false prophets – ThrivingBranch

Discerning Spirits in the New Covenant

May 12, 2022June 5, 2022Leave a Comment

Spiritual discernment is an essential skill for a Christian. Throughout the years there have been books, conferences, even entire seminary courses on how to discern between good and evil spirits.

But for something so crucial, God has actually made discernment quite simple. I think that in many ways, this is just another example of how man has complicated the straightforward truth of God.

So today, we’re going to explore some simple, easy, uncomplicated truths regarding spiritual discernment in the New Covenant, through the lens of Jesus Christ.

How Jesus Conquered Your Sin (#1) — The Nature of Sin

May 2, 2021March 13, 2021Leave a Comment

When discussing Grace, the topic of sin usually follows closely behind. It is difficult people to comprehend their new life in Christ, when sinful behaviors are prominently in view. This struggle leads many to embark on a war against sin; with the primary markers being:

– Focusing on sin and behavior
– Feelings of fear, doubt, and condemnation
– Often consumed with guilt and unworthiness

Those of you that are familiar with my testimony, know that I lived that way for many years. I was focused so greatly on my sin that I kept a daily record of each sinful action. Every day I felt worse, more condemned, and further away from God. And the more I tried to conquer sin, the more I failed, and deeper into the pit I went.

So what does this all mean? Is sin an unconquerable foe? Not at all! What I want to share with you today is a different perspective, on how sin can be conquered, and has been conquered in Christ.

You Shall Know Them By Their Fruit

August 19, 2018August 19, 2018Leave a Comment

You will know them by their fruit; The words of Jesus in Matthew 7:16, are often quoted in isolation, and many times in a judgmental way when looking at the deeds and works of others… “Haven’t you seen everything that this guy is doing? Jesus said you will know them by their fruit!” is what is commonly said, when being critical of others.

This kind of judgmental examining of people’s performance is not what Jesus had in mind when he said these words, however. And as we examine the additional things He said along with verse 16, we can see this clearly.

So what I want to share with you today, is what the often misunderstood verse of scripture truly means, and by seeing it, we will see another amazing aspect of Jesus Christ.