Jesus Destroyed All Our Sin Forever
Through His One Sacrifice At The Cross
"But when the kindness and the love of God our
Savior toward man appeared, not by works of
righteousness which we have done, but according
to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of
regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit"
(Titus 3:4-5)
"Who being the brightness of his glory, and the
express image of his person, and upholding all things
by the word of his power, when he (Jesus Christ) had
by himself purged our sins, sat down on the
right hand of the Majesty on high." (Hebrews 1:3)
"But this man (Jesus Christ), after he had offered one
sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right
hand of God." (Hebrews 10:12)
"Therefore He (Jesus Christ) is able also "to save
forever" those who draw near to God through Him,
since He "always lives" to make intercession for them."
(Hebrews 7:25)
"For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall
all be made alive." (1 Cor 15:22)
Jesus Finished All The Work For Our Salvation!
Important Note: It is not the intention of this ministry to carelessly insult or offend the beliefs of any reader solely for the purpose of creating controversy. Rock of Offence is a Christ-centered Internet ministry that is "unfettered" by the normal circumstances that compromise churches today. This means we have the freedom to discuss certain Bible truths that most churches won't teach for various reasons. We understand that God is loving and kind. However, he also uses very direct and offensive speech as a way to get our attention when we distort His Word. The Bible clearly directs us to be followers of God and "walk in love" (Ephesians 5:1-2). Yet, many Christians, and various religious cults claim that this means we're to "turn a blind eye" to truth in order to "get along" and be agreeable. As a result a humanistic definition is placed on this Scripture--and I've watched it used to justify the most grievous cases of spiritual abuse imaginable. Jesus always walked in love. Yet, the love he walked in provoked him to publically confront and sometimes insult the popular false beliefs of his day. Jesus never disrespected his Father's Word by allowing dangerous religious counterfeits to go unchallenged. Why? Because our eternal destiny hangs in the balance. Sometimes there's too much at stake. When you see someone about to stumble and fall off a cliff, you don't smile and say, "Well that's their choice". No, you take some quick and aggressive action. You might even shout a warning about the impending disaster in order to save their life, because you love them. If you take the "unity at any cost" agenda of the modern church to its logical conclusion and view it from an "eternal" perspective -- it's not love.
This article is designed to be used as a general purpose measuring tool to evaluate our beliefs against the New Testament Gospel of Christ. Some of the words and phrases found in this evaluation are offensive. Yet, keep in mind that in nearly all cases we only repeat the terminology used by the New Testament Scriptures, which is God's Word.
Disclaimer: The reader understands that the commentary and teaching found in this material is the opinion of the author based on clearly stated principles of the Bible. The information found here is not to be substituted for professional counseling. The reader takes full responsibility for any decision, act or transaction that results from reading the contents of this article.
Important: Read The Article "Jesus Is Lord" Before Continuing
Introduction
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.
(Heb 4:1-3,10)
God has provided an incredible salvation for the human race. The Apostle Paul shows his excitement by referring to our redemption as "the unsearchable riches of Christ" (Eph 3:8). The author of the book of Hebrews holds a similar view as he warns, "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him." (Heb 2:3) Yet, nothing angered both Paul and our Lord Jesus more than those who remove God's Word from its context in order to advance a religious agenda or a particular denominational doctrine. I believe Paul's response came from knowing how easily we can be tricked into thinking that our faith is grounded in Biblical truth -- when the opposite is true. Few modern-day preachers and Bible believers practice the lost art of "rightly dividing" the Word of God the way the apostle Paul taught it in the New Testament. When Paul used the phrase "rightly dividing", he was emphasizing the need to properly discern the major differences between Old and New Testament theology. They are not the same -- and that's the reason Paul gives this warning. Generally, I don't quote from other Bible teachers. In this article I will make an exception due to the crucial nature of the message.
