God is very specific about how He wants His people to worship Him. He clearly outlines His expectations of how this should and should not be done in His Word. If we want to be honorable servants to His Word, we will work hard to not twist and distort His Word and expectations to meet our own personal agendas, preferences, or gain. To do so otherwise brings into question our devotion to Christ.

In this world, we can easily succumb to the wiles (tricks and schemes) of the devil not simply because we are human. But because this world is filled with customs that we fail to take the steps to understand the origin of these different customs. It is easier for us to just accept them without questioning is this something I and my family should participate in? Or even more importantly, is this a practice not only would God approve, but would He Himself join in the celebration with us?

Most of us are so enticed by customs and celebrations because we simply want to fit in and not stand out. Because it is basically natural and easier to do what everyone else is doing. And simply because this is what has been passed down to us from our parents. We as a human race refuse to question or challenge some of the things that have been passed down to us. And that in itself can be the thing that can bring us to ruin. Our failure to question. Our failure to investigate and verify things for ourselves. (Compare to Acts 11:17). Even when these things are passed down to us by our parents. 
​

Let’s take Godly devotion and worship. As I mentioned before, God makes it clear through His Word how we should and should not worship Him. One explicit instruction He gave to His people was to not get involved in any forms of worship (this would include customs and celebrations) that the surrounding nations (worldly people) were doing.

At Leviticus chapter 18, verses 2 through 3 God said to His people. (This instruction was given to Moses). “Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. I am the LORD your God. So DO NOT ACT LIKE the people in Egypt, where you use to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You MUST NOT IMITATE THEIR WAY OF LIFE” (NLT). 

​God was very clear. Whatever practices, celebrations, customs, rituals, festivals (which would be our holidays today) that the Egyptians and Canaanites (which would be similar to the nations around us today) – DO NOT BECOME LIKE THEM; DO NOT DO THE THINGS THAT THEY ARE DOING; DO NOT CELEBRATE THE THINGS THEY ARE CELEBRATING.
​
God calls His people to live a holy lifestyle. In doing so, He instructs His people at Deuteronomy chapter 18, verse 9. “When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO IMITATE THE DETESTABLE CUSTOMS of the nations living there (NLT). Now, in verse 10 of that same chapter, God provides a simple list of SOME of the things the people of that land were doing that were considered “detestable” to God. But He certainly did not list them all. There were a whole host of things the people of that land were doing that God did not approve that He did not want His people involved in. And the different type of festivals and celebrations the people of that land were participating in was definitely among that list of things that God was not pleased with. 
​

God was particular about how He wanted His people to worship Him. (See Luke 4:8). He was clear that He did not want His worship tainted by other man-made deities, practices, customs, or celebrations adopted and created by the surrounding nations. (See Exodus 20:3-5). He did not want to share His worship, His celebrations, His festivals that He granted His people to partake in with any other gods. Nor did He want His people to be divided on this matter. And yet, since the beginning of mankind’s history, man has ignored this warning.

The Scriptures warn, “a little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9, NKJV). The Greek word for “leavens” is zymoō, which means to mix leaven with dough so as to make it ferment. The Apostle Paul spoke of leaven this way. “Your glorying (boasting) is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven (yeast) leavens the whole lump? (1 Corinthians 5:6)

Here the Apostle Paul is CONDEMNING God’s people for tolerating any single small act of immorality that offends their God. It does not matter what the act is. God’s people should never tolerate any acts or behaviors or customs or celebrations or festivals that are displeasing to their God. PERIOD.

Hence why the LORD commands His people at Deuteronomy chapter 6, verses 3 through 4, “… fear the LORD your God… keep all His statutes and His commandments…. Be careful to observe it…. Hear… the LORD our God the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."
​
There is no greater way to show God this kind of love than by adhering to His command to have “no other gods before” Him or “any likeness of anything” to resemble worship to Him (Exodus 20:3). For God is a jealous God and He is not willing to share His praise, worship, celebration, or devotion. 
​

We as the people of God got to seriously consider the Words of the LORD deeply. Truly understanding what God means when He says, He is a jealous God and He will not tolerate the idolizing, the praising, the worshiping, nor the celebrating of any other kinds of worship. Especially those that are shared or incorporating worship that is from a pagan origin. 

Here is where the problem lies for God’s people today when considering the Scriptures mentioned previously in this article. Christians today read them as if that verse only applies to God’s people during that time. They often fail to apply what they are reading to a modern time frame – according to the culture and time we are living in today. Whenever we fail to do this, then how can we fully benefit from Scriptural application in our lives today? How do we properly gain God’s heart and expectations on matters if we read His Word, particularly the Old Testament as if it is some fictional story? Especially when Paul wrote, “ALL Scripture is inspired by God and IS USEFUL TO TEACH US what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives….” (2 Timothy 3:17, NLT) Paul said that all Scripture is good for reproof (punishment, admonishment), correction, instruction (training, discipline) in righteousness…. 

​Again, the Apostle Paul even addresses this manner at Romans chapter 15, verse 4. He said, “for whatever things were written before….” Here, this phrase, “was written before” is the Greek word prographō. This simply means to write before the eyes of all who can read. In other words, we are reading it (the Scriptures) today but these things took place before our time. Therefore, the things, the instructions, the prophesies, His laws and decrees “were written before” – notating what has taken place in the past but for our benefit today. For the Scriptures which was written before any of us were born was written for our understanding and application in the culture in which we live in today. 
​

With that being said. We have to learn to apply the things that are spoken of in the past concerning God’s people and how they apply to us today. How do we apply them in our modern society? Failing to do so can mean not only not living up to God’s standards, expectations, will, and commands. But it can also mean the loss of our lives, our heavenly hope, for failing to live up to God’s righteous standard.

Now, before any of y’all flip and insert that I am saying something that I am not. Let me make it clear. I am not saying, people will not make it into heaven because they choose to celebrate certain pagan customs or holidays. That is not for me to judge or decide. But it does build a case against you and provides Satan the legal rights to make your life complicated and to challenged God concerning who you actually belong to – who has rights to you – him or God. It is that serious.

This is why we all must take the standards of God seriously. We must understand that He does have expectations that He expects us to adhere and live up to. We as God’s people do not get to pick and choose which standards we get to adhere to and which we can dismiss because we personally believe that principle or law no longer applies. We must dig deep and really determine what is God’s heart concerning a manner. And allow God to reveal it to us and not our culture or even our flesh (our desire or personal preferences). 

Now, this leads me to speak what God has placed on my heart today. 
​

Customs – man-made customs are such a dangerous thing. For our participation will often lead us astray from the Father’s will and desire for His people. Bible History has proven this time and time again. Go back to Paul’s words at Galatians 5:9. A little bit, “a little bit of leaven leavens the whole lump.” In verses 7 through 12 of that chapter, Paul severely condemns false teachings and any customs or practices associated with them. The source of such practices, no matter when they originated is essential and matters to God. You cannot discredit their origin no matter how you want to flip it. 

