thebocc Biblical Topics

John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Christ told us to “search the scriptures” to learn about him and Paul admonished us in his letter to Timothy to “study” so we can correctly apply the teachings of the Bible to our lives. The lessons on this webpage are meant to serve as a guide to repentance and keeping the commandments in Christ. We pray that each article inspires you to search the scriptures, study the Bible, learn the true gospel of Christ and follow his example.

1. Repentance	2. The True High Priest	3. What is love?	4. What is sin?
5. A True Church	6. What happened to the fathers?	7. Raising Our Children	8. Being a Single Parent
9. How Pagan is Easter?	10. Is Mother’s Day idolatry?	11. Pagan Halloween	12. Pagan Thanksgiving
13. Christmas and the holiday season	14. For the love of money	15. The Divinity of Mary	16. Love as Brethren

Matthew 4:17 “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Many people believe that they are able to repent by simply saying, “I repent” or “I am sorry,” to the Lord in the name of Jesus. Furthermore, they believe that they can continually and deliberately commit sin and repeatedly ask for forgiveness. These beliefs cannot be supported by the Holy Bible in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

I Samuel 2:3 reads, “...for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.”

Repentance is more than just saying that you are sorry for breaking the Lord’s commandments. Repentance requires that a man or a woman takes action, so the questions remain……

I John 3:4 reads, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.”

The scripture defines sin as the breaking of the Lords’ laws, statutes, and commandments written throughout the Bible. For example, adultery, homosexuality, stealing, fornication, and murder, etc... are examples of sins that the Israelites are committing.

Proverbs 28:13 reads, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”

The scripture says that a person that does not acknowledge that he is breaking the Lord’s commandments is not going to receive forgiveness for his sins (repentance). This scripture also shows that in order to repent, a person must then forsake his sins. The act of forsaking sins means that after confession, a person no longer returns to his wicked deeds.

Job 33:27-28 reads, “He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not; He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light.”

Isaiah 55:7 reads, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

Psalms 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

In order to truly repent, an Israelite must stop breaking the laws, statutes, and commandments and begin to follow them through Jesus Christ.

Acts 5:31 reads, “Him (Jesus Christ) hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.”

1 Peter 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

The Heavenly Father sent his son, Jesus Christ, to the Israelites to be a living example of how to keep the commandments. He taught Israel how to follow the Heavenly Father in truth, and became the ultimate and last sacrifice for sin. Thus giving Israel a way to repent from breaking the Lord’s commandments. The only way to truly repent is through Jesus Christ because his death brought us back to the Father through repentance.

I Timothy 1:9-10 reads, “Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;”

This scripture shows that repentance is open to all Israelites that desire to stop sinning and follow Jesus Christ.

Romans 3:23 reads, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

Every Israelite has broken the commandments of God; therefore, every Israelite needs repentance.

1 Kings 8:46-52 If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near; (47) Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness; (48) And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul, in the land of their enemies, which led them away captive, and pray unto thee toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, the city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name: (49) Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven thy dwelling place, and maintain their cause, (50) And forgive thy people that have sinned against thee, and all their transgressions wherein they have transgressed against thee, and give them compassion before them who carried them captive, that they may have compassion on them: (51) For they be thy people, and thine inheritance, which thou broughtest forth out of Egypt, from the midst of the furnace of iron: (52) That thine eyes may be open unto the supplication of thy servant, and unto the supplication of thy people Israel, to hearken unto them in all that they call for unto thee.

Acts 17:30 “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:”

Hebrews 3:1 “Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;”

Hebrews 4:14-15 “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”

These scriptures clearly show that the Lord Jesus is our one true High Priest. Despite this fact, many men in this day and time have foolishly claimed this title for themselves. Blinded by pride, these men consider themselves worthy of an honor that the Heavenly Father only bestowed upon his Son. If any man claims that he is the High Priest of God, he is contradicting scripture and is guilty of nothing less than blasphemy!

Hebrews 8:1-4 “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; (2) A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. (3) For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. (4) For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:”

We give thanks and praise to the Heavenly Father who has appointed to us a true High Priest, blameless, without fault or sin. Christ Jesus, who has ascended into the heavens to appear in the presence of God for us.

The word love has many different meanings amongst different people. “I love you” is one of the most commonly used phrases. In particular, many people say they “love Jesus” or they “love God.” However, love is shown in action and deed and not just the spoken word. Further, the bible shows us how to love God through the teachings and example of Christ.

1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

We see from the scriptures above that love is the keeping of God’s commandments through the understanding of Jesus Christ. So in turn, when we love God (according to the scriptural definition), we are obedient to his word.

1 John 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.

Many people profess with their mouths, that they love God and Christ. However, this love is not shown to their neighbor, when acts such as, lying, stealing, adultery, envy and murder are committed against one another. The bible tells us that we cannot profess that we love God if we hate our brother and sister.

1 John 4:20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

None of us have seen God at any time, but we can see our brothers and sisters. Yet every day in our communities we see what has now become termed as “Black on Black crime.” No matter where in the world we are scattered, we steal, kill and commit some of the most heinous acts against one another and yet we say that we love God; this makes us hypocrites in the eyes of God.

Matthew 15:7-8 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, (8) This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.

As a people we have always been known to honor God with our mouths, but we continuously fall short in the keeping of his commandments. Loving our brothers and sisters consist of us applying what the world commonly refer to as the “golden rule.”

Luke 6:31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

Would you like someone to commit adultery with your spouse? Would you like someone to rob, kill or lie against you? Would you like having a relative or family member killed and no witnesses come forward, out of fear as being perceived as a snitch. In all these different scenarios, the answer is no. Yet these are some of the things that we do to one another.

