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
Showing posts with label brotherly love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brotherly love. Show all posts
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Saturday, January 5, 2013
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
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
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Torn heart-the way we are
Praise the LORD!!!
My heart was torn when I first saw this photo, so badly that it took several hours before I was even able to think about eating. So much was going thru my head. All the things that the LORD has shown me of HIS ministry for me, that which I've been working on over the last years, to name a few. One of the greatest though, was "why in this day and age, with so many claiming to know JESUS, can this kind of thing still be happening?"
I look at this and see a man, with good shoes on his feet, wearing good, clean clothing and carrying a bag of food in his hands. From the angle of his feet one can see that he'd just had to step around this child, having noticed him. He is walking at a fair gate, due to the fact of his long steps. Could not he of stopped for one second and given this child a handful of grain???
I've settled down some, for it's been hours since I re-posted this and had a good nights sleep. Yet this image still haunts me!!! But an even sadder fact haunts me. The fact that having posted this on numerous sites, over 10 hours ago, not one single person (Christian, christian or not) has made a single comment!!!
Have our hearts grown so cold and indifferent to images such as these, that we can just glance at them and them have no effects upon our hearts??? Going on with our lives, as if we'd never seen it or acknowledge that such things are happening in this world still??? What would JESUS do having seen this child in such sad shape??? Not just walk on by and I can guarantee that!!! HE didn't even want to send the crowds away after they'd been following HIM for several days!!! Let alone a child that is far from being well nourished. Truthfully folks what would JESUS do and what does HE think about the fact that we are the way we are ???????
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
I look at this and see a man, with good shoes on his feet, wearing good, clean clothing and carrying a bag of food in his hands. From the angle of his feet one can see that he'd just had to step around this child, having noticed him. He is walking at a fair gate, due to the fact of his long steps. Could not he of stopped for one second and given this child a handful of grain???
I've settled down some, for it's been hours since I re-posted this and had a good nights sleep. Yet this image still haunts me!!! But an even sadder fact haunts me. The fact that having posted this on numerous sites, over 10 hours ago, not one single person (Christian, christian or not) has made a single comment!!!
Have our hearts grown so cold and indifferent to images such as these, that we can just glance at them and them have no effects upon our hearts??? Going on with our lives, as if we'd never seen it or acknowledge that such things are happening in this world still??? What would JESUS do having seen this child in such sad shape??? Not just walk on by and I can guarantee that!!! HE didn't even want to send the crowds away after they'd been following HIM for several days!!! Let alone a child that is far from being well nourished. Truthfully folks what would JESUS do and what does HE think about the fact that we are the way we are ???????
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Sunday, December 11, 2011
At one time...
Praise the LORD!!!
At one time, while I was still in the prison of man(having been set free by the LORD), someone told me that I was "too heavenly minded, to be of any earthly good." Now, I'm sure most of you have heard this little statement used at sometime or another, if not maybe you should ponder it for a few minutes(?) I, more or less scoffed at the statement, at that time, not seeing that this is a possible state within Christian's lives. Not mine though(thank GOD), for I've been blessed to be well grounded in the LORD and seek not my own will, but HIS for me!!!
But, this state is possible within the lives of many and I will reveal cases of such here. You'll most likely be aware of those that are in this state and we must open their eyes to the truth in this matter!!! Anyone, that pays any attention to the events of the world, should have a general knowledge of this happening. For many times on the news and in other forms of media, we hear of many "miracles" being witnessed by the masses. Some of these are true miracles and many are not, for the adversary can and does use the "miraculous" to turn our eyes from the true glory of GOD and HIS purposes for us in life. These can be classed easily enough, as those that draw attention only towards and object(idol), person or place. Like the many "images" of JESUS or the Virgin Mary being found in or on many items. I don't think I need to list the many, that fit in this group.
What do these have to do with "being heavenly minded," a great deal. For they draw our attentions away from that which we are to be doing, to bring glory to the LORD, and towards something else. The greatest miracle of all, is one many simply overlook, this is the conversion(true) of an unbeliever. For it is a direct revelation of GOD working within a person's life. The preparation of the person's heart to receive the seed of the GOSPEL. The moving of GOD upon the saint, which plants this seed and then HIS watering of it and producing a baby saint!!! A true MIRACLE by the hand of GOD!!!!!!!
