To the Reader: I’m writing this article concerning those Christians who are involved in Competition Sports. And yes, I’m sure that there may be those who oppose what’s being said here. However, if we read through the scriptures (including those which were supported by the early Christians), we can see that God hates pride. And isn’t it true that competition sports are built upon pride a well? I say this because don’t we play to strut our stuff and show that we’re better than our competition? Why else would we be doing it? So, every trophy held high by the victory becomes an idol of worship. Therefore, let’s put away this sin from among us. For we shouldn’t be seen running alongside with those who chase after vain glory.

Now, I do include the books of Maccabees to get my point across how I feel concerning competition sports. For it’s true that these books were included in both the 1560 Geneva and the 1611 King James bible. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1800 hundreds that publishers started printing bibles without the books of Maccabees in it. But what is interesting is the fact that there was a desire to start up the Olympics in Europe during this time as well. And according to the book of Maccabees, this is the practice of the heathens.

So, did the desire to reestablish the Olympics inspire its removal? Or was it just a coincident that it was removed around that time? Well, only God knows (and of course those who sought its removal). However, that all being said, there are still some publishers who still rightfully include Maccabees in today’s bibles. They can be found in such places as Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com and other stores as well.

It’s disappointing to see fellow Christians so wrapped up in the things of this world. For we are seen running alongside those who are seeking after empty vain pursuits. And as already mentioned above, one of those vain pursuits is competition sports. For don’t we hear fellow Christians talk and brag about their favorite teams and players? And don’t we see parents spending so much time running their children to-and-fro from one practice to another? Even churches have gotten involved in supporting sport events. And why Christian; isn’t this an act of idolatry?

Now, we read in the books of Maccabees concerning a falling away of the children of Israel who gave themselves to the ways of the Gentiles. And we see that one of those ways was building themselves a gymnasium and thus giving themselves over to sports. “In those days lawless men came forth from the sons of Israel, and they persuaded many, saying, ‘Let us make a covenant with the Gentiles surrounding us, for ever since we were separated from them, many evils have found us.’ This proposal found favor in their eyes, and some of the people eagerly desired to enter into this agreement. So they went to the king, and he gave them authority to observe the ordinances of the Gentiles. Then they built a gymnasium in Jerusalem according to the customs of the Gentiles, and made themselves as the uncircumcision. So they fell away from the holy covenant, yoked themselves to the Gentiles, and sold themselves to do evil.” (1 Maccabees 1:11-15)

So, we read above that there were certain Jews who: “sold themselves to do evil” by getting involved in sports. This is true because competition sports are based on the pride that lusts after victory and feeds on attention from its onlookers. Just look at the frenzy and cheering of the crowds and the prideful reactions of the players. And it’s even more disturbing that our assemblies (churches) are getting involved by holding sport events in honor of it. Shame on us for allowing this to happen.

Therefore, my fellow brothers and sister in Christ; do you really believe that God approves of this? For we read in Proverbs that: “He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD's delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love.” (Psalm 147:10-11 NLT) So, God is not impressed or please with what man can do in these vain sport event. Therefore, please don’t point to the sky as if you’re giving glory to God. For do you really think that he favors one team over another? Or do you really think that he is giving you the strength and ability to wine. I ask this because there are unbelievers who are very successful in sports as well. So, is he helping them as well? The answer should be a big NO.

Below are some other passages from the bible that pertain to what was mentioned above: 

• When Seleucus died and Antiochus, also called Epiphanes, succeeded to the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias obtained the high priesthood by corruption. For through a petition, he promised the king three hundred and sixty talents of silver, and from another source of revenue, eighty talents. In addition to this, he promised to pay one hundred and fifty more if the king gave him permission to establish a gymnasium as a place for training young men, and for enrolling the men of Jerusalem as citizens of Antioch. … So there was the fullest expression of Hellenization and the adoption of foreign customs because of the surpassing wickedness of Jason, who was ungodly and not a true high priest. Therefore the priests were no longer eager to serve at the altar, but they despised the temple and neglected the sacrifices. Instead, they hastened to take part in the unlawful proceedings in the wrestling-school after the invitation to the discus. They counted the honors of their fathers as nothing, but regarded Greek honors as the best. (2 Maccabees 4:7-9, 13-15)

“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.” (Proverbs 16:18-19 NKJV)

So again, football, baseball, basketball, soccer, the worlds Olympic events, or any other competition activity does not impress God. This is because all these things are built upon the pride of man which we know that God hates. Therefore, every trophy (or the spoil according to that passage above) held high by the victory becomes an idol of worship. So, why get caught up into this nonsense my fellow Christians?

