Rock a bye baby, the church is asleep!!!

Praise the LORD!!!

   and wake the f*## up!!!

Now, did that get your attention???

"Rock a bye baby," what an unusual title(not to mention that second line) for a Christian blog. Let me say, "it's a warning of that which is to come."

For decades now, the BODY of CHRIST has been lulled asleep by the preaching from our pulpits. Ministers, proclaiming to preach the GOSPEL, yet only preaching that which the Christian receives and is in the eyes of the LORD. Nothing on that which the LORD has called us to do.

All in all, there is nothing wrong with the Christian knowing their standing before the LORD, but when all else that the LORD taught about is forsaken, then there's a problem. Due to this preaching, our eyes have been turned inside, no longer focused on those things the LORD set forth for us, to do out and about for a dying world. We gather once or twice a week, putting on our best of shows, only to walk out those doors and live no differently then the rest of the world. Those whom we were sent out(called) to be examples for.

Today, there is no longer a difference between a Christian and any other person of this world. Sure, there is for that day or two during the week, that we practice our religion, but the other five or six, NONE. Many want to use the excuse, "that we have to live in this world and survive," but isn't that statement wrong on so many points!?!

  "They are not of the world (worldly, belonging to the world), [just] as I am not of the world.

 Sanctify them [purify, consecrate, separate them for Yourself, make them holy] by the Truth; Your Word is Truth."

~ John 17:16,17; AMP 

"Trust in the Lorde with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him,

       ~ Proverbs 3:5,6; NIV  

   " He who loves [and * takes more pleasure in] father or mother more than [in] Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves [and takes more pleasure in] son or daughter more than [in] Me is not worthy of Me;

 And he who does not take up his cross and follow Me [* cleave steadfastly to Me, conforming wholly to My example in living and, if need be, in dying also] is not worthy of Me.

 Whoever finds his [* lower] life will lose it [the higher life], and whoever loses his [lower] life on My account will find it [the higher life].

~ John 10:37-39; AMP

There are those that will say that the church is not asleep, but is suffering from a state of "being lukewarm." Well, you've got to have a pulse to be "lukewarm," and when the church sees nothing outside of it's OWN focal distance, it's worse off than "lukewarm," it's asleep. Void of any cognitive functions, resting intently on that which it knows and HAS. In other words, ASLEEP !!!!!!!

It is time that the BODY, the CHURCH, woke up and turned their eyes upon the LORD. Focusing upon that which HE set forth before us to do and not that "goobly gook" that has been preached before us for so many years. It's time that action was taken, and not just thought about. It is time that our hands and feet began operating outside our circles and in the trenches where those that are in need of help are. It is time, that the CHURCH began resembling CHRIST and not just some foggy image upon a mirror.

Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Far too many

Praise the LORD!!!

   This is but a short one, but one that the LORD is laying on my heart this morning.

   There are far too many. Far too many what, you may ask. Far too many that are confused and over zealous in that which they perceive to be the LORD's will for them.

   We, Brothers and Sisters, are told(commissioned) to spread the GOSPEL. We are not told, that we're to convict people of their sins. Which is something far too many are trying to do. The task of conviction of one's sins is totally in the ample hands of the HOLY SPIRIT and no human agent. We as zealous, on fire for the LORD Christians, can do everything within our powers to do so and we're just wasting our breath and time. For unless it is the HOLY SPIRIT that brings about this conviction, it is worthless and like dust in the wind.

   Though we have the HOLY SPIRIT dwelling inside of us, we ARE NOT HIM!!! We do NOT, have HIS powers, even though HE may exhibit them thru us. It is because of years of erroneous preaching that men think "they" are the one's that can bring about and do wondrous works. When in truth, we ARE but vessels thru which the HOLY SPIRIT does the works.

                                            Let's get it right !!!!!!!

John 16:8


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Verily, verily...

Praise the LORD, we're blessed with another day to glorify the name of JESUS!!!

From the title, one should be able to see that this is something of importance. For the repeating of these words, as well as the repeating of a certain statement, were meant to drive home the importance of a fact that was to follow. It's not that what I'm going to say is important, but that the message the LORD has laid on my heart is.

WHO/who do you follow??? That should be simple enough to answer, but is it??? There are several warnings given by Paul in the New Testament, on the separation or divisions within the Church. Though like in his day, it seems that people have greatly overlooked and still fail to heed these.

There truly shouldn't be a need for the question, but there is, for far too many follow after the teachings of others, instead of following those strictly of CHRIST. Now, I'm not talking about those that are following after "errant" teachers today, though this IS a major problem. But, those that are taking the teachings from the Bible, let's call them "one liners", and going on crusades with them.

Now, all in all, this may not be wrong, but when one forsakes the very teaching of CHRIST, to go off on a tangent, to bolster a cause, there is. A great deal of this happens due to the "immaturity" of the believer. Paul himself tackles this problem, but I'm led to re-hash it today. For people would rather just overlook it and "run with that which they believe is of the SPIRIT." Well, it maybe of the spirit, but certainly not the HOLY SPIRIT!!! For anything that the HOLY SPIRIT teaches, will completely coincide with ALL of scripture, not only on a part of it. In other words, "if it doesn't mesh with the complete Bible(beginning to end), it's not of the HOLY SPIRIT!!!"

Now, to the crust of this biscuit.

