Reverend Ramey wrote: Dear Brother David: I have been blessed to design and use [this worksheet] when teaching on false religions and the occult. The worksheet uses ONLY the KJV, and is coming to you for your site use as long as you would like.

ANY group that sponsors/spreads/supports teachings or beliefs, contrary to the Word of God, AND uses deception in order to maintain its membership base, or draw in NEW followers to the group.
 
 

1. Hatred of Christians and Christian institutions, while maintaining an outward 'form' of Godliness. (II Timothy 3:5)
2. Denial of the Deity of Christ.
3. Denial of the Blood of Christ.
4. Misrepresentation of God.
5. Denial / Misrepresentation of Satan.
6. Denial / Misrepresentation/Misinterpretation of the Word of God.
7. Love of Religion, including ritualization and legalism.
8. Denial / Misrepresentation of the Plan of God concerning Salvation.
9. Oppression of the poor and needy, unless they can be used to manipulate public opinion in favor of their cause.
10. No Visible Evidence of the Holy Spirit, nor the Fruits associated with Him.

Satan has Intellect (II Cor. 11:3), Emotion (Rev. 12:17), and a Strong Will (II Tim. 2:26). BUT SATAN IS A DEFEATED FOE (Col. 2:15)!
 
 

I. Head / Intellect Groups: Filling of the mind with facts, figures, and twisted Scriptures, instead of the Bible truth.
 

Examples: Islam, Freemasonry, Hinduism.

Counters: Personal testimony, Fruit of the Spirit.

II. Heart / Emotion Groups: Going by the five senses, feelings, and emotions.
 

Examples: EST, UFOs, Dianetics, Word of Faith.

Counters: Personal testimony, Scriptures, Sound Doctrine.

III. Works / Will Groups: Compilation of Good Works in order to please God, including door-to-door selling of books, congregating in airports, flowers sold on street corners.
 

Examples: Jehovah's Witnesses, Moonies, Mormons, Shriners.

Counters: Personal Testimony, Sound Doctrine, Wisdom.

To win someone out of these groups to Jesus Christ will take:

1. Time
2. Compassion
3. Brotherly Love
4. Prayer
5. No Street Debates
6. Lack of Fear
7. Humility
8. Unwavering Faith In God
9. A Solid Witness
10. Pointing Out The Cross.

Books of Jude, James, I and II Timothy, I and II Thessalonians.

Work Sheet :
What May Happen To Those 
Who Come To Christ

One of the drawbacks that Soul Winners, or other Christians face who deal with those in cults, false religions, or the occult, is that they are often ignorant of what awaits a person who chooses Christ over their former activities. The purpose of this worksheet is to provide some brief examples of what could happen to those in some of the major false religions who come to Christ and shed their former ways...and what they face!

REMEMBER: Should you win someone out of these groups, YOU are going to serve as their teacher and friend for a while. They will be leaning upon YOU, and watching your life in Christ VERY carefully. They will be asking you questions, and may have to 'hide out' at your home. You must 'reteach' them in the ways of Christ for a season, just like Paul was taught by Priscilla and Acquilla, before encouraging them on their way. They will go to church as often as you go to church. If you win someone out these groups, remember to ONLY speak of their past to those whom YOU can trust. DON'T let weak, wolfish, or gossiping Christians know of their past. Encourage the person to testify of their lives at the appropriate time--and encourage their prayer life--but, be wise that you will have to protect them, as well as yourself and your family as they make the transition from sinner to saint. He that WINNETH souls IS WISE!

PLANTS, INFILTRAITORS, AND UNDERCOVER AGENTS: There are those who 'infiltrate' the church to see which of their members (or other group members) are coming in to the true Christian community. They do communicate with each other, and seek to break up true churches by gossip, innuendo, and financial contributions. They start at the top by trying to destroy the Pastor and Deacons, then move throughout the congregation. It is important to keep some church information confidential from outsiders--especially gossip and church disputes.

HOMOSEXUALS AND LESBIANS: Those who repent of this sin are often 'cut off' from former friends and acquaintances. They are ostracized, and will become the subject of gossip, slander, and innuendo by gays AND some church members they may have been in sin with--including character assassination. If the person whom you win to Christ leaves a lover behind, be prepared for that lover to come gunning for you and your household. (ALSO: Same tactics used by Prostitutes, Pimps, Crack Dealers, Gangs).

