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23rd May 2008

(Typos corrected! 26th May)


Judging from a Distance

It is always difficult to assess a situation when you are not in the thick of things i.e. physically present or in continual contact with someone.

For example, reports given over the phone might be assessed very differently by the receiver, and hence judged in a different manner than the caller had anticipated. From this, misunderstandings can arise.

So it boils down to clarity, experience, skill and knowledge; and all these - in relation to spiritual things - rest on the discernment given by the Spirit of Truth.

Paul named names when he needed too. So there is no problem doing that. These were well known to him. They had personally interacted. So I think this is the principal key when you are judging cases you are involved in personally.

1Ti 1:20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.

2Ti 2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
2Ti 2:17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
2Ti 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
2Ti 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

2Ti 4:14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:

You'll notice throughout the Epistles the apostles were vehemently opposed to those who would spread error within the Body. This error related to those who would overthrow others faith in Christ, making them lose their focus on Him.

Col 2:18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
Col 2:19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

But how do you reconcile the above with James 4:11-12?

Jas 4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
Jas 4:12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

Once you notice the context of the chapter - you'll have found there is no conflict. James is talking about infighting in the Body because of the lusts to appear better than another person. These ones judging had no desire to strengthen the Body, but were only looking for profit, gain, exaltation.

The Book of Corinthians tells us about the approach of judging at a distance (as I have also said before, "exposing" is not about doctrinal differences which we all have, but about exposing deception and "sin against thee" which is different. But then again, that might be open to interpretation):

In 1st Corinthians (1 Cor 5:1-6; 11-13; ) there are a flurry of words by Paul to "get this evil out of you", "do not tolerate this one" etc... in speaking of the incestuous sins in their midst.

But then in 2nd Corinthians (2 Cor 2:1-8) you see Paul literally begging for the assembly to receive these ones back in the mercy of Christ Jesus. And this is the reason: 2Cor 2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

Righteous judgement is the key. Not to drag someone through the mud, when they already are a public spectacle. Dignity must needs be preserved, for we serve the Lord Christ - who will give to every man the required reward. Vengeance is not ours to take.

Rom 12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Rom 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Rom 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Rom 12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Rom 12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

I won't be posting anything more about this current revival issue. It is distressing just realising the deep chasms that are within the Body spurred on by the enemy's devices. Yet it is a necessary thing (the "dividing") in God's Providence for the closing time of our Age.

There are nonetheless people getting closer to Christ even in the midst of all this. So even confusion can't hold back the Word from reaching His desired goal (Philippians 1:18 a case in point).

Those who discern any differently will need to continue as the Lord gives them direction in this.

Remember than none of us is perfect. Having one's lives on full display for the world (even the "Internet World" is hard enough. Just remember than the purpose of revival is to restore the broken ones, the down-trodden in Spirit - so that we may all work more effectively in the work our Lord has given us: to be witnesses by our lives of His mercy and glory; hence bringing more into the Kingdom. Amen.

May Father grant us all mercy. For as we judge, the same measure will be used to judge us too.

On another note,

There are reports that from June (next month) it will be a tumultuous time for the USA - with prophesied earthquakes (on the West Coast - San Francisco especially) and tsunamis; worsening financial collapse with bank runs and closures.

The earth is reeling friends. Our brothers and sisters in China (>55,000) and Burma (>100,000 - missing and dead) are the first to feel the major effects this year. May Father continue to give them courage and strength.

Also known that the tightening grip of a global Police State will cause more "offenders" to be punished for simply acting in accordance to the Word of God.

Listen here (3mins) (Go to http://www.theedgeam.com/main.php and listen to fuller interview with Matthew - May 2008). You can also check out Matthew Stephen's website and Michael Boldea's website for info on that.

No country is really safe, as the effect on one nation reverberates quickly to another. Therefore keep our hearts upon Him always and go about our daily business with cheer but fear (a holy fear of the Lord).

1Cor 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

Rev 3:3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

Keep safe and bless you,

Tony

Related: Matthew Stephen videos