Romans 13:8-10 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. (9) For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (10) Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

All praises, honor and glory goes to God through his only begotten son Jesus Christ, who came in the flesh and showed us the ultimate love by dying on the cross for our sins. Therefore, we ought to love one another.

John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

If you ask 10 different people this question, you would likely get 10 different answers. People’s definition of what sin is, varies greatly. Some people say that sin is wasting food, not going to church on Sundays or that it’s simply unbelief. None of these definitions are biblically based.

The bible defines sin as follows,

1 John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

To transgress, means to go against. So when we don’t follow the laws of the Bible through the teaching of Jesus Christ, we become sinners. Some common examples are, the act of homosexuality, adultery, having an abortion, murder, celebrating pagan holidays like Christmas or Easter, eating unclean foods such as pork, catfish, shrimp, shopping on Saturdays (the Sabbath day). These acts would all be considered sin as they all defy laws written in the Bible.

Contrary to popular belief, Jesus Christ did not come and do away with the laws of God.

Matthew 5:17-19 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. (18) For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. (19) Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Mark 10:19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

Some people will say that because they haven’t killed anyone or done anything similarly evil, they are not a bad person or a sinner. However, the bible says,

1 John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (10) If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Given that we are all sinners and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), what should we do to live a righteous life in the eyes of God and avoid the wages of sin?

Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.

What is a church? Many people would answer that question by saying it is a building where people go to worship and where the presence of God is. Some would even go further saying that it has to be an immaculate building of great size with the pastor who is well taken care of by the congregation. However, the Bible says differently.

Acts 7:48-49 Howbeit the Most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, (49) Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?

Acts 17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

Why then are there so many different churches throughout the world, professing that you cannot receive salvation unless you are a member of their particular church? The answer is given in,

Mark 7:7-8 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (8) For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men…

Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

According to the scriptures, “Where two or three are gathered in the name of the Lord” His spirit is also with them. This means that whenever true believers gather to worship the Heavenly Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ – they are in Church. The location is irrelevant. In the Holy Bible the church gathered in Synagogues, temples, houses and hillsides to teach the wonderful works of God.

Acts 7:38 This is he [Christ], that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:

After Christ descended up to heaven, his disciples taught the doctrine of repentance in his name. Therefore a true church of God will then be a gathering of individuals who keep the commandments through the examples set for by the Lord Jesus Christ.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

We should now be able to understand that according to the Holy Bible, the true Church is not the building but the people – and not any just any people but those who have repented in Christ.

John 4:23 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.

The apostle Paul gave a warning to the Churches of old that is just as relevant today. The warning was to beware of what doctrines we build upon as the foundation to our Churches. If the doctrine of your church is based on: homosexuality, prosperity teachings, witchcraft, idolatry, fornication or any other breaking of the commandments then it is not the true Church that the Bible speaks of.

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. (11) For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

We encourage all those who read these scriptures to tear down these foundations of lies, sin and hypocrisy and build on the true foundation of repentance through Christ.

About 30% of children in the United States grow up without their father in the house. Approximately 50% of minority marriages end in divorce. Statistics show that this has a devastating effect on our community. Why is this occurring? How can this be changed? Is there a Biblical answer?

To understand why this is happening within our community, we have to start with the root cause of the problem…

Deuteronomy 28:15 But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:

When you look at the condition of our people in the United States and throughout the world, they are NOT in a blessed condition. This happened because we have broken the Lord’s commandments and refused to repent! Therefore, the curses fell upon us. These curses are manifest in the suffering of our families and communities. So what are the curses that destroyed our families and where are the fathers?

They are in prison: While people of color make up about 30 percent of the United States’ population, they account for 60 percent of those imprisoned.

Isaiah 42:22 But this is a people robbed and spoiled; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore.

They are in the grave: In 2011, African Americans made up 13 percent of the nation’s population, but accounted for 50 percent of homicide victims.

Jeremiah 9:21 For death is come up into our windows, and is entered into our palaces, to cut off the children from without, and the young men from the streets.

They are in sin: 72% of Black children are now born to single mothers.

Deuteronomy 28:54 So that the man that is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye shall be evil toward his brother, and toward the wife of his bosom, and toward the remnant of his children which he shall leave:

These scriptures explain that because we did not obey the commandments of God, our fathers would be killed, imprisoned or fall so far into sin that they would even depart from their own children. But are we destined to remain in this cursed state? The answer is no! We must repent, follow the commandments as they are written in the Bible, and establish our families according to the scriptures.

In the book of Genesis, the Heavenly Father provides the righteous example of Abraham for a perpetual example of how to govern our households.

Genesis 18:19 For I know him (Abraham), that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

1 Timothy 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

The Heavenly Father is commanding our men to repent and return to the teachings of the Bible in the spirit of Christ. This means he MUST leave off from fornication, idolatry, violence and any other sin which prevents him from being a righteous example in the sight of God and his family.

Psalm 78:5-7 For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: (6) That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: (7) That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments:

The Lord gave us instructions to teach our children his commandments and as a nation of people we have failed to do so. This has been an ongoing problem and as a result of us not teaching our children the commandments of God, there is a high rate of teenage pregnancy, gang affiliation, stealing, murder and sin amongst our youth.

The word of God lets us know that it is absolutely necessary to start the process of raising our children in the admonition of the Lord from infancy.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

“The way he should go” is learning to apply God’s commandments through the understanding of Jesus Christ in our everyday lives, as this is the whole duty of man.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

In our communities throughout the four corners of the earth wherever we are scattered, this problem is evident. A lot of parents are not around to raise their children in the way they should go; to correct them when they are doing wrong and consequently the children are left to themselves. Many of these children go on to become gang members, end up going to jail, get killed at a very young age, or create mayhem in their neighbourhoods' causing their parents shame.

