₦airaland Forum

2 Timothy 4:2 KJV
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

It's simply because Jesus himself stressed that "deception" (RELIGIOUS LIES) would be THE MAJOR SIGN just before his Second Coming, and END of the World.

Here was the FIRST thing He mentioned after the disciples asked him about that:

Matthew 24:4 KJV
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that NO MAN DECEIVE you.

NO MAN means including the person whose article you're reading right now!

The problem is we commit or trust in Religious Men and Church founders TOO MUCH. Unlike people of old like the Berean Christians, they couldn't be fooled by WOLVES in Sheep's Clothing. (See how they dealt with Paul and others in Act 17:11).

We say, "Oh, he speaks so nicely." (So, the devil can't speak MORE nicely?)

"Wow, what a GREAT power to work Signs and Wonders, the Bible knowledge, Prophetic gifts, etc he has!" (As if the devil and his demons do not have CORRECT Bible Knowledge; can't work signs and wonders; ETC).

After I got light on all these, now before I consider a person as a real Man of God, I don't just look at his beautifully GROOMED Sheep's Clothing of Correct Bible knowledge or Doctrines, but to check his FRUITS COMPARE to Jesus' or that of people like Paul.

I want to know if he majors on the Cross of Jesus, discipleship, if not, then I know he's most likely after Popularity and to Make MONEY by preaching a WATERED-DOWN gospel (half truth): using the SHEEP'S CLOTHING (correct doctrine):

Phil.3.18 NLT- For I have TOLD you often BEFORE, and I say it AGAIN WITH TEARS in my Eyes, that there are MANY whose conduct SHOWS they are REALLY ENEMIES of the CROSS of Christ.

I know he is a TRUE Man of God or FOLLOWER of Jesus like Paul when he majors on the New Covenant life of Jesus, without being concerned whether people might be OFFENDED and LEAVE or not (John 6:66). And even if he uses the old testament part of the Bible, he does with the SPIRIT or LIGHT of the NEW, not going back to the OLD:

2Cor.3.6 - He is the one who has ENABLED us to represent his NEW COVENANT. This is a covenant, NOT of written LAWS, but of the Spirit. The OLD WAY ENDS in death; in the NEW WAY, the Holy Spirit GIVES life.

Right, it's very dangerous to NOT seek and know God personally through the scriptures, but trust in ONE Holy or Powerful Man. And Even if he is REAL (not after Money and Popularity), our mere connection or loyalty to him or his Church CANNOT SAVE US either.

Just like the Pharisees and Sadducees would say to John the baptist or Jesus, "We have ABRAHAM as our FATHER".

We should NOT foolishly follow that, and say we have Pastor/Prophet/Bishop/Rev. "So and So" as OUR FATHER:

Matt.3.9 - and DO NOT think to say to yourselves, "We have Abraham as OUR FATHER.' For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones.

Moreover, let's NEVER forget what Jesus said about what will happen to Many Religious Men in the End:

Matthew 7:22-23 KJV
MANY will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not PROPHESIED in thy name? and in thy name have CAST OUT devils? and in thy name done MANY WONDERFUL WORKS?

[23] And THEN WILL I PROFESS unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: DEPART from me, ye that work "INIQUITY".

Yes, you did MANY wonderful works in Jesus name, but you lived in Sins: especially sins of the Love of Money and Popularity, like Balaam the Prophet:

Jude.1.11 - Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, HAVE RUN GREEDILY in the ERROR of Balaam FOR PROFIT, and perished in the rebellion of Korah.

It's time to Wake Up, and examine ourselves: to judge our own selves.

Are we truly following Jesus or just having a form of Godliness? 2 Tim. Chap 3

Are we truly in the New Covenant, or we've been FOOLED because we love the World, and think Pastors and Church founders are MORE IMPORTANT than the Bible and the Holy Spirit? (Please see Act 17:11)

Nobody can give us a free ticket to heaven; no one else has seen God the Father, but Jesus.

Trust ONLY in Him:

Numbers 23:19 KJV
God IS NOT a Man, that he should LIE...

Romans 3:4 KJV
... yea, let God be TRUE, but Every Man a LIAR; as it is written...

FINALLY:
Matt.7.13 - "Enter by the narrow gate...

Matt.7.14 - Because NARROW is the gate and DIFFICULT is the way which leads to life, and there are FEW who FIND IT.

BUT YOU MUST:
Matt.7.15 - "Beware of FALSE PROPHETS, who come to you in SHEEP'S CLOTHING, but "inwardly" they are RAVENOUS WOLVES. (To BITE your Money and Attention)

1Pet.4.18 - And If "the righteous" is SCARCELY SAVED, what will become of the UNGODLY and the SINNER?"

May Jesus Bless You.

Kobojunkie:
May I please recommend that you switch to reading from an easier to understand version of the Bible as far as today's English is concerned. I would recommend the Easy-to-Read or the English-Standard Versions of the Bible.

Yes, I see your point. I've got an app with multiple translations: and I think none of them is perfect. But because I'm more familiar with the KJV, I tend to use it to get my references easily. However, at other times I randomly use them for clarity.

Thanks.

Kobojunkie:
I read the original post there, and then, I read your personal application of your own teaching there.