Let me be a little clearer. Many Christians have adopted such practices into their Churches and homes such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, birthday, Valentine's Day, etc. (I used the word adopted because these customs were not established by God, but by man). Most Christians have chosen to ignore the origin of these customs and how these customs were inserted into the Church. Most Christians have failed to acknowledge how God sees the connection with such celebrations are like sharing God’s worship with another. You are incorporating something God did not establish for His people and calling it a tool being used to honor (praise and worship) God. Something that God has forbidden for His people to do. 

​Let’s take Christmas for instance. Some Christians make this pagan celebration acceptable by declaring such things as – 
​

​As a result, the school board’s attempt to ban the Christmas celebration in their school failed because it was determined by the court that Christmas was not a religious celebration nor did it have any Biblical roots. It was a pagan (worldly) in nature since its conception. In fact, its origin can be affiliated with Roman customs and religion (false gods) and not with God’s people or even Christ. 
​

​Two simple research can easily prove to any Christian God’s stance on such matters. 
​

​We have to go back to what Paul said at Romans 15:4, Galatians 5:9, and the writings of Moses at Exodus 20:3-4. This custom as well as others do not bring honor nor glory to God but only glories the hands and the imaginations of man through their gift-giving to one another and entertainments (gatherings for socializing and partying activities). We must ask ourselves, is God really gaining anything from such celebrations? The answer is a resounding nothing! Celebrating such holidays are being done in vain and has no use to God. 

We cannot have it both ways. Our fleshly customs, desires, and godly worship and celebrations and the LORD our God. God renounces such sharing of His worship with any other pagan god. In fact, the LORD declares if we refuse to turn away from such pagan practices, we will become like them. (See Psalm 115:1-8).

You can agree to disagree with me. Many of God's people often agree to disagree with God's prophets, apostles, and even His Son, Jesus Christ. The fact is, it really does not matter to me one way or another. My goal here was to only speak what the LORD has placed on my heart whether you receive it or not. (Compare to Ezekiel 2:4-7; 3:17-21). 

To be honest, I have not given much thought to the Ukraine-Russia war. I have followed a few news reports about it just to stay abreast of what is going on. But I really wasn’t concerned or showing much interest in it, until recently.

Recently, something started bubbling up in my spirit concerning this conflict but for days I was not sure why. This gnawing in my spirit became so dominant that I finally had to stop, after being awoken out of sleep around 11 p.m. last night, and prayed to God about this disturbance that was in my spirit concerning this war conflict. What is it that God wanted to speak?

For about an hour I tossed and turned in bed trying to go back to sleep. When I realized I was not going to get any sleep not unless I allowed God to speak to me concerning this matter and whatever was on His heart. So, I asked God, "what is it? What is it that you are trying to show me that I am not understanding or even ignoring?" It was then that I felt led to go read the next chapter in my Bible reading in the book of Judges. So, it was then that I got up, headed downstairs to my home office, and sat at my desk to read Judges chapter 11.
​
I usually do not take notes while I am reading my Bible, just for the purpose of reading. But the moment I sat down, I felt compelled to take notes while I read this chapter. As I read, the following was released in my spirit. 

In verse one, we are introduced to Jephthah, the son of Gilead. In his community, Jephthah was known for two things. He was considered a mighty (great, valiant, brave) warrior within the nation of Israel. He was also known as an illegitimate child of his father because he was not the son of his father’s wife. Jephthah was the son of a prostitute (Judges 11:1). As a result of this illegitimate ancestry, when Jephthah and his brothers grew up, his brothers rejected Jephthah, to prevent him from inheriting their father’s inheritance and forced Jephthah to leave his family’s home (Judges 11:2). What a betrayal.

So, at the hands of Jephthah’s brothers and the leaders of Gilead, Jephthah flees his home and leaves his rightful post. Once he departed from his home, he ends up in a city called Tob. And there a caravan of men joined him and willing submitted themselves to the leadership and authority of Jephthah (Judges 11:3).

Some time passes and the nation of Ammon rose against the Israelites to fight against them (Judges 11:4). During the invasion, the Israelites did not have a worthy leader in command that was able to successfully lead them against the Ammonites. There was not one mighty warrior in their camp that was able to deal with and overthrow the Ammonites. So, the leaders of Gilead gathered among themselves and decided that they needed to send out a search party for Jephthah, in order to convince him to return to his homeland to fight and rescue them from the hands of the Ammonites (Judges 11:5).

Now, we have to remember a few months earlier, the people of Gilead and its leaders wanted Jephthah out of their region despite his giftings, calling, or abilities. At the time, the value of Jephthah’s brothers’ inheritance was more worthy to them, than the purpose of Jephthah’s position, role, and status in his family, in his city, or in God’s Kingdom. When the Gileadites failed Jephthah by rejecting him and forcing him to leave his post. The nation was rejecting the appointment of God that was serving a greater purpose for God’s nation and its people. By rejecting Jephthah and forcing him to flee, they could not see at that time the impact that decision would have on their future – the sudden attack by the Ammonites. It was not until later that they came to see and understand the value Jephthah actual was to their people and nation. Therefore, they were desperate for the return of this brave and mighty warrior to his proper place in his father’s home to fight for their nation and lead them to victory against the Ammonites. 
​

Now that God’s people were desperate. They needed a deliverer to deliver them from the hands of the Ammonites. But would Jephthah agree to return or would he leave God’s people to their own self-destructive fate?

So, we see in verse 6 of Judges chapter 11 that the leaders of Gilead plead with Jephthah to come back and lead his people against the Ammonites. Now, I find it interesting how the Gileadites had no use for Jephthah when it seemed to them that everything was going well for them. When it appeared they had no enemies – no major conflict before them. But at the moment, when their enemies rise against the nation of Israel and they had no fearless leader in place to stand up and lead the people against the brutal threats and attacks or a leader who could led them into war. They had no choice but to search for the one capable leader that they unitedly ran off because they felt that Jephthah was not worthy based on his 
​

​So, how did Jephthah respond to the Gilead’s leader's request? Verse 7 said that he asked the Gilead leaders

Y’all know where I am about to go with this? We, as the people of God, far too often do things 

​So, it is wise to ask oneself. If Jephthah’s brothers and the Gilead leaders did not run Jephthah off when they did, for the reason they did, would they find themselves in the plight they were facing? Would the Ammonites feel confident enough to threaten or attack the Israelites knowing, Jephthah, who was known as a brave warrior in the region was there leading the nation of Israel?
​
We, the people, have to learn not to only look at things from a position of what we think is for our advantage or in our best interest for us as the people. But we must learn to always and in everything inquire of the LORD. Seriously inquire of the LORD about people and decisions we need to make before making them. For the one person or thing, we are about to reject may be what or who we need to save our souls or to prevent or deliver our nation from unwanted threats or attacks. 

