How is A Healthy Fear of The Lord Different from the Destructive Fear of Satan?

Most Christians have little or no understanding of the "fear of the Lord." Whenever the phrase comes up in Scripture (which is quite often), it is quickly interpreted as simply a reverential trust in the Lord. This anemic definition fails to open up the power and significance of this concept or to explain the many results and rewards which are described in Scripture for those who have the fear of the Lord. Particularly significant is the following verse which relates the fear of the Lord to the achievement of moral purity "By the fear of the Lord men depart from evil" (Proverbs 16:6). It is significant that the same Hebrew and Greek words are used for both wholesome fear and destructive fear. Therefore, the difference between the two fears is not to be found in the words. The Fear of man or of Satan brings a snare, but the fear of God brings a blessing. The Hebrew root for fear is (yah-RAH). It primarily means, “To frighten, to affright, be (made) afraid, to dread.” It is used in each of the following verses: David said, “My flesh trembled for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments” (Psalm 119:120). We are commanded to “Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). “And the covenant that I have made with you ye shall not forget; neither shall ye fear other gods. But the Lord your God ye shall fear; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies: (II Kings 17:38-39). The Greek word for fear is (FAW-boss). Originally this word had the meaning of “flight” or “that which causes a person to flee in dread and terror.” When Jesus taught His disciples about what to fear and what not to fear, He used the same Greek word for both. “And I say unto you my friends, be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him” (Luke 12:4-5). To fear the Lord goes far beyond the idea of reverential trust. It includes a controlling awe of His power and righteous retribution and a wholesome dread of displeasing Him. Even though the same word is used for the various applications of fear, there are important distinctions: Destructive fear is fearing the thunder instead of the One who made the thunder. The Lord is a God of cause and effect. This is why He can demand obedience to His Law. He knows the outcome if we violate it. It is also for this reason that He continually commands us not to focus our fear on the results of His working but instead on Him and His Law. When the storm overtook the disciples on the sea, they feared the wind and the waves. Jesus instructed them not to fear these things; then He showed His power over the elements by calming the storm. Destructive fear is overcome by dynamic faith. For the Christian, lack of faith produces destructive fear. This is emphasized in Jesus’ statement to the disciples after He calmed the sea: “Master. Careth thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them. Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:38-40). When God tells us to fear Him, He is requiring us to acknowledge an aspect of His character such as His justice, His holiness, or His power. For each one of these attributes, God has a balancing attribute. For His justice, He shows mercy. For His holiness, He gives grace. For His power, He displays loving-kindness. The more we understand, acknowledge, and fear the first set of attributes, the more faith, hope, and confidence we have in the balancing set of qualities. This balance of fear and faith is illustrated throughout Scripture. Paul related his walk of faith and witness to his fear of God’s justice and righteousness in the following Scripture: “For we walk by faith, not by sight…For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God” (II Corinthians 5:7, 10-11). A person with little faith but a great awareness of God’s power, justice, and holiness will be out of balance in his fear of the Lord. In order to have a proper fear of the Lord, a person must increase his faith in the attributes which balance the ones that he fears. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Shepherd and Sheep Series-Passages to Memorize for Meditation

The following are some basic Scripture passages to be memorized for meditation. Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount. This is a summary of Christ’s message during His earthly ministry. It is rich with foundational principles in all aspects of Christian living. Its significance was further emphasized by Paul when he said that he based sound doctrine on two things: Christ’s own words and that which leads to Christ like living. (See 1 Timothy 6:3). Romans 6-8, tell us how to have victory over sinful habits. Romans 6 explains how we are to reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive to God by entering into our victory in Christ and daily yielding the members of our bodies to God. Romans 7 describe the law of sin which operates much like the law of gravity; however, Romans 8 explains how we can live above the law of sin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Exodus 20-22, gives us the principles of God’s Law. The law is a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, and the righteousness of the law is to be fulfilled in us by the Holy Spirit. This passage summarizes the law and supplies related case studies. It explains the cause-and-effect sequence of the law of the harvest spoken of in Galatians 6:7-10. James 1-5, tell us how to apply faith to practical living. Chapter 1 instructs us how to overcome temptation. Chapter 2 emphasizes the importance of putting our faith to work. Chapter 3 teaches us how to tame our tongue. Chapter 4 explains how to conquer pride and resulting contentions. Chapter 5 gives practical business principles and direction for healing. Hebrews 11:1-6, 12:1-7, 13:1-8, teach us how to understand God’s purposes of chastening. Chapter 11 establishes the absolute importance of faith. Chapter 12 describes the discipline required of us so that we might produce “the peaceable fruit of righteousness,” Chapter 13 lists the vital relationships that Christians must maintain. I Corinthians 13, teaches us how to develop genuine love. This vital chapter defines the love that every Christian must develop by the grace of God. The entire Old Testament is summed up in the command to love the lord and to love our neighbor. By engrafting this chapter and relating it to other sections of Scripture, we will learn how to fulfill the greatest commandment. Romans 12, teaches us how to discover our spiritual gift. Every Christian has a spiritual gift; By using it properly we experience joy, fulfillment, and fruitfulness. This chapter identifies the prerequisites for gifts and the practical use of them in ministering God’s love to others. Romans 13, tells us how to understand and properly respond to authority. Only as we see authority figures in the perspective of this chapter will we be able to respond properly to them and to gain God’s protection and direction through them. Every Christian needs to understand and to apply the essential concepts of power and influence. Ephesians 5-6, tell us how to be equipped for warfare. The first chapters of Ephesians establish our position of victory in Christ. Chapter 5 identifies the works of darkness and the resulting relationships that grow out of being filled with God’s Spirit. Our ability to carry out these relationships depends upon how faithful we are in putting on the whole armor of God listed in chapter 6. 1 Peter 1-5 is teaching on how to suffer victoriously. By engrafting this book, we can be prepared when fiery trials overtake us. We will view them as opportunities to follow in the footsteps of Christ. The practical instruction of this book is essential for every Christian who wants to influence his or her world, since all those who live Godly lives will suffer persecution. Galatians 5:13-6:10, teach us how to experience the fruit of the Holy Spirit. The works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit are both defined and clarified by this passage. It also provides clear instruction on how we can demonstrate the law of love to fellow Christians. Psalms 1,15,19,25,34,37,112,139, instruct us on how to be one after God’s own heart. God called David as man after His own heart. The more the Psalms become ours, the more God can say the same of us. Learning the Psalms will teach Christians to pray, to sing, to rejoice, to praise, and to know the God who cares deeply about every aspect of their lives. Proverbs 3 teaches us how to enjoy the treasures of wisdom. Mastering the entire book of Proverbs is essential for Christians who desire to gain wise counsel for daily decisions. Every effort to memorize in this book will be greatly rewarded. Chapter 3 gives practical instruction on how to “find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” When you begin meditating (ruminating) on the Word of God you will enjoy success. “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success” (Joshua 1:8). Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

God Has a Covenant for You

“Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called ‘the uncircumcision’ by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands—remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the common wealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:11-12). “Peace in our time! Peace with honor!” Those were the words of British Prime minister, Sir Neville Chamberlain, when he returned from conferences in Germany in September 1938. He was sure that he had stopped Adolph Hitler. Yet one year later, Hitler invaded Poland, and on September 3, 1939, Great Britain declared war on Germany. Chamberlain’s great peace mission failed. From 1500 B.C. to A.D. 850 there were 7,500 “eternal covenants” agreed upon among various nations with the hope of bringing peace, no covenant lasted more than two years. The only “eternal covenant” that has lasted—and that will last—is the one made by the eternal God, sealed by the blood of Jesus Christ. It is Christ’s peace mission that Paul explains in the following section. Note three very important words that summarize this great work. First, the word without, this is what the Gentiles were (2:11-22). The one word that best describes the Gentiles is without. They were without Christ (v. 12). The Ephesians worshiped their famous goddess, Diana. Those who claim that pagan religions are acceptable to God will have a problem here. Every unsaved person, Jew, or Gentile, is outside Christ. They were without citizenship (v. 12). God called the Jews and built them into a nation. Israel was God’s nation, in a way that was not true of any Gentile nation. They were without covenants (v. 12). While the blessing of the Gentiles is included in God’s Covenant with Abraham, God did not make any covenants with the Gentile nations. The Gentiles were “aliens” and “strangers”-and the Jews never let them forget it. Every good Pharisee prayed daily “O God, I give thanks that I am a Jew, and not a Gentile.” They were without hope (v. 12). Historians tell us that a great cloud of hopelessness covered the ancient world. Their philosophies were empty and their religions were powerless to help men face either life or death. Only Biblical Christianity can do that. They were without God (v. 12). It has been said that it was easier to find a god than a man in Athens. But the pagans did not know the true God. The first 11 chapters of Genesis; and from chapter 12 on (the call of Abraham), it is the story of the Jews. The Jews were in God’s favor 2,165 year; the Gentiles have been for the last 2,000 years. Second, enmity is the key word in this section (3:13-18). There was enmity between Jews and Gentiles (2:13-15). God had put a difference between Jews and Gentiles so that His purposes in salvation might be accomplished. Once those purposes were accomplished, there was no more difference (v. 14). The cost of destroying the enmity was the blood of Christ (v. 13). In Jesus Christ, Jew and Gentile become one (v. 14). The verb to make in v. 15 means “to create,” The Church, the body of Christ, is God’s new creations. There was enmity between sinners and God (2:16-18). Not only did the Gentiles need to be reconciled to the Jews, but both the Jews and the Gentiles needed to be reconciled to God (v. 16). As the Judge, He could have come to declare war, but in His grace, He came with the message of peace (v. 17, 18). Third, the word one, what Jews and Gentiles are in Christ (2:19-22). Paul gives three pictures that illustrate the unity of believing Jews and Gentiles in the Church. One nation (2:19a). Israel was God’s chosen nation, but they rejected their Redeemer and suffered the consequences. The kingdom was taken from them and given to the Church. In the Old Testament, the nations were reckoned by their descent for Shem, Ham, or Japheth. In Acts we see these three families united in Christ. Acts 8-Ham-Ethioian treasurer. Acts 9-Shem-Saul of Tarsus. Acts 10-Japheth-household of Cornelius. There is one family (2:19b). And one temple (2:20-22). Today God dwells in every believer, we are the temple of God. Have you personally experienced the grace of God? If you are a true believer in Christ, are you helping others to trust Him? Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Are Demons Real in the Church Age