And let’s take note to what Paul the apostle said while using sports as an analogy between us Christians and those of this world. For we read: “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV) Notice how he distinguishes “they” (those of this world who receive a perishable crown) from “we” (us Christians who receive an imperishable crown). So, those of this world prepare themselves in sticked training to receive their trophy in a sport event. While we who are in Christ (in a metaphorical way to those who are training for a sport event) are to prepare ourselves for ministry by studying and obeying God’s word.

Now, you may be asking: “why would Paul use such and illustration that shouldn’t be practiced by us Christians.” But I say, why not? Doesn’t Paul also use a thief as an illustration on the return of our Lord when he said: “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:2 KJV) And didn’t John the apostle record the words of Jesus who said: “Behold, I am coming as a thief” (Revelation 16:15 NKJV)?

So, does both the apostle Paul and John as well as our Lord Jesus approve the ways of a thief? God forbid, of course not. And let’s remember that Jesus said: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16 KJV) So, even though Jesus may be alluding to being sly and cunning as a serpent, he clearly is not wanting us to do it in a harmful way as the serpent did to Eve. Therefore, in the same way the analogy of the sport event is not giving us Christians the permission to be caught up in any competition sports.

“For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Galatians 5:14 KJV)

According to that passage above, we are to show love to our neighbor. And according to Jesus, our neighbor does include strangers we meet along the road (see Luke 10:25-37). So, does tackling, slamming, or punching someone in the face show an act of kindness or love? And isn’t this what one does during football, hockey, boxing, wrestling or rugby? And even in the more “tamed” competition sports, isn’t it all about defeating one’s opponent? This is something that Jesus never told us to do. For on the contrary, “To the person who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other as well, and from the person who takes away your coat, do not withhold your tunic either.” (Luke 6:29 NET)

Now, when it come to the devil, we’re not called to defeat him, but to resist him. For the apostle Peter said: “Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering.” (1 Peter 5:8-9 NET) “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10 KJV) Yes brothers and sisters in Christ: “Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” (Romans 13:10 KJV)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:10-17 NASB20)

• “But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 3:22-23 MKJV)
• But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. (Titus 2:1-8 ESV)

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)

Now, for all you parents who are reading this. Do you really think that your child is going to be a better person by getting them hooked on sports? For you must realize that people (whether they’re adults or children) play sports to defeat their opponent. And the only reason they want to defeat their opponent is to show that they are better or greater. Come on brothers and sisters in Christ, isn’t this is an act of pride which God hates? For as said before: “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 6:18 NKJV) Therefore: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3 BSB)

So, instead, shouldn’t you be training you child in some kind of skill or trade that is going to be a blessing not only to them, but to others as well? For according to that passage above, you are either going to train them to be fruitful and productive, or to be prideful and thus seeking after vain glory. Because if you don’t teach them the right way to go, you may surely regret it later on. I say this because I witnessed the suffering that a Christian family went through after their son got injured while playing High School football. And because of his suffering, he eventually took his own life

Below are a few tragic articles on other youth who have died as a result of High School Football.

• Seven High School Deaths in August 2024
• Experts Alarmed Over 13 High School Football Deaths This Season
• We Had No Idea This Many Kids Have Died Playing High School Football This Year

Now, without getting too judgmental, I would like to share another tragic story. For many of you may have heard about a young pro-surfer girl who had her arm bit off by a shark. This happened after she backed down from a mission trip that she committed herself to. For she felt it was more important to prepare for a surfing tournament that was coming up. Now, you may brush this off by thinking it was only a coincidence. But was it? Fortunately, she survived the shark attack. And we can only hope that she learned an important lesson on why we should pursue the things of God instead of the vain glory of this world.

Below is a clipping of a video on what was mentioned above: 

• Soul Surfer Video should be coming soon

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” (Isaiah 14:12-14 KJV)

So as said before, God hates arrogance and pride because it not only brought about the fall of Satan, but the fall of mankind also. For in Genesis chapter 3:4-6 we read that Eve’s heart was deceived by the Devil’s tempting words. For after listing to the Devil, she wanting to be like God and thus at of the forbidden fruit. Therefore, she brought sin not only upon herself, but upon Adam (who willingly ate of the fruit that was handed to him by her), as well as the whole human race. And we know because of this folly, God out of his heart of love toward us sent his beloved Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins.

So again, God hates pride which is steeped in the hearts of fallen man. And isn’t competition sports based on this? For this would be true whether it’s done by pro athletes in some stadium or in the backyard with your kids. That’s because kids just like adults want to strut their stuff and play to win. And the only reason they want to win is to show that they’re better than their opponent. 

