“And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.”

 Mark 10:11-12

There is a scourge upon our land, destroying families. In years past it was an action that was scorned and whispered about. Today it is as common as the common cold. This sin is called Divorce & Remarriage, adultery. The Lord Himself clearly declared, even after rebuking the Pharisees for it, in this chapter. The Lord instructs the disciples plainly: if you put your wife or husband away (Divorce) and get another (Re-Marry) you are continually committing adultery. Clear as the nose on your face. It is those who wish to confuse and twist the scriptures: to fit their lives, instead of letting the scripture change them.

 It is interesting at the end of teaching the Pharisees the Lord states in (Mark 10:9 “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”) What is the Lord saying? Some would still ask. When you exchange vows and say “I do” before God in holy matrimony, you are joined in marriage to that woman or man. (John 2:1-11) No judge is to give you a piece of paper and say: “you can go now and find another wife or husband.” Plain and simple.

 This idea of Divorce & Remarriage is hatched right out of hell. Unfortunately, it is even taught in many churches today that it is OKAY and there are biblical exceptions. Many churches today follow the teachings of men and not of God. This devotional study will examine and disprove man’s teachings.

 First, (Matt. 19:9 “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.”) This must be the biggest allowance and the most miss-interpretated passage for D&R. Saying unfaithfulness (adultery) by the other spouse is grounds for D&R. The error lies in three parts:

1. The clause (“…except it be for fornication…”) is taken out of content,
2. The definition of the word fornication, and
3. This clause was given by our Lord because it was part of the Jewish law, and the law was still in effect till Christ died. Also, interesting it is only mentioned in the gospel of Matthew, a Jewish flavored book.

 Now, notice error number 1) out of context for in: (Matt. 19:3 “The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?) These Pharisees did not come to the Lord with honest and good hearts. Rather, they came to hurt and cause trouble. The Jewish marriage union had deteriorated to where if a slighted offense was committed, it was off to get a bill of divorcement. These Pharisees did not care, for no doubt, they were some of the biggest offenders.

 Let’s study (Matt. 19:4-6 “And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”) What is interesting, whenever the Lord is asked about marriage: He answers (“…at the beginning…”) Not the present or time of the law, etc. He points always back to Adam and Eve (male – female). Next (“…they twain shall be one flesh?”) Two become one. When? (John 2:1-11) The Lord attended a marriage ceremony supper at Cana. (Vows exchanged before God) Again, God joins a woman and a man in marriage; man does not have the right or authority to terminate that union. Kind of funny, Hank Snow knew it back in 1952, with the song, “Married by the Bible, Divorced by the Law.”

 This brings us to error point number 3) (part of the law) in the above paragraph. (Matt. 19:7-8 “They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.”) This is where man gets the marriage exception (“…except it be for fornication,…”) It was part of the law (Deut. 22:13-21; Duet. 24:1-4), the law God ended when the veil was rent in the temple from top to bottom. When our blessed Saviour Jesus Christ said, (“…It is finished…”) Amen! The law ended and the dispensation of grace began. To use the Jewish law in (Deut. 22 or 24) to condone divorce and remarriage is not rightly dividing the Word of truth. Doest thou keep the whole law? (James 2:10)

 Also, to consider is this commandment that Moses gave was to the Jews only, under the dispensation of the law and it was given because they had hard hearts. The Lord also said, “Moses” not the LORD wrote you this precept. (“And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.” Mark 10:5) The Jews do not receive Christ Jesus as the Messiah, and still try to live under the law, which none can do. Look to Christ.

 Still again, back to our number 1) error given in the above paragraph: (“…except it be for fornication,…”) “Taken out of context”. Notice, at the end of verse 8 above, the Lord refers to the beginning. (“…but from the beginning it was not so.”) Again, back to Adam and Eve, the first marriage. God is saying: a marriage is not over till one dies (till death do us part). (See Rom. 7:2-3) Plain as day.

 The disciples were concerned, notice: (Matt. 19:10-12 “His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”) What the disciples were saying is that marriage is a very serious decision. The Lord was telling them a very hard saying to keep (till death do us part). Marriage must not be entered into willy-nilly, but with much prayer and biblical principles applied (believers of like faith). The Apostle Paul teaches one could better serve the Lord single (I Cor. 7:32-34), yet Paul also instructed better to marry than to burn (I Cor. 7:9) in the Lord.