WITCHES, WARLOCKS, MEDIUMS, SATANISTS, AND OTHER OCCULTISTS: Depending upon their level of involvement, either in a Coven, or other such group, they will have to undergo further deliverance from the demonic powers which they used to depend upon for food, shelter, wealth, and power. They have to renounce their use of these 'black arts', and will likely be targeted for death by their former associates. Many of their 'former associates' have put 'contracts' on their lives--worth from $10,000 and up! (Acts 17 and Acts 19)

FOLLOWERS OF ISLAM, HINDUISM, AND OTHER EASTERN RELIGIONS: Those who are 'won to Christ' out of these groups face greater hardship. They are regarded as 'legally dead' by their families and friends. They are ostracized and kicked out of the business, academic, and professional community. They cannot find meaningful employment in their former homelands. They are 'cut off' from gatherings of family and friends. They may lose access to their children, their spouses, and are squarely rejected by their own--even to the extent that they cannot attend funerals of close family members.

ROMAN CATHOLICS: People who come out of this religion have been branded as 'heretics' and are officially 'excommunicated' from the Roman Catholic Church. Former priests and nuns have a difficult time dealing with the fact that they can marry, and are free to study the KJV Bible. Depending upon their involvement, they may be targeted for assassination. Their families no longer recognize them as being alive.

FREEMASONS: Those who come out of this group for the true Christ are considered 'excommunicated'. Their wealth, power, and prestige is also canceled, and they may lose their jobs and businesses. They are also targets for assassination because of the 'Blood Oaths' they swore. If they reveal any of the lodge's secrets, they are targets for death and destruction--along with their families. Their families ALSO loose rank and reputation in the Lodge system.

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES, MORMONS, MOONIES, HARE KRISHNAS: Also are regarded as 'excommunicated'. Regarded as 'legally dead' and 'heretics' by their families, and are cast out of their families. May also lose their spouses and children, as the cult will encourage the spouse to file for divorce, and in extreme cases, will move the spouse and children to another location. May also be targeted for death, depending upon their involvement. May also have threats made against them in public and private.

FOLLOWERS OF SANTERIA, PALO MAYOMBE, AND OTHER AFRICAN-BASED CULTS: Much of the same as those involved in other occult-based groups. Excommunication, death threats against the individuals, their families, and those who have led them away from the cults. These individuals will have to relearn the purpose of the Bible--not as a 'magic book' but as the Word of God. Some occult groups will resort to 'casting spells' on individuals, churches, or church members to get their followers back. Assassination is not beyond them as well. No weapon formed against the Christian shall prosper! Cleansing of these individuals will take time. Yes, thanks to Jesus Christ, their sins are forgiven. BUT, they will have to follow the prescription in Acts 19: Destroy ALL materials connected with their former activities.
 

• Renounce ALL bargains with the Satanic host, evil spirits, and unclean spirits.
• Cast these spirits out of their lives and keep them out.
• Keep away from former contacts UNLESS THE LORD directs them for Soul Winning actions.
• Deal with guilt the Biblical way.
• Choose their testimony topics VERY carefully!

Work Sheet: 
On The Spirit Realm

The purpose of this worksheet is to explain a few basics about evil spirits, better known as demons. Jesus Christ, in Matthew, Chapter Four, proves that demons exist and are constantly a threat against the Christian. And, just like the Master, demons and demonic power are subject to the Christian, as long as he/she is firmly rooted in Jesus Christ (WE have AUTHORITY in Jesus Christ, and in His name ALONE to BIND THEM and CAST THEM OUT Mark 16:15-17)! Never confuse all acts of the flesh with demonic realm. There is not a ‘demon’ under every rock, or behind every bush. The Christian is not fearful of demons. HOWEVER, let's remember NOT to get cocky like the sons of Sceva (Acts 19). It is the gift of eternal life that makes us who we are THROUGH Christ.
 

SOME demonic powers flee because of the approach of a Christian; SOME demonic powers can be broken by the prayers of a Christian; SOME demonic powers and demons can be CAST OUT by the Christian; SOME demonic powers and demons can be CAST OUT by prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21). Repentance vital in ALL cases!
 

The Christian CANNOT be possessed by evil spirits or demons, but CAN be oppressed, harassed, and blinded by evil spirits and demons if their Spiritual guard is not up, their discernment is not sharp, and their Armor and Arsenal are not kept in prime shape and working order. Satan's four best tools: 1) Can have demons appear as Angels of Light; 2) Can masquerade as Ministers of righteousness; 3) Can convince people that he doesn't exist; 4) Can convince people that occult activity is harmless, or ‘just for fun’.

Demons/Evil Spirits can inhabit buildings where:

1. Sexual Immorality
2. Murder
3. Suicide
4. Occult Rituals
5. Secret Societies
6. Other Abominations or Wicked acts have taken place--including keeping of occult objects, such as crucifixes, crystal balls, pentagrams, or Idols from other countries.

*Demons/Evil Spirits can be passed on to individuals down the family line, up to the fourth generation because of occult involvement (multiplier effect); bad deeds committed by ancestors (i.e. the Kennedy clan); or careless dabbling in the occult arts (like Ouija Boards, Harry Potter and Pokemon).