The downfall of pride in one’s life:

• “May the LORD cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things, who have said, “with our tongue we will prevail; our lips are our own; who is lord over us?” (Psalm 12:3-4 NKJV)
• Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. (Psalm 119:21 KJV) “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; Pride, arrogance, the evil way, And the perverted mouth, I hate.” (Proverbs 8:13 NASB20) 
• When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (Proverbs 11:2) “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all his deeds are right and his ways are just. He is able to bring down those who live in pride.” (Daniel 4:37 NET)
• For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
• (Mark 7:21-23 KJV) “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (1 John 2:16 KJV)
• “On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.” (Acts 12:21-23 ESV)
• “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil.” (1 Timothy 3:2-6 NKJV)

So, what camp should we Christians be in? Is it the prideful and self-seeking, or those who are the Kingdom seekers who are doing the things which matters most to God? And let’s remember that Jesus separated the people groups of the world into two classes as stated below. So, read through both classes and decide which one you want to be in. I know for me; I want to be those who are blessed of the Father who are going into the Kingdom of Heaven. And I hope and pray that you feel the same. Amen.

• “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. "All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. ‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me. “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? ‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? ‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’” (Matthew 25:31-40 NASB95)
• “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ “Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ “Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ “These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:41-46 NASB95)

So, brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s stand on God’s word. “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul; and ye shall bind them for a sign upon your hand, and they shall be for frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, talking of them, when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door-posts of thy house, and upon thy gates; that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which Jehovah sware unto your fathers to give them, as the days of the heavens above the earth.” (Deuteronomy 11:18-21)

Videos on Sports and Idolatry:

• The Olympian Mystery
• David Wilkerson Serman on Sports Idolatry
• Christian Idolatry
• Idolatry and Sports – David Platt
• Modern Sport & Idolatry

Below is the different bible versions used in this article. This was done to assist you in your study of God’s word:

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
• MKJV = The Modern King James Version of the Holy Bible, 1962. Copyright © by Jay P. Green. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved.

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“Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God’.” (John 3:1-3 ESV)

Nicodemus acknowledged the fact that Jesus was sent from God. So, what does Jesus do right off the bat? Well, he gets right down to the heart of the matter by saying “unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Obviously, this statement was confusing to Nicodemus. So, Jesus then gets to the point by saying: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” (John 3:5-6 ESV) So, Jesus clearly showed Nicodemus that there needs to be first a natural birth before a Spiritual birth. We can see this more plainly using the NLT bible which says: “Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.” (John 3:6 NLT)

Now, does being “born again” only apply to adults? I ask this because Jesus did say: “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6 NKJV) So, Jesus said that there are children that believe in him. Also, we read that he had a stern warned for those who would try to corrupt them with sin. And let's not forget what Jesus said in John's gospel: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.” (John 6:44 ESV) Therefore, I personally believe that little children can have a saving faith in God as well. “But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God”.” (Luke 18:16 ESV)

"Or like a miscarriage which is hidden, I would not exist, As infants that never saw light.” (Job 3:16 NASB20)

Now, this may raise some questions regarding aborted or stillborn babies. And one of those questions would be whether or not they’re going to exist in the afterlife. Well, I do have to say that it must be heartbreaking for one to lose their baby during a pregnancy. Therefore, we should comfort them and remind them that they are not guilty nor responsible for its death. However, on the other hand, it’s a horrible thing for someone to willfully extinguish life in the womb. For those who do such are guilty of murder and must repent of their sin. But again, Jesus did say that one must first be physically born and then be Spiritually born in order to enter into the kingdom of God.

Now, I know that there may be those who may not see eye to eye on what’s being said here. For there may be some of you who believes that all stillborn or aborted babies are in heaven. Well, even thou I'm not convened that this is true, I'm in no way going to argue against any hope you may have otherwise. However, I’m hoping that we can all agree that it’s wrong for someone to say that it’s better to abort a baby than to let them be raised by sinners. For they claim that they will go straight to haven. But again, there is no scripture that plainly say that this is true. This kind of talk only encouraging abortion advocates to continue in their campaign of murdering innocent babies. Therefore, we should tell those who are involved in abortion to stop this evil. This would be true, not only for those who are performing it, but those who willingly receiving it as well. For again, this is MURDER and according to God’s word, murderers will end up in the Lake of Fire if they don't repent. (Revelations 21:8)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 KJV)

So, for those of you who had an abortion or even had performed one, please repent of your sins. For according to that passage above, God will wipe you clean of all your sins. Therefore: “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 1:18-20 KJV) Yes, God will forgive you if you truly repent and turn from these wicked acts. However, if you refuse, you could end up in the lake of fire. So again, please repent and turn from your sins in order to receive internal life today. Amen.