Now, I must go there. Consider the current plight of this nation. Since the illegitimate appointment of Joe Biden as president, Kamala Harris as vice president, and Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the US House of Representatives, this country has plummeted at a rate that is unexplainable in all spheres of influence – i.e. government, religion, education, finance, healthcare, border crisis, media, military and security, etc. We, these United States, have no true political clout, power, or authority. We have no real leadership that is truly able to lead this nation through its current crisis. This country, like the nation of Israel, needs a savior, that is, a deliverer to save it from its fallen and miserable state and condition.

Now, we have to understand that God is capable and is well able to rescue us from our pitiful state. That is not an issue for Him. Other than that, God will always honor the provisions and orders in which He has put in place. He will not go against the establishment of things, laws, and orders that He has put in place for our benefit and to maintain order and structure in the universe. In establishing order, God gave to the sons of man the responsibility to care for the earth and all of its affairs. (See Genesis 1:28; 2:15; Psalm 115:16). Therefore, God is not quick to intervene in the affairs of man on the earth. For He has given them the responsibility to rightly govern over the affairs of mankind. But men – out of their want, selfishness, lack of understanding, ignorance, and lack of discipline to include God in their decision making, have steward over the things of the earth and the things of God poorly. As a result, God had to raise delivers among mankind to rescue themselves from themselves.
​
In the case of the nation of Israel in chapter 11 of the book of Judges, the one that the Gilead leaders had rejected – Jephthah, was the one that God decided to use and raise him as their leader to get them out of the mess that they, the people, had created for themselves. 

We need to seriously evaluate ourselves as a people and as a nation (2 Corinthians 3:15). We need to determine if the decisions we have made truly align with what God is doing in this season? Does it align with what God wants not only for this nation but for His Church? Do we really have the right leaders in place? Are the right leaders fully operating as leaders over this nation, in authorized positions (posts) in the Church as God desires (1 Corinthians 12:11)? Are the right men and women fully granted their God-giving right to operate in their gifts and callings for the betterment of the Church and its people as God has appointed? (1 Corinthians 12:18, 24) Or have we the people of these United States, that is God’s people, have rejected who and what God needs in this season like the brothers of Jephthah?

 Now, the Scriptures do not tell us whether Jephthah’s brothers and the nations’ leaders ever repented from rejecting Jephthah. Obviously, considering the circumstances, they found themselves without an able leader that can lead them in their distressful situation. Their decision to force (vote) Jephthah out of their territory was a very bad decision on their part. As a result, the one man they threw away was the one man they needed the most in their time of crisis. 

But the lesson we can learn is that Gilead leaders were wise enough to recognize their graven error, the dumb decision they made concerning Jephthah. They were wise enough to set aside their pride and to plead with the one man that could rescue them. The one man that God was backing and appointed for such a time as this.
​
As you read the remaining verses of Judges chapter 11, we see that God did deliver His people once again through the hands of His anointed mighty warrior, Jephthah, whom the people had originally rejected (Judges 11:29-33).

This nation and its people, especially its Church’s leaders need to repent. It needs to set aside its pride and recognize those God is calling. Those that God is calling to the front line of service in this season. God has chosen a new set of leaders to lead His people in such spheres as government, church, business, healthcare, military, education, media, etc. There is a new breed of men and women from all walks of life that God has called forth to lead His people.

Just as Moses recognized the time and change in season, he graciously and humbly took Joshua under his wing for one distinct purpose. To pass on his authority and leadership over to Joshua. So that, Joshua could lead God’s people onto the battlefield. So that Joshua and with the Church behind him could rightly subdue and take possession of what rightly belongs to God and to God’s people.
​
We are in a season where we the people must relinquish our rights and get behind the will of the Father and what He is doing in this season and with whom He is doing it through. So that we the people can safely pass through, in this season, under the right set of leaders that the LORD has chosen for such a time as this. 

​There is a difference between crying out to the LORD and crying out to the LORD. Let me explain but let's first establish a few things about God and His relationship with His people through the account in the book of Judges.
​

In the book of Judges, did we see the above things take place with Israel? Well, after the death of Joshua, God’s people lose their way, and God had to raise judges to deliver His people from their enemies. But the people, God’s people “did not listen to their judges….” They choose to openly sin, and live a debauchery lifestyle. The book of Judges puts it this way. They choose to “played the harlot after other gods and bowed themselves down to them” (Judges 2:16-17). In other words, they prostituted, pimped themselves out to other gods, customs, celebrations, and things that were not of God. They celebrated the same things that the people of the nations were doing and abandoning any and everything God called them to give honor to or celebrate (remember).

Therefore, God could not continue to protect, bless, and show His people favor due to their behavior, their sin. Whenever God removes Himself from the midst of His people, this always leads to God turning His face away from them, removing His protective hands from upon them. Resulting in their enemies coming in and plundering them. Verse 14 says it this way. “… Then the anger of the LORD turns against Israel, and He (God) gave them (God’s people – the Israelites) into the hands of the plunderers (God’s people enemies) …. Why? Because of their actions, their behaviors, their sins, their disobedience.

Like it or not. This is God’s way, His justice when we are completely in the wrong and refuses to repent, refuses to turn away from our, not His, but our wicked ways. When we refuse to listen to the voices of His chosen vessels. When we choose to outright disobey the commandments of the LORD – breaking our covenant individually, as a family, as a congregation, or as a nation with the LORD. God will respond with justice and judgment (Judges 2:14-15).
​

The purpose of God’s judges was to deliver His people from those who plundered them. But the problem became for Israel was this. 

This is a good place to talk about my opening statement. “There is a difference between crying out to the LORD and crying out to the LORD.”

Let’s turn to Judges chapter 6, verse 6. As we read Judges chapter 6, we see God’s people, the Israelites, fall back into their vicious sin cycle. It says in verse 1, “… the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD.” Of course, this eventually leads to God’s judgment upon His people, which leads to the Midian plundering everything they had for seven years (Judges 6:1-5). So, what did the Israelites do? After much persecution, they begin to cry out to the LORD to deliver them from the hands of their enemy the Midianites. But here is the problem with their outcry.
​
The reason why they keep recycling into old sinful habits, behaviors, customs, traditions, and practices – make sure you get this. THEIR CRIES WASN’T ONE OF REPENTANCE. No. They were not truly repenting from the heart to God. (Compare to Psalm 51:17). They just wanted the persecution, the oppression by their enemies to stop. Their cries to the LORD were due to their anguish toward the Midianites and what the Midian were doing to God’s people. They were not crying out to God because they truly realize they have sinned against a mighty and just God. (Compare to 2 Corinthians13:5). They were mad and fed up with their poverty-stricken state, their losses, their insecurities, and their life of normalcy being taking away. They wanted to go back to what was normal. Therefore, they wanted God to put an end to the Midianites' tyranny. Because the condition and the position of their hearts were not right, God had to remind them of why they were in the situation they were in the first place. Was it because He had failed them or because He was incapable of protecting and taking care of His people? Certainly not! Their condition, their plight was the way it was with the Midianites because of their own historical records, their own accounts, their own deeds, their own actions. (See Judges 6:8-10). 