*Demons/Evil Spirits can gain access to a home via certain television shows, movies, CDs, videos, or other objects which go against the Word of God. AND they can inhabit various forms of modern music that caters to lust, adultery, fornication, etc.

*Demons/Evil Spirits can inhabit animal life (Remember the Pigs in Mark, Chapter five?)

*WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR HOME?
 

WORKSHEET:
A False View Of Hell and Demons?

Let me ask you, the reader, to stop just a moment, and reflect upon this: DEMONS are REAL! HOWEVER, a Christian CANNOT be demon possessed, because their sealing in Jesus Christ, by His blood and sacrifice BREAKS the contact between the soul, spirit and the demonic realm. An UNBELIEVER can be possessed by, or infested with demons (Mark, Chapter 5). A Christian CAN be OPPRESSED by demons, and have their work, witness, testimony and family ATTACKED by the Satanic host as a means of discouragement, deception, and depression. Further, a Christian can have their way, message, or ministry BLOCKED by demons (Remember Daniel, Chapters 9 and 10). Satan and his crew will very seldom attack the believer head on, but will often go for the ‘Weakest Link’ in a believer's life (i.e. husband, wife, children, finance, etc.). BUT, the Christian has the Armor, and the Arsenal of God to emerge victorious--if they USE it!

In any instance where the believer has their way blocked, or are stopped in their tracks, and they have done a ‘spiritual inventory’ (I John 1:8-10), then they must adopt the stance of Job (Chapters 1, 2, and 3) and note that the Lord has been bragging on them and Satan has sought special permission to attack the believer (and received it) for God's greater glory! HOWEVER, we mustn't get too ‘big’ for our spiritual britches, as the Lord may choose to humble us to reveal our pride!

One sure way to beat demonic influence is to stay away from those items you KNOW are an open doorway into the Satanic realm. A Doorway is a deliberate opening into your defenses by ignorance, or deliberate sin! For example: If one starts each day reading their horoscope, a doorway has been opened into the Satanic realm. If one likes to head to Vegas and gamble with God's Tithe money, you have opened a doorway. ALL SATAN NEEDS IS AN INCH TO KILL YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE, AND TO DESTROY YOU! Doorways can become strongholds, unless repented of, confessed to the Lord, and sealed by the power of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

An additional way to keep Satan out of our lives is to adopt the H.A.L.T. stance taught by Scottish Evangelist Bob Gass in the early 1990s (which I have explained before in previous teaching and writing). To those not familiar with this teaching, I'll lay it out here: H.A.L.T. simply is an acronym that indicates when the Christian will NOT make the best possible, rational and/or spiritual decisions, based upon one of the following items being out-of-balance in their personal lives. I have added a few items that were not in Gass’ original model, based upon observation and personal experience:

H equals: Hungry, Hurting, Hassled or Horny (yes, I did say it!)

A equals: Angry, Anxious, or Aggravated.

L equals: Lustful or Lonely

T equals: Tired, Tested, or Tormented (financially, spiritually, work problems)

The BIBLICAL antidote to these items (and they can happen either one at a time, or in combination with each other), rests in;

1. Study of the Word of God;
2. Prayer;
3. Prayer with supplication and thanksgiving;
4. Fasting and Prayer;
5. Praise and Prayer; 
6. Turning to joy, humor, and standing in the Lord.

*Head/Intellect Groups: DO NOT believe in Hell, Demons, or the Satanic Host. They use their intellect to ‘explain away’ bad things that happen to people, blissfully, or deliberately ignorant of the fact that Satan WILL do his best to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). Also, don't believe in SIN. Also wonder where God is in their Tragedy!

*Heart/Emotion Groups: DO have their own warped view of Hell, Demons and the Satanic host, but DO NOT believe in Satan, nor that he exists. They take a rather dim view of those who dare to point out that he does exist, thinking that the Christian is weak, or ‘imagining’ things. May believe in SIN, but give little credence to it.

*Works/Will Groups: DO believe that they can ‘work’ their way OUT of Hell, believing that it is a ‘temporary repository’, which can be avoided by ‘purgatory’, ‘paradise’ or some other means of escape. God won't ‘allow’ them to go to Hell, because of all of the great works they have done for him. Believe in SIN, but believe that it can be ‘worked’ off. Have their own ‘gods’, but will tremble before a TRUE Christian!