Perhaps the the greatest case of "being heavenly minded" is one most would tend to overlook. Why??? Because people believe, due to errors in teaching and the pride of man, that it is GOD's will for us. Which it is, but not in the extent that people are concentrating upon it though and this has opened the door for satan to use, to draw people's attention away from the actual will of GOD. Let me first then, state that which is the will of GOD for us, which is truly simple, but often made complex by men wanting to do so. These are clearly stated in scripture, in the two great commandments(Matt. 22:37-40), in our loving our brothers and sisters in the faith (John 15:12), that we provide for the needs of others( Matt. 25:35,36; James 1:27) and(of coarse) to spread the GOSPEL(Matt. 28:18-20.) Sure there are a few other details in following the will of GOD in our lives, but these are an ample foundation to work from.
Now, for the major purpose of this article, the being "too heavenly minded." There are many today in the church that are seeking after "signs and wonders." Spending all their energy and effort on seeking after these and setting aside those things that the LORD wills for us to actually accomplish for HIM while here on earth. It is not in the seeking of these that the error occurs, but it is in the forsaking of all else set before us, to seek them.(John 4:48)
I could go forth from this, but am led to leave you with this alone. Are you seeking after all the pomp and circumstance of signs and wonders??? Or are you seeking to bring glory to the KINGDOM of GOD thru the love JESUS has poured forth for you??? Focusing only on the power of heaven in your life, is keeping you "heavenly minded" and your hands away from the true works GOD has set them about !!! Which shall it be???
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
At one time, while I was still in the prison of man(having been set free by the LORD), someone told me that I was "too heavenly minded, to be of any earthly good." Now, I'm sure most of you have heard this little statement used at sometime or another, if not maybe you should ponder it for a few minutes(?) I, more or less scoffed at the statement, at that time, not seeing that this is a possible state within Christian's lives. Not mine though(thank GOD), for I've been blessed to be well grounded in the LORD and seek not my own will, but HIS for me!!!
But, this state is possible within the lives of many and I will reveal cases of such here. You'll most likely be aware of those that are in this state and we must open their eyes to the truth in this matter!!! Anyone, that pays any attention to the events of the world, should have a general knowledge of this happening. For many times on the news and in other forms of media, we hear of many "miracles" being witnessed by the masses. Some of these are true miracles and many are not, for the adversary can and does use the "miraculous" to turn our eyes from the true glory of GOD and HIS purposes for us in life. These can be classed easily enough, as those that draw attention only towards and object(idol), person or place. Like the many "images" of JESUS or the Virgin Mary being found in or on many items. I don't think I need to list the many, that fit in this group.
What do these have to do with "being heavenly minded," a great deal. For they draw our attentions away from that which we are to be doing, to bring glory to the LORD, and towards something else. The greatest miracle of all, is one many simply overlook, this is the conversion(true) of an unbeliever. For it is a direct revelation of GOD working within a person's life. The preparation of the person's heart to receive the seed of the GOSPEL. The moving of GOD upon the saint, which plants this seed and then HIS watering of it and producing a baby saint!!! A true MIRACLE by the hand of GOD!!!!!!!
Perhaps the the greatest case of "being heavenly minded" is one most would tend to overlook. Why??? Because people believe, due to errors in teaching and the pride of man, that it is GOD's will for us. Which it is, but not in the extent that people are concentrating upon it though and this has opened the door for satan to use, to draw people's attention away from the actual will of GOD. Let me first then, state that which is the will of GOD for us, which is truly simple, but often made complex by men wanting to do so. These are clearly stated in scripture, in the two great commandments(Matt. 22:37-40), in our loving our brothers and sisters in the faith (John 15:12), that we provide for the needs of others( Matt. 25:35,36; James 1:27) and(of coarse) to spread the GOSPEL(Matt. 28:18-20.) Sure there are a few other details in following the will of GOD in our lives, but these are an ample foundation to work from.
Now, for the major purpose of this article, the being "too heavenly minded." There are many today in the church that are seeking after "signs and wonders." Spending all their energy and effort on seeking after these and setting aside those things that the LORD wills for us to actually accomplish for HIM while here on earth. It is not in the seeking of these that the error occurs, but it is in the forsaking of all else set before us, to seek them.(John 4:48)
I could go forth from this, but am led to leave you with this alone. Are you seeking after all the pomp and circumstance of signs and wonders??? Or are you seeking to bring glory to the KINGDOM of GOD thru the love JESUS has poured forth for you??? Focusing only on the power of heaven in your life, is keeping you "heavenly minded" and your hands away from the true works GOD has set them about !!! Which shall it be???