Alright friend.

Kobojunkie:
The wearing of such things as clothing, hairdos, jewelry, make-up, etc. are of no consequence as far as your relationship with God. God made man naked so that man can know and understand this truth. Does that mean man should go naked in order to please God? No! After all, God is the one who made clothing to cover man when sin caused man to become ashamed of his own unclothedness.

Jesus Christ said, "if you love me, you will obey my commandments". He did not say wear only that which I wear, in order that you may make heaven. Let's not now pretend that such things matter as far as the new Covenant that is Christ is concerned.

By the way, Jesus Christ did not wear pants either (not the kind we have today), and He did not have to use a tv, a laptop computer, drive a car, have a home, have a job(career), marry, have children..... the list goes on. You shouldn't simply stop at the wearing of Jewelry if you are to be taken seriously there.

Hello, you might as well reread the post a bit more carefully.

Thanks.

Our Pride and Love of Money will NEVER ALLOW us to see God's Kingdom, and will always deceive us, if NOT checked:

Obadiah 1:3
The PRIDE of your HEART has DECEIVED you...

Mark 4:19 KJV
And the CARES of this World, and the DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES, and the LUSTS of other things entering in, CHOKE the Word, and it becometh UNFRUITFUL.

It's because of the LUST for more and more Money and Popularity with the World, is why MANY, including the Great Preachers are BLINDED spiritually, and will NOT see God nor ENTER His Kingdom, if not KILLED in them:

Matthew 5:8 KJV
Blessed are the PURE in heart: for they shall SEE God.

Preachers won't like to major on the NEW COVENANT because it's not as "lucrative" or PROFITABLE (in terms of Moneymaking) for their CHURCH BUSINESS as the old.

Moreover, "compulsory giving" like TITHING, FIRST FRUITS, etc are NOT part of the New Covenant, but "cheerful giving" (it's up to you, whether you give LITTLE or MUCH; and WHEN you give, give to the poor and needy, NOT the "RICH" ).

Therefore, it is easier to have great Teachers/Preachers of the Bible or Law, Holiness, Miracles, Healing, Prosperity, Deliverance, etc but STILL have the REALITY of the Cross of Christ (discipleship): the New Covenant, which is living by the Holy Spirit MISSING.

I really won't like to totally blame any False Teacher/Pastor/Man for leading people astray because their VICTIMS have got the Bible. And we REALLY DESERVE TO BE DECEIVED by them in that case.

Jesus clearly stated it severally that WITHOUT the New Covenant Life, NO ONE can be SAVED or ENTER God's Kingdom.

Let's have a DEEP look at these:

Matthew 5:20 KJV
For I say unto you, That EXCEPT your righteousness shall EXCEED the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in NO CASE ENTER into the kingdom of Heaven.

The "righteousness" of the Scribes and Pharisees is the standard of the OLD COVENANT, the life UNDER the Law of Moses. However, Jesus did say our lives must EXCEED all that to be SAVED.

Now, this next passage is common but NOT WELL understood by MANY, including Pastors/Preachers:

Matthew 11:12 KJV
And FROM THE DAYS of John the Baptist UNTIL NOW the kingdom of heaven suffereth VIOLENCE, and the VIOLENT take it by FORCE.

Right, it's common for people to refer to this during prayers and all, but it's actually talking about the New Covenant (God's Kingdom), as against the OLD COVENANT (the Kingdom of Earth).

Okay, let's see the verse next to it:

Matthew 11:13 KJV
For all "the prophets and the law" (means Old Testament) prophesied UNTIL John.

Additionally, MANY try to MIX THE TWO, but Jesus CONDEMNED such:

Matt.9.17 - And NO ONE puts NEW WINE into Old WINESKINS. The old skins would BURST from the pressure, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine MUST be STORED in new wineskins. THAT WAY both the wine and the wineskins are PRESERVED."

It's not just about using the Bible, preaching Holiness, Repentance and all, but actually following the New Covenant life self denial and taking up the Cross:

Matthew 16:24 KJV
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.

The New Covenant is about Heavenly Prosperity, NOT Earthly Prosperity like the Old Covenant.

The Old Covenant is for BABES, while the New Covenant is for the Mature ones who know that the things of earth doesn't last forever, and are inferior to heavenly treasures.

DON'T STORE UP:
Matt.6.19 - "Don't store up TREASURES here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where THIEVES break in and STEAL.

STORE UP:
Matt.6.20 - Store your TREASURES in Heaven, where they will NEVER become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be SAFE from thieves.

AND SEEK FIRST:

Matthew 6:33 KJV
But SEEK YE FIRST the kingdom of God, and his RIGHTEOUSNESS; and ALL these things shall be ADDED unto you.

I think we should rather "believe and commit" to Jesus (the way, the TRUTH, and the Life): NOT ANY Religious Man.

Matthew 6:21 KJV
For where your TREASURE is, there will YOUR HEART BE also.

May Jesus Bless You.

Matthew 23:25 KJV
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.

Matthew 23:26 KJV
Thou blind Pharisee, CLEANSE FIRST that which is WITHIN the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be CLEAN ALSO.