The late Dr. Derek Prince was one of the "Old Guard" preachers that often taught a Biblical message that offended the religious views of his audience. In my lifetime, I can identify only a few ministers of the Gospel that tirelessly searched out God’s true intentions in Scripture. Dr. Prince deserves a place among these ministers -- and that doesn't mean he was perfect or that I agree with everything he taught. His life-long passion was to "correctly interpret the Biblical text" -- and his passion for truth got my attention many years ago as I began my spiritual journey. Miracles and healings followed his ministry. It's men like this that constantly inspired me to aim for the same goals. Derek's focus on the New Testament caused him to be loved by some and disliked by others. I find it interesting that the teachings of Jesus caused a similar response. Dr. Prince was professionally trained in the original languages of the Bible. Since the English language fails, in some important cases, to carry the full meaning of the original Biblical intent, this knowledge is all-important. Few seminaries teach these things today. In one teaching from 25 years ago, Dr. Prince used the story of Cain and Abel as an illustration that continues to sound a warning for us today because it represents an eternal truth. It has disturbing implications for those of us watching for the return of Christ.
As many know, Cain murdered his brother Abel in a furious response to God's rejection of his personal offering of worship. Cain brought an offering of his crops produced by his hard work. Abel brought a blood offering, a young lamb he had slain--an act where he performed no work, since it was the lamb that made the ultimate sacrifice. Most modern-day professing Christians believe that God accepts their worship just because they go to the effort of offering it in a church service. Emotionally stimulating music can give us a false sense that God accepts our worship and doesn't really care that much about our deeply held religious beliefs. Yet, the example of Cain and Abel tells a different story and sounds a somber warning. The focus of this illustration is the misguided, yet well intentioned effort to initiate a relationship with God through human achievement and religious works, rather than God's way -- through blood. It's a constant reminder that sin blocks any relationship with God--and death (through the shedding of blood) is the only way to remit the sin (Hebrews 9:22). Religious works--no matter how good or tireless -- can never compensate for sin. However, the reader should also be aware that good works are still important for other reasons. Many will have a "knee-jerk" reaction to this article thinking that we're throwing out the whole idea of good works. If this is your perception it is not correct. God rejected Cain's bloodless offering and accepted Abel's blood offering. This story gives a warning that reverberates throughout both the Old and the New Testament Scriptures. Dr. Prince defines religious performance, when used to earn the favor of God, as "the religion of Cain." This popular false form of Christianity subtly replaces the totally sufficient "blood of Christ" with human performance--and then, like Cain, stubbornly expects God to accept it. When we stop and think about this demand for God to accept us "our way" -- it's shockingly arrogant. This is especially true when we consider the majesty of our Heavenly Father . . . and where we stand in the scheme of things. Yet, millions the world over practice this religious lifestyle with zeal and devotion wrongly believing that God is crediting a higher form of righteousness to their account as payment for these efforts.
Today, the Christian church world is dominated by "the religion of Cain". Recent surveys show that an
overwhelming majority of professing Christians are unable to discern these issues. Cain's theology is the
foundation for the false "majority religion" of the last days before Christ returns. Popular teaching in our churches has perverted the holiness of Christ's new blood covenant (Luke 22:20) into a system of good works and church attendance and affiliation. Attempting to earn God's approval through religious performance and good deeds has been deeply ingrained in the human psyche since the sin of Adam and Eve. After observing this human trait from every angle over the last 38 years, I’m convinced that the overwhelming inner drive to “earn” God's salvation is a direct result of Adam's disobedience. We “cover” our spiritual nakedness with good deeds and religious intentions in much the same way that Adam covered his physical nakedness with a fig leaf. Religion provides us with an endless variety of these fig leaves that gives us a false confidence that our sin is covered. On the surface, it seems logical and reasonable to assume that God accepts our sacrificial works and credits our personal account with eternal life -- or a place in the soon to occur rapture of the church -- as a result of our commitment and devotion. Every major religion of the world is built on this false belief because it exploits the dangerous flaw (Cain's Religion) in human nature. It’s a powerful motivational force that manipulates the strong, as well as the weak. Religious leaders with great educational credentials teach us that Christianity is also built on this popular false theology that has its roots in the story of Cain and Abel. Yet, God disagrees with this belief and has clearly stated his objections -- and warnings throughout his Word.