There are so many lines of thought within the Church today, it's downright ridiculous. Here, I'm focusing on two specific ones. People preaching nothing but the "End Times." Others, doing nothing but standing in judgement of others in the Church and their teachings. And, though both of these topics, ARE in scripture, they are but "one liner" topics. (and yes, I know these are covered in more that a single line, but that's what the BOSS, says call them :{))) argue with HIM) Both, though important facts, don't "mesh" with the totality of scripture. Which makes focusing on and the pursuit of them wrong.

JESUS warns us, personally, of focusing on the events of the "End Times,"  and also in numerous places, of standing in judgement of others, especially those of the Church. An I know, there are those that are going to say "these aren't of the Church, but are errant in their ways." There you go though, you're putting "yourself" in the position of THE JUDGE, and are you so sure that your "righteous judgement" is truly righteous??? Or not just "a little of the flesh boiling up within you"??? You know, we as "man," are prone to a little pride, now and then. Even the best of us.

To keep this from being a book, I'm going to make this short and sweet. The next time you're doing a little surfing of the internet, or reading somebody's new(or old) book, and something really fires you up. Back off for a bit. Pray, test the spirit of this matter and give it some time to settle in. For like an actual fire, all will blaze up at first, but not all will continue to burn strongly. This because the RIGHT FUEL isn't there. That fuel, the right, is the HOLY SPIRIT. The wrong fuel, is that of this world and it's purposes, are to bring division and take our eyes off the true focus we are to have> spreading the GOSPEL, loving GOD, our fellow believers and our neighbors(believer or not.)



GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

satan will ...

   satan will use every means possible to defeat GOD!!! This statement shouldn't surprise anyone, well anyone that believes in GOD in the first place.

   The "dark lord" has already lost one decisive battle and was rewarded by being cast out of heaven. But truly, he's as stubborn as he is prideful and won't give up or give in until that day in which he's finally defeated.(and yes, he will be, for it is written!!!)

   Today satan wages war against GOD thru a constant barrage of attacks upon believers. I'm pretty sure that I don't need to tell you about these. For daily, we're under constant attack in many ways. Most of which are meant to focus our attentions on our plight and away from GOD and HIS promises to us.

   A secondary means that is being used, is the "trivialization" of GOD's WORD and WAYS. If but for a moment he can get our attentions turned away from GOD and focused on, or disbelieving in one "jot or title" of scripture, he's gained a minor victory. A foothold. A wedge between us and our SAVIOR.

   These means are also being used against those to whom we as believers are to witness. Putting up stronger wall of defense between us and them. These can take many forms and can even use the professing Christian to do so.

   We in the western world are among the most prosperous nations in the world and this prosperity is one of satan's greatest weapons against us. We've houses, that resemble great mansions to those that live in make-shift shelters. We've numerous vehicles to drive all around. When the greatest percentage of others are bound by "manual" transportation, walking or bicycles. We've masses of electronic gadgets filling our home and vehicles. To which, a great many are but distractions from the world we live in, but they too, are distractions from the very GOD that has blessed us with them.

   Even our houses of worship, have become more entertainment, than they are worship. Sure we do worship in them, but is it any degree of that which it was a hundred years ago, or for that matter, just fifty years ago??? For the most part, gone is most of the music that the saints sing. Replaced by that which they listen to, or maybe sing along too. Gone, is the harmony of voices singing, no matter how out of tune, together, making melody to the LORD.

   Gone is the church family, which knew each other as well as they know themselves. Gone, are many of those ways that used to separate the Church, from the rest of the world. Today, many of our churches resemble any other gathering of people.

   These, the few that I've mentioned, are nothing but satan's trivialization of GOD, HIS WORD and HIS WAY!!!

THINK ABOUT IT, FOR THE FUTURES OF MANY, DEPEND UPON US!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Breaking the mold

Praise the LORD!!!

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9; NIV)

"Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’" (Exodus 19:5,6; NIV)

"Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 2:14; AV)

Breaking the mold ??? GOD has called forth HIS people to be peculiar!!!

• pe·cu·liar
• [ pi kyóolyər ]
unusual: unusual, strange, or unconventional

1. unique: belonging exclusively to or identified distinctly with somebody or something

synonyms: odd · strange · weird · unusual · irregular · abnormal · uncharacteristic

Why then, are we all standing around in the same light cast for us by the world and unfortunately, the church itself???

For the best part of the last forty years, ministries have been telling us that we've got to focus upon making ourselves look and preform just like them and the world. Striving to stand out, yet only following after the very same mold they've been set in. A "mold" that is almost exactly that as the "mold" that the world uses to bring note to itself !!! 

You, know what I mean. That, "we've got to have the biggest and the best, to make people come through our doors," or "we've got to act this way or that, to blend in with them, making them feel acceptable in our pews." 

There is no "standing out, because we're different," or "standing out, because we don't accept your ways or beliefs." It's, "smooth over the rough spots," "sweeten our words, so we don't offend anyone." Are any of these, those "PECULIAR" ways that the LORD has called us out to be???


Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

The Miracles of JESUS

Miracles of JESUS
________

The Healing Miracles
________

Man with Leprosy:                     Matt. 8:2-4           Mark 1:40-42        Luke 5:12-13
Roman centurion's servant          Matt. 8:5-13                                       Luke 7:1-10
Peter's mother-in-law                 Matt. 8:14-15       Mark 1:30-31        Luke 4:38-39
Two men from Gadara               Matt. 8:28-34       Mark 5:1-15          Luke 8:27-35
Paralyzed man                            Matt. 9:2-7          Mark 2:3-12           Luke 5:18-25
Woman with bleeding                 Matt. 9:20-22      Mark 5:25-29         Luke 8:43-48
Two blind men                           Matt. 9:27-31
Mute, demon possessed man      Matt. 9:32-33
Man with shriveled hand             Matt. 12:10-13     Mark 3:1-5            Luke 6:6-10
Blind, mute, demon-possessed man Matt. 12:22                                    Luke 11:14
Canaanite woman's daughter       Matt. 15:21-28     Mark 7:24-30
Boy with a demon                      Matt. 17:14-18      Mark 9:17-29        Luke 9:38-43
Two blind men(including Bartimaeus) Matt. 20:29-34   Mark 10:46-52  Luke 18:35-43
Deaf mute                                                               Mark 7:31-37
Possessed man in synagogue                                   Mark 1:23-26         Luke 4:33-35
Blind man at Bethsaida                                            Mark 8:22-26
Crippled woman                                                                                    Luke 13:11-13
Man with dropsy                                                                                    Luke 14:1-4
Ten men with leprosy                                                                              Luke 17:11-19
The high priest's servant                                                                          Luke 22:50-51
Official's son at Capernaum                                                                                                 John 4:46-54
Sick man at pool of Bethesda                                                                                              John 5:1-9
Man born blind                                                                                                                   John 9:1-7

Miracles Showing Power over Nature
__________
      
Calming the storm                 Matt. 8:23-27          Mark 4:37-41          Luke 8:22-25
Walking on the water            Matt. 14:25              Mark 6:48-51                                         John 6:19-21
Feeding of the 5,000             Matt. 14:15-21        Mark 6:35-44          Luke 9:12-17           John 6:6-13
Feeding of the 4,000             Matt 15:3-38           Mark 8:1-9
Coin in fish                            Matt. 17:24-27
Fig tree withered                   Matt. 21:18-22        Mark 11:12-14, 20-25
Large catch of fish                                                                                 Luke 5:4-11
Water turned to wine                                                                                                             John 2:1-11
Another large catch of fish                                                                                                      John 21:1-11

Miracles of Raising the Dead
__________

Jairus's daughter                    Matt. 9:18-19, 23-25    Mark 5:22-24, 38-42   Luke 8:41-42, 49-56
Widow's son at Nain                                                                              Luke 7:11-15
Lazarus                                                                                                                                  John 11:1-44


Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Yes, it is

Praise the LORD!!!

   Yes, it is!?! Yes, our churches are full of hypocrites. Backbiters, gossips, thieves, liars, the sexually immoral, adulterers and the list can go on and on. For where else should you find those whom are sick and seeking healing???

   Surely it is the truth, that many of these, think they're already healed. Not realizing that they truly are only in remission, waiting around, only to take their dying breathes. But yes, they're there, in the only place where true healing can begin.

   Not a building with four walls, but amongst a BODY of believers that realize there is but one source of healing for their sicknesses.

   Sin, that reached sickness. That makes one think they're healthy. Not in need of anything. Rich, yet poor by all means. Slowly passing away from starvation, though their tables are set with the finest of foods. Having all sorts of the finest pleasures to keep them occupied, yet wasting away with loneliness.

   Where else will you find all those that are having their hearts stirred, their bodies torn, their minds running rampant with thoughts and desires of all that they truly need??? In the presence of the only ONE that can, and will, heal them of all their worries. The "GREAT PHYSICIAN," lingers in the midst of all these. HE seeks to heal all, yet holds HIS hands back from healing them, until they've been fully convicted of their great needs. Prepared fully to receive that which is free, yet comes with a great price.

   The cost. It is nothing, yet it is everything. For one to receive these needed gifts, they must be willing, willing to forsake all. Forsake all that they hold dear. Forsake all that they've learned to believe is of need to survive. To forsake all that their futures may hold.

   Oh, to but touch the fringe of HIS garment and I shall be made whole. One glance from HIS loving eyes. One touch of HIS gracious hands.

   Can you??? Or will you??? Forsake all and follow HIM !!!!!!!


Seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!! Talley the cost and listen to HS voice, calling out to you. The choice is yours alone!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Weary, war worn, but not defeated

Praise the LORD!!!
    Doing that which I'd of least thought of doing, especially with just beginning on the road to recovery after nearly two weeks of fighting physical oppression by the flue. Blogging. Writing a devotional(?.) Hard to believe, considering it's been nearly a half year since the last time, but the LORD has HIS ways. Ways, we can seldom completely grasp.

   We are living in a day and age unlike any before. Not only because we're closer than ever to the LORD's return, but because we're in an age where fewer and fewer Christians read the Bible for themselves!!! I'm not talking about searching up a scripture or two while reading a post online, but the serious reading(and study) typical of the saints of old. Whom may of spent hours, days or weeks on the study of one verse alone.

   Sure, we've many that are reading their Bibles completely thru in a year, maybe more than at any time ever before. This due to the fact that we've many more "understandable" versions to choose from. Plus many programs and websites which are set up to render this possible. This though, isn't that which I'm speaking of. I'm talking about those which have such an overwhelming hunger for the WORD, that they just can't get enough!!! Those that feel as if they can't exist a moment longer, if they don't savor the richness of GOD's WORD. Those that feel it's the very "Bread of LIFE" upon which they exist.

