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The Honest Truth

Here’s what makes me angry — most churchgoers don’t really know one another. We judge based on fragments, half-stories, and assumptions. Many aren’t willing to step outside the comfort zone long enough to really connect. To be Ekklesia — the called-out people of God who live fellowship, not just attend services.

Too often, “church” has become a performance. Smiles hide exhaustion. Conversations skim the surface. People come, people go — yet few stay long enough to build roots deep enough for transformation. What we need is a cleansing — a baptism of Spirit and fire.

I cry out for the fear of the Lord to return. For holy sobriety to shake us awake. It’s time to stop sweeping hypocrisy under the rug and start walking in truth again.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and uncleanness.”
(Matthew 23:27–28, NKJV)

When Anger Meets Grace

My anger isn’t hate. It’s heartbreak — a righteous ache for authenticity. But when that anger crosses into the flesh, I repent. No excuses. If I’ve hurt someone, I’ll make it right. A sincere apology carries power.

Some call my candor abrasive. Maybe it is. But it’s part of my calling — to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. I’d rather speak truth that cuts and heals than whispers that lull us to sleep. I will not pretend. I will not play games with God or people.

Sometimes I say too much. The Holy Spirit checks me, and I apologize. My motives are clean — I just want to see Christ formed in us. I love deeply, even when it’s messy. And I refuse to wear a mask.

This isn’t “clean-room Christianity.” It’s life — raw, flawed, and holy all at once. Faith that’s tested in the dirt and proven in the fire.

Still Learning to Surrender

I pour out my life freely. When love and care aren’t reciprocated, I feel it. I bleed. But I’m learning to surrender — to let unmet expectations drive me deeper into God, not bitterness.

I’m grateful that Jesus loves me perfectly even when I don’t get it right. What you see is what you get — the good, the bad, the ugly. I don’t hide it. I walk open-handed with those willing to do the same. Forgiveness is the pathway.

A Disciple’s Promise

If I’m wrong, I’ll repent. But I’ll also remind you that Jesus told us all to deny ourselves, pick up our crosses, and follow Him. That’s not optional.

The goal is always transformation — Christ formed in us. That’s what discipleship really means. We’re in this together — flawed, forgiven, being shaped into His likeness.

Pain, betrayal, disappointment, distress — these don’t define us; they refine us. Christ must always be bigger. We win when we don’t give up — especially on each other.

On the Potter’s Wheel

I’m still being molded. I’m desperate, hungry, broken — but hopeful. I long for Jesus more than comfort, reputation, or approval.

If someone’s faking it, I can’t waste energy trying to convince them otherwise. My focus stays on surrender. I sow, I water, and I trust God with the increase. He’s building His Kingdom, not mine.

What God Wants

God isn’t after polished performances. He’s after surrendered hearts — broken people who let Him build something real. There will always be a remnant — a few who answer the call to koinonia.

Me? I’m just the stall boy, cleaning up church messes until He comes. But I’ll keep loving, believing, and preaching Christ and His cross.

He takes our imperfection and gives us His perfection. What a trade. That’s the Kingdom way — faith working through love.

So I’ll keep forgiving. Keep walking in love. Keep moving forward with anyone willing to walk real — hungry for Jesus, not religion.

The New Wineskin

It’s time to pioneer a new way — to walk away from the Constantinian system of top-down religion that entertains but doesn’t transform. We don’t need CEO pastors and polished platforms — we need disciples, sons, servants.

I’m done pouring virtue into the old machine. But I’ll always build a bridge for those who still hunger for Christ.

That’s why Acts In Motion exists — to seek first the Kingdom, not the brand. To live Kingdom Reality.

Acts 2. Acts 4. Romans 12. 1 Corinthians 12. Ephesians 4. Colossians 3. Matthew 5–7.
The blueprint hasn’t changed — we just need to live it.