Proverbs 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

A lot of our people take heed to many different philosophies and foolish reasonings of men that teach us to raise our children contrary to what the Bible says. Some examples would be, giving our children time out when they do wrong or simply ignoring it. These things do not work and never will.

The scriptures explain to us that spanking (not abusing) our children and explaining to them what commandment they broke to get the spanking, is a part of raising them.

Proverbs 23:13-14 Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou

beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. (14) Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

The scriptures also tell us how to chastise our children, as to not abuse them.

Ecclesiasticus 30:12 (Apocrypha) Bow down his neck while he is young, and beat him on the sides while he is a child, lest he wax stubborn, and be disobedient unto thee, and so bring sorrow to thine heart.

Examples

As previously stated, the process of raising our children starts from when they are infants. As an example, if you have a toddler and you tell them not to touch the stove and they do, you should not ignore that, but rather correct it, as per the following scripture.

Ecclesiasticus 30:11 (Apocrypha) Give him no liberty in his youth, and wink not at his follies.

Another example might be a child who is older and attending high school - where the peer pressure is high for them to get involved with gangs or have intercourse. You should instruct your child that God commanded a man and a woman to come together as husband and wife and not have multiple partners, or experiment to find the right one, as per the following scripture.

Mark 10:6-8 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. (7) For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; (8) And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.

In the case of joining gangs, you might instruct your child using the following scriptures.

Exodus 23:2 Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment:

Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

If we apply these scriptures in raising our children, we would not have the depressing and disoriented communities that we see - Places where young children are murdering each other at an alarming rate due to gang involvement, drug territories and the like. Robbery - that puts fear and dread on elderly people. Many of the children that get involved in these activities will tell you that their parents were never around and the only life they’ve known are the “streets.” Some may have been brought up by their grandparents or in a single parent home, where the parent has to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. The parent never made time to properly raise their children in the admonition of the Lord. This is still not an excuse for not teaching our children the word of God.

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

2 Timothy 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Timothy was taught the Holy Scriptures by his grandmother and mother. Parents have to repent according to the Bible and be a living example of the commandments that they are teaching their children. Otherwise it will not work and children will see you as a hypocrite.

2 Timothy 3:14-15 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; (15) And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

It is our prayer that people take heed to these scriptures and apply them, in hopes that the escalating violence and depressing state of our people be changed through repentance and teaching our children the commandments of God, as they are the future.

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. (6) And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: (7) And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

Ezekiel 18:20-21 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.(21) But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

Ephesians 6:1-2 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. (2) Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)

Raising children can be very difficult at times and even more so when you are a single parent. The Lord did not intend it to be that way, as both mother and father being in the same household should raise a child, but through people acting out the lust of the flesh and other wickedness, that is not the case in most homes today.

As a single parent, you still have to apply the scripture in Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

God through Jesus Christ is so merciful that he left us an example of a parent that did this and the outcome of the child.

2 Timothy 3:14 – 15 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; (15) And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

This was a letter that was written to Timothy by Paul uplifting him about the way he was raised and that he should continue in it. And who taught Timothy the scriptures about Jesus Christ?

2 Timothy 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Acts 16:1 Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek.

Timothy’s mother and grandmother taught him the scriptures.

The majority of single parent homes are women raising the children and the father is not around. This is not right in the sight of God and he gave commandments for men to raise their children.

1 Timothy 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

Beloved men of God, such as Abraham raised their children to always follow the commandments of God.

Genesis 18:19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Many single parents put a lot of emphasis on the wrong things in raising their children. They focus on buying their children material possessions and getting the best education for them instead of putting the Lord first, but remember what our duty is and why God made us.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (14) For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Finally, we know that we have many single parent households in our community because of the choices we have made by breaking the commandments. Other single parent households happen due to situations beyond our control like death. In either situation, the Most High shows us that we are to take care of one another and support those children. An excellent example is what Mordecai did when Hadassah’s (Esther) parents died.

Esther 2:7 And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.

Ecclesiasticus 4:10 Be as a father unto the fatherless, and instead of an husband unto their mother: so shalt thou be as the son of the most High, and he shall love thee more than thy mother doth.

You may also want to check out our other article on Raising Our Children

Mardi Gras and Carnival Ash Wednesday and Lent Easter

Mardi Gras and Carnival

According to the Bible, the celebration of Easter is idolatry. Many people, in these times, ignorantly follow this tradition which they believe is a celebration of the Death and Resurrection of Christ. Unfortunately, those who honour and keep the customs and traditions that are affiliated with this day are breaking the commandments. The celebration of Easter does not honour the Heavenly Father nor Christ.

Matthew 22:36-37 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? (37) Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Exodus 20:3-6 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (4) Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing 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; (6) And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

For Catholics and some other denominations of Christianity these idolatrous celebrations begin a few months before the actual day of Easter. The festivals known as Mardi Gras and Carnival are the true beginning. How are these celebrations related to Easter? Both Mardi Gras and the Carnivals that are kept in the Caribbean Islands, Brazil, and other parts of the world occur before the period of time known as Lent or the holy season. These celebrations give honour to Bacchus, who is the Greek god of wild parties (revelling), orgies (fornication), and drunkenness. For those that practice this tradition, it is an opportunity to break the Heavenly Father's commandments and do all manner of wickedness before the beginning of their "holy season." In the past, the Israelites that were in captivity during the time of the Greeks were forced to break the commandments and keep celebrations honouring this idol. In this time many people who profess to be Christians, keep these idolatrous customs willingly and forsake the commandments of the Heavenly Father and Christ.