   You may be wondering what this has to do with the title, "Weary, war worn, but not defeated"? Well, that's simple. For there are many, whom for years have been urging others to get down and get serious about reading and studying their Bibles for themselves. Not, the reading of some author, or preacher, but the Bible itself. Now, I'm not discounting the value of reading that written by other Christians, for I do a great deal of this myself and have grown due to it. I'm talking about sitting down, praying for the HOLY SPIRIT's guidance and digging deeply into the WORD alone. Open minded, not thinking about "what" Brother or Sister so and so(or self) said and/or believes. Or what this or that group happens to say, but truly open mindedly listening to the HOLY SPIRIT !!! One can only state this so many times, before it begins to wear on them. Before they begin to show signs of wear and tear. Before they begin to get disgruntled and want to give in and cease their efforts. After all, we're only human and have our limits :{)))

    Alas though, we wage not this battle alone (2 Cor. 10:3-6), and our weapons are not of this world. We're dressed for these battles(Eph. 6:12-18.) and it isn't under our powers or understandings(Proverbs 3:5,6; Phil. 4:13) in which we carry on these battles. It is by continually visiting the well of refreshing(John 6:35; 2 Cor. 12:9,10) even when at our weakest. It is CHRIST JESUS, the LIVING WORD to WHOM we go and depend.

   Truthfully, I don't know what we have here??? :{))) Whether it's a blog??? A devotional??? Or what??? I do know but one thing. "I did, as led," and where it goes from here, is in the LORD's hands!!! GOD bless y'all and good day !!!



Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Being sent

Praise the LORD!!!
 
   It's been quite some time since I last published a blog, but the LORD has HIS reasons and I doubt them not!!! The "why," is not of my concern, it is that I remain attuned to HIS voice within my life and remain obedient, that is!!!

   Let us take a bit of a trip here, a trip in time. Two time periods, that is :{)))

  First: "“Don’t take the road leading to other nations, ... go to the lost sheep  of the house of Israel." "

The Holy Bible: Holman Christian standard version. (2009). (Mt 10:5–6). Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers.

   The time here, is early on in JESUS' ministry, where HE first sends out the disciples(12) to begin revealing the KINGDOM news to people. Gracing them with a long list of commands and the power to fulfill all that they've been called too.

   The second period in time we shall talk about, is that where I was led to leave Ohio and walk to Kingsville, TX. I wasn't given a long list of that which I was or wasn't to do, but these came as time went by, as I was preparing to enter into events. (Most likely such short notice, because of my quick response when following HIS leadings, I've learned not to question the simple, but only the extreme leadings. :{))) )

      In our first period, we've commands as to what they're to take with them: "Don’t take along gold, silver, or copper for your money-belts. Don’t take a traveling bag for the road, or an extra shirt, sandals, or a walking stick,..."

The Holy Bible: Holman Christian standard version. (2009). (Mt 10:9–10). Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers.

   Whereas on the first trip(attempted one), I carried a good sum of money($600) and belongings(90 lbs. worth) and was accompanied by my year old wolf/shepherd pup(untrained for this type of task.) As I was walking, I was in prayer and deep conversation with the LORD. Listening for HIS leadings and taking in all that HE laid upon my heart(and there was a lot :{))) ) Much of these(prayers) had to do with my undertakings for HIM. Where I was to stop and rest(or eat(whatever)), who and what I was too converse with people about and any other interactions along the way.

   The "route" wouldn't be a direct one, but one off the beaten path you may say. Going from Utopia, OH., east to the ferry crossing at Augusta, KY. and then beginning a southerly direction on county and minor state roads. It was here that I had my first two interactions with the BODY, one good and the other not so.
   The first, was on Easter morning, after having a personal "sunrise" service and having walked a pretty good distance. I'd stopped for a rest on a cement wall along the roadside and it just so happened to be across the street from a little non denominational church. I was getting ready to head on, when I heard someone yelling at me. It was the minister and he was inviting my dog and I over for Easter breakfast. Yes, my dog was invited into the church along with me :{))). After a very good "feeding" and plenty of awesome conversation, we were also invited to stay for another service, one of mostly praise and worship. At the end of this service, we were greeted by many of the church members and handed sums of money for the trip. Heading onward with an additional $250 and scores of promised prayers!!!

   As usual, when the LORD has blessed, satan too will raise his head. Over the next ten miles or so we covered a large area that was under construction, having the roadsides torn up and covered with four or five inch rocks, very unstable walking. Marianne's feet took a beating, so bad so, that things were looking pretty bad as to continuing the trip. That was, until the LORD provided !!! A young couple returning home after an Easter dinner with family met up with me. I thought this was but a short meeting, because they'd stopped for gas at the closed store I'd been resting up at. But, they returned after getting gas at another station and proceeded to drive us to a "boat ramp" another ten miles on along the route. Praise the LORD, both now and then, for I knew the LORD was a work here :{)))

   After several days here, allowing time for Marianne's feet to heal and having met many a person, severe weather set in. We had no tent or rain gear, only trashbags for temporary shelter. Needless to say, I was soaked, cold and miserable, but the LORD had bigger plans. It was now that one of the people I'd met blessed us well. They had a house sitting empty, with the utilities on, in which we could stay until the proper time came. It wasn't but a 100 yards away, on the other side of the river and about a hundred feet from a non-denom church. These people ended up putting us up for about a month. Supplying all of our needs, shelter, electricity, water and food, so much so I had to ask it they'd back off a bit and let me take care of some !!! True Christian hospitality !!!

