Pretty Lights Music of Helloween at Descend Amphitheater

Preaching to Wicked Sinners
Nashville, TN Oct 31,2015

Praise the Lord we were able to preach at the new Ascend Amphitheater for the Pretty Lights Show on Halloween 2015.

Pretty Lights Show

We first preached this at the Old Nashville Auditorium about four years ago.  This time we had my sons Daniel and Seth, Jimmy Miller, the Heiman family, the Kowalski family, Tim the Baptist and his son.  Praise the Lord what a crew!

Outreach Photos

The weather was rainy initially but as the daylight dimmed the rain stopped!   The crowds were slow but steady for the first hour.  But, as the evening progressed we had thousands stuck in a cattle security gate which was taking lots of time for us to preach Bible truths to them, it was fantastic!

We had intended to preach for a few hours, but ended up staying until about 8:30 pm almost four hours!  The crowds of people would not let up. Praise Jesus!

Imagine having people flowing past you hundreds at a time.  They mocked, blasphemed, and hated the preaching and you.  Then 50 feet from you they fell off an invisible cliff, you hear the screams, you see the flames and smoke shoot up. Then the next group of sinners come by and do the very same thing!  Then once in a while someone steps off the broad path to destruction and asks good questions, gets prayers, and few even repent!
This is what we are called to do saints, REACH OUT!  The time is short, the night draws near, when our King will come back on very dark clouds, with lightning announcing His arrival to destroy the inhabitants of the earth!  Do you believe this???

Memorial to Nick Kowalski, Faithful Soldier of Christ Gone Home

The Gentleness and Severity of the Christian Witness

IMG_8101

 

I was invited by a group of godly young men from EKU who wanted to sit down and speak with me about my faith.  I met with them after three – 5 hour days of preaching on their campus.  We spoke for about two hours and one of the questions that came up was the harsh words and severity of our preaching.  This article which I have now moved from my old website gives some insight to what the Bible says our hearts should be about evangelism and how to do it.

The question has often been asked about our methods of biblical evangelism when we rebuke and reprove hard sinners is, “Shouldn’t we be gentle in our dealings with the lost?  The question begged then becomes, “How can we be gentle and rebuke as the Scriptures obviously require us to do?”  The truth is knowable if we seek it. Someone is wrong in this moral dilemma of gentleness and hardness of communication with the sinner.

2 Tim 4:2-5
Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

2 Tim 2:24-26
And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

This question arises within the same letter from Paul to Timothy. Here is the answer in simplest terms.  In regards to rebuking and gentleness of our Christian witness, it is a both/and not an either or depending on the condition of the soil of the heart of the listener/s.

James 4:5-7
5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? 6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says:“God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” 7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Prov 3:33-35
The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, But He blesses the home of the just. Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. 35 The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools

1 Pet 5:4-6
4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud,  But gives grace to the humble.” Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,

So, the Holy Spirit who dwells in us gives the law/rebukes/warnings of hell/etc to the proud sinners, but His grace is given to those who humble themselves during or after our witness of Christ to them. If you read the writeup for my Grandmother’s funeral preach video you would find out a lot of information about how long I have been witnessing to this group of people called my earthly family. One2one, small groups, tracts, emails, etc I have been witnessing to my family over sixteen years, My first witness to them was Aug 3, 1996 when I was born again I called everyone in my family and asked them if they knew of or had been saved by Jesus Christ.

Now I want to parallel my experiences of my witness to my family to the witnesses we give to strangers to see if there is any correlation between the two.  In trying to reach my family most of them were haughty and resistant from the beginning of my testimonies to them.    Only my ‘saved’ sister and my maternal grandmother were interested at all in the things I desired to say of Jesus and His great salvation offered to the world.  So, over the years as I learned that when speaking of the love of Jesus demonstrated at the cross for them, they neglected and even mocked it. To this, I would tell them they were headed to hell.  This of course, is very offensive to the carnal person still living in sin.  I learned about ten years ago that I needed to show them the law which is written upon the conscience and that it would bear witness as I did.  Well, glory hallelujah this did make some inroads with some of my family but most still hardened their hearts.  But, the law is not all we need to use as our witness.  We need to use:  1.  Creation which points to a Creator  2.  The Judgments of God which points out the horrors of dying in a sinful state.  3.  Sin which everyone is guilty of to point to the need for forgiveness.  4.  His Righteousness which means He won’t neglect what He has threatened and or promised against and for all of humanity.  5.  His love which was demonstrated on the cross in suffering and dying for all sinners and sin.  6.  His Word which is an eternal testimony of Himself to a lost and dying world.  7.  His Spirit which indwells every believer as we walk according to His directions in our communications with the lost.

If you think about it, our earthly family are just family members that are closer than the rest of our family which is the human race.  Why do we make special provision, excuses, or justifications for those that we know better or have more worldly experiences with, than the rest of our family?  I prove that point with one Scripture which I love to cite especially when people are racist in their thinking.

Acts 17:26-31
And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, 27 so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; 28 for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ 29 Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. 30 Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”

In summary, we should not treat our close family members differently than the rest of our human family in our testimony of Jesus.  We should be consistent across the board not being preferential in the way we witness to them.  If we are, we need to repent of this arbitrary thinking and behavior.  One danger we have is to lose sight of the fact that Jesus will condemn them no matter what we say or do, if they do not repent, seek forgiveness, and become born again of the Holy Spirit.  Let us comfort no sinner in sin, whether they be a stranger on the street, or the closest brother, cousin, mother or father we have many fond carnal memories with….

1 Pet 1:13-19
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; 15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all yourconduct, 16 because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

 

We should consider both God’s goodness and severity as well!

Rom 11:22-23
Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. 23 And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.

Friends, let us make sure we represent Him properly to a lost world which is in rebellion to Him and His Holy authority.  I had a friend of mine recently say,

A sinner asked, “Why should we fear God?” I said, “Because He is HORRIFYINGLY HOLY! He burns people! Alive! Forever!” ”

 

New Years

 

13 Comments

Filed under Teaching

13 responses to “The Gentleness and Severity of the Christian Witness

  1. Jason Harris

    Amen brother. The law is given to the proud, and grace and mercy to the humble.

    Like

  2. “Let us comfort no sinner in sin, whether they be a stranger on the street, or the closest brother, cousin, mother or father we have many fond carnal memories with….” Very well said, brother. I have recently had this experience in my immediate family as well.

    Like

  3. This is a great word, thank you Brother for sharing this, may God richly bless you, all glory to God!

    Like

  4. Amy Ribitzki

    Amen, the Lord is convicting me to push forward this year speaking to my family more. I don’t think rebuke ever comes across gentle it hurts, it breaks down the hardness of the heart.

    Like

  5. Praise Jesus dear brother John! Wisdom is certainly from above and you speak it so very well! AMEN

    Like

EKU Student Requests Proof for Open Air!

Comment: 

Hi John. My name is Brady XXXXX. I am a student atEKU where you are preaching as I type this 
actually. I didn't have time to stay and ask but Idid want to ask you a question. Do you really
think that the way you are approaching evangelism is the best way? Is the way you are sharing your faith the model that Jesus gives us in scripture?
Here is the answer I offered this seeker from EKU

The Foolishness of Preaching

By Bruce Evan Murch

Used with kind permission

For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. -1Corinthians 1:21

In all the world’s wisdom, it still didn’t know God…so he sent PREACHERS!

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? – Romans 10:14

What was God thinking? At first blush it doesn’t seem like a terribly effective method of getting the Word to people. At least not in this day and time. “Preaching” has changed a lot over the years, especially over the last 100 years. I wonder if we really know what the Scriptural model for preaching is any more. I am truly convinced that if preachers followed the Biblical model for preaching, it would be far more effective.

To start let me make a distinction between preaching and witnessing. Witnessing is how you interact with sinners on a daily basis. Jesus had many commands on how to show kindness and love to those who don’t know Him. He ate with them and showed compassion on them. He lived an example. Preaching is a specific function that God uses to warn sinners of His impending judgment and it’s results, and to offer the gift of salvation through repentance and belief in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.

Let me also make a distinction between preaching and teaching. Preaching is primarily what is done for the benefit of the lost whom we are attempting to reach with the Gospel. Teaching is primarily the Word as it is given to those who are saved and are being edified and matured by it. While those may not be hard-and-fast definitions, they are generally accurate and will suffice for the sake of my points on preaching. I am discussing the way that God’s Word is preached to the lost.

The most popular method of preaching is the type popularized by Billy Graham. Those of us who are street preachers call it the “God Loves You and Has a Wonderful Plan For Your Life” preaching. Sinners are told that “Jesus loves you. He accepts you just the way you are. Invite him into your heart right now. That’s all you have to do. Believe and profess His name right now and you will be born again.” This of course is followed by “With every head bowed and every eye closed…Come down to the front right now. Your friends will wait. Don’t worry, the buses will not leave”. Hundreds, sometimes thousands of people stream to the front of the auditorium as “Just As I Am” plays over the sound system.

What becomes of these thousands and thousands of “converts” over the years? You might think that after all these thousands coming forward, we would have had a major revival in the U.S. by now. What gives? The answer may surprise you.

According to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, only about 10% of those making a profession of faith at a Billy Graham crusade are regularly attending church members one year later. That’s right. Just ten percent. What’s the problem? Is it the messenger, or is it the message? Or did the Holy Spirit goof up somehow?

The Bible has a pretty basic model for preaching. It can be summed up in two words, REPENT and BELIEVE. Now you might think that this smacks of old-timey fire and brimstone preaching that is outdated and, well, FOOLISH. Guess again.

Matt 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Matt 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Mark 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

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

Luke 13:3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Luke 13:5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

Acts 26:20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and [then] to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

But aren’t we supposed to preach the Love of Christ? Aren’t we supposed to be “non-judgmental”? Haven’t we been taught that the Holy Spirit “woos” sinners to Himself in love? Well, not according to Scripture:

John 16:8 And when he (the Holy Spirit) is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

But, you might say, doesn’t God love everyone? That’s why He sent Jesus, to redeem the whole world. We all know that God hates the sin but loves the sinner, right? Not really.

Actually, the Word clearly says that God HATES some people. That’s right. HATES. And furthermore it is acceptable to hate the enemies of God (not YOUR enemies). This is not an emotional hatred, but a strenuous opposition. I know this sounds radical according to modern Christian teaching, but when in doubt, let’s go back to the Holy Word.

Psalm 7:11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

Psalm 5:5,6 The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity. Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.

Proverbs 6:16-17 These six [things] doth the LORD hate: yea, seven [are] an abomination unto him A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

Psalm 139:21, 22 Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.

So we find that God loved “mankind” (His creation) so much that He wanted to redeem us, but He hates individual sinners. Preaching should reflect this. In other words, preaching should be the warning of the wicked from his way; letting him know that he is a disgusting and filthy sinner in the eyes of God. But that in spite of that, God is giving him the opportunity to REPENT and turn to God if he believes in His death, burial and resurrection-His redemptive work on the cross. But be it known that He requires holiness (be ye holy even as I am holy). He is a “jealous God that will have no other Gods before Him”. And if you continue to “willfully sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there is NO MORE sacrifice for sins, just a fearful looking forward to of the fiery indignation that God has reserved for his enemies” (Hebrews 10:26).

Instead of this, people are being told that they need only “believe and confess the name of Jesus”; that Jesus loves you so much He made it that simple. Folks converted under this preaching are looking for what God will do for them next, not what God REQUIRES of them. They want Jesus to be their best friend and lover, they don’t want to be His sold-out slave. It truly is a fundamental difference. In truth, He wants us to be ALL of that.

Most of the sermons in the Bible are in the Book of Acts. NOT ONCE is the love of Jesus mentioned in any of those sermons. But repentance is mentioned in virtually all of them.

What about “name-calling?” Is it right for preachers to get on the corner and call people “wicked sinners, fornicators, sodomites, adulterers”, etc.? The apostles did. “And God added to the church such as should be saved.”

For those of you who think that the Old Testament verses I quoted are not relevant to New Testament preaching, we’ll clear that up now.

2Timothy 3:16 All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

The Scripture Paul is referring to of course is the Old Testament. It was the only Scripture they had.

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

Here, Paul goes into specifics about HOW one should preach: REPROVE, REBUKE and EXHORT. Most of us only understand in a general sense what these words mean. Let’s take a look at the word “reprove” in the Greek. It is an extremely strong word.

Strongs: #1651 elegcho

1) to convict, refute, confute

1a) generally with a suggestion of shame of the person convicted

1b) by conviction to bring to the light, to expose

2) to find fault with, correct

2a) by word

2a1) to reprehend severely, chide, admonish, reprove

2a2) to call to account, show one his fault, demand an explanation

2b) by deed

2b1) to chasten, to punish

Paul is basically saying that when you preach, “find fault with them, reprehend them severely, warn (admonish) them, chide them, show them their faults, bring shame on them”. Obviously this is done along with the message that if the sinner DOES repent and turn to God he will be saved and experience the “times of refreshing”. But there are no instructions about the “love of Jesus”. He is also saying that ALL SCRIPTURE is profitable for reproof as well.

Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].

Many modern translations say “expose” rather than reprove, but the Greek word is the same, with the same strong meaning. We should not only avoid fellowship with these works, but should warn, bring shame on, reprehend severely, chide, call them to account and show them their faults”.

Isaiah 58:1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.

But doesn’t that kind of preaching just bring ridicule and arguments? Sometimes. But it also gets people’s attention. Nobody thinks of himself or herself as evil. Very few think of themselves as God-haters. They will almost always stop to defend themselves against this kind of preaching. You have a captive audience for a time anyway. Is it wrong to argue with the wicked? Nah.

Prov. 28:4 They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law CONTEND with them.

Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort [you] that ye should earnestly CONTEND for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

Many preachers want to be “nicer than God” when they preach. I feel no such responsibility. Preaching in the open air is really the only way to reach those that will not walk into church to hear the gospel. And in 99 churches out of 100, they wouldn’t hear what they needed to hear in church anyway. The Apostles are recorded in Acts as ARGUING with people as a method of preaching.

Acts 17:17 Therefore disputed he (Paul) in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

Acts 19:8 And he (Paul) went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

Acts 19:9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

In the first verse above, we see that Paul not only preached to the Jews this way in the synagogue, but also “in the marketplace”. This is the chief concourse, the place where the largest possible audience could be found. They used the same method of preaching in the synagogues, in the marketplace and in the schools.

I have been accused of “name-calling” when I preach. I will sometimes call people fornicators, sodomites, etc. This is not name-calling in the sense of being hateful or derogatory. It is an effective and Biblical way of making the sinner understand that they are being identified by the sins they commit. I preach on the street. I’m called a street preacher. If I were boastful, some would call me a braggart or an egomaniac. We are identified by our attributes. When I preach at the sodomite marches, I refer to those I’m preaching to as sodomites. That’s what the Bible calls them I have no problem with that.

Here is a list of some of the names that people are called in the New Testament. Some of these were spoken of religious leaders, some were spoken of ordinary folks.

* “DOGS” Matt. 7:6 Jesus said, “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs” (see also 2 Peter 2:20-22, Rev. 22:15)

* “SWINE” Matt. 7:6 “…neither cast your pearls before swine”

* “VIPERS” Matt. 3:7 “O generation of vipers…” (see also Matt. 12:34, 23:33 and Luke 3:7)

* “HYPOCRITES” Matt.6:2 “…as the hypocrites in the synagogues…” (see also Matt.6:5, 16, 15:7, 16:3, 22:18, 23:13-15, 29, 24:51, Mark 7:6, Luke 11:44, 12:56)

* “CHILDREN OF THE DEVIL” John 8:44 “You are of your father the devil…” (see also Acts 13:10)

* “PERVERSE” Mat. 17:17″…O faithless and perverse generation” (see also Luke 9:41, Acts 20:30, Phil. 2:15, 1Tim. 6:5)

* “REPROBATE” 2Cor 13:5-7 “…except ye be reprobates” (see also Rom 1:28, 2Tim. 3:8, Tit. 1:16)

* “HEATHEN” Mat. 6:7 “…as the heathen do” (see also Mat.18:17, Act 4:25, 2Cor. 11:26, Gal. 1:16, 2:9, 3:8)

* “FOOLS” Mat. 23:17 “…Ye fools and blind” (see also Luke 12:20, 1Cor.15:36, Mat.23:19, Luke 11:40, 24:25, Eph. 5:15)

* “WICKED AND ADULTEROUS” Mat. 16:4 “A wicked and adulterous generation” (see also Mat. 12:45, 13:49, 18:32, 21:41, 25:26, Luke 19:22, 1Cor. 5:13, 2Thes. 3:2, 2Pet. 2:7, 3:17)

* “O YE OF LITTLE FAITH” (Christ’s favorite name for His apostles!) Mat.6:30, 8:26, 14:31, etc., etc., etc.

* “STIFFNECKED AND UNCIRCUMCISED” Acts7:53 “…stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart”

* “LIARS, EVIL BEASTS, SLOW BELLIES” Titus 1:12 (see also 2Peter 2:12, Jude 10)

* “ADULTERERS AND ADULTERESSES” Hebrews 13:4 “…whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” James 4:4 “Ye adulterers and adulteresses…” (see also Rom 7:3, Mat. 12:39, 16:4, Mark 8:38)

* “WHITED WALL” Acts 23:3 Paul to the high priest .

Again, the purpose for this type of approach is for the sinner’s benefit. He must be told that God requires him to REPENT and believe in Jesus Christ’s redemptive work on the cross to be saved and escape the fires of hell. In the verses in the Gospels there is a persistent theme: If you do not REPENT, you will perish. It doesn’t say you will perish if you don’t believe (although you will obviously), the emphasis is on the repentance.

Now I realize that all this goes contrary to what most of us have been taught about preaching. We all know how embarrassing it is to hear a street preacher out on the corner telling folks to “Turn or Burn”, “Get Right or Get Left”. But is that embarrassment because the method is wrong, or is it a problem with our own pride in our own hearts?

I have laid out a case for it from Scripture. But let’s also look at the witness of history. As I mentioned earlier, the Apostles NEVER preached about the “love of Jesus” or any such thing when they preached. Let’s look at the Reformers and the Revivalists.

Martin Luther preached vehemently against the notion that God “hates the sin but loves the sinner”. Of the Revivalists of the Great Awakenings, Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, and later Charles Finney all denounced the notion as well. They all taught that you cannot separate the sin from the sinner. God doesn’t send the sin to hell, but the sinner to heaven. God “hates the hands that shed innocent blood.” Does He just hate that part of the sinner’s anatomy? Of course not.

“So what?”, you might say. They could have gotten it wrong. After all, they’re just a bunch of dead white guys. Maybe. Except for one thing. The Holy Spirit visited their preaching with REVIVAL! Massive, widespread, nation-changing, intercontinental REVIVAL. The fact is that there has NEVER been that kind of vindication from the Holy Spirit for the “God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life” preaching.

Jonathan Edwards’ sermons were all very much as I have described preaching as I believe it should be. He preached many of his Revival sermons in New England in 1738-1741. He is most famous for his sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God. Here is an excerpt from the sermon that the Holy Spirit visited with revival:

“The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked: his wrath towards you burns like fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else, but to be cast into the fire; he is of purer eyes than to bear to have you in his sight; you are ten thousand times more abominable in his eyes, than the most hateful venomous serpent is in ours. You have offended him infinitely more than ever a stubborn rebel did his prince; and yet it is nothing but his hand that holds you from falling into the fire every moment.

It is to be ascribed to nothing else, that you did not go to hell the last night; that you were suffered to awake again in this world, after you closed your eyes to sleep. And there is no other reason to be given, why you have not dropped into hell since you arose in the morning, but that God’s hand has held you up. There is no other reason to be given why you have not gone to hell, since you have sat here in the house of God, provoking his pure eyes by your sinful wicked manner of attending his solemn worship. Yea, there is nothing else that is to be given as a reason why you do not this very moment drop down into hell. O sinner! Consider the fearful danger you are in!”

Yikes! Doesn’t sound like the “love of Christ” to me! How could you get revival from THIS? But the effect of that preaching was astonishing, and literally changed the spiritual makeup of America and ushered in sweeping reforms in law and culture.

This is a photo of me preaching in front of the Liberty Bell on July 4th. The crowd was less than enthusiastic. People didn’t want to hear about God’s Holy Word and Law on their vacation.

This sort of preaching is opposed by Christians more vehemently than anyone else. I have had Christians routinely stop to rebuke and chastise me for being “judgmental” and “un-Christlike” and “unloving.”

They listen to God being blasphemed by some of the onlookers. Instead of defending God against the heathen, they defend the heathen against me! The world (and the police) view it as “hate speech”. In America, you cannot be assured that you have the freedom to preach the unvarnished Word of God any more. But we must.

Open-air preaching is not fun. Like the U.S. Army ads used to say, “It’s not a job, it’s an adventure!” I am routinely cursed and screamed at; I have had sodomites expose themselves at me and spit in my face; I’ve been assaulted. I hear God blasphemed. Some respond with interest and some with just anger. This is a ministry of seed-planting. But the measure of the success of this preaching isn’t necessarily found on the day that it is preached.

They hear the Word from me. They have been warned. They have been offered the knowledge of His saving grace. In the quiet of the evening when they lie in bed and ponder the thoughts of the day, they will consider that what they heard about themselves and God may be true.

I don’t see a large harvest. But that’s not my responsibility. My responsibility is to show the TRUE love of God. It is not love to preach to sinners that they need only believe and come to Jesus (“for even the devils believe, and tremble”). The LOVING thing is to tell them the truth about how God actually sees them, and to show them what it takes for that to change; to show them what God expects in return for His eternal salvation. Many say that salvation is a “free gift” from God. It is free in the sense that there is nothing WE can do to obtain it; we only get it by God’s grace, His unmerited favor. But it costs us EVERYTHING. We are bought with a price and belong to Him to do His bidding and not our own. THIS IS THE LOVE OF CHRIST.

Unfortunately, there is so little church discipline and proper teaching about holiness and sin, that sin runs amok in the camp! And preachers who have hidden sins cannot effectively preach against it, because their heart condemns them as they preach. So they stay with the “grace, mercy and compassion” message instead of the “holiness, justice and judgment” message. They are both aspects of God’s nature, but those who continue to practice sin and tolerate it within the church concentrate on one to the exclusion of the other. I believe that is why the American Christian Church is in the condition it’s in.

In American churches, we are not called upon to live holy lives, we are offered “counseling” for our “problems”. We are not called to account for our sins. We offer cliches for our sin, such as “Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven” or “Be patient, God isn’t finished with me yet”. This is Bumper Sticker Christianity. We are NOT told that if we fail to conform to God’s Holy Word and Law that we will be denied communion, or even the fellowship of other believers. This is what Paul demanded of the Corinthians, and of us as well. In failing to do so, we have let sin run rampant within the church, making her totally ineffective in calling the world to repentance.

This won’t change until we repent of our own sin, demand the same within the church and the church leadership and begin to preach boldly in the marketplace the true message of salvation.

Let me say with the Psalmist:

I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest. I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. Psalm 40:9-10

Here is another great note on this important subject! http://officialstreetpreachers.com/History/History%20of%20Street%20Preaching.pdf

Tenn Tech Has Some Ears to Hear!

DSCF0221

 

….However, not all students believe his motives are bad. Patrick Kent, a graduate student at Tech studying chemical engineering, said he’s been able to talk to McGlone before, and that McGlone doesn’t really seem to be doing anything wrong.
“I really like that he is actually trying to tell people about the gospel of Christ,” said Kent. “The way he is doing it is actually an effective way of getting the message out. I think sometimes people just hear what they want to hear as they walk away from him. If nothing else, it at least makes people think about Christ.”
Kent also said that McGlone’s presence on campus makes it easier for Christians to generate conversation about Christ.
McGlone also brought a new preacher with him to speak on campus. Ross Jackson, founder of Revival Mission Ministries, was with McGlone for this visit to Tech. Jackson was primarily the preacher who preached in the circle on Centennial Plaza, while McGlone spoke to students on the outside of the circle.

Student Paper Article

Did Jesus Correct Moses? by Mark Bullen Chps 12-21

everlastinggospel12

The Everlasting Gospel
Re 14:6  And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 
 
Just how many Gospels are there?  Some teach that there are different Gospels for different people and for different dispensations.  The careful student of Scripture without an ax to grind will find there is but one Gospel for all time, and for all people.  Being that the Bible is a progressive revelation, man’s ability to understand the mechanics of the Gospel has expanded with added revelation; but the mechanics have never changed.  Because man fell, God devised means so that his banished would not have to be eternally expelled from Him (2Sa 14:14).  When man fell, God had a choice:  He could execute the full penalty of the Law and destroy man; or He could graciously devise a plan to satisfy the Law, and provide a path of pardon and reconciliation.  God chose to provide a just and righteous program whereby man could be offered salvation — a narrow way that leads to eternal life – reconciled to God’s favor — restored to God’s family. 
 
This good news is the Gospel!  The one and only Gospel.  Nobody has been saved by any other Gospel.  This good news was first preached to Adam and Eve in Gen. 3:15 and demonstrated in Gen. 3:21.  The seed of the woman was promised to bruise the serpent’s head, and in order to cover the nakedness brought on by sin, God killed an innocent animal, and made coats for them.  This was a type of the atonement, a word which simply means “to cover”.
We have seen already that Cain and Abel understood the need for blood sacrifices in order to maintain a relationship with God and cover transgressions.   From the very beginning those who sought God did so with a blood sacrifice to atone (in type) for their sins.   God pardoning repentant sinners on the basis of Christ’s atonement has always been the Gospel, and always will be.
Did Adam and Eve or Cain and Abel understand how Jesus would die on the cross and rise again, etc. etc.?  Of course they didn’t; but they could still have faith in God’s gracious offer of pardon.  They could still repent and seek God with hope and assurance of complete future reconciliation.  This very point is what Paul is communicating in Hebrews 11 — that salvation by grace through faith, and not due to our own perfect record, has been the only way; and there has been no other Gospel.  Why do you think every illustration of salvation used by the writers of the New Testament is from Old Testament saints?  When the Apostle Paul wanted to illustrate saving faith to NT believers, he did so with people who were both under the Law of Moses and before the Law of Moses (Heb. 11).  When He wanted to illustrate “faith imputed for righteousness” to NT believers he wrote about Abraham’s faith being imputed to him for righteousness (before the Law), and David’s rejoicing in the same principle (under the Law) in Romans chapter four.   Did you know the New Testament declares that THE Gospel was preached to Abraham?
Ga 3:8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 
 
Did you know the Gospel was preached to the Children of Israel in the wilderness?  And that it was essentially the same Gospel preached to first century saints?
Heb 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. 
Did you know the gospel was preached to the people who died in the flood of Noah’s day?  These two passages are speaking of the same people.
1 Pet. 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 
19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; 
20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 
1Pet. 4:6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. 
The Spirit of Christ was preaching through Noah (2 Pet. 2:5) as it had through Enoch (Jude 14).  These men, as with all the OT saints, were preaching the same message that Paul preached.
Ac 26:20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they shouldrepent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. 
Why should they repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance?  So they could be eligible for God’s gracious pardon based on Christ’s atonement.  This is the same message Isaiah preached:
Isa 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. See also (Isaiah 1:16-20) 
Every time you see or hear of God’s gracious offer of pardon and reconciliation to the repentant sinner you are hearing the everlasting glad tidings or good news (Gospel) that we are not hopelessly condemned; but have hope in a merciful God’s amazing plan of redemption.  This message is offered to all mankind.
Col 1:23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; 
 
Adam Clarke To every creature which is under heaven]  A Hebraism for the whole human race, and particularly referring to the two grand divisions of mankind, the Jews and Gentiles; to both of these the Gospel had been preached, and to each, salvation by Christ had been equally offered.  And as none had been excluded from the offers of mercy, and Jesus Christ had tasted death for every man, and the Jews and Gentiles, in their great corporate capacity, had all been invited to believe the Gospel; therefore, the apostle concludes that the Gospel was preached to every creature under heaven, as being offered without restrictions or limitations to these two grand divisions of mankind, including the whole human race.
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 
Rom 10:15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written (Isa 52:7), How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! 
16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report (of the Gospel)
17 So then faith cometh by hearing (the Gospel), and hearing by the word of God. 
18 But I say, Have they not heard (the Gospel)? Yes verily, their sound (the Gospel) went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (Ps 19:4) 
 
These two passages of Scripture prove that Paul considered the Gospel as being the message of God’s salvation to all men from the beginning to the end.  Just because you’ve figured out another aspect of this amazing Gospel; or just because you’ve lived in a time where more of the program was manifest; the great plan of God to offer salvation to mankind has not changed.
You say, well the Jews had to obey the ceremonies, etc.  Yes, because they lived during that part of God’s great unfolding plan; but the plan didn’t change.  They had to obey God to find grace in His sight just as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham …….and you!  They had a different test for their faith just as you have a unique race of faith to run (Heb.12); but were still saved by grace through faith.  Those who try to say Paul preached a different Gospel than Peter and Jesus are confused.   Paul and Peter both preached the Gospel of Christ to Jews first, and also to Gentiles.
Rom. 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek
1Pet. 1:25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you
 
The “you” that Peter is writing to are both Jews and Gentiles to whom Paul had also written.  They preached the same salvation through the longsuffering (grace) of God.
2Pet. 3:15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you
 
The everlasting Gospel is the good news that God isn’t just sending us all hopelessly to Hell; but has offered us a way to find mercy and pardon.  The way is simple on our end — “repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.”  On God’s end, the way is complex and multi-faceted.  Jesus made it all legal through His atoning death, and makes it applicable to us through His present Priesthood.  Everyone who has repented and put faith in God’s offered salvation has put faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Those who have not repented and gratefully made use of God’s provision have not obeyed the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
2Th 1:8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:  
 
1Pe 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 
 
Matt 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 
 
There is a strait gate to enter; and there is a narrow way to walk.  You must walk all the way to the end to find life.  Most won’t want or appreciate it — BUT IT IS WONDERFUL NEWS!  There is a way!  It is possible to be reconciled to God and saved from sin!  Don’t believe the false gospels which offer unrealistic unconditional security without any striving or sacrifice of your own.  Don’t complain that the true way is narrow; but thank God you are not hopelessly headed  for Hell, and that there is a narrow path that leads to eternal life!  Take it! 
 
 
13
Did Jesus correct or change Moses’ Law in the Sermon on the Mount?
Matt 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 
18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 
19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 
20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. 
The word “fulfill” in Matt 5:17 is the same as in Romans 8:4 — “That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”  When you fulfill a type and shadow it loses relevance — Jesus fulfilled the role of the sacrificial Lamb — the natural lamb for sacrifice is now unnecessary.  However, when you fulfill a moral precept it remains relevant through eternity.  “Thou shalt not steal” will never lose its relevance, but must be fulfilled continually.
“Least” means disregarded.  If you call God’s commandment “least” and disregard it, so shall it happen to you on Judgment Day.  You cast God’s commandments behind your back, and you will be cast out of God’s kingdom.  Vs. 20 proves this to be the proper interpretation of Jesus’ words.
 
Look up “Kingdom of Heaven” in the New Testament Scriptures, and you will find it is synonymous with the “Kingdom of God” and refers to the realm of God’s rule from heaven.  You are either voluntarily in this realm under his Lordship or you are in the realm of Satan’s kingdom.   The Kingdom of Christ is the same as the kingdom of heaven and of God; and if you disregard God’s moral laws given through Moses, you will not enter Christ’s kingdom.  “Kingdom of heaven” is used in Matthew, but elsewhere it is “Kingdom of God”.  Compare Luke’s Gospel where “kingdom of God” is used instead of “kingdom of heaven” in parallel passages.
The point you cannot miss is this:  If you disregard one of the least commandments of God’s Law, and teach men so, you will be disregarded by God, and not enter His kingdom.  This proves that Jesus is only correcting men’s view of God’s Law; but not correcting God’s Law.  He compares the “righteousness” of the scribes and Pharisees with the true righteousness of the Law of God, which exceeded the interpretations and practices common among the Jews.
After vss. 17-20, Jesus proceeds to show the differences between what the Jews were living; and what the Law actually meant.  He is showing them what it means to exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.  Let’s look at the times Jesus compared the Jews teachings with His own interpretation of God’s Laws.
Vss. 21-26: Thou shalt not kill – The 6th commandment
Mt 5:21 ¶ Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:  
22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.  
23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 
24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 
25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 
26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. 
 
This means “thou shalt not murder or shed innocent blood.”  God commanded killing, but only by those who had proper jurisdiction and only upon principles of justice.  If the Jews thought that their interpersonal relationships were alright as long as they didn’t kill, they were greatly mistaken. Jesus gives them the spirit of God’s commandments, which includes “murder” in the heart.
When Jesus said, “By them of old time” He wasn’t seeking to correct Moses.   Even if Jesus said something that the law had also said, His correction has to do with the context and usage of that statement, which came from the interpreters, not from Moses. He was dealing with the common misconceptions about the Law.  Remember how God through Malachi rebuked them for being “partial” in the Law and causing many to stumble 400 years previous to this?
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary: “Nearly all who would translate “to the ancients” take the speaker of the words quoted to be Moses in the law; “the ancients” to be the people to whom Moses gave the law; and the intention of our Lord here to be to contrast His own teaching, more or less, with that of Moses; either as opposed to it–as some go the length of affirming–or at least as modifying, enlarging, elevating it. But who can reasonably imagine such a thing, just after the most solemn and emphatic proclamation of the perpetuity of the law, and the honor and glory in which it was to be held under the new economy? To us it seems as plain as possible that our Lord’s one object is to contrast the traditional perversions of the law with the true sense of it as expounded by Himself.” 
When Jesus says, “…but I say”, He is saying, “But The Word of God says…”.  He is preaching the spirit or “original intent” of the Law — if you don’t have the right spirit or intent, then you are not fulfilling the righteousness of the law.  If you just rest in the “letter” and ignore the spirit or intent of any law, you are missing the point. Obviously anyone who obeys the spirit of the Law will also be obeying the letter of that law.  The spirit of the law says, “If you don’t have a right relationship with your fellow man, don’t even come and offer a gift to God until you have made it right”.  God will not have a relationship with you, nor accept your gift until you have a right relationship with your brother.  Keep your heart and life right, and then God will accept your gift.
Vs. 27-28 Thou shalt not commit adultery — the Seventh Commandment
Matt 5:27 ¶ Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 
28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. 
29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.  
30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 
31  It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: 
32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. 
Not just the outward act, but the attitude and spirit are prohibited.  Living by the spirit and righteousness of the Law prohibits adultery in the heart, and the abuse of Deut. 24:1-4.  What God commanded Moses in Deut. 24 was to protect the purity of the home and marriage, not destroy it.  What God commanded Moses was the very best thing to do under the circumstances.  Under the same circumstances it is still the best thing to do.
Unjust divorce and evil desires both violate the spirit of the seventh commandment.  The exception clause that Jesus gives in Matt. 5:32 and 19:9 is a clarification of Moses’ exception given for “some uncleanness” (Deut. 24:1-4) which means a “matter of nakedness”. The word “uncleanness” is the Hebrew term `Ervah (#6172 – Strong’s); and literally means, “nakedness”, or “something shameful or repulsive”.  `Ervah is translated 51 times as “nakedness” in the Old Covenant, once as “shame”, and once as “uncleanness”.
Jesus, opposing the Jew’s abuse in making divorce lawful for “every cause”, brings back the original intent of the Law — divorce and remarriage only when the marriage covenant has been duly violated by some type of immorality.  Jesus did not say, “from now on it will be this way”; but is telling them the crime committed when they abuse what God and Moses intended.  The Jews were abusing Deut. 24:1-4 in a terrible way according to Josephus, their own historian:
Clarke: That the Jewish priesthood was exceedingly corrupt in the time of the apostle, and that they were so long before, is fully evident from the sacred writings and from Josephus.  The high-priesthood was a matter of commerce, and was bought and sold like other commodities.  Of this Josephus gives many instances. …They were guilty of adultery by unjust divorces, Mt 19:9.  Their polygamy was scandalous: even their rabbins, when they came to any place, would exclaim, Who will be my wife for a day?
They assumed that as long as they went through the proper paper-work of marriage and divorce it was all lawful.
Remember what Malachi said?
Malachi 2:16  — God hates men putting away their wives unjustly so they can marry another one.
Malachi 3:1-6 — Messiah will preach against adulterers & “I am the Lord, I change not” 
Malachi 4:4 “Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments.” 
Do you believe God is consistent?
Have you ever asked yourself the reason God inserted, “I am the Lord, I change not”?  It relates back to the statement, “And I will come near to you to judgment” at the beginning of the same verse.  The Jews were acting as though God was far off, and not really involved — listen to Malachi 2:17,
Mal. 2:17 Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment? 
 
