Stand Firm and Trust God

God Alone a Refuge From Treachery and Oppression


Psalm 62

My soul waits in silence for God only;
From Him is my salvation.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.

How long will you assail a man,
that you may murder him, all of you,
Like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence?

They have counseled only to thrust him down
from his high position;
They delight in falsehood;
They bless with their mouth,
But inwardly they curse.

My soul, wait in silence for God only,
For my hope is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.

On God my salvation and my glory rest;
The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.

Men of low degree are only vanity
and men of rank are a lie;
In the balances they go up;
They are together lighter than breath.

Do not trust in oppression
And do not vainly hope in robbery;
If riches increase, do not set your heart upon them.

Once God has spoken;
Twice I have heard this;
That power belongs to God;
And lovingkindness is Yours, O Lord,
For You recompense a man according to his work.

Stand Firm in the Faith and test the spirits

Ephesians 6:10 -17"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, Having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace; in addition to all, take up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take up the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God."

The only way for Christians to stand Firm in the Faith is to be solidly grounded in the Word of God - The Bible.  God's Word never changes, it is the same yesterday, today and forever. Don't be fooled by unbiblical teachings that come from false teachers. More then ever Christians need to cling to the sufficiency of Scripture. We need to be spiritually fit to enter the battle. The above Scripture from Ephesians tells us what we will need to put on to be victorious in that battle. This armor protects us from the enemy of our faith from false teaching and deception. Choose your teachers wisely ! Remember what the Scriptures tell you:

1 John 4:1
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false Prophets have gone out into the world."

Many are claiming that love is the highest and only truth in scripture, but this passage is proof that it is not. There is a biblical and doctrinal test for discerning the spirits, so we are instructed from 1 John 4:1 not to believe every spirit. The doctrinal test is found in 1 John 4:1-6

Verse 5,6 "They are from the world; therefore they speak as from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error. "

As believers in Christ we are told from Scripture to obey sound doctrine. (Matt 24:11, 2 Peter 2:2, and Jude 3.) There are stern warnings from the Bible against false doctrine. The wise and discerning Christian does well to pay attention to this instruction in these perilous times.

Standing Firm in Adversity

Where is our faith during times of adversity, and how do we stand firm in our faith when trials and sufferings come. Suffering is a part of life. Everyone goes through some sort of suffering and adversities in their lives at one time or another, and no one is immune from it. Some go through more suffering then others. Job 5:7 says; "Man is born to trouble, as the sparks fly upward". It doesn't matter if you are a Christian or non-christian - all people suffer in this life. There are sorrows, pressures, need, loneliness, hunger, trials, unpopularity, physical pain, loss, disappointment.

Through these times in our life, we must Stand Firm in our Faith in Christ. God's promises are in the Scriptures to fortify the believer through times of trials, sufferings, and adversity. Our God is merciful and the Holy Spirit has been given to the believer to comfort us, and help us pray as we turn to Him in humility He strengthens us in our circumstances. Our standing in Christ is a firm foundation when times of trouble come.

We can deal with adversity and sufferings through our attitudes. But sometimes we can become distracted by our sufferings and lose site of God's call on our lives, and God's eternal purpose in all things. We must remind ourselves as Romans 8:28,29 says; "And all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the first born among many brethren;" This is where Faith works it's greatest effect in our lives. By Faith we trust God that their is a higher good God is working.

For those who are in ministry positions, Christians should remember to pray for these ones who are devoted to serve the Lord. Pastors, teachers, missionary workers, apologists and those who witness for Christ, especially those on the internet, need to be guarded by divine power. Those who are on the front lines need special prayer, remember those you know today in your prayers.

We may suffer only temporarily or we may suffer all our lives. The end result is that we all look forward to - is being with the Lord in Heaven. Those thoughts will put all things into proper perspective. No where in the Bible does it say that a Christian is exempt from tribulations and troubles. Sometimes God permits suffering as Paul says in Philippians 1:29 "For to you it has been granted for Christ sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake," We need to stay faithful during adversity, He is more then able to see us through.

Sometimes God may permit suffering - to speak through our lives as a testimony to comfort others. God might be using your suffering to inspire and strengthen others. Those of us that are enduring adversities can identify and sympathize with others in ways we have ourselves been comforted in Christ. This scripture gives reinforcement in our confidence of this fact -2 Corinthians 1:3,4, says; "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."

So in the midst of suffering what is it that we learn, how is God glorified? The bible helps give us the answers. Jesus knowing that his disciples would face troubles comforted them by telling them in John 14:1 "Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me." Because of God's grace and mercy, We can look beyond suffering and adversity and see what God's higher purpose is, and what he wants to teach us. We can be encouraged and pray that God will reveal the reasons for the suffering, we can turn to His word and seek His instruction for our lives in whatever circumstances we are going through. Trust Him. His word will give us comfort, encouragement, understanding, truth and strength. Praise be to God.

Truth Matters - Lunacy In Lakeland - by Rev. Robert S. Liichow

In these days of increasing deception, it is becoming more important then ever for Christians to stand firm in the faith and discern the times in which we live.