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“I saw a vision of Jesus, he was as big as a house. He was knocking on the door of a church building. He turned and looked at me with a sad countenance and said, ‘They won’t let me into the church, and not only will they not let me in, they have taken out my message.’ (He was referring to dying on the cross for sins.) They began to water down and even stopped altogether mentioning My blood. He told me to ‘remind the church to let Him in and to remember that he died to wash away our sins.’ He then said he was ‘giving fresh new songs about the cross for those who are listening.’” _{(Alina Parrott)}

In the current atmosphere and demands of this world, there’s many things we are preoccupied with in daily life, it’s understandable. There’s still responsibility to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads in the midst of increased national disruption. Coping with the aftermath of the PLANdemic producing deep uncertainties, rampant sickness mentally and physically, the murder and mutilation of children, out of control inflation reflecting a failing economy, a wide open Southern boarder, the political upheaval, and the fight against authoritarianism creating a dystopian worldview, has gripped the hearts of many with fear! Confusion! Trepidation! Rage! Distraction! Thus, the ears of the majority have become dull to what is eternal, even in the current “church” experience. Let’s face it, we have failed to keep our priorities straight in many ways, and we have reaped the consequences.

“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:” _{(Col. 2:9-10)}

The million dollar question, is Jesus Christ still Lord or not? If so, what does that look like in our current situation? He must be the center of all things, especially being the Head of the church. Unfortunately, the spirit of this age, “the father of lies” has crept into the church to delude and misinform “Christians” regarding many things. One such “doctrine” is this notion of carte blanche submission to the STATE in the affairs and exercise of the church. Twisting the scriptures of, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers...” and “rendering unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” that we forget to “render unto God what is God’s.” Who is the Highest power? What belongs to Caesar? Is your soul Caesar’s? Is the breath in your lungs Caesar’s? Is your energy and labor Caesar’s? Is your family Caesar’s? Is the church Caesar’s? These are abominable notions if we are rendering to Caesar what is CLEARLY ONLY God’s! The Lord is “pleading” with us. Wake up! It’s time to be alert, reconsider what we consent to, agree with. The contracts we sign, the forms we fill out “begging for benefits,” from another god, at what expense? “Shall we gain the whole world and lose our souls?” Repent for those ungodly covenants, and renounce the agreements (get out of bed with the STATE). ONLY then, there’s restored SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY to speak truth to power! God wants a restoration of His church being the light of the world and the salt of the earth. We are ambassadors from the jurisdiction of Christ’s kingdom. Think about what that really means? Represent well! God’s got our backs when we do things His way.

Our Head, Authority, needs to be Christ in all things. We need to know how He governs in this realm practically and theologically, not just philosophically and spiritually.

“The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner…”_{(Matt. 21:42)}

“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:…” _{(Eph. 4:15)}

“And he is the head of the body, the church… that he might have the preeminence.” _{(Col 1:18)}

Does Caesar (rogue worldly governments) own us individually and collectively as the church? Is Caesar our head, deserving our allegiance? NO! The scripture states very clearly that Messiah is our Head and the owner of our lives. Therefore, He deserves our allegiance.

I received a letter from John MacArthur a few years ago, with the headline” CHRIST, NOT CAESAR IS HEAD OF THE CHURCH.” I say amen. He has led a noble cause of resistance to the STATE for their overreach and soft tyranny. Yet we need to back up for a minute and consider how we got here? Be brave enough to evaluate the truth about the status and standing of most 501c3 “churches” in America. They are incorporated UNDER the STATE (the creator of the corporation) therefore, there’s an obligation to obey their “STATE master,” according to their consent or it’s considered rebellion. Unfortunately, we get what we signed up for, knowingly or unknowingly! It doesn’t cease to amaze me when “Christians” are shocked when the STATE abuses its power, like it’s something unusual. A snake will always act like a snake. A wolf will always have the appetite of a predator.

The voice of the church was very influential in colonial America to modern history. It was, and still is, protected with IMMUNITY from the STATE by the 1st amendment, “Congress shall make no law…” Unfortunately, back in the 1950’s, through the craftiness of demonized politicians, lawyers, and CPA’s, in conjunction with the unsuspecting clergy, the church’s moral compass began to erode significantly. Why? Metaphorically, an out of control snowball from hell, called, The Johnson Act of 1954. It brought precedence to the STATE controlled 501c3 “non-profit corporation.” Duped ministers went along with this mis-categorization of the church, which cut the legs out from underneath their First Amendment immunity with a stroke of the pen. The initiation of an unholy covenant began, mind you, this was voluntary NOT by law. So subtle, like The Serpent! This is no small matter, it’s foundational. Offering diabolical “hush money,” for alleged, “benefits.” This is the origin where the church agreed to “shut up” from being the moral compass in politics, and in “public policies” at large. To this day they are bludgeoned with the lie and misinterpretation of  “the separation of church and state.”

