Determining Whether Doctrines Are of GOD or of Man!
Women Roles in the Church!
Today there is much contention regarding women roles in the church. The foundations for this contention include the following scriptures: 1 Corinthians 14:33-36, the books of 1Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. Today, the internet is loaded with attacks on churches for using women in their callings that were given to them by God in the name of JESUS. However, if all the writings of Apostle Paul’s are continued to be recognized as the Word of God; surely these attacks are justified and they will continue. Each of us have opinions and we all do not agree; therefore the rationalities of men cannot replace the process that God has given us to use to make this determination; moreover there is no prophecy of the scripture for private interpretation. God is not doubleminded; therefore God gave us instructions on how to determine whether doctrines are of God or of men.
It is imperative that action be taken to make this determination now regarding these scriptures that are written in the Holy Bible.
This is a short article; it is about 14 pages; however some will say it is too long for them to read. This occurs because they do not have love for truth. However, we have also prepared a very comprehensive article that aligns scriptures, it is about 30 pages. In the more comprehensive article, we laid the foundation of the works of the Apostles and show the assured foundation and the process that was used by Satan to infiltrate the printed gospel. The commentaries in both works are very limited; however you will find short transitions that link certain concepts and scriptures. However in this short article, we limited the text, omitted the foundation of Satan’s plan and we do not include the text of all the text referenced scriptures. However, we go direct to the heart of the problem and provide the solution at the direction of God in the name of JESUS.
Let’s commence by reviewing what Jesus said regarding how to determine if the doctrine is of God or if the doctrine is of man. Let’s see what Jesus says at John 7:16-17.
“16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.”
When we apply this process and review some of the writings of Apostle Paul, we can conclude that some of the doctrines written by Apostle Paul were not of God; however they were doctrines of Paul in the flesh. As we know, Apostle Paul was a man like Apostle Judas who betrayed Jesus, and like Apostle Peter who denied Jesus three times before they crucified Jesus. Moreover, Apostle Paul was a man like men who work the gospel today. Nevertheless, Apostle Paul had a thorn in his flesh like some of the Saints of God today; Romans 7:13-25 outline this infirmity.
We used the King James Version of the Bible throughout this work; we strongly recommend that you use the King James Version because some of the bibles have changed the word of God to the point that the scriptures cannot be aligned according to the process that God established in Isaiah 28:9-10. (Note: The NIV has even changed Isaiah 28:9-10, the text regarding aligning the Word of God.)
Surely God in the Name of Jesus is not doubleminded. However, many have been deceived. Since God is not doubleminded, we must question if the words that Apostle Paul wrote at 1 Timothy 2:11:12 and the words that Apostle Paul wrote in Titus 2:3 are from GOD in the name of JESUS.
At 1 Timothy 2:11:12 “Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach…” It is believed that Apostle Paul wrote 1Timothy about A. D. 63.
And about two or three years later Apostle Paul wrote Titus.
Titus 2:3 “The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things.”
How could both of these doctrines be from God when they do not say the same thing? We will address this observation in this work; however first let us review an admonishment that most Christians have missed.
Many have missed the admonishment in 1 Corinthians 14:33-36. Some scholars believe that Apostle Paul wrote the book of 1Corinthinas in A. D. 55 and he wrote 2 Corinthians in A.D. 56.
Let us see what Apostle Paul wrote. 1 Corinthians 14:33-36
33 “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
34Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. 35And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. 36What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?”
Surely Apostle Paul admonishes these saints through this communication. Take another look at 1 Corinthians 14:36 “What? Came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?”
Some of the versions of the Bible have changed the text; these changes make it impossible to see this admonishment; after this happens the scriptures are no longer the words of God. Many today have read this text; however they did not pay close attention to it and did not see it as an admonishment because they are familiar with what Apostle Paul said at 1 Timothy 2:9-15. However, when Apostle Paul admonished these saints at Corinth the book of 1Timothy had not been written. (The more comprehensive article gives more information regarding this admonishment and why it was required.)