Due to the increase interest in Todd Bentley and the Lakeland Revival, we have been given permission to share an article written by Rev. Robert S. Liichow. Robert and his wife Tracy are founders of ‘Discernment Ministries International, an Apologetic and Polemic ministry devoted to teaching truth and exposing error. Rev. Liichow is a graduate from the University of Michigan and has recently graduated from Concordia Theological Seminary. Robert Liichow is a prolific writer, conference speaker, and church consultants and exit counselor. He has also been a frequent radio guest on Issues etc. DMI publish a monthly newsletter ‘Truth Matters’, and have had an internet discernment Ministry for many years on the Internet. If you would like to support the Ministry and work and receive a newsletter, You can contact their ministry by visiting the website at: http://www.discernment.org/

June 2008 - Vol. 13 / Issue 6 Truth Matters: The Lunacy in Lakeland déjà vu All Over Again - By Robert S. Liichow Over the last month or so DMI has been inundated with reports (many of them “glowing”) with the latest revival to be sent, theoretically, by the Holy Spirit. Now many of the former sign-seekers who partook of the revival at Toronto and Pensacola are now flocking to Lakeland, FL to experience the latest outpouring of God’s power and presence.

What is amazing to me is that everything I have read about this latest manifestation of excited ignorance is that it is nothing new! The same “manifestations” of uncontrollable laughter, being slain in the spirit, reports of teeth being filled with gold, angel feathers being found along with gem stones after the praise services, etc. In short it is the same-old / same-old. The usual fanatical claims of miracles are being reported (and as usual unsubstantiated). Let me just cite one such “miracle” report before delving into the background of these meetings:

This is the 13 resurrection as a result of this outpouring. I’m saying to the media “the dead are being raised.” I received this testimony: “My dear brother died. We requested an all night wake. At the funeral we played the revival. We declared my brother alive. At 2:19 a.m. my brother began to stir in his coffin. My brother sat up in the coffin praising God. My brother went to heaven and he thought he would not return. He said Todd was Bring his spirit back from heaven. All of us the funeral home were praising God. (Obtained from http://www.revivallakeland.org/ , May 25, 2008

Thirteen people have been raised from the dead as a result of this outpouring so the enthusiasts say. I simply ask this -- can you please supply DMI with the names, addresses, phone numbers and Death Certificates of these, any individuals? After all if thirteen people have been raised from the dead by the poer of God then, obviously, their experience will stand any form of scrutiny. I doubt seriously that Fresh Fire Ministries (the vortex of this most recent Saint Vitas’ dance of delusion) will respond at all to our request.

Who Is Behind The Lunacy at Lakeland?

Revivalist Todd Bentley, an obese, massively tattooed and pierced individual who started a ministry called “Fresh Fire Ministries” several years ago in Abbotsford, Canada. The following information comes from his own ministries webpage regarding his ministry background: “In his late teens, Todd had a dramatic encounter with the saving and delivering power of God. This experience brought Todd out of a lifestyle of drug and alcohol addiction without cravings or withdrawal symptoms. He was also delivered from a lifestyle involving criminal activity, youth prisons, drugs, sex satanic music and bondage. Todd’s miraculous conversion to Jesus was much like the Apostle Paul’s on the Damascus road. Todd was instantly transformed into a radical disciple and soul winning evangelist for Jesus. (Obtained from http://www.freshfire.ca/index.php?Id=101&pid=8 on 05-28-08 bolding added for emphasis).

I rejoice that God delivered Todd from such a sinful past (mirrors my own in many ways). But to compare ones conversion to that of the greatest Apostle in the Bible is a little grandiose. “God has drawn Todd into deep and intimate places of prayer. These extended times in God’s presence has released a fresh prophetic and miracle-healing anointing…He ministers prophetically, corporately and personally as well as brings forth the word of God with the power and demonstration of the Spirit -- God confirming His word with signs and wonders following. God has released an increase of the healing anointing into Todd’s life to the point where the blind see, the deaf hear & growths dissolve as Jesus still heals every sickness and disease. (ibid. bolding added)

This is the typical template of any of the revivalist of our past. AA Allen, Jack Coe, T.L. Osborn, William Branham all wrote about spending hours “shut in{“ with God in deep prayer with the end result of being given supernatural powers to work miracles and heal the sick. Not only did God allegedly give Todd a fresh (is there a stale anointing?) prophetic and miracle-healing anointing it seems that God has released an INCREASE of the healing anointing into Todd’s life! This increased healing anointing is so powerful that the blind see, the deaf hear, growths dissolve, as Jesus (through Todd Bentley) still heals every sickness and disease. The following are a couple of testimonies from the Lakeland lunacy proving Todd’s magnificent healing anointing:

George: We have a man that can see out of a glass eye! Never have I heard of a glass eye seeing. I need a minute to process this. You can’t see out of a glass eye? Never have before. I can see light and shadow. When the optic nerve registers, I’ll be able to see. This is more of a miracle than if the Lord gave him a real eye. (Obtained from http://www.revivallakeland.org/ on 05-28-08 bold type added).

(I must admit that is pretty good when a guy can see through his glass eye. Let’s just set aside the FACT that no further verifiable information is given and let’s forget that the biblical Jesus healed by restoration, I.e. withered had made whole, deafness cured vs. giving the person a gold hearing aid, etc.) This testimony and other’s we will look at just prove the susceptibility of people who check their minds at the door !