I’m compelled to prophetically speak the truth in love. Ask yourself, how did the church form before 1954? Even a further question, what authority did the church preexist under before the nation was even formed? How do we get back to our roots? How can we regain the status as a free, organic church? Un-apologetically, it is necessary to meddle, IN HOPE to initiate positive change. God cares about purity, saints. We need to face the stone cold truth of our condition and how we got here. Who’s the head of the current religions organization I’m affiliated with? God said, “Come out from among them My people and touch not the unclean thing…” Come out from these ungodly structures, the snares of the STATE. BE free from the bondage, BE the ekklesia of Jesus Christ. Make the right decisions now, the whole nation is in the balance needing the godly influence of the church restored. God says, “it’s a fearful thing being in the hands of the Living God.” Ministers and saints, don’t overreach or make rash decisions, seek God, be honest, pray about this matter. Get strategy from heaven that harmonizes with the Word for restored kingdom authority, “as in heaven so on earth.” Jesus wants His church back!

When we understand the truth from a Biblical and historical viewpoint we can make solid decisions in daily life with the preeminence of Christ in mind. All glory to our King. TOGETHER, pursuing full surrender to The Head, “Christ, who is our life.” Col. 3.

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In my discovery there is so much mixture, corruption, “leaven,” if you will, in Christendom that I was literally getting physically sick. God encountered me, opened my eyes, brought me behind the veil. He put in my heart the desire for purity, how He prescribes the blue print for our lives. All that said, as I have gotten older, still a radical, burning one, a little more tempered, I have concluded, celebrate every day as, “this is the day that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it,” even Christmas. Amen. I will use every opportunity to celebrate Christ as king… 24/7. Yet I do it fully seeing the truth of the “Babylonian matrix” and its seduction, I refuse to be in bed with the “the god of this world” yet celebrate Christ as preeminent in kingdom family every

opportunity available. I believe, we must give room to every individual’s conscience in how they execute their decisions. We can’t control each other. Amen.

Keeping in mind, my or your opinion based in the traditions of men or our own carnality doesn’t hold a candle to the authority of Christ and properly interpreted scripture. Therefore, we need to grapple with the following passage without falling into the ditch of legalism or the ditch of Libertinism.

2 Cor. 6:14-18: “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? 15And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people.” 17Therefore, “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” 18“I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty.”

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An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.”_{Pro. 17:11)}

In my understanding, worldly “powers” were used to enslave God’s people as a last resort, to convince them to repent of rebellion and return to The Lord–The Father’s loving embrace. Unfortunately, they strayed from God over and over and over again in the history of Israel.

As a dog returns to his own vomit, So a fool repeats his folly._{(Pro. 26:11)}

As a point of clarification, in scripture it does not necessarily mean God ordained or caused bondage as part of His eternal purpose. He is an omniscient God and understands the consequences of sowing and reaping in the affairs of humanity. We must be cautious to not accuse God as being cruel or vindictive when people make choices to sin against Him, or each other, and suffer negative ramifications. As a multi-dimensional God, just because He knows the end from the beginning, does not mean He interferes with man’s free choice. Therefore, “To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.”_{(Heb. 3:15)} If we harden our hearts, God will continue to pursue us because of love and grace. He will even use hard circumstances or ungodly authorities to plead with us so we will return to His “covenant.”

And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will I plead with you face to face. 36 Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord GOD. 37 And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:_{(Ex. 20:35-37)}

Here’s one account, among many, in the history of Israel where the kings “did evil in the sight of the LORD.” Not only did King Manasseh err; he caused the whole nation to err. He refused to repent and the LORD was forced to bring in Babylon “as pleadings” so Judah would repent.