Isa.44.25 - I am the one who exposes the FALSE PROPHETS as liars by causing events to happen that are CONTRARY to their predictions. I cause WISE PEOPLE to give bad advice, thus proving them to be FOOLS.

Jude 1:21 KJV
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Jude 1:11 KJV
Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.

Matthew 6:4 KJV
That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.

Lorazepam:
Nice insights
@OP for what reason did you stop wearing jewellery?

Hmm. As much as I wouldn't really like to look down on anyone that does, I can't by any stretch of my imagination see Jesus or Paul (in the Bible), going about decked with Chains, bangles, bracelets, etc hanging all over them.

And it's quite clear in 1 Tim. 2:9 and 1Pet. 3:3

1 Peter 3:3 KJV
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of WEARING of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

May Jesus Bless You.

Also, is wearing trousers for women a sin?

How about watching movies, having or doing this, that and the other?

The list goes on and on.

These are termed controversial because we've got various ideas, LAWS and RULES concerning them.

The thing is, if we are still UNDER the Law, whether of Moses or of a Pastor/Prophet/Church, we're most likely to go WRONG. If the law of Moses (Old covenant) couldn't make anyone PERFECT, then other laws of Men certainly won't.

Before I share a bit on this subject, let's take a DEEP look at this passage:

Col.2.20 - You have DIED with Christ, and he has set you FREE from the evil powers of this WORLD. So WHY do you keep on FOLLOWING RULES of the world, such as,

Col.2.21 - "Don't HANDLE, don't eat, don't touch."

Col.2.22 - Such rules are MERE human teaching about things that are gone as SOON as we use them.

Now, there are TWO extremes here:

1. Legalism (life under the LAW or Rules) AND

2. Worldliness (Selfishness and Pride)

It's important to NOTE that my FOCUS IS NOT on any of these EVIL extremes, but about the LIFE of Christ (living by the Spirit):

Extreme no 1. (Galatians 5:18 KJV)
But if ye be LED of the Spirit, ye are NOT UNDER the Law. (Of Moses or any Pastor or Man)

Extreme no 2. (1 John 2:15 KJV)
Love NOT the world, NEITHER the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father IS NOT in him.

Right, back to the question:

My answer is neither YES nor NO.

I think we all know that NOT wearing Jewelery alone CAN'T make anyone Holy or pleasing to Jesus. But why do many that DON'T, usually look down on others that do, as if they are better spiritually by merely not wearing them?

Alas, many don't wear jewelry and all, BUT are chronic LOVERS of Money, Selfish, Proud, hypocritical, haters of enemies/people, gossipers, Liars, politically-minded, hot tempered, etc, etc...

Now, I no longer fancy wearing jewelry myself, and I'm not by any means encouraging others to do, but I strongly believe wearing jewelry is NOT as bad as having and nursing those types of DEMONIC ATTITUDES above.

I mean Jesus and his apostles were MORE ZEALOUS about dealing with the Scribes and Pharisees (Religious Hypocrites); Money changers; False Prophets, and the likes of His time, NOT people with jewelry on.

It's no longer about Laws or Rules, but WHY do we do all we do: is it for GOD'S GLORY or for the VAIN GLORY OF SELF and the Pride of life?

1 Corinthians 10:31 KJV
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or WHATSOEVER ye do, DO ALL to the GLORY of God.

In the new testament, when it comes to DRESSING, the most important thing there is MODESTY (morally acceptable to God): we shouldn't DO or WEAR something that would SERVE as stumbling block unto others. 1 Tim. 2:9

Moreover, if the hidden motive is NOT for God's Glory, but EVIL: to cause MEN to "lust and lust" till they get LOST; to show off and be admired (the pride of life), then there is a big trouble ahead:

Matt.18.7 - How terrible it will be for ANYONE who causes OTHERS TO SIN. Temptation to do wrong is INEVITABLE, but how terrible it will be for the person WHO DOES the "tempting".

Matt.18.6 - ... would be better for THAT PERSON to be THROWN into the sea with a large millstone tied AROUND THE NECK.

If we are honest, humble and really interested in Jesus, he will reveal to us what is pleasing and acceptable; and things that are NOT. And there won't be any need for the laws and rules of Men.

We had better start judging our own selves of WORSE, hidden Sins FIRST to be saved, NOT other people:

1 Corinthians 11:31 KJV
For if we would JUDGE OURSELVES, we should NOT be judged.

May Jesus Bless You

We must beware of NOT trying to show off our works to be SEEN or ADMIRED by people. Particularly for every follower of Jesus, all good deeds or works of faith must not be done to IMPRESS, lest it will ALL be in VAIN spiritually:

Matt.6.1 - "Take care! Don't do your good deeds PUBLICLY, to be ADMIRED, because then you will LOSE THE REWARD from your Father in heaven.

We must try to get rid of our "exhibitionism spirit" which is of the World (the pride of life): the lust to get people's attention or be noticed; to CATCH the glances of Men: so as to be praised, or FLATTERED by them.

Such is the spirit of the Politicians, Celebrities (Music/Film stars, etc), Philanthropists/Benefactors and False Prophets of the World, NOT of Jesus:

Matt.6.2 - When you GIVE a gift to someone in need, don't SHOUT about it as the hypocrites do--BLOWING TRUMPETS in the synagogues and streets to CALL ATTENTION to their ACTS OF CHARITY! I assure you, they HAVE RECEIVED "all the reward" they will EVER GET.