Let us examine Paul’s instructions for worship for women in 1Timothy 2:9-15.
9In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
11Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
We must note Apostle Paul said: “I suffer not a woman to teach.” Whose doctrine is this?
Surely, this is Apostle Paul’s doctrine. Records show that there were women teachers carrying out the works of God, even before Apostle Paul was called. Apostle Paul even commended some of them and stated that some labored in the gospel with him and others. Consequently, this becomes Apostle Paul’s preference and not the will of God.
Apostle Paul made the statement that “she shall be saved in childbearing.” Here is the question – Is this part of the gospel of Christ regarding salvation? Jesus never mentioned childbearing was a requirement for women to receive salvation.
There is no condemnation of those in Christ Jesus
It is true that the woman was deceived and was in the transgression. However, the word of God says there is no condemnation of those in Christ Jesus; here it appears that Apostle Paul is condemning women today because Eve was deceived. The Word of God says that we are new creatures when we are born again. We become a Holy Temple of God. Surely, this condemnation is not part of the gospel of Christ.
After Apostle Paul wrote 1Timothy, about two to three years later he wrote 2 Timothy. At 2 Timothy 1:15 he writes: “This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogense. At 2nd Timothy 2:17-18 he explains errors of Phygellus and Hermogenes why they were no longer following him. However, Apostle Paul wrote all they which are in Asia had turned away from him. Some believe that Timothy was in Ephesus when Apostle Paul wrote 2 Timothy. Ephesus was one of the churches in Asia; At 2 Timothy 4:12, Apostle Paul writes: “And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.” However the way this is written it is questionable if Timothy was actually in Ephesus when Apostle Paul wrote 2 Timothy.
Apostle Paul was executed about A.D. 67, however between A.D. 90 and A.D. 100, Apostle John wrote the book of Revelation and therein there are messages to the Seven Churches in Asia, Ephesus is one of these Churches. This shows that the Churches in Asia were still operating even after they stopped following Apostle Paul.
Apostle Paul said that this was “his gospel” and called it “my doctrine.”
At 2 Timothy 3:10, Apostle Paul used the phrase “my doctrine” and at 2 Timothy 2:8, he uses the phrase: “my gospel.” Apostle Paul called this his doctrine, Paul did not say the Apostles’ doctrine or God’s doctrine, however he use the phrase “my doctrine.” In effect Apostle Paul declared this doctrine was his. On the surface these phrases may appear to be innocent to most that read them, however when you take a closer look you will understand why Jesus said the doctrine was not his however it was the one who sent him. Surely, now it is clear that Apostle Paul has brought forth his own doctrine and his gospel; doctrine and a gospel that were not preached by Jesus or any of the other Apostles at the onset or later received by revelations.
Moreover, the doctrine suffering women not to teach is contrary to the revelation revealed and also to what Apostle Paul had witnessed while working the gospel of Christ. Please note it was important for Apostle Paul to call it his doctrine and describe it as his gospel because it was no longer the doctrine of God and the gospel of God in the name of JESUS.
Now let us go back to A.D. 49 when Apostle Paul wrote the book of Galatians.
It is also important to note what Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 1:8: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” (Galatians was probably written in A.D. 49) Surely, “I suffer not a woman to teach” and “women being saved in child-bearing” were not part of the doctrine Gospel of God in the name of JESUS in A. D. 49. Jesus did not teach it and no other Apostle taught it. However, women had active roles in working the gospel of God in the name of JESUS.
Let take a look at some other facts as recorded in the scriptures.
Apostle Paul knew how God moved on Lydia, a woman of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God as Luke recorded in Acts 16. Luke writes that God opened her heart and instructed Lydia to attend to the things that Apostle Paul preached. This is a very important revelation because teaching is part of attending to or working the gospel. Surely, this lays the foundation for the establishment of the Church in Thyatira.
