Good day. Today we are posting Frauds, written November 12, 2008. Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this writing. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 2008.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 Frauds Romans 13:1-6 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: (4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (6) For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (KJV) You know, many just think of God’s people as those that attend a church organization or someone who is preacher or pastor. But God ordained services that are being used by many Christians and then it gets overlooked by many that decide they are above the law and don’t need to pay their taxes for them. That road you drove in on today, that water faucet you turned on in your building, as well as that toilet you flushed, these services were put in by people, laborers, and they deserve their reward don’t they? That police officer that went into a dark alley or house to protect the citizens, isn’t his labor worthy of reward? Not to mention all the men and women who gave up their family life and went to a foreign country to protect us, they definitely are worthy of their reward. So why do Christians cut and run; duck their obligations to pay taxes when the Bible tells us to? There is not a bigger bunch of money grubbing people with their hands out to the congregation is there, than the pastors or preachers of these so called church organizations we see out there today? With this in mind, are they doing their part as well or are they just a bunch of frauds? James 5:4-6 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. (5) Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. (6) Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you. (KJV) Oh, but we will demand our tax free status, how does that sound? Fine, then don’t call the police or fire departments if you have a problem, deal with it yourself. Frauds and phonies, especially those in the pulpits who twist and turn the laws to fit their own desires and then demand that everyone else pay their fair share, especially when it comes to their own upkeep. You have people out there working the field and you are taking advantage of it, and as Christians we should be setting the example for all and not ducking or shirking our responsibilities. When there is smoke coming from your building, who is the first ones you call? If someone is breaking into your building, who are the next ones you call? How about when our military people return home, especially those that have sustained wounds and need treatment; if we as Christians don’t lead by example and pay our tribute or taxes, then who will? You cheapskates and phonies, all these tax exempt statuses you hide behind are nothing more than a cloak of your covetousness, which the Bible says is idolatry. Leviticus 19:11-13 Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another. (12) And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD. (13) Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning. (KJV) Whether you realize it or not, especially those that live in this country, many services are done on our behalf that require maintenance, and by not paying your fair share in the form of taxes you are robbing and defrauding your neighbor. You may not think so, and you may think just because others are doing it that it makes it alright, but unless you do all things according to what the Word says then it is not alright in the Lord’s sight. Jeremiah 22:13-14 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; (14) That saith, I will build me a wide house and large chambers, and cutteth him out windows; and it is cieled with cedar, and painted with vermilion. (KJV) You know, if everyone did and paid their fair share we wouldn’t have the problems we see going on today would we; you know, like with bank failures and bailouts? Who better than to lead by example than the Church? But sad to say, rather than being leaders many are passing the buck, leaving it for others to take care of . Whether you like it or not, the Bible is quite clear on where God stands concerning tribute, paying our fair share so that we can stay in good standing with our Lord and He can be our source. Once you try to sidestep your duties as a Christian, once you try to cut corners and not do what is required, you then take the Lord out of the equation and He no longer is your source, which is why many look for loopholes and other means to make up for their shortfalls. Titus 3:1-2 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, (2) To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. (KJV) Yeah, you may not like some of the wasteful spending we see at times, or how the rich just seem to be getting richer and the poor poorer. It is not our duty to fuss and argue with those of the world, because quite frankly nothing is going to change until our Lord returns and sets things right again. So for now, don’t get entangled with the affairs of this life, but rather do what the Lord is asking so that you can be above board and in good standing with Him. Williams New Testament translation of Romans 13:1-6 1. Everybody must obey the civil authorities that are over him, for no authority exists except by God's permission; the existing authorities have been established by Him, 2. so that anyone who resists the authorities sets himself against what God has established, and those who set themselves against Him will get the penalty due them. 3. For civil authorities are not a terror to the man who does right, but they are to the man who does wrong. Do you want to have no dread of the civil authorities? Then practice doing right and you will be commended for it. 4. For the civil authorities are God's servants to do you good. But if you practice doing wrong, you should dread them, for they do not wield the sword for nothing. Indeed, they are God's servants to inflict punishment upon people who do wrong. 5. Therefore, you must obey them, not only for the sake of escaping punishment, but also for conscience' sake; 6. for this is the reason why you pay your taxes, for the civil authorities are God's official servants faithfully devoting themselves to this very end. 7. Pay all of them what is due them -- tribute to the officer to receive it, taxes to the officer to receive them, respect to the man entitled to it, and honor to the man entitled to it. I don’t care what label you put on yourself or your organization, it is the duty of each and every Christian to pay tribute or taxes as long as they are here, like it or not. Because by not doing it you have violated God’s law, and are now considered frauds. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good day. Today we are posting Let's Pay Tribute, written November 11, 2008. Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this writing. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 2008.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 Let’s Pay Tribute Romans 13:1-4 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: (4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (KJV) First of all I would like to pay close attention to the first three words in verse 1, because ‘every’ does mean everyone. The powers that are ordained of God that are being spoken about, is our police, fire departments, as well as the military. We all have an obligation, including Christians, to follow and obey the laws of the land. You may not like and agree with all of them, but like it or not it is our duty to obey and stay in good standing with them. I make this point because we are going to touch on an area where the so called church thinks they can side step laws as well just because others do it or man says that it’s ok. Romans 13:5-8 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (6) For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of Romans 13:5-8 5. Therefore, you must obey them, not only for the sake of escaping punishment, but also for conscience' sake; 6. for this is the reason why you pay your taxes, for the civil authorities are God's official servants faithfully devoting themselves to this very end. 7. Pay all of them what is due them -- tribute to the officer to receive it, taxes to the officer to receive them, respect to the man entitled to it, and honor to the man entitled to it. 8. Stop owing anybody anything, except the obligation to love one another, for whoever practices loving others has perfectly satisfied the law. You know what that word tribute means, yup taxes. “Oh but we are the church, all we have to do is file for our non-profit status and we are tax free right”? Well according to man that may be so, but according to the word of God that is not the case. Paul wasn’t writing this letter to those outside of the body of Christ, but rather these scriptures are for God’s people, are they not? You know preachers, when a policeman, fireman, or someone from the military comes to your congregation on Sunday you are not shy about passing around the collection plate are you? But have you done your fair share in giving as well? You know that tribute stuff the Lord says we need to pay to be in good standing with Him? “Oh but we would go broke if we had to pay it”. Well if God was truly your source then what you are telling me is that God went broke, right? Matthew 22:17-21 Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? (18) But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? (19) Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. (20) And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? (21) They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. (KJV) Hmm, the Lord paid taxes; and being that we are imitators of Him wouldn’t it be fitting that we did also? You know the preachers are not shy about reminding the congregation of their duty of paying their fair share which the Bible says also, rendering to God the things that are His. But it is the preacher’s or pastor’s duty to render tribute to Caesar as well, which is in the form of taxes. So while our police officers and firemen, as well as the military are willing to lay down their lives for us, is the so called church that cheap and willing to show a total disregard for the duties performed by not paying their fair share in the form of taxes? After all if the Church doesn’t set the example in deed as well as word, then who will? Hey people, next time they hit you up with their endless giving sermons seeking to get more money out of the congregation, ask them if they have done their fair share, before you decide if you are going to support them as well. 1 Timothy 5:17-18 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. (18) For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. (KJV) Here we see an example of taking care of God’s people, not muzzling them but rather supporting them in their work. Whatever calling they are answering, if you are getting fed at their organization and you know that they are teaching truth then God does require people to give and support it as well. Now the flip side though with God’s people is that you are required to give also to support the other works God has called, otherwise you haven’t truly fulfilled your duty. You know, that water and sewer system to your building was put in by a laborer and the Bible does tell us that the laborer is worthy of his reward doesn’t it? Maybe if you are having financial problems with your organization, it just may be a reflection of your own stinginess and lack of giving on your part in the form of tribute or taxes. Remember too that in Romans 13:4 God refers to our civil servants as being His ministers also; so while many ministers demand payment for their services from the congregations, are they doing their part themselves in the form of tribute? Matthew 17:24-27 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? (25) He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? (26) Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. (27) Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. (KJV) “Oh but big corporations get tax breaks, why can’t we get them”? “After all, the law says we can, doesn’t it”? Are you under the law of man only, or are you now under the law of faith as well? Our Lord paid taxes didn’t He? So being the fact that He is the perfect example God sent for mankind, then it would do me good to pay also, wouldn’t it? What an insult to tell our brave military, fire, and police men and women that we support them, only to do it with lip service and not in deed. You know if everyone did their fair share then we would not have to watch these people struggle financially, as well as getting the health care that they need. So Christians, is it our duty to give tribute? Well if you wish to be in good standing with God, yes, definitely! Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video Taxes is the second video of a two-part series on the topic of taxes and the Church which we did last April; are you leading by example or are you a fraud? You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. This week's video Frauds is the first video of a two-part series on the topic of taxes and the Church which we did last April; are you leading by example or are you a fraud? You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. This week's video Taxes is the second video of a two-part series on the topic of taxes and the Church; are you leading by example or are you a fraud? You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. This week's video Frauds is the first video of a two-part series on the topic of taxes and the Church; are you leading by example or are you a fraud? You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:8-10 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; (9) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, (10) For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; (KJV)