   As for the church, so close, yet so far(from the LORD's ways): I went to a service one Sunday, talked with the minister about his sermon and really expected more to come from this. Oh was I wrong. This church was about as "dry" of the HOLY SPIRIT as Death Valley is of water!!! I watched people gather here numerous times, weekends and weekdays, and not once did anyone ever even acknowledge me when driving by, let alone invite me over to join in!!! I was beginning to see two very different sides to the church, one that I loved and another, that was in great need of heavy prayers.(which they got!!!)

   The rest of the trip was pretty much uneventful, unless you consider walking a week with three broken toes and having your knee blowout on a Sunday morning events :{))). But it was the LORD's leading and teaching that took place for the most part. I met those of a "Messianic movement," which assisted me and had seeds of truth planted. Those whom went to church regularly and weren't happy with it. An those Christians that refrained from going to church because they didn't feel that the "houses" they attended, were anything like those the LORD would endorse. Believe me when I say "my eyes and ears were open" and "the LORD was teaching me a great many lessons!!!" and yes folks, many, many seeds were planted :{)))

*** For more details on this trip, one can find them back in the history in my blogs and on the timelines of my many pages(both personal and ministry.) There are far more there, than I was led to post here, so if interested, dig deeper :{)))***

GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Caring and Sharing...

Praise the LORD!!!

   Happy Valentine's Day <3 p="">
Caring and sharing, this could be a deep talk, but it'll not be. For I'd like to give you a little example that just happened to me.

Several days ago, my friend, the one that is allowing me to live in her garage, and I were talking about Mardi Gras. Well I mentioned that one of my favorite things about it were "King Cakes." I've a deep fondness for them and the traditions mean nothing, just the cake :{)))

She'd been away for several days visiting some friends and last night when I got home there was a King cake sitting in my computer chair. Later when she got back in we talked about it. It appears that she had looked around town and was unable to find one. But while on her trip out of town, she had stopped to get a "welcome gift" for her visit and found the only two left in the store. She kept one for her return and they enjoyed the other at their gathering. When she arrived home, she delivered it to my chair.

Folks, here is a dear Christian sister, that went greatly out of her way to share the love of CHRIST with another. Isn't this kind of act exactly what following our LORD and SAVIOR is all about. Going that extra mile to reveal the love of CHRIST for all of mankind!?!


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

How long...

 Praise the LORD!!!

   "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me," (John 14:9; AV)

   Yesterday, I was asked about one of the post I had made and what scripture references I could use to back it. The post: "A Thought for such a time as this:
   A Christian should not settle with a level of production(for the LORD) that is the same as yesterday!!!" 

   At the time that I gave  answer I was a bit distraught from having tried to monitor and post tornado warning to followers on this current system. As many of you know, well those that have followed the ministry for over a year or two would, this is part of the ministry's functions. Any way, back to the point of this blog   :{))) My answer was in two parts, because another stepped in asking, but here are both parts:
   "PTL!!! It is not GOD requires, wants or needs anything but our love, but as with any relationship lovers seek to provide the other with greater things from the heart as the relationship deepens. Would you give your wife/girlfriend a BMW one day and turn around and give them a gardening tool??? I think not. It may just be me, but as I grow closer to the LORD, I desire to do more for HIM, not because I have to, or because it will gain me one thing, but just because I love HIM !!!"

   "PTL!!! I consider my relationship with GOD above all others and seek to deepen it in every way. As with any relationship, a knowledge of the other is great, but if that is where we leave off, what do we really have other than knowledge, we've no experience. Any thriving relationship must have experiences that deepen it, that bring the two parties closer together. I've had many relationship and most were very one sided, due to my pride, The LORD has blessed me by removing this hindrance and now I willing to seek a depth in our relationship deeper than any every before. HE gave HIS all for me, shouldn't I be willing to do the same in return, not being satisfied with the results of yesterday, but seeking to make today even better??? Scripturally, you'll not find this depth of relationship mentioned, to the best of my knowledge, but I'm sure it was in the hearts of many of those that have died for CHRIST while smiling at their tormentors and singing praises unto GOD!!! "

   You can believe this was on my heart last night as I went to sleep and it was put to prayer. Now I can understand new believers in CHRIST having(needing) scripture "proof" to solidify their understandings, but supposedly seasoned, mature Christians!?! Have we been so long with JESUS, yet we fail to really know HIM??? To know those things we are to do. To know the manor in which we are to live our lives and reflect HIS image to others. 

   Now don't take me wrong here, I'm not judging these others involved here, but I'm being blessed to see the BODY as a whole here. We've lived our lives for years for CHRIST. We've supposedly read and read the Bible numerous times. Studied and studied for hours, taking in hour after hour worth of sermons and teaching tapes(disc) and books.  "And yet hast thou not known me,"
                                           ______________________________

   I ask, but not I, but the LORD, is your knowledge of me only within your mind, or is it within your heart??? Do you really have a loving relationship with me, or is it but a knowledge of scripture??? I want your heart, as well as your mind and body. I want all of you!!! Are you willing to give it???



 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

How far???

Praise the LORD!!!

   How far are you truly willing to go for the sake of the GOSPEL??? This is an important personal question we each must ask ourselves. Is our faith that which truly believes that "all things work together for the good of those that love GOD and are called according to HIS purpose" That our suffering "all things," would bring about the glory of GOD. That our refusing to take up arms(self defense means) to protect our own lives, would bring glory to the KINGDOM of GOD.

