My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Wickedness does its best work under cover of darkness. The wicked don’t like “light”. It uncovers their wicked deeds. They like being sneaky. This I learned by listening in on the conversations of inmates while I was in prison. Darkness can also be very disorienting. In daylight, I find no problem keeping my orientation. But when night comes, I find I get disoriented. This phenomenon can result in losing my bearings and becoming confused. Sometimes I fall down.
In our spiritual life, keeping the Light on in our lives helps us keep our orientation. But when we surround ourselves with darkness, it is easy to lose our bearings and say and do things we normally would not do in the Light. We may even fall away. We may have all the right intentions to stay on the right path, but if we allow the darkness of church, independent ministries, the world, pride, ego and self-sufficiency to surround us, as the disciples did, it can be easy to lose our way. This is one reason Paul tells us, “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33. God is not interested in good intentions. Only perfect lives.
Some have questioned whether or not it is possible to live the perfect life “for all of us make many mistakes (stumble)”. James 3:2. First of all, Jesus would never tell us a lie. He would never tell us to do something we could not do. That would be a sin for God. Therefore, when Jesus commands us to be perfect, stop sinning and to keep the Ten Commandments to get our eternal life, we must understand He means it. Therefore, we must understand that “sin”, which is the breaking of the Ten Commandments, is not the same as a “mistake” or “stumble”.
For example, a long distance runner, perfect in his running abilities, stumbles, gets up and continues his running to the finish line. He is still a perfect runner. He got up and continued and finished his race. His focus was on the race, doing his best to reach the finish line. He ran a perfect race, even though he stumbled. The attitude was perfect. The effort was perfect.
Now, let’s say that while he is running, his heart isn’t into reaching the finish line. Maybe he is thinking about fornicating or stealing when he gets done. Maybe he veers off course to have a chat with a friend. Maybe he is thinking that it is enough just being in the race. That winning isn’t all that important. Is he a perfect long distance runner? Of course not. Perfection has to do with attitude and character development. It isn’t just an act, but the heart. That is why we are not to judge by the act. Only God knows the heart. We are long distance runners in a race to the finish line. We may stumble and make mistakes along the way, but if we get up and keep going, keeping our minds on the goal, we are perfect. The stumblings and mistakes are not a “sins”.
A very dark time is soon to envelop us. Very few will be able to see their way clearly during that time. Very few will finish the race. Why? The “few” were not sitting in church, but were keeping their lights fueled by the Spirit of God. They were not sitting in church or listening to independent ministries filling their lives with human wisdom and ceremonies, but were sitting at the Light of God’s Word filling their lives with God’s Light to dispel the darkness.
Judas sat at the feet of Jesus. He was given power to heal the sick. He was even given the responsibility as treasurer for the ministry. However, he fell away because he never let the Light of God’s Word into His heart. He didn’t just stumble, he didn’t just make mistakes, his heart was not in the race. He knew the information Jesus taught in his head, yet, he did not let it migrate down into his heart. His soul was full of the darkness of self. He was doing it his way. He wanted people to tell him his way and belief was Okay.
Mark 14:12 to Mark 14:52
And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, “Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?”
John the Baptist pointed to Jesus and exclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God”. The Passover lamb and the “Lamb passed over” were about to meet. The nation had no problem partaking of the Passover lamb, while passing over the “Lamb of God”. Traditions, rituals, ordinances and church services were more important than the “Lamb of God”. The perfect “Lamb of God” was being passed over.
Type was about to meet anti-type. The Substance was about to sit at the table with the shadow. The shadow was about to be abolished. Not even the disciples understood that they were walking with the One who would destroy everything they believed in. The Old Covenant with its laws of sacrifices, feast days, holy days, Passover, Feast of Trumpets, church rituals and “church” itself, were about 24 hours from being abolished. Everything related to the temple and the church was to be cast down. Everything related to the courtyard and the Holy Place would be dissolved. The Most Holy Place, with the Ten Commandments, was all that would be left standing. The Ten Commandments, the Word of God, was sitting among them.
Everything outside of the Most Holy Place had only been given to point people to the Most Holy Place. They were the arrows pointing to the Ten Commandments which were pure, undefiled and perfect, representing a Savior whose character perfectly revealed the Ten Commandments. Everything outside of the Most Holy Place pointed to the need of a Savior in their own lives while under the Old Covenant laws of rituals, services, ordinances, feast days and sacrifices. He, the Perfect One, had now come.
The arrows were no longer needed. He Himself was the embodiment of the Ten Commandments. He would give His life in place of the sacrificial lamb and therefore, the Altar of Sacrifice was no longer needed. He would cleans us with the Spirit of God and therefore, the Water Basin was no longer needed. He was the Bread of Life, therefore, the Table of Showbread was no longer needed. His Light would radiate to the whole world replacing the Menorah. All that was left was the Ten Commandments, which, if the people lived in obedience to, would never have needed the shadows.
“The apostle urged the Galatians to leave the false guides (church people) by whom they had been misled, and to return to the faith that had been accompanied by unmistakable evidences of divine approval. The men who had attempted to lead them from their belief in the gospel were hypocrites, unholy in heart and corrupt in life. Their religion was made up of a round of ceremonies, through the performance of which they expected to gain the favor of God. They had no desire for a gospel that called for obedience to the word, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3. They felt that a religion based on such a doctrine, required too great a sacrifice, and they clung to their errors, deceiving themselves and others.