II Maccabees 6:1-8 Not long after this the king sent an old man of Athens to compel the Jews to depart from the laws of their fathers, and not to live after the laws of God: (2) And to pollute also the temple in Jerusalem, and to call it the temple of Jupiter Olympius; and that in Garizim, of Jupiter the Defender of strangers, as they did desire that dwelt in the place. (3) The coming in of this mischief was sore and grievous to the people: (4) For the temple was filled with riot and revelling by the Gentiles, who dallied with harlots, and had to do with women within the circuit of the holy places, and besides that brought in things that were not lawful. (5) The altar also was filled with profane things, which the law forbiddeth. (6) Neither was it lawful for a man to keep sabbath days or ancient feasts, or to profess himself at all to be a Jew. (7) And in the day of the king's birth every month they were brought by bitter constraint to eat of the sacrifices; and when the feast of Bacchus was kept, the Jews were compelled to go in procession to Bacchus, carrying ivy. (8) Moreover there went out a decree to the neighbour cities of the heathen, by the suggestion of Ptolemee, against the Jews, that they should observe the same fashions, and be partakers of their sacrifices:

Ecclesiasticus 15:13 The Lord hateth all abomination; and they that fear God love it not.

Ecclesiasticus 15:20 He hath commanded no man to do wickedly, neither hath he given any man licence to sin.

I Corinthians 6:9-10 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, (10) Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

Ash Wednesday and Lent

The celebration of Carnival varies in length throughout the world but it comes to an end on what is called Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday. Shrove comes from the old English word “shrive” which means to absolve people of their sin. This further proves that many so called Christians believe that they are forgiven for all the abominations they commit during the season of Carnival. Mardi Gras is the more popular name for Fat Tuesday. After Fat Tuesday comes Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of Lent the so called “holy season.” Now the switch is made from honouring Bacchus to honouring the goddess of fertility. Isis, Ishtar, Ashtaroth, Diana, and the Queen of Heaven are just a few of the names that people have called her over the years, but it is still the same idol. On Ash Wednesday she is honoured by baking hot cross buns. Do the scriptures make mention of this? Yes!

Jeremiah 7:18 The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke me to anger.

In the past, the children of Israel knew they were committing idolatry but continued to serve these idols believing that they would receive carnal blessings (money, houses, food, etc.) in return. In truth they only provoked the anger of the Heavenly Father bringing more wrath upon themselves.

Jeremiah 44:16-17 As for the word that thou hast spoken unto us in the name of the LORD, we will not hearken unto thee. (17) But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.

Easter

The so called “holy season” of Lent comes to an end on Easter Sunday. Easter is observed by most denominations of Christianity as the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. Also, they ignorantly observe so called “Good Friday” as the day of the death of Christ. According to the Bible, Christ told the disciples that he would rise after three days.

Matthew 12:40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

Matthew 28:1-6 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. (2) And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. (3) His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: (4) And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. (5) And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. (6) He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

Genesis 1:5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.

Three days and three nights confirm that Christ was crucified on Wednesday and rose as it states in Matthew 28:1-6, on Saturday (the Sabbath) before the first day which was Sunday. Therefore, it is impossible for Christ to have been crucified on “good Friday” and raised on Sunday. Easter Sunday is in truth a pagan festival which has nothing to do with Jesus Christ. The Holy Bible does not teach us to observe Easter which is a celebration that honours a fertility goddess.

Judges 10:6 And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim, and Ashtaroth, and the gods of Syria, and the gods of Zidon, and the gods of Moab, and the gods of the children of Ammon, and the gods of the Philistines, and forsook the LORD, and served not him.

I Samuel 7:3-4 And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. (4) Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only.

Psalms 96:5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.

I Corinthians 10:20-21 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. (21) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Since the beginning of time, the Lord has repeatedly warned us about following the idols and false religions of the world. The gods, celebrations, and religious traditions of this world come from the worshipping of idols and Satan. Easter is the worship of a fertility goddess and not Christ. That is why symbols of fertility like rabbits and eggs are associated with this pagan day. As followers of Christ, we are not to partake of these celebrations. If we do not repent, the Lord will punish us in this day as he did in the past. Our duty now is to repent of these sins, which some of us have done in ignorance, and begin to follow Christ's example as it is written in the Holy Bible.

Acts 17:29-30 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. (30) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

It does not matter what your church, pastor, reverend or friend teaches you! The celebration of Easter is idolatry. To accept the traditions of this world is to reject Christ, the commandments, and the Heavenly Father.

Mark 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

What could be wrong with giving a gift to your mother on Mother’s Day, taking her out to dinner or buying her flowers? After all, she’s the one that brought you into the world right? She raised you up and provided food and clothing for you as a child.

Mother’s Day is deeply rooted in idolatrous practices and the worshipping of deities that the Bible warns us against.

Exodus 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Tributes to mothers can be traced back to a Greek festival dedicated to Rhea-the mother of many deities and the ancient Romans made offerings to Cyble-their great mother of gods. Christians then took on this festival the fourth Sunday in Lent in order to honor Mary-the mother of Christ. It was further expanded in England to include all mothers. In regards to honoring Mary, an example of a woman uplifting Christ’s mother is also mentioned in the Bible and Christ admonished her for doing it.

Luke 11:27-28 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. (28) But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

Christ put the emphasis on us applying the word of God to our lives and not being focused on anything else.

In the U.S. a campaign was led by Anna Jarvis to include a special day to honor mothers, in which a bill was eventually signed by president Woodrow Wilson recognizing Mother’s Day as a national holiday. Secular history teaches that Mother’s Day is tied into idolatrous practices and in the U.S. old practices were tied in with new ideologies. Only the Lord God has the authority to proclaim a special day for us to follow.

Leviticus 23:1-2 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, (2) Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the Lord, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.