Having said all this, let me provide this following condensation of an article by Dr. Saleem Almahdy, from ‘The Voice Of The Martyrs’, March, 1998 edition. See if you can understand the mindset of some of the followers of Islam who are causing quite a bit of concern in the USA and around the world, in these last hours:

Description of Hell in Islam: Hell in Islam is a place of fire and torment ... it has Seven gates ... the layers they will descent, according to their rank, are respectively: Gahanna, the highest is for the rebellious monotheists; the second, Al Laza (furnace), is for the Jews; the third is Al Hutama (the crushed), which is for the Christians; the fourth is Al-Sair (the blaze), for the Sabaeans; the fifth, Saquar (scorching heat), is for the fire worshippers; the sixth is Hell, which is for the unbelievers; and the seventh is the Pit for the deceivers.

The Description of Paradise: A picture of the paradise that awaits Muslims after they get out of hell was presented to us by the Koran, by Mohammed, the messenger of Allah, and by most of the early and later Muslim scholars. This picture is very well presented in Sura 36:55,56, 37:41-49; 55:56; 56:22, 23 and 35-37.

One very strange thing that paradise has is the ‘houris’, who are assigned to fulfill men's sexual pleasures. These ‘houris’ are always virgins, and their relations with men do not affect their virginity. They do not age beyond 33 years of age. They are white with charming wide, black eyes and smooth skin. women who die old on earth will be recreated virgins for the enjoyments of men. The following Islamic commentators agree on this: Al Jalalan, Al Baidwai, and Al Zamakhshary. Commentator Sheikh Sha’rawi noted that: ‘Every morning one hundred virgins will be (the portion) of each man.’ According to this interpretation, women are regarded in heaven as toys to be owned by men, the same way they are abused in many Muslim nations today.

(Side note: By the way, women get to choose either their former husband, via divorce, or their present husband in paradise. No 100 male virgins for them!)

So above is the reason to what motivates the Muslim who kills for Allah. He hopes to got to paradise and have 100 virgins each day for his sexual pleasure. With this hope these men strap on nail bombs and are fearless as they willingly die for Allah. This belief says if they die in battle for Allah they go straight to paradise. This is far better to them than dying an old man and having Allah judge their works to see if they make it to paradise. Dying in battle is a sure ticket to paradise and many Muslims are eager to go! This is the enemy that Israel (and now the USA, thanks to the 9/11/01 WTC and Pentagon bombings) is facing.

NOTE: Roman Catholicism, via the teachings of Purgatory (which one may ‘buy’ their way out via money paid to the mother church via indulgences, AND family members can buy indulgences after one dies to ‘make sure’ that the deceased loved one is ‘bought’ out of Hell.)

NOTE: In Freemasonry (Prince Hall, Mainline, Eastern Star), the lambskin Apron is believed to serve as a ‘covering’ of SIN, and will serve as an atonement for those who stand at the Great White Throne Judgment, which goes AGAINST biblical teaching. Christians may/may not have to stand at the Great White Throne Judgment, BUT, once they are identified with Christ, will be ushered in to the Judgment Seat of Christ to determine their eternal rewards. THEIR sins are forgiven, as the Blood of Christ is on them. NOTE: THE EYES OF GOD ARE EVERYWHERE (Proverbs 15:3)!
 

WORKING TERMS, EXAMPLES, AND DEFINITIONS

Many biblical terms have been taken and twisted by various cults, occult groups and practitioners, false religions, and movements. The purpose of this guide is to give the student a working termination guide, clearly defined by the Scriptures in both the Old and New Testaments.

OLD TESTAMENT: First 39 Books of the Bible, composed of Law, History, Poetry and Prophecy. They are a foreshadowing of the New Testament and the birth, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:1-28). They are Inspired (II Timothy 3:16); Written for the admonition of the Christian (I Corinthians 10:1-11); and are Unified with the New Testament in their authorship (Hebrews 1:1); the Plan of Salvation (I Peter 1:9-12); and the presentation of Jesus Christ as Messiah and Savior (Luke 24:25-44).

NEW TESTAMENT: Remaining 27 Books of the Bible, composed of the Gospels, History, Epistles or Letters to Christians, and Prophecy. It is also known as the New Covenant--God’s final, everlasting covenant with His people, in which His grace expressed in Christ is made available to all who believe, and have received Christ. It is ratified by God's promise (Genesis 3:15); God's oath (Isa. 54:9-10); Christ's blood (Hebrews 9:12-26); and the Holy Spirit's Sealing (II Corinthians 1:22). The NT is superior to the OT in its Hope (Hebrews 7:19); Priesthood (Hebrews 7:20-28); Covenant (Hebrews 8:6); and Sacrifice (Hebrews 9:23).

Always Remember: The OT is important in pointing the way to Christ by Prophecy, Precept, and Principle. We are bound by the NT thanks to the birth, death, burial resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, and those Principles, Precepts and Prophecies that are carried forward from the OT covenant into the NT covenant.

