When God arises and the battle is the Lord's

When the battle becomes the Lord's battle, His people will not lift a finger. One of such examples of God undertaking for His own is an incident that occurred in 2 Chronicles 20:1-24. Three kings came together to fight against Judah. Jehoshaphat, the king sought the face of God on behalf of Judah and he was instructed by God's prophet to sing praises. He needed not to fight at all and his enemies eventually helped to destroy one another, no one escaped. The matter of believing is crucial (2 Chronicles 20:20) and that's why God needed to reassure prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 43:3 that "I am the LORD your God, The Holy one of Israel, your saviour; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place." Again, He reminded him that He is the LORD his God who divided the red sea, whose waves roared. The LORD of hosts is his name (Isaiah 51:15). God must arise and lift up His arm for the redemption of His people but someone need to call upon Him before He does (Psalm 10:2) just as David cried for God's help and intervention (Psalm 17:13, 7:6). It is necessary that man should entreat God to arise and several instances when people pleaded for God to arise on their behalf littered the bible (Psalm 83:17-18, 94:1-3). Just like Hannah who was mistaken for a drunkard told Eli that she was pouring out her heart to God in prayer. Little did the old prophet know that the woman was filled with sorrow and grieve. He knew nothing about the misery, taunting and trouble she faced from her rival who constantly and reproachfully challenged God in her life (1 Samuel 1:1-17). But Hannah turned the battle to the Lord and made a vow unto the God of Israel. Even a small child knows that the best way to get sympathy and gain attention  is by crying.  The persistent crying of the children of God, their groaning and yearning will surely bring their LORD (the sovereign one) who is both the Lamb (gentle and kind) and the Lion of the tribe of Judah (fierce and terrible) speedily into their situation. He will show up and come to aid His defenceless ones, for He, the LORD is their ever present help in the time of trouble.

Besides, God Himself promised to arise for the sake of the oppressed, the poor and prisoners whom the agents of darkness have detained (Psalm 12:5). Then will the redeemed sing joyfully as David sang after God arose and judged his enemies (Psalm 55:17-19, 58:10-11, 107:41-43). When God arises in judgment to deliver His people and the battle becomes the Lord's battle, He will both be their defender and their defence (Psalm 76:1-9). Also, whenever He arises, certainly there will be judgment on the enemies of His people (Exodus 7:4). Zion was still lamenting the havoc wreaked by Babylon when God responded in Jeremiah 51:35-36 and He promised to fight for His people because He is a God of recompense (Jeremiah 51:56b). Solomon also affirm that God will surely rise and defend the oppressed (Proverbs 22:22-23) for when He speaks, no one can contend against Him in battle. However, before He will arise and fight at all for anyone, the Lord must be God in the life of such a person, people or a nation. Every one knows even the heathen kings-Darius and Nebuchadnezzar to mention a few that God is above all the people. God is great in Zion (among His righteous people) to demonstrate His power, might and glory and show Himself  strong amidst them (Psalm 99:2). David emphatically told Goliath that the battle is the Lord's: "Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD's, and He will give you into our hands" (1 Samuel 17:47b), though Goliath disdained him and cursed him by his gods.

Satan and his agents in their evil hearts scheme to always deal shrewdly with the people of God. For no just cause to hinder their progress and expansion (Exodus 1:7, 9-10), and it is not a surprise because this has been his theme from the foundation of the earth (John 10:10). The Egyptians plotted against the children of Israel, yet, the children of Israel grew as if potent energy was supplied to them in  their affliction  (verses 11-14) despite the fact that the enemy made their lives bitter with hard bondages. This affliction from the enemy will not last forever, when God looks upon His people and remembers them, the enemy should know that it is over (Exodus 2:23b-25, Jeremiah 50:33-34). Unfortunately for the Egyptians, they have helped to raise the deliverer of the children of Israel, Moses, who was nursed by his own mother at Egypt expense by divine arrangement Exodus 2:1-10. In Exodus 3:8, God told Moses that He has come down to defend His people, then the battle became real and fierce. As He wanted to deliver His people from the tyranny of Pharaoh and Egypt, the battle became more intense. God sees, hears, knows, so, in verse 9, He came down to deliver them because of their cry caused by oppression. God is set to bring His people out but Pharaoh would not easily agree (Exodus 7:4): "But Pharaoh will not heed you so that I may lay my hand on Egypt and bring out my armies and my people, the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgment."  In Exodus 8:18-19, his magicians admitted that it was the finger of God fighting them because they could not bring forth lice, yet, Pharaoh's heart was hardened because of the destruction determined against him by God. Other version renders it like this: "The magicians could not stand before Pharaoh (Exodus 9:11) because they were carrying the plagues of the almighty, yet, Pharaoh's heart was hardened because God has raised him up for that purpose (Exodus 9:16, 35).

No one can pacify God when He arises, for He will roar like a lion robbed of His whelp and prevail against His enemies. He will lay waste the mountain and hills because they cannot withstand Him, He said that He would pant and gasp at once. In Isaiah 42:12, He told the children of Israel to praise Him, then (He) God will act and not man, "He shall go forth like a mighty man, He shall stir up His zeal like a man of war (no negotiation with the enemy), no bending, no retreat, no succumbing but He will cry out, yes, shout aloud, because He is not afraid of the enemy. He shall prevail against His enemies." The enemies of His children are His enemies, so when human effort, skill, strength and ability fails, God takes over (Isaiah 42:13-15). And so when it was exactly 430 years of the children of Israel's captivity in Egypt, on the very day, God stepped in and intervened for them (Exodus 12:41, 51). God consummated His acts on the Egyptians with the death of their first born. One may begin to wonder how God knew and could identify the first born of animals and humans in Egypt. He could easily distinguish them because He created them (Exodus 12:29, Job 12:10).