Below are comments from others:

• Jesus said, “Unless a man is born of the water and of the Spirit.” Now, what does He mean water and Spirit? We know what it is to be born of the Spirit. What is He referring to being born of the water? There are those who declare that He is talking about water baptism. Unless you have been baptized in water, you’re not going to see the kingdom of heaven, and that born of the water refers to water baptism. I do not believe that Jesus is referring to water baptism here, because I believe that there are people who have gone through the ritual of water baptism who are not going to see the kingdom of heaven. It was only a ritual. But it would seem to me that being born of the water would be a reference to our natural birth, as the fetus is in that water sac being protected, and then there is the water bursting and the child is born. To be born of the water would refer to the natural birth, because in context then, Jesus said, “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, but that which born of the Spirit is spirit.” And so, He's talking about the two births: born of the water, and born of the Spirit. And that the born of the Spirit is referring to the new birth, the spiritual birth that we have, where born of the water would refer to the fleshly birth. (By the late Pastor Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel)
• When Nicodemus approached Jesus, Christ informed the Pharisee that he must be “born of water” AND a spiritual birth. There has been much question as to what “born of water” means. Many hold incorrectly that it is referring to water baptism. There are also other thoughts about what it means. The Bible makes it clear that “born of water” is referring to the natural birth. When a mother cries, “My water has broken,” shortly thereafter a child is delivered from the amniotic water where the baby safely resided inside his mother for many months. This is the “born of water” to which these verses refer. … This spiritual birth happens when one first realizes he is a sinner, and realizes he is bound for Hell because of his sins. To change destinations to be with God in His heaven, one must believe and trust that there is nothing one can do to get rid of the wages of their sin — an eternity in the Lake of Fire. There is, however, one that has already paid for our sins. That is Jesus. He died on the Cross, not for anything He had done, but He died as payment for our sins. When we believe His shed blood is payment for our sin debt and ask Him to be our Saviour, we can have God’s promise of eternity with Him. It is then one experiences the spiritual birth. One is then “born-again. Comment from Bill Brinkworth at: https://www.devotionsfromthebible.com/john/born-of-water/

The bible translations used in this article are listed below to assist you in you study of God word:

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserve
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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To the Reader: This article is based on the subject of suicide that may be difficult for most of us to hear, including myself. So, why am I even writing about it? Well, because I have seen and witnessed the devastation that it can bring to a family. And yes, I know that there are differing opinions concerning the fate of those who have committed this act upon themselves. Therefore, we must use grace when it comes to these differing views. For God himself has the final say on where someone will be spending eternity. However, we must at the same time stand upon God's word for all things. This would be true even when faced with the ones that we’re uncomfortable with.

So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at what the scriptures teaches in order to get a better understanding of this controversial, yet important subject. So then, my brothers and sisters in Christ: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV). Amen.

“When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.” “What do we care?” they retorted. “That’s your problem.” Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.” (Matthew 27:3-5 NLT)

Judas, who was a disciple of Jesus was complaining about a woman who was using expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet. However, Jesus rebuked him for this in front of everybody present (see John 12:4-6). So, what happened next? “Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?’ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.” (Matthew 26:14-16 ESV) So, Judas made his way to the priest to betray Jesus. However, after seeing Jesus being condemned to death, Judas felt remorseful for what he did. So, he went back to the priests and confessed that he did wrong. However, they had no mercy or comforting words for him. Therefore, apparently feeling guilty and full of despair, he went out and hanged himself. This was a sad and disappointing ending for Judas who betrayed his Lord.

“For the Son of Man must die, as the Scriptures declared long ago. But how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him. It would be far better for that man if he had never been born!” (Matthew 26:24 NLT)

So, where is Judas right know? Well, according to what Jesus said above, it’s apparent that Judas didn’t enter the realm of God’s saints. For Jesus did say “how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him.” So, even though Judas realized what he did was wrong, he didn’t seek forgiveness from Jesus, nor did he run to the other disciples to confess that he had sinned. And again, because he felt he was not worthy to live, he ended up killing himself. And unfortunately, we see this happening today as well. For so many people (including those who profess Christ) for one reason or another feel that they need to end their own life. But what they don’t know is that they leave behind them family, friends and acquaintances who are devastated, perplexed and heartbroken. For as said before, I myself have been a witness of the devastating negative effect that it has on others.

Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ, shouldn’t we be making it our aim to discourage and warn others to stay clear of this destructive act. This would be true whether they are confessing Christians or not. For when I search God’s word, the only thing I can compare it to is: “you shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13 ESV). And with that in mind, let’s remember that Revelation 21:8 says that murderers will end up in the Lake of Fire.