Please read Mark 5:1-20 see also Matthew 8:28-34 and Luke 8:26-37. A Biblical world view includes understanding there are demons active in our world. The enemy is alive and active on planet earth. Satan has a well thought out plan to destroy your life. We are commanded to teach and know the "whole counsel of God." This includes understanding the work of the enemy. The story of the Gerasene demoniac clearly shows the desire of demons to distort and destroy (if possible) the image of God in man. This is seen in several ways. First, the demoniac was living among the tombs, an unclean area. A sign of being demonized is a preoccupation with death. Second, for a long time he had not lived in a house, and had worn no clothes. Demonized people tend to dress immodestly. Third, no chains (may refer to metal, wood, or leather) could hold him and no one was strong enough to subdue him. Demonized people may display super human strength. The verb tenses indicate repetitive attempts at binding and escaping. Fourth, he was constantly crying our and gashing himself with stones, though there had to have been times when he was quiet enough for people to chain him. Cutting oneself is often a sign of demonetization. Was he engaging in pagan demon worship or trying to kill himself to be rid of his torment? Fifth, and finally, he was 'driven' by the demons to solitary places. The fact that there were many demons ( a "legion" consists of some 6,000 men) in him shows that he is completely under their control. The demoniac sees Jesus from a distance, and the demons drive him to confront Jesus just as He leaves the boat and steps on shore. They know Jesus' name and identity, and, in accordance with magical practices, use it in an unsuccessful attempt to gain control over Him. The "bowing down" indicates respect for His power, but the shouting at the top of the man's voice shows their real attitude. Though knowing Him, the demons do not worship Him, clearly the bowing was a demonic act. They do not want Him to torment them by sending them to the abyss "before their time." The tormentors wish to avoid torment. In the intertestamental literature it was taught that demons had freedom, but only until the judgment day. It is ironic that they implore Him by God-they have no claim to God's name. They do not want to be sent to the abyss. The abyss is used of the place of imprisonment for evil powers, it figures in Hebrew cosmology as the 'watery deep' below the earth to which the seas are connected. Thus, though we cannot be certain the demonic drowning of the pigs in the water may indicate that they did not escape the "abyss." Jesus (continuously) commands them to come out, but they do not do it at once. Rather, they beg to be sent into the herd of pigs, and Jesus consents (sending unclean spirits into unclean animals). Apparently they desire some host to destroy., frustrated in their attempts to destroy the demoniac, they choose the pigs. Even though pigs are good at swimming, they drown (literally, "one after the other they drowned themselves'. Four important questions arise. 1. Why does Jesus ask for the name of the demons? Least likely is the possibility that He needed to know the name to control the demon. It is more possible that He wants the disciples to see that there are many demons. Alternatively, He may be using this to remind the demoniac of who he is (a person infested with demons), which will prepare him for delivery. 2. What is the significance of the name "legion"? It may not indicate a literal 6,000, but the fact that there were many is seen in their ability to destroy 2,000 pigs. To the people of Palestine, "Legion" would imply a Roman army host, and signify "vast numbers, complex organization, invincible strength, and relentless opposition". The word May have been chosen to frighten or discourage Jesus, but to no avail. That "Legion" is given as my name may indicate the rank of the demon speaking to Jesus through the man-he is the demonic "commander" of the many demons inhabiting the man. Demons have rank and power. 3. It there any significance to the demons wanting to remain in the same geographic location? In accordance with the beliefs of the pagan nations, do demons (gods) have more power in certain areas, or are they simply more 'attached' to certain places than others? We do know from the book of Daniel there are territorial spirits who operate in specific locals. 4. Why does Jesus allow them to go into the pigs? He may have wanted everyone (especially the demoniac) to see that the victim was genuinely relieved and that the true mission of demons is to destroy their host. The local populace, unable to understand and being afraid of Jesus' power, ask Him to leave the area (possibly valuing the pigs more than the person), the people of the world may not respond kindly to proof of God's power over demons. In any event, the demoniac is cured. He is sitting, clothed, and in his right mind. Some mental illness is due to demonization. Before he had been restless, naked, and crazy. Out of gratitude, he asks to accompany Jesus, but is told to return to his home and tell others his story. He obeys, becoming a powerful witness of the victory Christ has given him. We see Jesus' authority in dealing with the demons. We also see the satanic attempts to cause people to act as directly against the image of God as they can. God wants you to walk in fellowship with Him. Jesus came to "destroy the works of the devil." Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Nature of Temptation

"Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.' But he answered, 'It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.' Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, He will command his angels concerning you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.' Jesus said to him, 'Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.' Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, 'All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.' Then Jesus said to him, 'Be gone, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.' Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him" (Matthew 4:1-11). Every believer is born again into spiritual conflict which will last his or her life time. This is why we must be aware of the wiles (schemes) of our common enemy. In the account of the first temptation of Jesus we learn that Satan tempts our Lord to carry out his mission in an unfaithful manner by using the powers that He had voluntarily set aside by becoming a man. The temptation sequence was real and not a vision. This temptation takes place immediately after Jesus' baptism and the declaration that He is God's Son. Satan wants Jesus to test (or prove) that declaration.The first temptation is for Jesus to trust Himself rather than God the Father to meet His physical needs. Every believer will be like wise tempted. When times of financial hardship come we must trust the Lord for His provision. Faith is living without scheming. The second temptation is for Jesus to "force" God to save Him. Jesus was wise enough to not put Himself in a place where He was tempting God. This applies to how we drive, how we care for our health needs, and how we use wisdom in protecting our lives. The Devil is the god of recklessness.The third temptation is for Jesus to avoid the cross (note Peters request Matthew 16:22-23). Many times the enemy will tempt us to avoid a painful change in our lives in order to build a better relationship with our mate. He may temp us to cheat (taxes comes to mind) in some way to avoid making financial sacrifice. To every temptation, Jesus responded, not by performing a counter miracle or showing a counter sign, but simply by quoting a relevant passage from the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy. We can clearly see that Jesus had enough of God's Word memorized to refute and protect Himself against Satan's best temptations. In the third temptation, Satan essentially claims the world as his dominion (Luke 4:6). This statement by Satan is neither affirmed or denied by the Lord Jesus. It could a statement not worth commenting on. In tempting Christ, Satan shows Him the kingdoms of the world in their splendor, but, as a liar, hides the sin that would be involved in gaining the kingdom Satan's way. Often Satan will, in type, present an old harlot dressed in a new gown. The evil one sugar coats sin in such a way that one cannot see beyond the "pleasure for a season." He does his best to make us forget" the wages of sin are death. "Satan's power and abilities are evident in that no earthly mountain would have been high enough for him to have shown Jesus the whole world in an instant. Having failed, Satan leaves Jesus, waiting for a more opportune time. This does not mean that he gives up all activity until a much later time. It simply means that he does not give up for good and that he is always looking for the right time to try again. We must be careful to think that that after we win one victory Satan will call off his hounds of hell. After the temptations, angels come and 'minister' to Jesus with food and comfort. Note the sequence 1. Jesus is hungry. 2. Satan's fulfillment is offered and refused. 3 God provides Jesus' needs through angels. 4.Jesus' victory over Satan at this time gives the foundation for His authority over demons in the rest of His ministry. We must be careful to avoid the trap of thinking that Satan's strategies do not change over the course of time and from culture to culture. With that warning in mind, the parallels in the two temptations are worth pointing out. Garden of Eden: 1. Question the content of God command. "Did God really say,"2. Reject the command itself. "You will not die."3. Get Eve to believe that Satan is the one who is really concerned for her. Jesus' Temptation: 1. Trust Himself rather than God to meet His needs. "Turn these rocks into stones."2. To "force" God to save Him. "Jump off the pinnacle of the temple and the angels will catch you."3. To avoid the necessity of the cross. "I will give you the kingdoms of the earth."Common to both: 1. Appeal to physical senses before spiritual ones.2. Twisting God's words.3. Questioning the character of God (testing Him)4. Offering a shortcut. 5. Goal: to break relationships.6. Theater: the mind. As we walk through life, we will be in many ways like wise tempted. We must know enough of the Word to combat the lies of the enemy. The power of Satan is in the lie. Spiritual warfare is confronting the Devil's lies with God's truth. God's Truth will trump Satan's lie every time. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Are You Keeping A Secret?