In our "high-powered marketing" and "money driven" culture, church organizations are falling over themselves in order to entice the public into their services. I see these "church growth" programs as an effort to preserve various organizational power structures. In today's world religion is "big business" with billions of dollars and political influence at risk. A Christian organization (we call them "churches") either grows, or it dies by default. Hollywood-style worship programs with high-energy professional music teams abound. I'm not against professional music groups and worship services that are enjoyable. Actually, I love contemporary Christian music done in a professional manner and I think much of it glorifies Jesus Christ. However, I'm looking at some of the underlying motivations -- and the disastrous long-term results. The purpose of the Church is not to be an entertainment center. The purpose of the Church is not to be a "social club." The purpose of the New Testament Church is to preach truth and confront the world's false religious beliefs about God with the good news of Jesus Christ. The New Testament Church is suppose to be a Divinely called group of believers (known as the body of Christ) engaged in spiritual warfare to keep people from needlessly going to hell. God is in the final stages of trying to save this planet before the terrible worldwide devastation of the Tribulation period occurs. It's serious business with our Heavenly Father. Over the last 30 years I've been watching this situation get more and more corrupt and skewed. Church organizations are subtly transformed into money-driven corporations with a CEO and a board of
directors. We tell ourselves, "It's better to compromise and "lighten up" and become "seeker sensitive" so that we can get more people into our church organization and exposed to the gospel of Christ". Yet, what we call the "Gospel of Christ" has been changed into a "counterfeit gospel" through our compromise. How does this happen? You can't build a large congregation and have meaningful church growth if you offend your customers.
Spiritual leaders of various denominations have decided to mix Old Testament Mosaic Law-based theology into the New Testament gospel message in order to exploit the "religion of Cain" that exists in human nature. This works-based "mixed gospel" is the popular Christian message of today, especially in "fundamentalist" congregations, and it crosses all denominational lines. Several popular Christian teachers recently expressed concern over a mainstream belief called, "Protestant Purgatory" -- a works-based teaching. Many readers know that the "doctrine of purgatory" -- purgatory, being a place where believers supposedly experience torment or punishment to "purge" their sin before entering heaven -- is a teaching found in Catholicism. Yet, a similar teaching is found among many Protestant fundamentalist and holiness churches. These groups don't refer to their doctrine as "purgatory" and not all Protestant congregations embrace this teaching. Yet, among those that do teach it -- it's very similar to the Catholic teaching and is used to control church members and generate fear. I refer to these popular beliefs as "the toxic gospel" or toxic doctrine. I use the word "toxic" because these teachings are not only spiritually poisonous, but also mainstream. I'll go a step further and say that there's really nothing "Christian" about these teachings at all. It sounds “Christian” because Bible verses are quoted in the teachings. Religious people are tricked into thinking that it's "fundamental Christian doctrine" because it's taken from the Bible. Yet, it's actually false teaching that results from failing to observe Biblical context.
At a Bible conference years ago, I listened as an evangelist shared one of his experiences. An angry church
member woke him up with a phone call at 3 A.M. to disagree with his message (a message similar to the one in this evaluation). She said, "I've always taught it 'my way' as a Sunday school teacher for 32 years. This evangelist answered, "Well, you've been teaching it wrong for 32 years" and quoted her the Scriptures to back up his assertions. When confronted with God's Word on the matter, she got mad (remember how Cain reacted) and said, "I don't care what the Bible says -- That's the way I learned it and Bible or no Bible that's the way I believe it"—and hung up the phone. Keep in mind that this woman taught children and young people about God. Some readers may have a similar reaction to what's written here--and there's no way to help those who insist on distorting Christ's blood redemption. Many professing Christians (including preachers) hold their personal beliefs and unscriptural traditions at a higher level of importance than what God has said. This practice is now found in epidemic proportions as we approach the end of the age.
Saint Paul commanded all believers under his ministry (that includes us) to "examine themselves" to discover if they possess true New Testament faith. Why is this important? Many professing Christians today possess an Old Testament Mosaic Law-based faith. It's a spiritual disaster waiting to happen. A lot depends on the outcome of this evaluation. Below we provide a "spiritual check-list" that can help us determine if we pass or fail the test for a New Testament believer. You will probably never hear this offered in a church service. It is guaranteed to offend, since research shows that 9 out of 10 "professing Christians" believe some variation of a false gospel. This is the question that must be answered: "Will God compromise and accept your beliefs and good intentions -- or will he remain true to His Word?" If He refuses to compromise -- and remains loyal to the truth of His Word, millions of professing Christians the world over are in deep trouble. Would you rather find out now . . . or later when it's too late to change?