 Now, again in reference to the number 2) reason error in the previous paragraph above: the definition of this word fornication. Those who advocate that this is an allowance to divorce and remarry say fornication is a general term for all immorality: adultery (outside of the marriage bonds), sensual relations before marriage, incest, lewdness, etc. This writer also once thought this. Due to the many Greek N.T dictionaries and Noah Webster of 1828. However, if one would go back to the time of the translation of the Greek N.T. Textus Receptus into the English KJV 1611 and study the definition of this word. The word fornication in the English 1604 dictionary meant a relation between two unmarried persons and that was all. Thus, one could conclude the translators believed this also.

 Now, saying all that, this writer must after much more study give adherence to the fact that the word fornication (porneia, Greek) may have a connotation of any immoral acts of sexual intercourse and prostitution and used metaphorically of idolatry. This being derived from mid-century Greek dictionaries. However, these Greek definitions seem to refer to sins of whoredom as in (Hosea 4:13). Noted as fornication in the New Testament. Insinuating a lewd pre-martial relationship between unmarried persons. The definition of this word fornication must be rightly divided throughout scripture. Yet, also remember what our Lord and Saviour stated in (Matt. 19:8 “He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.”) The Lord plainly states from the very time of Adam and Eve, God says: (“…it was not so….”) Thus, even if the word fornication in (Matt. 19:9) is defined as any immoral acts of sexual intercourse, etc.: You cannot justify Divorce & Remarriage using Moses and the law. (“…from the beginning it was not so.”) The Lord would never approve of Adam and Eve to get D&R, the same is true today. The Lord does not approve of Divorce & Remarriage. Plain and simple.

 Note, the Lord also listed adultery and fornication as two sensual sins in (Gal. 5:19 “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,” (Also consider Matt.15:19) Notice the last part of (Hosea 4:13 “…therefore your daughters shall commit whoredom, and your spouses shall commit adultery.”) Daughters committing whoredom (O.T. fornication), spouses committing adultery. Common sense would thus tell you they are two different offenses. Why would the Lord list them as such? Men have sin in their hearts and thus will fight against God, confuse and wrest the scriptures, and resist the truth till they repent and get right with God.

 Number 2) error again (definition of fornication) above given: They are blinded and accused the Lord of being born of fornication. (John 8:41 “Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.”) This was blasphemous. Mary was with child of the Holy Ghost. Here the Jews thought Mary had relations before marriage, yet not so (Matt. 1:18). Mary was with child, which shows the word fornication to them meant a sensual relationship before marriage. Therefore, the definition of fornication is a physical relationship between unmarried persons before marriage and not as many of the dictionaries, even Greek ones, of today try to say it includes adultery. Balderdash. So, the Jews thought Mary had relations before marriage and thus accused the Lord of being born of it. Wicked! Thus, this allocation for divorce & remarriage does not hold water.

 Now, this next paragraph also takes in error number 2) (definition of fornication) and number 3) error (part of the Jewish law) listed in previous paragraph. The Gospel of Matthew is known to scholars as a Jewish flavored book. In other words, Matthew applies heavily to Jewish prophecies, teachings, etc. Thus, the account of Joesph and Mary in Matthew Chapter 1. Joseph was afraid to take Mary to be his wife, for she was with child, before they came together. Joesph and Mary were betrothed to each other and under Jewish teaching they were considered like husband and wife. Some ways as our engagement period today. Now, some thought Mary had committed fornication (sensual relation before marriage). Thus, Joesph was thinking of putting her away privily and had a right to do so under the law; (Deut. 22:13-21; Duet 24:1-4) “…except it be for fornication,…”) yet God told Joseph in a dream by His angel not to be afraid to take Mary thy wife, for the child in her was of the Holy Ghost. Amen! (Matt. 1:19-20 “Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.”) Mary had not sinned. Thus, Joesph could marry her. This again shows that this: (“…except it be for fornication,…”) clause was under the Jewish law, and by definition it means a sensual relationship before marriage, (marriage beginning when vows are exchanged before God). Again numbers 2) and 3) errors mentioned in this paragraph.