“To substitute external forms of religion for holiness of heart and life is still as pleasing to the unrenewed nature as it was in the days of these Jewish teachers. Today, as then, there are false spiritual guides, to whose doctrines many listen eagerly. It is Satan’s studied effort to divert minds from the hope of salvation through faith in Christ and obedience to the law of God. In every age the archenemy adapts his temptations to the prejudices or inclinations of those whom he is seeking to deceive. In apostolic times he led the Jews to exalt the ceremonial law and reject Christ; at the present time he induces many professing Christians, under pretense of honoring Christ, to cast contempt on the moral law and to teach that its precepts may be transgressed with impunity. It is the duty of every servant of God to withstand firmly and decidedly these perverters of the faith and by the word of truth fearlessly to expose their errors.” AA 386-387. Is your church or independent ministry raising “perverters of the faith”? Are you standing “fearlessly to expose their errors”?
“The apostle showed that religion does not consist in rites and ceremonies, creeds and theories. If it did, the natural man could understand it by investigation, as he understands worldly things. Paul taught that religion is a practical, saving energy, a principle wholly from God, a personal experience of God’s renewing power upon the soul.” AA 451. Have you experienced God’s renewing power upon your soul? Or are you still involved with church?
If you sit in church, you are not experiencing the “renewing power upon the soul”. You are doing only what the Jews of Christ’s day did: making church more important than obedience to Jesus. Unless you are gathering together to be “called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face” (1 Corinthians 14:24, 25), you are not gathering for Jesus. Your church is only a Catholic institution filled with useless forms, services, rituals and traditions. God hates “church” and religious ministries that don’t teach His truth to be perfect. Go home, disclose the secret sins of your heart and fall on your face before God and repent. Then rise up and invite others to join you in finding the healing power of God in their lives to overcome all sin.
And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’
Jesus is carrying water that will bring everlasting life. We need to follow Him. To try to explain the demise of their dearly held beliefs and church systems, Jesus allowed a “one-last-time” gathering to explain why those beliefs were no longer needed. Interesting, He didn’t tell the disciples to get ready for church. He didn’t tell them they were going to the temple. He stayed far away from the religious rituals, traditions, customs, ceremonies and services of church. Go, follow Jesus.
And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.”
I wonder if we are as ready and prepared to furnish our lives for Jesus? Do we “give” to Jesus or are we looking to get something back? Will we let Jesus into our heart’s “room”? What is your “large upper room” filled with? Is it ready to receive Jesus? On the other hand, are you filling your living room with people? Are you inviting people to follow you to Jesus?
And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. And when it was evening, he came with the twelve.
We don’t need a “church” or auditorium. All that is needed is to let Jesus come to you. Let Him into your heart, into your home, without wanting anything in return, and enjoy the sweet communion. Of course, letting Him in means to prepare it for Him. Are you cleaning out the sins and living in obedience to His Commands? Are you preparing your living room to receive the people you will be inviting to study with you?
And as they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.”
Being involved with church, a denomination, a religious organization or independent does not guarantee you a place with Jesus. There are lots of betrayers, filled with the darkness of night, pretending to be ministries. The whole church system has become the betrayer, just as it was in Christ’s day. Just because they dress nice, have degrees from Andrews University or hold church office doesn’t mean they are living in obedience to Jesus. Night has settled down over our religious institutions and organizations.
“The tempter often works most successfully through those who are least suspected of being under his control. The possessors of talent and education are admired and honored, as if these qualities could atone for the absence of the fear of God or entitle men to His favor. Talent and culture, considered in themselves, are gifts of God; but when these are made to supply the place of piety, when, instead of bringing the soul nearer to God, they lead away from Him, then they become a curse and a snare. The opinion prevails with many that all which appears like courtesy or refinement must, in some sense, pertain to Christ. Never was there a greater mistake. These qualities should grace the character of every Christian, for they would exert a powerful influence in favor of true religion; but they must be consecrated to God, or they also are a power for evil. Many a man of cultured intellect and pleasant manners, who would not stoop to what is commonly regarded as an immoral act, is but a polished instrument in the hands of Satan. The insidious, deceptive character of his influence and example renders him a more dangerous enemy to the cause of Christ than are those who are ignorant and uncultured.” GC 509.
They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one after another, “Is it I?”
Usually, church members are so involved in the show and their own schemes and plans, they do not hear Jesus pointing them out. They are way too busy honoring themselves and their religious organizations to listen to Jesus.
He said to them, “It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the dish with me.
Judas spent close to three and a half years with Jesus and was so full of church, himself and his own beliefs, he never heard what Jesus was saying. He was busy scheming for the “religious organization” he had in mind. Many are involved with their churches, denominations and religious organizations and yet are not listening to the teachings of Jesus.
For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.”
Yes it would have been. Woe be to those in churches, denominations and religious institution that are not listening to Jesus, but are betraying the truth with their human wisdom and selfish desires.