1. The Christian IS the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
2. The Christian IS saved by grace, not of works (Ephesians 2:8-10).
3. The Christian IS connected to God by Jesus Christ (John 10:9).

THREE KEY UNITY POINTS BETWEEN THE OT AND THE NT
 

1. Obedience is better than Sacrifice (I Samuel 15:22 and Mark 12:33).
2. God's Pecking Order is: Husband, Wife, Children.
3. Miracles Always Follow The Word Of God!

THOSE NOT IN GOD'S FAMILY CANNOT USE GOD'S POWER! (Acts 19:14-20)
 

ABOMINATION: ANY item considered hateful, detestable, or repulsive to the Character of God, or the Word of God. NOTE: Those things considered an Abomination to the Lord under the OT dispensation, are still considered Abominations under the NT dispensation (God changes not).

ANOINT(ING): Applying, or pouring of oil upon. Under the OT, those identified with God used this as a means of demonstrating their ‘set apartness’ for performance of, or further public/private identification with the Lord, and His service. Under the NT, with Jesus Christ being ‘The Anointed One’ (Matthew 16:16, 20; Acts 9:22), the Christian, being a joint heir with Christ is a partaker of His Anointing by the act of receiving Him by Salvation (Ephesians 2:8-10), and the imparting of the Holy Ghost to the Christian (John 16:13-15).

CHRISTIAN: First used at Antioch, by the pagans in that culture as a means to attempt to ‘insult’ the early believers. The pagan view: A person could be recognized by how much ‘control’ their ‘religion’ had over their lives. Christians of that era were so strongly identified with Christ that one could not tell where the Christ ended, and the individual began. Christ-i-a-n: I am nothing without Christ.

CHRISTMAS: A man-made holiday, steeped in celebration and recognition of the winter solstice and having its roots in paganism. Created by the Roman Catholic church as a means of ‘honoring’ the birth of Jesus Christ. Biblically, there is no ‘date’ to lock in the birth of Christ. I like how EV Hill puts it: ‘If Christmas is supposed to be the birthday of Jesus Christ, then why are we giving presents to each other?’ Tradition and historical record has Christ being born between the fall and winter season (Late September through Late November, or maybe into December). The Bible does not record an exact date for the Birth of Jesus Christ, but does record the method -- Born of a Virgin.

CO-PASTOR: A man-made division in the Office of Pastor. Used by Charismatic and other like-minded denominations, whereby the wife of the Pastor is put on the church payroll to ‘keep’ the ‘ministry’ in ‘family’ hands. Not only does it violate 1 Timothy 2:9-15, it makes a laughing stock of the church. Even FALSE religions know better than to try to keep power over the flock in this manner.

CULT: ANY group, organization, or institution that exalts itself, its teachings, and its existence ABOVE the Word of God. (See ‘Marks Of A Cult’ Separate Worksheet).

DANCE: In the Hebrew, it means ‘leaping for joy’; DANCING IN THE SPIRIT -- A modern ‘twisting’ of the term. It used to be that some denominations (Pentecostals) were very much against this. However, with the coming of modern times, this is used as a means of ‘whipping the people up’ emotionally. From a biblical perspective, it is not a measured step (Psalms 30:11); Common on festive occasions (Exodus 15:20-21). David danced before the Lord with all of his might (II Samuel 6:14); The man whom Peter and John saw healed before the temple (Acts 3:8).

DISCERN: To distinguish; detect; discriminate; come to know. SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT IS NEEDED BY THE CHRISTIAN! It was requested by Solomon (1 Kings 3:9-14); Prayed for by David (Psalms 119:18); Sought by Daniel (Daniel 7:15-16); Denied to the Unregenerate (1 Corinthians 2:14); Is needed by the Christian (1 John 4:1-6). One who is outside of the Body of Christ cannot discern the move of the Spirit within the Body of Christ.

EVANGELIST: One who spreads, or shares the Gospel; EVANGELISM: Spreading, or telling about the Good News of Jesus Christ; Sharing of the Gospel (Good News) This is commanded of EVERY Christian (Matthew 28:18-20). All Christians are evangelists! One does not need a ‘special’ license to share the Gospel. One does not need a special title, nor a special call, nor ordination papers to be considered an evangelist. Evangelism, or Soul Winning is the DUTY of EVERY Christian.

HOLY GHOST/HOLY SPIRIT: Third person of the Godhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit). He represents the ‘Raw Power’ of God, and is never thought of as ‘It’. He is given to the Christian as a gift as a part of the Salvation experience, and ‘seals’ the Christian in Christ. The Holy Spirit has the duty to point the Christian, and others to Christ; His function is NOT to replace Christ, but point the way to Him, and testifies of HIM (John 16:7-14).