 One might say, “Well, I married an unsaved person, that gives me the right to divorce and remarry. Not so fast. First, you disobeyed (II Cor. 6:14 “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”) You must live with the consequences of your actions. Secondly, God says (“But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him.” I Cor. 7:11-12) God says you are not allowed to put away that spouse willing to dwell with you. Thirdly, marriage is honorable whether the person is saved or lost. (Heb. 13:4 “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”) For it is the institution of marriage that God blesses and has given man for the continuation of the family unit.

 Some teach divorce is a way to be loosened from a spouse. They use (I Cor. 7:27 “Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.”) First, you are bound to that spouse by the vows you made before the almighty God. Secondly, death is the only way to be loosened from marriage, not divorce. (Rom. 7:2 “For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.”) You really have got to have a bad heart to twist this one. It’s as plain as the hogs like mud. If your spouse has passed on, you’re free to marry another believer in the Lord or remain, as Paul did, single. (“But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:” I Cor. 7:32)  Seek not a wife.

 Another one of men’s foolish reasonings to put their spouse away is the woman at the well in (John 4:16 “Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.”) Some say, “see she had five lawful husbands”. Balderdash! The Lord was making a mere conjecture, in scorn. She knew she had no husband.

 This is a verse some use to justify a physical union constitutes a marriage. (“What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.” I Cor. 6:16) Boy oh boy if this one isn’t a stretch. What a loony bin we would have if all the illicit and wicked sensual relations and affairs were bonified marriages in the sight of God. God says, (“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Gen. 2:24) First you leave mom and dad, then cleave (to stick to or remain faithful too) your wife or husband. Your spouse becomes the one and only one to have that godly union. Fornication: a physical sensual union before marriage is a perversion of holy matrimony which is a godly union between a husband and wife. The marriage ceremony (Vows) John 2:1-11 is the start of a marriage, then they cleave unto their husband or wife and become one flesh.

 Others will use (I Cor. 7:15 “But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.”) This cannot be used as grounds for divorce and re-marriage. Because how can you obey (I Cor. 7:10-11 “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.”) This actually is a question for all that say divorce & remarriage is OKAY. How do you obey these verses? God says remain unmarried or be reconciled to your spouse. You really have to wrangle the scriptures, and it becomes a confusing mess. God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.

 Consider the passages of scripture that plainly express, (“…the wife of thy youth.”) (Prov. 5:18 “Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.” Mal. 2:14) (“Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.”) These verses clearly indicate the first wife is the only God honoring and approved wife. Of course, there are those who are subverted and throw in all sorts of heretical and hypothetical situations, thwarting or making the Word of God of none effect.Also note (Eccl. 9:9 “Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.”) Boy oh boy, (“Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life…”) Now how is that possible if you divorce her or him and get another? It is impossible. Also, God said He hates putting away. (“For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.” Mal. 2:16) God hates divorce.

 Now, there are those who say a marriage ceremony is not for today and comes from a pagan culture. Foolishness. It is interesting our blessed Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ attended one at Cana in (John 2:1-11). Also, performed His first miracle there (turning water into wine). This is all that needs to be said on this one.

 Remember, any who marries someone that is divorced is committing continual adultery. (Luke 16:18 “Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.”) Marriage is a serious obligation and responsibility.

 Now, what are divorced and remarried people to do? Stay in that relationship? God calls it sin. (“So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.” Rom. 7:3) Would our Saviour want us to continue in sin? No. It is a hard saying, “Separate”. In this writer’s opinion, if one of the parties has never been married before and leaves this already married before divorcee, he or she may go and get married to one (a believer) in the Lord who has never married.

 We witness and pray for all to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth, no matter what their condition or relationships. Ye must be born again. (“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3) (“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.” John 6:47) (“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36)

 Some would say it’s not good for the children. God says, (“Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.” Heb. 13:4) Is it better to stay in an adulterous relationship with God’s judgement upon it or to trust, love, and obey our precious Saviour Jesus Christ for and in all things? (“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” I John 5:2-3)

 All of us ought to consider that this subject is not popular today, nor was it during the time of Christ. John the Baptist was beheaded for preaching this truth. (“For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.” Matt. 14:3-4) (“And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.” Matt. 14:10) Where will you stand, my friend?

“Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”

Colossians 3:18-21

The Family Unit: one of the three (Church, Family, Government) institutions that God has given to man.