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The extra mile
Praise the LORD!!!
Today's verse, will be hidden among a chapter on the Christian character, that which we're to emulate after we've accepted JESUS as our personal LORD and SAVIOR !!! Traits, which are very important, if we're to fully reflect JESUS within our lives and also important, if we're to stand out as separated from those others around us whom are worldly.
Matthew 5:38-42, but specifically verse 41
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’a 39 But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Why this one verse, hidden among such rich scripture, is that which I was led to early this morning??? It could have to do with the fact that today, I'm grouting a floor, while suffering from a group of old ailments. I've had bad knees for years, due to my working construction for the best part of my life, plus raced Moto X for thirteen years. Both these, extract a high price upon the body and usually one we don't think of much at the time. It is years later, that this price begins to be noticed, as the wear and tear upon our body begins to reveal itself :)))
I was hurting enough this morning, that I'd thought about calling the day's work off and relax. After some prayer and reading though, I was led to go in and go at it, as if nothing was wrong. This went well, for about an hour, until I stood up for the hundredth time. It was almost impossible to straighten up, this due to the herniated disc I suffered while helping rebuild after hurricane Katrina along the MS. gulf coast. This while working for a "storm chasing" company (no insurance and if you didn't work, you didn't have a job.) If you've ever lived in an area after such a disaster, you'll know how hard it is to survive, because the cost of living has doubled, if not tripled and they get away with it for the most part. All this, isn't that which this is about.
We can see an example of how JESUS went that extra mile, several times. Those times, when HE feed the multitudes, with very limited resources. For unlike that which we see many times these days, where large groups of people are being feed after a disaster or while living thru hard times, those people's needs were abundantly met. Each had received enough to eat, that they were full and there was an abundance left over to gather up !!! Though we're not told what was done with these leftover, I can most likely guarantee, they weren't thrown away, but distributed to those in need.
Here we are in the midst of the holiday season, when millions of families will be preparing meals of great abundance. Multiple main coarses, multiple sides and not to mention a vast selection of desserts to boot !!! Anyone want to bet against the fact, that tons of leftovers will be wasted ??? Here(in America), we are in one of the most prosperous countries in the world, though going thru some hard economic times right now, and there will be more food thrown in the trash, then what many third world countries will have put on all their tables combined. Not only those of these nations, but right here in this nation, there will be thousands, that will be doing without and not just on these holidays, but many are suffering daily, year round!!! A pretty bad picture, when confronted with it, isn't it??? One of the most prosperous countries in the world and we've thousands suffering without, all because of greed and an unwillingness to go that extra mile, and share that which we've been blessed with.
Hundreds of food pantries around this country, are having to cancel their supplying these holiday meals. Many having to cutback on even their normal monthly provisions to the needy. All due to a lack of funding and supplies. Many, are even having to shut their doors, because it has gotten so bad. Wouldn't it be awesome, even a miracle, to see these ministries overflowing with such an abundance of provisions, that the have to gather them up and reach out to those even beyond their normal scope??? I think it would be !!! I'd love to see every family in this country, just cutting back a little and reaching out, going that extra mile, to help these ministries serve these people. Even if each one were to downsize these meals by say 10%, just think of how this would add up over the long run, that extra mile :)))))))
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Today's verse, will be hidden among a chapter on the Christian character, that which we're to emulate after we've accepted JESUS as our personal LORD and SAVIOR !!! Traits, which are very important, if we're to fully reflect JESUS within our lives and also important, if we're to stand out as separated from those others around us whom are worldly.
Matthew 5:38-42, but specifically verse 41
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’a 39 But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Why this one verse, hidden among such rich scripture, is that which I was led to early this morning??? It could have to do with the fact that today, I'm grouting a floor, while suffering from a group of old ailments. I've had bad knees for years, due to my working construction for the best part of my life, plus raced Moto X for thirteen years. Both these, extract a high price upon the body and usually one we don't think of much at the time. It is years later, that this price begins to be noticed, as the wear and tear upon our body begins to reveal itself :)))
I was hurting enough this morning, that I'd thought about calling the day's work off and relax. After some prayer and reading though, I was led to go in and go at it, as if nothing was wrong. This went well, for about an hour, until I stood up for the hundredth time. It was almost impossible to straighten up, this due to the herniated disc I suffered while helping rebuild after hurricane Katrina along the MS. gulf coast. This while working for a "storm chasing" company (no insurance and if you didn't work, you didn't have a job.) If you've ever lived in an area after such a disaster, you'll know how hard it is to survive, because the cost of living has doubled, if not tripled and they get away with it for the most part. All this, isn't that which this is about.