At Philippians 4:3, Apostle Paul acknowledged that women labored with him and with others in the gospel. We also know that Apostle Paul commended women in Romans 16 and some of these women appeared to be in leadership in the Church; and one of the women was an Apostle. (Today there are some who question if Junia was a woman.) However, before Apostle Paul was executed he wrote Titus and he no longer stated that he suffered a woman not to teach.
There is clear evidence when you use the instruction that was given by Jesus to conclude that the writings in 1st and 2nd Timothy were the doctrines of Apostle Paul. There is no short-cut to see the full revelation unfold before your eyes; therefore we recommend that you also read the comprehensive article that we have prepared. (This article is posted on our website www.revelationuptotheminute.org ) It is very clear that God never said that (1) “He suffer woman not to teach.” (2) Childbearing has nothing to do with salvation (3) and when you accept Christ as your Lord and Saviour – you are born again and there is no condemnation, therefore women today are not condemned based on what Eve did in the garden. In fact, the only way that anyone can become blameless is to be born again in the name of JESUS.
Surely, many will question this disposition; however according to Acts 16:14, God opened Lydia’s heart and instructed her to attend to the things that Apostle Paul taught. In order to attend to the things that Apostle Paul taught, Lydia had to teach and share the good news of the gospel. Lydia’s whole household was saved, and there were men in her household. Moreover, it is recorded that God is no respecter of person in Christ Jesus.
Nevertheless, we cannot overlook what God said to the Eve after the incident in the garden as recorded in Genesis 3:16. “Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.” Surely, God did not change the relationship between a man and his wife. However, Jesus clearly pointed out that it was not him that was doing the work, however it was the Father within him that was doing the work. Therefore, when we are born again, we become new creatures; we become holy temples of God - we have a habitation of God in the Spirit – we have the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead within us. The bottom line, like God did the work in Jesus, the Son of God to a Perfect Man; when we are born again, we put on Christ; then the power of the living God does the work through us and it does not matter whether we are male or female, bond or free, or Jew or Greek. We must remember when we receive Christ as our saviour, God is no respecter of persons in Christ Jesus. Saints of God are no longer under the curse of the law. (Galatians 3:10-28.) This is the doctrine of God.
Jesus says at John 7:16-17
16Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
At 2 Timothy 3:10, Apostle Paul writes: “But thou has fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (11) Persecution, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured; but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”
Here some would give Apostle Paul a pass because Apostle Paul wrote some much of the gospel of Christ. We carefully reviewed the Books of the Bible that were written by Apostle Paul and we find that these meet the test that Jesus outlined in John 7:16-17.
- Galatians – Probably written in A. D. 49
- 1 Thessalonians Probably written in A. D. 51
- 2 Thessalonians Probably written in A. D. 51
- 1 Corinthians A.D. 55 or A.D. 56
- 2 Corinthians A. D. 56 or A.D. 57
- Romans – Written in A. D. 57 or A. D. 58
- Ephesians A.D. 60
- Philippians A. D, 61 (Salutation Paul and Timothy)
- Colossians A. D. 61 (Timotheus our brother)
- Philemon Probably written about A. D. 61 (Timothy our brother)
After carefully studying these works it is very clear that these works glorify God and Apostle Paul does not seek glory for himself. Moreover, Apostle Paul acknowledges others in the ministry and commends some of them for their accomplishments. Apostle Paul also referred to Timothy as our brother in these works. However, in 1Timothy and 2 Timothy, Apostle Paul refers to Timothy as son. This makes Timothy accountable to Apostle Paul as a son would be to his father. At 2 Timothy 2:6, Apostle Paul reminds Timothy that the gifts of God were stirred up in him (Timothy) by Apostle Paul putting his hands on him. (This reminder is surely about Paul.) In 1 Corinthians, Apostle Paul admonished the saints for saying that they were of Paul, Cephas, or Apollos; however here Apostle Paul lays the foundation for Timothy to say that I am of Paul. (We share more details in the more comprehensive article.) Jesus said call no man your father.