   Many today have a faith that says they can do that which is needed to preserve their own lives and still bring glory to GOD!!! But is this kind of faith truly that of GOD or is it a faith that has been formed by the means of man, for self preservation ???

   These are but a few "Questions" and/or statements that are meant to make you think. Make you think about the depth of your relationship with JESUS. To make you think about whether or not you're willing to make that supreme sacrifice and give your life for the sake of the GOSPEL !!! I see many a post and hear many a statement to this effect, but truly, when it comes down to it, how many are truly willing too!!! Think about it !!!!!!! Your sacrifice could be that which brings other believers into the fold. But the question is, "How far ???"


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

Blowing your own trumpet

Praise the LORD!!!

   Good morning and I can see from the fact that you're reading this, that GOD has blessed you with another day :{)))
   Those of you that follow me through my many post, know that I currently homeless and working but part time while living out of a friends garage. Yesterday was one of the days I was blessed to work, the first in three weeks. After receiving our checks the boss proceeded to run the three of us home.

   At the first drop off, the boss pipes in about my co-worker(the one getting out) not having any gas service due to the need to repair the lines and "what would it cost to repair." After a short conversation the statement was made "that I'll help get this done, at the beginning of the week and we'll make arrangements on paying it back." Now I want you to keep in mind that my boss is a "Christian."

   As we continued on the boss began asking my other co-worker about the fact that he too was without gas service and that they too could make the arrangements to remedy this problem. The conversation then turned, not to my homelessness(as you might think), but to his(the boss) having helped another, by loaning him some money to fix his car and never having received repayment or the man's car getting fixed.

   Now it is when the conversation turned my way. Not in an offer of any sort, but as to the conditions in which I'm living and how they could be so much worse.Now this went on for about the next five minutes and never once came to an offer of any kind, so as I was getting out of the truck I asked if he had $20 I could borrow until my check cleared(3 business days). He only had ten on him and I accepted it and told him that I remind him of it. This because of the fact, that my little check was basically already spent on bills that would be covered by the bank.

   Here is the point of this all. It is scripturally improper for a Christian to blow the trumpets when doing their works for the LORD!!! For in doing so, it is here that they'll receive their rewards and it likens them unto the pagans, that give only to receive back in return. We see and hear from all sorts of secular charity groups of the "good works" that they do and usually this is attached to another plea for money. Christians are supposed to give freely, because it was it this very manor in which our LORD gave and we are to reflected HIS image within and through our lives!!!

   Has the BODY become so like the world, that it has to be glorified by the works that it does in love??? Do Christians give, only so they can receive back in likeness or greater??? As you know I've the ministry and it pains me to think that so many "CHRIST-like" people won't donate(and haven't in 12+ yrs.) because the ministry isn't 501.3.c rated and they'll not receive a tax credit!!! I've come to the decision that the ministry will never be rated in this manor, for IT will not succumb to government regulations as to "what we can say" or "against what we can stand against(sins rampant in society today.) As a Christian, I see it as my duty to abide by the LORD's teachings over any that government or any group wants to condone!!! Sure I've told of some of the things done over the years, but these weren't in depth stories or videos focused on getting your donations. They were done to let others see what it is that the ministry does and that alone. Many know that I don't even desire "thanks" for those things that I do, for I see it as having received my rewards already and here is not where I seek to do so.

   My questions to you at this time are, "Where do you want your "rewards" to be given???" and "Just "who" is it that you seek to glorify, self or GOD???" This isn't meant to blow any trumpets, but to silence those of the BODY!!!


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

A New Year, but only a new day

 Praise the LORD!!!
   We're blessed with the beginning of a new year, but truly it is only that day to which we're blessed. For every year is made up of single days. Each uniting to form that which eventually becomes a whole year. Much like the foundation for any building, that which we build today, is only as strong as that which was laid the day before.

   Form your foundation on the ROCK, firm and steady, never changing. Then with each successive day, build that which is new and meant to uphold that which is to come. You will be blessed, if building in this way, to surely know that which you've labored so hard at will stand the test of time. Let CHRIST JESUS be the foundation you build this day's structure upon. It is then, and only then, that you'll be blessed to know, that no matter what storms may come, your structure shall stand strong a midst them!!!

   "On CHRIST the solid ROCK I stand, all else is sinking sand"


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

VISIT TO THE CLINIC

Praise the LORD!!!

   The following is from an email I received and I loved it so much I just couldn't help but share it with my "family"!!! I pray you enjoy it and it moves upon your heart as it has mine!!!!!!!

It's titled, "Visit to the Clinic"


















































 ***I have no idea of who originated this, but GOD bless you for sharing it!!!***


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Least we fall

Praise the LORD!!!

   There was the day when we were all sinners, "There is none righteous, no, not one"(Romans 3:10; KJV 1900) and this my friends, we should not forget!!! Though the LORD forgives and forgets the life of sin we've lived, let us not. For when we do there is the chance that within our hearts we will begin thinking of ourselves as better than those around us. Placing ourselves upon a pedestal above all the immoral sinners of this dying world. When it was right there at the base of that pedestal, that we too used to live.

   Pride, is the original sin, it is that which set satan up for the fall, the very one that took down Adam and Eve and has brought mankind to the need for salvation. It is the pride of man that placed JESUS upon the cross and it is one of satan's greatest tools against us!!!