“For this reason I, Paul a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you gentiles—assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you, how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unreachable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly place. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory” (Ephesians 3:1-13). Twice in this letter, Paul reminds his readers that he is a prisoner, and at the close he calls himself an “ambassador in bonds.” No doubt the Ephesians were asking, why is Paul a prisoner in Rome? Why would God permit such a thing? In this paragraph, Paul explains his situation and, in doing so, also explains one of the greatest truths in this letter, the mystery of the church. In the New Testament, a mystery is not something eerie or inscrutable, but rather “a truth that was hidden by God in times past and is now revealed to those who are in His family.” Paul explains the mystery-the Gentile believers are now united to the Jewish believers in one Body the Church (3:6). Now Paul explains the tremendous impact of this “sacred secret” that had so possessed his own life and ministry. Actually, this explanation is almost a parenthesis in the letter, for, Paul begins this section with the intention of praying for his readers. His use of the words “prisoner” and Gentiles” leads him into this important explanation of the “mystery of the Church” and in this explanation, Paul shows us that the “mystery of the Church” is important to four different groups of persons. First, it was important to Paul (3:1-5). Paul was a prisoner because he believed in God’s new program of uniting believing Jews and Gentiles into one Body, the Church. Because Paul was the “Apostle to the Gentiles,” he was accused of being prejudiced against the Jews (v. 1). Paul was not only a “prisoner” because of “the mystery,” but he was also a “minister,” God gave him a “dispensation (stewardship) that he might go to the Gentiles (v. 2). 1. The word dispensation (house, law). Gives us the English word “economy”. The law of the house or a management like the management of a company. 2. God has different ways of managing His program from age to age. 3. God’s principles do not change over the course of history. However the way He rules his house does. “Distinguish the ages,” wrote St. Augustine, “and the Scriptures harmonize.” Any other method of Bible interpretation leads to an improper understanding of the Bible. Paul was made a steward of “the mystery” with the responsibility of sharing it with the Gentiles (v. 3). 1. This truth had not been revealed in the Old Testament Scriptures (v. 4). God revealed it personally to Paul, and he was responsible to share it with the Gentile believers (v. 5). Second, it was important to the Gentiles (3:6-8). The mystery gives believing Gentiles a new relationship (3:6). The mystery reveals that there is a new power available to us (Ephesians 3:7). This power is illustrated in the life of Paul. Paul is my brother in Christ. The Church exits in two places, on earth and in heaven. There is available to the Gentiles new riches (3:8). The “unfathomable” riches of Christ. 1. These riches are available to every believer. 2. Understanding the deep truths of God’s Word does not give a man a big head; it gives him a broken and contrite heart. Third, it is important to the angels (3:9-10). “The principalities and powers” are also involved in this great secret (3:10). This means both good and fallen angels. The angels learn from the Church the manifold wisdom of God. Paul calls it manifold wisdom, and this word carries the idea of “variegated” or “many-colored.” This suggests the beauty and variety of God’s wisdom in His great plan of salvation. The supreme display of God’s wisdom is found in God’s plan of salvation. What are the evil angels learning from God’s “Mystery”? They learn that their leader, Satan, does not have any wisdom. Verse 9 reads best as follows “And to make all men see what is the stewardship of the mystery.” Now all believers are to be faithful stewards of this great truth. Fourth, it should be important to Christians today (3:11-13). The mystery is the key to what God promised in the Old Testament, what Christ did in the Gospels, what the early church did in the Book of Acts, what Paul and the other writers teach in the Epistles, and what God will do as recorded in the Book of Revelation (v. 11). It is a part of God’s eternal purpose in Christ. When we understand this truth it gives us great confidence and faith (v. 12). It also gives us courage in the difficult circumstances of life (v. 13). God has a “secret”—but God does not want it to be a secret anymore. If you understand your wonderful position in Christ, then live up to it-and share the blessing with others. This “secret” was import to Paul, to the Gentiles, and to the angels-and it ought to be important to you and me today. The Mystery is one secret that God doesn't want us to keep. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Anger Really is a Choice

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger. And give no opportunity to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27-27). Anger is an emotional arousal caused by something that displeases us, or the emotion that comes when we feel we have lost control (Ephesians 4:26) Here the word anger is in the Greek imperative, Meaning there are some things we ought to be angry over, however not for long. The command to “sin not” cautions us against overindulgence, even in what may have started as righteous anger. Because of the human tendency to allow personal vindictiveness to permeate anger, the safeguard here suggested is to put definite limitations of time on the exercise of anger. Resentments are not to be harbored beyond the day in which they begin (see Psalm 4:4). Anger which is not curbed lays the person open to irrational and evil suggestions, and Satan is quick to grasp the opportunity. Unrestrained anger allows Satan to work through the “old man” and entice us to sin because so often our anger is not righteous. An emotional outburst escapes the control of the mind, and Spirit which influences it. Ephesians 4:23. In itself, anger is not a sin, because even God can be angry (see Deuteronomy 9:8, 20; Psalm 2:12; Matthew 21:12-13). However when a man’s anger smolders, the Scriptures call this malice. This same anger can suddenly burst forth and destroy, we call this wrath. The fire or anger, if not quenched by loving forgiveness, will spread, defile and destroy the work of God. According to Jesus, anger is the first step toward murder (Matthew 5:21-16), because anger gives the devil a foothold in our lives, and Satan is a murderer. Horace said “anger is momentary insanity.” Our Lord’s anger never lead to sin, because His emotions were kept under perfect control. Passionate feelings against people or their actions are not to be kept long, lest they break down the love that seeks to bring good out of evil. Anger may progress to unforgiving attitudes and on to bitterness, the two most formidable walls to reconciliation. If not torn down, they will form an impassable barrier to loving unity. (See Proverbs 12:16). “The wrath of man works not the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). We must make Christ like adjustments to the irritating circumstances in our lives. We must realize we never need to be in control, because God is in control. We read in Ephesians 4:27 “Don’t make a habit of giving place to Satan.” In 1 Peter 2:1, 2 we are told plainly to lay aside our hostilities if we are to grow as Christians. God’s method of erasing hostility is forgiveness; this involves dying to the need to avenge. It is easy to hold a grudge against someone who has offended, but God expects us to rid our minds of our anger feelings before they have a chance to be repressed. Proverbs 22:24 says “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shall not go.” Proverbs 19:11 says “The discretion of a man deferrers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. Three main sources of sinful (inappropriate) anger: 1. Anger that results when one’s selfish demands are not being met. The more selfish, the angrier. 2. Anger that results when one’s perfectionist demand for control is not being satisfied. 3. Anger that results from suspiciousness. Six groups of people who are often the object of anger. 1. Parents. 2. Ourselves. 3. Repressed anger toward God. 4. Our mate. 5. Those in authority over us. 6. Others, peers when we were young. It’s time to leave all vengeance with God. Never try to get even with anyone, including yourself. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Time to Quit Fretting

Please read Psalm 37:1-40 Psalm 37:1-9 form comforting thoughts, characterized by exhortations to trust and assurances of victory. David cautions us not to worry about the prosperity of the wicked. He writes: Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. . . . Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way. . . . Do not fret—it only causes harm. (vv. 1, 7-8). The tendency to murmur when the wicked flaunt their wrong doing must be repressed if we are going to develop trust in the Lord. The question is why should our hearts burn with (righteous?) indignation when so much hotter a glow will burn up the cut grass? Let it (the wicked) wave in brief glory, without interference, the scythe and the sunshine will soon make an end of their wicked, miserable lives. Jesus includes this point in the Sermon on the Mount, telling us not to worry about our life, our food and clothing, and the troubles of tomorrow (Matthew 6:25-34). The Lord says calm down! Don’t get all worked up over it! The blessed results of trust and active holiness are stable dwelling in the land, and nourishment that only comes from God. We who take God as our portion will always have a safe place to live. The fact is no man will commit his way to the Lord unless he delights in Him. When we fully commit our ways to His sovereignty we can then find absolute rest in the Lord. For us to delight in the Lord is to possess our hearts delight, and find fulfilled in Him our desires and abiding joys. “Commit your way unto Him” (v. 5), or roll it upon Him, this is the exercise of trust, and, He will do all that is desired. We find in walking with the Lord that faith and trust are two sides of the same coin. As our faith in the Lord grows, so does our trust. We must “walk by faith and not by sight,” for we do not see all that He sees, and we certainly don’t know all that He knows. Our Sovereign Master has it all under His control. David describes the character of the wicked: The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth. . . . The wicked have drawn the sword and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, to slay those who are of upright conduct. . . . The wicked borrows and does not repay. . . . The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to slay him. (Verses 12, 14, 21, 32. These portions of Scripture sketch in vivid detail the fury of “the wicked” toward “the Just” and the grim retribution that turns their own weapons into agents of the wicked’s self destruction. Their evil is obvious to all, especially God. We can be certain that the wicked have not fooled Him. For in essence He is the One they are sinning against. David contrasts the character of the wicked to the righteous: But the righteous shows mercy and gives. . . . He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed. . . . The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. (Verses 21, 26, 30-31). Silently, the Goodman sits wrapped in his faith. All around are raging, armed foes. Above, the laughter of God rolls thunderous, and from the throne the obedient “day” is winging its flight like an eagle with lightning bolts in its claws. The difference in their characters is sharply defined, and we can rest assured that character is what dictates the outcome of our lives. David shows the end of the wicked: [Evildoers] shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. . . . For evildoers shall be cut off. . . . For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look diligently for his place, but it shall be no more. . . . The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming. . . . But the wicked shall perish; and the enemies of the Lord, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish. Into smoke they shall vanish away. . . . The descendants of the wicked shall be cut off. . . . I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a native green tree, yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed I sought him, but he could not be found. . . . But the transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future of the wicked shall be cut off. (Verses 2, 9-10, 13, 20, 28, 35-36, 38). Here the destruction of those who plot evil and the vindications of the righteous are contrasted. Those who wait on the Lord are promised the sight of the destruction of the wicked. Divine judgments minister occasion for praise from the purest hearts before the throne of God. We can know for certain that the unrighteous will get what is coming to them. God always gives the correct punishment at exactly the right time. It is out of our hands, so we need not concern ourselves over it. If we were as wise, loving, and all knowing as God, we would mete out the exact punishment, at the exact time, as He will. David proclaims the reward of the upright: He shall give you the desires of your heart. . . He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. . . . But those who wait on the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. . . . But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. . . . Their inheritance shall be forever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. . . . For those who are blessed by Him shall inherit the earth. . . . They are preserved forever. . . . The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell in it forever. . . . He shall exalt you to inherit the land. . . . But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord. (Verses 4, 6, 9, 11, 18-19, 22, 28-29, 34, 39). If God is on our side, we have nothing to fear from the wicked, and we can look forward to blessings beyond anything we could ever imagine (Ephesians 3:20)! David explains that we can expect these blessings and rewards, not because we are innately wonderful and good, but because God is faithful: The Lord upholds the righteous. The Lord knows the days of the upright. . . . The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholds him with His hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread. . . . For the Lord loves justice, and does not forsake His saints. . . . The Lord will not leave [the righteous] in [the wicked's] hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. . . . He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him. (Verses 17-18, 23-25, 28, 33, 39-40). The picture in verse 24 is very comforting. David describes God as a Father, holding His child by the hand. The child has just learned to walk and is not very steady. When he stumbles—and he will—he does not fall completely because the Father pulls him back upright. God perfectly fulfills all the obligations He placed on Himself to do on our behalf. This is another reason we have no need to fear or worry. Lastly, David provides us with solutions to this dilemma: Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord. . . . Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. . . . Cease from anger, and forsake wrath. . . . Depart from evil, and do well; and dwell forevermore. . . . Wait on the Lord, and keep His way. . . . Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; for the future of that man is peace. (Verses 3-8, 27, 34, 37). Trouble will come into our lives, but God will provide for us a fortress home, and out of it He will save us. These are David's instructions on how we should handle our envy of the wicked man's prosperity: Do good, trust God, and do not worry! If we patiently continue doing the things that God has commanded us to do—focusing on our own character, rather than complaining about another's—the scales of justice will come into their proper balance in God's time. “He makes all things beautiful in His time.” Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Bible Doctrine Series-Jehovah-Sabaoth