• The Church: for the spiritual oversight and propagation of the gospel of Christ Jesus. (I Tim. 3:15, Eph. 4:11-15)
• The Family: marriage (holy matrimony). God’s wonderful plan for man to be fruitful and multiply. (Gen. 1:28, Eph. 5:22-33, John 2:1-11, I Peter 3:1-7, I Tim. 2:8-15, Titus 2:1-4, I Tim. 5:14, Eph. 6:1-4)
• The Government: Rules, laws, and regulations to produce a civil and godly society; whereby we may lead a quiet and peaceable life. (I Tim. 2:2, Rom. 13:1-7)

 Wives: to be submissive to the husband. (Webster’s 1828 dictionary: To yield, resign or surrender to the power, will or authority of another.) This definition is as well: men are to be to the Lord and those in authority. Wives are to obey the husband. In this writer’s opinion, as long it is not sinful or places wives in harm’s way (law to intervene). God is first to obey (His word) and wives are to be cherished, not harmed. (“…as it is fit in the Lord.”) Under the context of this verse, wives who submit to their husbands are doing exactly what is pleasing to the Lord. Just as the church is subject to Christ. (Important Note: see references above under family)

 Husbands: (“…love your wives,…”) Wives are to be cherished and nourished, just as the husband does for himself. Also, as Christ cares for His church (saints). (“…and be not bitter against them.”) One thing that husbands do have trouble with is indeed getting bitter against the wife. She can’t keep the house, she’s a slob, she can’t cook, she’s lazy, on and on it goes. Might try looking in the mirror, friend. (Important Note: see references above under family)

 Children: (“…obey your parents…”) Simple instructions: kids do not be self-willed, stubborn, or rebellious. Do quickly and respectfully what mom and dad tell you.This pleases our mighty and benevolent Saviour Christ Jesus.Now, again if it is sin or harm’s way, it is a matter for the law. (Important Note: see references above under family)

 Father: husbands that are blessed with children from the Lord. (Ps. 127, Ps. 128) Fathers do not intimidate their children. Fun, games and playing time is fine but not to the point of offending your children and they become despondent. We ought to be striving to raise them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Important Note: see references above under family)

 (“Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock. The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth. Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the Lord.” Ps. 107:41-43)

“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.”

 Colossians 3:8

There are those that would spoil you: damage you severely, harm you, impair you beyond repair or come close. Nothing is impossible with God. They are twisted in their minds and thus wish to make others the same. “(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.” Phil. 3:18-19) They shall not escape but suffer the consequences of their actions.

 Philosophies and vain deceit:

• Wisdom of this world
• Get it before it’s gone
• Do to them before they do it to you
• You’re a fine lad go for the gusto
• Drink and be merry
• How many buffalo heads do you have
• Man came from a rock or an ape
• It took millions of years for the earth to form
• How big is your ranch
• You got any crypto coins (Covet)
• How about stocks and bonds, you must diversify them
• Family first (God ought to be first)

 Man’s heart and mind and not according to God’s Word. On and on the vain deceit. (II Peter 2:18-19 “For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.”) (“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” II Cor. 10:12)

 Tradition of men, rudiments of the world: many will not like this, but Christmas and Easter holidays are wrong. They are steeped in paganism. Do your due diligence, study. Look at an old encyclopedia. It is clearly stated what they truly represent. My friend, the Lord, was never in these holidays; they are of this world. These holidays were made to gain the pagans into Catholicism. Christmas: Winter solstice. Easter: Roman feast day. Now, some others:

• Gotta go to mass
• Get water baptized or it’s hell for you
• Take that communion it will get you into purgatory maybe heaven
• Don’t get married, celibacy is the way to go
• No worries you can be reincarnated into a dove
• Can’t eat that pork chop or got to get in before the sun goes down Friday night, got to keep that Sabbath.

All false and unbiblical. On and on such heresies: damning souls to hell, and all in self-righteousness. Full of traditions and rudiments of this world and not after Christ. (“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Rom. 16:17-18) Beware!

“Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.”