Now take a short trip through 1 Timothy Chapter One and Chapter Two
We will begin at the very onset with the salutation; we find truth Apostle Paul identifies himself as an Apostle of Jesus Christ, however at second verse, (1 Timothy 1:2) we find Satan has already made his move. Apostle Paul calls Timothy his son in the faith. At 2 Timothy 1:2 Apostle Paul writes: “To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace: from God the Father, and Christ Jesus our Lord.” Surely on the surface, most will not see anything wrong with these salutations because Apostle Paul taught Timothy etc. As we reflect on the admonishment of the saints at Corinth, we can see here how Apostle Paul has laid the foundation for Timothy to say: “I am of Paul.” However, Jesus said at Matthew 23: 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
Listen carefully, Jesus, “the Son of God to A Perfect Man,” would have referred to Timothy as his brother according to the scriptures. Now, hold your peace! Listen carefully, there is no way anyone can be another person’s spiritual father! Think about it; we pray that you will repent if you are following Apostle’s Paul’s example on this. Moreover, Jesus understands the consequences of a man making this declaration regarding one of God’s children. When Apostle Paul called Timothy and Titus his sons; this makes them accountable to the Apostle Paul. We know some will continue to follow their fathers even if their fathers are wrong.
At 1:3, Apostle Paul reiterates the charge he gave to Timothy at Ephesus that they teach no other doctrine. This is also true. Again, it is also important to note what Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 1:8: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” (Research has concluded that Galatians was probably written in A.D. 49) At Timothy 1:11, Apostle Paul writes: “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.” However, when we look back to about A. D. 51, when Apostle Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians 2:4 “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” Here we can clearly see that the gospel was not just put in Apostle Paul’s trust, but others shared that responsibility. Again Apostle Paul wrote 1st Timothy about A. D. 63; however 12 years earlier when Apostle Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians he was more inclusive to ensure that it was understood that it was a selected group and not just Apostle Paul’s trust.
At 2 Timothy 3:10, Apostle Paul used the phrase “my doctrine” and at 2 Timothy 2:8, he uses the phrase: “my gospel.” At quick glance, most will never see anything wrong with these statements because all the Saints of God believe that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead. Surely, this is the Apostles’ doctrine, however, Apostle Paul taught other things that the other Apostles did not teach.
Surely, now it is clear that Apostle Paul has brought forth his own doctrine and his gospel; doctrine and a gospel that were not preached by Jesus or any of the other Apostles at the onset. Moreover, the doctrine of suffering women not to teach is contrary to the revelation revealed and also to what Apostle Paul had witnessed while working the gospel of Christ. Moreover, the doctrine of women being saved in child bearing surely was not the part of the gospel of Christ. Please note it was important for Apostle Paul to call it his doctrine and describe it as his gospel because it was no longer the doctrine of God and the gospel of God in the name of JESUS.
When we take a close look at 2 Timothy 4:7-18, we can clearly see that this is primarily about Apostle Paul.
6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
Here we can see that Apostle Paul has already made judgement pertaining to him. However, I am reminded of what Jesus said at Matthew 7:21-21:
21 “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
Let us turn our attention back to 2 Timothy 4:
9Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: 10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. 11Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. 12And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. 13The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. 14Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: 15Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
16At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
In the scriptures above, we noted where Apostle Paul was speaking about himself. It must be about God. For example: Did Demas forsake Apostle Paul or did Demas forsake God? Did Apostle Paul send Tychicus to Ephesus or did God send him? Now take note at what Apostle Paul says at Philippians 2:19, “But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you …” It is important that we understand that it is God who calls and it God who sends. Yes God uses men; however we must acknowledge God and in all our ways the God will order our steps in the name of JESUS. Here is the point; when you carefully examine Apostle Paul’s writing in 2 Timothy it is clear that his spirit is troubled and he is not at peace. Here we can see that Apostle Paul is not following walking according to the instructions that he records in Philippians 2:14:15, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God,without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world:”
Moreover, at Colossians 3:12-15, Apostle Paul gives more divine instructions on how to walk in Christ. He writes: 12 “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” God gave Apostle Paul these instructions to feed us to show us how to walk in Christ. If Apostle Paul would fail to adhere to these instructions, he would also be subject to err. Consequently, Apostle Paul had a number of doors open for Satan to come in. Here we must learn from Apostle Paul’s experience. (We will expound more on this later in this text.)