God, through Malachi, is rebuking them for questioning whether God really means what He says and whether He is truly a God of judgment.  His answer to them is that He will come near to them in judgment in the person of the Messiah and they will find that He means what He has said, andHAS NOT CHANGED! 
 
Jesus was to preach against adulterers — not just what the Jews thought was adultery, but what the true spirit of the Law called adultery.  Jesus’ teaching was not contrary to the Law. The God, who never changes, commanded them to keep it in the same message where he tells of the Messiah preaching against adulterers!  What the Law taught could not have been called adultery by the Messiah — the Word in the flesh.  The Jews never accused Jesus of contradicting Moses’ Law; and Jesus expressly declared that He was not seeking to destroy Moses’ Law, but fulfill or confirm it.
Ps. 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.  
8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 
9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.  
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.  
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. 
Jesus uses the word “porneia”, as the only legitimate reason for allowing divorce.  This includes immorality of many sorts: Moral perversion, incest, homosexuality, prostitution, adultery, bestiality, etc.   He seems to say that the only “matter of nakedness” that God accepts as a sufficient ground for divorce is moral or sexual impurity which would fall under the classification of fornication and therefore be a breach of the marriage covenant.   God definitely would not accept “every cause” like the Jews settled for as their interpretation of the “matter of nakedness”.   Thus Jesus is giving the original intent of God’s Law, and vindicating Moses.   In our day we use the same Greek word to speak of matters of nakedness when we speak of “pornography” — from the Greek “porneia”.
 
The early Christians did not believe that Jesus was correcting Moses; but early Gnostic heretics did believe and teach this.  Listen to Tertullian as he argues this point against Marcion (a heretic).  Tertullian (160-230 AD), a Gentile Christian, who is faulted with being radically strict in the area of marriage, said this of the words of Christ when contending with Marcion (a heretic who taught the creator was an evil God, and not the Father of Jesus):
“But, observe, if this Christ be yours when he teaches contrary to Moses and the Creator, on the same principle must He be mine if I can show that His teaching is not contrary to them.  I maintain, then, that there was a condition in the prohibition which he now made of divorce; the case supposed being, that a man put away his wife for the express purpose of marrying another.  His words are: “Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery; and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband, also committeth adultery,” — “put away,” that is, for the reason wherefore a woman ought not to be dismissed, that another wife may be obtained.  For he who marries a woman who is unlawfully put away is as much of an adulterer as the man who marries one who is undivorced.  Permanent is the marriage which is not rightly dissolved; to marry, therefore, whilst matrimony is undissolved, is to commit adultery.  Since, therefore, His prohibition of divorce was a conditional one, He did not prohibit absolutely; and what He did not absolutely forbid, that He permitted on some occasions, when there is an absence of the cause why He gave the prohibition.  In very deed His teaching is not contrary to Moses, whose precept he partially defends, I will not say confirms.  If, however, you deny that divorce is in any way permitted by Christ, how is it that you on your side destroy marriage, not uniting man and woman, nor admitting to the sacrament of baptism and of the eucharist those who have been united in marriage anywhere else, unless they should agree together to repudiate the fruit of their marriage, and so the very Creator Himself? Well, then, what is a husband to do in your sect, if his wife commit adultery? Shall he keep her? But your own apostle, you know, does not permit “the members of Christ to be joined to a harlot.” Divorce, therefore, when justly deserved, has even in Christ a defender.  So that Moses for the future must be considered as being confirmed by Him, since he allows divorce in the same sense as Christ does, if any unchastity should occur in the wife.  For in the Gospel of Matthew he says, “Whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery.” …The Creator, however, except on account of adultery, does not put asunder what He Himself joined together….He prohibits divorce when He will have the marriage inviolable; he permits divorce when the marriage is spotted with unfaithfulness.” Tertullian 3.404,405
Neither Jesus nor the apostles taught anything about marriage that was contrary to Moses’ Law.  When noble Bereans searched the scripture, they didn’t find Jesus a heretic, but found him consistent with God’s Holy Inspired Word.
See our book “What The Bible Really Teaches On Divorce And Remarriage” for a fuller discussion of this important issue. 
Vss. 33-37 – This is a clarification of the 3rd commandment — the reverent use of God’s name.
Matt. 5:33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: 
34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: 
35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. 
36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. 
37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. 
 
At this point some people really think they can prove that Jesus is correcting and changing the commandments of God in the Old Covenant; but it can be shown that this is again, not the case; but that Jesus is clarifying the Law.
Remember Malachi?   
Malachi 3:1 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. 2 But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: 3 And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness. 4 Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years.  5 And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.  6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. 
Jesus came to preach against false swearers — the Sermon on the Mount is vindicating the Moral Law — preaching the Spirit and righteousness of the Law against the abuse of the letter of the Law.  Jesus never taught against lawful swearing; but against man’s innovations.
Mt.23:16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! 
17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? 
18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.  
19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? 
20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. 
21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. 
22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.  
Malachi says Jesus would preach against those who swore contrary to the Law — false swearers or unlawful swearers.  Did Jesus then come to preach against lawful swearers or unlawful swearers?  It seems clear to me that Jesus is saying, “Ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself (Don’t take God’s name in vain by perjuring yourself), but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths; but I say unto you beyond this to not use any vain or man-made oaths, such as swearing by heaven; for it is God’s throne: nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.  Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst make one hair white or black…etc.”   Or more simply, “Ye have heard by them of old time not to perjure yourself; but I say beyond that don’t use any common oaths such as swearing by heaven…etc.”
He declares that simply performing the promise of man-made oaths was not enough, but that we should not use them at all — “Swear not at all with man-made oaths”.  This is consistent with Malachi and the immutability of God.  The interpretation that says Jesus corrected the Law makes Malachi a liar, and destroys God’s immutability.  Jesus says, “let your communication be…” — He is speaking about their common conversations, and not about the special and sacred use of lawful swearing as used in the New Testament inspired Scriptures several times as we will demonstrate.  Malachi’s prophecy demands that Jesus was not rebuking lawful oaths, but unlawful ones.
Do you understand that if Jesus is speaking against lawful swearing commanded by God, that He is also calling God or Himself evil?  Jesus said,But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.” If Jesus is including lawful swearing as commanded by God, which is more than “Yea, yea” and “Nay, nay”, then He is calling Himself evil, because He inspired the OT Law, and that is where lawful swearing came from!
The Jews were notorious for their swearing in common conversation with many different oaths which they saw as more or less binding.  It was a system of “lawful lying” depending upon what oath they used.  We can see this in Peter’s life when he became angry.
Example of Jewish Swearing:  
Matthew 26:72 And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.
Matthew 26:74 Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.
Obviously Peter at this time had slipped back into his old ways, and wasn’t calling GOD to witness, but some other common Jewish oath — the kind Jesus is forbidding.  What oath do you suppose Peter used to convince them that he was telling the truth and didn’t know Jesus?
What the Law commanded can be seen in the following verses:
Ex 22:11 Then shall an oath of the LORD be between them both, that he hath not put his hand unto his neighbour’s goods; and the owner of it shall accept thereof, and he shall not make it good. 
Le 19:12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.  
De 6:13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. 
De 10:20 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. 
De 23:23 That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform; even a freewill offering, according as thou hast vowed unto the LORD thy God, which thou hast promised with thy mouth. 
Albert Barnes on Matt 5:33-37:  “An oath is a solemn affirmation, or declaration, made with an appeal to God for the truth of what is affirmed, and imprecating his vengeance, and renouncing his favour, if what is affirmed is false. A false oath is called perjury; or, as in this place, forswearing.
It appears, however, from this passage, as well as from the ancient writings of the Jewish Rabbins, that while they professedly adhered to the law, they had introduced a number of oaths in common conversation, and oaths which they by no means considered as binding. For example, they would swear by the temple, by the head, by heaven, by the earth. So long as they kept from swearing by the name Jehovah, and so long as they observed the oaths publicly taken, they seemed to consider all others as allowable, and allowedly broken. This is the abuse which Christ wished to correct. It was the practice of swearing in common conversation, and especially swearing by created things. To do this, he said that they were mistaken in their views of the sacredness of such oaths. They were very closely connected with God; and to trifle with them was a species of trifling with God. Heaven is his throne; the earth his footstool; Jerusalem his peculiar abode; the head was made by him, and was so much under his control, that we could not make one hair white or black. To swear by these things, therefore, was to treat irreverently objects created by God; and could not be without guilt
Our Saviour here evidently had no reference to judicial oaths, or oaths taken in a court of justice. It was merely the foolish and wicked habit of swearing in private conversation; of swearing on every occasion, and by everything, that he condemned. This he does condemn in a most unqualified manner. He himself, however, did not refuse to take an oath in a court of law, Mt 26:63,64. So Paul often called God to witness his sincerity, which is all that is meant by an oath. See Ro 1:9; 9:1; Ga 1:20; Heb 6:16. Oaths were, moreover, prescribed in the law of Moses, and Christ did not come to repeal those laws. See Ex 22:11; Le 5:1; Nu 5:19 De 29:12,14.”
William Burkitt:  “Here our Lord prescribes a proper mean and remedy for shunning the occasion and danger of rash swearing; and that is, by using and accustoming ourselves in conversation to a true simplicity and constant plainness of speech; either affirming or denying, according to the nature of the thing; letting oaths alone till we are called to them upon great occasions, for ending strife between man and man.”
Heb 3:11 So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)  
Heb 3:18 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? 
Heb 6:13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, 
Heb 6:16 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. 
 
Adam  Clarke  Men verily swear by the greater]  “One who has greater authority; who can take cognizance of the obligation, and punish the breach of it.    
An oath for confirmation]  “This observation teaches us,” says Dr. Macknight, “that both promissory oaths concerning things lawful and in our power, and oaths for the confirmation of things doubtful, when required by proper authority, and taken religiously, are allowable under the Gospel.”
 
John Wesley on Vs. 16.  “Men generally swear by him who is infinitely greater than themselves, and an oath for confirmation, to confirm what is promised or asserted, usually puts an end to all contradiction. This shows that an oath taken in a religious manner is lawful even under the gospel: otherwise the apostle would never have mentioned it with so much honour, as a proper means to confirm the truth.”
Jas 5:12 But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. 
 
James qualifies his prohibition to mean man-made oaths, and does not include God ordained swearing.  He was a Jew and surely would have named that which was commanded under the law had he meant to include it. 
John Wesley V. 12.  ‘Swear not-However provoked. The Jews were notoriously guilty of common swearing, though not so much by God himself as by some of his creatures.  The apostle here particularly forbids these oaths, as well as all swearing in common conversation. It is very observable, how solemnly the apostle introduces this command:
n above all things, swear not-As if he had said, Whatever you forget, do not forget this.  This abundantly demonstrates the horrible iniquity of the crime.  But he does not forbid the taking a solemn oath before a magistrate.
n Let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay-Use no higher asseverations in common discourse; and let your word stand firm.  Whatever ye say, take care to make it good.”
JFB Com: But above all– “as swearing is utterly alien to the Christian meek “endurance” just recommended.    swear not–through impatience, to which trials may tempt you (Jas 5:10,11). In contrast to this stands the proper use of the tongue, Jas 5:13. James here refers to Mt 5:34, &c.
n let your yea be yea “Do not use oaths in your everyday conversation, but let a simple affirmative or denial be deemed enough to establish your word.”
God Swearing:  You can be sure that Jesus isn’t condemning that which God not only commanded, but exemplified.
Luke 1:73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 
Acts 2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 
Heb 6:17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: 
Jesus was made priest by God swearing an oath:
Heb 7:20 And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: 
Heb 7:21 (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:) 
Heb 7:28 For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore. 
 
Jesus was made High Priest of the New Covenant by an oath — the very oath of God himself, and therefore you can be sure Jesus was not teaching that this type of an oath was evil.
Jesus answered under oath when on trial
Mt 26:63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. 64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: 
Burkitt: “Yea, farther observe, That as Christ answered directly and plainly at his trial, so he did not refuse to answer upon oath; I adjure thee by the living God, says the judge of the court, that thou tell us whether thou art the Christ; that is, I require thee to answer this question upon oath; for adjuring a person, or requiring him to answer upon oath, was the manner of swearing among the Jews. Now to this adjuration our Saviour answered plainly and directly, I am,
Hence learn, That swearing before a magistrate, upon a just and great occasion, is lawful; if Christ in the fifth of St. Matthew forbid all oaths, then here his practice was contrary to his own doctrine; but it is evident that Christ answered the magistrate upon oath, and so may we.”
Clarke: I adjure thee by the living God]  “I put thee to thy oath.  To this solemn adjuration Christ immediately replies, because he is now called on, in the name of God, to bear another testimony to the truth.”
A. T. Robertson: “So Caiaphas put Jesus on oath in order to make him incriminate himself, a thing unlawful in Jewish jurisprudence. He had failed to secure any accusation against Jesus that would stand at all. But Jesus did not refuse to answer under solemn oath, clearly showing that he was not thinking of oaths in courts of justice when he prohibited profanity.”
Paul’s Swearing:  You can be sure that Paul understood Jesus better than you or anyone today.   If Paul was in the practice of swearing according to the Law of God, then we can know this is not what Jesus or James was condemning.  Here are nine examples of Paul’s swearing.
1. Gal. 1:20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. 
Barnes: Verse 20.  Behold, before God, I lie not. “This is an oath, or a solemn appeal to God. See Note, Ro 9:1. The design of this oath here is to prevent all suspicion of falsehood.
2. Rom. 9:1  I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,  
Clarke:  Verse 1.  I say the truth in Christ, I lie not]  “This is one of the most solemn oaths any man can possibly take.  He appeals to Christ as the searcher of hearts that he tells the truth; asserts that his conscience was free from all guile in this matter, and that the Holy Ghost bore him testimony that what he said was true. Hence we find that the testimony of a man’s own conscience, and the testimony of the Holy Ghost, are two distinct things, and that the apostle had both at the same time.”
3. 2 Cor. 1:23 Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.  
Barnes: The phrase, “I call God for a record upon my soul,” is, in the Greek, “I call God for a witness against my soul.” It is a solemn oath, or appeal to God; and implies, that if he did not in that case declare the truth, he desired that God would be a witness against him, and would punish him accordingly. The reason why he made this solemn appeal to God, was the importance of his vindicating his own character before the church, from the charges which had been brought against him.”
Wesley:  V. 23.  I call God for a record upon my soul-“Was not St. Paul now speaking by the Spirit?  And can a more solemn oath be conceived?  Who then can imagine that Christ ever designed to forbid all swearing?”
Burkitt:  “Here observe the apostle’s manner of speech, it is by way of adjuration:  I call God to record upon my soul, &c. The words are an assertory and execratory oath, wherein God is called to witness the truth of what he said.
Learn hence, That it is lawful for Christians under the gospel to swear upon a necessary and great occasion.”
4. Php 1:8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. 
Barnes  Verse 8.  For God is my record. “My witness; I can solemnly appeal to him.”
5. Romans 1:9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; 
Burkitt:  “Observe, 2. That because the apostle was yet a stranger to them, had never seen them, and it was impossible for them to know the outgoings of his heart toward them, he solemnly appeals to the heart-searching God, calls him to witness how affectionately he loved them, and how frequently he prayed for them; God is my witness.  The words have the force, if not the form of an oath, and teach us, that it is unquestionably lawful in important affairs to swear, to appeal to God, and call him to be a witness of what we either say or do.  We find St. Paul did it often, and our Saviour himself did not refuse to answer upon oath, when solemnly adjured.
Observe, 3. How the apostle swears by God, not by the creatures, which is the swearing condemned by our Saviour and by St. James, Mt 5:1-48 and Jas 5:1-20.”
6. 1 Thess. 2:5   For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: 
Barnes: God is witness. “This is a solemn appeal to God for the truth of what he had said. He refers not only to their own observation, but he calls God himself to witness his sincerity. God knew the truth in the case. There could have been no imposing on him; and the appeal, therefore, is to one who was intimately acquainted with the truth. Learn hence,
(1.) that it is right, on important occasions, to appeal to God for the truth of what we say.
(2.) We should always so live that we can properly make such an appeal to him.”
Robertson:  “Paul feels so strongly his innocence of this charge that he calls God as witness as in 2Co 1:23; Ro 9:1; Php 1:8, a solemn oath for his own veracity.”
7. 2 Cor. 11:10 As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia. 
Clarke:  Verse 10.   “As the truth of Christ is in me]  estin alhyeia cristou en emoi.  The truth of Christ is in me.  That is: I speak as becomes a Christian man, and as influenced by the Gospel of Christ.  It is a solemn form of asseveration, if not to be considered in the sense of an oath.”
Barnes:  Verse 10.  As the truth of Christ is in me. “That is, I solemnly declare this as in the presence of Christ. As I am a Christian man; as I feel bound to declare the truth; and as I must answer to Christ. It is a solemn form of asseveration, equal to an oath. See Barnes for Ro 9:1. Comp. 1Ti 2:7.”
8. 2 Cor. 11:31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. 
Clarke:  Verse 31.   The God and Father of our Lord]  “Here is a very solemn asseveration; an appeal to the ever blessed God for the truth of what he asserts.  It is something similar to his asseveration or oath in ver. 10 of this chapter; {2Co 11:10} see also Ro 9:5, and Ga 1:20.  And from these and several other places we learn that the apostle thought it right thus to confirm his assertions on these particular occasions.  But here is nothing to countenance profane swearing, or taking the name of God in vain, as many do in exclamations, when surprised, or on hearing something unexpected, &c.; and as others do who, conscious of their own falsity, endeavour to gain credit by appeals to God for the truth of what they say.  St. Paul’s appeal to God is in the same spirit as his most earnest prayer.  This solemn appeal the apostle makes in reference to what he mentions in the following verses.  This was a fact not yet generally known.”
Barnes:   Verse 31.  The God and Father, etc. “Paul was accustomed to make solemn appeals to God for the truth of what he said, especially when it was likely to be called in question. See 2Co 11:10. Comp. Ro 9:1.
…This passage proves that an appeal to God on great occasions is not improper; it proves also that it should be done with profound veneration.”
A.T. Robertson  I am not lying (ou pseudomai). The list seems so absurd and foolish that Paul takes solemn oath about it (cf. 2Co 1:23). For the doxology see Ro 1:25; 9:5.”
9.  1 Tim. 2:7  Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.  
Barnes:  I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not. “That is, by Christ; or I solemnly appeal to Christ–a form of an oath. See Barnes for Ro 9:1. Paul makes a solemn declaration similar to this in regard to his call to the apostleship, in Ga 1:20. For the reasons why he did it, See Barnes for Ga 1:20. It is probable that there were those in Ephesus who denied that he could be an apostle, and hence his solemn declaration affirming it.”
Holy angels swearing in Revelation:
Rev. 10:5 And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven,  6 And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: 
Barnes:   Verse 5.  And the angel which I saw stand, etc. Re 10:2. “That is, John saw him standing in this posture when he made the oath which he proceeds to record.
 Lifted up his hand to heaven. The usual attitude in taking an oath, as if one called heaven to witness. See Ge 14:22; De 32:40 Eze 20:5-6. Compare Barnes on “Da 12:7”.
I am sure the apostles understood Jesus’ words better than any today; and what is righteous for angels, apostles, and God, cannot be sin for saints if used in the same sense.
If you understand the style or method of Jesus’ speaking, you can see that “Swear not at all” would be equal to “Take no thought for your life”,which obviously needs qualifying statements; “Take no thought for the morrow”, which needs qualifying statements; “Judge not,” which must be taken in context with the qualifying statements; and “Resist not evil” which needs qualifying statements.   Jesus always gave those qualifying statements, so the people who were listening to Him were not confused. 
In what Jesus said of swearing, neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. 36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black” are the qualifying statements used by Jesus and James; and they do not forbid what the Law of God commands — swearing by God in a holy and reverent way.  Consider the following:
Ro 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. 
 
Where is it written?
Isa. 45:23 I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. 
 
This will yet be fulfilled.  So, again we see that everything must be understood in the context of Jesus’ purpose of clearing misconceptions about God’s Law and showing its purity and excellence.  Interpreting the Bible in a way that produces a contradiction or sets God against himself is error and misinterpretation!  This is what the Gnostics did, and as it was then called heresy, it is still heresy now.
Matt. 5:38  “eye for an eye…” 
Matt. 5:38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 
39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 
40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 
41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 
42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. 
In the matter of an “eye for an eye” Jesus is correcting a misconception that arose due to a wrong application of God’s Law.  This command was given to the magistrates and judges as part of the just process of law.  It was never intended to be a principle for interpersonal relationships as the Jews were using it!  How do we know this is the case Jesus is dealing with?
1.      The command is given in Moses’ Law as part of the civil law to judges in the course of their duty.
2.      Jesus is speaking about interpersonal relationships, because His words, “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” has never applied to the magistrates on duty who “bear not the sword in vain”.  Rulers are commanded to punish the evil and reward the good.  If they resist not evil men, they are violating God’s design expressed by Paul in Romans 13.  Jesus is therefore showing that “eye for an eye” was being misapplied.
Ex. 21:22  If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman’s husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. 23 And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, 24 Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.    
 
Lev. 24:20 Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again. 
Clarke on Ex. 21:22  “This is the earliest account we have of the lex talionis, or law of like for like, which afterwards prevailed among the Greeks and Romans.  Among the latter, it constituted a part of the twelve tables, so famous in antiquity; but the punishment was afterwards changed to a pecuniary fine, to be levied at the discretion of the praetor.  It prevails less or more in most civilized countries, and is fully acted upon in the canon law, in reference to all calumniators: Calumniator, si in accusatione defecerit, talionem recipiat.  “If the calumniator fail in the proof of his accusation, let him suffer the same punishment which he wished to have inflicted upon the man whom he falsely accused.” Nothing, however, of this kind was left to private revenge; the magistrate awarded the punishment when the fact was proved, otherwise the lex talionis would have utterly destroyed the peace of society, and have sown the seeds of hatred, revenge, and all uncharitableness.”
Clarke on Matt 5:38   “It seems that the Jews had made this law (the execution of which belonged to the civil magistrate) a ground for authorizing private resentments, and all the excesses committed by a vindictive spirit. Revenge was often carried to the utmost extremity, and more evil returned than what had been received.  This is often the case among those who are called Christians.”
Jesus’ examples had to do with personal insult, not an attack on one’s life.  This does not forbid self-defense or defending the weak when life is at stake.  This is the spirit of the Law, and self defense or defending the weak was never condemned in the O.T.; it was actually expected.
Deut. 22:24 Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them with stones that they die; the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; and the man, because he hath humbled his neighbour’s wife: so thou shalt put away evil from among you. 
25 But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die:  
26 But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so is this matter: 
27 For he found her in the field, and the betrothed damsel cried, and there was none to save her. 
It is clear that the damsel was expected to “resist evil” and defend herself; and if she cried, God expected the person who heard her to deliver her.   Has this changed?  No, of course not.  This has not changed, and Jesus is not condemning this type of resisting evil.  He is not speaking contrary to God’s perfect Law.  If Jesus or the apostles had heard a damsel cry, they would have delivered her or they would have been sinning against the “righteousness of the Law of God”.  See Proverbs 24:11:
Proverbs 24:11 If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain; 12 If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works? 
For Jesus to be the perfect Lamb of God without sin, He would have had to fulfill this part of God’s righteousness as well, and NEVER taught anything contrary to it.
What was Jesus teaching?
n KEEP RANK: Stay within the bounds of jurisdiction and righteousness — no matter how unjust the situation.  Every police officer and soldier knows they cannot avenge themselves with their own hand or retaliate against personal insult; but must keep rank, and only do what is within the realms of their duty and jurisdiction.  Christians are ambassadors on duty at all times, and we must respond according to our vocation, not our personal feelings.
n Don’t stoop to the level of those opposing you!  Seek only righteousness even in conflict or litigation.  Show that you are not motivated by selfish and evil motives.  If you have trespassed, and the judge awards the other person your coat as payment, give him also your cloke to show you are truly sorry and truly want to make it right — “Pay more than you are required by law” to show your desire to heal the breach you caused.
n Be prepared to help, serve, and give with an unselfish spirit when it can be done to the glory of God.  Don’t keep score; but serve and help willingly.  This is opposite the Jewish misconception of using “eye for eye” as a guide to personal relationships.
Matt 5:41 “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.” 
The Word “compel” refers to the government’s practice of “commandeering” service for government’s causes. This is referring to government and military service.  There are those who take the “resist not evil” teaching to an extreme which says a Christian can never serve in the government or military; but this verse could be taken to the opposite extreme to show they can and must serve when asked in whatever the military does — even to the second mile!  Extremes are dangerous things, and Christians cannot afford to be so rash with Jesus’ words.  The following commentary sums it up nicely.
Liberty Bible Commentary:  “In ancient times government agents were in a position to compel forced service upon a subjugated people.  A Roman soldier, for example, could compel a Jewish native to carry his armor or materials for one mile, in order to relieve the soldier.  Jesus now states that if someone compels you to walk a mile, go with him twain.  The believer is to be willing to “go the extra mile”.  Doing double our duty not only proves the loyalty and faithfulness of our cooperation to human authority, but likewise proves the spiritual intention of our heart.  It also provides an opportunity of conviction in order to witness effectively out of our life message.  It would have been foolish for the believer of Jesus’ day to reluctantly go only a mile with a Roman official and then attempt to share the gospel with him.  By going the second mile he proved the innermost intention of his heart.”
Jesus had no problem with military and government service as a principle.  Was it serving two masters?   No!  Was it compromising with evil?  No!  Jesus was telling his disciples that if a Roman soldier commandeered their service for the extent the law allowed, they should render more service than required for a testimony.  Jesus would have done what He was teaching others to do.
This subject is dealt with more in our book, “Vengeance is Mine, Saith the Lord”. 
Matt 5:43 — “Love thy neighbor & hate thine enemy”   
Matt 5:43 ¶ Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 
47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. 
 
Did the Law of God teach the Jews this hateful attitude?
 
Clarke: “The Jews thought themselves authorized to kill any Jew who apostatized; and, though they could not do injury to the Gentiles, in whose country they sojourned, yet they were bound to suffer them to perish, if they saw them in danger of death.  Hear their own words: “A Jew sees a Gentile fall into the sea, let him by no means lift him out; for it is written, Thou shalt not rise up against the blood of thy neighbour:-but this is not thy neighbour.”  Maimon.  This shows that by neighbour they understood a Jew; one who was of the same blood and religion with themselves.”
God had told them not to make a league with any of the nations of Canaan, but destroy them. This was an act of God’s judicial decree, not a command for personal hate; and did not include all non-Jews.
God had commanded them to keep themselves separate from sinners — This He also commands us.  This is not hate of the person, but hate of their sinful way; and while trying to reach them, keeping your own self clean.
II Cor. 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 
Does this justify a haughty, hateful spirit??   Of course it doesn’t.  God expected the nation of Israel to be a light to the World and keep themselves clean; but not to be hateful to the lost or heathen man.  Had they obeyed God’s Laws they would have been representing God to the world around them; instead, God says they profaned His name among the heathen (Ezekiel 36).
Did the O.T. teach the principle of loving our fellow man, even when he was an enemy to us?  Yes, God hasn’t changed, evolved, or improved.
 
Exodus 23:4 If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. 
 
Exodus 23:5 If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.  
 
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD. 
 
Leviticus. 19:34 But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God. 
 
Deuteronomy 10:17 For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: 
18 He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. 
19 Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. 
 
Deuteronomy 23:7 Thou shalt not abhor an Edomite; for he is thy brother: thou shalt not abhor an Egyptian; because thou wast a stranger in his land 
 
Proverbs 24:17, 18 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.  
 
Proverbs, 25:21, 22 If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: for thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.  
 
Psalms 35 “Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me…for without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit, which without cause they have digged for my soul…False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things I knew not. They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sack cloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom. I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not…Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions…Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me- For they speak not peace: but they devise deceitful matters against them that are quiet in the land…This thou hast seen, O LORD: keep not silence: O Lord, be not far from me…  
 
Ps. 69:1-4 Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul…l am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God. They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty: then I restored that which I took not away. 
 
Have you ever noticed that when the apostle Paul is teaching these principles in Romans 12 that he quotes the Old Testament as his authority on the subject?  Listen!  This can only mean Paul is speaking in the same context and spirit as the Old Testament Scriptures! 
Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 
20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 
 
The Jews were to love their fellow men, and testify the truth of God for the salvation of their souls.  Christians are to love people in general, and strive to bring them to the truth.  This is the teaching Jesus gives; not that we should allow a criminal intruder to molest our wife and daughter just because we are to “love our enemies”.  This is foolishness, and proves the foolish extremes that men go to when they ignore solid Bible principles for interpreting Jesus’ words.
God so loved the world…while we were enemies!  (Romans 5:10, Col 1:21)  This means He pitied our blindness and certain destruction; and He made a way for us to escape; but he does not compromise right or capitulate to evil.  God has priorities in His love, and so must we.  Loving our enemies doesn’t demand they be first priority over loving our families, neighbors, etc.  We are to “wish for their salvation” like God does; but Jesus wept over Jerusalem while condemning them to desolation!
Can you love, while defending yourself or keeping peace and order?  Yes, it is the same principle as a parent loving the child they are spanking.  What if you are the Sheriff and your son becomes a criminal?  You love your son, but you must do your duty and bring him to justice.  What if you are the judge and your son commits murder?  You love your son, but you must do your duty.  The same applies to a Christian loving his enemy, yet doing his duty in the realm of his jurisdiction.
Did Jesus correct Moses and the Law of God in The Sermon On The Mount?  No! Of course He didn’t.  He cleared the Law of misinterpretations and man’s corruptions.  Jesus consistently sided with Moses against the apostate Jews and consistently upheld the Scriptures as inspired, valid, and necessary.
Jn 5:37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. 
38 And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. 
 
(If you had the Old Testament in your heart and mind, you would immediately recognize and receive the Messiah) 
 
39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me… 
…46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.   
47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? 
 
If you would search the Scriptures, especially Moses’ writings, and believe them, you would also receive and believe Jesus’ words — can there then be any contradiction?  If we teach that Jesus corrected Moses, then those who had a problem with Moses would be in a better frame of mind to receive Jesus????  Could anyone seriously accept such a belief? 
Mt 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 
2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 
3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 
4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 
14
What about 2 Corinthians 3:6-16?
Some interpret this passage to mean that the Old Covenant was death, while the New Covenant is life; but that is not the point.  The contrast is between “the letter, that by itself killeth” with the “spiritual meaning, which if followed gives life”.  Many Jews rested in the letter of the law without the spiritual understanding; and this only condemned them as it could not save them.  The New Covenant IS the spiritual meaning and fulfillment of the Old Covenant.  Jesus taught the spirit of the Law and spiritually fulfilled the law by making a true atonement.  Let’s read the passage with some helps.
2 Cor. 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new Covenant; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.  
 
Notice, we are contrasting letter and spirit, not just New Covenant and Old — because the New Covenant is the spiritual meaning and fulfillment of the Old.  Paul has said nothing about the Old Covenant yet; but speaks of a new covenant, and then about “letter” and “spirit”. When Paul says here, “new covenant” he is not saying, “New Testament Scriptures”.  The new covenant was not just new Scriptures, but a new understanding and arrangement built upon the existing Scriptures.  Our Bibles would do better to call the OT Scriptures “Scriptures before Christ” and the NT Scriptures, “Scriptures after Christ”.  We should call the Scriptures of our New Testament, “Explanation of the New Covenant”.  The word covenant is an agreement or arrangement of relationship conditions between us and God.  The Day of Pentecost was actually the commemoration day of the Jews meeting with God on Sinai, 50 days after the Passover in Egypt.  On Sinai 3000 offenders died so the nation could continue in covenant with God.  At Pentecost 3000 were added to a remnant in covenant with God, and the nation that rejected Christ was cast out of a covenant relationship with God.  God is now working with a remnant who obey Him, and has rejected the nation who would not obey Him — But it is the same God with the same character and morals.
What is new is this covenant is not God or His ways, morals, or judgments. What is new is the arrangement for our relationship with Him.  Since Jesus came and made the real and final atonement, we have a new High Priest, a new sacrifice with eternal merit, a heavenly tabernacle, etc.  The New Covenant is the completion and fulfillment of the purpose of the Old Covenant.  The Old Covenant was full of types and shadows to introduce us to Christ, so we could understand the New Covenant arrangement.  The Moral “letter” is still part of the New Covenant, but it is the spiritual fulfillment of this that brings life — Romans 8:1-13
 
7 But if the ministration of death (the giving of the “letter” that primarily condemned sin), written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: 
8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? (the giving of the spiritual meaning which shows Christ as our redeemer) 
9 For if the ministration of condemnation (the plumb-line which showed us crooked) be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness (God’s plan of justification) exceed in glory. 
 