We can see an example of how JESUS went that extra mile, several times. Those times, when HE feed the multitudes, with very limited resources. For unlike that which we see many times these days, where large groups of people are being feed after a disaster or while living thru hard times, those people's needs were abundantly met. Each had received enough to eat, that they were full and there was an abundance left over to gather up !!! Though we're not told what was done with these leftover, I can most likely guarantee, they weren't thrown away, but distributed to those in need.
Here we are in the midst of the holiday season, when millions of families will be preparing meals of great abundance. Multiple main coarses, multiple sides and not to mention a vast selection of desserts to boot !!! Anyone want to bet against the fact, that tons of leftovers will be wasted ??? Here(in America), we are in one of the most prosperous countries in the world, though going thru some hard economic times right now, and there will be more food thrown in the trash, then what many third world countries will have put on all their tables combined. Not only those of these nations, but right here in this nation, there will be thousands, that will be doing without and not just on these holidays, but many are suffering daily, year round!!! A pretty bad picture, when confronted with it, isn't it??? One of the most prosperous countries in the world and we've thousands suffering without, all because of greed and an unwillingness to go that extra mile, and share that which we've been blessed with.
Hundreds of food pantries around this country, are having to cancel their supplying these holiday meals. Many having to cutback on even their normal monthly provisions to the needy. All due to a lack of funding and supplies. Many, are even having to shut their doors, because it has gotten so bad. Wouldn't it be awesome, even a miracle, to see these ministries overflowing with such an abundance of provisions, that the have to gather them up and reach out to those even beyond their normal scope??? I think it would be !!! I'd love to see every family in this country, just cutting back a little and reaching out, going that extra mile, to help these ministries serve these people. Even if each one were to downsize these meals by say 10%, just think of how this would add up over the long run, that extra mile :)))))))
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Friday, July 15, 2011
Benevolence
Praise the LORD!!!
Today is a great day!!! Why? Because it is another one that the LORD has blessed us with, not just life itself, but HE's given us the ability to share HIS awesome love for us with all those around us!!!
HIS awesome love for mankind goes so much deeper than we can even begin to imagine. We've the greatest shown through HIS death upon the cross for us. Yet, we tend to over look many of the other ones. "What other ones?" you may ask! Let us look at HIS ministry on earth then.
In most places in the 'four GOSPELS', we see JESUS, walking among the masses or seated among a group of people. Seldom do we see HIM alone, except for those times, where HE snuck away for private time in prayer with the FATHER. Now, we don't have a full account of all the events that took place during HIS life, so that which I'm going to set forth, may be considered as conjecture. Let me say though, this is HOLY SPIRIT guided conjecture:)))
When we hear of JESUS' ministry, we should be able to see a pattern developing, one of order, which for the most part was continually followed by HIM and even by the apostles after HIS departure. There were the healings and acts of benevolence always witnessed, before HE began HIS teachings. From the title, you should be able to see that it is not the healings that this article is about, but the benevolence. Those acts of charity(love) that are the topic.
For the most part, we're only let in on two of the most miraculous ones, the feeding of the masses. The 4000+ and 5000+. Now if you reckon these numbers, as the Hebrews would, the numbers were far greater, for these were just the head count of the 'men,' those heads of households, not all the women and children which were in attendance, so these numbers could be greatly multiplied.
These accounts were only the two 'greatest,' what about all the rest of the time? How many sat down with JESUS, besides HIS disciples, daily? I have to wonder, if HIS procession didn't look more like the exodus, than that of a small group of wanderers? Just take into consideration what we see today, when some famous person comes into the area. The mass of followers that seek the person's attendance to them, in some way. These are just regular people, not the messiah or future king of the nation, so how much greater was HIS following, then we're allowed to witness!!!