Manasseh… he reigned… And he caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, and used enchantments, and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger… 9 So Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel. 10 And the LORD spake to Manasseh, and to his people: but they would not hearken. 11 Wherefore the LORD brought upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which took Manasseh among the thorns, and bound him with fetters, and carried him to Babylon.”_{(2 Chron. 33:5, 6, 9-11)}

In short, please understand God did NOT ordain Babylonian governance as His model for order, justice, welfare, and righteousness. I explained this in an article aforementioned on authority. I do not ascribe to or believe that every form of leadership/governance is ordained of God. Let’s make this clear again, He simply used the heathen to chasten His children in hope that they repent and return to the heart of God. Read Jer. 50 and 51 of the judgment against Babylon–it would be utterly destroyed. This will give you good understanding of how the Lord of Host felt about Babylon or any nation that follows not His heart. Yes, He’s long suffering, merciful, and loving but balance that with His holiness, righteousness, and justice. Gen. 6 says, His Spirit will NOT strive with man forever. What I have observed biblically and historically, He lifts His hand off an unrepentant people and they fall into a cycle of moral degradation to reprobation which leads to slavery and death. God, not man, determines the timing for this. He wants us to repent. He is always good.

Could God’s dealings with Israel serve as an example (type and shadow) for us today even in a New Covenant paradigm? Is the Lord “pleading” with the Church on the land of America? Could our rejection of the Lordship of Christ breach the hedge of protection and cause the Lord to remove His hand allowing the enemy (serpent) access to devour? “He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.”_{(Ecclesiastes 10:8)} Granted, I don’t know every detail about how God orchestrates these affairs but at minimum, I can emphatically say, what we see today in America is not God’s best. Agreed? We need God’s mercy for another great awakening! Father, thy kingdom come, thy will be done…

I can give you an enumerable list of injustices committed on this land from the murder of innocence in the womb and pedophilia to the breakdown of family, from promiscuity and homosexuality to corruption in religion and the highest offices of politics. All of which deserve the judgment of God. In my opinion, these great ills of society are the fruit of a root issue. It stems from the rejection of the Lordship of Christ or the idolatry (every priority higher then Christ) of the church at large resulting in a societal void. As goes the family so goes the church, as goes the church so goes the nation.

I believe God wants to deliver and restore us before it’s too late. What can we do individually and collectively? In our brokenness there’s power in tears and a sincere heart before God. If we as the people of God will repent, cry out for mercy, and amend our ways, who knows, maybe the Lord will heal our hearts, our families, our land, and restore the republic.

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There are ultimately two different kingdoms influencing us throughout history: that of the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. Scripture reveals the dark sways of the world systems so we can discern, thus avoiding the snares of mixture and seduction, if at all possible:

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. _{(Eph. 2:2)}

…In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not… _{(2 Cor. 4:4)}

Babylon…For thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. _(Rev.18:23)

 …The Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees him not, neither knows him: but you know him; for he dwells with you, and shall be in you. _{(Jn. 14:17)}

It is important to lay some groundwork and define terms. What does the Lord say about these opposing kingdoms? We will go through a discovery process, first, what is authority and its purpose?

 Authority: …a right to command or to act;… Power; rule; sway. _{(Webster’s Dictionary 1828)}

From its origin, God gave authority (power; rule; sway) to Adam (mankind) to exercise over creation not humanity.

…Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. _{(Gen. 1:28)}

I do not believe it was ever God’s intention to sanction, thus setting precedence for man to control and lord over other men. I believe this dominating spirit is a direct result of the fall of man. My examination of Scripture sets the precedence after the flood of Noah’s time with Nimrod, the prince over Babel. Genesis 10 tells the story.

…Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth. He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: wherefore it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD. And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel… _{(Gen. 10:8-10)}

What does it mean, “a mighty one in the earth?”

One who magnifies himself, behaves proudly, a tyrant, who is bold, audacious. _{(Brown-Driver-Briggs)}

What does it mean, “He was a mighty hunter before the LORD?” What was Nimrod hunting?

Nimrod was a great man in his day; he began to be mighty in the earth, Those before him were content to be upon the same level with their neighbours, and though every man bare rule in his own house, yet no man pretended any further. Nimrod was resolved to lord it over his neighbours. The spirit of the giants before the flood, who became mighty men, and men of renown, Ge 6:4, revived in him. Nimrod was a great hunter. Hunting then was the method of preventing the hurtful increase of wild beasts. This required great courage and address, and thus gave an opportunity for Nimrod to command others, and gradually attached a number of men to one leader. From such a beginning, it is likely, that Nimrod began to rule, and to force others to submit. He invaded his neighbours’ rights and properties, and persecuted innocent men; endeavouring to make all his own by force and violence. He carried on his oppressions and violence in defiance of God himself. _{(Matthew Henry’s Commentary)}

In simple terms, Nimrod hunted for the souls of men to rule over them for his selfish agenda in defiance before the Lord. Thus, making them into human resources. This is the origin of the top down, city-state model of government, be it secular or religious systems. Being in contradistinction to God’s design of authority which is possessive, belonging to the individual, not forcefully exercised to lord over others. I believe God originally gave dominion (authority) to the individual, through Adam, to first, rule their own soul, second, for care of family and neighbors.