At 1 Timothy 1:4 Apostle Paul writes: “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly, edifying which is in faith so do.” What prompted Apostle Paul to include the concern regarding endless genealogies and fables in this charge? This scripture is loaded; “The phrase: “which minister questions.” We know that Matthew and Luke wrote the genealogies of Jesus; surely there are some ministers who questioned those genealogies at that time and even some ministers may even question these genealogies today. As we study the accounts regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ; Mark and Luke give accounts of women reflecting what they had seen.
Apostle Peter wrote 2 Peter before his execution in A. D. 64; at 2 Peter 2:16 Apostle Peter addressed the issue regarding fables. Pay close attention to what Apostle Peter wrote at 2 Peter 1:16:
“For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.”
When you closely examine this statement that was written by Apostle Peter, it is written as if he was commenting regarding an allegation that was made regarding their teaching. Surely, when some read or heard about the charge given to Timothy, this added fuel to the discussion who questioned the doctrine of Christ. We draw this conclusion there was no mention regarding fables in the New Testament until Apostle Paul wrote Timothy warning him not to heed to fables in A. D. 63.
Apostle Paul also addressed fables in 1 Timothy 4:7 “But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.”
At Titus 1:14, Apostle Paul writes:
14Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
And at Titus.
Next Satan uses Apostle Paul to raise the issue regarding the law. At 1:9 the statement was made: “But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully.” (The comprehensive article covers this revelation in details.) Apostle Paul knew that the law imposed restrictions on women actions and how God had removed that curse of the law. When Apostle Paul made this statement that the law is good, this statement was made as a cunning and crafty way to make his next move. Now Apostle Paul continues to share aspects of the law that is true; at this point the movement of Satan cannot be seen because the green snake is in the grass. (The revelation regarding the snake in the grass is discussed in the more comprehensive article.)
Now read 1 Timothy 1:11 very carefully and pause! “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.” Pause! Now Apostle Paul appears to be lifted up in pride and this statement is not true; at Galatians 2:9, Apostle Paul writes: 9 “And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.” Apostle Paul was given a part to play as others are called to do; in the Book of Galatians which was written about 14 years earlier, Apostle Paul acknowledges James, Cephas, and John as pillars. Apostle Paul clearly outlined how we are compacted onto another in Ephesians chapter four.
Moreover, Apostle Paul acknowledges himself as the author of 1 Thessalonians, it is believed that is was probably written in A. D. 51. This is about 12 years before he wrote 1Timothy; at 1 Thessalonians 2:4 he writes: “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God which trieth our hearts.” Some may say this is not a big deal; however you must watch every move to see what is happening before your eyes. Now it is about him! Hold your peace!!!
Next Apostle Paul shared that he was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious, but he obtained mercy, because he did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. Surely this is true.
At 1 Timothy 1:15, Apostle Paul says: “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” Here it is true this is why Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; Jesus affirms this true. However, is Apostle Paul the Chief Sinner, God knows! Let’s look at 1Timothy 1:19-20.
We will not reiterate the walk through 1 Timothy chapter 2 regarding women because we covered it in detail earlier. After reading this work, the ones who have love for truth will agree that the command to women to learn in silence and prohibiting women to teach was a wind of doctrine. However, we all must learn from Apostle Paul’s experience. Let’s reflect on what was going on with Apostle Paul.