Yet it is not the numbers, that I seek your focus to be upon, but that which HE shared with them. Not just HIS WORDS, but that love, those provisions. How many sat with HIM at meal time and went away satisfied? How many, walked along side of HIM and had their daily needs met? Not just their spiritual needs, but those physical needs that are a matter of life and death in such a land as that? We hear of those women that provided for HIS needs daily, that accompanied HIM along HIS way! We hear of HIS 'paying the temple tax' from the mouth of a fish! We do not hear though, of how HIS everyday needs were met! Yet, being very GOD, I'm sure there were many miracles, that even the disciples weren't aware of:)))
It would be fair to say that the habits of those of the first century church, could impact our understanding better the great acts of benevolence that took place among JESUS' procession through the holy lands. For though they weren't told to do so, they gathered together, giving of all that they had. Giving at much of the time far beyond measure. So great was this desire to give and supply the needs of all, that they sold almost all that they owned!!!
There is much here to be digested, so I'm going to leave it here and let these thoughts sink into your hearts. I'm also going to post many scripture here for you, as a follow up on our topic. I pray, you'll enjoy, as the LORD opens your eyes to a fuller understanding of HIS ways, while on earth!!!
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!
Deut. 15:7–15, 18. Lev. 25:35–43. Psa. 41:1; Psa. 112:9; Prov. 3:27, 28; Prov. 11:25; Prov. 22:9; Prov. 25:21, 22; Prov. 28:27; Isa. 58:6, 7, 10, 11; Ezek. 18:5, 7–9; Matt. 5:42; Matt. 19:21 Mark 10:21. Matt. 25:35–45; Mark 9:41; Luke 3:11; Luke 11:41; Acts 6:1–4; Acts 11:29, 30; Rom. 15:25–27; 1 Cor. 13:3; 1 Cor. 16:1–3; 2 Cor. 8:1–15, 24; 2 Cor. 9:1–15; Gal. 2:10; Phil. 4:10–18; 1 Tim. 5:8, 16; 1 Tim. 6:18; Heb. 6:10; Heb. 13:16; Jas. 2:15, 16; 1 John 3:17
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Today is a great day!!! Why? Because it is another one that the LORD has blessed us with, not just life itself, but HE's given us the ability to share HIS awesome love for us with all those around us!!!
HIS awesome love for mankind goes so much deeper than we can even begin to imagine. We've the greatest shown through HIS death upon the cross for us. Yet, we tend to over look many of the other ones. "What other ones?" you may ask! Let us look at HIS ministry on earth then.
In most places in the 'four GOSPELS', we see JESUS, walking among the masses or seated among a group of people. Seldom do we see HIM alone, except for those times, where HE snuck away for private time in prayer with the FATHER. Now, we don't have a full account of all the events that took place during HIS life, so that which I'm going to set forth, may be considered as conjecture. Let me say though, this is HOLY SPIRIT guided conjecture:)))
When we hear of JESUS' ministry, we should be able to see a pattern developing, one of order, which for the most part was continually followed by HIM and even by the apostles after HIS departure. There were the healings and acts of benevolence always witnessed, before HE began HIS teachings. From the title, you should be able to see that it is not the healings that this article is about, but the benevolence. Those acts of charity(love) that are the topic.
For the most part, we're only let in on two of the most miraculous ones, the feeding of the masses. The 4000+ and 5000+. Now if you reckon these numbers, as the Hebrews would, the numbers were far greater, for these were just the head count of the 'men,' those heads of households, not all the women and children which were in attendance, so these numbers could be greatly multiplied.
These accounts were only the two 'greatest,' what about all the rest of the time? How many sat down with JESUS, besides HIS disciples, daily? I have to wonder, if HIS procession didn't look more like the exodus, than that of a small group of wanderers? Just take into consideration what we see today, when some famous person comes into the area. The mass of followers that seek the person's attendance to them, in some way. These are just regular people, not the messiah or future king of the nation, so how much greater was HIS following, then we're allowed to witness!!!