So, God help us to stand strong as Paul the apostle who suffered much in his walk with Christ. For even after receiving a heavenly revelation, he was harassed by a messenger of Satan. For we read: “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10 ESV)

So then, let’s make it our aim to encourage and pray for those who are suffering and hurting. This would also be true for those who do not know Christ as well. For we should be sharing the grace of God with them and letting them know that God gives us the strength to endure all things. Amen.

Below are a few things that Paul the apostle suffered and endured for the glory of God. Now I must say that it sounds like he and his traveling companion were suffered so much that they desired that their life would be taken from them. Yet, we see form scripture that they never tried to take this action upon themselves but instead trusted fulling in the Lord. For we read: "We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us." (2 Corinthians 1:8-10 NIV)

• "Are they servants of Christ? (I am talking like I am out of my mind!) I am even more so: with much greater labors, with far more imprisonments, with more severe beatings, facing death many times. Five times I received from the Jews forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with a rod. Once I received a stoning. Three times I suffered shipwreck. A night and a day I spent adrift in the open sea. I have been on journeys many times, in dangers from rivers, in dangers from robbers, in dangers from my own countrymen, in dangers from Gentiles, in dangers in the city, in dangers in the wilderness, in dangers at sea, in dangers from false brothers, in hard work and toil, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, many times without food, in cold and without enough clothing. Apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxious concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not burn with indignation? If I must boast, I will boast about the things that show my weakness. The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, who is blessed forever, knows I am not lying. In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas was guarding the city of Damascus in order to arrest me, but I was let down in a rope-basket through a window in the city wall, and escaped his hands." (2 Corinthians 11:23-33 NET)

“Then Samson called to the LORD and said, “Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes.” Then Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and braced himself against them, the one with his right hand and the other with his left. And Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!" And he pushed outwards powerfully, so that the house fell on the governors and all the people who were in it. And the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he killed during his lifetime.” (Judges 16:28-30 NASB20)

Okay, some may be wondering if Samson committed suicide because of that passage above. Because not only did he ask God to give him strength to take vengeance on the Philistines, but he also said: “Let me die with the Philistines.” However, I personally don’t see this to be an act of suicide. I say this because Samson left both of these requests in the hands of God. Therefore, God had had the power to except or deny his request? For Samson’s main intent was to destroy the Philistines which was God’s plane for him all along. For God said to Samson’s mother: “For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.” (Judges 13:5 KJV)

So, Sampson was raised up to help free Israel from their enemy. Therefore, just like a good soldier who is following the orders of his commander; Samson was willing to do what God called him to do. And yes, even if it meant losing his own life in the process. For even our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ laid down his life for us all as well?

• “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV)

Now, there was another person who wanted to die and that was Elisha the prophet. For we read concerning him: “But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree; and he requested for himself that he might die, and said, “It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers”.” (1 Kings 19:4 NASB95) So, Elisha fled into the wilderness and requested that he would die. However, we know that God did not grant his request. Therefore, we shouldn’t wrongfully use these examples as an excuse to justify the act of suicide. For both Samson and Elisha left the request to die in the hands of God himself.

So, some may be still wondering where is Samson now? Well, according to God’s word, it sounds like he is in the realm of the departed saints. For we read: “And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets - who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. ... And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. … Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 11:32-34, 39-40, 12:1-2 ESV)

Now, I know that suicide is a very sensitive and debatable topic. Therefore, we’re going to see disagreements in one degree or another. However, we should all agree that suicide is an act of putting to death one’s own life. Also, we should agree that it can have a lasting devastating effect on others as well. And as said before, we know that God has the final say and judgment in the end. For we know whatever he decides to do will be right and just. For he is a merciful God and understands perfectly our situations in all things. But again, we must not make light of suicide especially in light of God’s sixth commandment already mentioned. 

Therefore, whether we’re being chastened by the Lord for our wrongs, having our faith tested, or even being attacked by the devil, let’s not lose faith and hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For our Lord is with us in both good times and bad. For: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

So again, let’s make it our aim to encourage one another to keep the faith and not to lose hope. Also, let’s make sure we’re preaching Christ to those who are suffering ether emotionally or physically. This would be true whether they are professing Christian or an unbeliever. Amen. 