JESUS CHRIST: The son of God, and the son of man. God, manifest in the flesh. The Word. While ALL other religions on earth have dead founders, Christ has risen! Thus, the Christian religion is not a religion after man's thinking, but is a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ. ALL will soon bow before Him in eternity.

JIHAD: ‘Holy War’. This simply means that, in the Islamic faith, those persons who feel that they are doing their god a favor by killing off those in opposition to their religious beliefs. REMEMBER: Anything goes under Jihad, be it infiltration, assassination, character assassination, disruption, suicide, punishment of those believed to be in opposition to the ‘faith’. There are eight levels of Jihad ... the western world ONLY knows of one.

KWANZAA: A man-made holiday, created in the mid-1960s by a Black Dentist. The ‘holiday’ is anti-biblical, because it lifts up man, not Jesus Christ. Aimed at African-Americans, and mirrors the Jewish holiday at this time (with ‘our’ candle holder having red, black, and green-colored candles). The ‘seven principles’ (Nuguzo Saba(?)) do not mention Jesus Christ, nor glorify Him.

LAYING ON OF HANDS: A biblical teaching which has become twisted in these last days. In the NT for example, Paul charges Timothy (I Timothy 4:16) not to neglect the fact that the Presbytery (other Godly men) laid hands on him as a means of giving their sanction, blessing, and empowerment to him for service; HOWEVER, this same Paul warns Timothy NOT to lay hands suddenly on any man (1 Timothy 5:22), meaning that the act of ‘laying on of hands’ is something which must be done with great reverence towards God, and understanding of whom you are laying hands upon.

LIE: To intentionally tell an untruth; 

LIAR: One who tells untruths: God considers Lying an Abomination (Proverbs 6:16-19). Biblical Christianity is not built on lies, because God CANNOT lie -- it is NOT in His character. Lying produces error (Amos 2:4); Increases Wickedness (Proverbs 29:12); Leads to destruction (Hosea 10:13-15); And Death (Proverbs 21:6). Many, if not all cults, occult groups, and false religions have provisos making it OK to lie to protect the faith. A few examples: In Islam, it is held to be OK to lie to those outside of Islam to protect the faith; In Roman Catholicism, it is held to be OK to like to protect the ‘integrity’ of the faith; In Freemasonry, it is held to be OK to lie and withhold information on the mysteries of the various and sundry Masonic Orders. A Jehovah's Witness believes it is all right to lie; Moonies believe it is all right to lie; Mormons believe it is all right to lie. In all of man's religions, one who tells the full truth of these institutions swears oaths to be put to death, if they reveal the ‘hidden secrets’ of these institutions. In Christianity, one would rather be put to death than to lie about the faith (Stephen--Acts, Chapter 7). REMEMBER: The more covert, or undercover a religion, cult, occult group, or society is, does it truly represent God and His Word? Anyone with an ounce of brains would have to say NO!

MERCHANDISE: The ONLY book a Christian need to invest in is the BIBLE! YES there are other books on the market; commentaries, dictionaries, self-help books. BUT all must be filtered through the Scriptures. Question: Why did Jesus cleanse the temple of the moneychangers twice, and proclaim that God's house should be known as a House of Prayer? Because many come to church for the ‘art’ of the deal, and whatever they can steal. Also, one cannot buy the gifts of the Spirit.

MINISTER: One who serves; 

MINISTER: To serve; 

MINISTRY: Service: These are the biblical definitions of each word. In the Christian, the qualifications for a Minister are: Able to teach (1 Timothy 3:2); Courageous (Acts 20:22-24); Diligent, Faithful, Impartial, Industrious, Meek, Obedient, Persevering, Prayerful, Sincere, Spirit-filled, Studious, Sympathetic, Temperate, Willing, Worthy of Imitation (1 Tim. 4:12). REMEMBER: Men and Women can Minster (serve), Men and Women can have a Ministry (service to others for God), MEN ONLY serve in the office of Minister (synonymous with Pastor, et al). Should women be licensed and ordained as Ministers in the church? NO (I Timothy 2:9-16). BUT, men and women are already ordained as ministers to others in, and outside of the Body of Christ.

MIRACLE: An intervention in the natural universe by God. Otherwise described as Signs (Acts 4:30); Wonders (Acts 6:8); Works (John 10:25-38). False Miracles exist, manufactured by Satan. They are NOT to be followed (Deut. 13:1-3); Are a sign of the Antichrist (II Thess. 2:3, 9); False Miracles HAVE been predicted by Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:24). The true purpose of any miracle is to point all to God, not to the one who is producing the work. Nor can one purchase, nor pay for the power of the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:5-25). Under the NT, signs and wonders FOLLOW the preaching of the Word of God. They do not come BEFORE the Word of God.