One thing that is patently missing from Mr. Bentley’s testimony is the lack of any biblical education (I know some of you are saying, “here he goes again”) yet facts are facts. Here is a man going around the world teaching the Bible, yet without having been taught himself ! The only credentials that sign-seekers want to know about is whether or not the preacher has some divine personal encounter with God. It is the alleged encounter that counts and is given a higher precedence over formal seminary training. To the sign-seeker the divine encounter is a spiritual revelation directly from the Holy Spirit to your human spirit. Formal biblical training is merely head knowledge; one mans understanding being transmitted from a mere man to another, man (or woman). Spirit ALWAYS trumps the mind in the extremists’ life. Since Todd (or Hinn, Copeland, Meyer, Dollar, etc) have no formal training then obviously their teaching is coming from a “higher” source, that source being touted as none other then the Holy Spirit Himself. In Bentley’s case we have a man who the testimony of the Apostle Paul & the Lord Jesus Christ, talk about your double portion! Here is a glowing review written by the Publishers at Destiny Image Publications:

Todd Bentley is causing quite a stir worldwide. Some say he is being used by the Lord to bring healing and miracles to thousands of people -- others are deeply skeptical of him and his ministry, Fresh Fire founded in 1979. What started for the 32-year-old Canadian as an invitation to speak at a church in Lakeland, Florida, in April 2008, has turned into a massively growing revival that now accommodates 10,000 people on land at the local airport. According to Fresh Fire Ministries 1.2 million people have watched the streaming broadcasts on the internet, and more then 140,000 people from at least 40 countries have attended the meetings. Todd’s book, The Journey into the Miraculous, tells of his dramatic deliverance as a teenager from a life of alcohol, drugs, prison, and the occult, launching him by the Holy Spirit into a worldwide ministry… According to Todd, “I was told by a modern-day prophet that I am part of the ‘first fruits’ wave of a billion people whom God would light on fire. I am a forerunner and one of many who will carry the healing anointing to the nations. God has lead me to put this book together not just to tell about my personal journey into the miraculous, but also to help people understand what God is doing in our time, and encourage readers to take steps of faith in areas where they may have been holding back.” As an evangelist and revivalist operating in a fresh prophetic and miracle-healing anointing. Todd has witnessed God heal hundreds of people who were: diseased with cancer, blind, addicted to drugs, alcohol and tobacco, and in bondage to Satan’s evil. Todd Bentley’s recently released book, The Reality of the Supernatural World: Exposing Heavenly Realms and Prophetic Experiences, teaches how Spirit-filled believers can take back what Satan has perverted, allowing them to explore the supernatural realms that God wants them to experience. Todd shares revelation about the supernatural world including: how to access it; types of experiences; locations in the supernatural; functions of angels; how to live under an open Heaven; and the price of accessing spiritual depth. (obtained from Destiny Image Communique” >dnj@destinyimage.com 06-06-08, (bold type added for emphasis).

I am troubled by everything about Mr. Bentley as I have already mentioned he declares to have had a conversion experience like Saul of Tarsus, is empowered with the miracle anointing of our Lord Jesus Christ and now we read that he is like John the Baptist in that he is a forerunner but his mission is to carry the healing anointing to the nations! Obviously, we are not dealing with a mere mortal but one of the super-charged end time remnant Ubermensch long prophesied to come by former heretics. A so called restored prophet Todd Bentley that he was one of a billion people God was going to set on “fire” Statistically that is pretty hard to swallow. There are around 2.1 billion professing Christians (obtained from http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html ), so that means one out of 2 Christians will become “Todd-like.” Me thinks not. What is more troubling than these grandiose claims of Bentley’s are his statements about teaching God’s people which are unbiblical and occultic in nature. He claims to teach God’s people how to take back from Satan the ability to “explore the supernatural realms that God wants them to experience.” Where in the entire Bible are we told that God wants us to explore supernatural realms? Where are we told that Satan has somehow hindered us from doing so? According to my knowledge of world cultures, and religions, Satan is constantly moving shamans, witchdoctors, crones, and others to delve into the supernatural to have mystical “experiences” via mind-altering drugs and practices. The Lord Never encourages His people to attempt to explore the supernatural or seek after supernatural experiences as Todd is teaching. Not only is this a false teaching it is a dangerous one. Bentley goes on to say that he will teach people how to access the supernatural, what types of experiences they can expect (I am sure it is nothing more than the usual holy laughter, spiritual drunkenness, being slain in the spirit, flapping, flopping and jumping about). Todd will reveal locations in the supernatural ! Again, where does the Bible speak of any of this? This is all “new” revelation which does not proceed from the Holy Spirit. Here is an example of Mr. Bentley “ministering”. The following is a direct transcript from a You Tube Video:

The woman was standing in the back of the room when the faith of God hit the meeting, and her tumor exploded out of her right leg, slid down her leg onto the floor! (Audience applause) I said, “God I prayed for like a hundred crippled people, Not one? He said, “That’s because I want you to grab that lady’s crippled legs and bang them up-and-down on the platform like a baseball bat.” (Audience laughter) I walked up and grabbed her legs, and I started going, BAM! BAM! I started banging them up-and-down on the plat[form]! She got healed! And I’m thinking, God why is not the power of God moving? He said, “Because you haven’t kicked that woman in the face.” (Audience laughter) And there is this old lady worshipping right in front of the platform. (Audience laughter) And the Holy Spirit spoke to me -- the gift of faith came on me -- He said, “Kick her in the face with your biker-boot.” I inched closer and I went like this [Todd Bentley performs a kick with his right leg and yells] BAM! (Audience laughter) And just as my boot made contact with her nose, she fell under the power of God. (audience laughters ) Obtained from: http://www.christianresearchservice.com on 06-09-08).

