Category: Idolatry

Overcoming BESETTING SIN: A Call to Spiritual Maturity in Hebrews 12:1

In Hebrews 12:1, the Apostle challenges believers to live with perseverance, casting off everything that hinders their spiritual journey. This passage offers profound insight into the nature of sin and spiritual growth, especially when it speaks of “the sin which doth so easily beset us.” The phrase here invites us to reflect on how sin, particularly besetting sin, can hinder our walk with Christ. This article explores the meaning of besetting sin, its connection to iniquity, and the path to spiritual maturity that enables believers to overcome such entanglements, enriched with practical steps, broader context, and diverse perspectives on this timeless call.

Hebrews 12:1 – "The Sin Which Doth So Easily Beset Us

The verse says:

“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.”

This verse is part of a broader exhortation in the book of Hebrews, likely written to Jewish Christians facing persecution, urging them to stay faithful. It highlights the importance of laying aside any distractions or sin that slows us down in our spiritual race—a marathon of endurance, not a sprint, reflecting the athletic contests of their day. The specific sin described in this passage is one that entangles or ensnares us, hindering our spiritual growth and progress.

Understanding "Besetting Sin"

The phrase “beset” is translated from the Greek word “euperistaton” (εὐπερίστατον), meaning something that is easily surrounding, or entangling. It conveys the image of sin as something that easily encircles or ensnares a believer, preventing them from advancing in their faith and spiritual maturity.

So, what exactly is besetting sin? This term can refer to:

1. A Specific Temptation or Habitual Sin: Besetting sin is often seen as a recurring, habitual sin—a pattern or inclination that continually trips up the believer. It might be something like pride, anger, lust, lying, gossiping, covetousness, unforgiveness, or dishonesty—sins that seem to persistently ensnare the believer’s thoughts, actions, and attitudes. These are not occasional lapses, but rather persistent struggles that hold a believer back.

Besetting sins can also manifest as envy and jealousy, where a person continually desires what others have and feels resentment about their success or blessings. Addiction to substances, behaviors, or habits, such as pornography, gambling, or alcohol, can grip the believer’s life. Selfishness and self-centeredness may lead one to prioritize their own desires over others, while laziness and slothfulness prevent spiritual or physical growth.

A believer might also struggle with impatience and irritability, constantly feeling frustrated by others, or fear and anxiety, allowing worry to overshadow faith in God’s promises. Unbelief and doubt may plague the heart, causing one to question God’s goodness or provision. In other cases, pride in achievements or status can result in boasting and conceit, while greed and materialism drive one to focus on accumulating wealth or status instead of seeking God’s Kingdom. Some may wrestle with a lust for power or control, attempting to manipulate others or situations, or a critical spirit and judging others, constantly finding fault without offering grace.

Unforgiveness and bitterness often hinder spiritual growth, while deceit and hypocrisy make it difficult to live authentically. Lastly, the idolatry of comfort and convenience, or a lust for attention or approval, can lead a person to prioritize ease, pleasure, or validation over faithfulness to God.

These besetting sins are not isolated incidents but recurring struggles that require intentional effort, prayer, and accountability to overcome. They demand deep transformation by the Holy Spirit and continual reliance on God’s Word to break their hold and allow the believer to grow in spiritual maturity.

2. Iniquity (Lawlessness): The concept of besetting sin aligns with the biblical idea of iniquity—a deeply entrenched moral perversity that is not merely a one-time act of sin but a persistent condition. Iniquity speaks to lawlessness or rebellion against God, and it manifests in habits or attitudes that entangle the believer in sinful behavior. This sin may be so deeply ingrained in the believer’s nature that it keeps them from growing spiritually, often because they have not fully submitted to Christ’s transformative work. From this root, presumptuous sins (Psalm 19:13) can sprout—willful, arrogant acts of defiance, like rejecting God’s truth in pride or greed. While besetting sins entangle through habit, iniquity’s rebellion can fuel these bold transgressions, deepening our need for deliverance.

Yet, perspectives vary. Some scholars suggest “besetting sin” isn’t always a personal habit but a situational temptation—like the Hebrews’ pressure to abandon faith amid trials. Others see it as communal, with the “us” implying the church collectively shedding sins like division or apathy. These views enrich our grasp of the term, showing its depth beyond a single definition.