Many (but not all) modern-day theologians and preachers -- like the Pharisees of Jesus' day -- treat liberty and freedom in much the same fashion. If a danger exists of abusing a particular freedom (such as God's Grace) -- the religious elite "build fences" and establish unbiblical religious laws that renders the freedom ineffective--in order to "protect" the "unlearned masses" (also knows as the laity) from "sin". This religious methodology has been around for thousands of years. The Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus' day were masters of this wicked practice -- and it provoked our Lord to anger on more than one occasion. "Pharisaical theology" (in various subtle forms) makes up an overwhelming majority of what we understand as "the Christian church". The doctrine used in this popular theology utilizes God's Word in order to give it an appearance of Divine authority. Yet, it's actually based on Scripture removed from its intended context. This violation of context is what makes Pharisaical doctrine (commonly known as legalism) dangerous and misleading. Even the most discerning Christians can be led astray by it. God does not operate his kingdom by these "man-made" religious rules.
". . . well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, 'This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.' But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (The Words of Jesus From Matt 15:7-9)
Contrary to popular Christian teaching . . . certain parts of the Bible are only binding on one group of people (Law-observing Jews--also known as "the circumcision") and were never intended to apply to everyone. There is also a part of the Bible that is binding on everyone -- a general group that God refers to as the Gentiles (also known as "the uncircumcision"). Regardless of these specific "target" audiences it's beneficial and necessary for us to study the whole Bible so we can understand the unique "ways" our Heavenly Father thinks and acts. Jesus declared that "salvation is of the Jews". To properly understand the salvation we possess today, we must discover its historical roots in the nation of Israel. Also, most Bible prophecy about future events can only be properly understood by viewing it from within the context of Jewish culture. God's Word exists as a compilation of Divinely inspired books and letters that are written to at least two different groups -- in two different dispensations or generations. These groups and the dispensations they represent are commonly understood as the Old Testament and the New Testament. Each "Age", or dispensation contain different rules that govern eternal life and righteousness. It's the reader's responsibility to correctly discern what group they belong to and the Scriptures that directly apply to their life. Few modern-day Christians excercise this kind of discernment. Those of us living today are automatically under the age of the New Testament. The Old Testament Mosaic Law system of religion is not binding upon believers living in the age of the New Testament. Many modern-day pastors and teachers suggest that the crucifixion of Christ had no effect on these principles of the Mosaic Law -- and recklessly continue to teach Old Testament religion -- making it binding on New Testament believers. Spiritually speaking, this popular doctrine is tragic. If your church teaches the Bible in this way -- they are giving you false information without knowing it and with the best of intentions. Ripping Mosaic Law-based religious tenants from their unique place in Scripture and mixing them into the New Testament Gospel that is founded on Christ's redeeming blood creates a disastrous form of false doctrine that many Christian churches teach. It carries serious spiritual consequences -- even if your church or denomination teaches it that way.
What we understand as the "New Testament" canon in our Bible covers the TRANSITION from the age of the Mosaic Law to the current Church Age. This means that the early parts of what we call "The New Testament" in our Bible that deals with the life of Christ before his crucifixion was still under the dominion of the Mosaic Law. The real "New Testament" Gospel that eternally dealt with the sin of the world is empowered only by Christ's blood and carried no authority until His blood was spilled at the cross to initiate it.
Under the Mosaic Law the qualifications for eternal life were tied to certain works related to Jewish Law (Jesus referred to this as "keeping the commandments" and Saint Paul called them "works and deeds of the Law"). These Scriptural principles related to Jewish Law and the nation of Israel were RADICALLY DIFFERENT from the new covenant principles the blood of Jesus initiated following His crucifixion.