Fast forwarding to Israel, a nation set-apart by God to produce the promised Messiah to save the world and restore eternal purpose. A nation called out from other nations whose God was their Judge, Lawgiver, and King.

For the LORD is our Judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our King. He will save us. _{(Isa. 33:22)}

Unfortunately, another precedence was set, to be succinct, the nation degraded from God leading, protecting, and providing for them to a man-king lording over them. In Samuel 8, the people cried out to the prophet Samuel, appoint a king to judge us like all other nations.

But when they said, “Give us a king to judge us,” their demand was displeasing in the sight of Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. And the LORD said to Samuel, “Listen to the voice of the people in all that they say to you. For it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me as their king. They are doing to you just as they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking Me and serving other gods. Now listen to them, but you must solemnly warn them and show them the manner of the king who will reign over them.” _{(1 Sam. 8:6-9)}

From scripture this is clearly a form of government that rejects the LORD in favor of other gods (powers, authorities, rulers), unfortunately, such is the proclivities of unregenerate man throughout history. The solemn warning of God was not heeded then, as it is not heeded today, as a result they were subjected under a system after the order of Nimrod.

I believe Christ redeemed us and established a new holy nation, the church, the kingdom of God, if we would choose to put Him in His rightful place as King. We need to ask ourselves these important questions: what kingdom is controlling me and in whom have I given authority to influence my life, Nimrod or Christ?

Bringing a Balanced Perspective

In light of the aforementioned, it is fairly obvious, the majority of the systems influencing us today are not from the original intent of God’s heart but that of the lineage of Nimrod. So how do we navigate through this cesspool of negative influences to be as effective as possible for the Kingdom of God? From a balanced perspective, we will examine our biblical responsibility to authorities in civil and church jurisdictions. In doing so, the first question is, have we given our authority or agreement (contract) that obligates us to that group or body politic? If so, out of integrity, it is important to submit to those powers without violating our allegiance and obedience to Christ, if possible. The example of the first century followers of Jesus renounced the cosmos (world order). In several provinces of the Roman Empire, citizens were forced to put a pinch of incense on the altar of Caesar, signifying allegiance or worship, many Christians refused because of their devotion to Christ. This was usually to their peril. Where is that kind of conviction or devotion in America today? Even in light of it not costing our lives as it did theirs–for now.

My conviction is, where the “laws of the land” line up with the laws of God, I will humbly submit to them in obedience to the Lord. Nonetheless, maybe against popular opinion, I do not believe the full counsel of God in scripture supports carte blanche submission to ALL authorities, as previously explained. It has been spoken for years, from multiple pulpits, be subject to all authorities (powers) for they are ordained of God; Just submit, or you will reap damnation on yourself. Usually without a balanced explanation.

May we continue our examination.

In my opinion, there’s grave error with this pervasive misinterpretation of Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-17, Titus 1:1-2 without tempering it with sound exegesis (a critical explanation or interpretation of a text) and Hermeneutics (the study of the principles of interpretation of the Bible). Unfortunately, imbalance, assumptions or half-truths have been spewed from the pulpits of America for decades feeding on the peoples’ ignorance. I first detected this error when I was in my twenties. My conscience knew something was wrong, but all the dots were not connected in my mind. After all, the pastors were supposedly the experts, so I just held my peace, initially. I didn’t have the maturity or understanding to process it soundly. But I couldn’t help my mind from reeling–That means that Emperor Nero, corrupt Papal Rome, Genghis Khan, Hitler, Mussolini, Mao, Hussein, and every other tyrant are “ordained” of God? We have a problem if God is saying to be loving, righteous, good, and holy but at the same time “submit” and obey unholy, arrogant authorities that practice evil. That’s the definition of hypocrisy, or at the least a double standard. God never contradicts Himself. I discovered that if every authority figure is “of God” then why does it say in Scripture:

They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew it not… _{(Hos. 8:4)}

No matter how sincere, there’s something askew with the way we’ve been taught and are thinking. May I challenge this line of Nimrodic mind control and encourage us to pray for God’s understanding.