When you read further in the twenty third chapter of Leviticus, it lists all the feasts of the Lord that we should celebrate. When we turn away from doing the commandments and keep our own traditions we are rejecting the word of God.

Mark 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

To truly honor our mother’s is to keep the commandments of the Lord that they teach us. An example of this can be found in the book of Proverbs.

Proverbs 6:20 My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

Proverbs 31:1 The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

An example of what the King’s mother taught him…Proverbs 31:3 Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

In today’s society, you have drug dealers, murderers and thieves who break the commandments all year long and then take their mother out to dinner on Mother’s Day. You also have people that disrespect their mother all the time but buy her flowers on Mother’s Day. This is nothing but foolishness and hypocrisy.

We should not just honor our mothers on one special day, but all the time.

Ephesians 6:2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

Exodus 20:12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

This commandment was given for us to keep everyday and not just one special day of the year. For those that ignorantly celebrate mother’s day, not knowing that they were breaking the first commandment we pray that this was edifying.

Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

Of all the Holidays celebrated in today’s world, few are as popular or as misunderstood as Halloween. For some the word Halloween evokes warm childhood memories with friends and family, dressing in costumes and eating way too much candy. For others the word Halloween is synonymous with Pure Evil. It is a day of High Witchcraft and Satanic practices. A day of secret pagan customs being loosed on the world….hiding in plain sight! But why are the perceptions of Halloween so incredibly divided between good and evil, between darkness and light? Perhaps it is because the ancient Church and the modern Church have gone to such great lengths to make this day acceptable to Christians. In an attempt to purify Halloween we now more frequently hear the politically correct title of “Harvest Festival”. One conservative Christian group has even gone so far as to institute “Jesus Ween”. But will adding the name of our Lord and Savior to a Holiday of such an infamous legacy be enough to counter the evil of its origins?

I don’t see the harm in celebrating Halloween. What’s wrong with celebrating it?

Jeremiah 10:2-3 “Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: …”

Luke 20:38 For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him.

1 Thessalonians 5:22 “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”

Halloween has its origins in pagan days like the Catholic’s All Hallow’s Eve, the Celtic festival Samhain, The Roman festival Pomona, the Roman festival of the dead called Parentalia, the Day of the Dead and other similar days that were called by different names. Each of these days have one thing in common. They are all days in which people worship idols, the dead, evil spirits and Satan! The scriptures also teach us that we are not to emulate evil things. We should not teach our children, as the customs dictate, to dress up as ghosts, witches, vampires, the dead or any other evil spirits or people. These days and their customs obviously have nothing to do with Christ or the Heavenly Father and no true follower of Christ should celebrate any of these pagan days.

Furthermore, the Lord instructed us in Deuteronomy 6:14 “Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you; (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.”

Psalms 96:5 “For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.”

I Corinthians 10:20 “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.”

The Heavenly Father gave us True Holy Days (holidays) to follow in Leviticus the 23^rd chapter in the Bible. His true followers will keep these days as well as all the commandments that Christ taught us to keep.

The question, “Do you love the devil more than the Heavenly Father and Christ?” may sound ridiculous to most Christians. If you are keeping pagan celebrations like Halloween and the Day of the Dead instead of following the commandments, you are showing where your love is?

I Samuel 2:3 “Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.”

I John 5:3 states, "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

Many of us that sincerely desire to follow the word of the Lord have erred from following the truth as it is written in the Bible because of the lies and deception that is in the world. Once we understand that days like Halloween and the Day of the Dead are wicked, we MUST repent and follow Christ as the scriptures say we should.

Acts 17:30 “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.”

Leviticus 23:2 “Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.”

Exodus 20:8 “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

The Heavenly Father gave the followers of Christ commandments to follow. One of them was to “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” This commandment includes keeping all of his holy days, which are Sabbaths (Holy Convocations), as they are written in the Bible with the understanding that Jesus Christ taught.

Mark 7:9 “And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.”

In today’s world, many people claim that they follow Christ but have rejected the commandments of the Lord by keeping the holidays and traditions of America and the other countries where they reside. By observing these celebrations, they are breaking the commandments of the Heavenly Father and are committing the sin of idolatry.

Exodus 20:3-5 “Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (4) Thou shalt not make

unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing 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:”

The history of Thanksgiving as it is taught today in the United States and other countries is a lie. The true origins of Thanksgiving date back to the Greek harvest festival called Thesmophoria, in which they worshipped the Greek god of agriculture called Demeter. It does not matter how they try to conceal it in these “modern” times. Those who are celebrating Thanksgiving, are serving other gods, committing idolatry, and not following the teachings of Christ.

Psalms 96:5 “For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.”

I Corinthians 10:20-21 “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. (21) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s Table, and of the table of devils.”

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.”

The Bible teaches that by keeping the wicked traditions of men, you reject the commandments of the Lord. In other words, keep the commandments and serve the Lord or reject the commandments and observe pagan holidays like Thanksgiving. You cannot do both!

Acts 5:29 “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”

Leviticus 23:33-34 “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, (34) Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD.”

Leviticus 23:39-44 “Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land, ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days: on the first day shall be a sabbath, and on the eighth day shall be a sabbath. (40) And ye shall take you on the first day the boughs of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook; and ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days. (41) And ye shall keep it a feast unto the LORD seven days in the year. It shall be a statute for ever in your generations: ye shall celebrate it in the seventh month. (42) Ye shall dwell in booths seven days; all that are Israelites born shall dwell in booths: (43) That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in booths, when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God. (44) And Moses declared unto the children of Israel the feasts of the LORD.”

The Heavenly Father commanded the followers of Christ to keep the Feast of Ingathering and this was the only High Holy Day that the Heavenly Father ordered us to keep concerning the harvest. When reading the scriptures you will find that the Feast of Ingathering was also known as the Feast of Tabernacles. During this time the Israelites were to commemorate how the Lord delivered the Children of Israel from the Egyptians and led them through the wilderness to the Promised Land. By keeping this feast, we are obeying God rather than man.

Exodus 13:21-22 “And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night: (22) He took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.”

I Corinthians 10:1-4 “Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; (2) And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; (3) And did all eat the same spiritual meat; (4) And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.”

This feast was symbolic of how Christ led us to the Promised Land then and how he is leading us to the Kingdom now, if we keep the commandments. By keeping the Feast of Tabernacles, we are honoring the Heavenly Father. When we keep Thanksgiving and other pagan holidays we are breaking the commandments of the Most High and he is not pleased with us.

The duty of the Children of Israel that have been scattered throughout this Earth is to repent and follow the commandments as Jesus Christ instructed us.

Jeremiah 10:2 “Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen…”

Acts 17:29-30 “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:”

The Bible clearly teaches that the true followers of the Heavenly Father and Christ are not to commit the sin of idolatry by worshipping other gods, by bowing down to them or by serving them.

Exodus 20:3-5 “Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (4) Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing 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…”

Matthew 19:16-17 “And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? (17) And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”

I Corinthians 6:9-10 “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, (10) Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

Many people that claim to follow Christ, are continually breaking these commandments. There are those who break them ignorantly and others consciously. How are people breaking the first and second commandment? These commandments are broken when they celebrate days like Christmas, New Year’s Day, and other pagan days of worship called holidays! The “holidays” that are currently celebrated in this world have nothing to do with the Holy Days that the Heavenly Father established in the Bible nor Jesus Christ.

The definition of holiday from Webster’s Dictionary illustrates the fact that the word was derived from Holy Day.

hol·i·day \'hä-l&-"dA\, noun [Middle English, from Old English hAligdæg, from hAlig holy + dæg day]

1 : HOLY DAY

2 : a day on which one is exempt from work; specifically : a day marked by a general suspension of work in commemoration of an event

3 : a period of relaxation: vacation

Throughout the Bible, mainly in Leviticus the 23rd chapter and the book of Esther, it can be found that the true Holy Days are Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, etc…. The scriptures also explain that the Sabbaths of the Lord, the true Holy Days, were days where we were to rest by not working. Therefore, what are the Holy Days that the Lord commanded us to keep?

Exodus 35:2 “Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day there shall be to you an holy day, a sabbath of rest to the LORD: whosoever doeth work therein shall be put to death.”

Exodus 31:15 “Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.”

Leviticus 23:1-2 “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, (2) Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.”

Throughout the Americas and many other countries, one of the biggest “holidays” celebrated is Christmas. Since Christmas is not a holy day according to the Bible, what are its origins? Christmas is a combination of many idol worshipping festivals that date back to the Babylonians and beyond. The Babylonians worshipped Semiramis, the mother/wife of Nimrod; the Egyptians worshipped Isis and Horus; and the Romans and the Greeks kept Saturnalia which worshipped a host of gods. Other festivals celebrated the winter solstice and other sun gods. The one thing that all those festivals have in common is that they have nothing to do with Christ. They are idolatrous celebrations of the gods of the nations that had the Israelites in captivity. The Bible teaches about not following the customs of the nations.

Jeremiah 10:2-5 “Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. (3) For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. (4) They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. (5) They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.”

Similar to the present day, trees were brought into houses, made to stand, decorated with silver and gold, and gifts were placed under them. This was also done during the time of the Babylonians; however, at that time, people believed that the spirit of Nimrod would kill them if they did not offer gifts to the tree. Jeremiah warned the Israelites in the 5th verse that there was no power in the tree to do neither good nor evil. Therefore, this verse proves that celebrating Christmas and having a Christmas tree is a custom of the heathen that we should not follow.

According to the Bible, the birth of Jesus Christ occurred in the spring around the Passover in the month of Abib (March/April).

Luke 2:1-8 “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (2) (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) (3) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. (4) And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) (5) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. (6) And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. (7) And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. (8) And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.”

These verses prove that the birth of Christ did not occur during the Feast of Dedication, on the 25th day of the month Casleu (December), in the dead of winter. Unfortunately, people have been ignorantly worshipping the birthday of Nimrod or other pagan celebrations on December 25th for ages. The observation of this day was disguised by the Roman Catholic Church, as the birthday of Jesus Christ. Also keep in mind that the Bible does not instruct us to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ at any time.

The custom of Kwanza is a mockery of the Feast Dedication of the Altar. This African pagan custom was created in the 1960's. It supposedly teaches seven principles with the 7 branch Menorah as its symbol.

Romans 10:2-3 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God."

This verse demonstrates how the Israelites have gone further into idolatry and away from the commandments. They have now made up their own Kwanza holiday, with pagan customs and rituals. This celebration was partly created in opposition to Christmas but completely misses the mark of the righteousness we should obey.

Exodus 12:2 “This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.”

Deuteronomy 16:1 “Observe the month of Abib, and keep the passover unto the LORD thy God: for in the month of Abib the LORD thy God brought thee forth out of Egypt by night.”

The Lord commanded the Israelites to observe the month Abib as the beginning of the year. Abib is shortly before the Passover which is around March or April dependent upon the lunar calendar (the new moon). The New Year celebrated in January is the continuation of the idolatrous Christmas celebrations of the sun and the winter solstice. January 1st is the celebration of Janus, the solar god of daybreak and the beginning of the new solar year. Once again, neither of these celebrations have anything to do with the commandments that the Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ instructed us to keep.

First we must understand:

I Corinthians 10:20 “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.”

Psalms 96:5 “For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.”

Deuteronomy 6:14 “Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;”

Then we must make a decision whether we are truly going to serve the Lord or not.

Joshua 24:14-15 “Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. (15) And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Acts 5:29 “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”

Many people have followed the traditions of Christmas and New Year’s in ignorance of their idolatrous nature. They must now choose to follow the commandments as Christ instructed and make a choice to serve the Lord.

Matthew 19:16-17 “And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”

1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

This scripture has been perverted by many to say, “Money is the root of all evil.” However, the scriptures tell us the “love of,” meaning coveting, or giving your whole being over to obtaining the money – is the root of this evil.

There are many examples all around us of people breaking the commandments such as, drug dealing, theft, murder, prostitution and extortion. There are also other examples which people might not easily recognize such as, stabbing people in the back to obtain a higher position in a company, sleeping around or doing drugs with people who can help you to get a higher paying position. Lying, cheating or being corrupted in your specialty just to obtain more money are some other ways people corrupt themselves for money..

As men and women of God the Bible gives us warnings about these things.

1 Timothy 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Luke 12:13-15 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. (14) And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? (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.

As Christ points out to his disciples, the love of money is also covetousness, which we are warned about in one of the Ten Commandments.

Exodus 20:17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.

In today’s society most of us might not have the servants, ox or ass, as people possessed in those times, mainly because it was an agricultural society. However, in today’s society you can swap those things for cars, televisions, etc.

A number of people see the lifestyles of celebrities on television and develop a covetous mindset and then try to emulate that lifestyle. The scriptures warn us to do the following.

Colossians 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Our lives should be focused on loving each other, as set forth by the example of Jesus Christ and loving God with all sincerity through Jesus Christ. Then when we do those things, God will bless us according to his will.

Mark 12:30-31 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. (31) And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

Mark 10:29-30 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, (30) But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.

1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (8) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

Luke 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed [art] thou among women.

These are the words which were spoken to Mary the wife of Joseph by the angel Gabriel. Mary was indeed blessed among women because through her union with Joseph the Most High God would keep his promise to Israel by raising up the Messiah out of the house and lineage of King David.

Luke 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

By all accounts the scriptures tell us that Mary was a virtuous woman, no more, no less. However as the centuries passed biblical scholars would go to great lengths to magnify her role to be nothing short of divine.

ROME, FEB. 11, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Five cardinals have sent a letter inviting prelates worldwide to join them in petitioning Benedict XVI to declare a fifth Marian dogma they said would "proclaim the full Christian truth about Mary."

The text, released last week, includes the petition that asks the Pope to proclaim Mary as "the Spiritual Mother of All Humanity, the co-redemptrix with Jesus the redeemer, mediatrix of all graces with Jesus the one mediator, and advocate with Jesus Christ on behalf of the human race."

The above excerpt shows just how far many so-called scholars and theologians have erred in their understanding of biblical truth. (You can read the original text here)

Luke 11:27-28 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed [is] the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. (28) But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

The above scripture shows us that even during the times when Christ walked the earth there were those who would attempt to elevate the role of Mary above that of the Messiah. In this case the Lord Jesus quickly reproves the woman and gives glory instead to the Heavenly Father.

The article goes on to declare Mary as joint mediator and redeemer with Jesus Christ. This is declared despite the fact that this contradicts all biblical prophecy about the coming of the Messiah and his role since before the worlds were formed. The scriptures tell us in great plainness that salvation lies only with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

The above excerpt shows just how far many so-called scholars and theologians have erred in their understanding of biblical truth. (You can read the original text here)

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Throughout history many tyrants and would be rulers were able to hold power and authority over men by claims of a divine birth. Whether it be Alexander the Greek claiming to be the son of Zeus or Julius Caesar claiming his mother to be Athena, the legends go on without number. From the time of Babylon onward the concept of Virgin Birth has existed. For centuries what was strictly a heathenistic doctrine has found a lasting home in so-called Christianity with the virgin birth of the Messiah. The below scriptures show us that the Lord Jesus came out of the house and lineage of King David by way of the union of Joseph and Mary.

Acts 2:29-30 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. (30) Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;

Romans 1:3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;

The unremarkable birth of Jesus Christ in no way diminishes his divinity or purpose. It is in fact his birth as a mortal man that celebrates his triumph over the sins of the flesh and gives redemption to all true worshipers.

Hebrews 2:16-18 For verily he took not on [him the nature of] angels; but he took on [him] the seed of Abraham. (17) Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto [his] brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. (18) For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

Another little known fact is that the union of Joseph and Mary brought forth many children. The so-called Virgin Mary was not a virgin but the mother of Jesus and his siblings.

Mark 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.

Below are several examples of virgin births throughout the world that far pre-date Christianity.

It should also be noted that the concept of Immaculate Conception differs from Virgin Birth. In 1854, Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception and stated: “The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin.’” This doctrine purports that Mary was born perfect and without sin. Are there scriptures that support this doctrine? The answer is no.

Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

This is another example of how men have attempted to establish and worship Mary as a divine being. Christ was the only man to walk the Earth and not commit sin and that is what makes him so remarkable.

Click here to read the Immaculate Conception doctrine fromPius IX

One of the titles commonly bestowed upon Mary is “Mary, Queen of Heaven”. This is a curious title considering the fact that the Heavenly Father often punished the children of Israel throughout history for their worship of the Queen of Heaven. There were many goddesses throughout the world who would be given the title of “Queen of Heaven” including Diana of Ephesus (The Book of Acts 19th Chapter). Bestowing this title upon Mary along with creating a doctrine to deify her was a clever but satanic plot to bring the idolatrous worship of the “Queen of Heaven” into the church of God.

Jeremiah 44:25-27 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying; Ye and your wives have both spoken with your mouths, and fulfilled with your hand, saying, We will surely perform our vows that we have vowed, to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her: ye will surely accomplish your vows, and surely perform your vows. (26) Therefore hear ye the word of the LORD, all Judah that dwell in the land of Egypt; Behold, I have sworn by my great name, saith the LORD, that my name shall no more be named in the mouth of any man of Judah in all the land of Egypt, saying, The Lord GOD liveth. (27) Behold, I will watch over them for evil, and not for good: and all the men of Judah that [are] in the land of Egypt shall be consumed by the sword and by the famine, until there be an end of them.

The Heavenly Father makes it clear the disdain he has towards those who would partake in the worship of the Queen of Heaven. For those of our people who are currently partaking of this sin, repent and give honor to the Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ who are worthy of all heavenly praise.

As the years go on we are blessed to see more and more souls come into the glorious truth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many see repentance in Christ as the end of a long journey. In reality – the journey has just begun. As you would expect, newly repented brothers and sisters are eager to fellowship with other like minded believers in a Church that uplifts the doctrine of Christ. All too often what they find is an environment of sin, corruption, anger, secret hatred, and strife. How does this happen? The answer is simple. While many churches claim to be expert in the mysteries of God – the state of the congregation proves that they are novices in one of the most basic and most important lessons of scriptures (Love thy neighbor as thyself).

1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, [even] as unto babes in Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas [there is] among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

When the Lord Jesus Christ founded his church he knew that the corruptions of men would also enter his congregation. This is why Christ gave such explicit detail concerning how his TRUE disciples would deal with conflicts among themselves

Luke 17:1-2 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe [unto him], through whom they come! (2) It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.

As brothers and sisters escaping the corruptions of the world, we are often overcome by our carnal nature. Because of the envy, strife and hatred that are within us, we can say and do things to each other that are hurtful, cruel and evil. Worst yet, when we are reproved for these things, we are often too blinded by pride to acknowledge our faults. This is why Christ explained to us that offences would come in this ministry but destruction comes to the person who brings the offence. However, the wisdom of the scriptures does provide a way out for all souls who truly seek repentance.

Matthew 18:15-17 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. (16) But if he will not hear [thee, then] take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. (17) And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell [it] unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

The true beauty of Mathew the 18th chapter is that Christ provided instruction on how to reconcile and make peace with your brother. By following the instructions above, you have a chance to make peace with your brother “one on one” before there is an opportunity for tale bearing or sowing of discord to take place. If you are not able to reconcile with your brother one on one, you have the opportunity to involve other church members that will judge the matter with an unbiased eye (Meaning that they will judge according to the scriptures). In some cases a person may not see or accept his fault even after being reproved by additional witnesses. These cases are brought before the congregation at which time if it is shown that one party no longer wishes to abide in the doctrine of Christ, they will no longer have the privilege of fellowship. (but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.)

Luke 11:4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

These words are taken from the Lord’s Prayer which was taught to us by Jesus Christ. Part of the reason we readily forgive one another is because we are mindful of how patient and merciful the Lord has been with us through our offences.

Luke 17:3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

The Lord instructs us to rebuke or correct our brother when he sins against us and “IF” he repents (Confesses and forsakes his sin Proverbs 28:13 / Not a sin unto Death) you must forgive him. It is not always easy for us to forgive each other, especially if the offence was very hurtful or angered us. The scriptures tell us that times will come when offences make us angry but the spirit of Christ admonishes us to avoid sin.

Ephesians 4:26-27 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: (27) Neither give place to the devil.

The scripture tells us to be angry and sin not - Don’t let your anger lead you to the breaking of the commandments by giving in to hatred and grudges. The Lord commands us to reconcile before the day/even comes to an end. When we give in to our anger, we are (giving place to the devil) and the devil has NO place in the Body of Christ!

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. (35) By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

Just as the Lord Jesus Christ showed his love for his disciples by his actions, so too must we treat each other with the same love and compassion. This love is the proof that we are the disciples of Christ and servants to his will.

1John 3:14-15 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not [his] brother abideth in death. (15) Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.

To our beloved brethren worldwide who are waking up to the glory of Christ we admonish you to take heed to these scriptures. When the time comes that the Lord blesses you with a Church family, we pray that it is a family that exemplifies the love of Christ – if not - then let your light shine and become the best example of Christ that you can be. It is evident from reading the epistles that every church had its own set of unique problems and challenges but those who were obedient to the words of Christ always stood together. It may be that the Lord would deliver his true believers from wicked and unreasonable men.

2 Thessalonians 3:1-3 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you: (2) And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all [men] have not faith. (3) But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep [you] from evil.

Biblical Topics

1.Repentance

WHAT IS REPENTANCE AND HOW DO WE REPENT?

WHO NEEDS REPENTANCE?

2.The True High Priest

3.What is love?

4.What is sin?

Given that we are all sinners and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), what should we do to live a righteous life in the eyes of God and avoid the wages of sin?

5.A True Church

6. What happened to the fathers?

7. Raising Our Children

Examples

8. Being a Single Parent

9. How Pagan is Easter?

10. Is Mother’s Day pagan?

11. Halloween and the Dead

12. Pagan Thanksgiving

13. Christmas and the holiday season

The true meaning of “holiday”

The true origins of “Christmas”

The Birth of Jesus Christ

Kwanza

The true origins of the New Year celebration in January

What must we do as true followers of the Heavenly Father and Christ?

14. For the love of money

15. The divinity of Mary

The Divinity of Mary

The Divinity of Mary

The Virgin Mary

Immaculate Conception

Mary Queen of Heaven

16. Love as Brethren

The Coming of Offences

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

The New Commandment

Forging a Family