Jehovah-Sabaoth—“the Lord of hosts” (I Samuel 1:3). The Hebrew word Sabaoth is defined as “an army, soldiers; warriors who stand and fight against an enemy.” Jehovah-sabaoth is Lord of hosts; He is the captain of our salvation. Jehovah-sabaoth has been actively delivering His people from their enemies since the time He first called Abram to become the father of a people unto Himself. But it was not until they were ready to enter the Promised Land as a nation that He was called by this name. He appeared to Joshua standing before the city of Jericho, identifying Himself as the captain of the host of the Lord. Joshua bowed his face to the earth in submission, removing his sandals in the presence of holiness. Hannah prayed in great sorrow and distress to Jehovah-sabaoth to deliver her from great affliction she suffered from childlessness. Listen to her prayer in 1 Samuel 1:11 “And she made a vow and said, ‘O Lord of hosts, if Thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of Thy maid servant and remember me, and not forget Thy maidservant, but wilt give Thy maidservant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and a razor shall never come on his head.” The Lord remembered Hannah’s request and the vow she had made and gave her a son. She named him Samuel; he later became a judge over Israel. There is neither situation too insignificant— nor any opposing force too great—for our Lord of hosts to become involved. We must, however, be ever watchful lest we presume upon the Lord’s promises as Saul did. We must never believe the ways which seem right to us are better than obedience to the Lord of hosts. The enemy may fill our minds with fear as we stand in overwhelming situations, but we must look to Him who is greater than any circumstance we could see in this world. Elisha prayed that the Lord would open his servant’s eyes to see the spiritual battle then in progress. If we desire to see the reality of that battle, we must also keep in mind the Source of our victory. Zechariah 4:6 “….’Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.” As we learned in the previous chapter, our warfare is in the spiritual realm. We must not allow the enemy to focus our warfare on people or circumstances; these are merely used as opportunities for the enemy to distract us from the true battle. The real war is fought in our spirit as we are led by the Spirit of God to stand strong in the Lord Jesus, His ways, His truth, and His life. In Him we have authority over every name named. In Him we are not simply survivors, we are more than conquerors. We are the children of God, joint-heirs with the Lord Jesus Christ who is Head of the church and the mighty hosts of heaven. As we walk obediently in the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus, we are set free from destructive deceptions planted deep and built strong within our flesh. In that freedom we have the potential of becoming part of the mighty army led by Jehovah-sabaoth, destroying the works of the enemy in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Contrasting two kinds of Believers

“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. Anyone who has set aside the Law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay,’ and again, ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay,’ and again, ‘The Lord will judge his people.’ It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised ‘For, yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.’ But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls” (Hebrews 10:26-39). Throughout Scripture, God’s truth is clearly communicated. Occasionally, a biblical writer will use a particular turn of phrase or style of expression to emphasize a specific truth. One such approach is the use of contrast: placing two scenes, reactions, or people side by side to highlight how different they are. The text we are about to consider places two contrasting groups of people alongside each other for the purpose of emphasis. The first group is featured in vv. 26-31, while the opposite group is set forth in vv. 32-38. V. 39 form a fitting summary, and again use a contrast for clarification: those who shrink back as opposed to those who have faith. These are Christians in contrast to one another. Can you find yourself on this page of God’s Word? First, let’s do a needed review. All true prophets had at least two things in common: they were faithful to comfort the afflicted, and they were faithful to afflict the comfortable. Let’s put this statement in a nutshell. The stern, tough, prophetic warning is this “enter…but come clean.” This place is found within each believer’s spirit, where the Lord Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit, permanently resides. Note the structure of the passage. Hebrews 10: 26-39 breaks down into an outline. A serious warning aimed at the hearer (vv. 26-31). “For if….” An Appeal (vv. 32-38). “But remember…therefore. A Summary of what has been taught (v. 39). : We are not…but….” Second, a contrast that is note worthy to consider (10:26-39). “For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain terrifying expectation of judgment….” There is the question of identity (vv. 26-27). Who are the “we” spoken of here? This applies to believers who are fleshly or backslidden. Note the characteristics (v. 29). The analogy moves from lesser to greater. First, those who shrink, trample under foot the Son of God. Second they profane the blood of the covenant. Third, they insult the Spirit of grace. What do these individuals need (v. 26)? They need repentance, and they need to stop their wrong behavior before they go any deeper into the carnal life-style. Those who stand are commended (vv. 32-38). There are a number of Christians who dance on the borderline of defection. To these the writer says, “Pay attention!” The beautiful part of this chapter is that the author doesn’t stop with the somber scene he’s just portrayed: he switches his focus from those who shrink to those who stand. Let’s take a look at this second group. 1. Identity (vv. 32-35). These are Christians who suffer mistreatment and, although they may get shaky, still stand in the faith. 2. Characteristics. First, these people are familiar with hardship and pain (vv. 32-33). Second, they have concern for others in need, (v. 34). Third, they are free from materialism (v. 34). And fourth, they are confident in God (vv. 34-35). When writing to this group the writer comforts the afflicted. 3. The need (v. 36). In contrast to the former group consisting of people who had a need of repentance, this group needs endurance. This term means “to abide under.” It is so easy for us to lose the “abide under” determination when the going gets tough. A summary of this material is in order (v.39). This chapter ends on a strong, positive note: “But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul.” Third, let’s ask a few necessary questions. One can’t read this tenth chapter of Hebrews without asking some tough personal questions. A. Where am I going in my spiritual life? Am I shrinking or standing? B. What if I don’t alter my course? C. When would be a better time than now for either repentance or endurance? Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

There are Pretenders Among Us

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he appeared to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God.” (I John 3:1-10). The U. S. Treasury Dept. has a special group of men whose job it is to track down counterfeiters. How do these men learn to identify fake bills? They learn by studying the real ones. They can become so familiar with authentic bills they can spot a counterfeit by looking at it or simply by feeling it. This is the approach in I John 3, which warns us that in today’s world there are counterfeit Christians, , children of the devil,” (v.10). The Scripture gives us a clear description of God’s children. The contrast between the two is obvious. It is clear that no Christian is sinless, but God expects a true believer to sin less, not to sin habitually. An unsaved person lives a life of habitual sin. Sin, especially the sin of unbelief is the normal thing in his life. Because the true Christian knows God, he lives a life of obedience and he does not practice sin. John gives three reasons for living a holy life. The first reason for living a holy life is because God the Father loves us (3:1-3). The whole wonderful plan of salvation begins with the love of God, (John 3:16). Verse one of I John 3, tells us what we shall be. God’s love continues throughout our lives and takes us right up to the return of Jesus Christ. When Jesus appears, all true believers will become like Him. In the same passage verse three tells us what we should be. In view of the return of the Lord we should keep our lives clean. The unbeliever sins against law; the believer sins against love. The second reason for living a holy life is because the Son of God died for us (3:4-8). John turns here from the future appearing of Jesus to His past appearing. John gives two reasons why Jesus came and died. He died to take away our sins (vv. 4-6). Sin is basically a matter of the will. We sin when we assert our will against God’s will, this is called rebellion. The child of God cannot practice lawlessness. John’s epistle defines sin as lawlessness, defilement, and here he views it as defiance. The emphasis is on sin (singular). Sin is the root of which sins are the fruit. He identified with the sinless Christ. Jesus died to take away our sins. The whole work of the cross is denied when a professed Christian practices deliberate sin. The Cross broke the power of the sin principle in our lives (see Romans 6: and Galatians 2:20). Christ appeared to destroy the works of the devil (3:7-8). The logic here is clear, if a man knows God he will obey God; if he belongs to the devil, he will obey the devil. John accepts the reality of a personal devil. The word “destroy” means to rob of power. After World War II, Japanese troops were discovered hiding in caves and in the jungles of the Pacific Islands. When they were told the war was over, they quickly surrendered. Satan may win a few battles, but he has already lost the war. The Christian has no desire to obey Satan and live like a rebel. The person who can live in deliberate sin and doesn’t feel convicted had better examine himself to see whether or not he is really born of God. The third reason we are to live a holy life, is the Holy Spirit of God lives in us (3:9-10). Salvation brings tremendous spiritual changes. There is a new standing-justification. We have a new position-sanctification. We experience regeneration-a new nature, God’s nature. In the natural world, physical life produces physical life. In the spiritual world, spiritual life produces spiritual life. Let’s compare the outer man with the inner man. The outer man needs food, the inner man need the Word of God. The outer man needs cleansing; the inner man needs examination, confession and repentance. The outer man needs exercise, the inner man exercises by sharing Christ, Christian service, and building others up in the body of Christ. There were false teachers who taught that only the body sinned and in no way affected the spirit. In reality the body is neutral. Do I have the diving nature within me or am I merely pretending to be a Christian? Do I purposely cultivate this divine nature by daily Bible reading and prayer? Has any unconfessed sin defiled my inner man? Do I allow my old habits to control my thoughts and desires? When temptation comes do I “play with it” or flee from it? Do I immediately yield to the diving nature within me? The life that is real is honest with God about these vital issues. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Retrogression or Backsliding--the Death of a Christian