Unfortunately, many of us are following the World in this; even many highly EXALTED Christian Leaders: Pastors/Prophets/Evangelists are extremely good at it. That prompts the QUESTION on whether their works is actually of Jesus or of SELF/MEN.

Unlike Christ, they LOVE to show how great or powerful they're by setting up CAMERAS to display their works: Miracles, Signs and Wonders, etc:

Matt.6.3 - But when you give to someone, DON'T TELL your left hand what your right hand IS DOING.

They would set people to give FLIMSY TESTIMONIES: mostly about earthly things of which even some atheists or idol worshipers wouldn't consider Great or special:

Matt. 5:45
... For He GIVES his "sunlight" to BOTH the EVIL and THE GOOD, and he SENDS "rain" on the JUST and on the UNJUST, too.

We should rather be seeking to give testimonies about HEAVENLY things like: becoming MORE like Christ; victory over our Anger, Lusts, the LOVE of Money and Sins in general. Then the atheist and others would be challenged, NOT just about more Money, Cars, Lands and Visas; ETC:

Matthew 6:21 KJV
For where your TREASURE is, there will your HEART BE ALSO.

Jesus wasn't like that, even when He ROSE someone from the DEAD, and at many other times, he said, "Tell NO Man":

RAISING THE DEAD
Luke 8:56 KJV
And her parents were astonished: but he CHARGED THEM that they should TELL NO MAN what was DONE.

HEALING THE SICK
Luke 5:14 KJV
And He charged him TO TELL NO MAN: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, ...

There is a great need for us to judge own ourselves in this area really well to be pleasing to Jesus, and NOT lose our rightful REWARDS as well.

Phil.2.3 - Don't be SELFISH; don't live to make a GOOD IMPRESSION on others. Be humble, thinking of OTHERS as better (more important) than yourself.

Matt. 6:3
...DON'T TELL your left hand what your right hand IS DOING.

May Jesus Bless You.

1 John 4:1 KJV
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Luke 6:26-27 KJV
Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.

[27] But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Matthew 7:21-24,26 KJV
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

[22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

[23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

[24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:

[26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:

2Pet.2.3 - In their GREED they will make up clever LIES to get hold of your MONEY. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction is on the way.

It's very important for us to constantly JUDGE our OWN SELVES in secret, so as not live or CONTINUE living in a World of DELUSION; living in False Reality/Hope: thinking we're SAVED or pleasing to God when we are terribly "backslidden" and LOST.

1 Peter 4:17 KJV
For the time is come that JUDGMENT must "begin" at the house of God: and if it FIRST begin at us, what shall the END be of them that OBEY NOT the gospel of God?

Most times, it's because we are not honestly Judging ourselves; not walking in the light, that's why many of us are being victims of SINS and WOLVES in Sheep's Clothing (Erring Pastors/Prophets), and God won't force us to AWAKE if we are not WILLING, but LOVE the Honour and the Approval of Religious Men more than God's:

John.5.44 - NO WONDER you CAN'T believe! For you gladly HONOR each other, but you DON'T CARE about the HONOR that "comes" from God ALONE.

John.5.41 - "Your approval or disapproval means NOTHING to me,

John.5.42 - because I know you DON'T have God's LOVE within you.

Alas, many people, even the HONEST and the KIND are becoming RESISTANT to the TRUTH: like water falls off a duck's back; it doesn't GET IN, no matter how hard you try.

This resistance problem is rooted in our BELOVED, highly exalted Pastors/Prophets leading people astray: knowingly or unknowingly MISLEADING people:

Matthew 15:14 KJV
Let them alone: they be blind leaders of THE BLIND. And if the blind lead the blind, BOTH shall fall into the ditch. (Hell)

And when it comes to Judging ourselves, the major areas are in the areas of HONOUR (to be Popular or Accepted by people) and MONEY (the lust for more and more of the things of this World).

Since many of our highly respected Spiritual Leaders are NOT ruthlessly dealing with them, but are rather growing as bond SLAVES, then we as followers too are bound to be ENSLAVED thereby.

Let's take a quick look at the case of Balaam:

2Pet.2.15 - They have wandered off the RIGHT ROAD and followed the way of Balaam son of Beor, who LOVED to earn MONEY by doing wrong.

2Pet.2.16 - But Balaam was STOPPED from his mad COURSE when his DONKEY REBUKED him with a HUMAN VOICE.

Unlike Balaam the Prophet, that poor DONKEY doesn't have the LOVE of Money and the Honour Men in it, so it was not BLIND, and was able to SEE the Angel of God in the way; and even SPOKE in Tongues (the human language it hadn't learnt before) to REBUKE its own Master.

That and other WORSE things are what the LUST for more and more Money, to be Popular and be accepted by Men can cause if we are NOT serious about being PLEASING to Jesus.

How about Gehazi, Judas, and Demas?

2 Timothy 4:10 KJV
For Demas hath FORSAKEN me, having LOVED this present World... (World: especially Money and The Honour or Approval of Men).