“Satan is continually seeking to overcome the people of God by breaking down the barriers which separate them from the world. Ancient Israel were enticed into sin when they ventured into forbidden association with the heathen. In a similar manner are modern Israel led astray. ‘The god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.’ 2 Corinthians 4:4. All who are not decided followers of Christ are servants of Satan. In the unregenerate heart there is love of sin and a disposition to cherish and excuse it. In the renewed heart there is hatred of sin and determined resistance against it. When Christians choose the society of the ungodly and unbelieving, they expose themselves to temptation. Satan conceals himself from view and stealthily draws his deceptive covering over their eyes. They cannot see that such company is calculated to do them harm; and while all the time assimilating to the world in character, words, and actions, they are becoming more and more blinded.
“Conformity to worldly customs converts the church to the world; it never converts the world to Christ. Familiarity with sin will inevitably cause it to appear less repulsive. He who chooses to associate with the servants of Satan will soon cease to fear their master.” GC 508-509. Way too many “servants of Satan” are sitting in church and supporting independent ministries.
And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.”
The “Showbread” was sitting at the table. He “showed” Himself to the world as the “Bread of Life”. He took the bread off the table and revealed to them what He was about to experience for them. It was His body that would be broken for them. He would hang on the cross for them. He would be lashed, beaten, whipped, scourged and nailed for them. No longer would they need a “lamb” to sacrifice, the “Lamb of God” was giving His broken body for the sins of the world.
And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.
The blood of the lamb represented the blood of Jesus. As the blood of the lamb was splashed (Leviticus 6:27 ESV), so the blood of Christ would be “splashed” against the sides of the walls and on the garments of those standing by during His whippings, scourgings and floggings. The covenant He made with Adam and Eve after they sinned, confirmed with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and again with the children of Israel, was now about to be fulfilled. Jesus would pay the penalty for their past sins (Justification) if they would repent of their sins and live as Jesus did for them (Sanctification): perfect, sinless and Commandment keeping. “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from evil.” 2 Timothy 2:19.
“The Jews had always prided themselves upon their divinely appointed services, and many of those who had been converted to the faith of Christ still felt that since God had once clearly outlined the Hebrew manner of worship, it was improbable that He would ever authorize a change in any of its specifications. They insisted that the Jewish laws and ceremonies should be incorporated into the rites of the Christian religion. They were slow to discern that all the sacrificial offerings had but prefigured the death of the Son of God, in which type met antitype, and after which the rites and ceremonies of the Mosaic dispensation were no longer binding.” AA 189. The Messianic movement of today, along with all church organizations, are not of God.
Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
“The fruit of the vine”, unfermented, pure grape juice, represented the life-giving blood of Jesus. Now that the blood of the “Lamb of God” had been sacrificed for them they no longer needed the “blood” symbol of the lamb. Now, the pure, unfermented grape juice from the vine would represent the pure, perfect and sinless life of Jesus. He would now drink it in place of the old tabernacle/temple/church ceremonies, rituals, traditions, feast days and rites. Jesus was now instituting a new symbolism. The old was gone, the new was in. Instead of gathering for the Feast Days to celebrate the future covenant of the death of Christ, Christians were to gather as often as they wished to celebrate His blood and body as the accomplishment of that covenant. Christians no longer needed symbols to represent the sacrifice and life of the Christ, they now were able to look to Jesus, and His living example, who sacrificed His perfect, sinless and obedient life for their eternal life.
And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
How amazing, knowing what lay ahead of Him, He went out singing. When we look at problems and troubles ahead of us, do we lower our heads griping and complaining, or do we raise them in songs to Jesus? I’m still working on that one.
And Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’
Knowing the future is not the same as predestinating it. God knows the future, but He is not commanding it. No different than I know the sun will rise in the morning, but I don’t make it rise. We need to listen to the words of God very carefully. Our eternal lives depend on it.
But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.”
Even though He knew the disciples would scatter, stumble and make mistakes, leaving Him all alone, He did not reprimand them, get angry with them or plead with them to stay. He was simply stating a fact. Then, He let them know He still loved them and would be waiting for them when they gathered themselves up and returned to Galilee. What love!
Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.”
I understand. I’ve done the same. I have made boastful promises, only to realize, of myself, I can’t keep a one. I am learning to be a lot more humble and reliant on Jesus. I do a lot of stumbling and make a lot of mistakes.
And Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.”
Arguing with Jesus is useless. I know. I’ve gone many a rounds with Him. I’ve lost every round. However, through those experiences I have learned much. The experiences can be beneficial if we never blame God, but simply want to know. Many prophets of the Old Testament argued with God. Many could not understand what was happening. But they always submitted to God.
But he said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.
We say the same. We go to church and puff out our chests and claim to be “Christian” and willing to die for Jesus. We sing loud and give much. However, unless you are living the perfect, sinless and commandment keeping life every day, you are not developing the habit necessary to stay with Jesus through the coming nights of persecutions and trials that lie ahead.
And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.”
Notice, Jesus did not take the disciples to “church”. Jesus took them away from the church system. Jesus commands us to leave the church system and to “sit here” in a quiet place while He is in Heaven praying and working hard for our salvation. He has asked us to “sit here” awhile, not in church, but quietly working and praying for our own salvation.
And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled.
There are some of us He has taken into a closer relationship with Himself. I don’t know why, I just feel so privileged to be among those He has called to sit closer to Him. To listen to His voice. To be brought into a deeper intimate relationship with Him. I suppose it is for the same reason, I can now relate to you the “intimate” information He is revealing to me.
And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.”