MIXED MULTITUDE: Comes from the OT, as Moses was leading the people from Egypt to the Promised Land under God's command. Not everyone who was in that flock were Saved! Some were still pagan worshippers. DO NOT ASSUME that, just because someone is in a church, or your church, they are Christians (Book Of Exodus).

NGUZO SABA (THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES): Frequently associated with Kwanzaa, Rites of Passage, or other African religions. These principles ‘sound’ harmless but are not based in the Scriptures. They are in order: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith.

OCCULT: ANY practice that invokes, uses, or seeks to use leadership, power, or emotional stability or self-worth improvement from the Satanic side of the Spirit Realm. Common practices include Astrology, Tarot Cards, Psychics, Mediums, Automatic Writing, Spiritism, Satanism, Palo Mayombe, Santeria.

PRAYER: The means of God's people to commune with God. The only prayer that God will hear from a Sinner is for Salvation. The Christian; the believer is connected to God by the means of the Holy Spirit. REMEMBER: Just because someone can pray does NOT mean that they have a right relationship with God (i.e. the Pharisees)! The believer DOES have the right to ‘check out’ a person's standing BEFORE they allow them to pray for them. Some folks who pray have an agenda to PREY on YOU. OT standard--The Holy Spirit was ON those whom believed. NT standard -- The Holy Spirit is IN those whom believe. The Model Prayer and Pray-er is Jesus Christ. Where two or three are gathered, there am I in the midst of them. Prayer, Supplication, with Thanksgiving. HOWEVER, do NOT pray amiss (to consume on own lusts--James). Some prayers cannot be uttered in the natural. Pray in secret and God shall reward you openly. The Holy Ghost understands our utterances. Jabez and the Sucker Play.

PREACH: To proclaim the truth; to proclaim the Gospel. ALL believers, ALL Christians are commanded to preach the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20), regardless of their station in life. However, the OFFICE of PASTOR (Shepherd) is reserved for MEN only (1 Timothy 2:9-16). Can a woman preach the same as a man? YES when it comes to evangelism and spreading of the Gospel. Should a woman be licensed to preach and Pastor? NO, because the Pastoral office is reserved for MEN only. EXAMINE your Bible! There is NO provision for women to serve as Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers -- for a woman to do this, would VIOLATE 1 Timothy 2:9-16. God put MEN on the front lines, and women in the support role. Same team; different positions.

PROPHECY: Inspired declaration of God's will and purpose, to exhort, edify, strengthen and encourage the Christian, and to warn the unbeliever of God's movements and meanings. Characteristics: Given by God (Isa. 41:22-23); under the NT dispensation, Centered in Christ (Luke 24:26, 27, 44); Inspired by the Holy Spirit (II Peter 1:20); Not of one's own private interpretation (II Peter 1:20); Always relevant (Revelation 22:10); Must NOT be changed by man (Revelation 22:18-19). REMEMBER: SOME biblical prophecies are unconditional, conditional, dated (meant for a certain time, certain place, certain situations, certain people, or certain dispensation), some require interpretation, some have YET to come to pass.

PROPHET OR PROPHETESS: One who is a foreteller, and forthteller of the Word of God; inspired messenger who declares the will of God. Men and women can both serve in this office. However, the guidelines are contained in 1 Corinthians, Chapters 12, 13, and 14. One who supplies false prophecy is to be disregarded as a prophet or prophetess. One who is in rebellion, not walking in the fullness of Christ, nor acting outside of biblical precept can be held to be a true prophet of God. REMEMBER: A mark of one who is truly used by God is not the size of their title, but the depth of their humility and gratitude to God.

PROSPERITY: A state of material OR spiritual abundance. Kinds of: Material, National, Personal, Deceitful, Evil, Spiritual, Divine. True Secrets of: Lord's blessings, Keeping God's law, God's guidance, Trust in God, Dedication to God, Listening to God's Prophets, Belief in God's Word. Perils of: Forgetting God (Deuteronomy 8:10-12), Destruction (Proverbs 1:32), Rebellion (Jeremiah 22:21). REMEMBER -- Under God's NT Covenant with the Christian, one may/may not have MATERIAL prosperity, but can still be considered a prosperous person!

RITES OF PASSAGE: Another man-made innovation, designed to equip young African-American men for adulthood. First, it is unscriptural, because of the emphasis on the ‘seven principles’, which do not mention, nor honor Jesus Christ. It is also a tad bit on the selfish side, because of its emphasis on the secular, and not the spiritual maturing needs. Third, with the exception of the Jewish rite of the Bar Mitzvah (Bah Mitzvah for girls), other cultures measure passage from childhood to adulthood by means of a youth taking responsibility for himself, being able to learn a skill, contributing to his household, and getting ready for--and eventually having--a marriage.