It's time to judge our OWN ourselves in secret, REPENT of "idolatry" of the worship of Money and Men, but rather LOVE God with ALL our hearts instead.

Matthew 6:24 KJV
No man can SERVE TWO Masters: ...
... Ye CANNOT serve God and MAMMON. (Money/Material things/Men's Honour or Praises)

May Jesus Bless You.

Myketuale:
As you can see nowadays rape is now the other of the day. You will see young and old men practicing it.
So here comes my question what is the Biblical punishment for people practicing rape.

It's Eternity in Hell like everyone of us.

Except a person repents and turns to Jesus.

Both the Person that rapes and kills; AND the person that just LUST a bit after in his heart without even touching her = HELL

Well, if the person that lusts says it's NOTHING, and the person that Rapes and Kills Repents; sure, he shall be SAVED. While the person that lusts goes to hell.

Romans 3:23 KJV
For All have SINNED, and come short of the glory of God;

May Jesus Bless You.

First, I would say, one of the most common tactics of the devil is to tell believers to "JUDGE NOT". Surely, it says in Matt. 7:1 and 6:37 to judge not; however, it doesn't MEAN we shouldn't JUDGE AT ALL.

We've got to compare scripture with scripture to be balanced, lest we get FOOLED.

We are to judge righteous judgment:

(1.) Luke.12.57 NLT
Why don't you JUDGE for yourselves what is RIGHT?

(2.) John 7:24 KJV
Judge NOT according to the appearance, BUT "judge" RIGHTEOUS judgment.

Therefore, we've got to seek grace to know the difference between the right from the wrong type of judgement to do.

For instance, how are we going to SIGNIFY Wolves in Sheep's Clothing FROM the True Sheep: False Prophets/Pastors FROM True Apostles and Servants of Christ?

The Bible uses several words that are rather synonymous:
Judge, Test, Try, MARK (THEM), etc.

Nevertheless, I would like to save time here by not majoring on OUTRIGHT Antichrists (Openly denying Jesus): Fake Prosperity Preachers, Politically-Correct Pastors/Churches, Fake Signs And Wonders Performers, Fake Christian Entertainment Industry, etc.

Yes, those above must also be avoided, but I would however like to MAJOR more on the MORE DANGEROUS ONES (for LOVERS of truth), that some "True Christians" are even UNABLE to see.

Some Categories of these are:

1. Preaching HOLINESS without the REALITY of the CROSS OF CHRIST (incomplete holiness is of the Flesh/Men).

2. Preaching Miracles/Signs and Wonders without Discipleship (Jesus said to go and make DISCIPLES [Matt. 28:19-20], NOT just Branded Church Members).

3. Preaching against Worldliness but being Politically Correct/Minded (that's confusing, isn't it?).

4. Preaching about heaven and Self Denial, but yet, using the Poor's Money to LAY UP GREAT TREASURES for Self and the Rich's benefit on Earth (now, that's TOTALLY unchristlike)

5. Preaching against Worldliness, but passionately LOVING Money, Material Wealth, AND the Honour of False Religious Men and Corrupt Politicians.

6. And so on.

The above sets and the likes are what the Bible refers to as Men in Sheep's Clothing (outwardly); but are WOLVES INSIDE.

Matthew 7:15 KJV
Beware of FALSE PROPHETs, which COME to you in SHEEP'S CLOTHING, but "inwardly" they are ravening WOLVES.

1. Sheep's Clothing means the use of CORRECT Words, Names, Doctrines, Language, Titles and Power, etc.

2. Being A WOLF is wanting to "bite" ALL the Money and Gifts made or received in the name of Jesus from the Poor and others; AND to "get" Religious Attention in the World: to be Popular.

If the Elects are NOT likely to ESCAPE these HIDDEN deceptions of the End times, what will happen to the Majority. Matt. 24:24

If you're honest, and seem a bit confused, no problem, just get your Bible, especially the New Testament. Then ask God to show you the Life of Jesus, Paul and other apostles of Jesus.

LASTLY:

NLT
Phil.3.18 - For, as I have often TOLD you before and now say again even with tears, many live as ENEMIES of the Cross of Christ.

Phil.3.19 - Their DESTINY is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their MIND is on EARTHLY THINGS.

Philippians 3:17 KJV
Brethren, BE followers together of ME (Paul), and "MARK THEM" WHICH WALK so as ye have us for an ENSAMPLE.

2 Thessalonians 3:6 KJV
Now we COMMAND you, Brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye WITHDRAW yourselves from EVERY BROTHER (maybe Preacher/Not) that walketh DISORDERLY, and NOT after the Tradition which he RECEIVED OF US (Paul and other Apostles: Jesus Examples).

2 Thessalonians 3:7 KJV
For yourselves know how ye ought to FOLLOW US: for we behaved NOT ourselves disorderly among you;

Matthew 24:24-25 KJV
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

[25] Behold, I have told you BEFORE.

It's time to WAKE UP, and trust NO MAN; NO ONE BUT JESUS (the way, the TRUTH and the Life).

May Jesus Bless You.

Matthew 24:11,25 KJV
And many False Prophets shall rise, and shall DECEIVE many.

[25] Behold, I have TOLD you before.