Earlier, we mentioned how Apostle Paul had opened many doors for Satan to come in, now let us look at the method that Satan used to come in. Apostle Paul explained what was going on with him when he explained the thorn in the flesh. Let’s take a look at the state that Apostle Paul was in when he gave Timothy this charge.
He described it at Romans 7:13-25.
13 “Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. 19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.”
Surely, God delivered Apostle Paul from this sad state of a wretched man. Apostle Paul repented. Two or three years later, he issued a new charge and he sent it to Titus. We pray that you will carefully review Titus! A careful review of Titus, chapter two revealed a much different Apostle Paul than the one who wrote 1st and 2nd Timothy. In Titus, Chapter Two it was about adorning the doctrine of God – sound teaching. Apostle Paul did not seek his own personal glory; moreover Apostle Paul did not refer to the writing as his doctrine. It is important for us to understand after Apostle wrote Titus, 1Timothy became obsolete. In fact it was never the doctrine of God in the name of JESUS. It is impossible for both charges to be in effect at the same time; For God is not double-minded. For it is written that a double-minded man is unstable in all of his ways. Using procedures outlined by God we can clearly see that the charge given by Paul in 1Timothy was not from God, however it was the doctrine of the man, Paul. It was not God’s will however it was Apostle Paul’s preference; thus it was Apostle Paul who suffered women not to teach.
We all must learn lessons regarding winds of doctrine. Apostle Paul had it right when he admonished these saints at Corinth with these words.
Apostle Paul writes:
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
10Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. 12Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided?
1 Corinthians 3:3-9
3For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
Today the Church is divided; many are walking as men and women in their flesh and are saying and following the doctrine of men or women.
I am of Joseph Smith, I am of Martin Luther, I am of John Calvin, I am of John Knox, I am of John Wesley, I am of George Fox, I am of Ellen White, I am of Charles Russel, I am of Charles Parham, I am of Herbert W. Armstrong. This list can go on and on. Of course, many saints today do not recognize most of these names because there are new names to this list that they are following. Again, we pray that you will think about what Jesus said before you call your brother or sister in Christ your son or daughter. Moreover, we pray that all will remember that we have only one spiritual father, this is Our Father in heaven.
Now let us take another look at Philippians 2:19 – 23. We pray that you take a careful look and see one of the ways the divide is created and facilitated.
19But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. 20For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. 21For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. 22 But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. 23Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. 24But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. 25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 26For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. 27For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: 30Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.
Today, we see the same thing going on in the Church today. “I have no man likeminded” “For all seek their own” “Ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father.” “Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus,” It is important to understand what happened here. Apostle Paul stated at “21For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.” Apostle Paul knows the word of God; however sometimes like others he did his own thing. When we do our own thing, this helps facilitate the divide; what we prefer becomes more important than the will of God in the name of JESUS!
Today it is recorded that there are 41,000 denominations world. If you look closely at this doctrine you will see part of the problem. Apostle Paul says that he has no man likeminded. Apostle Paul knew Timothy as a son – Paul trusted Timothy. Here is the question; did God have someone that He could send other than Timothy? Did Apostle Paul seek Christ regarding sending Ephaphroditus? Was there anyone that was working with one of the other Apostles that could have been sent by God? Did Apostle Paul acknowledge God before he made his decision? Can we be spiritual fathers? Do we know more about anyone than God our Father?
Today, have we established organizations that are headed by individuals who will not fellowship with others and leadership will not trust others who are not part of their organizations? Do we have the unity of the faith? Are we teaching the same thing? Are we truly acknowledging God in all of our ways? Surely, this is a box! When we fail to acknowledge God in all of our ways, it becomes our preference and not the will of God in the name of JESUS. This is exactly what happened when Apostle Paul wrote 1st Timothy and 2nd Timothy regarding the roles of women in the Church and the qualifications for bishops, and deacons in the Church. This is why Apostle Paul called it his doctrine at 2 Timothy 3:10 because it was not the doctrine of God in the name of JESUS.