The Role of Sin and Iniquity in Spiritual Immaturity

The nature of besetting sin is often tied to spiritual immaturity. In Hebrews 5:13-14, the writer describes the difference between spiritual infancy and spiritual maturity, highlighting that immature believers are unskilled in the Word of righteousness and struggle with distinguishing good from evil. Just as an immature person may be unable to eat solid food, spiritually immature believers struggle with besetting sins—sins they are unable to overcome because they lack the maturity to discern what is good or right in God’s eyes. This reflects their place in sanctification—the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ, shedding sin for holiness.

– Spiritual immaturity can lead to habits of sin that persist in a believer’s life, as they are still caught in elementary principles and unable to grasp the fullness of the gospel’s power to deliver them from sin. These besetting sins can become habitual, often reflecting a lack of spiritual growth and understanding.

– Iniquity entangles a person because they have not yet fully learned to put off the old self and live in the freedom of Christ. Instead of relying on the gospel’s power to overcome sin, they may fall back into old patterns of rebellion and disobedience, unaware of the maturity and spiritual freedom that Christ offers.

Laying Aside Every Weight and Sin

In Hebrews 12:1, the command to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us” speaks to the deliberate action needed to free ourselves from what hinders our spiritual journey. Every weight refers to things that are not necessarily sinful in themselves but can still impede our progress—distractions, misplaced priorities, or even good things that consume too much of our attention. These can be anything from worldly pursuits to unnecessary anxieties. Some debate whether “weights” are distinct from “sin” or overlap—perhaps neutral burdens like cultural traditions or excessive busyness—but the call remains to shed them.

However, the besetting sin refers to the specific sin that ensnares or entangles us. These are the habitual or recurring sins that prevent us from running the race with endurance. This sin is often persistent and deeply ingrained, and overcoming it requires both spiritual maturity and intentional effort.

How do we lay these aside practically? Consider these steps empowered by Christ:

– Pray and Confess: Set aside time daily to name your besetting sin—be it lust or pride—and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal its roots and grant strength to resist (James 5:16).

– Engage Scripture: Memorize Hebrews 12:1-2 or Psalm 119:11 (“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee”) and recite it when tempted, renewing your mind.

– Seek Accountability: Share your struggle with a trusted believer who can pray with you and check in regularly, fostering mutual encouragement.

– Replace Habits: If anger ensnares you, redirect that energy by serving others or journaling triggers to avoid future traps.

Thus, the call to lay aside every weight and besetting sin is an invitation to spiritual maturity—a growth that involves setting aside distractions and habitual sins that keep us from fully pursuing Christ. Freedom in Christ empowers us to overcome entangling sins and to live out our faith with perseverance.

The Race Set Before Us: Perseverance in Christ

The latter part of Hebrews 12:1—”let us run with patience the race that is set before us”—reminds us that the Christian life is a race of perseverance, requiring endurance and focus on the ultimate goal. The race symbolizes the journey of sanctification, in which believers are called to grow in spiritual maturity, leaving behind the sin that hinders and running towards the goal of Christlikeness—a marathon of trust, not a fleeting sprint.

– Overcoming besetting sin is part of the sanctification process—a continual movement toward spiritual maturity where we learn to trust in Christ and grow in our ability to overcome sin. The call to run with patience means that we will face challenges, temptations, and struggles along the way, but we are to remain focused on the prize—the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).

– The focus on Jesus as the author and perfecter of our faith is crucial in overcoming besetting sin. We cannot win the race by our own efforts alone. Our victory over sin, iniquity, and spiritual immaturity comes through looking to Jesus, who has already secured the victory for us.

Traditions vary here: Catholics might emphasize sacraments like confession as aids, while Reformed believers stress God’s sovereign grace enabling triumph. Both affirm Christ’s centrality, deepening the verse’s call.

Conclusion: Overcoming Iniquity and Besetting Sin

The “sin which doth so easily beset us” is a vivid image of the entangling nature of iniquity—sins that persistently hinder the believer’s spiritual progress. Whether this refers to specific recurring temptations or a more pervasive struggle with iniquity, Hebrews 12:1 calls us to lay it aside and run the race with endurance, focused on Jesus as our strength.