Does this sound like the manner in which Jesus ministered healing? Is “God’s” power moving dependent upon anything we do, especially kicking an elderly woman in the face? To Bentley the gift of faith equals doing something bizarre and then attributing it to the Holy Spirit.

Is the Revival Biblical ? Is revivalism biblical? That depends upon how we define our terms. To the charismatic extremist revival is when the Holy Spirit re-descends upon people in a certain locale and they are moved to repentance, or their spiritual joy restored or they are empowered to serve God in some dramatic manner. Please understand that the concept of “revivals” themselves comes out of either some portion of so-called restored Pentecostalism or pietism, both experiences based groups. In the united States revivalism was directly tied to Pentecostalism and the belief that the Lord Jesus was soon to return. They believed He sent the Holy Spirit again to give people the gift of tongues to go into the entire world and proclaim the Gospel. This was the foundation of the Azusa Street revival of 1906. Well, Jesus did not return as quickly as hoped so Pentecostalism formed into distinct denominations. Forty years later after World War ll another “revival” broke out this time it was not a “soul-saving and healing revival” as opposed to seeking the salvation of the world, this revival was more concerned with healings and miracles. It was run by men such as William M. Branham, Jack Coe, AA Allen, Oral Roberts, T.L. Osborn and a few others. It died out due to the exposure of fraud, immorality, lack of verifiable proof and the people simply wanting something more.

Almost forty years later the next really true “revival” has to be considered that initiated by Rodney Howard Browne, dubbed “the Holy Ghost Bartender,” In short his unbiblical manifestations became the hallmark of the latest move of the Spirit and they initially became centered at Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship (TAF) , from whence it spread to Holy Trinity, Bromptom England, from there via Steve Hill to Brownsville Assembly of God (BAG) in Pensacola, Florida. What differentiated this New Wine being poured out from the other two previous moves of the Spirit, was that it was a revival of “Joy” one in which the Heavenly Father came down to play with His children. I kid you not, I heard this in person, saw it played out in person at TACF, filmed it and dissected it and found nothing but filth. The end result of TACF and the BAG was that both churches underwent splits. The senior pastor’s left when the crowds died down and the sign-seekers were left unfulfilled and still hungry for “more” of God, since they had received little to no true spiritual nutrition. NEVER FORGET THE FOLLOWING QUOTE:

Son, let me tell you something. Do you know when you can tell a revival meeting is over? Do you know when God’s saying to move on to the next town? When you can turn people on their head and shake them and no money falls out, then you know God’s saying ‘Move on, son’, -- A.A. Allen message to brother Marjoe Gortner. Obtained from the Preachers, James Morris St. Martin’s Press.

This is exactly what happened at TACF and BAG, the crowds thinned out, the other leaders in the church felt abused and used. The revivalists had all become extremely wealthy and left town! Now out of the blue we have another revival! Suddenly signs and wonders are being performed (this time down the way in Lakeland vs. Pensacola) Now the hungry can run and be filled with empty promises of power and glory. They can have a safe place to go enthusiastically mad and engage in the St. Vitas dance of delusion once more. Oh, make no mistake my friends, these experiences are powerful, fun, and very addictive (I speak from personal experience) and when they are grabbed in the clothing of the so called “anointing” of the Spirit they become holy to the practitioners.

Let’s close with some simple Bible thoughts. Does the Bible prophecy a great world-wide end-time soul-saving revival? No it does not. As opposed to a great “ingathering” of souls the Bible speaks of a great falling away (2 Thess. 2:3) an apostasy. Our Lord Himself speaks rhetorically by asking if when He returns will He find faith on the earth (See Luke 18:8), no! Jesus is also caustic regarding those who run hither and thither seeking signs: A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” Jesus then left them and went away. Matthew 16:4 He considers such people (1) wicked and (2) adulterous, why? Primarily because these people are not seeking Jesus per se, they are seeking loaves and fishes, they’re looking to gain spiritual power and not the face of God. Jesus excoriates those who dare to claim to be the ones working the signs and wonders:

Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles? “Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you, Away from me, you evildoers!” Matthew 7:22,23

I fear for Todd and all like him and their alleged “fresh prophetic anointing” and the false unfulfilled words they proclaim in the name of our Lord. The deliverances and miracles they say they have done in the name of Jesus… yet our Master says “I never knew you” Let me say that in the Greek this is very plain it does not imply “I used to know you, but I don’t know you now,” No Jesus NEVER knew these folks. What is more what on the surface seemed to be a good work, I.e. prophetic words, demonic deliverances, miracles Jesus calls those doing such things evildoers not doers of good!