History shows that Apostle Paul was in house arrest in Rome for two years from A. D 60 until 62; surely this may be a factor for some to stop following Apostle Paul.
In A. D. 63, Apostle Paul writes 1 Timothy – “I suffer women not to teach was within the law.”
In A. D. 65, 66, or 67, Apostle Paul writes 2 Timothy
In A.D. 65, 66, or 67, Apostle Paul writes Titus. “Women be teachers of good things in the church.” This is not within the law! However, this falls under the doctrine of God and the Apostles’ doctrine in the name of JESUS.
Apostle Paul was beheaded in A. D. 67 according to most sources.
Apostle Peter was executed in A. D. 67 according to most sources.
Here is the problem that we face today; Apostle Paul and Apostle Peter were executed during the same time frame. At the time of their executions, there were doctrines on the table that have not been discussed by the Church as a collective body. Today, most have missed the admonishment in 1 Corinthians 14:36 and some will never see it as long as they use Bibles that have been corrupted by Satan. For the love of money is the root of all evil! Moreover, most have never applied the process shared by Jesus at John 7:16-17 to make the determination if these doctrines were of man or of God. This determination affects the doctrines regarding elders and bishops; not only for women, however for men also. Surely, deacons are appointed, however if the terms elders and bishops are used in lieu of pastors, this must be revisited because God calls individuals to these positions and God is no respecters of person. Moreover, the notion of limiting the position of deacons to men only also must be revised if the churches truly acknowledge the way of the Lord in all of their ways.
Many are far too busy doing their own things working their ministries based on what they perceive to be correct and are not concerned about the edification of the Body of Christ. However, today there is contention within the Church and we are not teaching the same thing and some pastors do not have knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Consequently, today there are many being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. We must stop attacking one another and allow God to use us to effect God’s will.
At Mark 7:7 Jesus says: Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Surely, God has given clear guidance regarding marriage and the husband and wife relationship. However, in the Church, God is no respecter of persons. There is so much more that the Church needs to discuss today. It is time for Apostles, Prophets/Prophetesses, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers to move in positon and carryout the work that God has put in our hands to help effect the edification process of the body of Christ.
We pray in the name of Jesus that this work will not be viewed as another article by someone who has an opinion and think he/she is right. Brothers and Sisters in Christ, God has put His glorious gospel at our hands in our trust. The works in 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy and Titus that restrict women from being elder, bishops, or deacons cannot be allowed to stand as the word of God. Today, under the Apostle Paul’s doctrine women are denied the opportunities to operate in their callings.
When you examine the qualifications as outlined by Apostle Paul for elders and bishops it becomes clear that this is doctrine of the man, Paul in the flesh. In fact this can be viewed as things that Apostle Paul prefers instead of the will of God. Therefore it becomes Apostle Paul’s preference; today many have based some of their doctrines of Paul when he was in the flesh. In Apostle Paul’s doctrine regarding the qualification for bishops, he did not mention that these individuals must have been called by God. Consequently, today we have people who have not been called by God, some have gone to school, been awarded degrees, and have become ministers, elders pastors, bishops as pastors and ministers carrying out this work as if it is an occupation only, like any other job. Today, the Church must address this false doctrine.
It is imperative that the Saints of God in the name of Jesus recognize what has occurred and how Apostle Paul was in his flesh when he wrote 1Timothy and 2 Timothy. Moreover, it also must be understood that God is the one who calls people to the offices of Apostles, Prophets/Prophetesses, Evangelists, Pastors, or Teachers. Surely, the position of deacon is an appointed position. Moreover, some interpret the qualifications for bishops that are outlined in Titus only allow men to become bishops. This also must be changed because the doctrine of God does not support this standard. The gospel of God is sound; it is imperative that we follow the instructions that Jesus outlined and ensure that the doctrines of men are discovered and removed. God’s chosen leaders of today must come together and bring this in order at the direction of the Holy Spirit in the name of JESUS.