He shares with me what others are going through. I am not sure if it is to share with them, or just to watch and see that God knows the future. I see those around me, our donors, our inmates and others, what is needed for their eternal life. God reveals what they are going through, but I’m not sure if I am allowed, at this time, to share with them. It is a heavy burden. For those I have shared with, most were not interested in listening. They gripe and complain when I try to keep them on the straight and narrow. Later, I have heard of the terrible times they were having in their lives. If only they had listened.
And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.
It’s okay to be human. Our human nature does not enjoy suffering, pain and difficulties. We do all we can to avoid them. However, if we are living the Christ-like life, we turn it over to our loving Jesus and remember, He went through it for us. He will give us whatever it takes to withstand the trials ahead. All we need to do is live in obedience.
And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”
Jesus wasn’t hung-up over what “name” to call His Father. He just called Him by the common expression, “Abba”, Father. No matter what names the Father or Jesus have been called throughout history, They just wants us to call on Them in any way that is dear to us. The different names Jesus used in the Old Testament had meanings for the people of those times. Today, all He wants is for us to call on Him, “Not what I will, but what You will”. He doesn’t want you going to church, getting hung-up over what name or Bible to use, He just wants you to live the perfect, sinless and Commandment keeping life. That is His will for us.
And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour?
Many are sound asleep in church, unable to watch. They are so busy with church activities, religious organization and denominational nonsense, they are fast asleep to what is really going on. They do not realize the lateness of the hour. They are not preparing themselves for the coming trials.
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Sitting in church and doing the many religious activities can make us feel like we are strong Christians. But all of that is not the “strength” we need for the coming trials. The “strength” we need is to avoid the temptations ahead of us, now. We must stop sinning, now! We must live perfectly, now! We must put the Ten Commandments into our hearts and live by them, now! To do that, we must get out of our churches and pray for the strength to live that perfect, sinless and Commandment keeping life Jesus commands, now!
And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words.
I also am “saying the same words” for each of my prayers. My words are not a ritual, they are from the heart. I want to make sure I don’t miss any important segment of my life and the lives of those I am praying for. I do add to it, as the circumstances arise, but repeating our needs before Jesus is not a “sin”. I also thank Him over and over again for what He has done for me.
And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him.
Jesus comes to our churches and what does He find? People sound asleep in their Laodicean state of church sitting. They have no idea of the lateness of the hour. Like the Jews of Christ’s day, they talk about the coming Messiah, but they have completely rejected Him in their hearts. They do not know of His coming or how to prepare for it. To learn how to prepare for His coming, please visit our website, watch our videos and do our Bible studies.
And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
There will come a time when He will say, “Depart from Me, you church-sitting sinners. I do not know you.” For the disciples, at this time, they still had opportunity to prepare themselves. Except for Judas, their probation had not yet closed.
Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”
We need to “rise” up and get out of our churches and “be going” because the “betrayer is at hand” in the form of the churches, independents and other religious organizations.
And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.
It is nighttime in the world. The churches are betraying Jesus. They come against Jesus with their Ph.Ds., their fancy church titles, their church leadership and “elders”. They refuse to listen to Jesus “while He was still speaking”. No, they don’t want to hear that we must stop sinning, be perfect and to keep the Ten Commandments to get our eternal life. They want to hear about church, denomination and traditions, services and organization.
Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.”
Oh yes, they come claiming to “love Jesus”, kissing Him with lovely songs, great entertainment and lots of accolades. But their hearts are attempting to lead you away from Jesus under guard of the religious mob so you don’t hear His teachings.
And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him.
The denominations and independent ministries sing of Jesus, preach of Jesus, kiss Him with their wonderful words, but are they living in obedience to Him? I’m still waiting for someone to show me the command from Jesus that tells us to “go to church” for our eternal life.
And they laid hands on him and seized him.
The churches have laid their hands on Him and seized Him and refuse to let Him speak. They want to take control of God and make Him agree with their church doctrine, services, traditions, rituals and beliefs.
But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear.
Yes, there are those who follow Jesus who get a bit rowdy. They take “personal” offence when people don’t agree with “their truth”. They slash here and there with their tongues. But that is not what Jesus wants. We are never to take possession of the truth. It is not ours. I have had to let go of my own personal “feelings” when people come against the truth. It is Jesus they are against, His truth, not me. I just happen to be in the way. I just love them.
And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?
All churches, religions, independent ministries and denominations have come out against Jesus. They hate Him. Oh, it is disguised under religious “swords and clubs”, but their intent is to “capture Me” and destroy Him. They do not want His words taught. They want “church” taught.
Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.”
Every day I am putting out the truth. Every day I try to do what I can with the little I have. But soon, there will come a time when the truth will not be allowed to be taught. It is being bottled up now as we speak.
And they all left him and fled. And a young man followed him, with nothing but a linen cloth about his body. And they seized him, but he left the linen cloth and ran away naked.
Are you ready to leave everything and flee naked for Jesus? I wonder. I think we are way to attached to our homes, clothes, comforts, cars, Social Security and too many other things of this world to leave them for Jesus. What are you sacrificing for Jesus?
INMATE LETTERS
Dearest Brother Ron,
What wonderful work you are doing in Christ’s name. I cannot express how thankful I am for your time that you have taken to guide me in truth. You have a way of explaining things so that I have true understanding of them. It’s a deeper understanding and my mind can actually process God’s truth. Your book, CYLB and JCPM letter and continuing certification processes have impacted my life greatly. I am able to take my time and dig deep. With CYLB, it is not just a one time read, but nourishing every time I read it. I am working out my salvation. This is my training ground and I am truly being prepared to serve God. I am sending my tithe to the ministry. I keep you in my prayers.