If the giving of the letter on Sinai, which condemns, was glorious; how much more the giving of the spiritual meaning and fulfillment of such, which brings justification through Christ’s atonement, exceed in glory.  Here again is the word righteousness dikaiosunhv, which would be better understood if translated justification. 
 
The Law was a condemning plumb-line plus blood sacrifices to appease God’s wrath on sin — The spiritual fulfillment is our regeneration, the sacrifice and priesthood of Christ, and our justification through Him. Life is not in the mere observance of the ceremonial letter, but in the understanding of the spiritual meaning and walking by faith in it.
The “Ministration of death” was that plumb-line and continual animal sacrifices — lots of blood and condemnation.  God was showing the price of sin — the “sinfulness of sin” to prepare a people for the Messiah.  God wanted people to appreciate Jesus when He came and understand what He had accomplished.  The Law was our schoolmaster to teach us about Jesus, so we could find life in Him.  Before someone can appreciate the Gospel, they must feel the condemnation of the Law.  The Gospel is not good news to the un-convicted sinner; but when the spotlight of the Law condemns them to hell (Romans 7), they then can appreciate the Gospel’s offer of salvation through Christ (Romans 8).
There can be no repentance, justification, pardon, etc. if there is no moral Law as a foundation.  The Law is a vital part of the Gospel, and it is the Law of God’s Kingdom.  The Gospel is God’s plan to pardon and redeem us since we broke His Law and brought upon ourselves the sentence of death.  Before we can appreciate this we must know the Law we broke and understand the sentence of death upon us.  Our repentance is our re-commitment to God’s Law, and our agreement with this Law against our sin.  Once we are pardoned, we are to live under God’s moral law and strive to obey it — this is holiness.
 
10 For even that which was made glorious (the ministration of the letter) had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth (the ministration of the spiritual fulfillment). 
11 For if that which is done away (Old Covenant) was glorious, much more that which remaineth (New Covenant) is glorious. 
12 ¶ Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:  
13 And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: 
14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old Covenant; which vail is done away in Christ. 
15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 
16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. 
17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 
 
Vss. 12-17 show that we are talking about reading Moses’ Law without the spiritual understanding, which will come when the heart turns to God and recognizes Christ for what He is. They had no spiritual life because of hard and blind hearts walking in dead religion — “having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” (2 Tim. 3:5).
Don’t miss this:  The Christian Jews were still under Moses’ Law while in the New Covenant (Acts 15, 21); and the righteousness of Moses’ Law was still to be fulfilled in every Christian Gentile under the New Covenant (Rom. 8:4).  Being in the New Covenant did not mean the complete removal of the components of the Old Covenant; but rather a new spiritual arrangement and understanding of these components.  God didn’t do away with priesthood, but replaced the order of Aaron with the order of Melchisedec (Heb 5-7).   God didn’t throw away his moral precepts, but wrote them on our hearts by the Holy Ghost.  God stopped the continual blood sacrifices; but accepted the blood sacrifice of His Son as the eternal replacement.  The true tabernacle in heaven has replaced the copy on earth, etc.
 
We can “rest” in the letter of the New Covenant, just as they did in the Old, to our own condemnation.  Paul had just stated in 2 Cor. 2:15 “For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?”  The preaching of the gospel can also minister death if received by a hard and impenitent heart which rejects the spiritual understanding of the letter of the Gospel.
Adam Clarke on 2 Cor. 3:6  “The apostle does not mean here, as some have imagined, that he states himself to be a minister of the New Covenant, in opposition to the Old; and that it is the Old Covenant that kills, and the New that gives life; but that the New Covenant gives the proper meaning of the Old; for the Old Covenant had its letter and its spirit, its literal and its spiritual meaning.  The law was founded on the very supposition of the Gospel; and all its sacrifices, types, and ceremonies refer to the Gospel.  The Jews rested in the letter, which not only afforded no means of life, but killed, by condemning every transgressor to death.  They did not look at the spirit; did not endeavour to find out the spiritual meaning; and therefore they rejected Christ, who was the end of the law for justification; and so for redemption from death to every one that believes.  The new covenant set all these spiritual things at once before their eyes, and showed them the end, object, and design of the law; and thus the apostles who preached it were ministers of that Spirit which gives life.
Every institution has its letter as well as its spirit, as every word must refer to something of which it is the sign or significator.  The Gospel has both its letter and its spirit; and multitudes of professing Christians, by resting in the LETTER, receive not the life which it is calculated to impart.  Water, in baptism, is the letter that points out the purification of the soul; they who rest in this letter are without this purification; and dying in that state they die eternally.  Bread and wine in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, are the letter; the atoning efficacy of the death of Jesus, and the grace communicated by this to the soul of a believer, are the spirit.  Multitudes rest in this letter, simply receiving these symbols, without reference to the atonement, or to their guilt; and thus lose the benefit of the atonement and the salvation of their souls.  The whole Christian life is comprehended by our Lord under the letter, Follow me. Does not any one see that a man, taking up this letter only, and following Christ through Judea, Galilee, Samaria, &c., to the city, temple, villages, seacoast, mountains, &c., fulfilled no part of the spirit; and might, with all this following, lose his soul?  Whereas the SPIRIT, viz. receive my doctrine, believe my sayings, look by faith for the fulfillment of my promises, imitate my example, would necessarily lead him to life eternal.  It may be safely asserted that the Jews, in no period of their history, ever rested more in the letter of their law than the vast majority of Christians are doing in the letter of the Gospel.  Unto multitudes of Christians Christ may truly say: Ye will not come unto me that ye may have life.”
The Letter simply sets forth order and obligation to worship in spirit and truth — to acknowledge this without performance is self condemning.  Observing the Lord’s Supper without the heart it requires is more condemning than not knowing to do it; because the person going through the motions is acknowledging their obligation and accountability for what it means.   With baptism also, resting in the letter is self-condemning.  To go through the motions without the heart and spirit of the matter is mockery and brings no life.
So, again we see that this Scripture is consistent with our position.  The Jews in Acts 21, who after believing in Jesus were zealous of the Law, reveal to us that, after the heart turns to the Lord and the veil is removed, the Law becomes more glorious.  The spiritual understanding of the Law makes it come alive; and the spiritual fulfillment of the Ceremonial Law is the very atonement of Christ that saves us.  Originally the New Covenant included submission to Moses’ Law and a proper appreciation for it in the light of Christ being the Messiah and the Lamb of God.  The Old Covenant being ended doesn’t mean all the components of the covenant are ended.  The New Covenant is a new arrangement which includes much of the old components.  The New Covenant is updated with Christ’s fulfillment of the ceremonial laws; but we are still in a covenant with the same God — He hasn’t changed.  His manifestations of Himself, i.e. His opinions, judgments, moral standards, etc., have been consistent.
15
What about Romans 6:14?
Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. 15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 
Some teach from passages like Romans 6:14 that: we are saved by grace; but the Old Covenant saints were saved by works.  This is not the case, as every example given in the New Covenant of salvation by grace through faith was from an Old Covenant person — read Hebrews 11.  Paul tells us in Galatians that the gospel was preached to Abraham; and in Hebrews 4 we are told it was preached to Israel.  The Gospel is simply the good news that we are not hopelessly awaiting a court date in which God’s law is going to condemn us to hell for our transgressions; but that God has devised means of atonement whereby we can be pardoned, and received back again into full citizenship and son-ship.
Nobody has ever been justified before God through Moses’ Law alone (Rom. 3:20).  The blood of bulls and goats could never take away sin (Heb. 10:4).  Everyone who has ever been justified has been justified by faith in God’s redemption plan through Christ.  This plan is offered over and over in the Old Covenant — and the spiritual ones understood.
Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law (Facing God’s Law in court), but under grace (Facing God with Jesus as your Savior). 15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 
16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 
17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.  
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 
 
The Law of Moses, the schoolmaster, taught man that God had a plumb-line (Moral Law) which showed we were crooked; and so we had to run to the tabernacle where through offerings and sacrifices we could find grace when we failed.  BUT, if we were not striving to live up to the plumb-line, we were not eligible for the offer of grace through sacrifices.  The Law taught us this because this is the very arrangement now in Christ’s kingdom.  If you are not striving to walk in the light, you are not eligible for Christ’s priesthood and salvation thereby.  (I John 1:7-9)
So, shall we sin (trespass the Law) because we are not hopelessly facing a court date with God’s plumb-line, but have hope through the sacrifice and priesthood of Christ?  GOD FORBID!  Know ye not that committing willful sin leaves you without the grace of Christ’s sacrifice and priesthood?   
Heb. 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 
27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. 
28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: (Numbers 15) 
29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? (see also Heb. 2:1-3; 12:25)
If we can still SIN while we are under Grace, and SIN is the transgression of the Law (I John 3:4); then we are still under obligation to God’s Moral Law while under Grace.  The blessing is that we don’t have to have a forensic justification through a perfect record or self atonement (which is impossible). We must strive to fulfill the righteousness of the Law of God, but when we fail, we have an advocate in Christ Jesus, who through his sacrifice and priesthood allows us to get up, get clean, and get going again!  This is what it means to be under GRACE and not simply under LAW.
I John 2:1 ¶ My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 
1John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. 
Gal. 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified…21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness (Justification) come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. 
 
Justification through the Law of Moses apart from Christ’s atonement was a Jewish misconception – it was never the truth.  We are justified through following “the faith of Christ” – not Christ’s personal faith, but his teaching –  “the faith once delivered to the saints”.
 
Rom 10:3 For they (the Jews) being ignorant of God’s righteousness (justification), and going about to establish their own righteousness (justification), have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness (Justification) of God. 
4 For Christ is the end (goal and aim) of the law for righteousness (justification) to every one that believeth. 
Christ is the goal and aim of the Law’s teaching about justification (having a righteous standing before God). The Law only atoned for sins in type, and God forgave on “credit” until Jesus could pay the debt; and thereby justify God’s forgiveness and forbearance with man’s sin in the Old Covenant.
Rom 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 
25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his (God’s) righteousness for the remission of sins that are past (Old Covenant), through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his (God’s) righteousness: that he (God) might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 
 
Jesus paid the debt, and justified God’s pardoning us on credit.  THUS, the gospel of salvation through Christ is seen every time pardon is offered or given in the Old Testament.  THUS the gospel of salvation by grace is the only salvation offered in the O.T.  Here is one example
Isa. 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 
19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: 
20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. 
If this were salvation by works there would be no mention of forgiveness, cleansing, pardon, etc. Notice repentance and obedience are necessary to receive the grace of cleansing and pardon.
16
Who Was Saved by works?
We’ve already covered this to some degree, so I’ll keep this section short.  No fallen man has ever been saved by their works.  Salvation by works means “self – atonement” or “perfect obedience”, which needs no atonement.  If you don’t have a perfect record of righteousness before God through perfect obedience or self – atonement, then you have no hope of being saved by “works” according to the Bible definition.  If keeping Moses Law atoned for sins, so Jesus didn’t need to die, then you could be saved and counted righteous by the deeds of the Law (Gal. 2:21); but the Bible declares that all have sinned, and the blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sin; so the sacrifice of Jesus as a sin offering to make atonement for sin, was the only option that propitiated God.
Gal 3:21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness (justification) should have been by the law. 
Works of repentance and obedience to Christ are necessary to make one eligible to receive the benefits of the atonement of Christ; but this is not salvation by works. The term “works” is determined by the context, and is generally used differently by Paul in his epistles than by James in his.  While James speaks of obedience to Christ, being “doers of the word”, or “exercising faith” when using the word “works”; Paul is speaking of self-atonement through the Ceremonial Law or being sinless when using the word “works”.  One of the “works” (James) is necessary for salvation, while the other “works” (Paul) is impossible and therefore cannot save us.  That is why Paul says we are saved by faith and not works; while James says, “faith without works is dead”.
Did OT Israelites all believe they were saved by works?
Though some fell into the error of assuming God would accept them or was indebted to them simply because they were circumcised children of Abraham; the spiritual Israelites knew that their salvation was grace and not their just reward.
Job 19:25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: 26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: 
 
Job acknowledging the need for a redeemer to save him reveals that he well knew he could not save himself or atone for his own sins.
 
2 Sam 14:14 For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him. 
 
This statement reveals these people knew that their reconciliation with God was due to means graciously devised by him whereby we could be pardoned and not expelled eternally.  They obviously knew they could not remedy the situation by themselves.
 
John 8:56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. 
 
Ga 3:8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 
Heb. 4:1 ¶ Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. 2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. 
I could fill this book with quotes from the OT concerning salvation by grace through faith.   Paul, when illustrating Salvation by Faith,  uses Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Moses, ……all the way to us. When James speaks of justification by a “faith that works” he goes back to Abraham and Rahab.  In Romans, when Paul wants to illustrate our faith being imputed to us for righteousness, he speaks of Abraham and David.  Why?  Because we are all saved by the same principle: God imputes a living, obeying, faith to us for righteousness (justification) through Christ’s atonement.
Heb. 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.  
5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 
6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 
7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness (Justification) which is by faith. 
 
…13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.  
14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 
15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. 
 
24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; 
25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; 
26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.  27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. 
 
This is the same way you must be saved.  You must strive to fulfill the righteousness of the Law through the Spirit, and follow the conditions of the covenant you are in so the atonement is applied to you for sins committed.  This is the only way you can have a relationship with the Father!
 
Rom. 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  
4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 
6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  
7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  
8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his…. 
…13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.  
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 
 
2 Cor. 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.  
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 
What is salvation by works?
We’ve already covered this, so I’ll keep this section short.  Salvation by works means “self – atonement” or “perfect obedience”, which needs no atonement.  If you don’t have a perfect record of righteousness before God through perfect obedience or self – atonement, then you have no hope of being saved by “works” according to the Bible definition.  If keeping Moses Law atoned for sins, so Jesus didn’t need to die, then you could be saved and counted righteous by the deeds of the Law (Gal. 2:21); but the Bible declares that all have sinned, and the blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sin; so the sacrifice of Jesus as a sin offering to make atonement for sin, was the only option that propitiated God.
Gal 3:21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness (justification) should have been by the law. 
Works of repentance and obedience to Christ are necessary to make one eligible to receive the benefits of the atonement of Christ; but this is not salvation by works. The term “works” is determined by the context, and is generally used differently by Paul in his epistles than by James in his.  While James speaks of obedience to Christ, being “doers of the word”, or “exercising faith” when using the word “works”; Paul is speaking of self-atonement through the Ceremonial Law or being sinless when using the word “works”.  One of the “works” (James) is necessary for salvation, while the other “works” (Paul) is impossible and therefore cannot save us.  That is why Paul says we are saved by faith and not works; while James says, “faith without works is dead”.
 
What is Legalism?
Legalism is a form of salvation by works.  Legalism is the Judaizer’s attempt to bring Gentile believers under the Ceremonial Law and circumcision – basically undoing what God and the apostles established through Cornelius and the decision in Acts 15.  Here are the Legalists:
Acts 15:1 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved… 
…5 But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses
 
The Legalists are not those who say we must obey Jesus or the moral laws of God; but those who say that the atonement of Jesus and following the faith of Christ (the faith once delivered…) is not enough by itself.  They would declare that circumcision and the Ceremonial Law is still necessary for salvation.   What these legalists were demanding was the proper mode of operation in the churches for the first twelve years after Pentecost, but God opened the doors to the Gentiles through Peter in the case of Cornelius (Acts 10) and thus changed the program.  Some Jews did not want to accept this, and kept preaching Judaism to the Gentile Christians.  They implied that these converts were incomplete in their salvation unless they came under the ceremonial laws.  Paul refuted this and declared that they were complete in following Christ Jesus.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  
9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 
10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 
11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 
It is very important to understand which epistles are refuting Judaizers/legalists, and which are refuting Gnostics.  The Gnostics used Paul’s epistles, which speak of salvation by grace without the Ceremonial Law, to say that our performance doesn’t affect our position in Christ.  How did they get this from Paul’s epistles?  Well, like many today, when Paul said “law” they assumed it meant all laws or rules of conduct.  They failed to see that “law” is determined by context, and that Paul only declared the Gentiles to be free from the covenant obligations in the ceremonial laws, not from obedience to God’s moral laws of holiness and righteousness — and not from obedience to Christ or His apostles.  The epistles of James and John countered these heretical misconceptions of the Gnostics to declare plainly that our performance/obedience does affect our position with God.  When Paul told Timothy to get the church in order by laying down certain rules, he was not being a legalist.
I Tim 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 
 
For Timothy to enforce these principles by deliberate “do’s and don’ts” was not legalism either.  Our obedience to Christ and his apostles is necessary for our salvation; because we will not be eligible for Christ’s atonement if we are rebellious.  However, thinking that asceticism, circumcision, ceremonies and rituals are means of atoning for our own sins or helping Jesus atone for our sins is a form of salvation by works or “legalism”.  Atoning for my sins or helping Jesus atone for my sins is impossible and wrong thinking; but repenting and obeying Jesus, so He will apply His atonement to me, and be my High Priest/Savior is true and right thinking.  Jesus is the “author of eternal salvation to all them that obey Him” (Heb. 5:9).  Where does that leave those who don’t?
Heb. 5:9 And being made perfect, he (Jesus) became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; 
17
What does Luke 16:16 mean?
Lu 16:16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. 
 
Matt. 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.  
13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. 
14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. 
It is obvious to the student of Scripture that the law and the prophets were the sole teachers and pointed forward until John came in the role of Elijah as the forerunner of the Messiah.  Look in the last book of the Old Covenant; and then go to the last chapter; and you’ll see that the role of John the Baptist (Elijah) is what is spoken of as the next step in God’s program.
Mal. 4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: 
6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. 
Adam Clarke The law and the prophets were until John] “The law and the prophets continued to be the sole teachers till John came, who first began to proclaim the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and now, he who wishes to be made a partaker of the blessings of that kingdom must rush speedily into it; as there will be but a short time before an utter destruction shall fall upon this ungodly race. They who wish to be saved must imitate those who take a city by storm-rush into it, without delay, as the Romans are about to do into Jerusalem.”
     “They were the instructors concerning the Christ who was to come, till John came and showed that all the predictions of the one, and the types and ceremonies of the other were now about to be fully and finally accomplished; for Christ was now revealed.”
Jesus is making note that since John’s preaching concerning the kingdom of God, men are pressing into it, and must press vigorously or “violently” to enter the strait and narrow gate.  Up until this time being a Jew was “going with the flow”; but now it will be “swimming upstream against the flow” to enter the kingdom of God as proclaimed by John and Christ because the religious authorities were standing against it.  This in no way changes the fact that God’s Moral Law is eternal and always relevant; and when the circumstances are the same, the application will always be the same.  It is clear from the following passage that Christians were obligated to fulfill the moral laws of God, here called the “law of liberty”, the “word”, the “royal law”, and the “Scriptures”.  The same God that commanded the Moral Law commanded the Gospel.  They run together in perfect harmony.  By following the Spirit, we fulfill the righteousness of the Law, which is obeying the gospel.  The gospel is simply the good news that all who repent and reconcile with God by a humble return to His Law and Lordship have hope of pardon through the grace of Christ’s atonement.
 
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 
23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 
24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. 
…2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: 
9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. 
10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. 
11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.  
12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty. 
Notice that being “doers of the Word” and “obeying the Law of God” is the same in James’ mind.  God’s Law is the way to freedom, but sin brings debt.  Jesus, in the “Lord’s Prayer” said, “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”.  Jesus also said, “Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin”.  Jesus and James are speaking of sin as transgression of God’s Moral Law.  Obeying God is liberty from sin’s snare; and this is not only a New Testament concept; but was understood in the Old Testament.  Liberty is being delivered from the quick-sand of sin and walking on the firm path of God’s commandments.
Ps 119:45  And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. 
 
2 Cor 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 
 
 
18
What about Polygamy?
Some believe that God allowing polygamy in the OT, but not allowing it in the NT is a sure sign that Jesus spoke contrary to the Law.
Let’s look at where the Law of God taught and commanded polygamy:                                                .  That’s right!  He didn’t.  What does the Law teach us about polygamy?
First, it teaches us that God took only one rib and made only one woman for Adam.  Then God made the declaration that they two should become one flesh.  This should be all that needs to be said to show God’s will.  The Law also tells us where polygamy started.
Gen. 4:19 And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah. 
Polygamy came from the corrupt line of Cain.  The first time we see this in the godly line is when Sarah initiated it between her maid, Hagar, and Abraham since she was childless.  It was not in faith, but in unbelief; and has caused innumerable problems — It is the source of the conflict between the Jews and Arabs to this day.  The next time is when Laban cheats Jacob and this ends with Jacob marrying two sisters — something the Law of Moses later forbade (Lev. 18:18)
These bad examples led to the practice, and when God brought the people out of Egypt, they had been affected by the pagan environment they were in. God chose wisely not to abruptly stop this situation, but to regulate it.   The Law gave regulations for those who chose this route; but it never commended it as a righteous choice.  God patiently chose to allow it under the circumstances; but the Law makes it clear that it was not the original intent of God. God even commanded for kings not to multiply wives and gold (Deut. 17:17); but then He patiently tolerated it.  He allowed them to walk in their carnal stupidity and reap the natural consequences in order to prove the wisdom of His instructions.
Prov. 5:15 Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well. 
16 Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets. 
17 Let them be only thine own, and not strangers’ with thee. 
18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. 
19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.  
20 And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger? 
21 For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.  
Why did God patiently tolerate it when He did not tolerate other things?  Only those rich enough to care for more than one wife had more; and as long as they were justly taken care of, they were possibly better off than if desolate.  These wives helped populate and build the nation of Israel, which cause was worthy of consideration.  Sometimes a man took two wives because his first was barren, and he wanted an heir to preserve his name in Israel.  This same issue validated the Levirate marriage as well (Deut. 25:5). These issues ceased to be as important once the Messiah came and set up the church. The overall testimony of polygamous marriages shows that God’s original plan was superior.  Here are God’s wise regulations while this was allowed.
Ex 21:10 If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish. 11 And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money. 
The wife had recourse to the authorities and could divorce if the man took another wife and diminished her care.
De 21:15 If a man have two wives, one beloved, and another hated, and they have born him children, both the beloved and the hated; and if the firstborn son be hers that was hated: 16 Then it shall be, when he maketh his sons to inherit that which he hath, that he may not make the son of the beloved firstborn before the son of the hated, which is indeed the firstborn: 17 But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated for the firstborn, by giving him a double portion of all that he hath: for he is the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn is his. 
 
In the New Testament God calls us back to His original intent for all his creation where possible.  I say, “where possible”, because when a man came to Christ with two wives, he was “grandfathered” in to the church, not told to divorce.  This man could not, however, be a church leader because they did not want polygamy to be set up as an example before the church.
1Ti 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;  
1Ti 3:12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 
Tit 1:6 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 
With these wise and patient steps, monogamy was restored and polygamy ceased in the faithful Christian churches.  God expects more from Christians because they have been given more light.
19
What about Musical Instruments?
Here is an issue where some would declare that God has changed his mind; but a careful study reveals that God has been very gracious in accepting man’s show of affection; but still wants to raise us to new spiritual heights.  New Covenant worship is uniquely “spiritual”, rather than“ceremonial” or “carnal”.   We don’t really know how the Jews played their instruments, what the tune or beat was, etc.  It seems the spiritual climate where God chose to establish the church was one that did not employ the ancient instrumental worship of the Jews; but we are told that the synagogues just had prayer, reading, and singing or “chanting”.  The worship with musical instruments seems to be confined to Temple worship, and was not a part of synagogue worship.  The Psalms which recommend this type of worship are speaking of Temple worship.
James 2:2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; {assembly: Gr. synagogue} 
Jesus and His apostles set up the church after the pattern of the synagogue and the Temple was destroyed.  This seems to indicate that since the Temple is gone, and we are following the pattern of the synagogue, we should continue the church’s worship after the way the apostles started it.  Just as all other parts of the Ceremonial Law that required the temple are now done away, so it seems that temple worship with musical instruments was also done away.
Did Jesus imply that worship would change?
John 4:20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. 
21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. 
22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 
23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. 
25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 
26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. 
 
The woman of Samaria knew that when the Messiah came, He would explain hard issues and answer hard questions.  In the matter of worship He clearly says there is going to be a change from a more ceremonial worship to a more spiritual worship.  Jesus and the disciples worshipped by prayer and singing hymns without any trace of musical instruments or dances.  Here are the positive commands in the New Covenant:
 
Heb. 13:15  By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 
 
Eph. 5:19  Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 
 
Col. 3:16  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singingwith grace in your hearts to the Lord. 
 
James 5:13  Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. 
I have nothing personal against musical instruments; but believe the church should continue to follow the pattern Jesus set.  Children who are taught to play instruments are in great danger of becoming “performers” rather than “worshippers”.   They practice and practice for the eyes and ears of men.  Most people won’t even bother with the hard work and time involved in learning an instrument if they cannot perform for someone.  If I let my little girl labor and toil and learn to play the piano, then every time the grandparents or others visit there will be the temptation to say, “Show them what you’ve learned”.  Then the little girl’s labor is rewarded by what?  By performing and hearing the “O that is so nice” response of the audience.  And how is it that you show your skill on an instrument?  By playing slow and reverent?  NO, but by playing fast.  I’ve seen the fruit of all this first hand, and believe that acapella worship is more pleasing to God; and attended with less danger.
There are two reasons for doing things:  To glorify God or to gratify self.   This will determine which way you go in life, and whether you are perfecting holiness in the fear of God or doing everything  that pleases you.   If Christ prefers worship without instruments for His church, then that is what I want in the church and in my personal life.   If Christ prefers something for His church, why would I want something different in my home?
The churches were patterned after the synagogues where they had no musical instruments; and the early Christian churches rejected musical instruments in worship.  I found an interesting article from Thy Word is Truth website, and felt it was worthy of posting here:
“Acapella means “as in the chapel.” The music of the church was acapella for centuries. The first organ was introduced in worship by Pope Vitalian I some 670 years after Christ. When it threatened the division of the Catholic church it was removed. However some 130 years later it was again introduced, this time successfully though there was still some opposition. The Greek Catholic Church refused it and still refuses it.  Martin Luther rejected the organ as an “ensign of Baal.”  John Calvin said of the organ in worship (things had not yet reached the orchestra stage), “It is no more suitable than the burning of incense, the lighting of tapers or revival of the other shadows of the law. The Roman Catholics borrowed it from the Jews.”  John Wesley, when asked about the use of the organ in worship, brusquely replied, “I have no objection to the organ in our chapels provided it is neither seen nor heard.”  Adam Clarke, a great Methodist commentator and a contemporary of John Wesley, said, “I am an old man and an old minister, and I here declare that I have never known instrumental music to be productive of any good in the worship of God, and have reason to believe that it has been productive of much evil. Music, as a science, I esteem and admire, but instruments of music in the house of God I abominate and abhor. This is the abuse of music, and I here register my protest against all such corruptions in the worship of that Infinite Spirit who requires His followers to worship Him in spirit and in truth.”  Charles Spurgeon was perhaps the greatest Baptist preacher who ever lived. He preached for twenty years in the Metropolitan Baptist Tabernacle of London, England to 10,000 people every Sunday. The mechanical instrument never entered the tabernacle of Spurgeon. When asked why he did not use the organ in worship, he cited 1 Cor. 14:15: “I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the understanding also.” He added, “I would as soon pray to God with machinery as to sing to God with machinery.”
Bob Williams in a scholarly article, Origins of Christian Worship, shares the following:
“A significant difference is seen between the dramatic worship exhibited in the temple (both the first and the second) and the restrained and subdued gatherings in the synagogues. While the focus in the temple seemed to be mainly upon exuberant worship and praise through sacrifice and music (both vocal and instrumental), it seems that the main focus in the synagogues was not so much upon public worship, but rather upon instruction in the Law. The worship of the synagogues was apparently limited to recitation of prayer, chanting of the Psalms, and Bible reading and instruction… While it has been suggested by a few that the early Christians may have reintroduced a form of melodious singing similar to that found previously in the temple, the vast majority of scholars state that the music of Christian worship was limited to the same plain chant as had been used in synagogue worship, and that it would be several centuries before the introduction of choral melody and/or four-part harmony (or reintroduction, if indeed temple singing was similar to modern day church singing)…It appears that the manner of worship seen in the early church was originally just a continuation of what the Jews had been doing for the previous 500 years (adding only the agape feast and Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week). This was followed by further gradual changes and variations, but the basic fundamental aspects of historical worship (music, prayer, instruction, Lord’s Supper) remained constant. Perhaps this is close to what Jesus had in mind when He stated that worship would not remain confined to specific places, but should always be done in spirit and in truth (John 4:21-24).”
In Heaven — God’s Temple — we again see musical instruments in group worship being used.  This may just be symbolic, as many other things in the book of Revelation are.  It is worthy of note that only harps (very mild instruments) are seen in Heaven.  Harp music would certainly be more fitting for Heaven than what people usually play on other instruments.
 
Re 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. {odours: or, incense} 
 
Re 14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: 
 
Re 15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 
Maybe due to abuse, God stopped the instrumental worship providentially, but will allow it again when we are fully sanctified in Heaven.  God seems to be displeased with how the Jews later used musical instruments and the tendency to use them for carnal entertainment.
Am 6:3 Ye that put far away the evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near;  
4 That lie upon beds of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches, and eat the lambs out of the flock, and the calves out of the midst of the stall;  
5 That chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of musick, like David;  
6 That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph.  
7 Therefore now shall they go captive with the first that go captive, and the banquet of them that stretched themselves shall be removed. 
8 ¶ The Lord GOD hath sworn by himself, saith the LORD the God of hosts, I abhor the excellency of Jacob, and hate his palaces: therefore will I deliver up the city with all that is therein. 
 
 
20
What about Old Covenant Fancy Dress, Jewelry, and the Pursuit of Riches?
Due to the fact that many see some obvious differences between what is commanded to NT believers and what was tolerated in the OT; it is important to explain why this is so.  There is definitely a difference between what God taught or commanded, and what He tolerated or permitted.   The greater the light and understanding one has been given, the more God expects of them. When God shines more light, He expects a greater spirituality.
God tolerated carnal practices among the Jews in matters of fancy dress, wearing jewelry, seeking riches, etc.; but these were not His ultimate goals for them.  He was dealing with a nation of people who were not all mature and Spirit filled.  His promises to them were earthly temporal types of the heavenly spiritual riches and possessions promised to us in the NT.  The Israelites were promised earthly inheritance and riches if they obeyed God’s Law.  The Spiritual Israelites understood this was only a type of something heavenly in the future.  Jesus calls NT saints to forsake the hopes of the earthly kingdom and its riches; and to pursue the heavenly kingdom with its riches.
In the New Covenant, with Spirit filled saints composing the body of Christ/Church, God has commanded a higher spiritual walk that seeks eternal riches, spiritual blessings, humble pursuits, and a counter culture of spirituality and holiness.  We have much greater light and understanding, so more spirituality is expected of us.  Are we living up to the light we have received, or seeking to live on a lower level?
1 Tim. 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 
9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 
 
The apostles clearly forbid Christians wearing that which exalts and focuses on the temporal, sensual, carnal, and prideful appetites of this world.
1 Peter 3:1  Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 
 
 God does not want our “adorning” or “decorating”  of ourselves to be with jewels, clothes, ribbons, bows, etc.; but he wants our “adorning” to be spiritual attitudes and actions.   This was not made as clear in the OT; but is very clear in the NT.   God expects more from those who have the Holy Spirit indwelling them and the example and teachings of Christ, than those who didn’t.
1 Tim. 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.  
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, 
Jesus taught us to not lay up treasure upon earth, but to lay up treasure in Heaven.  He said it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter heaven.  Some spiritual Jews understood this:  Read Hebrews 11; and also consider the lives of the prophets like Elisha with his rebuke of Gehazi:
2 Kings 5:26 And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? 
 
Spiritual Israelites understood that though God promised prosperity to the nation when they obeyed His laws, the prosperity in itself was dangerous to their spiritual life, and could cause them to trust in their riches rather than God.  God still blesses nations and communities with prosperity when they obey His Word; but the emphasis in the NT is on the Spiritual life and inheritance.
When Jacob needed God’s help and wanted his family to get right with God, he commanded them to get rid of their strange gods and they also took off their ear rings and buried them all under a tree.
 
Gen. 35:1 ¶ And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. 
2 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: 
3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went. 
4 And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem. 
When God was angry with Israel, He commanded them to put off their Jewelry and humble themselves while He decided what to do with them.
Ex 33:4 And when the people heard these evil tidings, they mourned: and no man did put on him his ornaments. 
5 For the LORD had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee. 
6 And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb. 
It is clear from the “whole counsel of God” that He has tolerated many things; but those who love Him and seek to please Him can see that there is another way that He prefers.  I want to walk this way.
The New Covenant does not contradict the morality of God’s Law, but clarifies it, shines more light on it, and gives more power to fulfill it.  What God desired from man from the beginning should be more and more fulfilled as we grow in grace and walk in the same Spirit that inspired the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation.
21
How is Divorce different from Polygamy, Jewelry, etc.?
Some will think we are not being consistent.  They will say that God’s dealing with divorce is the same as God’s dealing with polygamy, jewelry and the other issues we’ve shown are different now from the OT allowances.  However there is a big difference.  Deut. 24:1-4 was God’s instructions for what to do when immoral conduct violated the marriage covenant.  God never gave positive instruction where the solution to the problem was polygamy, wearing jewelry, fancy clothes, and pursuing riches.  The only time polygamy was given as a solution was in the levirate marriage which only applied to Israel as a nation until Messiah came.  These things were tolerated with restrictions placed on them to keep them from becoming too harmful; but they were never positively commanded as a righteous way to solve a problem like Deut. 24:1-4.  We can do without polygamy, jewelry, fancy clothes, etc; but when sin violates the marriage covenant, we still need to know what to do.  The judgment of God is still valid, as there have not been any other instructions given that supersede and replace Deut. 24:1-4.  The instructions given in the New Testament are consistent with the Law, not contrary to it, because they are based on the Law.  Jesus was answering questions about the Law when He gave His instruction.  Paul based his instructions on the Law (Romans 7 and I Cor. 7).
Our book, “What The Bible Really Teaches About Divorce And Remarriage” deals more fully with the details.  You can order your copy from booksellers online, or contact us.
Whatever issue arises where there seems to be a difference between the New Testament and the Old; we need to keep in mind that God never changes, and Jesus is the “Word” of God from Genesis to Revelation.  Jesus inspired the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation; and He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  Erroneous dispensationalism, easy believism, unconditional eternal security (once saved, always saved), and many other heretical teachings, would be cleared up if people could only understand God’s consistent flow of light from Genesis to Revelation.   Extreme teachings that pit the New Testament Scriptures against the Old; and pit the teachings of Jesus against Moses’ Law are not only dangerous and sinful, but also misrepresent God’s grace, justice, and wisdom.
2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 
We invite sincere questions and will strive to answer them.
Living Faith Christian Fellowship
27216 Ingel Rd. Brookfield, MO
Pastor Mark Bullen

Did Jesus Correct Moses? by Mark Bullen Chps 1-11

did_jesus_correc_i000005Did Jesus Correct Moses?
Old Covenant — New Covenant
Moses — Jesus
Law — Grace
What is the relationship?
I am amazed at the vast amount of misunderstanding concerning these relationships.  Satan has worked hard to muddy the waters and obscure the light; and man’s lack of concern and diligence has only helped further Satan’s agenda.  If you believe wrong, you live wrong; and in living and believing wrong you misrepresent Christ, and jeopardize your soul as well as the souls of all those you influence.
There is no debating the fact that the New Covenant was meant to be a step up to something higher and more spiritual than the Old; because the New Covenant reveals the true spiritual meaning of the Old Covenant.  The Jews, according to the rabbinical writings, understood that when Messiah came He would usher in a new era. The prophets spoke of it, and the apostles confirmed it.
Deut 18:17  And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. 18  I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.   
19  And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.  
 