What is God-Ordained Authority?

I define God-ordained authority as being those delegated with influence and wisdom from the Creator to accomplish His good will. The Lord spoke to me clearly that His delegated authority is given to serve the object of His love: His people. It is not to be abusive and dictatorial–iron fisted—“little Hitlers” to promote wickedness and self-interest. This is the abuse of power. We can respect or submit to an office without obeying their demands when in conflict with Christ. I believe we have the right, moreover, the godly duty to speak out in objection to error. To take a stand like the early Church in passive resistance and say: “We have only one King–Jesus!” Acts 17:7 (I discuss in another article, Does God Use Ungodly Authority?)

I believe a good approach to making sound decisions in relating to authority is to love what God loves and to hate what He hates. To submit to what is of Him and resist what is not of Him. Scripture says:

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. _{(James 4:7)}

This should be the plumb-line. It is prudent to guard ourselves against the influences of false religious opinions and moral relativism when making decisions. Having revelation of the Father’s heart gives us discernment in how to relate to the demands of leaders. In the context of America, it is clear to me, scripturally, to obey leaders that exhibit and uphold God’s standard of righteousness and morality. I can support policies that help the poor, the widowed, and the orphaned; laws that protect personal religious freedoms, guards the sanctity of life, and executes justice for innocent victims. But on the other hand, I can boldly resist public policy that promotes abortion, the homosexual agenda, sexualizing our children, and economic slavery.

But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. _{(I John 2:5)}

These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. _{(Pro. 6:16-19)}

The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate._{(Pro. 8:13)}

Ask yourself: “Why would God say, ‘The fear of Him is to hate evil,’ and on the same hand, tell us to submit to powers that operate in wickedness?” Let’s bring light to the confusion. Think. I believe there’s a line that must be drawn: when leaders operate outside the standards of justice and righteousness set forth in the scriptures we must say—no– and refuse to be party to it. I do not want to ignore God’s standards in Christ and suffer the consequences.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. _{(Gal. 6:7-8)}

The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. _{(Ps. 9:17)}

The scriptures clarify the matter if we are willing to search them out. To reiterate, just because someone has a title or a position or a nomination doesn’t mean they are ordained powers by God. The standard God sets for ordained powers is clear in scripture and non-negotiable.

Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates . . . and they shall judge the people with just judgment. _{(De. 16:18)}

The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. _{(1 Pet. 5:1-3)}

A common thread you will see through the scriptures on authority is that it is “for good.” So, if a leader ceases to be “good” or “just,” and they refuse to repent, they are outside their delegated authority. This standard applies both to civil and church jurisdictions.

Examples from Ancient Israel and American Government

Here’s a short example from ancient Israel’s history with King David, 2 Samuel 11. David was operating in the boundaries of his lawful authority when he righteously led as king, exercised justice, and protected Israel. One day David was on his roof top and beautiful Bathsheba, while bathing, caught his eye. He sent for her and propositioned her to sin, this went outside of his delegated authority. She was a married woman and had the right from God to resist David’s authority because it was out of order. His sin set off a chain reaction, not only did he commit adultery, he committed murder. Bathsheba’s husband, Uriah, was off in battle and David had him sent to the front line to be killed so David could have Bathsheba.

I’m convinced God did not ordain this kind of abuse of power, there’s no two ways about it. There’s nothing new under the sun. Today, these practices are being done from the highest to the lowest offices in the land; the Lord is not pleased. There were dire consequences that David suffered because of his sin which is found in 2 Samuel 12:11-12. We would be wise to understand obedience to God prevents many needless trials.

But the thing David had done displeased the Lord. _{(2 Sam. 11:27)}

Moreover, in America, oath bound, elected public servants are supposed to represent and serve the people, not their own interest. Perhaps their representation is a true reflection of the decadence of society, and unfortunately, institutional religion. There is a whole lot of mixture, Jesus warned, “a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.” Lord have mercy. To be clear, sin is sin across the board no matter if it’s down-played or justified. Sin violates love. Sin not only injures the individual but also the entire community or nation.

