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ch41 The marks of a bad minister v1_1

The Marks of a Bad Minister
How to recognize him

How to discern a bad minister
By David Cox
[ch41] v1 ©2011 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes

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Ch41

The Marks of a Bad Minister
How to recognize him
By David Cox

[ch41] v1.1 ©2011, 2024 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes

Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. 24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:

At times, it is difficult to identify who is a true servant of God, and who is not. God has not left us without help in the matter though.

The Marks of an Unsaved Minister

It is interesting that in this minister’s defense before God, (Matthew 7:21-24) that God judged he wasn’t even saved! He defended himself before God in three proposed evidences of his “good minister of God status”: (1) his ability to prophesy, (preach) (2) his power over powers of evil, and (3) his work of miracles and great events. Many in our day want to validate their ministries in a similar fashion. They insist that they are true men of God, exalted ministers of the Highest God, because they have their distinct insight into the mind of God, because their power over demons and evil powers, and most certainly because they impress with what they have done for God, miracles, great works, etc. It is important to note that Jesus in no way tried to contradict what they presented. Perhaps their bragging had some validation in that something notable was on some level accomplished as they claimed. But Jesus’ hard position is that even with signs of great spiritual power; they had nothing to do with God and His Kingdom. Read Matthew 7:21 with great care. The ONLY MARK of a faithful minister is to be always “stuck” on the will of God. “Greatness,” validity, and identification with God is only found in strict obedience to God’s will. Those that exalt God’s will over their own.

Useless Ministers

Matthew 24:48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; 49 And shall begin to smite [his] fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; 50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, 51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

In this passage that deals with various parables on service and the child of God, it is very instructive that the evil “servant of God” goes to hell in the end. So we must open the possibility that many supposed ministers of God, preachers, evangelists, or even pastors that exercise official positions in the church, just are not even saved.

The key factor that indicates their salvation is simply their disposition and attitude towards the will of God. The deceiving hypocrite is he who follows his own will in place of exalting the will of God in his life (and ministry) and doesn’t submit to God. These people always pretend to have “biblical ministries”, and they are experts in rhetoric because “they are biblical” or in giving reasons why they are truly “ministers of God”, but if you listen closely, you will see how lightly they respect the Word of God, or how astutely they twist God’s Word to suit their desires, aspirations, and ambitions. They “use” and abuse the Word of God for their own purposes and are not under its authority. True ministers that please God are people who always rely on the authority of Scripture as their authority, but also as THEIR GUIDE,

Jeremiah 3:15 And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Those that cause Division and Desolation

Jeremiah 23:1 Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.

One of the principle jobs of the pastor is to gather sheep. This is in one of two forms, both of which fully apply: (1) the evangelization of the unsaved bringing them into the fold (the local church), (2) To visit and encourage members of their church that have stopped coming, to return and actively participate in the church once again. The identifying mark of a fraudulent pastor is that he divides the church by his brutal actions, his cruel attitude, and in general by his style of leadership (way of doing things) which works against gathering and unity. Unity comes because all think alike, and act with the same spirit, carrying the same doctrine. This is not by forceful imposition by authority figures, but by mutual submission to God’s authority.

The good pastor explains the actual text of the Bible, but he also investigates, defines, and insists on the Scriptures ruling over everything the church is and does. The wicked pastor imposes his own will without respect to nor support of Scripture, except some twisted, unclear mental gymnastics. The will of God is grossly abused, mistreated and misrepresented. Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:34) refers to their days of “slaughter”, which is to die and not live. The sheep ought to have a spiritual life within them, and the good pastor will promote this. The bad pastor destroys and kills this spiritual life among his sheep. He undermines, disrupts, and cuts off this spiritual relationship between believer and God (spiritual death). He takes the place of God in their lives.

Leadership by Force and Imposition

Jeremiah 23:2 Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD. 4 And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD.

The style of ministry of a wicked, ungodly pastor is very particular. He scares people with sharp, loud (notorious) actions with lack courtesy and love towards them. He imposes on the brethren, and his objective isn’t to correct sin, but to impose and ingrain his own authority over the people of God. The idea in verse 4 is that (1) they use fear – which is the anticipation of some bad interaction with the pastor. (2) They cause the sheep to be dismayed, which has the idea of submission by means of dragging or violent force, fear, or confusion. He is marked by his leadership style of cruelty, unthinking actions, and an uncaring attitude towards his sheep, anything as long as they obey him. (3) Be lacking – This word is the opposite of pastoral visitation, where the pastor inspects and then handles whatever need they might have. This is totally and importantly lacking.

Errors and the Erring

Jeremiah 50:6 My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away [on] the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their resting place.

There is a specific way in which we sheep should walk, and this is the way of God which Jesus showed us. It is to be spiritual, have faith, and depend on God, and is to complete the work of God on earth. A false pastor is somebody who guides the sheep (he is a pastor), but not in the way of God, and this results in a road that isn’t in the will of God.

This kind of pastor doesn’t bring the unsaved into a saving relationship “with the Master” (the bad minister isn’t saved himself), but rather he collects people to obey his rule and authority stolen from God. This wicked pastor isn’t laboring in intercession and prayer for others, nor does he have compassion and love for those in error, sin, or the unsaved. He may be very astute (usually is), but his presentations, teachings, sermons don’t show great insight and understanding into Scripture, rather they are tools to build his empire.

A true man of God is concerned that others submit to God’s will, and rebuke of sin and repentance from sin are regular objectives of their ministry (moral change). The false prophet is greatly disgusted over all this, and he will make false repentance over meaningless issues, and he regularly pleases himself with indulgence into sin of some kind. But his prime objective is that everybody follows his will, nobody can think or discern God’s will except the pastor.

Rather than understanding Scripture for themselves, the wicked pastor confuses the issues that most press against his own personal sins, distracting, detracting from the importance of him repenting of his own sin. He substitutes tradition (“we have always done it this way”), authority of his office (“I am pastor, and I call the shots here”), or he appeals to popularity. A good pastor preaches sermons to himself first, and having repented himself first, and makes it a great sermon for all. You can mark the bad pastor by his drive to change the traditional, New Testament presentation of what “church is” to a modern version that is more accommodating to our tastes. Reverence, worship, and exposition of God’s actual words are replaced with an entertainment type attitude and environment, where “judging and rebuking sin” is not seen nor present except in unbiblical ridiculous ways.

John 6:28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

The work of God focuses on the person of Jesus Christ, our Savior but also in the spiritual image of Christ. We should imitate Christ. Paul presents this command (Ephesians 5:1).

1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

Philippians 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

Hebrews 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Ezekiel 37:24 And David my servant shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.

“Why” God gives good shepherds “according to the heart of God” (Jeremiah 3:15) to the sheep is so that they can direct the sheep INTO God’s way, God’s will, obeying God. Churches today get involved in all kinds of foolishness except the actual work of God as presented in Scripture, evangelism in the street, prayerful intercession, exposition of Scriptures… A bad pastor will “tend away from these things,” not following Christ’s example.

Feeding themselves

Ezekiel 34:2 Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel…Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? 3 Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: [but] ye feed not the flock. 8 As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because [there was] no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;

Wicked pastors tend to feed themselves, not entering into personal sacrifice, personal risk or adversity, but they seek the “easy life”. They want others to give them a good economic life, but they don’t do the real work of God the right way. Spiritual fruit and abandonment of sin are not the natural products of their ministry or life.

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More Tracts from the Church Category

Author Pastor David Cox

Pastor David Cox

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ch42 Destitution of Pastor

Destitution of the Pastor

The Destitution of the Pastor

Considerations and Reasons in which the Pastor should leave his office.

By David Cox
[Ch42] v1 ©2011 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes.





The Destitution of a Pastor: considerations and reasons why the pastor should step down

By David Cox

[ch42] v1.1 ©2011, 2024 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes

There are often problems in churches between the pastor and the members. In general, the pastor is the one who governs and leads the church according to what God teaches him. In itself, the concept of a Pastor is to lead (or govern) the flock of God. The Bible does not indicate that the church can remove the Pastor, because it simply does not like a matter that he does, especially when it is of minor importance. But the pastor is not without his duties and responsibilities either. He cannot do whatever he wants. For some, the pastor is “untouchable.” Once he enters, nothing short of God killing him, or the pastor himself resigning that can remove him. But that is not the case.




Is it Biblical to Destitute the Pastor?
(to remove him)

In 1 Timothy 2:11-15; 3:1-7; and Titus 1:5-9, the Apostle Paul explained the requirements for the bishop, who is the one who cares for the church spiritually and governs it. In making requirements, God gives us to understand that (1) not everyone is qualified to be a pastor, and for this reason, there are requirements before entering the office of bishop. (2) if a pastor officiating and ministering as a bishop becomes disqualified, then he must step down from that position and ministry. It is not valid to dismiss the pastor because you do not like something he does. Each person has “his style” of leadership and of doing the ministry and being a pastor. It is his privilege to direct things as he sees fit. The dismissal must come because he does not fulfill his duties, or for reasons of breaking a biblical norm, a biblical example, or not being exemplary (according to what most men of God and more spiritual Christians in the group see). In 1 Timothy 5:19-20, it clearly speaks of an elder’s rebuke openly before everyone, so pastors are not untouchable.

Subject to Requirements 1Timothy 3:2-3

Many times, wolves or immature men can deceive with their cunning, and for this reason, God says that the deacons and the pastor must be tested first, and then exercise their ministry if they are blameless (1 Timothy 3:10), i.e. meet the requirements. Paul put “these also” with the deacons so that we understand that the test is applied to the pastor as well as the deacon. Likewise, in reading Jeremiah (19 times) and Ezekiel (9 times almost all in chapter 34), God rebuked the errors and faults of the shepherds of Israel (the spiritual leaders of the nation). God rebukes them and speaks repeatedly of their dismissal, and that God is going to exchange them for a man of God who would do the will of God.

Jeremiah 3:15 And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God… 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

The pastor is the local living example of Christ (if not, he should step down). His leadership and ministry are one of demonstrating the will of God by the current and historical example of his own life. That is, before spiritual authority, before teaching or preaching, the pastor teaches and guides BY WHAT HE IS SPIRITUALLY. It is hypocrisy to say, “do as I tell you, not as I personally do.” So, if this is the basis of his ministry, when the pastor does not live correctly, he is not blameless like the example of Christ, he should step down or be dismissed.




The Requirements for Being Pastor

According to 1 Timothy 2:11-15; 3:2, it is expressly forbidden for a woman to serve as a pastor, or to preside, or to lead, or to preach, or to teach before the mixed group (men present) or in the general assembly (in any way speaking and being in front of the group in an official or authoritative capacity) or the church (when men are present). Simply put, the job of pastor-bishop is for men, not women.

It is equally forbidden if the pastor is not or does not continue to be “a one-woman man.” Homosexuals, adulterers, or divorced people are excluded from this ministry. The job of pastor is to teach and counsel the group by word and deed. If he does not live up to biblical standards, he should not enter, and if he should “change his mind” about the standards, he should either leave or be removed. God requires that the pastor “be blameless,” and this means that the pastor is an example of Christ, and has no defects, stains on his testimony, or is of bad report. We all sin, but the pastor must be a man who by his personal life’s achievement in following Christ is qualified to stand before others. He is not given to wine, vices, and addictions, but is free from them.

The Character of the Pastor

Although we can say that it is the privilege of each pastor to lead the group in general as he wants, there are conditions in this as well. First, it is appropriate to use this as a shield to not comply with God’s standards. These standards are obligatory for every believer, whoever he may be, but the pastor must especially manifest submission and obedience to them. The requirement of not being arrogant means not having an attitude of haughtiness, that is, that he is better than others, and does not care about the lives, feelings, or well-being of others. The pastor is there to give the flock the social, emotional, and spiritual support of God. His purpose of being over the flock is exactly this, to take them to a place of spiritual good, and to take care of them there, and any problem that exists, the pastor is there to correct it, to place the brothers in God’s will, or to give comfort if there is nothing else to do (such as the death of a family member). So, the biblical pastor is marked or distinguished from the evil pastor by being prudent and decorous, a host (1 Timothy 3:2). Prudence is saying the right thing, acting in a noble and healthy way, in a way that others see your behavior as the best in the world.




Being of good behavior and hospitable means having your life in order, everything as it should be, and having a “pro-people” attitude and actions. The biblical pastor wins others to Christ and serves the people of God by his attitude and actions of “being by their side” and not against them. Although sometimes the pastor must take the position of the beloved father who scolds his child, he loves, his actions, words, and attitude are always to benefit and edify the people (so that they walk in the will of God), and not to attack and destroy them. God has imposed that pastors live from this work, but the difference between the wolf and the beloved pastor is simply their attitude toward the will of God and the flock. The good shepherd wants to be God’s instrument to bless them and edify them so that they become adults, mature Christians. For this reason, the pastor does not stoop to the whims, tantrums, outbursts of anger, and the chatter of foolish old women. This is also involved with not being a novice (1 Timothy 3:6), but someone who, through his ALREADY ESTABLISHED experience in the ministry, demonstrates his spiritual and emotional stability. Titus 1:7 mentions “not soon angry” or hot-tempered as a character that disqualifies the person, and this is angry, emotionally explosive, always ready for, looking for and liking fights, arguments, and struggles. 1 Timothy 3:3 uses the phrases not a striker and not a brawler, or the concept of not being quarrelsome, which means that it is a person who loves to fight and win over others and to roll in fame and recognition of his superiority from others. The good shepherd is not like that, but he is controlled, demonstrating the way of God, the character of Christ by his own life, and this is the idea of ​​“prudence.”

2 Timothy 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

In 1 Timothy 3:3, Paul specifically states that the person who occupies the place of leader-example of the church must be “gentle, mild.” This means that he is a person with patience, and that he is gentle in his dealings with others, a true “gentleman”. His life demonstrates the gentleness, calmness, and patience of Christ, and if not, then he should not enter, nor should he remain as a shepherd. Isaiah 40:11 also refers to this gentleness and mildness that should be the norm between shepherd and sheep.




Greedy Dogs and Insatiable

Isaiah 56:11 Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, everyone for his gain, from his quarter.

Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes time and time again that the false prophet always has his eye on money and how he can reap what is not rightfully his, and the man of God is a person “not greedy of dishonest gain” (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).

How do you remove this a Bad Pastor?

There are two possibilities here, the nice way, and the ugly way. The Nice Way. When a Christian who has a viable and living relationship with Jesus Christ as his Savior enters the position of pastor of a church, and he falls into sin, or lets his testimony fall, or becomes bitter in his attitude, he by himself, by his own conscience, will want to step down from being a pastor so as not to tarnish the name of his Savior.

1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

The true Christian cares a lot about how his life reflects on his Savior. Because of stains in his testimony (his way of living), others do not come to Christ, or they stumble over his bad testimony, and this should be a strong motive in any Christian not to fall into sin, and if he does fall, to correct his life quickly, and not to occupy places of prominence during or after his sin or bad testimony.

The bad way. Unfortunately, the wolf does not care about any of this, and simply his hold on power over the church and the brethren is exactly like a dog with a bone. You are going to have an ugly fight if you try to take away his prize. (This is why the process of selecting a pastor must take its time, be a calm, quiet process, and understanding the requirements and praying over them and each possible candidate before anything formal and permanent is done.) The only thing that causes a dog to give up his bone is a strong blow to the head with the shepherd’s staff. This is why they used this staff. They will defend “their prize” with vengeance. It will be a challenge to “touch not God’s anointed” (See my tract of this same title, Ch26).

Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith.

God wants us to rebuke the erring Christan sharply at times to bring about spiritual healing in our lives and churches. Unfortunately, at times, even pastors get out of line. The more spiritual men of the church should speak strongly to the pastor to remove him if he does not fulfill his duties and requirements. Strong words of exhortation and encouragement should be given (constantly) before a removal process is begun. The pastor needs to know that his people are not ignorant of the image of Christ we all must bow before, and that they are aware of the pastor’s testimony (good or bad).

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More Tracts from the Church Category

Author Pastor David Cox

Pastor David Cox

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ch092 The False Prophet’s Spectacles

ch092 The False Prophet’s Spectacles is an examination of the unbiblical methods a false prophet uses to attract new people to his church.

The False Prophet’s Spectacles
By David R. Cox

[ch92] v1 ©2024 www.coxtracts.com
This tract can be freely reproduced for non-profit purposes

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works.

Matthew 24:11 And many false prophets shall rise and shall deceive many. 24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

So, why would a saved person support such ministries?

These false prophets made many supernatural shows in the name of Jesus. One of the marks that Jesus gave us to discern the false prophet is that they prefer making shows to identify themselves as being truly of God. Jesus declared something that was a strong shock, “I never knew you.” We must meditate on this. There are ministers and churches where those in control, that is, those who preach and teach in such a “ministry” are not even saved. So, why does a saved person have anything to do with them?

What is the Declaration of the Gospel?

Ephesians 2:17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

We must understand what the gospel is, and how we are to treat it in terms of what we say to others regarding salvation. There is a lot of importance in this. I mean, if you don’t understand what the gospel is, what salvation is and how you obtain it, you will never be able to enter it, nor will you treat it well.

A False Prophet does not explain the Gospel very well. A good pastor must explain salvation constantly and with different presentations. For the false prophet, the gospel is the repetition of magic words that if you repeat them, you will be saved. In areas of Catholic cultures, they must dip people in baptismal water (water baptism does not save anyone), but that is what the Catholic Church teaches. A preacher faithful to God will explain the gospel many times with clarity and care so that people understand salvation. Just saying or repeating a few words will not save anyone. Salvation comes when one hears the gospel and understands it, but the point of being saved is when the person believes in the gospel, his life changes and he is born again.

The World is Given over to Riches

The world is crazy in its desire for economic gain. The gospel is a spiritual orientation to remove the desire for material things. In other words, we begin with sin. We are in error, because we exalt riches to be our god. But our problems go beyond that. When a church or ministry attracts people through its economic giving of gifts, it is not right.

Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden,

Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

God declares that human needs (and desires) should not dictate how you live your life. It is a deception of Satan that you always have economic gain.

Fasting is exactly a spiritual activity to prove to the person himself that his spirit can dominate his body. But people can’t seem to live without exalting economic gain above everything else. Jesus said several times that we will always have the poor with us (Mark 14:7; John 12:8) and in Deuteronomy 15:11 He commands us to “Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy.” We are to be generous to those in need. 1 John 3:17 But if anyone has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?

But there is a type of people who always have their hand outstretched, and they are not actually saved, and God’s work cannot be done with such types. But the false prophet uses people and finds it useful to give gifts to people who are greedy in order add them and better control them.

John 6:26 Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. 27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. 28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

Salvation involves a spiritual change in the person’s being in which he leaves the importance of the earthly and the temporal in order to obtain the spiritual. We must live every moment of every day trying to please God. And this means working to sustain ourselves.

2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

So, our charity to these people must be limited lest we aid people in their sin, but it is totally a sin and the wrong way to live if one always seeks for “a handout.”

Jesus lamented that they would always follow whoever was giving handouts. These followers are not saved but are looking for the handout. They are children of Satan. Satan only has this world, that he has corrupted. He can only bribe people into his realm based on corrupted earthly things. The children of God have heaven and their future in it, blessings without number.

But a child of Satan habitually focuses on what he is going to enjoy now and in this life. Nothing else matters to him.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. 16 And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: 17 And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? 18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? 21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

The true Christian has changed their way of thinking. They esteem and value what is spiritual, and the rewards in heaven are more important than anything the earth has to offer.

Judas Iscariot followed Jesus also and he when to hell anyway

John 12:6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

[literally “bare away” as in carry off the money]

What we must notice is that for some, money and what is economically convenient for them is more important than anything else, and so their god is wealth. In other words, one’s financial well-being controls the decisions of one’s life. Because of this detail, God commands us to give offerings. God commands every believer, every follower of Him, to give spiritual sacrifices of their possessions for His work. There is another important point. How much does a Christian sacrifice of his own life to show God that wealth is not his god?

Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Likewise, sacrifice, prayer, and meditation must be done so that this sacrifice does not go to a false prophet. But the point we see today is when a ministry attracts people through this greedy desire among the people, how can anything good come out of it? We are part of the “ministry” of the false prophet by attending, supporting him, going for what he gives away, or directing others to him. It is worse when you give money to the falsehood he represents.

The False Prophet uses Avarice[1]

[1] Immoderate desire for wealth; cupidity. An excessive or inordinate desire of gain; greediness for wealth; covetousness; An inordinate desire for some supposed good.

2 Peter 2:3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

The matter here is not just that the false prophets are covetous, but they use the covetousness of people to deceive them and to entrap them in webs of wickedness.

2 Peter 2:14 Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: 15 Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;

We have to understand the economic motive in ministries that give away free things in order to attract people. On the one hand, they give away things in order “build their ministry.” But to appear like a great spiritual success (because the economic attraction is what is actually happening here), they use this to raise funds from Christians that believe their lies of success. In other words, they use numbers to promote themselves.

There is no Real Repentance in Their Ministry

Jeremiah 8:4 Moreover thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; Shall they fall, and not arise? shall he turn away, and not return? 5 Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return. 6 I hearkened and heard, but they spake not aright: no man repented him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? every one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle.

These false prophets do not preach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27), because it is not convenient for them. They want a great number of people (that will provide them with money, luxuries, fame, and control of their people), and whatever hard thing that should be preached or that might turn away some of their crowds is avoided. When the false prophets have control over many people, they reach their goals. They are embarrassed when people have spiritual problems, and they don’t deal with that kind of thing.

Ezekiel 34:2 Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? 3 Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock.

(To feed is to remedy their spiritual problems.) God used the prophet Ezekiel to get their attention and to instruct us as well. If a church comes to have thousands of members, how can it care for them individually?

Miracles and Healings

John 6:2 And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased.

But we observe and analyze what people are like, and what is it that pleases God? The world lives looking at the earthly and as if it is the most important thing here on earth now. In other words, God warns us many times that our sin brings eternal and earthly consequences, and death. Then, God warns us with an illness that our sins will cause us to die. We have limited time to fix our lives. But few are those who use this time for their eternal good. It is the judgment of God that will fall upon one at any moment, and it is certain that it will fall. The false prophet identifies himself with saying good words instead of rebuke when the judgment of God is about to come.

Jeremiah 23:17 They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.

The false prophets do not preach strongly, but only want to appear as if they do. They do not preach towards moral change in their people so that they imitate the moral character of God. It would ruin their goals of success if they did.

Elijah and the Prophets of Baal Wasn’t it sensationalism what Elijah did?

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah went “toe to toe” with the prophets of Baal.

1 Kings 18:33… Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood. 34 And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time. 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.

There are some that would say that Elijah fought against the false prophets of Baal, and by this, they also put an axe against physically destroying the icons of false religions. But if we examine the Bible, Elijah did not destroy any idols. He prayed, and God did a miracle that they couldn’t do.

They caused Harm to the Gospel

2 Peter 2:2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Because the truly saved support the ministries of these false prophets, the world thinks that all Christians are like this, and it is not true.

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Ch35 Bad Pastor or Disobedient Sheep?

Ch35 Bad Pastor or Disobedient Sheep? sorts out differences between pastors and sheep, marking all must obey Scripture.

Ch35 Bad Pastor or Disobedient Sheep? sorts out differences between pastors and sheep, marking all must obey Scripture.

Bad Pastor or a Disobedient Sheep?
By David Cox
[Ch35] v1r ©2009 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract

Without a doubt, the Bible warns us of the presence of false prophets and teachers who want to destroy our faith (Jude 1:4), and what they do is a type of spiritual slavery, religious control, and by means of systems, doctrines, and practices, they cause us to fall into sin. But when there is conflict in a church, it is very difficult to know when we ought to fight for our faith (Jude 1:3), and when it is something not so important that we should just submit to the leadership even though personally we would do things differently.
If the matter is doctrinal, we must go to the Bible to orientate ourselves and not disobey the Scripture. But frequently, the conflict is not doctrinal, but one of preferences and matters in which no biblical principle can be found in it (neither for nor against), if there is one, it is not clear where the Bible stands on the issue.

Contrast Between a Good and Bad Pastor

In John 10:1-18, God gives us the contrast between Jesus as the good shepherd and men as a bad shepherd. But God has appointed mature brothers to govern God’s church.

The Entry. John 10:1 speaks of how one comes into relationship with the sheep. There are two ways, those who enter through the door (chosen by God to be the shepherd), and those who enter through some other way. The only official organization of the flock of God is a local church. At this point, the official leader of a local church is the bishop (the position of authority), who is a true elder (and who meets the qualifications of a leader), and who shepherds (the action that makes an elder into the position of bishop). The only legitimate leaders are those who enter this way, by qualifying under the biblical requirements. If there is no examination of the individual, he is not legitimate. Many want to control the brethren, but do not meet the spiritual qualifications and requirements, and do not pay the price to enter correctly (1 Timothy 3, Titus 1). These are not to be accepted as leaders. Honor those who care for their spiritual life and dedicate themselves to ministry.

The Relationship. John 10:3-4 teaches us that the true shepherd has a good relationship with the sheep. The good shepherd lives with the sheep in their daily lives and has sympathy and a personal relationship (friendship, he calls them by name). The word “leads” is to lead them out of something, and this must be from sin to righteousness, which is the object of all preaching. The good shepherd places them (through preaching) in the will of God, especially as it is expressed in the Holy Scriptures, as the central point of their life, which dominates what they do, believe, say, and desire. 1 Cor 16:15-16 commands us to submit to people who have dedicated themselves to the service of the saints, helping and working. Relationships and dedication count in identifying the good shepherd.

The Leadership. John 10:4 speaks of the leadership and ministry of a good pastor, that he is exemplary.

1 Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

1 John 2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

The good shepherd is not a cowboy, who pushes his charge from behind cruelly pushing and whipping them. The good shepherd is exemplary and goes out in front of them, demonstrating in his personal life how everyone should behave. We can simply ask, Is the shepherd’s conduct like the example of Christ? If the answer is yes, then he is probably a good shepherd.

If not, then we have a hypocrite (who goes to hell Matthew 24:51), someone who pretends to be the example of Christ, but really is not. Be very careful when the spiritual leader uses double standards, one for himself, and another for others. But we cannot blame the shepherd just for being harsh, because this is what he must do, (Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 1 Timothy 5:20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. 2 Timothy 4:2) Paul reveals to us the point in 2 Corinthians 13:10, when he said he used severity “according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.” The severity that the good shepherd uses is to aid a believer to Christlikeness, and not to destroy the life of the Christian under his charge. Paul saw an authority given to him by God for this.

1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

Paul’s concept of a good pastor is that he is an example of Christ. As a minister charged with responsibility for other Christians, Paul lived the exemplary life of Jesus Christ. If your pastor is not like this, he should leave the ministry to someone who is. These things happen because the very same church does not examine the pastor as to his moral character BEFORE they ask him to be their pastor.

Marks of the bad shepherd. In Ezekiel 34 we see the marks of a bad shepherd. He feeds himself and not the flock (Ez 34:1), he takes personal advantage of his office (Ez 34:2-3), he does not seek the welfare of the flock (Ez 34:4), he does not give placement and direction in the lives of the sheep (Ez 34:5), he does not make it a priority to integrate every Christian into a local church (Ez 34:6), he does not attack the spiritual enemies of the sheep (Ez 34:8). Isaiah 56:10 His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. 11 Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.

In Jeremiah we see more marks. They rebelled against God, giving a message that did not originate with God (Jer 2:8), they did not seek God’s message (Jer 6:3) but “became overbearing” (consumers). Finally, God’s threat is against the bad shepherd, “Who is that shepherd that can withstand Me?” (Jer. 49:19). The good shepherd is a minister who presents himself as the example of Christ. 2 Thessalonians 3:9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.

The Contrast between a Sheep and a Goat

The Bible teaches us that there are people within the church who pretend to be saved, but really are not (Matt. 13:24-29). Many times, false doctrine and conflicts come from these “members” who hinder the flock of God. Their character is very different, because they are not subject to the authority of God. The authority of the Scriptures is not the resolution of everything (the rule) in their lives. They are a law unto themselves. What seems best to them is always what is right. Their ways and methods of working are what they like, such as joking, blasphemy, sedition, and lying. They do not care about the impact and consequence on the novice and weaker brethren (Luke 17:1-2). Whoever causes others to fall is accursed before God.

Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

Galatians 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

In church conflicts, ask yourself who is behaving like Christ? Many times, neither side is behaving like Christ. But note that no matter what, God does not bless any warrior if he does not fight legitimately, that is, according to God’s commandments, form, and norms (2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully). If you do not behave as worthy of Christ, with courtesy and respect towards others, then you walk in sin.

Normally these false Christians do not respect the divine authority that God has given to the pastor.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

There are churches with false prophets as pastors, but the rebellious members do not discern this. The bad members want to impose their will on the church, as if they were the pastor of the church. A good pastor does not allow them to do this, so they plot sedition and rebellion among the membership. If the doctrines are biblical, and the leaders are examples of Christ, then one should submit to these leaders even if one does not agree with every little thing they do. They will have to give an account to God for what they do right or wrong, and for their stewardship.

Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

The pastor is the one whom God has left in charge of the local church, to represent Christ in this group. The group should be subject to his judgment and discernment, and the pastor should lead by example, not by prodding (aggression). But having said this, we understand that pastors also make mistakes, and we must bear with them and forgive them. When we see elements constantly in the pastor of bad desires, purposes, goals, doctrines, and practices that disqualify him from ministry, the whole church should expel the pastor or make him withdraw from the ministry even if they are in the minority. The dismissal of a pastor is not something in which the pastor does not agree in doctrine or in his personal life, nor because he disagrees with somebody.

The Main Problem

The main problem in most church conflicts is that everyone involved are not seeking God’s will, but rather they presume that their own ideas are God’s will without having very clear verses to defend their position. Then the complicating factor is that few people in these conflicts are mature. Instead of giving preference to others and being humble, everyone is trying to dominate the faith of others.

Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

When peace is not a goal in a person’s life, conflicts are never resolved, but rather it is their vice, seeking more and more contention. People who are spiritual are not contentious. 2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men… patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Discerning the Will of God

Satan wants to destroy the work of God, and the conflict, dissension, contention, and arguments without spiritual fruit are how Satan works for this destruction. We do not want to be part of the problem, but part of the solution.

James 5:9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Psalms 133:1 A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

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Ch012 The Worship of God: The Principle Obligation of the Believer

Ch012 The Worship of God: The Principle Obligation of the Believer examines the Bible’s teaching on what is worship.

The Worship of God
The Principal Obligation for the Believer
By David Cox

[ch012] v3.2 ©2023 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this for non-profit purposes

Let us think of God as the worthiest Being who deserves a spiritual response from our souls (which should be surrender, dedication and obedience). He is first and foremost our Creator. Salvation is in essence, trust (or faith) in the person of God. His promises of salvation are real, and He is always ready to save us. If we believe this “we are calling upon God in our lives”. And this is what saves us.

Salvation is not a prayer of magic words, which, being vain or feigned (lies), neither affects nor changes our lives. It is putting great trust in God, knowing His character and imitating Him (Ephesians 5:1).

To worship Him is to recognize His character, to trust and exalt Him to be our only pattern. To worship Him is to express faith through words and actions (meditations on His divine character). And it is in Sunday worship given to us by God that we best focus our worship of God.

What is Worship?

James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

One’s attitude toward God is of supreme importance. God punishes pride, and rewards humiliation before Him. Access to God is by recognizing His Sovereignty. The second and third commandments speak of wrong forms and objects of worship, the fourth commandment speaks of the day of worship (dedicated to the Lord). Worship is simply the exaltation of God by the person who honors Him. Worship is a spiritual activity, it is an imitation of the morality (moral character) of God, it springs from the soul, it is the response to the Creator with esteem, actions and words that exalt Him in all that He deserves. William Ames explains that there are two forms of worship, formal (in worship) and informal, of which he says, “One cannot give honor to God in any other way but by expressing faith, hope, and love.” That is, true worship is seen in one’s activity and attitude.

Deuteronomy 10:12 And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, 13 To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?

At this point, says William Ames, “God requires only one thing: worship of Him. This has to do with a fearful attitude (reverence), walking in His ways, loving and serving Him. This is the heart of worship.”

Who do we Worship?

Matthew 4:9 And (Satan) saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

It is striking that Satan wanted Jesus to worship him, and God emphatically insisted that worship is only for God Himself. Firstly, “our Lord” is our Master, the one who rules our lives. Secondly, it is important that Satan wanted Jesus to worship him “prostrate”. That is; to be valid worship, it must be exactly as Satan commanded him.

Satan wanted worship as a sign and in a position of submission (prostrate and humbling himself). That is, worship must deal primarily with the object of worship (God alone, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit John 5:23), and then the form (the humiliation and exaltation of God over us and our will). Satan wants to rob God of His worship. Worship is to keep our eyes fixed, and to give Him attention and priority, offering Him what He requires, and it must be in the form God specifies. Satan intends to draw us away from the right object by corrupting the proper forms. Also, it is very clear that we must never worship anyone other than God Himself, the Creator.

Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

“Giving worship” is the word σεβάζομαι (sebazomai) which means to give reverence or adoration. It is forbidden to worship any creature, or thing, especially wealth. In Colossians 2:18 and Revelation 19:10 it is forbidden to worship angels who literally are “messengers” (which can be preachers or spirit beings appearing in vision with a message).

The Elements of Worship

Worship comes from the fact that we are creatures made by God for His glory. It is the primary obligation of every creature to worship God. This is the reason God created us. It is the response of every creature to God, their Creator. Worship implies that we should prostrate ourselves before the superior God (exalting Him).

The forms are not specific because the attitude is more important than the position of the body, but what the Scriptures command is that we kneel before God, bow our heads to the ground, and be still and maintain silent listening before Him. In general, let us show reverence, awe and humiliation in the presence of God. (Children whose parents do not accustom them to behave well in church will always have problems with worshiping God as adults. The teacher’s authority in school comes from God, and these children will also not be good students in school and will suffer in life).

How should we worship God?

Genesis 4:5-7 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.

When we examine Cain, we do not understand his sin in a very clear way. Cain’s sin was that he worshipped in a way that did not please God (the same thing that Nabad and Abihu did in Leviticus 10:1-11 by offering “strange fire”). Many commentators are of the opinion that Cain offered a bloodless offering, a requirement demanded by God, although this could well be, God does not explain it to us. His mistake was not to give importance to the details of his worship, when one has precise instruction from God, one must obey faithfully.

Deuteronomy 12:32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.

Numbers 15:39 And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring:

We must study how it is that God wants us to worship Him, and fulfill it exactly. It was God’s constant concern that His people that they not forsake His commandments to follow the thoughts of their hearts. Worship begins with God, and continues with hearing, studying, understanding and applying the Word of God to our own lives.

Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Exodus 20:4-5 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: 5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me,

God forbade worship of that which does not have God as its object, and especially not worshiping using images of any kind (of God himself, or of persons, of saints, or of animals, plants, stars, the sun, the moon, etc.). The method of worship is spiritual and not in symbols. The form or method of worship is very important.

John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

The woman doubted the right place to worship (Jerusalem or Samaria). Jesus declined both centers of worship (which was of great contention between Jews and Samaritans) and focused on spiritual worship, through the truth of God spiritually, dwelling and living visibly within the life of each one.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

The most important part of worship is that we live God’s moral character (morality) in our daily lives. Thus, we will worship God in the way that pleases Him. Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children.

The most essential parts of worship in services are: 1) To know and understand the spiritual truth that we need to follow by reading the Bible itself. 2) To insist on this in our way of worship (hymns, Scripture reading, testimonies, etc.). 3)encourage our brethren in faith and love, using spiritual examples, (testimonies and actions of grace) where God shows His character in us, through our experiences.

The “Lord’s Day”

Exodus 20:8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work…

It is extremely important that one worships God. Salvation is not really within you if you do not worship God WITH YOUR OWN LIFE, with your expressions, your words, and your deeds. Furthermore, as a permanent habit of the child of God, there is a specific time and place to worship God, and this is in the church services (in the company of the brethren) every first day of the week.

The observance of the Sabbath (which is a rest from normal life) was of supreme importance in the Old Testament. Breaking the rules of reverence for God on that day was punishable by death.

1 John 1:5, 7 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

John observed that there are some people who do not easily fellowship with the brethren. (1 John 2:19 “they went out from us, but they were not of us”) They abandon the church and the brethren. These people do not want to identify with the redeemed of God. John saw the purification of sins, or moral change (1 John 1:7; 3:3, 6) and the love between brethren (1 John 3:10) as the clearest demonstration of a child of God.

Conclusion

The worship of God is the result of having changed one’s life, leaving sin and living together with the brothers and sisters in the community of faith. This is emphasized in the formal worship services.

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More Tracts from the Church Category

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ch24 The power of an example

power of an Example

In the power of an Example, I examine the power of spiritual examples, both good examples for good influences, and evil examples for bad influences. This principle is a spiritual principle in the Bible, by which God affects his children through men of God. Likewise, I look briefly at the power of evil examples on others, to trip them up into sin. We touch on Pastors and leaders in the local church, as well as parents’ influence on their children.

The Power of an Example
By David Cox
[ch24] v1 ©2011 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes

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Ch11 True Praise

True Praise

By David Cox

[ch11] v1 ©2012 www.coxtracts.com
This tract can be reproduced for non-profit purposes.




Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen. Deut 10:20-21

What is praise? How is it different from worship? (according to the Bible of course). Well, praise is to say something good about somebody. If a mother rises at 5:00 AM every day to prepare a good breakfast for her kids, does other beneficial things, then her children may “praise her” for the good that she has done them. When they do this publicly, then that is praise. So in praise, we publicly recognize the acts of God for humanity which are good, great, and excellent, and in so doing, reflect God’s benevolent character.

Psa. 22:3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. In a sense, God dwells in these “praises of men”. God is highly pleased when men praise Him. The Psalmist presents God as living or inhabiting in the midst of these praises.

Psa 148:1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights. 5 Let them praise the name of the LORD: for he commanded, and they were created. 6 He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: he hath made a decree which shall not pass. We are to praise our God because He is worthy to be praised (2Sam 22:4; 1Chr. 16:25). Praise begins and focuses on God. Praise does not start out as something emotional (although it can get emotional), but it is a spiritual activity of the will, something we are obligated to do. Praise is spiritual, and is created by the mind and soul meditating on God before seeking to be moved by the emotions (it neither excludes the emotion nor exalts them but allows them when it is appropriate). Continue reading →

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ch22 Pastorless Flocks

Pastorless Flocks

Is it biblical for a church to be without a pastor?
By David Cox
[ch22] v1 ©2006 www.coxtracts.com
This tract can be freely reproduced for non-profit use



The argument goes something like this. “Pastors are bad because they are dictators, and this is not biblical, then we should not have pastors. According to us, the Bible teaches that each church should have a plurality of elders where none is over any of the others, and no one is ‘in charge’, but everybody is equal. Each mature brother in the church should work as his heart leads him. The church won’t have economic problems like this…” This is like never going to another doctor because you went to one that made matters worse and overcharged you. Find a good doctor but don’t cross off all doctors! For those who assert that the ministry of pastor is not biblical, there is a simple answer, why does the word then occur in the Bible? Is it not a biblical concept? The word and concept are completely biblical, so why do people reject it? Continue reading →

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ch47 The Christian and His Money

The Christian and his Money
By David Cox

[ch47] v2 ©2011 www.coxtracts.com/ch47
You may print and photocopy freely this tract

A tract on the correct attitude of a Christian towards his money and wealth. TOPICS: The Danger of Covetousness | Covetousness is an idol | The requirement for Leaders | The False Prophet and his Covetousness | Conclusion

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ch43 Time to leave your church?

When is it time to leave your church?
By David Cox
[ch43] v1 ©2011 www.coxtracts.com
You may freely reproduce this tract for non-profit purposes



Phil 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, [being] of one accord, of one mind.

Every good Christian will have a serious relationship with a group of brethren (a local church) of the same faith and practice that you have, and if you have incorporated yourself into their activities and fellowship, leaving will be difficult, and it should be. Your reasons for leaving should be taken because of definite events, attitudes, practices, or doctrines in that church that make you feel that you are “not the same as they are”, that they do not have the same love of Christ as you, because they do not follow Christ according to Scripture (in teachings, doctrine, practices, attitudes, etc), there is a rupture between you that forces your physical separation from that group. You should first try to examine your own spirit, to see if you are wrong, then talk with leaders in the church group to try and resolve the problem. After prayer, no resolution, you need to go to the pastor or leaders and tell them you are troubled, and will seek another church. Continue reading →