Consider some scripture below:

• “My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” (Proverbs 3:11-12 KJV)
• “Think of him who endured such opposition against himself by sinners, so that you may not grow weary in your souls and give up. You have not yet resisted to the point of bloodshed in your struggle against sin. And have you forgotten the exhortation addressed to you as sons? “My son, do not scorn the Lord’s discipline or give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves and chastises every son he accepts.” Endure your suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is there that a father does not discipline? But if you do not experience discipline, something all sons have shared in, then you are illegitimate and are not sons. Besides, we have experienced discipline from our earthly fathers and we respected them; shall we not submit ourselves all the more to the Father of spirits and receive life? For they disciplined us for a little while as seemed good to them, but he does so for our benefit, that we may share his holiness. Now all discipline seems painful at the time, not joyful. But later it produces the fruit of peace and righteousness for those trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:3-11 NET)

Below is a comment from Saint Augustin concerning suicide:

• “For if it is not lawful to take the law into our own hands, and slay even a guilty person, whose death no public sentence has warranted, then certainly he who kills himself is a homicide, and so much the guiltier of his own death … It is not without significance, that in no passage of the holy canonical books there can be found either divine precept or permission to take away our own life, whether for the sake of entering on the enjoyment of immortality, or of shunning, or ridding ourselves of anything whatever. Nay, the law, rightly interpreted, even prohibits suicide, where it says, Thou shalt not kill. … Thou shalt not kill, there is no limitation added nor any exception made in favor of any one, and least of all in favor of him on whom the command is laid. … The commandment is, ‘Thou shall not kill man;’ therefore neither another nor yourself, for he who kills himself still kills nothing else than man … For suicide we cannot cite the example of patriarchs, prophets, or apostles; though our Lord Jesus Christ, when He admonished them to flee from city to city if they were persecuted, might very well have taken that occasion to advise them to lay violent hands on themselves, and so escape their persecutors. But seeing He did not do this, nor proposed this mode of departing this life … And, at all events, if it be true, as the truth plainly declares, that suicide is a detestable and damnable wickedness.”

God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen

(Note: Bible versions used in this article are listed below to assist you in your study of God’s word.)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NET =      The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical      Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible®      Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All      rights reserved.

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“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV)

We who are in Christ should rejoice because we have been completely forgiven of our sins. We didn’t earn this forgiveness by following the Mosaic law or the Ten Commandments. For our forgiveness is through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ to the glory of God our Father. So, this “saved through faith” which Paul the apostle mentioned above is about being freed from the curse of the sin of Adam which was upon all of us. And not only that, but it covers any sins that we ourselves have committed since then as well. “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” (Romans 3:23-24 NLT)

Now, being freed from sin, we can now walk after the Spirit and put off all the sins of the flesh. For Paul the apostle goes on to say: “What should we say then? Should we continue in sin so that grace may multiply? Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:1-2 CSB) So, in other words, he is saying that we are to do our best to stop sinning. For he also said: “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.” (Romans 6:6-7 ESV) For even John the apostle said our goal now is to live a sin free life, for he said: “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not.” (1 John 1:1 KJV)

Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ, we are to do our best to stop committing sin. However, we’re all in a learning process while being in these earthly bodies. Therefore, we may be prone to make mistakes now and then. Therefore, John goes on to say: “But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2:1-2 NIV) So, if we do make a mistake and commit some sin, we are to confess it before God and ask for his forgiveness. But please, don’t believe the lie that says we can never stop sinning. For those who believe this may be looking for an excuse to cover their sinful lifestyle.

Below are some passages showing that we weren’t saved by following the law of Moses, but by faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ:

• “Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” (Romans 3:27-28 ESV)
• “What shall we say then? That Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness of faith; but Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, has not attained to the law of righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone. As it is written: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offense, and whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame”.” (Romans 9:30-33 NKJV)
• “We are Jews by nature and not sinners from the Gentiles; nevertheless, knowing that a person is not justified by works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law; since by works of the Law no flesh will be justified.” (Galatians 2:15-16 NASB20)
• “Behold I, Paul, say to you that if you receive circumcision, Christ will be of no benefit to you. ... For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.” (Galatians 5:2, 5-6 NASB95)
• “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.” (Galatians 5:1-4 ESV)

Now, even if one flawlessly keeps the law of Moses, they still would be guilty of sin because of Adam and Eve’s sin. We see this to be true where we read: “There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.” (Luke 1:5-6 KJV)

So, they were both righteous and obeyed the commandments and ordinances of God. But again, they still were considered sinners because the curse of Adam and Eve was upon them. We see this to be true where King David said: “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.” (Psalm 51:5 NIV) Yes, David admits that he had the curse of Adam upon him even while being in the womb.

“And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” (1 John 3:3 ESV)

So again, we who are in Christ should make it our goal not to sin. For John even goes on to say: “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him.” (1 John 3:4-6 ESV) So that should make it even more clear that we are to put away all our sins.

“Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God.” (1 John 3:7-9 NIV) Wow, now John is saying that those who keep on sinning are doing the works of the devil. And then finally he wraps things up by saying: “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:9-10 ESV)

• “But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them as dung, so that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ - the righteousness from God based on faith. My goal is to know him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death, assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead. Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:7-14 CSB)

“For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” (Hebrews 6:4-6 ESV)

We are now getting some strong warnings from the writer of Hebrews. This we see from what we read above and what is coming next: “For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries. Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The LORD will judge His people." It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:26-31 NKJV)

Now, let’s take note to what Peter said: “For if, having escaped the world's impurity through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in these things and defeated, the last state is worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than, after knowing it, to turn back from the holy command delivered to them. It has happened to them according to the true proverb: A dog returns to its own vomit, and, ‘A washed sow returns to wallowing in the mud’.” (2 Peter 2:20-22 CSB)

So, brothers and sisters in Christ. We shouldn’t have a halfhearted, lukewarm approach when it comes to following Christ. For we should be all out for Jesus and head over heels in love with God our Father. Yes, we should be doing our best to put off all sins and to always keep the faith without wavering. Therefore: “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:23-25 KJV) Amen to that my fellow Christians.

“What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him?” (James 2:14 NASB95)

Now, there may be those who come to the false conclusion that our works has nothing to do with our salvation. However, by taking all scripture into consideration, we can see that works is the evidence of our faith in Christ. For the bible clearly says: “For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26 NASB95) Yes, this is true my brothers and sisters in Christ: “And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?” (James 2:25 ESV) And: “Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” - and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” (James 2:21-24 ESV)

Now, it’s true that we Christians where once steeped in the acts of sin. For the bible says: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 KJV) Therefore, we can be faced with the daily struggle of resisting our past sins. And unfortunately, we may at times even find ourselves giving in to those things we hate to do. For as said before, we are all a work in progress when it comes to putting off sin. However, we shouldn’t have the unscriptural view that says we cannot stop sinning while we’re living in these bodies. For this view could cause us Christians to lose all sense of remorse for our wrong actions. Therefore, let’s instead walk after the Spirit and put off the deeds of the flesh. Amen. 

Watch these video concerning the "once saved always saved" teachings:

• Once Saved Always Saved Error
• Is Once Saved Always Saved Biblical?

Below are some more scriptures concerning what was already mentioned above:

• “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20 ESV)
• “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’” (Matthew 7:21-23 ESV)
• “And you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Mark 13:13 ESV)
• “Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36 NKJV)
• “Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high minded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.” (Romans 11:19-23 KJV)
• “Know ye not that they that run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? Even so run; that ye may attain. And every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air: but I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 KJV)
• “Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you - unless you believed in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:1-2 ESV)
• “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12-13 ESV)
• “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1 NIV)
• “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. Grace be with you all.” (1 Timothy 6:20-21 NIV)
• “And Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were afterward to be spoken; but Christ as a son, over his house; whose house are we, if we hold fast our boldness and the glorying of our hope firm unto the end.” (Hebrews 3:5-6 ASV)
• “Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God.” (Hebrews 3:12 NKJV)
• “But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.’” (Ezekiel 18:24 KJV)

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." (John 15:1-2 NIV)

Now, it is clear from this chapter above that those Christians (the branches) who are not producing any fruit are removed from Christ. Also, it is clear that they could end up in hell as well. For Jesus goes on to say: “If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” (John 15:6 NIV) So, let’s have the same attitude as Paul the apostle who said: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NKJV)

Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s be always: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV) And may we do this through the power of the Holy Spirit within us. This we should do for the praise and glory of God our Father, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

So again, let’s do our best to always walk after the Spirit and bear fruit for our God. And by doing so, we can put off the sins of the flesh. And if we do make a mistake now and then, let’s immediately turn to God and repent. For God does promises us forgiveness if we do so. For: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 CSB) And let’s remember that works is only the result of our faith, and not the other way around. Therefore, true faith should naturally produce fruit. For Jesus did say: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 ESV) So then, let us walk after the Spirit and always do our best to please God in everything we think, say and do. For in doing so, God will give us true joy, peace and pleasure as well. Because: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:3-4 ESV) Amen.

Note: Bible versions used in this article have been listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word:

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserve
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
•  NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.

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“Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.” (Proverbs 29:20 KJV)

Have you ever said something in hast or off the top of our head? Well, if you’re one that does (like me), you should be thinking twice before you open your mouth next time. I say this because you may be eating your own words. For not only do we have that passage quoted above, but we also read: “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” (Proverbs 18:21 NLT) And yes, I’ve seen the consequences not only from my careless speaking, but from others who have spoken in haste as well.