The Bible is filled with warnings about false prophets, false apostles, false teachers, when will our sign-seeking friends awake to these warnings?

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruit ye shall know them. Matt. 7:15-20

Our Lord warns us to beware of the false prophets -- they are coming in droves.

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Matthew 24:11-13.

What is the “fruit” of these false prophetic Sinisters? Many (a huge number in the Greek) shall be deceived, not blessed. The love of many (same word in the Greek) shall grow cold towards Jesus due to all the fraud being perpetrated in His holy name. The false words, the fake healings, the fraudulent claims will cause many unstable believers to become shipwrecked. Again and again our Lord warns His Church to beware (be-ware) false prophets, I.e. people who come in His name, show signs and wonders and YET do not belong to Jesus at all.

This is why the Apostle John warns: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

Even from the beginning of the Church MANY false prophets went out to deceive God’s children, how many more so today? Many today even claim to be apostles (I have met and spoken with no less than six of these deceivers): For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles 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 ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. 2Cor. 11:13-15

As a former charismatic extremist I taught much about the “five-fold” ministry of Christ (Apostle, Prophet, Pastor, Teacher, and Evangelist) it was not until my deliverance from doctrinal darkness that I saw another false five-fold ministry in the Bible as well consisting of: false shepherds, false prophets, false apostles, false teachers, and false brethren… and to add a sixth, false Christs.

Charismatic extremists say that they have more faith in God to keep them doctrinally pure than in the devil to mislead them. I admit that sounds pious and faithful, yet if this were the case then why do we have ALL the warnings about being deceived in the Old and New Covenants? If what our extremists’ brethren proclaim is true then the Bible must be wrong. Scripture consistently warns us to “beware.” Beware of what and of whom? Without a doubt God is Almighty and Sovereign, yet the almighty and sovereign God has seen fit to warn His children to be alert to their foe. Here are a few examples:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing. But inwardly they are ravening wolves, Matthew 7:15

But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues Matthew 7:17

Beware of the dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. Phip 3:2

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Col. 2:8

Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also being led away with the error of the wicked fall from your own steadfastness 2 Peter 3:17

Truth Matters my brothers and sisters and in these last days God has spoken to us through His Son and all we need is to look to Jesus through God’s Word and find the satisfaction our souls yearn for. What is transpiring in Lakeland, FL, is not a move of the Holy Spirit anymore than what recently occurred in TACF and Brownsville, both revivals left behind them thousands of disillusioned people. Some of these no doubt have run to Lakeland hoping against hope that maybe this will be the “real deal”. Sadly, they will find out the hard way this Lakeland is nothing more then excited ignorance in which our Lord is neither glorified nor present. Pray for those being mislead by the plethora of false prophets and apostles today!

No peace in Deception

1 John 4:1 "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." Romans 8:6 "For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace," Please look at the disturbing and powerful video. Does this look like 'the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace? Is that what is being exhibited in what your seeing here? Warning: This is a very scary and disturbing video to watch, but it is here to serve as a warning to Christians of how far and dangerous the progression of these manifestations can become. It sounds and looks more like the torment of Hell Fire then the blessing of God. The fruit of these manifestations should be tested in the light of the Scriptures. Ephesians 5:11-17

"Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. For this reason it says, "Awake sleeper, and arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you." Therefore be careful how yuo walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

The revival in Lakeland, Florida that is currently on-going, is exhibiting these same manifestations in their services and among those who promote the revival and it's activities and teachingds. This must be tested in the light of Scripture.

Many Churches around the country are embracing these spiritually dangerous and deceptive teachings and attending meetings and conferences that promote these activities, and many are watching the revival with the blessing of Pastors from church facilities and on the internet in their homes.

This video makes a good point in comparing what the Bible says with what the revival and Todd Bentley and those who are supporting the revival are promoting. Christians need to heed these warnings from scripture to test everything, hold fast to that which is good, and test the spirits. 1 Thess 5:21,22 and 1 John 4:1.

2 Thess 2:10-12

"And with all deceivableness of righteousness in them that parish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

1 Tim 4:1,2

"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils, speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

(Note: This post was originally posted on July 3, 2008 )

Hold Fast to Biblical Warnings

Christians must be familar with the Bible and what it says, and how to properly interpret it based on sound doctrine. Jude 3 tells us we are to persevere, contend and be faithful to the teachings that have been once for all handed down to the Saints. Why is sound doctrine so important? Phillippians 1:10,11 helps to give us the answer, "so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ to the gory and praise of God." We need to know how to walk wisely, how to live out our faith to know and be acquainted with the truth. Sound doctrine is absolutely essential in knowing how to discern truth from error, right from wrong, and good from evil. Without a knowledge of sound doctrine we are subject to deception and apostasy. These are a few requirements we need in order to Stand Firm in the Faith. Eph. 6:13 The Bible warns throughout to watch out for false teachers and false prophets, and in particular it tells us that sound doctrine is a safeguard from deception. Those who do not heed the instructions of sound doctrine will turn away from the truth and accumulate for themselves teachers that will mislead them. 2 Tim 4:3,4 tells us: "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. 2 Peter 2:1 "But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep." Remember the instruction from Hebrews 13: 7 - 9a : "Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings; Currently there is a Revival in Lakeland, Florida 6/26/08, that is lead by Todd Bentley. This is a video of the current revival, showing the strange teachings and manifestations.