The laws of our land are put in place to protect us and keep an order to our society. For every transgression there are consequences, and God has ordained our military, police and other law enforcement bureaus to maintain this order for all of our benefit. I am grateful for the jobs they do, and would much rather see dangerous criminals locked up instead of roaming loose and preying on our society. That is why, as Christians, we are the ones that should be setting the example by our deeds and not just cheap lip service. So rather than run and hide when it comes time to pay our fair share concerning taxes to keep these services going, the people of God especially should be the ones leading by example. After all I don’t see many ministers today who are not shy about putting their hand out and literally demanding it from their flocks with their guilt trips and pity party sermons about how much more they could do if they had more money. We should be living by a higher standard which includes ‘putting your money where your mouth is’. Mark 12:13-17 And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. (14) And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? (15) Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it. (16) And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's. (17) And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. (KJV) Back in the Lord’s brief period of time on this planet He also was approached by those that claimed they were believers who were looking for loopholes too. Being the fact that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, would not the answer He gave to those back then still hold true today? The Lord was quite specific with His answer and didn’t stutter. So I ask ‘which part of paying taxes is being misunderstood by the so called believers today’? Having watched a documentary about a big corporation that goes into communities seeking to set up their franchise stores there, the first thing they do is hit the local governments up for tax breaks. These are multi-billion dollar organizations that rather than do their part and be an example to the community, they do whatever they can to milk it dry. Sounds like the same mindset that has crept into the so called churches of today; they look for loopholes in the system which the Lord pointed out in verse 15 above is hypocritical. Maybe what has happened is rather than follow the example of our Lord, they have gone out of His will; and rather than feed the flock of God with the truth they end up fleecing it with their hypocritical messages that end up making merchandise out of the flock rather than Christ like people. Personally, I don’t like paying taxes (although I do) especially when I see some of the waste and mismanagement that goes on with it. Although many people complain about our country and direction it is going it is the place the Lord has me at for this time; and quite frankly when I watch the news I see there are a lot worse places to be. Our system is not perfect and never will be because of the effect sin has on this fallen world. So until the Lord returns we all need to do what is required in His word and pay our fair share if we wish to keep the Lord as our source. Proverbs 11:1-4 A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (2) When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (3) The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. (4) Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. (KJV) If you worked all week and didn’t get what was agreed to, you would be all over the situation demanding a just balance. If your tax return came up short you would be after them to get it straight. So when did the people of God and those that claim to be followers of Christ become above the law with their tax loopholes and big corporation mentality? Christians are supposed to be the example; and if everyone followed the example of these so called ministries, then we would have no one paying their fair share for services rendered and we would have nothing but chaos and anarchy in this country. Since when did they become such cheapskates? Claiming they serve a God of abundance but act stupid when it comes time to distribute it; nonsense! Our military people should not have to come home to a more hostile environment than the one they just left; and rather than thanking them, many that claim to be of God, are actually just as guilty as many others for ignoring their needs. Acts 20:32-35 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (33) I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. (34) Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. (35) I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (KJV) This was Paul’s farewell address to the elders of Ephesus; letting them know the example he set and what it took to be blessed of God. As a Church and an example of the believers in Christ, is our mindset the same also, realizing it is more blessed to give than receive? If so, we need to lead by example. For all those that are truly serving our Lord in not only talk but walk, we will realize this and do what the word of God requires of us. 