Now, one such person that comes to mind was a famous pastor. For while preaching a sermon, he made a comment about coming down with cancer. For he said that you shouldn’t panic when the doctor tells you that you have cancer. Then he went on to claim that he would say that cancer is an interesting way to go. This he said in front of a large audience during one of his church services. And sure enough, he came down with cancer and ended up dying from it. I’m not saying this mockingly, but with sorrow because I knew this man and loved him as a dear brother in Christ. For I attended that church he preached at.

Next, there was this well know Christian radio talk host that spoke lightly about his own life. For during one of his shows, he was talking about the immortality of our souls. Then he went on to share how people cut in front of him as he rides his motorcycle in the carpool lane. And to make his point clear, he said that at any time someone could knock him off his motorcycle and spread his body parts all over the road. This he said to point out that even though he would be physically dead, his soul would still be alive. And sure enough, on his way home a car knocked him off his motorcycle and he died around a month later. Now, some claimed that he prophesied of his death. However, I personally don’t believe that’s true because his body parts were not scattered all over the road as he said.

Now, you may be saying that both these examples are just a misfortunate coincidence. And even though that could be true (which I highly doubt), we should still be careful how we speak concerning our own life and that of others to. I say this in light of the scriptures that were already quoted above. Therefore, if anyone speaks a careless word of harm directed to you, rebuke it in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Now please, I'm not trying to be all judgmental. For even I myself am guilty of speaking in haste as well. For during a time when I was obsessed with the worldly sport of Racquetball, I told my opponents that they’re going to regret playing against both me and my partner. And sure enough, my partner accidentally hit one of our opponents in the eye with the ball and caused damage to it. And after taking him to the emergency room, I never saw that person again on the courts. How irresponsible that was of me. For I regret ever saying such a careless thing against someone else.

“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20 NKJV) Yes, let us think twice before we open our mouth or do something that we’re going to regret later. And we can do this with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwell within us. Amen.

• “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV)
• “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” (James 3:5-10 ESV)
• “For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil”.” (1 Peter 3:10-12 ESV)

God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen.

(Bible versions used in this article are listed below to aid you in your study of God’s word)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserve 
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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“When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?” (Mark 2:5-7 KJV)

This passage above is one of those occasions where the Jews wrongfully accused Jesus of blasphemy. And even though it’s true that Jesus was fully humans like us, he still had the Holy Spirit dwelling within him. Therefore, he had the power and the ability to forgive sins. And not only that, but he gave this same ability to his disciples as well. For he said to them: ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.’ And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld’.” (John 20:21-23 ESV) And this should also include us today who are Christ’s disciples.

Please consider what others have to say:

• Jesus also wished to continue his ministry of the forgiveness of sins specifically through the Apostles and their successors. Thus, following his glorious Resurrection, Jesus conferred on the apostles the power to forgive sins, a power Jesus himself had exercised during his earthly ministry. It is recounted in John’s Gospel that, during a resurrection appearance, Jesus met with the apostles and said to them, in particular: “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you. And when he said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven: if you retain the sins of any, they are retained” (John 20: 21-23) Confession, thus, is a resurrection gift from Jesus who has passed on his ministry of forgiving sins … https://catholicstrength.com/

Therefore, couldn’t we rightly say that the Jews were wrongly accusing Jesus of blasphemy? For Jesus, being filled the Holy Spirit was able to performed not only mighty works, but to forgive sins as well. This same ability and works are given to us today who have the Spirit of God dwelling within as well. And let’s also consider what Jesus said to his apostles: “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” (Matthew 19:28 ESV) Also, let’s consider what the apostle Paul said to us: “Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?” (1 Corinthians 6:2-3 KJV)

“If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life - to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that does not lead to death.” (1 John 5:16-17 ESV)

We must realize that our prayers are very powerful and can help bring about forgiveness to a fellow believer. This would be true for only those who have not committed a sin that leads to death. However, if they commit a sin that does lead to death, we are told to withhold our prayers as John said above. Again, this fits the words of Jesus who said: “"Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."” (John 20:21-23 RSV)

Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ; Jesus gave us the power to forgive or not to forgive sins. So then: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.” (James 5:16-18 KJV)

Below we have a few videos by other believers of different denominations showing that Jesus gave us the power to forgive sins as well. And even though some of us may not agree with all of their doctrinal views, we shouldn’t “through the baby out with the bath water.” For this should be the same for all the differing denominations as well. For from what I’ve see so far, there is no church that gets it totally right in everything. However, that all being said: we can still find truth in every church that confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. And let's rejoice in that.

• The act of forgiving one's sins
• “Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen.

(Note: Bible texts used in this article are listed below to aid you in your study of God’s word)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• REV = The REV® (Revised English Version®) copyright © 2014 by Spirit & Truth Fellowship International, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reser
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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