For example, look at the sin of Achan, about thirty-six people died and God was angry at Israel because of his covetousness.

… Achan son of Carmi… took some of what was set apart. So the LORD’s anger burned against the Israelites. _{(Joshua 7:1)}

Here’s another example, look at the effects to Israel because Jeroboam, their wicked king, caused Israel to sin:

So He will give Israel over on account of the sins Jeroboam has committed and has caused Israel to commit. _{(1 Kings 14:16)}

Conclusion, What Have We Learned?

You have only one master now… But with this ‘yes’ to God belongs just as clear a ‘no.’ Your ‘yes’ to God requires your ‘no’ to all injustice, to all evil, to all lies, to all oppression and violation of the weak and poor, to all ungodliness, and to all mockery of what is holy. Your ‘yes’ to God requires a ‘no’ to everything that tries to interfere with your serving God alone, even if that is your job, your possessions, your home, or your honour in the world. Belief means decision. –Dietrich Bonhoeffer

We must not be passive with the aforementioned, Saints. Pray and act. We are the salt and the light of the world.

1. Allow God to examine our hearts,
2. Root out any agreement to sin (the proclivities that resist Christ),
3. Commit to keep Christ’s standards and do not participate in the legislated sin of a nation.

In short, understand America, a constitutional republic, is not a perfect fit in comparison with first century politics or the religion of Rome and Israel. Nonetheless, what can we glean in how we conduct ourselves today regarding this subject matter of Biblical authority? In my opinion, when civil or religious powers reject God’s ethics and replace His authority for theirs, they become antichrist, the enemies of God.

We ought to obey God rather than men. _{(Acts 5:29)}

If “powers” act wickedly, without repentance, it is at this point civil disobedience is acceptable, and I will go so far as to say it is our duty. What is our responsibility as followers of Jesus?

1. Live in obedience to Christ with a heart of fidelity.
2. Pray for “powers” that our King will save, change, and draw them to righteousness.
3. Refuse to participate or support activities, trends, and wicked legislation that further perpetuates societal degradation and emboldens false authority.
4. Live in peace, yet boldly speak the truth in love when addressing the issues of the day.

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. _{(Rom. 12:18)}

My hope is that you will be aware of the opposing kingdoms, discern Christ’s heart, and avoid the trappings of ill motivated leaders of these systems. We need to be in constant intercession, live godly before all, and be the living message of the kingdom of God. Never forget, Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Matt. 28:18. Surrender to Jesus as the Supreme Authority.

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Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. _{(2 Cor. 5:20)}

All around the world God is raising up ambassadors that walk in Kingdom power and authority. The Holy Spirit of truth _{(John 15:26)} is moving in a remnant of followers willing to lay their lives down for the cause of True Love–the very person, Yeshua. I sense a new renaissance, as it where, set forth by the early ekklesia. Are you willing to be counted?

I believe Christ already established His Kingdom 2000 years ago _{(Lk. 22:29)}. Most of society failed to recognize the King, Christ the Suffering Servant because they where looking through a carnal lens. “We have no king but Caesar” the people decried. Yeshua did not come with the power of the natural sword to be a conqueror, like the Caesars of old–He came with the sword of His Word to transform hearts. _{(Heb. 4:12)} It was extreme times when the church–a royal priesthood–a holy nation _{(1 Pet. 2:9)} was birthed at Pentecost. Idolatry and pantheism was rampant, corruption and deception wide spread, and the followers of The Way were oppressed under the heavy hand of religious zealots and Roman tyranny.

There is nothing new under the sun; the same spirit is at work today. I believe it takes extreme lovers of God to impact an extreme society. Extreme love was clearly modeled by Christ who laid down His life on the cross to redeem humanity. Yea, He rose again victoriously! This is the example given as a blue print to the first apostles and us today. Their devotion to the resurrected Christ was so extreme they were persecuted and killed for what they believed. Their impact is still experienced 2000 years later.

Passivity will never advance the Kingdom of God in this generation.