Simply put. We all are no different from the Israelites. We constantly recycle old sinful habits, behaviors, practices, worldly celebrations, and customs. Serving and worshipping all kinds of false gods and idols and altars by being part of such things of the world that God has not called us to do. We change the names of many of these customs and practices and habits and behaviors and worldly celebrations and customs in order to make them seem to be more acceptable to the LORD. Yet, not one of these things can be found in the Old nor the New Testament of God’s Word. Other than being linked to the historical records of such gods as Baal or Asherah, etc., in some form or way. We simply glazed over these matters as if they are small and do not matter to a Living and Mighty God who calls for complete obedience and exclusive worship.

Yet, we the people, are choosing to mix the ways of the world with our worship of God, in order to fit in with a pagan society and call it exclusive worship. How cynical.

We have forsaken our first love and call evil good and good evil. And yet, God, out of His love, grace, and mercy, raises voices that speak about such matters from the throne of God – from His nature and His heart so that His people can be delivered. And yet, just like the Israelites in the book of Judges, God’s chosen people. Today, God’s people will not listen to His voices. Instead, they continue to do what is right in his or her own eyes. Resulting in God’s people sinning to a point of no return and provoking God’s anger. And therefore, in His righteous anger, He must respond. He must shake His house. And what does not or no longer belongs must fall out. But what is sorrowful from the heart, will remain.
​

If we want the madness to stop – the deaths, the corrupted political and religious systems. We got to come to a place, as a Body, and acknowledge what is said at Hoses 4:1-7 and Romans 1:21-32.

Please keep in mind, I am not talking about or referring to the world – BUT TO THE CHURCH. 

The fruit of this world is producing corrupted, disobedient, and outright rebellion against the one who created every living thing. Just like in Egypt, God turned things around for His people, which the entire world at that time benefited from. He can stop the destructive direction and plight of this country (the US). But only if His people will recognize their sin and genuinely repent. If His leaders would act more like King Josiah, who upon discovering his error as king, took the hem, and demanded that all of God’s people repent, cover their heads with oil, and consecrate themselves before the LORD. He removed all forms of idol and false worship among God’s people and demand that they give their alliance only to the one true living God. 

In this season, in this hour, God is doing a new thing to safely pass His people through. But some current leaders refuse to follow the example of Moses, who recognized the change God was making in leadership to prepare God’s people for what was next. There had to be, there was a need to change leadership for a new season that God was directing and leading His people. There were new battles that need to be fought that Moses was not called to lead or fight. New leaders were required for this new direction.
​
But today’s leaders refuse to follow the example of Moses even when they see and understand the shift God is making in order to prepare and lead His people into the Promised Land. Moses swiftly took Joshua under his wings and guide and train Joshua to be the proper replacement for him in the next season. Moses was not concerned with his clout, position, power, authority, what he will do next, or his role. He was concerned with getting God’s people ready for what was next and that was entering into the Promised Land. And this required Moses to pass on what God had given him to the next young leader. And then Moses earned his eternal rewards. 

​This morning, let’s open up with this interesting statement made by God.
​

In this encounter, God calls forth Aaron, Miriam, and Moses to His meeting place – the tent of meeting. When the three of them arrived, they were greeted by God’s presence in a form of a pillar of cloud, which stood in front of the door at the tent of meeting.
​
Then God proceeded to call forward, Aaron and Miriam, so He could clearly identify who He was directly addressing. And then, speaking directly to Aaron and Miriam, God says.

Then God proceeded to make a clear distinction between not only the role, position, and authority between Moses and his siblings – Aaron and Miriam. But God clearly describes how He chooses to interact and reveal matters to Moses in comparison to how He communicates and interacts with Aaron and Miriam (Numbers 12:6-8).

Why did God take such an aggressive step in dealing with Aaron and Miriam before Moses? Verse 8 reveals why God responded in this manner. It reads
​

In the court trial that God brought against Aaron and Miriam before the assembly that He formed, God took great displeasure in the actions of His prominent leaders, Aaron and Miriam. They both were in disagreement concerning a matter relating to Moses. Instead of addressing and handling this matter through the proper channels. (See Matthews 18:15-17). The two excessively grumble and complain about Moses among themselves.

Before looking at how God dealt with such conspicuous and treasonous acts by Aaron and Miriam. Let’s look at what kind of complaint the two of them had against Moses.

At Numbers chapter 12, verse 1, the Bible shows us that Aaron and Miriam had an issue with Moses because of his wife who was of Cushite descent. Based on their grievances against Moses, this led to the two of them questioned who God appointed as an authority figure over them. (Compare to 1 Corinthians chapter 12). They questioned whether God was only speaking and giving instructions through Moses (Numbers 12:2). The two of them said
​

Then verse 2 ends with this statement.

It was shortly after God heard the criticism spoken by Aaron and Miriam concerning His servant Moses that God called a meeting before His place of assembly with Aaron, Miriam, and Moses. 

So, Moses, Aaron, and Miriam were all standing before the presence of God at the tent of meeting. God opens up by stating His case against Aaron and Miriam. Then, after announcing the charges against them, God had to decide whether to pass judgment on the two co-conspirators. Notice how God decides to handle this case against His servants, His leaders.

Verse 9 says – so the anger of the LORD burned against them….

God was hot, mad with the behavior of Aaron and Miriam concerning His servant, Moses. And immediately after His Spirit departed from before the three, Miriam was struck with leprous [Numbers 12:9-10 (compare to Psalm 5:4)]. 
​

There is so much we can learn from this dispute and dissension that took place between Moses and his brother and sister – Aaron and Miriam. But to fully receive all you can learn from this account; you should read the entire story for yourself. However, here are a few points I will like you to walk away with from this experience. 

Aaron acknowledged his sin and not only repented. But he repented to the one he caused harm toward. In response to Aaron’s plead on behalf of Miriam and himself, Moses cries out to the LORD.

​The one who was the target of an attack, the victim of Aaron and Miriam’s insults. Did Moses retaliate, or spoke evil in return, or celebrate and boast when God disciplined Miriam with leprous? No, instead, Moses prayed on Miriam’s behalf. He pleaded for Miriam’s restoration.
 
How did God respond? After Moses’ requests, God politely reminded Moses how sometimes a father (an earthy father) must discipline his child in accordance to their unrighteous act. As a result, the child must experience the full penalty of their sin. That is the consequence of his or her sinful actions. Therefore, even though God may forgive them of their sin and extend mercy and grace to a person. That person most likely will still feel the full efforts of the consequences of his or her sinful action (Number 12:14-15). We like to call it karma.
 