Acts 2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 
18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 
 
Acts 3:22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 
23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. 
24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. 
 
Acts 7:37 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me;him shall ye hear.  
Many church groups build their doctrine on the belief that Jesus corrected the Law of Moses or did away with it altogether.  What is the relationship of the New Covenant to the Old Covenant?  Was anything preserved from the Old Covenant?  Why do some still keep the Old Covenant feasts and dietary laws?  Are Gentiles saved one way, while Jews are saved another?  Are the Old Testament Scriptures even relevant?   Should we even study them?
Some believe that people were justified by God different in the Old Covenant than they are in the New Covenant.  You will hear them say, “We are not under the Law, but under Grace” — what does that mean? If a preacher sets up rules and standards of conduct for his church, they say, “He is preaching law and not grace”.   Were the people in the Old Covenant saved by works without grace?  Are we saved by grace without works?
 
Should the “Sermon On The Mount” be interpreted as “Jesus correcting Moses’ Law” or should it be interpreted as “Jesus correcting misconceptions concerning Moses Law?”   Was divorce and remarriage allowed by Moses, but forbidden by Jesus?  Were the people in the Old Covenant allowed to defend themselves and participate in government, but New Covenant saints are not?  Do we have any obligations to God’s commandments in the Old Covenant?  Is our meditation and memorization in Psalm 119 still relevant?
Ps. 119: 9 ¶ BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 
10 ¶ With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 
11 ¶ Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 
12 ¶ Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. 
13 ¶ With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. 
14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. 
15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. 
16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. 
Can we still whole heartedly sing Psalm 1:1-3?
Ps. 1:1 ¶ Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.  
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 
Should we still be singing Psalm 19: 7-11?
Ps. 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.  
8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 
9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.  
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.  
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
In attempting to answer this important and complex question, we need to first get a general view of the situation.  Jesus was born under the jurisdiction of the Old Covenant, kept the Law perfectly, and became the first perfect man and first perfect Jew.  He could, therefore, be the sin offering that God could lawfully accept to atone for man’s sins.
Galatians 4:4-5 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 
 
1 Peter 2:22  Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:  (Luke 23:41; John 8:46; 2Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15) 
 
1 John 3:4  Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. 
 
Jesus never broke the Law in word or deed.  He had to fulfill the Law perfectly to be the lawful spotless Lamb to make atonement for sins according to the Law.  Had Jesus preached contrary to the Scriptures, it would have only proven Him to be a false prophet and a sinner.
Isa 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them 
The Jewish leaders would have been justified in rejecting Jesus had he been preaching contrary to the Word.  The Jews never accused Jesus of teaching contrary to the Scriptures.  His preaching never violated the Law; but purified the sons of Jacob (Mal. 3:3).
This remnant of true Israelites, purified from their false concepts and hard hearts, were called into a new covenant based on the atonement and priesthood of Christ, rather than the sacrifices and service of the Old Covenant.  Christ established the church of these purified Israelites; and then grounded the Jewish believers in the Faith for twelve years after the Spirit was poured out at Pentecost.  Then, after twelve years, He grafted in the Gentile believers; but did not subject them to the ceremonial laws or circumcision, as these were not necessary now for their justification in Christ.  Prior to this, Gentiles were required to come under Moses’ Law and Circumcision to be Christians.  Circumcision and the Law of Moses were still binding on Jewish believers at this point, even though they were in the New Covenant.  The Gentile believers were subject to the moral aspects of God’s law; and were required to live holy lives without willful sin.  The Christian Jews were still obligated to the Ceremonial Law and temple service; but had a new understanding of why they did what they did (Acts 21).  They also understood that fulfilling the righteousness of the law from the heart was priority over the ceremonies and rituals.
In A.D. 70 God used the Romans to destroy Jerusalem, lay the Temple waste, and disperse the unbelieving Jews throughout the world as bondmen.  The believers had followed Jesus’ warnings and fled Jerusalem previous to its destruction.  This destruction ended the believing Jew’s obligations to the Temple, priesthood, sacrifices, i.e. every part of the Ceremonial Law that required Jerusalem and the Temple. It is debatable whether these Christian Jews were now released completely from circumcision and the ceremonial laws (Act 21:24-25; I Cor. 7:18); as not all of it is fulfilled — the fall feasts are prophetic of Christ’s second coming.  Obviously God didn’t expect them to observe those things which were now impossible.
The New Covenant was built upon the foundation of the Old just like the Old Covenant was built upon the foundation of the covenants with Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, Noah, etc.  So, as the covenant of circumcision through Abraham was continued under the newer Mosaic Covenant; the New Covenant, in being built on the foundation of the older covenants, continued many things and modified others.  What were these changes, and where do we draw the lines?
 did_jesus_correc_1

 

 

The diagram shows what principles are for all time, and which ones are temporary.  The Gospel: “the good news of God’s pardoning grace on the basis of Christ’s atonement” has been relevant since the fall of man, and is God’s only plan of salvation for repentant sinners.  The transgression of God’s Moral Law is why men are sinners from beginning to end.  Mankind being required to respond to God with repentance and a humble obedient faith in order to be saved by grace is valid from Genesis to Revelation.  Other matters, however, have only been relevant for a certain time period as part of a covenant arrangement.

 
Don’t miss the fact that both Jews and Gentile converts were subject to circumcision and Moses’ Law in the New Covenant until Cornelius.  New Gentile converts were released from this twelve years after Pentecost; but Jews were still under circumcision and ceremonial law in the New Covenant at least until the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. 
Because of these glaring facts of history in God’s Word many need to rethink their theology.  Were the apostles “legalists” before Cornelius?  Did they preach salvation by works before Cornelius?  Were they saved by faith?  Was the Gospel the same before and after Cornelius?  Was the Gospel the same to both Jews and Gentiles?  These questions will be answered in the following pages if you pay close attention.
 
2
What is Moses’ Law?
The Law of Moses is the first five books of the Bible, called the Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.  The Law of Moses was a covenant between God and Israel; and contained both moral laws, and also ceremonial laws. The entire Old Covenant scriptures were combined with Moses’ five books; and the whole was considered as the complete covenant and also referred to as “the Law”.  Sometimes the word “law” is referring to the ceremonial aspects, and sometimes it is referring to the moral aspects; and this must be determined by the context in which it is used.
All the Old Covenant Scriptures are the inspired Word of God:
2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. 
 
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works
 
You are not thoroughly furnished unto all good works when you leave out the Old Covenant. 
 
If one wishes to see how God felt about His laws given through Moses, just read Deuteronomy chapter 4 & 5.
Deut 4:1 Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them,  
…2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you. 
… 5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. 
6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. 
…8 And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? 
…5:29 O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever! 
 
The Bible is a progressive revelation in many areas, but it never contradicts itself.  Circumstances change, and covenant arrangements change; but God never changes.  It is clear that some things have changed, but others are unchanging – what makes the difference?  How do we determine what was specifically for the Old Covenant and doesn’t apply in the New?
Let’s start from the beginning.  Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God…”   It is clear that God pre-dates the world; and that God’s nature, purpose, views, opinions, and standards are unchanging:
n Mal 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. 
 
n James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,neither shadow of turning. 
The same can be said of Jesus Christ, as He is God; and when he was a man, he was God in the flesh.
n John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 
 
n John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 
 
n 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. 
n Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. 
In eternity past God had the same nature, views, opinions, and purposes as He has today, and will have forever.  God’s morality is unchanging, and God’s judgments will always be the same when the exact same circumstances exist.  Give the same scenario, and God will always give the same judgment call.  God lived by the Law of Love before He created the world, and God still lives by the Law of love.  God’s Law is always the best thing to do under the circumstances — always. 
 
did_jesus_correc_2
This Law of universal benevolence is God’s very nature, and it is the Law of Heaven.  The Bible says “God is Love” and that to obey his commandments is to act in His love:
1John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 
 
1John 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 
God is Love — perfect benevolence is the rule that God himself lives by.  The Moral Law of God is simply the proper expression of the universal and grand principle of Love.  God is the only one qualified to dictate what is and what is not the proper expression of benevolence.  Therefore, because God is the creator, owner, and only qualified judge; He is also obligated to teach and enforce the law of benevolence on all moral beings. His moral precepts, statutes, commands, etc. found in the Bible, and more particularly in the Law of Moses, are God telling us to obey the Law of Love, which He applies to many aspects of life.
Jesus declared that the “law and the prophets” (meaning the whole Old Covenant) hung from this divine principle of love.
Matt. 22:34 But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. 35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, 36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?  37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. 
Jesus didn’t say it would be this way “from now on”; but that it had always been this way.  Jesus never said, “From this day forward these two commandments replace the Law and the Prophets” He said, “The law and the prophets have always and only, from the beginning, expressed these two great commandments”.  Everything they said can be summed up in these two great commandments — which can be summed up in the word LOVE — God’s very nature of benevolence — LOVE in its proper definition and expression.
God’s Law in every respect is the proper application of Love — so if the circumstances are the same, the same expression of love is still appropriate.   God’s nature of universal benevolence or unselfish love is the basis of all that He does or ever has done.  God’s Moral Laws have always existed right along with God.  The moral precepts of Moses’ Law are simply the inspired applications of God’s eternal moral standards.
As long as “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind” and, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” are still relevant, then the whole moral law of God is still relevant, for it only expresses these two commands according to what God judges proper.
Is the “Golden Rule” still relevant? 
Mt 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. 
 
Do you live by the golden rule?  If you really do in God’s definition, then you live by the Law and the prophets as well.  If you truly live by God’s Law and prophets, then you really live by the golden rule.  So, is God’s Law still relevant?  If Jesus commanded the golden rule, which is the principle on which all the Law and the prophets are built, then Jesus is teaching and commanding the spirit and righteousness of God’s Law.
Is every word of the Scriptures important?  Did Jesus believe the OT Scriptures were still valid? 
Mt 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 
2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 
3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 
4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 
 
When Studying the Scripture we must build from these clear and indubitable foundation stones.  We cannot look at a passage of Scripture and say that God seems to have changed his mind about “right and wrong”; but we must first say, “God is immutable, and therefore we must interpret this passage in light of God’s unchanging standards of morality”.  To interpret Scripture as to overthrow God’s immutability is to create heresy.  Some will say, “But God changed His mind many times, like when He decided not to destroy Nineveh”.  God warning a city, and then having mercy on them when they repent is a part of God’s unchanging ways.  This is how God always operates (Jer 18).  Jesus was definitely different in the manger than he was on the cross; but yet Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8) — So what is the same?  When He was in the manger, He was a baby; and when He was on the cross, He was a man; but His moral judgments, values, opinions, etc. as the Son of God are eternal and unchanging.
3
What is sin?
Sin is any violation of the moral laws of God and whatever covenant conditions we are under.  Rebellion or intentional transgression is called willful or presumptuous sin.  Unintentional or unknown transgression is called ignorant sin (Numbers 15 compare Hebrews 10:26-28)
James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. 
 
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 
In Romans 1:18 we find that God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who hold the truth, but continue in unrighteousness.  The word for ungodliness means “improper worship” — Not loving God with all our heart and thus not fulfilling the first and greatest commandment.  The word unrighteousness means “injustice”; and refers to the second commandment being broken — not loving your neighbor as yourself.  God’s wrath will be poured out in judgment based on God’s Moral Law being broken by people “who knew better” — they sinned against the light and knowledge of God’s moral ways that they had.  Listen to Romans 2:1-16:
Romans 2:1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. 
The apostle had just concluded in the last chapter that man, “…knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” When men make judgments on other’s actions it reveals their understanding of right and wrong; and their judging tells God they understand something about His moral laws.  This only condemns them when they are not striving to obey God’s moral laws themselves, nor separating from others who don’t.
Romans 2:2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. 
3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? 
5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 
6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 
7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: 
 
n This is the salvation of the believers
8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness,  
 
n This is the unbeliever, and they will get…
 
…indignation and wrath, 
9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;  
10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:  
11 For there is no respect of persons with God. 
12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; 
13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. 
14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 
15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)  
16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. 
Every man has a conscience based on God’s moral law.  Even in his fallen state his moral conscience is not totally destroyed, and he will be judged for every violation of knowledge he possessed or could have possessed.
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:… 
Vs. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 
 
Adam Clarke:  They did not like to retain God]  “It would, perhaps, be more literal to translate ouk edokimasan, THEY DID NOT SEARCH to retain God in their knowledge.  They did not examine the evidences before them (Ro 1:19,20) of his being and attributes; therefore God gave them over to a REPROBATE mind, eiv adokimon noun, to an UNSEARCHING or undiscerning mind; for it is the same word in both places.  They did not reflect on the proofs they had of the Divine nature, and God abandoned them to the operations of a mind incapable of reflection.  How men of such powers and learning, as many of the Greek and Roman philosophers and poets really were, could reason so inconsecutively concerning things moral and Divine is truly astonishing.  But here we see the hand of a just and avenging God; they abused their powers, and God deprived them of the right use of these powers.”
To be “willingly ignorant” (2 Pet.3:5) is no protection against just judgment.  If you fail to investigate and justly consider all the evidence, then you are deliberately ignorant, and thus guilty of rejecting truth.
God’s moral law will be the basis for all judgment on that great Day of Judgment.  God’s judgment is based on your knowledge, your ability, your opportunities,and your potential, i.e. what you did with what you had.  The “work of the law written on their hearts” (Rom. 2:15) is referring to the striving of God’s Spirit with man, just like it says He did before Noah’s flood (Gen. 6:3).   It’s not the same as God writing his law in the hearts of New Covenant believers (Heb. 8:10), though it is similar.  New Covenant believers have the indwelling Holy Spirit teaching them (John 14:17-26); but other men simply have God’s Spirit convicting them from without (John 16:8).
Romans 14:23for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. 
Faith is doing what you believe pleases God.  Faith is believing God and properly relating to Him as Lord of the universe.  When you knowingly violate this, you are bringing judgment upon yourself.
Sin is often spoken of long before Sinai, because sin is the trespass of God’s Eternal Moral Law, which pre-dates and post-dates Moses’ Law; but is expressed to a large degree in Moses’ Law.
I John 3:4  Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. 5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins (transgressions of the Law); and in him is no sin (transgression of the Law). 
This was written around A.D. 95.  Sin has to do with the violation of God’s Law from whatever source you have received it — either from Moses, a prophet, John the Baptist, the Lord Jesus, an apostle, or your God given conscience.  The Scriptures which manifest God’s moral judgments and opinions are to us a law, and to disobey the Scriptural revelation of God’s will and way is SIN.
Since “iniquity” is from “anomia” “without law” or “lawless”, we need to find out what laws we are to obey — because Jesus hates “anomia”.  See this word in the following verses:
Mt 7: 21  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity (lawlessness)
Mt 13:41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity (lawlessness)
Tit 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity (lawlessness), and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 
Heb 1:9 Thou [Jesus] hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity (lawlessness)
 
If the doctrine you’ve been taught, tells you that you don’t have to obey the Law of God, and thus leads you to a “law-less” faith, then it is not of Christ.  As long as sin is punished by God, the moral laws of God are still obligatory.  Jesus is a King with a Kingdom, and His Kingdom has a Law — it is the eternal moral Law of God.  If you are to live in His Kingdom, you must love and obey God’s Law.  The Moral Laws given through Moses are inspired applications of the eternal Moral Law of God.  They are still the “will of the Father” that you must obey, or you will be found “lawless” and cast out.
4
What about the Ceremonial Law?
 
There is a definite difference between moral laws and ceremonial laws.  The Bible makes this distinction very plain.  The Moral Law is eternal and the Ceremonial Law is temporal and specifically related to the covenant in which it was given.  The ceremonies God gave were object lessons about God’s plan of salvation.  They taught that God’s relationship with man required more than submission to the moral laws; but that atonement for man’s sin was necessary also.  The Moral Law never becomes irrelevant; but the Ceremonial Law is irrelevant once it is fulfilled or a new covenant replaces it with other rituals or practices.  The Moral Law is God’s view of morality for eternity; but the ceremonial laws given to man (including Moses’ Law) are types and shadows awaiting the reality that they illustrate.  Most ceremonial laws of the Old Testament found their fulfillment in the life, death, resurrection, and priestly ministry of Jesus Christ.  I say “most” because the fall feasts are types of Christ’s second coming, and have not been fulfilled.  The ceremonial sacrifices God gave were man’s way of believing in Christ’s atonement before Christ even came.  The gospel was preached through the animal sacrifices, and as men reverently observed these, they were believing in God’s salvation by grace.
 
It is important to understand that God’s relationship with fallen mankind has always been in the form of covenants.  These covenants had two basic parts:
n First, man’s willingness to live by God’s moral standards; and
n Second, God gave some sort of rituals or ceremonies to teach about God’s conditional salvation through blood atonement.
God could not allow man to think that present submission to God’s moral standards was sufficient to maintain a relationship with God, because man had fallen, and could not redeem himself or atone for his own sin.  God started teaching man immediately after the fall that two things were necessary for man to have a covenant relationship with God:
1.      Repentance and submission to God’s moral laws, and …
2.      A blood atonement.
God taught this principle through what we call ceremonial law or ritual law.  This also predates Moses.  Moses’ Law was a covenant arrangement with the nation of Israel for a certain time period until Christ came.  God had been relating with man on similar principles from the time Adam and Eve fell.  Moses’ Law incorporated and codified these older covenants.
We find that Cain and Abel knew about ritual obligations, and it was Cain’s trespass against this arrangement that caused his offering to be rejected.  God had taught them to bring an animal sacrifice for blood atonement.  God tells Cain that if he would do well, he would be accepted, but if not, a sin offering was at the door, and he could avail himself of it.
n  Gen. 4:7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin [a sin offering] lieth at the door.
Noah was instructed to take more clean animals on the Ark than unclean animals.  This was partly due to animal sacrifices which we find them offering as soon as they were off the Ark.  Noah knew the difference between clean and unclean animals, and also about animal sacrifices upon altars.
n Gen. 8:20  And Noah builded an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar. 
We find Abraham walking up to Mount Moriah where God told him to offer Isaac on the altar as a type of Christ’s atonement.  As he walked Isaac asked a very revealing question:
n      Genesis 22:7 And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? 
 
Isaac knew all about this principle long before Moses’ Law.  Abraham had told his servant that they would go yonder to worship and then return.  Isaac knew what that meant.  We find in Genesis 26 God declaring to Isaac the reason why Abraham was blessed:
n Gen. 26:5 Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws
 
Hear what God commanded Abraham to do along with these sacrifices which pictures God’s plan for atonement in Christ:
n Gen 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. 
As Abraham obeyed the moral precepts God gave him and worshipped through blood sacrifices, his relationship with God was maintained.  His faith was seen in his faith-full-ness.
Even the covenant of circumcision was a covenant based on Abraham submitting to God’s Moral Law, and having the sign and symbol of circumcision as a ceremony or ritual observance picturing a regenerated heart.
Col 2:11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ
Circumcision symbolized the faithful obedience of Abraham.  It had to do with the principle of crucifying the flesh and walking in the Spirit.  Those with the ceremonial letter of the law fulfilled in their flesh; but without the spiritual meaning fulfilled in their heart were missing the point.
Romans 2:23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? 24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. 25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. 26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? 27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? 28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. 
These verses prove that there is a definite separation between moral and ceremonial laws as Paul argues that one who is obeying the moral laws (righteousness of the law); but is an uncircumcised Gentile (not fulfilling the ceremonial laws) is still acceptable to God and has the true essence of being a Jew within though not without.  The Ceremonial Law was to be done away, but the Moral Law (its counterpart) was never done away.  The circumcision in the flesh became unnecessary, but the circumcision of the heart would always be necessary.
 
Rom 4:9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, (the ceremonial covenant of types and shadows) but through the righteousness of faith. (The real entity — obedience to God’s moral laws from the heart) 
This whole argument proves the separation between the moral and ceremonial laws and shows that salvation by grace, i.e. God imputing our living obeying faith to us as perfect righteousness and thus cleansing our record of sin, is a blessing bestowed not only on the “circumcision” (the Jews obeying the ceremonial law); but also on the “uncircumcision” (Gentile believers who don’t obey the ceremonial law).  This blessing comes to those who have the faith of Abraham which obeyed God’s moral law.  Whether we are Jews under the obligations of the ceremonial laws or Gentile converts who do not obey the ceremonial laws, we ALL must have the faith that obeys the moral laws of God!
 
5
The Old Covenant
The covenant made with Israel through Moses was:
1. Man’s commitment to God’s moral laws — inspired applications of the Moral Law of God applied to many different circumstances.
2. Ceremonies to teach that sin was a real problem that must be dealt with by a blood atonement or God could not have a relationship with man.
If you do a study about the Tabernacle and how it pictures Christ and New Covenant realities, you will be amazed at God’s design.  The earthly rituals, which are only types and shadows, are the parts that lose relevance in Christ — He is the end (goal and aim) of the [ceremonial] law for righteousness (justification) to every one that believeth (Romans 10:4). 
 
The Ceremonial Law, Levitical Priesthood, Tabernacle, etc; were earthly temporal patterns of the true and eternal realities in heaven — which will never lose their relevance.
 
Heb 8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; 
2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.  
3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. 
4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:  
5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for,See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. 
 
Heb. 9:8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: 
9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; 
10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.  
11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 
12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 
…22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. 
23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 
24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 
Heb. 10:1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. 
 
It is very clear from these Scriptures that the Ceremonial Law, which included the service of the tabernacle/temple and the priesthood, was only temporary and is done away by Christ’s superior priesthood in the New Covenant.  It is also very clear from the following verses in the same book of the Bible that some part of the Law of God is carried over and has become the basis of the New Covenant.  Since we know it wasn’t the Ceremonial Law, then we can know it is the Moral Law.  We know it wasn’t animal sacrifices and ceremonial washings that were written on believer’s hearts, but it was the moral precepts of God’s own holiness which were written on their hearts.
Heb. 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: (preserved) and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:  
11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 
12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. 
13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away. (not preserved) 
 
Heb. 10:8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; 
9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second
 
Heb. 10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; (preserved) 
17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.  
18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. (done away) 
 
We can see that God’s eternal moral laws are written in our hearts, but the ceremonial laws of the covenant that pictured Christ’s atoning and priestly work are done away.  God preserved His moral statutes and judgments: took them out of the Old Covenant setting, and made them the basis of the New Covenant.
6
The Priority of Moral over Ceremonial Law
God’s separation of the moral precepts from the ceremonial practices shows that without the Moral Law in place, the Ceremonial is without virtue — it only has value as it illustrates, teaches, and is founded upon the Moral Law.  If you read carefully you will see the distinction between ceremonial laws that only illustrate truth and moral laws that are eternal truth.  The Shadow Vs. The Substance. 
1Sam. 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, toobey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams
 
Prov. 21:3 To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. 
 
Is. 1:10 ¶ Hear the word of the LORD, ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah. 11 To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats.  12 When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts?  13 Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting.  14 Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hateth: they are a trouble unto me; I am weary to bear them. 15 And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.  16 ¶ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; 17 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.   
 
Hosea 6:6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. 
Jer. 7:21 ¶ Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Put your burnt offerings unto your sacrifices, and eat flesh. 22 For I spake not unto your fathers, nor commanded them in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, concerning burnt offerings or sacrifices:  23 But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you. 
Micah 6:6 ¶ Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?  7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?  8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? 
 
Mt. 9:12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. 
 
Mt. 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.  
 
Mark 12:32 And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: 33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. 
Even in the Old Covenant, God taught them that circumcision was only a symbol and that He desired the circumcision of the heart and not just of the flesh.
 
De 10:16 Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked. 
 
De 30:6 And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live. 
 
Jer 4:4 Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, and take away the foreskins of your heart, ye men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem: lest my fury come forth like fire, and burn that none can quench it, because of the evil of your doings. 
Rom 2:25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. 26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? 27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?  28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:  29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. 
Jesus’ teaching about the “Ox in the ditch on the Sabbath”, “healing on the Sabbath”, and all the controversy Jesus had concerning the Sabbath, was dealing with the principle that the Moral Law always held precedence over the ceremonial laws; and that ceremonial laws lost their virtue unless they were founded upon God’s eternal moral laws.
Heb.10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:   
12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 
Are “Sins” the same in verse 11 as in verse 12?  Yes, and that means the Moral Law is still relevant.  The only thing that has changed is God’s covenant relationship in how we deal with sin now.  We have a new priesthood, a sacrifice with eternal merit, a heavenly priest ministering in a heavenly tabernacle in the presence of God, and we access this through the prayer of faith.
Heb. 10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 
17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.  
18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin
Sin is STILL Sin; but now that Jesus has made the atonement, there is no more offering — The OLD Covenant sacrifices are done away!  But the moral laws of God are still to be obeyed, or we will not be eligible for Jesus’ atonement for us.  Jesus’ blood will never cleanse sins that are not repented of; nor will He intercede for an unfaithful and rebellious person.
Heb. 10:26 For if we [Christians] sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth [The Gospel], there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 
This means that if a Christian rebels against God’s Word, and thereby stops walking in the Light, they forfeit the benefits of Christ’s atonement and priesthood on their behalf; and there is no other sacrifice or atonement that will avail for them.  Going back to Judaism is worthless because those sacrifices were only shadows of the real one made by Jesus, and can never take away sin.  Notice that SIN is still SIN, and God’s Moral Law, as the basis of the New Covenant, is still in force.
Heb. 10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 
Is this only a New Covenant concept?  No, Paul is quoting Hab. 2:4 – salvation in the OT under the Law.
 
Hab. 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. 
 
Adam Clarke:  It is contended by some able critics that the words of the original text should be pointed thus: ‘o de dikaiov ek pistewv, zhsetai.  The just by faith, shall live; that is, he alone that is justified by faith shall be saved:
The one God calls “just” is “justified” before God due to his faith, and he shall “live” or “be saved” on this account.  This principle is valid from Genesis to Revelation.  It is the principle of salvation by grace through faith.  Believing and obeying God (faith) is the best we can offer God, and it reverses the unbelief/disobedience of the fall as far as our part of reconciliation is concerned.  The principle of faith imputed to us for righteousness (justification) is the only form of salvation offered by God to man.  Our living by the obedience of faith (Romans 16:26) is what makes us eligible for the benefits of Christ’s atonement and priesthood.
In Heb. 12:18-29 it is clear that sin against the Moral Law has not changed; but the ceremonial arrangement for dealing with sin and rendering service to God has changed.
Heb 7:12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. 
 
What part of the law changed?  The ceremonial part that dealt with priesthood, sacrifices, temple service, etc. is what changed.
7
The Middle Wall of Partition
In Ephesians and Colossians we find that the ceremonial laws stood as a partition that kept the Jewish people a distinct and separate people until Christ could be born; but now that Christ has come and opened the kingdom doors to also receive non-Jews; that middle wall of partition, the Ceremonial Law that foreshadowed Christ, is done away.
Ephesians 2:11 ¶ Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;   12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 
13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 
14 ¶ For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 
15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 
16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 
18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 
21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 
22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. 
The “Law of commandments contained in ordinances” is speaking of the ceremonial laws in the Old Covenant. It is obviously not speaking of God’s holiness revealed in His moral laws.  Adultery, lying, coveting, etc. are still sin, and Jesus didn’t die so we are free to be unholy.  God’s Moral Law is not the separation or “enmity” between Jew and Gentile that needed to be abolished in order to reconcile both together in one body in Christ.
Adam Clarke: Contained in, or rather concerning, ordinances; which law was made merely for the purpose of keeping the Jews a distinct people, and pointing out the Son of God till he should come.  When, therefore, the end of its institution was answered, it was no longer necessary; and Christ by his death abolished it.
Instead of this separation, Jesus has made one NEW man from the two separate entities: believing Jew and believing Gentile.  The New man is bound by the moral laws of God, as he is now in the household of God, and God hasn’t changed.  We are now fellowcitizens with the what?  The saints — holy people.
What determines holy?  Has God’s holiness changed?  Pay attention to where these verses are found that say, “Be ye holy for I am holy”:
n Le 11:44 For I am the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy:  
 
n Le 11:45 For I am the LORD that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy. 
 
n Le 19:2 Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy. 
 
n Le 20:7 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. 
n Le 20:26 And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine. 
n 1 Pe 1: 14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:  
Is God’s holiness the same?  Holiness means “set apart to God”, and we must still be set apart to the same God, though under a different Covenant.   The God of holiness has not changed. God’s idea of holiness has not changed in regard to moral precepts.  Yes, disobedience to ceremonial law would have been sinful and unholy while it was still in force; but we have shown that these ceremonial laws were only for a certain time and purpose under a specific covenant that was meant to foreshadow Christ’s atonement and present priesthood. When they ceased to be relevant, they were no longer in force.  Paul says plainly that circumcision was in and of itself “nothing”, and only had moral relevance when it was “keeping the commandment of God”.
1Cor. 7:19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 
The Law of Love never loses relevance like this.  Bearing false witness, dishonoring parents, etc. are not just sins because God has forbidden them under this covenant; but are sins by their very nature.  Circumcision is not this way.   Jesus came to enforce and vindicate God’s ways.  He cleared the misconceptions about God’s moral precepts given through Moses.  The moral precepts themselves can never be changed. Only the ceremonial covenant rituals can be changed with the making of a new covenant.
Col 2:13  And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;  
14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; 
15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.  
16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:  
17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. 
Ephesians and Colossians were written around the same time, and are “sister” epistles with much the same content.  Here we are speaking of the same thing as what we previously read in Ephesians.  It is clear that what is done away is not God’s holiness and moral statutes; but meat, drink, respect of holy days, new moon, circumcision, and Sabbath day observances — ceremonial laws — conditions of a covenant relationship.  Paul tells us these things are simply a “shadow”, but the body is of Christ — He is the reality — the fulfillment of the types.
Gal. 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.  
Faith is only virtuous as it establishes the Moral Law of God (law of love); and produces a new creature fulfilling the righteousness of His eternal laws. “Circumcision” in this context refers to the whole Ceremonial Law/Judaism.
Gal. 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 
 
This “new creature” is supposed to have the mind of Christ, which is the Moral Law of God written on the heart.  Gal. 5:24 and 25 tell us about this new creature:
“24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” 
 
Rom. 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  
Rom. 3:31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law
 
How does faith establish the law?  The Ceremonial Law taught us about Christ’s atonement, and when we believe in Him, we are establishing the truth of what the law foreshadowed.  God’s eternal Moral Law is established by those who believe in him and take his prescription for living — holiness — the law of love.  Salvation by faith also establishes the righteousness of the Law by confessing our guilt and just condemnation for not keeping the Law perfectly; by confessing we need a Savior to redeem us; and thereby confessing, “God was right, we were wrong, and our humble submission now is reasonable service.”
Rom 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  
4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 
6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  
7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  
8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 
Being Christ’s and walking in His Spirit brings us in line with God’s holiness and we then fulfill the moral laws of God.  If you are not subject to the law of God, then you are not walking in the Spirit, and you are not Christ’s!
8
What did the Schoolmaster Teach?
Gal 3:21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life (made a true atonement), verily righteousness (Justification – a righteous standing with God) should have been by the law. 
22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by [the]  faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. 
23 But before [the] faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith (the spiritual meaning of the law) which should afterwards be revealed. 
24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by [the] faith.   
25 But after that [the] faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. 
“Faith” refers to “The Faith” as in “The faith once delivered to the saints”.  Paul has told us that personal faith in God has always been the means of justification and salvation (Heb 11).  But the “Faith of Christ” or “Doctrine of Christ”, which is the spiritual meaning of all the types and shadows, is now come to supersede the Old Covenant relationship between God and man.  So…what did the Law of Moses teach us that brings us to a productive relationship with Christ in the New Covenant?
What the schoolmaster taught us: 
1.      The Law of Moses was in two parts:  the moral plumb line that shows man is crooked and in need of atonement; and then the tabernacle: which taught them about God’s salvation through blood atonement, priesthood, etc.
2.      The Law taught us that God will not have a relationship with fallen man outside of God’s conditional covenant arrangements.  If we would reconcile with God, we must come under such a covenant that God has devised.
3.      The Law taught that “without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin”.  We cannot hope to have a forensic justification based on our perfect record, but must obtain a pardon by God’s grace through repentance, obedience, and a blood sacrifice to cover transgression.
4.      The Law taught us about priesthood, and how to relate to God through a priest.  We need to “come unto God by him” (Heb. 7:25), and keep our record clean before God.
5.      The Law taught us about the “Lamb of God” that takes away the sins of the world.  It taught that this lamb must be pure and without blemish, etc.  God taught man about the “Lamb of God” shedding his blood for the remission of sins for thousands of years before He sent Jesus, and man, for the most part, still missed it! 
6.      The Law taught us about the difference between clean and unclean, holy and unholy; and the need to keep ourselves clean in order to have a relationship with God.
7.      The Law taught us that without submission and obedience to the moral laws of God, you are not even eligible for the forgiveness and cleansing of the blood atonement that God has provided.  A Jew who was put out of the assembly or “cut off” from his people through trespass and apostasy gained no benefit from the Day of Atonement, and had no access to God through the priest.
8.      We are taught the difference between “ignorant sin” and “presumptuous sin”.  The willful sin spoken of in Hebrews 10:26 is referring directly to Numbers 15, and what is taught there.
9.      Every example in the New Covenant about salvation is from an Old Covenant person or situation.  Without the Old Covenant Scriptures we cannot fully understand or appreciate the New Covenant!
In the New Covenant, we have Christ as our High Priest in the Tabernacle of Heaven offering His own blood for our sins.   We must still follow many principles taught in the Old Covenant so we can properly relate to our High Priest, and appreciate what He is doing for us.  Most people don’t understand the mechanics (how it works) of salvation; and this causes much confusion to Satan’s delight.  If they would study to understand the Old Covenant mechanics of salvation, it would teach them the New Covenant mechanics of salvation.
I John 1:5 ¶ This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 
6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 
8 ¶ If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 
This is just what the school master taught us:  We must walk in the light God gives or we have no fellowship and are not eligible for the benefits of the atonement.  If we walk in the light of God’s holy moral laws, then we can have a relationship with God, and we are then eligible for the benefits of Christ as our High Priest.  While we walk in the light, doing what we know to be right in God’s sight; our High Priest keeps our record clean.  If we know we have sinned, we must come to our High Priest (Jesus) and confess our sins for cleansing and forgiveness.
Perpetual justification is dependent upon perpetual walking in the light (faith).  We are justified by faith: that means as long as faith keeps walking in the light, we continue to be justified through Christ’s priestly service.  A “faith” that stops walking in the light is no longer faith, but unbelief; and when this happens, our justification stops, because Christ stops cleansing our record until we repent and start walking in the light again.  Walking in the light is synonymous with “walking in the Spirit”, “having the obedience of faith”, “walking on the narrow way”, or, “living by faith” — they all mean the same thing.
While we are walking in the light, we will have two types of sins:  known trespass and unknown trespass. The known trespasses must be confessed and repented of, or they become willful rebellion and we have “no more sacrifice for sin, but a certain looking for of judgment and fiery indignation” (Heb. 10:26).  If we confess our sins, Jesus, our High Priest will cleanse us and our record in heaven.  The ignorant sins are automatically covered while we are walking faithfully in the light we have and willing to receive and obey more.
Heb. 7:22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better Covenant. 
23 And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: 
24 But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.  
25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 
Here we see that Jesus is a much greater High Priest; but we must continually come and make use of His services so we can be saved all the way to the end.  The word “come” in verse 25 is “present participle” in the Greek and means to “keep coming”.  If we don’t keep coming to our High Priest and making confession, He will not keep interceding and “keeping us saved” to the uttermost — to the end.  The schoolmaster has taught us all these principles; and we must follow them in order to be saved by the Faith of Christ.
9
How Did Jesus Feel About “What Moses Said”?
Did Jesus believe it was right to make God’s Word of none affect by new teaching? Listen to Jesus, and His esteem for what “Moses said”.  Do you think Jesus would come and do the same that He is rebuking these men for doing?
Mark 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? 6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside thecommandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. 9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.  10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: 11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. 12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; 13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. 
Notice how Jesus makes what “Moses said” synonymous with “commandment of God” and “Word of God” and also contrasts it with the “tradition of men”.
These religious leaders were making a moral obligation void by the introduction of new teaching, i.e. teaching introduced since the Law was given by Moses.  Jesus makes it clear that no new teaching is valid or correct if it makes the Scriptures void or “of none affect”.  We can be sure that Jesus never did such a thing as present new teaching which makes one of God’s moral judgments of none affect.
Who actually said “Honor thy Father and Mother”?  
 