 I Corinthians 3:18

Many have the ability and knowledge of the things of this world. They speak with such confidence and arrogance of all they have achieved. Seeming so upstanding and wise. The all-knowing omniscient God says: (“let him become a fool, that he may be wise.”) The wisdom of this world amounts to nothing. It is worthless and just foolish to God. (“For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.” I Cor. 3:19)

 There was this warrior who thought himself to be wise and able to fight God. The warrior thus climbed a high mountain and once on top began to rail against the Almighty. Waving His sword, he yells “If there is a God let Him show Himself now and fight.” Again, and again the ignorant warrior shouts out, waving his sword in the air. Then suddenly, a tiny little bug flew right down the windpipe of that warrior. The ignorant warrior: stumbling backwards, chokes, unable to breath, falls, and expires on the spot. Many lessons can be brought out on this account of the ignorant warrior. Nevertheless, this warrior found out there was a God much wiser than himself. Using only a little bug to be defeated. Become wise my friend, repent and trust the Lamb of God Jesus Christ to take away your sin alone.

 Become a fool for the Lord. (“We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.” I Cor. 4:10) Christians who are true, right and in the fight are contrary to this world and will be disliked by it. Nevertheless, we hold to eternal truth: the written Word of God, Christ Jesus the Word. (“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1) Jesus Christ the mighty God.

 Jehovah Witness’s and some Mormons do not like this. Due to that they do not profess Jesus Christ is God. It is wrong and it is sin. Note (Is. 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”) We do pray they would be saved, see the truth, repent, receive Christ Jesus to take away their sin. Looking unto Jesus Christ Saviour and Lord.

 If one is to become wise, they must do away with self and this world’s thinking. Receive the written and eternal Word Jesus Christ. (“Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” James 1:21) (“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” I Peter 1:23)

“And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.”

Acts 12:4

With the Lord’s grace, mercy, and truth we shall look at first the erroneous view (worlds) of this holiday called Easter which has absolutely nothing to do with any true Christian or Biblical principles. (“But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Matt. 15:9) Beware when worldly perspectives (men’s views) are placed with or along the Word of God. Intertwining them (world & The Word) together to corrupt God’s Word and men’s minds. Example: Easter: this world’s holiday of heathen teachings mixed with Christian principles. Wrong.

 Our main verse above was a holiday that the Romans and the world observed. It was a heathen holiday. All one needs to do is study this online or out of an old encyclopedia. You will find this world’s Easter holiday is steeped in heathen and pagan teachings, such as:

• Eostre or Ostara – spring goddess or as such goddess of fertility. Biblical term “queen of heaven” known as Ishtar or Astarte. (Jer. 7:18) You will find in much study opposite viewpoints. Nevertheless, the Word of God is true and ought not be corrupted or intertwined with the ungodly. (II Cor. 6:14-18) The Roman Catholic needed to conquer the German tribes; the tribes wanted their pagan holidays. Thus, the Catholic adopted pagan teachings and practices with Christian teaching of Christ’s death and resurrection. Wicked. Also, it has been said the Catholic Lent is nothing more than the weeping for the goddess Tammuz. (Eze 8:14)
• Bonfires -where heathen ceremonies, and vile illicit relations took place.
• The Hare – the rabbit to insinuate fertility. This writer does not like or believe in over much indulgence in the study of the pagan practices. The Lord tells us to be simple concerning evil. (Romans. 16:19) Also, not to learn the way of the heathen. (Jer. 10:2) You teach correct and sound doctrine and when false teachings come, saints will know it and beware of it. (I John 2:20)
• The Egg -Again the insinuation of fertility. All this does is to get people’s minds and hearts corrupted and promote sin. It is brought to the people as something innocent as easter egg hunts, sunrise services, facing the sun which is connected to pagan practices. (Eze. 8:16; Jer. 8:2)

 My friend, you will find in study much debate and diverse viewpoints. Remember God is not the author of confusion but of peace. (“For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.” I Cor. 14:33) This writer believes the proof is in the pudding. Ask folks on the street about Easter and what it means. You will find mostly about is easter eggs and family. (See Prov. 22:6)

 If we are to observe and celebrate certain holidays, let us do our due diligence and study sound doctrine to see if they really began in true honor of and true adoration of our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ. (II Tim. 2:15) Remember as a dear friend of mine said, “You don’t have to stick your head in a trash can with the garbage to know it stinks or get a dime.” (Rom. 16:19) Amen.

 Now, on another issue that relates to this holiday called Easter is the teachings of the Catholic religion, how Christ died on Friday and rose on Sunday. It is somewhat funny, but when I was a kid, I often wondered how you can get three days and three nights from Friday to Sunday. You cannot. So, what some have done is sown the seed of doubt and teach, “Did the Lord really mean three days and nights? Then go on into heresy teaching what the Lord really meant. Balderdash! Wicked. (Matt. 28:17; Rom. 2:15)

 The key is to study and rightly divide the Word of Truth, not to doubt it. The problem does not lie with Christ, or His Word, the problem is faithless hearts. Believe his Word and ye shall be established. (II Tim. 2:15)

 Following this devotional is a chart we will attempt to explain. We will find the Lord truly meant “three days and three nights.” The Lord gave His life for our sin on Wednesday and rose on our Saturday evening sunset (Jewish time: each new day begins at sunset). The Catholic teaching is man made and wrong. Let us study this chart: “The Death and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus.”

• Notice the Time Dial. Our Noon (12:00pm) is the 6^th hour Jewish Time. Sunset is around 6pm our time and the 12^th hour Jewish time. Each new day begins at sunset and ends the next day at sunset, Jewish time.
• (“And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.” Luke 23:44) The 6^th hour is 12:00pm our time. The 9^th hour is 3:00pm our time. Thus, from noon to 3pm our time there was darkness. (Note 1a on chart)
• (“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” Matt. 27:46) Oh my, the agony of our Blessed Saviour. (Lord, forgive us) The 9^th hour, 3:00pm our time. (Note 1b on chart)
• (“And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,” Mk. 15:42) This even would have been around (3:00-6:00pm) our time and (9^th-12^th ) hour Jewish time. (Note 1c on chart)
• (“There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.” John 19:42) It was the Preparation Day: (day our Saviour died for us, Amen) and the preparation day for the Passover. Remember the Lord said He would be in the heart of the earth (laid) three days and three nights. (See Matt. 12:40) Thus, Wednesday night (sunset) began this time interval. (Note 2a on chart)
• (“The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.” John 19:31) Remember the Jewish day begins at sunset (evening) time. Therefore, they wanted to get the Lord in the tomb before the Sabbath day began that Wednesday evening. It was Wednesday at sunset the Lord was laid in the tomb, just before the Sabbath began. This Sabbath was a high day for it was the first day of the Passover that the Lord commanded the Jews to observe and keep, a Holy Convocation Day. (see Ex. 12:1-16) (Note 2b on chart)
• (“In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord’s passover.” Lev. 23:5) Wow. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. (“And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.” Ex. 12:13) Oh! What a marvelous and great salvation: our Saviour Jesus Christ. Suffering, dying, shedding His blood for your sin and mine. (Blessed art thou Oh, Lord) Amen! The 14^th day during sunset, of the first month, Abib (April). The High Day, the Sabbath, a Holy Convocation Day, the first day of the Lord’s Passover begins, (Wednesday evening at sunset, our time; Thursday beginning, Jewish time) (John 18:28; Ex. 12:16; Lev. 23:4-5) (Note 3a on chart)
• (“Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: 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.” Matt. 12:38-40) Side notes: God desires and honors faith, not signs. Putting God in control and honored, not man. Another side note: (“…In the heart of the earth.”) This is where the Lord led captivity captive. Paradise brought up from in the earth to the throne of God in heaven. (Eph. 4:7-10) Also, the Lord did not go to the fiery side of hell to pay for sin! Wicked! As some teach under the false doctrine of hyper-dispensationalism. Hell was in two parts: Paradise (Saved, Believers, Prophets of old, etc. went to before the cross) Fiery Side (Eternally damned, unbelievers, lost and undone, went to and still go today, (Rev. 20:11-15)

 The Lord went into the heart of the earth three days and three nights. Thus, it was our time Wednesday night, Thurs-day/night, Fri-day/night, Satur-day. (Arose from the grave Saturday evening at sunset). (Jewish time: Wednesday evening died (sunset), Thursday night/day, Friday night/day, Saturday night/day) Remember days begin in Jewish time at even, sunset (Night). Thus, three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Saturday even at sunset our time, and in Jewish time: the first day of the week, Sunday began, when the Lord arose; Hallelujah, from the grave. This all united together beautifully with the first day of the Passover (Lev. 23:5): The High Day, the first Sabbath Day of the Passover (John 19:31), the Day of Atonement (Lev. 23:32), and a Holy Convocation Day unto the Lord (Ex. 12:16). Amen. (Note 4 on chart)

• (“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.” Matt. 28:1) Here are the two Mary’s going to the sepulchre in the early morning of the first day of the week (Sunday). The second Sabbath of the Passover, a regular Sabbath day (Saturday, last day of the week and day of rest) had ended, Saturday even at sunset, when Christ our Saviour arose. They would find the tomb empty, Glory. Amen. (Note 5 on chart)
• (“And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.” Mk. 16:1) With (“And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.” Luke 23:56) This first Sabbath that had past was the first Day of the Passover (Thursday). Then they bought the spices and prepared them on Friday, so they may rest on the second Sabbath (Saturday). Then in the early morning (sunrise) of the first day of the week (Sunday) they went to the sepulchre. (Mk 16:2) (Note 6ab on chart) The Lord had Risen! Glory. Remember their Sunday began our Saturday evening at sunset.

 We are not to adhere or savor the things that be of men or this world’s religious teachings. (Matt.16:22-23; Acts 4:19) There will always be a price in taking a scriptural and Biblical stand. Yet much reward. (Matt. 16:24-25; Luke 18:30; Rev. 22:12) (Many of these teachings in this book taught to me by a dear friend, Pastor Fred R. Fowler, and may be found by other men of God online which concur.)

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”

 Proverbs 16:18

Many a times we have either seen or experienced in our own lives’ what awfulness and chaos a cocky, full of himself, self-absorbed, attitude or heart will produce. It is not pretty. It totally ruins lives, churches, and even nations. God extremely hates it: (“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.” Prov. 6:16-19)

 Man has nothing to be gloating about. It is of the Lord’s doing, that He allows man to do such and such of His allowable will. If anything is not in the Lord’s allowable or permissive will, then it shall not be accomplished. We ought to be praying and seeking the Lord’s direct will to complete in our lives. (“Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.” James 4:13-16)

 The sin of pride that so often pops up in our hearts ends in strife and variance. (“Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.” Prov. 13:10) Let us not be quick to answer a matter. Rather let us seek the Lord in all things and not lean upon our wisdom or understanding. (Prov. 3:5-6) This will glorify and honor our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ who loved us and gave Himself for us. Amen!

 There are so many passages in God’s Word that warns us of the awful consequences of this sin and not to allow this evil to come upon us or from within us. Let us watch and be constantly of a humble heart, mind, and spirit. (“When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.” Prov. 11:2) (“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Is. 57:15) (“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” I Peter 5:5-7)

“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”

Malachi 3:8-10

Are Christians to be giving tithes and offerings today? Is it Biblical? Surprisingly, there are many that instruct that tithing is not for the church age. It was just all under Old Testament law. Wow! We shall provide several Biblical principles that clearly shows Christian’s ought to be tithing and the amount tithing stood for. Offerings are what is given above the title. Alms are what is given to the poor.

• Tithe was and is Holy unto God. (“And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord.” Lev.27:30) No matter what the gift, it was Holy, belonging unto the LORD. It represents Christ Jesus our Saviour as the first fruits unto God. The tithes and offerings belong unto God. (Lev. 27:30-32) Just as our main verses above; also, state. It is robbing God of what is holy and what is His.
• Some say tithes and offerings were under the O.T. law or just an O.T. precept and thus, we today are not under the law or its precepts; therefore, we don’t need to follow the tithe precept. This thinking is incorrect. Abraham, even before the law was given, gave tithes. (“And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” Gen. 14:20) Also, Jacob stated he would give a tenth. Exactly, the amount of the tithe. (Gen. 28:14 “…And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God’s house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.”) (Also, Heb. 7:4) Also, the Lord Himself instructed to give tithes and offerings. (Matt. 23:23 “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”)  (See Devotional Jan. 21)
• Now, another important point is found in (Heb. 7:7-8 “And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.”) Abraham gave tithes to Melchisedec, King of Salem and priest of most high God, one who was a type of Christ. Melchisedec brought forth bread and wine (type of the sacrifice of our Redeemer our Lord Jesus Christ); and then blessed Abraham. (“…the less is blessed of the better.”) Today we are blessed by Christ; thus, we pay tithes to our Blessed Redeemer Jesus Christ. (“…of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.”) We know our Redeemer liveth; thus we pay tithes, and we are blessed by Him. Just as Job declared (“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:” Job 19:25) Yes! Amen! Also, note: (“…And here men that die receive tithes;…”) this denotes that they were tithing at the beginning of the church age, which is our example throughout this church age. (See: I Cor. 16:1-2) Amen!
• Consider these other points: 1) God alone is the one who gives us the ability, strength, and intellect to achieve any riches. (“But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.” Deut. 8:18) The Lord has given and gives much more than we deserve. We must give to Him what is His.2) By giving our tithes and offerings we give honor, glory, and show subjection to the one who died for us. (“I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.” Ps. 86:12) Our giving really shows our hearts condition where our hearts are at.3) The church is supported. (“Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.” I Cor. 16:2-3) (I Cor. 9:7-11) Many passages given showing brethren supporting brethren. 4) The first church gave and had all things equal. (“And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.” Acts 2:44-45) (Acts 4:32-37, Warning given: Acts 5:1-11)

Remember what the Lord said in (Acts 20:35 “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”) (II Cor. 9:6-15)

“ Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.”

Psalm 119:80

That which is in the heart cometh forth from the lips. Our hearts bewaryeth what is in them whether it be God’s Word, His business, ourselves, our careers, or things of this life and world? The Lord tells us in (Matt. 12:34 “O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.”) A good indication would be what we speak mostly about. His Word, testimonies of God’s greatness and goodness, the house of God and its business, prayer, or of self and its concerns?

 Oh! How we ought to pray like David (“Let my heart be sound in thy statues;…”) Biblical precepts, rules, and principles whereby our hearts are established in permanently. Thus, our thinking, speech, and then our actions and behavior are affected to serving the Lord in reverence and godly fear, that we be not brought to shame. Also, that faith, charity, and patience which pleases the Lord would abound and be sound in us: (“But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” Titus 2:1-2.) This faith we can obtain and grow in, is by His Word. (“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Rom. 10:17) Charity we gain by prayer and as we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit of Christ, (Rom. 6:13; I Cor. 13; I Peter 4:8), and patience we gain by the experiences of tribulation (Rom. 5:3).

 Another indication of what is in one’s heart is by the type of communication that comes forth. God says in (Eph. 4:29 “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”) Evil, lying, and corrupt communications come from an evil and corrupt heart, grieving the Holy Spirit, and corrupting those around. This ought not be amongst saints. Rather speech seasoned with salt that ministers grace, faith, and edification to the hearer. A kind word, a gentle rebuke in prayer, a helping hand, a gift given, a beaming smile, an encouraging word, and much more ought to be amongst saints. This becometh pleasing to our Lord and Saviour.

 Let us endeavor to meditate and hide God’s word in our hearts to manifest a living faith. Seek and yield ourselves to the Lord to show a charitable heart. Endure the hardships of trials to gain a patient demeanor. Developing our hearts, speech and actions to be affected, to please Him in all things, who gave Himself for us. Amen! (“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Ps. 119:11 “Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.” Ps. 119:27)

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?”

 Luke 14:28

Do we ever really and truly pay a price to serve and follow our Risen Saviour? It is said that any dead fish can float downstream. Yet it takes strength, courage, and fortitude to swim upstream. It costs nothing to sit and say or do nothing; thus you reap nothing. Corruption and decay shall be thine end. (“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) Those who take faith in the Lord, will find as a result: a price monetarily to pay, a duty to carry his cross, sin to echew, struggles against sin, fightings without, fears within, perils on every side, troubles all around, a fight of faith, being good stewards taking care of the brethren, etc., and for that faith shall reap life eternal and for that faithful service crowns of rewards.

 There is a price for truly following the Lord. (“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” II Tim. 3:12) No matter how the world paints Christianity, true blood washed and born-again saints will have some enemies of this world. This world is not our home, strangers and pilgrims are we in a dry and thirsty land. (“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;” Ps. 63:1) David abode where dangers and perilous physical care attended his way. Yet the Lord delivered him out of them all. (“For he hath delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath seen his desire upon mine enemies.” Ps. 54:7)

 Are we willing to count the cost to serve our precious Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ? Let us with faith and resolve place our eyes straight and focused upon Him who died for our sins and rose again. (“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Heb. 12:1-2)