SAINT: One who is a Christian. The Christian is a NEW creation and a NEW creature. Once a person accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they are NOT a ‘Sinner saved by grace’. They are a SAINT of God. Kind of like when a woman marries a man; she does not keep her old, maiden name, but accepts the new name of her husband. To hyphenate one's married name is a means of stating that you don't have much faith in the new relationship, and are straddling the fence, so to speak. The Saint designation means that one knows, and has accepted their NEW standing in Christ. The Christian is a peculiar person; a royal priesthood, a chosen generation.

SIN: ANY missing of the mark of holiness, righteousness, or morality against the Character of God, Jesus Christ, or the Holy Spirit. There are Sins of Omission (NOT doing what one is supposed to do in a given situation); Sins of Ignorance (NOT doing what one is supposed to do because they are unaware); and Sins of Commission (NOT doing what one is supposed to do because of rebellion). The antidote is found in 1 John 1:8-10.

SINNER: One who is WITHOUT Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of their lives. One who is outside of the Body of Christ AND can ONLY have access to the promises and protection of God by acceptance of Jesus Christ.

SLAIN IN THE SPIRIT: An unscriptural practice. This is when hands are laid upon a person for healing, prophecy, deliverance, or impartation of spiritual gifts. When people ‘fell before the Lord’ in the Scriptures, it was forward, in humility. Remember the proviso which Paul told Timothy about the Laying on of Hands.

TITHE OR TITHING: Simply means ‘tenth’, or ‘giving of the tenth’. This OT practice was started when Abraham met Melchizadek (the pre-incarnation of Jesus Christ) some 400 years BEFORE Moses penned the Law (under the direction of the Lord). The Law covered Tithing, Offerings, Freewill Offerings, Heave Offerings, Wave Offerings, Drink Offerings, Sacrificial Offerings and other mandated giving to the Lord's work and the Lord's Priests, the Levites (tribe of Levi). The PRINCIPLE behind the Tithe is the giving of the FIRST FRUITS of one's prosperity. Under the NT covenant, as Christians, we are exempt of many of the Law's offerings, because Christ was the fulfillment of the Law. HOWEVER, we are commanded to: a) give from a cheerful heart; b) set aside giving for the first day of the week (traditionally Sunday); c) give as we have been prospered; d) are free to give above and beyond the Tithe; e) are free in Christ to maintain those things which others may not quite understand under the Doctrine of Christian Liberty, contained in Galatians, Chapter five (i.e.,...judge no man in eat or drink...). Malachi 3:8-10 has caused confusion within the modern church world, but really isn't confusing. Scripture dictates, in those verses, that one who does not Tithe is a thief, and is robbing God of what is his. I find it interesting in the story of the Widow and the Mites, Christ is NOT against the Tithe, but is against the MOTIVES of the Pharisees’ giving. The NT has NOTHING which is against Tithing. It is interesting that those who are AGAINST tithing state that it is no longer considered something the Christian needs to do, because it was an OT requirement. Remember, the first institution which the Lord birthed was not the CHURCH but the FAMILY. Should we rebel against Ephesians, Chapters 5 and 6, which deals with the family? NO! Also, keeping the Tithe is a good means of financial discipline, and it is given BEFORE you pay your bills (Pre-Tax Income). I have noticed, by personal experience, that churches which have disciples trained as Tithers don't have to engage in rummage sales, fish or chicken frys, nor bake sales. They have the resources to take care of the Saints, and don't have to rely on the government's help.

TONGUES: Still in effect for today. Must follow the teachings of I Corinthians, Chapters 12, 13, and 14 concerning them. Big division issue in some churches. HOWEVER -- the Christian must answer the question: Will my using this gift add confusion to the church, or edify the church. Best to pray in tongues in secret, so that the Lord can reward you openly.

WORD OF GOD: The Bible. The KJV of 1611. It is God breathed, and God inspired. The KJV makes the Satanic crew back up. From its inception and publishing, the KJV survived some 260 years without a new version being introduced. Every Version SINCE the KJV has been a desire by a man, group of men, or false religion to misrepresent, misinterpret, or ‘water down’ the Word of God.

1. What is the Biblical foundation of the item?
2. Where, and with whom did it originate: God or man?
3. If it began in the OT, is it still in force in the NT?
4. What did Jesus Christ say about it?
5. Precept, Principle, Illustration?
6. Since we are under the NT Covenant, what does the NT say?
7. Will it cater to my flesh, or to my spirit, and how?
8. What is the track record of the individual who came up with it?
9. What is the motive? Who wants me to participate and why?
10. Lastly, is it a work of the flesh, or of the spirit (Galatians, Chapter 5)?