Believer or Non Believer?

Much has been said on the subject of the photo in this discussion.  However, the mind of this blogger questions whether folks who say they are saved but believe differently, a little or a lot, from my understanding of scripture, truly are.

The devotion that led me to study this matter is found in I Tim. 4.1-3.  "Now the Spirit  speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducting spirits, and doctrines of devils, Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron..."

The defining scripture as to whether these "shady" believers are saved is found in I Jn 2.19, "They went out from us, but there were not of us; for IF they had been of us, they would have continued with us:..."  These questionable folks act "sanctified" (2 Tim 2.21) but a real believer always feels a little off or unbalanced in their presence.  At least that is how this blogger would say it.  James 1.27 is clear on staying "unspotted from the world."

So it is that we understand separation with right conversation, dress and behavior. (Gal 5.22,23, Titus 2.12, I Tim 2.9, 10, Rom 13.10, 11) 

It would seem the difference is "the spirit" of these folks.  Real sheep may not recognize a wolf in sheeps clothing but "sense" a difference in manner and behavior. Thus, the following verses for guidance:  

• "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed (Pro 13.20) "But if Any provide not for his own...is worse than an infidel." (I Tim 5.8) 
•  "If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ...He is proud, knowing nothing..." (I Tim 6.3,4) 
• "...brethren,...withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly..." (2 Thes 3.6) 
• "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers..." (2 Cor 6.14)

If these "brethren/believers" have the slightest tendency to "mock" or "smirk" at any of your convictions, separate from them. (Gal 6.7)

Current times demonstrate "Mega churches and lazy "believers" who think it's okay to stay out of church for any personal pursuit or pleasure.  Are you one of them? (Mt 7.15) OR One of these? (Jn 10.27, 28)

To distinguish even a hint of "apostate believer," one must enter the Throne Room in prayer guidance.  He is teacher and guide as well as Comforter. (Jn 14.26)

Submitted in His Blessed Name, Site Moderator