I strongly believe we are entering in the days of what has been illustrated for us in this situation between Aaron and Miriam and their brother Moses. I believe we are about to see an accounting for our actions and even words on a level that we have never seen in this generation, but only have read about in God's Word. 

​One’s fruit cannot be based on just one standard or should I say, one person’s perspective of what is good fruit. Why? 
​

​
This is dangerous because when these individuals misrepresent the One True Living God in some way. Whether this is done purposely or not, we the people often time refuse to deal with their failure (or sin) based on Biblical protocols or principles. (Compare to Matthew 18:15-17). As a result, we the people become enablers and give birth to corrupt leaders. Because when we allow leaders to make mistakes without holding them accountable, too often, that one mistake manifests in that leader and takes root. And as that root strengthens, grows, and expands, more corrupted behavior begins to exhibit in that leader's behavior and nature. Until it gives birth to such men like the prophet Hananiah. 
​

Now, in this situation, we only need to know one thing about Hananiah the prophet. And it is what the LORD God had Prophet Jeremiah to speak concerning Hananiah. Jeremiah said to Hananiah, “Listen now, Hananiah, the LORD has not sent you, and you have made this people trust a lie” (Jeremiah 28:15).

Hananiah the prophet had become so corrupted that he spoke false prophecy to God’s people. He spoke lies and the people choose to believe the words of Hananiah instead of what Jeremiah, God’s prophet was speaking.

Despite the failures of the people to judge righteously between the prophet Hananiah and the Prophet Jeremiah. God still is a righteous God, and He judged between Jeremiah and Hananiah righteously. As a result, God had Jeremiah say to Hananiah, “… thus says the LORD, behold, I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. THIS YEAR you are going to die….” (Jeremiah 28:16)

Why such a harsh judgment? Jeremiah explains why in that same verse. “… Because you have counseled rebellion against the LORD” (Jeremiah 28:16).

Rebellion. Hananiah the prophet was preaching and teaching rebellion. Hananiah the prophet was declaring the opposite of God’s plan and direction for His people. At that time, God instructs  His people that He was allowing them (the nation of Israel – God’s people) to go into captivity (slavery) by the Babylonians because of the people (God’s people) unrepentant spirit and acts of rebellion against God. So, through God’s prophet, like Jeremiah, He instructed them to tell His people to submit (surrender) to the Babylonians. (Compare to Amos 3:7; Jeremiah chapters 25 and 27). But prophets like Hananiah were proclaiming the opposite of what God was actually saying. THIS IS REBELLION! AKA, A SIN. 

A rebellion, or should I say, unrepentant rebellion deserves such a harsh judgment as stated by God’s prophet Jeremiah at Jeremiah 28:16 – “… THIS YEAR you are going to die….” Hananiah NEVER REPENTED for his misrepresentation of God’s direction for His people. Hananiah kept preaching his own opinion instead of what God actually was saying. So, God passed judgment on Hananiah through His prophet Jeremiah. Therefore, what Jeremiah declared concerning the prophet Hananiah, was fulfilled that year.  “… Hananiah, the prophet died on the same year in the 7th month” (Jeremiah 28:17).

We all need to heed the counsel and insight provided here in Jeremiah chapter 28. For the Bible is written for us as a warning, insight to what can happen to us if we preach and teach the opposite of what God is actually saying and declaring. Here, the insight given at Jeremiah chapter 28 is a clear indication that there is nothing new under the sun, for God is the same today as He was yesterday and will be forever. (Compare to 1 Corinthians 10:11-12; Ecclesiastes 1:9; Hebrews 13:7-9).

Too many of us want it easy. As a result, many leaders are declaring, “God will have mercy. God will have mercy!” And it is certainly true that God is a merciful God. It states that throughout His Word from its beginning to the very end. BUT! But, God is a God of justice. He cannot and will not forsake His just will for the sake of a rebellious people or nation.
​
Abraham once asked the LORD. “Suppose there are fifty… forty-five… forty… thirty… twenty… ten… righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for…” the righteous? (Genesis 18:24,28-32). Now, God gave Abraham His word IN THAT SITUATION, UNDER THAT CIRCUMSTANCE, He would NOT destroy them. God said in verse 26 of Genesis chapter 18. “… I will spare the whole place on their account...” if He found at least 10 righteous people in Sodom or Gomorrah. Indeed, that’s mercy. An entire nation in that situation could be spared from God’s judgment and wrath, if God could find at least 10 righteous people. But we need to understand two things here in that situation. 
​

1. Amos 3:7 says, “Surely the LORD GOD does nothing unless He reveals His secret counsel to His servants the prophets.” Hence why God asked the rhetorical question at Genesis 18:17. “… Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do…”? Now, it was not that God needed Abraham’s permission to do what He had planned to do concerning Sodom and Gomorrah. God had already made up His mind that He was going to pass judgment upon those two cities. Why? He explains His reasoning why in verse 20, which says. “The outcry (the prayers of God’s servants) of Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is exceedingly grave.” God’s mercy had run out for these two cities. The people in these cities had become so rebellious and far away from God that He was no longer willing to allow them any more time to repent and turn back to Him. And now God was ready to act, enforce His judgment against these two cities. Because He had already made His decision concerning them, He asked that rhetorical question, should I tell Abraham what I AM about to do? 

At some point, God reveals His plans to Abraham, which prompts Abraham to ask. LORD! Will You destroy the righteous with the wicked? And that’s the point! Abraham wasn’t really concerned about whether God will destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. For Abraham knew that God is a just God. He does nothing out of unrighteousness. Therefore, if God has planned to destroy these two cities and all the people in it. Then, as sad as it is to say this, THEY EARNED IT.
 
Now, you can go back through the previous chapters in Genesis to learn why Sodom and Gomorrah had reached a point of deserving God’s judgment poured out on these two cities. But to make this easy, I want to compare the waywardness of these cities – how sinful and rebellious they had become and how far they have moved away from God by looking at Hosea chapter 4. Now, I won’t read that chapter here because I have spoken of the verses in this chapter far too many times in the past to rehash its significance. But I will quote this from that chapter, which is some of the same things that Sodom and Gomorrah were doing that made God’s judgment warranted. They (the people of Sodom and Gomorrah) were

• Faithless
• Lack kindness
• Swearing (cussing)
• Deception was everywhere
• Murdering
• Stealing
• Performing all kinds of sexual perversions – adultery, homosexuality, fornication (sex outside of marriage), bestiality, etc.

These two cities had reached a point of no return as far as God was concerned. Therefore, due to the prayers of God’s people. God sent two angels from His heavenly courts to go investigate the claims that were being made (Genesis 18:20-22; Also, Genesis 19:1-29).
 