Freedom in Christ means that we no longer need to remain ensnared by besetting sin. With the help of the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the community of believers, we are called to grow in spiritual maturity, discern good from evil, and ultimately overcome the iniquity and sin that once easily entangled us. The journey toward spiritual maturity requires perseverance, but it is through Christ that we are enabled to run with patience and endure to the end, experiencing the fullness of God’s righteousness and grace.

The Dangers of a COMPROMISED Church: A Call to Return to True, Spirit-Filled Worship

In recent decades, the landscape of church worship and ministry has shifted dramatically, reflecting a cultural compromise that many see as detrimental to the integrity of the Christian faith. What was once a passionate, Spirit-empowered ministry—where men and women of God were fully led by the Holy Spirit to serve both the Church and the world—has evolved into something that many would argue is a far cry from its original, sacred purpose.

The allure of modern techniques, high-energy performances, and “whistles and bells” in contemporary worship services may seem appealing to many. But at what cost? The compromise of biblical truths, the erosion of sound doctrine, and the infiltration of worldly music into the church sanctuary have transformed worship from being a “sacred encounter with God” into an experience that caters more to consumerism than to Spirit-filled devotion. As a result, we are witnessing the rise of “spiritless Christianity” and the disturbing alignment of some churches with secular movements that have no place in the kingdom of God.

### “The Erosion of Sound Doctrine and the Dilution of Truth“

One of the most alarming aspects of this shift is the erosion of “sound doctrine” within many churches. The Bible warns that in the last days, people would not endure “sound teaching” but would seek out teachers who cater to their own desires, telling them what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3). We are seeing this reality play out today as churches opt for more palatable, feel-good messages that lack the “conviction” and “power” of the gospel. The Gospel is meant to “transform lives,” calling people to repentance, holiness, and a deeper relationship with God, but too often today’s message simply comforts rather than convicts.

The Bible calls the Church to be the “pillar and foundation of truth” (1 Timothy 3:15), yet we are witnessing an alarming trend where “biblical truths” are being watered down to accommodate a culture that seeks convenience over conviction. As “theological compromises” increase, the foundation of Christian faith becomes weaker, causing many believers to be misled or confused about what is truly biblical. When the gospel is diluted to align with modern tastes, we lose the “transforming power” that authentic Christianity offers.

### “From Spirit-Filled Worship to Consumer Christianity“

Historically, Christian worship was a “spiritual experience,” fuelled by the presence of the Holy Ghost. It was a time for believers to gather in reverence, to be filled with the power of God, to offer their heartfelt praises, and to be strengthened by the Word. However, in many modern churches, worship has become a performance, replete with flashing lights, loud music, and the theatrical flair of entertainment.

“Instead of being a house of prayer and devotion to the Scriptures, where the Word is expounded to the hearty and pious listeners with reverence and humility, many modern churches have shifted focus. Worship, once a sacred act of communion with God, has become a performance—replete with flashing lights, loud music, and the theatrical flair of entertainment. The emphasis is often placed more on spectacle than on spiritual depth, drawing attention away from the solemnity of Scripture and the quiet reflection that once characterised true devotion. This shift is not merely a matter of style but a fundamental change in the way we understand the purpose of worship. Instead of fostering an atmosphere of reverence and awe before a holy God, churches today often create an environment more akin to a concert or show, where emotions are stirred through sensory overload rather than through the still, small voice of Scripture. As a result, the worship experience can feel more like an emotional high than a transformative encounter with the living Word, leaving many spiritually malnourished and disconnected from the depth of biblical truth.

This shift in focus also changes the nature of worship itself. Instead of a humble gathering where the Scriptures are prayerfully read, meditated upon, and expounded to build up the church, many congregations now experience services where the message is secondary to the atmosphere. The sacred act of teaching the Word, intended to nourish the heart and mind of believers, is often reduced to a brief sermon or message sandwiched between musical performances and flashy visual effects. In this environment, worship becomes something we “consume” for the moment—more about the “feeling” it gives us than the “truth” it imparts.

This trend not only risks diluting the integrity of the gospel message, but it also undermines the very nature of worship as an act of submission and adoration. Worship, at its core, is meant to be an offering of our lives—an act of surrender that leads to deep spiritual renewal, not a fleeting emotional experience that fades once the lights dim. The church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a pillar and foundation of truth, yet when the focus shifts away from Scripture and towards performance, the church’s role as a witness to God’s truth is compromised. Instead of shaping culture with the eternal, unchanging Word of God, many modern churches find themselves reflecting and amplifying the transient fads of the world, blurring the lines between sacred worship and secular entertainment.”

While there’s nothing wrong with using creativity and technology in worship, the shift in focus is palpable. What was once an intimate, Spirit-led encounter has become an event that often prioritises “emotional stimulation” over spiritual transformation. Many churches, in their pursuit of attracting larger congregations, have embraced “consumer-driven worship”—where the goal is to cater to personal preferences rather than glorify God. This shift has led to an emphasis on “feeling good” rather than truly worshipping in “spirit and truth” (John 4:24). The Holy Spirit’s role in guiding worship and empowering believers seems to be diminishing in favour of performances that often feel more like a concert than a sacred gathering.

Some lament that true “spirit-filled ministry”—where people are truly touched, transformed, and empowered by the Holy Ghost—has become harder to find. The heart of worship, once centred around the “presence of God,” is often now focused more on “entertainment value” and “appealing to human emotions.” What happened to the genuine “anointing” of the Holy Ghost that once marked Christian gatherings and led people to “conviction, healing, deliverance and true discipleship”?

Worldly Movements Invading the Pulpit

Perhaps one of the most disheartening developments is the infiltration of secular ideologies and movements within the very pulpits that are meant to declare “God’s truth.” The rise of movements such as “gay rights,” “drag queens,” and other cultural ideologies in churches is a troubling sign. Some churches, in their desire to be more inclusive or politically correct, have allowed these worldly movements to shape their beliefs, services, and even leadership.

The Bible calls the church to be separate from the world—not to reflect its values, but to “stand as a light in the darkness” (Romans 12:2, 1 John 2:15-17). Yet, as these secular values invade the church, many believers are concerned about the authenticity of their faith and whether the church is still upholding the “biblical standard.” The Bible clearly condemns behaviours such as “homosexuality,” “idolatry,” and “immorality,” but in some areas of the Church, these behaviours are being embraced and even celebrated in direct contradiction to Scripture.

The infiltration of these ideologies into the pulpits is not just a reflection of cultural compromise—it’s a “spiritual invasion.” The Bible warns that “Satan” himself will transform into an “angel of light” and that his ministers will masquerade as “apostles of righteousness” (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). What we are witnessing today in many churches could very well be the “deception” that Scripture foretold. False teachers and apostles, led by the enemy, are diluting the gospel and leading many astray.

Biblical Prophecy Fulfilled

The infiltration of worldly movements into the Church, along with the watering down of doctrine, seems to align with “biblical prophecy” about the “falling away” of the faith in the last days (2 Thessalonians 2:3). As the Church becomes more compromised, the “sanctity” of the “holy place” is being desecrated, just as the Bible warned (Matthew 24:15, Daniel 9:27). The widespread acceptance of sin, the distortion of the gospel, and the confusion within the Church are signs that we may indeed be living in the final days before Christ’s return.

The Bible clearly foretold these times: that in the “last days,” there would be a great “apostasy,” where many would turn away from the truth (1 Timothy 4:1). We are living through this “great falling away,” where “biblical truths” are being rejected, and the “Church” is being infiltrated by false ideologies and false teachers. But just because we are seeing these signs doesn’t mean we should lose hope. Instead, it should “awaken” us to the need for discernment, vigilance, and a return to biblical truth.

A Call to Discernment and a Return to True Worship

In these troubling times, there is a call to “return” to “true, Spirit-filled worship”—where the focus is on glorifying God, upholding sound doctrine, and submitting to the leading of the Holy Spirit. While many churches may have compromised, the “remnant of God’s people”—those who are committed to truth and purity—still exists. These believers are still “contending for the faith” and standing firm on the Word of God (Jude 1:3).

The church must take a stand. “We must be vigilant” in these times, “discerning” the spirits at work in the world and in the church. As believers, we are called to “hold fast to the gospel” and “preserve its purity.” While the culture around us is shifting, the “Word of God” remains unchanging, and the “Holy Spirit” is still active and at work in the hearts of those who remain faithful.

In Conclusion

Yes, the landscape of the Church is changing, and not for the better. The erosion of sound doctrine, the rise of consumer-driven Christianity, and the infiltration of worldly ideologies are alarming signs of compromise. But there is still hope. The faithful remnant of God’s people is still standing firm, holding fast to the “truth” of God’s Word and the “power” of the Holy Ghost. “Now is the time to discern the times,” “reject false teachings,” and “return to the true worship of God”—where the Holy Ghost is free to move, and the gospel is boldly proclaimed. The “end times” may be upon us, but in these dark days, the light of “authentic Christianity” can still shine brightly through those who choose to stay true to God’s Word and His ways.

“Betrayal and Beyond: The Lessons We Can Learn from JUDAS ISCARIOT”

Let’s take Judas Iscariot, whose name was written in heaven – Luke 10:20 – but his name was erased from the book of life for forsaking the right way and choosing the way of Balaam (who loved the wages of unrighteousness) – 2Pet 2:15 – the fathers did eat the same spiritual meat and are dead – John 6:58/1Cor 10:1-4/Jude 1:5.

Judas was one among the twelve chosen apostles who were ordained by the Lord Jesus Christ (John 6: 70,71 –NIV/Mark 3:14,19) – For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry – Acts 1:17 – to whom was given power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease – Matt 10:1/Luke 9:1,6 – but he loved the reward of iniquity – Acts 1:17,18/Jude 1:11/John 12:4-6/1Tim 6:9-12 – this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression FELL – Acts 1:25 – erred from faith – for the love of money drowns men in destruction and perdition – 1Tim 6:9,10.

He that makes haste to be rich shall not be innocent – Pro 28:20 – Covetousness is idolatry – Col 3:5.

Judas Iscariot became a son of perdition – he lost his calling – John 17: 12 – Satan entered and took possession of Judas at the last supper (the Passover) to betray Jesus – John 13:2,27 – Judas had sin (iniquity) in his heart as did Lucifer – Isaiah 14:13 – and that had led to the possession of his soul by the devil.

Note that, he was not possessed by the devil from childhood as the Apocryphal Arabic Gospel of the Infancy puts it – for certain, he had been under the influence of Satan, and that must have given the devil leeway to enter him. 

Judas would not have experienced the holy persuasion of Christ or benefited from the light and spiritual gifts of the 12 Apostles of the Lamb, if he had been the demonic entity that many believe him to be.

Every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it brings forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, brings forth death – James 1:14,15.

Covetousness had brought him down. He wasn’t honest! Only Jesus knew the way Judas was handling the money that was entrusted to him – John 12:6 – for he was appointed to administer the financial assets and liabilities of this herd of believers – Judas must have been deeply offended by Jesus’ rebuke, as also the Synoptic Gospels put it (the pouring of the precious ointment on the body of Christ, for his burial – Matt 26:12 – affronted all the disciples – verse 8), which could have motivated him to later strike a bargain with the chief priests to betray Jesus – Matt 26:6-10 – or hearing Jesus speak about his death could have led him to think that his position as the head of the monetary resources is provisional and that he would not have a chance to make wealth once the Master is gone – he must have thought: well, let me save my life before it is too late!

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it – Matt 16:25 – and My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him – Heb 12:5 – My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction – Pro 3:11- If ye endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons – Heb 12:7.

Judas was justified by faith and was baptized in water by John (Acts 1:17 – his bishopric (the office of bishop) let another take – Acts 1:20,25/ Ps 41:9/ 109:8 –KJV/John 4:1-2/13:18-21/17:12).

The word “Betrayal” holds value only when it happens between the best of friends. Otherwise, it cannot be seen as betrayal. If you testify against your enemy that ain’t betrayal. If Judas was an enemy he should be seen as an opponent, adversary but the gospels bear witness that Judas was faithful UNTIL sin was found in him. Sin in his heart was the reason why Satan had entered into Judas (Luke 22:3).

An opponent is a person who feels hatred for, fosters harmful designs against, or engages in antagonistic activities against another. But we see that Judas was remorseful of his betrayal – Matt 27:4 – if he was an enemy then he wouldn’t feel the pangs of conscience, would he? A traitor means, one who gives himself or surrender to the enemy – Luke 6:16 – to dissent from his believed ideals. 

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 (1 Timothy 6:10). It is a serious offense! 

For EVERY man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it brings forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, brings forth death (James 1:14, 15). Do not err, my beloved brethren! (James 1:16) Wherefore let him that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall (1 Cor 10:12).

The Bible says, He that commits sin is of the devil; for the devil sins from the beginning (1 John 3:8) – Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother (1 John 3:12) – Judas too consciously partook of the wicked works and had become a fellow conspirator to slew the “Prince of Life”. He had barked up the wrong tree by his love of money and thus erred from faith. 

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die (Rom 8:13) – to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? (Rom 6:16)

Betrayal can only happen in a close relationship otherwise it ain’t betrayal. Betrayal is the opposite of loyalty. Only a person who was once loyal to a cause, due to persuasions, temptations, threatenings etc…when retracts/fall away from it, we could say that he/she betrayed or deserted/disavowed the person or organization that he/she was once loyal to!

We’ve heard of real life stories of military officers and citizens alike defected from their oppressive regimes. If so, even apostasy is considered a betrayal, isn’t it?

Doesn’t the Bible say that in the last days apostasy shall take place within the christendom? How many Christians have already betrayed the Lord by leading a life opposing to the word of God, in pursuit of saving their own lives, loving themselves, loving this present world, following after money etc…? Isn’t it crucial then to often examine ourselves whether we are in the faith or not, and that we aren’t deceived?

That betrayal broke Jesus’ heart, why? Because Judas was his bosom friend whom he trusted (relied on and was confident – AMP), and he betrayed him – Ps 41:9 – RSV– Matt 26:50 – Judas was not clean in the heart – John 13:11 – Judas had experienced the power of God in his life – he underwent the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins (John’s Baptism – Mark 1:4/Acts 19:3) – Authority had been given to him, as well to all the other disciples – Matt 10:1-5,8/Luke 6:12-16/Mark 3:14,15/6:12,13 – At the last supper we find Judas also partook of the bread (a symbol of Jesus’ body/flesh), but we read that he left before he could partake of the wine – a symbol of Christ’s blood, shed on the cross – John 13:26-30 – what a tragic end!

We have a counterpart in the Old Testament too – it is Balaam, he is the Judas of the Old Testament. He gave four oracles of God, hasn’t he? Numbers 22:8,13,18/23:4-

See how faithful Balaam was before the fall: All that the Lord speaketh, that I must do (Numbers 23:26) – Must I not take heed to speak that which the Lord hath put in my mouth? (Numbers 23:12).

Though he wasn’t Jewish, he still knew God. He even prophesied about the Messiah – Numbers 24:7,17 – he also said, a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel – Numbers 24:17 – Where were the wise men from? – Matt 2:1 – From Mesopotamia. Where was Balaam from? Mesopotamia. Might they have read the oracles of Balaam to get this understanding?

Judas, by transgression, fell from the ministry and Apostleship – Acts 1:17,25/Matt 27:4 – as did many other disciples later refused to believe in Christ – John 6:64,66 – he was chosen as a disciple, he was favored with the grace of the Apostolate, and enjoyed the privilege of having an intimate friendship with the Divine Master – yet he sold his Lord for a paltry price.

Esau too had sold his birthright for one morsel of meat, hadn’t he? – Heb 12:16,17 – Demas (a fellow worker – Col 4:14/Philemon 1:24) loved this present world and forsook the right way – 2Tim 4:10/ 2Pet 2:15/James 4:4/1John 2:15,16.

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning – 2Pet 2:20/Luke 11:26 – For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame – Heb 6:4-6.

They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away – Luke 8:13.

Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 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. But thou, O man of God, flee these things* (Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted and were overthrown in the wilderness – 1Cor 10); *and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, LAY HOLD on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses – 1Tim 6:6-11.

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draws back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul – Heb 10:38, 39 – Let us, therefore, fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it – Heb 4:1.

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear – 1Pet 1:17 – Of a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons – Acts 10:34.

Did God choose us because we were a better lot?