Mt 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. 
 
Mark’s Gospel has “Moses said” while Matthew has “God commanded” — which is true?  Obviously what Moses said was inspired by God, and everywhere you read of Moses saying something in the New Covenant, you can insert “God” in the passage.  Try this with Matt. 19:7-8 and you’ll get the right idea.  When people don’t like part of God’s Law given through Moses, they want to say that, “Well, in this place Moses is compromising or in error”; but this means that not all God’s Law is God’s Law or inspired.  How are we then to know what is the inspired Word of God and what is not?  If you believe God’s apostles then you know what Moses wrote was THE WORD OF GOD, not the word of Moses — see 2Peter 1:21; 2Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 3:2-5. 
What the Pharisees were teaching made a man “Free” from a moral principle — would Jesus have been guilty of doing the same?  Could not the Pharisees have justly condemned him with hypocrisy had he been making the commandments of God of none effect by his own tradition?  Jesus was born under the Law, and obeyed it completely.  But, someone will say, “Jesus broke the Sabbath” (Jn 5).  Did He?
Jn 5:17 But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work. 
18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. 
 
The Jews claimed that Jesus broke the Sabbath by healing a man and having him go home carrying his bed.  Was this really breaking the Sabbath?  Of course not!  Listen to Jesus’ defense and explanation in Jn 5, 7, and Mt. 12:
Jn 7:22 Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. 
23 If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? 
24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. 
 
Mt. 12:1  At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. 
2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. 
3 But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him; 
4 How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? 
5 Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? 
6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. 
7 But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. 
8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day. 
9 And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue: 
10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him. 
11 And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? 
12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days. 
 
Jesus was doing God’s work just like the priests in the temple who do not get to rest on the Sabbath day, but are blameless.  Not only that, but Jesus explains to them that it is indeed lawful to “do well” i.e. works of charity or mercy on the Sabbath day. The word Sabbath means “rest”.   God wanted them to rest from normal labor and focus on spiritual matters on the Sabbath day.  The Sabbath was meant to be a blessing, not a curse.  They understood the necessity for taking care of their animals on the Sabbath day; but refused to acknowledge Jesus’ higher claim to healing the sick.  The Sabbath is not broken by child birth, circumcision, temple service, nor any other necessity of life.  Jesus said the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.  The Jews own writings about David eating the showbread acknowledge, “There is nothing which may hinder taking care of life, beside idolatry, adultery, and murder.”  According to the Jews, one should do any thing but these in order to preserve life. (see Clarke on Mt. 12:3)
Though the Sabbath Day was part of the ceremonial law, Jesus did not violate it.  In fact, Jesus perfectly obeyed both the moral and ceremonial Law so He could be the spotless Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world.
Others will say that Jesus violated God’s Law when He did not condemn the woman taken in adultery.  Is this true?  Absolutely not!
De 17:6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death. 
How many witnesses did Jesus have to condemn her?  None, they all left.  The witnesses were to be the ones who cast the first stones, which is what He told them to do; but they were not just in what they were doing, and so they felt convicted and left.  Jesus knew they were not righteous witnesses, because they said they caught her in the very act, but “Where was the man”?   Jesus had said that if they were just and not sinful in what they were doing, then let the true and just witnesses cast the first stones.  After they left Jesus said to the woman, “hath no man condemned thee?” i.e. “are there not any witnesses?”  Jesus then did not condemn her to death as that would not be according to God’s Law.  Jesus fully did what was lawful and right in this situation, and in so doing He called their bluff, as they simply wanted to entangle Him with the Roman authorities who had taken the power of life and death away from the Jews.  He did condemn her as a sinner, for He told her to go and sin no more; but He didn’t condemn her to death, as there were no reliable witnesses.
God told Moses what Christ Jesus would do as well as every true prophet between Moses and Christ:
Deut 18:17  And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. 18  I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.   
19  And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.   
This applied to every prophet; but ultimately pointed to the Lord Jesus Christ.  Notice: God is telling Moses that these prophets and the Messiah himself would only be speaking God’s Words (like Moses).  Would they or could they contradict or change God’s moral judgments?  Moses spoke God’s Word, the prophets spoke God’s Word, and Jesus spoke God’s Word (He WAS God’s Word) — wouldn’t they be the same in judgment?
The Bible in Malachi tells us what Jesus’ preaching was all about, and what the purpose was.  If you listen closely to God’s Word through Malachi, you will not be miss-interpreting Jesus.  In Malachi chapter 2 we find God chiding the people for their abuse of His Law.
Mal 2:4 And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with Levi, saith the LORD of hosts. 
5 My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name. 
6 The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity. 
7 For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts. 
8 But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.  
9 Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law. 
After this, in the next chapter, God tells them what the Messiah will do when He comes:
Malachi 3:1 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. 2 But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: 3 And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness. 4 Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years.  5 And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts. 6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. 
 
In the next chapter, before signing off, God tells Israel two important things.  First to keep Moses’ Law, and then that Elijah would come before the Messiah.  We now know that John the Baptist fulfilled that role in the power and spirit of Elijah.
 
Mal. 4:4 Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments
 
Why would God tell them “I am the LORD, I change not”; and “keep the law of Moses”; when He was coming to teach them contrary to Moses’ Law?  God doesn’t operate that way.  In Mal. 2, after God rebukes them for “departing out of the way” and “being partial in the Law” we find God saying He hates divorce.  Was He hating the proper use of Moses’ Law or the abuse of Moses’ Law?
Mal 2:14  Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.  
15  And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.   
16  For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously
 
Does that verse contradict this one?
Mal. 4:4 Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments
Of course not!  If they were divorcing according to Moses’ Law they wouldn’t be “dealing treacherously” as it would be the woman’s sin that caused it, and would be just (Deut 24).    However, that is exactly the way many interpret it.  Jesus said, “What God hath joined together, let not man put asunder”.   Was obeying Moses’ Law what he called “man putting asunder”?  NO, when you do things according to God’s law, it is God putting asunder.  However, when you do things contrary to God’s law — your own way — then it is MAN putting asunder; and this is what God hates.  He hates the abuse of His Law.
Jesus came to purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness” consistent with Moses’ Law, not contrary to it.   
 
Jesus did this and what was the result?  
 
Acts 21:20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:  21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. 22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come. 23 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them; 24 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law. 25 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication. 
This meeting was 29 years after Pentecost — after the writing of Romans, Galatians, Corinthians, and guess what!  Yes, that is right — after the book of James!  Paul and James are in perfect agreement!  These Jews being zealous of the Law was OK!  It is what they were supposed to do after they learned of their Messiah.  Jesus fulfilled Malachi! 
 
Did the Gentiles have to obey the Moral Law?  After reading Acts 21:25 some assume the Gentiles only had to observe “the necessary things” decided on in Acts 15; but these were only “entrance requirements” to be sure the newly converted Gentiles made a clean break with old pagan idolatrous practices.  These entrance requirements took the place of the Jewish entrance requirements of circumcision and submission to Moses’ Law concerning all the ceremonies, diets, holy days, temple service, etc.  The converted Gentiles still had to follow Christ, obey the Moral Laws of God, obey the apostle’s decisions, and obey the local bishop’s teaching, etc.
Romans 2:25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. 26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? 27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?  28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:  29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. 
These very arguments which show that NT Gentile converts had to obey God’s Moral Law also prove beyond doubt that there is a difference between the moral and ceremonial aspects of God’s Law, and, furthermore, that a New Testament Gentile convert could be fulfilling the moral law and be pleasing to God while still considered as an uncircumcised Gentile — not keeping the ceremonial law.
So… can it be said that the “uncircumcised” or “man who does not obey the ceremonial law” is at the same time keeping “the righteousness of the law” (moral law)?  Yes, the whole point here is that one can keep the moral law and be a Jew inwardly while not keeping the ceremonial law and being a Jew outwardly.  Can anything be clearer?  This means he was not circumcised, did not obey the dietary laws, washings, temple service, Sabbaths, feasts, etc.  The New Covenant Gentile convert had the circumcision of the heart, but not the outward circumcision of the flesh. (Col. 2:11)
Paul’s whole argument about faith imputed for righteousness in Romans 4 is to show that justification by God graciously imputing our living faith to us for righteousness was known to Abraham before circumcision, and to David under Moses Law; and is therefore valid to both those who are under Moses’ Law as well as the Gentile convert who walks in the righteous faith that Abraham exercised.  Abraham obeyed God’s moral laws by faith before the ceremonial laws given by Moses were ever written.
Gen. 26:5 Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws. 
This obedient faith that Abraham exercised was counted to him for righteousness just as it will be for the New Testament Gentile converts who “walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.” (Romans 4:12) 
Again, in Romans 8 the apostle Paul makes it clear that a New Testament convert — whether Jew or Gentile — must be characterized by submission to God’s moral laws which the carnal lost man is at enmity against.
 
Romans 8:1-13 
1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 
2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 
3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  
4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 
6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  
7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  
8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 
10 ¶ And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 
11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.  
12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 
13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 
 
Yes, the Gentiles had to obey the righteousness of God’s Law or all Paul’s arguments for why the Gentiles are justified before God without the ceremonial laws would fall flat.  The whole doctrine of Justification through faith in Christ demands that the righteousness of the Law is fulfilled in those who walk this way.
10
Why Justification Demands That The Righteousness Of The Law Be Fulfilled In All Believers
Rom. 3:25 “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his [God’s] righteousness for the remission of sins that are past [Genesis to Christ], through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his [God’s] righteousness: that he [God] might bejust, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” 
The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ was a public display of God’s attitude toward man’s sin.  Without such an awful display, God could never forgive one sinner, lest he be thought to sympathize with sin or sinners – Lest his hatred for sin, and love for holiness come into question – Lest some should think he didn’t fully agree with His Law, or thought it was too harsh, etc.  Charles Finney, with his legal training and fervent Bible study, gives excellent insights into governmental principles that apply to Scripture in his Systematic Theology — from which I gleaned the following:
1.  In Establishing Government and upholding law and order, the governor is pledged to duly administer laws in support of public order, in support of public morals, and to reward the innocent and punish those who violate the law.   Every time someone violates the law, the innocent, law abiding citizens are damaged, thus, the governor is committed to upholding the law for the sake of society as a whole.
2.  There is an important difference between retributive justice, and public justice — the same distinction as between the Letter of the law and the Spirit of the law — or between Law and Grace
n Retributive justice demands punishment without exception — to uphold the honor and obedience due to the law for the protection of the public interests.
n Public justice allows mercy or pardon on the condition that something else be done that upholds and supports law and order as effectively as the execution of the law would do.
3.   The design of legal penalties is to secure respect and obedience to the law.  The same is also the reason for executing penalties when the law is violated.  The penalties are to be regarded as an expression of the views of the lawgiver, in respect to the importance of his law.
n His execution of the penalties reveals his sincerity, commitment, and determination to abide by the principles of his government.
n The execution of the penalties reveals his abhorrence for all crime, and his love for his faithful law abiding subjects.
n The execution of the penalties shows his unalterable determination to carry out, support and establish the authority and righteousness of his laws.
n The execution of the penalties proves his perfect satisfaction and agreement with His Laws — He does not think they are too hard or asking too much.
4.   It is a fact well established by experience of all ages and nations, that the exercise of mercy, in setting aside the execution of penalties, is a matter of extreme delicacy and danger.  The influence of law, as might be expected, is found very much to depend upon the certainty felt by the subjects that it will be duly executed.  The exercise of mercy has always been found to weaken government by begetting and fostering a hope of exemption, second chance, or escape from the penalties of the law in the minds of those who are tempted to violate the law.  I say, it always weakens law and order unless a sufficient atonement is made as a substitute for the execution of the penalties of the law on the offender.
5.  WHAT IS a sufficient ATONEMENT?  Since the head of government is pledged to protect and promote the public interests by a due administration of law, if in any instance where the law is violated, he would set aside the execution of the penalties, public justice requires that a substitute for the execution of the law is provided, or that something is done that will as effectually secure the influence of law, as the execution of the penalty would have done. He cannot make exceptions to the spirit of the law — Either the soul that sinneth must surely die, according to the letter of the law and retributive justice; or a substitute must be provided in accordance with the spirit of the law and public justice.
6. The conditions of an acceptable atonement are as follows: Whatever will as fully express the Lawgiver’s regard for his law, His determination to support it, His abhorrence of all violations of its precepts, and will as effectually guard against the idea that violators might escape without punishment, as the execution of the penalty would do is a full satisfaction of public justice, and qualifies for an atonement. 
7. When these conditions are fulfilled, the lawgiver’s regard for his law is upheld; His determination to support it is manifested;His abhorrence for sin is expressed; the danger to violators is as clearly displayed so that sinners thoroughly repent and return to obedience…then and only then is it safe to pardon and extend mercy, because by Christ’s atonement, public justice and the spirit of the law have been upheld and not undermined.
The life, teachings, crucifixion, and Lordship of Jesus Christ so fully display God’s love for his law, his hatred of sin, His determination to uphold law and order, and his unwillingness to compromise with sin, that it opens the door for Him to safely pardon repentant sinners in Jesus’ name, and ultimately save them if they continued in a repentant state — living and upholding the spirit of His law.
Pardoning the repentant sinner; and satisfying the Law through atonement, rather than the execution of the penalty, seeks a greater good; which is why it is even considered and acceptable.  Consider the Apostle Paul:  Had God executed the penalty of the Law; Paul’s damnation would have served to uphold the Law through retributive justice.  Wasn’t it a much grander goal to convert, pardon, and enlist him in the service of the Lord to “preach the faith which he once destroyed”?  Of course!  And BECAUSE Paul repented, surrendered, suffered, and served with all his might, God’s choice to pardon, rather than execute was justified; and Jesus’ atonement in his behalf was also justified.  However, if Paul had proven to be a Simon, Judas, Demas, etc; it would have undermined God’s integrity and credibility tosave him anyway.  God’s investment of love and mercy in Paul was fully justified, because of his faithfulness.
Consider reading Hebrews 11 if all the men were lazy, faithless, wretches who just prayed a “sinner’s prayer” and lived in rebellion.  What would this say about God’s holiness?  What would it say about Christ’s wisdom in dying and saving them? What message would it send to God’s loyal subjects? (Ez. 13:22)  It certainly would not make Him JUST and the JUSTIFIER of those that believe in Jesus.  You must live in such a way that you justify your justification and vindicate God’s salvation plan or you betray your savior and bring reproach upon the Gospel.
Heb. 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.  
Matt. 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 
 
By demanding that we become disciples of Jesus Christ, and suffer for his cause (Ph. 1:29), as a true test of our repentance and sincere conversion, God has thoroughly protected against any idea that He sympathizes with sin.  He made Jesus the administrator of salvation because He “loved righteousness and hated iniquity” (Heb. 1:8,9); and only those who obey and please him will be saved (Heb. 5:9). 
Satan, by his false antinomian Gospel with no demand of repentance, obedience, and faithfulness is trying to misrepresent God, and thereby destroy the influence of God’s law and government — Satan hopes to defeat the effects of the atonement:
o By insinuating that God sympathizes with sinners
o By reducing or diluting the manifestation of God’s hatred for sin
o By implying that sinners are victims, rather than deserving of God’s wrath
o By implying that God actually created some to be sinners
o And by implying that God doesn’t expect us to obey his law — that he never intended us to do so, or that we can’t, etc.
Satan, in all this, is striving to slander the holiness and righteousness of God’s Law and government – WHY?   To cover his own rebellion!!
The Antinomian gospel of “easy believe-ism” and “once saved — always saved” is destroying law and order in America as it did it in Israel, because the proper respect and fear of God’s Law and government is eroding fast! Jesus had to display a perfect hatred for iniquity (lawlessness), and love for righteousness to even qualify as the Lamb to be slain
Heb. 1:8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. 9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. 
Jesus had to be extremely important, innocent and pure; and die and suffer sufficient agony, shame, and reproach, to display God’s hatred of our sin, the importance of the Law, His determination to uphold the righteousness of his Law, and His unwillingness to compromise or sympathize with sin or sinners.
All of this!  So my pardon would not compromise God and harm His government!  All of this just to keep me from burning in hell under the righteous wrath of God!  Amazing Grace!
 
For God to forgive us and just allow us to go on violating His Law would destroy his credibility as a just ruler. Putting Jesus’ righteousness on our record (as some teach) and allowing us to live unrighteous would also destroy his credibility.  Jesus’ righteousness is on His own record.  His cleansing blood is washing mine as I strive to fulfill His Law – walk in the Light!  (I John 1:7-9)
11
The True Grace Of God
2Co 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 
 
You say, but how can I fulfill the righteousness of the Law?   2 Cor. 8:12 gives us the very principle upon which our salvation rests.   Paul is speaking in the context of us pleasing God with monetary offerings, but it is the same principle for us pleasing God in any area.  Pleasing God means “finding grace or favor in the sight of the Lord” like Noah did.
 
Gen 6:8 ¶ But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. 
 
Noah was saved by God’s grace just like we are; and he became eligible for this grace by:
n First having a willing mind and heart to please God;
n Second, giving God all that was in his power to give.
God accepted this by grace, which opened the door for God to pardon Noah and wash him in the blood of Jesus.
Heb. 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness (justification) which is by faith
The word “righteousness” in the New Testament often means “justification”, i.e. obtaining a righteous record or standing before God.  God’s gracious justification through the cleansing of Christ’s blood, which gives us a righteous record and standing before God, is only given to those who walk by faith, and thus are faithful (Heb. 5:9; 11:6).
Abraham’s faith is seen in giving to God what he could give with a willing mind/heart. In this he became the father of the faithful (Gal. 3:9).
Gen. 26:5 …Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws. 
God had commanded him, “Walk before me and be thou perfect” (Gen. 17:1).  Was God asking something that Abraham could not give?  Jesus commands the same thing of us:
Mt 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. 
 
Is Jesus commanding more than we can perform?  No, He is not.  He is not commanding us to offer perfect performance or a perfect record of obedience; because He knows this is impossible.  He is commanding us to have a sincere heart desire and whole hearted effort to please God with the light and ability we have.  It is the same principle as:
Mt 22:37  “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”  
 
I’m not asked to love God with all your heart; all Paul’s heart; or all Jesus’ heart; but with all MY heart.  This I can give, if I truly surrender and strive to do so — this is what the Bible says is having a “perfect” heart before God.  This is not “sinless perfectionism” or “salvation by works”, as neither of those positions require Christ’s atonement for salvation.  Being “perfect” in the Bible sense is what God requires before He will pardon us and wash us with Christ’s atoning blood.  It means genuineness in my repentance and faith.  Sometimes it also means “mature” or “complete” depending on the context.  Do a word study on the word “perfect” in the Bible.
We can take the principle of 2 Cor. 8:12 and state it in many different, yet synonymous ways:
1. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 
2. If there first be the obedience of faith, which we can offer, it is accepted in the place of perfect obedience, which we cannot offer. 
3. God’s grace is seen in accepting what we can give — the obedience of faith/willing mind; and not requiring what we cannot give — a perfect record of obedience.  His acceptance makes us eligible for the atonement and priesthood of Christ to cleanse us and keep us clean. 
In 2 Cor. 8:12 the word translated “willing mind” is prothumia, (proth-oo-mee’-ah), predisposition, i.e. alacrity; which means cheerful readiness or cheerful willingness.  You can see this in the following verses:
Ac 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 
 
2Co 8:11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 
This is the same principle which we see in the next two verses:
2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.   
Ac 11:29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: 
 
God sees this as righteous — “they cheerfully determined to do their best!”  This is the Spirit of Psalms 119:
1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.  
2 Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. 
3 They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. 
4 Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. 
5 O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! 
6 Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. 
7 I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. 
32 I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. 
This is what God is looking for, so He can righteously pour out His grace and mercy.  This is all He requires from man, because He knows we have fallen, and cannot atone for our own sins.
Micah 6:6 Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?  
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?  
 
This man sees the futility of trying to atone for his own sins.  What is the answer?
 
8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? 
 
We cannot save ourselves; but we can offer a cheerful submission and obedience to the best of our ability. God accepts this living obeying faith – according to what we have to offer; and not according to what we do not have to offer!  And God knows when we are doing our best.
De 5:29 O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever! 
 
Heb 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people
 
Giving ourselves to God cheerfully is our reasonable service:
Rom. 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service
 
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 
From Genesis to Revelation God’s plan of salvation by grace has been the same in principle; and those who knew God understood what He expected if they would find grace in His sight.
1Ch 28:9 And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. 
The willing mind is not accepted alone, but is accepted along with us doing what we can do, and giving what we can give.  This is the only righteous way God can accept us and wash us in the blood of Jesus, and make us His children.
2 Cor. 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty 
I could fill volumes with illustrations of this principle from Scripture; but I’m trying not to over burden you. Bear with me now as I explain a very important chapter dealing with this very subject.  Please pay close attention.
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 
2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 
3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness (justification), and going about to establish their own righteousness (justification), have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God (God’s way of justifying men).
4 For Christ is the end (goal and aim) of the law for righteousness (justification) to every one that believeth. 
5 For Moses describeth the righteousness (justification) which is of the law (alone without grace), That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (perfect obedience = life)
6 But the righteousness (justification) which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) 
7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 
 
Paul is adapting a passage from the OT to illustrate the difference between justification by God’s plumb-line alone, which demands perfect obedience; and justification by grace, which demands us doing what we can do — and that being accepted by grace.  The passage Paul is adapting is Deut. 30:10-16
Deut 30:10 If thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which are written in this book of the law, and if thou turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul
11 ¶ For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. 
12 It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 
13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 
14 But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it. 
15 ¶ See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil; 
16 In that I command thee this day to love the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments and his statutes and his judgments, that thou mayest live and multiply: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it. 
 
What is the point?  This passage in Deut. is dealing with God’s people getting right after they have been carried away into captivity due to sin.  What if they want to turn their hearts back to God and obey all his Laws, but they don’t have a complete copy, and can’t obtain it?
Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?” 
 
Are they lost without hope?  NO!  Praise the Lord!  God never expected perfect obedience, but a perfect heart — a sincere desire and effort to obey what they did have.  This was “nigh” them, and they could do it anywhere.  Paul uses this to illustrate the difference between justification before God through Law alone without grace; and then justification through God’s gracious acceptance of me doing that which I can and know to do.  In Romans he adapts the passage to someone in the New Covenant thinking they must be perfect and know all Christ’s will:
10:6 But the righteousness (justification) which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) 
7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 
8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 
 
Since Christ is the culmination and climax of the Law concerning our justification; Paul replaces Moses’ Law in the passage with Christ’s will and teaching — it is the same principle (Jesus is the Word).  If you confess Jesus as your Lord and sincerely believe with your heart, you don’t have to perfectly “know” it all, or perfectly “do” it all.  Paul is showing that the principle of justification through a living, striving faith is taught in the OT; and is God’s only means of saving sinners in the NT and the OT.  The Jews went about to establish self atonement/justification through keeping Moses’ Law, and thought God owed them justification (declaration of righteousness) as a debt.   They vainly assumed the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins apart from Christ’s sacrifice and the grace of God.   Paul continues:
 
10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 
11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. 
12 ¶ For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. 
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 
 
Notice Paul is quoting the OT in order to establish his doctrine.   “Believing unto justification” and “confessing unto salvation” are the same as “calling upon the name of the Lord”.  This term refers to the sincere worship and service of the true God in the OT and NT — look it up.  This speaks of a living obeying faith unto the end of ones’ life (I Pet. 1:9; Rom. 16:26).  This shows that salvation by grace is God’s gracious acceptance of what we can give; which makes it right for Him then to apply the atonement to us and wash us clean.  As long as we abide in this faith — walk in the Light — we are safe and will be saved when we finish our course.
Maybe this principle can be understood better if we put it into the realm of the home.  If a child has done their best, but has nevertheless failed; and the parent is cross and merciless; we charge them with not being gracious.  If the child did their best and failed; and the parent draws them close in loving forgiving acceptance; then we say the parent is gracious and merciful.  If the child is rebellious, deceitful, self-justifying, lazy, and sneaky; yet the parent draws them close in loving forgiving acceptance; we don’t call the parent “gracious” but foolish and guilty of producing a monster!  The grace becomes lasciviousness when the child is not striving to please.  Grace is only virtuous and noble when given to one who has repented, confessed, made restitution where possible, and is now striving to be righteous.
Here is the principle again in the Parable of the Talents:
Mt 25:15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. 
 
What happened to the man who did not do what he could do?
 
Mt. 25:30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 
The true grace of God is consistent with demanding obedience to God’s Holy Law.  Offering grace without demanding us to obey according to our ability is “turning the grace of God into lasciviousness” — turning grace into lawlessness or “looseness” on God’s part.
Jude 3  Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that yeshould earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. 
4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. 
 
“Denying the Lord” means denying his “lordship” or denying that you have to obey him!   This turns God’s grace into capitulation to sin; destruction of His Law; and confusion concerning what salvation is all about.  But this is what is being preached in our day!  It is amazing that the attack on God’s Grace began while the apostles were still alive!  All the apostles had to combat Satan’s presentations of “false grace”.  Read Peter’s first epistle and you will find him presenting “true grace”.
1Pe 1:9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls… 
13  Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  
14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 
15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 
16 Because it is written (OT), Be ye holy; for I am holy. 
17 And if ye call on the Father (remember this term?-Rom 10;13), who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 
18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 
19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:.. 
4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?  
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator… 
5:12 …I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand

Doctrine of Biblical Non Resistance

Doctrine of Biblical Non Resistance

Disclaimer:  I have changed my views on this issue and am working on a revised teaching which explains my new views.  Here is the resource which helped me to come to this new understanding:

Mark Bullen’s Teaching on Vengeance

INTRODUCTION
Years ago I determined to pursue truth as an end in itself, not as a means to defend denominational biases. It is impossible to find truth, when you go to the Bible to prove your case. You are bound to wrest the Scripture to your own fancy, if you are not neutral when you come to the Word of God. You must come to the Word of God to learn, not to prove. 
In all honesty, you are more in love with your ism, heritage, or denomination than you are with Jesus Christ if you would rather defend your “camp”, than defend the pure truth of God’s Word. The Pharisees started at the wrong end when they determined their doctrine: They decided where they wanted to arrive, and then geared their doctrine to make sure it would arrive at the predetermined destination. This is error, rebellion, and pride. You must get on the Bible train, and let it take you wherever it will. You must be seeking God’s conclusions, not enlisting God to defend your conclusions,
With this in mind, get on your knees and promise God that you will read this book with only one motive: to learn and defend truth for Jesus’ sake.
DEFINING THE TERMS
I. Non-resistance: (will be defined below)
2. Passivism: The unbiblical extreme of Non-resistance.  We are going to use this term to describe those who teach that non-resistant Christians cannot hold office in the sword bearing state or protect those under their jurisdiction.
3. Pacifism: The unbiblical attempt to take the sword from the state and make it passive
also.  The problem with our society is that we are too concerned with pacifying the rebel, rather than standing for truth and right.
In this pamphlet I am going to separate passivism from non-resistance. I believe most people who claim to believe non-resistance, actually are unbiblical passivists. I believe passivism is taking non-resistance to an unbiblical extreme. This difference will become evident as we go. The difference between “separation of church and state”, and “non­participation in government” is the same difference. “Non-participation” is the unbiblical extreme.  In dealing with what we are calling passivism, we will naturally be dealing with pacifism, but we won’t directly refer to it, as our main goal is to put down the extreme position of passivism.
The doctrine of non-resistance, which is taken from Jesus’ words, “resist not evil…” is the Christian grace of unselfish love in action. We are working for the eternal salvation of sinful blind men. In doing so, we are going to suffer persecution.  When we are insulted, and our carnal nature wants to retaliate, we instead walk in the Spirit of Love and seek to be ambassadors for Christ – not for our own ends. We leave our injuries in God’s just hands, and seek to win our enemies souls, knowing they are blind, and headed for Hell.  We know we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against evil spirits who energize and motivate these blind sinners.  Jesus knew this and prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,”.   Stephen prayed for his murderers in the same manner, saying, “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge”.
Selfish men seek self-preservation at the expense of others; but Spiritual men seek the salvation of men at their own expense. This is the foundation of the teaching of non-resistance. This is sound doctrine and a very important aspect of the Christians’ testimony.  The principle of non-vengeance goes back to the Old Testament; and has to do with us minding our own jurisdiction; and not taking the law into our own hands.  It also has to do with the principle of fulfilling my duty before God, and not avenging myself with my own hand; which in the Bible is different than self-defense.
The law of Love, when engrafted into the believer’s life by the Holy Spirit will keep them from self-glory, self-exaltation, competition, vengeance, hate, slander, attack, rejoicing when their enemy falls, and any other fleshly pursuit that has it’s roots in “self-preservation at other’s expense”.
In churches that claim to be non-resistant it is sad to see men and women competing against their brethren, exalting themselves at the expense of their brothers, gossiping, slandering, and lacking love and compassion for the lost men around them. They may claim the doctrine of non-resistance, but they are sorely ignorant of the principles upon which it is based.
WHAT THE SCRIPTURES TEACH ABOUT 
NON-RESISTANCE (OR NON-VENGEANCE)
“Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the LORD.” Lev. 19:18; Matt. 19:19; 22:39; Mark 12:31. 
“But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.” Lev. 19:34; Duet. 10:19. 
“If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.” Ex. 23:4, 5 
“Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.” Proverbs 24:17, 18 
“If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: for thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.” Proverbs, 25:21, 22 
“Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me…for without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit, which without cause they have digged for my soul…False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things I knew not. They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sack­cloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom. I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not…Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions…Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me- For they speak not peace: but they devise deceitful matters against them that are quiet in the land…This thou hast seen, O LORD: keep not silence: O Lord, be not far from me…” Ps. 35 
“Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul…l am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God. They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty: then I restored that which I took not away.” Ps. 69:1-4 
I have quoted a few Old Testament verses in order to show that the teaching of unselfish Love, peace-making and Non-vengeance is rooted in the Old Testament. Paul even quotes the Old Testament as his Scriptural authority when teaching Non-resistance in Romans 12.
The nation of Israel is different from the New Testament Church in that Israel was a nation with civil government.  It included people who loved God and also those who just went with the program for personal gain.  There was, at all times, only a remnant who truly had faith in God. The Church is not a nation with its own civil government, but the “remnant” element called out into separate assemblies among all nations, and under their respective governments. The Church IS the remnant, and is commanded to excommunicate all who don’t exercise an obedient faith in Christ.
The Law of Moses was given to organize a nation and teach civil leaders how to justly deal out judgment. The authorities were commanded to judge justly and deal out an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth; which was a just and fair reward to the offender. However, carnal men began using this principle for their personal relationships.  They had hate and vengeance in their hearts, and often took the law into their own hands or justified their personal vengeance with the “eye for an eye” principle.  Hard hearted people always use righteous principles to their own advantage, and not as they were originally intended.
Men’s hard hearts were only outwardly controlled by the laws laid down; but Jesus came to regenerate men. He called them to repent of being hard hearted and to practice the true righteousness of the Law, not use the Law for their own designs. Thus we see Jesus correcting their misconceptions and abuses of the Law, and preaching the true spirit and righteousness of the Law in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7).   Romans 8:4 says that when a New Testament believer walks in the Spirit, they are fulfilling the righteousness or “original intent” of God’s Moral Law through Moses.  God’s Moral Law is eternal, and Jesus didn’t change it.
Moses’ Law was given to organize society; but Jesus’ teaching was to prepare men to preach the gospel to all nations where they could not expect a fair redress of grievances. They would have to go out as sheep among wolves and couldn’t expect justice. Jesus taught them to do right without expecting right in return – it was spiritual warfare. You can’t expect justice on the battle field.  Jesus was talking about our personal responses while striving to be the salt of the earth; but Moses’ Laws were mostly written so magistrates could know how to deal with crimes.  They do not contradict at all; but are meeting different needs.  Jesus if clearing the Law of abuse and misapplication.
The non-resistance taught in the OT was in harmony with the sword bearing of the OT authorities, and what Jesus taught is also in harmony with God’s ordained governments bearing the sword as “ministers of God to thee for good” – Romans 13.
We will now see in the New Testament that Jesus upheld and fine tuned this spirit of non-vengeance when he taught and expounded the spiritual intent of God’s Law. The spiritually dull people in the Old Testament who did not yet fully comprehend all that Jesus would teach when he came; had misunderstood and misconstrued much of the “original intent” of God’s Law. Jesus is calling the remnant to come out and follow true righteousness.
“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth…Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy…Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” Matt. 5:5-12 
“Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matt- 5:21 -24 
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy- But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you: That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matt. 5:38–48 
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matt. 6:14–15 
“Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits, Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:14–21 
“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.” I Thess. 5:15 
“Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye take it patiently? but, if when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:”  I Peter 2:18-21 
“Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; …but and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;…For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing-” I Peter 3:9-17 
There are many other passages and related doctrines that come into play when dealing with this subject, but I would like to share one more before we go on in our study. In Revelation 12 Satan is represented as the great persecutor, deceiver, and accuser, Verse 11 reveals the believer’s response to all three of these attacks:
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” 
The believer’s response to persecution is not vengeance, hate, or war, but “loving not their lives unto the death”. They overcome deception by the “word of their testimony”; and they overcome accusation by claiming the “blood of the Lamb”.
You will notice that when the apostles were arrested, attacked, etc. for the preaching of the Gospel, they didn’t gather the believers together for battle or “hole up in the barn with a shotgun” or ambush the opposition with weapons.  Non-resistance is an attitude of humility and willingness to suffer for doing what is right.  It is an unwillingness to lower ourselves sinfully to become no better than the hateful sinners who persecute us; and it has much to do with jurisdiction, and honoring God ordained boundaries.  Even King David knew the difference between killing Goliath and avenging himself on Nabal.
There are five God ordained authorities that we are accountable for in our life:
1. God  
2. Parents 
3. Husband  
4. Civil authority  
5. Bishop and elders 
We are told to obey all of them; but what if they disagree? Who do we obey? Well, ultimately we must obey God.  We obey God ordained authority until it would require us to disobey God, then we must obey God and not man.  However, in doing this, we must be willing to suffer at the hands of the human authority with a meek and humble spirit as a testimony for God. If we are haughty and rebellious in this, we will not be thought to be truly seeking obedience to God, but only rebellion to man.
SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE
In the Old Testament nation of Israel there wasn’t much distinction between “church” and “state”.  When they had a theocracy, and men like Moses & Samuel acted as spiritual and civil leaders, there was no distinction. However, after they set up Saul as king, there was a distinction. The kings were not to serve in the Temple, nor were the priests and Levites to reign as kings. The priests generally didn’t declare war, execute criminals, or enforce the law. However, they did have a “state church” and the civil authorities enforced obedience to the “church”.
Israel was a “nation” and “the congregation of the Lord” or “church”, not an assembly of believers within and among all nations. Because of this, you could not be a part of the “state” without being a part of the “church”. When there is a marriage of “church” and “state”, as there was in Israel, excommunication (church discipline) is done by execution or banishment (state discipline). Tithe and offering is upheld by law and becomes a “tax”. Membership and citizenship are joined into one, and so initiation (circumcision in the OT, and baptism in the NT) is applied to infants – because as soon as they are citizens of the state, they must be members of the church. In this setting there is little distinction between who actually wages war or executes criminals – the church or the state?
NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH & STATE
When Jesus set up the New Testament Church, it was not to rival or usurp authority from any earthly king or government, but be part of Christ’s heavenly kingdom on earth (John 18:33–37). This was a spiritual kingdom among all other kingdoms. This was a spiritual nation among all nations.
The New Testament Churches were called out assemblies of believers among the nations who were still subject to their respective state governments (Romans 13:1–8; 1 Peter 2:11–19). This required a separation between church government and state government. The church was not to run the state, and the state was not to run the church; but each had a separate and unique mission under separate administrations. They were both subject to fulfill God given mandates, and should dwell together in harmony under God.
The church government disciplines by excommunication, but the state government by execution, imprisonment, etc. The church government initiates members by baptism when they intelligently embrace the faith of Jesus Christ, but the state government counts its citizens from infancy. The church is supported by freewill tithes and offerings, but the state by mandatory tax. The qualification of church leaders is spiritual, but the state leaders are not always moral. So the government of the churches must be separate from the government of the states in which they dwell.
The church is not commissioned to wage physical war with physical weapons, but rather to wage spiritual war with spiritual weapons (2 Cor. 1.0:4). The state is commissioned to execute wrath on evil doers and protect its citizens by means of force (Romans 13).
ROMAN CATHOLICISM
The formation of the Roman Catholic Church was largely due to a marriage of church and state contrary to the teachings of the New Testament. In doing this they copied the Old Testament and assumed they were not only a holy church, but also a holy state or empire. They reverted back to much Old Testament order and even idolatry. They exchanged evangelism as the Biblical means of growing the church for the state method of growing the state – conquering. They dealt with heretics the way the state deals with criminals – execution. Tithe became tax, and baptism was now for infants; because they became citizens and members at the same time. Doctrine was now established by state legislature, not by preaching and exhortation based on Scripture with the example of godly living.
They developed a church hierarchy much like the Old Testament with priests, temples, altars, and the communion became their sacrifice. Ultimately, they denied the priesthood of every believer and the one mediator between God and men, Jesus Christ, when they made it illegal to give the Scriptures to the common people and taught confession of sins to the priest for forgiveness.
These gross errors were produced by power hungry men in church positions, who became worldly and apostate; but didn’t want their positions challenged or their powers lost. This error was promoted by denominational bias and pride that wanted the state’s help in eliminating the opposition. Thus we have 1200 plus years of terrible persecution called “The Dark Ages”. The reign of the Anti-Christ system showed its true colors, and justified its slaughter of over 50 million non-conformist believers by saying they were just trying to “discipline erring sheep”. This mother of harlots had a number of daughters (protestants) who followed the state-church union and persecuted any who didn’t agree.
THE ANA-BAPTISTS
During this time of Roman Catholic dominion, men who protested the marriage of church and state; who saw the horrible “crusades” of the Romish Church; and who were expected to participate in these church/state ventures; diligently taught the separation of church and state. They knew that men should not wage war in the name of the church or in the name of Christ. They suffered greatly for not participating in church initiated holy wars, and for protesting the corrupt state church doctrine and practice.
The descendants of these faithful believers are found in the reformation times (and earlier) as Anabaptists. They were called Anabaptists for maintaining the baptism of adult believers only, as opposed to that of infants in the state-church system. Many whom they baptized had already been “baptized” as children by the state church; so they were scornfully called re-baptizers (Ana – baptists).
These believers who held to the separation of church government and state government became divided on some important particulars about this separation of church and state. Does the separation of church government and state government mean the separation of church members and state? Can an officer of the state be also a member of the church? What about Christ’s teaching of Non-vengeance and loving your enemies? Some began to teach non-participation in government all together (Passivists). Others wanted to make the state passive (Pacifists). This teaching can be found in varying degrees. Most of the passivists agreed that a member of the church could not hold office in the state. Those we are calling passivists did believe that the state was to bear the sword (Romans 13); but the state could only be run by heathen, so every government was to be a heathen government, and there could be no Christian rulers.
This confusion arose from the ill feelings toward the state-church governments that they suffered under. The tendency to be anti-government was natural and to be expected in such circumstances. But was it Biblical? To be an officer of the state/church seemed to be cooperating with the Anti-Christ system. Were they to participate in the Anti-Christ church’s “evangelism with the sword”? When an apostate church is married to the state it really complicates matters. When your church is illegal according to this state, then how can you support the state? From these trying circumstances, there arose some unbiblical teaching about the separation of church and state as well as non-resistance.
We must remember that the Christians of the first century also were under state governments opposed to their church. Most governments were pagan, and those living in Israel were still under Jewish leaders who rejected Jesus Christ. These believers had to deal with pagan emperors, just as the Ana-Baptists had to deal with apostate religious rulers. How did they deal with it?
DEMONSTRATION – NOT – INTERPRETATION
We are not going to interpret Scripture to start with, but we are going to demonstrate certain undeniable facts of Scripture, which will serve as foundation stones for interpretation. These undeniable facts greatly narrow our options of interpretation, therefore it is vital to sound interpretation that we first analyze these facts.
DID THE APOSTLES BELIEVE YOU COULD BE AN OFFICER OF THE STATE AND ALSO A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH?
About 12 years after Pentecost God opened the door of the Gospel to uncircumcised Gentiles. They could be baptized into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ without first being Jewish Proselytes. Of all the Gentiles in the world whom God could have used to open this door, who did he choose? He used an officer of the state! He chose not only an officer of the state, but an officer of the state military! Cornelius. Notice carefully the attitude of Scripture as it describes this man BEFORE he was even converted. (Acts 10)
“There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, adevout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose name is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that wailed on him continually; And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.” 
Cornelius, in God’s estimation was “devout” and “God fearing” as an officer over 100 soldiers in the Roman army. He also had a devout soldier, who was his servant, whom he sent with other servants to protect them from robbers while they went to get Peter. Why wasn’t Cornelius considered wicked and vile? Why wasn’t he convicted and repentant for being a soldier of the state? We will see.
After this our story takes us to Peter having a vision whereby God makes it clear to him that “what God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.” Then Peter goes with the servants and preaches the Gospel to Cornelius.
“While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word….Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to he baptized in the name of the Lord.”  Acts 10:44-47 
Peter barely had time to share who Jesus was, and what he offered. Why didn’t God give him time to tell Cornelius to stop being a soldier of the state before he poured out the Holy Ghost on him? In Acts II we find from Peter’s testimony that he had just “began to speak”. So he didn’t have much time to spell out non – resistance.
More than this; Hear what Peter says about God sending an Angel to lead Cornelius to the Gospel:
“Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” Acts 10:34,35 
Peter testified that, because Cornelius was God-fearing and was working righteousness (already), God had mercy on him and was leading him to salvation. Why no mention of him repenting of his state office? Why was this not made an issue at all anywhere? We shall see.
Now we will skip over to chapter 11 and hear Peter defending himself – not for baptizing a state officer and a military man – but for baptizing an uncircumcised Gentile. We will see that the fact of him being an officer of the state or a soldier was not a problem for them at all; but first lets get the full testimony of Peter on the subject.
“And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them…And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the Word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.” Acts 11:2-18 
Again, nothing at all is said about his position as a soldier or state officer, but only that he was a Gentile.
Once again hear Peter in Acts 15:
“And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.” Acts 15:7-9 
It would be nice if people today were as easy to convince as these Jews were. Peter did not “interpret”, but “demonstrated” by God’s very actions and choices what the obvious conclusion must be. God put no difference between this uncircumcised Gentile officer of the state military and the apostles when he believed on Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Peter’s argument is that because God poured out the Holy Spirit while Cornelius was still uncircumcised, that it would be tempting God to force it on him now — the same argument could be given for the fact that God poured the Spirit upon Cornelius while he was a Roman officer.
In this case we have God choosing for the first Gentile convert – a Roman centurion. There is absolutely no evidence of Cornelius stepping down from his position, or being instructed on passivism before his baptism –all the evidence is to the contrary. He was an officer of the state, and now a member of the body of Christ.
Notice not one person raised concern about his being a soldier or an officer of the state. Why would they, when Jesus and John the baptist also accepted officers of the state? Publicans (Matt. 21:31-32) and centurions are officers of the state (Matt. 8:5-10). Consider what Jesus was saying about another Centurion like Cornelius in these verses:  
Matt. 8:10 “When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.   11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.  12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”  
Jesus is saying to those around that men like this Roman Centurion will be in heaven, while many Jews without his faith, will be cast out — Can you accept this from Jesus’ mouth? 
Zaccheus was an officer of the state. It is obvious Jesus didn’t demand him to change occupations, but endorsed his continuance as an honest and fair tax collector.
John the Baptist, the one with the “baptism of repentance” to “prepare the way of the LORD”, is recorded in Luke 3 in a direct pre-baptism discussion with two different groups who were officers of the state:
“Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.” 
It is obvious to the humble seeker of truth that “do violence to no man” is related to “neither accuse any falsely”. It does not mean they couldn’t continue as a soldier, because John also says, “be content with your wages”.  John wouldn’t tell them to collect a check for being a soldier, and then not fulfill their duty, as this would be living a lie.  “Do violence” is the abuse of power, not the use of power in the line of just duty as an officer of the state. There is no doubt that John’s concept of “do violence to no man” meant, “Don’t abuse your power”. When sent to arrest or guard, many soldiers would rough up their captive, extort money, and threaten contrary to the law and outside of the realm of just and righteous duty. The soldier who was not content with his wages would try to extort money by violence. If this didn’t work, he would accuse them falsely.
Adam Clarke says “Do violence to no man” means, “…do not extort money or goods by force or violence from any. This is the import of the words neminein concutite, used here by the Vulgate, and points out a crime of which the Roman soldiers were notoriously guilty, their own writers being witnesses. Concussio has the above meaning in the Roman law.”
Adam Clarke, after commenting on the phrase, “neither accuse any falsely”, says, “Bishop Pearce observes that, when the concussio above referred to did not produce the desired effect they wished, they often falsely accused the persons, which is the reason why this advice is added.”
Yes, I know some will say John was still Old Testament; but he was come to “prepare the way of the LORD”, and the soldiers in Luke 3 were asking him what to do to “prepare for the Messiah’s coming”.  Jesus said the Law and the Prophets were until John, and since that time, the kingdom of Heaven is preached — John was not “Old Testament” as they are saying.
And what if John was “Old Testament”?  God’s morality doesn’t change and what was righteous before God in the Old Testament is still righteous before God.  Jesus is the author of the Old Testament.  Romans 8:4 declares that the righteousness of the Law (Moral Law) is fulfilled in believers who walk in the Spirit.  Moses’ Law was still binding on all men until 12 years after Pentecost when Gentiles were accepted without circumcision.  The Jews were still under all Moses’ Law in Acts 21 (29 years after Pentecost); and the Moral Law is binding on all men for eternity.
So, we find John the Baptist didn’t have a problem baptizing repentant publicans and soldiers; Jesus said the Centurion would be in Heaven; the apostles didn’t have a problem baptizing soldiers; and now we will see:
1. Paul’s first recorded convert on his first missionary journey was a governor (proconsul), Sergius Paulus (Acts 13). It is obvious that Paul did not tell the man to step down from his state office. There is absolutely no evidence that he did step down.
2. Paul’s second missionary journey is highlighted with the remarkable conversion story of the Philippian jailor (Acts 1.6). The Philippian jailor was baptized at midnight, and the next day we find him still the keeper of the prison – thus saith the Scripture. It is clear that he did not step down upon conversion. Not even a mention of his planning to.
3. Philip converted the Ethiopian eunuch, a Jewish proselyte. He was an eunuch of great authority, and the treasurer of Candace queen of the Ethiopians. It is obvious he didn’t step down from his state office. (Acts 8)
4. Erastus, the chamberlain of the city of Corinth was a church member and a beloved brother. (Romans 16:23, Acts 19:22, 2 Tim. 4:20). It is clear that when Paul wrote Romans, he had not stepped down from his office, though it seems he served with Paul later, possibly after his term was over.  Maybe he retired. But, when he was converted, he was the chamberlain of the city.
Now, before you feel so sure that we are heretics, stop and ask yourself, “Would my church baptize these men who were baptized by the apostles?” ……Why not?   
These few examples serve to demonstrate the truth, so when we interpret, we won’t be off track. You can’t argue with truth demonstrated. 
I’ve read passivists who declare that during the first three centuries high public officials had to step down to be church members; but they gave no evidence for this. I’ve never seen evidence for this being the apostolic position; but we have given you much to the contrary – and there is more in extra-biblical sources. If you look at the persecutions that took place, you’ll find records of certain public officials and soldiers being persecuted also.
Now, how is it that one can be an officer of the state, and still obey Christ’s teachings of loving their enemies and not avenging themselves? We must either conclude that this can be done, or conclude that these converts didn’t obey Christ — and the apostles didn’t say a word.   Only one conclusion is possible — they obeyed Christ and served in a state office.    I’ll explain how. 
 
Duty and Jurisdiction vs. Personal Vendetta
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also; for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.” Romans 13:1- 6 
When an officer of the state executes righteously his duty, he is acting, not as an individual avenging himself, but as an officer of the state fulfilling the mandate of God.  What he does is not in his own name or person, but in the name of the state, AND AS A MINISTER OF GOD.  The arrest, execution, etc. is a matter of duty, and not a matter of personal hate, envy, vengeance, etc.  The Bible commands the governing officials to kill, judge, punish, etc.; but commands us as persons not to take the law into our own hands for personal vengeance.  Even those in a position of authority are not to use that position for personal vengeance.
Nowhere in the Bible is it implied that a state officer commits murder or breaks God’s Law when executing a duly convicted criminal.  God, as the judge of all the universe, is love!  He is still love when he destroys wicked men with a flood, or sends people to Hell.  He is still love when he destroys Sodom and Gomorrah with fire and brimstone.  If God did not execute the penalty of the Law on transgressors he would not be just, holy, and would not love the innocent and obedient.
Even so, a man, who is commanded to love and forgive even his personal enemies, when serving as an officer of the state, cannot violate the civil law and pardon a criminal because of feelings of pity.  He has no right to become personally involved, except to fairly execute the law in the fear of God.  He is acting as an officer of the state under the commission of God — he has no right to act in his own person, as he is not the state. See Deut. 19:13 concerning the execution of a murderer:
“Thine eye shall not pity him, but thou shalt put away the guilt of innocent blood from Israel, that it may go well with thee.” 
When a government is just in its dealings, even when it uses the sword under the mandate of a loving God, it is an act of love.  The God of love knows that if sinful and wicked men are left in anarchy without accountability and punishment, it will be the innocent and peace loving people who will suffer.  Out of love for the innocent and weak, God ordains government to put down evil and protect good. God also is concerned about putting away evil influences.  God wants the young to “see and fear” the consequences of going down the road of crime and lawlessness.  See Deut. 19:20 concerning the effects of justice:
“And those which remain shall hear, and fear, and shall henceforth commit no more any such evil among you.” 
To serve as an officer of God ordained government is a service of love. When a government gives unjust and wicked orders, which are outside the mandate of God’s laws, then Christian state officers must conscientiously object, and obey God rather than men.  Most of the time, however, as Paul states in Romans 13, government rewards the good, and punishes the evil.
The individual who obeys Romans 12:14-21 can also be an officer of the state as in Romans 13:1-6. Romans 12 covers his PERSONAL life and attitude, while Romans 13 deals with his DUTY AS A MINISTER OF GOD for the state.  He still has the same heart and attitude, he is still walking in the fear of God, which is the very thing that makes his duty just and fair.  He is the best magistrate to have!  He is much like Jesus will be when he returns to Judge the world in righteousness.  If you think love and justice are mutually exclusive or opposing forces, then you don’t understand God’s love or His judgment.  God’s love and judgment are not like the Chinese “Yin-Yang”; God’s love is the basis of his judgment – very different than passivism.
If I am a sheriff, and have personal enemies or insults, I am to obey Christ and not seek vengeance or render evil for evil. In my personal attitude and affairs, I am to be “devout” and “God fearing” just like Cornelius. If I am devout in my personal attitude, then I will be devout in my execution of duty before God.
When I am in the line of duty for the state as a minister of God (Romans 13); then what I do is in the name of the state, it is not personal in nature.  If I must execute a criminal, it is not a personal vendetta, but an act of righteous duty to protect the innocent victims and obey God.  The state is not called to overlook criminals, but to deal justice to them.  They are called to execute God’s wrath and vengeance upon the evil doers.  When one is an officer of the state, he is to do his duty before God in an honest and just way.  The fact that the act of duty is not in his own name, but the name of the state doesn’t excuse sin; but demands he do what is righteous for the state to do under the mandate of God.  What he does would not be righteous for an individual.   Why?   Because, as an individual, he does not have jurisdiction, authority, nor duty to act in such a way — that is what makes it sinful for an individual, but not for the state officer.
Go ask a police officer if he is allowed to become personally involved with the insults he receives in the line of duty and lash back in personal vengeance; or if he must ignore what he hears and stay in the line of duty within the law.  If a prison guard develops a personal vendetta against a prisoner, and beats him, he will be disciplined for his action.  King David, in the Old Testament, even understood that he was not to avenge himself with his own hand (I Sam. 25:26-33). He also knew that as a king or soldier he was to protect the innocent.
Now, if I am a soldier or police officer, and am ordered to commit some injustice or evil work outside the realms of Godly government, I will conscientiously object and suffer as a Christian – just like the servant spoken of in I Peter.
Balthasar Hubmaier, an Anabaptist minister and martyr for the faith, in commenting on Romans 12:19, says concerning good government, “…government has no enemy, hates no one, envies no one, it also then does not desire to wreak vengeance on anyone. Rather, what it does it must do by the mandate of God, who intends through it as his instrument to punish wicked and harmful people. It does this not out of anger, but with a sad heart. Vengeance, however, follows from wrath, but if one wants to avenge oneself out of one’s own wrath it is forbidden here, for the vengeance is God’s, Deut. 32:35; Heb. 10:30. He wants to repay evil, Prov. 25:21 – 22. Therefore after the twelfth chapter Paul shows the reason in the thirteenth chapter why we should not avenge ourselves, for God has ordained the government as his servant to bring vengeance. It is the government’s duty to protect, punish, and avenge.” 
As a Christian, it is not appropriate that I should selfishly desire to have the rule and power of government.  Jesus rebuked the disciples for seeking to lord over each other.  However, to humbly serve your fellow man and meet a need that is pressed upon you is a different situation.   Jesus didn’t forbid having “bishops” in the church, and He wasn’t forbiding Christians being in roles of authority.  To be converted while in office does not require one to step down.  A Christian who is in government doesn’t “lord over” anyone, but serves in the fear of God.  Jesus drove the money changers out of the Temple with force because it was his Father’s house – that means he was given jurisdiction over this area, and it was his responsibility to maintain “law and order”.   He wasn’t violating nonresistance any more than a parent who spanks, a master who punishes a servant, or a police who keeps the peace.  Jesus wasn’t very passive that day in the temple.
Recently I’ve read a passivist’s book arguing that Jesus only used the scourge on the animals, not the men.  Isn’t this silly? Does this man spank his children?  Does he also think THAT is Old Testament?  “After all, it is in the book of Proverbs, ya know.”  Read the facts and judge for yourself:
John 2:14 “And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: 
15 And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; 
16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise. 
Jesus drove the MEN and the sheep and oxen out of the temple.   After it says He drove “them all” out of the temple, it adds, “and the sheep…”.   Only proud men try to twist the Scripture for their own purposes.
DUTY OF LOVE
“If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain; If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?” Prov. 24:11,12 
In the Law of Moses (Deut 22) it says that if a damsel is attacked in the city and she doesn’t cry out for help, she is considered guilty of the fornication and stoned. If she cries out for help, she is considered innocent. Now, pray tell me what I, as a God fearing man, am to do if I hear the damsel cry out for help?  Should I pray for her?  Maybe I should tell her that I can’t get involved because I don’t believe in violence?  NO.  If I have God’s love abiding in me, I will do my best to deliver her from her attacker.  This is not just for an officer of the state, but for any person who is able to help this victim.
The girl is supposed to fight back, or she is considered immoral, and the man who hears her is to lay down his life to save her.  Has this changed?   NOT AT ALL!  Would not a woman who yields to the rapist without crying for help still have her innocence questioned?  She is still to cry out, flee, and resist.  And a person who hears her cry is still supposed to try and deliver her.
This is not contrary to God’s love or Jesus’ teachings.  Common sense tells us that if Jesus or his disciples saw someone trying to molest Martha or Mary, they wouldn’t just stand by and weep.  There is a duty involved in protecting the weak if it is in our power to do so.  This is love.  In order for Jesus, who was born “under the Law” (Gal. 4:4), to be the spotless, lawful, Lamb to atone for sins; He could not have violated the Law in word or deed.  This proves that he would have tried to “deliver them that are drawn unto death” like Prov. 24:11,12 states; and also that he would have delivered the damsel who cried.  This also proves He never preached anything contrary to the “righteousness of the Law” (Romans 8:4).
We don’t hate anyone, and to stop a criminal from committing a crime is also love.  Love has priorities.  Jesus didn’t say to Love your enemies more than your neighbor or wife.  He didn’t say, “If a man take your daughter, give him your wife also” — We must keep his words in the context in which he spoke them. Jesus was clearing the Law of misconceptions, not changing God’s Word or correcting it.
Taking Jesus’ words to an unwarranted extreme is dangerous.  Just after Jesus said, “resist not evil” He made another statement that could be taken to the opposite extreme from where the passivists take “resist not evil”.
Matt. 5:41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 
This is speaking of forced service, and refers to military service.  A Roman soldier could commandeer a civilian to carry his armor or weapons for a mile.  Jesus says to go the second mile as a volunteer.
Liberty Bible Commentary:  “In ancient times government agents were in a position to compel forced service upon a subjugated people.  A Roman soldier, for example, could compel a Jewish native to carry his armor or materials for one mile, in order to relieve the soldier.  Jesus now states that if someone compels you to walk a mile, go with him twain.  The believer is to be willing to “go the extra mile”.  Doing double our duty not only proves the loyalty and faithfulness of our cooperation to human authority, but likewise proves the spiritual intention of our heart.  It also provides an opportunity of conviction in order to witness effectively out of our life message.  It would have been foolish for the believer of Jesus’ day to reluctantly go only a mile with a Roman official and then attempt to share the gospel with him.  By going the second mile he proved the innermost intention of his heart.”
Can you imagine where this could go in the hands of an extremist?  One could justify any draft or command being obeyed even beyond what is commanded; but this would not be sound Bible teaching — nor is passivism’s extremes.
Balthasar Hubmaier says that if you forbear to deliver or protect the weak when it is in your power to do so, then you share in the guilt of their death.  If my neighbors’ wife calls crying and tells me that a drunk man is breaking into her house; I am not going to tell her, “I’m sorry, but I don’t believe in violence, so I can’t get involved, but I will pray for you.”  Instead, I would tell my wife to call the police while I go try to detain the man until they arrive.  If the only way I can stop him is by force, then I will use force to protect the innocent.  When Paul knew that men sought his life, he reported it to the authorities (Acts 23:17) and endorsed the use of 200+ soldiers to protect him.  He carried his defense to the supreme court, and appealed to Caesar to protect him.
Now, there is a difference between me, the head of my house, “protecting my family from a drug or alcohol soaked criminal until the authorities can arrive”  AND “rebelling or warring against God ordained authority, or hatefully responding to people which may be persecuting me for my faith”  – This difference I think is quite evident to the open mind.  Jesus said you couldn’t spoil the house until you bound the strong man — this was an understood principle of society, and still is.  You are responsible to protect from evil those under your jurisdiction.
The Christian’s option’s when persecuted for the faith are given in Scripture:
1.. FLEE: This would apply to all persecution, even from Government. Matthew  10:23 says, “…when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another…”
Paul did this once when the city of Damascus was kept with a garrison. The brethren let him down over the wall in a basket with ropes and he escaped. God broke Peter and others out of jail. To flee from one city to another or one government to another is the first and best mode of response. Even Jesus used this on a number of occasions.
2. APPEAL TO AUTHORITY: This is what Paul did in Acts 25:11. He appealed to the Roman supreme court for protection against his persecutors. Many passivists won’t even appeal to the authorities for protection, because they feel it is wrong.  It would not be wrong to say Paul “sued for protection” as that is exactly what he did.
This includes calling the police, alerting proper authorities, etc. The Christian is not allowed to avenge himself by means of a lawsuit, but, just as Paul, he is allowed to defend himself through legal channels.  Paul made use of his Roman citizenship to avoid injustice on a number of occasions.  Paul’s appealing to Caesar; his Roman citizenship; and reporting the Jew’s evil plans to the authorities for protection — all this was Paul authorizing the soldiers and magistrates to act on his behalf.  If he thought it evil for them to bear swords and act as they did, he was a hypocrite for demanding they do their duty on his behalf.  I know people who think it is wrong for me to have a vehicle, electricity, computer and internet; but it is amazing how much they want me to use them on their behalf.  Paul was not this way.  If it was wrong for them to do, he would not have authorized the action.
3. SUFFER: This is what we have already given sufficient Scripture for.  We must commit our case to God and cry out for deliverance.  We are not allowed to deny Christ or his doctrine in the face of death or torture.  If we are faithful unto death, we will receive the crown of eternal life.  In every instance love, not hate; Spirit, not flesh; and God’s will, not our own will must be the motivating factor.  The man who has been habitually studying and following the principles of Scripture will receive the Spiritual guidance he needs at the crucial time.
COMMON QUESTIONS
I. Doesn’t the Bible say, Thou shalt not kill?  
Yes, and the same God who said that commanded the government officers to kill many people, and judged them sorely when they disobeyed. That command is to individuals to not murder.  Shedding innocent blood is also wrong for government.
2. Do early Christian writings tell of soldiers in the Roman army?  
Yes, they certainly do. They also tell of times when these soldiers lost their lives because a pagan emperor ordered all his soldiers to put an oblation on the pagan altar; and they refused.
Once, 40 soldiers were marched onto a frozen lake to die because they wouldn’t deny Christ when the pagan emperor decided to persecute Christians. Tertullian gives the idea that, If you were converted while a soldier, you were allowed to fulfill your term; but a Christian wasn’t supposed to seek military life as a career. This was largely due to all the problems they would face in. deciding “when to obey orders” and “when not to” for conscience sake under a pagan government. The Christian should seek to be free to build the kingdom of God, not serve in the kingdom of men unnecessarily.
3. Did all the Anabaptists believe in non-participation in government and passivism? 
No.  Balthasar Hubmaier and many others with him believed as I do on this issue. I have this man’s writings on the subject.
If you read the writings of Menno Simons, you will find he doesn’t believe in this modern Mennonite position, though he probably didn’t completely agree with Balthasar Hubmaier. He believed Magistrates could be Christians and saved without stepping down or becoming a passivist. He was much against the Church government acting as a civil government as the state churches were doing; but he was much for having Christian magistrates who used the sword in a just and righteous way, according to Romans 13.  The following quotes are from The Complete Writings Of Menno Simons published by Herald Press.
“Therefore, dear sirs, take heed; this is the task to which you are called: namely, to chastise and punish, in the true fear of God with fairness and Christian discretion, manifest criminals, such as thieves, murderers, Sodomites, adulterers, seducers, sorcerers, the violent, highwaymen, robbers, etc. Your task is to do justice between a man and his neighbor, to deliver the oppressed out of the hand of the oppressor… Such rulers were Moses, Joshua, David,..0 highly renowned, noble lords, believe Christ’s Word, fear God’s wrath, love righteousness, do justice to widows and orphans….bow to the scepter of him who called you to this high service. Then shall your throne stand firm forever.” Pg. 193 
‘Do not boast that you are mighty ones upon the earth, and have great power, but boast in this rather if so be you rule your land in the true fear of God with virtuous wisdom and Christian righteousness to the praise of the Lord…For if you are such kings, then you are not only kings according to the flesh, but also according to the spirit;”  Pg. 206 
“Be pleased, in godly fear, to ponder what it is that God requires of your Highnesses. It is that without any respect of persons you judge between a man and his neighbor, protect the wronged from him who does him wrong, even as the Lord declares, Execute judgment and justice, Assist, against the violent, him that is robbed, Abuse not the stranger, the widow, the orphan, Do violence to no man, and shed no innocent blood, so that your despised servants and unhappy subjects, having escaped the mouth of the lion, may in your domain. …serve the Lord in quietness and peace…”  Pg. 526 
“Dear sirs, seek God; fear God; serve God with all your might; do justice to widows, orphans, strangers, the sad, and the oppressed; wash your hands of blood; rule your lands with wisdom and peace. Train yourselves in thought, word, and deed upon the crucified Christ Jesus, follow his steps, and then, though your sins be red as blood they shall be white as snow, though they be red as crimson they shall be as wool!” Pg. 529 
“Paul says, Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil…But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain; for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil…you may understand from these Scriptures that you are called of God and ordained to your offices to punish the transgressors and protect the good…” Pg. 550-551 
“He that saith he abideth in Christ, he, whether he be emperor or king, ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. I John 2:6.  Beloved lords, this is God’s Word. This is the prize and standard after which we should strive…We teach and direct you in the right way which you should walk if you wish to be saved…God is my witness that I desire nothing but that you all may actually be what you are acclaimed to be noble lords and Christian magistrates…” Pg. 553-554 
It is obvious from the Scriptures and thoughts Menno employs that he didn’t believe what modern passivists believe.  Menno, who was chosen as head bishop over the Anabaptist movement, should be a good representation of what they believed.  Is there such thing as a Christian magistrate who follows Jesus? Menno thought so.
Did you notice that Menno’s understanding of “Do violence to no man” is simply “don’t shed innocent blood or abuse your office” (Pg. 526). How is it that Mennonites today have veered so far from the common sense and Scriptural understanding of their forefathers?  Menno believed that when a magistrate rightly and fairly executed his office to protect the innocent and punish the wicked that he was “following Jesus”!  He uses Old Testament examples to teach what New Testament state officers were to be like!  He teaches that emperors and kings can walk as Jesus walked, even in their positions!  How different from modern day Mennonites; BUT HE WAS RIGHT.
5. Didn’t Jesus tell Peter to put away his sword? 
Yes, Jesus told Peter to sheath his sword; but the most amazing thing about this whole passage in Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, and John 18:10 is that Peter was wearing a sword!  PETER, who had been trained by Jesus for 3½ years; PETER, who was one of the inner circle of disciples; PETER, who personally heard the sermon on the mount from the mouth of Jesus and could ask any questions he wanted; PETER, who was with Jesus through his entire ministry – was wearing a sword and intended to use it for self-defense.  Isn’t that amazing?  Not only did he have a sword, but Jesus knew he had a sword.  If Jesus had a problem with Peter having and wearing a sword, he would have rebuked him for that long ago.  Peter possibly had this sword while he went out preaching and baptizing isn’t that amazing!  Actually, Jesus had told the disciples proverbially to sell their shirt and buy a sword due to upcoming troubles.   Jesus was being arrested by the authorities, and resisting arrest is a criminal act — this is why Jesus told Peter to put up the sword.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I know Jesus didn’t mean for the disciples to start wielding the sword in battle, because history shows none of them did when persecuted. I also know that Peter and the other apostles didn’t yet understand everything about Jesus’ teachings; but, had Jesus been the passivist that many are making him out to be today; he would have gotten rid of Peter’s sword a long time ago!  It is possible that the show of force, and the fact that they had swords kept the mob from pursuing the disciples, rather than only taking Jesus – this may have been part of Jesus’ purpose.
Jesus told Peter to sheath his sword in this situation, not throw it away.  John 18:11 has Jesus giving Peter the reason he was not to defend him, “Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?”  Jesus knew his time had come.  He also told Peter to do this, because “all those who draw the sword upon their own authority, and against the governing authority, will fall under the judgment of the state sword” (Balthasar).  Jesus was arrested by the authority of the chief priests and Jewish elders. Had his disciples fought and killed someone, then they would have been accused of criminal action or insurrection.  These were not just criminals doing mischief, but officers with authority to arrest Jesus.
Jesus never allowed the courts to have any legitimate accusation against him, and He wasn’t going to start now.  Not only that, but Jesus had told the disciples already that his time was come, and he did not want them to get in the way.  He had already rebuked Peter for this once.  Now, he could even use their lack of fighting as evidence before Pilate that his Kingdom was spiritual, and not a rival of earthly governments.
Now, let me candidly say, since most passivists who will shout, “all they that take the sword, shall PERISH with the sword” (and interpret perish to mean “go to hell”); also hold to the espousal theory about the divorce and remarriage issue — Let me say to them that since Matthew was only written to the Jews (according to them), then this passage about perishing with the sword must only be for the Jews also.  If the “exception clause” only being in Matthew makes it for Jews only, then be consistent and say that “perishing with the sword” is also only for the Jews; because it is left out of the other 3 gospels!  
6. What about the draft? 
There is an important principle that determines whether or not a Christian should help the government officers when asked to do so.
Is it due to righteous government action?  Is the endeavor that the government is asking help with a just and righteous cause?  Is it within the bounds of God ordained government action? Or, are they acting in unholy aggression?  Are they seeking wealth at another’s expense?  If you are uncertain whether you should participate, then be a conscientious objector.  Don’t violate your conscience before God to spare your life. Your eternal salvation depends on you maintaining a clear conscience before God.  “He that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not in faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23).  This principle applies to anything that could defile your conscience before God.  But God also expects you to obey the authorities.
If the local Sheriff comes to my ranch and tells me there is a group of criminals that plan to shoot up our little country town, and he needs a posse to protect the town.  What do I do?  Do I tell him that I am a Christian, and therefore I cannot help him?  He is the minister of God for this purpose; but I cannot help him; because helping this minister of God do his God given duty and lay down his life to save innocent lives is sinful.   Is this good sense?
Now, on a larger scale, when the United States Government (who has kicked God out of its’ education system, accepts sodomites in the military, and promotes much ungodliness) tells you it needs your help to fight a foreign country – How can you know who is being the bad guy?  Maybe the USA is being a global bully to maintain it’s money and oil supply.  Who knows?  Well, if you are unsure about the political maneuvering behind the scenes, then you should conscientiously object.  It becomes a matter of personal faith and conscience before God, and Christians ought to forbear those who disagree with them on this subject.  We will all answer to Christ for maintaining a pure conscience and doing only those things that we can do in faith that it pleases God.  We will also answer to Christ for not cooperating and helping in righteous government action.
Balthasar Hubmaier, an Anabaptist minister and martyr for the faith, writes concerning Romans 13:1-7:
“…everyone should be subject to the government. Believing or unbelieving, we should be obedient and subject to it.  He points out the reason.  For there is no government which does not come from God.  Therefore obedience consists in all that which is not against God, for God has not ordered the government against himself.  Now if the government wants to punish the evil ones-as it should for the sake of their soul’s salvation-and is yet not strong enough to deal with the evil ones, then it is now to command its subjects through bells and various alarm signals, letters, or through other summons.  Subjects are obligated for the sake of the salvation of their souls to sustain and help their superiors so that the evil ones are annihilated and rooted out according to the will of God.  Nevertheless, subjects should first test well the spirit of their governments, as to whether they are not moved and compelled more out of arrogance, rather than out of love of the common good and territorial peace.  For that would not be to use the sword according to the order of God. However, if you recognize that the government punishes the evil only so that the righteous remain at rest and unharmed, then help, counsel, and sustain it, as often and as much as you are commanded. Thereby, you fulfill the order of God and do his work and not a human work.  However, if a government is childish or foolish, yea, perchance it is not competent at all to reign, then you may escape from it legitimately and accept another, if it is good.  For on account of an evil government God has often punished an entire land. If the seeking of another cannot be done lawfully and peacefully, and not also without great damage and rebellion, then one must endure it, as the one which God has given us in his wrath, and as if he desires to chastise us on account of our sins, as those who deserve no better. 
Whoever now does not want to help the government save widows, orphans, and other oppressed ones, as well as to punish vandals and tyrants, resists the order of God and will receive a judgment from him, for he acts against the mandate and order of God, who wants the righteous to be protected and the evil punished. However, if you are obedient you should truly know that you are obedient not to the government or to people but to God himself, and you have become a special servant of God just as the government itself also is nothing other than a servant of God. 
However, Paul testifies openly that the government has the power and authority to kill the evil when he says: “The authority does not bear the sword in vain.” If now the government did not have the authority to kill, why should the sword then hang at its side? It would then bear it in vain, which Paul cannot bear. He also explicitly adds that the authority is the servant of God. Where are now those who say a Christian cannot use the sword? For if a Christian could not be a servant of God, could not fulfill the mandate of God without sinning, then God would not be good. He would have made an order which a Christian could not fulfill without sin. That is blasphemy. 
Accordingly I counsel you faithfully, dear brothers, return and repent. You have stumbled badly and produced much trash everywhere against God and against brotherly love under the appearance of spirituality and the pretense of humility. God knows whom I mean.” Balthasar Hubmaier, pgs. 520,521. 
Here, Balthasar is writing to correct passivist Anabaptists.  He also says that if the judge is righteous to condemn the criminal to death, then the executioner is no less righteous to fulfill the order of the judge.  He points out faithful men like Benaiah, in the Old Testament, who fulfilled the orders of King Solomon.  Then he adds, “Therefore the judges, governments, and executors of justice are called servants of God in the Scripture and not murderers, Rom. 13:4. God judges, sentences, and kills through them, and not they themselves.  From this it follows that those who do not want to kill the evildoer but let them live, are acting and sinning against the commandment: “You should not kill.”  For whoever does not protect the righteous kills him and is guilty of his death as much as the one who does not feed the hungry.” 
It is interesting that passivists will pay the executioner, the judge, the police, etc. to arrest and execute a criminal – with their taxes; and then think they have no part in it.  When God commanded you to pay governors to do their jobs, God made you a part of it.  God called them his ministers, and told you to pay them, honor them, and pray for them.
Yet, some have foolishly said that those in government are a special class that cannot believe because “the world needs governors, and Christians cannot be governors”.  I’d like to see someone find this in the Bible!
7. Didn’t Jesus say, “If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight” implying that his servants would never fight? (John 18:36) 
No, Actually Jesus said, “. . if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered unto the Jews;”.  This is what Jesus said. I would like to know why in every passivist tract that I have read, they only quote part of the statement in order to give a false impression of Jesus’ statement!  I think they realize that to quote the whole sentence gives their case away.
It is obvious what Jesus meant when you read the whole sentence.  It is proof that he was not rivaling any earthly kingdom, because his disciples did not fight to deliver him.  This is why Jesus told Peter to put away his sword – He did not want to give a wrong impression and opportunity for his enemies to accuse him.
As a friend pointed out after reading the manuscript, “Jesus said, ‘now’ is my kingdom not from hence. His kingdom will indeed replace those of this world, in flaming fire and vengeance, at his second coming.  But we are still in the ‘now’, and his servants do not advance his kingdom by fighting”. 
 