   For at the moment of salvation we're broken and contrite(or we should be), we humble ourselves before the LORD in our need of HIS forgiveness. An unless humility rules within afterwards, that very pride that placed us in need of a SAVIOR can and will begin to grow, unless carefully(very carefully) watched.  A while back in one of the devotionals, Spurgeon stated "In some sense the path to heaven is very safe, but in other respects there is no road so dangerous. It is beset with difficulties. One false step (and how easy it is to take that(step), if grace be absent), and down we go." The Pharisee and Sadducee traveled a road of religious pride, much like many Christians today and it was them that JESUS condemned so richly!!! 

   During my walk to south Texas, many to which I spoke, said that it was the hypocrisy within the church that kept them from going(the number 2 reason) to church. Truly it should be plain to see that anywhere you've Christian gathered, we see pride also. We see it all the time, though we may overlook it for the most part. Maybe because it has become so ingrained within our lives and the lives of those around us that we just accept it. I don't know, but I do know, it is leading many to a fall.

   Let us each remember, and remember well, from where the LORD saved us, or we could say from "whom," for it was our own pride that took us there. Those very sinners that we tend to look down upon, are the very ones that JESUS died for. Remember, we were each there at one time ourselves!!! :{)))

GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

I WILL...

Praise the LORD!!!

   In my early years, before CHRIST, I destroyed many a person's life. Sure a lot of these were done with the help of others, but I personally claim responsibility for even the parts that these played. For if it were not for my part in those things that I did, or inspired, they'd of not have done them.

   Now that my life is totally JESUS' I seek to set the record straight, by serving the LORD to the best of my ability. Reaching out and spreading the GOSPEL to everyone I can, in every manor that I can. With every step that I take while on this earth, I seek another to tell of the love JESUS has for them. I seek to do this in every possible place imaginable.

   I even pray that the LORD will open the doors that my feet shall travel around the globe, enabling me to share HIS love with all those abroad. For this to happen, due to my being a convicted felon, there is the need of a 'Presidential Pardon," to wipe clean my earthly record. I began, at one time, to seek this but was put to rest by the HOLY SPIRIT. For this is not to be of my hands, but of the LORD's and I've faith that it will be done.

   The day is coming when the LORD will pour out HIS blessings upon this worthless piece of flesh that HE has redeemed and HIS ministry for me and things will never be the same. For there will be a movement of GOD upon this earth that can only be called "the latter day rains" and GOD's KINGDOM on earth and in heaven will receive all the glory !!!!!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

So often...

Praise the LORD!!!

   So often we enter into our christian walks on fire for the LORD, telling all around us of all the wonders that have taken place. This will continue, on the most part for just a while, and then the flames begin to diminish. Less and less will others see or hear of these great works that have taken place within our lives. Let alone will those outside of our direct circles of influence hear them.

   People will have a tendency to begin having religion take over. Religion is the works of man's hands and not those of faith in the simple grace GOD has given us. Religion begins to direct us to do and don't do. To have and not to have. Keep the Sabbath or keep the LORD's day. Follow the Ten Commandments or to be set free from them. Along with many other 'works' of our hands.

   Don't people realize that in JESUS we have all we need. We have the Sabbath fulfilled in HIS rest. We have the ten commandments fulfilled in our living our lives as HE lived while here on earth. We have the love for all mankind. We have no fear or worries. We have the adoption into the family of GOD. We have the very KINGDOM of GOD dwelling right inside of us.

   What more could we ask for??? Draw closer to JESUS. Where HE and only HE is all in life that matters. Then you'll have that life that sets you free. Then you'll have that fire once again !!!!!!! 


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Cliques or schisms ???

Praise the LORD!!!

   Cliques or schisms, or plainly put, divisions !!! Lately I've seen a greater amount of division in that which supposed to be the  BODY. A united assembly of believers, though maybe not totally agreeing upon every detail of our faith, but a UNITED ONE no the less.

   Last night I came across a post that may of not been worded the best, which turned into a giant flushing of a worldly toilet!!! The original intent was one of love, though discuss over erroneous methods by some within the church. But it exploded into an outpouring of that which I'd have to call trash talk. Far from anything I could of imagined of coming out of the mouths of Christians. My blood began to boil, for not only was the talk foolish, but far from anything remotely resembling "edification" of the saints!!!

   I went on the hunt, while pealing off many a prayer, hunting for the proper references for all that was coming from within my spirit. Thank GOD that at this time I was blessed to be interrupted by another saint, allowing the furor within to subside a good bit. This whole time, I'm still in prayer and decide to take a shower to "cool off." For if there is one thing that I've learned, it is always best to assault  such indiscretions, calmly, so as not to be pulled into sin oneself !!! During my shower, I calmed down and was led to not gather my weapons of warfare against the enemy within, but stepback and take a much broader assault against this problem. This is but the beginning of it!!!!!!!

   The church, religion or faith that we live amongst today, is one vastly divided. Which should be plain to see, unless one has been living in a cave. Religion upon religion, denomination upon denomination, yet supposedly believing in the one true SAVIOR, JESUS. This problem is far from new, for even within the first century there were divisions developing. From the book of ACTS onward, is full of them. Peter being swayed by the Jewish believers, Paul admonishing him. Then Paul's warnings abound as he discusses the many groups, beginning to take side, picking and choosing whom they're following the teachings of. Paul staunchly warns them, that though there are many different teachers, there is but one LORD and it is HE alone that we should follow!!!

   Now, these are just the divisions that are coming about within the true believers, let alone those that are false teachers or anti-Christ, as so aptly put. In all cases, there's but one real cause behind them, that is, pride. That self seeking sin, that has separated us from GOD since the Garden. That very sin that gives us the lord of the air, he that continues to be the accuser of the saints, satan. Who fell from grace due to an inflated ego, thinking himself better then all others, even GOD his creator.