Backsliding is a term I heard in church often when I was a growing up. It means to "turn back or turn away from." Throughout this article I am going to use the word "retrogression" (The act or process of deteriorating or declining), interchangeably with the word backslide. I believe retrogression helps define what is taking place when a Christian backslides. This brings up the perplexing question, why do Christians become backslidden? The answer lies in the fact that we all still possess the old nature that is “corrupt through deceitful lusts” (Eph. 4:22; Rom. 7:13-24; 1 Cor. 3:1-3). I am a saint, but I still sin. That makes me a sinner-saint. Because of my operative dual natures I have a propensity to misstep at times in my pursuit of fellowship with the Lord, this results in a lack of spiritual vitality and ineffective Christian service (Jn. 15:4-8). There is no other way to live the Christian life except by maintaining intimate fellowship with our Lord. If we do not maintain that vital contact with Him we cannot sustain spiritual growth and effectively minister in His name. Unbelief (Heb. 3:12), bitterness (12:15), love for the world (2 Tim. 4:10), love for money (1 Tim. 6:10), adherence to worldly philosophy (Col. 2:8), legalism (Gal. 3:1; 1:6; 5:7), indifference and spiritual coldness (Rev. 2:4; 3:16) are other causes for backsliding. Backsliding grieves the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30), and it displeases our Lord (Heb. 10:38). There are natural consequences that follow this sin (Lev. 26:18-25). How can we prevent backsliding in our spiritual life? It is essential that we “abide” in Christ (Jn. 15:4-7), remain spiritually alert (Eph. 6:18), put on the full armor of God (v. 10), be prayerful (1 Thess. 5:17), etc. Seek to love the Lord God with all your mind, heart and personal being every day. Gradualism is an enemy to our Christian walk. Generally it’s over time we slip, we get careless in our thought lives, we fail to confess sin, and we become bitter over a perceived slight or hurt. However we can thank God that He patiently perseveres with His saints. Just as we are to persevere in doing His will, we can be thankful that He has made a wonderful covenant with us in the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. The grace of perseverance is one of the great benefits of the atoning death of Jesus Christ for our sins. The solution for backsliding is found in the abiding love and mercy of our God of grace who remains faithful to His promises. Let's do a Biblical study on this timely subject. In this article I am going to attempt to unpack a number of Scripture passages on the subject of backsliding. To begin please Read Ruth 1:1-16. This narrative begins with a wealthy man names Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilian. The events of this account take place during the time of the Judges when "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" Judges 21:15. Because the people of God had departed from the Lord, God sent a famine into the land. Elimelech's name means "My God is King." He should have known God would take care of him in Israel; however he fled the famine and went to Moab. As you probable recall, Moab was an incestuous son born to Lot's daughter. In Psalm 108:9, God called "Moab my wash pot" meaning Moab is my "garbage can." Elimelech and Naomi's two sons were weak and sickly. Mahlon means "unhealthy" and Chilion means "puny." How would you like to grow up with names like that? Note the progression of backsliding. First, let's examine the cause of backsliding. He saw his circumstances as being bigger than God, Ruth 1:1. In a time of crisis the question always comes up, "how big is your God?" In Elimelech's mind, his God was really small. Moreover the Law of God obligated Elimelech's neighbors to take care of him, (Lev. 25:35). God would have provided for him. However he, like many of us, wanted Independence, he wanted to be in control of his own life. We learn he "went out full," Ruth 1:21, and died outside of the will of God. The place of safety is in the will of God, God never told Elimelech to leave Judah. Second, observe the course of backsliding-away from God. When God sends a man into a wicked place He makes it crystal clear he is supposed to go there. Some years earlier the Moabites had hired Balaam to curse Israel, Numbers 22:1-8. We must note if it is wrong to go some place, then it is wrong to take the first step that leads to that place. One son didn't convert his wife, for she returned to her pagan gods, Ruth 1:15. The gods of Moab were very much like Baal, the "god" being worshipped back in Israel. Third, the curse of backsliding is always the judgment of God. If Naomi had returned upon the death of her husband she could have saved the lives of her sons, Ruth 1:3, 5. Her husband Elimelech lost his life, Ruth 1:3. She lost her two sons, Ruth 1:4, 5. This came about because of violation of God's Law, Deut. 7:3, 4; 23:3. Backsliding caused Naomi to lose her joy, Ruth 1:20, 21. Naomi means "Pleasant one." If you can live in sin and enjoy it, you're not saved. The most miserable creature on earth is a backslidden Christian. Naomi went from being "Pleasant" to "bitter." Fourth, note the cure for backsliding-return to the Lord. The key to the book is found in Ruth 1:7, in the word "return." The cure for backsliding is always to return to the Lord. Naomi returned to Bethlehem, Ruth 1:6. In Ruth 1:11 she tells her daughters to stay in the land. She learns that God had taken care of His people in the crisis, Ruth 1:6. When she and her daughter-in-law return the whole town came to see them, Ruth 1:19. Fifth, note the cost of backsliding. She lost her husband, 10 years of her life, her joy and her two sons. Backsliding begins by a person trying to serve two masters. The backslider is often blind to his own spiritual state. The marvelous thing is, God is able to make beauty out of ashes. Boaz the great, grandfather of King David was born of Rahab. Obed, the grandfather of David was born of Ruth. Continuing with our study lets take as an example the prophet Hosea. God told Hosea to marry a prostitute, in doing so God, through the prophet's life, and his love for his wife, described the undying love of He has toward a people whose hearts had wandered far from His ways. God's heart is expressed through the life of Hosea. We learn of the deep, inner longings and desire of God's heart to court them and win them back by His love. "I will heal their backsliding," He promises; "I will love them freely..." (Hosea 14:4) The word "backslide" literally means "turn back" or "turn away" (from God, 1 Kings 11:9; from our first love, Rev. 2:4; or from the gospel, Gal. 1:6, 7; 3:1-5; in doing so we turn to Satan, 1 Tim. 5:15; to evil, Psa. 125:5; and to the world, 2 Tim. 4:10). The Bible describes the backslidden state as: attempting to serve two masters, this impossible task will always lead to forsaking the Lord, which results in our going our own way, and leaving our first love, in time we end up forgetting God, and slipping away from his love and truth. The retrogressive believer ends up turning aside ("like a deceitful bow," Jer. 14:7), and growing cold in his heart toward God, in time if one's retrogression is left unchecked he will depart from the faith. God says this is liking our "putting a hand to the plow and looking back" (Luke 9:62), in the end we become like the "salt that has lost its savor" (Matthew 5:13), and in our sinful state we are like "a dog returning to his vomit" (Prov. 26:11), our fruitlessness makes us as "a dead branch" because we become disconnected from the Vine (John 15:6; Hebrews 6:8). In America, good Bible centered materials are readily available, there is an abundance of excellent, Bible teaching churches, Christian book stores abound, and Christian radio and television programs are easy to find. In the midst of all these spiritual provisions how does a believer become retrogressive? Does the backslider wake up one morning and say "I think I will commit adultery today? No! What happens, takes place over time, (the power of gradualism), he may become careless in his thought life, and he stops taking "every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." He begins to entertain fleshly desires, thinking a little fantasizing really can't be all that bad, after all I am only human. King David watched a young woman taking a bath and instead of turning his head, he was captivated by her beauty. We all know what came next and the price he paid for the sinful events that followed. What characterizes a backslidden/retrogressive condition? Sin always brings decay on account of death. Sin always kills something, "the wages of sin is death." The deceptive part is this decay is a slow process. If it came as a shot in the arm or a kick in the shin, we'd recognize it for what it is. But the evil one is crafty, and his ways are subtle. The backslider begins to dry up spiritually, but his heart does not perceive what is happening. He may have a feeling of indifference toward the things of the Lord (Amos 6:1). He simply may no longer set his heart on that which is spiritual. He loses his appetite for the things of the Lord. The flesh always seeks fulfillment, and not always with that which is evil. Good things become the enemy of the best when they take the place of our occupying ourselves with God. Work is necessary and can be satisfying, sex in marriage can be delightful, food is to be enjoyed, sleep is needful, and refreshing, and exercise "profits a little." But when these things begin to crowd out fellowship with Jesus, we are in spiritual danger. We are called to live balanced Christian lives, and proper balance always puts Christ first. For we know that we must make caring for the inner man a priority. King David knew this when he said "in your Law I will meditate day and night." How easy it becomes for our prayer life to be crowed out with other interests, even good, innocent pastimes, like hobbies, sports, entertainment. When we fill our lives with that which does not feed the soul our hunger for God and His Word will diminish. As a pastor, I have been amazed at how little it takes for a believer to slack off in their church attendance. I believe I have heard some of the lamest excuses known to mankind. "When my business takes off, I will have more time for church." "They only have dog shows on weekends, you do understand, don't you pastor?" "We paid good money for our place at the lake and we really need to be there on the weekends." I have also watched the transverse take place; I have seen people in sin actually get really busy for God. They think in their continuing state of hypocrisy that God will somehow give them a pass; however their interpersonal relationships undergo extreme stress, as the conviction of the Holy Spirit presses them to repent and turn back to the Lord. In time, ignoring God's call to repent, and return (2 Kings 17:15), one's zeal for the Lord and concern for lost souls subsides; this is due to a sense of guilt and hypocrisy. Given enough time, the fear of God will depart and a complete re-ordering of priorities in one's life occurs. This results in a feeling of being lost and lacking purpose which results in great discontentment of heart. The day comes that the retrogressive believer realizes his abhorrence of sin has dissipated. That which he once despised is now tolerable. At this point it becomes easy to justify actions, that in the day he walked with the Lord, he never would have considered acceptable. And since his sensitivity to spiritual things is not what it used to be, he may sense very little guilt. His calloused heart becomes like stone; his conscience, "seared" (1 Tim. 4:2). The farther he strays from the Lord, the more distant the voice of God becomes, and the more difficult it seems to find his way back. This begins a pattern of lying, lying to God, to others and to himself. Even while struggling in a retrogressive state, the backslider may verbally identify himself with the Lord (Hosea 8:2; Elk. 6:46). The obvious inconsistencies in his life, may trouble him (Hosea 6:4); but more likely he will be blind to his own spiritual state (Hosea 7:9; Rev. 3:17, 18). An over-confidence in one's former standing with God (as opposed to confidence in God) can falsely convince an individual that God will overlook his present lifestyle (Hosea 7:2). Some have a propensity to come up with all the right words; their lips speak of that which sounds "spiritual," but their heart is far from God. And "they keep on backsliding." Given time they become "bent to backsliding" (Hos 11:7). In spite of their great words, their condition is that of a "perpetual" backslider (Jer. 8:5; 14:7). "Their hearts are always going astray ..." it will take a powerful work of the Holy Spirit to turn them back to God (Hebrews 3:10). We know that individual believers will vary in their degrees of spirituality and commitment (Col. 1:23), and we have seen that some are more prone to missteps, by reason of choice (personal weakness). These believers need to build higher walls of protection around their lives. Past areas of failure need constant vigilance for they constitute a possible future battle ground. The former alcoholic needs to stay away from the bar, the repentant adulter must not flirt with the opposite sex. Their hearts are like a garden that must be carefully tilled and weeded (Hosea 10:12; Matthew 13), their spiritual lives require diligent attention (2 Tim. 2:15, 21; 2 Peter 1:5-7). In all of our lives spiritual neglect and laziness, can wreak havoc on our spiritual development. Backsliding is, as the word implies, a sliding back – not a jump off a cliff, but a sliding downhill. We cannot ascend the mount of God in neutral. Spiritual growth requires a conscious effort, or it will be only "natural" that we succumb to the ways of the flesh. Our Christian walk is somewhat like riding a bicycle; we either keep those pedals moving we will coast to a stop. The retrogressive condition, while not sudden in onset, may escalate rapidly. All it takes is "a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest..." (Prov 8:10; 24:33). "A little leaven ferments the whole lump" (Gal.5:9). "... The little foxes... spoil the vines." (Song of Sol. 2:15) Satan tempted Jesus when He was physically weak (fasting), and we can count on him to attack us at our weakest times, in our weakest areas. For example an honor's student might not be tempted to cheat, but rather to become proud of his achievements. The problem with glorying in the grades is that it robs glory from the Lord, He is the One who gave the ability to get the grades. The Christian might never be tempted to murder, but faces countless opportunities to hate or speak evil of his brother, which amounts to murder, according to Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. The backslidden condition may be manifested externally (in cursing, drinking, lying, etc.); but it begins in the heart (Prov. 14:14) Often concealed in secret (2 Kings 17:9), the backslider's condition may remain hidden behind a facade of religiosity. That is why we must pray "Search me O' Lord and see if there is any wicked way in me." We can believe all the right doctrines, and give the outward appearance of being "spiritual" among men – yet still have a heart filled with lust, jealousy, bitterness, etc. The wayward heart, however, does not spend time at the altar of God, but chafes under the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Although backsliding begins in the heart and mind (Prov.14:14; 2 Corin. 11:3; Col.2:8), the condition eventually becomes evident externally. Like a drunk, you cannot hide forever what is taking place on the inside, in time it will show itself to everyone around you. Jesus said that a person's inward spiritual condition becomes obvious by the fruit he bears. The Apostle Paul stated it is possible to profess the truth verbally ("with their mouth") but deny the Lord in our actions (Titus 1:16). If our lives fail to measure up to our profession of faith (1 Tim. 5:8), our actions will declare our words null and void (1 Corin. 