Why extreme? You may be thinking about the question of balance and moderation, which I’m all for, but what does that really mean? I have found in most cases it’s covert language for, “Don’t be too radical–don’t be too passionate, it makes me feel uncomfortable.” I understand, but without passion it’s like running out of gas before you get to your destination. I agree with a preacher who once said, “I will take wild fire rather than no fire at all!” Amen. I define “balance” as that holy yearning to live with extreme devotion to Christ yet embrace contentment in the current reality of our humanity. I trust that the Holy Spirit will help us in the tension and keep us balanced.

Truth be told, the early followers lived their lives balanced on the “bleeding edge”–literally. Most of the apostles died a martyr’s death to give us this glorious gospel of the kingdom. They were passionate people full of the Holy Spirit, boldness, and unrelenting obedience. Despite Roman and religious oppression, when the apostles spoke, the authority of the Kingdom was released to transform souls and dispel demonic darkness. Thus, accomplishing what Caesar could not. Christ transforms lives from the inside out not outside in. He establishes His rule of love in the hearts of men resulting in their fidelity. Rome appeals to men’s carnality with “free bread and circuses” or controls by the sword resulting in despotism. That same satanic spirit exists in the world today vying for control.

Beloved, it’s our watch now may we be sober and vigilant. Boldness, patience and trust is necessary to BE the solution in our generation. Rest assured, the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. It starts out small and seems to be insignificant but give it time, with obedience, and it will grow in dominion. It becomes an extreme Kingdom ruled by extreme love. _{(Mark 4:31-32, Matt. 13:33)} We need to boldly stay the course of faith–Humbly loving people, living a righteous life, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, and making disciples. I believe, according to the law of the “mustard seed,” the kingdom will grow and influence every soul who has “ears to hear what the Spirit says…” Don’t give up, you are God’s workmanship created for good works. You are part of the solution in Christ. Keep following Him NO MATTER THE CONSEQUENCES! Remember, love conquers all. “We are labourers together with God…”_{(1 Cor. 3:9)} 

“The earth belongs to you. Whatever happens to this planet is our responsibility… ‘What you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, what is looses on earth is loosed in heaven…’ heaven can’t do anything on earth without the permission or access through those that God gave authority to. If something is not happening on earth it’s because we are not allowing it to happen… Prayer is constantly giving God permission to interfere in the earth… God could do anything! But he could only release what you allow… That is why Jesus said, ‘men ought always to pray, and not to faint.’” _{(The late Dr. Myles Munroe, Sr. Pastor of BFMI)}

“Prayer is strange, it seems as if without God we cannot and without us God will not.”_{(John Wesley)}

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Principle ethics: standards/ethics (knowing right and wrong) grounded in scriptural truth that motivate and govern decisions and actions.

Situational ethics: standards/ethics that are sculpted or manipulated to fit the situation by which decisions and actions are made accordingly.

The difference between thermometers and thermostats are, thermometers READ the temperature and thermostats SET the temperature. May we guard ourselves against the wicked influence of this world to be the influence, the salt and light–setting the temperature in this world that brings glory of Yahshua.

“He who deliberately stifles his convictions of duty because it interferes with his inclinations will finally lose the power to distinguish between truth and error. The understanding becomes darkened, the conscience callous, the heart hardened, and the soul is separated from God. Where the message of divine truth is spurned or slighted, there the church will be enshrouded in darkness; faith and love grow cold, and estrangement and dissension enter. Church members center their interest and energies in worldly pursuits, and sinners become hardened in their impenitence.”_{(America in Prophecy, E.G. White, originally published in 1888, pg. 358)}

We are called to live our lives based on the solid rock of Christ, not from the uncertainties of every ebb and flow of the world. We need to understand there has been increased demonic pressure on the church to “play the chameleon” and conform to the world. We want to be relevant but without compromise. Saints, we must resist temptation! Unfortunately, in many ways we have crossed the line and taken the bait of satan. Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind… _{(Rom. 12:2)} We need to build our house on the Solid Rock to withstand the worldly influences and stormy trials that come. _{(Matt. 7:24-28)} Trust in Christ who is immovable and changes not. _{(Mal. 3:6)}

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and forever. _{(Heb. 13:8)}

I know this message is a challenge to some people’s thinking and to others it will be a confirmation. Have you experienced an indefinable sense in your gut, in your conscience, “something’s just not right, there has to be more than this?” Do you feel the call to make Yahshua King of your life beyond your current understanding and the seductions of this world? Make the decision.

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