Yet it is not the numbers, that I seek your focus to be upon, but that which HE shared with them. Not just HIS WORDS, but that love, those provisions. How many sat with HIM at meal time and went away satisfied? How many, walked along side of HIM and had their daily needs met? Not just their spiritual needs, but those physical needs that are a matter of life and death in such a land as that? We hear of those women that provided for HIS needs daily, that accompanied HIM along HIS way! We hear of HIS 'paying the temple tax' from the mouth of a fish! We do not hear though, of how HIS everyday needs were met! Yet, being very GOD, I'm sure there were many miracles, that even the disciples weren't aware of:)))
It would be fair to say that the habits of those of the first century church, could impact our understanding better the great acts of benevolence that took place among JESUS' procession through the holy lands. For though they weren't told to do so, they gathered together, giving of all that they had. Giving at much of the time far beyond measure. So great was this desire to give and supply the needs of all, that they sold almost all that they owned!!!
There is much here to be digested, so I'm going to leave it here and let these thoughts sink into your hearts. I'm also going to post many scripture here for you, as a follow up on our topic. I pray, you'll enjoy, as the LORD opens your eyes to a fuller understanding of HIS ways, while on earth!!!
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!
Deut. 15:7–15, 18. Lev. 25:35–43. Psa. 41:1; Psa. 112:9; Prov. 3:27, 28; Prov. 11:25; Prov. 22:9; Prov. 25:21, 22; Prov. 28:27; Isa. 58:6, 7, 10, 11; Ezek. 18:5, 7–9; Matt. 5:42; Matt. 19:21 Mark 10:21. Matt. 25:35–45; Mark 9:41; Luke 3:11; Luke 11:41; Acts 6:1–4; Acts 11:29, 30; Rom. 15:25–27; 1 Cor. 13:3; 1 Cor. 16:1–3; 2 Cor. 8:1–15, 24; 2 Cor. 9:1–15; Gal. 2:10; Phil. 4:10–18; 1 Tim. 5:8, 16; 1 Tim. 6:18; Heb. 6:10; Heb. 13:16; Jas. 2:15, 16; 1 John 3:17
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Thursday, April 8, 2010
4.09.10_ Mark 9:38-41_For or against us
Praise the LORD!!!
Though I've nothing at this moment, I'm led to open this for some reason and I do as led and not as I feel I should. A hard to explain point, which takes time to learn and much pain and suffering along the route!
Mark 9:38-41
Here are some verses that many have totally forgotten and/or overlooked! An truthfully, ones that are very important in this day and age. A day and age of mostly judgmental people and churches. We see way too much arguing over the slightest difference in doctrinal beliefs and any other minor difference. Does it really matter if one person believes in "once saved, always saved" or not? Or what about the differences in beliefs over the rapture or millennial KINGDOM? The major factors we should worry about are, does the person believe in the birth, life, atoning death(crucifixion), resurrection, ascension and triune GOD? Even making this statement, I've gone beyond that which CHRIST HIMSELF did, and it makes me wonder just how far we are supposed to distinguish ourselves from unbelievers.
If one were to look around today, or perhaps visit different churches, whether denominational differences or sometimes within the same denomination, we can find differences in almost every single one. This has come about by the pride of men being allowed to run rampant and control that which is preached. But in a way this is good and is being allowed by GOD. You may wonder why GOD would allow differences within the church, a church that HE made to bring glory to HIS name? We're told that the body of believers is made up of many different parts and each part has a differing purpose. Now why would this be, unless it was for the fact that we've many differing people in this world of ours and none have the exact same view of anything. This has to do with that which makes us each unique, our spirit, our GOD given spirit. If GOD had wanted us to all be the exact same, HE could of quite easily done so. Yet HE didn't! No matter what we gather together to do, there is always going to be a difference and this is good. Because it gives us a broader understanding about everything we do.
Let's take a look at something very simple. Let's say stacking paper. Now if we continue to stack it beyond a certain height, its going to fall over. But if we wrap it into bundles of several hundred sheets, we can stack it higher, yet only so high. Now if we stack it into interlocking layers over a larger area, we can stack it even higher. Now these methods all came about because of different people studying the same thing, through different eyes and understandings and wouldn't of happened any other way. Sure we may of figured out a better ways of doing this over time, but this was done in a shorter period, because of differing opinions. Now we all have the same basic understanding of the Bible, though we may read differing versions. One person may believe in the power and works of the HOLY SPIRIT, where as another believes in only the power in the name of JESUS. Though these both work, there are differing understandings and differing methods of the same actions taking place. Why do we fight over the differences?