Giota, AZ
Dear Brother Ron,
I received your pamphlet in the mail. I read your “History of the Ministry” and I want to continue with your Bible study, “Change Your Life Biblically”. By reading your history it definitely inspired me to the point that I had to re-read certain parts of your story.
Cody, TX
Greetings,
I got your “Introductory Issue”. I am serving life. Really, I don’t know how I got your booklet because of the “staples” that keep it together are not allowed in this building. So, I guess it is a blessing. I even got your mail. I’m sending back the form for “Change Your Life Biblically”.
Gregg, WI
JCPM,
I am serving a capital life sentence. I’ve been incarcerated since 2002. I am writing because I am interested in your Bible study. I came across this small piece of paper and thought, “What the heck. I’ll write and see where it takes me”. So, here you have me. I hope I can learn something.
Francisco, TX
To Whom It May Concern,
It’s a blessing to receive this pamphlet and reading brother Ron’s Testimony. God is good. I would love to receive this CYLB workbook. I am a new-born Christian.
Christian, IN
Dear Brother Ron,
I got your booklet last night and it really did touch me. I’ve been locked up for 15 years. When I first got locked up, I really wanted to someday see myself doing what you are for the people in prison. To get your booklet was heartwarming. It is nice to know and have evidence that there IS real people in the world who have heart. I just wanted to tell you that you are an awesome child of God. Not many get out of prison and remember those left behind, let alone put in the work it takes to build something like you have. I pray for you and your ministry and thank you once again for shedding light on the fact that there is good people in the World.
Michael, MS
JCPM,
I would like to receive your free Bible studies. I have given my life to the Lord. He has made me a brand new man. I now have hope. Before, I didn’t.
Timothy, IN
Dear Ron,
I received CYLB a while back. I can’t put it down. I tried, but I began to hear “don’t put it down”. I’ve read about 20 different Bibles through in my 30 years. But they don’t break down Revelations as you do. This book has changed me. I want to learn more. I was raised Roman Catholic, but I don’t practice the faith any more. I was given the address to CYLB and I can’t stop reading it.
Guy, TX
Brother,
I am out of the hole. No more locked in a cell 23 hours a day. Thank you brother for your prayers and for helping me to focus on seeing God in Heaven. Jesus is clearing my mind and helping me to see how this world and the systems that are in power keep our minds on lockdown. Beginning in school, they want us to be totally dependent on them, a worldly power, a worldly system. I have a job in the kitchen and I was reading the pamphlet “The Conversion” at work one day. Almost everyone of my coworkers asked me about it and gave me an opportunity to testify about Jesus in my life. How it has nothing to do with any church or church teaching. How freedom comes through each of our personal relationships with Jesus. Brother, I know that I am in prison for some reason and I am not anxious to be released. Thank you brother,
Victor, CA
Dear Brother Ron & Duke,
I just read the Newsletter. I, as always, enjoyed it. I am in my early stages of my two year anniversary of my coming home to Jesus. It was during this time two years ago that my cellie was doing his Bible correspondence and reading the questions out loud and I was answering. Something so “minor” and yet, it led to my being told about “Change Your Life Biblically”. What I find so amazing is that I have NEVER had my attention held or captivated so long, ever before, for Jesus. That, if nothing else, shows me that this is true. Always in the past, if I made it six months before I lost interest or felt the insincerity and burden of the church and just tossed it aside, I was doing good. Jesus said, “Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden light.” Matthew 11:29-30. I never found that so in the past. But I must admit, the past two years, I have not felt, ever, more was being asked than I felt able to do. Two years, still learning, still excited about learning. Doesn’t sound like too heavy a burden to me. I’ve read CYLB 5 times now and am still learning. In the past I would mess up, backslide and it was just too much trouble. The church wasn’t worried. I mean, it told me I was going to sin, so, just ask forgiveness. Now, if I sin, I feel convicted of that sin. It is so simple.
James, WI
Brother Ron,
I’m still reading CYLB and doing the quiz and I am enjoying it extremely well. Just going through the book is bringing a lot of my old beliefs back to me. I thank God for allowing me to come across your ministry. I thank you for the CYLB book and other letters and pamphlets you send me. It’s opening my eyes to my old beliefs and I can’t thank you enough.
Daniel, VA
To Whom this May Concern,
I was given your address to write to you concerning a book that will change my life. God bless you because I need change. I’ve been coming to prison for the past 25 years and I’m tired. I realize I can’t do this without Jesus Christ. But I feel I am like a mule, it’s so hard for me to read and understand the Bible. I still have a few years before I go home, and I surely don’t want to leave as I came in. So I truly thank you for what you are offering me.
Catarino, CA
Hello,
I am writing in regards to your inmate workbook. I am so much interested in it. Can you please send me any literature? I want to get involved in the “Change Your Life Biblically” and be part of the teachings. A fellow inmate introduced me to this and I was impressed how some of the readings were translated.
Aldo, NV
Brother Ron,
I believe right now that He really wants me to listen because I received the “History of the Ministry”. Brother Ron, yes, I want to continue learning and continue Bible studies. I have till 2022 and 5 years of parole. I have been doing time since 2011, since jail, and the majority of my life since I was 13. I have to turn my life around and come back towards the light.