13). It is interesting that the term "believer," as used in the New Testament, is not a noun but a participle: A participle is a verbal-adjective, meaning "one who is believing." Christianity is more than a one-time trip to the altar, or a raised hand in the morning service, the Christian life is worked out in a day-by-day walk of life and faith in Jesus Christ. Here are some examples of backsliders in Scripture. It doesn't long when reading the Bible to find an example of a retrogressive believer. Israel's propensity to backslide is well documented, as are those of many Old Testament individuals: take as an example Lot, Gen 19:1-22; Saul, 1 Sam 15:11, 26-28; Amon, 2 Ki 21:22, 23; Rehoboam, 2 Chron. 12:1, 2; Asa, 2 Chron. 16:7-9; Joash, 2 Chron. 24:24; Amaziah, 2 Chron. 25:27; etc. Sadly the Scripture tells us that "when Solomon was old, his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God... And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice." (1 Kings 11:4, 9; compare. vv. 4-40; Neh. 13:26). David was a man of faith, a "man after God's own heart." However from the life of David we learn how yielding to one sin, lust, can quickly lead to adultery, and even murder (2 Sam. 11:1-5, 13; 12:1-13). The Scriptures are clear that consequences of our actions can remain, even though an offense has been forgiven. David suffered tremendous grief at the death of the son born of an ungodly union. His great anguish of heart, came to one who experienced the Presence of God but abandoned His ways, his turmoil is expressed in Psalms 51:1-19 and 61:10-12. The destruction in the lives of his sons brought further anguish to his life. Yet the Lord was full of grace and mercy on his behalf. The spiritual condition of an individual within a church may reflect on the leadership, (should the leadership be corrupt) "like priest, like people" however this is not always the case. Even some disciples of Jesus (perfect teacher that he was) "went back and walked no more with Him" (Matthew 26:56; John 6:66) Some slipped away but returned – including Thomas, who had his moment of unbelief (John 20:27-29); and Peter, who denied the Lord in the face of persecution (Mat 26:70-74; Mk 14:72). "Satan hath desired to sift you as wheat," Jesus told Peter; "but I have prayed for you, that you do not fail." (Luke 22:31, 32). The spiritual status of the early church believers was of great concern to the Apostle Paul. His burden was that they remain in union with Christ (1 Corin. 5:1-13). At times, entire churches are mentioned as having backslidden: The Corinthian church (2 Corin. 12:20, 21); the Galatian church (Gal. 1:6; 3:1; 4:9-11; 5:6, 70); the churches of Asia (1 Tim. 5:15; 2 Tim. 1:15; Rev. 2:4, 14, 15, 20; 3:2, 3, 15-18). The New Testament mentions many backsliders by name: Hymenaeus and Alexander (1 Tim. 1:19, 20); Phygellus and Hermogenes (2 Tim. 1:15); Demas (2 Tim. 4:10). Yet, even of those who followed, some, "having loved this present world," "turned aside" and became retrogressive (1 Tim. 1:18-20; 5:15; 2 Tim. 1:15; 2:17, 18; 4:10-16). There are conditional Aspects of Christianity. These are found in the "if" clauses. "If you continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel..." Colossians 1:23 Life is filled with choices. Daily, we make decisions that may draw us nearer to God, or cause us to drift away. We also have an enemy, whose purpose it is to render us sterile for the work of the kingdom. His desire is to discredit and disprove both the work and the Word of God, by loading down, with worldy cares, (Luke 22:31) and wearing down (Daniel 12:7) the saints. Satan seeks to rob us of our spiritual strength, by tempting us to exert our efforts elsewhere. If he cannot convince us to commit an obviously outrageous offense, he will crowd our lives with other interests: "the cares of this world." Satan is the master of diversion. Scripture speaks as much of backsliding as it does of getting saved – and this should not come as a surprise. Once an individual begins walking with Christ, his problems do not cease. Quite the opposite is true. Beware of a "gospel" that teaches "come to Jesus and all your troubles will vanish." I came to Jesus and He gave me bigger and better problems. As an unbeliever, we were just where Satan wanted us. We posed no threat to his kingdom. as a result he basically left us alone. After all we were doing his will anyway. In order to deceive and mislead the elect, however, Satan will work overtime. Obedience to Christ is not optional for the sincere believer. Obedience has never been an elective in the course of Christian living (Mat. 19:17; Jn. 8:31). While our salvation is completely unmerited, many promises of God are conditional upon our obedience to His Word: "If you..." (Deut. 7:12; 11:13, 22, 27; 28:1, 2, 9, 13; 30:10; 1 Sam. 1:19, 20; 12:14, 15; 2 Chron. 7:17, 19; 1 Kings 9:4; Jer. 22:4, 5; 1 Corin. 10:12; 11:28, 31; 2 Corin. 13:5; Col. 1:23). When we wander outside of the boundaries of His holy will, we tread on thin ice. We find ourselves in danger – not only spiritually, but emotionally, psychologically, even physically. In a sense, there is also a loss of balance and stability. We lose our equilibrium. Backsliding is also a "drifting away." But it is always the result of personal choice: 2 Chron. 24:20; 15:2-4; Isa. 30:9, 15; 2 Tim. 2:12. "The Lord is with you while you are with Him..." The truth is He will "never leave you or forsake you." However to experience His fellowship and presence we must abide in Him. Note several causes of backsliding. "Have you not brought this on yourselves by forsaking the Lord? Your wickedness will punish you; your backsliding will rebuke you..." Jeremiah 2:17, 19 the causes of backsliding are many and varied. Some are hidden; others are obvious. But the usual tendency is to emphasize the externals: However the externals are always an out working of the internals. Jesus condemned the Pharisees not for what they did, but for what they failed to do: "...you neglect the weightier matters of the law," such as mercy, He said. There are sins of commission, and omission. The verse that says "be sure your sins will find you out" speaks of sins of omission. Jesus told his disciples that they would be judged not just according to their relationship with him, but also by their neglect of "the least of these" (Mat 25:35-45). Not everything "lawful" is "expedient" or beneficial, Paul writes. Reading romance novels, for example, might not in itself cause one to go out and sin. (It could). But neglecting the Word of God certainly will. The "lust of the flesh," the "deceitfulness of riches," "the love of the world" – all these can set a trap for us and bring about a fall. You can be certain the pride of life, and hatred of a brother, will suck the spiritual life out of you. There are always consequences of backsliding. One tends to take others with them when they backslide. I have noticed disgruntled believers tend to find other disgruntled believer to take with them when they leave a church. Rebels seem to have "rebel radar" when it comes to finding others who are also out of fellowship with the Lord. "Consider then and realize how evil and bitter it is for you when you forsake the Lord..." Jeremiah 2:17, 19 Backsliding often carries with it, its own punishment (Prov. 14:14; Jer. 2:17, 19; Rom. 13:4). And its effects often extend far beyond the experience of the offender alone. Causing a brother to stumble is a serious offense. We will be held accountable not only for our own relationship with God, but for our conduct before men as well. Our life is "an open book," Paul writes, "known and read of all men." People who do not hear what we say cannot help but observe the way we live. "Your actions speak so loudly," the saying goes, "that I can't hear a word you're saying." Therefore, we are to "love not in word, but in deed..." (1 Jn 3:18). That means our life and our lip must tell the same story. Anyone who has experienced the Presence of God will never find lasting satisfaction outside of His will. The Scriptures tell us "the joy of the Lord is our strength." I have noticed that the first thing that happens to a retrogressive believer is his joy bucket springs a leak. This accounts for the inner frustration and bitterness of soul accompanying the abandonment of one's soul to the unruly state of life without fellowship with God. Recovery is always a process, for backsliding wounds the soul. "I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely..." Hosea 14:4-7 the road back to fellowship with God is never long. As the father of the prodigal "ran to meet him," God always meets us at least half-way. Deciding to return, however, has often proven most difficult. While falling asleep is a gradual process, waking from a physical sleep comes suddenly – usually by an alarm, or a shaking. Recovering from a spiritually backslidden condition is no different. Depending on the degree of our retrogressive state, God often must use extreme measures to bring us back. He strives with the backslidden (2 Kings 17:15), and lovingly will use anything, sickness, misery, grief, failure, death of a loved one, a serious accident, financial loss, etc. to get us to return to Him. (Psalm 107) Scripture compares the backslidden condition to a disease (Isa. 1:5, 6), for which God has a cure (Jer. 3:22; Hos. 14:4-7). As with most natural diseases, certain symptoms are typical of the condition: a spiritual lethargy, a calloused attitude toward sin, worldliness, a spiritual love grown cold, lack of prayer and decreased hunger for the Word, accompied by a general feeling of apathy toward lost souls. A dominant characteristic of the backslidden condition is stubbornness (2 Kings 17:14, 40). Retrogression is essentially a heart condition. Though its manifestations may be primarily external, the root of the problem lies much deeper. And, even as many health problems can be caused by neglect as well as abuse, the Christian who neglects the Word of God can hardly expect to grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." Scripture cites several safeguards or preventative measures against backsliding. What is our responsibility toward the backslidden? "But if you do not listen, I will weep in secret because of your pride; my eyes will weep bitterly, overflowing with tears..." Jeremiah 13:17 although the spiritual welfare of God's flock is primarily the responsibility of the shepherds, or pastors, every believer must have a burden for the backslidden. We are our "brother's keeper" (Gen. 4:9) and should "bear one another's burdens" (Gal. 6:2). Besides exhorting one another daily (Heb. 10:25), we ought to pray regularly for our brother (Psa. 80:3; 85:4; Lam. 5:21). "Behold, Satan hath desired to have you ... but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. And when thou art converted (turned back), strengthen thy brethren," Jesus told Peter (Luke 22:31-32). However, prayer cannot replace loving confrontation, the two works together. "The truth shall set you free," Jesus said. "If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness..." (Gal. 6:1) "If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister" (1 Tim. 4:6) – even if the words are rejected (Ezek. 3:19, 21; Hosea 8:1). A reward awaits those who retrieve a fallen soul: "...he which convereth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins" (James 5:20). In attempting to bring back a backslidden brother, however, we must make sure we ourselves are strong enough in the faith to stand secure: "...lest you also be tempted" (Gal. 6:1). Those who have forsaken the Lord tend to bring others down (Proverbs 28:10; Matthew 18:6; 1 Corin. 15:33). Therefore, we are specifically exhorted to avoid those who have completely hardened their hearts through sin (Prov 28:14; Isaiah 26:3, 4; 1 Corin. 5:9-11; Col. 1:21-23; Jude 22 23) – although our attitude toward them should remain one of mercy: "Count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother" (2 Thes. 3:6, 15). The Call to Return; includes the Promise of Forgiveness. "Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings..." Jeremiah 3:22 God promises to receive those who return with repentant hearts (Deut. 4:29; 1 Chron.28:9; 2 Chron. 7:14; 15:2; Jer. 31:20; 36:3). His patience toward those who "keep on backsliding," however, is limited (Jer. 15:6; Prov. 24:16; Hosea 11:7). Their backsliding is "perpetual... they refuse to return" (Jer. 8:5-7). Some are reprobate: (Isa. 1:5-6; Jer 6:30; 15:1; Ezek. 22:18; Heb. 10:26-29, 38, 39; 1 Corin. 5:10-13; Heb. 6:6; Revel. 2:4, 5, 21-23; 3:2, 3). His desire is always for their return (2 Chron. 30:6; Isa. 31:6; Jer. 3:4-22; Hosea 6:1; 14:4-7). Must believers repent? The primary difference between the righteous and the wicked is that "the just man," though he may "fall seven times," gets up again (Prov. 24:16). He doesn't remain in his sin. As you may remember Moses missteped more than once. David also had more than one misstep. Peter certainly has his time of failure as he attempted to follow the Lord. What does God require of the backslider who desires to return? "...only acknowledge thine iniquity" (Jer. 3:13, 14; 12:13), and change your ways (Job 22:23; Psa. 51:3-4; Isa. 1:16-20). Complete restoration is possible. God is merciful and ever ready to forgive (Neh. 9:17; Isa. 54:6; Jer. 3:12-14; Ezek. 34:23; Micah 7:18; 1 John 1:9). He is always the God of a second, third, and fourth chance. He may withdraw His Presence, to stir our hearts to return; but he never abandons His own. He still calls the backslidden his "children" (Jer. 3:14), his people" (Psa. 106:40; Ezek. 37:23b). The initiative, however, is ours: "Return unto Me, and I will return unto you" (Mal. 3:7; Jer. 3:12-14). "Break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord..." (Hosea 10:12, cp. 2 Chron. 30:9 and Jer. 4:1). We can be certain that "He who began a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:6). The Biblical word "backsliding" is generally found in the older English versions such as the King James Version. In this article I have put this old English word in more modern terminology. Retrogression is typical of the believer who gets out of fellowship with the Lord and perpetuates carnality which is characterized by a general attitude of indifference and sometimes even hostility towards Bible truth. This retrogressive believer progressively loses his spiritual motivation and momentum and is no longer advancing in the Christian life. Hence, he is retrogressing and has become a backslidden believer. We usually think of backsliding as some type of immoral degeneracy. However, we must also remember that moral degeneracy, a self-righteous arrogant attitude and activity in life, renders the Christian just as backslidden or retrogressive as the believer who is living under some phase of immorality. The retrogressive Christian is characterized by continual unchecked negative volition toward Bible teaching. Don’t be fooled, though, because God is gracious and willing to forgive that He is also going to let us slide without consequences. There are always consequences for backsliding. God hates sin but loves us. He wants to help us drive sin out of our lives. To do so, He is sometimes stern with us. We must realize that when we retrogress into sin, we are making a choice. We are choosing the things of this world over what God wants for us. (2 Timothy 4:10) When this happens, He has to withdraw His rewards and protection from that area of our lives. ((Isaiah 59:2) He will at times take strong measures inorder to correct our unwillingness to displeases Him. (Psalms 78:56). Retrogression also gives ground to the Devil. It allows him to influence us in that area of disobedience. Backsliding involves spiritual warfare, and during a period of retrogression, we have, at least for a time, handed the victory to the enemy. To conquer backsliding, we must remember these things: Whatever God is asking you to do, He doesn’t ask you to do it on your own. He only wants your willingness to let Him do it for you. When faced with temptation, we must choose to ask for God’s intervention. We must repeat the former point over and over again with each new temptation. When we fail, we ask forgiveness and surrender the problem again. We must thank God for the work He does for us. Backsliding is part of our nature but God has a way for us to conquer it. We must be willing to do His bidding, we must ask for strength and we must ask forgiveness when we fail. Most of all, we must thank Him for His love and the effort He puts into us. He is trying to make us like Christ and that’s something to be thankful for. The answer, repent and turn back to the Lord, He is waiting with open arms. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Christ's Covenant with His Church

“Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man. For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer. Now if he were on earth he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law. They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, ‘See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.’ But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. For if that first covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion to look for a second. For he finds fault with them when he says ‘Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will establish a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt. For they did not continue in my covenant, and so I showed no concern for them, declares the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying ‘Know the Lord,’ for they shall all know me from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more” (Hebrews 8:1-13). The eight chapters of Hebrews speak directly to the issue of the new covenant-the new arrangement-which is better than the old in every way. It all ties in beautifully with the things that have been said about Christ’s priesthood. In fact, since Jesus is now our bridge to the Father, He has become our guarantee of a better covenant (Hebrews 7:22). This assures us that whatever the agreement includes, our Savior is the One who makes it possible and the one who gives it validity. In this study, we want to understand more of what the new covenant is all about. One thing is certain: It’s so superior to the old that there is scarcely a comparison. First, Christ’s Priesthood: Better than the former. One of the reasons is the book of Hebrews addresses a question that continues to attract our attention, it frequently addresses and presents the answer to man kinds’ most basic problem” his sin. In ancient days, priests represented sinners to God by building a bridge, spiritually speaking, from man on earth to God in heaven. The problem with this method? The effect was never final. No matter how sincere or good the priest might have been, he could only carry blood to the altar to wash away the sins of the moment. In contrast, the great message of Hebrews is that in Christ we have as firm, permanent, and timeless solution to our most basic need (Hebrews 10:11-12). Second, Christ’s Covenant: Better than the old (Hebrews 8:1-13). Chapter 8:1-2 forms a transition between the explanations of Christ’s priesthood and His covenant. The beginning of chapter 8 reads “Now the main point in what has been said is this.” The writer then makes three summarizing comments: First, we have a high Priest: Second, He has sat down (with His sacrifice accomplished, He “has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty): third, He represents us in the throne room of God. The writer describes this place of Christ’s ministry as the true tabernacle. Let’s look together at the reasons it is better and the ways in which it was new. Note the reasons the arrangement is better (vv. 3-9). It is reality, not a representation (vv. 3-5). For years under Moses, the priests operated within a shadowy outline of types, concepts, and representations (Hebrews 10:1); but when Christ entered the heavens on our behalf, He stepped into reality. It is faultless, not faulty (vv. 6-9). The old covenant was not sinful, but less than the best. Jesus brought in a brand-new arrangement that was sinless and offered the promise of righteousness. Here are some ways the arrangement is better (vv. 10-12). Four are offered, and they respond to man’s most anguished feelings regarding God. 1. It offers internal motivation and power instead of external lists (v. 10a). This answers the feeling, “I can’t measure up.” 2. It is based on as close relationship instead of one that is fearful or distant (v. 10b). This answers the feeling. “I am afraid; God scares me, and He keeps me at a distance from Himself.” 3. It provides confidence and assurance instead of insecurity and uncertainty (v.11). This answers the feeling, “I never know for certain just where I stand with the Lord.” 4. It emphasizes forgiveness and mercy instead of failure and wrong (v. 12). This answers the feeling, “I am guilty as charged and can’t solve the sin problem.” In verse 13, our attention is drawn to three points which characterized the old arrangement at the time this letter was written: it was obsolete, growing old, and ready to disappear. In the first century, the readers understood the writer to be saying that the old covenant was about to vanish and they had to accept that reality. Third, Christ’s life: Better than the flesh. Two contrasting applications can be drawn from this study. My old flesh stains my soul with permanent dark shadows of sin and death; Law condemns. Christ’s new life takes my darkness and makes it the basis of my being able to grasp grace; grace rescues. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and church meetings.