We are further warned from Ephesians 5:6-11 "Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them fro you were formerly darkness, but now yu are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light. (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth.) tryinhg to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them;

Further articles on the revival and Todd Bentley:

Believers in Grace

http://www.believersingrace.citymax.com/mypeopleloveitso.html

Apostasy Alert:

http://www.apostasyalert.org/REFLECTIONS/bentley.htm

Midwest Christian Outreach:

http://midwestoutreach.org/blog/

What is Discernment and why we need it more then ever

As we stand firm in the faith, upholding the word of God and proclaiming the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ to others as well as living fruitful lives to honor His name, it is all believers responsiblility to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints. Jude 3. This requires being able to discern. So we need to know what discernment is ? Discernment is a process of learning to distinguish between right and wrong. It is a process of learning to distinguish between right and wrong. It is a process of disciplining yur conscience, your mind, and disciplining yourself to study the word of God. Knowing the difference between right and wrong is a skill that is developed by dilligent study in God's Word. As we grow in our faith we become better at knowing truth from what is false, right from wrong, and what is sin and what is righteousness. So it is important to know the Scriptures so that we are able to discern false teachings and when someone is using a passage of Scripture incorrectly. When we train ourselves to detect right from wrong and actively practice discernment we can avoid the confusion that people often fall into.

The Bible describes discernment this way in Hebrews 5:14 "Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." Discernment is the ability to differentiate between right and wrong, truth and a lie. 1 John 2:21 says: "I am writing to you not because you don't know the truth but because you know the difference between truth and a lie."

Discernment helps you to determine and interpret important issues properly and understand the motives that drive a certain agenda. Common sense is also a factor in the process. Discernment helps you to stand firm in the faith, to make good decisions and helps you keep a good balance in your Christian life. Discernment is always based on God's Word. It is the foundation to which our knowledge of God is known and where our knowledge of right and wrong comes from. God is the source of all truth, and He gives discernment to those who seek it. Proverbs 9:10 " Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement."

Discernment is not learned overnight, it doesn't just get dumped into your head. It isn't a mystical thing. It is based on knowing who God is from the bible, practicing and obeying what God says. Who God expects us to be as we live the Christian life and how we are to treat others. It also comes through a process of Sancification. How we grow in Christ, and is practiced with a transformed mind. Romans 12:1,2.

We must stand firm in our faith on the word of God. It is the foundation for all discernment and true wisdom. The more you read and study the word, the more discernment you will obtain, and the better you will be at detecting what is false. Discernment will safeguard you from the lies of Satan and keep your feet planted on solid ground. God's source of truth is to be found in His Word. The Holy Spirit is our helper in understanding God's truth.

1 Corinthians 2:12-16 says: "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. But the natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he can not understand them, because they are spirituallly apprasised. But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one. FOR WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ."

What does the Scripture say ?

This Scripture took on real meaning afte having a discussion with a former Pastor tonight 5/6/08. When pragmatism is guiding a leader's decision making, scripture is rarely exalted in the final say of truth. He refused to heed the warnings of discernment that we gave him long ago when faced with deception and false teaching and refers to his error of judgement now -- as dabbling with teachings. In our gentleness it brought no conciliation, no healing. He did not gather or bind up. He did not extend fellowship or offer to bring us back into the fold to which he had driven us away. In a post-modern culture in which we live, it is a challenge for most to stand firm in the faith on the word of God. False teachings are a serious offense as outlined in scripture, and pastor have a special duty and instruction in the bible to guard the flock that they are entrusted with. Acts 20:28-32). Examine carefully the passage below, Trust what God says.

Ezekiel 34: 1-16

The word of the LORD came to me: " Son of man, prophecy against the shepheds of Israel; prophecy and say to them: "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Woe to the shepherds of Isreal who only take care of themselves ! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock. You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them. "Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: As surely as I live, decalares the Sovereign LORD, because my flock lacks a shepherd and so has been plundered and has become food for all the wild animal, and because my shepherds did not search for my flock but cared for themselves rather then for my flock, therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the LORD; This is what the Sovereign LORD says; I am against the shepherds and will hold them accountable for my flock. I will remove them from tending the flock so that the shepherds can no longer feed themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them. " For this is what the Sovereign LORD says; I myself will rescue my flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them. "For this is what the Sovereign LORD says; I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I willl rescue them from all places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountain Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their gazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and thee they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign LORD, I will search for the lost and bring back the strays, I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy, I will shepherd the flock with justice."