Apostle Paul made the statement: “For all seek their own!” Does the Baptist seek its own? Does the Methodist seek its own? Does the Church of Christ seek its own? Etc. Is Christ Divided? Jesus said at Mark 7:7 “Howbeit in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” We have work to do. Before bringing this work to a conclusion; I had a dream about flies; I was outside busy working. However, I decided to go inside to get a can of fly spray. When I returned I looked down on the ground and I noticed there were many flies that were on the ground that I had crushed underneath my shoes. However, there were a few on the ground that I had not crushed with my feet and there were only a few that were in the air before I sprayed. I decided to spray a little and I said that I would step back. Next I awoke from the dream.
The Revelation – This Truth with go forth. Victory is ours. We are able to crush the enemies underneath our feet; In the name of Jesus! However, there are some today who will never receive this Truth because of the love of money which is the root of all evil. Consequently, they will hold fast to their false teachings and prohibit women from being everything that God has called them to be.
Prior to this dream I had posted a video on the subject; however I had not watched any videos on you-tube about what people were saying regarding women pastors or teachers. However, on the same day of the dream, I went to my you-tube channel (Elmore Richmond You Tube) and I noticed a recommendation for me to watch a video regarding what God says about women’s roles in the church. I watched four or five videos; I saw one angry and hostile presenter, some were sincere however they did not understand that Apostle Paul had yielded to his flesh, one group had a very lively discussion and they agreed to disagree on certain things that were under discussion. However, none of the presenters of the videos took note of the admonishment at 1 Corinthians 14:33-36.
Moreover, some will not receive this truth and some other things pertaining to truth and the righteousness of God today because they are too proud and their works are about themselves and no longer about Christ.
The Prophet Daniel describes what is happening today and what those who have love for truth must do now. Daniel 11:32-35
32And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits. 33And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. 34Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.35And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
We must pray that we all can learn from this lesson regarding Apostle Paul. Apostle Paul was a man, like Apostle Judas who betrayed Christ and Apostle Peter – who denied Jesus three times. It is apparent that Apostle Paul repented before he was executed; however today it is not about Apostle Paul because he fought a good fight and finished his course. However, we are here today and many of us have answered our calls. In 2 Timothy, chapter three, Apostle Paul warned us about what would happen during the last days. Besides Apostle Paul, Apostle John wrote in 2 John about 20 years later. He also wrote how many would not adhere to sound doctrine. At 2 John 7-8 he writes:
(7) “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. (8) Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.’
God wants all of His saints to understand this truth. God calls both men and women to various positions within the body of Christ. God is not a respecter of persons. God wants us to serve Him in Spirit and in Truth; God wants us to understand that there is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus. Jesus has given us the same glory that He had when he walked this earth so that the world would know that God is with us. We are Holy Temples of God; thus we have a habitation with God in the Spirit. Moreover, we have the same Spirit within us that raised Jesus from the dead. Jesus, the son of God to a Perfect Man said; that the works that He did we can do that work and greater works when He goes to the Father. We must remember that God does not discriminate based on race, sex, or national origin. And God has given His Saints power to use His name and that name is JESUS. We have been bought with a price and we are not our own. We must not only preach this truth, however we must be a doer of the Word of God in the name of JESUS.
We also pray that Christians throughout the World will join us and repent and focus on the Way of the Lord in the name of JESUS. For Christians in the United States, we pray that you will join us as we declare in the name of Jesus 2019 A Year of Repenting for Christians and For Healing For the United States.
Amen!
Elmore Richmond Jr., Prophet Nadine Richmond, Pastor
Co- Founder, Bible Way Church
The Church Readiness Ministries Oak Ridge TN
Prophet to the Nation Co-Founder
The Church Readiness Ministries