As we go on and read chapter 19, which we won’t read here, we see that the two angels determined the claims (the outcries through prayer) of God’s people were true. AS A RESULT, God enforced His judgment upon these two cities and destroyed everything in them except for 3 souls – Lot (Abraham’s nephew) and Lot’s two daughters. 

2. WE GOT TO UNDERSTAND THIS! Two things occurred here. God’s mercy and God’s justice. 

​So, this brings us to America. Today, it is a nation that has wandered so far away from God. When considering the historical Biblical records such as stated at Hosea chapter 4, these United States of America and its people (the Church, it's political systems, and we the people) have reached the top of the cup of unrighteous acts that are all stated there in Hosea. And when considering Matthew chapter 24, verses 15 through 28, these are perilous times. We see “… abomination of desolation… standing in the holy place…” (v15).  As a result, there will be great persecution and tribulation (v21). As much as we want peace and security and we want to avoid any suffering because we want it easy, that is not the path that is set for us according to the Scriptures. JESUS SUFFERED A GUT WRENCHING DEATH SO THAT WE CAN HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY AT LIFE. Now, here is Jesus, the King of kings and the Lord of lords and he suffered. SUFFERED! And yet, far too many of us believe we have some kind of special privilege, a special get out of jail card, an exempt from suffering as Christ did. Many of us really believe that we will continue to see nothing but peace and security. That God will continue to extend mercy to us despite our continuous rebellion nature and state. That it is our responsibility to establish God’s Kingdom here on the earth. Ours? Not God’s? So, if we are to establish His Kingdom – why is there a need for His return? Why is there a need for the rapture?
 
No, Jesus' exact words were that we will have the same experiences as Christ. In fact, he warns us by prepping us for what is to come. At Matthew chapter 10 he indicates there is a hard road before us. We that are a part of Christ’s rib will be driven to courts for his name’s sake (v17). We will be handed over and dragged before governors and kings for his name’s sake (vv18-19). Family members will betray us to the point that it will lead some of us to our death for his name’s sake (v21). We will be hated by ALL for his name’s sake (v22). Many of us will have to flee from one city to the next for his name’s sake (v23). As a result of these sufferings as well as others that are not listed here, we must endure. That is the keyword - endure. We have to endure suffering. Let me say it the way the Apostle Matthew says it, who is credited for writing the book of Matthew. “… It is the one who HAS ENDURED TO THE END who will be saved” (v22).
 
Now, the mercy God extends here is that He helps us endure this suffering we will experience on some level. To endure to the end. He helps us to finish our race despite the suffering we will undergo. (Compare 2 Timothy 4:7; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27). So, I have to say this. To those who think God is going to continue to extend mercy to a rebellious nation without any accountability for their rebellious condition, they simply don’t want to suffer like Christ has. They don’t want to drink from the cup that Jesus was willing to drink from for each one of us – that is the cup of suffering (Compare to Matthew 20:22; Luke 22:42). Instead, they want only peace. They want only security. They want only prosperity. They want it easy. And this is the reason why God will extend His mercy once again, for the sake of His righteous servants by cutting the perilous (our suffering) days short. Otherwise, even His righteous servants will not be able to survive it (v22). THAT is His mercy!
 
Today, there are false teachers twisting the Scriptures; false prophets proclaiming they are speaking truth; and false Christs claiming they are He and have returned but they have no power, no authority, nor can they take any of God’s people home in a twinkle of an eye (Matthew 24:23-27, 29-31; compare to John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15:52).
 
Let’s close this out with this. America has reached its peak in its rebellion. God has heard the outcries of His servants through their prayers asking not only for God’s mercy but also His justice. To make this nation and its leaders, this nation’s Church who profess to belong to God –  right. To bring about His justice throughout this nation. God a God of justice who cannot ignore the cries of His people – His chosen nation. So, what is left for God to do? To continue to extend mercy to a nation of people who have not drawn closer to Him but have fallen ever far away from Him out of rebellion and disobedience as time continues to pass us by? Is God supposed to sit around and wait for His people to establish His Kingdom on the earth? An assignment God has never assigned to His people – that is to establish God’s Kingdom here on this earth. God has given us the responsibility to preach and teach the Good News to all the nations with the goal of baptizing them so that they will become true disciples of Christ. So that, the Kingdom of God will be established in their hearts (Matthew 28:18-20; compare to Deuteronomy 30:6; Romans 2:29; Jeremiah 4:4).
 
This is God’s justice. Allowing each one of us to be a part of His Kingdom and His Body of servants. His mercy is the time He has allowed humans to live out our lives over the years, decades, centuries, in order to make the right choice to live and not die. (Compare to Deuteronomy chapter 28). 

I don't know why this is in my spirit to say this morning. But I am not looking for men and women who MAN has vetted. But I am searching for those who God has vetted.

I have yet to find anywhere in the Bible where a man was needed to vet God's chosen vessel. Those He has handpicked for a purpose.

The prophet Jeremiah was alone when God called him out and said, before you were born I consecrated you, I have appointed you a prophet to the nations. Wherever I send you, you shall go. All where I commanded you, you shall speak. Then. THEN the LORD stretched out His hand and touched Jeremiah's mouth and put His words in a boy's mouth. And then God said to Jeremiah in the absence of an another man. It is I. Let me repeat that. IT IS I who appointed you over the nations and kingdoms for the sole purpose to break, destroy, and tear down any and everything that is not of God and then turn around to build and plant for God's glory.

My God! My God! My God! The shame of man who thinks He can do any planning, building, planting, uprooting, establishing, and appointing without or in the place of God.

And we see this standard or protocol with other men and women throughout the Bible. God hand picks His servants, His leaders, those who have a certain destiny or purpose, for God's glory. 

Now, there are instances where God would use His prophets to lay their hands on an anointed vessel. Such is the case where God used the prophet, Samuel, to lay his hands and pour oil on the head of David as a sign of God's appointment and selection (1 Samuel 16:12-13). But note! The prophet Samuel did not selected, chose, handpicked, appointed, nor vetted David as the king. If that was the case and if Samuel would have selected the king himself without the guidance of God, he would have certainly chosen the wrong king. (Compare to 1 Samuel 16:1-11). For Samuel was prone to the habits of man and was leaning to select a king that looked the part. But God corrected Samuel's way of thinking and selection process by saying, "do not look at his appearance... nor the height of his stature...." (1 Samuel 16:7). For the man Samuel would have chosen, God rejected. Every one of the men that Samuel thought looked the part and was suited for the role, God rejected.