The convicting power of the Scripture

Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is living and active and shaper then any two-edged sword and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

The Word of God has double power that is indicated by the words 'two-edged sword. The Word cuts deep into the thoughts and intentions of the heart. It judges all that is in the heart, judging unbelievers as well as searching the hearts of believers. It goes to the very depths of a person, revealing what is hidden and bring it into the light. God knows all things, he searches all hearts. (1 Chronicles 28:9)

Do you stand firm in the faith and believe the Bible is God's Word ? God Breathed ? Unless you believe the Bible is the very word of God, it will have no authority or effect. Jesus came and made the scriptures alive and real to people. Jesus came and made the scriptures alive, and they believed ! Faith and Grace working together produced reverence and worship to God. The old testament Scriptures were not just words in a book, but they were the Living word of God made flesh in Jesus Christ. John 1:1) His disciples preached the Gospel Jesus came to bring, and lives were changed because of that Truth. 1 Thess 2:13 testifies to this fact:

"For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs it's work in you who believe."

Reading Hebrews 4:12 gives us godly wisdom, and gives great reverence of God's all-knowing, he knows us better then we know ourselves. It is a forwarning and gives us the opportunity to repent of sin and be right with God. We must be firm in the faith and believe Him.

In Matthew Henry's commentary it says this about the power of God's word: " It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The word will turn the inside of a sinner out, and let him see all that is in his heart. The perfections of the Lord Jesus Christ. His person, particularly His omniscience, none of the creatures can be concealed from Christ; and there are none of the motions and workings of our heads and hearts but what are open and manifest to Him. This omniscience of Christ should engage us to perserve in faith and obedience.

Omniscience means: A divine attribute of God; God's knowing of all things of proper knowledge. The divine attribute of perfect knowledge. This is declared in numberous scriptures. The perfect knowledge of God is exclusively His attribute. It includes all things that are actural and all things that are possible.

Jesus says in - John 12:48 "He who rejects Me and does not recieve My sayings, has one who judges him; that word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day."

They're selling what on a Shopping Channel ?

Things are changing so rapidly in the world, and even in the Church these days. There is a noticable increase of evil. False teaching continues to escalate, and the Christian must be sober and alert. People's hearts are being captured by myths and a increasing cultural elevation of the occult, and supernatural manifestation. people's worldviews and spiritual quests have have changed and understanding of 'Who God is' and 'Why Jesus came' are -- getting distorted and degraded because of lack of knowledge of what the Bible teaches. Christians are failing to Stand Firm in their faith on the truths in the bible. People are elevating teachers, and listening to false prophets and their teachings. Jesus warns in Matthew 24:11-13 - "Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most peoples love will grow cold. "But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved."

2 Peter 2:1,2 says: "But false prophets also arose among the people just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bring swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned;

Someone doesn't have to look very far by a casual channel surf on TV, to see blatant occultism in programming. That's not so unusual these days. But it seems promotion of the occult is becoming more pervasive and assertive then ever.

While surfing through the channels today 3/27/08, we observed a national shopping channel offering as a 'today's special' dvd's of the Psychic John Edwards. These dvd's promoted meditation, teaching how to discover angels and guides, contacting dead loved ones, and were to instruct people how to 'tape' into energy, and were to teach people how to be psychics themselves and give psychic readings. The dvd's are suppose to be 11 hrs. of training)

During the day-long product promotion -- 27,000 sold. During his presentation other items were offered such as a Journal book with Rosary bead Cross, and artwork of 'tree of life' print. As people called in to talk with the Shopping Hosts and the Psychic John Edwards, he was doing 'psychic readings' with callers right there on the Shopping channel. Who would expect something like this to be sold on a shopping channel, let alone a 'today's special' ? which receives a lot of primary air time during the day and evening, that the special is promoted. Not only Adults are seeing this, but Children too.

What was presented to the public was the appearance of excitement, fun and life changing spiritual guidance, but in reality it was Necromancy, Divination, and Spiritism -- (Syncretism - is the fusion of different systems of belief ) along with the presentation it was combined with the use of Icons and the language of Christianity. The above mentioned practices are of the occult and not of Christianity. What became very obvious after watching this national shopping channel was; that the spiritual climate of our nation is dramatically changing. What attracts people to these modern day psychics is their persuasive demonstrations, proofs of information from a source unidentified, supernatural manifestations such as Angels and spirit guides and contacts with deceased loved ones. What is deceiving people is that these signs and wonders, this 'energy' these people are 'tapping' into is real, but is not of the Holy Spirit. This is a good example of how subtle the tactics and enticements of the enemy are.l Remember the bible states in 1 Peter 5:8 "Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. "But resist him, firm in your faith," Jesus warns us that perlious times would come, and says in Matthew 24:24,25, "For false Christs and flase prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. "Behold, I have told you in advance." Throughout the Old and New Testament, spiritism is forbidden. God instructs and warns his peple to stay away from Occult practices and teachings.

Deuteronomy 18:9-11,14

"When you enter the land which the LORD your God gives you, you shall not learn to imitate the detestable things of those nations. "There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, one who uses divination, one who practices witchcraft, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts a spell, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead." 14) "For those nations, which you shall dispossess, listen to those who practice witchcraft and to diviners, but as for you, the LORD your God has not allowed you to do so."

Leviticus 19:31 "Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." 2 Kings 21:6 "He made his son pass through the fire, practiced witchcraft and used divination, and dealt with mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the sight of the LORD provoking Him to anger." (Also see 2 Chronicles 33:6) Isaiah 8:19,20 "When they say to you, "consult the mediums and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, "should not a people consult their God? should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because they have no dawn."