Promises for the Battle

What, then, has God promised us that ensures that we will not only gain freedom in Christ but also walk in that freedom day by day? Here are six promises God gives to those who follow Him. Promise one: Blessings. First, God promises His blessings. Two specific ones described in Scriptures are note worthy. First, He gives us "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). In addition to our salvation and a place in heaven, those spiritual blessings include our freedom in Christ and the fruit of the Spirit that come as we abide in Him and serve Him. Second, there is the special blessing that comes by meditating on the Word of God. The one who learns about Him and His plan-the one who has "his delight...in the law of the Lord, and in [that] law...meditates day and night"-is blessed (see Psalm 1:1-3, especially verse 2). But these blessings do not come without cost. For instance, we can be certain that when God opens the windows of heaven to bless, Satan will open the gates of hell to blast (Revelation 2:9-10). The lost man's greatest terror is God, but God is the Christian's greatest joy. The best measure of our spiritual life is not its ecstasies, but our obedience. When we obey, we invite Satan's wrath, but God's blessings will always overcome it. Caroline looked at me from the chair she was sitting in and said, "I have a major problem. Every time I start walking the Christian life the gates of hell open up, and the enemy himself fires his darts at me, Ken, what do I do? "Caroline, you're experiencing the Christian life," I said. "If the enemy can keep you defeated, if the enemy can keep you a prisoner of war, he will just leave you there. If you are not doing damage to his kingdom, your testimony is not going to get anybody saved. If you're not raising your children in such a way that they will see Christ and have a desire to walk with Him, then the Evil One will back off. He could care less about you. But when you start taking steps with the Lord as you just described, you invite the blasts of the enemy. It might seem difficult at first, but if you keep walking, you will find that Jesus Christ will walk with you. He will teach you how to fight the good fight. You will see fruit and blessing in your life." Caroline began to understand that this life is battle; this life is warfare. I encouraged her and said, "Many Christan's go from the cradle to the grave and never comprehend. Heaven is over yonder; the battle is here today. The Lord has told us to fight the good fight because we do it in His strength. I assure you, He will be with you every step of the way." I am happy to report today that Caroline is in the battle. She is walking with the Lord, her life is being used of God, and she is doing tremendous damage to Satan's kingdom. Promise two: the ability to do His work. God's second promise is to empower us for His work. Paul expressed this truth twice in his letter to the Philippians: "God...works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure" and "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (2:13; 4:13). Ultimately, what is the goal of freedom in our lives? To do God's work, especially in soul winning. God will strengthen us for each work. In the arena of winning people to faith in Christ, the average person doesn't care about how much you know until they've seen how much you care. Part of our walking in freedom is our obedience to the Lord in serving others by showing such love and care. A man in his mid-thirties, Leroy gave me the following testimony. "I work at a tire manufacturing plant and there are several fellows there who are Christians. They were kind to me and nice even when I occasionally pulled a trick on them. They would just laugh and become part of the joke. They kept inviting me to church. One morning I showed up. They invited me to sit with them, and then one of them invited me to come home with his family after church for lunch. They just simply cared about me. I continued to go to church because of the love, care, and concern of the people. It was not the preaching, it was not the music. It was the love that was displayed to me that drew me to Jesus Christ. One day under conviction of sin I trusted Christ as my Savior." Every church should have this testimony. We have the tendency to think that it is the music, or the preaching, or the fellowship dinners that draw people. But it is the love of Christians that draws people. The writer John said we would be known by our love. The question to ask yourself is "Are you known by your love?" Promise three: Wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him," the Scripture declares (James 1:5). Our walk in freedom is a wisdom walk. In times of trial or testing, we need spiritual wisdom. We will love and support and give our lives to what we treasure most. In effect, we should not give our passion and commitment to anything that we cannot take to heaven with us. Once a doctor told me that he had just sold the family home. I knew that Elvin was about to retire; I also knew that his wife and he had three grandchildren who probably would love to visit. So I asked, "How come you sold such a lovely home?" "Who needs a 5,000-square-foot home when we're going to be traveling a great deal abroad? he answered. I said, "Well, that's nice. You and your wife can do some traveling." "Yes," Elvin told me, and then he dropped his bomb. "Myra and I are committed to spending six months out of each year on the mission field. As a retiring physician, the mission agency will still let me do surgery. If they have no one for me to operate on, my hands work real well, and they can work a shovel and I can lay cement blocks and whatever else needs to be done. We are committed for the rest of our lives to serving the Lord Jesus Christ." I was amazed but also pleased to hear that in an age when retirement is often the very goal that people strive for, work for, and save for, here was a husband-and-wife team who wanted to give those golden years to the Lord Jesus Christ to advance His kingdom. Oh, may people of this kind of character increase! Promise four: Peace. "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you" (John 14:27). During the time of storm, God's peace, "which surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4:7), will sustain us on the inside as the waves beat on the outside. We must bother the Lord about everything or in time everything will bother us. That is exactly what the enemy wants. An agitated and uneasy saint (without peace) is targeted for a fall. Both meditation on who He is (consulting the Scriptures) and prayer give such peace. True, prayer can work. Perhaps that is why we are so reluctant to exercise it. But not only is prayer work, it is the greatest work. It gives us peace, and it moves the hand of God on our behalf. This leads to God's fifth promise. Promise five: Answers to prayer. God will hear and answer prayers of those who seek His help (though not always as we expect or even prefer). Jesus' commands in Matthew 7:7-9 are instructive. The three verbs that concern our prayer life are ask, seek, and knock. All are in a verb form indicating action that is continuing. In other words, "keep asking, seeking, and knocking." In verse 8, the Lord ensures the certainty of answers to our prayers. We are assured that He hears our prayers and answers them in His loving, fatherly way according to His perfect will. And it is our faith and trust in God that leads us to continue asking. Just as it would be an insult to knock once at someones door and leave, so with the lord in prayer. As the apostle James explained in his classic statement on prayer, a major reason you "do not have [is] because you do not ask" (4:2). Let's also remember that whether we pray for others or ourselves, it must be with the right motives, we will not receive because God is not going to help us fulfill selfish desires. A prayer less saint is prey for the enemy. Prayer usually determines whether our problems or God's promises have our life. The devil has temporary, limited control of our world system, which is why it is in such a mess. This alone should prompt us to pray. We ought to be so familiar with prayer that the moment the enemy shows up, our response is to call upon the Lord for help (Psalm 50:15; 91:15). when the enemy shows up, resist him and cry out to God. There is no better prescription for dealing with temptation. Promise six: Help against temptation. "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). These words offer encouragement and assurance that it is not necessary that we fall as the Israelites did in the earlier verses of this chapter (6-10). This is a call for us to learn from the Old Testament examples. From these we learn God is with us and He will strengthen us and help us stand. The temptation spoken of in verse 13 has two important aspects to it (1) any temptation to sin comes from the enemy, never from God, and (2) it's a testing that God allows for the purpose of our refinement and purification. Through the Lord's strength we can bear the temptation and pass the test. He is not the originator of the temptation, but He is in control of the temptation. He is always available to help us through the temptation. He not only limits the temptation, but in His sovereignty supplies the means of escape. Thus, we are assured that in His perfect timing the Lord will remove the trial. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.