Happy 4th of July, America!

Happy 4th of July, everyone. What a great country we live in. We are a blessed people, aren't we? This is not the time to take our blessings for granted. Thank God we can attend church to worship the Lord in the manner of our choosing.

I believe God has blessed our country in spite of ourselves. But then, you must ask, why would he do that? The answer? The sincere prayers of the redeemed. A people that believe Jesus is the savior of this world. A people that pray for the success of our beloved country and not the destruction of it. Believers that pray that God will reveal himself to our elected and appointed leaders. Not prayers of defeat, destruction or venom. But prayers that God will lead and guide our government officials.

I have recently received and read emails praying for the death of our President. Does that not fly in the face of our heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, and their teachings? God says pray for those that are in authority. He does not say pray against them, does he? Well, if you are not convinced, please turn with me to I Timothy 2:1-3. Let's read it together. The Apostle Paul is speaking:

“I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our savior.”

Welcome everyone to your 24/7 week-long online church service. You must know by now, everyone is welcome in this place. The Apostle Paul is very clear about our responsibility to all men and women and to our country. First, pray, my good friends, for each other. Pray with thanks giving for all God has done for us. Pray for the lost. Pray for the poor. Pray for those of different races and cultures. Pray for all men and women that they may come to know and accept the free gift of salvation. This was all provided for them by the perfect sacrifice of the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Give thanks, church. Give thanks for this country that God has allowed us to live in.

We must pray for all that are in authority and that includes President Obama, doesn't it? We can't afford to preach love and show hate toward our President. You may say, brother Bob, aren't you being political here? No, my friends, I am not. We should have prayed for the previous president and for the next president as well.

You know, the 4th of July should be a family time. I remember my wife Vicki and myself taking the kids, all five of them, to the Clawson Michigan fireworks. Patriotic music playing in the background. As I watched the children laughing and “oohing” and “aahing” together at each burst of the explosives in the night sky. I felt a real sense of how great it was and still is, I might add, to be an American.

When the fireworks were over, we would run to the car so we could be one of the first cars to drive away. I would hold the hands of one of the kids while carrying the youngest. Vicki would be herding the other three kids and we rushed and laughed together. I remember seeing all the different people barbecuing in their backyards. American flags flying as kids ran all around with sparklers flashing in the night air. We always felt this was a particular American holiday.

It is hard not to think of our men and women who serve in the armed forces who are sacrificing their own freedoms while protecting ours. As an army veteran, fireworks always remind me of the Star Spangled Banner. Bombs bursting in air, wondering if our flag was still there. The answer is yes, yes, yes!! Our flag still waves over the home of the brave and the land of the free.

Let us never forget that without the leading and guidance of God in our own personal life, our contribution to our country will dissolve into nothingness. I am saying to each of you, love and serve God first and always love and serve the United States of America. Always pray for God's blessings upon our country. Psalms 117, 1-2 leaves us with good instructions for keeping our country strong and blessed.

“O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise ye the Lord.”

What is this Psalm actually saying to America? Reach out America to all the nations of the world to praise the Lord. But America and your great leaders, start praising God again first in this country. Be the example.

God's merciful kindness is great toward us, America. Do not allow this opportunity for even more greatness to pass us by. Praise the Lord, America. God loves and blesses you.

Happy 4th of July!

God Bless You,
Brother Bob

New Prayer Request: Urgent prayer request for Minus Leleaux. Mr. Leleaux has been diagnosed with cancer that involves his liver, pancreas, and lungs. His family has already prayed and are agreeing for his total healing. We are asking you to enter into agreement with their prayer. Please pray urgently and with purpose.

AND I DO MEAN “ALL”

This has been an interesting past few weeks, hasn't it? We've taught on healing and how it relates to today and a three part series with the titles that sum it all up “Healing is for Today” Parts 1,2 and 3. Then we put out a call to the churches in the land apply titled “Come Back Home Church, Come back Home,” a return to the most simple, yet most effective message: Jesus Christ and him crucified; the message of redemption and eternal life. Finally last week, a Fathers' Day Message – calling out to all Dads – put your families first in the earth. Love them, provide for them and most important of all: Teach them about Jesus and the ways of God. Introduce them to the instruction book of life (the Bible), read it with them. I guarantee you'll never regret it.

Have you missed some or all of these message? I urge you to go back and read or listen to them all. They are designed to lift up Jesus and thereby designed to lift you up. Jesus said “Lift me up, I will draw all men to me.” Tell you what, let's look at the scripture together and get the exact words of Jesus in John 12:32:

“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.”

Notice the word “if” in this scripture. I have told you in the past when reading your Bible circle every if, but or lest. They always signify a condition or result of the scripture you are reading. In this case, Jesus could have just as easily have said “If you don't lift me up, I won't draw anybody to me,” couldn't he? Thank God, that's not what he said.

The entire reason for this 24/7, week long, online church service is to lift up Jesus, so he will draw all of you to him. Is it any wonder then, that we always welcome everyone to this place? God impressed on me to exclude no one from the gospel of Jesus Christ.

You know, if we as Christians really spread the gospel in love, God will have us talk with people we don't even like. I mean, let's be real here. Chances are, if you don't like alcoholics, God will put them in your life. Why? To judge and condemn them? No my friends, a thousand times no!! But to save them!! To share the love of Jesus with them. That goes for homosexuals, gamblers, prideful people, thieves, liars and anyone else you perceive to be ungodly. Notice, I said “perceive.” Only God knows what is in the hearts of men.

As an evangelist, I can't afford to exclude anyone from the gospel. All right, back to the basics. John 3:16-17:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

Did you get that, my friends? If Jesus didn't come to condemn the world, but to save it, why should we as believers be any different than Jesus? My burden is for the lost and those who have walked away from Jesus after salvation. I understand there are ministries that focus on the gifts. Many good preachers emphasize different parts of the Bible. I am not being critical of them. God bless them in their work.

When I see a Muslim, my concern is not whether they are a terrorist or not, but how can I share Jesus with them. Same with anyone who belongs to a religion that doesn't preach Jesus and him crucified. How can I reach them with the gospel of Jesus Christ? It's time to forget our prejudices and viewpoints about people and look at them from God's point of view. Jesus taught love, compassion, mercy and grace while on the earth. We are to do the same. We are not to speak love while practicing hate. Our position should not be preaching compassion, yet showing only contempt for the situation people are bound up in. Am I making myself clear here? Telling people about God's mercy and grace while showing no mercy and closing the church doors to those the Savior came to this world to save, is not only wrong, it is an abomination.

Jesus came to this earth to die for us. To be beaten, crowned with a bed of thorns that dug into his scalp, nails pounded into each hand, and a spike through his feet. Stabbed in his side with a spear, given vinegar to drink in place of water when thirsty. Death on a cross, yet saying: “Forgive them Father, they know not what they do.” You say – where is that, Brother Bob? Turn with me to Luke 23:34:

“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment and casts lots.”

My point is this: Jesus did not do all this so that the people who accept his free gift of salvation would act just the opposite of him and his teachings. You know believers, we were once the lost that many Christians looked upon and condemned. But thank God, there were those who looked past our ungodly flaws and they were able to see what God saw – a lost soul floundering in the sea of life; unlovable and a nuisance to most, but a delight to God. At long last, a believer who really was carrying on the work of Jesus. Let's be like that person.

You know, the scripture in Romans 5:8 states:

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

Church, let's do the same as Christ did for us. Let's die to self with all our faults, prejudices and hatreds and let's be who Jesus died for us to be. Saved, loving, caring ambassadors of the Kingdom of Heaven, sharing the love of God with all, and I do mean ALL!!

God Bless you,
Bro. Bob

Prayer Request: I need serious prayer warriors to pray urgently and with purpose for Kathleen Warren. Kathleen has a court date of July 7, 2010, the result of which could change the course of her life. This ministry is praying for favor for Kathleen and we ask you to agree with us in that prayer. Please do not procrastinate on this; start today.

A FATHERS' DAY MESSAGE

Today is celebrated as “Fathers' Day.” We certainly welcome all Dads to this week's 24/7, week long, online church service. I am sure you know by now, everyone is welcome in this place. Early in the Bible in Exodus 20:12, God gave us the Ten Commandments, which to my knowledge have not been repealed or revoked by God. I know there are some who wish or believe the Ten Commandments are not valid for today. After all, shouldn't we live life as we desire? Does that not sound like the mantra for today's living? Let's read the fifth commandment of God in Exodus 20:12:

“Honor thy father and thy mother: That thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.”

Notice that our heavenly father gives you the commandment and then gives you the benefits of following his proclamation. God says honor your father and mother so you may live long on the earth. How many here desire to live a long and fruitful life? A long life full of joy, peace, mercy and grace? By honoring your father and mother, you are honoring God.

Another scripture also points out the benefits of honoring your parents. Please turn with me to Ephesians 6:1-3:

“Children obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”

Are you beginning to see the complete picture? God desires for you to honor and obey your parents and he will reward you with long life. I know some of you are thinking: “The way my Dad treated me, it is hard if not impossible to honor him.” I'm going to touch on that later in the message, so just hold that thought for a moment.

One of the greatest blessings of my life is being the father of five wonderful children. They are all grown up now, but sometimes I still see them as ten-years-old or so. If I look back on one of the best accomplishments of my life, it would be that my children, now adults, still love us (their parents), almost as much as we love them. No father or mother could ask for more. Do we agree with them on everything? Absolutely not!! Do we have opinions about life and living that are different than theirs? Many times over the years, definitely yes. Do we respect them? You bet!!

The instruction book of life (the Bible) gave me many tips and instructions on how to be a loving and caring father. One of those instructions is found in Ephesians 6:4:

“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: But bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

Let's dissect this scripture a little. What is God saying to us fathers here? I believe God is saying – Fathers raise your children in love and not hate or fear. Let them express their observations of life and their feelings about such things. Listen to them. Then, give Godly advice in a way that they can see the wisdom of your words and know that if you disagree with their conclusions about life, you still love and respect them. Is that easy to do? Not always. But, it is the right thing to do. The second part of this scripture tells us: Dads, we have a responsibility to bring our children up in the knowledge and ways of God according to his Word. It is never too early to give your children a biblical foundation regarding Jesus Christ. Tell them about Jesus as early in their young lives as you can. It will pay off in the long run.

I guess one of my biggest regrets in life, is that I didn't give my life to the Lord until my first two children were in their teens. Their formative years saw a Dad that drank too much and was away from home too much; a Dad that loved them, but wasn't always reliable. I always feel repentant about that, But thank God, he saved me and delivered me from the things destructive in my life. The salvation was instant, the recovery a process.

Today I would rather have my children see me as a man that loves God and his ways, rather than a man who loved the ways of the world. I look around me today and I see young fathers making the same mistakes I did and it breaks my heart. Young Dads, listen to me!! Your wife and children are the most important things in your life. Not your job, not another woman, not the respect of other men. The alcohol, drugs and addiction to your job will kill you. I promise if you keep on, you will lose everything near and dear to you.

This year when you receive your Fathers' Day card, pay attention Dads. Your family is calling to you. Get right with God. Love God and your family with all of your heart. The payoff to that will be great for you. I am praying for you, Dads. I know you can do it. God loved you so much he blessed you with your wife and children. Take care of them and love them above everything else on the earth. Stop whatever you are doing right now. Go look at your family, aren't they something?

Fathers' Day is celebrated all over this country. Many good fathers will be honored. Yet for many, it is not a celebration at all. Their dads abandoned them. Some even abused their children. Other fathers by example have led their children away from God. I would say these fathers may never know the joy they could have had by serving God and raising their families with love.

Children, I am asking you to forgive your wayward dads, not for them but for yourselves. Let the bitterness and the hurt go. You will live life much freer if you do that. Easy to do? No!! But your life will be so much better. Your heavenly Father, who always loves you, will be honored.

My friends, let me conclude with this: God sent Jesus to the earth to die for you and your sins. He was the perfect sacrifice accepted by God. If you will accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you will no longer be just a creation, but you will be an adopted child of our heavenly Father. God is a father without flaws; a father who will always love you no matter what. He is the Father you have always dreamed about. Paul talks about this in Romans 8:14-16:

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”

Today is Fathers' Day. Be sure and say “Happy Fathers' Day” to your Dad. Oh, by the way, if you are saved by the blood of Jesus Christ, say “Happy Fathers' Day” to your heavenly Father also. He will enjoy that.

God Bless You,
Bro. Bob

RETURN HOME CHURCH, RETURN HOME

Let us welcome everyone to this week's 24/7, week long, online church service. The emphasis being on the word “everyone.” The gospel of Jesus Christ is given to anyone who will receive it. So many times in past messages we have talked about choices, haven't we? There seems to be so much in this world that we have no control over. If we only just looked to man to help solve our problems, we are destined for disappointment and failure.

One thing this online church has preached from the beginning is there are answers to all the problems of life. But, Bro. Bob, where are those answers? These are desperate times. Everywhere and everyone we turn to for help seems to have their own agenda. Corruption in government, businesses, and even in the church is running rampant. Who can we trust? What man, what government, what business, or even what organized church can I trust? Please tell me. I will tell you this, my friends, without the leading and guidance of God in your life, there is no one to turn to.

I had a pastor who once said man was never meant to rule or govern himself. And you know what? I really believe him. Just look around you today. No, I mean really look around you. See what the decisions man has made without God's leading and guidance has got us into? A mess, that's what! This has nothing to do with political parties or the way corporations are controlled. It has to do with man choosing to follow their own ways and setting God and his Word (The Bible) aside for their own gain. Even churches are walking hand in hand with the world system, aligning themselves with political parties and corporations for financial and personal gain. Revelations talks about this alignment. Turn with me and let's read Revelations 3:13-17 together. Keep an open mind and see if this doesn't apply today.

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. And unto the Angel (pastor) of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot; I would thou were cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; And knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.”

This unfortunately is where many of today's organized churches both denominational and nondenominational are today. When churches turn away from preaching Jesus and him crucified, they will surely lose their effectiveness in helping to bring the lost to a saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When money and approval by man becomes more important than Jesus, the salt has lost its savor.

Churches that believe material worth and fame of men are all important, don't even realize that their emphasis on material wealth and blessing is not a blessing at all. Rather, it is a distraction from the real mission of the church. The lifting up of the name of Jesus that all men will be drawn to Him. Now, let us continue in Revelations 3:22:

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.”

So what is the Spirit saying? I believe in plain language the Holy Spirit is saying “Come back to Christ and the cross and come back now.” This is a plea to all pastors. Stop, look and listen to the Spirit of God. First, stop whatever you are doing. Forget the past ways of doing things. Get in the present with God. Second, look around you!! Where and in what direction is your church really heading? Are you neglecting the teaching of the Bible for the teachings of your seminary or denomination? Third, listen to the Holy Spirit calling you back to the foundation of teaching, preaching and healing. Fame, money and influence of man is not the answer. The Word of God and the voice of the Holy Spirit is. My good pastors, come back to Jesus and him crucified. Put the things of this world aside. Once again return to God and his righteousness as your guide. Matthew 6:33 points the way to victory:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Pastors, teachers, evangelists, apostles and prophets: God called you to proclaim Jesus, not the things of this world. Come on back!! Your calling has not been revoked. Now listen to me. If you do not fit into this category I have been talking about, do not be offended by what I am saying. But, if you see yourself or your church in this message, make the decision (choice) to once again serve the one you truly love. You can do it, men and women of God. I know you can.

Today I am going to relate a poem that I believe sums up what I have been talking about. Read and listen with your heart. Is this where you or your church is? If so, I pray change is on the way for you. First, the prelude and then the poem:

The successful church calls back to us, warning us by her example that we have missed the way somewhere. A return to the primitive pattern where reproach and suffering are the manifest evidences will be our only safety. As stated Revelations 3:17. The church, rich and increased in goods, have need of nothing, is a church ready to be spewed out of God's mouth.

The Church and the World walked far apart on the changing shores of time; The World was singing a giddy song, and the Church a hymn sublime. “Come, give me your hand, “cried the merry World “And walk with me this way:” But the good Church hid her snowy hand, and solemnly answered, “Nay! I will not give you my hand at all, and I will not walk with you; Your way is the way of endless death; Your words are all untrue.”

“Nay, walk with me but a little space.” Said the World with a kindly air. “The road I walk is a pleasant road, and the sun shines always there. Your path is thorny and rough and rude, and mine is broad and plain; My road is paved with flowers and gems, and yours with tears and pain. My path you see, is a broad, fair path, and my gate is high and wide. There is room enough for you and me to travel side by side.”

Half shyly the Church approached the World and gave him her hand of snow; and the false World grasped it, and walked along, saying in accents low, “Your dress is too simple to please my taste; I will give you pearls to wear, rich velvet and silks for your graceful form, and diamonds to deck your hair.”

The Church looked down at her plain white robes and then at the dazzling World, and blushed as she saw his handsome lip with a smile contemptuous curled. “I will change my dress for a costlier one,” said the Church with a smile of grace; Then her garments pure drifted away, and the World gave in their place, beautiful satins and shinning silks, and roses and gems and pearls; And over her forehead her bright hair fell, crisp in a thousand curls.

“Your house is too plain.” said the proud old World. “I'll build you one like mine – carpets of Brussels, and curtains of lace and furniture ever so fine.” So he built her a costly and beautiful house – splendid it was to behold. Her sons and her beautiful daughters dwelt there, gleaming in purple and gold; And fairs and shows in the halls were held, and the World and his children were there; And laughter and music and feasts were heard in the place that was meant for prayer.

The Angel of Mercy rebuked the church and whispered, “I know thy sin.” The Church looked back with a sigh, and longed to gather her children in. But some were off in the midnight ball, and some were off at the play and some were drinking in saloons; So the Angel went away.

The sly World gallantly said to her, “Your children mean no harm – merely indulging in innocent sports.” So she leaned on his proffered arm, and smiled, and chatted, and gathered flowers as she walked along with the World; While millions and millions of deathless souls to the horrible pit were hurled.

“Your preachers are too old and plain,” said the gay old World with a sneer; “They frighten my children with dreadful tales which I like not for them to hear: They teach of suffering, toil, and pain and a cross that all must bear; And the world, the flesh and the devil disdain if they the crown would wear.”

“I will send you some of the better preachers, brilliant and handsome and fast, who tell them that people may live as they want and go to heaven at last.” So he filled her house with false divines, gifted and great and learned; and the plain old men that preached the cross were out of the pulpit turned.

The sons of the World and the sons of the Church walked closely hand and heart, and only the Master, who knoweth all, could tell the two apart. Then the Church sat down at her ease and said, “I am rich and in good increased; I have need of nothing, and naught to do but to laugh and dance and feast.” The sly World heard her, and laughed in his sleeve, and mockingly said aside, “The Church has fallen – the beautiful Church – and her shame is her boast and pride.”

The Angel drew near to the Mercy seat, and whispered in sighs her name; and the saints their anthems of rapture hushed and covered their heads with shame. And a voice came down, through the hush of heaven, from Him who sat on the throne “I know thy work, and how thou hast said, 'I am rich' – and hast not known that thou art naked and poor and blind, and wretched before my face. Repent of thy sins, lest I spew thee out and blot thy name from its place.”

Do you see what has happened to the church run by men and their agendas? This ministry calls out to the true church of Jesus Christ – Return home church – return home.

God Bless you,
Bro. Bob

Prayer Request Update: Please pray for Nancy Stewart. She is undergoing chemotherapy due to cancer of the liver. I am asking the church to seriously lift up Nancy for a total and complete healing. We command the spirit of cancer to leave her body, in Jesus' name. Amen.

HEALING IS FOR TODAY... PART THREE (Conclusion)

We welcome everyone to this week's 24/7, week long, online church service. No one is denied entrance to this place. We must warn you however, your life as you know and understand it may be changed by being here. The words this online church preaches are words of life. Everyone, whether a believer or not cannot help but be affected by the words of life we preach.

Everything we do and say is designed to lift up the name of Jesus. We found the best way to do that is to go to the instruction book of life (the Bible) and ask God to give us wisdom and understanding of his word. As God through his Holy Spirit relates the way to share the words of life he provides, we then share them with you. Pretty plain and simple, right? We do not copy sermons or take our messages out of books written by Bible scholars, preachers or professors of theology. Do we read such books? Of course we do. But, if what they say doesn't line up with the Word of God we discard it quickly.

For example, take this series on Healing is For Today. There are tons of books in Christian book stores on this subject. Some of these books advocate healing is for today but many do not. Regardless of what viewpoint these books may take, they do not have the whole and entire answer regarding God's healing power and how it relates to us today. Only one book gives the complete story regarding healing and that is the Bible, plain and simple, over and out – period.

I hope that is clear enough for you. So many times we look to man and their brilliance to answer all the questions of life and guess what folks? They can't do it!! Let's turn to our foundational scripture as we continue on our series regarding healing. Isaiah 53:5:

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

What a wonderful way God had of showing us that healing is for today. The last words of Isaiah 53:5 are “..with his stripes we are healed.” The unbeliever or in some cases even believers, who have not been taught correctly may ask what stripes are they talking about? Oh my, oh my, my good friends the stripes being talked about here are the thirty-nine stripes left on his back due to being beaten with a whip. Different medical experts have said all classifications of sickness and disease come under no more than thirty-nine categories. Yes, yes, yes Jesus took our sickness and disease upon himself so we could be free from sin, sickness and disease. But, Bro Bob, I don't feel free from sickness and disease. My body aches, my mind is confused, my outlook is not good, what about me? Have I been forgotten? Your condition is why I am doing this series.

I am here to encourage you by directing you to the Word of God. Read every scripture on healing. Make them your own!! You will find conditions that can stall the manifestation of your healing – such as unforgiveness, sin in your life, doubt and unbelief. But, the good news is God is always and forever with you. Do not give up. Your healing is on the way. We stated earlier in this series that we do not know why, when, where or how God will heal you, but God will through his Word and Holy Spirit reveal these things to you.

Let's turn to some scriptures to encourage you. How many know what Jesus did for the people he ministered to while here on the earth, he desires for you today. Luke 9:1-2. Jesus is talking to the twelve disciples. Read carefully here because he gives the same instructions to us in scriptures to come. Okay, now let's read Luke 9:1-2 together:

“Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

Once again, my friends, the things Jesus asked and told his disciples to do he asks the same of us today. Through the new birth in Jesus Christ we as believers have the same power and authority to cast out all devils (demons) and to cure diseases. My friends, there are demons in this world today with a soul mission of bringing sickness, diseases, things like cancer, depression and all manner of infirmity on you. The reason is to turn you away from God. The good news that may be hidden to you until now is this: Believers in Jesus Christ, born again by the Spirit of God, walking in faith and not by sight have authority to pray for you and to command sickness and disease to leave your body. These same believers have authority to cast out devils that may have oppressed you. You might ask, who are these believers? The answer my friends, is our selves!!

We just have to let the power we possess over devils, sickness and disease become real to us. We cannot go by what we see, how we feel or what people say. I remember our pastor in Michigan would say “Don't go by the way you feel, go by the word that is real.” And you know what? Pastor John Bulloch was absolutely right. This is one of the lessons this series was meant to provide to you. I know there are preachers who will say that Jesus only meant the instructions in the book of Luke to be for the apostles. But, let me say it kindly – they are wrong!! The same instructions Jesus gave to the twelve disciples in Luke, he also gave to us. Turn with me to Mark 16:15-18:

“And he (Jesus) said unto them, go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; in my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”

Church these were the last words recorded of Jesus, for then he was received up into heaven and sat at the right hand of God. You don't believe me? – read it for yourself in Mark 16:19. Regarding the subject of healing, what we do get from these scriptures, here it is right down to earth – if you are a believer you can cast out devils of infirmity, you shall lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Who said so? Jesus himself said so, that's who.

Look ladies and gentlemen, I am certain this series on healing has given you enough proof so that regardless of what you thought or believed about healing before, you must conclude healing is for today. To all those who are sick in body or mind at this moment, throw off all condemnation people have put on you. Read this series over and over. Read the scriptures regarding healing. Get rid of any self-destructive habits or thoughts. Know this ministry is praying for your healing on a daily basis and we are expecting a whole and complete healing for you. Healing may be a hard concept for you at this time, so start by agreeing with us for your healing. As the Rev. Oral Roberts used to say “Expect a miracle!” Why? Because healing is for today.

God Bless You,
Bro. Bob

HEALING IS FOR TODAY... PART 2

The Spirit of Wisdom Ministries is dedicated to spreading the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are benefits and consequences to our decision to accept Jesus into our hearts and lives, aren't there? Last week we started a series of just one of the many benefits. “Healing is for Today” - is not just a good title to a message, my friends. It is a blessing and benefit of salvation through Jesus Christ and what he did for us on the cross. The Bible is very clear about that. Yet, there seems to be doubt, unbelief and confusion regarding this very important subject. Let's explore this a bit. But first, let me welcome everyone to your 24/7 online church service. We exclude no one from entering this place.

I am going to repeat two scriptures we used last week. Believe me, they bear repeating. The first is our foundational scripture for this series, Isaiah 53:5. This scripture referring to the only begotten son of God, Jesus Christ of Nazareth was written seven-hundred and twelve years before the birth of Jesus. But my oh my – what a prophesy that has come true! Isaiah 53:5 says:

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

The salvation God offers us through his son Jesus is a complete salvation, my friends. A completed work that saves our souls and heals our bodies and our spirit. What a wonderful God we serve. The second scripture we are repeating and focusing on this week is Psalms 103:2-3:

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.”

It always amazes me when people relate to me they believe God forgave all their sins but the same people say that they do not believe healing is for today. If that is true, we would have to take the second half of this Psalm and tear it out of the Bible and throw it away. What do you think God would think of that?

The truth is there is plenty of blame to go around when it comes to unbelief. Man from the beginning of time has either questioned or disputed who God is, what he has done for us and whether the Bible is even true or not. The sad part of all of this is that even the churches as we know them today are not guiltless of these charges, are they? Why do you say that, Bro. Bob? Because, unfortunately it is true. Organized religion is broken up into denominations, each one with its own seminaries, teaching their own views in opposition to each other regarding matters of faith and doctrine. This includes whether healing is even still a valid teaching. This is an abomination to God.

You know folks, often times healing and faith are linked together and in fact all the teachings of God should be accepted by faith, shouldn't they? We as believers should never go by just what we see, hear or feel, because most things we see in the world today is in direct opposition to the Word of God. Faith in God and his word (The Bible) will lead and guide us to a great result for our lives. I guess if faith is so important, regarding our belief in God and his ways, we should find out how faith comes our way shouldn't we? Turn with me to Romans 10:17:

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.”

And therein lies the rub, my friends. This ministry has stated more than once we will only give to you the divine Word of truth that God gives to us. The reason for this is to build your faith in God through his son, Jesus Christ. God has revealed to us through his Word that healing is for today. Scripture after scripture proves this to be correct. That is why we challenge and yes, even condemn false teaching in this area. We look around us and we see believer after believer who are sick in body or mind and have no idea, no faith, and not even a concept that Jesus bore their sickness and disease for them. That Jesus took stripes on his back for their healing is not even remotely known to them. Ladies and gentlemen, millions of believers all over the world have no faith to be healed because they are taught in their churches that healing passed away with Jesus and is not for today. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. But, if they do not hear the truth of the word regarding healing, how will they be healed? My advice – consider removing yourself from any church that doesn't teach healing or that doesn't build your faith by preaching the Word of God regarding this subject. But hold on, there are also denominations that teach healing but link it with money, works and even condemnation on those who are not healed and that also is an abomination to God.

The truth is salvation is a personal relationship. The Word of God will speak to you personally. There are many good pastors and churches that will help you in these areas, but bottom line – it is up to you to search out what is true. Ask God to give you eyes to see and ears to hear. Because salvation is a personal relationship, we as believers have no right to judge others regarding healing. Why is one person receiving their healing while another isn't? The truth is no one but God knows. The “faith people” will tell you it is because of your lack of faith that you did not receive your healing. Really? How do they know? You know, Jesus wherever he went healed many people without one time questioning their faith. To be sure, there were times when he stated they had great faith, but many more times he did not.

The judgmental people will say it is because of a particular sin in your life that is keeping you from your healing. That may be so, but let's check out God's point of view in John 9:1-3:

“And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: But that the works of God should be made manifest in him."

The apostles were quite sure sin was in the blind man's life. But Jesus said, not so. Later on, the man was healed to the glory of God. The point to be made here is this - Healing is for today. Because of Jesus and the finished work of the cross; why, when, where or how the manifestation of that healing comes is not up to us. Therefore, we have no business judging or condemning those who are not walking in their healing yet. Do not let our own self righteousness drive God's people out of our churches. Rather, encourage them. God loves them and their healing is on the way. If all of our churches taught the truth of the Word, faith would be built and many more people would receive their healing. Our prayer for you is that you receive your healing. We are believing with you and for you. Don't give up!! Speak the Word of God to yourself. Call the devil a liar and don't listen to anyone who tells you healing is not for today. To be continued..........

God Bless You,
Bro. Bob

HEALING IS FOR TODAY

Let's all turn to Isaiah 53:5. This scripture is referring to Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of our heavenly Father, the creator of all. Ready? Let's read together:

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

This will be the foundational scripture for this week's message – entitled – Healing is for Today. Welcome to all who enter into this week's 24/7, week long, online church service. Everyone is welcome in this place. Let's look at this scripture carefully. Jesus was wounded for our transgressions, pertains to the manner in which he died and why. Jesus was not wounded nor did he die for his transgressions, simply because he had none. But, because of the Father's love for us, Jesus took on the burden and price of our sin. Transgressions means having turned away from God and following the ways of men, Satan and the world. In that state, we can't walk in the blessings and benefits God desires us to have. These benefits include freedom from sin, guilt and condemnation. His benefits also include love, mercy, grace and healing for our bodies and minds. Thank God for the love he has shown us.

The phrase – he was bruised for our iniquities, means all that he suffered was for us. The chastisement of our peace was upon him – means that the only way to restore peace to man's mind, body and spirit, is through Jesus Christ and the finished work of the cross. The whole purpose in Jesus' coming to the earth was to die. His death and resurrection are the whole foundation of the one and only salvation that is acceptable to God. In this reading, it clearly shows healing is for today and with his stripes, we are healed. Glory to God!

It does not matter how many preachers or churches teach that healing passed away when Jesus died. God has not changed his mind, my friends. Jesus took stripes on his back for our healing and it's time we get back to believing God's word and not fables of men. There is not one scripture in the Bible that indicates that God does not want his people well spiritually and physically. Jesus was always meant to be our example on how life should be lived and what we should believe about him and what he did for us.

Let's look at some Jesus scriptures. The picture will become more clear as we turn to him and the truth of the word. Turn with me to Matthew 4:23-24. Remember, Jesus is the example.

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: And they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with diverse diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.”

How many know God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow? Do you really think God would have Jesus going place to place, healing all manner of sickness (both physical and mental), if it was not his will that healing would be with us always? I believe if Jesus were physically walking the earth today he would be in Detroit, Michigan, in New York City, in the South and the West and all stations in between. And guess what he would be doing? He would be restoring love, mercy and grace. He would be preaching, teaching and healing. That is what God desires his children who have the Spirit of God in them to be doing. How do you know that, Bro. Bob? I know it because the Bible says so. Remember the Bible?

Jesus himself tells us that as believers, we are to do as he did. Turn with me to John 14:12. Let's read it together.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you. He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do: Because I go unto my Father.”

Oh believer, do not be deceived. God has not left us powerless. The church in the Book of Acts knew that. Their belief was that God said what he meant and meant what he said. Jesus said we would do the same works as he did. Did that not include healing? Of course it did and it still does today. Peter and John believed the words of Jesus, didn't they? Look at Acts 3:1-7.

“Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, (now get this) look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: And immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.”

The man then began to jump, walk and praise God, for surely he had been healed. Ladies and gentlemen, Peter and John had no more in them than we have in us today. They had the Spirit of God in them and they knew the power that is in the name of Jesus. This online church believes, as Peter and John believed, that they could do the same works Jesus did. And guess what? They took no glory for themselves, but gave God all the glory.

I would ask you to read Acts Chapter 3 for yourselves. The people were amazed at this miracle healing and began to look at Peter and John as something special, but Peter set them straight. Acts 3:12:

“And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?”

Peter went on to say in Acts 3:16:

“And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.”

In other words, Peter was saying to God be the glory, not us!! If more preachers would give God glory instead of basking themselves in praise, more healings would take place today. This message will be just one of many messages regarding the healing power of God and how and why it is for today. God wants us to know and understand his benefits that he has provided for us through his Son, Jesus Christ; healing being just one of many. God does not want us to forget all of his benefits. Please, turn to Psalms 103:2-3:

“Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.”

Preachers, teachers, churches please do not disregard this Psalm. It is the Word of God, isn't it? There is much more to come on this subject, but right now, there is praise to be given to God for his faithfulness.

You all know this online church stresses prayer, don't you? We constantly ask you to pray for the requests at the right side of the message. Today, to back up our message, we are very happy to report that your prayers for Tissy Miller, who was suffering from cervical cancer, have been answered. She received the good news this past week, that the cancer is gone and there is no trace of cancer left in her body. Praise God for his healing power!! Tissy we are so thankful God has answered the prayers of all who have been praying for you and your family. God Bless You!! Yes, my friends, healing is for today.

God Bless You,
Bro. Bob

New Prayer Requests:

Please pray for Nancy Stewart. Nancy lives just outside of Detroit, Michigan. She has just been diagnosed with liver cancer. We ask for urgent prayer, for a total and complete healing and we thank God for healing Nancy and we look forward to the good report.

Jessica Summerlin of the Treasure Coast in Florida is battling ovarian cancer. We ask everyone to pray very seriously for a complete and total healing.

We bind up the spirit of death and cancer and we command that they leave and give up all control over Nancy and Jessica. Jesus is the name above all names and that includes cancer.

Huge praise report:

We thank God for healing Tissy Miller from cervical cancer. This is an answer to the prayers of many that have lifted their voices to God in support of Tissy. The good news, Tissy is now free and clear of all cancer. She is healed and we thank God for it.