And with this last blow, at least Pharaoh and his people will take God serious for once, and will let go the children of Israel from their bondage. Now, their enemy knows assuredly that God is at work, the Egyptians need not be told. So, the children of Israel were completely delivered from their long time enemy and freed from slavery (Exodus 13:30). Pharaoh eventually allowed the children of Israel to go when he saw the vengeance of their God (Exodus 13:31). The Egyptians realized that the release of the children of Israel is a must and it has to be done urgently, again, God gained for Himself honour. And later when the children of Israel will recount their experience, they would say: "for by strength of the hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, orderly rank out of Egypt led in the way of wilderness." However, Pharaoh and his army still stubbornly pursued them. When the enemy hardened himself, it is for his utter destruction without remedy (Exodus 14:23-25). It must indeed be an interesting scene to behold when God arises to fight for His people in the middle of the red sea. The bible comment in Exodus chapter 14 verses 25b, "for the Lord fights for them against the Egyptians" God's final judgment was unleashed on the Egyptians. Now, they can on longer contend with or trouble the children of Israel again forever.

Usually, God is not disposed to fight anyone because He is loving and kind, but if anyone decides to contend with Him in battle, if he is still fortunate to be alive, he will live to have untold regrets, and troubling experiences that will leave indelible mark in his life (Isaiah 27:4) because God's judgment is righteous (Psalm 19:9b). Though the enemy may find a justifiable cause for plundering, fighting and devouring the people of God (Jeremiah 50:7), but God said in the same chapter (Jeremiah 50:20) that His people will be pardoned and their iniquity will no longer be found. The observance of Passover by the children of Israel before their exit from Egypt symbolizes their redemption, and it was God own way of spiritually setting them apart from the evils about to befall the Egyptians. Everyone partakes in it and this sets a seal of God upon them. In order to receive blessings or deliverance from the Lord, one must be pure, having clean hands and a pure heart. The hands not soiled with sins nor the heart defiled. It implies that one must be holy and totally belong to the Lord. And when God-the creator of the ends of the earth becomes the LORD over and in our lives, the battle become easy for Him to fight, win and conquer for us. For His promised deliverance is for those who know Him and put their trust and confidence in Him.

Where is the fury of the oppressor?

God speaks in Isaiah 51:13 through His servant the prophet to encourage and as well to challenge the children of Israel who were faint-hearted and easily disturbed by the enemies, "And forget the Lord your maker, Who stretched out the heavens And laid the foundations of the earth; You have feared continually everyday because of the fury of the oppressor, When he has prepared to destroy. And where is the fury of the oppressor?" Isaiah also had already given an elaborate description of the evil acts of these oppressors and their coming disaster in Isaiah 29:19-20. Similarly, during the rebuilding of the wall at Jerusalem, the enemies wanted to be forceful participators. Sanballat became unnecessarily furious and indignant about the work (Nehemiah 4:1-3), however, Nehemiah would not allow him to further his evil intention. So, Nehemiah prayed to God because of the disturbance and the threat of the enemies (Nehemiah 4:4-5). Unknown to these wicked people, they failed to realize that they were provoking the God of Israel. In Nehemiah chapter 4 verses 7-8, they raged and conspired to attack the children of Israel rebuilding the wall. Even Shemaiah was hired by Sanballat and Tobiah as a secret informer, but they were all ashamed when the work was successfully completed (Nehemiah 6:10, 15-16). In the same vein, Goliath of Gath brag against the children of Israel for 40 days, vaunting himself and deriding them. Initially, he was feared and the children of Israel hid themselves from him, but when the time of his doom came, it was a young boy, David, whom he referred to as dog who finished him with a sling and a stone, so where is the fury of the oppressor? God also speaks through prophet Zachariah of being a defence and avenger of His children from their oppressors (Zechariah 9:4, 8 &16).

At another time, Sennacherib was a troubler and also an oppressor who challenged God to battle though he thought his threat and rage was against the people of God. Owning to the analysis of his conquest (Isaiah 36:18b-20) which Hezekiah rightly affirms in Isaiah 37:3, 18-20, Sennacherib message to the people of Judah through Rabshakeh was perplexing and disturbing. It was in fact a day of trouble, rebuke and blasphemy because for a desperate enemy to target fortified cities and take them is an indication that he is serious and not joking (Isaiah 36:18b). But unfortunately for him, he had a misconceived idea of the source of help and confidence of the children of Israel, and that results into a great defeat for him. He actually belittled the prowess of their God (Isaiah 36:7-10). He thought that the children of Judah trusted in Egypt, and if not in Egypt, it must be that they depended on God whose altar they have pulled down. Later, he thought it was Hezekiah who will deliver them, but in all, he miscalculated (Isaiah 36:14-15, 18). The enemy always seeks a league, evil alliance, condescension and submission (Isaiah 36:16). But wisdom is profitable to direct says Solomon, the people held their peace as the king had commanded them not to reply him a word. There is really no need to converse with him, "For the king's commandment was, Do not answer him" (Isaiah 36:21). When the enemy starts his babbling, the king's command is "Do not answer him" The children of Judah were quiet but sorrowful, so, King Hezekiah had to report the enemy to prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 37:1-5). And God did not keep them in the dark, He gave a swift response and assured His people victory over their enemy (Isaiah 37:6-7). Despite God's assurance of defending and fighting for His people, Sennacherib sent again the second time to terrify them. He had evil energy to oppose and disturb the peace of the people of God (Isaiah 37:10-13). He wanted to shake their trust and confidence in their unshakable God. And that's the tactics of the devil even today to shake our confidence in the almighty who has promised to deliver.

However, Hezekiah did the most amazing thing, he would not disturb the prophet of God again it is needless to do so though the challenges of this heathen king was overwhelming for him. He went into the sanctuary to seek the face of God concerning it (Isaiah 37:14-20), "God let's read this letter together for it is mind-boggling, see what this mere man wrote against you, though I will not dispute the fact that he has destroyed many, but I believe You are not his match. O God  see this man who has challenged You into a battle, You have to do something and stop his menace (paraphrased). Hezekiah decided to quickly turned the battle to God when he received the second letter from Sennacherib. And God being who He is "The man of war" who delights in fighting for His children whenever the enemy become furious and troublesome. Prophet Isaiah says of Him, "As for our Redeemer, the Lord of hosts is His name. The Holy one of Israel." God immediately acted because the battle has now been handed over to Him (Isaiah 37:21-29). He commanded an angel to destroy 185,000 soldiers to prove to Sennacherib his nothingness (Isaiah 37:36). Because he has lifted his eyes on high against the Holy one of Israel and has reproached the Lord, your disturbance is too much and you must pay dearly for it, so judgment came immediately (Isaiah 37:33-38).