We fight over these differences because of our pride, that original sin that separated man from GOD. It even separated the angels from GOD, for it is that which satan holds so dearly. Where as he thought himself better then HE whom created him. Pretty bad when the created can think itself better then that which created it(opps! hold on there, a lot of people still do). But this too, GOD had a purpose for allowing to happen! Our minds are so minute that we will never be able to fully understand the reasoning of GOD until that time in which we join HIM and HE opens our understanding to all things.
So what are we to do? Truthfully, I'd say the best thing to do is not to worry about judging others for what
they believe and worry about fulfilling the "Great Commission." We really need to leave the judgment up to the LORD, for there are scriptures that tell us not to even confront those preaching out of false motives(Phil. 1:18.) Whoever said being a Christian was an easy task, sure never tried walking the walk. Because there is surely nothing easy about it. One thing I'm very thankfully for, that with JESUS as my LORD and SAVIOR, I don't have to worry about making mistakes, because I'm forgiven and HE will strengthen me and help me to repent of the problem
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Though I've nothing at this moment, I'm led to open this for some reason and I do as led and not as I feel I should. A hard to explain point, which takes time to learn and much pain and suffering along the route!
Mark 9:38-41
38"“Teacher,” said John, “we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”
39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, 40 for whoever is not against us is for us. 41 I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.""
Here are some verses that many have totally forgotten and/or overlooked! An truthfully, ones that are very important in this day and age. A day and age of mostly judgmental people and churches. We see way too much arguing over the slightest difference in doctrinal beliefs and any other minor difference. Does it really matter if one person believes in "once saved, always saved" or not? Or what about the differences in beliefs over the rapture or millennial KINGDOM? The major factors we should worry about are, does the person believe in the birth, life, atoning death(crucifixion), resurrection, ascension and triune GOD? Even making this statement, I've gone beyond that which CHRIST HIMSELF did, and it makes me wonder just how far we are supposed to distinguish ourselves from unbelievers.
If one were to look around today, or perhaps visit different churches, whether denominational differences or sometimes within the same denomination, we can find differences in almost every single one. This has come about by the pride of men being allowed to run rampant and control that which is preached. But in a way this is good and is being allowed by GOD. You may wonder why GOD would allow differences within the church, a church that HE made to bring glory to HIS name? We're told that the body of believers is made up of many different parts and each part has a differing purpose. Now why would this be, unless it was for the fact that we've many differing people in this world of ours and none have the exact same view of anything. This has to do with that which makes us each unique, our spirit, our GOD given spirit. If GOD had wanted us to all be the exact same, HE could of quite easily done so. Yet HE didn't! No matter what we gather together to do, there is always going to be a difference and this is good. Because it gives us a broader understanding about everything we do.
Let's take a look at something very simple. Let's say stacking paper. Now if we continue to stack it beyond a certain height, its going to fall over. But if we wrap it into bundles of several hundred sheets, we can stack it higher, yet only so high. Now if we stack it into interlocking layers over a larger area, we can stack it even higher. Now these methods all came about because of different people studying the same thing, through different eyes and understandings and wouldn't of happened any other way. Sure we may of figured out a better ways of doing this over time, but this was done in a shorter period, because of differing opinions. Now we all have the same basic understanding of the Bible, though we may read differing versions. One person may believe in the power and works of the HOLY SPIRIT, where as another believes in only the power in the name of JESUS. Though these both work, there are differing understandings and differing methods of the same actions taking place. Why do we fight over the differences?
We fight over these differences because of our pride, that original sin that separated man from GOD. It even separated the angels from GOD, for it is that which satan holds so dearly. Where as he thought himself better then HE whom created him. Pretty bad when the created can think itself better then that which created it(opps! hold on there, a lot of people still do). But this too, GOD had a purpose for allowing to happen! Our minds are so minute that we will never be able to fully understand the reasoning of GOD until that time in which we join HIM and HE opens our understanding to all things.
So what are we to do? Truthfully, I'd say the best thing to do is not to worry about judging others for what
they believe and worry about fulfilling the "Great Commission." We really need to leave the judgment up to the LORD, for there are scriptures that tell us not to even confront those preaching out of false motives(Phil. 1:18.) Whoever said being a Christian was an easy task, sure never tried walking the walk. Because there is surely nothing easy about it. One thing I'm very thankfully for, that with JESUS as my LORD and SAVIOR, I don't have to worry about making mistakes, because I'm forgiven and HE will strengthen me and help me to repent of the problem
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
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