Colossians 2:4 KJV
And this I say, lest any man should "beguile" you with "enticing words".

Is Deuteronomy 13 still applicable today?

Of course, everything in the Old testament was also written for our warnings or admonitions (See 1 Cor. 10:11 )

No doubt, the devil through his Ministers: False Prophets/Pastors/Bishops, etc will MOVE and FOOL "many" who do not LOVE the truth in this END TIME with lots of Prophecies, Miracles, Great Signs and Wonders that WILL COME TRUE, as God DID WARN the Israelites in those days too.

Now, let's have a good look at the passage:

Deut.13.1 - "Suppose there are PROPHETS among you, or those who have DREAMS about the FUTURE, and they PROMISE you Signs or Miracles,

Hang on, "And they COME TO PASS?"

LISTEN:
Deut.13.2 - "AND THE PREDICTED Signs or Miracles TAKE PLACE". If the prophets then say, `Come, let us WORSHIP the "gods" of foreign nations,'

BUT, what are FOREIGN GODS?

Of course, Greed or Lust for excess MONEY and MATERIAL WEALTH (the demonic Prosperity Gospel); Comfort/Pleasure, Good Jobs and Travelling Abroad; Deliverance from demons; Sexual Immoralities; Entertainment (like Christian Rock/Demonic films); and every Religious things that takes people's minds away from perfect DEVOTION to Jesus.

Okay, let's move on:

Deut.13.3 - DO NOT listen to them. The LORD your God is TESTING you to see if you LOVE him with ALL YOUR HEART and Soul.

Right, so when these Big Men come around with SOOTHING Prophecies/Dreams/Stories, "AND THEY COME TRUE" (please take note of that): then, the LORD IS TESTING US... Due. 13:3

For the last days, Jesus warned his disciples:

Matthew 24:4,24 KJV
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

[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.

If ANY of these Signs, Great Messages/Miracles, and All that DO NOT LEAD to Repentance, Holiness, and ultimately MAKING PEOPLE REAL DISCIPLES of Jesus: then we got to FLEE...

It says, DO NOT (even) LISTEN TO THEM. Due. 13:3

LASTLY:
Matthew 24:23,25 KJV
Then if ANY man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; BELIEVE IT NOT.

[25] Behold, I have TOLD YOU BEFORE.

May Jesus Bless You.

Mark 6:12 KJV
And they went out, and preached that men should repent.

Matthew 3:8 KJV
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

1 Timothy 6:6 KJV
But godliness with CONTENTMENT is great gain.

ayshacom:
I need practical answers with experiences pls. The biggest problem a man has is lust. How can we successfully tame this beast.

Friend, the only way is the "Original" of total Surrender to Jesus.

I said original because many do claim that they've tried that many times but didn't work: so I knew it's the FAKE version.

I know because it worked and still works for me.

And I had a really terrible sexual immorality background "as very small kid". It's unspeakable.

The fear of God is Key here, not necessarily counselling, deliverance; in fact, not even prayer.

Yes, we should ask God for power in prayer, BUT we still got to CHOOSE whether to SIN OR NOT.

Solution: The fear of God: total surrender to Jesus to overcome and have Eternal life.

See this as well, IF you so wish:
https://www.nairaland.com/5787272/overcoming-fornication-

May Jesus Bless You.

Vanderandrew:
Can a genuine Christian become a billionaire without cutting corners, engaging in shady deals, following the world system, selling his soul to the devil for wealth.

Remember we are not of this world and we must not crave for the things of this world. Even Satan tried to tempt Jesus saying if He bow to him, he will give him the kingdoms of this world but Jesus replied Satan with it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord your God and only him shall thou serve. (Luke 4:

We may claim there are Christian billionaires but you don't know how they got their wealth, you don't know whether they cut corners or engage in shady deals, corruption, cocaine business, kidnapping to acquire their wealth.

It's 'possible', but TERRIBLY UNLIKELY.

It's possible in a situation where a person who's already a Billionaire or something may hear and get very challenged by God's Word, and then becomes a FEARER God; leading to a genuine REPENTANCE and CONVERSION (now, even this illustration is very UNLIKELY too).

It's Extremely Unlikely because even Jesus said:

Matthew 19:24 KJV
And again I say unto you, It is EASIER for a CAMEL to go "through" the EYE OF A NEEDLE, than for a RICH MAN TO ENTER INTO the Kingdom of God.

Now, I have a feeling that the Camel would say, "Huh, boy, I can't even get my NOSE THROUGH this Needle's Eye, let alone my whole BODY!"

The Rich Man in that passage WENT AWAY from Jesus "sorrowful" because:

Matthew 19:22 KJV
But when the young man HEARD that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.

Even though he was the one that came running to Jesus saying:

Matthew 19:16 KJV
... Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have ETERNAL LIFE?

Jesus didn't REBUKE him, but told him to keep the 10 commandments; yet he said:

Matthew 19:20 KJV
The young man saith unto him, All these things have I KEPT from my youth up: WHAT LACK I YET?

Then Jesus held up the Needle's Eye/Price for Perfection--New Covenant (Discipleship: To Follow Jesus):

Matthew 19:21 KJV
Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be PERFECT, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt HAVE TREASURE in heaven: AND COME and FOLLOW ME.

Please note, "go and sell" is NOT always for Everybody, but to "follow me" (being a disciple of Jesus--is for All believers).

Main Point : It's "quite" possible BEFORE the New Testament (before the death and resurrection of Jesus), but as said before, it's extremely UNLIKELY in the New Covenant.

All Rich People in terms of Money, Possessions, Position, Knowledge, Religion, Educational Qualifications, etc will most likely be VICTIMS OF "THE CAMEL'S SITUATION": Whose Nose CANNOT Even Get Through, Let alone...

It was easier for the Old like: Job, Abraham, Joseph, Saul, David; and especially SOLOMON (even old prophets like Elijah, etc were NOT really rich physically BUT spiritually).

However, NOT "necessarily" for the NEW like: Jesus, Paul, Peter (he even told the Man at the Gate that he had no Sliver and Gold, but STAND UP AND WALK, WOW!)

So, am I insinuating that a Disciple of Jesus/New Covenant Person MUST BE POOR to please God?

No, wrong! Nothing doing...

The New Testament NEITHER teaches Riches NOR Poverty.

It teaches "CONTENTMENT" (Whether Rich or relatively Poor).

Matthew 6:11 KJV
Give us this day our DAILY BREAD.

Our Daily Bread (Needs), NOT Daily Ice Cream (not necessarily WANTS)

Finally:
Please, chew over these:

PAUL
Phil.4.11 - Not that I was ever IN NEED, for I have LEARNED how to get along HAPPILY WHETHER I have MUCH OR LITTLE.

Phil.4.12 - I KNOW HOW to live on almost NOTHING or with EVERYTHING. I have learned the SECRET of living in every situation, whether it is with a FULL STOMACH or EMPTY, with "plenty or little."

Phil.4.13 - For I CAN DO EVERYTHING with the help of Christ who gives me the STRENGTH I NEED.

Matthew 6:33 KJV
But seek ye FIRST the Kingdom of God, and his Righteousness; and ALL THESE THINGS (needs, verse 32) shall be ADDED unto you.

Matthew 6:20-21 KJV
But LAY UP for yourselves treasures in heaven (**unlike the Rich MAN that went away), ...

[21] For WHERE YOUR TREASURE is, there will your HEART be also.

So, we should submit to God's will to determine our situations.

Not "many" can accept this teaching, but this the New Covenant Life/Needle's Eye/Discipleship/The Narrow Way that leads to Eternal Life. (See what happened in John 6:66)

Let's Beware of the BROAD WAY of "many" Men/Churches.

May Jesus Bless You.

I would like to share this comment of mine on the question about whether a Christian can be 'VERY' WEALTHY and still be Real:

It's 'possible', but TERRIBLY UNLIKELY.

It's possible in a situation where a person who's already a Billionaire or something may hear and get very challenged by God's Word, and then becomes a FEARER God; leading to a genuine REPENTANCE and CONVERSION (now, even this illustration is very UNLIKELY too).

It's Extremely Unlikely because even Jesus said:

Matthew 19:24 KJV
And again I say unto you, It is EASIER for a CAMEL to go "through" the EYE OF A NEEDLE, than for a RICH MAN TO ENTER INTO the Kingdom of God.

Now, I have a feeling that the Camel would say, "Huh, boy, I can't even get my NOSE THROUGH this Needle's Eye, let alone my whole BODY!"

The Rich Man in that passage WENT AWAY from Jesus "sorrowful" because:

Matthew 19:22 KJV
But when the young man HEARD that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.

Even though he was the one that came running to Jesus saying:

Matthew 19:16 KJV
... Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have ETERNAL LIFE?

Jesus didn't REBUKE him, but told him to keep the 10 commandments; yet he said:

Matthew 19:20 KJV
The young man saith unto him, All these things have I KEPT from my youth up: WHAT LACK I YET?

Then Jesus held up the Needle's Eye/Price for Perfection--New Covenant (Discipleship: To Follow Jesus):

Matthew 19:21 KJV
Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be PERFECT, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt HAVE TREASURE in heaven: AND COME and FOLLOW ME.

Please note, "go and sell" is NOT always for Everybody, but to "follow me" (being a disciple of Jesus--is for All believers).

Main Point : It's "quite" possible BEFORE the New Testament (before the death and resurrection of Jesus), but as said before, it's extremely UNLIKELY in the New Covenant.

All Rich People in terms of Money, Possessions, Position, Knowledge, Religion, Educational Qualifications, etc will most likely be VICTIMS OF "THE CAMEL'S SITUATION": Whose Nose CANNOT Even Get Through, Let alone...

It was easier for the Old like: Job, Abraham, Joseph, Saul, David; and especially SOLOMON (even old prophets like Elijah, etc were NOT really rich physically BUT spiritually).

However, NOT "necessarily" for the NEW like: Jesus, Paul, Peter (he even told the Man at the Gate that he had no Sliver and Gold, but STAND UP AND WALK, WOW!)

So, am I insinuating that a Disciple of Jesus/New Covenant Person MUST BE POOR to please God?

No, wrong! Nothing doing...

The New Testament NEITHER teaches Riches NOR Poverty.

It teaches "CONTENTMENT" (Whether Rich or relatively Poor).

Matthew 6:11 KJV
Give us this day our DAILY BREAD.

Our Daily Bread (Needs), NOT Daily Ice Cream (not necessarily WANTS)

Finally:
Please, chew over these:

PAUL
Phil.4.11 - Not that I was ever IN NEED, for I have LEARNED how to get along HAPPILY WHETHER I have MUCH OR LITTLE.

Phil.4.12 - I KNOW HOW to live on almost NOTHING or with EVERYTHING. I have learned the SECRET of living in every situation, whether it is with a FULL STOMACH or EMPTY, with "plenty or little."

Phil.4.13 - For I CAN DO EVERYTHING with the help of Christ who gives me the STRENGTH I NEED.

Matthew 6:33 KJV
But seek ye FIRST the Kingdom of God, and his Righteousness; and ALL THESE THINGS (needs, verse 32) shall be ADDED unto you.

Matthew 6:20-21 KJV
But LAY UP for yourselves treasures in heaven (**unlike the Rich MAN that went away), ...

[21] For WHERE YOUR TREASURE is, there will your HEART be also.

So, we should submit to God's will to determine our situations.

Not "many" can accept this teaching, but this the New Covenant Life/Needle's Eye/Discipleship/The Narrow Way that leads to Eternal Life. (See what happened in John 6:66)

Let's Beware of the BROAD WAY of "many" Men/Churches.

May Jesus Bless You.

John 16:33 KJV
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have PEACE. In the WORLD ye shall have TRIBULATION: but be of good cheer; I have OVERCOME the world.

God's answers to prayers are NOT always YES: not usually exactly according to our desires or expectations. Because He is not out to SPOIL his True Children by giving them ALL they Want:

Matt. 6:11 KJV
Give us this day our daily bread. (Needs NOT necessarily Wants)

Sometimes too, he doesn't DELIVER us quickly from Troubles or Tribulations according to our desires or faith; like he did to Job, he allows all sorts of terrible problems to HUMBLE, purify, DISCIPLINE or test and ultimately draw us CLOSER to Himself:

Romans 12:12 KJV
Rejoicing in hope; PATIENT in tribulation; continuing instant in Prayer;

Hebrews 6:15 KJV
And so, after he had PATIENTLY ENDURED, he obtained the PROMISE.

It is very important to know this because there are False teachings that have been floating around for many years claiming otherwise.

Teachings particularly of False Grace/Prosperity Preachers that we can just imagine or think of anything we like in our minds, then ask and RECEIVE it.

It's a very Big Lie, let's not forget Paul's case:

2Cor.12.8 - Concerning this thing I PLEADED with the Lord THREE TIMES that it might DEPART from me.

2Cor.12.9 - And He said to me, "My GRACE is sufficient for you, for My strength is made PERFECT in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather BOAST in my infirmities, that the POWER of Christ may REST upon me.

Paul got something better (spiritually): God's Grace.

How about John the Baptist, a Great Man of God, who baptized Jesus, heard and saw GREAT signs from heaven. But alas, after a while in PRISON, like MANY of us would do, he started DOUBTING even Jesus seemingly because he wasn't getting DELIVERED too soon or according to his expectations after praying SEVERAL times:

Matt.11.2 - And when John had heard in PRISON about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples
Matt.11.3 - and said to Him, "Are You the Coming One, or do we look for ANOTHER?"

Matt.11.4 - Jesus answered and said to them, "Go and TELL John the THINGS which you HEAR AND SEE:
Matt.11.5 - The BLIND see and the LAME walk; the LEPERS are cleansed and the DEAF hear; the DEAD are raised up and the POOR have the gospel PREACHED to them.

Now, here is His LAST INSTRUCTION:

Matt.11.6 - And BLESSED is he who is NOT OFFENDED because of Me."

It means we are BLESSED if we don't become DOUBTFUL, discouraged, offended or ANGRY with God, should he doesn't ANSWER the way we want or EXPECT.

However, if we are GENUINE, HUMBLE, and seeking God's kingdom FIRST, then we can ALWAYS BE SURE of things like Forgiveness of sins; Victory over sins; the Power of the Holy Spirit to overcome Evil; our DAILY NEEDS, and other things REVEALED in His God's Word already.

Therefore, let's always be patient and trust in God in every general situation or problem: persecutions, sicknesses, the Pandemic, financial issues, and all other PROBLEMS common to Man, that whichever way he CHOOSES to answer our prayers, it will SURELY work out for the Best.

Hence, we won't lose our FAITH or get ANGRY, and start murmuring and complaining; and NOT FALL AWAY from THE FAITH thereby.

Matt.11.6 - And BLESSED is he who is NOT OFFENDED because of Me."

Romans 8:28 KJV
And we KNOW that ALL THINGS work together FOR GOOD to them that love God, to them who are the CALLED according to his purpose.

1Cor.10.10 -
nor COMPLAIN, as some of them ALSO COMPLAINED, and were destroyed by the DESTROYER.

1Cor.10.12 - Therefore let him who THINKS he stands take heed LEST HE FALL.

1Cor.10.14 - Therefore, my beloved, FLEE from idolatry.

May Jesus Bless You.