A vast majority in the Christian church believes that during His earthly ministry before the crucifixion, Jesus taught us everything we need to know about salvation since He is the Lord from Heaven, God's Son--and He came to make our redemption possible. Yet, upon close examination and contrary to popular tradition--we discover that this could not be true. Jesus bluntly told his Jewish disciples -- that during his physical life on earth he "couldn't" tell them "many things". The phrase "many things" that Jesus used also means "a lot of things". Jesus did not use trivial words here. Yet, many of us ignore or redefine Christ's all-important words in this Scripture. Except for prophetic insights (many of these insights were presented in parables) concerning the time following the cross, Jesus generally preached an exclusively Jewish message to the lost sheep of the house of Israel under the authority of the Mosaic Covenant as Israel's Messiah. At that time the "Law of Moses" and the religious system that operated within its framework represented "God's authority" -- and Jesus never violated His Father's authority. Yet, after thousands of years of Old Testament Mosaic Law (Old Covenant) rule, this authority structure was about to change to include the Gentile nations -- and God sent His Son Jesus to change it through one act -- the spilling of the Divine blood of the Lamb of God. The blood of Jesus changed everything that existed previously.
Before New Testament redemption could begin -- the death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Christ had to occur first -- followed by the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell believers. This means that Jesus needed to return to His Heavenly Father and would not be physically present on earth -- as he was before the cross -- to introduce the salvation message that his blood paid for. Also, if Jesus had revealed the details and principles governing New Testament salvation before his death at the cross, Satan would have NEVER crucified him. This required a special messenger--and the fact that Jesus did not deliver the specific details of His redemption "in person" offends religiously minded people. Jesus personally ordained Saint Paul on the road to Damascus for this task--and brought him up to the third heaven in order to give him the New Testament Gospel of Christ (Bible scholars call this "The Pauline Revelation"). This was a radically "new thing" and did not exist previously. Saint Paul referred to this revelation as "The Mystery of Christ". It was a mystery (Saint Paul also referred to it as "hidden wisdom") because it hadn't been preached or revealed before Jesus personally gave it to him. It's still a mystery to most Christians today, yet it represents the foundation of the present-day New Testament Church.
"I was sent ONLY to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." (Words of Jesus From Matthew 15:24 Amplified Bible)
"I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you." (Words of Jesus--John 16:12-15)
"But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: FOR HAD THEY KNOWN IT, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (1 Cor 2:7-8)
Personal Note: these demonic "princes" didn't possess the knowledge because Jesus didn't preach it before the cross.
Notice that Jesus said it was the Holy Spirit's assigned task (after His arrival on the day of Pentecost) to glorify Him and . . . "receive of mine, and shew it unto you." That means His earthly ministry did not reveal the full revelation about salvation in the "Church Age", or the age of the New Testament.
All sin is to be avoided under both the Old and New Testament belief systems. Under the Old Testament eternal life (or "salvation" as we understand it) could be lost if all sin wasn't repented of and dealt with. Jesus said that eternal life under this system was based on "keeping the commandments" (Matt. 19:16-17). This is a system whereby a person could fall in and out of eternal life depending on their obedience to the commandments found in Jewish Law and how they dealt with sin in their life. Under New Testament salvation following Christ's crucifixion--the sacrificial blood of Jesus purchases eternal life for us and is given as a "free gift". If you search the Bible you will find that eternal life is never given as a "free gift" under the Old Testament Mosaic Law system. Under New Testament salvation sin still carries very serious consequences, such as sickness, disease, poverty and physical death. However, losing eternal life, which was paid for by the totally sufficient blood of the Son of God is no longer one of the consequences. False religious teaching is always based in some kind of "fear mongering". Fear of losing salvation (Old Testament religion) is used by many among the "clergy" as a control and manipulation mechanism--and as a way to preserve their religious influence and control. This has turned into an horribly corrupt and common practice now that we've entered the end-times. When Jesus declared (Luke 4:18) that he came to preach "deliverance to the captives" -- it was a deliverance (or freedom) from this kind of religion. Saint Paul referred to this "Old Testament" belief system as "bondage". The new covenant of Christ has freed us from this bondage.
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh." (Rom 8:1-3)
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled AGAIN with the yoke of bondage." (Gal 5:1)
"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." (Rom 8:15)
These facts should not be confused with the popular doctrine of "Once Saved Always Saved".
Under both the Old and New Testament God encourages everyone to engage in good works and the "bearing of spiritual fruit". All New Testament believers should have this characteristic of Godly living. Good works show the world that we are ambassadors and representatives of Christ our Lord who also went around doing good. We are to be just like our Lord. HOWEVER, under the new covenant in Christ's blood that began after the cross these good works are not a requirement to obtain or sustain eternal life, which is something God grants as a gift purchased for us by the blood of His Son.
"How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him." (Acts 10:38)
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Eph 2:10)
"This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men." (Titus 3:8)
"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Gal 2:16)
"But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:4-5)
The crucifixion of Christ changed all the rules that govern eternal life and righteousness from the way they existed previously under the Old Testament. At the Last Supper, Jesus called this new system "the NEW covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20) and the book of Hebrews calls it "a NEW and living way".
"Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you." (Luke 22:20)
"This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, THERE IS NO MORE OFFERING FOR SIN. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, BY A NEW AND LIVING WAY, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh" (Heb 10:16-20)
"But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." (Heb 12:22-24)
When God uses a unique word such as "NEW"-- as He does in these Scriptures -- it means exactly what it says. New--means that "the way of salvation" has changed from "the way" it existed previously under the Mosaic Law. It's a NEW way.
Most Christian churches today completely leave out the fact (and some shamelessly deny) that the part of our Bible known as the "New Testament," covers two radically different "Ages" or dispensations -- where one age (the Mosaic Covenant) ended and was replaced with another (The New Covenant in Christ's blood).
Jesus Christ and his crucifixion perfectly fulfilled the Mosaic Law on our behalf and brought its authority to an end. Speaking of Jesus as the mediator of this "new covenant" God tells us in the book of Hebrews:
"But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second." (Heb 8:6-7)
Saint Paul refers to the Mosaic Law as "the handwriting of ordinances" . . .
"And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you ALL trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross (Col 2:13-14)
Jesus said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." (Matt 5:17)
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh." (Rom 8:1-3)
Teaching Scriptural principles that received its authority from the Mosaic Law--and attempting to apply them to believers living under "the new covenant in Christ's blood" is a serious sin and a grievous violation of Biblical context. Saint Paul called this dishonesty and "handling the word of God deceitfully" in 2 Cor. 4:2.
"But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God."
Those who embrace and teach a salvation doctrine based on the old principles (Saint Paul calls these practices "works and deeds of the law") that existed BEFORE the shedding of Christ's blood are referred to as "false brethren" under the New Testament Gospel of Christ. Important Note: The reader should understand that I personally don't like the term "false brethren" because it seems disrespectful toward the beliefs of others. I've never heard it used in a church service, probably because most preachers know that it offends the listeners they are trying to reach -- and for that reason its "counter-productive". However, the apostle Paul used this term while speaking by God's Holy Spirit. In modern Christian ministry we all like to think that people can practice wrong beliefs and its still OK because we all claim to "love God". We think that He accepts everyone in spite of the problems -- because most of us are "good people". We tend to find it easier to "believe the best" about people because truth is an uncomfortable thing to face. In addition to this, nearly all believers today are taught to surrender any issues that interfere with Christian unity. Yet, both Saint Paul and our Heavenly Father who gave him this warning disagree with this kind of "all inclusive any thing goes" position. Since the end of the Church Age is near, we use the same term that Saint Paul used. Sometimes when serious issues, like eternal life and our inclusion in the soon-to-occur rapture are at stake -- maybe we need to be offended in order to make us think about things of eternal importance.