Even the apostles (2 Corinthians 7:5) and Jesus were not exempted. The Pharisees, Sadducees, rulers and chief priests of Jesus's days hated Him, they pestered Him sore and furiously seek every opportunity to get Him. The account in Luke 20:20 clearly reveal their evil scheme, "so they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous that they might seize on His words, in order to deliver Him to the power and authority of the governor." But there is no need to be pretentious, apparently all their evil schemes were known to Jesus (Luke 20:221-23), He voiced out, Why do you test Me? He knew they were subtle, dubious, wicked and cunning, and all their aim was to catch Him. With divine perception, He replied them, and their evil scheme against Him was eventually aborted (verses 24-26). They were clever spies who closely and carefully monitored Him so as to capture Him, they are evil though they feigned themselves to be true but really they were not. According to Luke 14:1-6, "they watched Him closely," they watched to see His actions, dispositions, judgment, decisions and reactions in order to catch Him. They also wanted to restrict Him to healing the sick on every other day except the Sabbath. And it was as if Jesus too loves their trouble, despite their allegation, He repeatedly heal the sick and diseased on the Sabbath. And this sparked more fury and contention from the these spiritual leaders who fume with rage because He continuously upset them by healing the sick on the Sabbath day. They were wrath against their Messiah and Lord though they did not acknowledged His person. When the man with dropsy stood before Him and they watched to see what He will do, He posed a question to the lawyers and Pharisees, "Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath?"  Since that is the bone of contention, but they did not respond.

At another instance, the ruler of the synagogue was poised for action because Jesus healed the sick on the Sabbath. He told His followers to come for their healing any other day apart from Sabbath: "there are six days in which a man can work, so you have to choose and decide on which of those days you will come for your healing and not on the Sabbath. Stop complicating this matter, if you sick folks didn't show up on the Sabbath, there will be no cause for alarm. And since you are the reason for this uproar, be warned and learn to change. As custodian of the Mosaic law, we must see to it that everything is done orderly, so from henceforth there should be no more miracles on the Sabbath" (paraphrased). To them, Jesus was a mere nuisance who wanted to establish Himself and do whatever He wishes (John 9:16, 5:18). But He was actually there teaching on the Sabbath before the infirmed woman was healed (Luke 13:10-14). So, when Jesus responded, they were dumbfounded but His followers rejoiced (Luke 13:15-17). Again, on another Sabbath day (Matthew 12:9-14), after Jesus had healed a man with a withered hand that they went out to plot how to destroy Him. Yet, they could not until when it was His appointed time to die. He continued to do more miracles, He preached, cast out devils, He did all He needed to do. He fulfilled God's eternal purpose for mankind-that is to reconcile men back to God before He was eventually crucified later in chapter 27. And He did not die permanently, but on the third day He arose and He is alive forever Hallelujah!

Passion for God

The book of Songs of Solomon reveals physical relationship that exists between two lovers. Also, in this book, two major characters featured most frequently: the beloved and the Shulamite. The beloved is the husband while the Shulamite is the bride. Both of them also typify Jesus and the church. Jesus is the beloved who is also the husband of the church while the Shulamite represents the church-the bride of Jesus. According to Song of Solomon chapter one verse two, Jesus is indeed the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valley and He speaks of His bride-the church too in verse two: "Like a lily among the thorns, So is my love among the daughters." The Shulamite (the bride-the church) also recounts her experience with her beloved and says: "He brought me to the banqueting house, And his banner over me was love" (Songs of Solomon 2:4). Their sweet union and relationship continued until very much later when the Shulamite hesitated to receive her beloved till he departed (Songs of Solomon 5:2-6). And now that he had left her, she gave out assignment to other maidens (daughters of Jerusalem) to help find her beloved. They were to assist her in search for her beloved but they needed to know why she was so desperate and passionate about him. And when she was asked, she responded because she could not hide her feelings and affection for her beloved (Songs of Solomon 5:10-16). In verse 16, it was glaring why she was passionate about him and her response is worth noting: "His mouth is most sweet, Yes, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved. And this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem!" It's only you don't know but now you need to know that there is none like him. For He is altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me, this is my beloved, this is my friend (Songs of Solomon 6:3, 7:10, 8:7, Isaiah 24:15).

In like manner, Mary, the sister of Lazarus was very passionate about Jesus to the extent that she anointed His feet and wiped it with her hair-quite unusual but a notable act depicting her devotion, love, affection and reference for her Lord, saviour and master (John 12:3-8). But those around challenged her good deed and gesture though they never deemed it fit to accord the master honour in such a unique and significant way with their gifts, neither do they value Him so much to reference Him like she did, rather they decried the waste. Really, they are insincere, self-centred, covetous, and greedy not truly minding about the person of Jesus but their personal gains. Martha, the sister of Mary, on the other hand was cumbered with activities. She was busy with much serving while Mary was sitting at the feet of Jesus beholding Him. She was learning and waiting on the master. There is rest, renewal and refreshing when we take time out to wait on the master. God's promised strength (Zechariah 10:6, 12) is received in His presence as we passionately desire Him. Even God, after creation rested on the seventh day and was refreshed, and that's why He instructed the children of Israel to observe the Sabbath day. Hence, everyone needs a Sabbath-a time to be alone with God and wait on Him (Exodus 31:16-17). God longs to have fellowship with man who hardly have time to spare because of His daily tight and busy schedule. Oftentimes, man restlessly moves from one activity to other, so God ordered a day of rest for him. Yet, it's only few who actually give out time for deep communion and fellowship that God desires.

Mary Magdalene unbelievably went to the tomb very early in the morning while it was still dark longing to see her Lord and master. And when she saw that the stone had been rolled away, she ran to call Simon Peter and other disciples. Mary would not go home till she sees the master (her risen Lord). So she waited crying,  curious, at the same time anxious to know  the where-about of Jesus. Though the disciples had gone back to their houses, Mary stood outside weeping and wondering what could have happened to her Lord. So, Jesus could no longer restrain but showed her first His resurrected body (John 20:10-11,14-18). Jesus would only be revealed and made known to those who seek Him. Later, the disciples followed Peter to go a fishing but unfortunately their effort throughout the night yielded nothing (John 21:3).Then, Jesus showed up, though they've soon turned back from Him but He will not out-rightly leave them for He is altogether lovely. He instructed them, they obeyed and the result was tremendous for they caught many fishes. Jesus had also provided a ready-made food for them so they could have enough to eat and spare. But He was indirectly telling them that He could sufficiently take care of their present needs (John 21:9) and supply their future needs too (John 21:10). He is truly the beloved who lovingly cared for them though they do not measurably reciprocate His love. He invited them to dine with Him and afterward asked Peter if he truly loves Him.

God gave a remarkable promise to the children of Israel that He would be personally committed to anyone who desires to engage himself with Him. We can then say that God has no favourites, but anyone  can make himself one of God's favourites (Jeremiah 30:21-22). It's so obvious in verse 22 that God said He will take interest in drawing him: "Then will I cause him to draw near. And he shall approach Me: For who is this who pledged his heart to approach me says the Lord. You shall be my people, And I will be your God." Also, Ezekiel 16;6-14 reveals God's benevolent act toward the children of Israel, His passion and desperate desire to woo them, it is indeed a beauty made perfect by the splendour of the king. God is ever longing and seeking for sincere, faithful and devoted worshippers and to these ones He would dare commit Himself (James 4:8a, Psalm 36:8-9). Man may be casual, insincere, hypocritical, dubious, selfish but not God. Many have turned aside, instead of seeking God they have substituted Him with other things and Romans chapter 3 verse 12-19 now characterizes their lives. Though they profess to come to the presence of God but they are evil. Others are compelled to come to God because of their undesirable situations. They are not wilfully seeking God for a richer fellowship and deeper knowledge of Him but they are seeking God like the psalmist in Psalm 42 and 43 because of their unpleasant circumstances. Yet, as many as will wait on God will receive His strength, grace, mercy and love. God desires that we cling to Him for our good just as He told the children of Israel that they may become His people, for re-known, for praise and for glory (Jeremiah 13:11b). Jeremiah's pertinent question also reveals his contrition and longing for God (Jeremiah 14:22), and since it is only God who can give shower, it is wise to wait on Him because His good intent for His people hasn't change.

Jeremiah was overwhelmed by the reaction of his people who despite God's numerous promises had no passion at all for Him. They believed the relationship between God and Jeremiah was cordial enough for God to be his God and not their God. Even when they needed direction, they came to him to pray to his God. Repeatedly they said this and it showed their mind-set. Note in Jeremiah 42:2...."pray for us to the Lord your God" also in verse three: "....that the Lord your God may show us," but Jeremiah redirected them back to God by his response in verse four and it's worth noting, he said: "I have heard, indeed I will pray to the Lord your God according to your words." They acknowledged Him as their Lord, yet, they referred to Him as Jeremiah's God. Their response in verse five showed their unwillingness to fully accept Him as their God as they said: "Let the Lord be a true witness between us, if we do not according to everything which the Lord your God sends us by you!" Really, they were insincere, they were playing pranks because they only wanted to know the mind of God concerning decisions and steps to be taken so as avert His wrath and judgment (Jeremiah 42:20-21). Though they eventually declared Him as their God but it was a fake declaration. In verse six, they said: "whether it was pleasing or displeasing, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God to whom we send you"-a mere lip service. Bur the fact remains that they were so conscious not to fully commit themselves to God because of the propensity to stray away from Him again and again. And just like the power troubled kings of Judah who after serving God later in life misbehaved and commit blunders. For instance, Amaziah after serving God for several years came to bow down to the idols of the nation he conquered (2 Chronicles 25:2, 14-16).

But when darkness took over the land, the prophets and the priests going about not knowing what to do, Jeremiah was not self-assertive, he realized his nothingness and helplessness, so, he sought God for divine intervention (Jeremiah 14:18). Though a shepherd of God's people, yet, he was pulling hard after God (Jeremiah 15:19-21). God wants to be regarded as holy by anyone who approached His court irrespective of status or position. He told Aaron in Leviticus 10:3:"By those who come near me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified." Hence, no frivolity, carefree, looseness as we approach Him but utmost reference. The brothers of Shulamite counselled her about things she needed to note, those things that can affect or disrupt her relationship with her beloved (Songs of Solomon 2:15, 1:6). These are serious issues too that can easily interfere with our relationship with the almighty.

Another gospel (c)

Paul, the Apostle succinctly warned his followers in Colosse against empty words, deceit, vain philosophy and false teachings prevalent at that time (Colossians 2:8). He made them realize that the true gospel is unique and devoid of errors and fallacies. In like manner, the warning is for us today as it is written in the scriptures: ''Beware lest any cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.''  Similarly, Paul the Apostle in his letter to Timothy his son in the Lord emphasized the need for the truth and highlight its real import which is for instruction in righteousness. The scripture is also for reproof, correction, doctrine and direction (2 Timothy 3:13). Hence, any gospel that does not offer these is fake and their so called preachers and propagators are agents of the devil. They are evil men, impostors who love to deceive people because they themselves have been deceived by the devil (2 Timothy 3:13). And as we live in days when these scriptures are getting fulfilled to the letters in our own eyes, it is now more evident than ever before that many are already departing from the faith giving heed to deceiving and seducing spirits (spirit of error) and doctrines of the devil (1 Timothy 4:1-2, Jeremiah 5:30-31) propagated by the preachers of another gospel. So, he reiterated with no mincing words that Timothy should preach the word (truth). He was duty bound to preach the truth because many are prone to error. In 2 Timothy 4:2-4, he  also told him: "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables." 

A true minister of God is therefore an instructor who also nourishes his followers. Timothy was properly nurtured, groomed and mentored by Paul the Apostle, and later he was charged with the responsibility of overseeing the flock of God in Ephesus, however, he must remain pure and undefiled by the sins of those who have gone astray (1Timothy 5:21-22). It was a noble charge because as he watches over himself, he was mandated to watch over others too.  Paul painstakingly emphasized the need for him to avoid false teachers who busy themselves acquiring worldly goods, and thus causing many to stray from the faith; in fact, he left no stone unturned: "If any teaches otherwise and does not conform to the wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and augments over words, from which come envy, strife, reveling, evil suspicions, useless wrangling of men of corrupt mind and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself. Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all kind of evil; for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1Timothy 6:3-10). Truly, many have been cajoled by preachers of another gospel and were taught to believe that material riches and wealth determines wellness and true positioning in life forgetting that they brought nothing into the world, and surely will carry nothing out of it (1 Timothy 6:7). Even Jesus likened the preachers of another gospel to hirelings. He noted that they are fake as they are not real, they are thieves and robbers who never truly care for the sheep (John 10:1-2, 8). They do not enter in by the door and are deficient lacking characteristic traits of a good shepherd.  