Carlos, NJ
Brother,
I enjoyed reading the “History of the Ministry”. This is what Christians incarcerated and getting out need to see. That if we trust in the Lord, He will provide and open doors for us. I just want to encourage you to keep up the work. Will you send me your book, “Change Your Life Biblically”.
Donte, LA
Brother Ron,
I allowed an officer to read my CYLB and she said that the information in it is overwhelming because she was led to believe certain things for so long in her life. Now I believe that it’s my mission to get the Word out there because our lives depend on it. I consider myself to be a messenger of the truth. A lot of guys respect my message because the proof is in the Bible and CYLB. You would not believe how much I’ve changed since starting your Bible study and becoming a part of the JCPM family. I’m very grateful for being a part of something “real”.
Jeremy, TX
Dear Ron,
I just read my copy of your ministry’s history. I have to admit, I’m ready for more. I’ve been praying for a course that teaches the truth about Jesus’ teachings, history, etc. Will you please send me something to enlighten me?
Terrell, FL
Brother Ron,
I received and read “History of the Ministry”. While reading this, I could feel something in me moving and felt as though everything I have learned as a believer has been wrong. I felt as thought what I was reading is the real truth and it brought me to tears to think I have been taught so many wrong things in my walk since accepting Christ as my Savior. I would like to do the study you offer and continue to learn the truth about Jesus Christ.
Zach, WI
Dear Brother Ron,
I think this was one of the best books I have ever read or studied. It taught me a lot about truth. I never knew a lot of the things this book showed me. And a lot of the things I didn’t know I believe because it just makes sense. I know now that I have a lot of work to do to get the reward of heaven. And that I have to quit rationalizing and making excuses for my sins. I know that I can do that if I stay close to God. If I stay persistent in prayer and meditation. Thank you for this book. It has opened my eyes in ways you will never know.
John, VA
Dear Brother Ron,
Please add me to your Bible study list. I am in prison because of drugs. I was addicted to heroin. I believe God saved my life by me being here. I want to be a better person. I know the only way to do that is to give my life to Christ. I know I want to be closer to God. I want to learn His Word. I try to only be around believers, but as you know, they are hard to find here. In Bible study groups they know a lot about the Bible, but when class is over, they don’t apply it to their lives. Please, help me get a better relationship with Jesus Christ.
Robert, IL
Dear Ron,
The content of this book is phenomenal. There are so many facts and many things that resonated with me on a deep level. This is a deep book.
Edward, OK
Hello,
I am 35 years old. Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. I grew up in New Mexico. I’ve done half my life in prison. I’m tired of living this life. I’ve been away from the world since I was 18 years old. If you could please send me any Bible studies you provide and if any type of feedback, advice or opportunities, I’d greatly appreciate it.
Manoel, NM
Ron,
I got cold chills after reading the testimonial that you sent. I don’t know how you got my information, but you touched on everything that I have going on in my life. At a young age, I bowed down at a Baptist church altar, repeated some words that a preacher gave me, and was told that I was saved for eternity. I went on through my entire life believing that I was saved, yet I never lived for God and my life never produced fruit. I often became frustrated because I knew that something was amiss. For, although I desired to live righteous, I did not want to give up the sin, either. I discussed this with several Christians and the answer always was, “Sit back and let God do the changing.” Heeding to that advice led to destruction. I am now doing 26 years in prison for 3 armed robberies. I would be lying if I said that I’ve found the answer for how to live for God. I still live in bondage. But I do still desire an authentic change. I’m nearly 40 years old and the chains that bind me are starting to take their toll. You receiving my information may have been God’s answer to my problem. So I would be grateful if you would send me the book.
Jason, VA
Dear JCPM,
Thank you for sending me this “History of the Ministry”. I don’t know how you got my information or how I was selected, but again, thank you and yes, I would love to continue learning more about Christ. Please send me the book.
Rickey, IL
Brother Ron,
I just wanted to thank you and commend everyone at JCPM for all the work being done in order to spread the good news of the Gospel. My cellie and I read parts of your book and really like the understanding that you gave us on the Mark of the Beast. Also, on what day is the true Sabbath, Saturday, not Sunday. Your whole book, overall, is great, easy to understand. Since the book we shared wasn’t ours, we couldn’t keep it long enough to finish it.
Frank, CA
JCPM,
I’m writing this short, but brief letter because I’m interested in changing my life biblically. I’m a lifer without a date at the moment. I want to start changing my heart. To be honest, I really would like to hear from you. I hope you can help to add to making my relationship with Christ.
Uriel, CA
Hello,
The chaplain gave me a Christian resource list and I saw your ministry’s address. I decided to write you guys because I’d like to change my life biblically. I am interested in what you have to offer.
Morgan, CA
JCPM,
I found this booklet discarded. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I didn’t read further than the “Wanted” sign: “Friend of Jesus”. I’m striving every day to become a friend of Jesus. Sometimes I feel like doubting Thomas. I want to be as Christ-like as possible.
Thomas, FL
Dear JCPM,
I am in receipt of your “Introductory Issue”. Yes, I would like to participate in your “Change Your Life Biblically”.