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (8) And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (9) (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. (10) Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) (11) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (KJV) Although this is one of the most popular verses with many of the religious people of today who have their hand out to the congregation seeking their just do financial balance, God is also speaking to them about doing their just part and quit fussing and complaining about rendering to Caesar. Although it is important to support the fellowship God has put you in, and you are to be obedient to what the Lord is asking of you, make sure the next time you get hit up with money pitches and sermons that pertain to the importance of giving, that the people who are preaching it are doing what the word of God requires also; giving more than just cheap lip service. If they have sold out to tax loopholes and are not doing what the word of God requires of them, how many other areas have they compromised and sold out in? No man can serve two masters, you cannot serve God and mammon (money); that’s called double minded which is unstable and unable to receive anything or any support from the Lord. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 3:28-31 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (29) Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: (30) Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. (31) Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. (KJV)
We have been talking this week about the difference between the old law or covenant, and the new law of faith which is established by our belief in the work Jesus Christ accomplished for mankind to bring reconciliation to a fallen world. There is still a law in place that even though we are under the new law we still need to obey the laws of the land. Despite the fact that we live by faith, we need to stay obedient and diligent to laws here on earth, so that we don’t end up with total chaos and be distracted by it. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; (2) For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. (KJV) We are reminded to keep all those in a place of authority in our prayers daily so that we can serve our time here in a quiet and peaceable life. Not only do we pray for them, but it is up to us to be doers of the word of God also; living honestly and in a godly manner, being examples of the believers that in nothing the ministry would be blamed. So remember, just because everyone else is going over the speed limit doesn’t mean you are excluded from the laws of the land; and if you get caught it is not pleasing to our Father either. Romans 13:1-5 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: (4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (KJV) These powers and ordinances that are being referred to in the above verses are things like police, fire departments and other services that help keep order. God has established these services to render assistance and to try to protect society from being overtaken by ungodly people; which would get to the point of riot and total chaos if we didn’t have these departments in place. So remember, if you break the laws of the land, even if you don’t get caught the first time, Father is watching; and so to keep your conscience clear you need to obey them even when the authorities aren’t watching. I know that laws have changed over the years and that they bend with society and tend to favor certain individuals more than others, but it is the only way to maintain some kind of order here and even though it is not a perfect system it is better than none at all. The fact that they are ordained of God for our benefit, it is important that we establish these laws and abide by them. Romans 13:6-8 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. (KJV) This is what I am going to call my sound off section, something that I see happening in the so called church that doesn’t line up with the word of God. The tribute mentioned in the verses above is referring to taxes. If we are receiving the above mentioned services, no matter who we are, or who we think we are, we are all required to pay for them. So how come we have religious organizations that have these tax free exemptions? If their building gets vandalized or it starts on fire, who are the ones they call for help? The Bible says the workman is worthy of his hire, and that we are not to withhold wages to them they are due; so the fact that these are ordinances of God, why are these religious organizations exempt? If what they are doing is truly the work of God, is He not capable of supporting it then? Or maybe it is just another loophole so that these wannabe preachers can pocket more of the loot. Was not the Lord Himself our example that we are to follow and if so, didn’t he pay taxes? Matthew 17:24-27 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? (25) He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? (26) Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. (27) Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. (KJV) Here we see the Lord Himself didn’t argue or fuss about it, but knew who His source was and did what was required so not to offend. Let me ask this question; is there any group or organization that is more adamant on getting their fair share and supporting financially their ministers than the so called church we see today? It seems more and more the messages I hear coming from these groups focus more on the financial upkeep rather than the spiritual upkeep of the congregations. Truly where the treasure is, there will be the heart also. I see a total double standard; those that receive services that are ordained of God and require a financial upkeep are ignored by the people of God that should be living above the standard of man. The so called church and its preachers demand their fair share and in many cases well beyond that, and then neglect their duty to distribute what is fair for services rendered in their own communities, which is hypocritical. Proverbs 3:27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. (KJV) Next time a preacher stands up and teaches on giving, on how important it is that you all do your part, ask him or her before you give to their organization, if they are doing their part and paying their taxes according to the word of God. Just because man says that it’s ok and finds a loophole in the system, doesn’t mean God says its right; in fact His word is quite clear where He stands. Jeremiah 22:13 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; (KJV) Have you ever heard the phrase or muttered the words ‘where’s a cop when you need one’? Isn’t it nice to have someone to call when there is an emergency, that at times is life threatening? How about our war veterans that lay their lives down so that we can have the freedom to worship our Lord; are they not worthy of their hire? How many times have we seen in the news where they don’t get the medical services and such that is required for them because of a lack of funds; have they not earned this right? James 5:4 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. (KJV) Talk about frauds; you may have found loopholes in man’s systems, but it won’t get through Father’s system. And many of those that stand before Him and claim to be preachers and teachers of the word of God will find out that they sold their souls for cheap loopholes and didn’t practice what they preach. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 4:18-19 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. 19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (KJV)