There is a particular assignment for Timothy and that is to zealously guard what was committed to his trust. In 1Timothy chapter 6 verse 20, Paul, the apostle exclaimed: "O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge." This is serious because there are many contentions against the truth, error paraded and displayed as truth by false teachers must be shun (2 John 8-10). O Timothy! You must not be loose or give in to these evil, rather concentrate on your assignment. O Timothy! Avoid every distraction and falsehood. With your knowledge and understanding of your assignment, you must be careful of the evil going on that no one dissuade you because to whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48). The need for the truth is obvious now because of the way error is gaining popularity and is widely accepted as truth in many circles, yet, no remodelling, repackaging, sharpening, can ever make fake become the original. Original is always real! Regardless of the extent of its refurbishing, modification, panel-beating, readjustment that error may go through to make it resemble original, all these efforts notwithstanding; error will never become original. Counterfeit will ever remain counterfeit, and original will always be original though there may be little semblance, but sincerely fake is fake, and truth is truth. It is only when the Spirit of God breathes upon a life that it can truly experience the life of God and His power, then have meaning to be productive and not marred. Any life built on error is already marred and doomed for destruction. It is God alone who makes anew when the truth is embraced.

In his days, John the Baptist prepared the people for the revelation of their Messiah, his message was persuasive, hard on them, and many were convicted of their sins (Luke 3:3-4, 7-10). And when Jesus eventually came, as He preached, He did not pamper sin and sinners; neither did He condone the evil of His days though committed by the highly ranked spiritual leaders (Pharisee, Sadducee, Scribes and the High priests). His teachings were blunt and straight to the point. There were no additives, sweeteners, and add-ons to make it pleasant, it was indeed not palatable to them at all. It was such a very hard and troubling teaching for them that on several occasion they attempted to kill Him. The bible recorded that the people were filled with wrath "when they heard these things" they rose up thrust Him out of the city, led Him to the brow of the hill to throw Him down the cliff. I want to believe that He wasn't joking or chatting with them because they wouldn't have schemed to throw Him down if He was telling them what they love to hear. The evil people of His days plotted to kill Him because He preached the truth. Jesus is an embodiment of grace and truth (John1:14b, 17b) and He cannot do otherwise for He is committed to the truth. According to Luke chapter 2 verse 32, Jesus was sent a light to bring revelation to the gentiles and the glory of God to His people. Simply put, any gospel that does not project Jesus, reveal Him and declares His teachings is false and fake. It must not be tolerated for the predetermined counsel of God alone for His people must stand: "So that the Lord will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all nations." It is God's expectation and desire that righteousness (truth) not error will spread forth in all the nations of the earth.

Jesus was not spared by the devil; He was tempted of the devil for 40 days and 40 nights. He did not succumb to his suggestion to leave the preaching of the truth in pursuance of earthly glory, fame or wealth (Matthew 4:8-10). But this is what the preachers of another gospel teach their followers,  they teach them to make it quick in life even through dubious means, they propagate error, giving their followers false hope and assurance that God is with them even when sinning against Him (Jeremiah 6:13). But John the beloved exhorting the believers urge them to acknowledge and follow those who preach the truth (1John 4:5-6). The serious need of the hour is the ability to discern the truth form the error because damages done by these evil perpetrators are enormous (Hosea 6:9-10). They spread lies and multiply greatly, and instead of repenting, the more they increased the more they sinned against God (Hosea 4:7-8).  However, they failed to realize that the judgment of God is coming if they do not turn from their evil and pernicious ways (Hosea 4:9). For the evil of false teaching, judgment is coming on the unrepentant. God frankly told Ezekiel that He is a fair God though many misconstrue Him (Ezekiel 33:17, 20). Ephraim's apostate state and his altars to sin made God angry and He pronounced judgment on him (Hosea 8:11-13), so also will God unleash His wrath else these teachers and preachers of another gospel repent.

Another gospel (b)

One of the sons of the prophets on a critical assignment was specifically sent to Jehu, and he has a major task of not making any mistake regarding his person. A command was given by Elisha in 2 Kings 9:2 "Now when you arrive at that place, look there for Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi, and go in and make him rise up from among his associates, and take him to an inner room."  The description was quite clear; he must not be mistaken for another person. It is certain that no two people can have this same identity, even if their first and last names are the same, they are not likely to be from the same descent. Beside, it was a very sensitive assignment, no one must know about it because of its implication on both the bearer and the receiver of the message. More importantly, Jehu's identity must not also be mistaken because of the significant role he was about to play in Israel; therefore, nothing must be taken for granted. A wrong person must not receive this message because the consequence may be fatal. There is a divine assignment, someone has to be anointed as king to rule and to avenge the innocent blood shed by Ahab and his wife Jezebel, but the right (exact) person must be sought and found regardless of the intricacies and urgency of the assignment (2 Kings 9:3).

Today, there is serious identity crisis and confusion here and there, and one begins to wonder because identity of some so called servants of God cannot be affirmed; hence, many things still need clarification in our religious cycles. And if it is possible, these sincere questions may be asked: Who are you? Who called you? You are at whose bidding? Is it God, or man, or Satan, yourself, or your stomach? We need to recall that the sons of Sceva were challenged and were asked similar question when they wanted to assume Paul's position and exorcise demon. The demon spoke: Jesus I  know, Paul I know, but who are you? To stand for God in this generation, the issue of identity is crucial and until it is thoroughly dealt with, no appreciable progress can be made in the kingdom service. God must be the sender, and His purpose and intent must be earnestly pursued. Jehu's identity and mission (assignment) were clearly specified; though he was found in the midst of his associates, the instruction was "look there for Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi"  God is never casual about His work! God is detailed and meticulous about His instruments, He carefully choses them. Before God can entrust anyone with His work, He or she must be known by God, be truly born into the fold of God. The psalmist says in Psalm 87:5-6: "And of Zion it will be said, This one and that one was born in her; And the Most High Himself shall establish her. The Lord will record when He registers the peoples: This one was born there."  Unlike the son of the prophet who was sent by Elisha to Jehu, and Jehu who was sent by God to Israel, many are not sent, yet, they are running to deliver empty messages like Ahimaaz (2 Samuel 18:22-23, 27-30). Many do not know the God of the work, yet, they are serving foolishly. It is unfortunate though that quite so many are not known by God, they are not in His register, yet, they busy themselves with the so called work of the "ministry."

So, the son of the prophet left immediately after he talked with Jehu. Having delivered the message, no loitering around or lingering, he left for so he was commanded (2 Kings 9:3). Though he managed to give Jehu detail of his assignment based on prophetic declaration on the house of Ahab (2 Kings 9:6-10), he did not wait to be entertained. And when Jehu's companion saw him and his manner of behaviour, they mistaken him for a mad man (2 Kings 9:11). But today, many are at ease though claiming to be about God' s work while the wrath of God looms on the world and we have little or no time left. These are mere entertainers; preachers of another gospel who busy themselves with jokes, fun, devoting quality time on the pulpit to folktales, folk-lore and stories while they abandon the bible. These preachers of another gospel have gradually turned themselves to jesters deceiving people and being deceived by the applause they receive. They hardly make reference to the bible but often draw attention of their followers to current issues (Ephesians 5:4-8). Neither they nor their followers are rooted in the word of God, no wonder there are many half-baked Christians. Paul, the apostle warned the Corinthian church not to be carried away, or be corrupted, deceived or cajoled by eloquence or smooth words of the false preachers (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). He made them realize that though he was despised for lack of persuasive, sharp, and strong oratory abilities (2 Corinthians 11:6), yet, evidently he possesses a great knowledge of God's word. On the contrary, conflicting messages and errors of the preachers of another gospel is just like darkness that must be seriously avoided. Jesus reiterated the need for light, He told His followers that if anyone walks in the light, he does not stumble, but anyone who walks in the dark is occasioned to stumble (John 8:12, 11:9-10, 12:35).

The preachers of another gospel are not of God but demonic operating with unclean spirit and these powers we must contend in order to see the glory of God revealed again in the church. They are not foolish but they are very smart, cunning, crafty, mean, evil and wicked. They are dubious and terrible, just like Jezebel, a witch, who still has the strength to paint her eyes and adorn her head in order to seduce and kill the servant of God (Jehu) despite a loss in the household of Ahab (2 Kings 9:30). By her response in 2 Kings 9:31, she was quite aware that Jorah her son, the king, has just been murdered and one would expect this witch to be in a mourning mood, instead this seductress was not sober at all but she wanted to cast her evil eyes on Jehu. Jehu, on the other hand,  had no time for her mess; no complacency, laziness or lassie-faire attitude until he has fully carried out his assignment. He instructed his companions "throw her down"  and so they threw her down. No hesitation on the part of his comrades, they acted promptly and accordingly immediately the command was given. Likewise, until we see the need to throw down (spiritually) every structure, authority, dominion, and powers resisting the counsel of God and inhibiting the presence, power and glory of God we will not see the unprecedented move of God that we earnestly desire in our generation. Every evil power (witchcraft, occult, unclean spirits etc.) must be thrown down as we are in the season when the son of God "Jesus" must be exalted for the world to embrace their Messiah. Everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:4-5) must be thrown down. Elijah, under God made the decree concerning Jezebel (2 Kings 9:36-37), though he could not carry it out but Jehu did (2 Kings 9:22-26).

However, purity within is a must, and purity without a basic necessity if the Son of  God will be truly glorified now as He has always been. But messengers of hell, promoters of unrighteousness and impurity, propagators of another gospel are daily multiplying and we feel so relax and comfortable even when these dark powers camouflaging as light infiltrate the fold of God defiling and polluting the body of Christ. These ferocious beasts have done a lot of havoc and we cannot be silent and feel unconcerned. Uncleanness must be done away with. God spoke to the children of Israel through prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 52:11) and strictly warned His people  "Depart! Depart! Go out of from there, Touch no unclean thing; Go out fro the midst of her, Be clean, You who bear the vessel of the LORD."  Also, in Zechariah  13:2b: ".....I will also cause the prophets and the unclean spirits to depart form the land."  God is set to do a new thing, purge His church and rid it of darkness, destroy Jezebel spirit that is thriving and restore the glory of the church.  Naboth was dead but there must be restoration,  all that was his must be restored. Similarly, in 2 Kings 8:6, the king decreed "restore all that was hers" this was according to the king's decree and it must be carried out. The King of kings has also decree concerning the church, the glory of the church must be fully restored, it is not negotiable. And the saints of God must rise and be like Jehu who can only eat; rest and relax after the ruling power (witchcraft) in Israel was judged. The command of the Lord must be fulfilled, for God still need people today who will not look at the face of the devil, nor retreat or surrender till this mission is accomplished.

Anothe gospel

Another gospel is indeed a perverted, graceless, and worthless gospel, full of works and vain display (show-offs), and it's quite different from the gospel of Jesus. This gospel often breeds duplicity, hypocrisy, insincerity, delusion, insensitivity to the person of the Holy Spirit and the like. Jesus forewarned His followers to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees (Matthew 16:6). Paul also wondered and marveled at the sudden drift of the Galatian believers from the gospel of truth (Christ) preached to them (Galatians1:6-7). He needed to expatiate and further clarify issues of grace and works to them because of inherent danger of sudden physical or spiritual loss that may result through another gospel preached to them. He recalled and narrated to them the incident that occurred and how he called the Jews (believers) to order, even Apostle Peter was not exonerated (Galatians 2:11-16). He called them hypocrites when he saw that they were not forthright, and because he's mindful that  their actions and attitude is potent enough to spoil his good works among the gentiles. Why must he do this? He needed to take a swift action to address the situation because Barnabas his co-worker was almost deceived and carried away (Galatians 2:13b). Similarly, just like in his days, accursed children are everywhere busy seducing and deceiving gullible souls who cannot rightly discern as they make them believe lies (Galatians 1:8b-9). However, Solomon in his wisdom has rightly noted that when the wicked are multiplied, transgression will increase (Proverbs 29:16a), and little wonder transgression is increasing in our land. Truly, iniquity is multiplying and rapidly abounding as a result of another gospel that has littered our world. Consequently, many are departing from the faith because of heresies and false teachings (2 Thessalonians 2:3), and this is a critical sign of Christ's imminent return. Although Apostle John had remarked several years ago that it is the last hour, how much more now (1John 2:18). These are days when the end time prophesies are getting fulfilled in our very eyes and it is very important for us to hold tenaciously to the truth. There is the truth that upholds and this is what everyone needs to seek after.

Two notable errors persist in our days and they are: proliferation of preachers and teachers of another gospel who are experts in dissuading people from the truth that will save their souls and the increased activities of false brethren (Ezekiel 33:30-31). But Jesus had already warned that the days in which we live are filled with deceptions (Mark 13:5-6). In fact, these two group of people are causing great damage to the body of Christ. They lack grace and divine enablement to be genuine and sincere (Galatians 2:4). They are copycats, never real, not at all original, they lack base and proper foundation but busy themselves secretly stealing and spying on others. There cannot be tangible expression of God's power and great revival in the body of Christ if this critical issue affecting Pentecostal and charismatic movement today is not promptly addressed. Its persistence will continue to have a negative multiplying effect on the nation and the entire church until the church is thoroughly purged and ridden of them. And it is becoming more serious now as their activities intensify and care need to be taken so that the elect  are not deceived into their errors and beguiled. Because these preachers of another gospel are formidable, bold and smart at evil, cunning and always seeking for praise and recognition. Taking for instance, when Paul and Barnabas saw what the people were up to, they ran in among them and cried out, tearing their clothes because they knew the implication of sharing God's glory. However,  this is not so with preachers of another gospel who will want men to sacrifice to them and revere them (Acts 14:8-15). Most of these strange preachers are novice and proud, they are easily puffed up (2Thessalonians 3:6). They are "Great Offenders" though tagged "General Overseer" turning themselves to mini gods ruling over others to their own hurt (Ecclesiastes 8:9b). And like Ahaziah who when he succeeded his father, walked in the evil ways of the house of Ahab (2 Chronicles 22:2b-5), and chose advisers and counselors to his own destruction.  At another instance, when the people saw Paul and his manner of teaching, they glorified God in him. On the other hand, with the preachers of another gospel, the reverse is the case. They do fail to realize that the underlying and basic requirement for serving God is the presentation of body (clean vessel), and soul and spirit that is sober, humble and not high-minded.

In his book "Holy Spirit My Senior Partner" David Yonggi Cho elaborated on the present terrible state of the church, it's worth noting and I quote: "It is sad but true that the church today is filled with plans and programs for human pleasure through social association. There is little interest in hearing the Holy Spirit. As a result, the church, which should be taking care of the work of the kingdom of heaven; has become wasted. It is on the brink of bankruptcy and has become an object of ridicule and reproach!" Paul the apostle, in his letter to the Roman believers therefore gave a vivid distinction that must exist between the life in the flesh and in the spirit (Romans 6:21-22, 7:4-6). He told them that while they were in the flesh committing those sins they are now ashamed of, they bear fruits unto death, but now after receiving the grace of God, they bear fruits unto holiness with its end eternal life. No one can have a good fruit from an evil tree, it is not logical, hence there's no need cutting corners though this is a widely accepted teaching now (life without holiness) and that's why the church remains weak. Regardless of what preachers of another gospel emphasize, embrace, teach, and preach, no one can be justified by the works of the flesh for religious rituals, activities, and services will not suffice (Romans 3:20 &28). Justification can only be by grace through the redemptive work of Jesus. We quite know that the gospel of Christ  reveals the righteousness of God from faith to faith (Romans 1:17). But the ungodly (preachers of another gospel) suppress the truth (real gospel) in unrighteousness, and against them the wrath of God is revealed (Romans 1:18, 20-22). It is however interesting to know that the portion of the children of God is different though the enemy has sown the evil seed-treason of wickedness among the wheat. The harvest time is coming when everything that offends and all who practice lawlessness shall be cast into the fire (Matthew 13:41-43). Buttressing His point further and affirming its certainty, Jesus illustrated it again with the parable of the dragnet (Matthew 13:47-50).

 In Ecclesiastes 3:16, Solomon found that in places (churches and nations) where just treatment (justice) is expected, alas, wickedness abound. Even the church that's supposed to be an epitome of righteousness, therein is iniquity found. Yet, the Lord's vine is corrupt and vile (Isaiah5:4b & 7a) but only in returning can there be healing for the church. More importantly, the nature of this degenerate world should compels Zion "the Church" to have a positive influence on the world. But she's still defiled, and until she's truly redeemed and her penitent ones filled with righteousness will there be a good resultant effect on the land (Isaiah 1:27). It is when the church takes her place and position that the Lord alone will be glorified.  It's sad to know though a veil is cast upon the church, but it must be removed and be destroyed. Satan is perfecting his evil work casting veil on the church beclouding her through the activities of the preachers and teachers of another gospel (Isaiah 25:7), for it is not ordinary that the church remain complacent in this precarious condition. Here comes a compelling call to the people of God to walk in His  light as Isaiah gave out a call to the children of Israel to walk in the light (Isaiah 2:5-7). If anyone walks in this light, certainly he cannot stumble; for in it is no darkness at all.

Clarion call for church's degrading state

Jesus mission on earth will not be complete until His name is exalted and His father glorified. As He rode triumphantly to Jerusalem; people praised and accorded Him honour-part of His due as the King of kings and Lord of lords. When they saw Him, they wondered and said "Who is this?" (Matthew 21:10). Good enough their confusion was soon removed as His personality was revealed. Then, He embarked on purging of the temple-a task which consummate His earthly assignment. His father's house must not be defiled and be turned into a den of thieves and robbers, so, He drove out those selling doves and changing money (Matthew 21:13). And when barriers-uncleanness, defilement, pollutions etc. were removed; feeble folks-the blind and the lame had access to Jesus and were healed (Matthew 21:14). But the scribes, chief priests and other leaders were indignant, mad, and murmured against Him. He did not give a damn because He knew that they exalt tradition but despise and disregard the commandment of God. God is set to purge the church and do a quick work in the nations of the earth (Ezekiel 11:24). God instructed Ezekiel to turn again the second time (Ezekiel 9:11) in order to see greater abominations committed by the elders of Israel after the first sight (Ezekiel 9:9, 8:12), and it was indeed grievous, he needed to see the extent of wickedness perpetrated by these elders. Similarly, a lot is happening today and that's why God is determined to act as He issued judgment on Judah when she stray away from  God's commandment (Amos 2:4, 3:14).

After God gave the children of Israel a riddle and the parable of the eagle and the vine, Then He asked: "Can he break a covenant and still be delivered?" (Ezekiel 17:15b). Can the church, the leaders, priests, laity break covenant between them and the Holy God and still be delivered? Paul, the apostle also asked the Roman believers a similar question too in Romans 3:5b: "Is God unjust to inflict wrath" And since there is no partiality with God (Romans 2:11), therefore, everyone who does evil will receive just and commensurate recompense. Because if the guilty is considered blameless, there'll be confusion and greater atrocities (Malachi 2:17). At the moment, abomination in the land and most especially in the church angers God; and He would not spare nor be pacified (Ezekiel 8:18). These defilement and pollutions have made God to move away from His sanctuary (Ezekiel 8:5-10). God's eyes will not pity because this evil has reached climax, so, He will strike (Ezekiel 7:9 &13b) and henceforth will no one strengthen himself in iniquity. We need to sincerely acknowledge the shortcomings of the church, her deficiencies and failure and stop patching things up. Let's call a spade a spade! The analogy in Ezekiel 19:4, 8-9 & 12-14) rightly depicts the current state of the church. In fact, it has now become a crucial matter as this is a lamentation that has become a lamentation for those who can decode the time and season in which we live. The church is gradually losing her power, no strong branch-a scepter for ruling (Ezekiel 19:14b).

But only those who sigh and cry over the abomination will be spared (Ezekiel 9:3-5) for there is no way anyone can hide (Ezekiel 13:6-10a), even the female folks (Ezekiel 13:17-23). Jesus couldn't keep silent when He saw the perplexing state and the degenerating condition of the people in His days. He decried the evil done by their spiritual leaders and pronounced woe on them for they were devourers, blind guides, hypocrites to mention a few (Matthew 23:14-16, 24, 27-28 &33). God also pronounced judgment on false prophets and priest who cared not for His glory; He did not spare them because they treated the law of God with levity (Malachi 2:2, 8-9). Besides, through His servant, the prophet, God repeatedly rebuked the bloody city (Ezekiel 24:6a &9), and twice He pronounced woe on it for innocent blood shed many of which were not covered but crying for vengeance (Ezekiel 24:7b-8). But when David lamented the death of Saul, he wept and said: "Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon-Less the daughters of Philistine rejoice, Less the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph."  However, the people of Gath and Ashkelon certainly know about it because the Philistine stripped Saul of his armour and cut off his head (1Samuel 31:8-10). Is it not the same with the church today? Even if we fail to talk about our plight and woes; are sinners and unbelievers around not watching and seeing everything and making mockery of the church today? What is the church turning to in our days? When evil, destructions and desolations become so rampart because of sins in the church, and because of our persistent unfaithfulness to God (Ezekiel 15:8, Psalm 74:3-4, 79:1-7, 80:12). There are signs everywhere and biblical predictions are getting fulfilled so fast in our very eyes. In these days of heresies, fake gospel, adulterated messages, false prophets and teachers parading themselves and polluting the land, looseness, extreme carnality, and worldliness and so on and so forth. These are the days when many are obtaining wages of iniquity like Judas-a betrayer and guide who stood with those who arrested Jesus (Matthew 24:10-12, John 18:5b, Acts 1:16-18), so, can we claim and pretend that the church is truly clean and free.

Presently, there is dilemma. The world is looking up to the church for solution to prevailing problems nations are facing; but the church is busy gathering momentum to get fully entrenched in the world's system. Unfortunately, there seems not so much difference now that exist between the two. The world is getting churchy while the church too is getting worldly, consequently, the church cannot proffer needed solution to help relieve the world of her trauma and pains. The church too, on the other hand, is in desperate need of the assistance from the world, and things are getting worse by the day. We need not try to cover our mess for it is not concealed at all but evidently seen. We need to come to God first of all on behalf of the church before we can intercede for the world. And Jesus is standing outside waiting seeking fresh repentance from us  (Revelation 3:20). And unlike the children of Israel whom God gave Ezekiel to as a sign, He also spoke kindly to them through Prophet Hosea, He, God wanting to be lenient with them, sympathetic, tempering justice with mercy, yet, they will not give in, repent nor amend their ways (Hosea 11:8-9, Ezekiel 12:6b, 11a). His divine plea for His people was to sow in righteousness so they could reap in mercy. Rather for them to yield, they were proud and so they stumble in their iniquity (Hosea 5:4b,11-12). And despite concerted effort to gain them back to Himself, they would not stop their deceitfulness and lies (Hosea 12:1 &13:12). God's intention has always been to help (Hosea 13:9) for there's no help outside God but His people need to return to Him (Hosea 14:1).

Why is it a must and quite indispensable for the church this hour to repent? It is necessary now than ever before because the church must be rightly positioned before she can bear the burden of the nations. The church needs to be in tune with God so that glory can dwell in the land because she is an extension of God to the nations. And until the church is thoroughly purged, we cannot expect much success in our world. The church is the hope of the nations! The desire of God is that glory should dwell in our land (Psalm85:9), but it has a precondition-there must be genuine seekers for God detests vain and hypocritical worshippers (Malachi 1:10). Many sheep are dispersed because there are no good shepherd (Ezekiel 34:6). But on such evil shepherds and even sheep who are vain, hypocritical, and are not mindful about  God's glory, He has issued judgment (Ezekiel 34:8-10,17). When Jesus foresees the future deplorable condition of the church-the godless seeking God with ulterior motive, He asked "when the son of man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?" Would there be people like the widow woman who will hold unto God tenaciously till their request is granted and not be seeking short cuts. But these days, so many are not patient enough to wait on God rather they are treading evil fast-lane, thus defiling the land and polluting the church. Though some feel God is not favourably disposed to them, so, they need to help themselves and get "quick breakthroughs" while others feel waiting for Him may take long time, so they  join themselves to the gods of this world because they wanted what God is not willing or ready to give. Yet, God's standpoint is clear, the church must come back to Him.