Kenneth, IL
Brother Ron,
I just got done reading “History of the Ministry”. I’m writing you to let you know that I do want to continue in Bible studies. Please send me the book, “Change Your Life Biblically”. Thank you. I got your information from my brother Christopher, my neighbor. I’m looking forward to learning more about Jesus and the things He did for us.
Jared, OR
Dear JCPM,
I have read, “History of the Ministry” and I’m impressed and amazed. I would like to continue to learn. I’m not sure how this process works. Will you send me the book, “Change Your Life Biblically”.
LeMonday, OR
Ron,
Thank you for everything you do and have done for many people. I would like to continue in Bible studies and would like to do the workbook.
Eduardo, ID
JCPM,
Can you please send me your “Change Your Life Biblically” workbook? I will be very greatly appreciated.
Jason, UT
Ron,
My cellie received your introductory issue. He didn’t want it so he gave it to me. I would like to receive your Bible studies. I would really appreciate it.
Edward, OK
Dear JCPM,
I ran across your “Introductory Issue” on top of a table in my unit pod when I was coming back from chow. God sent me right to your pamphlet like it was waiting for me to receive. I was amazed from what I was reading. It was very interesting how the power within this book, “CYLB” helped changed the life of thousands and thousands of prison inmates. The material of this book from what I’ve heard from reading the pamphlet is “mind blowing”. The experience of the Holy Spirit at work. It is a book that I want in my life. I want the truth. I had been taught wrong for so many, many years in my life. I want to see the light. Please send me this life-changing book that everybody else is talking about.
Frederick, VA
Hi Ron,
I’m really enjoying “Change Your Life Biblically”. I told everyone I came across about the “Brainwashing” section. I just loved that. It showed me how easily it is to be brainwashed. I am 51 years old and I come from a long line of pastors, evangelists, deacons and praise dancers. I never grasped any of this. I’m thirsty now and scared of not interpreting the Bible right. I’ve read it and had no understanding. Now I am working on the obedient part. I like how you said not to think of yourself as a “prisoner of the state” but as a “Volunteer Missionary”. I like how it’s put plain and simple, sin is breaking the Ten Commandments. There is some really great stuff in this book.
Erica, TN
Dear Brother Ron,
I thank God for you and this ministry because now I am learning the truth about God and how to live a godly life. I must admit, since my last letter, I have encountered some of the people I know are calling me crazy. They are not interested in what I have to share. It saddens my heart because I know they have been deceived as I was. I have learned that there are a lot of things I must remove from my thoughts and life. It will take time to replace the people who choose to serve sin with people who love God as I do. We have become pleasers of man instead of pleasers of God. We focus on what is acceptable to society instead of focusing on what is acceptable to God. I now understand the importance of spending time with God daily and keeping His Sabbath. Brother Ron, being a part of God’s family and your ministry is a blessing that is priceless. Now I have someone to fellowship with on the truth. These things have impacted my life. First by changing how I see things from a worldly point to a spiritual view. Next, I am changing my daily habits because my thoughts are changing. I am learning to stand boldly for God and the real truth, even though people are backing away from me.
James, LA
Dear JCPM,
We really enjoy your monthly study. Thank you for your prayers. We would like to have a copy of the “Change Your Life Biblically”.
Steve, KY
JCPM,
I’ve been a Christian for most of my life. For a lot of that, I’ve been confused about a lot of things the Bible says that seem like contradictions or confuse me. This has made it hard to feel the connection I want and need in my faith and has caused me to stray a lot. The first part of CYLB has been really impactful for me in both these areas. In reading the teachings, I realize they come from someone who understands and has been where I am now. This has also helped me to open my heart and mind to the lessons. I’ve learned about sin. How living with sin can take everything wonderful from our lives. How we can become new creatures without sin, who no longer live that way. Brainwashing is very real. I was brainwashed at an early age. Molested and physically and emotionally abused by my mother. She tried to make me hate my father who she’d taken me away from. It took years and years for me to learn the truth, but it was too late. My father was murdered when I was nine years old. This Bible study has already given me a renewed sense of direction and understanding which has lightened my heart considerably.
Erik, OR
Dear Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
I would like to have a “Change Your Life Biblically” book. My cellmate has one and I think it is amazing. I was locked up in 2016 and won’t get out until late 2020. It has been a while since I have started seeking Him and the truth daily. I would really like to have a “Change Your Life Biblically” workbook. I really appreciate and admire all of your work for the Lord you are doing.
Michael, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I always enjoy your newsletters and pass them on to others. My friends really like your book. Your books are full of information. Here are three more ladies that are interested in receiving your materials. Thank you for everything. You are greatly appreciated. Well, take care brother Ron. I was touched by your personal testimony about your past. You’ve been through a lot.
Kimu, AZ
Dear JCPM,
I am writing you to request a copy of “Change Your Life Biblically”.