We have been talking about masks this week, those things which veil and hide the truth from many who should know better; which is why God sent His Son our way, to unveil the truth. God promises to supply all and not just some of our need; however, that only happens when we do it His way. The reason many don’t know their true source is due to the fact that they walk more by outward, than inward sight. Romans 13:1-3 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resists the power resists the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shall have praise of the same: (KJV) When you resist the power of God you end up in the damnation column, and not the winners circle. You find that somewhere along the line you got duped into something that wasn’t of God and were derailed. Romans 13:4-6 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (KJV) Hey preachers, while you are whining and fussing about a lack of support, did you know that God considers those that are firemen, policemen, and military His ministers also? With that in mind do you see what is required on our end concerning this matter? Yes, that would mean that we are definitely required to pay tribute which does mean taxes, something you need to embrace rather than turn away from. Romans 13:7-8 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. 8 Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loves another hath fulfilled the law. (KJV) Bottom line, if your preacher is asking for support from his congregation, take a moment and ask him if he is paying his fair share in the form of custom, which are taxes. If not, then anyone of those people who are hiding under the guise of the 501-C3 tax loophole of man should not be someone you or any other Christian should be giving their support to. Mark 12:14-17 And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and cares for no man: for thou regards not the person of men, but teaches the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it. 16 And they brought it. And he saith unto them, whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's. 17 And Jesus answering said unto them, render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marveled at him. (KJV) Take note of verse 15 which describes those that were trying to sidestep their tax obligations. We see the Lord put them in the category of hypocrites. Given the fact that the Lord is the same yesterday, today and forever what makes you think He is going to change His mind today? Also note that the Lord is crystal clear on the fact that we need to render to Caesar as well as to God. You can’t have one without the other. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enters in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV)
Today it’s time to uncover another mask that many preachers have been hiding under; their obligation when it comes to paying taxes. The reality is many are drowning because they have gone off the deep end trying to do an end run around what their obligation is concerning this topic. Church we are supposed to be an example of the believers and if we are sidestepping and tap dancing around the truth, we will find our self robbed blind. James 5:4-5 Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, cried: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabbath. 5 Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. (KJV) Oh that stuff in the book of James only refers to CEO’S of big corporations and not ministers. Really, well who built the road that your so called minister drove on to get to his building? How about the nice, convenient indoor plumbing fixtures that the city installed? The list goes on and on, but the bottom line is that those same ministers are not shy about reminding people of their obligations when it comes time to pass the plate are they? Leviticus 19:12-14 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shall thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD. 13 Thou shall not defraud thy neighbor, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning. 14 Thou shall not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind, but shall fear thy God: I am the LORD. (KJV) Many are robbing God the opportunity to work on their behalf and supply all their need by taking a shortcut when it comes time to pay their fair share of taxes. They hide under the mask of a 501-C3 tax law thinking it allows them to be exempt. I thought the Church was supposed to live by a higher law, that being a law of faith. Jeremiah 22:12-13 But he shall die in the place whither they have led him captive, and shall see this land no more. 13 Woe unto him that builds his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that uses his neighbor’s service without wages, and gives him not for his work; (KJV) What do you tell our Vets that are sitting in your congregations in need of assistance? Usually the buck is passed and the finger pointed at the government, but why wouldn’t you be willing to do your part and pay your fair share? Matthew 17:25-27 He saith, yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, what thinkest thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own children, or of strangers? 26 Peter saith unto him, of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, then are the children free. 27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shall find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. (KJV) Given the fact that the Lord was sent to be our example then why are God’s people not following suit? The truth is they are letting the thief rob them blind. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
AuthorWe are stewards of the mystery of Christ. Ambassadors on His behalf to share the conditions of peace with God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Archives
December 2024
Categories
All
|