It is God who vets a man or woman into their role, position, and or calling upon their life. And men, those who are currently in the position of leaders - whether that be a prophet, apostle, priest, bishop, or pastor. Their responsibility is to accept and receive those God has called. Samuel was God's prophet, a leader over God's people. And when God gave Samuel instructions that He was going to appoint a new king and He needed Samuel to go and lay his hands on him to confirm God's selection. What did Samuel do? Questioned? Hesitated? Sat back and watched to see if he heard right? Avoid David? Waited? NO! Immediately, Samuel got up, went to the house of Jesse under God's direction and guidance, and inquired about Jesse's sons. And as soon as God said, "arise, anoint him, for this is he" whom God has chosen! Samuel the prophet did exactly as God had said without delay (1 Samuel 16:13).

Oh, there is a distinct difference in the way men, leaders, vet, men and women in the Bible compare to the way it is done today. We are extremely far away from the council that is stated concerning the appointment of spiritual gifts that are in God's house. For 1 Corinthians chapter 12 states, it is God who wills our gifts. It is God who has placed the members, each one of us where He desires within His body. It is God who appoints (or may I say vets) individuals in the church. For He is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, who knows all things and in Him whom we should trust His appointment that He has chosen (Vv. 11-14; 18; 21; 25; 28-30). Amen and Amen.

I was awakened early this morning by the LORD’s Spirit, as He begins to immediately minister to me with another heavy word from the LORD.
​
So, I really need people to understand this and Lord knows I'm not trying to be insensitive. Because there is not one insensitive bone in my body. But when God places a calling on your life and you can see it and understand it clearly. Your obligation, your first priority is the things God has given you to say and or do. Nothing and no one takes precedence. You cannot be overly concerned about how people will respond or not respond to how God is moving in and through you. You must do as the LORD says, in season and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2). Serving the LORD is not a popularity contest. Ask the prophet Jeremiah, Daniel, Moses, Paul, and even Jesus can attest to this. They all were mocked, picked on, persecuted, shunned, isolated, etc (Matthew 10:22-24; 5:10-16; 24:9). All for the purpose of doing and saying the things that God placed in their hearts to do and say. With that being said, listen. 
​

I've been hearing time and time again, people, we the people, mourning. Sadden over the loss of our love ones. I'm hearing people quote this statement far too often nowadays. "People are dying from left and right." And - "too many people are dying out here." That may be true. But we the people, got to seriously consider some factors concerning the increase of deaths. Because with the dreams and visions many prophets and even ministers in my own ministry are reporting, this thing is about to get worse. And two things must be clearly understood that only a few have really talked about and that’s including members from my ministry who have pleaded and preached about this several times right here on this platform.

We the people must acknowledge “the why”. Why and how we as the people, as a nation, have gotten here. Now, I don't know, just based on the things we (my ministry partner and I) have been seeing lately in dreams and visions, can we the people turn things around through prayer and repentance? Because with God, He is always fair and just. He will warn and warn, and send His prophets, giving us the people, plenty enough time to turn things around BEFORE He acts out His judgment on the people. (Compare to 1 Peter 3:9; Amos 3:7; and Jonah chapters 1-4). But far too often, we the people refuse to turn around and repent. To stop doing the evil works we practice. And when we the people failed to do so, God has to respond in judgment, i.e. the Garden of Eden, Noah's flood, the Israelites being placed in bondage and slavery over their disobedience time after time, the death of King David' son, King Saul's fall from his throne, etc. Our acts of wickedness and disobedience have led we the people to destruction over and over again. 
​

So, here we are today. Again, standing before our Maker and we at the cuff of His grace and mercy because we the people and our leaders of not only this nation, but our leaders within God's House - refuses to set aside their difference, their will for power and control; in order to come together, to bring the people together, and repent with a true and contrite heart to a God who can repent, change His mind about acting out His judgment on this nation. (Compare to Psalm 51).  

During this season of grace. I have time and time again prayed and even said on this platform many times over. “LORD! HAVE MERCY ON US!” Crying out with much fervent because God has shown me and members in this ministry the destruction that is ahead if we the people don't change our ways. But like the prophets before, who pleaded with the people before them. We too preach and warn to a deaf crowd. And we are here. Where the sand in the hourglass has almost run out. And we are about to see what real divine justice looks like when we have failed and continue to ignore the warnings of God through His servants (Amos 3:7). And I say this with a heavy heart. More so because we all had plenty of time to repent, stop what we are doing, and change our outcome before a merciful God. But we didn't! We didn't.

So, this will be my final words concerning this case against, we the people, in these United States that are being judged concerning the following. For I have, and this ministry has, giving a thorough witness and spoke the will of God before the people time and time again. And now the day has come where the verdict has been prepared. And this is the case My LORD has against you, the people.
​

Hear the word of the LORD. The LORD has brought charges against you, saying: 

​My heart is broken because this does not have to be. It did not have to be. 

I think the allegory at Luke chapter 15 is a really good metaphor that we don't meditate on enough.

Here’s the parable. There are 100 sheep in an open field along with their shepherd. With all the things that are occurring within the boundaries of this field, one sheep is separated from the group. Initially, unknowingly to the shepherd. Some time passes, and the shepherd noticed one of the sheep is missing. Now, what do you think is the shepherd’s reaction? 

1. He continues to tend to the 99 that stays within the boundaries of the open field
2. Or he leaves the 99 sheep and goes after the one that has strayed from the group

Even if you are not familiar with your Bible, most are aware of the answer to this story. But let’s take a closer look at this parable so that we don’t miss what is really being pointed out to us here. 

Now, watch this.

At Luke chapter 15 in verses one and two, all the tax collectors gathered to hear Jesus, who is the true shepherd, speak. Alongside, the tax collectors, both the Pharisees and the scribes, the religious elite leaders, begin to gather as well. These two groups of men begin to complain among themselves about Jesus, the true shepherd. Overhearing their complaint, Jesus begins to tell a story, a parable that directly reflects the true heart condition of the scribes and the Pharisees.

Now, it is important to note that these men are the religious leaders of that time. These are the men that the people should be able to look to for pure and accurate Godly counsel and direction, for encouragement and correction, for Scriptural education and moral direction and examples. (Compare to 2 Timothy 3:13-17; 1 Peter 5:2-3; 1 Timothy 3:1-13). These are the men that should always point the people to Christ and not to men.

As Jesus listens to the Pharisees and scribes complain, Jesus begins with this parable.
​

What was Jesus' point here? Now, remember who is in the crowd listening. All the tax collectors came and gathered to hear Jesus speak. In the eyes of many, the tax collectors were the scum of the earth. For many in this profession were known for their unjust deeds – charging extremely high taxes, taking bribes, stealing from the people, and just downright greedy individuals. And yet, in this illustration, Jesus received these ones while teaching them Biblical truths. In response to this, the Pharisees and the scribes scoffed by saying, “This man (meaning Jesus) receives sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2).
​
In the eyes of the religious elite, they believe that these men, the tax collectors, were unworthy. Unworthy of what? 
​

​Hence, why Jesus introduces this parable before the crowd as he speaks about and directly to the Pharisees and the scribes. Let’s walk through that parable together. Jesus says in verse 4.