Anyone claiming to be a Christian should Not be involved in anything to do with occult practices, no matter how popular, no matter how 'Spiritual or real' they may see. (Not everything spiritual is of God.) We should be clothed in the armor of God of Ephesians 6:10- "Finally be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." Listed here are scriptures you can look up that condemn these occult practices.

The Bible condemns spiritism, consulting mediums, and Necromancy: Leviticus 19:31, 1 Samuel 28:3,9, 1 Chronicles 10:13, 2 Chronicles 33:6, Isaiah 8:19, 19:3, Jeremiah 27:9, The Bible condemns Divination: Leviticus 19:26, 1 Samuel 15:23, 2 Kings 17:17, 21:6, 2 Chronicles 33:6, Isaish 2:6, Acts 16:16-20 Additional : Revelation 9:20,21, 18:23, 22:15, Galatians 5:19-21, Acts 8:9-11, 19:19

In closing, 1 Thess 5:21,22 tells us to: "Examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil." These days believers in Jesus Christ, need to be discerning, and be careful to what they are being exposed to through TV, music, books, and teachers. 1 John 4:1 says it best "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

** For Further information Websites you can visit:

Christian Answers for the New Age -

http://www.christiananswersforthenewage.org/

Refuge Ministries - http://www.refugeministries.cc/main.asp

Watchman Fellowship - http://www.watchman.org/

(a christian research ministry that can provide more information on John Edwards)

** For further study regarding Angels - Ron Rhodes fold-out Quick reference guide on 'Angels - What you need to know' and books

'Reasoning from the Scriptures Ministry' http://www.ronrhodes.org

** Marcia Montenegro's book "Spellbound' is an excellent book for Christian parents.

Why doctrine is Important

WHY DOCTRINE IS IMPORTANT
For the Christian, the bible is how we determine the truth. It also instructs us on how to handle any conflicts in our relationships, as well as every other area of our lives. But the trouble is; Do we take the bible's instructions and commands seriously, and apply what it says? or do we just brush it off as someone's personal 'opinion' or perception? In Christian relationships or in ministry - this is a crucial question.

To stand firm in the faith you must study the truths of the Faith. It is every Christians responsibility to know and study God's word. You can not mature in the Faith, if you don't personally study the bible for yourself. A lack of studying leads to immature attitudes towards your brothers and sisters in Christ and eventually sin. A lack of personal study also leads many into doctrinal error and misinterpreting of the scripture. Many Christians reject the study of doctrine and theology as unimportant. But isn't real Christian unity based on the whole of Christian truth (doctrine) found in the bible ? If we isolate one doctrinal teaching from others will it not effect the way we treat one another?

But it is not enough to study the truth, but we must also accurately handle the truths of scripture. 2 Tim 2:15 reads: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." We need to be responsible for how we speak, apply, and handle the truth of Scripture, also in Titus 2:1 it says: "But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine."

The word is to be apart of our conversations, applied to our life circumstances and experiences so that we walk wisely, having godly relationships, so we may have peace through our trials and endure through our continued growth in Christ. We will enjoy unbroken fellowship. But if we willfully choose to ignore or brush-off this admonishing from scripture to obey and apply the word as the Holy Spirit convicts our hearts and leads us, there is a warning what will happen to us -

2 Tim 4:3-5 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. But you be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry."

In our conduct towards each other we are to live in a matter worthy of the gospel of Christ, standing firm in our faith, living a life that is consistent with God's revealed word. Our testimony before the world requires us to live with godly integrity otherwise we weaken the gospel's credibility. We are to as Phil 2:15, 16 says: "so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among who you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life."

** Note: This entry was originally posted on March 9, 2008. I have had to re-post it again.

Stand Firm in the Faith - Hope does not disappoint

Romans 5:1-5
"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."


Romans 15:4,5
"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus."













Trials come to test our faith. These are the things that prove that we belong to Christ, our perseverance, our obedience in difficult times. When friends are gone, and you are alone. I know many that put their trust in how many friends they have, some saying how that proves they are a Christian, but that's not what God's word says. It is God who makes the Christian stand firm in the Faith.

originally posted on January 28, 2008. I have had to repost it due to problems in Aug 2008.

Stand Firm in the Faith - Scriptures

We are instructed from Scripture to Stand Firm in the Faith, to stay faithful to the end. That is the intention of the blog, to continue to be obedient to the Lord and His Word, regardless of opposition that we receive, and trials and sufferings. We will all stand accountable one day before the Lord for what we did, and did not do.

1 Corinthians 2:5

"...so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God."

1 Thessalonians 3:8

"For now we really live if you stand firm in the Lord."

Ephesians 6:10-17

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rules, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickness in heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day and having done everything to stand firm. Stand Firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARTION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God."

Galatioans 5:1

"It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery."

2 Corinthians 1:24

"Not that we lord it over your faith, but are workers with you for you joy; for in your faith you are standing firm."

1 Corthinthians 15:1

"Now I make known to you, brethen, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand."

For the Christian, we do not stand firm in our own power, but it is the power of God which makes us stand firm. This is not dependent on support from others, but comes from a living and vibrant relationship with Christ.