"Therefore by the deeds of the law (Old Testament religion) there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin." (Rom 3:20)
"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Gal 2:16)
False brethren appear on the surface as true believers (brethren) in Christ. They openly proclaim their love for God. They boldly declare their love and devotion for Jesus. They regularly attend church services and tirelessly engage in ministry activities. They love to study the Bible. They commit themselves to hours of prayer and are zealously involved in church growth efforts, evangelism and "soul winning". Yet, Saint Paul warned that these professing Christians actually love, worship and preach "another Jesus and another gospel" and their main objective is to "bring us into bondage". That means the "Jesus" they serve and follow looks similar to the real one in the Bible -- and most Christians today are not trained to discern the difference. Saint Paul's most difficult task was keeping these "false brethren" -- that he suggested were many in number -- from perverting the New Testament Gospel of Christ. When Paul used the word "many" he's suggesting that the doctrine of the false brethren is held by a majority of those that profess to be Christian. Paul's words cause me great concern as I look over the modern institutional church.
"And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage" (Words of Saint Paul From Gal 2:4)
"Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ. (Words of Saint Paul From Phil 3:17-18)
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." (Words of Saint Paul From Gal 1:6-8)
Those who embrace and teach a salvation doctrine based on the old Mosaic Law principles have "fallen from Grace".
"Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace."
(Gal 5:4)
False brethren passionately reverence and teach the Bible as God's Word. Yet, they teach by subtly shifting the Holy Scriptures out of their intended context. Through this practice a "counterfeit Jesus" is created (Again, Saint Paul referred to it as "another Jesus" in 1 Cor. 11:4). Attempting to debate this issue becomes an almost useless "war of words" where each side uses Scripture as its defense. The false brethren (many are highly-trained clergy) skillfully use the Bible to defend their position -- but, it is Biblical text ripped from its "Mosaic Law" framework. Fact: Most inexperienced Christians can't tell the difference because it all looks like God's Word to them. The doctrine of the false brethren angered Saint Paul more than any other teaching. It exists as a disastrous religious trap with unintended consequences since the first century church -- and it's especially dangerous for those eagerly expecting the return of Christ.
"And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works." (2 Cor 11:14-15)
Saint Paul instructed his listeners to "examine themselves" concerning the faith they possessed.
"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" (2 Cor 13:5)
If it was impossible to possess counterfeit faith instead of true New Testament faith--why did Saint Paul give this warning to the church? Why do most Christians ignore and attempt to redefine Paul's admonition today?
Jesus gave us a stern warning about the last days we are now in and the "false Christs" that will appear. A false Christ is a counterfeit Christ -- or a look-alike Christ. For example, your church may preach Jesus Christ -- but is he an Old Testament "caricature" of Jesus, or the authentic Christ of the New Covenant. The truth may surprise you. I understand that Jesus was primarily warning us about people that would impersonate Him. Yet, a false Christ can also include your personal perception of Jesus that is distorted by flawed theology. These kinds of false Christs are very common in the Christian church. Either way, both Jesus and Paul sternly warned about these things. Yet, the average Christian today gives little thought to the danger. One simple test can help us cut through a lot of the confusion. Most false Christ's within the Christian church don't provide a complete salvation -- they grant redemption, eternal life or a place in the rapture in payment for good works and religious performance. The real Jesus Christ finished all the work for our redemption forever (Hebrews 10:12).
"And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not: For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things." (Mark 13:21-23)
"But this man (Jesus Christ), after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God." (Hebrews 10:12)
God uses clear and concise language in the New Testament Gospel of Christ.
"For what does the Scripture say? 'Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.' Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works: 'Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man to whom the Lord shall not impute sin.'" (Romans 4:3-8)
"But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:4-5)
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Rom 6:23).
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast" (Eph 2:8-9)."
Many in the end-time modern church attempt to redefine what God calls an unmerited "gift" into a salvation obtained through works -- or salvation maintained by works. These individuals strongly oppose what God has said. The apostle Paul referred to them as agents of God's enemy that disguise themselves as "ministers of righteousness". Jesus called them "wolves in sheep clothing". These are interesting terms to meditate on. I'm convinced that some of these people have good intentions and honestly don't know the true nature of their ministry. They believe with all their heart that they serve our Heavenly Father. Yet, they've decided to replace our New Testament redemption (which also includes our place in the upcoming rapture of the Church) that is purchased by Christ's blood -- with a dependence upon certain religious performance and "righteous works". Either God is a liar -- or the ones who distort what God has said are liars. I've already made up my mind about which side is telling the truth.
"False brethren" talk and act just like authentic Christians.
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