​We have to understand the true value of sheep in Jesus’ day to fully benefit from what Jesus is saying here. During Jesus’ day, sheep, especially a herd of sheep were very valuable. Sheep provided his owner meat, milk, and fabrics as well as an increase in his herd through producing other offspring. Hence, why shepherds went through great extremes to protect their flock as well as to retrieve any one of them if they got lost. Sheep, especially a herd of sheep were priceless to their owner. In fact, if a man owns a large herd of sheep, it was a status symbol that he was a wealthy man. So, during Jesus’ day, sheep were extremely important to the Hebrew economy and a sign of wealth. 

This is why a shepherd did not hesitate to leave behind a flock of sheep, in this case, based on Luke chapter 15, 99 sheep, to go after one that has left the fold. Why? Because that one sheep was priceless, extremely valuable to its owner.

Now, picture for a moment, that in this illustration that Jesus is the good Shepherd and God is the owner of this large pasture. The sheep, of course, is us. Those who have CHOSEN to be under the guiding hands of Christ our Good Shepherd and chosen to follow Christ. As the Shepherd over this field, Christ is not only watching over and caring for all of us, it is his job to make sure none of us wander off from the pasture – from among the group of the other sheep. It does not matter how or why we wander off. Whether we are belligerent or not. IT IS THE SHEPHERD (pastor and elders) JOB TO GO AFTER AND RETURN THE ONE WHO HAS WANDER OFF. There is no exception to this rule as Jesus has clearly illustrated in this parable at Luke chapter 15. A sheep, even a sheep who has wandered off on his or her own accord is valuable to the owner and therefore, is of the concern of the shepherd. And therefore, the one lost sheep should be the shepherd's greatest concern than the 99 that remains within the boundaries of the owner’s pasture. Or is it? Well, let’s explore that.

If a shepherd in Jesus’ day had to leave behind his remaining sheep to seek out the one who had gotten lost, how did the shepherd manage through this problem? Did he leave the 99 uncared for and unprotected? Not exactly. Before going off to search for the lost missing sheep, the shepherd put some provisions in place to ensure the remaining sheep will stay put until he returns with the one that was lost.

Around his pasture’s boundaries, the shepherd builds a pile of sticks and rocks around the herd to make them feel as if there is a sense of borders around them. And then he goes off to find the one who has strayed.
​
This is the point that Jesus is making to the Pharisees and scribes who are murmuring about Jesus receiving sinners and eating with them. That is, Jesus was doing exactly what a good shepherd is supposed to do. And he pointing this out clearly to the Pharisees and scribes who were not attending to the needs of the people. In verse 5, Jesus says to the crowd concerning the lost sheep that was found. 
​

This beautiful illustration depicts what the actions of the Pharisees and scribes should have been toward the crowd, which included countless tax collectors – or “sinners” as the Pharisees and scribes alluded to them as. And this should be the same mentality and attitude of pastors, Bible teachers, and elders today. So, let’s break down why and how shepherds in Jesus’ day cared for their sheep. 

It’s important to recognize the nature of a sheep is closely similar to the characteristics of God’s people. We can’t cover all the different characteristics, but let’s look at two. 

1. Sheep have the tendency to follow whoever is leading them. Often time, no questions are asked. It does not matter to a herd of sheep, whether the one leading them, leads them off a cliff. They will follow! Sounds familiar? 
​
Now, back in 2013, Tim Challies, a popular Christian blogger, and author shared this famous story. In Eastern Turkey, a shepherd left his herd of 1,500 sheep unattended. One of the sheep begins to stray away from the pasture where the shepherd had left them unattended and the 1,499 other sheep begins to follow the sheep that was leading the herd. The sheep that was leading the herd fell over a cliff to its death. Instead of the remaining sheep stopping, after observing what had happened to the lead sheep, they too fell over the cliff to their death. Of the 1,500 sheep, 400 immediately died from the injury of their fall. But the remaining 1,100 were saved ONLY because the 400 that fell over the cliff before them provided a fluffy cushion that broke their fall from the cliff.
 
Sheep needs a good leader that attends to them at all times. Unfortunately, we the people, are no different. We are in need of good leaders, good shepherds to guard us because we all are hardwired to follow. Hence, why many of us will even continue to follow bad leaders or bad shepherds to our destruction. We are like the Eastern Turkey sheep that will follow any leader if left unattended. 

2. Have you ever seen a sheep when it gets knocked over? Whenever a sheep falls over on its side and ends up on its back, it cannot get up without help. If they are left on their back too long, gas begins to build up in their stomachs, which causes it to harden. Resulting in cutting off their air supply, and then the sheep eventually suffocates. This is called a “cast down” position. 
When a shepherd comes along to rescue the sheep, he massages the sheep's legs to restore circulation. Then he gently turns over the sheep, lifts it, and then holds the sheep until it regains its equilibrium. This is one of many tasks a shepherd must do, time and time again to care for and protect his sheep.
 
The word I want you to get out of that description is “restore”. When a sheep experiences a medical emergency, such as a “cast down,” the shepherd is right there to immediately pick them up or restore them to an upright position. 

This is the point Jesus is making to the Pharisees and scribes who are grumbling about Jesus’ willingness to care for the needs of the crown of tax collectors. In Jesus’ illustration, the shepherd in verse 5 finds his wandering sheep, places the sheep on his shoulders, and carries it safely back home. And the shepherd does not just stop there, according to Jesus. In verse 6, when the shepherd arrives home with the sheep that have been found, he calls everyone to gather to celebrate. For the one sheep that was lost, is now found.
​
This is the job of pastors, Bible teachers, and elders who should all work together, to retrieve these wandering sheep. Upon retrieving anyone that was once lost, they all should come together to celebrate the one who has been found. In fact, Jesus closes out this particular parable this way.

Let’s not miss that. Did Jesus say 100? 1,000? A group of people who stands up and says a salvation prayer? No, he said “one.” Jesus is concerned about the “one” whom his shepherd goes through hell and back to retrieve and bring back home to the owner of the pasture. The one that the shepherd sweats for; cries out for; constantly prayers for; pursues with all he has in order to bring that one back home to his Master. 

For the ninety-nine who are healthy do not need a physician. They are safe in the pasture of the Master. It is the one who wanders off that needs a doctor. The Pharisees and the scribes that Jesus was addressing in the crowd of the tax collectors needed to go and learn what the parable of Luke chapter 15 meant. For what Jesus did desire was compassion from the religious leaders toward the tax collectors and other sinners like them. For it was the sinners, the sick that Jesus was after. Let me say that one again. For it was the sinners, the sick that Jesus was after. The one that wandered away from the safety of the Master’s pasture and not the ninety-nine who remained. (Compare to Matthew 9:11-13).
​
Go and learn what this means and do. (Also compare to Matthew 28:18-20).