   We are seeing a tremendous overflowing, not of the HOLY SPIRIT, but of the human spirit. That very spirit which brought about the fall from grace of mankind, PRIDE !!! No love being shown to the brethren, not even love being shown to any other, only a puffed up, self centered spirit, seeking the approval of others upon their own words. Surprising??? Not in the least, for this is but the results of our being human or carnal. A condition of mankind that we have to live with, though should not accept. Many state they've the blessing of the HOLY SPIRIT within their lives, yet the fruit of their lips reveal a heart blackened by pride. That which they believe, is 100% right and there is no chance at all of their being even slightly off in their beliefs!!! Right!!! If I remember right, there's not one of us that is perfect. For there is but one whom has walked this earth that is and let us not forget this FACT !!!!!!! There is not one religion, one denomination, one minister that walks this earth that can truthfully say they that their beliefs and teaching are perfectly in accord with JESUS' teachings. If they do, they're lying and know it. PRIDE, once again!!!

*** I'm sure there will be more to follow on this, when only the LORD knows. Get yourself away from the teaching of man and dive deeply into the WORD of GOD and nothing else. Don't be fooled by the high minded, that say scripture is hard to understand without one being a scholar, for if we're to accept JESUS and HIS teachings as a little child, would it not be fair to say, these teaching can be understood plainly by a child and not need some degree of higher learning to do so??? Sure, I've over 2000 books in my Biblical library, but when it comes to the ultimate understanding it's the Bible that rules out and not my understandings either, just as written. When told to love the brethren as myself, that is exactly what I do :)))***
  
A special note here: when we as Christian begin acting like a bunch of worldly people, acting in ways contrary to that which we preach, is there any wonder so many call us hypocrites??? THINK ABOUT IT!!!!!!!




 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

This man???

Praise the LORD!!!

    I pray all are well and in good spirits after this CHRISTmas weekend!!!

   Today's message will be about "This man." The one that is posting these comments to the greatest witnessing tool afford to mankind. Why, you may ask??? Simply because I'm led to :))) Why, fully I don't understand or even are to dig into, but have learned from many a year of 'see-sawing'(if you will). Say "what," you may be wondering, does this mean. Exactly this. A continuing going from what I believe to be the best actions within my life, to that which has been impressed upon my heart, thus to "see-saw."

   This man, as you may know(and if not, search out my testimonial book), was brought to the LORD by a complete breaking of his will, thru incarceration in the prison's of man. Totally broken to the point of absolute contrition. A crushing of my heart, that was needed, to separate the flesh, soul and spirit, into a properly ordered package. Not the package of the carnal man, but that of the spiritual man, that which has the spirit within in control and neither the flesh or soul.

   In the carnal man, the command controls are piloted by the flesh or soul, those parts of the 'tripartate' being we are. Being fully directed in our lives by either of these two, brings us into direct enmity with GOD. Seeking only those things in life that are pleasurable to the flesh and self pride, that separate us from a GODly lifestyle. We all should know the traits of these two, and if not, best get into a prayerful reading of scripture:)))

   The spiritual man though, is the one in which whose spirit has come into power, taking over the goals within our lives and turning them from self and towards GOD. A total transition from that which was and into that which GOD original planned for us to be. For this was that state of being Adam and Eve both shared in the Garden, before the fall. The will of only seeking that which was GOD's will for them. This is the state of "this man" to this day and one that is growing even stronger by the moment:)))

   Now this, the above, would make for a good day's devotional and study, but isn't that which is the purpose:))) For the purpose of this today, is the illumination of what my life truly was and is today. I'm what you could say is an example of a "1 Cor. 1:26-30 man."  A man that was dug up from the deepest depths of depravity, washed off(in the blood) and taught in ways, very uncommon for the times. Ways that haven't been instantaneous, but have taken over a decade and a half to bring about. I'm far from perfection, am nothing that can be bragged about and wouldn't if I could:))) For all that has been and will continue to be done upon this spirit, has been by the hand of GOD and it is HE alone that receives any and all of the glory.

   Though I was blessed at birth with a high intellect, through twenty six years of major drug abuse, I've burnt more brain cells than many even were blessed with. Though having read the whole Bible man a time, I've but few verses that I can consider as memorized. This again, in reflection of those 1 Cor. verses!!! Of those verses, there's not even one WORD alone, that I can not see GOD having fulfilled within me. For without HIM, I'm but worthy to adorn the sole of HIS sandals, fitting to scraped off at the first opportune moment!!!

   Unlike most of you, though knowing all my responsibilities, bills and what nots that consume much of our energies, I'm not concerned in the least about them and will only take care of them when the time(HIS time) comes and I'm directed to do so. I take each moment of my day as led and only as led!!!!!!! The past, is forgotten, tomorrow, is not my concern, but for this moment I was created and is HIS will for me to strive and complete as led.

   This is there which I'm led to leave you this day, the why's and what for's are not in my hand to bring about. I've planted the seeds that were meant to be planted and it is from here, that the LORD takes over:))) Have a blessed and prosperous day as the LORD has set forth for you. Share this, keep it and bind it to study, whatever you are led to. For nothing is in my control, for I've released those reigns and have given them over to the only one truly able to bring about HIS most sovereign will for mankind !!!

 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org

GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries