PROTECTION FROM DECEPTION

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PROTECTION FROM DECEPTION

Dear Joshua Family Subscribers:

Tonight, I sensed from the Lord, the need to share with you the following important teaching by Derek Prince, that was published about 15 years ago, but is still, just as relevant for God's people today. Especially, during this most crucial time, where there has been such an increase of supernatural activity, and world-wide promotions of Sign and Wonders.

Some of this phenomena is of God's Spirit, while some is not, and in the Charismatic and Pentecostal movements, we all need to understand the difference of what truly is from God, and what may be from end time seducing, and deceptive spirits, so that we may guard our hearts from any potential delusion, or deception. From what I have observed and discerned personally, there is a mixture of both happening simultaneously in some of today's movements.

The title of this topic is Protection From Deception: On navigating through the Minefield of Signs and Wonders. So, basically, this is an in-depth teaching on how to discern manifestations of the Holy Spirit from other counterfeit occurences that are passed off as being genuine.

There is also, an excellent audio teaching on this. The entire three chapter book is available to read in text/or to listen to in audio at the following UK website DPM-UK. I strongly recommend that all of you please read and listen to this. It will answer most of the questions that you may have, and will bring clarity to many things that you need to know concerning this topic. I have provided a link below for you to go there directly.

I would love to know how this teaching helps you and impacts your life, so please feel free to leave your comments on the weblog here, to let me know, ok? Would love to hear from more of you, who haven't written in for a while. Bless you, and love you, Family of God! ~ L.D.

Here is the link to the website-DPM-UK .

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WARRIOR'S CALL TO PRAYER

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

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*WARRIOR'S CALL TO PRAYER - L.D.

*RING OF FIRE LISTS FOR 2010 & 2011

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Dear Joshua Family Subscribers:

This has been one of the most distressing and heartbreaking past few days of my life, as I have had a heart for Souls--for Asia since the 1980's. I spent a total of seven years of my life on Asian soil living, teaching, and winning Chinese, and other Asians to Christ as a part of my calling to Missionary Evangelism.

I had also, taken a number of trips to Japan and had visited some of the cities and the people there, quite a few times over the years, therefore, Asia is very close to my heart.

It was very difficult for me to even put this letter, and other info together today, due to a heavy and troubled heart for Japan. We also experienced a temporary power failure from the local power company here today, and I lost about 3 hours worth of work that I had typed up on the computer.

My Word document was not finished, so all of it was lost when the power went off, and I had to start from scratch all over again. So, today was not one of my better days, but I am happier and relieved now, to be able to pull it all back together, and to get these writings out to you, amongst other things that need to be posted.

If you can remember, I sent an article out to you last year on the Ring of Fire. Well, it is already getting a lot worse than what we perceived, or thought. Usually when the Lord speaks to me, it is not about date setting, but is more often about a season that we are entering into.

And, now that the season is here regarding the acceleration of happenings around the Pacific Ring of Fire, I could sense such an urgency, that the Lord is calling many of His people to commit to pray for Nation of Japan, and for the Japanese people.

Even, yesterday I was talking to the Lord about this, and I strongly sensed that this is only the beginning of what is soon to take place around the Ring of Fire, which surrounds the entire Pacific Basin like a massive horse-shoe.

And this activity is not going to stay only on the Asian side either. While the massive earthquake and Tsunami in Japan was taking place, other places were beginning to shake as well. It was reported, that two volcanos in the Far East of Russia, and another in Indonesia began to erupt.

Then, a huge volcanic eruption in southern Japan took place -- a very large eruption with Lightning bolts seen in the blast, and with wide flows of lava. Just like something you might see out of a science fiction movie! Very mind-boggling to watch! I have a few links of what has been taking place for you to see further below.

I just really sense in my heart, that the corporate Body of Christ needs to come closer together as family, and to begin to pour out our hearts in prayers and intercession to the Lord on the behalf of what is now taking place in Japan, and also, in some of the other places around the Ring of Fire, that have been experiencing extreme hardships.

I have observed over the past few years in America, what seems to be, way too much apathy, and lip service to God, without real heart commitment to the Lord, in the Body of Christ. It is very obvious and so easy to identify, even in some of the local churches.

So many have been in Churches for many years, just sitting in the pews, waiting for the next big thing to come to town, or waiting for someone new to bring them something sensational, that feeds their fleshly desires. Something to Wow, or to entertain them. It's so sad, and so grieves the Spirit of God.

And, Sometimes, it has been like pulling teeth to try to get christian believers to come together for a solemn assembly and some serious prayer these days. And, at least a hundred people who I know would say a big amen to that, because it is so true in our day! Amen???

And note, that I am not talking about saying repetitious prayers in a religious atmosphere, but I'm talking about focused heart-rending prayer and intercession, and doing some of it together as corporate groups in the Body.

What I see that we need to do now, is to begin to call people together into small groups, since it is so difficult to get those larger groups together. And each of us can begin to do this right where we live.

I just know in my heart, that those Japanese people would just love, and so appreciate to be covered with our prayers, and to receive reinforcement from God's people during this time, even if they do not understand the God who we serve. God will move mightily when we uphold them in our prayers.

Most often, it is during the worst times of hardship that God will perform the greatest miracles and transformation of lives, when His people would only commit themselves to pray and to intercede for others.

I am expecting much divine intervention and miracles for the people of Japan, as many of us would begin to pray fervently during this week, and as long as the Lord moves and directs us to do this.

I know from my own experience, that when I have gone through seasons of the greatest weakness, hurt, and distress in my life, that God would manifest Himself in miraculous ways. Even, when I felt like I just didn't have the strength to go on another day. And, I could always tell when people were praying for me, and knew that God was hearing all of those prayers and answering many of them.

So here I am, still alive and well today in 2011, when, I might otherwise have been totally wiped out from despair, and could have died from extreme grief and pain in some instances. But, He always rescued me during those times, and to this day, I have experienced so many miracles, that I could no longer count them from over the past 20 yrs. or more. God is so wonderfully Good! Praise you Jesus!

I am saying all of this prayerfully, so that God may begin to mobilize many of you out there to gather together in small groups to pray for those hurting people of Japan this week. They really need our love, prayers, and reinforcement during this time.

Below, I am including a few links of some of the other things that have happened before and after the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, just in case you hadn't heard about some of them.

These are all ring of fire disastrous shakings and eruptions that have taken place this year.

I have also included a short list of 2010 shakings and eruptions that took place last year for you to see. I thought that this would show and help you to better understand the intensity of what has taken place since 2010.

Also, remember to uphold us here in your prayers during this time, as well. I have several projects that the Lord has given me to work on over the past six months, and we are still short on the monthly funds to finish up what has already been started.

We have been in warfare here too, and need some back-up prayer and reinforcement from more of you prayer warriors. It would be so greatly appreciated. Please write in and let me know if you will be one of those, so that i will know for sure, who is actually praying. It would be a tremendous encouragement to know during this time. Thanks, L.D.

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*This is not a complete list, but are the ones that I found, or already knew about. Will probably edit and add a few more soon.

RING OF FIRE DISASTERS IN 2011

*All of the Volcanos listed below erupted close to the same time frame as the Japan Earthquake.

New Zealand: Earthquake -Feb 2011

Japan: Earthquake and Tsunami -Mar 2011

Shinmoedake: Southern Japan Volcano Erupts -Mar 2011

Volcanoes erupt in Russia after Japan Quake! -Mar 2011

Indonesia volcano erupts just hours after Japan Quake -Mar 2011

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RING OF FIRE DISASTERS FROM 2010

Solomon Islands: Earthquake - Jan 2010

Chile: Earthquake - Feb 2010

Indonesia: Sinabung Volcano - Aug 2010

Indonesia: Mt. Merapi Volcano - Oct 2010

Philippines: Mt. Bulusan Volcano - Nov 2010

*Note: The Ring of Fire includes 75% of all of the world’s active and dormant volcanoes.

*Facts: Japan's 9.0 is the worst Earthquake with a massive Tsunami to strike Japan since 1800's, with over 150 aftershocks since the disaster began.

*New Zealand's Earthquake of February 2011 -- New Zealand was still reeling from the effects of last year's quake - causing more devastation.

PROPHETIC SIGNIFICANCE OF JAPAN'S EARTHQUAKE

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

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NEXT: Another Article that I found, right after my last prayer session for Japan. Had not heard of this particular Bill Wilson, but was glad to find this very insightful prophetic article. Please make sure to leave your comments and feedback here on the weblog. Thanks!~ L.D.

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"THE PROPHETIC SIGNIFICANCE OF JAPAN'S EARTHQUAKE"

-Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry

March 14th, 2011


On March 11 Japan was hit with the most intense earthquake in its recorded history. This event alone has tremendous prophetic significance and it should serve as a solemn warning to the United States. The fulfillment of prophecy is at times like peeling off layers of an onion.

Some events are a type and shadow of what is to come, while others take you to the real core. The prophetic implications of the devastating Japan earthquake is a little bit of both.

First, in Matthew 24:7-8, Jesus said, “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” This is obvious, but there is more.

These were events that Jesus warned us would be signs of the end times. When we see these ancient kingdoms in the Middle East having internal turmoil and threats of wars, we look to the prophecies to determine where we are at in the continuum of prophecy. Major natural disasters are another benchmark. We as watchmen try to discern why that particular area at this specific time.

When this earthquake occurred, I wondered deeply why Japan. At the same time, I thought of the prophecies of Israel and how they may impact Japan. A central prophecy regarding Israel goes back to Genesis 12:3 where the Lord told Abraham, “And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curses thee.”

A particular end time prophecy, speaking at its core about the Day of the Lord, but one that we can say comes often in layers is Zechariah 12:3 where the Lord says, “And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.”

On March 11, the day of the earthquake, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released this statement: The Government of Japan deplores the decisions of the Government of Israel to give permission for the construction of 1,600 housing units in East Jerusalem…Japan demands that the plans should not be implemented.”

This was the first time Japan used such strong language about Israeli settlements. The earthquake should also serve as a warning to the US president, whose State Department March 13th condemned Israeli plans to build 500 new West Bank homes as “illegitimate.”

Within 48 hours after President George W Bush substantially pressured Ariel Sharon into forcing Jewish settlers from Gaza in August 2005, the first signs of Katrina were swirling in the ocean.

Naysayers believe these are unrelated coincidence, but watchmen see them from the lens of Biblical prophecy. Jesus also said in Matthew 24, “see that you be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” More to come.

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The full statement that Japan made on March 11, 2010–one year to the day before the earthquake–was: “The Government of Japan deplores the decisions of the Government of Israel to give permission for the construction of 1,600 housing units in East Jerusalem in addition to 112 units in West Bank just after the Israeli and Palestinian leadership’s acceptance of the start of indirect talks.

The Government of Japan does not recognize any act that prejudges the final status of Jerusalem and the territories in the pre-1967 borders. Japan demands that the plans should not be implemented.”

[The Daily Jot incorrectly stated previously that Japan had done this Friday, but there is much more.]

On March 1 of this year the Palestinian National Authority announced that it had signed an agreement with Japan to provide $32.5 million for a project of treating waste water in the Palestinian-occupied town of Jericho. It was reported as one of the biggest projects aided by Japan in the Palestinian territories to supply industrial areas with water.

The PNA noted in the announcement that since 1993, Japan had given the PNA more than a billion dollars, including $40 million in developing the Jordan Valley area in the West Bank. The PNA said that the agreement is “vita, strategic and important to help the PNA finalize building the institutions of the future Palestinian state.”

Japan is instrumental in helping build out a Palestinian state on the West Bank (traditional lands of Judea and Samaria), yet is critical and demanding of Israel for building housing units for its own citizens.

On January 11 this year, Japan’s Foreign Ministry said it “condemns the demolishing of a part of the Shepherd’s Hotel in East Jerusalem with a view to constructing new housing units for Jewish people.”

A month later on February 10, Japan’s Foreign Ministry said Israel’s plan to build housing unites for “Jewish people in Sheih Jarrah of East Jerusalem” is against efforts of the international community to resume peace negotiations. A month later, Japan is hit with a historic earthquake.

Daily Jot sources point out that the earthquake in Japan caused tsunami flooding in industrial areas, and the money Japan gave to the Palestinians was for wastewater treatment to supply water to industrial areas of a new Palestinian State.

The United States also is guilty of giving billions of dollars to the Palestinians over the years. And the current US president is condemning the Israeli homebuilding as well. Keep in mind that Japan’s fault-line is part of the infamous “ring of fire” where about 90% of the world’s earthquakes occur.

This includes the entire Pacific coast of America. Zechariah 2:8 says of Zion, “for he that touches you touches the apple of Lord’s eye.” Japan and America share the same “Fault” line. What is next?

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!

Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry

Resources: http://www.dailyjot.com/

JESUS'S SERMON ON THE MOUNT

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

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JESUS: "SERMON ON THE MOUNT"

Dear Joshua Family Subscribers:

This morning, the Lord placed on my heart to share with you some Kingdom foundational teaching outline notes, of Jesus's "Sermon on the Mount" for your personal studies and spiritual growth from Ihop/ Forerunner.

I would like to challenge each and every one of you, to study this outline very throughly, and to check out all of the scripture references as you go. For the Beatitudes are as, the "Constitution of the Kingdom of God" (Foundational) and it is very important for you to understand the terms that Jesus taught about, and to also learn the principles and importance of walking in obedience to God.

Even, if you think that you already know all of this, and don't need it, is a strong sign that you really do. Because it is not just about knowing it in your head, but is also about getting it down in your heart, and making it a part of your everyday lifestyle. And, if that has not already happened, then you still really need it, just as we all do!

You know, these days, we hear a lot of believers talking about the Constitution of our founding Fathers in America, and how there is an agenda to do away with/or parts of the Constitution, and to replace it with something of a more socialistic and/ secular humanistic nature.

So, how much more should we regard the words and teachings of Jesus, and to uphold (to obey) what He and the Apostles taught in the New Testament. For there is already an agenda of the enemy, to either do away with, or to soft-serve a diluted form of sensational Christianity to the masses.

Then, to fuse it together with another subtle demonic force, that has it's origins in Eastern mysticism. A guru-type spirit from the east. (The Lord has shown this to me very clearly, and several times since the end of 2008) Once, in a very clear panoramic open vision, of which I will share later on, in another post in the future.

And, the only way that many believers are going to remain safe from this, is to return to their first love, who is the Lord Jesus Christ, to strengthen their relationships with God, and to give themselves over to more intensive study of the scriptures coupled with the revelation of the Holy Spirit. This is the only way to stay clear of the deceptions and delusions, as they are already at work, and are growing and accelerating every day.

As a Christian believer it is more about knowing and loving God enough to obey Him, and also loving the Truth of His written Word. We need both to live for Him, and to have our spiritual eyes opened.

There is a very strong delusion that is now coming on the scene, to deceive the masses, and even the very elect of God, if it were possible. And the Bible tells us this will happen in the last days, so how could any of us deny it, or attempt to sweep it aside.

And many are already being sucked into it through "make me feel good", Christianized mystical Guru-type messages, placing Angels on the forefront of messages, Extra-Biblical Revelations, Sensationalism, False manifestations, and Super-hyped Christianity. And, I will tell you very honestly today, that there are dangerous spirits of seduction behind most of those things mentioned above.

There has been a clarion call for many years now, to return to our foundations of the faith, and to also, get back to the book of Acts on what the true activity of Spirit of God is supposed to be like, and to look like.

You should also be able to discern the messengers by the messages that they bring forth, and to weigh it against the scriptures. Never judge anything by popular opinion, or receive it just because a popular Apostle, Pastor, or Teacher says so, because many these days are pushing another subtle agenda that is not of God. Search out the scriptures for yourself, and ask the Lord to bring the understanding of the truth (Rhema of the Holy Spirit), and clarity into your life.

Not all manifestations and signs and wonders are of God. Some are, and some are not, but we are living in a day of mixture, of what is of the Holy Spirit, and that which is not. And many apparently cannot discern the difference, as we saw with many of the leaders during some of the 2008 events.

There is also a mixture of truth, and half-truths, as well. And if you do not understand what God has given to us in the scriptures, then you will not know the difference, nor would you be able to discern the difference. Learning from what Jesus taught, and what the Apostles taught will bring you to that conclusion, of what is actually missing in the some of the Christian movements of our day.

And the Lord desires for all of us, to get back to the truth of His Word, and to genuinely follow Him, as we are taught in the scriptures. There are a lot of custom tailor-made beliefs out there today, that are progressively leading many off of the true narrow path, into a subtle form of idolatry and personality worship, and we need to be aware of this, so that we may steer clear, from any of those deceptions of the enemy in the days ahead.

I knew before I wrote this, that it was going to ruffle a few feathers, but my stance in the Lord, is to tell you the truth, and not what you may always desire to hear, to make you feel more comfortable. And it is because, I must share what the Lord places on my heart, and also because I care, and love you enough to tell you the truth.

Be blessed with todays teaching outline, and feel free to write in to leave your comments on our weblog -- on how the message, and teaching outline have helped you today. If you have any of your own insights to share, feel free to do so. Love hearing from you! ~ L.D. Oxford

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Kingdom foundational teaching outline notes, of Jesus's "Sermon on the Mount" for your personal studies and spiritual growth from Ihop/ Forerunner Christian Fellowship with Mike Bickle. More resources found here: Ihop and Mike Bickle Watch on video here

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THE BEATITUDES: THE ONLY WAY TO HAPPINESS AND GREATNESS IN THE KINGDOM (Mt. 5:3-12)

I. THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT: CORE VALUES OF THE KINGDOM

A. THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT IS THE “CONSTITUTION OF GOD'S KINGDOM.” It is the litmus test to measure spiritual development and ministry impact. We measure our ministry impact by how much people seek to walk out the Sermon on the Mount values (not by the size of our ministry).

B. A WISE MAN BUILDS HIS "HOUSE" (LIFE AND MINISTRY) ON THE "ROCK" which refers to relating to Jesus according to the Sermon on the Mount. This lifestyle is do-able for every believer and is the only way to experience God’s Kingdom. To neglect this lifestyle is to neglect and miss the Kingdom.

24, Whoever hears these sayings of Mine (Sermon on the Mount), and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall… (Mt. 7:24-25)

C. WHY DO YOU WANT GOD TO ANOINT YOUR MINISTRY? What is your dream for it? What would you do with more influence? Would you convince others to walk in this lifestyle (secretly/consistently)?

II. OUR PRIMARY LIFE CALLING: TO PURSUE 100-FOLD OBEDIENCE (MT. 5:48)

A. JESUS CALLED US TO BE PERFECT IN OUR OBEDIENCE, that is to be mature or complete in it. This is meant to be the primary issue in our spiritual life yet it is often overlooked and disregarded. We do this by seeking to walk in all the light that the Spirit gives us.

The pursuit of full obedience is not the same as attaining it. Our pursuit for complete obedience is relative in this age and absolute in the age-to-come. Our responsibility is to focus on “seeking” to completely obey God. We trust God’s grace to empower us to “attain” full obedience in an ever-increasing measure.

48, You shall be perfect (walk in all the light you receive) as your Father…is perfect. (Mt. 5:48)

B. THE PURSUIT OF "COMPLETE OBEDIENCE" INCLUDES: bridling our speech (Jas 3:2), disciplining our physical appetites (1 Cor. 9:27), managing our time (for service and prayer with the Word) and money (to increase the Kingdom beyond our comfort and honor; Mt. 6:19-21) and making a covenant with our eyes to refuse to look upon anything that stirs up lust (Job 31:1).

C. BECAUSE OF GOD'S ZEAL FOR DEEP RELATIONSHIP WITH US, HE REQUIRES, that we walk in all the light that He gives us. Our pursuit of full obedience expresses our value of our relationship with Jesus. Our obedience is an expression of our love for Him.

21, He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. (Jn. 14:21)

D. WE ONLY EXPERIENCE THE "FULL LIGHT" OR BRIGHTNESS OF THE SPIRIT, when the eye of our heart is good (single) so that it brings light to our inner man. We only do this by pursuing 100-fold obedience.

22, The lamp (source of light) of the body is the eye (of the heart). If therefore your eye is good (single, KJV), your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad (lacks single focus), your whole body will be full of darkness. (Mt. 6:22-23)

E. ONLY IN A LIFESTYLE THAT SEEKS FULL OBEDIENCE, can we know the “brightness” of being connected to God’s heart and feeling His presence. There are powerful dynamics that occur in us only when we pursue 100-fold obedience. Pursuing obedience in 98% of our life has limited blessing. It is in the last 2% that we receive “double” grace and experience a bright spirit or spiritual vitality.

F. A SPIRITUAL DULLNESS TOUCHES OUR HEART UNLESS WE LOVE RIGHTEOUSNESS. All the areas of our spiritual life are inter-connected. We rob people of joy (oil of gladness) by lowering the truth of the gospel in our human sentiment that seeks to make it easier by presenting a “lesser gospel.”

9, You (Jesus) have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions. (Heb. 1:9)

III. THE CALL TO BE COMPLETE IN CHRIST: 2 DIFFERENT REALITIES

A. THE SCRIPTURE PRESENTS TWO ASPECTS OF BEING COMPLETE BEFORE GOD. First, the moment we are born again, we are instantly made complete in Christ in our legal position (justification) because of Jesus’ work on the cross (2 Cor. 5:17-21). Second, we progressively become “complete in our obedience” in our living condition before God (sanctification). Both are foundational truths.

10, You are complete in Him... (Col. 2:10)

B. BEFORE GOD, OUR PRIMARY OBJECTIVE IN THIS LIFE IS TO BECOME PERFECT, OR COMPLETE IN OUR OBEDIENCE.

C. SCRIPTURE USES DIFFERENT TERMS FO THE SAME TRUTH: it exhorts us to be complete in our obedience (2 Cor. 13:9, 11; Phil. 1:6; Col. 4:12; 2 Tim. 3:17; Heb. 13:20-21; Jas. 1:4); perfect (Mt. 5:48; 19:21; Jn. 17:23; Gal. 3:3; Eph. 4:13. Col. 1:28; 1 Thes. 3:10; Jas. 2:22; 3:2; 1 Pet. 5:10; Rev. 3:2);

mature (Phil. 3:15); blameless (Lk. 1:6; 1 Cor. 1:6-8; Phil. 2:15; 1 Thes. 3:13; 5:23; 1 Tim. 3:2, 10; 5:5-7; 6:14; 2 Pet. 3:14; without spot (Eph 5:27); Worthy (2 Thes. 1:5-12; Lk 21:34-36; 20:35-36; Col. 1:9-10 Mt. 10:37-38; 22:8; Rev 3:4-5; Eph. 4:1; Phil. 1:27; 1 Thes. 2:12); Stand (Lk. 21:36; 1 Cor. 10:13; 16:13; Eph. 6:10-14; Phil. 4:1; Col. 4:12; 1 Thes. 3:8; Rev. 6:17).

9, This also we pray, that you may be made complete. (2 Cor. 13:9)

12, Epaphras…always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. (Col. 4:12)

28, We preach warning every man (believer) and teaching every man…that we may present every man perfect (mature) in Christ Jesus. 29 To this end I also labor… (Col. 1:28-29)

3, The testing of your faith produces patience (endurance). 4 Let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing (in our obedience)… (Jas 1:3-4)

10, Praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith… 12, May the Lord make you increase and abound in love… (1 Thes. 3:10-12)

10, But may the God of all grace…after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. (1 Pet. 5:10)

IV. BEING PERFECT: TO WALK OUT THE 8 BEATITUDES

3, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4, Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5, Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6, Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.

7, Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

8, Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10, Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Mt. 5:3-10)

A. JESUS DEFINED BEING "PERFECT" OR BEING "COMPLETE IN OBEDIENCE", as walking out the 8 beatitudes (Mt. 5:3-12) as we pursue 100-fold obedience(Mt. 5:48). This is our foundational call in life. We cannot focus on walking out the Sermon on the Mount without being very familiar with it. The 8 beatitudes do not make sense separated from the context of pursuing 100-fold obedience.

B. THE BEATITUDES ARE LIKE 8 BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS IN THE "GARDEN OF YOUR HEART" that God wants to fully blossom. They define love, godliness and spiritual maturity and describe life in the Spirit (true discipleship and/or spiritual maturity). They also describe how God wants to bless us and what He wants to duplicate in the nations through ministry.

C. THESE 8 FLOWERS NEED TO BE CAREFULLY AND CONTINUALLY CULTIVATED, as we “weed our garden” by resisting the 6 negative influences (toxins/poisons) related to our natural lusts (Mt. 5:21-48) and as we “water our garden” by pursuing the 5 positive nutrients(prayer, fasting, giving, serving and blessing enemies, Mt. 6:1-18) that position us to receive a greater impartation of grace.

D. JESUS GAVE SIX PRACTICAL AREAS IN WHICH WE MUST WAGE WAR AGAINST, lust (1 Pet. 2:11): anger (spirit of murder, Mt. 5:21-26), adultery (spirit of immorality, Mt. 5:27-30), disregarding the marriage covenant (spirit of treachery, Mal. 2:13-17 that breaks covenant for selfish pursuits, Mt. 5:31-32)

False commitments (spirit of manipulation that seeks to promote ourselves, Mt. 5:33-37), demanding justice (spirit of pride or bitterness that insists on our personal rights, Mt. 5:38-41) and retaliation (spirit of revenge or animosity in relationships, Mt. 5:42-47).

E. JESUS DESCRIBES FIVE "GRACE-RELEASING ACTIVITIES" IN OUR DEVOTIONAL LIFE, that position our heart to receive more strength in the grace of God. Our heart receives more grace as we consistently and secretly serve and give (charitable deeds: giving service and/or money (6:1–4, 19-21), pray (6:5–13), bless adversaries (forgiving, 6:14–15; 5:44) and fast (6:16–18).

F. SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES (PRAYER, FASTING, MEDITATION, ETC.) are ordained by God as a necessary way to posture our heart to freely receive more grace. These activities do not earn us God’s favor but give us the opportunity to express the value we have for our relationship with Jesus.

God gives more to those who are hungry for relationship with Him. Our hunger for Him is an expression of our love for Him. God gives more to our heart but does not love us more when we live in spiritual disciplines.

ANALOGY: We put our cold heart before the bonfire of God’s presence. The power is in the “bonfire of God’s presence” not in the “cold flesh” positioned in front of it.

V. BEATITUDES: ONLY WAY TO BLESSEDNESS (HAPPINESS, GREATNESS IN THE KINGDOM, AND FREEDOM)

A. JESUS REVEALED 8 BEATITUDES OR 8 ATTITUDES THAT RELEASE BLESSEDNESS ON OUR LIVES. To be blessed is to experience abundant life which is the happiness, greatness and freedom that God created us for.

10, I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (Jn. 10:10)

B. WE NEED A REVELATION THAT ONLY IN THE BEATITUDES, CAN WE EXPERIENCE ABUNDANT LIFE. Our natural mind cannot see this without the aid of the Spirit. The natural mindset thinks that happiness is best found through favorable circumstances (much money, honor, influence and ability, etc.).

17, Blessed are you, Simon …for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 …On this rock I will build My church... (Mt. 16:17-18)

C. BY REVELATION, WE CONCLUDE THAT THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT LIFESTYLE Is not just the best way to experience abundant life (happiness, greatness and freedom) but it is the only way.

D. BEING POOR IN SPIRIT, (theirs is the kingdom, Mt. 5:3) – to acknowledge that we are in great need of help to sustain whole-heartedness (Mt. 5:48). This is to understand, that we are in a serious dilemma in needing a breakthrough in our heart (insight/power) and ministry in godliness.

E. MOURNING FOR BREAKTHOUGH (for they shall be comforted, Mt. 5:4) - to be desperate enough to be “extreme” in pursuit of a progressive breakthrough in our heart (insight/power) and ministry.

F. WALKING IN MEEKNESS (shall inherit the earth, Mt. 5:5) – to walk in the fasted lifestyle or to have a servant spirit in the use of our strengths (time, money, energy, reputation, authority etc.).

G. HUNGERING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS (for they shall be filled, Mt. 5:6) – sustained faithfulness in seeking God with wholeheartedness through the changing seasons of our life instead of being burned out by our disappointments with God or by our offense at the way people treat us.

H. RELATING TO OTHERS WITH MERCY (for they shall obtain mercy, Mt. 5:7) – having a tender spirit in how we treat others who fail spiritually as well as those who attack, resist or disappoint us.

I. BEING PURE IN HEART (they shall see God, Mt. 5:8) – breakthrough of purity in our thoughts (bitterness, immorality) and motives(helping people for their benefit without any personal gain). To “see God” even in a small measure causes our spirit to be bright (i.e., fascinated with God).

J. BECOMING AN ANOINTED PEACEMAKER (called sons of God, Mt. 5:9) – anointing to bring peace (healing, restoration) to that which is out of God’s will (broken relationships, sick bodies, etc.)

K. ENDURING PERSECUTION (theirs is the kingdom, Mt. 5:10-12) – bearing the counterattack for plundering Satan’s Kingdom because we operate in power and/or stand for righteousness. We rejoice for the glory of knowing Jesus and the privilege of suffering for His name. (Acts 5:41).

PROPHETIC WORDS FOR 2011

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

Home Central: www.joshua-ap.net/


"PROPHETIC WORDS FOR 2011"

Dear Joshua Family Subscribers:

Today, I would like to share with you an excerpt of some prophetic insight given by Loren Sanford for the year 2011. There is also a video that you can watch, for the full-length message delivered at New Song Fellowship (his Church) on December 12th, 2010 in Denver, Colo.. The video is supposedly a Quicktime video, but, I also found that it will play on Windows Media Player.

I would encourage you to listen to the entire message, to get the full scope of what I believe, is some very important prophetic insight for this year. A video that we can all discover something new from, I'm sure. I found it very interesting and confirming, with plenty of scripture references given, which is always a big plus.

After reading the following message and watching the video, feel free to leave your comments on our weblog here. Would love to hear how this message impacts your heart, or brings confirmation to you. I always enjoy hearing from our subscribers, and receiving your notes and input. Have a blessed day, and remember to stay in touch when you can! ~ L.D. Oxford

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"PROPHETIC WORDS FOR 2011"

- R. Loren Sanford

Resources: http://www.newsongfellowship.org/


(This is the last few minutes of my annual prophetic word delivered at NEW SONG FELLOWSHIP December 12, 2011.)

To view the entire message in Quicktime video format click HERE

I have hesitated to publish this and have pondered carefully how I might word it in order to avoid contributing to the frenzy of fear-mongering that too often passes for the prophetic word these days. Because I value accuracy in the prophetic I don’t like to speak until I am fairly certain of what I’m hearing or sensing.

To the point: We, the United States of America, are headed toward an intense crisis at the presidential level, the outcome of which will determine the direction of this country for a number of years to come. I sense this crisis coming at or before the beginning of President Obama’s fourth year in office. I am therefore issuing an intense call to prayer because the prayers of God’s people, together with the spirit in which we offer them, will shape the aftermath of this crisis for either good or ill.

It can be a wonderful and historic turning point for the nation or it can be the beginning of the shattering of our country with depths of division beyond any we have seen since the Civil War. Much depends on what believers choose to do now in the months we have in which to prepare.

Please note that I am making no political statements here. I merely point out that a crisis is coming, whatever form it may take, that it will directly affect our president and that the outcome of the crisis will be either restorative or destructive for us as a nation.

In order to be effective in praying toward and shaping the outcome of this coming crisis, we must first shed the anger that many of us with a conservative political orientation seem to allow to so easily overtake us. James 1:20 teaches that “the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” and yet I continue to hear growing choruses of anger and bitterness coming from those who should know better.

Many of us will have to learn the meaning of Romans 12:20-21, "But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” We must prepare ourselves to be servants, even to those whose opinions – or sins - offend our sense of what is right.

All of us must plumb the depths of I Timothy 2:1-2 and understand the true heart of Father God in it whose nature is love: “First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” No prayer offered in any spirit but His will be heard in heaven.

Even more importantly, we must understand the meaning of our true citizenship. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). I love my country and am glad to have been born an American, but I will never allow my love for my country to become an article of faith.

I belong to the kingdom of God. America is a place on a map. The kingdom of God is an eternal state of being in which the rule and reign of God are realized. Therein lies my allegiance. When patriotism becomes an item of faith, hatred is birthed and people always get hurt.

We are rushing toward a nexus in time, a very narrow passage in which even small events and minor decisions will loom large in their effect. We will need the intervening hand of God to achieve a good outcome and enter a season of hope. Saints pray! Pray in whatever way the Lord guides you to pray, but above all, pray in His Spirit and with His heart. We can affect the course of history.

I believe it is time for prophetic people to be held accountable for the fulfillment of their words – or lack thereof. If I therefore turn out to be wrong on this one, I commit to publish an apology to the body of Christ.

THE EMPEROR HAS NO CLOTHES!

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

Home Central: http://www.joshua-ap.net/


"The Emperor Has No Clothes"

Dear Joshua Family Subscribers:

Today, I would like to share with you a prophetic parable on the condition of the church today, which was given to the late Jill Austin in an open vision. Although, the setting of this parable was in a charming 18th century village in Victorian England, when I read this, it reminded me so much of what has taken place in some of our own towns and cities across modern America, especially over the past decade, with outpouring events, and their aftermath, which is not something for the corporate church to be bragging about, or to become prideful in, believe me!

As you read through the parable, note, the Red Dragon that moves in with the strange fire, and the poisonous sulfur that erupts from it's mouth in this prophetic vision. This is a warning for the spiritually blinded modern church friends! The Emperor and his counselors in this prophetic parable had turned deaf ears to the Watchmen, and ignored their call for repentance and prayer, due to their spiritual blindness and pride. After all, they were known for the outpouring of the Spirit!

Then, as you will see in this parable, a deeper infiltration of deception came to them. Does this ring a bell in your heart, of anything that you have been seeing? It sure does to me, from all that I have seen and witnessed over the past decade, and especially over the past few years. Then, there was another part of this prophetic parable that really stood out to me, as I pondered this vision. The Emperor in the story was guilty of compromise and control; and the counselors were guilty of flatteries and lies. And note, that the people in the vision were guilty of idolizing a man or a movement. This is really scary stuff folks, and the church, especially the corporate charismatic church, really needs to wake up and to get those blinders off.

The people in this vision had become loyal to a false kingdom, rather than the genuine Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. The child in this prophetic parable was at first, the only one who could see that the Emperor was not wearing any clothes, until the hearts were circumcised, and eyes of the crowd were opened spiritually to see. They had all been blind due to their pride and idolatry of the Emperor. And, so it is today!

Read and ponder this entire vision for your yourself, prayerfully. I did, and I'm going to go back, and to reflect over this parable once more again tonight. I could go on and on with you here, but it would be better for you to just read the whole vision prayerfully for yourself. I believe that the Spirit of the Lord will speak many different things to different people's hearts with this. So, open your hearts to hear the voice of the Lord, in what He would desire to say to you. I'm sure He will speak volumes to you, if you are sensitive to hear His voice. The Emperor is not wearing any clothes, friends! :)

We would love to hear any prophetic insight, on what the Lord speaks to your heart through this. So, feel free to share with us in the comments area here on the blog. Be blessed! - L.D. Oxford

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As global warfare is accelerating and radical terrorism invades our cities and nations, the watchmen of the Lord are sounding the shofar as an urgent call to prayer and fasting. As part of this call, the Lord is summoning His people to cry out for the seven-fold Spirit of the Living God. In this hour, we so need wisdom and discernment in order to receive strategic end-time battle plans from the throne room.

The Seven-Fold Spirit "The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD - and he will delight in the fear of the LORD." Isaiah 11:2-3

Keep this verse close to your heart as you read the vision below and apply it to your own church, city, and nation.

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The Emperor Has No Clothes

by the late Jill Austin

Resources: http://www.masterpotter.com/


A Prophetic Vision and Word

I would like to share with you an open vision the Lord gave me, which is a prophetic parable of the state of the church today. The setting is that of a charming 18th century village in Victorian England.

In the vision, I saw that the village had experienced a powerful outpouring of the Spirit, but the fire had been slowly and ever-so-subtly allowed to flicker out, opening the way for religious spirits of witchcraft and manipulation to move in and destroy its destiny.

I watched in horror as an enormous red dragon moved through the village, undetected, as strange fire and poisonous sulfur erupted from her gaping mouth. Her leathery scales rub abrasively, tearing and bruising all those who came in contact with her.

Pregnant with vile offspring, she laid her gruesome eggs of manipulation, self-promotion, and politics throughout the village. As I continued to watch, dark fiendish figures burst forth from her eggs, seeping into every residence open to her deception and flattery.

Their victim’s eyes became dim and their tongues forked as they took on the characteristics of their unseen enemy. A veil of darkness covered the hearts and minds of many in the small community.


A Prophetic Warning!

Standing their watch on the ancient walls, prophetic intercessors recognized the raging dragon and her children and sounded their trumpets in alarm. “Strange fire is being released into our midst. The fire of Holy Spirit is being put out!” The Emperor and his counselors turned deaf ears to the Watchmen and ignored their call for repentance and prayer.

Guarding their stance, they retorted, “After all, our village has been known for the outpouring of the Spirit.” To reinforce the faith of the people, they decreed a festive celebration to take place the following month. The whole village eagerly prepared for the extravaganza.

Allowed to continue her work, the dragon and her offspring infiltrated even further, cloaking their deeds behind the busy activities taking place and spewing forth even more of their evil venom.


The Grand Procession!

The next scene materialized as the day arrived. Look! The Emperor and his counselors pompously marched down the middle of town with dancers, musicians, and singers following. Cheering crowds gathered. The loud speakers announced how beautifully the Emperor was dressed and how the anointing sparkled like dazzling diamonds. The people looked on with awe and reverence.

As the procession moved through the throngs, the Emperor’s counselors drew near to whisper their sage advice, “The anointing is growing like never before. Look how popular you are!! The peasants love you.”

“Oh yes,” another whispered, “They do love you. Have you noticed how the treasury has increased? And look how the people are dancing in the streets to the new wine and music. After all, we have the most anointed musicians and dancers in the nation.”

“You, O’ Emperor, are covered in a glorious mantle --- the likes of which others only dream of! Surely we are at the beginning of great things.”


Child-like Faith

In the distant crowd, a child’s voice could be heard above the din, “Mommy! Daddy! The Emperor has no clothes on. He’s naked!”

Moving quickly, the counselors barked out orders, “Silence that child!”

But the child would not be silenced, “Can’t you see Mommy? Can’t anyone see it?”

The truth spoken with child-like faith resulted in gleaming angelic swords being drawn, readied for battle. The watchmen had been crying out day and night for reinforcements. Quickly, angelic hosts circumcised hearts and opened the eyes of the crowd bowing low to the Emperor.

They gasped, “He’s naked! The Emperor is naked! Where’s the anointing? I thought the mantle of God’s government was upon him?! What happened?”

The Emperor's ears were finally opened to hear in the Spirit the sounds of war, as swords clashed and the hosts of Heaven waged war against the dragon and her children. Spinning around to face his advisors, the Emperor charged them, “You lied to me! Why is it that I hear the truth from a child -- instead of you?”


Do Not Remove Your Spirit From Me

Hot tears fell from the eyes of the Father that melted the Emperor’s heart and opened his spiritual eyes. “I have no covering. The anointing has left. I am naked!”

Looking over the crowd lining the narrow, winding streets, he began to make out the horde of dark spirits invading his village. The once powerful and anointed man fell helplessly onto his face, “I’m a dead man; the village is destroyed. Oh God, what have I done? How did I become so blind? Do not remove your Spirit from me. I can’t live without You.”

Fear and panic hit the crowd as the dragon became visible for all to see. They scattered in all directions, searching for a safe place to hide. Some died in this dark, barren place, once called the “City of the Lord.”


Sword of Repentance

Above City Hall stood a huge angel who exclaimed, “When we brought the Ark of the Lord and His Presence to this village, we also brought the First Sword. It passed over your hearts to bring repentance and reawaken First Love. His consuming fire came to break off all that hindered love and you were glad and rejoiced.”


Sword of Judgment

“Now a Second Sword is passing over the village, a Sword of Judgment. The Word tested those of you who received the heaviest and most beautiful prophetic words. Many of your hearts were revealed in pride and self-promotion, which opened the doorway for strange fire to fall on the altars of your hearts.”

I watched as the Angel passed the Second Sword over the people. Those who fell on their faces in humility and repentance before the Living God were not touched. Those who stood tall in pride and opposition to God unknowingly called forth the dragon and brought devastation to themselves and their children.

Finally, the Angel declared, “This village was called not only to be His servant, but also His bride; to become a prophetic womb, impregnated by His Spirit, to bring forth His Manifest Presence to the nations of the earth.”

“There’s always a contesting and heavy spiritual warfare where the dragon rages to abort the things of the Spirit realm in the earth. Birthing is bloody, but also a tremendous privilege. There’s a “Price Behind the Anointing.”


Behind Closed Doors

Confusion increased as the war raged and secret meetings behind closed doors continued. Fighting and jealousy over positions began to blind and deceive once valiant warriors. The dragon planted her malevolent eggs of pride and elitism in the minds of the rebellious. They’d go off like grenades in explosions of anger and rage.

The Bridegroom sadly watched as the fire went out on His altar and His precious Spirit was delegated to the back room. The angels bowed down as He wept over the city and the Father declared, “The fragrance of My Son has left.”

Meanwhile, the counselors were busy trying to defend their position and rationalize away the fears of the Emperor, while the dragon destroyed more lives and ministries. Disease and death spread throughout the ravished city as the dragon moved in for the ultimate kill. People became numb to their pain and slowly … ever-so-slowly … they moved into denial. Hot tears flowed from the Emperor’s eyes onto the blood-soaked battlefield.


Watchmen Beware!

The dragon sent out a death warrant for each of the watchmen. If his henchmen could not take their lives, they silenced their voices and gorged out their ‘seeing’ eyes. The seers left, one by one. Many slipped away silently into the dark of the night, desperately asking God where to go next. But due to the devastation, there were no city gates open to them and they were left hiding in the wilderness. Those left behind watched as yet another one was driven away. One by one, the ax fell and heads rolled.


False Reports and Fear of Man

The loud speakers broadcasted false reports of how the seers were being sent to a new work in another state or nation. Everything was covered with flattery and deception. It seemed that broken hearts and torn covenants all that was left.

Fear of the tremendous power of the Emperor and his counselors to destroy their future ministries had silenced those remaining. No one talked, control and order was the rule of the day and barrenness was the high price they paid for respectability.

Helplessly, I looked on as this terrible war in the spirit continued. Many of the people were not even aware that it was destroying their city. The altar of their hearts became colder and colder as the Presence of God lifted.

Finally, Holy Spirit was pushed out of the sanctuary and the dragon and her children spread like a deadly plague. The heavens were angry and grieved as the war continued to wage and disease and death took their premature toll on the Bride.

Beloved, only the consuming fire of God can ignite passion and hunger in us for Jesus so we can wage war effectively. Without the Spirit, how can we hope to hear the Commander and Chief give us His strategies for the war over each of our communities and cities?


Loyal to a Movement or to God

So who is wrong? The Emperor? The counselors? The people? All of the above! The Emperor was guilty of compromise and control; the counselors were guilty of flattery and lies; and the people were guilty of idolizing a man or a movement. They became loyal to a false kingdom, rather than the Kingdom of the Lord of Lords and the Kings of Kings.

Some of the seers were guilty of stirring the prophetic “wars” and became power-hungry to get the Emperor’s favor to drive out other seers so they could gain control of the hearts of the leaders and the people.


Respectability Versus Anointing!

Has the fire gone out on the altar of your heart? Do you have the revelation and strategies of warfare to oust the dragon and her children from your midst? Are you flattering the ears of the Emperor to win position and favor? Are you on your face in repentance and humility before the Second Sword passes over your city?

Has God brought the prophets in for a season to test your heart? Are you willing to let your city be the womb of the Spirit to birth forth the prophetic and apostolic to the world? Or, will your altar grow colder and colder? Do you value respectability or the anointing?

Spread the Word, The Master Potter Team

ON TITHING FOR NEW TESTAMENT BELIEVERS

Joshua Apostolic Prophetic Network

Home Central: http://www.joshua-ap.net/


On Tithing for New Testament Believers

~ L.D. Oxford

For most of my adult Christian life, I have always believed in giving to God, and to help others. Not out of obligation, but because God placed the desire within me to be a generous person whenever I am able to do so. When, I lacked, I probably did less than at other times. When, I abounded more financially then, I would desire to do over and above what I did before.

I do believe in extravagant giving when it comes to serving the Lord, and it is not so that I can get something back, or to receive some special recognition from others, but simply because it is the best choice for me, and know that it is the right thing to do. Giving of our time, labors, and finances is certainly a part of our worship and honor towards God. When we love and honor God in giving of ourselves and resources then, we will also love and honor people as we should, as well.

Friends, the truth is, there is not one supportive scripture that commands, or even suggests in the New Testament that believers should tithe 10% ...or to tithe any percentage, period!. Jesus spoke about selling all, giving money to the poor, and the blessing of giving. But He never taught His disciples tithing of money, as an obligation anywhere in the gospels. Remember, this was also before the birth of the early church.

Then, a little later on after Christ's death, burial, resurrection, and the birth of the early church, there was still no evidence of tithing being taught by the Apostles to the early believers either. Therefore, it is only New Testament giving out of a loving and cheerful heart, but not out of a regulation of tithing. Instead of giving our little 10%, why not just give to God 100% or our lives? Then, we will truly want to become extravagant givers, not because we have to, but because we desire to, out of the Love of our hearts for the Lord, and for the people. This is the real love and obedience to God in operation, and genuine love has a spontaneous flow, and wants to give cheerfully, not because it has to, but, because it wants to.

In the book of Acts, there were those who sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the Apostles feet so, that it could be distributed where needed. But, this was not some huge salary for the Apostles themselves. They shared as community, so that those who had needs would be taken care of. Now, that's real Church! :)

Fellowship of the Early Believers = Real Church - On Giving and Distribution

Acts 2:44-47, All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Acts 4:32-35, All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.

Note: Also, they never gave "to get something back" from God, or to become rich, as we see is so prevalent in westernized Christianity today.

New Testament giving is best summed up in the following passages: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 - Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. NIV

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Here is a second short explanation that I recently saw from John MacArthur Jr., which explains a little more perspective on tithing, and I quote:

MacArthur says: "Two kinds of giving are taught consistently throughout Scripture: giving to the government (always compulsory), and giving to God (always voluntary).The issue has been greatly confused, however, by some who misunderstand the nature of the Old Testament tithes. Tithes were not primarily gifts to God, but taxes for funding the national budget in Israel."

"Because Israel was a theocracy, the Levitical priests acted as the civil government. So the Levite's tithe (Leviticus 27:30-33) was a precursor to today's income tax, as was a second annual tithe required by God to fund a national festival (Deuteronomy 14:22-29). Smaller taxes were also imposed on the people by the law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Exodus 23:10-11). So the total giving required of the Israelites was not 10 percent, but well over 20 percent. All that money was used to operate the nation."

"All giving apart from that required to run the government was purely voluntary (Exodus 25:2; 1 Chronicles 29:9). Each person gave whatever was in his heart to give; no percentage or amount was specified."

"New Testament believers are never commanded to tithe. Matthew 22:15-22 and Romans 13:1-7 tell us about the only required giving in the church age, which is the paying of taxes to the government. Interestingly enough, we in America presently pay between 20 and 30 percent of our income to the government--a figure very similar to the requirement under the theocracy of Israel."

"The guideline for our giving to God and His work is found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: 'Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.'"