8. Doesn’t non-resistance go beyond the prohibition of personal vengeance to the point of forgoing legitimate means of redress (I Cor.6:7)? 
I don’t believe “non-resistance” goes to the point of foregoing all legitimate means of redress.
2Cor. 6:1-8, “Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that ye shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. I speak to your shame, Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.” 
2Cor. 6:1-8 actually establishes a legitimate means of redress between brethren.  This passage has to do with quarrels between brethren.  To appeal to Caesar when attacked by evil men is not outside the realms of non-resistance, or Paul would have been condemned for doing it.  He appealed to the Law concerning his Roman citizenship many times to keep from being beaten and imprisoned.  He appeared before a number of kings and finally Caesar to appeal for just protection.
 
9. Hasn’t the church come to greater light over the course of 2000 years? 
I believe that the apostles were the only ones who could claim to have “all truth” as given by the Holy Spirit.  I don’t believe the “church” is growing to greater light and revelation as some believe.  Individuals are gaining greater understanding of “the faith once delivered unto the saints”; but God is not adding to that “faith” any new revelations.  Therefore we are commanded to hold fast the truth handed to us by the apostles, and be followers of them; not assuming we can improve upon their teaching (Acts 20:26–31).
10. Is government office a fitting and honorable pursuit for Christians? 
Government office, in general, is not a wise pursuit for believers, as we have mentioned already.  I think we would agree that there is a difference between Christians pursuing politics or military life, and Christians remaining in a position where grace found them.  “Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather (l Cor. 7:21).  “We are simply establishing the fact that faith and government involvement are not mutually exclusive.  If there were a situation where a community was predominantly Christian, obviously God still wants officers for the state, and Christians would need to fill the spot.  I believe it is a falsehood to think God has ordained something to be done by man that believers cannot righteously do; and even do much better than lost men.  I don’t believe that only lost men can fill the office of Government.  That would really cause a problem in a community if, due to the conversion of the sheriff and judge, the only lost men were the murderers in the jail.  Nor do I believe that we are to change society by government.  We, as the salt of the earth, are to change society through the preaching of the gospel.
11. Did the apostles accept men in government the way they accepted men in polygamous and mixed faith marriages? 
No.  The church accepted those in mixed faith marriages and polygamy; but these were not offices that had to be filled.  They were not God ordained positions.  Those in these positions were not called “ministers of God” for a God ordained work.
12. You seem to say that what one does as an officer of the state, he is not personally responsible for.  Are you saying that when there is a conflict between two authorities, the authority you are under at the time has priority?  Where will this lead?  The same logic allows a clerk to say, “I am not responsible for selling liquor to this customer.  I am merely acting as an employee of the owner of the store, and it is he who is accountable, not I.”  How much of the church’s salting influence in the world is lost because, “I don’t personally approve of this or believe this way, but (my boss, our church, the law, etc.) says it (must/mustn’t) be done?”  How much of the world’s wickedness is done by people who don’t like what they are doing, but circumstance or authority seems to require it? Is this good doctrine? 
ANSWER:  
When two authorities are in conflict, we made it clear that one cannot violate his conscience and disobey God.  We must educate our conscience, but not violate it.
It is indeed good doctrine that a person can be a godly Christian and still be in government service.  Just because he is not personally hating or avenging when administering vengeance is not what makes him righteous; but that in bothpositions he is working righteousness – it is righteous not to personally avenge or hate; but it is also righteous for “ministers of God” to punish evil doers and protect the innocent.  He doesn’t have to say, “I’m doing it, but I don’t believe in it”.  He should believe in it!   He should get up in the morning and pray for God to help him be a good sheriff.  The liquor salesman cannot do this.  An employee or a servant is commanded to be willing to suffer for righteousness sake (I Peter 2:11–22).
The godly executioner will probably visit the cells of those who are to be executed and try to bring them to Christ.  He will feel sad and regret the wreckage that sin brings; but just as all godly men in the OT, and just as Peter with Ananias and Sapphira; he will do his duty before God, and for God.  God has given the civil authorities a charge to keep – even Jesus didn’t stop the process of government for the thief on the cross.  He deserved to die; he repented and believed; but he still died.  There is no divided loyalty when a government is acting in justice, according to its God ordained purpose.  Duties do not conflict.   Think how it would be if your son became part of a rebel gang and killed someone, and you were the judge?  You would have a broken heart, but you would still have to sentence your son impartially for his crime.   The same would be true if you were the sheriff, and your son became leader of a criminal gang.   You would still love your son, but may have to be the one to shoot him, if it came down to a showdown — Your heart would be broken, but you would still have to do your duty.  Is this how God felt when He sent the flood?  The Bible says it grieved Him at His heart.
When Government becomes crooked, steps outside its boundary, and begins to punish the good and protect the evil; a believer must conscientiously object to that — not to the office of government.  When a government demands an unbiblical oath, wrong allegiance, or to place an oblation on a pagan altar, the believer must object to that — not to the office of government.
The principles are eternal and unchanging. Circumstance may cause other principles to come into play, but doesn’t change the original principles.
13. How do we know what God is doing? How do we determine “just cause”? Protecting one’s homeland against foreign invaders, saving our innocent wives and children, would surely seem an easy call. That is why Jeremiah had such a hard time telling them to surrender without a fight to the pagan Babylonians who made not even a pretense of worshipping God. They thought he should be executed for treason.  Christian’s have not had a good track record of discerning on which side God wants them to fight. Or is it possible that sometimes God expects his followers to shoot at each other? 
ANSWER: 
Jeremiah wasn’t telling the soldiers, governors and kings that in this circumstance their office and duty was unholy; but that they would lose and die unless they surrendered to the Chaldeans. They weren’t sinning by defending their citizens; but by not listening to God’s instructions for this particular circumstance, they were causing themselves more harm.  An Israelite should object to fighting with the Chaldeans against his own people; and an Israelite should also object to fighting when the prophet of God warns them against it. God was telling them that if they surrendered it would be better for them; not that he considered government office as sinful.
If Christians would simply live by principle and not feeling, they wouldn’t be shooting at each other, nor making poor judgments. For a general, king, or governor to surrender or seek terms of peace rather than lose a battle is not against the principles of government.
The problem is that many don’t want to suffer  and stand for what is right, so they continue to go with the flow, even though they know it is not right.  The man who is obeying the principles and seeking the leading of the Spirit of God will be led into the right path.
14. Isn’t it true that when Christians hold government office they are distracted from their main objective of building Christ’s Kingdom? 
ANSWER: 
As far as God’s children being distracted from their main objective: I am just as distracted from that main objective when I am up re-roofing a house as the sheriff is when he punches the time clock.  I think a sheriff actually can do more productive ministering at his job than I might, because he is continually dealing with people in need.  The Ethiopian Eunuch still went up to Jerusalem to worship.  John the baptist didn’t expect the publican or soldiers to give up their occupation.  There is definitely a principle to consider in Christ calling Matthew to leave his occupation to be a preacher; but not Zaccheus.  Separation of church and state is a separation of church government and state government. Not all church members are bishops or evangelists; but many are common laborers, servants, masters, magistrates, tax collectors, etc.
15. Since the faithful Christian is an enlisted soldier in a war being fought not with carnal (physical) weapons but with spiritual, doesn’t taking up physical weapons seem like entangling himself with the affairs of this life, to the displeasure of his Commander? Can a man do both without sacrificing one or the other? 
ANSWER: 
Only those who don’t see that “Christians can do all that God ordains for man to do”, will think you can’t combine spiritual warfare and civil service in the same individual. Using spiritual weapons to advance the church and physical weapons to keep peace and justice are not in conflict, but in cooperation. The same God ordained both for his glory.  Jesus will someday wear both hats as He rules with a rod of iron, and calls forth his enemies to be slain before him (Luke 19:27).   It is certainly easier for me to raise my children for God where there is freedom to do so, and not Islamic rule, or communism, etc.
Today God takes vengeance through men in God ordained government.  Jesus avenged the apostles and prophets on Jerusalem through the Roman Government in AD 70 (Luke 21:20–22).  Jesus never avenged himself of personal attacks, but did so in his governmental position as King of Kings (Luke 11:49-51; Rev. 6:9,10)
Just as God has ordained for men to “work or not eat”; He has ordained that some men’s work consist of Government duty.  God has never ordered an office for men to fill that HIS men cannot fill better than others.  God did not ordain an office to minister for him that could ONLY be filled by the ungodly — If you believe this, you have deep rooted problems in your theology about the origin of evil, the goodness of God, etc.
16. I revere George Washington as a great man of Christian faith. Where does the state find such men, if not from the church? I assume it is a result of the church’s influence beyond its members, since such cannot hold state office and be a member of the church. …Or, maybe God uses those who have misunderstood his instructions to be the magistrates, etc’. 
ANSWER: 
Was George Washington a great man of Christian faith?  Then he is also a good church member.  If he cannot be a church member, then he is not a great man of Christian faith at all.  I have read Mennonite confessions that say, “We must pray that the Lord would recompense them (our rulers), here and in eternity, for all the benefits, liberties, and favors which we enjoy under their laudable administration.”  Now, if they think these people, who cannot be a member of their church, will be in Heaven; they have a conflict of principle.  Anyone who can go to Heaven, can also be a member of the church of Jesus Christ, and ought to be — otherwise excommunication has lost all meaning.
How do they think God is going to recompense these men in eternity?  If they cannot be a member of the body of Christ, then they are headed for Hell.  There may be those who go to Heaven who, though walking in all the light they have, have held to a practice that keeps them away from my particular fellowship; but that practice cannot be a God-ordained one or my church administration is wrong.
To say that God can only use those who “misunderstand” his instructions to fulfill a God ordained office is not good doctrine in my opinion.  Many times God uses people who have misunderstood his instructions, but that it must be so is a false principle.
17. David Bercot’s book, The Kingdom That Turned The World Upside Down, teaches passivism; and reveals some of the warped ideology common among passivists. He never speaks of “God honoring civil magistracy keeping the peace, protecting the innocent, and punishing evil doers” but only speaks of “WAR, AGGRESSION, etc.” when dealing with government action and avoiding participation in Government.  This is so typical of passivists and their bias.  His attitude toward government actions is far different than Paul’s.  Let me illustrate with two questions that he poses and answers: 
QUESTION #1. “But doesn’t Jesus’ words (resist not evil) apply merely to private retribution – not to state sponsored actions?”
His answer: “Some Christians maintain that if we pay back evil for evil as individuals, it’s wrong.  However, if we do it under state authority, it doesn’t violate Jesus’ teaching.”
From here, Bercot argues that if something is wrong for an individual, then it is wrong for the state. He points out that Jesus’ teaching about not rendering an “eye for an eye” was for the state also.
This is so shortsighted.  This would only apply to two states or governments in dealing with one another; but what about punishing evil doers?  Is punishing evil doers “returning evil for evil?”  Is spanking a rebellious child returning evil for evil?  Of Course not!  I am not allowed to catch the robber who robbed me and execute him – that would be vengeance and taking the law into my own hands; But, for the state to catch and execute that same robber is God ordained justice and righteous government action. It is a matter of jurisdiction and duty.  Paul tells us the government officers who did this are ministers of God for the very purpose of executing God’s wrath against the evil ones.  We are even told to pay them to do it with our taxes!  Jesus’ words about not seeking an “eye for eye” vengeance against someone does not mean it is wrong for the government to catch and execute criminals or defend its’ borders against invading criminals.  God’s Law commanded governments to deal out justice – eye for eye, but it didn’t give this power to individual civilians.
Bercot compares a Christian who serves in a Government office and helps bring justice and order in the community by arresting criminals, acting as a judge, etc. — He compares these people’s actions in government service to that of a Christian being commanded by an evil government to offer sacrifice to an idol, abort a baby, etc.  Now, he doesn’t do this directly, but indirectly as he tries to keep his readers focused on WAR; but in his logic he is including the police officer who risks his life to bring peace and order to the community.  This is deception and folly.
QUESTION #2 But can’t we wear two hats? When I’m in an army uniform and am part of the U.S. Army, it isn’t me, the individual, doing the killing. It’s the United States government. And the United States government has been entrusted with the sword by God, according to Romans 13.”
Notice that “the killing” is not seen here as “ministers of God” doing their duty; but is seen as murder and sin. 
Bercot’s answer: “Actually, a real-life situation similar to my illustration recently happened. A few years ago, the United States conducted a war against the Taliban regime of Afghanistan.  In the course of the war, the U. S. Army captured an American citizen named John Walker Lindh, who had joined the Taliban fighters. Now, let’s suppose that Mr. Lindh had made the following defense at his trial: ‘I, John Walker Lindh, as an individual American citizen, would never do anything to harm another American.  Yes, it’s true that I joined the Taliban army.  But at the time I joined, they were not at war with the United States.  Whatever actions I took after that were not mine – they were the Taliban government’s actions.  I did not fight against the United States as an individual. I only fought as a unit of the Taliban government.  Therefore, I am innocent.’ Do you think an American jury would have accepted that? I think not”
OK, David Bercot, let’s analyze your illustration which tries to show that there is no difference between me killing as a part of government, or me killing in my own name and authority.  You are trying to say that if a man is using the sword according to Romans 13 in a government position that really he is like John Lindh. John was an American citizen who was really fighting with our enemies against America — So you are saying that if a Christian is an officer of the U.S. Government (soldier, police, Sheriff, etc.) he is actually an enemy fighting against Christ’s Kingdom.  Did you forget what Romans 13 says?  Jesus Christ commands us to PAY the “ministers of God” to use the sword!  Would the U.S. command its citizens to financially support the Taliban Army and call the Taliban “ministers of the U.S. Government?”  Your logic is warped, and this illustration proves you are on the wrong page.  What God has ordained for government to do is righteous before God, and those who participate are righteous before God.  If the government is corrupt and commands its soldiers to kill its own civilians without due process of law, etc., the soldiers are accountable to God to object to any command that is not within the realm of righteous government action ordained by God.  “killing” is not the problem, but the lawfulness of that killing.
We aren’t going to always run to WAR and aggression between two governments; but, like Paul, we are going to look at the normal activities of God ordained government in the use of the sword — punishing evil and protecting the innocent. We all agree that aggression due to pride, greed, hate, etc. is wrong for government as well as individuals; but he is not just attacking that. He is indirectly and cautiously attacking the police, sheriff, judge, jailor, etc. Governments ARE supposed to seek peace with other governments (almost like individuals are); but governments ARE NOT supposed to seek peace with criminals or they are disobeying God!
Bercot is indirectly saying that the Sheriff, when he kills a criminal in the line of duty is like John Lindh fighting against the U.S.  He is saying that Jesus sees that Sheriff as fighting against His Heavenly Kingdom; and will see him just like any other murderer who kills for hate, greed, etc.  This is foolish and shortsighted at best.  Would the United States government hold John Lindh innocent if he hadn’t fought, but paid and supported the Taliban Army with his money?  No, they would consider him just as much of an enemy of their government.  But Jesus commands his people to pay and support the sheriff to shoot the criminal! 
What difference does it really make whether you are the sheriff who catches the criminal, the judge who sentences him, the jailor who holds him until his execution, the man who flips the switch, or the taxpayer who pays them to do it!? God doesn’t see you or them as fighting against His Kingdom.  They are actually called ministers of God!   Would the U.S. call John Lindh a “minister of the United States President”?  Paul baptized the Philippian jailor at midnight, but he was still the Philippian jailor the next day!   We are not responsible for all the wrong uses of our taxes, but in this case the Scriptures tell us that we are to pay taxes for this very purpose — the state using the sword!   What else they do with the money is between them and God, but we are commanded to pay for them to use the sword.
David Bercot, in this same book on page 187 makes this amazing statement, “That’s one reason why the Christians of the first three centuries required high government officials to step down from office if they wanted to become Christians.”  This is amazing in light of Cornelius, Sergius Paulus, the Ethiopian Eunuch, Erastus, and all the others we have mentioned.  Bercot himself tells this story (quoting Eusebius) on page 179 of a Roman emperor in the second century (Philip the Arabian) that became a Christian, “After six years as Roman emperor, Gordon died, and Philip succeeded him.  Word has it that he was a Christian and wanted to join with believers in the prayers of the church on the day of the last Paschal vigil.  But the bishop of the time would not let him enter until he confessed publicly and joined those who were judged sinful and were occupying the place [in the church] for penitents.  Otherwise, had he not done so, he would never have been received, due to the many charges against him.  It is said that he readily obeyed, showing by his actions how genuinely and piously disposed he was toward the fear of God.”  
Bercot here contradicts his own statement.  Philip the Arabian did not step down from his office, but simply had to enter the church like every other sinner — through the gate or repentance.  This was in the second century.  The story Bercot tells proves the opposite of what he was trying to prove.
Again on page 125 Bercot makes another amazing statement, “There is no evidence in either Christian or secular Roman writings that any Christians served in the Roman armies prior to A.D.170.”  Hmmm, shall we consider the Bible “Christian writings”?  What then about Cornelius, the soldiers that John spoke with, and the Centurion that Jesus said would be in heaven?  What about the public officials who were Christians?  Also, do you realize that A.D. 170 is only about 71 years after John the apostle died?  That is pretty early.
All the non-resistance articles I have read from passivists include this same shortsighted logic and anti-government attitude.  Instead of forming your idea’s from the “early church fathers”, you need to meditate on the Scripture until you gain the Scriptural view of God’s Kingdom.   Don’t believe everything you read in some man’s book — Get to know God’s Book!
CONCLUSION
Dear friends, be humble and willing to follow the whole counsel of God!  Don’t abuse what we have said and be war-mongers; macho men; sports- competition-violence fans, hateful, proud, vengeful, etc.  Nor should you abuse what we have said to be anti-government, passivist, pacifist, effeminate, etc. We uphold all the righteous virtues and characteristics of self-denying love, mercy, patience, meekness, kindness, compassion, and non-vengeance.
We also uphold the righteous exercise of God ordained government.  God put the sword at their side, not to chastise only, but to execute. Capital punishment is God’s order at the mouth of two or three witnesses for those who have committed crimes worthy of death.  May you stand against the tide of evil and proclaim truth without partiality!
SHOULD WE VOTE? 
This question naturally follows the subjects we have been discussing.  More than any of the other subjects, this subject is a matter of personal conviction and conscience.  Because of this I will share my personal opinion.
I believe that when a government cares enough to get the consensus of society, then society has an obligation to respond.  The ungodly will always be quick to push for their way; and if the godly doesn’t stem the tied; they can’t complain much about the situation.  This primarily has to do with voting on ISSUES, not CANDIDATES.  Issues are right or wrong, candidates may be deceitful or uncertain. Issues are usually black and white.  Candidates may be right on one issue, but dreadfully wrong on others. The best you can usually hope for in voting for candidates is to find the “lesser of two evils” — and that can be debatable.  By voting for a candidate you share some responsibility for what he does — not only the good, but also the bad.  By not voting you also share responsibility for who gets in and what they do – If you don’t vote for the lesser of two evils, then the greater evil might prevail.
So, in order to be the salt of the earth in our local setting, I say YES, we should vote on ISSUES.  Voting for candidates is very uncertain, and I will leave that to the individual’s conscience before God.
BUT SHOULD I BE A REGISTERED VOTER AT ALL? This complicates the matter, and will depend on the individual circumstances, the strings attached, etc. If there is a reason why you cannot conscientiously be a registered voter, then obviously you can’t vote.
The Bible speaks very clearly on one certain way you can influence your government.
“I exhort therefore, that? first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth,” I Tim. 2:1-4 
The hour you spend driving to the place to vote, standing in line, voting, and driving home – if spent in prayer for God’s hand to lead could be more productive than your vote.  You vote every day of your life, by the way you live, what kind of society you want.  Every time you buck the church standard and want a more worldly lifestyle, you vote for the destruction of the morals of society at large.  Every time you pursue carnal appetites, you vote for a. carnal society.  Every time you are selfish, you vote for a selfish society.  Every time you don’t witness for Jesus, you vote for a godless society.  Every time you don’t rebuke evil, you vote for an evil society.  Every time you dress fashionable, wear makeup, jewelry, dress immodest, watch TV, etc.; you vote for a licentious society. DON’T THINK A GOOD PRESIDENT CAN CHANGE ALL THIS!  The Christian Church is the salt of the earth that will change society, not the government!  If there is a part of being salt that requires you to vote, and you have a conscience from God that demands you vote, then vote – but make sure you put more weight on your testimony and prayer life, than on your voting.
GOVERNMENT AID? 
SINFUL OR NOT? 
Many people consider it sinful and wicked to accept any form of government aid.  Is it sinful? Where does the Bible say this?  If it is sinful, then it is also wrong for the government to offer it.  If it is sinful, then we must not allow church members to do it.  If it is sinful, then we need to preach against it like we do against other sins.
Others will maintain that the reason it is wrong is because the church is supposed to take care of its own.  This means that it is only wrong for Christians.  What if a believer stands for truth and is put out of the “church” for this.  What if he and some others leave the established or state church and meet on their own in order to be faithful to truth.  What if they do not have the means financially to help their brethren in a crisis?  Then is it sinful to accept charity from another source?  What about a government source?
Because many are anti-government in their thinking, they think it is evil for needy people to accept any type of charity from a government program.  There are many things to be considered on a subject like this one: Is the government setting a. trap or helping its people?  Is the recipient truly needy or just a hobo who abuses the system?  How will this affect later generations?  Do the Scriptures forbid the poor and needy from receiving help?  What strings are attached to the receiving of government aid?
HAS GOD ORDAINED GOVERNMENT AID? 
Ex. 23:10,11 “And six years thou shalt sow thy land, and shalt gather in the fruits thereof:  But the seventh year thou shalt let it rest and lie still; that the poor of thy people may eat: and what they leave the beasts of the field shall eat. In like manner thou shalt deal with thy vineyard, and with thy olive yard.” 
Lev. 19:9-10, “And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest. And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the LORD your God.~ 
Deut. 24:19-22, “When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and has forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands. When thou beatest thine olive tree, thou shalt not go over the boughs again: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in the land of Egypt: therefore I command thee to do this thing.” 
In Daniel 4 we have Daniel interpreting a dream for Nebuchadnezzar. The purpose of the dream was to show all living that God is ultimately in charge of “who was king” (see vss. 17,32,&37). Daniel’s advice to the king was this: “Wherefore, 0 king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.” (vs. 27). 
Daniel basically told him that God sets up who he wishes, and God cares for the poor–so if you want God to keep you in power, help the poor with the power you have in government. Now, if Nebuchadnezzar did this, would it be wrong for the poor to receive it?
I think we can see that God set up a “welfare” system in the Old Testament whereby the poor could “eat the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table” like Lazarus.  It was a part of the Law, and therefore was a government program.  It seems rather obvious that it was right for the rich to obey this law, and also it was not evil for the poor to gratefully partake.  Being a “sluggard” or “leech” (see Proverbs) was evil.  To abuse a good system when you are not in a legitimate state of need, is sinful; but to be poor, or to accept charity is not sinful – even if it is from a government program.  This is the Old Testament teaching on the subject; but what about the New?
WHAT WOULD JESUS DO? 
Matt. 12:1, “At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungered, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. “ (Mk 2:23; Luke 6:1) 
Here we find Jesus in a state of poverty with hungry disciples making use of the “welfare” program that was set up by God in the Law.  See Deut. 23:24,25:
“When thou comest into thy neighbor’s vineyard, then thou mayest eat grapes thy fill at thine own pleasure; but thou shalt not put any in thy vessel. When thou comest into the standing corn of thy neighbor, then thou mayest pluck the ears with thine hand; but thou shalt not move a sickle unto thy neighbor’s standing corn.” 
 
WHAT IS THE CONCLUSION? 
We are not ready to make any conclusions yet. First let us look at some warnings:
1. Prov. 23:1-8, “When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: and put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee, The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words,” 
The warning: Don’t be dazzled with the hospitality of a ruler who has an evil eye (double motive).  He may be trying to lead you on for his own evil purposes.  Be careful not to be lured into “signing on the dotted line” without knowing what is really going on.  Beware of government “deals”.  In the same note: beware of “get rich quick” schemes in the same way.
2. II Thess. 3:10-12, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.” 
The warning: Don’t fall into the trap of thinking the brethren, church, government, society, etc. owes you anything!  If you are needy, it doesn’t mean somebody owes you lunch!  If you partake of charity, because you are in an emergency situation and cannot pay your own way, be humble and grateful; but don’t let up on your own striving to pay your own way.  Don’t let up on prayer, thriftiness, careful planning, sweat, and tears – just because you know there is something to fall back on in an emergency.
So many people take unnecessary risks because they have insurance, church help, or government programs to fall back on.  This is what is sinful. 
 