Isaac, TX
JCPM,
For starters, this is one of the most intense Bible study courses I have done. As you can see, I had to scribble things out and put in different answers. I have learned a lot about putting all the pieces of the puzzle together to get the full look at the entire picture and what is going on. I learned how easy it really is to keep the Ten Commandments and that the Lord’s day is Saturday. As an ex-Catholic, I used to keep Sundays holy. Then, at the last institution I was at, my pastor told me that I could keep any day as the Sabbath. I now keep Saturday holy. My eyes are now wide open to these teachings of Jesus. Thank you for these great studies of the Word and Jesus teachings. This is by far the most in-depth Bible study I have ever seen or done. It amazes me how the Old Testament and New Testament fit together like a puzzle. I really believed that I had at least the basic understanding of the Scriptures. You bring me the full understanding of everything, especially the prophesies. It amazes me how it all comes together. I never would of gotten the true meaning and understanding of all that until I read this book. The Holy Spirit definitely was with you when you wrote it. You have opened my eyes to everything and unpacked everything in the Scriptures. What a blessing to be led by the Holy Spirit in such a powerful way. Being brought up as a Catholic, when I became a Christian, I had to let go of everything I thought I knew and start over. Someone offered me a card to mail out and receive your book, “Change Your Life Biblically”. So once again, here I am having to forget all I thought I knew and enlighten myself with the help of the Holy Spirit in the truth. I feel like for the first time my eyes are open and my heart is softened because I can fully understand the meaning of the Scriptures. I now have a full understanding of the Ten Commandments and that I can obey them all. How can pastors, priests, prayer warriors say they are doing God’s work and lead us so astray. Now that I am a new man in Christ, I will let all that past teaching go and let the Holy Spirit lead me and obey the Lord. I have learned so much history it’s unbelievable. I have learned that when Paul talks about doing away with the law, he is talking about the civil laws, health laws and temple sacrificial and ceremonial laws; not the Ten Commandments. The blessings I have received and the peace that I now have is great because of this true understanding. Being raised as a Catholic and reading all this about the Catholic Church makes so much sense. As I was reading through it and remembering when I would attend Catholic mass and services, how everything was about them and what they think. Never was it really about Jesus Christ and the truth. I am so blessed that I am no longer Catholic and I am born again Christian.
Inmate
Dear JCPM,
I got your information from a fellow inmate here on my unit. I figured I’d write to see if you could help me. I would like to receive your Bible study and any other services you may offer.
Christopher, TX
TESTIMONIES FOR GOD’S CHILDREN
My Dear Family in Christ,
We sit in church looking out at the “world” thinking of them as “lost sheep” or “lost piece of silver”. Yet, we don’t look at our own lives and ask, “Am I lost?”. Why not? Because we sit in church. We have substituted “church” for “salvation”. We think we are “saved” because we “go to church”. How lost!
Church has given church members a false sense of “saved”. Church will not save one person. Throughout history church has been the means of destroying all who were a part of church. The only safe haven is Jesus. Listening to Him and living in obedience to Him. Sitting in church, donating to your favorite independent ministries to tell you what you want to hear will kill you faster than eating cheese.
The following is how we are to find the “lost coin”. We are not to find them and drag them to church. We are not to find them and gripe and complain about them. We are not to point fingers at them. We are to find the lost coins that have lost their luster. Those coins that have lost their value. Those coins sitting in a church, doing nothing of value for Jesus. We must find them and bring them to Jesus and Jesus only who is the only One who can polish them and give them back their value.
The Lost Silver
The lost piece of silver is designed to represent the erring, straying sinner. The carefulness of the woman to find the lost silver is to teach the followers of Christ a lesson in regard to their duty to the erring ones who are straying from the path of right. The woman lighted the candle to increase her light, and then swept the house, and sought diligently till she found it.
Here is clearly defined the duty of Christians toward those who need help because of their straying from God. The erring ones are not to be left in darkness and error, but every available means is to be used to bring them again to the light. The candle is lighted; and, with earnest prayer for heavenly light to meet the cases of those enshrouded in darkness and unbelief, the word of God is searched for clear points of truth, that Christians may be so fortified with arguments from the word of God, with its reproofs, threatenings, and encouragements, that the erring ones may be reached. Indifference or neglect will meet the frown of God.
Notice, “because of their straying from God”. They did not stray from church. Most who have strayed from God are sitting in church. Go find them and get them out of the church darkness and error and take them to Jesus.
How well are you “fortified with arguments from the word of God”? Who have you brought to Jesus? I’m not talking about taking them to church, I’m talking about taking them to Jesus. If you are indifferent or negligent, you will “meet the frown of God”.
When the woman found the silver, she called her friends and her neighbors together, saying: “Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” If the angels of God rejoice over the erring who see and confess their wrongs and return to the fellowship of their brethren, how much more should the followers of Christ, who are themselves erring, and who every day need the forgiveness of God and of their brethren, feel joy over the return of a brother or a sister who has been deceived by the sophistry of Satan and has taken a wrong course and suffered because of it.
The next time you go to church, look around at all those who are being deceived by the sophistry of Satan and are taking a “wrong course” by sitting in church. Those in religion have not confessed and turned from their wrongs. Sin is rampant in religion. Begin sharing this ministry with all around you and watch the “frown of God” change to “angels of God rejoice”.
Instead of holding the erring off, their brethren should meet them where they are. Instead of finding fault with them because they are in the dark, they should light their own lamp by obtaining more divine grace and a clearer knowledge of the Scriptures, that they may dispel the darkness of those in error by the light that they bring to them. And when they succeed, and the erring feel their error and submit to follow the light, they should be received gladly, and not with a spirit of murmuring or an effort to impress upon them their exceeding sinfulness, which had called forth extra exertion, anxiety, and wearisome labor. If the pure angels of God hail the event with joy, how much more should their brethren rejoice, who have themselves needed sympathy, love, and help when they have erred and in their darkness have not known how to help themselves. 3T 99-100.