsewhere (Hos 4:6). Their thoughts are captive to the obedience of the world and not Christ (Ps 119:97). 1 John 5:5, “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God (also Rm 12:2)?” To be overcome by the world is to exhibit no demonstrated (practical) belief in Christ (not actually living in obedience). 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.” Conversely, the thoughts of the wicked are an abomination as are their ways (Prov 15:9, 26). The television induces and nurtures wicked thoughts.
The aforementioned list of virtues can only apply to surrendering to God and performing the Lord’s will. You cannot watch the television and yet love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. You are devoted to one or the other – The Lord or an idol. Here is some wise advice concerning the television set: Deut 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.” That which comes between you and God is an accursed thing. Where is your fellowship? Ephes 5:11 , 13, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.” Take heed therefore (oh religious one) that the light which is in thee be not darkness (Luke 11:35 ).
The author understands that this bright light (truth) concerning television (idolatry) hurts those eyes that are so accustom to darkness (John 12:35 , 40). The author serves the Lord God Almighty and points you to Him; and will not join the myriads of false prophets who placate (pacify, mollify, appease) you in your wickedness and idolatry. The prophet Jeremiah often confronted such men. For if I seek to please men then I should not be a servant of God (Galat 1:10 ). The world will surely hate those who testify of it that the works thereof are evil (Jn 7:7). Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way (Prov 15:10 ). No chastening seemeth joyous (Heb 12:11 ). 1Corinthians 11:32 , “But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” How are blinded eyes ever to see if they never venture into the light (2 Cor 4:4)? How is one to come out of Egypt if one does not even see the need? How is one freed from bondage if one has accepted such and become content in it? 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.” Brethren, “follow” Christ and walk in His light and come out of all darkness.
For those who stubbornly cling to their idols (such as the television) know this: stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry (1 Sam 15:23 ). Stubbornness seeks “your way” and not God’s way and is an affront to the Lord. Many will defend and justify the wickedness, evil, rebellion, and iniquity of the programming, but may have a harder time defending and justifying their devotion to it. Either way, you are a loser in the eyes of God. Most will justify and defend the things that are the priorities in their lives (their gods).
The author exalts his God above the television idol, will you in like manner exalt your god (television) above mine? Ephesians 5:5-7, “For this ye know, that no whoremonger (those who seek the world, idolatry, spiritual harlotry), nor unclean person (defiled, foul with sin, adultery of the heart, no virtue), nor covetous man (fleshly lusts), who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words (the false prophets that lead you away from God): for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience (those submitted to the flesh and in rebellion to God). Be not ye therefore partakers with them.” 2 Timothy 2:19, “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” We must depart from all evil (Ps 37:27, Pv 3:7, Rm 12:9). Let us reason together: Proverbs 8:32-36, “Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
Disobedience (frowardness, obstinacy) to God equates to hate which always produces death. Hate is the opposite of love. Love is the sacrifice of self for others (Rm 5:8). Therefore, hate is the sacrifice of others for self – disobedience so as not to incur personal loss (loss of fleshly entertainments). The Lord would say to you: He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbeareth (to abstain from, omit, or avoid doing, refrain, restrain from), let him forbear (Ez 2:7, 3:11 , 27). AND Revelation 22:11 -12, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Every man shall give account of himself (Rm 14:12 ). 1 Corinthians 10:14, “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.” Consider your ways and turn unto the Lord (Ps 119:59). Walk away from Egypt by following Christ who comes to deliver. The television will be used as an example from time to time in this book to relate scripture to real life understandable circumstances in most people’s lives. Let us not be unwise, but understand what the will of God is (as it relates to your daily life, Eph 5:17 ). Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And having no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reproving them (Eph 5:10 -11). There are numerous examples that could have been used, but the belief is that this (television) is perhaps one of the most extensively used devices of Satan in these end times in which we live (God speaks this to my heart, scripture bears witness). The flesh wants to be constantly entertained and in doing so one will never see (perceive) the path that leads to God (and certainly have no use for traveling on it). The blindness in your life is a direct result of your own actions. The author begs you to come to the true light (Jesus Christ) – not the eerie glow of the world’s most profound idol. 1 Peter 2:11, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”
My
son and I had a conversation one night in which he revealed how some kids at
school were making fun of him because he doesn’t watch the television. The
kids inquired “why?;” and my son answered by saying that he followed Christ.
The kids responded that they “went to church.” My son said these same church
kids usually discuss vile and wicked things at school. Is it really about
“going to church” (doing religious
things) or rather about having a heart toward God (living
your faith in good conscious)? The kids making fun of my son said that they
could not possibly imagine one day without the television. One said that the
power went off for a short time one night at his home and he went out to their
van and watched the television (built in).
Folks, this is worship - adoration. This is idolatry at its worse. What these
kids are saying is that the television is their life – what about the Christ
they purport (claim, assert) to
profess? Maybe they just profess “religion” or “church.” What these kids
are saying is the television is a god to them (seated
in the place of). They give it a cherished place in their lives and
reverence it - devotion.
Many people have asked the author about the “mark of the beast.” The beast seats himself in the place of God and proclaims to be God (Ez 28:2). Spiritually speaking, this seat is your heart – the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Cor 6:19 ). When that which opposes God (i.e. the television) seats itself in the place of God (foremost – in the heart) then you have aligned with the beast – physical mark or not. You are thus marked and no man can force this mark on you – it is earned by your own actions.
Dear reader, the watchman is crying aloud about this threat
to your eternal well-being. The Lord has revealed that the television is the
largest of idols in this end time – men bow down to their image (Lev
26:1). Perhaps you are deluded about your attachment to it, but look at your
children. Cut the thing off for a day or two and consider their reaction. How
many days will your children go without the Word of God without complaint? Do
your children even have exposure to the Word of God outside your “church?”
Perhaps “going to church” has not been the solution for most? The sad truth
for most is: 2 Kings
17:41
, “So these nations (people)
feared the LORD, and served their graven images, both
their children, and their children’s children: as did their fathers, so do
they unto this day.” Perhaps the mindset of many of these religious
institutions has become that of the world (have
been overcome)?
The “church” was never intended to be religious organizations and buildings (facilities). The church is the ekklesia, meaning “called out ones.” This is a gathering of Spirit-led individuals who have been called out of the world (i.e. Egypt ). These individuals are to encourage one another to die to the things of Egypt (world – i.e. idolatry, self) and be led by God’s Spirit – to draw near to God. You cannot separate idolatry (i.e. television) from your devotion to God and make place for both – this is double-mindedness; serving two masters (Mt 6:24 , Lk 16:13 ). Be warned: When you want to be as Egypt (i.e. the world), you and your children will also partake of its burdens – divorce, perversions, addictions, lying, materialism, selfishness, etc. and reap its wages which is misery and death (Rm 6:23). He that heareth (takes heed) Christ’s Words and doeth them builds his life on a firm foundation (Mt 7:24 ). …and they were judged every man according to their works ( Rev 20:13 , Mt 23:5) as they were required to give account of themselves (Rm 14:12 ).
Many people have asked the author about the “mark of the beast.” The beast seats himself in the place of God and proclaims to be God (Ez 28:2). Spiritually speaking, this seat is your heart – the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Cor 6:19 ). When that which opposes God (i.e. the television) seats itself in the place of God (foremost – in the heart) then you have aligned with the beast – physical mark or not. You are thus marked and no man can force this mark on you – it is earned by your own actions.
The “church” was never intended to be religious organizations and buildings (facilities). The church is the ekklesia, meaning “called out ones.” This is a gathering of Spirit-led individuals who have been called out of the world (i.e. Egypt ). These individuals are to encourage one another to die to the things of Egypt (world – i.e. idolatry, self) and be led by God’s Spirit – to draw near to God. You cannot separate idolatry (i.e. television) from your devotion to God and make place for both – this is double-mindedness; serving two masters (Mt 6:24 , Lk 16:13 ). Be warned: When you want to be as Egypt (i.e. the world), you and your children will also partake of its burdens – divorce, perversions, addictions, lying, materialism, selfishness, etc. and reap its wages which is misery and death (Rm 6:23). He that heareth (takes heed) Christ’s Words and doeth them builds his life on a firm foundation (Mt 7:24 ). …and they were judged every man according to their works ( Rev 20:13 , Mt 23:5) as they were required to give account of themselves (Rm 14:12 ).
Most
will realize that forsaking the television will leave a big void in their lives,
which only proves that it is an idol. What will you do with the time? Where will
you get your worldly information? You must realize that you will either become
blind to the things of the world or remain blind to the things of the Spirit –
you must choose. You cannot have both! To fill your mind with the world (regardless
of the source) brings blindness to the things of God (or keeps one blind). Walking in darkness always brings
blindness – God has deemed it so (Lk
10:21
). The wise (those seeking God with
all their heart) will understand what has just been said, fools will not.
The compromisers and justifiers will quickly cast it aside. Forsake the
television and take that which was once offered up for evil and turn it to good.
Start seeking God through His Word and in prayer. Meditate upon the things the
Lord reveals to you. Spend more time with family (get to know your children) and others. Let the Lord do the leading
and then follow. No doubt, the Lord has things for you to accomplish that bear
eternal meaning (significance) and
merit. Take what use to be self-centered and use it to perform Christ’s
commands – Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
and love your neighbor as yourself. Sacrifice (denying self-centeredness)
for the benefit of others.
Before
we proceed further it is imperative (very
important) that you understand this: A true follower of Christ is given the
Holy Spirit who teaches, convicts and guides. We also have access to God’s
Word (the Bible and by the Spirit).
Therefore, a follower has access to truth. Living in the Spirit and Word
produces judgment or knowing right from wrong – and walking in the right (i.e. the light). Walking in faith is righteousness (Rm
1:17, 3:22, 4:5, 9, 11, 13, 9:30, 10:6, Gal 5:5, Php 3:9, Heb 11:7, 2 Pt 1:1).
So, a true follower walks in truth, judgment and righteousness. The Father must
be worshipped in Spirit and truth (Jn
4:23
-24).
We can live religiously, but if we walk not in truth, then we have missed God.
This will be much more thoroughly discussed in Chapter Three. If you have a
sincere contrite heart before God, then you will understand the evil and eschew
(avoid, shun, abhor, abstain from) it
from a willing heart. You will never justify or defend it! If you find yourself always
defending your actions (darkness) when
compared with God’s truth (light),
then I strongly advise you to sincerely examine your heart and ask God to do the
same, to see if you are even found in Christ Jesus (1 Jn 5:12). Those who are genuine
will change to conform to the truth!
Change (surrender to God) is very painful to the flesh (denies it what it wants) and thus most will not change (thus the crowded broad way to destruction). Many will modify their darkness (attempt to sanitize) rather than forsake it. He that doeth truth cometh to the light (Jn 3:21 ). He that is of God, heareth (doeth) God’s Words and these that liveth and believeth in Christ will not die (Jn 7:47 , 11:25 , 18:37 ). The deceived, compromisers, wicked, justifiers of evil, and rebellious will not conform to the truth (everything will be relative to them). We are known by our fruit and this is very evident in our actions (Mt 7:16 , 20, 12:33 , Lk 6:44 ). If you do not truly seek the truth, then you will most certainly remain in your blindness (Jn 9:39 , 12:39 -40). To be in the dark is to be blind to those things around you (1 Jn 2:11 ).
Most people have issues in their lives that they know to be in violation of the Lord’s will. Rather than completely surrender these things to the Lord and walk in obedience, many will follow the inclinations (tendency, liking, preference, proclivity, partiality, appetite, will) of the flesh. They will believe (opinion, sentiment) that things are just going to work out and that it will not be required of them – that they are basically a good person. This may seem good to human reasoning, but realize that for it to happen God must become a liar and His eternal unchanging Word must become void (Jn 17:17).
Is it possible that God will change everything just for you? God’s Word is very clear on these matters, but most place trust in their carnal (pertaining to the flesh, opposed to the Spirit, unregenerate) instincts. Whose Word will ultimately prevail? – an issue of eternal significance. We must have a heart to willingly and sincerely surrender every area of our lives to the Lord and then walk in obedience to His Spirit. Whether you ever achieve some moral perfection in this life is in the Lord’s hands as you yield to Him. God works through your faith to transform you into the image of Christ. If there is no obedience and denial of self/flesh, then there is no transformation taking place. If you are not yielding, then you are obstinate in your own will. Many are transforming God’s Word into their will (opinion, sentiment) and dying (denying) to the things of the Spirit to fulfill the flesh. Many would have God serving their flesh!
Let
us dig a little deeper and understand some foundational truths. When man was put
out of the Garden of Eden, after having transgressed the will of God, he set
about to do what became natural for him – to seek his own will (way, path) – to be as a god. Man took on a fallen nature which is
that of Satan (whom he had obeyed rather
than God). This nature is that of pride (self exaltation), and self seeking (serving the desires of the flesh) – and this nature produces death
(there is no life apart from God, Jn 1:4 =
Jn
8:12
). This was almost immediately realized when Cain
rose up (in seeking self) and slew his
brother Abel (selfish sacrifice of
another, Gen 4:1-9). Man then began to multiply upon the earth and seek his
way and establish a world (systems, ways
of doing things) that was agreeable (consistent)
with his fallen nature – one that catered to the desires of the flesh. Genesis
6:5-6, “And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and
that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him
at his heart.” This was the result of man seeking his way. Change (surrender to God) is very painful to the flesh (denies it what it wants) and thus most will not change (thus the crowded broad way to destruction). Many will modify their darkness (attempt to sanitize) rather than forsake it. He that doeth truth cometh to the light (Jn 3:21 ). He that is of God, heareth (doeth) God’s Words and these that liveth and believeth in Christ will not die (Jn 7:47 , 11:25 , 18:37 ). The deceived, compromisers, wicked, justifiers of evil, and rebellious will not conform to the truth (everything will be relative to them). We are known by our fruit and this is very evident in our actions (Mt 7:16 , 20, 12:33 , Lk 6:44 ). If you do not truly seek the truth, then you will most certainly remain in your blindness (Jn 9:39 , 12:39 -40). To be in the dark is to be blind to those things around you (1 Jn 2:11 ).
Most people have issues in their lives that they know to be in violation of the Lord’s will. Rather than completely surrender these things to the Lord and walk in obedience, many will follow the inclinations (tendency, liking, preference, proclivity, partiality, appetite, will) of the flesh. They will believe (opinion, sentiment) that things are just going to work out and that it will not be required of them – that they are basically a good person. This may seem good to human reasoning, but realize that for it to happen God must become a liar and His eternal unchanging Word must become void (Jn 17:17).
Is it possible that God will change everything just for you? God’s Word is very clear on these matters, but most place trust in their carnal (pertaining to the flesh, opposed to the Spirit, unregenerate) instincts. Whose Word will ultimately prevail? – an issue of eternal significance. We must have a heart to willingly and sincerely surrender every area of our lives to the Lord and then walk in obedience to His Spirit. Whether you ever achieve some moral perfection in this life is in the Lord’s hands as you yield to Him. God works through your faith to transform you into the image of Christ. If there is no obedience and denial of self/flesh, then there is no transformation taking place. If you are not yielding, then you are obstinate in your own will. Many are transforming God’s Word into their will (opinion, sentiment) and dying (denying) to the things of the Spirit to fulfill the flesh. Many would have God serving their flesh!
Man has been evil and rebellious toward God throughout the ages and this is very evident in the scriptures. Man has established (built, devised) a world that is based upon the desires of the flesh. This is referring to the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, the pride of life, the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the pleasures of this life (1 Jn 2:15-17, Mk 4:19, Lk 8:14). Most everything this flesh seeks after is opposed to God! This is just the honest truth. This will become clear in this book in considering God’s dealings with the children of Israel . This is your very nature (fallen) and it is no doubt very hard for you to find fault in it. Most everything you have learned or been taught is probably flesh based and in error. The fleshly man will even interpret God’s Word to suit his fancy. For this reason, many will read this book through eyes of flesh and probably not comprehend it. When the Bible says that we must “overcome,” this is what it is referring to – our fallen nature and this world. This is why you must go against the strong current of this world.
This world is greatly opposed to God and you will either join it or fight against it – meaning not becoming a part of it. You must go against, not be like, and do the opposite of this world. The cares (necessary things), riches, pleasures, and lusts of this world compete with and oppose God’s will (His written Word). We are going to live in the flesh or in the Spirit, but not both. Galatians 5:17 , “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary (opposed, divergent) the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” Overcoming the world is only achieved by living in God’s nature as led by His Spirit. The Holy Spirit conforms you to the image of Christ.
To live as the world (through television or anything else) is to be conformed to the image of this very fallen and rebellious world. In standing against the things of this world, you will be hated by this world. The world hated the prophets; the world hated John the Baptist; and the world hated Christ, John 15:18 , “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me (Jesus) before it hated you (also Mt 24:9, Mk 13:13 , Lk 21:17 , 1 Jn 3:13 ).” Matthew 10:22 , “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Jesus said you will be hated because you are not of the world. John 17:14, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” This can only happen when you “come out” of the world and stand against the world and refuse to be as it is. The Greek word for church is ekklesia, meaning “called out ones.”
If you are conforming to the world then the world loves its own (Jn 15:19 ). Those who stand against the things of the world will be oddballs (just won't fit in): Hebrews 11:35-38, “Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.” Because of the strong pressures of this world, most will conform to it. Why would you stand against this world (we all have to live in it)? Because you love the Lord your God more than life itself – more than the flesh or its desires. 1 John 2:17 , “And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” Therefore, to prevail (overcome, endure) one must live in the nature of God and place God foremost in their life. This is a nature of love – sacrifice of self for God and then neighbor (Christ’s gospel, Mt 22:37 -38, Mk 12:29 -31, Lk 10:27 ). This is how Christ lived and we must conform.
Man was created perfect and placed in the Garden of Eden. Lucifer then spread his rebellion to man. Satan (Lucifer) came to man in Eden in the form of a serpent and also convinced man to choose his own will in defying God’s commandment. Thus man joined Satan’s rebellion and became corrupted. Man also abode not in the truth (God’s command), but “received” the serpent’s “lie” (Gen 2:17 , 3:4-5). Man left his first (original) estate (created position) and is corrupted unto death (Gen 2:17 ). So, Satan, multitudes of angels and man all chose to leave their perfect created positions in order to seek their own will and they thus became corrupted (left the truth). Every man is now born into a fallen rebellious world with this same nature (that of the devil).
The Lord God in His mercy and long-suffering has offered man reconciliation through Jesus Christ (by walking in faith). God has reversed things. In heaven everything was perfect and those who rebelled against God had to join that which opposed Him. On earth the world is imperfect (in rebellion) and we must now “opt out” (come out) to be reconciled (Gal 1:4). In other words, man was originally created perfect and chose corruption (the lie); Man is now born corrupted and must choose perfection (the truth). Romans 1:25, “Who changed the truth of God into a lie (rejected God’s truth in favor of Satan’s lie), and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator (anything exalted that is not God is the creation including self), who is blessed for ever. Amen.”
Our very fallen nature desires to be accepted by and received by others. We want to “fit in” with this fallen world because it is uncomfortable to “stand out.” However, God has called us out of the rebellious world (i.e. Egypt , Gal 1:4). This means that we must now stand against the world (we do the opposite of the world and its ideals) and in doing so, you will not fit in and will be uncomfortable (hated). God is looking for those who will “come out” in faith (for no man has seen God) and suffer the uncomfortableness (reproach) in the midst of the majority who will not (Php 2:15 ). Only the genuine and true would ever do such a thing, and this is the indicator of heart that God is looking for. No one would ever choose to deny the strong will of the flesh and be rejected and despised by others (peer pressure) unless their love and devotion to God was stronger and truly sincere (genuine, for real, authentic, indisputable). These are the ones who will dwell eternally with God. These are the ones God can count on amidst all this rebellion. God is trying (testing) us to find those who really love Him.
It is so easy to go along with the flow of a fallen world (even religiously), but what about those who do not? No phony would ever voluntarily suffer such denial of the flesh, such tribulation. Those that “come out” are the real and God has set circumstances such to determine just that. Those that profess love for God (Christ) and walk as the world are not walking in faith – they are deceived and phony (Rm 2:13 ). You cannot walk as the world and also be walking in faith – they are opposites. Faith is what will save us (Rm 1:17 , 3:22 , 5:1). 1 Peter 1:9, “Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” Jesus absolutely led by example in demonstrating death to the things of the world and total surrender to the will of God. This brought life – resurrection life (eternal). Jesus has made the way – we must “follow.” Matthew 16:24, “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me (also Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 9:23).” Jesus turns us (reconciles) to God. 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.”
You must decide if you love your darkness (corruption, self seeking, Egypt, world, rebellion, Jn 3:19) or want to come to the light (come out of darkness/world, forsake, seek truth). John 3:20-21, “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light (continues in the rebellion, abides not in the truth), neither cometh to the light (will not come out of darkness/world), lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light (comes out of the world/Egypt, abides in Christ/truth, Jn 15:1-8, 1 Jn 2:27 ), that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.”
We must follow Jesus out of this world: 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 (Jesus leads out of the world/Egypt), but shall have the light of life (Jesus leads to God, the giver of life, Jn 1:4).”
This article is an excerpt from David Neal's book,Following God Into the Wilderness
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Before you dismiss the idea that James Holmes (of the "Batman" massacre) was a "mind controlled killer", you should watch this video.
The US government was forced to admit it was trying to "program" people to be perfect assassins using similar techniques, as part of a human experimentation program called MK-ULTRA. Since then, the CIA has supposedly stopped such experiments. But most people believe such denials are merely a polite facade.
Outwardly, circumstances surrounding the "Batman" massacre seem to fit the MKULTRA template almost perfectly. Add to that the fact that Holmes was known to be fascinated with altered states of mind, that he experimented with "changing the past" using mental techniques ("temporal illusion"), that he was under psychiatric 'care'(control?) previously, that he claims amnesia about the time he allegedly committed the massacre, that the police have obviously been attempting a coverup of many aspects of the case, etc. etc., and, well... you decide.
One of the grander conspiracy theories is that of overt and covert
mind control. Covert methods include social programming such as our
accepted educational institutions, advertising, propaganda, and other modern methods of mind control such
as pharmaceuticals, and chemicals in our food, air, and water. More
overt methods have been uncovered that literally attack and/or rewire
brain function; these are the electronic methods of mind control.
The goal within these two groups generally is to create a docile,
easily manipulated population that will be unable to critically examine
and resist the lies spun by corrupt governments and their corporate
media operations.
The video above presents an interesting experiment involving
involving techniques that might have been used upon those believed to
have been actual government-designed, mind-controlled killers, such as
Robert Kennedy’s killer Sirhan Sirhan. As you will see, the evidence
appears to be sufficient enough to continue exploring the very real
possibility that the “lone nuts” we have seen paraded over the decades
have been part of a sinister plan to create patsies that can be used to
further various agendas of wider social control.
In the wake of recent events such asThe Batman Shooter James Holmes and the documented FBI false flag patsies employed to further the War on Terror, it would be wise to keep an open mind about what dark science in collusion with tyrannical government has been working on, and where those who have been funding such experimentation are aiming to lead us.
Most are convinced the people are much too far gone to stop any of this. If they are not wiling to hold the perpetrators of these psyops accountable then nothing will change, simple as that. Millions of sheeple were spell-bound over the first few days during the Batman “massacre” – you would have thought aliens landed with all of the slobbering attention they paid to this very sad fabricated story. And like every other false flag, months and years later no one questions why these things suddenly fall off of the MSM radar screen, as they are intended to do, as all they want is the initial FEAR reaction, and then, don’t you dare follow up with any questions about the validity of the story. And so it goes, the masses go back to sleep to dreams of Derek Jeter or Kim Kardashian or Justin Beeber, until the next false flag and they repeat on cue their Pavlovian response.
In the wake of recent events such asThe Batman Shooter James Holmes and the documented FBI false flag patsies employed to further the War on Terror, it would be wise to keep an open mind about what dark science in collusion with tyrannical government has been working on, and where those who have been funding such experimentation are aiming to lead us.
Most are convinced the people are much too far gone to stop any of this. If they are not wiling to hold the perpetrators of these psyops accountable then nothing will change, simple as that. Millions of sheeple were spell-bound over the first few days during the Batman “massacre” – you would have thought aliens landed with all of the slobbering attention they paid to this very sad fabricated story. And like every other false flag, months and years later no one questions why these things suddenly fall off of the MSM radar screen, as they are intended to do, as all they want is the initial FEAR reaction, and then, don’t you dare follow up with any questions about the validity of the story. And so it goes, the masses go back to sleep to dreams of Derek Jeter or Kim Kardashian or Justin Beeber, until the next false flag and they repeat on cue their Pavlovian response.
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