THOUGHTS TO CONSIDER 
1. Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar that in order to lengthen his tranquillity as a ruler he should leave off his sins, and help the poor.  Was it right for the poor to accept this help?  Of course it was.
2. Consider all, the times in history when kings and rulers have opened their coasts and allowed persecuted Christians to settle in their realm.  This was government aid.  Every land grant given, to Christian settlers was government aid.
3. Many people strongly criticize someone in America if they accept government help in a time of emergency; but these same people have relatives and sister churches in Canada who partake of socialized medicine and don’t criticize them.  What is wicked in one country is accepted in another.  This is not consistent.
4. In America we have a strange system.  We have hospitals and doctors whose prices are not set for consumer incomes, but for the insurance companies. If Hospitals and doctors had to set their rates according to what consumers could afford, we would all, gladly pay; but that is not the case.  The insurance companies in America have caused all the medical pricing to rise much higher than the average person can pay on his own.
Now, what if you can’t pay, and you don’t have medical insurance (because you can’t afford it either)? Can you just keep your sick child home and pray?  If he dies can you just suffer the Loss and go on?  No! The government demands you get medical attention for a sick child.  If you don’t, they will prosecute you for negligence and take away your other children.
What if you tell them you can’t afford the outrageous prices, and you can’t afford insurance?  They will tell you that they have a program to help people in your condition.  So, you can either use their program or be prosecuted and lose all your children.  Get the picture! The government is not evil for helping people who need help.  This is exactly what a good government should do!  It is only right for them to help pay for something that they demand you do, which you cannot afford.  It is right that they protect children against abuse (though they often do it wrong), and it is right that they put their money where their mouth is.
Is it right for a Christian nation to help the poor in other countries?  Is it right for other countries to accept this help?  I believe so; and I also believe it is right for that same government to help its own people who are needy.  Just because some abuse the system, it doesn’t mean every person who uses it is evil.
If the government demands that I use their expensive system with all its expensive regulations, then it is only fair and right that they are willing to help pay for it.  What would you do if you were the king, and wanted to help the poor in your land?
Don’t think I am one who quickly accepts help.  I have broken my hand and my wrist at different times and didn’t even have them looked at by a doctor, because I didn’t have the money to pay for it, and didn’t want to get help from a program.  However, as willing as I am to suffer and pray through a trial with my own health; I am not going to watch my child die, just because I am too proud to accept help when it is available.  At the present time I do not have to deny Jesus Christ or my faith in him, just because I accept help from the rich.  If the time comes that I do have to deny Christ for help, then I will just watch my child die in God’s will.
In the story of the rich man and Lazarus: Lazarus was sick and couldn’t provide for himself, so he ate the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table – was this denying Christ?  Jesus obviously didn’t think so. Jesus didn’t say Lazarus should have just trusted God to provide any more than himself and his disciples when they ate out of the fields.  If God set up the system, then that is how God provides! 
In our government, we are not told to leave the corners of our fields, etc. as in the Old Testament.   We are not all farmers as they were.  Our government tells them to “glean their fields” and give that part to the government, and then the government does the distribution.  This is similar to what Joseph set up in Egypt.  God made it to where everyone lived on welfare after a while – and, Yes, the government ended up owning them and their land; but they survived.  Our government collects according to income and makes distribution to the poor through special programs.  This is not much different than the Old Testament plan in principle. 
IF THE CHURCH CAN TAKE CARE OF ITS OWN, THEN DO IT. BUT DON’T BE TOO PROUD TO ACCEPT HELP IN A CRISIS.
5. Possible problems in a church setting: Even in a church, setting where people believe in the church taking care of the needs, and they have the means to accomplish this, there may be some ‘problems.
The church must monitor and regulate the incomes and spending of its members in order to have a fair and productive program.  Why?  Because one brother may live very thrifty and save money back for a time of need.  Another brother may invest all his profit back into assets.  Another brother may just be a little lazy and loose with his spending.  Another may get in debt over his head and need bailed out to protect the testimony of the church.  When a crisis comes up, who has the cash to pay for it?  The most righteous one of the bunch, who has lived carefully, sacrificed, and saved, is the only one with CASH.  The one who is trying to get rich, has all his money tied up in assets, which. may not be easy to liquidate.  The lazy one has no money.
This can work nicely if you have enough people, enough cooperation and strong leadership to maintain fairness among brethren.  This was a challenge even for the apostles in Jerusalem.
The question we are asking is: Is it sinful to accept government help if you haven’t this type of help, and you can’t pay for it yourself?  No, it is not sinful or shameful.
Yes, the brethren should all try to save and pay their own way.  Yes, the brethren should all try to help each other; but this may not always work.  There may not always be the means or enough brethren.  To compromise on truth just so you can stay in a group to maintain “church insurance” is much more shameful than having to accept government help in a crisis BECAUSE YOU STOOD FOR TRUTH AND STOOD ALONE.  This is exactly what happened to Jesus and his disciples!   This also happened to many Anabaptist brethren and other persecuted Christians.
CONCLUSION 
DON’T BE SO QUICK TO JUDGE, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE BIBLICAL GROUNDS FOR IT.  Live your convictions, and don’t violate your conscience; but don’t shame someone who has not done something shameful.
IT IS NOT SINFUL to accept help from government programs, BUT IT MAY BE DANGEROUS. 
It is dangerous in the same way to accept help from a church, if it causes you to compromise on truth for that church.  It is dangerous in the same way to receive a paycheck, if it causes you to compromise truth to keep getting that paycheck.

 

 My Old Views, left for historical sake.  Forgive me for those I have taught wrongly on this issue.  I repent.  

 

Empirefights

Primary goals of this teaching are:

• To realize as the body of Christ, God is our defense

• To prepare ourselves spiritually and physically for coming persecution

• To examine our walks in light of Jesus’ commands

• To obey Jesus’ commands to resist defending oneself, family, or neighbors against evil men in an ungodly way

Passive Non-Resistance Defined

Passive – receiving, enduring, or submitting without resistance:

Non-Resistance –negate the act or power of resisting, opposing, or withstanding.

Some background concerning my life and views for the reader’s understanding.  I have a family that is steeped in past proud military traditions.  On my father’s side of the family; my father was a Marine for four years earning Staff Sgt before getting out after the Bay of Pigs fiasco.  My grandfather was a waist gunner in a B-24 stationed with the 8th Air Force in England during WWII.  He was shot down by Anti aircraft fire on Jan 7th, 1944.  Most of the crew bailed out except the tail and ball turret gunners, and my grandfather.  The SS gestapo shot and killed them as they exited the downed aircraft.  They were not known for taking POW’s who were injured in the fighting.  My great grandfather was an infantry man in WWI in the south of France in 1917.  He survived the war.  My great great grandfather was a Colonel in the CSA part of the Tennessee Volunteers killed at Rocky Top, TN.  My matriarchal side of  my family I only know of  a great uncle who has retired from the U.S. Coast Guard service as an Admiral.  I served 21 years in the U.S. Navy as a Boatswains Mate, Quartermaster, and Signalman retiring in 2001 as a Chief Quartermaster.  I served on five different warships, have four rows of medals, campaign ribbons, unit awards.  I spent upwards of 15 years stationed aboard ship, 12 of that actually either deployed overseas or underway training to go overseas.  So, needless to say, I was a patriot to the core. Sworn to defend the Constitution of the United States from enemies both foreign and domestic.  When the Lord convicted me of these issues over the course of some months I did not take these matters lightly!    Here is a book, along with the Bible, which really helped to solidify my views in seeking the truth on these issues.   A Change of Allegiance by Dean Taylor

Scriptural support for Passive Non Resistance

Matt 5:38-48 You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectorsj do so? 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

[Resist GR 436 anthistēmi än-thē’-stā-mē 1. to set one’s self against, to withstand, resist, oppose]

Matt 10:16-39 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you. 21 “Now brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub,[d] how much more will they call those of his household! 26 Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. 27 “Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. 32 “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.34 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36 and a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ 37 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.

Luke 6:27-36 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.32 “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.

 Rom 12:14-21  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”says the Lord. 20 Therefore “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

John 18:35-37 Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered You to me. What have You done?”36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.”37 Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.

 A Few Distinctions

We need to make a few distinctions here: 1. persecutions by the world 2. persecutions by the professing ‘church’.  Both of these types of persecutions come from the world  which is under the authority of Satan’s system of lies and deception. But, the latter is very deadly because it is very subtle and causes divisions in the real body of Christ.

Some Historical Background of the Persecutions of the Body of Jesus Christ.

Constantine brought a new era in the church era; marrying the church with the state. This hybrid gospel fostered corruption in the church at every level. Christians who for the first three hundred years of the church were brutalized by the world were now accepted. Persecution subsided for the time. This hybrid corrupt church began to make up it’s own traditions and theologies. Under Constantine’s close scrutiny the organized visible church began to conduct councils which were necessary to uphold this mutant gospel and suppress the gospel of love in Jesus. The visible state church began to persecute those who would not agree with their authority, interpretation, or translation of the Bible.

But here is what Jesus taught:

Matt 26:51-53  And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched outhis hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?

Early Church Believers thoughts on PNR

THE EPISTLE OF IGNATIUS TO THE SMYRAEANS. ECF Vol 1 Ch 4 para 2

But I guard you beforehand from these beasts in the shape of men, from those beasts in the shape of men, whom you must not only not receive, but, if it be possible, not even meet with; only you must pray to God for them, if by any means they may be brought to repentance, which, however, will be very difficult. Yet Jesus Christ, who is our true life, has the power of[effecting] this. But if these things were done by our Lord only in appearance, then am I also only in appearance bound. And why have I also surrendered myself to death, to fire, to the sword, to the wild beasts? But,[in fact,] he who is near to the sword is near to God; he that is among the wild beasts is in company with God; provided only he be so m the name of Jesus Christ. I undergo all these things that I may suffer together with Him,

The Donatists movement which lasted about 400 years refused to bow down to this new mutant gospel of Constantine. However, they appealed the injustices of the North African Catholics to Constantine to resolve issues between the RCC and the local Donatist bishops. They were suppressed and maligned for a hundred years and then in 411 they finally had a time for disputing the matters in Carthage.

A disputation was then arranged in Carthage (411), Collatio cum Donatistis. Two hundred and eighty six Catholic and two hundred and seventy-nine Donatist bishops were present: Augustine and Aurelius were the speakers of the former; Primianus and Patilianus, those of the latter. For three days the debate lasted, but no result was arrived at. Finally the imperial commissioner declared the Donatists vanquished, and very severe measures were decided upon against them. In 414 they lost all civil rights; in 415 they were forbidden to assemble for worshipping, under penalty of death. Nevertheless, they had not become extinct, when, in the seventh century, the Saracens(Islam) occupied the country, and destroyed the African Church and the RCC of that area.
SOURCE: Early Church Website

Augustine’s false teachings have lead millions astray from the gospel of peace, into a gospel of the sword. These empowered councils united with the earthly kings, queens, governments, bishops, and popes would be responsible for the massive horrors of what would become the crusades and inquisitions.

Many Muslims point to the Crusades as an illustration of violent church action. It is true that many unethical acts were done during the military campaigns of the Crusades. It was a time in history that scholars have labeled the “Dark Ages.” Muslim forces had been attacking Christian countries for centuries. Their conquests included the “Holy Land” of Israel. The motivation for the Crusades found its root in reports that Muslims were desecrating Christian holy sites and persecuting Christians on pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The first knights took their vows in AD 1095 when Pope Urban II organized the troops to “liberate the Holy Land from the Muhammadans.” Many of the Crusaders went beyond their mission and forgot their Christian ideals as they sought earthly revenge and treasure. Their atrocities, however, were not motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
SOURCE: A Topical Study of Islam by M. J. Fisher, M.Div.

We can see in church history this problem of professing Christians taking up arms against others when Jesus taught us to love our neighbor and pray for our enemies. Sometimes the ones being persecuted were Christians who are trying to be obedient to Christ not a particular religious system or government.
Probably the most famous protagonist of the just war theory is John Calvin, who used force to kill, torture and imprison his neighbors in the name of God.  From the Calvin Seminary website we find:An aspect of Calvin’s teaching on the state relates to his position on war. This study shows that Calvin positioned himself in continuity with the medieval just war tradition established by Augustine of Hippo. He did not believe in either element of what constituted a holy war—authorization by the church or the prosecution of war without restraint. He stood within the mainstream tradition when it came to both the jus ad bellum and the jus in bello. He always insisted that the private individual may only offer passive resistance to a ruler’s ungodly commands. A parliamentary body alone is authorized by God to resist a tyrannical prince.
SOURCE: Calvin College Website Mark Lawson articleThis is exactly why the ‘Christians’ during the Civil War in our own country wore both blue and gray!  Brother against brother, son against father, uncle against nephew, and cousin against cousin were not uncommon situations across the Mason Dixon line.  If someone is ready to kill one of our children what would we be our response? Of course no one wants a loved one killed at the hands of an evil person. I would do everything in my power short of violence to protect my family. I pray I would respond with: laying down my life in love, prayer, family fleeing, command in Jesus’ name, pleading, exhortation to come to Christ, informing them that they could do nothing lest God allowed them, and defend them with my body from the attackers.  So, please dear reader do not say that those of our passive view would do nothing.  That is the farthest from the truth, we would do nothing in regards to carnal weaponry, military or martial art tactics to kill those who have made themselves our enemies.Matt 10:37-39 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.

I must confess this has not been my attitude at all until the early 2009 when I considered what Jesus taught on these issues.  My lifelong dedication to patriotism, country, honor, etc was evaporating before my eyes. We must realize that if we kill someone, then we have sent them into eternity, no matter how horrible the earthly deed/s they are committing. The Bible states that God holds the keys to life and death, not us.

Rom 13:1-7  Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

In Rom 13:2 the word resist is GR. Antitassō which has two meanings:

1) to arrange in battle against

2) to oppose one’s self, resist

Most American Christians will use this verse to justify warmongering, and obedience to unlawful commands by the government. Resisting in this case is to plan to overthrow or to change by force. It does not mean resisting unlawful orders from that same government. Notice the passage asks, “Do you want to be unafraid….Do what is good. Would Hitler tell you to do what is good? Do what is right for God’s kingdom and then you will have nothing to fear from him. The authorities may kill you or put you in jail in the process of obeying God and disobeying them. But, Romans 13 is NOT saying to do that which is evil because you must obey them.

Justifying Ourselves to Defend Ourselves

In the following passage many in our day and past will point to this Scripture passage to support their argument in support of defending oneself.  But are there any alternative reasons why Jesus would command them to bring two swords?

Luke 22:35-36 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.” 36 Then He said to them, “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. 37 For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’ For the things concerning Me have an end.” 38 So they said, “Lord, look, here are two swords.” And He said to them, “It is enough.”

Most people will not consider the day in which this passage was written.  In order to butcher an animal or defend themselves from wild animals they would need a few swords. Not to mention cutting wood, wheat, or other basic needs that we don’t even consider if they did not have axes, hatchets, or knives.  But, to properly defend themselves or to properly institute the just war theory they would need at least 13 swords, 13 spears, 13 shields, 13 horses, and much, much more against the Roman Legions! Jesus would need those things to defend Himself right?  So, in light of all the other teachings of Jesus which teach contradictory to the ‘Just War’ view, to use this passage to defend our right to defend our selves or families is fallacious nonsense.

There are many prophecies of Jesus’ laying down of His life for others to be saved verses laying down His life to take the lives of others.  In this account:

Isaiah 53:12 And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.

Aren’t we called to lay down our lives as well?

The following passage is often used to justify self defense.

 Psa 82:3-4Defend the poor and fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy;
Free them from the hand of the wicked.

vs. 3 the word defend is shaphat H8199;  1) to judge, govern, vindicate, punish 1) to act as law-giver or judge or governor (of God, man)  a) to rule, govern, judge  2) to decide controversy (of God, man)  3) to execute judgment  a) discriminating (of man)  b) vindicating  c) condemning and punishing  d) at theophanic advent for final judgment b) (Niphal)  1) to enter into controversy, plead, have controversy together  2) to be judged  (c) (Poel) judge, opponent-at-law (participle)  4 Deliver the poor and needy: rid [them] out of the hand of the wicked.

vs. 4 the word deliver is (Palat H6403); to escape, save, deliver, slip away  a) (Qal) to escape  b) (Piel)  1) to bring into security, deliver  2) to cause to escape, cast forth ) to be delivered  4) to slip away  c) (Hiphil) to bring into security, bring to safety

Bringing the orphans, widows, or destitute out of a difficult, life threatening circumstances is honorable and necessary.  But, for the Christians we must do so in a way which honors the commands of Jesus over the thinking of men.  I would add here that governments are given a responsibility to defend it’s citizens from the evil doer.  Rom 13:1-4  The question becomes how involved should we as Christians be in that system, if at all?

Why is PNR so important to a Christian?

These commands of of God are of great importance to a follower of Christ. Here are few of the reasons for their importance:

1. to be obedient to God in all areas, loving Him with all of our heart,mind,strength, and soul.

2. to hold on to nothing personal or material

3. to gird ourselves in the time of testing/temptations that we will not fall away by denying our Lord Jesus.

4. It does not happen here in America yet, but there will come a day when families are decimated for the Name above every Name.

5. Not to be drawn into a profession that does not honor God and His Word, ie. Military, police, or security

6.  Avoid the guilt of murder upon our consciences and others.

7.  To be a good example to the disciples of Christ especially our wives and children.

8.  That our enemies would be blessed  with our actions toward them instead of sent to an early hell.

How do We Practice This Doctrine?

We would seek the Holy Spirit to do the following:

1. Resist the temptation to kill

2. Resist not an evil man

3. We pray

4. We speak boldly the gospel

5. We stand

6. We flee

7. We take up God’s armor Eph 6:13-20

Eph 6:13-20 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

 More Thoughts on Family, Friends, and Enemies

Jesus died for all of our family, friends, and enemies that is why He instructs us not to resist their evil intents. If our earthly governments punish manslaughter,(accidental or defensive killing) why do we justify these acts before our Lord as if He didn’t give us a law? Jesus Christ when talking to the rich young ruler,

 Matt 19:16-19 Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?”  So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good?  No one is good but One, that is, God.But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”  He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’  ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Many times Christians will try and justify killing by saying it is not murder. But, here is a comparison of the two words in Hebrew and Greek.

GR 5406 phoneuō ;1) to kill, slay, murder 2) to commit murder

Exodus 20:13 “Thou shall not kill.” H7523 ratsach means; 1) to murder, slay, kill 1a) (Qal) to murder, slay 1) premeditated 2) accidental 3) as avenger 4) slayer (intentional) (participle) b) (Niphal) to be slain

This primary Hebrew definition covers all the bases on this issue; ‘Thou shalt not, murder, slay, or kill’.

I would like to ask the dear reader here a few rhetorical question.  Suppose you were enlisted in the military as a believer, trained to kill and destroy the ‘enemies’ of the United States.  You were trained, then deployed to the middle east, where another believer had enlisted or was conscripted into the Iragi army.  Now, you are facing your ‘enemy’ on the battlefield with your scope clicked down on the side of his head of another human being.  This head belongs to that believer I just mentioned but you don’t know that.  Guess what?  The Iraqi believer that is being now shot at by his enemy doesn’t know that the one shooting at him is a believer either.  Now you are both in the position of killing a spiritual brother but both of you are ignorant.  How could the hand of the body of Christ, chop off the finger of Christ?

Matt 5:21-22  “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’  But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire.

The Greek for the word angry is the GR orgizo G3710 and means: 1) to provoke, to arouse to anger 2) to be provoked to anger, be angry, be wroth

This is very convicting for me personally because I know that in the open air and message boards I have provoked people to anger, even the brethren. I also temper that with knowing that preaching brings anger and hatred which I am not responsible for that as long as I am conducting myself blamelessly before the Lord and and the world.

 Rev. 13:9-10 If anyone has an ear, let him hear.  He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

I was meditating on this and thought of my family whom I would die for sacrificially and the Lord put this on my mind. I died for my enemies, will you? Of course one of the most difficult parts of this doctrine is my family. But, the Lord teaches that a man and wife become one when they consummate their marriage. So, if someone attacks my wife they are attacking me. What should my/our response be? Resist not an evil man. What about the scenario of an attack on our children? Same response because our children are of us, just like Jesus is of His Father in heaven. This relationship between parents and children is a shadow of the triune relationship. Or course if we are of Jesus, part of His body, and the Head commands that we leave all these issues up to Him and not to defend ourselves; what should we do? What is the conclusion of the matter?

In the passage below, James and John had a spirit of vengeance about them and got rebuked by the Creator of the Universe for their ungodly zeal.
Luke 9:52-56 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?”55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them. And they went to another village.

In speaking of the judgment to come for the greedy oppressors of the world the Apostle James writes in reproof.

James 5:6 You have condemned, you have murdered the just; he does not resist you.

 Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Great video debate on this issue:

Here is an excellent testimony of a brother in the Lord doing spiritual battle and being delivered from a murderous madman with a machete.
Here is a great video of a believer exercising her faith in the power of the Name of Christ in spiritually defending herself and a customer in her store.
Here is a great video of a 92 year old sister in Christ who defended herself with God’s Word which is the spiritual sword and her faith which was her shield from a mugger who jumped in her car at a Walmart:

Grandma Preaches to Robber

2 Cor 10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

Friend to you have a carnal view on this important issue?
Rom 8:6-8 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded islife and peace.Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Here is an interesting letter from Br. Britt Williams concerning this matter to a famous open air preacher:

Non Resistance by Britt Williams rights reserved Consuming Fire Fellowship

Here is a fellowship with Anabaptist/Mennonite roots which takes a different take on this issue which I am currently studying and considering:

Mennonite Teaching on Vengeance

Here is a great video of Pastor Troy Bohn and his Raven Group being continually assaulted on the street and how Troy responded.

Never a dull moment at Raven Street Church . . . we continued to minister for the next couple of hours and had a great time in Jesus as many came to the Cross! “No weapon formed against us will prosper…” GOD IS GOOD!

Pastor Troy Takes Down the Sinner!

This is the only area I am unsure of in my views on this.  If people are being attacked then should you constrain the individual until the authorities arrive?  Going back to the definition of, ‘not resisting’ it means to not overthrow or arrange in battle against.  So, does a civil arrest or constraint amount to the same thing as ‘resist’?  Seek the Holy Spirit for understanding, I know I will.

 

Rom 7: The Last Refuge of Sin

MicahandLiz

Micah and Elizabeth Armstrong

 

Used with kind permission from Bro Micah

Usually when preaching and talking to sinners and professing Christians about God’s command to repent from sin (Acts 17:30-31) and command to live a holy, sin free obedient life (Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 1:15-16, 1 Thessalonians 4:7) they will bring up Romans 7.  It is a shame people will use God’s holy Word that commands holiness as an excuse to sin and Romans 7 has been used as one of the biggest excuses.

The purpose of this tract is to show the Apostle Paul was not talking about his experience after he was converted in Romans 7 but is writing about his experience before he was converted.  Paul grew up as a religious Jew under Jewish law.

First in Romans 6 Paul makes it abundantly plain the Christian is to be dead to sin and free from sin.

Romans 6:2-How shall we that are DEAD TO SIN LIVE ANY LONGER THEREIN?

Romans 6:6-Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him that the body of sin might be destroyed, THAT HENCEFORTH WE SHOULD NOT SERVE SIN.

Romans 6:7-For he that is dead is FREED FROM SIN.

Romans 6:11-Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be DEAD INDEED UNTO SIN, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:12-LET NOT SIN THEREFORE REIGN IN YOUR MORTAL BODY, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

Romans 6:13-NEITHER YIELD YE YOUR MEMBERS AS INSTRUMENTS OF UNRIGHTEOUSNESS UNTO SIN:

Romans 6:14-FOR SIN SHALL NOT HAVE DOMINION OVER YOU: for ye are not under the law but under grace.

Romans 6:15-What then?  SHALL WE SIN, BECAUSE WE ARE NOT UNDER THE LAW BUT UNDER GRACE?  GOD FORBID.

Romans 6:16-Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey, WHETHER OF SIN UNTO DEATH or of obedience unto righteousness.

Romans 6:17-But God be thanked, that YE WERE THE SERVANTS OF SIN, but have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

Romans 6:18-BEING THEN MADE FREE FROM SIN, ye became the servants of righteousness.

Romans 6:22-But now BEING MADE FREE FROM SIN, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness and the end everlasting life.

The whole subject of Romans 6 is once grace has been received the believer is to be dead to sin, free from sin’s power, live in victory over sin, and have dominion over sin.

In Romans 8 Paul makes it abundantly clear the believer who walks in the Spirit will not walk in the flesh and will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh which is sin (Galatians 5:16-25).

Romans 8:1-There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus who WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT.

Galatians 5:16-This I say then WALK  IN THE SPIRIT AND YOU SHALL NOT FULFILL THE LUSTS OF THE FLESH.  If we are walking in the Spirit we are not fulfilling the lusts of the flesh.

Romans 8:2-For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has MADE ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH.

For someone to use Romans 7 as an excuse to sin you would have to make Paul contradict everything he wrote in Romans 6 and Romans 8.  Either the Bible contradicts itself or people are taking Romans 7 out of context.

After Paul finishes Romans 6 he gives a brief analogy in Romans 7:1-3 of the believer’s relationship to the law and to Jesus Christ.  He gives an example of a woman married to an husband.  As long as the husband is alive she is married to the husband.  She is bound to her husband as long as he lives.  However once the husband is dead she is free from being married to her husband.  He uses this example to compare the believers relationship with the law and with Christ.  Before a person is in Christ they are under the law.  Once the person is in Christ they are married to Christ and no longer under the law.  In the example the dead husband represents the law, the living husband represents Jesus Christ and the believer is represented by the wife (Romans 7:4).

This example introduces the subject of the remainder of Romans 7.  It is the person before Christ and still under the law.  This is very clear as the chapter continues.

Romans 7:4-Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to Him who is raised from the dead, that ye should bring forth fruit unto God.

Now the believer is dead to the law and married to Christ.  Now that we are married to Christ we are to bring forth fruit unto God.  We are to no longer bring forth the “fruit unto death” talked about in the next verse when we were “in the flesh”.

Romans 7:5-For WHEN WE WERE IN THE FLESH, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth FRUIT UNTO DEATH.

Here Paul is clearly talking about his past life in the flesh.  Paul makes it clear in Romans 8:8-9-SO THEN THEY THAT ARE IN THE FLESH CANNNOT PLEASE GOD.  BUT YE ARE NOT IN THE FLESH, BUT IN THE SPIRIT, IF SO BE THAT THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELLETH IN YOU.

If someone is born again the Spirit of God dwells in them and they are no longer “in the flesh”.

Paul shows us a contrast of those “in the flesh” who mind or obey the things of the flesh versus those “in the Spirit” who mind or obey the things of the Spirit of God.

Romans 8:5-For THEY THAT ARE AFTER THE FLESH DO MIND THE THINGS OF THE FLESH; but THEY THAT ARE AFTER THE SPIRIT THE THINGS OF THE SPIRIT.

He finishes verse 5 talking about those in the flesh “bring forth fruit unto death”.  The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23) and everyone knows that means eternal separation from God.  Romans 8:6-FOR TO BE CARNALLY MINDED IS DEATH but to be spiritually minded is LIFE AND PEACE.  Another way of saying someone is in the flesh is they are carnal.  They are not governed by the Holy Spirit of God but rather by their senses.  They are governed by their bodily appetites and not the Spirit of God.  Some try to teach there is such a thing as carnal Christians but not according to the Bible.

Romans 8:7-BECAUSE THE CARNAL MIND IS ENMITY AGAINST GOD FOR IT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE LAW OF GOD NEITHER INDEED CAN BE.  The carnal person is at enmity against God and is not in subjection to God’s law to love Him and his neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40) as the Bible commands.

To be carnally minded is death (Romans 8:6).  The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).  The man in the flesh brought forth fruit unto death (Romans 7:5).  The carnal mind is enmity against God (Romans 8:7). So here Paul is not talking about his post conversion experience but rather his pre conversion experience before Christ “in the flesh” and bringing forth “fruit unto death”.

Romans 7:6-BUT NOW WE ARE DELIVERED FROM THE LAW, that BEING DEAD wherein we WERE HELD; that we should SERVE IN NEWNESS OF SPIRIT, AND NOT IN THE OLDNESS OF THE LETTER.

Now Paul is contrasting his present life no longer under the law (Romans 8:2), and dead in trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1, Romans 8:6, 13) with his new life in the Spirit (Romans 8:2), walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), and free from sin (Romans 6:18, 22, Romans 8:2).

Romans 8:1-There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus who not after the flesh but after the Spirit.

There is no condemnation only to those who are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit.  If you are walking in the Spirit you are not fulfilling the lusts of the flesh.

Romans 8:2-For the LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS HAS MADE ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH.

Romans 7:6-BUT NOW WE ARE DELIVERED FROM THE LAW, that BEING DEAD wherein we WERE HELD; that we should SERVE IN NEWNESS OF SPIRIT, AND NOT IN THE OLDNESS OF THE LETTER.

Paul is talking about the same life in the Spirit in Romans 7:6 that he is talking about in 8:2.

Romans 7:7-What shall we say then?  Is the law sin?  God forbid.  Nay, I had not known sin but by the law: for I had not known lust except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.

If Paul was writing about his post conversion experience then why would he be saying above he did not even know what sin was.  How could the great apostle Paul not know what sin was as a mature Christian?

Paul was writing about his preconversion experience as a Jew growing up under Jewish law.  If anyone was self righteous enough, disciplined enough, and moral enough to earn salvation through keeping the law it would have been the Apostle Paul.  Yet Paul growing up as the Pharisee of Pharisees and touching the righteousness which is of the law blameless  (Phillipians 3:5-6) he was convicted of his self centered covetous lifestyle by the law.

Romans 7:8-But sin, taking occasion by the commandment wrought in me all manner of concupiscence.  For without the law sin was dead.

The law was holy, just and good (Romans 7:12) as Paul later points out.  The problem is not with the law.  It should be obeyed.  It shows man his sin, it shows man the holiness of God, and it shows man his need of a Savior.  That is the purpose of the law and the subject of Romans 7.  You cannot be saved by keeping the law and you need a Savior.

The law showed Paul his sinfulness.  Paul seemed to be very moral and righteous but the law exposed his self centered lifestyle.

Romans 7:9-For I was alive without the law once but when the commandment came sin revived and I died.

The law showed Paul his sin.  Paul thought he was pleasing God until the law exposed his sin.

Romans 7:10-And the commandment which was ordained to life I found to be unto death.

That which was holy and just and good was the means of showing Paul the religious, moral self righteous Pharisee of Pharisees how far short he fell of God’s standard.

Romans 7:11-For sin taking occasion by the commandment deceived me and by it slew me.

Romans 7:12-Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.

As an unconverted Jew Paul does not speak evil of the law.  He holds it in high esteem.  He reveres it.  It is just and good. He does not treat it with disdain as many claim all unsaved people will do.  He admitted it should have been obeyed but he had not the grace to obey it with the heart (Romans 6:17), only from an outward, legal standpoint.

Romans 7:13-Was then that which is good made death unto me?  God forbid.  But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good;  That sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.

Now we come to a very important point. This may be the most important verse in understanding Romans 7.

Romans 7:14-For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

Paul now says in the present tense “I am carnal”.  To be carnal means you are governed by the senses and not governed by the Spirit of God.

You cannot be free of condemnation if you are not walking in the Spirit (Romans 8:1).  You are fulfilling the lusts of the flesh and not walking in the Spirit if you are carnal (Galatians 5:16, Romans 8:2).  You cannot even be a child of God unless you are led by the Spirit of God (Romans 8:14).

“I am carnal”.  To be carnally minded is death (Romans 8:6) and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23) which means to be eternally separated from God.  The carnal mind (one who is governed by the flesh and not the Spirit of God-Romans 8:5) is enmity against God (Romans 8:7).  You cannot be against God and a loving follower of God at the same time.  The carnal mind is not in subjection (obedience) to God’s law (Romans 8:7) so one who is carnal does not love God (John 14:15). If you do not love God you are against Him according to the words of Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:24).

Then Paul says in the last part of verse 14 “sold under sin”.  How can one be sold under sin and redeemed from sin at the same time?  To be redeemed means to be bought back from.  Bought back from under the slavery of sin.  The New Testament repeatedly makes references to the believer being bought back from sin (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 7:23, Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14, 1 Peter 1:18-19) and redeemed from sin.  You cannot be sold under sin and redeemed from sin at the same time.

Now we have a picture of an unregenerate man, a religious Jew who has strived to please God by keeping the law but realizes he cannot.

Romans 7:15-For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

This is not the testimony of one who has been saved by grace (Ephesians 2:8-9) because “The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12).

The grace that saves from sin does not just give us forgiveness for the penalty of sin but also victory over the power of sin.  If there is no victory over the power of sin then there is no forgiveness for the penalty of sin (John 8:32, 34, 36, Romans 6:16, 18, 22). It is the power to keep the law from a right motive from the heart (Romans 6:14-17).

Romans 6:14-For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Grace is power over sin to live a holy, righteous, and godly life.

The Apostle Paul is the author of 1 Thessalonians.  In 1 Thessalonians 2:10 Paul says “Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe”.

Paul says with God as his witness his behavior, lifestyle, and actions before God were holy, just and unblameable.  He wrote this under divine inspiration of the Holy Ghost.

Paul was not going around sinning every day in word, thought and deed.

Paul also stated in Acts 24:16-Herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.

Romans 7:16-If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.

Romans 7:17-Now then it is no more I that do it but sin that dwelleth in me.

Paul is not denying any responsibility here.  He is acknowledging that as a person of their own free will continues to give themselves over to self gratification eventually that self gratification takes hold of them and holds them captive and they become a slave to it.

Romans 7:18-For I know that in me (that is in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

Romans 7:19-For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

Romans 7:20-Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

Romans 7:21-I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

Although Paul acknowledges the law is good and should be obeyed he is describing the state of the unregenerate man using himself as an example before he was saved.  The unregenerate man has repeatedly given himself over to gratify himself (carnal mind) and is now a slave to his selfishness.  Often when unregenerate (unsaved) people see God’s holy law they will make an attempt to please God by self reformation and obeying the law outwardly.  This is the condition Paul is describing.

Romans 7:22-For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

Once again as an unregenerate Jew Paul had a high regard for God’s holy law.

Romans 7:23-But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Romans 7:24-O wretched man that I am!  Who shall deliver me from the body of this death.

Paul realizes despite his best efforts to please God by keeping the law he is still a slave of sin.

John 8:34-Whosoever commiteth sin is the servant of sin.

Matthew 6:24-No man can serve two masters:

Romans 6:16-Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death or of obedience unto righteousness.

If we are committing sin we are serving sin and not Jesus. We cannot serve two masters and regardless of what someone says they are serving the one they obey.

Romans 6:6-Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin.

Paul cries out for deliverance from the “body of this death” in Romans 7:24 but in Romans 6:6 he shows us the Lord Jesus provided this deliverance and providing freedom from sin.

Romans 7:25-I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.  So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

In verse 24 Paul asks who will deliver him and in verse 25 he gives the answer.  Jesus Christ the Savior from sinning (Matthew 1:21, John 1:29, Acts 3:26, Galatians 1:4, Titus 2:14, 1 John 3:5).

In the last part of verse 25 Paul summarizes the experience he has been describing in verses 5 and 7-24 before moving into the freedom and deliverance of a Spirit led, Spirit governed lifestyle in Romans 8.

Romans 8:1-THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT.

Romans 7 the Scourge of Sin Defended?

LIVE on Christian Talk Radio 1160

KathrynRaaker

Great Outreach on Live Radio!

There were eight holiness preachers gathered for an outreach to Sinsinnati at the annual Oktoberfest.  Bro John Williams had arranged a live interview for Jesse Morrell with a local radio host, Kathryn Raaker, here is her radio show link.

We were all invited in and were given a bit of opportunity to speak with her, she was very gracious to us.  Ryan Simpkins did a great job as well, really going into some very important and controversial topics over live radio which broadcasts over 1500 stations nationwide.  Praise God.

Here are the links to the radio show:

Part One

Part Two